Pathological fractures in children

Outcomes and complications of surgical treatment modalities for simple bone cysts of the humerus in children and adolescents

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare different surgical treatment modalities for simple bone cysts (SBC) of the humerus regarding their effectiveness and recurrence rate.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, patients who received surgical treatment for previously untreated primary SBCs of the humerus were analyzed. Demographic data, cyst-specific as well as treatment-specific parameters, complications, treatment failures, and recurrence rates were collected and correlated with different treatment modalities. Observed procedures were categorized as open procedure (n=20) or osteosynthesis alone (n=3). For the open procedure group, four subgroups could be defined.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients were included. The mean age at diagnosis was 11.6 ± 2.5 years, and the mean postoperative follow-up was 3.9 ± 2.6 years (range 1.0-10.3). After surgical intervention, a total of five (21.7%) patients showed at least one recurrence. Fracture occurred in three (13.0%) cases. The incidence of treatment failure was significantly higher in the curettage, allograft, adjuvants group, with five (83.3%) of six cases showing recurrence, than in the other subgroups (≤ 25.0%) including the osteosynthesis alone group (p=.024). For the open procedure group, the failure-free survival rates were 80.0% after two years and 50.4% after five years. For the three cases treated by osteosynthesis alone, no failures were observed.

CONCLUSION

Open procedures showed similar failure rates except for the subgroup using curettage, allograft, and adjuvants which showed significantly higher treatment failure. Promising results were observed in the group which received solely osteosynthesis without cyst excision or filling, as no treatment failure was observed here.

Nonossifying fibroma of the lower femur with genu valgum: a case report

BACKGROUND

Nonossifying fibroma is common in children and adolescents, and nonossifying fibroma with genu valgum is rare in the clinic. This article evaluated the effectiveness of treatment in a case of nonossifying fibroma of the lower femur with genu valgum.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 16-year-old girl complained of pain in the lower part of her right thigh for one year. She was diagnosed as non ossifying fibroma of the right femur with secondary valgus deformity of the right knee, and was treated in our hospital. We performed curettage, bone grafting and internal fixation,and corrected the valgum deformity at the same time. The patient's incision healed well, the pain was disappeared, and the mechanical axis of lower limbs was corrected. No tumor recurrence was found on X- ray examination one year after operation, and the fracture end was healed. The patient could walk normally, and she was satisfied with her limb function.

CONCLUSION

Nonossifying fibroma with genu valgum is rare in the clinic. The patient was satisfied with our treatment, which achieved a good curative effect.

Application of the Locking Compression Pediatric Hip Plate™ in children with proximal femoral tumors

BACKGROUND

Pediatric proximal femoral tumors often present with accumulative and severe bone destruction and are often complicated by pathological fractures and malunion. Such tumors are treated clinically by lesion scraping and graft reconstruction with autologous iliac bone alone or in combination with artificial bone. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the Locking Compression Pediatric Hip Plate™ in treating pediatric proximal femoral tumors.

METHODS

From 2012-2017, the Locking Compression Pediatric Hip Plate™ was applied for internal fixation in 28 children in the Department of Pediatric Surgery. The complications were pathological fractures in 19 patients and multiple lesions in 5 patients. Tumors were removed by tumor curettage and reconstruction with autogenous iliac bone or artificial bone graft. The Locking Compression Pediatric Hip Plate™ was then applied. Postoperative pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised 20 males and 8 females (mean age 7.8 ± 2.9 years). The mean follow-up duration was 26.1 ± 8.1 months (range 18-48 months). Post-treatment radiography showed that the lesions and local pathological fractures were healed in 3.2 ± 0.4 months (range 3-4 months), with no complications. Four patients continued to receive antineoplastic therapy postoperatively. Four patients experienced recurrence in situ, while another four developed distant metastases. The radiographic and joint function findings indicated that the affected limbs had excellent function. The mean Enneking score was 28.7 ± 1.0 points (range 27-30 points).

CONCLUSIONS

Internal fixation with the Locking Compression Pediatric Hip Plate™ in children achieves good therapeutic effects. Moreover, the Locking Compression Pediatric Hip Plate™ resolves the shortcomings of external fixation by traditional plaster casts and internal fixation by Kirschner wires and elastic intramedullary screws.

Primary cilia: The central role in the electromagnetic field induced bone healing

Primary cilia have emerged as the cellular “antenna” that can receive and transduce extracellular chemical/physical signals, thus playing an important role in regulating cellular activities. Although the electromagnetic field (EMF) is an effective treatment for bone fractures since 1978, however, the detailed mechanisms leading to such positive effects are still unclear. Primary cilia may play a central role in receiving EMF signals, translating physical signals into biochemical information, and initiating various signalingsignaling pathways to transduce signals into the nucleus. In this review, we elucidated the process of bone healing, the structure, and function of primary cilia, as well as the application and mechanism of EMF in treating fracture healing. To comprehensively understand the process of bone healing, we used bioinformatics to analyze the molecular change and associated the results with other studies. Moreover, this review summarizedsummarized some limitations in EMFs-related research and provides an outlook for ongoing studies. In conclusion, this review illustrated the primary cilia and related molecular mechanisms in the EMF-induced bone healing process, and it may shed light on future research.

Management of a Displaced Pathological Fracture in the Proximal Humerus of a Patient with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Rare Case Report

Introduction

Pathological fractures in pediatric age group are most commonly secondary to bone tumors. Management of such cases in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complicated by the prevalence of low bone mineral density (BMD) in these patients.

Case Report

Through this case, we report a 13-year-old male diagnosed with autism spectrum disease, who was brought by his parents with a history of trivial trauma and gross deformity of the left humerus. On plain radiography, a displaced fracture in the foreground of a lytic, cystic lesion was noted which on magnetic resonance imaging was confirmed to be metadiaphyseal unicameral bone cyst. The patient underwent extensive curettage, allograft impaction, and definitive fixation by a locking compression plate. Following a relatively extended period of immobilization, he was started on range of motion exercises followed by strengthening. He was able to return to his pre-operative activity levels at 14 weeks postoperatively. At 1-year postoperatively, the patient achieved excellent clinical and radiological outcomes, without any signs of failure, complications, or signs of recurrence.

Conclusion

Management of pathological fractures in pediatric patients with ASD can be challenging due to the associated low BMD and potential non-compliance from the patient's end. Such cases are best treated with open curettage, allograft impaction, and definitive fixation by locking compression plate, even if present in a non-weight bearing bone.

Treatment of sirolimus in the pathological femoral fracture related to blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome: A case report

RATIONALE

Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare condition with characteristic vascular malformations of the skin, most frequently lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system, and less often, the musculoskeletal system. We report a 5-year case of BRBNS complicated with pathological femoral fracture that was successfully treated with sirolimus.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report the case of a 1-week-old girl with a diagnosis of BRBNS who had multiple venous malformations over her body. She also presented with right lower-limb swelling and complicated with a pathological femoral fracture.

DIAGNOSES

BRBNS with the complication of pathological femoral fracture.

INTERVENTIONS

Treatment with low-dose sirolimus as an antiangiogenic agent was administered, combined with hip spica protection.

OUTCOMES

The vascular lesion was reduced after about 6 months and the fracture site had healed around 2.5 years after initiation of sirolimus therapy. There were no drug adverse effects at the 5-year follow-up point. The patient showed excellent spirit and no obvious sequelae were found.

LESSONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the successful use of sirolimus in a patient with a pathological femoral fracture related to BRBNS complications.

Treatments and Sequelae of Pediatric Pathologic Proximal Femur Fractures Due to Benign Bone Cyst

BACKGROUND

The proximal femur is a common location for pathologic fractures in children, yet there is little published information regarding this injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcomes of pediatric pathologic proximal femur fractures due to benign bone tumors.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients treated for pathologic proximal femur fractures from 2004 to 2018 was conducted. Inclusion criteria were age below 18 years and pathologic proximal femur fracture secondary to a benign bone tumor. Patients were excluded if they had <1 year of follow-up. Medical charts and serial radiographs were reviewed for fracture classification, underlying pathology, treatment, complications, and time to fracture healing.

RESULTS

A total of 14 patients were included. Mean age was 6±3 (3 to 11) years, and mean follow-up was 44±21 (22 to 86) months. Index treatment was spica casting in 9/14 (68%) patients, while 5/14 (32%) were treated with internal fixation. Of the 9 patients initially treated with casting, 22% (2/9) required repeat spica casting at a mean of 0.6 months after index treatment, 67% (6/9) required internal fixation at a mean of 20.3 months after index treatment, and 11% (1/9) did not require revision treatment. Eighty-eight percent (8/9) of patients treated with casting required revision treatment compared with 40% (2/5) of those treated with internal fixation (P=0.05). Nonunion occurred after 1 refracture, malunion with coxa vara occurred in 2 fractures, and the remaining 11/14 (84%) fractures had a union at a mean of 4.9±3.0 months All cases of malunion occurred in patients initially treated nonoperatively. There were 19 distinct complications in 10/14 (71%) patients. The incidence of any revision surgery was 64% (9/14).

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, pediatric pathologic proximal femur fractures demonstrated prolonged time to union, high incidence of revision surgery (64%), and substantial complication rate (71%). In children with pathologic proximal femur fractures, treatment with internal fixation is recommended as this series showed a 78% failure rate of initial conservative management.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Surgical treatment of benign lesions and pathologic fractures of the proximal femur in children

PURPOSE

Benign lesions of the proximal femur region, such as simple bone cysts, aneurysmal bone cysts, and fibrous dysplasia, are common in children. Benign lesions may cause pathologic fractures, limb length inequities, and growth disturbances. Differential diagnoses, e.g., malignant bone tumors and osteomyelitis, are sometimes difficult to rule out.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate outcomes in children with benign lesions of the proximal femur treated with curettage, bone grafting, and plate fixation.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we included 30 children (median age 10.5 years; range 1.1-17.8 years) suffering from bone cysts and tumor-like lesions of the proximal femur region treated between 2002 and 2018. We analyzed plain X-ray images and CT scans in all children and obtained MRI scans in a selected group of children (63.3%). We examined histopathologic biopsy results for all bone lesions before initiating treatment. Surgical management comprised tumor curettage with adjuvant high-speed drilling and allogenic bone grafting supplemented by bone graft substitutes before plate fixation. Median follow-up interval was 87 months (range 24-156 months). We evaluated the healing of lesions according to Capanna's classification and rated functional outcomes according to Merle d'Aubigné and Postel score.

RESULTS

Overall, 25 of 30 (83.3%) patients were admitted to hospital because of a pathologic fracture. We diagnosed simple bone cysts in 15 (50.0%) patients, aneurysmal bone cysts in 7 (23.5%) patients, and fibrous dysplasia in 8 (26.5%) patients. Bone consolidation was achieved in 22 of 30 (73.3%) patients after a mean of 5 months (range 3-7 months). The main complication was recurrence of the lesion in 4 of 30 (13.3%) patients. With respect to the Merle d'Aubigné and Postel scores, 17 of 30 (56.7%) patients obtained an excellent result (18 points), while 12 (40.0%) patients had a good result (15-17 points) and only 1 (3.3%) patient had a fair result (14 points).

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of bone cysts and tumor-like lesions of the proximal femur by local resection or destruction of the lesion, followed by filling the defect with bone graft material and internal stabilization represents a safe and effective treatment option in children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, retrospective comparative study-Level III.

"Do-not-touch" lesions of bone revisited

Incidental bone lesions are encountered frequently in day-to-day practice. Many of these lesions are indeterminate requiring referral to specialist centres for further characterisation with or without biopsy; however, as biopsy has its own drawbacks, not all lesions can be subjected to biopsy. The primary role of a radiologist in these situations is to characterise these lesions based on their imaging appearances into aggressive lesions requiring biopsy and non-aggressive lesions that do not require a biopsy. The term "do-not-touch lesion" is used to describe a lesion with typical radiographic appearances that can be characterised based on radiographic appearances alone without needing a biopsy. With recent advances in imaging, many incidental lesions can be characterised into do-not-touch lesions based on their imaging appearances alone using a single imaging technique or using a combination of imaging techniques and, less frequently, with the additional help of serological investigations, without the need for biopsy. Hence, the definition of do-not-touch lesions of bone needs a revisit. In this article, we attempt to redefine do-not-touch lesions of bone and propose an imaging-based classification for characterisation of these lesions.

Pathological fracture in paediatric bone tumours and tumour-like lesions: A predictor of benign lesions?

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence and causes of pathological fractures in paediatric bone tumours and tumour-like lesions, and to determine if they are predictive of benign lesions.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Retrospective review of children with suspected bone tumours referred to a specialist musculoskeletal oncology service between September 2019 and August 2020. Data recorded included patient age and gender, lesion location, the presence of a pathological fracture on the initial plain radiograph, and the final diagnosis made either by image-guided biopsy/curettage or based on typical imaging features.

RESULTS

231 patients were included with 233 lesions (138 males and 93 females with mean age 10.5 years, range 3 months-18 years). Final diagnosis was based on histology in 85 (36.5%) cases and imaging in 148 (63.5%) cases, 52 (22.3%) lesions classed as non-neoplastic, 139 (59.7%) as benign and 42 (18%) as malignant. Pathological fractures were seen in 41 cases (17.6%) at presentation, involving the humerus in 19 (46.3%), the femur in 14 (34.1%), the tibia in 3 (7.3%), the fibula and radius in two each (4.9%) and the second toe proximal phalanx in 1 (2.4%) (p < 0.001). The commonest underlying lesions included simple bone cyst (n = 17; 41.5%) and non-ossifying fibroma (n = 10; 24.4%). Only 4 cases (9.75%) were malignant, one case each of osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, leukaemia and BCOR undifferentiated round cell sarcoma. Pathological fracture occurred in 27.7% of non-malignant lesions and 9.5% of malignant lesions, this difference being statistically significant (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Pathological fractures were seen in 17.6% of paediatric bone tumours, tumour-like lesions, being significantly associated with humeral location and non-malignant diagnosis.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

Demonstrates the frequency, location and underlying diagnosis of pathological fractures in paediatric bone tumour and tumour-like lesions.

Comparison of characteristic features and local recurrence in syndromic versus non-syndromic multifocal non-ossifying fibroma

BACKGROUND

Multiple non-ossifying fibromas (MNOF) could be presented with other extraskeletal anomalies (syndromic) or not (non-syndromic). In this study, we aimed to compare characteristic features and local recurrence between symptomatic syndromic and non-syndromic MNOFs.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients with symptomatic MNOF were included in this study, comprised of 30 patients without the café-au-lait spot (non-syndromic) and five with café-au-lait spots plus other signs of neurofibromatosis type 1 (syndromic). Characteristic features of the patients and lesions were compared between syndromic and non-syndromic MNOFs. The lesions were treated with curettage and bone graft. The rate of local recurrences was also compared between the two groups of syndromic and non-syndromic MNOF.

RESULTS

Study population included 19 (54.3%) males and 16 (45.7%) females with the mean age of 7.63 ± 3.1 years (range 4-11). The mean follow-up of the patients was 65.6 ± 38.2 months (range 24-96). The lesion was bilateral in 13.3% of non-syndromic MNOFs and 80% of syndromic MNOFs. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.01). After curettage and bone grafting, the lesion recurred in 6.7%of non-syndromic MNOFs and 60% of the syndromic MNOF. This difference was statistically significant, as well (p = 0.01). No other significant difference was found between syndromic and non-syndromic MNOFs.

CONCLUSIONS

The syndromic form of MNOF is much less prevalent and is associated with a higher rate of recurrence after surgical removal. Therefore, a more rigorous removal of the MNOF lesions might be necessary when presented in a syndromic context.

Biological reconstruction of the proximal femur after treatment of benign lesions: comparison of functional and oncological outcomes for children and adults

PURPOSE

Describe and compare the functional and oncological outcomes and complications between paediatric and adult patients after intra-lesional treatment of benign tumours of the proximal femur, stabilised with an autologous non-vascularised fibular strut graft (NVFSG).

METHODS

Retrospective review including 54 patients with a benign histopathological diagnosis treated between 1987 and 2018. The mean age at operation was 17 years (range, 3 to 37 years) with a median follow-up of 39.5 months (IQR 46.7 months). Patients were grouped according to their age at diagnosis (< 16 years versus ≥ 16 years). Data collection included weight-bearing status, Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (MSTS) score, local recurrence, revision surgery and complications. Local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) and revision-free survival (RFS) were calculated and compared between groups.

RESULTS

The median MSTS score for all patients was 98.3% (IQR 6.7%) without a statistically significant difference (p = 0.146) between both groups. The median time to full weight-bearing was 12 weeks (IQR 0 weeks). Local recurrence occurred in five (9%) patients. LRFS for all patients was 96% at 2 years and 88% at 5 years. Although local recurrence was more frequent in the paediatric group, LRFS did not significantly differ (p = 0.155, 95% CI 223.9 to 312.3) between both groups. Reoperation rate was 13% and was indicated for local recurrence, post-operative fracture, graft resorption and avascular necrosis. RFS for all patients was 90% at 2 years and 85% at 5 years. There was no statistically significant difference (p = 0.760, 95% CI 214.1 to 304.6) regarding RFS between both groups.

CONCLUSION

The use of an autogenous NVFSG after intra-lesional curettage of benign proximal femoral lesions allows for a biological, structural stabilisation without additional osteosynthesis, hastening weight-bearing and avoiding metalwork-related complications with minimal post-operative morbidity and complications and excellent functional and oncological outcome for both children and adults.

A mutation in SLC20A2 (c.C1849T) promotes proliferation while inhibiting hypertrophic differentiation in ATDC5 chondrocytes

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the effect of solute carrier family 20 member 2 (SLC20A2) gene mutation (identified from a hereditary multiple exostoses family) on chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation.

Methods

ATDC5 chondrocytes were cultured in insulin-transferrin-selenium medium to induce differentiation. Cells were transfected with pcDNA3.0 plasmids with either a wild-type (WT) or mutated (MUT) SLC20A2 gene. The inorganic phosphate (Pi) concentration in the medium of cells was determined. The expression of markers of chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation, the Indian hedgehog (Ihh), and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) pathway were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting.

Results

The expression of SLC20A2 in MUT group was similar to WT group. The Pi concentration in the medium of cells in MUT group was significantly higher than WT group, which meant the SLC20A2 mutation inhibited Pi uptake in ATDC5 chondrocytes. The proliferation rate of ATDC5 chondrocytes in MUT group was greater than WT group. The expression of aggrecan (Acan), α-1 chain of type II collagen (COL2A1), and SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) were higher in MUT group than WT group. However, the expression of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), α-1 chain of type X collagen (COL10A1), and matrix metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13) was significantly decreased in the MUT group. Similar results were obtained by Alcian blue and Alizarin red staining. The expression of Ihh and PTHrP in MUT group was higher than WT group. An inhibitor (cyclopamine) of Ihh/PTHrP signalling pathway inhibited the proliferation and restored the differentiation of chondrocytes in MUT group.

Conclusion

A mutation in SLC20A2 (c.C1948T) decreases Pi uptake in ATDC5 chondrocytes. SLC20A2 mutation promotes chondrocyte proliferation while inhibiting chondrocyte differentiation. The Ihh/PTHrP signalling pathway may play an important role in this process.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(11):751–760.

Is elastic stable intramedullary nail a good choice for pathological fractures of the proximal femur due to simple bone cyst in pediatric population?

Pathological fracture of the proximal femur represents a challenging situation for orthopedic surgeons because of the high risk of non-union, varus union, and avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of ESINs for the treatment of proximal femoral fractures caused by simple bone cysts (SBCs).All the patients with a diagnosis of proximal femoral fracture secondary to SBC treated with ESINs combined with bone grafting between January 2008 and January 2018, were analyzed retrospectively.In all, 11 patients were included in the Double ESINs group (5.1 ± 0.8 years, 5 male, 6 female) and 27 patients were included in the Triple ESINs group (9.1 ± 2.1 years, 11 male, 16 female). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups concerning the patients demographic parameters, including sex and affected side. However, the age in the Double group was significantly younger than those in the Triple group (P < .001). All patients in both groups displayed excellent outcomes according to the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score (MSTS), and there was no significant difference between the 2 groups at a 12-month follow-up evaluation (P = .10). As for the Capanna classification (1 + 2), there was no significant difference between these 2 groups (P = .24). In the Triple ESINs group, 24 (88.9%) patients were categorized in Capanna 1 and 2, whereas all patients in Double ESINs were Capanna 1 and 2. Overall, the success rate was 92%.ESINs combined with bone grafting is a successful strategy for proximal femoral fractures caused by SBCs in the pediatric population.

Recurrent Non-Ossifying Fibroma in Shaft of Distal Radius- A Rare Case

Introduction

Non-ossifying fibroma are is a common benign lesions found in children. Usually, they are found in cortical bone in metaphysis, but they can also be seen in cancellous bone. Theses lesions are known to regress spontaneously. Usually, it is asymptomatic and an incidental finding on radiograph. No intervention is required. Here, we are reporting a case of symptomatic non-ossifying fibroma of radius with unusual characteristics which required surgical intervention.

Case Report

An 11-year-old skeletally immature girl presented to us two 2 years back with pain and swelling over the right forearm without any restriction of moments and other constitutional symptoms. She was diagnosed to have non-ossifying fibroma and had underwent surgery for the same 4years back. Radiographic and higher imaging studies suggested non-ossifying fibroma. Since the lesion was painful and the child had difficulty in carrying heavy objects, we decided to intervene. Tumour tissue was thoroughly curetted and the defect was filled with artificial bone substitute. Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of non-ossifying fibroma and post-operative radiograph showed some residual tumour which was noted even at one 1-year follow-up X-ray. On 3-years follow-up,the patient was symptom-free with no residual lesion and complete incorporation of the artificial bone substitute.

Conclusion

Though Although most of the NOF regress completely without intervention, large and symptomatic lesions in unusual location require to be surgically treated. The natural history of the lesion - spontaneous regression also aids in the management.

Pediatric physeal slide-traction plate fixation for pathological distal femoral fracture caused by unicameral bone cyst in adolescents

BACKGROUND

Most patients suffering from distal femoral unicameral bone cysts (UBCs) are adolescents that require an early return to normal activities, including school attendance and sports exercises. However, the optimal choice of implants for such patients remains controversial. This study evaluated the application of pediatric physeal slide-traction plate (PPSP) in the treatment of pathological distal femoral fracture caused by UBCs.

METHODS

Between Jan 2014 and Jan 2016, 11 (male = 6, female = 5) patients were reviewed retrospectively. Age, sex, operative time, limb-length discrepancy (LLD), and valgus angulation were all recorded for every patient.

RESULTS

The average age of 11 patients was 12.2 ± 1.1 years. The operating time was 94.8 ± 7.8 min. The postoperative hospital stay was 5 to 7 days. The epiphyseal morphology in the operative leg was nearly normal. The plate was removed in an average of 19.5 ± 3.1 months. The knee range of motion (ROM) was normal in 9 patients, whereas 2 female patients reported a loss of less than 10 degrees of ROM as compared to the contralateral knee joint. Breakage of plates or refracture did not occur in our cases. All patients had a follow-up of at least 24 months. At the latest follow-up visit, all patients walked without a limp. None of the patients manifested obvious LLD and valgus deformity.

CONCLUSION

PPSP combined with curettage and bone grafting allows early mobilization and produces satisfactory outcomes for pathological fracture of distal femur secondary to UBCs in adolescents.

Nonossifying Fibromas: A Computed Tomography-based Criteria to Predict Fracture Risk

BACKGROUND

Nonossifying fibroma (NOF) is the most common benign osseous lesion in children; however, our understanding of which lesions progress to a fracture remains unclear. In this study, we seek to formulate a classification system for NOFs to assess for fracture risk and determine what this classification system tells us regarding fracture risk of the distal tibia and distal femur NOFs.

METHODS

Charts were retrospectively reviewed for patients with NOFs. A 4-point criteria was created and used to calculate fracture risk for distal tibia and distal femur NOFs. The analysis included incidence, specificity, and sensitivity.

RESULTS

One point was given for each of the following findings on computed tomography (CT) scan: (1) >50% width on coronal view; (2) >50% width on sagittal view; (3) any cortical breach; (4) lack of a neocortex. In total, 34 patients with NOFs of the distal tibia had CT scans, of which 14 fractured. Zero with a 0- or 1-point score fractured, 2 with a 2-point score fractured (20%), 4 with a 3-point score fractured (44%), and 8 with a 4-point score fractured (100%). Sensitivities of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-point scores were 100%, 100%, 85.7%, and 57.1%, respectively, and specificities were 71.4%, 71.4%, 80%, and 100%, respectively. A total of 41 patients with NOFs of the distal femur had CT scans, of which 5 fractured. Zero with a 0-point score fractured, 1 with a 1-point score fractured (4%), 0 with a 2-point score fractured, 1 with a 3-point score fractured (20%), and 3 with a 4-point score fractured (100%). Sensitivities of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-point scores were 100%, 80%, 80%, and 60%, respectively; and specificities were 60%, 87.8%, 90%, and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our 4-point CT criteria is easy to apply and identifies patients at high risk of fracture, helping surgeons make decisions regarding treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV-prognostic study.

Challenges in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in Patients with Unusual Features

Objectives

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign but locally aggressive tumor. It has several challenging features. The aim of this study is to identify challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of ABC especially in patients with unusual features.

Methods

This retrospective study involved medical record review of primary ABC patients with one or more of the following features: unusual clinical presentation with a mass or a pathological fracture especially at an unusual age, rare locations, radiological findings suggesting other diagnoses especially sarcoma, and a nondiagnostic histopathology of biopsy samples.

Results

25 patients (17 males and 8 females) were included. Most patients were either younger than 10 or older than 20 years. 10 patients presented with a mass or a pathological fracture. Unusual locations include the scapula, the olecranon, the hamate, the calcaneus, and the first metatarsal bone. Extension into the epiphysis occurred in 2 patients with proximal fibula and olecranon ABCs. Two separate synchronous cysts existed in the proximal epiphysis and middiaphysis of one humerus. Radiological imaging suggested other primary diagnoses in 8 patients. Core needle biopsy was diagnostic in only 2 of 7 patients. The main treatment was intralesional resection/curettage with bone grafting. Wide resection was performed in 4 patients. Recurrence rate was 28%. Recurrence risk factors included the following: age less than 10 years, male gender, and proximal femur location. Late recurrence occurred in 3/7 patients. One patient with asymptomatic radiological recurrence showed subsequent spontaneous resolution one year later.

Conclusions

This study presented multiple unusual features of ABC including: unusual age, rare locations, and nondiagnostic radiological and histopathological findings. These features can complicate the diagnosis and management. Given these features, especially with pathological fractures, a well-planned incision, the use of frozen section examination, and the application of either external fixation or plate osteosynthesis for fracture fixation can be recommended.

Humeral Simple Bone Cysts: Observational Versus Interventional Management

AIMS

Our study aims to review the outcomes of conservative and interventional management of simple bone cysts (SBC) in the humerus.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our center's prospectively collected database. All patients with a diagnosis of a humeral SBC and a minimum of 1-year follow-up or complete healing and discharge within the first year were included. Cyst radiographic measurements were collected for all patients with available radiographs. A successful outcome included fully or partially healed cysts with persistent and recurrent cysts marked as unsuccessful.

RESULTS

In total, 91 patients were included in the study. Within the observational group, 44 patients (95.7%) achieved a successful outcome versus 38 patients (84.4%) in the interventional group. The 15/61 (25%) patients who were treated with observation at presentation required intervention at a later stage. The 9/30 (30%) of patients who had intervention at presentation required further additional intervention. Seven patients (11%) presenting with a fracture through a SBC went on to complete consolidation of the cystic lesion following the injury at a mean of 92.9 days (maximum, 176 d).

CONCLUSIONS

We observed similar outcomes with conservative and interventional management in our retrospective series. We recommend observational management when a radiologic diagnosis is possible with intervention reserved for cases of diagnostic uncertainty and intrusive symptoms.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-a retrospective case comparison study.

Pathological Fracture of Distal Humerus due to a Simple Bone Cyst Managed with Fibula Grafting and Osteosynthesis

INTRODUCTION

Simple bone cyst (SBC) is the most common cause of pathological fracture in children. The most common sites are proximal humerus and proximal femur. There is no specific protocol in the management of pathological fractures with SBC. Treatment options include intralesional injection of steroids and bone marrow aspirate, percutaneous or open curettage of the lesion with or without bone grafting.

CASE REPORT

We report a case of pathological fracture of distal humerus due to SBC in a 16-year-old male. The fracture was treated surgically. Open reduction was done; curettage of cyst wall followed by non-vascularized fibula strut grafting was done and fixed with bicolumnar plating. Early post-operativemobilization was started. The patient had good outcome with incorporation of graft and healing of fracture and lesion.

CONCLUSION

Unstable pathological fractures due to SBC require osteosynthesis and curettage of lesion with bone grafting. Stable fractures can be managed conservatively.

Nonossifying fibromas of the distal tibia: possible etiologic relationship to the interosseous membrane

PURPOSE

Nonossifying fibromas (NOFs) present in a characteristic pattern in the distal tibia. Their predilection to this region and etiology remain imprecisely defined.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients between January 2003 and March 2014 for distal tibial NOFs. We then reviewed radiographs (XRs), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for specific lesion characteristics.

RESULTS

We identified 48 distal tibia NOFs in 47 patients (31 male, 16 female; mean age 12.3 years, range 6.9-17.8). This was the second most common location in our population (30 % of NOFs), behind the distal femur (42 %). Thirty-four lesions had CT and nine had MRI. Thirty-one percent were diagnosed by pathologic fracture. Ninety-six percent of lesions were located characteristically in the distal lateral tibia by plain radiograph, in direct communication with the distal extent of the interosseous membrane on 33 of the 34 (97 %) lesions with CT available for review and all nine (100 %) with MRI. The remaining two lesions occurred directly posterior.

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of distal tibial NOFs occur in a distinct anatomic location at the distal extent of the interosseous membrane, which may have etiologic implications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV (case series).

Non-ossifying fibroma: natural history with an emphasis on a stage-related growth, fracture risk and the need for follow-up

Background

The aim of this study was to assess and present the radiological morphology of the non-ossifying fibroma (NOF), to describe the life span according to the Ritschl-stages in an effort to determine critical stages with regard to pathological fractures and discuss the need for a follow-up.

Methods

Reports of a consecutive series of 87 patients with 103 NOFs and a mean follow-up of 27 months were analysed according to the Ritschl-stages with regard to age at time of diagnosis, localisation, duration of stage and symptoms.

Results

Mean patient age in our series was 20 years and lesions most frequently affected the long bones of the lower extremity. Nineteen lesions were categorized in stage A, 53 in stage B, 17 in stage C and 14 in stage D. Most lesions were detected incidentally. In six of ten clinically symptomatic patients with an average age of ten years a pathological fracture occurred, and four of them were located in the tibia. All of these were in stage B with a mean length of 44 mm, an average expansion in relation to the bone-diameter of 75 % in transversal and 87 % in sagittal plane. Duration of the stages was variable. In the critical stage B the mean was 21 months.

Conclusion

The non-ossifying fibroma follows a characteristic radiomorphological course with variable duration of each stage. Stage B lesions were found to be at an increased risk of fracture, and the age range over which fractures occur was wide. No fractures were detected in the other three stages. Follow-up, including clinical survey and imaging, at six to twelve month intervals may therefore be considered in the case of larger stage B lesions until stage C is reached.

Aneurysmal femoral neck cyst: Report of a paediatric case and review of literature

The aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign tumour of children and young adults. It represents approximately 1-2% of all bone tumours. The ABC may develop on all skeletal bones, but the proximal end of the femur is the most common location. The authors report a ABC femoral neck in a child of 13 years. This location is pretty special. Indeed, the fragility of the femoral neck due partly to the pathology itself and secondarily curettage requires a judicious attitude surgical (excisional curettage + bone graft + screw) to prevent the risk of high local recurrence and pathological fracture.

Transforming growth factor Beta family: insight into the role of growth factors in regulation of fracture healing biology and potential clinical applications

The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) family forms a group of three isoforms, TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3, with their structure formed by interrelated dimeric polypeptide chains. Pleiotropic and redundant functions of the TGF-β family concern control of numerous aspects and effects of cell functions, including proliferation, differentiation, and migration, in all tissues of the human body. Amongst many cytokines and growth factors, the TGF-β family is considered a group playing one of numerous key roles in control of physiological phenomena concerning maintenance of metabolic homeostasis in the bone tissue. By breaking the continuity of bone tissue, a spread-over-time and complex bone healing process is initiated, considered a recapitulation of embryonic intracartilaginous ossification. This process is a cascade of local and systemic phenomena spread over time, involving whole cell lineages and various cytokines and growth factors. Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies in various models analysing cytokines and growth factors' involvement have shown that TGF-β has a leading role in the fracture healing process. This paper sums up current knowledge on the basis of available literature concerning the role of the TGF-β family in the fracture healing process.

External fixation for closed pediatric femoral shaft fractures: where are we now?

BACKGROUND

Recent advances in external fixation technique and pin design have sought to minimize complications such as pin site infection and premature removal of the external fixator. Although newer forms of internal fixation have gained popularity, external fixation may still have a role in managing pediatric femoral shaft fractures.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We sought to assess the time to healing, limb alignment, and complications observed in a cohort of pediatric patients with closed femoral shaft fractures who were treated with external fixation.

METHODS

Over a 15-year period, one surgeon treated 289 pediatric patients with femur fractures, 31 (11%) of whom received an external fixator. The general indications for use of an external fixator during the period in question included length-unstable fractures, metadiaphyseal location, refracture, and pathologic fracture. Six patients (19%) had inadequate followup data and four patients (13%) were treated with a combination of flexible intramedullary nails and external fixation, leaving 21 patients for analysis. Mean age at injury was 10 years (range, 6-15 years) and followup averaged 22 months (range, 5-45 months) after removal of the fixator. Radiographs were examined for alignment and limb length discrepancy. Complications were recorded from a chart review.

RESULTS

Mean time in the fixator was 17 weeks (range, 9-24 weeks). One patient sustained a refracture and one patient with an isolated femur fracture had a leg length discrepancy > 2 cm. There were no pin site infections requiring intravenous antibiotics or additional surgery. One patient with Blount disease and previous tibial osteotomy developed transient peroneal nerve palsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite improvements in pin design and predictable fracture healing, complications such as refracture and leg length discrepancy after external fixation of pediatric femoral shaft fractures can occur. However, external fixation remains a viable alternative for certain fractures such as length-unstable fractures, metadiaphyseal location, pathologic fractures, and refractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Maxillofacial fibro-osseous lesions

During the last decade much has changed in our understanding of fibro-osseous lesions (FOLs) of the jaws with regards to their imaging, their nomenclature and classification, and their potential impact on the overall health of the patient. The changes in nomenclature, classification, and the FOLs' potential association with important syndromes are discussed with the assistance of a flowchart. The lesions, fibrous dysplasia (FD), ossifying fibroma (OF), and osseous dysplasia (OD), though with similar histopathology, have very different clinical and radiological presentations, behaviour, and treatment outcomes. FD of the jaw, which though becoming inactive, does not involute and therefore requires life-long review to monitor for occasional reactivation. OF is completely removed surgically as it has a propensity to recur. No treatment is generally required for an OD unless it is infected or displays expansion. Lesions outside the jaws associated with FOLs of the jaws are identified. Radiology remains central to the diagnosis of FOLs of the jaw, because the pathologist is still not able to distinguish between them. The advent of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) with its better radiation dose reduction, accessibility, and spatial resolution has transformed imaging of FOLs. Their presentations on CBCT and the clinical indications for its use are discussed.