The scope of upper limb surgery for tetraplegics: Role of tendon transfers and Universal Cuff

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of tendon transfers and universal cuff in restoring hand function in tetraplegic patients.

Methods

Twenty-one upper limbs on 12 tetraplegic patients (9 males and 3 females); mean age: 42.2 years (range 22–58 years) with a spinal cord injury at or distal to C6, were included in this study. Key pinch was restored using Brachioradialis to Flexor Pollicis Longus transfer and hook using Pronator Teres to Flexor Digitorum Profundus transfer. The gains achieved were measured objectively at six months and at final follow up, the average follow up being 26 months. The functional outcome was assessed using the Modified Lamb and Chan score.

Results

Average value was 1.67 kg for key pinch and 2.58 kg for hook grip at final follow up. The Modified Lamb and Chan score revealed good to fair outcome in 75% of patients. Complications resulted from stretching of transfer and mal-tensioning and were salvaged by the use of a ‘Universal Cuff’.

Conclusion

Surgery should be routinely offered to tetraplegic patients with deficient hand function in whom no recovery is expected after six months following spinal cord injury. Universal Cuff is a good salvage method for patients who refuse re-surgery.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Therapeutic study.

Prolapsed intervertebral disc with sciatica: the role of common peroneal nerve block

A total of 210 patients of Lumbar disc prolapse with sciatica were given common peroneal block by infiltrating 2% xylocaine around the common peroneal nerve 3 cm below the head of fibula on the affected side. After receiving the block the pain decreased on from grade 2.99±0.46 to 0.91±0.99, and straight leg raising increased from 32.1±12.55 to 59.66±12.11 degrees. The method, as an outpatient procedure, has been found to be simple and useful in the patients of sciatica with prolapsed lumbar intervertebral disc potentially appropriate for a low-resource setting.

Joint salvage using sandwich technique for giant cell tumors around knee

The most common site for giant cell tumors (GCT) is knee, where the tumor characteristically extends right up to the subarticular bone plate. Extensive curettage with preservation of the joint should be done wherever possible. The alternatives for filling the void left after curettage are either bone graft or bone cement. Sandwich technique uses the advantages of both, taking care to prevent damage to articular cartilage. This study was done to evaluate the results of sandwich technique in tumors around the knee joint. It was a prospective study of 26 consecutive patients (15 females and 11 males) with Campanacci grade II and grade III GCT around the knee, which qualified the inclusion criterion and underwent knee reconstruction with sandwich technique, after extended curettage of the tumor. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 32.73 ± 11.30 years (range, 18-62 years), and the mean follow-up was 3.87 ± 1.26 years (range, 6.5-2 years). At final follow-up, the functional evaluation was done using Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and measuring range of motion around the knee. Three patients had recurrence of tumor; in one case, we were able to salvage the joint and repeat sandwich surgery was performed, and in the other two cases, the joint was breached; therefore, we resorted to resection arthrodesis. At final follow-up, the mean functional arc of motion around the knee and the mean MSTS score in patients without arthrodesis was 123.52 ± 10.21 degrees (range, 100-130 degrees) and 27.04/30, respectively; all patients were able to do their activities of daily living with ease. Sandwich technique is a good reconstruction procedure in GCT around knee joint with good survival rate, minimal complications, and good functional outcome.

Limited laminectomy and restorative spinoplasty in spinal canal stenosis

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE

Evaluation of the clinico-radiological outcome and complications of limited laminectomy and restorative spinoplasty in spinal canal stenosis.

OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE

It is critical to achieve adequate spinal decompression, while maintaining spinal stability.

METHODS

Forty-four patients with degenerative lumbar canal stenosis underwent limited laminectomy and restorative spinoplasty at our centre from July 2008 to December 2010. Four patients were lost to follow-up leaving a total of 40 patients at an average final follow-up of 32 months (range, 24-41 months). There were 26 females and 14 males. The mean±standard deviation (SD) of the age was 64.7±7.6 years (range, 55-88 years). The final outcome was assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score.

RESULTS

At the time of the final follow-up, all patients recorded marked improvement in their symptoms, with only 2 patients complaining of occasional mild back pain and 1 patient complaining of occasional mild leg pain. The mean±SD for the preoperative claudication distance was 95.2±62.5 m, which improved to 582±147.7 m after the operation, and the preoperative anterio-posterior canal diameter as measured on the computed tomography scan was 8.3±2.1 mm, which improved to 13.2±1.8 mm postoperatively. The JOA score improved from a mean±SD of 13.3±4.1 to 22.9±4.1 at the time of the final follow-up. As for complications, dural tears occurred in 2 patients, for which repair was performed with no additional treatment needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited laminectomy and restorative spinoplasty is an efficient surgical procedure which relieves neurogenic claudication by achieving sufficient decompression of the cord with maintenance of spinal stability.

Partial-limb salvage after persistent infection in the distal femoral prosthesis: straight-plasty--a novel technique

A 35 years old female had giant cell tumour (GCT) of the distal femur for which wide resection and distal femoral endoprosthetic replacement was performed. Massive infection of prosthesis required removal and replacement of the prosthesis with nail antibiotic cement spacer, which also proved to be futile. Ultimately the whole of the infected thigh had to be excised. The limb could be preserved partially using straight-plasty instead of amputation. Patient is well rehabilitated and doing well at a follow-up of 3 years.

Evaluation of interadductor approach in neurolytic blockade of obturator nerve in spastic patients

BACKGROUND

Spasticity is a syndrome associated with a persistent increase in involuntary reflex activity of a muscle in response to stretch. Adductor muscle spasticity is a common complication of spinal cord and brain injury. It needs to be treated if it interferes with activities of daily living and self-care. Obturator neurolytic blockade is one of the cost-effective therapeutic possibilities to treat spasticity of adductor group of muscles. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of interadductor approach in alleviating the spasticity.

METHODS

Obturator neurolysis using 8-10 ml 6% phenol was given with the guidance of a peripheral nerve stimulator in 20 spastic patients. Technical evaluation included number of attempted needle insertions, time to accurate location of the nerve, depth of needle insertion, and success rate. Pain, spasticity, hip abduction range of motion (ROM), number of spasms, gait, and hygiene were evaluated at 1(st) hour, 24(th) hour, end of the 1(st) week, and in the 1(st), 2(nd), and 3(rd) months following the intervention.

RESULTS

The success rate was 100% with mean time to accurate nerve location 4.9±2.06 min. Average depth of needle insertion was 2.91±0.32 cm. Compared with the scores measured immediately before the block, all studied parameters improved significantly. An increase in the Modified Ashworth Scale values was observed in the 2(nd) and 3(rd) months, but they did not reach their initial values.

CONCLUSION

The interadductor approach proved to be accurate and fast, with a high success rate. Phenol blockade is an efficient and cost-effective technique in patients with adductor spasticity. It led to a decrease in spasticity and pain with an increase in the ROM of the hip and better hygiene, with an efficacy lasting for about 3 months.

Proximal humeral reconstruction using nail cement spacer in primary and metastatic tumours of proximal humerus

Limb salvage surgery for malignant tumours of proximal humerus is an operative challenge, where the surgeon has to preserve elbow and hand functions and retain shoulder stability with as much function as possible. We treated 14 consecutive patients with primary malignant or isolated metastasis of proximal humerus with surgical resection and reconstruction by nail cement spacer. There were 8 females and 6 males, with a mean age of 28.92 years (range 16-51 years) and a mean follow-up of 30.14 months (range 12-52 months). The diagnosis was osteosarcoma in 8 patients, chondrosarcoma in 4 patients and metastasis from thyroid and breast carcinoma in 1 patient each. One of our patients had radial nerve neuropraxia, 1 developed inferior subluxation and 3 developed distant metastasis. Two patients died of disease and one developed local recurrence leading to forequarter amputation, leaving a total of 11 patients with functional extremities for assessment at the time of final follow-up which was done using the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (MSTS) score. Though we were able to preserve the elbow, wrist and hand functions in all patients, the abductor mechanism, deltoid muscle and axillary nerve were not salvageable in any of cases. The mean MSTS score at the time of final follow-up was 19.09. Thus, proximal humeral reconstruction using nail cement spacer is a technical simple, cost-effective and reproducible procedure which makes it a reliable option in subset of patients where the functions around the shoulder cannot be preserved despite costlier prosthesis.

Radiological and functional outcome in unstable, osteoporotic trochanteric fractures stabilized with dynamic helical hip system

A dynamic hip screw (DHS) remains the implant of choice for stabilization of trochanteric fractures because of its favourable results and low rate of non-union or hardware failure, but complication rates of the DHS are higher in unstable and osteoporotic trochanteric fractures. The proponents of the dynamic helical hip system (DHHS) report that it has the potential to decrease the cut-out rates in such fractures as helical blade allows compaction in osteoporotic femoral head which in itself improves anchorage. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the radiological and functional outcome of DHHS in unstable and osteoporotic trochanteric fractures. This was a prospective observational study. The mean age of the 51 patients (24 men and 27 women) was 72.8 years. Fractures were type AO31A2.2 in 28 patients and AO31A2.3 in 23 patients. According to DEXA scans, 41 patients had osteoporosis and 10 patients had osteopenia. Osteoporosis was grade 3 in 36 patients and grade 2 in 15 patients according to Singh’s index. The mean follow-up was 1.84 years. The average sliding of the lag screw was 3.6 mm (range 2–10 mm). The mean operative time was 54.74 (range 48–65) min. The average tip–apex distance was 20.24 mm (range 12–28 mm). All but one fractures united. The average time to union was 13.14 (range 11–24) weeks. There were four mechanical complications namely late helical blade migration (n = 1), late medialization of shaft (n = 2) and varus collapse with cut through (n = 1). No patient was noted to have a plate pull-out. The average Harris hip score was 92.87 (range 76–97). The use of a DHHS for stabilization of unstable(AO31A2), osteoporotic trochanteric fractures in the elderly patients was associated with reliable rates of union and functional outcome and a decreased incidence of screw cut-out and side plate pull-out.

Benign lytic lesions of the femoral neck: mid-term results of extended curettage and sartorius muscle pedicle bone grafting

INTRODUCTION

Benign lytic lesions of bone encompass a group of neoplastic or developmental disorders of human skeleton. They may involve different sites with varied clinical presentation and pattern of aggressiveness for which the treatment strategy needs to be tailored accordingly. Planning a treatment protocol for a lytic lesion in the femoral neck is a matter of concern for the operating surgeon with due consideration to the risks involved.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

This prospective study comprised of 16 patients (9 females and 7 males) with an average age of 23.37 years (range 14 to 35) who presented with lytic lesion in the neck of femur. Only those lesions which were involving the anterior or the inferior aspect of the femoral neck in which the destruction was more than 50 % of the cortex in a single view or there was a pathological fracture were included in this study. There were six cases of giant cell tumour, five cases of fibrous dysplasia, four cases of aneurysmal bone cyst and one case of benign fibrous histiocytoma. All the lesions were operated using anterior approach, and after extended curettage, the cavity was packed with bone chips and sartorius-based muscle pedicle bone grafting (MPBG) was done. Four patients presented with pathological fracture in which the fibula strut grafting was done in addition to MPBG. The patients were assessed using Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (MSTS) score. The mean follow-up period was 32 months (range 26-74 months).

RESULTS

The average time to clinical healing was 8 weeks (range 6-12 weeks) in patients without pathological fracture at the presentation. At final follow-up, the average MSTS score was 28.2 and full radiological consolidation had occurred in all but one patient who developed recurrence. There was no evidence of avascular necrosis or pathological fracture in any of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Sartorius muscle pedicle bone grafting using anterior approach is a good and reliable option in patients presenting with benign lytic lesion in the neck of femur.

Curettage of benign bone tumors and tumor like lesions: A retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Curettage is one of the most common treatment options for benign lytic bone tumors and tumor like lesions. The resultant defect is usually filled. We report our outcome curettage of benign bone tumors and tumor like lesions without filling the cavity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied 42 patients (28 males and 14 females) with benign bone tumors who had undergone curettage without grafting or filling of the defect by any other bone graft substitute. The age of the patients ranged from 14 to 66 years. The most common histological diagnosis was that of giant cell tumor followed by simple bone cyst, aneurysamal bone cyst, enchondroma, fibrous dysplasia, chondromyxoid fibroma, and chondroblastoma and giant cell reparative granuloma. Of the 15 giant cell tumors, 4 were radiographic grade 1 lesions, 8 were grade 2 and 3 grade 3. The mean maximum diameter of the cysts was 5.1 (range 1.1-9 cm) cm and the mean volume of the lesions was 34.89 cm(3) (range 0.94-194.52 cm(3)). The plain radiographs of the part before and after curettage were reviewed to establish the size of the initial defect and the rate of reconstitution, filling and remodeling of the bone defect. Patients were reviewed every 3 monthly for a minimum period of 2 years.

RESULTS

Most of the bone defects completely reconstituted to a normal appearance while the rest filled partially. Two patients had preoperative and three had postoperative fractures. All the fractures healed uneventfully. Local recurrence occurred in three patients with giant cell tumor who were then reoperated. All other patients had unrestricted activities of daily living after surgery. The rate of bone reconstitution, risk of subsequent fracture or the incidence of complications was related to the size of the cyst/tumor at diagnosis. The benign cystic bone lesions with volume greater than approximately 70 cm(3) were found to have higher incidence of complications.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the natural healing ability of bone without filling with bone grafts or bone graft substitutes. In selected sizes and locations of the benign lytic tumors and tumor like lesions extended curettage alone can be sufficient.

Obturator neurolysis using 65% alcohol for adductor muscle spasticity

Spasticity is motor alteration characterized by muscle hypertonia and hyperreflexia. It is an important complication of spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. If uncorrected, fibrosis and eventually bony deformity lock the joint into a fixed contracture. Chemical neurolysis using various agents is one of the therapeutic possibilities to alleviate spasticity. We are, hereby, reporting 3 patients in whom 65% alcohol was used as neurolytic agent for the treatment of hip adductor spasticity, and the effect lasted for a variable period.

Neglected locked vertical patellar dislocation

Patellar dislocations occurring about the vertical and horizontal axis are rare and irreducible. The neglected patellar dislocation is still rarer. We describe the clinical presentation and management of a case of neglected vertical patellar dislocation in a 6 year-old boy who sustained an external rotational strain with a laterally directed force to his knee. Initially the diagnosis was missed and 2 months later open reduction was done. The increased tension generated by the rotation of the lateral extensor retinaculum kept the patella locked in the lateral gutter even with the knee in full extension. Traumatic patellar dislocation with rotation around a vertical axis has been described earlier, but no such neglected case has been reported to the best of our knowledge.

Bladder management methods and urological complications in spinal cord injury patients

BACKGROUND

The optimal bladder management method should preserve renal function and minimize the risk of urinary tract complications. The present study is conducted to assess the overall incidence of urinary tract infections (UTI) and other urological complications in spinal cord injury patients (SCI), and to compare the incidence of these complications with different bladder management subgroups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

545 patients (386 males and 159 females) of traumatic spinal cord injury with the mean age of 35.4±16.2 years (range, 18 - 73 years) were included in the study. The data regarding demography, bladder type, method of bladder management, and urological complications, were recorded. Bladder management methods included indwelling catheterization in 224 cases, clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) in 180 cases, condom drainage in 45 cases, suprapubic cystostomy in 24 cases, reflex voiding in 32 cases, and normal voiding in 40 cases. We assessed the incidence of UTI and bacteriuria as the number of episodes per hundred person-days, and other urological complications as percentages.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of bacteriuria was 1.70 / hundred person-days. The overall incidenceof urinary tract infection was 0.64 / hundered person-days. The incidence of UTI per 100 person-days was 2.68 for indwelling catheterization, 0.34 for CIC, 0.34 for condom drainage, 0.56 for suprapubic cystostomy, 0.34 for reflex voiding, and 0.32 for normal voiding. Other urological complications recorded were urethral stricture (n=66, 12.1%), urethritis (n=78, 14.3%), periurethral abscess (n=45, 8.2%), epididymorchitis (n=44, 8.07%), urethral false passage (n=22, 4.03%), urethral fistula (n=11, 2%), lithiasis (n=23, 4.2%), hematuria (n=44, 8.07%), stress incontinence (n=60, 11%), and pyelonephritis (n=6, 1.1%). Clean intermittent catheterization was associated with lower incidence of urological complications, in comparison to indwelling catheterization.

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary tract complications largely appeared to be confined to the lower urinary tract. The incidence of UTI and other urological complications is lower in patients on CIC in comparison to the patients on indwelling catheterizations. Encouraging CIC; early recognition and treatment of the UTI and urological complications; and a regular follow up is necessary to reduce the medical morbidity.

Simultaneous use of cannulated reamer and schanz screw for closed intramedullary femoral nailing

Introduction. Closed reduction is a critical component of the intramedullary nailing and at times can be difficult and technically challenging resulting in increased operative time. Fluoroscopy is used extensively to achieve closed reduction which increases the intra-operative radiation exposure. Materials and Methods. Sixty patients with femoral diaphyseal fractures treated by locked intramedullary nailing were randomized in two groups. In group I, fracture reduction was performed under fluoroscopy with a cannulated reamer in the proximal fragment or with simultaneous use of a cannulated reamer in the proximal fragment and a Schanz screw in the distal fragment. Patients in group II had fracture reduction under fluoroscopy alone. Results. Closed reduction was achieved in 29 patients in group I and 25 patients in group II. The guide wire insertion time, time for nail insertion and its distal locking, total operative time, and total fluoroscopic time were 26.57, 27.93, 68.03, and 0.19 minutes in group I, compared with 30.87, 27.83, 69.93, and 0.24 minutes in group II, respectively. The average number of images taken to achieve guide wire insertion, for nail insertion and its locking and for the complete procedure in group I, respectively, was 12.33, 25.27, and 37.6 compared with 22.1, 26.17, and 48.27, respectively, in group II. Conclusion. The use of cannulated reamer in proximal fragment as intramedullary joystick and Schanz screw and in the distal fragment as percutaneous joystick facilitates closed reduction of the fracture during closed intramedullary femoral nailing with statistically significant reduction in guide wire insertion time and radiation exposure.

Bladder management methods and urological complications in spinal cord injury patients

BACKGROUND

The optimal bladder management method should preserve renal function and minimize the risk of urinary tract complications. The present study is conducted to assess the overall incidence of urinary tract infections (UTI) and other urological complications in spinal cord injury patients (SCI), and to compare the incidence of these complications with different bladder management subgroups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

545 patients (386 males and 159 females) of traumatic spinal cord injury with the mean age of 35.4±16.2 years (range, 18 - 73 years) were included in the study. The data regarding demography, bladder type, method of bladder management, and urological complications, were recorded. Bladder management methods included indwelling catheterization in 224 cases, clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) in 180 cases, condom drainage in 45 cases, suprapubic cystostomy in 24 cases, reflex voiding in 32 cases, and normal voiding in 40 cases. We assessed the incidence of UTI and bacteriuria as the number of episodes per hundred person-days, and other urological complications as percentages.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of bacteriuria was 1.70 / hundred person-days. The overall incidenceof urinary tract infection was 0.64 / hundered person-days. The incidence of UTI per 100 person-days was 2.68 for indwelling catheterization, 0.34 for CIC, 0.34 for condom drainage, 0.56 for suprapubic cystostomy, 0.34 for reflex voiding, and 0.32 for normal voiding. Other urological complications recorded were urethral stricture (n=66, 12.1%), urethritis (n=78, 14.3%), periurethral abscess (n=45, 8.2%), epididymorchitis (n=44, 8.07%), urethral false passage (n=22, 4.03%), urethral fistula (n=11, 2%), lithiasis (n=23, 4.2%), hematuria (n=44, 8.07%), stress incontinence (n=60, 11%), and pyelonephritis (n=6, 1.1%). Clean intermittent catheterization was associated with lower incidence of urological complications, in comparison to indwelling catheterization.

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary tract complications largely appeared to be confined to the lower urinary tract. The incidence of UTI and other urological complications is lower in patients on CIC in comparison to the patients on indwelling catheterizations. Encouraging CIC; early recognition and treatment of the UTI and urological complications; and a regular follow up is necessary to reduce the medical morbidity.

Intra-operative migration of dynamic hip screw into the pelvis

The authors report a rare per-operative complication of intra-pelvic migration of dynamic hip screw, during osteosynthesis of an inter-trochanteric fracture. Possible reasons of migration are analyzed along with the importance of careful execution of the surgical technique to avoid such iatrogenic complications and medico-legal implications.

Management of open olecranon fractures using clamp-cum-compressor device

BACKGROUND

Open fractures of olecranon are not a rare occurrence in patients with road traffic accidents particularly motor bike riders who don't use elbow guards. Definitive treatment has to be delayed in many till the wound heals. The present study was conducted to evaluate the results of open fractures of olecranon using clamp-cum-compressor device.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventeen patients between the ages of 20 and 45 years of open olecranon fractures reported 5-20 days after injury were treated using an indigenous clamp-cum-compressor. All fractures were Mayo type II-A, i.e., displaced, stable and noncomminuted. Four patients had Gustilo-Anderson grade I and 13 had Gustilo-Anderson grade II open fractures. The patients with transverse or short oblique fractures were included in the study. The apparatus was applied under regional anesthesia after thorough washing and debridement of wounds with few loose sutures applied wherever needed. The wounds healed within 2-4 weeks and fractures united within 8-10 weeks. The elbow was mobilized with apparatus still in place. The results were evaluated by MayoElbow performance score.

RESULTS

We achieved excellent results in twelve patients, good in four and poor in one patient, who reported late, hooks of the apparatus were cut through the proximal fragment, leading to union of fracture in elongation and restricted elbow movements.

CONCLUSION

The apparatus was found to be quite useful in transverse and short oblique fractures with contamination or infection, where internal fixation has to be delayed or avoided.

Ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures: a retrospective analysis of two treatment methods

Background

No consensus exists regarding the optimal treatment of ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures. The three major issues related to these fractures are the optimal timing of surgery, which fracture to stabilize first, and the optimal implant to use. In an effort to find answers to these three key issues, we report our experience of managing 27 patients with ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures by using two different treatment methods, i.e., reconstruction-type intramedullary nailing and various plate combinations.

Materials and methods

We divided patients into two groups. Group I included 15 patients (13 males and 2 females) who were operated with cancellous lag screws or dynamic hip screws (DHS) for fractured neck and compression plate fixation for fractured shaft of the femur. Group II included 12 patients (11 males and 1 female) who were operated with reconstruction-type intramedullary nailing.

Results

Mean age was 33.2 and 37.9 years in group I and II, respectively. Mean delay in surgery was 5.9 and 5.4 days in group I and II, respectively. Average union time for femoral neck fracture in groups I and II were 15.2 and 17.1 weeks, respectively; and for shaft fracture these times were 20.3 and 22.8 weeks, respectively. There were 13 (86.6%) good, 1 (6.7%) fair and 1 (6.7%) poor functional results in group I. There were 10 (83.3%) good, 1 (8.3%) fair and 1 (8.3%) poor functional results in group II.

Conclusions

Both of the treatment methods used in the present study achieved satisfactory functional outcome in these complex fractures. Fixation with plate for shaft and screws or DHS for hip is easy from a technical point of view. Choice of the treatment method should be dictated primarily by the type of femoral neck fracture and the surgeon’s familiarity with the treatment method chosen. The femoral neck fracture should preferably be stabilized first, and a delay of 5–6 days does not affect the ultimate functional outcome.

Mini-incision dynamic condylar screw fixation for comminuted subtrochanteric hip fractures

PURPOSE

To review the results of indirect reduction and mini-incision dynamic condylar screw (DCS) fixation for comminuted subtrochanteric femoral fractures.

METHODS

29 men and 14 women aged 25 to 65 (mean, 44) years with comminuted subtrochanteric femoral fractures underwent indirect reduction and mini-incision DCS fixation. Fractures were classified according to the AO classification (10 type 32B and 33 type 32C) and Seinsheimer classification (6 type III, 15 type IV, and 22 type V). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Harris hip score and Merle d'Aubigne score.

RESULTS

The mean time to full weight bearing was 11 (range, 8-19) weeks. The mean time to union was 16 (range, 13-22) weeks. There were no cases of non-union or implant failure after a mean follow-up period of 25 (range, 18-30) months. Seven patients had a mean limb length discrepancy of 1.5 (range, 1-2) cm. Two patients had coxa vara and persistent limp. According to the Harris hip score, functional results were excellent in 12 and good in 31 patients. The mean Harris hip score was 88 (range, 80-99) and the mean Merle d'Aubigne score was 17 (range, 14-18). There was no deep infection or avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Restriction of knee flexion beyond 90 degrees was noted in 2 patients.

CONCLUSION

Results of indirect reduction and mini-incision DCS fixation for comminuted subtrochanteric femoral fractures are favourable. Proper planning and execution of the technique is required to achieve good functional outcomes and avoid complications. Preservation of vascularity of the medial fragments leads to rapid callus formation and early union and hence avoids implant failure and secondary bone grafting.

Internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures with locking proximal humeral plate (LPHP) in elderly patients with osteoporosis

BACKGROUND

Different operative techniques used for treating displaced proximal humeral fractures could result in malunion, non-union, osteonecrosis of humeral head, loosening of screw and loss of reduction particularly in comminuted and osteoporotic fractures. Locking compression plate (LPHP) has been proposed for open reduction and internal fixation of these fractures and is associated with less complication rate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively assessed the functional outcome and the complications after an average follow-up of 24.9 months in 25 patients of proximal humeral fractures with osteoporosis. Mean age was 62 years. Using AO classification, 48% were type A and 52% type B.

RESULTS

Mean constant score was 80 points. According to constant score, 28% had excellent outcome, 64% had good functional outcome, and 8% had moderate outcome. When the results were related to grades of osteoporosis, grade IV osteoporotic fractures had highest average Constant-Murley score (83 points, range 78-88 points), followed by grade III osteoporotic fractures (80 points, range 71-92 points), followed by grade II osteoporotic fractures (78 points, range 66-88 points). Varus malalignment and subacromial impingement were observed in 8% patients. Loosening of implant and loss of reduction were observed in 4% patients. Superficial infection was observed in 4% patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Locking compression plate (LPHP) is an advantageous implant in proximal humeral fractures due to angular stability, particularly in comminuted fractures and in osteoporotic bones in elderly patients, thus allowing early mobilization.

A retrospective study of total hip arthroplasty

AIM

To evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of primary total hip replacement (THR) using modular total hip system at 2-10 years follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cohort comprised 100 operated cases for total hip replacement using modular hip system, with an average follow-up of 6.02 years ranging from 2-10 years. In 61 cases cemented THR, in 36 cases hybrid and in three cases uncemented THR was done. Harris hip score was used for clinical evaluation. Osteolysis was recorded in three acetabular zones described by DeLee and Charnley and the seven femoral zones described by Gruen et al.

RESULTS

The average age at operation was 52.46±9.58 years. Mean follow-up duration was 6.02 years ranging from 2-10 years. Four patients died due to causes unrelated to surgery. At the last follow-up mean Harris Hip score was 83.5. Radiolucent lines were present in 39(39%) acetabular and 32 (32%) femoral components. Osteolysis was most common in Zone 7 of the femoral and Zone II and III of the acetabular component. Eight hips have been revised, five for aseptic loosening as proved by negative culture at revision and three hips for posttraumatic periprosthetic femoral fracture. One girdle stone resection was done for deep infection. Out of 96 hips available at latest follow-up, 87 primary arthroplasties were intact and functioning well.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study support the continued use of the modular hip system. The acetabular loosening was more common than femoral in our study.

Thompson's quadricepsplasty for stiff knee

BACKGROUND

Stiffness of the knee after trauma and/or surgery for femoral fractures is one of the most common complications and is difficult to treat. Stiffness in extension is more common and can be reduced by vigorous physiotherapy. If it does not improve then quadricepsplasty is indicated. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the results of Thompsons quadricepsplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-two male patients (age range 20-45 years) with posttraumatic knee stiffness following distal femoral fractures underwent Thompson's quadricepsplasty where knee flexion range was less than 45°. The index injury in these patients was treated with plaster cast (n=5), plates (n=3), intramedullary nailing (n=3) and external fixator for open fractures (n=9). Thompson's quadricepsplasty was performed in all the patients using anterior approach, with incision extending from the upper thigh to the tibial tubercle. Release of rectus femoris from underlying vastus intermedius and release of intraarticular adhesions were performed. After surgery the patients needed parenteral analgesia for three days and then oral analgesics for three weeks. Active assisted knee mobilization exercises was started on the first postoperative day. Continuous passive motion machine was used from the same day. Supervised physiotherapy was continued in hospital for six weeks followed by intensive knee flexion and extension exercise including cycling at home for atleast another six months.

RESULTS

Out of 22 patients, 20 had excellent to good results and two patients had poor results using criteria devised by Judet. One poor result was due to peroperative fracture of patella which was then internally fixed and hence the flexion of knee could not be started immediately. There was peroperative avulsion of tibial tuberosity in another patient who finally gained less than 50° knee flexion and hence a poor result.

CONCLUSION

Thompsons quadricepsplasty followed by a strict and rigourous postoperative physiotherapy protocol successfully increases the range of knee flexion.

Evaluation of surgical stabilization of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures of hand

BACKGROUND

Optimized functional results are difficult to achieve following hand injuries. This prospective study was undertaken to evaluate the functional outcome after surgical stabilization of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-five fractures of digits of hand in 31 patients were managed by surgical stabilization. Five fractures were fixed with closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation; 10 with external fixator; 26 with open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation; and four with open reduction and plate and screw or screw fixation.

RESULTS

Final evaluation of the patients was done at the end of three months. It was based on total active range of motion for digital functional assessment as suggested by the American Society for surgery of hand. Overall results were excellent to good in 87%. Better total active range of motion (excellent grade) was observed in metacarpal fractures (47%) versus phalanx fractures (31%); closed fractures (57%) versus open fractures (27%); and single digit involvement (55%) versus multiple digits (29%). Excellent total active range of motion was observed with all four plate and screw/ screw fixation technique (100%) and closed reduction and percutaneous kirschner wire fixation (60%). Twenty-two complications were observed in 10 patients with finger stiffness being the most common.

CONCLUSION

Surgical stabilization of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures of hand seems to give good functional outcome. Closed fractures and fractures with single digit involvement have shown a better grade of total active range of motion.

Unusual K-wire migration

The authors report a case of intra-abdominal migration of a Kirschner wire from the left hip to the right lobe of the liver in a 5-year-old child. The wire was used for stabilization of the left hip after open reduction for neglected unreduced congenital dislocation of the left hip. The migrated wire was removed by laparotomy. Surprisingly, no injury was noted to any intervening abdominal structure intra-operatively. This unusual migration of a Kirschner wire into a child's liver has not been reported previously.

Compressive peroneal neuropathy during harvesting season in Indian farmers

Thirty patients (34 limbs) with compressive peroneal neuropathy induced by prolonged squatting of more than 5 h during harvesting season were treated conservatively and followed-up to an average of 28.2 months. A marked preponderance of involvement of the left side was noticed. We attribute this to the intermittent extension of the right lower limb habitually used by Indian farmers to propel themselves forwards while squatting during harvesting. All but two lesions recovered fully within 3 to 9 weeks: one patient took 16 and another 20 weeks. We recommend non-operative treatment for this benign lesion.

Percutaneous bone marrow grafting for the treatment of tibial non-union

This is a prospective study to evaluate the efficacy of percutanous bone marrow grafting in patients with established tibial non-union and minimal deformity, whilst on the waiting list for open surgical procedures. Twenty consecutive patients with established tibial non-union and minimal deformity were treated by percutanous bone marrow injection under local anaesthesia. Bone marrow was obtained from the iliac crest, 3-5 ml of marrow was aspirated and injected immediately into and about the non-union site. Subsequent aspirations were performed 1 cm posterior to the previous site until a maximum of 15 ml of marrow was injected. Our results revealed clinical and radiological bone union following percutanous injection in 15 out of 20 patients (75%), with an average time to union following the first injection of 14 weeks. Four patients (20%) showed no evidence of union and were considered a failure. There were no cases of infection following the injection, and no complications at the donor site. We conclude that percutanous bone marrow grafting is a safe, simple, and reliable method of treating tibial non-union with minimal deformity. It is a limited invasive technique with minimal complications. It can be performed under local anaesthesia, is cost effective and potentially can avoid major surgical reconstruction.

Evaluation of myelography and computed tomography in clinically diagnosed patients of lumbar disc herniation

Forty patients with dinical diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation were evaluated with myelography and CT scan. Myelography diagnosed lumbar disc hemiation at 59 levels in 40 patients, while CT diagnosed disc hemiation at 64 levels. Lumbar disc hemiation was confirmed peroperatively in 30 out of 40 patients at 48 levels. Myelography correctly diagnosed 43 levels out of 48 levels and thus had a sensitivity of 89.6 per cent. CT diagnosed all the 48 levels correctly with a sensitivity of 100 per cent. Thus CT is super to conventional myelography in the diagnosis of lumbar disc herniation. However, conventional myelography supplements CT examination by limiting the number of scans to the level of interest and thus reduces radiation exposure.

An innovative compression-clamp for open contaminated fractures of patella: a short report of five cases

Five patients with open contaminated fractures of the patella were managed using an indigenously designed external clamp cum compressor. All had an infected lacerated wound at the fracture site, and one had open exposed knee joint (Gustilo grade IIIB open fracture). These patients reported after 3-7 days of injury. The wounds were thoroughly washed and débrided and the clamp cum compressor was applied. They were encouraged to do active knee movements immediately post-operatively. The wounds healed within 3-4 weeks, and the fractures united within 10-16 weeks. Good functional results were achieved in four of the five.

Critical evaluation of compartment pressure measurement by saline manometer in peripheral hospital setup

A hundred limbs of patients suffering limb trauma were assessed by at least two different reviewers for symptoms of compartment syndrome, both clinically, and by a simple, locally devised apparatus for pressure measurement. We have found the apparatus to be very effective, safe, reproducible and simple. Orthopaedic surgeons working in peripheral hospitals in the developing world can make use of this apparatus which costs less than 5 dollars to assemble. This technique may assist an early decision regarding surgical decompression at a peripheral hospital or referral to specialist unit, thus saving valuable time and expense.

Medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy for osteoarthritis of knee: long-term results in 50 knees

To retrospectively study the long term results of high tibial valgus osteotomy in management of primary medial compartment osteoarthritis, with special reference to patient satisfaction and functional assessment, we conducted this study in radiologically established 50 knees of patients with primary osteoarthrosis of knee. In these patients with medial compartment disease (varus knee), medial open wedge osteotomy was performed using full thickness iliac crest grafts. These were called for follow-up after average 7.5 years and clinico-radiological assessment was done. Although many surgeons of the west do not favour this osteotomy, we found the procedure to be quite acceptable to our patients in whom the primary concerns of cost and squatting habits are well taken care of. The authors feel that this osteotomy is still relevant in the third world. Results do deteriorate with time but most patients consider the surgery satisfactory.

External fixator in the management of trochanteric fractures in high risk geriatric patients--a friend to the elderly

The best treatment option for trochanteric fracture in a geriatric high risk patient with all associated medical and surgical problems remains debatable. Conservative methods of treatment are associated with dangerous complications of prolonged recumbency while open reduction and internal fixation under anaesthesia significantly increases the mortality and morbidity rates. We treated 110 elderly patients who were unfit or high risk cases for anaesthesia and major surgery for internal fixation due to associated medical and surgical conditions, by external fixation under local anaesthesia. The average age was 65 years and mean follow up was 18 months. 83.3% were ambulatory with support and 97.2% were able to manage activities of daily living at the time of discharge. At 18 months post surgery, 74% were ambulatory with a stick or better. The fracture united in an average of 16.4 weeks. Overall satisfaction rate was 80% at end follow up. The mortality rates were comparable to series of open reduction and internal fixation. Pin tract infection and knee stiffness were the major complications. External fixation done under local anaesthesia offers advantages in the form of a quick, simple relatively inexpensive procedure with negligible blood loss, preserves fracture haematoma, can be easily removed as an out patient procedure, besides it provides earliest possible ambulation and day care to the elderly high risk patient.

Leeds procedure--a treatment modality for scoliosis

The present study comprises of forty patients of scoliosis in growing age group (10-25 years) with Cobbs angles ranging from 52"-98". They were treated with Leeds procedure which is by anterior loosening followed by Posterior Harrington fixation + Luque derotation + Fusion and Costoplasty. Majority of the curves were thoracic (60%), and right sided (72%). Average correction of the deformity after surgery was 45%. Satisfaction level of patients and parents was good in 60% of the cases. The modality of treatment was decided on the basis of personality of each case, its demand and requirement, time of presentation and the potential for increasing severity. Anterior spinal surgery for scoliosis is an effective procedure in hands of experienced surgeons and it reduces stiffness of the curve, shorten the anterior column, decreases thoracic lordosis which leads to some improvement of pulmonary function. But there is greater risk of damage to vital structures with higher risks of cardiorespiratory failure. The potential risks have to be balanced with the expected rewards. The optimum method of correction has to be decided by careful preoperative evaluation. Combined procedure of anterior and posterior surgery causes lesser decrease in pulmonary functions than costoplasty alone, and achieving better cosmetic correction. This study reaffirms the role of anterior spinal surgery in India as the patients due to lower levels of health awareness present late and with severe deformities.

Cubitus varus--correction by distraction osteogenesis

Cubitus varus deformity in thirty children was corrected by gradual medial opening wedge osteotomy. The osteotomy was stabilized and distracted by simple external fixator-cum-distractor. The patients of both sexes and age from 6 to 14 years, had varus deformity from 17 degrees to 43 degrees. We achieved good to excellent results in 28 cases as regards to correction of deformity and range of motion at elbow joint. None of the cases had neurological deficit or permanent stiffness. One case had fair result due to under-correction and another case had a poor result as osteotomy united before correction. The main complication faced was superficial pin-site infection particularly in summer season and a in fatty children but was managed by good pinsite dressing and care. The technique has been found to be quite effective, technically simple, cosmetically acceptable and with little, if any, lazy S deformity.

Functional restoration by excision arthroplasty in temporomandibular joint ankylosis--a report of 35 cases

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long term functional results of excision arthroplasty in treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study includes 35 patients of TMJ ankylosis who were treated by excision arthroplasty and followed for a maximum period of eight years after surgery. Past trauma was documented as a major etiological factor in 63% cases. Fibrous ankylosis & unilateral involvement was found to be more common. Peroperatively a gap of 1 1/2 to 2 cm was created. The results were assessed according to a criteria based on inter-incial month opening, deviation of jaw and complications. They were satisfactory in 29 cases and there were 3 recurrences.

CONCLUSION

Childhood trauma is a major cause of TMJ ankylosis in India. Long term results of excision arthroplasty are satisfactory & comparable to other surgical modalities that are in vogue, provided the patients are operated when young, the ankylosis is in early stage, gap created is adequate and post operative exercise regimen is followed diligently.

Synovial hemangioma--a case report

True synovial based hemangiomas are rare lesions and should be differentiated from mass lesions especially pigmented villonodular synovitis. A case of 4 years old male child, presenting with recurrent painful swelling, is described in the present article. The differential diagnosis is also discussed.

Role of percutaneous bone marrow grafting in delayed unions, non-unions and poor regenerates

The present study comprises of 72 patients of post traumatic delayed unions, established non-unions, poor regenerate in segmental bone transportation and limb lengthening procedure treated by percutaneous injections of autogenous bone marrow at the site of failed healing. The average follow up was 4 years. Bone union was achieved in 68 patients. Overall, 72.2% of the patients had an excellent result, 11.1% a good result, 11.1% a fair result and 5.5% a poor result or failure. These results with only 4 failures (5.5%) are encouraging and suggest that percutaneous autogenous bone marrow grafting is a simple, safe and useful technique in the treatment of delayed unions and non-unions. We believe that this technique of percutaneous autogenous bone marrow grafting can be a procedure of choice in those patients where Phemister or Forbes methods of bone grafting alone is required, especially in limbs with scarred and poor soft tissue coverage. This procedure can also be useful in iatrogenic delayed or non-unions which is the commonest cause of non-union in present era of enthusiastic fracture fixation.

Unicompartmental osteoarthritis of the knee: an innovative osteotomy

Thirty patients with unicompartmental osteoarthritis of the knee and genu varum deformity ranging from 2 degrees to 15 degrees were treated with high tibial osteotomy by using a medial open wedge, stabilized and distracted with our fixator. Pain relief and correction of deformity were achieved in all except two cases.

Role of pin traction in wound closure

This study examined the role of pin traction in wound closure. Forty patients comprised the study population. Wounds treated were on legs, thighs, and forearms. Kirschner wires were passed around margins of the wound and interconnected with stainless steel wires, which were gradually tightened to approximate the wound edges to healing. Final results were excellent in 18 (45%), good in 13 (32.%), fair in 5 (12.%), and poor in 4 (1%) patients. The main complication was cutting through the wires. The results were unsatisfactory in old, scarred, and large wounds.

Gluteus maximus island flap for the repair of sacral pressure sores

Surgical management of decubitus ulcers in spinal cord injured patients (SCI) has been considerably improved by the application of muscle, myocutaneous and fasciocutaneous flaps. The goal of the present study was to do a critical analysis of the use of a gluteus maximus island flap for sacral pressure sores in paralysed as well as nonparalysed patients. In a prospective study, 34 patients with sacral pressure sores from grade V to VII were treated by gluteus maximus myocutaneous island flaps. Follow up ranged from 1.8 years to 6.2 years. Results were evaluated according to criteria based on (i) extent of wound dehiscence (ii) flap necrosis (iii) recurrence. Final results were excellent to good in 30 cases (88.3%). Poor results occurred in two patients (5.8%) and recurrence in one (2.9%) due to a major flap necrosis. Postoperative infection and wound dehiscence occurred in two cases each. No systemic complications occurred except for one patient who died from uraemia. The rehabilitation of these patients was improved. The postoperative duration of stay in hospital was from 18 to 32 days (mean: 22.5 days). The majority of the patients were quite pleased with the operation.

An innovative method of tourniquet application in proximal lower limb surgery

A novel method is presented by which a tourniquet can be applied just proximal to the greater trochanter, without interfering with asepsis. The distal migration of the tourniquet cuff is prevented by a Steinmann pin passed through the greater trochanter. This method has been tried in 20 cases of proximal lower limb surgery with great success.

The use of a tourniquet in limb surgery is often required1. A common site of application of the tourniquet for lower limb surgery is at the junction of middle and upper third of the thigh. However, it is difficult to use such a tourniquet for extensive resection of malignant tumours around the knee joint where proximal limits of the incision may reach almost up to the subtrochanteric region. One can apply the tourniquet at the root of the limb just below and parallel to the inguinal ligament, but it may fail as a thigh is conical from proximal to distal and hence the tourniquet cuff or bandage slips downward, thus making it loose2. We have devised a method by which a tourniquet can be applied at the root of the thigh and can be maintained in the same position without any distal migration and loosening, thus making the thigh a bloodless field even up to the subtrochanteric level. We have used this technique for Van Nes rotation plasty and also for osteosynthesis of the middle third of the femur.

Isolated traumatic rupture of the adductor longus muscle

A rare case of traumatic rupture of Adductor longus muscle in a young Kabaddi player is presented. Excision of ruptured muscle mass was done. Maximum follow-up at eighteen months showed no disability.

Femoral neuropathy: a complication of the lithotomy position

There are a limited number of reports of femoral neuropathy after surgery in the lithotomy position. Four patients who developed this complication are described.

Cervical spine injury: how easy to miss!

Acute injuries of the cervical spine are not uncommonly missed on the initial examination. In a study of 48 patients of acute injury of the cervical spine, the diagnosis was missed initially in 8 patients. The common reasons for missed diagnosis had been, head injury in 3 patients, polytrauma in 2, inadequate or improper radiologic examination in 2 and erroneous diagnosis in one case. Neurologic status was worsened in one patient because of delayed diagnosis.

Treatment of intractable spasticity in spinal cord injured patients

Spasticity and flexor spasms can be most incapacitating in SCI victims. Muscle relaxants, physiotherapy and elimination of triggering factors must be tried before opting for peripheral surgery or alcohol block. The choice of alcohol block or peripheral surgery depends in whether damage to the spinal cord is complete or incomplete. Results of both the procedures are satisfactory in rightly chosen patients. Alcohol block is a simple, safe and effective method of treating spasticity in the patients of complete paraplegia. The effect is immediate and almost permanent. However, alcohol block is contra-indicated in the patients of incomplete paraplegia where peripheral surgery is a better choice.