Locking plate fixation in comminuted coronoid fractures with partial loss of the articular cartilage - Of basal-1 type according to the O'Driscoll classification

BACKGROUND

We have attempted to restore the arc of motion by considering trochlear-coronoid articulation as a complete circle during fixation of the coronoid, even for comminuted coronoid fractures with partial loss of articular cartilage (CCFPLAC), using various kinds of locking plates. Herein, we report the radiological and clinical outcomes after fixation of the basal-1 type of CCFPLAC (O'Driscoll classification) using our method.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients diagnosed with CCFPLAC were admitted between January 2012 and December 2020. Sixteen of these patients met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were enrolled in this study. Surgically, the lost area (defect of articular cartilage) was never compressed or minimized, but the original height and shape of the coronoid were preserved as is. Provisionally, a few K-wires were used to maintain the original shape and position of the CCFPLAC, and various kinds of locking plates/screws were used to fix the fragment anatomically and firmly. If needed, the plate was bent to ensure stable compression of the coronoid according to its size. In a few cases, locking plates were adjusted by cutting extra screw holes.

RESULTS

Among the 16 patients, the mean age was 46.2 years, and the male:female ratio was 10:6. The mean follow-up period was 3.63 years. 8, 6, and 2 patients were designated as group 1 (isolated CCFPLAC), 2 [CCFPLAC in type 4 (terrible triad) injury), and 3 (CCFPLAC in type 5 posterior olecranon fracture-dislocations), respectively. Complete union was achieved after a mean of 8.94 weeks. The mean flexion-extension and pronation-supination arcs were 127.19 ± 4.46° and 135.31.59 ± 8.06°, respectively, which were significantly different from those on the contralateral (normal) side (p < 0.001); however, the arcs were within the functional ranges for ordinary daily living. Additionally, the functional status was satisfactory in all patients. However, Mayo Elbow Performance Score and the degree of arthritis were statistically poor in group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

CCFPLAC of the basal-1 type (O'Driscoll classification) can be treated satisfactorily if already designed and widely distributed locking plates are properly manipulated to maintain the original geometry of the coronoid according to the individual joint characteristics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective case series.

Fibular Autograft as Medial Support with Proximal Humerus Locking Plate Construct in Comminuted Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis

Background

Varus collapse is one of the pivotal mechanisms of failure following surgical fixation of proximal humerus fractures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate functional and radiological outcomes of non-vascularized fibular autograft as medial support with locking plate construct for comminuted proximal humerus fractures (PHF's).

Materials and methods

We retrospectively evaluated 18 patients with unstable PHF's in the age group 50-70 years with a minimum follow-up of two years. All the fracture patterns were classified according to Resch, Neer's and AO classification and either medial calcar compromise or comminution were present in all. Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with a locking plate was performed for all the patients along with intramedullary fibular autograft to support medial calcar. Radiological outcome was assessed by neck-shaft angle (NSA) graded according to the Paavolainen grading method and difference in the humeral head height (HHH). Functional outcome was assessed by shoulder range of motion (ROM), University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) score and American shoulder and elbow surgeons score (ASES).

Results

Radiological union at the fracture site was achieved in all the patients at mean of 8 months (range 6-12 months). Range of movements were mean flexion of 123.89, extension 35.28, internal rotation 66.94, external rotation 57.78 and abduction of 115° at final follow-up. The average NSA was in the range of 120°-130° and none of the patients showed difference in HHH of ≥ 4 mm in the immediate post-operative radiograph and that taken on final follow-up. The functional outcome assessed by ASES score (mean 89.44) and UCLA score (mean 29.61) suggested fair to good results. None of the patients has shown varus collapse and avascular necrosis. Neither there were any complications related to the donor area.

Conclusions

In unstable proximal humerus fractures with calcar comminution or void, PHILOS plate fixation augmented with fibular autograft as a medial support reduces varus collapse and promotes early radiological union.

Clinical study of suture anchors in the treatment of radial head fractures

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to analyze and study the clinical effect of suture anchors in the treatment of radial head fractures (RHFs).

METHODS

A total of 11 patients (five male and six female) with RHFs who were treated from March 2016 to June 2021 were included in this study. They were 17-61 (average 38.5) years old. In terms of the Johnston-Mason classification, two cases were type II, seven cases were type III, and two cases were type IV. All patients were treated with open reduction and anchor internal fixation.

RESULTS

All 11 patients were followed up, all incisions healed by first intention, and the duration of follow-up was 14-20 months. The average operation time was 40 ± 15 min. The clinical healing time was 4-6 (average 5) weeks. No patients had any complications, such as traumatic arthritis, malunion, nerve injury, joint stiffness, or incision infection. The clinical effects were evaluated according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score. The scores of all 11 cases were 90-95, all excellent.

CONCLUSION

The application of suture anchor internal fixation in the treatment of RHFs has the advantages of accurate reduction, no need for a secondary operation to remove the fixation materials, less trauma, fewer complications, good fracture healing, and good recovery of elbow extension, flexion, and rotation functions.

Elimination of irreducible intercalary fragment and fixation using locking plate for Mayo type IIB olecranon fracture-outcomes compared with type IIA

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that the outcomes of articular reduction with elimination of irreducible articular intercalary fragments for Mayo type IIB fractures fixed using olecranon locking plates would be as satisfactory as those of noncomminuted fractures.

METHODS

A total of 65 patients were enrolled from among 92 who had undergone operative treatment for olecranon fractures between March 2008 and February 2015. Patients with fragments that were eliminated because they were too comminuted to be fixed during surgery (type IIB) were included in group 1. Patients without intraarticular comminuted fragments (type IIA) or with very few fragments were assigned to group 2. In group 1, articular congruency and reduction status were confirmed by direct visualization. The fracture was then fixed with a locking plate and irreducible intercalary fragments were eliminated.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics, such as age and gender, between the two groups. Both groups achieved bony union within the approximately 6-year follow-up period and there were no serious complications in either group. The grades of heterotrophic ossification and ulnohumeral arthritis were not significantly different between the groups. The mean flexion-extension and pronation-supination arcs were similarly satisfactory in both groups (127.35° and 134.39° vs. 129.69° and 133.75° in groups 1 and 2°, respectively). Clinical outcomes including visual analog scale pain scores, as well as the Mayo Elbow Performance scores (87.73 vs. 88.28 in groups 1 and 2, respectively), were also similarly satisfactory in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Locking plate fixation under direct visualization (to reduce the articular surface in Mayo type IIB fractures) and elimination of articular intercalary fragments resulted in satisfactory radiologic and clinical outcomes, similar to those of noncomminuted fractures also treated using a locking plate.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective therapeutic study.

Anterior Bridge Plate Osteosynthesis in Comminuted Fracture Shaft of Humerus in Manual Workers- is it Optimum Choice?

BACKGROUND

Bridge plate osteosynthesis of fractures by minimal invasion and near acceptable reduction is becoming popular and acceptable entity. Management of humeral shaft fracture has evolved a lot with their pros and cons. Anterior bridge plate osteosynthesis (ABPO) for humeral shaft fracture is pertinent to a minimal invasive procedure, and it has evolved as a new entrant in the surgical techniques. This study was designed to carry out the results and efficacy of ABPO in the comminuted fracture shaft of the humerus in the manual workers.

METHODS

Study included the closed comminuted fracture of shaft of humerus in skeletally mature patients engaged predominantly in manual works, like overhead sports activity, laborers, and industrial workers. All fractures were managed by either 4.5-mm narrow locking compression plate (LCP) or dynamic compression plate (DCP).The functional outcome for elbow was measured by Mayo's elbow performance score (MEPS) and functional outcome of shoulder was measured by UCLA (University of California at Los Angeles) shoulder score system.

RESULTS

In this study 37 patients were enrolled. Mean duration for satisfactory radiographic union was 12.3 weeks. The mean duration of follow-up period was 14.5 months. In respect to elbow function, the average Mayo elbow score was 92.42 ±2.17 and average UCLA score of shoulder function was 34 ±0.34.

CONCLUSION

The ABPO is an optimum choice for managing the comminuted fracture shaft of humerus in manual labors. The outcomes are favorable and reproducible with very few risks.

Retrograde intramedullary nailing of comminuted intra-articular distal femur fractures results in high union rate

PURPOSE

Retrograde intramedullary nailing of intra-articular distal femur fractures with metaphyseal and/or epiphyseal comminution is controversial and considered a contraindication to nailing. The purpose of this study was to report union rate, complications, and secondary procedures after open reduction and retrograde intramedullary nailing of comminuted, intra-articular, distal femur fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review performed at an urban level one trauma center identified 16 patients AO/Orthopedic Trauma Association (OTA) 33-C2 and 33-C3 femur fractures treated with open reduction, lag screws, and retrograde intramedullary nail fixation. Radiographic union, complications, secondary operations were reviewed.

RESULTS

At the 3-month follow-up 12 (86%) of the 14 patients with radiographs had healed. At last follow-up, all 16 femur fractures achieved radiographic union after the index procedure. No patient required a revision procedure for delayed union or nonunion. Complications occurred in 6 (38%) patients, including failed distal interlocking screws (n = 2), knee arthrofibrosis (n = 3), superficial wound infection (n = 1), and wound dehiscence (n = 1). Three (19%) patients required secondary procedures, which included knee manipulation under anesthesia (n = 3), distal interlocking screw removal (n = 2), and closure of a wound dehiscence (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

Comminuted intra-articular distal femur fractures that can be successfully treated with retrograde IMN fixation will reliably go on to union with a complication rate that is favorable to that reported for plate fixation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective case-series.

Antegrade intramedullary nailing in comminuted, open metacarpal bone fracture: maintenance of the length

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiological and clinical outcomes of treatment of comminuted open fractures of the metacarpal bone (MCB) with associated injuries to soft tissues, tendons, and neurovascular structures using antegrade intramedullary nailing (AIN) at least 2 years postoperatively.

METHODS

Between January 2008 and December 2017, a total of 27 patients who met the inclusion/exclusion criteria were included in this study. The inclusion criterion was open and comminuted fracture (with/without segmental bone defects). We evaluated simple radiograph and computed tomography (CT) findings and clinical conditions (visual analog scale [VAS] pain score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH] score), including active range of motion (ROM) at metacarpophalangeal joint (MP) and grip strength at final follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative angulation was 29.63° ± 7.59° and the mean shortening was 9.30 ± 2.38 mm. Union was achieved at mean 12.3 weeks postoperatively, without any complications due to operative treatment. The dorsal angulation measured on the CT scans, shortening on simple radiographs was significantly improved (10.26 °± 3.19°, 0.52 ± 1.05 mm, respectively). The final VAS and DASH scores were 0.41 ± 0.64 and 3.6 ± 2.47, respectively, indicating satisfactory outcomes. The final ROM was 85.0° ± 3.67°. The mean final grip strength was 89.56 ± 5.69% relative to the normal side. A mean extension lag at the MP joint of 12° was noted in three patients; however, it was resolved by additional tenolysis.

CONCLUSIONS

AIN is a simple method for fixation of open comminuted metacarpal fractures accompanied by soft tissue injury. The simplicity of the method is beneficial for repairing associated injured structures and healing soft tissue. Minimized additional damage around the MCB during surgery and good stability resulted in satisfactory bony union with minimal angulation, shortening, and rotation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective case series.

A comparative study of variable angle volar plate and bridging external fixator with K-wire augmentation in comminuted distal radius fractures

PURPOSE

Comminuted intraarticular distal radial fractures are difficult to treat conservatively and require operative treatment. This study compared the functional outcomes between variable angle volar plating and external fixator with K-wire augmentation in open reduction and internal fixation.

METHODS

A total of 62 adult patients with comminuted intraarticular distal radius fracture were randomized into 2 groups: volar plate group and external fixator group. These patients aged between 18 and 60 years had unilateral fractures, and agreed to be included in the study. Patients with a history of fracture, bilateral fracture, associated other injuries, delayed injury for more than 2 weeks, open fracture, pre-existing arthrosis or disability, psychiatric illness and pathological fracture were excluded. Patients were followed up at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. The assessment of pain, functional activity, range of motion and grip strength was done at each stage of follow-up. The pain and functional activities were assessed by patient rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score.

RESULTS

Patients in volar plate group had superior PRWE score and DASH score at each stage of follow-up. At 1 year follow-up, the mean PRWE score were 7.48 for volar plate group and 7.35 for external fixator group; while the mean DASH score was 4.65 for volar plate group and 5.61 for external fixator group. They had better flexion and extension range of movement. They also had better pronation and supination range of motion at initial follow-up, however the difference get attenuated by 1 year. Volar plate group had significantly better grip strength than external fixator group. Complication rates were higher in external fixation group.

CONCLUSION

Fixation with variable angle volar plate results in early wrist mobilization, better range of movement, less pain and disability and early return of function.

Distal femoral replacement versus ORIF for severely comminuted distal femur fractures

INTRODUCTION

Distal femoral replacement (DFR) and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) are surgical options for comminuted distal femur fractures. Comparative outcomes of these techniques are limited. The aims of this study were to compare implant survivorship, perioperative factors, and clinical outcomes of DFR vs. ORIF for comminuted distal femur fractures.

METHODS

Ten patients treated with rotating hinge DFRs for AO/OTA 33-C fractures from 2005 to 2015 were identified and matched 1:2 based on age and sex to 20 ORIF patients. Patients treated with DFR and ORIF had similar ages (80 vs. 76 years, p = 0.2) and follow-up (20 vs. 27 months, p = 1.0), respectively. Implant survivorship, length of stay (LOS), anesthetic time, estimated blood loss (EBL), ambulatory status, knee range of motion (ROM), and Knee Society scores (KSS) were assessed at final follow-up.

RESULTS

Survivorship free from any revision at 2 years was 90% and 65% for the DFR and ORIF groups, respectively (p = 0.59). Survivorship free from any reoperation at 2 years was 90% for the DFR group and 50% for the ORIF group (p = 0.16). Three ORIF patients (15%) went on to nonunion and two went on to delayed union. Mean EBL and LOS were significantly higher for the DFR group: 592 mL vs. 364 mL, and 13 vs. 6.5 days, respectively. Knee ROM (p = 0.71) and KSSs (p = 0.36) were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Comminuted distal femur fractures treated with DFR trended toward lower revision and reoperation rates, with similar functional outcomes when compared to ORIF. We noted a trend toward increased EBL and LOS in the DFR group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Outcome Analysis of Fixed Angle Locking Plate in Patella Fractures: A Single Centre Experience from North India

BACKGROUND

Tension band wiring supposedly is the most commonly used technique for displaced patella fractures, but is not effective in comminuted fractures and osteoporotic bones. It often leads to loosening of wires, dislocation of fracture, hardware problem and failure of osteosynthesis, resulting in knee stiffness and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The aim of the study is to evaluate clinical outcome in patients with acute patella fractures (< 3 week) treated with unidirectional angle fixed low-profile titanium patella locking plate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients who presented with displaced patella fractures, aged between 18-70 years were included in the study. All fractures were reduced and fixed with unidirectional angle fixed stable low-profile titanium patella locking plate. Knee Range of motion and Knee Outcome Survey Activities of Daily Living Scale (KOS-ADL) was used to evaluate the outcome.

RESULTS

We were able to achieve union in 19 out of 20 patients. One patient with comminuted patella fracture had failure of fixation, which was revised. Mean flexion at final follow-up was 124° (110°-130°) and none of the patients had extensor lag. The final radiograph revealed complete union in all patients.

CONCLUSION

This technique offers an option of fixation in comminuted patella fracture and in osteoporotic individuals. It provides mechanical stability for fracture fixation resulting in anatomical reduction, good functional outcome, lower incidence of symptomatic implant or failure of osteosynthesis.

Single versus dual orthogonal plating for comminuted midshaft clavicle fractures: a biomechanics study

BACKGROUND

Dual orthogonal plating of clavicle fractures may provide greater stiffness and strength than unilateral plate constructs and allow the use of lower-profile plates. We aim to biomechanically compare three clavicle plating constructs in a comminuted clavicle fracture model.

METHOD

Fifteen clavicle sawbones were osteotomised, simulating a comminuted midshaft fracture and allocated to either: group 1, single superior plate (3.5 mm superior plate); group 2, combination plating (3.5 mm superior plate, 2.8 mm anterior plate) and group 3, dual mini-plates (two 2.8-mm orthogonal mini-plates). Specimens were biomechanically tested under torsion and cantilever bending. Construct stiffness (Nm/degree) and load to failure (Nm) were measured.

RESULTS

Group 2 had higher torsional (0.70 vs. 0.60 Nm/deg, p = 0.017) and cantilever bending stiffness (0.61 vs. 0.51 Nm/deg, p = 0.025) than group 1. Group 3 had lower cantilever bending stiffness (0.39 vs. 0.51 Nm/deg, p < 0.004) and load to failure (40.87 vs. 54.84 Nm, p < 0.01) than group 1. All dual plate constructs that catastrophically failed did so from fracture at the lateral ends of the plates. Single plate constructs failed due to plate bending.

CONCLUSION

Dual orthogonal fixation with mini-plates demonstrated lower stiffness and strength than traditional superior plating. The addition of an anterior mini-plate to a traditional superior plating improved construct stiffness and may have a role in patients seeking early return to activity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Basic science biomechanical study.

Early fixation failure of locked plating in complex distal femoral fractures: Root causes analysis

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) C-type distal femoral fractures can be very challenging to treat effectively. While locked plating is widely used in the complex distal femoral fracture, failure of locked plate fixation is not uncommon. First, we tried to determine the risk factor related to early failure of multiplanar OTA C-type fracture in the distal femur after fixation with lateral locked plate. Second, we tried to provide a strategy for surgeons to prevent pitfalls of early failure in the complex distal femoral fractures treated with lateral locked plating.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 44 adults with OTA C-type fractures of the distal femur treated with locked plate fixation between 2010 and 2016 at Tri-Service General Hospital. Average length of follow-up was 27.6 months (range, 12-54 months). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to determine the association of variables on early failure of fixation. A p-value < 0.05 in univariate and multivariate analyses were considered significant.

RESULTS

There were six patients experiencing early failure, and the early failure rate was 13.6%. The risk factors associated with early failure of complex distal femoral fracture identified by univariate analysis included sagittal oblique fracture pattern, longer working length and post-operative sagittal malalignment (odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 90.00 (6.85-1183.33), 0.55 (0.31-0.98) and 8.63 (1.077-69.075) respectively). The multivariate analysis showed only sagittal oblique fracture pattern was associated with early failure [OR: 52.348 (3.06-895.23)].

CONCLUSION

Sagittal oblique fracture was more likely to result in early postoperative failure. Early recognition of the fracture pattern should be considered to avoid catastrophic results.

Efficacy of open reduction and internal fixation in achieving bony union of comminuted mandibular fractures caused by civilian gunshot injuries

INTRODUCTION

Comminuted fractures of the mandible caused by gunshot injuries were traditionally treated with closed reduction using maxillo-mandibular fixation (MMF).^2,3 Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) has become a valuable treatment modality in the management of comminuted mandibular fractures due to low rate of complications and predictable healing ^{4, 5}.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of ORIF compared with MMF in achieving bony union of comminuted mandibular fractures in gunshot injury patients.

METHOD

ology: Randomized controlled trial conducted at the department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital for a period of 3 years; total of 40 patients divided equally into two groups. Group A were treated with ORIF and group B were treated with MMF. Callus formation radiographically was confirmed by 8th week post operatively. Data was collected using proforma, entered on a statistical software SPSS version 20. Frequency percentages were computed for age and gender. Chi square and Fisher's exact tests were applied. P value ≤ 0.05 considered significant.

RESULT

A total of 40 patients of gunshot injuries were included in this study. 37 (92.5%) were males and 3 (7.5%) were Females with mean age of 36.35 ± 12.9 years SD. 19 (47.5%) patients showed callus formation, whereas, 21 (52.5%) did not. Out of 19 patients, 14 (70%) belonged to group A, and 5 (25%) from group B. The final healing considered by 8th week was in 16 (80%) of ORIF group A, and 8 (40%) group B (MMF) after calculating the clinical and radiographic evidences.

CONCLUSION

Comparative clinical trials have proven that ORIF is superior to MMF in the management of comminuted mandibular fractures. Early primary repair and internal fixation provides predictable and cost effective results.

Fragment specific fixation technique using 2.7 mm VA LCP for comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures: a novel surgical technique

PURPOSE

The purposes of the study were to introduce surgical technique of fragment-specific fixation technique using multiple 2.7-mm variable-angle locking compression plates (VA LCPs) in comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures and reported its clinical results.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Among the 68 patients, 23 with comminuted posterior wall factures with ≥ 3 fragments in the CT scan and no column involvement with a minimum follow-up duration of 12 months were enrolled in this study. We evaluated the clinical results after the treatment of comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures via the fragment-specific fixation technique using 2.7-mm variable-angle locking compression plates (VA LCPs) retrospectively.

RESULTS

The average duration of follow-up was 26.8 months. Anatomical reduction was achieved in eighteen patients. Imperfect reduction was achieved in five patients. 22 patients achieved fracture union and one patient underwent revision surgery owing to acute postoperative infection. There were no complications, including loss of reduction, fixative failures, sciatic nerve palsy, heterotopic ossification, and early posttraumatic arthritis among 22 patients. The average functional outcome was measured as 'very good'.

CONCLUSION

Fragment-specific fixation technique using 2.7-mm VA LCPs for comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures could be an acceptable alternative means of surgical fixation.

Circular external fixation as definitive treatment for open or comminuted femoral fractures: Radiologic and functional outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Ring external fixation can be a definitive treatment of high energy femoral fractures. A retrospective analysis of outcomes is presented.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

23 patients with open or comminuted femoral fractures treated with circular external fixators were included. Mean age was 33 (range, 13-81) years. Lesions were classified according to AO/ASIF. 12 fractures were open. Mean follow up period has been 26.3, (range 20-144) months. The results were assessed according to the modified criteria of Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov. Knee functional results were assessed with Hospital for Special Surgery knee scoring system.

RESULTS

22 fractures united primarily, one showed nonunion. Knee stiffness developed in two patients. No patient had deep pin tract infection. Bone results were quoted as excellent, good, fair and poor in 19, 1, 1 and 2. The functional results were excellent, good, and fair in 16, 6, and 1, on the basis of ASAMI criteria. Mean HSS knee score has been 90.1 (range 60-100).

CONCLUSION

Circular external fixation can achieve reliable rates of union and good to excellent functional outcome in open or comminuted femoral fractures. A strict rehabilitation protocol was effective in preserving knee joint function.

[Biomechanical study of bridge-link type combined internal fixation system with mixed-rod in the treatment of long segmental comminuted fracture of femoral shaft]

Objective: To observe the biomechanical characteristics of bridge-link type combined internal fixation system (BCFS) with mixed-rod in the treatment of long segmental comminuted fracture of femoral shaft. Methods: A total of 16 models of long comminuted segment fracture of femoral shaft with mixed-rod and double-rod were made (8 each structure), and divided into the mixed-rod group and the double-rod group. The axial compression experiment and the radial torsion experiment were carried out on each of the mixed rod group and the double rod group. Four models were randomly selected from the two groups for axial compression experiment and radial torsion experiment, respectively. The changes of axial compression yield load and displacement, and also radial torsional yield load and angle were observed in two groups. At the same time, the maximum load was recorded when the curve had a break point or in a horizontal state, and then calculated the yield load. The data of normal distribution were compared with one-sample t test. Results: When the two groups were compressed axially at the same speed, as the axial compression yield load increased gradually, the longitudinal compression displacement of the mixed-rod group was obviously smaller than that in the double-rod group; and the maximum axial compression yield load of the mixed-rod group was greater than that in the double-rod group ((7 517±4)N vs (2 290±4) N, t=1 848.071, P=0.000). When the two groups were twisted radially at the same speed,as radial torsional yield load increased gradually, the radial torsion angle of the mixed-rod group was smaller than that in the double-rod group; and the maximum radial torsional yield load of the mixed-rod group was greater than that in the double-rod group ((61.3±2.0) Nm vs (24.4±2.2)Nm, t=25.201, P=0.000). Conclusions: For the long segment comminuted fracture of femoral shaft, the mixed-rod of BCFS can fix fracture more strongly than double-rod in longitudinal direction and maintain the stability of fracture end. The transverse torsion resistance is better than that of the double-rod, and the fatigue resistance is strong.

Fixed angle plate fixation of comminuted patellar fractures

INTRODUCTION

Comminuted patella fractures are uncommon and difficult fractures to manage. Multiple treatment modalities have been suggested, with little clinical data to support practice. Recent biomechanical and technical investigations have described successful plate fixation of comminuted patella fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate radiographic, clinical and functional outcome of comminuted patella fractures treated with a fixed angle locking plates. We believe stable fixation, which results in successful fracture union and functional recovery, can be achieved with this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was performed at a single regional academic Level 1 trauma hospital. All comminuted patella fractures treated with a fixed angle locking plate (AO/OTA 34C2 and C3) over a six-year period were evaluated. Thirty-six patients were identified. Average length of follow up was 154 weeks (range 12-297 weeks). Twenty patients were available for functional outcome scoring. Primary outcome measures were: Knee Outcome Score (KOS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LES) and goniometer measured knee range of motion. Secondary outcomes evaluated the need for additional screw or cerclage fixation, reoperation for any reason, bothersome hardware, infection and nonunion.

RESULTS

Average KOS = 57.2 (20-74), average LES = 58.9 (15-80). Median extension = 0° (full extension), median flexion = 130°. Supplemental screws were used in 17/36 cases; cerclage used in 2/36 cases. Hardware irritation was noted in 4/20 patients, no patient requested elective hardware removal, one patient had failure of fixation and no nonunions were identified.

CONCLUSION

Fixed angle plate stabilization of comminuted patella fractures is a viable technique for fracture fixation. Good to excellent return of knee function and low complication rates, including need for hardware removal, can be expected.

Management of comminuted tibial end bony avulsion of posterior cruciate ligament by open posterior approach using suture bridge technique: A case series

BACKGROUND

Comminuted tibial end bony avulsion of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is a challenging problem in terms of accurate reduction, fixation and union to provide a stable knee. Arthroscopic reduction or a screw fixation is good option for a large fragment but comminuted fragment reduction remains a challenge. Suture bridge technique using two anchors can provide an accurate reduction and stable fixation.

METHOD

10 patients of isolated comminuted PCL avulsion with a mean age of 30 years were fixed by standard posterior approach using suture bridge technique.

RESULTS

Mean follow up was 12 months. All patients showed radiological union at 12 weeks with a mean Lysholm score of 92. Seven out of ten achieved IKDC grade A and remaining three had grade B. No complication of the procedure were noted.

CONCLUSION

Suture bridge technique is an excellent option to fix a comminuted PCL avulsion fracture where arthroscopic reduction or open single screw fixation is not a viable due option due to comminution.

A comparison of the open reduction-internal fixation and resection arthroplasty techniques in treatment of Mason Type 3 radial head fractures

Objective

The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare a series of patients surgically treated with ORIF or early resection arthroplasty due to isolated comminuted radial head fractures.

Methods

Between the years 2009 and 2013, 34 patients with isolated comminuted fractures of the radial head (Mason Type 3) had been operated (ORIF in 19 patients, resection arthroplasty in 15 patients). The mean age of the patients in the ORIF group was 38.5 years and 54 years in the resection group. The carrying angle (CA) and ulnar variance were measured bilaterally, and radiographs were reviewed for degenerative elbow arthritis. The Mayo elbow performance score, Turkish version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH-T) and visual analog scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the clinical results.

Results

The mean follow-up period in the ORIF group was 40.2 months and 44.4 months in the resection group. In the ORIF group, 11 patients were clinically rated excellent, six good, and two fair. In the resection group, seven patients had excellent, five had good, and two had fair scores. We did not find a statistically significant difference between the ORIF and resection groups regarding the clinical and radiological outcomes.

Conclusion

With these short-term results, resection arthroplasty may be considered an effective method in the treatment of isolated comminuted radial head fractures, as it is less technically demanding and it also allows for early postoperative motion. However, the patients should be evaluated in detail, regarding ligamentous injuries prior to resection arthroplasty.

Level of evidence

Level III, Therapeutic study.

Success Rate and Complications of Comminuted Intra-Articular Distal Radius Fracture Treatment via Closed Reduction and Use of a Mini-External Fixator

Background:

Intra-articular fracture of the distal radius is extremely common; however, the management of this fracture is controversial.

Objectives:

With regard to the importance of intra-articular fracture of the distal radius and the best treatment method for the fracture, we sought to assess the success rate following the treatment of comminuted intra-articular fractures of the distal radius via closed reduction and use of a mini-external fixator.

Patients and Methods:

This longitudinal retrospective study was undertaken at our department of orthopedics via assessment of radiographs and patient files of those referred from 2006 to 2013. Radiographic criteria included the degree of angulation and shortening of the radius. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18 software and were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD). The significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results:

Overall, ≥ 2 mm shortening of the radius was seen in 28% of the patients, 53% had 2 - 5 mm radial shortening and 19% of the patients had more than 5 mm shortening of the radius. Most of the participants had acceptable outcomes. The mean angulation was 6.28 ± 2.85 degrees and the mean shortening was 3.92 ± 2.22. Thirty-nine percent of the patients had an angulation of less than 5 mm, 56% and 5% had an angulation of 5 - 10 mm and more than 10 mm, respectively.

Conclusions:

The results of our study showed that the mini-external fixator is a good and effective treatment option for obtaining radial length, angulation and bony union in intra-articular fractures of the distal radius.

Treatment of extensive comminuted mandibular fracture between both mandibular angles with bilateral condylar fractures using a reconstruction plate: a case report

This following case report describes the open reduction, internal fixation and the reconstruction of an extensive comminuted mandibular fracture with bilateral condylar fractures in a 19-year-old male patient with an intellectual disability and autistic disorder. He suffered fall trauma, resulting in shattered bony fragments of the alveolus and mandibular body between both mandibular rami, the fracture of both condyles and the avulsion or dislocation of every posterior tooth of the mandible. The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation between both mandibular rami using a reconstruction plate, open reduction and internal fixation of the shattered fragments using miniplates and screws, and the closed reduction of the bilateral condylar fractures.