Functional Outcomes in Surgically Treated Clavicle Fractures: A Longitudinal Observational Study

Introduction The clavicle is the most unique long bone and has a significant incidence in terms of fractures. Operative fixation for clavicle fractures has seen a steep rise in terms of technique as well as type of implant. Although extensive studies have been carried out in relation to clavicle fractures and their treatment modalities, no proper guidelines or approach has been identified as ideal, and hence, this study was carried out to evaluate operative fixation as a viable strategy. Objective The objective of this article was to assess functional outcomes of plate fixation in clavicle fractures. Materials and methods This longitudinal prospective observational study included 30 patients treated for clavicle fractures with plate fixation in the Orthopedics Department of Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT), Jollygrant, Dehradun, over a period of one year. Functional outcomes were assessed as Constant-Murley shoulder scores, and complications were recorded. Radiological assessment was done on the basis of time to union through follow-up skiagrams. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS statistical package version 17.0 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York). Continuous variables are presented as mean ± SD, and categorical variables are presented as absolute numbers and percentages. Continuous variables and constant score values over time within the groups were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Bonferroni's post hoc testing. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The mean age of patients undergoing surgical fixation of clavicle fractures was 36 ± 12.53 years, ranging from 18-65 years. Of the entire study group, 83.3% were males and 16.7% were females. Road traffic accident (RTA) was the most common cause of clavicle fracture, constituting 76.7% of the entire study population, followed by fall on the floor (20.0%), and one patient sustained trauma by being hit by a bull (3.3%). Our study demonstrated a mean Constant score of 73.87 ± 2.64, 82.80 ± 2.20, and 92.40 ± 2.37 at one-month, two-month, and four-month follow-up times, respectively, which was found to be statistically significant in terms of progression (p value<0.001). The mean union time of clavicle fractures in our study population was 12.1 weeks. Two patients in our study developed implant impingement. Conclusion Our study revealed that patients with clavicle fractures treated with plate fixation had statistically significant good functional outcome (Constant) scores at sequential follow-ups, consistent with available literature. Mean union time was also comparable to existing literature. Non-union was not noted in our study, and only two cases developed implant impingement. Hence, we conclude that early primary plate fixation for displaced clavicle fractures is a promising technique with good overall functional outcomes and patient satisfaction, especially in young, active patients.

Labeling male anorectal malformations: objective evaluation of radiologic imaging before surgery

Purpose

Prone cross-table lateral x-ray (CTLxR) and colostogram aid surgical planning for anorectal malformations (ARMs) without perineal fistulas. We suggest objective imaging tools to classify ARMs.

Methods

Three observers prospectively evaluated CTLxR and colostograms of male ARM patients (2012-2022) without perineal fistulas. The level of the rectal pouch was estimated with pubococcygeal (PC) and ischiatic (I) lines. On CTLxR, we described the "pigeon sign", defined as the rectal pouch ending with a beak-like image, suspicious for a rectourinary fistula. ARM was defined as rectobulbar when the rectal pouch was below the I line, rectoprostatic when between PC and I lines, and rectovesical when above the PC line. Concordance was assessed with Fleiss' kappa. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of the "pigeon sign" were calculated.

Results

Thirteen patients were included in this study. The interobserver agreement on CTLxR was 69.2% (k = 0.54) on pouch ending, 84.6% (k = 0.69) on the "pigeon sign", and 76.9% (k = 0.69) on diagnosis; concordance between observers and intraoperative diagnosis was 66.6% (k = 0.56). The "pigeon sign" had 75% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, and 50% NPV. The interobserver agreement on colostograms was 84.6% (k = 0.77) on pouch ending and 89.7% (k = 0.86) on diagnosis; concordance between observers and intraoperative diagnosis was 92.3% (k = 0.90).

Conclusion

PC and I lines and the "pigeon sign" are useful tools in examining CTLxR and colostograms. Adequate CTLxR interpretation may modify surgical strategy.

Radiological response of leptomeningeal metastases according to revised RANO criteria is associated with overall survival in breast cancer patients

Assessment of treatment response in patients (pts) with leptomeningeal metastases (LM) represents a significant challenge and standardized criteria are needed. In 2017, the RANO LM Working Group proposed a standardized scorecard to evaluate MRI findings (further simplified in 2019). Here, we aim to validate the prognostic impact of response to treatment assessed using this tool in a multicentric cohort of breast cancer (BC) pts. Pts with BC-related LM diagnosed at two institutions between 2005 and 2018 were identified. Baseline and follow-up MRI scans were centrally reviewed and response assessment was evaluated using 2019 revised RANO LM criteria. A total of 142 pts with BC-related LM and available baseline brain MRI imaging were identified; 60 of them had at least one follow-up MRI. In this subgroup, median overall survival (OS) was 15.2 months (95%CI 9.5-21.0). At first re-evaluation, radiological response by RANO criteria was: complete response (CR) in 2 pts (3%), partial response (PR) in 12 (20%), stable disease (SD) in 33 (55%) and progression of disease (PD) in 13 (22%). Median OS was 31.1 months (HR 0.10, 95%CI 0.01-0.78) in pts with CR, 16.1 months (HR 0.41, 95%CI 0.17-0.97) in pts with PR, 17.9 months (HR 0.45, 95%CI 0.22-0.91) in pts with SD and 9.5 months in pts with PD (P = .029). A second blinded evaluation showed a moderate interobserver agreement (K = 0.562). Radiological response according to 2019 RANO criteria is significantly associated with OS in pts with BC-related LM, thus supporting the use of this evaluation tool both in trials and clinical practice.

Anterolateral approach may be superior to posterolateral approach in controlling postoperative lower limb discrepancy in primary total hip arthroplasty: A single-center, retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the possible association and comparison between anterolateral approach (ALA) and posterolateral approach (PLA) and postoperative lower limb discrepancy (LLD) in selective total hip arthroplasty (THA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

April 2021 and July 2021, a total of 266 consecutive patients (126 males, 140 females; mean age: 46.7±13.6 years; range, 22 to 60 years) who underwent unilateral primary THA via the ALA or the PLA were retrospectively analyzed. The operations were performed by a single surgical team. All patients were divided into two groups according to the approach: ALA group (n=66) and PLA group (n=200). Relevant data were recorded. Diagnosis including hip osteoarthritis, developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), aseptic avascular necrosis (AVN), and inflammatory arthritis were noted. Perioperative follow-up radiographs were evaluated and measured to compare the postoperative LLD and offset. The association between two approaches and postoperative LLD and offset was analyzed using the univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 20±3.7 (range, 16 to 25) months. Univariate analysis revealed that the postoperative LLD, the postoperative acetabular offset, and hospital costs were lower in the ALA group than the PLA group (p<0.01). However, the offset and length of stay were comparable between the two groups (p>0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that the PLA (β=4.71; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.78 to 7.64), preoperative LLD (β=0.29; 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.37), DDH (β=5.01; 95% CI: 1.47 to 8.55), and AVN (β=3.81; 95% CI: 0.50 to 7.12) were the main contributors to the postoperative LLD.

CONCLUSION

Our study results suggest that the ALA may be superior to the PLA in controlling the postoperative LLD among some of the selective unilateral primary THA patients. Both the ALA and the PLA were comparable in terms of the restoration of offset.

The Role of MRI Pancreatic Protocol in Assessing Response to Neoadjuvant Therapy for Patients With Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer

BACKGROUND

Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer (BRPC) remains a unique entity that is difficult to categorize due to variance in definitions and the small number of patients. The ultimate goal is to achieve a free resection (R0) after a favorable response to neoadjuvant therapy that is somewhat difficult to assess by current radiological parameters.

AIM

To evaluate the role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) pancreatic protocol, including Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI), in patients with BRPC receiving neoadjuvant therapy, and further compare it to RECIST criteria and outcome.

METHODS

Histologically confirmed BRPC patients were prospectively included. DWI-MRI was performed pre- and post-therapy. Clinical characteristics with ensuing operability were recorded and correlated to radiological RECIST/apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) change, preoperative therapy administrated, surgical resection status, and survival.

RESULTS

Out of 30 BRPC cases, only 11 (36.7%) ultimately underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. Attaining a stationary or stable disease via ADC/RECIST was achieved in the majority of cases (60%/53.3% respectively). Of the 12 patients (40%) who achieved a regression by ADC, 11 underwent surgery with an R0 status. These surgical cases showed variable RECIST responses (PR=5, SD=4, PD=3). Responders by ADC to neoadjuvant therapy were significantly associated to presenting with abdominal pain (p =0.07), a decline in post-therapy CA19-9 (p<0.001), going through surgery (p<0.001), and even achieving better survival (p<0.001 vs. 0.66).

CONCLUSION

DWI-MRI ADC picked up patients most likely to undergo a successful operative procedure better than traditional RECIST criteria. An algorithm incorporating novel radiological advances with CA19-9 deserves further assessment in future studies.

A Prospective, Clinical Cohort Study

The various side effects of orthodontic treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances (FOAs) and their impact on apical and periodontal structures have been widely reported. However, the existing data is not yet conclusive. Aims and objectives: To investigate the status of roots and periodontium in endodontically treated teeth that have undergone orthodontic treatment with the use of FOAs and to evaluate their impact on apical/periodontal structures. Material and methods: The prospective clinical cohort study initially involved 69 participants aged 16–40, without underlying systemic conditions, who received orthodontic treatment with ligatureless FOA systems due to different types of mild and moderate malocclusions. To meet the required criteria, 88 teeth in 34 patients were assessed clinically and radiologically. Participants had at least one tooth treated endodontically while the corresponding tooth from the same anatomical group on the opposite side was vital and intact (a ‘split-mouth’ approach). Four cohorts were allocated: Group IA consisted of 15 teeth, treated utilising the principles of modern endodontics, that were subjected to orthodontic forces no less than six months after completing the root canal obturation. Group I consisted of 13 similarly endodontically treated teeth, which commenced orthodontic treatment at least six months after the completed endodontic therapy. Group II contained 16 teeth treated by conventional endodontic methods and the control group, Group III, contained 44 clinically and radiologically intact teeth (incisors and premolars) with vital and sound dental pulp. The response of apical and periodontal structures to FOAs was determined by data collected from intraoral periapical radiographs taken within the course of five consecutive appointments during the orthodontic treatment. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in susceptibility to FOA-induced external apical root resorption (EARR) between combined Groups IA + IB and II. An association was, however, demonstrated, between the occurrence of EARR and the degree of expansion of the periodontal ligament (PDL) space, regardless the method of root canal treatment. Cumulative data revealed a positive correlation between the width of the PDL space and the stage of FOA treatment (the third and the fourth appointment). The subtle changes in radiological length of roots have been observed (min 0 mm/max 0.38 mm), particularly between the second and third appointment in Group II (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The standard orthodontic therapy with FOAs is a safe option with predictable outcome for persons who have recently received endodontic therapy. The anterior teeth, predominantly incisors, were more susceptible to minimal EARR than premolars, which suggests that the rate of EARR occurrence may depend upon the original morphology of the apical portion of the root. The use of additional orthodontic forces increases the risk of EARR and is associated with a higher incidence of radiologically detected PDL space widening.

Applicability of the Greulich-Pyle Method in Assessing the Skeletal Maturity of Children in the Eastern Utter Pradesh (UP) Region: A Pilot Study

Background In forensic proficiency, the distinct model applied for age estimation includes physical examination, i.e., evaluation of somatic maturity and post pubescence peculiarities, dental development, and radiological assessment of skeletal maturity usually of the hand and wrist. The Greulich and Pyle (GP) method of skeletal age (SA) determination is considered quicker and easier with a lower error percentage of prediction. The specificity and applicability of the GP atlas have been recapitulated in many studies. This study aims to assess the applicability and reproducibility of the GP atlas on a sample of the eastern Utter Pradesh (UP) population. Results Considering the whole study population, the SA of the male subjects was retarded by 0.89 years or 9.03 months, whereas the SA of females were retarded by 0.36 years or 4.33 months than the chronological age, respectively. Conclusion According to this study, it is concluded that the GP atlas may not be applicable for both males and females in the eastern Uttar Pradesh region. The factors responsible for delayed skeletal growth and maturation may vary depending on demographics, ethnicity, and genetics. Further, a detailed study will be conclusive on a greater population size assessing more accurate and precise insights on the applicability and reproducibility of GP atlas.

Percutaneous posterior full-endoscopic cervical foraminotomy and discectomy: a finite element analysis and radiological assessment

Percutaneous posterior full-endoscopic cervical foraminotomy and discectomy (PECFD) is recognized as a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR). However, the potential mechanisms of the degenerative changes and postoperative recurrence after PECFD are unclear. In this study, a finite element (FE) analysis and radiological assessment were performed to evaluate the biomechanical effects after PECFD. The FE model indicated that the ROM and IDP of C5-C6 increased significantly after PECFD in the extension loading. The radiological evaluation revealed that the extension ROM of C2-C7 and the operative level increased significantly at the one-year follow-up compared with that obtained preoperatively. Combining the FE results and radiological changes, we conclude that the increase in the ROM and IDP at the operative level in the extension loading is the potential cause of the degenerative changes and recurrences after PECFD surgery.

Hemangiopericytoma in the Olfactory Groove: A Rare and Unusual Presentation

Intracranial hemangiopericytomas (HPCs) are solitary fibrous tumors of the smooth muscle and the mesenchymal origin. While meningiomas located within the olfactory groove are common, an HPC in this location has never been reported previously. Here we describe the rare presentation of a differentiated HPC masquerading as an olfactory groove meningioma in a 33-year-old female presenting with the progressive headaches, anosmia, and visual field disturbances. Following resection, the histopathological analysis confirmed a grade II HPC. A preoperative understanding of the radiographic differences between the meningiomas and HPCs may confirm the treatment planning. An HPC must be considered in the differential diagnosis of the tumors located within the olfactory groove.

A novel method for assessing postoperative femoral head reduction in developmental dysplasia of the hip

PURPOSE

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) affects approximately 1 % of live births. Dislocated hips require reduction and stabilisation in a spica cast, and reduction efficacy is assessed radiologically. Numerous measurements are used to ascertain the adequacy of reduction but can be inconsistent in evaluating femoral head position. This study describes the morphology of the developing acetabulum in DDH and validates a novel method to assess adequate reduction of the dysplastic hip following closed or open reduction.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of 66 consecutive patients undergoing reduction of hip dislocation over a 2-year period. Three independent reviewers evaluated postoperative CT scans to assess anterior-posterior (AP) displacement and modified Shenton's line. Acetabular morphology was also assessed along with hip congruency using a described novel 'posterior neck line'.

RESULTS

Dislocated hips were successfully identified using the posterior neck line with a sensitivity of 0.71 and specificity of 0.88 giving a negative predictive value of 0.97. The interobserver reliability of this technique was higher in comparison against both (AP) displacement and modified Shenton's line.

CONCLUSIONS

We have shown a novel approach in assessing the acetabular morphology of DDH and a novel technique to accurately confirm the reduction of dislocated hips following open or closed reduction.

Current concepts and controversies on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: Part I

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common spinal deformity encountered by General Orthopaedic Surgeons. Etiology remains unclear and current research focuses on genetic factors that may influence scoliosis development and risk of progression. Delayed diagnosis can result in severe deformities which affect the coronal and sagittal planes, as well as the rib cage, waistline symmetry, and shoulder balance. Patient's dissatisfaction in terms of physical appearance and mechanical back pain, as well as the risk for curve deterioration are usually the reasons for treatment. Conservative management involves mainly bracing with the aim to stop or slow down scoliosis progression during growth and if possible prevent the need for surgical treatment. This is mainly indicated in young compliant patients with a large amount of remaining growth and progressive curvatures. Scoliosis correction is indicated for severe or progressive curves which produce significant cosmetic deformity, muscular pain, and patient discontent. Posterior spinal arthrodesis with Harrington instrumentation and bone grafting was the first attempt to correct the coronal deformity and replace in situ fusion. This was associated with high pseudarthrosis rates, need for postoperative immobilization, and flattening of sagittal spinal contour. Segmental correction techniques were introduced along with the Luque rods, Harri-Luque, and Wisconsin systems. Correction in both coronal and sagittal planes was not satisfactory and high rates of nonunion persisted until Cotrel and Dubousset introduced the concept of global spinal derotation. Development of pedicle screws provided a powerful tool to correct three-dimensional vertebral deformity and opened a new era in the treatment of scoliosis.

Pulmonary influences on early post-operative recovery in patients after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy treatment: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The combination of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a curative treatment option for peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). There have been few studies on the pulmonary adverse events (AEs) affecting patient recovery after this treatment, thus this study investigated these factors.

METHODS

Between January 2005 and December 2006, clinical data on all pulmonary AEs and the recovery progress were reviewed for 76 patients with after CRS and HIPEC. Patients with pulmonary interventions (thoracocenthesis and chest tubes) were compared with the non-intervention patients. Two senior radiologists, blinded to the post-operative clinical course, separately graded the occurrence of pulmonary AEs.

RESULTS

Of the 76 patients, 6 had needed thoracocentesis and another 6 needed chest tubes. There were no differences in post-operative recovery between the intervention and non-intervention groups. The total number of days on mechanical ventilation, the length of stay in the intensive care unit, total length of hospital stay, tumor burden, and an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade of greater than 2 were correlated with the occurrence of atelectasis and pleural effusion. Extensive atelectasis (grade 3 or higher) was seen in six patients, major pleural effusion (grade 3) in seven patients, and signs of heart failure (grade 1-2) in nine patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and radiological post-operative pulmonary AEs are common after CRS and HIPEC. However, most of the pulmonary AEs did not affect post-operative recovery.