An assessment of the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of lower extremity stress fractures in pediatric and adolescent populations

OBJECTIVES

To present one of the first descriptive case series of pediatric and adolescent lower extremity stress injuries, their management, and outcomes in athletes and non-athletes.

METHODS

The IRB-approved retrospective study included patients under 18 years at a tertiary children's hospital who were diagnosed with a lower extremity stress fracture/reaction. Demographic data, mechanism of injury, physical exam, radiographic findings, treatment, & outcomes were collected. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

Ninety-seven patients with stress injuries on clinical exams and on radiographs or MRI were included. The average age when diagnosed was 11.7 years (range 1.1-18 years) and the most common injuries were to the tibia (n = 33, 28.4%) and the least common involved were the cuneiforms (n = 4, 3.4%). Patients under the age of 14 were more likely to experience cuboid and calcaneal stress injuries (mean age 5.5 and 8.3 years respectively). Nineteen patients (19.6%) had high-risk stress fractures, with the average age of 14.9 years versus 11.6 for those with low risk (p-value = 0.01) and return to activity time being 15 weeks compared to 10.5 (p-value = 0.027). The most common forms of treatment were controlled ankle motion (CAM), walker boots (58.6%), and physical therapy (PT) (38.1%). The mean Lower Extremity Function Score of the patient population was 73.8, indicating no clinically important difference from full functionality.

CONCLUSION

Lower extremity stress injuries in this cohort were most seen in the tibia, although patients younger than 14 had a high number of cuboid and calcaneal stress injuries. Those with high-risk stress fractures were older and took longer to recover from when compared to low-risk injuries. Treatment is commonly conservative, with CAM boots and PT being the most frequently utilized interventions and serving as a successful approach to treatment, with patients returning to activity at an average of 11.4 weeks, which is comparable to similar studies.

Microvascular reconstruction for complex lower-extremity trauma in pregnancy

Microvascular reconstruction in pregnancy is rare. We report a case of complex distal lower-extremity trauma in early pregnancy reconstructed with a microvascular free muscle flap. A 30-year-old female with 13 weeks gestation had a crush avulsion of the distal left leg with medial malleolar fracture; she had two sessions of debridement, joint stabilising external fixator frame, and a vaccum assisted closure dressing application. Two weeks later, a right latissimus muscle flap was harvested. Flap was transferred to the debrided leg defect. The thoracodorsal vessels were anastomosed end to end to the anterior tibial artery and the concomitant vein. The flap was immediately revascularised. Continuous post-operative heparin infusion was administered. The muscle was covered with split-thickness skin graft 48 hrs later. Healing and post-operative recovery were uneventful. This report suggests that careful surgical and anesthetic techniques, along with a balanced post-operative anticoagulation protocol, can achieve satisfactory microvascular reconstruction in pregnancy.

Predicting Noncontact Lower Limb Injury Using Lumbar Morphology in Professional Australian Football and Rugby League Players

INTRODUCTION

Noncontact lower limb injuries are common within the Australian Football League (AFL) and National Rugby League (NRL). Smaller (<8.5 cm2) lumbar multifidus at the fifth vertebra (LM L5) and larger (>8.2 cm2) quadratus lumborum (QL) cross-sectional area (CSA) have been associated with increased noncontact lower limb injury risk in AFL players. These associations have not been explored in an NRL cohort. This study will attempt to replicate previous research findings by confirming that muscle morphology is associated with noncontact lower limb injury.

METHODS

AFL (n = 87) and NRL (n = 151) players underwent LM L2-L5 and QL CSA ultrasound measures during preseason. Each club's medical staff reported all noncontact lower limb injuries sustained in the subsequent regular season. LM and QL CSA, age, body mass index, and noncontact lower limb injuries were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Seventy-two players sustained a noncontact lower limb injury in the 2020 regular season (AFL = 21, NRL = 51). The multivariable logistic regression (odds ratio (OR) = 1.36; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02-1.85; P = 0.038) identified AFL players with larger QL CSA at increased risk of sustaining a noncontact lower limb injury during the regular season, but no relationship was found for LM CSA and noncontact lower limb injuries in the AFL (OR = 1.01; 95% CI, 0.36-2.78; P = 0.591) or NRL (OR = 0.63; 95% CI, 0.29-1.33; P = 0.149).

CONCLUSIONS

AFL players who sustained regular season noncontact lower limb injuries had larger QL CSA in preseason tests. No significant associations between either LM L5 CSA or LM L5 to QL ratio and regular season noncontact lower limb injuries were found.

Intratendinous hamstring injuries: sequential MRIs as a tool to reduce the risk of reinjury in elite sport

Hamstring injuries are the most common muscle injuries in elite football. Injuries involving the intramuscular tendon are considered more significant, with longer return to play (RTP) times and an increased risk of reinjury. MRI is the gold standard investigation for muscle injuries, but initial findings cannot accurately determine RTP times. The role of MRI in monitoring muscle and tendon healing is not well described. We present three cases of hamstring injuries with intramuscular tendon involvement, illustrating the changes seen on MRI during progressive tendon healing and describing how we utilised this information to inform safe rehabilitation progression. We conclude that intramuscular hamstring tendon healing can be accurately seen on sequential MRI scans and that this information, when combined with traditional rehabilitation markers in and elite sport environment, can be utilised by clinicians to determine the earliest but safe RTP.

Quantification of immobilization-induced changes in human calf muscle using speed-of-sound ultrasound: An observational pilot study

Short-term immobilization leads to fatty muscular degeneration, which is associated with various negative health effects. Based on literature showing very high correlations between MRI Dixon fat fraction and Speed-of-Sound (SoS), we hypothesized that we can detect short-term-immobilization-induced differences in SoS.Both calves of 10 patients with a calf cast on one side for a mean duration of 41 ± 26 days were examined in relaxed position using a standard ultrasound machine. Calf perimeters were measured for both sides. A flat Plexiglas-reflector, placed vertically on the opposite side of the probe with the calf in-between, was used as a timing reference for SoS. SoS was both manually annotated by two readers and assessed by an automatic annotation algorithm. The thickness values of the subcutaneous fat and muscle layers were manually read from the B-mode images. Differences between the cast and non-cast calves were calculated with a paired t test. Correlation analysis of SoS and calf perimeter was performed using Pearson's correlation coefficient.Paired t test showed significant differences between the cast and non-cast side for both SoS (P < .01) and leg perimeter (P < .001). SoS was reduced with the number of days after cast installment (r = -0.553, P = .097). No significant differences were found for muscle layer thickness, subcutaneous fat layer thickness, mean fat echo intensity, or mean muscle echo intensity.Short-term-immobilization led to a significant reduction in SoS in the cast calf compared to the healthy calf, indicating a potential role of SoS as a biomarker in detecting immobilization-induced fatty muscular degeneration not visible on B-mode ultrasound.

Nontraumatic Chronic Subcutaneous Extensor Digitorum Longus Tendon Rupture in a Recreational Runner: A Case Report

CASE

Nontraumatic chronic subcutaneous rupture of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) tendon is rare. A 66-year-old man, recreational runner, suddenly injured his EDL tendon while walking. We surgically reconstructed the ruptured EDL tendon with a free palmaris longus tendon graft. During the surgery, an osteophyte was found to have penetrated the ankle joint capsule and was considered the cause of the tendon rupture. Active toe extension was restored, and the patient completed a 10-km race at 2 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

EDL tendon reconstruction using a free palmaris longus tendon graft is an effective surgical option for athletes.

Arteriography in the Delayed Evaluation of Wartime Extremity Injuries

Recent combat casualties have stimulated a reassessment of the principles of management of high-risk extremity injuries with a normal vascular examination. Rapid evacuations have presented numerous U.S. soldiers to our service for evaluation in the early postinjury period. The objective of this single-institution report is to analyze the application of liberal arteriography in the delayed evaluation of modern wartime extremity injuries. Data from consecutive wartime evacuees evaluated for extremity injuries between March 2002 and November 2004 were prospectively entered into a database and retrospectively reviewed. Analysis was focused on arteriography and its role in our current diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Information including injury sites and mechanisms, associated trauma, battlefield repairs performed, arteriography technique, complications, findings, and need for further intervention were reviewed. Indications for imaging in this high-risk group included proximity to vascular structures, abnormal or equivocal physical examination, adjunctive operative planning, and evaluation of battlefield repair. Ninety-nine of 179 patients (55%) with extremity injuries underwent arteriography, with 142 total limbs studied. The majority of them were wounded by explosive devices (82%) or high-velocity rifle munitions (14%). Abnormalities were found in 75 of 142 (52.8%) imaged limbs in 46 of the 99 (46.5%) patients. Twenty-four of these patients (52.2%) required additional operative intervention. Occult vascular injury findings were associated with bony fracture in 68% and nerve injury in 16%. Median delay between injury and stateside evaluation was 6 days. Two thirds of these soldiers presented with a normal physical examination result. There were no access site complications or incidents of contrast-induced acute renal failure. The liberal application of arteriography is a low-risk method to provide high-yield data in the delayed vascular evaluation of extremities injured from modern military munitions. Physical examination findings remain the most useful indicator, but a normal examination can be misleading and should not guide the decision for invasive imaging. Lesions are found and require further intervention at a higher rate than expected from the typical civilian trauma experience.

A case-control pilot study of stress fracture in adolescent girls: the discriminative ability of two imaging technologies to classify at-risk athletes

Since stress fractures are common among adolescent athletes, it is important to identify bone assessment tools that accurately identify risk. We investigated the discriminative ability of two imaging technologies to classify at-risk athletes. Findings suggested that peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) has the ability to distinguish differences in bone structure in injured vs. uninjured limbs.

INTRODUCTION

Given the high stress fracture (SFX) prevalence among adolescent girls, an understanding of the most informative assessment tools to identify SFX risks are required. We investigated the discriminative ability of pQCT vs. dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to classify athletes with or without SFX.

METHODS

Twelve adolescent athletes diagnosed with a lower-extremity SFX were compared with 12 matched controls. DXA measured areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and content of the total body, and lumbar spine. Bilateral tibiae were assessed with pQCT. At the metaphysis (3%), total density (ToD), trabecular density (TrD), trabecular area (TrA), and estimated bone strength in compression (BSIc), and at the diaphysis (38% and 66%), total bone area (ToA), cortical density (CoD), cortical area (CoA), estimated bone strength in torsion (SSIp), and peri- and endocortical and muscle area (MuA) were obtained. Cortical bone mass/density around the center of mass and marrow density (estimate of adiposity) were calculated using ImageJ software. General estimated equations adjusting for multiple comparisons (Holm-Bonferroni method) were used to compare means between (1) injured limb of the case athletes vs. uninjured limb of the control athletes and (2) uninjured limb of the case athletes vs. uninjured limbs of the controls and injured vs. uninjured limb of case athletes with a SFX.

RESULTS

aBMD and content showed no significant differences between cases and controls. When comparing the injured vs. uninjured leg in the case athletes by pQCT at the 3% tibia, unadjusted TrD, total density, and BSIc were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the injured vs. uninjured leg. Marrow density at the 66% site was 1% (p < 0.05) lower in the injured vs. uninjured leg.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary data in athletes with SFX suggest that pQCT has the ability to distinguish differences in bone structure in injured vs. uninjured limbs. No discriminative bone parameter classifications were identified between adolescent athletes with or without SFX.

[Shock wave treatment in a case of complicated plantaris muscle rupture]

Muscle injuries are frequent in the workplace. They are produced by sudden direct or indirect trauma that involves a rupture of the fibres, causing bruising. Currently, there is no single protocol-based model of treatment. We present the case of a patient diagnosed with complete muscular rupture of the plantaris muscle by an indirect traumatic mechanism (abrupt muscular elongation), with an associated large-volume hematoma. Clinical study consisted of ultrasound, magnetic resonance (MR), pain assessment (VAS) at the beginning and at the end of the treatment (3 weeks), as well as duration of occupational disability. The patient underwent extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) according to the protocol. At the end of treatment, the hematoma was resolved and there were no complications. ESWT could be a complementary therapeutic alternative to conventional treatment in this entity. However, there is a need for further, randomised controlled studies including a larger number of patients.

Blunt traumatic great saphenous vein pseudoaneurysm

Traumatic venous pseudoaneurysm is extremely rare. Only two cases of great saphenous venous (GSV) pseudoaneurysm have been reported. We present a case in which a gradually enlarged mass occurred at the calf after local injury. It was nonpulsatile and varied in size with posture. It was initially misdiagnosed by contrast MRI. Duplex ultrasound and surgical intervention eventually identified it as a GSV pseudoaneurysm. This case demonstrates the need for physicians to consider venous pseudoaneurysm as a possible diagnosis for nonpulsatile masses in patient with traumatic history, and to use Duplex ultrasound for adequate evaluation.

Development of a high-resolution infrared thermographic imaging method as a diagnostic tool for acute undifferentiated limp in young children

Acute limp is a common presenting condition in the paediatric emergency department. There are a number of causes of acute limp that include traumatic injury, infection and malignancy. These causes in young children are not easily distinguished. In this pilot study, an infrared thermographic imaging technique to diagnose acute undifferentiated limp in young children was developed. Following required ethics approval, 30 children (mean age = 5.2 years, standard deviation = 3.3 years) were recruited. The exposed lower limbs of participants were imaged using a high-resolution thermal camera. Using predefined regions of interest (ROI), any skin surface temperature difference between the healthy and affected legs was statistically analysed, with the aim of identifying limp. In all examined ROIs, the median skin surface temperature for the affected limb was higher than that of the healthy limb. The small sample size recruited for each group, however, meant that the statistical tests of significant difference need to be interpreted in this context. Thermal imaging showed potential in helping with the diagnosis of acute limp in children. Repeating a similar study with a larger sample size will be beneficial to establish reproducibility of the results. Graphical abstract A young child with an acute undifferentiated limp undergoes thermal imaging and the follow on image analysis assists the limp diagnosis.

Complex pelvic ring injuries associated with floating knee in a poly-trauma patient: A case report

RATIONALE

Complex pelvic ring fracture associated with floating knee is comparatively rare which usually results from high-energy trauma including vehicle-related accidence, falls from height, and earthquake-related injury. To our knowledge, few literatures have documented such injuries in the individual patient. Management of both injuries present challenges for surgical management and postoperative care. The purpose of this study is to prove the feasibility and benefits of damage control orthopedics (DCO).

PATIENT CONCERN

Our case involved a 45-year-old lady who was hit by a dilapidated building. The patient was anxious, pale and hemodynamically stable at the initial examination. The pelvis was unstable and there were obvious deformities in the left lower extremities. Significant degloved injuries in the left leg were noted. Her radiographs and physical examination verified the above signs.

DIAGNOSES

Unstable pelvic fractures, multiple fractures of bilateral lower limbs with floating knee injury, multiple pelvic and rib fractures and multiple degloving injuries and soft tissue contusion formed the characteristics of the multiple-injury.

INTERVENTIONS

The algorithm of DCO was determined as the treatment. Early simplified procedures such as wound debridement, pelvis fixation, closed reduction and EF of the right shoulder joint, and chest wall fixation were conducted as soon as possible. After a period of time, internal fixations were applied to the fracture sites. The subsequent functional exercise was also conducted in accordance with this algorithm.

OUTCOMES

This patient got recovery after the treatments which were guided by the criterion of DCO. The restoration of limb functional and the quality of life greatly improved.

LESSONS

The DCO plays a decisive role in the first aid and follow-up treatment of this patient. The guidelines of management of complex pelvic ring injuries and floating knee should be established by authorities.

PTEN hamartoma of the soft tissue: the initial manifestation of an underlying PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome in a 4-year-old female

A 4-year-old female was referred to pediatric orthopedic surgery for left leg pain and limping for 3 months following a motor vehicle collision. Recently, the patient's mother had noted left knee swelling and dragging of the left leg when walking. Past medical history was significant for hip dysplasia with slight leg length discrepancy. The patient was otherwise healthy. Physical examination was remarkable for left pre-patellar soft tissue fullness with normal range of motion. There was no warmth or tenderness. Subsequent ultrasound revealed a heterogeneous soft tissue mass superior and medial to the patella with a moderate degree of internal vascularity. MR exhibited a heterogeneous soft tissue mass with heterogeneous signal on both T1- and T2-weighted images centered within the vastus medialis obliquus muscle infiltrating the quadriceps tendon. Excisional biopsy was performed with a histopathologic diagnosis of fibroadipose tissue with anomalous vessels, suggestive of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) hamartoma of the soft tissue (PHOST). The patient was found to be positive for the PTEN gene mutation on genetic testing. The child was also determined to be macrocephalic, a major criterion for PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS). The geneticist advised the patient to undergo yearly physical examinations and early, routine surveillance for several malignancies occurring with PHTS. This case report presents the ultrasound and MRI appearance of a rare benign tumor typically appearing in pediatric patients. The strong association between PHOST and other soft tissue malignancies and the resulting need for life-long surveillance make PHOST an important pathology to recognize.

Medical Missions in the Middle East: An Orthopaedic Surgeon's Experience of a Series of Lower Extremity Cases

Orthopaedic trauma accounts for a great deal of disability worldwide. There are many impoverished nations affected by war wherein victims suffer blast injuries associated with mines, missiles, high-powered gunshots, and bombings. One way to address this is through international medical missions sponsored by industrialized nations. It is imperative that practitioners have a basic understanding of the type of injuries that may be encountered in these nations impacted by war and conflict. Therefore, we described a small number of various lower extremity injuries seen by one orthopaedic surgeon during his volunteer medical mission to Jordan. Frequently, these injuries did result in the loss of a limb and/or function as the patients were treated without appropriate instrumentation or facilities in a suboptimal environment. Treatment was frequently delayed, and many of the surgeons involved lacked optimal training. It is our hope that this case series will lead to studies which may give guidance regarding how to best treat these complex injuries with optimal outcomes and minimal complications.

Growth recovery lines are more common in infants at high vs. low risk for abuse

BACKGROUND

Growth recovery lines, also known as growth arrest lines, are transverse radiodense metaphyseal bands that develop due to a temporary arrest of endochondral ossification caused by local or systemic insults.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if growth recovery lines are more common in infants at high risk versus low risk for abuse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Reports of American College of Radiology compliant skeletal surveys (1999-2013) were reviewed with clinical records. Infants at low risk for abuse had a skull fracture without significant intracranial injury, history of a fall and clinical determination of low risk (child protection team/social work assessment). Infants at high risk had significant intracranial injury, retinal hemorrhages, other skeletal injuries and clinical determination of high risk. There were 52 low-risk infants (mean: 4.7 months, range: 0.4-12 months) and 21 high-risk infants (mean: 4.2 months, range: 0.8-9.1 months). Two blinded radiologists independently evaluated the skeletal survey radiographs of the knees/lower legs for the presence of at least one growth recovery line.

RESULTS

When growth recovery lines are scored as probably present or definitely present, their prevalence in the low-risk group was 38% (standard deviation [SD] = 8%; reader 1 = 17/52, reader 2 = 23/52) vs. 71% (SD = 7%; reader 1 = 16/21, reader 2 = 14/21) in the high-risk group (P < 0.001; odds ratio 4.0, 95% CI: 1.7-9.5).

CONCLUSION

Growth recovery lines are encountered at a significantly higher rate in infants at high risk vs. low risk for abuse. This suggests that abused infants are prone to a temporary disturbance in endochondral ossification as a result of episodic physiological stresses.

Incidental Anterior Cruciate Ligament Calcification: Case Report

The calcification of knee ligaments is a finding noted only in a handful of case reports. The finding of an anterior cruciate ligament calcification has been reported once in the literature. Comparable studies involving the posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament and an ossicle within the anterior cruciate ligament are likewise discussed in reports of symptomatic patients. We report a case of incidentally discovered anterior cruciate ligament calcification. We discuss the likely etiology and clinical implications of this finding.

Ultrasonography and radiography: a comparison

Distal limb fractures are common presentations to emergency departments and minor injury units (MIUs). The authors conducted a study of the usefulness and efficiency of portable ultrasound in detecting the presence of minor fractures in patients presenting to Cirencester Hospital's MIU. Patients above two years of age about whom there was a high clinical suspicion of a closed fracture of the distal forearm or wrist, or the lower limb, were included in the study. After initial clinical assessments, the patients were referred for X-ray, as is usual for such patients, and also for ultrasound imaging of their injured sites. The ultrasound and radiograph images were subsequently compared for injury and presence of fracture, and this article discusses the results.

The management of lower extremity multilevel arterial injuries: a 10-year experience

Background

Limb amputation due to lower extremity arterial injury is not uncommon and multilevel arterial injury is even more limb-threatening and easily missed with potentially devastating consequences. There is limited information on multilevel arterial injuries.

Purpose

We undertook a review of our experience to gain insight on multilevel arterial injury patterns associated with lower extremity trauma and to analyze the results of management of such injuries with a special focus on the influence of initial diagnosis on limb salvage.

Patients and Methods

Between August 2002 and September 2012, 38 patients with lower extremity multilevel arterial injuries were reviewed, retrospectively. The injury patterns and amputation rates associated with initial diagnosis or misdiagnosis were analyzed.

Results

According to their injury levels, three multilevel arterial injury patterns were seen in this series: arterial injuries with the involvement of femoral artery and popliteal artery (pattern A), femoral artery and anterior or (and) posterior artery (pattern B), and popliteal artery and anterior or (and) posterior artery (pattern C). The general missed diagnosis rate was 31.6%. Pattern B had a much higher missed diagnosis rate than the other two patterns. The missed diagnosis rate was significantly correlated with the amputation rates (Odds Ratio =10.7, 95% CI: 2.04-56.61). The definite diagnosis rate was only 14.8% using duplex ultrasonography examination.

Conclusions

Diagnosis of pattern B injury is more prone to be missed. DUS has low specificity in the detection of multilevel arterial injuries. Aggressive intraoperative exploration is considered to be valuable in the definitive diagnosis of highly suspected cases when other diagnostic tools are unavailable.

Soleus muscle injury: sensitivity of ultrasound patterns

OBJECTIVE

To assess the sensitivity of ultrasound in detecting soleus muscle lesions diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to characterize their location, ultrasound pattern, and evolution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultrasound and MRI studies were performed between May 2009 and February 2013 on all patients who presented to the Medical Services Clinic of the Catalan Sport Council with the initial onset of sharp pain in the calf compatible with injury of the soleus muscle. An inter-observer ultrasound reliability study was also performed.

RESULTS

A total of 55 cases of soleus injury were studied prospectively (22 with right leg involvement, 33 left) by ultrasound and MRI, which was utilized as the "gold standard." In MRI studies, 24 cases (43.7%) had myofascial injuries that were localized in the posterior aponeurosis (PMF) in 15 cases (27.3%) and in the anterior aponeurosis (AMF) in 9 (16.4%). Thirty-one cases (56.3%) were musculotendinous injuries, with 9 cases (16.4%) in the medial aponeurosis (MMT), 11 cases (20%) in the lateral aponeurosis (LMT), and 11 cases (20%) in the central tendon (CMT). In comparison to MRI, ultrasound was able to detect injury to the soleus in 27.2% of cases. No injuries were detected by ultrasound alone. Posterior myofascial injuries were more likely to be detected by ultrasound than anterior myofascial injuries or all types of musculotendinous injuries. Ultrasound patterns for each type of injury were described.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound is not a sensitive technique for detecting and assessing soleus traumatic tears compared with MRI, although the sensitivity is enhanced by a thorough anatomically based ultrasound examination. Timing of the ultrasound examination may be of importance. Each type of soleus injury appears to have a characteristic ultrasound pattern based on a defect of connective expansions, the existence of small myofascial filiform collections, and the rarefaction of the fibrillar area.

Emergency radiology III--Chest and limb trauma

This is the final of three self-assessment articles which aims to further readers' understanding of diagnostic imaging, and its integral role in the management of patients with emergency conditions, through a series of case studies.

Changes in donor site selection in lower limb free flap reconstructions by integrating duplex ultrasonography in the preoperative design

BACKGROUND

The flap selection criteria in lower extremity reconstruction are based on the wound characteristics and donor site morbidity. We hypothesized that the decision-making could be influenced by integrating Duplex Ultrasound (DU) in the preoperative design.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data on patients who underwent lower-extremity microvascular soft-tissue reconstruction at our institution by the same surgeon. In Group A, DU was integrated in the preoperative design of the microsurgical reconstruction, whilst in Group B the choice of free flap donor site and level of anastomosis were based on clinical criteria only.

RESULTS

A total of 48 microvascular reconstructions were recorded. DU was used preoperatively in 20-patients, whilst in 28-patients flap selection was based on clinical criteria. There was a significant decrease in perforator flap (45% over 64%) and a significant increase in muscle flap preference (55% over 32%) in the DU-group. There was no significant difference (10% over 11%) in the donor site selection with considerable morbidity. There was no flap failure in the DU-group, whilst 3 flaps failed in the second-group (p< 0.05, χ(2)-test). Wound healing was significantly faster in the DU-group (21±3 days) compared to 37±3 days in the other group (p< 0.05, t-test).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative ultrasound studies moved flap preference towards chimeric and muscle flaps with low morbidity to match the three-dimensional defect and to promote healing.

KEYWORDS

lower limb reconstruction; free flap; donor site; duplex ultrasound.

Fibular fracture stabilization with a guidewire as supplementary fixation in tibia fractures

We present a novel technique of intramedullary fixation of the fibula using a humeral guide wire as an adjunct to tibial fixation, in the setting of tibial shaft fracture. Not only does this technique aid in determining length, alignment, and rotation of the tibial fracture, but it may also help the support of the lower extremity as whole by stabilizing the lateral column. In addition, this technique can be used to help maintain reduction of the fibula when there is concern for the soft tissues of the lower extremity secondary to swelling or injury. Our clinical case series demonstrates this safe, effective, and cost-sensitive technique to be used in the treatment of select concurrent fractures of the tibia and fibula.

D-dimer as an applicable test for detection of posttraumatic deep vein thrombosis in lower limb fracture

Measuring the plasma levels of D-dimer is an accurate and easy modality to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in nontraumatic settings. However, the diagnostic reliability of D-dimer assays in detecting posttraumatic DVT among patients with lower limb fracture undergoing orthopedic surgery is not validated. In this study, 141 patients with lower limb fracture admitted through the emergency department and undergoing orthopedic surgery were enrolled. Postoperative venous blood samples for D-dimer assay were taken on the 1st, 7th, and 28th postoperative days. Color Doppler sonography examination of both lower limbs was performed at the same time as a standard test. Eight out of the 141 patients (6%) had acute DVT based on Color Doppler sonography. Mean D-dimer was 2160 ng/mL in DVT positive patients and 864 in DVT negative patients. D-dimer levels greater than 1000 ng/mL were 100% sensitive and 71% specific for detecting postoperative DVT. D-dimer assay is a useful and sensitive test for detecting posttraumatic DVT.

Updates in the management of orthopedic soft-tissue injuries associated with lower extremity trauma

Management of traumatic soft-tissue injuries remains a challenging and ever evolving field within orthopedic surgery. The basic principle of addressing life before limb in the initial assessment of critically injured patients has not changed. Although arteriography remains the gold standard for vascular injury screening, computed tomography angiography is being used more often to determine limb viability, and its sensitivity and specificity for detecting vascular lesions are reported to be excellent. Thorough debridement and irrigation with early institution of antibiotics are crucial in preventing infection; debridement should be performed urgently once life-threatening conditions have been addressed. Increasing use of vacuum-assisted closure therapy has created a trend down the reconstructive ladder, with improvements in resulting wound closure. Although the orthoplastics approach and new microsurgical techniques have made limb salvage possible in even the most severely injured extremities, it is important to clearly identify the zone of injury and to inform patients and their families of the outcomes of limb salvage versus amputation. Results from the LEAP (Lower Extremity Assessment Project) trials and similar studies should guide orthopedic surgeons in the management of these complex injuries. Nevertheless, it is important to individualize management plans according to patient factors.

[Surgical treatment of a wound defects of torso and extremities]

The results of examination and treatment of 179 patients, suffering the wound defects, localized on corpus and extremities, were presented. The patients were divided on groups, depending on the etiology of the defect, they were examined in accordance to algorithm proposed. Ultrasound duplex scanning was applied for diagnosis of regional hemodynamics disorders with the objective to choose a correcting intervention and investigation of a donor site vessels. The surgical tactics choice have depended on anatomic-functional and hemodynamical peculiarities of the affected locus present. In all the patient a microbiological monitoring of wounds was conducted and a rational antibioticotherapy prescribed.

Sonographic evaluation of peripheral nerve injuries following the Wenchuan earthquake

PURPOSE

To analyze retrospectively the sonographic characteristics of the peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) resulted from Wunchuan earthquake.

METHODS

The sonographic images of 38 patients with surgically proved PNIs were reviewed and compared with the surgical findings.

RESULTS

A total of 78 nerves in 38 patients were found injured in surgery, which included 16 median nerves in the forearm (20.5%), 6 ulnar nerves in the forearm or arm (7.7%), 8 radial nerves in upper limb (10.0%), 8 sciatic nerves (10.3%) in gluteal region, 17 tibial nerves in the leg (21.8%), and 23 peroneal nerves (29.5%). The most common injured nerve in the lower extremity was the peroneal nerve (29.5%) and in upper extremity was the median nerve (20.5%). Sonography correctly diagnosed 72 earthquake-related nerve injuries (92.3%), which included 5 complete disruption (6.4%), 4 partial disruption (5.1%), 63 nerve entrapment (88.5%, included 1 entrapment by bone calus, 38 entrapments by the scar tissue, 13 entrapments by the thickened muscle or tendinous arch, and 11 entrapment in the narrowed osteofibrous tunnels).

CONCLUSIONS

Nerve entrapment injury was the common sonographic finding in earthquake-related PNI.

Accuracy of palpation-guided and ultrasound-guided needle tip placement into the deep and superficial posterior leg compartments

BACKGROUND

Invasive leg compartment testing may be performed to diagnose chronic exertional compartment syndrome. No prior study has assessed the accuracy of leg compartment needle tip access.

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to describe and determine the accuracy of palpation-guided and ultrasound-guided techniques for needle tip placement into the deep and superficial posterior leg compartments by a less experienced clinician and a more experienced clinician using a cadaveric model.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

Twenty unembalmed adult lower limb cadaveric specimens were used for the study. Two investigators, a sports medicine fellow with 10 months of musculoskeletal ultrasound experience and a staff physiatrist with 3 years of musculoskeletal ultrasound experience, each performed 1 palpation-guided and 1 ultrasound-guided colored latex dye injection into the deep and superficial posterior leg compartments of each cadaveric specimen. A blinded investigator dissected the specimens and graded them for accuracy.

RESULTS

The accuracy rates of palpation-guided (accuracy rate, 90%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 76%-97%) and ultrasound-guided (accuracy rate, 88%; 95% CI, 73%-95%) deep posterior compartment injections were statistically equivalent (P = 1.000). All 80 injections performed into the superficial posterior compartment were accurate (accuracy rate, 100%; 95% CI, 89%-100%). The accuracy of the less experienced investigator (total injection accuracy rate, 88%; 95% CI, 73%-95%) and the more experienced investigator (total injection accuracy rate, 90%; 95% CI, 76%-97%) were not significantly different (P = 1.000).

CONCLUSION

Needle tip placement into the deep and superficial posterior leg compartments is relatively accurate with palpation guidance regardless of level of experience, and does not improve with the use of ultrasound guidance.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Ultrasound guidance does not appear to be indicated for routine deep or superficial posterior leg compartment pressure testing. However, this does not preclude the need for ultrasound guidance in selected clinical scenarios.

[Echographic approach to soft tissue musculoskeletal pathologies in urgency: traumatic calf lesions]

Ultrasound is the first step imaging investigation for the evaluation of muscle injuries and pathologies, even better than MRI for repairing processes study and rehabilitation program's assessment. The key sign of a muscular tear is hematoma, whose formation is lasting between 2 and 48 hours from injury. US supports the analysis of its evolving patterns, early detecting complications such as cystic lesions or myositis ossificans too. It also provides dynamic details of muscle fibers, tendons and aponeurosis, that all of the other instrumental investigation can't offer.

["Tennis leg"--calf muscle rupture of the middle-aged tennis aficionado]

During tennis, the patient heard a bang from his left calf. The inferior edge of the calf muscle at the musculotendinous junction of the medial branch of m. gastrocnemius was tender to pressure, indicating a rupture called as "tennis leg". Foot movements are usually normal, but moving about is painful. The finding is confirmed by ultrasonography. First aid will limit the injury, and when the pain allows, active exercise therapy is initiated. Healing occurs in 2 to 6 weeks, the more difficult ones in 3 to 4 months. Return to the court may take place gradually with a bandaged calf.

Rupture of the medial gastrocnemius muscle during namaz praying: an unusual cause of tennis leg

PURPOSE

The aim of this retrospective study is to report a unique group of patients in whom rupture of the medial gastrocnemius muscle (tennis leg) occurred during namaz praying.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We reviewed the sonographic and/or MR imaging findings of 543 patients who were referred for the evaluation of leg pain and swelling during the last 7 years. Fourteen patients with a final diagnosis of tennis leg that occured during namaz praying were included in this study.

RESULTS

Nine of 14 (64.2%) patients had incomplete and the remainder 5 (35.8%) patients had a partial tear at the musculotendinous junction (MTJ). Four of 14 (28.6%) patients were mistaken for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on the basis of clinical findings and presentation. Associated fluid collection between the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle was noted in 11 (78.5%) patients. Isolated fluid collection between the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle without disruption of the gastrocnemius muscle was seen in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Rupture of the medial gastrocnemius muscle may occur during namaz praying. The clinical presentation is not always characteristic and may simulate DVT. US and MRI are useful diagnostic tools to establish the correct diagnosis and prompt further treatment.

[Will broken glass bring luck?]

A 56 year old female patient presented to the emergency room because of a progressive, painful swelling of her thigh, clinically suspected to be a haematoma. Trauma was denied. Ultrasonography revealed a hyperechogenic structure, which appeared to be an intramuscular foreign body on computed tomography. Intraoperatively, a large piece of glass was found. Glass foreign bodies can be detected by x-rays with a high sensitivity. The threshold to order x-ray for the detection of glass foreign bodies should be low.

Potential value of three-dimensional ultrasonography in diagnosing muscle injuries in comparison to two-dimensional examination--preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Two-dimensional ultrasonography (2D-US) has become a widely used and accepted diagnostic tool in musculoskeletal disorders. Its utility in the evaluation of muscle injury and pathology is generally recognised. In contrast, the place and role of three-dimensional US imaging (3D-US) in the diagnostic work-up of musculoskeletal conditions are still not recognised even though 3D-US is a well-established technique in, for example, obstetrics. The aim of this study was to find out if it is possible to assess lesions of muscles more accurately and with more detail using the 3D technique in comparison to 2D imaging.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 14 patients aged 16-39 years (mean age 24.8 yrs) with muscle injuries and 2 volunteers to determine the best technique of performing the examination and acquiring images that can best visualise the structure of muscles. The 2D and 3D images were compared with respect to visualisation of lesions and their size. It was also investigated whether the additional third "Z" plane could furnish relevant information regarding the visible lesion.

RESULTS

The results of evaluation of features and size of the lesions in the muscles were very similar and reliable with both modalities. For small lesions, measurements of their size differed slightly. The differences were bigger for bigger lesions. Additional information leading to re-classification of the type of the lesion or more precise delineation of its margins was obtained in 6 of the 14 cases (42.8%). The duration of a 3D study was usually longer with bigger lesions. The 3D-reconstructed model helped in better visualising and understanding the anatomical relations of the injured muscle with surrounding tissues. Recording data as volume scans made possible later re-assessment of images and their independent verification by a consultant at any desired time.

CONCLUSIONS

1. 3D US imaging is as reliable and accurate as the 2D technique in the assessment of muscle injuries. In some cases, especially with smaller lesions, the borders and type of the lesion are better visualized with the additional third plane. Additional information regarding the location of the lesions in the frontal plane can be obtained with 3D imaging. It is more difficult to assess whole lesions of greater size requiring two or more volume scans. The acquisition of volume data enables the reading of images at any desired time and also makes it possible to ask a consultant to verify the findings.<br /> <br />

Potential value of contrast-enhanced gray-scale ultrasonography in diagnosis of acute muscle injury--preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonography performed shortly after a direct or indirect muscle trauma may be confusing. The extent of a muscular tear can be difficult to assess because of oedema, intramuscular haematomas and red infarct. The aim of this study was to find out if it is possible to assess the extent of muscular lesions shortly (6 to 48 hours) after a trauma with improved accuracy using contrast-enhanced gray-scale ultrasonography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultrasonograp[hic examinations were carried out in 7 male football players 8 to 48 hours following a direct (4) and indirect (3) trauma, and one female dancer with an indirect muscle trauma. Standard B-mode US examinations and gray-scale contrast-enhanced US after administration of Sonovue (Altana Pharma, Konstanz, Germany) were performed in all patients to evaluate the margins and size of the posttraumatic lesions. In contrast-enhanced studies, the size of the structural lesion in the muscle and space that might correspond to the muscle tear were measured.

RESULTS

In all 8 cases, the borders of the muscular lesions were better delineated following administration of the contrast agent as a poorly and irregularly enhanced or non-enhancing areas. In 3 cases of direct and 2 cases of indirect trauma, the lesions were bigger in the contrast-enhanced study, and in one case of direct trauma and 2 indirect lesions, they were smaller following contrast-enhancement.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary results indicate that gray-scale contrast-enhanced US of muscle can be helpful in the assessment of the extent of muscular trauma in dubious cases during the early post-injury period.

Oligoanalgesia in a rural emergency department

OBJECTIVE

Multiple studies conducted over many years have demonstrated that pain is poorly managed in the emergency department (ED). This phenomenon has been referred to in the medical literature as "oligoanalgesia." However, little is known about whether oligoanalgesia occurs in a rural ED. National Ambulatory Care Reporting System data from 2003 for a small rural hospital in Ontario showed patients were satisfied with the amount of pain medicine they received in the ED. We designed a study to replicate a published urban study that investigated the use of analgesia in isolated lower limb injuries. Our objective was to see if oligoanalgesia was also a problem in a rural ED.

METHODS

In 2003 we conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who presented to the South Huron Hospital ED with isolated lower extremity injuries for which radiographs of the foot, ankle or both were obtained. Demographics of the ED patients with lower extremity injuries were quantified. Other parametres included whether or not patients received analgesia in the ED; how long it took to get assessed, treated and discharged; whether patients received any analgesia upon discharge; what type of analgesia they received; and whether it required a prescription.

RESULTS

A total of 189 patients met inclusion criteria, with 35 fractures identified (18.5%). Sixty-three percent of patients were male. The average age was 32.6 years. The mean Canadian Emergency Department Triage and Acuity Scale level was 4.4. The mean time to physician assessment was 31.6 minutes. The mean length of time spent in the ED was 74 minutes. Over one-half of the patients received analgesia upon discharge from the ED whether or not they had a fracture. In addition, 73% of the people in the fracture group received analgesia requiring a prescription, versus only 46% in the nonfracture group. Narcotics were used more often in the fracture group than in the nonfracture group (26% v. 6%).

CONCLUSION

The phenomenon of oligoanalgesia was not observed as often in our rural ED for isolated lower limb injuries, when compared with the published urban study.

Diagnostik der chronischen Osteitis des Extremitätenskeletts

BACKGROUND

Noninvasive diagnosis continues to present a challenge in chronic bone infections. Positive intraoperative microbiological and/or histological results are regarded as the gold standard for confirmation of the diagnosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the value of F-18 FDG-PET in the diagnosis of chronic osteitis in the patients of a department devoted specifically to septic orthopaedic surgery. In particular, the study was intended to answer the question of whether the results of FDG-PET correlate with those found in intraoperatively removed biopsy specimens (microbiology, histology) and what value this method of investigation has relative to computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

An F-18 FDG-PET examination was performed preoperatively in each of 50 patients with a suspected diagnosis of "chronic osteitis of bone/s in a limb". All these patients had a history of an open fracture and/or a previous operation on the affected limb. The FDG-PET results were analysed blind. All patients enrolled in the study were subsequently operated on. After surgery, the results of histological and microbiological examination of the biopsy specimens taken intraoperatively were compared with the results of the FDG-PET and of CT (n=22) and MRI (n=18). Finally, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of each method were determined.

RESULTS

Postoperatively the biopsy specimens from 37 patients yielded positive results in the microbiological and/or histological tests. According to this gold standard, then, osteitis was not present in 13 patients. In the preoperative FDG-PET report 34 of the patients whose microbiological and/or histological results were positive were correctly diagnosed as infection positive. In addition, 4 false-positive results were observed. False-negative results were recorded in 3 patients and true-negative results, in 9. The sensitivity and specificity were 92% and 69%, respectively, for the entire group of patients. The accuracy was 86%. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 47%, 60% and 50%, respectively, for CT and 82%, 43% and 67%, respectively, for MRI.

CONCLUSION

F-18 FDG-PET is a promising diagnostic imaging method with high sensitivity and accuracy in the investigation of chronic osteitis. If the result of FDG-PET is negative chronic osteitis can be virtually excluded. The results presented suggest that it is superior to CT and MRI in sensitivity and accuracy. A definitive diagnosis of chronic osteitis will continue to require an invasive method in the future, in the form of removal of biopsy specimens for microbiological and histological tests.

Multi-slice CT (MSCT) angiography for assessment of traumatic lesions of lower limbs peripheral arteries

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) angiography for the assessment of traumatic lesions involving the arteries of the lower limbs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-seven patients with suspected arterial post-traumatic lesions of lower limbs underwent MSCT angiography (4 x 2.5-mm collimation, 3-mm slice width). The standards of reference were: digital subtraction angiography (DSA; patients with inconclusive/doubtful or positive MSCT angiography indicating a need for intravascular treatment), surgical findings (patients with positive MSCT angiography indicating a need for surgery), or clinical/investigational follow-up (patients with negative MSCT angiography and no need for further diagnostic procedures or surgery).

RESULTS

All CT exams were technically adequate. Sensitivity, specificity, and overall diagnostic accuracy of MSCT angiography were 96.3, 90, and 93.6%, respectively, relative to the reference of standard findings. In 44 out of 47 patients, MSCT angiography allowed a correct continuation of the diagnostic work-up.

CONCLUSION

MSCT angiography is a reliable fast tool for diagnosing traumatic vascular lesions, providing results comparable to DSA.

Emergency Department Management of Selected Orthopedic Injuries

Rather than providing an encyclopedic review of extremity injuries, this article reviews selected serious injuries of the extremities that can be missed in the emergency department, either because they are relatively uncommon or because they are subtle in their clinical and radiographic presentation. They include injuries to the scapula, the shoulder, the forearm, the femur and hip, the knee, the tibia (which is the most common long bone fracture), and the ankle and foot. Their various causes include sports injuries, falls, and motor vehicle accidents. Several of these injuries can result in emergent complications or have time-dependent outcomes. Consequently, these injuries often must be managed by emergency physicians before specialist expertise becomes available.