Work Productivity Loss After Minimally Displaced Complete Lateral Compression Pelvis Fractures

OBJECTIVE

To quantify work impairment and economic losses due to lost employment, lost work time (absenteeism), and lost productivity while working (presenteeism) after a lateral compression pelvic ring fracture. Secondarily, productivity loss of patients treated with surgical fixation versus nonoperative management was compared.

METHODS

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a prospective, multicenter trial.

SETTING

Two level I academic trauma centers.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

Adult patients with a lateral compression pelvic fracture (OTA/AO 61-B1/B2) with a complete posterior pelvic ring fracture and less than 10 mm of initial displacement. Excluded were patients who were not working or non-ambulatory before their pelvis fracture or who had a concomitant spinal cord injury.

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

Work impairment, including hours lost to unemployment, absenteeism, and presenteeism, measured by Work Productivity and Activity Impairment assessments in the year after injury. Results after non-operative and operative treatment were compared.

RESULTS

Of the 64 included patients, forty-seven percent (30/64) were treated with surgical fixation, and 53% (30/64) with nonoperative management. 63% returned to work within 1 year of injury. Workers lost an average of 67% of a 2080-hour average work year, corresponding with $56,276 in lost economic productivity. Of the 1395 total hours lost, 87% was due to unemployment, 3% to absenteeism, and 10% to presenteeism. Surgical fixation was associated with 27% fewer lost hours (1155 vs. 1583, P = 0.005) and prevented $17,266 in average lost economic productivity per patient compared with nonoperative management.

CONCLUSIONS

Lateral compression pelvic fractures are associated with a substantial economic impact on patients and society. Surgical fixation reduces work impairment and the corresponding economic burden.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Economic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

A deep surgical site infection risk score for patients with open tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nail

OBJECTIVES

To identify deep infection risk factors in patients with open tibial shaft fractures and to develop a scoring algorithm to predict the baseline deep infection risk in this patient population.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study conducted at a single academic trauma center identified patients with open tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nail fixation from December 2006 to October 2020. The primary outcome was a deep surgical site infection requiring surgical debridement. The outcome was identified by Current Procedural Terminology codes and confirmed with a medical chart review documenting evidence of a tibial draining wound or sinus tract.

RESULTS

Deep surgical site infection occurred in 13% of patients (97/769). Factors that predicted deep surgical site infection were identified. Gustilo-Anderson type IIIB or IIIC was the strongest predictor with a 12-fold increase in the odds of deep infection (OR 11.8, p < 0.001). Additional factors included age >40 years (OR 1.7, p = 0.03), American Society of Anesthesiologists score ≥3 (OR 1.9, p < 0.01), Gustilo-Anderson type IIIA vs. type I or II (OR 2.8, p = 0.004), and gunshot wounds (OR 2.9, p = 0.02). The risk scoring model predicted patients who would develop an infection with an acceptable level of accuracy (AUC 0.79). The risk score categorized patients from a low probability of deep infection 2%-6% with <10 points to high risk (58%-69%) with >40 points.

CONCLUSIONS

This risk score model predicts deep postoperative infection in patients with open tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nails. The ability to accurately estimate deep infection risk at the time of presentation might aid patient expectation management and allow clinicians to focus infection prevention strategies on the high-risk subset of this population.

Small-Fragment Plate Fixation of Humeral Shaft Fractures

Fixation of humeral shaft fractures is frequently performed with large-fragment (4.5 mm) plates to accommodate immediate weight bearing. Use of small-fragment (3.5 mm) plates as an alternative carries theoretical benefits. We examined nonunion rates and postoperative radial nerve palsy (RNP) rates in a retrospective cohort of patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation of humeral shaft fractures with 3.5-mm or 4.5-mm plates. Two hundred thirty-six patients with 241 humeral shaft fractures were included. Small 3.5-mm plates were used in 83% of the patients, and large 4.5-mm plates were used in 17% of the patients. Fifty-three percent were made weight bearing as tolerated following surgical fixation. There was a 7% incidence of nonunion and a 10% incidence of RNP in the 3.5-mm plate group. There was a 7% incidence of nonunion and a 15% incidence of RNP in the 4.5-mm plate group. No statistically significant relationship was shown between nonunion or RNP and plate size (P=.74 and P=.39). No relationship was shown between nonunion and postoperative weight-bearing status (P=.45). Subgroup analysis according to plate size additionally showed no association of nonunion with postoperative weight bearing in both the 4.5-mm (P=.55) and the 3.5-mm (P=.25) cohorts. Small-fragment and large-fragment plating of humeral shaft fractures resulted in comparable union and RNP rates, regardless of postoperative weight-bearing status. Our findings suggest that 3.5-mm plate fixation of humeral shaft fractures is a safe alternative to 4.5-mm plate fixation. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(4):198-204.].

Effect of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Acute Fracture Healing: A Phase II Screening Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial

Nearly half of adult fracture patients are vitamin D deficient (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels <20 ng/mL). Many surgeons advocate prescribing vitamin D supplements to improve fracture healing outcomes; however, data supporting the effectiveness of vitamin D₃ supplements to improve acute fracture healing are lacking. We tested the effectiveness of vitamin D₃ supplementation for improving tibia and femur fracture healing. We conducted a single-center, double-blinded phase II screening randomized controlled trial with a 12-month follow-up. Patients aged 18-50 years receiving an intramedullary nail for a tibia or femoral shaft fracture were randomized 1:1:1:1 to receive (i) 150,000 IU loading dose vitamin D₃ at injury and 6 weeks (n = 27); (ii) 4000 IU vitamin D₃ daily (n = 24); (iii) 600 IU vitamin D₃ daily (n = 24); or (iv) placebo (n = 27). Primary outcomes were clinical fracture healing (Function IndeX for Trauma [FIX-IT]) and radiographic fracture healing (Radiographic Union Score for Tibial fractures [RUST]) at 3 months. One hundred two patients with a mean age of 29 years (standard deviation 8) were randomized. The majority were male (69%), and 56% were vitamin D₃ deficient at baseline. Ninety-nine patients completed the 3-month follow-up. In our prespecified comparisons, no clinically important or statistically significant differences were detected in RUST or FIX-IT scores between groups when measured at 3 months and over 12 months. However, in a post hoc comparison, high doses of vitamin D₃ were associated with improved clinical fracture healing relative to placebo at 3 months (mean difference [MD] 0.90, 80% confidence interval [CI], 0.08 to 1.79; p = 0.16) and within 12 months (MD 0.89, 80% CI, 0.05 to 1.74; p = 0.18). The study was designed to identify potential evidence to support the effectiveness of vitamin D₃ supplementation in improving acute fracture healing. Vitamin D₃ supplementation, particularly high doses, might modestly improve acute tibia or femoral shaft fracture healing in healthy adults, but confirmatory studies are required. The Vita-Shock trial was awarded the Orthopaedic Trauma Association's (OTA) Bovill Award in 2020. This award is presented annually to the authors of the most outstanding OTA Annual Meeting scientific paper. © 2022 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Fixed angle device comparison in young femoral neck fractures: Dynamic hip screw vs dynamic helical hip system

INTRODUCTION

Femoral neck fractures in the young patient present a unique challenge. Most surgeons managing these injuries prefer a fixed angle implant, however these devices are fraught with problems. A dynamic hip screw (DHS) is one such fixed angle device that risks malreduction through rotational torque during screw insertion. To avoid this risk some surgeons utilize a dynamic helical hip system (DHHS), however little is known about the complication profile of this device. We hypothesized that the complication rate between these two devices would be similar.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients presenting to a single tertiary referral center with a femoral neck fracture were identified from a prospectively collected trauma database over an 11-year period. Patients were included if they were less than 60 years of age, treated with a DHS or DHHS, and had at least 6 months of follow-up. Demographic data, injury characteristics, and post-operative complications were obtained through chart review. Standard statistical comparisons were made between groups. A total of 77 patients met inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Average age of patients was 38 years (range: 18-59) and 56 (73%) were male. The DHS was used in 37 (48%) patients and the DHHS was used in 40 (52%) patients. Demographic data including average age, gender, body mass index, and smoking status did not differ between the groups. There were 29 (39%) total complications of interest (femoral neck shortening >5 mm, non-union requiring osteotomy, conversion to THA, and osteonecrosis. There were 19 (51%) complications in the DHS group and 10 (25%) in the DHHS group (p = 0.01, risk difference 25%, 95% CI 7-43). Comparisons of the individual complications about the DHS and DHHS cohort did not reach statistical significance for non-union (8% vs 3%) or THA (16% vs 13%) (p = 0.33, p = 0.64, respectively) but a difference was detected in the rate of shortening (27% vs 10%; p = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a high risk of complication when managing young femoral neck fractures in line with prior literature. The major complication rate of non-union requiring osteotomy or fixation failure resulting in THA was no different between the two groups, but the rate of shortening was greater the DHS group. This data suggests the DHHS may be a suitable device to manage the young femoral neck fracture and without increased risk of complication.

Assessing Soft Tissue Perfusion Using Laser-Assisted Angiography in Tibial Plateau and Pilon Fractures: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether skin perfusion surrounding tibial plateau and pilon fractures is associated with the Tscherne classification for severity of soft tissue injury. The secondary aim was to determine if soft tissue perfusion improves from the time of injury to the time of definitive fracture fixation in fractures treated using a staged protocol.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Academic trauma center.

PATIENTS

Eight pilon fracture patients and 19 tibial plateau fracture patients who underwent open reduction internal fixation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Skin perfusion (fluorescence units) as measured by LA-ICGA.

RESULTS

Six patients were classified as Tscherne grade 0, 9 as grade 1, 10 as grade 2, and 2 as grade 3. Perfusion decreased by 14 fluorescence units (95% confidence interval, -21 to -6; P < 0.01) with each increase in Tscherne grade. Sixteen patients underwent staged fixation with an external fixator (mean time to definitive fixation 14.1 days). The mean perfusion increased significantly at the time of definitive fixation by a mean of 13.9 fluorescence units (95% confidence interval 4.8-22.9; P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

LA-ICGA perfusion measures are associated with severity of soft tissue injury surrounding orthopaedic trauma fractures and appear to improve over time when fractures are stabilized in an external fixator. Further research is warranted to investigate whether objective perfusion measures are predictive of postoperative wound healing complications and whether this tool can be used to effectively guide timing of safe surgical fixation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Medial sided articular impaction in tibial plateau fractures

INTRODUCTION

Tibial plateau fractures are a heterogenous group of injuries with a variable amount of articular injury and are commonly associated with lateral sided articular impaction. Previous work has focused on describing the morphology of tibial plateau fractures, but has neglected description of medial sided articular impaction. The aim of this investigation was to assess the morphology of medial sided articular impaction in tibial plateau fractures, with specific attention directed toward the frequency, location, size, and associated fracture patterns.

METHODS

Skeletally mature patients presenting to a Level I trauma center from 2008-2018 with a tibial plateau fracture (AO/OTA 41B-C) were identified retrospectively. Fractures were classified by AO/OTA and Schatzker type. Radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans were reviewed to identify and localize medial sided articular impaction. The location and surface area of impaction was characterized by creating frequency diagram heat maps from axial CT scans. Descriptive statistics were performed using standard measures.

RESULTS

Of the 1032 tibial plateau fractures included, 82 (7.9%) were noted to have medial sided articular impaction. Rate of impaction varied by fracture type (p = 0.03): Schatzker II, 2% (7 of 381); Schatzker IV, 21% (19 of 96); and Schatzker VI, 11% (56 of 524). Average total surface area of impaction was 9% of the total and 19% of the medial plateau area. Area of impaction varied by fracture type (p = 0.004): Schatzker II, 6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 4%-7%); Schatzker IV, 11% (95% CI, 9%-13%), and Schatzker VI, 9% (95% CI, 7%-11%). The area of impaction occurred primarily along the lateral aspect of the medial plateau in Schatzker II fractures, in the anteromedial quadrant of Schatzker IV fractures, and was evenly distributed across the medial plateau in Schatzker VI fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeons should be aware that medial articular impaction is present in approximately 8% of tibial plateau fractures. Schatzker IV fractures are most likely to have medial impaction and a larger proportion of the joint surface involved in these injuries.

Effect of Intrawound Vancomycin Powder in Operatively Treated High-risk Tibia Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Despite the widespread use of systemic antibiotics to prevent infections in surgically treated patients with fracture, high rates of surgical site infection persist.

Objective

To examine the effect of intrawound vancomycin powder in reducing deep surgical site infections.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This open-label randomized clinical trial enrolled adult patients with an operatively treated tibial plateau or pilon fracture who met the criteria for a high risk of infection from January 1, 2015, through June 30, 2017, with 12 months of follow-up (final follow-up assessments completed in April 2018) at 36 US trauma centers.

Interventions

A standard infection prevention protocol with (n = 481) or without (n = 499) 1000 mg of intrawound vancomycin powder.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was a deep surgical site infection within 182 days of definitive fracture fixation. A post hoc comparison assessed the treatment effect on gram-positive and gram-negative-only infections. Other secondary outcomes included superficial surgical site infection, nonunion, and wound dehiscence.

Results

The analysis included 980 patients (mean [SD] age, 45.7 [13.7] years; 617 [63.0%] male) with 91% of the expected person-time of follow-up for the primary outcome. Within 182 days, deep surgical site infection was observed in 29 of 481 patients in the treatment group and 46 of 499 patients in the control group. The time-to-event estimated probability of deep infection by 182 days was 6.4% in the treatment group and 9.8% in the control group (risk difference, -3.4%; 95% CI, -6.9% to 0.1%; P = .06). A post hoc analysis of the effect of treatment on gram-positive (risk difference, -3.7%; 95% CI, -6.7% to -0.8%; P = .02) and gram-negative-only (risk difference, 0.3%; 95% CI, -1.6% to 2.1%; P = .78) infections found that the effect of vancomycin powder was a result of its reduction in gram-positive infections.

Conclusions and Relevance

Among patients with operatively treated tibial articular fractures at a high risk of infection, intrawound vancomycin powder at the time of definitive fracture fixation reduced the risk of a gram-positive deep surgical site infection, consistent with the activity of vancomycin.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02227446.

Posterolateral plating is a safe alternative for the treatment of distal tibial fractures

INTRODUCTION

We assessed the outcome and safety of posterior plating of distal tibial fractures.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective case series at a Level I trauma center. Seventy-four consecutive patients with distal tibial fractures treated with anatomically contoured 3.5-mm T-shaped locking compression plate using a posterolateral approach from January 2008 through April 2018 were included in the study. The mean patient age was 48 years (range, 18-87 years). Fifty-nine percent of the patients were male patients, 47% of the fractures were open fractures; and 27% of the patients had multiple traumatic injuries. Eleven fractures were AO/OTA type 42, 22 were type 43A, and 41 were type 43C. Sixty-two (84%) patients were treated with initial spanning external fixation (median time, 23 days) and staged open reduction and internal fixation. The main outcome measure was unplanned reoperation to address implant failure, nonunion, deep surgical site infection, or symptomatic implant.

RESULTS

Overall risk of unplanned reoperation was 15% (11 of 74 patients, 95% confidence interval, 9%-25%). Four (5%) reoperations were for nonunion, three (4%) were for surgical site infection, two (3%) were for infected nonunion, and two (3%) were for implant prominence. Loss of alignment >10 degrees occurred in one patient who underwent unplanned reoperation for nonunion. No plate breakage occurred. Median time to reoperation was 221 days (range, 22-436 days). Only one other complication was noted: wound dehiscence associated with the posterolateral approach, which was treated with irrigation and débridement and a 6-week regimen of oral antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a posterolateral approach with a pre-contoured locking compression T-plate for the treatment of distal tibial fractures led to reasonable outcomes with an acceptable risk of unplanned reoperation, even with a high proportion of open fractures commonly staged with external fixation.

Initial experience with the T-Clamp for temporary fixation of mechanically and hemodynamically unstable pelvic ring injuries

In polytrauma patients with unstable pelvic ring injuries, pelvic binders interfere with femoral arterial access and are frequently removed for emergent endovascular and abdominal procedures. The 'trochanteric C-clamp' (T-clamp) is a novel technique described for rapid stabilization of the pelvis without fluoroscopic imaging, while ensuring adequate access to the groin. This case series reports the feasibility and safety following T-clamp application for unstable pelvic ring injuries in patients requiring simultaneous endovascular intervention. Between May 2018 - May 2019, seventeen patients with unstable pelvic ring injuries were treated with a T-clamp in conjunction with other emergent endovascular or intra-abdominal procedures. Nine presented with unstable APC injuries, seven with unstable LC injuries and one with a vertical shear pattern. Complications related to the T-clamp were prospectively collected. Following T-clamp application, there were two cases of intraoperative over-reduction, one of which required exchange for an anterior external fixator. This was the result of a concomitant acetabulum fracture leading to iatrogenic acetabular protrusion secondary to the T-clamp. Twelve cases maintained the T-clamp fixation postoperatively ranging from 1-3 days. One postoperative loss of reduction was noted and required exchange for anterior external fixator. In hemodynamically unstable patients who require emergent endovascular procedures, such as pelvic angiography and REBOA, T-clamp application offers a reasonably safe and effective method for expeditious stabilization of the pelvis while allowing unimpeded access to the abdomen, groin and pelvis. Caution should also be applied in patients with concomitant acetabulum fracture for risk of malreduction. Additionally, its prolonged postoperative use should be limited to patients who are not immediately suitable for fixation of the pelvis.

Surgeons Cannot Predict Pilon Fracture Outcomes Based on Initial Radiographs

This study sought to determine (1) whether surgeons can accurately predict functional outcomes of operative fixation of pilon fractures based on injury and initial postoperative radiographs, (2) whether the surgeon's level of experience is associated with the ability to successfully predict outcome, and (3) the association between patients' demographic and clinical characteristics and surgeons' prediction scores. A blinded, randomized provider survey was conducted at a level I trauma center. Seven fellowship-trained orthopedic traumatologists and 4 orthopedic trauma fellows who were blinded to outcome reviewed data regarding 95 pilon fractures in random order. Injury ankle radiographs, initial postoperative fixation radiographs, and brief patient histories were assessed. Midterm follow-up functional outcome scores obtained a mean 4.9 years after surgery were available for all patients. Main outcome measures were Pearson correlation coefficient-assessed functional outcomes and surgeon-predicted outcomes. A mixed-effect model determined the association between patients' characteristics and surgeons' prediction scores. Minimal positive correlation was observed between functional outcomes and prediction scores. No difference was noted between the attending and fellow groups in prediction ability. When surgeons' prediction confidence level was greater than 1 SD above the mean confidence level, correlation between functional outcome and prediction improved, although poor correlation was still observed. AO/OTA type 43C fractures, high-energy mechanisms, and older patient age were characteristics associated with lower prediction scores. Surgeons had poor ability to predict functional outcomes of patients with pilon fractures based on injury and initial postoperative radiographs, and level of experience was not associated with ability to predict outcome. [Orthopedics. 2020; 43(1): e43-e46.].

Imaging Acetabular Fractures

Acetabular fractures are encountered by radiologists in a wide spectrum of practice settings. The radiologist's value in the acute and long-term management of acetabular fractures is augmented by familiarity with systematic computed tomography-based algorithms that streamline and simplify Judet-Letournel fracture typing, together with an appreciation of the role of imaging in initial triage, operative decision making, postoperative assessment, prognostication, and evaluation of complications. The steep increase in incidence of acetabular fractures in the elderly over the past several decades places special emphasis on familiarity with geriatric fracture patterns.

CT Prediction Model for Major Arterial Injury after Blunt Pelvic Ring Disruption

Purpose To develop and test a computed tomography (CT)-based predictive model for major arterial injury after blunt pelvic ring disruptions that incorporates semiautomated pelvic hematoma volume quantification. Materials and Methods A multivariable logistic regression model was developed in patients with blunt pelvic ring disruptions who underwent arterial phase abdominopelvic CT before angiography from 2008 to 2013. Arterial injury at angiography requiring transarterial embolization (TAE) served as the outcome. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUCs) for the model and for two trauma radiologists were compared in a validation cohort of 36 patients from 2013 to 2015 by using the Hanley-McNeil method. Hematoma volume cutoffs for predicting the need for TAE and probability cutoffs for the secondary outcome of mortality not resulting from closed head injuries were determined by using ROC analysis. Correlation between hematoma volume and transfusion was assessed by using the Pearson coefficient. Results Independent predictor variables included hematoma volume, intravenous contrast material extravasation, atherosclerosis, rotational instability, and obturator ring fracture. In the validation cohort, the model (AUC, 0.78) had similar performance to reviewers (AUC, 0.69-0.72; P = .40-.80). A hematoma volume cutoff of 433 mL had a positive predictive value of 87%-100% for predicting major arterial injury requiring TAE. Hematoma volumes correlated with units of packed red blood cells transfused (r = 0.34-0.57; P = .0002-.0003). Predicted probabilities of 0.64 or less had a negative predictive value of 100% for excluding mortality not resulting from closed head injuries. Conclusion A logistic regression model incorporating semiautomated hematoma volume segmentation produced objective probability estimates of major arterial injury. Hematoma volumes correlated with 48-hour transfusion requirement, and low predicted probabilities excluded mortality from causes other than closed head injury. ^© RSNA, 2018 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Correlation between RUST assessments of fracture healing to structural and biomechanical properties

Radiographic Union Score for Tibia (RUST) and modified RUST (mRUST) are radiographic tools for quantitatively evaluating fracture healing using a cortical scoring system. This tool has high intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs); however, little evidence has evaluated the scores against the physical properties of bone healing. Closed, stabilized fractures were made in the femora of C3H/HeJ male mice (8-12 week-old) of two dietary groups: A control and a phosphate restricted diet group. Micro-computed tomography (µCT) and torsion testing were carried out at post-operative days (POD) 14, 21, 35, and 42 (n = 10-16) per group time-point. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographic views were constructed from the µCT scans and scored by five raters. The raters also indicated if the fracture were healed. ICCs were 0.71 (mRUST) and 0.63 (RUST). Both RUST scores were positively correlated with callus bone mineral density (BMD) (r = 0.85 and 0.80, p < 0.001) and bone volume fraction (BV/TV) (r = 0.86 and 0.80, p < 0.001). Both RUST scores positively correlated with callus strength (r = 0.35 and 0.26, p < 0.012) and rigidity (r = 0.50 and 0.39, p < 0.001). Radiographically healed calluses had a mRUST ≥13 and a RUST ≥10 and had excellent relationship to structural and biomechanical metrics. Effect of delayed healing due to phosphate dietary restrictions was found at later time points with all mechanical properties (p < 0.011), however no differences found in the RUST scores (p > 0.318). Clinical relevance of this study is both RUST scores showed high correlation to physical properties of healing and generally distinguished healed vs. non-healed fractures. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:945-953, 2018.

Operative management of acetabulum fractures in the obese patient: challenges and solutions

In this review, we aim to increase our knowledge of the treatment of acetabular fractures in the obese patient population. The extremely high incidence of obesity in the USA is a looming health care concern that impacts aspects of health care in all medical specialties. There are specific concerns to the orthopedic surgeon when treating obese patients for acetabular fracture. Patients with body mass index ≥30 present particular challenges to the surgeon in terms of preexisting medical conditions, diagnostic imaging, and perioperative complications. Specifically, this patient population experiences worse functional outcomes and greater incidence of surgical site infection, intraoperative blood loss, deep venous thrombosis, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, heterotopic ossification, and increased hospital length of stay. These problems are further exacerbated in the morbidly obese, as a scaling effect exists between increasing body mass index and worsening complication profile. This is problematic given the current high incidence of morbid obesity in the USA and particularly worrisome in light of the projected increase in obesity rates for the future.

Early Postoperative Displacement of Combined Pelvic Ring Injury With Acetabular Fracture

Combined pelvic ring and acetabular injuries present a management challenge. The literature on this topic is scarce, with few outcomes studies available. This retrospective study assessed whether the incidence of postoperative displacement and loss of reduction is higher with combined injuries compared with isolated pelvic ring injuries and isolated acetabular fractures. The charts and radiographs of 33 patients with combined pelvic ring and acetabular fractures treated operatively during a 7-year period at a single institution were reviewed. Pelvic ring and acetabular displacements were measured during the early postoperative period and compared with final follow-up measurements (minimum 5 months after surgery). Measurements also were compared with those from isolated pelvic ring fractures (n=33) and isolated acetabular fractures (n=33). Groups were matched for injury pattern and were propensity-matched by age and Injury Severity Score. Patients with combined injuries and patients with isolated pelvic ring injuries had similar initial pelvic ring reductions on anteroposterior and outlet view radiographs. By final follow-up, the combined injury group had experienced significant additional pelvic ring displacement. The presence of combined injury was an independent risk factor for postoperative pelvic ring displacement. Initial postoperative acetabular displacement was higher in the combined injury group compared with the isolated acetabular fracture group (2.6±1.8 vs 1.1±1.1 mm). By final followup, apparent displacement decreased significantly for both groups. Patients with combined pelvic ring and acetabular fractures were more likely to have poorer acetabular reduction and additional displacement of the pelvic ring component during the postoperative period compared with patients with isolated injuries. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(3):163-168.].

In Vivo Correlation of Radiographic Scoring (Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia Fractures) and Biomechanical Data in a Sheep Osteotomy Model: Can We Define Union Radiographically?

OBJECTIVE

To determine (1) the reliability of the standard and modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia fractures (RUST) score in a sheep osteotomy model, and (2) the standard and modified RUST scores that represent biomechanical union.

DESIGN

The tibia cortices in a sheep osteotomy model treated by intramedullary nails were radiographically evaluated using standard and modified RUST scores. Scores that correlated with biomechanical union, based on the torsional stiffness of the contralateral tibia, were determined.

INTERVENTION

Two groups of sheep had transverse midshaft osteotomies treated with 10-mm nails after reaming to 11.5 mm. Weight-bearing was allowed as tolerated. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were taken at standard intervals from 4 to 12 weeks. The tibial cortices at each time interval were evaluated in a random order by 5 senior orthopaedic trauma surgeons. Each tibia was scored using the standard and modified RUST methods and was assessed for union.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was determined for standard and modified RUST scores at each time interval and for the assessment of union. The percentages of fractures that were defined as united by the surgeons were tabulated by RUST and modified RUST scores. The torsional stiffness of each tibia was tested at 12 weeks and expressed as a percentage of the contralateral side. We considered biomechanical union to be ≥90% of the torsional stiffness of the normal side.

RESULTS

The modified RUST score demonstrated consistently higher ICCs than the standard RUST. All reviewers considered a standard RUST of 10 and a modified RUST of 14 to represent radiographic union. The standard RUST was 10.4 (range: 8.6-12) and modified RUST was 14.2 (range: 12.2-16) for tibiae that were biomechanically united.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified RUST score has a slightly higher ICC than the standard RUST. A standard RUST of 10 and a modified RUST of 14 provide an excellent definition of union based on surgeons' opinion and biomechanical testing for a transverse fracture.

Radiographic predictors of symptomatic screw removal after retrograde femoral nail insertion

INTRODUCTION

Removal of symptomatic implants is a common procedure performed by orthopaedic trauma surgeons. No guidance is available regarding which factors contribute to the likelihood of an implant becoming symptomatic. Our objective was to determine whether radiographic parameters associated with distal interlocks in retrograde femoral nails are associated with the rate of symptomatic screw removal.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review at a Level I trauma center. Study patients (n=442) had femoral fractures treated with retrograde intramedullary nails from 2007 to 2014 and at least 1year of follow-up. The main outcome measurement was symptomatic distal screw removal as predicted by radiographic parameters.

RESULTS

Symptomatic screw removal occurred in 12% of the patients. Increased distance between the most distal screw and the articular surface of the femur significantly reduced likelihood of symptomatic screw removal. A cutoff of 40mm from the articular block was predictive of removal (≥40mm, 0% removal; <40mm, 18% removal, p<0.0001). In patients with distal screws placed within 40mm of the articular surface of the femur, a ratio of screw length to distance between medial and lateral femoral cortices that was ≥1 was a strong predictor of symptomatic screw removal (area under Receiver Operating Characteristic curve, 0.75; p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

More distal screws and screws that radiographically extend to or beyond the medial cortex are more likely to cause pain and require removal in femoral fractures treated with retrograde intramedullary nails. We identified a specific distance from the joint (<40mm) and a ratio of screw length to bone width (≥1) that significantly increased the likelihood of symptomatic screw removal. Clinicians can use these data to inform patients of the likely risk of implant removal and perhaps to better guide placement and length of screws when the clinical scenario allows some flexibility in location and length of screws.

Can applied external fixators be sterilized for surgery? A prospective cohort study of orthopaedic trauma patients

BACKGROUND

Temporary external fixators are often used to stabilize fractures when definitive fracture surgery must be delayed. Sometimes, external fixators are left in place during repeat operations, including definitive internal fixation of tibial pilon and tibial plateau fractures. It is unknown how well current surgical preparation sterilizes these devices, which become part of the surgical field. Our hypothesis was that our institution's standard surgical preparation creates a low rate of culture-positive environments on external fixators at the time of surgical skin incision.

METHODS

We prospectively consented and enrolled patients to obtain cultures (48 patients, 55 external fixators, 165 sets of culture data). After standard preparation and immediately before incision, cultures were obtained from three sites on each external fixator: 1) most distal pin 1cm from pin-skin interface, 2) most distal bar at midpoint between pin and clamp connectors, and 3) most distal clamp at bar-clamp interface. Our standard preparation for patients with external fixation in place is to don sterile gloves and wipe down all components of the external fixator with 70% alcohol-soaked sterile 4×4in gauze sponges before skin preparation. The skin and external fixator are then prepped in the usual fashion with ChloraPrep for closed wounds or with povidone iodine scrub and paint for open wounds. Swabs were processed and organisms from cultures identified. Clinicians were blinded to study results until study completion.

RESULTS

Two of 165 cultures (1.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0-2.9%) were positive for common pathogens sometimes observed in surgical site infection. Four cultures (2.4%; 95% CI: 0-4.8%) had pathogens that are rarely associated with surgical site infection, and four (2.4%; 95% CI: 0-4.8%) had nonpathogenic organisms.

CONCLUSION

Using 70% alcohol on external fixators plus either ChloraPrep for closed wounds or povidone iodine for open wounds seems to result in a low rate of positive cultures. Most species that were isolated are infrequently identified as sources of surgical site infections. This preparation protocol might be effective at producing a relatively clean environment at the time of surgery for patients with external fixators already in place.

Radiographic Determinants of Early Failure After Posterior Wall Acetabular Fracture Fixation

A retrospective review was conducted at an academic trauma center to determine whether fracture characteristics or aspects of native anatomy are predictive of early failure after fixation of posterior wall acetabular fractures. A chart review of posterior wall acetabular fractures treated from 2004 to 2009 yielded the study group that met the inclusion criteria. The study group included 18 consecutive patients who had clinical failure. The control group included 27 patients who did not have clinical failure. Operative notes were reviewed and axial view computed tomography scans were analyzed to determine 8 fracture descriptors (dislocation, comminution, marginal impaction, femoral head injury, incarcerated fragments, involvement of the subchondral arc, proximal-to-distal fracture extension, and size of the fracture measured by 3 methods) and 6 native anatomy descriptors (transverse plane acetabular anteversion, anterior acetabular sector angle, 2 measures of the posterior acetabular sector angle, and 2 measures of change in the posterior acetabular sector angle). Failure of treatment (n=18) was defined as the need for total hip arthroplasty (n=5) or the development of symptomatic posttraumatic arthritis (n=13). Fisher's exact test and Student's t test were conducted. The only variable that was predictive of failure of operative treatment of posterior wall fractures was extension of the fracture into the subchondral arc (12 of 18 patients in the failure group vs 7 of 27 patients in the nonfailure group, P=.01). Native anatomy, fracture size, and marginal impaction did not play a significant role in predicting failure. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(6):e1104-e1111.].

Does a trochanteric lag screw improve fixation of vertically oriented femoral neck fractures? A biomechanical analysis in cadaveric bone

BACKGROUND

We assessed the biomechanical performances of a trochanteric lag screw construct and a traditional inverted triangle construct in the treatment of simulated Pauwels type 3 femoral neck fractures.

METHODS

An inverted triangle construct (three 7.3-mm cannulated screws placed in inverted triangle orientation) and a trochanteric lag screw construct (two 7.3-mm cannulated screws placed across the superior portion of the femoral neck and one 4.5-mm lag screw placed perpendicular to the fracture in superolateral to inferomedial orientation) were tested in nine matched pairs of non-osteoporotic human cadaveric femora. We used a previously described vertically oriented femoral neck fracture model and testing protocol that incrementally loaded the constructs along the mechanical axis of the femur to 1400 N. Specimens that survived incremental loading underwent cyclic loading. Apparent construct stiffness, force at 3mm of displacement, and survival of incremental loading were recorded.

FINDINGS

The trochanteric lag screw group had a 70% increase in stiffness (261 N/mm [29 standard deviation] versus 153 N/mm [16 standard deviation]; P=0.026) and a 43% increase in force required for displacement (620 N versus 435 N; P=0.018) compared with the inverted triangle group. One trochanteric lag screw and no inverted triangle specimen survived incremental loading.

INTERPRETATION

A trochanteric lag screw construct applied to vertically oriented femoral neck fractures provides marked improvement in mechanical performance compared with the inverted triangle construct.

Do traction radiographs of distal radial fractures influence fracture characterization and treatment?

BACKGROUND

Our center evaluates all distal radial fractures with traction radiographs before splinting. Although investigations of various imaging modalities to evaluate distal radial fractures have been presented in the literature, to our knowledge the use of traction radiographs has not been well described. We hypothesized that the addition of traction radiographs to standard radiographs increases interobserver and intraobserver reliability for injury descriptions, affects the choice of treatment plan, and decreases the perceived need for computed tomography.

METHODS

Radiographs for fifty consecutive eligible patients with distal radial fractures that were treated at a level-1 trauma center were used to create two image sets for each patient. Set 1 included injury and splint radiographs, and Set 2 included the images from Set 1 plus traction radiographs. The image sets were stripped of all demographic data and were presented in random order to seven fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons. The surgeons independently reviewed each of the 100 image sets and answered ten questions regarding the description and treatment of the injury. Analyses were conducted with kappa statistics to evaluate interobserver reliability. Intraobserver variability was assessed with the McNemar test after adjusting for clustering.

RESULTS

Traction radiographs improved interobserver reliability for four of ten questions. With regard to intraobserver variability, responses to two questions were significantly changed. With the addition of traction radiographs, the observation of intra-articular fragments requiring reduction increased from 38.3% to 53.1% (p &lt; 0.05) and the perceived need to order computed tomography for further evaluation decreased from 21.7% to 5.1% (p &lt; 0.001). No other changes reached significance.

CONCLUSION

The addition of traction radiographs appeared to affect surgeons' interobserver reliability in the evaluation of distal radial fractures. In addition, traction radiographs changed the rate of detection of intra-articular fragments requiring reduction and the perceived need for computed tomography. These data indicate that traction radiographs may provide some of the same information as computed tomographic scans at a lower cost and argue for additional research comparing computed tomographic scans and traction radiographs of the distal part of the radius.

Surgeon variability in the treatment of pelvic ring injuries

Pelvic ring injuries are associated with the potential for long-term disability and high mortality rates. No well-established, definitive treatment algorithms have been presented in the literature. We evaluated agreement among surgeons in selecting treatment of pelvic ring injuries and investigated the relationship between type of injury and treatment plan. We conducted a prospective agreement analysis of pelvic ring injury images at a level I regional trauma center. Eighty-nine isolated pelvic ring disruptions were selected; they were the only injuries present on the images and were thought to comprise a variety of pelvic fracture types from a database of 1600 pelvic fractures. Sets of injury images were randomly ordered and distributed to 5 orthopedic trauma surgeons blinded to patient name, attending surgeon, date of injury, and eventual treatment. Surgeons reviewed images, independently selected preferred treatments, and classified injuries with the Young-Burgess and Tile systems. Eight weeks later, images were again randomly ordered and distributed to the same 5 orthopedic surgeons, who again independently selected preferred treatments and classified injuries. Kappa analyses of agreement among surgeons and within each surgeon over time were conducted. Analysis among surgeons' treatment plans based on radiographic assessment alone revealed a mean kappa value of 0.47, indicating moderate level of agreement. Analysis of data collected 8 weeks later yielded a mean kappa value of 0.56, representing moderate agreement within each surgeon over time. Young-Burgess and Tile classifications yielded consistent treatment plans for certain fracture types and varied plans for other types. Our results question the usefulness of the 2 classification systems for predicting treatment decisions.

Classification of pelvic fractures: analysis of inter- and intraobserver variability using the Young-Burgess and Tile classification systems

Classification systems for pelvic ring injuries have been developed to assist in understanding the anatomy of the injury, predicting prognosis, and helping define treatment. Despite the frequent clinical use of the Young-Burgess and Tile classification systems, to our knowledge little work has been conducted to validate either system. We assessed the degree of inter- and intraobserver variability when using both the Young-Burgess and Tile classification systems and thereby assessed their validity for clinical use. Eighty-nine isolated pelvic ring disruptions were selected. Sets of injury images were randomly ordered and distributed to 5 orthopedic trauma surgeons blinded to the patients' names, attending surgeons, dates of injury, and eventual treatments. The surgeons were asked to independently classify each pelvic ring disruption based on the Young-Burgess and Tile classifications. Eight weeks later, the same images were randomly ordered and redistributed to the same 5 surgeons, who were again asked to classify the pelvic injuries. A kappa analysis was conducted to analyze agreement among surgeons. A moderate degree of agreement was shown among orthopedic trauma surgeons when using both the Young-Burgess and Tile classification systems. Intraobserver agreement was found to be substantial for the Young-Burgess classification and moderate for the Tile classification. The degree of inter- and intraobserver variability may limit the usefulness of the 2 classification systems, both clinically and for research purposes.

Are locking screws advantageous with plate fixation of humeral shaft fractures? A biomechanical analysis of synthetic and cadaveric bone

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether locking screws offer any advantage over nonlocking screws for plate fixation of humeral shaft fractures for weight-bearing applications.

DESIGN

: Mechanical evaluation of stiffness in torsion, bending, and axial loading and failure in axial loading in synthetic and cadaveric bone.

SETTING

Biomechanical laboratory in an academic medical center.

METHODS

: We modeled a comminuted midshaft humeral fracture in both synthetic and cadaveric bone. Humeri were plated posteriorly. Two study groups each used identical 10-hole, 3.5-mm locking compression plates that can accept either locking or nonlocking screws. The first group used only nonlocking screws and the second only locking screws. Stiffness testing and failure testing were performed for both the synthetic bones (n = 6) and the cadaveric matched pairs (n = 12). Fatigue testing was set at 90,000 cycles of 440 N of axial loading.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Torsion, bending, and axial stiffness and axial failure force after cyclic loading.

RESULTS

With synthetic bones, no significant difference was observed in any of the 4 tested stiffness modes between the plates with locking screws and those with nonlocking screws (anteroposterior, P = 0.51; mediolateral, P = 0.50; axial, P = 0.15; torsional, P = 0.08). With initial failure testing of the constructs in axial loading, both plates failed above anticipated physiologic loads of 440 N (mean failure load for both constructs >4200 N), but no advantage to locking screws was shown. The cadaveric portion of the study also showed no biomechanical advantage of locking screws over nonlocking screws for stiffness of the construct in the 4 tested modes (P > 0.40). Fatigue and failure testing showed that both constructs were able to withstand strenuous fatigue and to fail above anticipated loads (mean failure >3400 N). No difference in failure force was shown between the 2 groups (P = 0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

Synthetic and cadaveric bone testing showed that locking screws offer no obvious biomechanical benefit in this application.

Reconstruction of distal tibia fractures using a posterolateral approach and a blade plate

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to report a technique for the management of distal tibia fractures with significant anteromedial soft-tissue injury. The patients were initially treated with a spanning external fixator, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the fibula at the discretion of the surgeon, and soft-tissue management or flap coverage. ORIF of the tibia was performed on a staged basis, using a 90-degree cannulated blade plate and autogenous iliac crest bone graft through a posterolateral approach.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of a consecutive series of patients.

SETTING

Two academic level-1 trauma centers.

PATIENTS

Fifteen patients with 15 distal tibia fractures (13 open fractures), Orthopedic Trauma Association (OTA) type 43A3 and 43C1, were definitively treated and followed to union between July 2000 and July 2004. Five patients were referred from outside sources after initial stabilization.

INTERVENTION

Initial stabilization in an external fixator and management of the open fracture and soft tissue. Staged ORIF of the tibia with bone graft was performed through a posterolateral approach when the soft tissues allowed.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Radiographic union, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, and complications.

RESULTS

All 15 fractures were followed to union. Average time to union was 20 (12 to 47) weeks from the time of fixation with blade plate and bone grafting. (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score was used to measure outcome. The average score was 81 (60 to 97) out of a possible 100. There were no deep infections. There was one nonunion; the fracture united after revision with a locked plate and bone graft. The average length of follow-up was 14 months (4 to 37).

CONCLUSIONS

The staged treatment of high-energy distal tibia fractures with soft-tissue injury can lead to good outcomes and consistent bone union. Our results were obtained by the combination of the posterolateral approach, careful soft-tissue management, and stable internal fixation.