A preliminary study of injectable collagen in human vocal fold augmentation

Soluble bovine collagen was injected for vocal fold augmentation in 27 patients with glottic insufficiency. Preliminary observations show that glottic closure was enhanced in all patients with no serious complications. Subjective and objective measures of vocal efficiency indicated improvement with reduction in airflow, improved glottic closure, and increased vocal intensity. Recent studies that reveal distant migration of injected Teflon suggest the need for the development of a safe biologic material for soft tissue augmentation. Collagen appears to satisfy criteria as an ideal bioimplant, tends to soften scar tissue, and is structurally similar to natural collagen in the human vocal fold. Further longitudinal studies and the development of potentially more stable cross-linked collagen preparations seem indicated.     

肺减容术治疗晚期肺气肿

目的 总结肺减容术治疗晚期肺气肿的临床经验。方法 回顾性分析22例晚期肺气肿行肺减容术患者的临床资料。结果 患者术前1s用力呼吸量（FEV1）为24．5％、残气量（RV）为196．5％、总肺活量（TLC）为130．5％,术后FEV1为27．8％、RV为148．8％,TLC为112．5％。术前16例患者经常吸氧,术后5例活动后需吸氧。术前16例完成6min行走试验,平均行走198m,术后所有患者均完成行走试验,平均行走256m。术前呼吸困难14例3级,8例4级;术后5例2级,13例3级,4例4级。结论 靶区明确的非均质型尤其泡性肺气肿是肺减容术最佳适应证,经严格选择均质型肺气肿病例亦可手术。手术适应证及禁忌证值得进一步探讨;胸腔镜辅助腋下小切口单侧肺减容术安全、可靠、有效;机械缝切器和牛心包加垫可减少漏气。     

Subtalar arthrodesis with flexor digitorum longus transfer and spring ligament repair for treatment of posterior tibial tendon insufficiency

The surgical treatment of flexible pes planovalgus deformities resulting from Stage 2 posterior tibial tendon insufficiency is controversial and many techniques have been proposed. We retrospectively reviewed the results of subtalar arthrodesis combined with spring ligament repair/reefing and flexor digitorum longus (FDL) transfer to the navicular. There were sixteen patients (seventeen feet) with an average follow-up of 27 months (9-52). All deformities were passively correctable. The average age was 56 yrs (39-78). All patients had failed conservative management, 88% had previously been treated with orthotics, and 53% had lateral pain from subfibular impingement. Two patients were noted to have degenerative changes of the subtalar joint. Successful subtalar joint fusion occurred in all patients with an average time to radiographic union of 10.1 weeks (5-24). The average AOFAS hindfoot score and Maryland foot score postoperatively was 82 and 86 respectively. Standing radiographic analysis demonstrated an average improvement in the AP talo-1st metatarsal angle of 6 degrees (24 degrees preoperative, 18 degrees postoperative). The talonavicular coverage angle improved an average of 17 degrees (34 degrees preoperative, 17 degrees postoperative). The lateral talo-1st metatarsal angle improved an average of 10 degrees (18 degrees preoperative, 8 degrees postoperative). The lateral talocalcaneal angle decreased an average of 21o (55 degrees preoperative, 34 degrees postoperative). The distance of the medial cuneiform to the floor on the lateral radiograph averaged 12mm preoperatively and 18mm postoperatively (avg. improvement 6mm). The combination of the flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer and spring ligament repair with subtalar arthrodesis is an effective and reliable procedure which provides excellent correction of hindfoot valgus as well as forefoot abduction and restoration of the height of the longitudinal arch. These results compare favorably with flexor transfer combined with either calcaneal osteotomy or lateral column lengthening.     

Delayed vertebral collapse with neurological deficits secondary to osteoporosis

Delayed vertebral collapse after osteoporotic spinal fractures may cause progressive kyphosis, neurological deficits, and chronic back pain. We treated 14 consecutive patients with posterolateral decompression and posterior reconstruction and followed them over a period ranging from 24 to 54 months. The mean age was 67 (range: 62-72) years and the fracture level was T12 and L1. Seven patients were graded as Frankel stage C and seven as stage D. The mean segmental kyphotic angle was 22.6 degrees (7-29 degrees ) preoperatively, 4.4 degrees (1-6 degrees ) postoperatively, and 6.8 degrees (2-15 degrees ) at the final follow-up. The pain score on a visual analogue scale improved from 9.5 preoperatively to 2.7 postoperatively, and the neurological status improved in all patients. Bone fusion was present 9 months after operation. Of four surgical complications, two were dural tears, one a superficial infection, and there was one death due to an acute adrenal insufficiency. Posterolateral decompression with posterior reconstruction is a useful treatment for patients with delayed osteoporotic vertebral collapse.     

Augmentation cystoplasty in patients with multiple sclerosis

INTRODUCTION: Augmentation cystoplasty is an effective approach to the detrusor hyperreflexia which is refractory to conservative treatment. Sporadic data have been published in patients with progressive diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Augmentation ileocystoplasty (Goodwin 'cup-patch') was performed in 9 patients (7 females, 2 males). The average Expanded Disability Status Scale score was 4.1 (range 3.0-6.5); 7 patients had relapse-remitting MS and 2 patients secondary-progressive MS. The indication was a detrusor hyperreflexia refractory to conservative treatment in 8 patients and a detrusor hyperrefluxia with third degree bilateral vesico-ureteral reflux and renal insufficiency in 1 patient. Pre- and postoperative objective parameters were evaluated by urodynamic examination, imaging methods and laboratory examination. Subjective evaluation was performed using a questionnaire on micturition symptoms (score 0-5) and on quality of life (score 0-6). RESULTS: With a follow-up of 6-19 months, we recorded an average increase of the maximum detrusor capacity from 105 to 797 ml and decrease of maximum detrusor pressure from 53 to 30 cm H(2)O. Postmicturition residual urine >25% of the maximum capacity was present in 6 patients who performed clear intermittent autocatheterization postoperatively (2 patients preoperatively). In all patients there was a significant improvement in the irritation micturition symptomatology (pollakisuria, nycturia, urgency and urge incontinence) and the quality of life score improved on average from 5 to 0.7. In the case of the patient with renal insufficiency, the creatinine level decreased from 286 to 150 micromol/l; in the other patients renal function remained normal. CONCLUSIONS: Augmentation cystoplasty is a safe and effective method for indicated patients, which significantly enhances their quality of life.     

Total knee arthroplasty in the presence of severe flexion contracture: a report of 37 cases.

From 1987 to 1994, 37 total knee arthroplasties were performed in 23 patients with severe, fixed flexion contractures averaging 78 degrees (range, 60 degrees -100 degrees). Fourteen of the knees had flexion contractures of greater than 90 degrees and 7 were fused at 90 degrees. There were 19 women and 4 men. The average age at surgery was 42 years (range, 20-57 years). The diagnoses were rheumatoid arthritis in 17 patients, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in 3, and ankylosing spondylitis in 3. Preoperatively, all patients were Knee Society Category C, with 14 being nonambulatory and 9 minimally ambulatory. Follow-up averaged 4.3 years (range, 2-8 years). Postoperatively, patients were immobilized in extension when not in continuous passive motion or physical therapy. Flexion contractures were corrected to an average of 7 degrees postoperatively (range, 0 degrees -15 degrees). Arc of motion improved from 25 degrees preoperatively to 82 degrees postoperatively. The average Knee Society knee scores improved from 25 points preoperatively to 78 points postoperatively, and the functional scores improved from 0 points preoperatively to 71 points postoperatively. Five knees were manipulated under anesthesia postoperatively. Complications included 3 transient peroneal nerve palsies, 1 transient episode of vascular insufficiency, 6 delayed wound healings, and 1 deep infection. There were no aseptic loosenings. We conclude that although technically difficult, total knee arthroplasty can be performed successfully in this challenging and highly debilitated subset of patients, giving them marked improvement in quality of life.     

Prognostic factors for lower respiratory tract infections after brain-tumor surgery

Nosocomial infection of the lower respiratory tract is a frequent and serious complication after major operations. A 32% incidence of lower respiratory tract infections was found after brain-tumor surgery in 289 patients, with a 21% incidence of pneumonia. In 186 of these patients (Group A), five factors were identified which were associated with an increased risk of postoperative lower respiratory tract infection. These were: age, tumor type, cardiac insufficiency, preoperative disturbances of consciousness, and preoperative corticosteroid treatment. Based on these factors, a risk score was developed which correlated well with the incidence of infection in this group of patients. In a second group of patients (Group B), the derived risk score was applied and was found to possess a high degree of validity. As long as patients were intubated postoperatively, their freedom from infection decreased exponentially, with a half-life of 3.5 days.     

The Damus-Stansel-Kaye procedure. Should the aortic valve or subaortic valve region be closed?

Two patients (one with transposition of the great arteries and another with Taussig-Bing anomaly) underwent the Damus-Stansel-Kaye procedure (Group I). Significant aortic valve insufficiency developed postoperatively in both patients. In contrast, seven patients with a univentricular heart and subaortic stenosis from a variety of reasons underwent creation of an aortopulmonary window (Group II), a procedure very similar to the proximal main pulmonary artery-aortic root anastomosis of the Damus-Stansel-Kaye procedure. Aortic valve insufficiency had not developed after up to 7 years of follow-up in this group (average 43 months). Postoperative angiograms suggest that aortic valve incompetence in Group I may have been caused by prolapse of the aortic valve. The valvular structures are subjected to high systolic pressures and face a dilated, low-pressure right ventricle. Aortic root distortion may have contributed, as well. In Group II patients, the aortic valve structures face a small, thick-walled chamber. The orientation of the aortic valve vis-a-vis the right ventricle changed postoperatively in Group I but not in Group II patients. Our experience suggests that the aortic valve or subaortic valve region should be closed at the initial repair in patients with low pulmonary vascular resistance who are undergoing the Damus-Stansel-Kaye procedure, to minimize the need for reoperation for aortic valve insufficiency.     

Plantarflexion opening wedge medial cuneiform osteotomy for correction of fixed forefoot varus associated with flatfoot deformity

BACKGROUND: Flatfoot presents as a wide spectrum of foot deformities that include varying degrees of hindfoot valgus, forefoot abduction, and forefoot varus. Medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, lateral column lengthening, and subtalar fusion can correct heel valgus, but may not adequately correct the fixed forefoot varus component. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of plantarflexion opening wedge medial cuneiform (Cotton) osteotomy in the correction of forefoot varus. METHODS: Sixteen feet (15 patients) had plantarflexion opening wedge medial cuneiform osteotomies to correct forefoot varus associated with flatfoot deformities from several etiologies, including congenital flatfoot (six feet, average age 37 years), tarsal coalition (five feet, average age 15 years), overcorrected clubfoot deformity (two feet, ages 17 years and 18 years), skewfoot (one foot, age 15 years), chronic posterior tibial tendon insufficiency (one foot, 41 years), and rheumatoid arthritis (one foot, age 56 years). RESULTS: Standing radiographs showed an average improvement in the anterior-posterior talo-first metatarsal angle of 7 degrees (9 degrees preoperative, 2 degrees postoperative). The talonavicular coverage angle improved an average of 15 degrees (20 degrees preoperative, 5 degrees postoperative). The lateral talo-first metatarsal angle improved an average of 14 degrees (-13 degrees preoperative, 1 degree postoperative). Correcting for radiographic magnification, the distance from the mid-medial cuneiform to the floor on the lateral radiograph averaged 40 mm preoperatively and 47 mm postoperatively (average improvement 7 mm). All patients at followup described mild to no pain with ambulation. There were no nonunions or malunions. CONCLUSIONS: Opening wedge medial cuneiform osteotomy is an important adjunctive procedure to correct the forefoot varus component of a flatfoot deformity. Advantages of this technique in comparison to first tarsometatarsal arthrodesis include predictable union, preservation of first ray mobility, and the ability to easily vary the amount of correction. Because of the variety of hindfoot procedures done in these patients, the degree of hindfoot correction contributed by the cuneiform osteotomy alone could not be determined. We have had excellent results without major complications using this technique.     

Treatment of severe spondylolisthesis in children by reduction and L4-S4 posterior segmental hyperextension fixation.

Twenty children with severe lumbosacral spondylolisthesis underwent reduction, posterolateral fusion, and posterior fixation with an L4 to S2, 3, and 4 sublaminar wired rectangular rod to lessen lumbosacral kyphosis, allow early ambulation, and maintain correction. All patients had a postural deformity, 10 had preoperative neurologic findings, and 8 had severe pain. The average percentage of slip improved from 76% preoperatively to 55% postoperatively, and the slip angle improved from 25 degrees to 5 degrees (p < 0.0001). All patients had solid fusion by 6 months and no progression at 43 month follow-up on the average. We conclude that this technique reliably provides partial reduction, solid fixation, and fusion for patients with severe spondylolisthesis while allowing early ambulation. As with any spondylolisthesis reduction technique, neurologic risk should limit this procedure to well-selected patients.     

Hindfoot instability in cavovarus deformity: static and dynamic balancing

BACKGROUND: Chronic lateral ankle instability has been associated with varus deformity of the hindfoot, hyperactivity of the peroneus longus muscle, and insufficiency of the lateral ligaments. Many operative procedures have been described to correct this problem, but instability can recur if all contributing components are not treated. The purpose of this study was to offer an approach in the diagnosis and treatment of recurrent lateral ankle instability. METHODS: Eight consecutive patients (nine feet) were treated for recurrent chronic lateral ankle instability. The average age at surgery was 25 (range 8 to 37) years. All patients had prior operative procedures that failed and had persistent pain and functional instability of the ankle joint. After clinical and radiographic examination, lateralizing calcaneal osteotomy to correct the structured varus deformity and peroneus longus to peroneus brevis tendon transfer to add dynamic correction were done in all patients. A Brostr?m ligament reconstruction was added in four feet. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically at an average followup of 37 months. Preoperatively and postoperatively patients were evaluated by means of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Score. RESULTS: All patients were satisfied with the operation. The overall AOFAS-Score improved from 57 points preoperatively to 87 points postoperatively. Hindfoot alignment was restored to a valgus position at final evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Recurrent chronic lateral ankle instability often is associated with chronic hindfoot malalignment and leads to functional impairment and patient discomfort. Clinical examination should determine the causes of instability. Varus malalignment of the hindfoot, hyperactivity of the peroneus longus muscle, and insufficiency of the lateral ligaments should be assessed and treated in a combined operative procedure to correct structured, static and dynamic components of the instability. The preliminary results of this particular approach are encouraging.     

Early results of ceramic/ceramic fist metatarsophalangeal joint replacement

We set out to evaluate the early outcome of ceramic on ceramic (MOJE) prosthesis in the treatment of hallux rigidus. Between March 2000 and November 2003, 13 patients (14 implants), were treated using the ceramic/ceramic prosthesis. These patients have been followed for an average of 24.46 months. The American Orthopaedic Foot Association scoring system (AOFAS) was used to assess the patients before and after surgery. The average AOFAS score significantly increased from 43.07 pre-operatively to 95.28 post-operatively (P = 0.0001). At 6 months, 12 patients had no pain. The total range of dorsiflexion and plantarflexion improved to greater than 75° in 10 patients. Audible squeaking of the prosthesis, which improved between 3 and 6 months, was noted in 12 patients.The early results are encouraging with good functional outcome. Long-term follow-up is required to assess the durability of the ceramic/ceramic press fit prosthesis.     

A safe, pre-fabricated, immediate postoperative prosthetic limb system for rehabilitation of below-knee amputations

Thirty-eight below-knee amputees were treated with a commercially available pneumatic prosthetic limb system, applied immediately postoperatively, that would allow immediate weight bearing following lower extremity amputation. Thirty-four limbs were amputated for peripheral vascular insufficiency and four were amputated due to trauma. Weight bearing was initiated an average of 4.7 days following surgery and patients were discharged with a non-removable temporary prosthesis at an average of 8.9 days. Thirty-three healed and were uneventfully fit with standard below-knee prosthetic limbs. Three required revision to the above-knee level. In a controlled setting, early weight bearing in the peripheral vascular insufficiency patient can be initiated with a low risk of local wound complication.     

Results of shoulder hemiarthroplasty in patients with acute and old fractures of the proximal humerus]

STUDY-DESIGN: We report on a prospective study of 22 patients after shoulder hemiarthroplasty in acute and old proximal humerus fractures. METHOD: Nine patients with an acute and 13 with an old humerus fracture, in whom a hemiarthroplasty was performed have been evaluated clinically using the Constant score as well as radiologically on average 22 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The mean Constant score improved on 28 points (27 to 55). The improvement was especially distinct in the group with acute fractures. Sixteen of the twenty examined patients were painfree. Two patients reported sleeping disturbances due to pain. The ROM was improved, especially in forward elevation and abduction. In two patients with an old fracture the results were less satisfying. Major complications could not be observed. In five cases X-ray revealed an atrophy of the fixated fragments. Dislocations did not occur. Radiological changes of the glenoid, already seen preoperatively became more obvious. Some humeral components, inserted without cement, showed "densification lines". There were no clinical signs of loosening. CONCLUSION: By performing hemiarthroplasty pain relief can be achieved, especially in old fractures. The postoperatively achieved joint function mainly depends on the type of fracture as well as ist age. In cases with a destroyed glenoid we now prefer to perform a total arthroplasty. In our opinion, general cement use for shaft fixation is not necessary.     

手术治疗老年脊柱结核患者的临床研究和评估

[目的]探讨老年脊柱结核的发病特点和手术治疗疗效及风险。[方法]2001年7月～2007年1月,18例活动期老年脊柱结核患者,男14例,女4例;年龄62～84岁,平均70.2岁,在营养支持治疗下,正规四联抗结核化疗2～3周后行根治性病灶清除植骨内固定术;术后继续正规抗结核化疗1～1.5年。测量手术前后的ESR值和脊柱后凸角及终末随访时后凸角,根据Barthel指数记分法评定患者康复情况。[结果]手术中无严重并发症发生,术后随访2～4.2年,平均3.6年。所有患者植骨全部骨愈合,骨愈合时间4～10个月,平均7.3个月;无结核复发和窦道形成。术前后凸成角5°～48°,平均为(25.0±11.39)°;术后后凸成角0～15°,平均为(7.33±4.14)°;术后终末随访时后凸角0°～15°,平均为(9.11±3.92)°;术前与术后以及终末随访时相比差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。神经损害Frankel分级:术前B级2例,C级10例,D级2例;术后C级3例,D级10例,E级1例。抗结核化疗2周后ESR值与入院时ESR值比较,差异无显著性(P>0.05);手术后2周和手术后3个月ESR值显著低于入院时ESR值,差异有显著性(P<0.01)。日常生活活动能力(Barthel指数)术前均值为(47.78±12.15),术后均值为(89.72±7.95)。t值=13.38,P<0.005。[结论]老年脊柱结核手术治疗安全有效,需根据患者具体情况制定个体化治疗方案。     

Intervention in patients with renovascular hypertension and renal insufficiency

We report on 21 severely hypertensive patients with renal artery stenosis and renal insufficiency in whom percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and/or renal artery surgery was done in an effort to lower blood pressure and to preserve renal function. Of 12 patients who underwent angioplasty renal function and blood pressure improved in 3. Of the 9 patients without improvement 4 suffered permanent oliguric renal failure. An operation was performed in 12 patients, 4 after having failed angioplasty (1 was treated at another institution before referral for surgery). Two patients died postoperatively but 10 improved, with followup in 6 exceeding 3 years. This retrospective experience suggests that percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is not likely to supplant an operation in the treatment of patients with atherosclerotic renovascular hypertension and renal insufficiency.     

Anterior discectomy and fusion with internal fixation for unstable hangman's fracture

Between 1999 and 2004, 28 patients (average age: 41, range: 18–70 years) with unstable hangman’s fracture underwent anterior discectomy and fusion with internal fixation at our unit. According to the Levine-Edwards classification, all cases were unstable with type II (10 cases), type IIA (17 cases) and type III (1 case). An average follow-up of 15 months was achieved (range: 3–48 months). The average operative time was 107 min (80–131 min). No patient received blood transfusion. No patient experienced worsening neurological function postoperatively. No other intra- or postoperative complication was observed. All patients were relieved from axial pain. Neurological status improved postoperatively in all four cases with neurological deficit. Each patient showed evidence of a solid anterior C2–3 interbody fusion after six months. No bone graft or plate screws complication was observed in any of the cases during the follow-up period. In our experience the anterior approach with primary internal stabilisation may be a feasible and safe method to treat unstable hangman’s fracture.     

Cementless hip arthroplasty in the treatment of patients with femoral head necrosis

Treatment of patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head focuses on pain relief and improved function of the hip. Total hip arthroplasty remains an effective tool for the treatment of patients with end-stage osteonecrosis with collapse of the femoral head, although there is a greater risk for failure. The aim of the current study was to assess the long-term survival of cementless total hip arthroplasties in 28 patients (36 hips) with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (Steinberg Stage V and Stage VI) with an average followup of 11.2 years (range, 10-15 years). There were 19 women and nine men with an average age of 51.4 years (range, 28-65 years). A threaded titanium cup CST (Conical Screwed Titanium) was used in all patients and different cementless femoral components were used depending on the optimal fit in the femoral canal as assessed during preoperative templating. No serious complications were encountered postoperatively. The patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively with the Merle d'Aubigné and Postel scale. After cementless total hip arthroplasty, the average pain score improved 3.6 points, walking ability improved 1.6 points, and range of motion improved 1 point. Two patients had thigh pain. Radiographic evaluation on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the proximal femur was excellent in 10 hips postoperatively. No heterotropic ossification was observed, although proximal femoral atrophy was seen in 15 hips. Clinical and radiologic findings did not correlate. There were two revisions of the acetabular implants in one patient with bilateral idiopathic osteonecroses and total hip replacement. Overall, survival of the prostheses was 93.4% at the average followup of 11.2 years.     

The lateral approach for operative release of post-traumatic contracture of the elbow

A lateral approach was used to release a post-traumatic contracture of the elbow in seven patients, and the results were evaluated an average of thirty-eight months postoperatively. Extension improved from an average flexion contracture of 45 degrees preoperatively to one of 12 degrees postoperatively, and the average point of maximum flexion increased from 116 degrees preoperatively to 129 degrees postoperatively. The average arc of motion increased 46 degrees. All patients began using a continuous-passive-motion device immediately after the operation. There were no problems with wound-healing or formation of heterotopic bone.     

Physiological Manometric Tested Tricuspid Valvuloplasty

Tricuspid insufficiency associated with severe left-sided valvular heart disease carries a poor prognosis. Twenty-two patients with severe pulmonary hypertension and tricuspid insufficiency underwent a tricuspid valvuloplasty in addition to left-sided single or double valve replacement. The tricuspid valvuloplasty was performed after weaning the patient from cardiopulmonary bypass. The efficacy of the tricuspid valvuloplasty was gauged by continuous right atrial pressure recordings as the annuloplasty was completed. Obliteration of the peak of the V wave of the right atrial pressure recordings indicated that the tricuspid annuloplasty was secured. Twenty-one patients were long-term survivors, and 19 patients are in good condition for an average follow-up of 6.1 years (1 to 12 years postoperatively).