Surgical site infection in tibial plateau fractures with ipsilateral compartment syndrome

AimThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of compartment syndrome and timing of fasciotomy wound closure on surgical site infection (SSI) after surgical fixation of tibial plateau fractures. Our primary hypothesis was that SSI rate is increased for fractures with compartment syndrome versus those without, even accounting for confounders associated with infection. Our secondary hypothesis was that infection rates are unrelated to timing of fasciotomy closure or fixation.Materials and methodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of operative tibial plateau fractures with ipsilateral compartment syndrome (n = 71) treated with fasciotomy at our level I trauma center from 2003 through 2011. A control group consisted of 602 patients with 625 operatively treated tibial plateau fractures without diagnosis of compartment syndrome. The primary outcome measure was deep SSI after ORIF.ResultsFractures with compartment syndrome had a higher rate of SSI (25% versus 8%, p < 0.001). The difference remained significant in our multivariate model (odds ratio, 7.27; 95% confidence interval, 3.8–13.9). Delay in timing of fasciotomy closure was associated with a 7% increase per day in odds of infection (95% confidence interval, 0.2–13; p < 0.05).ConclusionsTibial plateau fractures with ipsilateral compartment syndrome have a significant increase in rates of SSI compared with those without compartment syndrome (p < 0.001). Delays in fasciotomy wound closure were also associated with increased odds of SSI (p < 0.05).     

Papel de la terapia presión negativa en la prevención de infección del sitio quirúrgico en cirugía colorrectal

BackgroundSurgical site infection (SSI) is one of the most frequent complications in colorectal surgery. It is diagnosed in 10 - 20% of colorectal procedures. Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) has shown efficacy in the treatment of chronic and traumatic wounds, wound dehiscence, flaps and grafts. The main objective of this study is to assess NPWT in the prevention of SSI in colorectal surgery. Hospital stay reduction and SSI risk factors are secondary objectives.MethodsWe present a prospective case-control study including 80 patients after a colorectal diagnosis and surgical procedure (elective and non-elective) in 2017. Forty patients were treated with prevention NPWT for one week. Forty patients were treated according to the standard postoperative surgical wound care protocol.ResultsNo significant differences were found in demographic variables, comorbidities, surgical approach, elective or non-elective surgery, mechanical bowel preparation and surgical procedure. Three patients has SSI in the NPWT group (8%) (95%CI 0 – 17.5). Ten patients presented SSI in the control group (25%) (95%CI 12.5 – 37.5) (p = 0.034); OR 0.7 (95%CI 0.006-0.964). Hospital stay in the NPWT group was 8 days versus 12 days in the non-NPWT group (p = 0.22). In the multivariate analysis, mechanical bowel preparation was found to be the only risk factor for SSI (p = 0.047; OR: 0.8, CI 0.45-0.93).ConclusionsNPWT is a useful SSI prevention treatment in colorectal surgery.     

Infección de sitio quirúrgico asociada a enterobacterias productoras de carbapenemasas. Un desafío para el cirujano actual

IntroductionInfections caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) are dramatically increasing worldwide, with an important impact on surgical patients. Our aim was to assess the clinical profile, outcomes, treatment, mortality and costs of CPE-related surgical site infection (SSI) in patients with abdominal surgery.MethodsReview of CPE-related SSI in patients with abdominal surgery from January 2013 to December 2018. Patient factors and interventions present previously to the SSI identification were recorded, and a mortality analysis was also performed in patients with abdominal surgery and CPE-related organ/space SSI.ResultsFifty patients were included: superficial incisional SSI 50%, deep incisional SSI 28%, organ/space SSI (or intra-abdominal infection) 70%. Klebsiella pneumoniae OXA-48 was present in 84%, and the most frequent were colorectal surgery (40%) and pancreatic surgery (20%). The antimicrobial susceptibility was: ceftazidime-avibactam 100%, amikacin 91.7%, tigecycline 89.1%, colistin 70.8%, meropenem 62.8%, imipenem 52.1%. An appropriate definitive antimicrobial treatment was administered in 86%, using a combined scheme in 76%. Global 30-day mortality rate for intra-abdominal infection was 20%, and mortality-related factors were: solid tumour (P = .009), solid metastasis (P = .009), septic shock (P = .02), blood transfusions (P = .03). Median global stay was 45 (IQR 26-67) days. Median global cost of hospitalization was €29,946 (IQR 15,405-47,749).ConclusionsThe clinical profile of patients with CPE-related SSI associates several comorbidities, interventions, prolonged stay and elevated costs. Mortality-related factors in intra-abdominal infection are solid tumour, metastasis, septic shock or blood transfusions.     

Treatment of tibial nonunion with posterolateral bone grafting

ObjectivesPosterolateral bone grafting to treat nonunions of the distal two-thirds of the tibia avoids the often traumatized and more tenuous anterior soft-tissue envelope. Few modern reports of its effectiveness are available. We assessed whether posterolateral bone grafting leads to high union and low complication rates.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review at a Level I trauma center. Our study group was 59 patients with distal two-thirds tibial fractures treated with posterolateral bone grafting. Patients included those with history of deep surgical site infection (SSI) before bone grafting (n = 17), established nonunions (n = 42), and impending nonunions associated with open fractures and bone gaps (n = 17). All patients were followed for a minimum of 12 months unless they achieved union before that time point. Our primary outcome measurement was fracture union. Secondary outcome measurements were any complication associated with the approach and infection requiring return to the operating room.ResultsFracture union was achieved in 44 (75%) of 59 patients without further intervention. The mean interval to union was 9.9 months (range, 3–22). Of 11 infected nonunions treated, nine progressed to union. Seventeen of 23 patients with defects >2 cm, including defects up to 5.4 cm without infection, were successfully treated. Two patients who underwent grafting at least 10 years after initial injury achieved union. No complications were associated with the approach (specifically, no wound breakdown, vascular injury, or tendon injury). Fourteen percent of patients experienced SSI after bone grafting. Seven of eight deep SSI occurred in patients with previous infection or positive intraoperative cultures. Only one (3%) of 36 patients without infection pre- or intraoperatively experienced SSI.ConclusionsEven in this relatively difficult patient cohort that included large bone gaps and history of infection, union was achieved at a relatively high rate with posterolateral bone graft. The approach seems to be safe, considering no known complications specifically associated with the approach occurred, and seems to reduce the risk of SSI in the absence of previous infection.     

Development of a surgical site infection prediction model in orthopaedic trauma: The Denver Health Model

BackgroundThe CDC’s National Healthcare Safety Network’s (NHSN) current risk adjustment model for surgical site infections (SSI) following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of long bone fractures is a suboptimal predictor of risk. We hypothesized that by including variables known to be associated with SSI following ORIF, we would develop a model that would increase the accuracy and predictability of SSI risk.MethodsPatients who underwent ORIF of a long bone between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2014 were included in the study (n = 1543). Patient risk factors, injury risk factors and perioperative risk factors were considered in the development of this model. We developed a risk prediction model for SSI following ORIF and then applied this to a new dataset of ORIF to determine the expected number of infections. This was compared to the expected number of infections calculated using the NHSN risk adjusted model.ResultsThe final multivariate model included age (odds ratio: 1.02, p-value < 0.001, 95% confidence interval: 1.00–1.04), lower leg fracture (2.63, 0.004, 1.40–4.93), open fracture (1.87, 0.07, 0.93–3.76), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) (2.09, 0.02, 1.07–4.08) and history of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which was the most important predictor of infection (7.20, <0.001, 2.61–19.85). The c-index was 0.74 compared to 0.65 for the NHSN model, indicating that our model more accurate in estimating infection risk. When the developed model was used to predict the number of expected infections on a new dataset from 2015, 36.3 SSI were expected compared to 5.7 calculated by the NHSN model.ConclusionsThe model that was developed uses five easily identifiable risk factors that result in a more accurate prediction of infection at our facility than the currently used model.Level of evidence: Prognostic and epidemiologic study, level III.     

Bunionette deformity corrected with “shortening” scarf osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal: mid-term results of a 34-cases

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes (in mid-term) after “shortening” scarf osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal for the treatment of bunionette deformity.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the functional score — American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Lesser Toe Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale, radiographic results — 4th/5th intermetatarsal angle, varus angle of the 5th metatarsophalangeal joint and complications in a consecutive series of 34 feet (27 patients) with bunionette. Nine males and 18 females (mean age: 45 years) were included in the study. Three males and four females were operated bilaterally The patients were operated on between 2004 and 2015, and evaluated during 2017.ResultsThe average AOFAS score improved from 59.4 to 93 at a mean follow-up of 7.2 years. The 4th/5th intermetatarsal angle and varus angle of the 5th metatarsophalangeal joint decreased from 13.9°/19.5° preoperatively to 6°/5.9° at final follow-up. No neurovascular damage was recorded. Complications arose in five feet (14.7%): delayed union (n = 1), early infection (n = 1), distal screw migration (n = 1), asymptomatic non-union (n = 1), transverse metatarsalgia (n = 1). The osteotomy healed within less than three months except twoo (delayed union, non-union). Three feet needed additional surgery: screw removal (n = 2), Weil osteotomy of 2nd–4th metatarsals (n = 1).Conclusions“Shortening” scarf osteotomy is an acceptable, but not complication-free, treatment option for the bunionette deformity and offers promising results in the mid-term.     

Hallux Valgus: A modified Kramer osteotomy

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcomes for surgical treatment of Hallux Valgus deformity with the use of modified Kramer osteotomy.MethodsFrom January 2003 to January 2005, 101 (23 bilaterally) modified Kramer osteotomies were performed in 78 patients evaluated clinically (74 of 78) with a phone interview and radiographic assessment with a mean follow up of 23.3 ± 6.9 months.ResultsThe average grade of satisfaction score was 7.9 ± 2.0 (0–10). 82.4% of patients would come back to be operated by the same surgery if necessary, 6.7% needed special shoes, 21.6% needed insoles, 87.8% practiced sports activity. The postoperative radiographic assessments in metatarsophalangeal, intermetatarsal, distal metatarsal articular angle and sesamoid reduction showed a significant change (p < 0.001), compared with the preoperative values. Complications: 1.2% vein thrombosis, 1.2% deep infection, 6.7% recurrences and 17.8% hipercorrected distal metatarsal articular angle.ConclusionThe modified Kramer osteotomy enables a good correction in mild and moderate HV deformity with low rate of complications.     

Scarf osteotomy for the treatment of moderate to severe hallux valgus: Analysis of predictors for midterm outcomes and recurrence

BackgroundControversies remain regarding the predictors for outcomes and recurrence after scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus deformity.MethodsSixty-two patients (70 feet) underwent scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus deformity. The radiological angles, tibial sesamoid position, articular congruence, demographics, comorbidities, AOFAS, VAS and SF-12 scores, and the postoperative compliance were tested as predictors for outcomes and recurrence.ResultsAfter a mean 38 ± 15.4 months follow-up, all of the radiological angles, the total AOFAS, PCS-12 and VAS scores significantly improved (all P < 0.001). Preoperative MCS-12 was directly related to the total postoperative AOFAS score (P = 0.003). A higher number of cardiovascular risk factors negatively affected the postoperative total AOFAS score, VAS and PCS-12 (β = −3.42, P = 0.030; β = 0.262, P = 0.022; β = −0.181, P = 0.025, respectively). The BMI influenced postoperative PCS-12 (β = −0.244, P = 0.002). Preoperative HVA was directly related to postoperative DMAA (P = 0.002) and tibial sesamoid position (P = 0.005). Preoperative joint incongruence and postoperative noncompliance were associated with recurrence (P = 0.043 and P = 0.035, respectively).ConclusionsSatisfactory results can be expected after scarf osteotomy. Higher BMI and number of cardiovascular risk factors, and low mental status should be carefully considered when counselling patients for this procedure. Adherence to postoperative care instructions influences deformity recurrence.     

Complications associated with operative fixation of acute midshaft clavicle fractures

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to review the complication rate and profile associated with surgical fixation of acute midshaft clavicle fracture in a large cohort of patients treated in a level I trauma centre.Patients and methodsWe identified all patients who underwent surgical treatment of acute midshaft clavicle fracture between 2002 and 2010. The study group consisted of 138 fractures (134 patients) and included 107 men (78%) and 31 women (22%); the median age of 35 years (interquartile range (IQR) 24–45). The most common mechanism of injury was a road traffic accident (78%). Sixty percent (n = 83) had an injury severity score of ≥15 indicating major trauma. The most common fracture type (75%) was simple or wedge comminuted (2B1) according to the Edinburgh classification. The median interval between the injury and operation was 3 days (IQR 1–6). Plate fixation was performed in 110 fractures (80%) and intramedullary fixation was performed in 28 fractures (20%). There were 85 men and 25 women in the plate fixation group with median age of 35 years (IQR 25–45) There were 22 men and six women in the intramedullary fixation group with median age of 31 years (IQR 24–42 years). Statistical analysis was performed using independent sample t test, Mann Whitney test, and Chi square test. Significant P-value was <0.05.ResultsThe overall incidence of complication was 14.5% (n = 20). The overall nonunion rate was 6%. Postoperative wound infection occurred in 3.6% of cases. The incidence of complication associated with plate fixation was 10% (11 of 110 cases) compared to 32% associated with intramedullary fixation (nine of 28 cases; P = 0.003). Thirty-five percent of complications were related to inadequate surgical technique and were potentially avoidable. Symptomatic hardware requiring removal occurred in 23% (n = 31) of patients. Symptomatic metalware was more frequent after plate fixation compared to intramedullary fixation (26% vs 7%, P = 0.03).ConclusionsIntramedullary fixation of midshaft clavicle fracture is associated with a higher incidence of complications. Plate fixation is associated with a higher rate of symptomatic metalware requiring removal compared to intramedullary fixation. Approximately one in three complications may be avoided by attention to adequate surgical technique.     

A meta-analysis of comparative clinical studies of isolated osteotomy versus osteotomy with lateral soft tissue release in treating hallux valgus

BackgroundContradictory results have been reported in the literature over the beneficial effect of the lateral soft tissue release (LSTR) when associated to an osteotomy for the treatment of hallux valgus (HV).Materials and methodsSix comparative studies totalizing 425 patients (549 feet) were computed and comparing two groups: one group of patients having osteotomy alone and the other group having osteotomy with LSTR.ResultsSubgroup analysis in relation to the type of LSTR yielded significant better HVA correction (P < 0.0001) in favor of those reporting the release of the lateral sesamoido-metatarsal ligament (LSML). A moderate significance (P = 0.03) of the inter-metatarsal angle (IMA) difference was found in favor of LSTR.ConclusionsThere could be a beneficial effect of transecting LSML in all cases of HV deformity, and a probable efficacy of an added adductor hallucis tendon transection when the deformity is moderate to severe.     

The effect of sesamoid position on outcome following scarf osteotomy for hallux abducto valgus

BackgroundHallux valgus is a common forefoot condition, with numerous operations described to correct the deformity. Debate remains as to the relative importance of correcting the position of the sesamoid apparatus.MethodsForty-six cases were reviewed. Preoperative and post-operative X-rays were used to measure forefoot width, inter-metatarsal angle (IM), hallux valgus (HV) angle and sesamoid position (Reynolds stations). Satisfaction was assessed via questionnaire.ResultsSignificant improvements were seen in all radiological parameters. 37/43 patients were satisfied with the result. Comparison between the satisfied and non-satisfied group revealed significant differences in the IM angle (p < 0.05) and HV angle (p < 0.05). However, patient satisfaction was not associated with post-op sesamoid position or change in sesamoid position (p > 0.05).ConclusionsThis study showed that scarf osteotomy, can successfully correct hallux valgus, with high levels of satisfaction. Satisfaction is associated with a greater correction of deformity. Improvement in sesamoid position was not associated with patient satisfaction.     

Is malignant edema and hemorrhage after occlusion of high-flow arteriovenous malformation related to the size of feeding arteries and draining veins?

ObjectiveOur study aimed to identify predictive factors for malignant post-treatment edema and hemorrhage in patients who underwent microsurgical treatment of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in our institution.MethodsThe study included 72 patients treated by microsurgery for cerebral symptomatic and/or ruptured AVM between 2010 and 2020. Six patients developed postprocedural malignant edema and hemorrhage (group M); the other 66 patients had no malignant edema and hemorrhage (group NM). In each patient, flow was assessed indirectly by summing the diameters of all feeding arteries to obtain an overall diameter (ODA), and similarly for draining veins (ODV). High-flow was defined as a delay between feeding artery injection and draining vein injection (DAV) < 1 second on dynamic digital subtraction angiography. Univariate analysis was performed.ResultsMean ODA and ODV were respectively 11 mm (± 8.2) and 11 mm (± 5.3) in group M and 2.9 mm (± 1.4) and 3.7 mm (± 1.3) in group NM (P = 0.001). High-flow AVM was demonstrated in 4 out of 5 patients (85%) in group M and in 14 out of 55 (25%) in group NM (P = 0.02). Associated aneurysm was seen in 5 patients in group M (83%) and in 11 in group NM (17%) (P = 0.001).ConclusionHigh-flow AVM may be associated with higher risk of postoperative edema and hemorrhage. Multidisciplinary discussion is mandatory in these cases, to define a pre-therapeutic plan for progressive staged vascular malformation occlusion.     

Splinting vs temporary external fixation in the initial treatment of ankle fracture-dislocations

BackgroundTo compare the efficacy, functional outcome, and complication frequency of splinting and external fixation in the initial treatment of ankle fracture-dislocations.MethodAnkles with poor soft tissue conditions who underwent temporary stabilization due to using a splint or external fixator due to an ankle fracture-dislocation between 2012 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Ankles were divided into two groups as the splint (n = 69) and external fixator (n = 48). The time between the injury to definitive surgery, reduction loss, operation time, functional outcome, pain, and soft-tissue complication frequency before and after definitive surgery were compared.ResultsThe frequency of reduction loss (25% vs. 4%, p = 0.019) and skin necrosis (22% vs. 6%, p = 0.028) were significantly higher in the splint group. Posterior malleolar fracture fragment ratio was calculated by dividing the fracture fragment axial length by the total axial length of the articular surface on computed tomography. Posterior malleolar fracture fragment ratio was found to be significantly higher in ankles with reduction loss in both the splint (25% vs 75%, p = 0.032) and fixator groups (4% vs 96%, p = 0.021). The mean time period between injury and definitive surgery was significantly shorter in the external fixator group (11 ± 5 vs 7 ± 4 days, p = 0.033). Before definitive treatment, pin tract infection was observed in two ankles in the fixator group.ConclusionSplint immobilization of ankle fracture-dislocations may predispose to reduction loss, soft tissue complications, and a longer time period between injury and definitive fixation. The risk of these potential complications can be reduced with the use of an external fixator.     

French collaborative group series on giant intracranial aneurysms: Current management

ObjectivesGiant intracranial aneurysms represent a major therapeutic challenge for each surgical team. The aim of our study was to extensively review the French contemporary experience in treating giant intracranial aneurysms in order to assess the current management.Patients and methodsThis retrospective multicenter study concerned consecutive patients treated for giant intracranial aneurysms (2004–2008) in different French university hospitals (Bordeaux, Caen, Clermont-Ferrand, Lille, Lyon, Nice, Paris-Lariboisière, Rouen et Toulouse). Different variables were analyzed: the diagnostic circumstances, the initial clinical status based on the WFNS scale, aneurysmal features and exclusion procedure. At 6 months, the outcome was evaluated according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS): favorable (mRS 0-2) and unfavorable (mRS 3-6). A multivariate logistic regression model included all the independent variables with P < 0.25 in the univariate analysis (P < 0.05).ResultsA total of 79 patients with a mean age of 51.5 ± 1.6 years (median: 52 years; range: 16–79) were divided into two groups, with the ruptured group (n = 26, 32.9%) significantly younger (P < 0.05, Student's-t-test) than the unruptured group (n = 53, 67.1%). After SAH, the initial clinical status was good in 12 patients (46.2%), and in the unruptured group, the predominant diagnosis circumstance was a pseudo-tumor syndrome occurring in 22 (41.5%). The first procedure of aneurysm treatment in the global population was endovascular in 42 patients (53.1%), microsurgical in 29 (36.7%) and conservative in 8 (10.2). An immediate neurological deterioration was reported in 38 patients (48.1%) after endovascular treatment in 19 (45.2% of endovascular procedures), after miscrosurgical in 15 (51.7% of microsurgical procedures) and after conservative in 4 (the half). At 6 months, the outcome was favorable in 45 patients (57%) and after multivariate analysis, the predictive factors of favorable outcome after management of giant cerebral aneurysm were the initial good clinical status in cases of SAH (P < 0.002), the endovascular treatment (P < 0.005), and the absence of neurological deterioration (P < 0.006). The endovascular procedure was obtained as a predictive factor because of the low risk efficacy of indirect procedures, in particular a parent vessel occlusion.ConclusionThe overall favorable outcome rate concerned 57% of patients at 6 months despite 53.8% of poor initial clinical status in cases of rupture. The predictive factors for favorable outcome were good clinical status, endovascular treatment and the absence of postoperative neurological deterioration. Endovascular treatment should be integrated into the therapeutic armenmatarium against giant cerebral aneurysms but the durability of exclusion should be taken into account during the multidisciplinary discussion by the neurovascular team.     

Is this the time for Magnesium sulfate to replace Meperidine as an antishivering agent in spinal anesthesia?

Background & AimShivering is one of the serious complications during spinal anesthesia. Mepreidine is considered the most common drug used for control of shivering. The aim of this study is to detect if Magnesium sulfate can replace Mepreidine, in the prevention of shivering in patients undergoing spinal anesthesia during knee arthroscopy.MethodsThe study included 50 patients scheduled for elective knee arthroscopy, aged 20–50 years under spinal anesthesia. The patients were randomly divided into two equal groups. Patients in Group (M) (n = 25) received single intravenous bolus dose of Meperidine 0.5 mg/kg while patients in group (Mg) (n = 25) received intravenous (IV) MgSO₄ in a dose of 50 mg/kg over 20 min followed by 0.5 mg/kg/min both. The both test drugs were administered after establishment of spinal anesthesia. The incidence and severity of shivering were recorded during the operation and in the recovery room.ResultsShivering occurred in 68% of patients in group (M) when compared to group (Mg) where only 28% suffered from shivering. This difference in % was found to be statistically significant. Regarding the complications, local allergy significantly occurred in group (M) in five patients when compare to one patient in group (Mg). There was no significant difference between group (M) and group (Mg) regarding the body core temperature.ConclusionMgSO₄ was found to be an effective way for the control shivering and it could replace Meperidine in middle age patients under spinal anesthesia.     

Incidence and risk factors for removal of an internal fixation following surgery for ankle fracture: A retrospective cohort study of 997 patients

BackgroundImplant removal in ankle fractures treated by open reduction and fixation is often based on diffuse complaints. This study determined the incidence of implant removal and identified risk factors for two principal causes for removal: complaints and surgical site infection (SSI).MethodsRetrospective cohort study involving 997 patients operated on 2009–2011 with follow-up through to 2013. The incidence of implant removal was analysed using competing risk analysis. Risk factors for implant removal were assessed using cause-specific hazard ratios (HRs) from a Cox regression analysis.ResultsThe mean age at surgery was 51.6 years, 550 (55%) of the patients were female, and 170 patients (17%) had implant removal: 144 due to complaints and 26 due to infection. Multivariable HRs for implant removal due to complaints were 0.70 for male sex (p = 0.047), 0.79 for each 10-year increase in age (p < 0.001), 0.70 for treatment with a syndesmosis screw (p = 0.038), and 1.09 for each 15-min increase in operation duration (p = 0.007). HRs for hardware removal due to infection were 1.42 for each 10-year increase in age (p = 0.006) and 3.15 for current smoking (p = 0.005).ConclusionIn total 17% of patients had implant removal after open reduction and fixation; the majority because of subjective complaints. The risk factors for implant removal were different for removal due to complaints than for those removed due to infection. This information may be used to inform patients about the risk and risk factors for future implant removal.     

Lengthening scarf osteotomy for recurrent hallux valgus

BackgroundWe describe using the scarf osteotomy to correct a recurrent hallux valgus deformity and lengthen the shortened first metatarsal in symptomatic iatrogenic first brachymetatarsia.MethodsThirty-six lengthening scarf osteotomies were undertaken in 31 patients. Clinical and radiographic measures were taken pre and postoperatively.ResultsMean age at presentation was 53.4 years, and mean followup 3.9 years. The mean lengthening achieved was 4.9 mm. All osteotomies united with no complications. The mean IMA reduction was 4.0° (p < 0.001) and HVA 13.0° (p < 0.001). The mean AOFAS score increase was 33.8 (p < 0.001). There was a positive trend but no correlation (r = 0.28) between amount of metatarsal lengthening and AOFAS score change.ConclusionsWe describe the largest lengthening scarf osteotomy series for recurrent hallux valgus with iatrogenic first brachymetatarsia. The results suggest the procedure is successful, with a low complication rate. We anticipate that restoring first metatarsal length and alignment may reduce biomechanical transfer metatarsalgia over time.     

An observational study of skin conductance monitoring as a means of predicting hypotension from spinal anaesthesia for caesarean delivery

BackgroundHypotension after spinal anaesthesia is a common and important complication at caesarean delivery. Skin conductance monitoring has been shown to predict post-spinal hypotension in elderly patients and may be a rapid, non-invasive means of predicting risk in the obstetric population.MethodsWomen having elective caesarean delivery were included in this observational pilot trial. Baseline data were obtained for blood pressure, heart rate and skin conductance variables before administration of spinal anaesthesia and at 1-min intervals for 20 min thereafter. Correlations between baseline data and minimum post-spinal blood pressure were calculated, and the predictive value of baseline variables was estimated by use of receiver operator characteristics.ResultsForty women completed the study. Spinal anaesthesia was followed in most cases by a significant reduction from baseline in systolic blood pressure [0–9% n = 2 (5%), 10–20% n = 21 (52.5%), 20–30% n = 12 (30%), >30% n = 5 (12.5%)]. Minimum systolic blood pressure was >100 mmHg in 25 (62%), 80–100 mmHg in 12 (30%) and <80 mmHg in 3 (7.5%) patients. Fasting times, spinal block distribution, baseline heart rate, blood pressure or baseline skin conductance did not predict post-spinal hypotension or neonatal outcome.ConclusionIn contrast to a previous report in elderly patients, we were unable to demonstrate a significant relationship between baseline sympathetic tone, measured by skin conductance, and hypotension following spinal anaesthesia in women undergoing elective caesarean delivery.     

Safety of rituximab in rheumatoid arthritis: A long-term prospective single-center study of gammaglobulin concentrations and infections

ObjectiveRituximab seems well tolerated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, variations in the gammaglobulin profile that might increase the infection risk have been reported. Here, our objective was to evaluate gammaglobulin concentrations and the infection risk in patients receiving rituximab therapy for RA in everyday practice.MethodsProspective single-center observational study of 65 patients with refractory RA (median age, 59 years; range, 26–83) treated with rituximab 1 g twice 15 days apart, with or without a further 1-g dose at least 6 months later depending on the clinical response. Gammaglobulins were assayed before each rituximab dose.ResultsThe median cumulative rituximab dose was 4 g (1–16) and the median time to retreatment was 8 months (6–16). Rituximab therapy significantly improved the DAS-28 score. The gammaglobulin concentration decreased significantly between the first and last rituximab dose (from 11.6 g/L [5–26] to 8.2 g/L [3–20], a ?2.6 g/L difference; P < 0.05). The decrease was larger in the 24 patients with cumulative rituximab doses greater than 5 g than in the 41 other patients (difference of ?4 vs ?2.7 g/L; P < 0.05). Three patients experienced severe infections, two in the high-dose group and one in the other group (P = 0.5).ConclusionThese data obtained in everyday practice constitute further evidence that rituximab is well-tolerated in patients with RA. Rituximab therapy was associated with a decrease in gammaglobulin concentrations that was greater in patients receiving higher cumulative doses.