Single-incision chronic distal biceps tendon repair with tibialis anterior allograft

Purpose

Several techniques for chronic distal biceps tendon repair have been reported; however, the literature is sparse.

Methods

Seven male patients who underwent chronic distal biceps tendon reconstruction were retrospectively evaluated. All patients had significant retraction necessitating the use of an allograft for reconstruction. The procedure was done through a single incision using suture anchors and a tibialis anterior allograft. In each case, the graft was first fixed to the radial tuberosity with suture anchors, and then the allograft was sutured to the remnant of the native biceps tendon at 60° of elbow flexion. Patients were evaluated with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores and elbow range of motion (ROM).

Results

The average time from injury to surgery was 25 (12–56) weeks, and the average follow-up was 16 (minimum 12) months. Average postoperative elbow ROM was as follows: extension 4° (0–12°), flexion 134° (130–140°), pronation 82° (75–85°) and supination 80° (70–85°); average MEPS was 94 (80–100); average DASH score was 6.67 (0–19.8). One patient developed a lateral antebrachial cutaneous neuritis postoperatively that resolved by three months.

Conclusion

Though many reported techniques for chronic distal biceps tendon repair achieve satisfactory outcomes with limited complications, we present a technique with theoretical advantages of a single incision, use of suture anchors, use of a tibialis anterior allograft and tensioning after attachment of the graft to the radial tuberosity. In a series of complicated patients, early results were good to excellent.     

Characteristics of Elbow Dislocation in Patients with Preexisting Cubitus Varus

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the clinical presentations, patterns of soft-tissue injuries, and outcomes of treatment of elbow dislocations in patients with preexisting cubitus varus.MethodsFour cases of elbow dislocation in patients with preexisting cubitus varus, which were treated at 3 residency training hospitals, were retrospectively reviewed. Soft-tissue injury patterns were investigated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Clinical outcomes were assessed at an average of 50.8 months (range, 34–82 months) after treatment using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score.ResultsThe mean patient age was 49.5 years (range, 33–57 years). All patients had a posteromedial elbow dislocation, which was an indirect injury caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand. One patient had failed closed reduction; 3 others had redislocation or gross instability after closed reduction. Significant tears of the lateral collateral ligament complex and common extensor group were shown in MRI. All patients had surgical treatment including lateral complex repair only (n = 2), repair of both sides'' complexes (n = 1), and corrective osteotomy with lateral complex repair (n = 1). At the final follow-up, the mean MEPS was 92.5 ± 8.7 and the mean QuickDASH score was 4.5 ± 6.4.ConclusionsElbow dislocation in patients with preexisting cubitus varus may present as posteromedial dislocation with acute instability. Surgical treatment of this injury led to acceptable clinical outcomes.     

Modified use of a proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS) plate in extra-articular distal-third diaphyseal humeral fractures

BackgroundSurgical treatment of extra-articular distal-third diaphyseal humeral fractures is controversial in terms of surgical approach and position of implant. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of a modified application of the proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS) plate in extra-articular distal-third diaphyseal humeral fractures.Materials and methodsA total of 23 patients with extra-articular distal humerus fractures were treated using either open plating or the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique with upside down application of the PHILOS plate. Fracture configuration, number of screws in the distal fragment, and time to union were analysed. Elbow range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), and complications were evaluated at the final follow-up.ResultsFracture union was obtained in all patients at a mean postoperative time of 20.8 ± 2.9 weeks. The mean shortest and longest cortical lengths were 50.7 ± 14.0 mm and 85.2 ± 12.4 mm, respectively. The average number of screws in the distal humeral fragment was 5.6 ± 0.7. No statistically significant correlation was observed between the shortest cortical length and number of screws in the distal fragment (p = 0.224) or between the longest cortical length and the number of screws in the distal humeral fragment (p = 0.956). The average MEPS was 97.6 (range, 75–100). No postoperative complications that required reoperation were occured.ConclusionA modified anterior application of the PHILOS plate in extra-articular distal-third diaphyseal humeral fracture showed satisfactory outcomes, so it is an alternative when considering the ability to increase plate-screw density with locking screw fixation in a distal humeral fragment.Level of evidenceTherapeutic level IV, case series.     

Proximal humeral fracture-dislocation: Outcome analysis in osteosynthesis and arthroplasties

Purpose

Proximal humeral fracture-dislocations (PHFD) are challenging to treat. In older patients, usually arthroplasty is performed. In younger patients, osteosynthesis is chosen. This study presents functional outcomes of these different treatment modalities.

Methods

All patients operated for PHFD from 2010 until 2017 were included. Osteosynthesis was performed in younger patients and if reconstruction was possible. Either an open deltopectoral approach or a minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) was performed. Hemiarthroplasty (HA) was done if reconstruction of the tubercles was possible, age was below 63 years and no signs of osteoarthritis were present. In all other cases, a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) was done. The primary endpoint was functional outcome assessed with the QuickDASH Score (QDS). Secondary outcomes were subjective shoulder value (SSV), complications, revisions, and conversion into arthroplasty.

Results

The mean follow-up of 40 patients was 56 ± 24 months. The mean QDS was 4.5 (0.6–9.1) and the mean SSV was 90 (80–98.6). Of these, 33 patients (mean age: 50) had an osteosynthesis, 25 were treated with MIPO. Only 18% were converted into an arthroplasty after a mean of 22 months. Among them, 7 patients received a primary arthroplasty (mean age: 68), no revisions were recorded.

Subgroup analysis showed functional outcome deficits in avascular necrosis (AVN) compared to no AVN (p = 0.021), revision surgery compared to no revision (p = 0.040) and in HA compared to rTSA (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Both osteosynthesis and primary arthroplasty after PHFD can lead to good or even excellent functional outcome. Revision rates in osteosynthesis are high. Revision procedures or secondary conversion into arthroplasty after failed osteosynthesis decrease outcome scores significantly.

     

Outcomes of care at higher-level trauma centers in octogenarians with a history of anticoagulant use who fall from ground level

BackgroundThe appropriate care of octogenarian trauma patients after a fall from ground level (FFGL) is a key factor for better outcomes. The purpose of this study is to use data from a national database to evaluate the outcomes of patients who are 80–89 years old with a history of anticoagulant use, sustained a FFGL, and were treated at a higher-level care institution.MethodsThe Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database of the calendar year 2017–2018 was accessed for the study. All hospitalized trauma patients between the ages of 80–89 years old with a history of anticoagulant use and sustaining an injury after FFGL were included in the study. Other variables included in the study are sex [male], race [white], initial systolic blood pressure (SBP mmHg), Injury Severity Score (ISS), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), hypotension with an SBP<110 mmHg and other comorbidities. The outcomes of the patients were compared with the care at higher-level trauma centers (Level I & Level II) and lower-level trauma centers (Level III) using propensity matched analysis.ResultsAfter propensity matching, 2348 patients were identified in each group. There was no clinically significant difference between the patients’ characteristics who were treated at higher-level and lower-level care centers. A paired matched analysis showed greater mortality in patients who were treated at higher-level care centers compared to lower-level care centers (3.7% vs 2.6%, P = 0.03). The absolute difference in mortality was 1.1%[95% CI: 0.001, 0.022] which may not have any clinical relevance. A greater number of patients were discharged to home and a lesser number of patients were discharged to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) when they were treated at higher-level trauma centers.Conclusion & relevanceThe care at higher-level trauma centers did not show any benefit in-hospital mortality in the short term. A higher number of patients was discharged to home without assistance.     

Coronoid fixation and lateral collateral ligament repair in varus posteromedial rotatory instability of the elbow

BackgroundVarus posteromedial rotatory instability is a relatively rare elbow injury, that has been infrequently reported in published literature. We intended to evaluate the outcomes of surgical management of this rare injury with anteromedial coronoid fixation, and, in selected patients, lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) repair.MethodsBetween 2017 and 2020, we identified 12 patients with anteromedial coronoid fractures, and a varus posteromedial rotatory instability, who underwent surgery for fixation of the coronoid fracture, with or without LCL repair. All the included patients were either O'Driscoll subtype 2-2, or subtype 2–3. All the 12 patients were followed up for a minimum of 24 months, and their functional outcomes assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).ResultsThe mean MEPS recorded in our study was 92.08, and the mean range of elbow flexion achieved was 124.2°. The mean flexion contracture in our patients was 5.83°. Three of our twelve patients (25%) suffered from elbow stiffness even at final follow-up. The results were graded as Excellent in eight, Good in three, and Fair in one patient.ConclusionCoronoid fractures and LUCL disruptions associated with varus posteromedial rotatory instability can be reliably managed by employing a protocol that combines radiographic parameters, as well as intra-operative assessments of stability. While surgical intervention successfully restored stability, there is a learning curve to the management of these injuries and complications are not uncommon, particularly elbow stiffness. Hence, in addition to surgical fixation, emphasis should also be placed on intensive post-operative rehabilitation to improve outcomes.     

Modern radial head arthroplasty for terrible triad fracture-dislocations: a retrospective case series with minimum 3-year follow-up

BackgroundTo report mid-term clinical outcomes after radial head arthroplasty for terrible-triad fracture dislocations.MethodsFourteen patients with terrible triad fracture dislocations treated acutely with arthroplasty and minimum 3-year follow-up. Mayo Elbow Performance Scale (MEPS) and QuickDASH scores.ResultsAll patients achieved excellent (58%) or good (42%) results on the MEPS. Average QuickDASH score was 9.1 (range 0-25). Reoperation rate was 28%.ConclusionsAcute radial head arthroplasty as a treatment for nonreconstructable radial head fractures in the setting of terrible triad elbow injuries demonstrates good midterm functional outcomes.Level of EvidenceLevel IV; Retrospective Case Series Study     

Comparative analysis of leucocyte poor vs leucocyte rich platelet-rich plasma in the management of lateral epicondylitis: Systematic review & meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Study designSystematic Review & Meta-analysis.ObjectivesWe aim to comparatively analyse the efficacy and safety of using leucocyte-poor platelet rich plasma (LP-PRP) against leucocyte-rich platelet rich plasma (LR-PRP) in the management of lateral epicondylitis.Materials and methodsWe conducted independent and duplicate electronic database searches including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library till September 2020 for randomised controlled trials analyzing the efficacy and safety of LP-PRP and LR-PRP in the management of lateral epicondylitis. Visual Analog Score(VAS) for pain, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Score, Patient Reported Tennis-Elbow Evaluation (PRETEE) Score, Mayo Elbow Performance Score(MEPS) and adverse events were the outcomes analyzed. Analysis was performed in R-platform using OpenMeta[Analyst] software.ResultsWe performed a single arm meta-analysis of 26 studies involving 2034 patients. On analysis it was noted that significant improvement was noted in the VAS for pain (p < 0.001), DASH score (p < 0.001), PRETEE score (p < 0.001) and MEPS (p < 0.027) compared to their pre-operative state. No significant increase in adverse events were noted compared to the control group (p = 0.170). While stratifying the results based on the type of PRP used, no significant difference was noted between the use of LP-PRP or LR-PRP in any of the above-mentioned outcome measures.ConclusionPRP is a safe and effective treatment option for lateral epicondylitis with clinical improvements in pain and functional scores and both types of PRP (LR-PRP & LP-PRP) offer similar results.     

前内侧面尺骨冠状突骨折的手术治疗策略

目的:探讨手术治疗前内侧面尺骨冠状突骨折的手术入路选择、内固定方法及其疗效。方法:自2005年3月至2010年3月,采用手术内固定治疗前内侧面冠突骨折18例,男12例,女6例;年龄19～74岁,平均37.8岁。全部采用切开复位内固定治疗。取肘后正中切口,游离皮瓣后在外侧暴露肘关节外侧副韧带复合体及关节囊,采用不可吸收线缝合法或锚钉技术修复外侧副韧带复合体。根据术前三维重建图像上骨折情况及分型,分别选择3个不同的手术入路,暴露前内侧面冠状突骨折,采用微型钢板及螺钉固定。用MEPS(Mayo elbow performance score)和Broberg&Morrey评分对肘关节功能进行评价。结果:17例获得随访,时间1～6年,平均38个月;骨折均获临床愈合,愈合时间8～16周,平均11.6周。末次随访时,所有患者肘关节没有明显疼痛及不稳定。MEPS评分82～100分,平均(95.4±4.6)分;Broberg&Morrey评分75～100分,平均(92.3±5.8)分。结论:切开复位微型钢板内固定可使前内侧面冠状突骨折达到良好的解剖复位及坚强固定,是治疗前内侧面尺骨冠突骨折的有效方法。     

Clinical outcomes comparison of distal radius fractures between two conservative treatment methods: Below-arm cast versus reverse sugar tong splint

BackgroundThe purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare a new reverse sugar tong splint technique with a below-arm cast, in terms of patient radiological and clinical outcomes.MethodsOne hundred and forty patients who presented to our clinic between April 2017 and March 2019 were randomly divided into two groups: 70 received reverse sugar tong (RST group) and 70 received below arm cast (BAC group). Clinical and radiological follow-up was performed 7–10 days, three weeks, 5 or 6 weeks, 12 weeks and one year after the treatment. Clinical outcomes including wrist range of motion, complication rates, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) score at end of treatment, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Q-DASH) questionnaire and Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS) score at 12 weeks and last follow-up.ResultsFinally, sixty-five patients were treated with BAC, and their average age was 58.2 years and sixty-two patients with an average age of 57.4 years were treated with RST were completed the radiological and clinical one-year follow-up. There were no significant differences in range of motion, radiological parameters, the Q-DASH and MEPS scores between the groups the 12th week and last visit; however, the HAQ score was significantly higher in the cast group during the 6th visit (p < 0.001). The BAC group had a higher complication rate (40%) than the RST group (19.3%) (p = 0.01).ConclusionPatient treated with RST had a higher functional status at end of treatment and lower complications when comparing traditional below arm cast.Level of evidenceLevel I prognostic randomized controlled trial.     

Double ulnar osteomy for the treatment of congenital radial head dislocation

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effects of our double osteotomy technique in the treatment of congenital radial head dislocation (CRHD).MethodsA total 14 children (14 elbows; 71.42% male; mean age: 9.31 ± 3.06 years) with CRHD who underwent double osteotomy of the proximal ulna between April 2010 and June 2015 were included in the study. The patients with CRHD were identified according to medical history, plain radiographs or magnetic resonance imagings. The outcomes were evaluated through comparison of the preoperative and postoperative motion range of elbow and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).ResultsAfter a follow-up of 13–35 months (22.29 ± 5.80), compared with pre-operation, the flexion (132.14 ± 3.23° vs 123.21 ± 7.75°, P = 0.003), extension (8.21 ± 4.21° vs 1.07 ± 3.50°, P = 0.003), and pronation of elbow (83.21 ± 4.21° vs 80.36 ± 4.14°, P = 0.011) improved significantly in all patients. Furthermore, the carrying angle was recovered to the normal level (5–15°) in all of these patients (18.57 ± 5.69° vs 8.21 ± 2.49°, P = 0.001). MEPS score was significantly increased postoperatively (96.79 ± 2.49 vs. 90.71 ± 1.82, P = 0.000), with the good outcome in CRHD patients.ConclusionThe results of our study suggested that this double osteotomy on the proximal ulna might be an effective method for the treatment of CRHD.Level of EvidenceLevel IV, Therapeutic Study.     

Arthroscopic tenodesis using a bioabsorbable interference screw and soft anchor: A case series of 60 patients

BackgroundVarious arthroscopic tenodesis techniques for the treatment of long head of the biceps tendon pathologic abnormalities have been described.PurposeThis study evaluated the clinical outcomes of using a bioabsorbable interference screw and soft anchor for long head of the biceps tendon arthroscopic tenodesis.MethodsSixty patients treated by this technique between February 2013 and March 2015 were followed up for at least 2 years. In our operative technique, after the bone hole was made just proximal to the pectoralis major, the soft anchor was inserted at the bottom of the hole. After tenotomy of the long head of the biceps tendon proximal to the bone hole, the tendon was fixed into the bottom of the hole temporarily using the soft anchor. Finally, the tendon was fixed in the hole with a bioabsorbable interference screw.ResultsThe UCLA score 15.1 points preoperatively and 32.4 points at follow-up (p < 0.05). The Constant 55.8 points preoperatively and 93.9 points at follow-up (p < 0.01). After biceps tenodesis, no cosmetic deformities were found in 56 patients (93.3%), and four patients (6.7%) had a Popeye deformity. On postoperative magnetic resonance evaluation, the long head of the biceps tendon was located on the bicipital groove without deviation in 53 cases (88.3%), on the bicipital groove with a partial deviation in 6 cases (10.0%), and outside the bicipital groove with complete deviation (dislocated) in 1 case (1.7%).ConclusionWe found that arthroscopic biceps tenodesis using a soft anchor provided a reliable means for treating biceps pathology with no cosmetic deformities and with good clinical results.     

Long-term functional outcomes of all-inside arthroscopic repair of anterior talofibular ligament avulsion fracture

BackgroundThe main purpose of this study was to describe the all-inside arthroscopic technique for repairing anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) avulsion fractures at the attachment points of the fibula and talus, and to evaluate the functional outcomes during long-term follow-up.MethodsThe data of 78 patients with ATFL avulsion fracture treated in our hospital from August 2013 to November 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. All patients underwent surgery. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they had undergone all-inside arthroscopic treatment or open treatment. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Karlsson Ankle Functional Score (KAFS), Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and a 36-item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) were used to evaluate functional outcomes.ResultsThe postoperative follow-up period was 24–48 months. All patients reported subjective improvements to ankle stability without any nerve, blood vessel or tendon complications. At the final follow-up, there was no significant difference in the AOFAS, SF-36 or sport participation rate between the arthroscopic group and the open group; however, the KAFS and FAOS were significantly higher in the arthroscopic group than in the open group.ConclusionsFor ATFL avulsion fractures, the all-inside ankle arthroscopic procedure produced better outcomes than did the open procedure. The all-inside ankle arthroscopic procedure provides a minimally invasive technique with acceptable long-term functional outcomes.     

A Prospective Study Evaluating Factors Affecting Functional Outcome in Patients with Floating Elbow Injury

BackgroundFloating elbow injuries are complex injuries. Due to frequent association with severe soft tissue injuries and polytrauma, they have unpredictable functional outcome. This prospective study is aimed to evaluate the factors affecting functional outcome.MethodsThirty patients with floating elbow injuries were treated at a level 1 trauma center from July 2018 to June 2019 with minimum follow-up of 9 months. The outcome was assessed by disability for arm shoulder and hand score (DASH) and mayo elbow performance score (MEPS).ResultsThe overall incidence was 16.09 per 1000, mostly caused by road traffic accidents and all cases were managed surgically. Age, gender, education, occupation, arm dominance, and mechanism of injury did not significantly affect the outcomes. Open fractures and patients requiring staged procedure were associated with poorer outcomes (p < 0.05); however, delay in surgery for more than 24 h significantly increased the rate of complications. There was no statistical difference in the proportion of patients who had nerve injury pre operatively and post operatively on the final outcome.ConclusionFloating elbow injuries are relatively rare but nowadays the numbers are on the rise. Timely intervention with a multimodal approach and well-supervised rehabilitation can assure better final outcome.     

Distal biceps section and reinsertion for chronic distal biceps tendinopathy

Background

Surgical reinsertion of the distal biceps tendon for acute and chronic tears is a widely accepted procedure, but little is known about surgical treatment of distal biceps tendinopathy.

Methods

Twenty patients underwent a surgical procedure for distal biceps tendinopathy after failure of conservative treatment. The surgery was performed through a single incision. The biceps tendon was detached, debrided and reinserted using a ToggleLoc (Zimmer Biomet) device. Clinical and radiologic evaluation was performed after a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Quick-Dash score, Liverpool Elbow Score, Mayo Elbow Performance Index, Broberg and Morrey Score and Short HSS Scoring System were used, and isokinetic testing was performed.

Results

The outcome of these five clinical elbow scores showed no clinically relevant differences between the affected and non-affected side. Isokinetic testing of peak torque in flexion and supination showed equal strength between both sides. These results indicate good functional outcome and recovery of flexion and supination, compared to the non-operated side and the normal population.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that distal biceps tendon debridement and reinsertion is a safe and valid option for patients with distal biceps tendinopathy after failure of conservative treatment.

Level of evidence

Level 3 retrospective cohort study.

     

Clinical Efficacy of Vertical or Parallel Technique of a Micro‐Locking Plate for Treatment of Dubberley B‐Type Capitellar Fractures

ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical efficacy of micro‐locking plate through vertical or parallel technique for treatment of Dubberley B‐type capitellar fractures.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed in 24 patients (17 males and seven females, with an average age of 44.9 years, range from 19 to 75 years) with capitellar fractures that were treated with micro‐locking plate using vertical or parallel technique between January 2016 to January 2019. The inclusion criteria include closed capitellar fracture, normal anterior elbow joint movement before injury, and recent capitellar fracture with injury within past 3 weeks. Fractures classified according to Dubberley included four cases of type IB, eight cases of type IIB, and 12 cases of type IIIB. Radiographic evaluation was performed. Surgery time, blood loss, range of motion of the elbow, forearm rotation, and complications were recorded. Elbow joint function was evaluated by Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).ResultsThe mean follow‐up period was 19.6 months (range, 12–36 months). The average clinical healing time for fractures was 11.2 ± 3.2 weeks (range, 8–20 weeks). Fracture united in all patients. Two patients showed slight delayed union, but union was achieved eventually. The mean time from injury to surgery was 6.3 ± 3.1 days (range, 2–15 days). The average surgical time was 68.1 ± 11.5 min (range, 50–90 min), and the mean blood loss was 75.2 ± 26.5 mL (range, 40–120 mL). The mean range of flexion was 122.5° ± 10.5°(range, 95°–140°). The mean range of extension was 8.5° ± 5.8°(range, 0°–20°). The mean range of pronation was 79.7° ± 8.0°(range, 65°–90°). The mean range of supination was 80.5° ± 7.1°(range, 60°–90°). The mean MEPS at final follow‐up was 89.8 ± 9.0 (range, 60–100). Based on the MEPS, 18 (75%) patients had excellent, five (20.8%) patients had good, and one (4.2%) patient had fair. None of the 24 patients suffered vascular or nerve injury. One patient showed superficial infection, which was treated with surgical dressing.ConclusionsThe vertical or parallel technique of the micro‐locking plate is an excellent method for treating Dubberley B‐type capitellar fractures.     

Functional outcomes of traumatic midfoot injuries

IntroductionMidfoot injuries are rare injuries, often the result of high-energy trauma and occurring in the context of multiple trauma. This study aimed to evaluate functional outcomes and health-related quality of life after open reduction and internal fixation for midfoot injuries at a level 1 trauma center treating complex foot injuries.MethodsRetrospective single level 1 center study with follow-up by questionnaire. All adult patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for Lisfranc and/or Chopart injuries between 2000 and 2016 were included and invited to complete the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Midfoot Score, the EuroQOL Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS), and the EuroQOL five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L). Chart reviews were performed to collect demographic, injury, and treatment characteristics.ResultsForty patients with 45 midfoot injuries were included. Follow-up was available for 29 patients (31 feet), leading to a response rate of 83%. The majority of patients suffered high-energy trauma and nearly all patients had a concomitant injury. Secondary arthrodesis was performed in 7/45 injuries. Median AOFAS score was 64 (IQR 47–78). Higher injury severity score (ISS) was associated with poorer functionality as measured with the AOFAS Midfoot Score (p = 0.046), concomitant injuries were associated with lower quality of life (p = 0.01). EQ-5D scores were significantly lower when compared to the Dutch reference population (p< 0.001).ConclusionsInjuries of the midfoot have negative effects on mid- to long-term quality of life after trauma, with considerable potential for long-term impaired functionality. When counseling patients with these rare injuries after high-energy trauma mechanisms or in the context of multiple trauma, realistic expectations on postoperative recovery should be given.     

Predictive factors of morbidity and mortality in grade IV and V liver trauma undergoing perihepatic packing: Single institution 14 years experience at European trauma centre

PurposeMajor liver trauma in polytraumatic patients accounts for significant morbidity and mortality. We aimed to assess prognostic factors for morbidity and mortality in patients with severe liver trauma undergoing perihepatic packing.MethodsProspectively collected records of 293 consecutive polytrauma patients with liver injury admitted at a level I trauma centre between 1996 and 2008 were reviewed. 39 patients with grade IV–V AAST liver injury and treated with peri-hepatic packing were identified and included for analysis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess prognostic factors for morbidity and mortality.ResultsMean age of patients was 41 years. 34 patients were haemodynamically unstable at initial presentation. Ten of 39 patients were treated with angiographic embolization in addition to perihepatic packing. The overall mortality rate was 51.3%. Liver-related death occurred in 23.1%. Overall and liver-related morbidity rates were 90% and 28%, respectively. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), respiratory rate, packed red blood cells (PRBC) transfusion, pH and Base Excess (BE), Revised Trauma Score (RTS) and Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS), need for angiographic embolization as well as early OR and ICU admission were associated with significant decrease of early mortality.ConclusionsRevised Trauma Score, haemodynamic instability, blood pH and BE are important prognostic factors influencing morbidity and mortality in polytrauma patients with grade IV/V liver injury. Furthermore, fast and effective surgical damage control procedure with perihepatic packing, followed by early ICU admission is associated with lower complication rate and shorter ICU stays in this patient population.     

Arthroscopic Tenodesis for Lesions of the Long Head of the Biceps

Abstract Objective: Resection of the intraarticular part of the long head of the biceps and tenodesis to decrease shoulder pain due to a pathologically altered biceps tendon and to improve shoulder function. Indications: Tenosynovitis. State of prerupture. Instability (subluxation or dislocation of tendon from intertubercular groove). Intraarticular entrapment secondary to hypertrophy of the long head of the biceps in the presence of an intact cuff. To be performed during arthroscopic cuff repair or during debridement of an irreparable cuff tear. Contraindications: Very thin, frayed, almost ruptured biceps tendon.Complete rupture of the long head of the biceps. Surgical Technique: Standard arthroscopy with 30° scope inserted through the posterior portal. Detachment of the long head from the glenoid origin. Longitudinal opening of the bicipital groove. Exteriorization and doubling of the tendon. Drilling of a socket starting in the groove but perforating the posterior cortex only with a guide wire. Passing of the tendon in an anteroposterior direction and securing the anchorage with a bioresorbable PLA interference screw. Results: Between 1997 and 1999, an arthroscopic tenodesis was performed in 43 patients. Minimum follow-up 2 years. The absolute Constant Score improved from 43 points preoperatively to 79 points at the time of follow-up. No loss of elbow extension or flexion; power of biceps after tenodesis 90% of opposite side. Early on, two failures of tenodesis occurred. The following is a reprint from Operat Orthop Traumatol 2005:17 601–23 and continues the new series of articles at providing continuing education on operative techniques to the European trauma community. Reprint from: Oper Orthop Traumatol 2005;17:601–23 DOI 10.1007/s00064-005-1154-y     

Relationship between American College of Surgeons trauma center designation and mortality in patients with severe trauma (injury severity score > 15)

BACKGROUND: We studied the association of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) trauma center designation and mortality in adult patients with severe trauma (Injury Severity Score > 15). ACS designation of trauma centers into different levels requires substantial financial and human resources commitments. There is very little work published on the association of ACS trauma center designation and outcomes in severe trauma. STUDY DESIGN: National Trauma Data Bank study including all adult trauma admissions (older than 14 years of age) with Injury Severity Score (ISS) > 15. The relationship between ACS level of trauma designation and survival outcomes was evaluated after adjusting for age, mechanism of injury, ISS, hypotension on admission, severe liver trauma, aortic, vena cava, iliac vascular, and penetrating cardiac injuries. RESULTS: A total of 130,154 patients from 256 trauma centers met the inclusion criteria. Adjusted mortality in ACS-designated Level II centers and undesignated centers was notably higher than in Level I centers (adjusted odds ratio, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.09-120; p < 0.0001 and adjusted odds ratio, 1.09; CI, 1.05-1.13; p < 0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Severely injured patients with ISS > 15 treated in ACS Level I trauma centers have considerably better survival outcomes than those treated in ACS Level II centers.