Comparison of the efficacy of a distal clavicular locking plate versus a clavicular hook plate in the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures and a systematic literature review

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively compare and review the clinical outcomes between the distal clavicular locking plate and clavicular hook plates in the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures; moreover, the relevant literature of the two fixation methods was reviewed systematically to identify the non-union, complications, or functional scores, according to the treatment methods and determine which treatment method is better.

Methods

Sixty-six patients with 66 unstable distal clavicle fractures who underwent open reduction and internal fixation with either a distal clavicular locking plate (36 patients) or a clavicular hook plate (30 patients ) were evaluated. The main outcome comparisons included Constant score, rate of non-union, rate of complication, and rate of returning to work three months postoperatively.

Results

No significant difference was found between locking plate and hook plate groups in union rate and Constant score (P > 0.05). However, the results indicated that the distal clavicular locking plate group had a significantly lower rate of complications (P < 0.05) and symptomatic hardware (P < 0.05). In addition, the distal clavicular locking plate facilitated the return to work better than the clavicular hook plate (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Both distal clavicular locking plate and clavicular hook plate achieved good results in the treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures; however, internal fixation with a distal clavicular locking plate had greater ability to return to their previous work after surgery in three months and fewer complications than the clavicular hook plate.     

Short-term outcomes of arthroscopic TightRope<Superscript>®</Superscript> fixation are better than hook plate fixation in acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation with that of hook plate fixation in patients with acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

Patients and methods

We conducted a prospective case–control study of twenty-six patients with an acute ACJ dislocation who underwent surgical repair with either an arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation or a hook plate from 2013 to 2016. Clinical and radiological data were collected prospectively. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Constant Score, the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, Oxford Shoulder Score as well as the visual analogue scale. Radiological outcomes were assessed with the coracoclavicular distance (CCD).

Results

Sixteen patients underwent arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation, while 10 patients underwent hook plate fixation. There were no significant differences in the preoperative variables except for the mean UCLA 4b infraspinatus score (TightRope^® 2.8 vs. hook plate 3.8; p = 0.030). Duration of surgery was significantly longer in the TightRope^® group. At 1 year post-operatively, the TightRope^® group had a significantly better Constant Score and CCD with no complications. All patients with hook plate fixation had to undergo a second procedure for removal of implant, and 3 patients had complications.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation is a good option for the treatment of acute unstable ACJ dislocations. It has better short-term clinical and radiological outcomes as well as lesser complications when compared to hook plate fixation.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic, Level III.

     

Treating Eyres type IV and V coracoid fracture using the acromion osteotomy approach

Purpose

To introduce a surgical method of treating Eyres type IV and V coracoid fracture using the acromion osteotomy approach and to further analyse the clinical effectiveness of this surgical procedure.

Methods

Nine patients were included in this study with a mean follow-up time of 23.3 months (range, 14.0–34.0 months). Patients were evaluated with use of the Constant score, the Simple Shoulder Test (SST) score and a visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score. Moreover, the shoulder range of motion was also observed.

Results

The mean operation time was 91.6 min with a blood loss volume ranging from 310 to 530 ml. The fractures of eight patients had recovered between 10 and 12 weeks post operation with no signs of infection, screw loosening, plate breaking or other internal fixation failures, while one case had non-union at 34 months’ follow-up. The mean Constant score increased from 75.6 points preoperatively to 91.0 points at follow-up. The mean VAS score decreased from 5.3 preoperatively to 1.0 at follow-up, while the average SST score increased from 7.1 points preoperatively to 10.0 points at follow-up. The mean abduction, forward flexion, external rotation, internal rotation and backward extension angles were 162°, 159° 50°, 55° and 47°. Five cases were classified as excellent, three cases were marked as good and one case was classified as fair.

Conclusions

Treating coracoid fracture through the approach of acromion osteotomy could be an effective treatment option with minimise damages.

     

Arthroscopic-assisted hook plate fixation for acromioclavicular joint dislocation

Purpose

We present a new technique of arthroscopic-assisted AC-hook plate fixation for acromioclavicular joint dislocation with all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and the possibility to treat concomitant pathologies.

Methods

Initially a glenohumeral arthroscopy is performed to address concomitant intra-articular injuries. Under subacromial visualisation the drill hole for the hook of the plate can be exactly positioned in the acromion. The hook plate is put in place under visual control.

Results

The initial results (n = 3) are promising with good to excellent results in the Constant score [90.5 (range 82–100)] in all cases studied. The cross-body test was slightly positive in one case. The median follow-up time after the index procedure was seven months (range five to ten).

Conclusions

In conclusion, arthroscopic-assisted reconstruction of acromioclavicular joint separation is feasible and may provide patients with all the benefits of AC-hook fixation with decreased risks related to open surgery. The described technique is recommended for all surgeons familiar with arthroscopic surgery.     

Clavicle and coracoid process drilling technique for truly anatomic coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction

Background

High-grade acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations require surgical treatment, as conservative treatment may result in functional decline or persistent pain. Although many surgical techniques have been described in the literature, there is still no non-controversial gold standard procedure for AC joint dislocation. The different orientation of the two components of the coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments has been proven to account for different functions. However, the majority of the techniques reconstruct the CC ligaments with a single structure. The purposes of this study were to assess the feasibility of truly anatomic coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction (TACCR) and to determine the corresponding drilling parameter.

Methods

We constructed virtual three-dimensional (3D) models of 105 shoulders from computed tomography (CT) scan data by using SuperImage software. For each model, the attachment sites and footprint dimensions of the conoid and trapezoid ligaments were defined and adjusted according to previously defined anatomic parameters and individual measurement results. Virtual drilling and 3D measurement were carried out in each model separately. Guided by the drilling parameter, we performed TACCR on 24 shoulders from 12 whole cadavers after transecting the AC and CC ligaments.

Results

The collinear drilling technique was noted to breach the bone cortex of the clavicle and/or the coracoid process in 95 of 105 virtual models (90.5%). No cortical breach was observed using a non-collinear drilling technique. The anteversion angulation of the conoid–coracoid tunnel ranged from 10° to 15° (mean value 12.4°). The extraversion angulation of the conoid–coracoid tunnel varied from 5° to 10° (mean value 6.8°). The anteversion angulation of the trapezoid–coracoid tunnel ranged from 20° to 30° (mean value 25.2°). There were no failures when performing the non-collinear drilling technique on cadaver models.

Conclusions

The collinear drilling technique is not technically feasible for TACCR. For this reason, we recommend the non-collinear drilling technique, which provides the ability to prepare bony tunnels without any risk of cortical breach.

Clinical relevance

Based on this computer and cadaver model study, we have devised a novel drilling technique to restore the CC ligaments anatomically.     

Das chronisch instabile Schultergelenk nach operativer Rekonstruktion

Introduction

Shoulder stability is supported by active and passive stabilization structures. Shoulder stability due to dislocation can be restored by various surgical procedures. Nevertheless, all known techniques are associated with a certain percentage of failures. Under these circumstances, secondary procedures are challenging, especially when anatomic reconstruction is not possible. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of patients with chronic unilateral anterior shoulder instability, having received a coracoid transfer according to Laterjet-Patte with a follow-up time of 19 months.

Patients and methods

From 2005 to 2007, 6 patients with anterior shoulder instability underwent shoulder reconstruction by coracoid transfer, after two or more former operations had been unsuccessful. According to the classification for shoulder instability by Gerber, 4 patients were assigned to group II and 2 patients to group III. The mean age was 34.8 years (range: 19–43 months), the mean follow-up time was 19.2 months (13–37 months) in this retrospective, clinical evaluation. The follow-up consisted of clinical evaluation using Constant Murley, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Rowe scores and radiological evaluation (X-ray, CT, and MRI scan pre- and postoperative).

Results

The mean Constant Murley score was 92.7 (85–100), corrected for Katolik 100.4 (95.8–106.8) and correlated to the opposite side 94.4 (87.6–99.0). The 4 main criteria of the Constant Murley score did not differ significantly compared to the non-operated side. Furthermore, the DASH score and Rowe score revealed no significant limitations in daily living and working conditions. The mean transverse glenohumeral index (TGHI) increased from 0.54 to 0.73 postoperativly. To date, there was neither an event of complete or subdislocation nor non-union of the coracoid or a failure of the fixation material. There was no evidence of arthrosis at follow-up.

Conclusion

Coracoid transfer is an effective and safe method to stabilize a chronically unstable shoulder joint, especially if prior treatment failed to achieve stability or anatomic reconstruction. Assuming an experienced surgeon, the risk of postoperative complications and iatrogenic arthrosis is rare after coracoid transfer.     

Anatomical principles for minimally invasive reconstruction of the acromioclavicular joint with anchors

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of a minimally invasive surgical technique for the treatment of patients with acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Methods

Sixteen patients with complete acromioclavicular joint dislocation were enrolled in this study. All patients were asked to follow the less active rehabilitation protocol post-operatively. Computed tomography with 3-D reconstruction of the injured shoulder was performed on each patient post operatively for the assessment of the accuracy of the suture anchor placement in the coracoid process and the reduction of the acromioclavicular joint. Radiographs of Zanca view and axillary view of both shoulders were taken for evaluating the maintenance of the acromioclavicular joint reduction at each follow-up visit. The Constant shoulder score was used for function assessment at the final follow-up.

Results

Twenty seven of the 32 anchors implanted in the coracoid process met the criteria of good position. One patient developed complete loss of reduction and another had partial loss of reduction in the anteroposterior plane. For the other 14 patients, the mean Constant score was 90 (range, 82–95). For the patients with partial and complete loss of reduction, the Constant score were 92 and 76 respectively. All of them got nearly normal range of motion of the shoulders and restored to pre-operative life and works.

Conclusion

With this minimally invasive approach and limited exposure of the coracoid, a surgeon can place the suture anchors at the anatomical insertions of the coracoclavicular ligament and allow the dislocated joint reduced and maintained well.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Case series; therapeutic study.

     

Evaluation of the use of the hook plate in Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fractures and Rockwood types 3–5 acromioclavicular joint dislocations

Purpose

For most types of acromioclavicular (AC) injuries, treatment is well established. For Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fractures and Rockwood types 3–5 AC dislocations, the ideal treatment is still a point of debate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome in patients treated for one of these two lesions in our hospital.

Methods

Our study group consisted of 30 patients with a Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fracture (n = 19) or Rockwood types 3–5 AC dislocation (n = 11) treated with the clavicle hook plate. All implants were removed after healing. At a mean follow-up of 40 months (12–92), data were collected by the analysis of questionnaires (DASH, NSST, OSS, SF-36), clinical examination (Constant–Murley score), and radiological evaluation (Zanca view).

Results

The mean Constant score was 88 [standard deviation (SD) 8] compared to 92 (SD 6) on the contralateral non-operated side. The questionnaires resulted in the following scores: median DASH: 4.5 (0–70); median NSST: 100 (8–100); mean OSS: 41 (SD 8); mean SF-36: 81 (SD 12). The mean coracoclavicular (CC) and AC distances were not significantly different.

Conclusions

This study suggests that hook plate fixation is a reliable treatment for Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fractures and Rockwood types 3–5 AC injuries. It results in a good and comparable function of the shoulder when compared to the contralateral side, high union rate, good to excellent objective and subjective results, and allows early active motion with limited abduction. A disadvantage is the necessity to remove the plate.     

Innovative use of single-incision internal fixation of distal clavicle fractures augmented with coracoclavicular stabilisation

Introduction

The management of displaced fractures of the distal clavicle remains controversial, particularly in younger patients where there is no consensus as to which surgical intervention is best. Each surgical method has unique surgical complications and rates of persistent pain and post-traumatic arthritis. We report an innovative surgical technique using a plate fixation augmented with minimally invasive tension slide coracoclavicular fixation using a cortical tenodesis button (8.5 mm).

Methods

A single-surgeon series, comprising of eleven cases, underwent retrospective review. A low-profile pre-contoured stainless steel plate that combines locking and non-locking options was used. Secondary fixation to the coracoid, through the plate, was achieved under fluoroscopic guidance eliminating the need for arthroscopy or exposure of the coracoid. An 8.5-mm cortical button loaded with a single FiberTape is inserted with fluoroscopic navigation, flipped under the coracoid and fixed to the plate. Patients followed a standardised rehabilitation protocol and clinical review assessing time to union, complications and Oxford Shoulder Scores.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 40 years, 82% male. The majority were day-case admissions with a mean follow-up of 18 months. Although a single patient requested plate removal due to lateral prominance, there were no revisions for implant failure and no surgical site infections or neurovascular injuries. All patients were reviewed at a minimum of 17 weeks and were progressing to union. Mean Oxford Shoulder Score was 43 (28–48, SD 6.5).

Conclusion

We consider this technique ideal for treating Neer type II distal clavicle fractures or fractures that have poor bone quality laterally, in which it can be difficult to achieve adequate screw fixation. The technique benefits from smaller tunnel diameter (3.7-mm spade-tip drill) and button length (8.5 mm). The procedure has a short learning curve and is both safe and time efficient.

Level of evidence

IV.

     

Individualized coracoid osteotomy and 3D congruent arc reconstruction of glenoid for the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation

Background

The present study investigated individualized coracoid osteotomy for 3D congruent arc glenoid reconstruction and evaluated the clinical outcomes in recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation.

Methods

From January 2005 to July 2015, 78 patients with glenoid defect underwent coracoid and conjoint tendon transposition. The patients were divided into the individualized group (n?=?34) and the non-individualized group (n?=?44). All patients had CT data to reconstruct the shoulder model using Mimics software. In the individualized group, the individual coracoid osteotomy and bone fixation position parameters were measured from preoperative planification through simulating a 3D congruent arc glenoid reconstruction model. The non-individualized group underwent classic Bristow-Latarjet (B-L) procedure. The postoperative evaluation parameters included 3D congruent arc index, coracoid bone position, shoulder osteoarthritis index (Samilson-Prieto) and shoulder function score (Rowe, Constant-Murley score).

Results

The mean follow-up time was 51.0 months (ranging from 24 to 146). The individualized group got 3D congruent arc reconstruction of the glenoid by postoperative CT scanning. Bone position was more precise in the individual group than that in the B-L group. There was a lower incidence of shoulder osteoarthritis (Samilson-Prieto) in the individual group compared with that in the B-L group: 0 vs 13.6% (mild 6/44, P?=?0.027), respectively. No significant difference was observed between the individual and B-L groups in rate of re-dislocation: 0 vs 4.5% (2/44, P?=?0.315), respectively. The postoperative Rowe and Constant score was significantly improved but was not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion

The individual procedure achieved 3D congruent arc glenoid reconstruction. The clinical effects in patients with medium glenoid defect were good, especially the low incidence of shoulder osteoarthritis in middle-term follow-up.

     

Repairing the annular ligament is not necessary in the operation of Mason type 2, 3 isolated radial head fractures if the lateral collateral ligament is intact: Minimum 5 years follow-up

Introduction

The repair of annular ligament after open reduction and internal fixation of radial head fracture could produce the irritation or crepitation during range of motion exercise. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the significance of unrepaired annular ligament during fixation of isolated radial head fractures.

Materials and methods

Retrospectively we reviewed the twenty-five patients who underwent surgical fixation with a plate for Mason type 2, 3 isolated radial head fracture without annular ligament repair. All the radial head fracture did not have the associated injuries which could cause the elbow instabilities. The average length of follow-up was 6.9 years. The outcomes were evaluated clinically (range of motions, instabilities, pain VAS, Broberg & Murrey functional rating score, DASH score) and radiographically (bony union, arthritic change, lateral translation of the radial head, humero-ulnar angle with maximum varus stress of elbow, ulnar variance).

Results

The range of motions between affected and contralateral side were not significantly different at last follow-up. No one showed the instabilities of elbow. The mean pain VAS, Broberg & Murrey functional rating score, and DASH score were 2.7 ± 0.5, 95.3 ± 2.5, and 14.8 ± 5.3 points respectively. Bony union was observed for all cases. There was no significant difference in the lateral translation of the radial head, humero-ulnar angle with maximum varus stress of elbow, and ulnar variance between the affected and the contralateral arm.

Conclusion

The isolated role of the annular ligament seems overestimated. We scrutinize that the annular ligament repair is not essential in the operative treatment of isolated radial head fractures if the lateral collateral ligament is intact.     

Assessment of the role of fibular fixation in distal-third tibia–fibula fractures and its significance in decreasing malrotation and malalignment

Background

In the treatment of distal-third tibia/fibula fractures treated by interlocking nailing, the role of fibular fixation is not clearly defined. This study aimed to assess the benefits of fibular fixation in such fractures.

Methods

Sixty patients with fractures of the lower third of the leg were enrolled into the study and divided into two groups based on whether the fibula was fixed (group A) or not (group B). Fracture tibia was treated with interlocked intramedullary nailing and fibular fixation was done using a 3.5-mm Limited Contact Dynamic Compression Plate (LC-DCP). The two groups were compared for differences in rotation at ankle, angulation at the fracture site, time of union and complications. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed regularly. Merchant–Dietz criteria were used to assess ankle function.

Results

The demographics of the two groups were similar. Average valgus angulation was significantly less in group A (average 5°) versus group B (average 9°). The degree of rotational malalignment at the ankle in group A was average 7° versus average 15° in group B. The outcome of two groups for clinical ankle score, time of union and complications showed no significant differences.

Conclusion

Fixation of the fibula along with interlocking nailing of the tibia decreases the malalignment of the tibia and malrotation of the ankle in distal-third fractures of the tibia and fibula as compared with only interlocking nailing.     

Functional outcome following proximal humeral interlocking system plating for displaced proximal humeral fractures

Aim:

To assess the functional outcome following internal fixation with the PHILOS (proximal humeral interlocking system) for displaced proximal humeral fractures.

Patients and Methods:

We reviewed 30 consecutive patients treated surgically with the proximal humeral locking plate for a displaced proximal humeral fracture. Functional outcome was determined using the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score and Constant Murley score.

Results:

Average age of the patients was 58 years (range, 19-92 years). The average overall ASES score was 66.5. The average overall Constant score was 57.5.

Conclusion:

Our results show that good fracture stability was achieved, and the functional outcome was very good in younger patients and it declined with increasing age. Early mobilization of the shoulder can be achieved without compromising fracture union.     

Subacromial morphometric assessment of the clavicle hook plate

Background

Clavicle hook plates are an effective plate fixation alternative for distal clavicle fractures and severe acromioclavicular joint dislocations. However, post-operative complications associated with the subacromial portion of the hook include acromial osteolysis and subacromial impingement. We examine and quantify the three-dimensional position of the subacromial portion of the hook plate relative to surrounding acromial and subacromial structures in a series of cadaveric shoulders to determine if hook positioning predisposes the shoulder to these noted post-operative complications.

Materials and methods

Fifteen cadaveric shoulders (seven males, eight females) were implanted with 15- or 18-mm hook plates. Dimensions of the acromion and hook plate were digitised and reconstructed into a three-dimensional model to measure acromion dimensions and distances of the subacromial hook relative to surrounding acromial and subacromial structures.

Results

Inter-specimen dimensions of the acromion were highly variable. Mean acromion width and thickness were greater in males than in females (p = 0.01). The posterior orientation of the subacromial hook varied widely (mean posterior implantation angle = 32.5 ± 20°, range 0-67°). The hook pierced the subacromial bursa in 13/15 specimens, made contact with the belly of the supraspinatus muscle in 9/15 specimens, and had focal contact at the hook tip with the undersurface of the acromion in 9/15 specimens.

Conclusions

The wide range of acromial dimensions leads to a high degree of variability in the positioning of the subacromial hook. The observed frequency of hook contact with surrounding subacromial structures in a static shoulder confirms that the position of the hook portion of the implant can predispose anatomic structures to the post-operative complications of subacromial impingement and bony erosion.     

Comparative study of comminuted posterior acetabular wall fracture treated with the Acetabular Tridimensional Memory Fixation System

Background

Posterior wall fractures are one of the most common acetabular fractures. However, only 30% of these fractures involve a single large fragment, and comminuted acetabular posterior wall fractures pose a particular surgical challenge. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes between patients who received fixation for comminuted posterior wall fracture using the Acetabular Tridimensional Memory Fixation System (ATMFS) and patients who underwent fixation with conventional screws and buttress plates (Plates group).

Method

Between April 2003 and May 2007, 196 consecutive patients who sustained a comminuted posterior wall fracture of acetabulum were treated with ATMFS or conventional screws and buttress plates. Operative time, fluoroscopy time, blood loss, and any intra-operative complications were recorded. Plain AP and lateral radiographs were obtained at all visits (Matta's criteria). Modified Merle d’ Aubigne-Postel score, and Mos SF-36 score were compared between groups.

Results

Fifty patients were included in the analysis with 26 in the ATMFS group and 24 in the Plates group. The mean follow-up time was 57.5 months, ranging from 31 to 69 months. All patients had fully healed fractures at the final follow-up. There was no difference in clinical outcomes or radiological evaluations between groups.

Conclusion

Patients with comminuted posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum treated with the ATMFS or conventional screws and buttress plate techniques achieve a good surgical result. Both techniques are safe, reliable, and practical. Use of the ATMFS technique may reduce blood loss and improve rigid support to marginal bone impaction. The use ATMFS may need additional support when fractures involve the superior roof.     

Novel technique of reduction of a chronic atlantoaxial rotatory fixation using a temporary transverse transatlantal rod

Background context

Chronic atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (AARF) is uncommon as acute AARF is easily reduced either spontaneously or by conservative methods. Various anterior and posterior surgical approaches for a chronic AARF have been reported because of the difficulty encountered in obtaining reduction.

Purpose

To describe a novel technique of reduction of a chronic AARF using a temporary transverse transatlantal rod.

Study design

Technical report.

Methods

A 13-year-old girl presented with an 8-month-old chronic AARF with typical torticollis and “cock-robin” posture of the head with a normal neurology. As closed reduction with skull traction for 2 weeks failed to reduce the deformity, the patient underwent C1–C2 fusion. C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle screws were inserted under computer navigation. A temporary transverse rod across the atlas and axis was placed to secure a three-column fixation to derotate the subluxed atlas into anatomical alignment. Rods were then connected between the C1 lateral masses and the C2 pedicle screws and fusion obtained with autologous iliac crest grafts.

Result

Anatomic reduction of the atlantoaxial region was obtained without neural compromise, and satisfactory fusion was observed at 6-months follow-up.

Conclusion

A temporary transatlantal rod provides a secure anchor point for easy maneuverability for reduction of a chronic AARF and has the advantage of being used even in the absence of the posterior arch of the atlas.     

Meta-analysis of joint preservation versus arthroplasty for the treatment of displaced 3- and 4-part fractures of the proximal humerus

Purpose

This meta-analysis compares the clinical outcomes of joint preservation versus arthroplasty in the treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures.

Methods

Medline, CINAHL, and EMBASE were searched for studies published between 1970 and 2011 reporting outcomes of the treatment of 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures using the Constant–Murley score in skeletally mature patients. Randomised and cohort studies with ≥1-year follow-up were included. Two individuals independently extracted data, and study results were divided into subgroups based on type of treatment.

Results

A meta-analysis with meta regressions was performed on the mean Constant score. Of 610 total participants in the studies analysed, 340 were treated with joint-preserving techniques. The random-effects mean Constant score across all treatment types was 62.7 (95% CI, 61.6–63.9, P < 0.001), with joint-preserving treatments demonstrating higher scores than arthroplasty (70 vs. 49, P < 0.001). The studies displayed significant heterogeneity (Q statistic = 516, P < 0.001, I² = 94.8). In the meta-regression analyses, Constant scores decreased significantly with increasing age, fracture severity, and rate of osteonecrosis (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In the existing literature, displaced proximal humerus fractures demonstrate improved Constant scores when treated with joint-preserving options. Age, fracture pattern, and complication rate are significant predictors of the Constant score independent of the selected treatment. Given the observed heterogeneity and variance in treatment techniques in the included studies, more comparative studies are needed to definitively recommend joint-preserving techniques versus arthroplasty for specific fracture patterns.     

Safety of immediate open reduction and internal fixation of geriatric open fractures of the distal radius

Introduction and aim

There is a paucity of literature regarding outcomes of open fractures of the distal radius. No study has detailed this injury or treatment strategy in the geriatric population. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety of immediate open reduction and internal fixation of geriatric open fractures of the distal radius.

Methods

A total of 21 geriatric patients with open fractures of the distal radius treated with a single definitive procedure were identified from a prospectively collected database. We reviewed patient demographics, injury characteristics and treatment specifics. Our primary outcome was surgical-site infection defined by need for antibiotics or repeat surgery. Our secondary outcome was need for other re-operation. Patients were contacted and functional scores obtained.

Results

Patients were followed up for an average of 26 months. One deep infection and one nonunion occurred, and they required repeat surgery. Four minor operative complications occurred, including stiffness requiring manipulation and prominent fixation devices requiring removal. Patients maintained an average wrist flexion–extension arc of 89° and pronation–supination arc of 137°. The average QuickDASH (shortened disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire) score was 17.4, indicating minimal disability of the upper extremity.

Conclusions

Immediate open reduction and internal fixation of geriatric open fractures of the distal radius yields adequate functional results with low risk of major complications.     

Perioperative risks associated with the operative treatment of clavicle fractures

Background

Clavicle fractures are a common injury among young adults who were historically treated non-operatively with satisfactory outcomes. However, more recent studies have shown a higher nonunion rate for displaced clavicle fractures treated conservatively. The purpose of this study is to investigate the midterm complications, clinical outcomes and overall patient satisfaction after osteosynthesis of midshaft clavicular fractures.

Patients and methods

A total of 37 patients treated for a clavicle fracture from January 2007 to December 2008 with at least 12 months’ follow-up were identified from a billing code search. At the latest follow-up appointment, the patients completed the Constant Shoulder, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scale (DASH) and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2.0 (SF36v2) functional outcome surveys as well as a custom questionnaire to assess hand dominance, employment status, the amount of time taken before returning to work, the presence of numbness around the incision site (a surrogate marker of a supraclavicular nerve palsy), whether the patient desired the plate removed and/or if it was worth another surgery.

Results

With regard to the functional outcome surveys, the average DASH score was 11.8 ± 16.4, the Constant score was 93.3 ± 7.2, the SF36v2 physical component summary (PCS) was 50.7 ± 10.1 and the SF36v2 mental component summary (MCS) 50.6 ± 11.2. From the custom questionnaire, 27 patients (73%) found their cosmetic appearance acceptable while the remaining 10 patients (27%) were bothered by the appearance of the plate. The average time to return to work was 82.1 ± 77.4 days. There were no infections, refractures or nonunions of the clavicle.

Conclusion

As the relative indications for open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle fractures become more popular, such as cosmetic concerns or faster recovery, we wish to demonstrate that the procedure is not without risks, including implant discomfort requiring a subsequent operation for removal, numbness around the incision site and infection. Despite these risks, patients tend to be satisfied with the procedure and are able to function at levels equal to that of the general population. The purpose of this study is not to recommend for or against operative treatment of clavicle fractures but merely to demonstrate risks associated with the procedure.     

Can tibial plateau fractures be reduced and stabilised through an angiosome-sparing antero-lateral approach?

Introduction and aim

Tibial plateau fractures (TPFs) are an independent, non-modifiable risk factor for surgical site infections (SSIs). Current antero-lateral approaches to the knee dissect through the anterior tibial angiosome (ATA), which may contribute to a higher rate of SSIs. The aim of this study was to develop an angiosome-sparing antero-lateral approach to allow reduction and fixation of lateral TPFs and to investigate its feasibility in a consecutive cohort.

Methods

Twenty cadaveric knees were dissected to define the position of the vessels supplying the ATA from the lateral tibial condyle to the skin perforators. Based on these results, an angiosome-sparing surgical approach to treat lateral TPFs was developed. Fifteen consecutive patients were subsequently treated through this approach. Clinical outcomes included assessment of SSI and Lysholm score. Fracture healing and stability were assessed using the Rasmussen score and radiostereometric analysis (RSA).

Results

At the latest follow-up between 1 and 4 years, there was no report of SSI. Nine patients (60%) had good or excellent Lysholm scores. The mean Rasmussen score at final follow-up was 17 (median 18, range 14–18) with 10 patients (66%) graded as excellent. Fracture fragment migration measured using RSA was below 2 mm in all cases.

Discussion

This study has demonstrated that an angiosome-sparing antero-lateral approach to the lateral tibial plateau is feasible. Adequate stability of these fracture types was achieved by positioning a buttress plate away from the bone and superficial to the regional fascial layer as an ‘internal–external fixator’.

Conclusion

The angiosome-sparing approach developed was able to be used in a prospective cohort and the clinical results to date are encouraging. Future clinical studies need to investigate the potential benefits of this surgical approach when compared with the previously described antero-lateral approaches.