A biomechanical study of conventional acetabular internal fracture fixation versus locking plate fixation

Background

Conventional internal fixation entails the use of an interfragmentary lag screw along with a plate. Not all acetabular fractures are amenable to the placement of an interfragmentary lag screw, and the fracture may be displaced during tightening of the interfragmentary lag screw. Locking plates are a possible solution. We sought to determine whether a locking plate construct can provide stability equivalent to that provided with a conventional construct for transverse acetabular fractures.

Methods

We used 5 paired fresh-frozen cadaveric acetabula. We fixed one side with the conventional technique and the other side with a locking plate. We subjected each fixation to a cyclic compressive force up to 500 cycles, followed by compressive force until failure. We monitored 3-dimensional motion of the fracture.

Results

The average fracture gap at 50 N compressive force after 500 loading cycles was 0.41 (standard deviation [SD] 0.49) mm for the conventional plate and lag screw construct compared with 0.76 (SD 0.62) mm for the locked plate construct (p = 0.46). The force to failure, as defined by 2 mm of fracture gap, was 848 (SD 805) N for the conventional plate and lag screw construct compared with 506 (SD 277) N for the locked plate fixation (p = 0.34).

Conclusion

The locking plate construct is as strong as the conventional plate plus interfragmentary lag screw construct for fixing transverse acetabular fractures. Locking plates may improve management of acetabular fractures by eliminating the need for placement of an interfragmentary lag screw. Furthermore, they may be helpful in revision hip arthroplasty in patients with pelvic discontinuity.     

Comparative strength of three methods of fixation of transverse acetabular fractures.

With the advent of percutaneously placed lag screws for fixation of acetabular fractures, this study evaluated the strength of lag screw fixation compared with traditional fixation techniques of transverse acetabular fractures. Ten formalin-treated human, cadaveric pelvic specimens with bilateral, transtectal transverse acetabular fractures were used for this study. The right acetabular fractures were fixed with a five-hole plate and four screws with the central hole spanning the posterior fracture site. The left acetabular fractures were fixed with two lag screws, one each in the anterior and posterior columns, or with a screw and wire construct stabilizing both columns. The specimens were loaded to implant failure. Stiffness, yield strength, maximum load at failure, and site of failure was recorded. The plate and screw construct showed significantly greater yield and maximum strength when compared with the two lag screws. The stiffness of the lag screw method was 39% higher than that of the plating method, but this result was not statistically significant. In addition, the plate and screw method provided significantly greater maximum strength than the screw and wire technique. The quadrilateral plate seemed to be the weakest area of fixation because 83% of the implant failures occurred in this region. In patients in whom the risks of formal open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures outweigh the possible benefits, such as in patients with burns or degloved skin, the advent of computer-assisted and fluoroscopically guided percutaneous surgical techniques have been instrumental. This study showed there is greater strength of fixation with a plate and screw construct, possibly secondary to supplementary fixation distal to the quadrilateral plate. However, lag screw fixation provided relatively greater stiffness, which may account for its clinical success. Percutaneous lag screw fixation of appropriate transverse acetabular fractures is a viable option.     

Management of acetabular fractures with modified posterior approach to spare external hip rotators

Introduction

In the present study the quality of reduction and incidence of complications in hip external rotator sparing modified posterior approach was assessed in both simple and complex acetabular fractures.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study includes 37 patients (38 hips) with a mean age of 42.1 years (range 21–60), that had been treated for displaced acetabular fractures from June 2007 through May 2011. They were reviewed at a mean of 3 years (20–67 months).

Results

The fractures were classified according to the Letournel–Judet classification. Anatomic reduction and stable fixation of the fracture with less than 2 mm residual displacement was achieved in 28 of 38 hips. At the final follow up the patients were evaluated clinically according to Merle d’Aubigne and Postel scoring system which had been modified by Matta and radiologically based on the criteria described by Matta. The clinical results were excellent in 20, good in 8, fair in 8, and poor 2 hips. Complications included two superficial local wound infection and 10 heterotopic ossification with 7 of the cases having grade I heterotopic ossification. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head was not seen in any of the 38 hips. One patient with preoperative sciatic nerve palsy had complete recovery of neurologic function. There were no cases of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Conclusion

The functional outcome was satisfactory in most of the cases and comparable with other larger series. Using the limited part of Henry's sciatic nerve exposure skin incision – working in the plane between gluteus maximus and the tensor fascia lata as in the classical Gibson approach and two portal external rotator hip sparing approach resulted in good fracture reduction without approach related complications.     

Applied anatomy of the calcaneocuboid articular surface for internal fixation of calcaneal fractures

Background

Many types of steel plates are used for internal fixation of calcaneal fractures through extensive lateral approach. The fixation screw at the anterior calcaneal process must be placed into the dense compression trabeculae located directly under the calcaneocuboid articular surface to achieve a stable fixation.

Methods

The transverse diameter and inner tilt angle of the calcaneocuboid articular surface were measured and the inner structures near the calcaneocuboid articular surface were observed in forty adult calcaneus bone specimens to provide an anatomical basis for internal fixation of calcaneal fractures.

Results

The transverse diameter was 22.67 ± 2.14 mm and the inner tilt angle was 60.4 ± 7.1°.

Conclusion

Screws should be implanted under the calcaneocuboid articular surface and the length and direction of the screw should be selected according to the transverse diameter of the calcaneal articular surface and the inner tilt angle, respectively.     

The use of a 3D-printed personalised drill guide for posterior column lag screw fixation in displaced transverse acetabular fracture: A case report

Introduction and importanceAnterior column plate combined with posterior column screws have been effectively used for treatment of displaced transverse acetabular fractures. This article presents the use of 3D-printed technology for customising a guide template to appropriately place posterior column screw.Case presentationA 50-year-old female suffered displaced juxtatectal fracture of the right acetabulum. A personalised guide for antegrade posterior column screw placement was designed based on the data of her pelvic CT-scan. This guide and a prototype of her right acetabulum - created by mirroring the intact left acetabulum - were 3D-printed for preoperative evaluation and pre-contouring of reconstruction plate. Modified Stoppa approach and additional lateral window were used for direct reduction, anterior column plate and posterior column lag screw fixation. Post-operative CT-scan showed good reduction and nearly ideal screw position.Clinical discussionAnterior column plate and antegrade posterior column screw could provide joint stability and early mobilisation for displaced transverse acetabular fractures. However, determination of optimal entry point, direction and length for screw insertion is still technically demanding. The 3-D reconstruction images of hemipelvic specimen allowed us to identify the safe bone corridor, design a drill guide to put the proper guide pin and conduct preoperative trial. All those resulted in appropriate real screw fixation with reduction of soft tissue damage, X-ray exposure and time of operation.ConclusionThe use of 3D-printed personalised guide for posterior column screw fixation is a promising alternative option for treatment of displaced transverse acetabular fracture where 3D-navigation system is not available.     

Percutaneous screw fixation of acetabular fractures with 2D fluoroscopy-based computerized navigation

Introduction

The treatment of displaced acetabular fractures with formal open reduction and internal fixation has gained general acceptance. However, extensile exposure can lead to complications. Two-dimensional fluoroscopy-based computerized navigation for placement of percutaneous screw across non-displaced acetabular fractures has attracted interest by making use of stored patient-specific imaging data to provide real-time guidance in multiple image planes during implant placement. The purpose of the present study was to document early treatment results and complications associated with this new technique and evaluate its clinical application to displaced acetabular fractures amenable to closed or limited open reduction.

Materials and methods

Eighteen adult patients with 12 non-displaced and 8 displaced acetabular fractures were treated with percutaneous screw fixation under the guidance of a fluoroscopy-based navigation system. There were 14 men and four women with a mean age of 42.1 years (range 19–54 years). According to the AO and Orthopaedic Trauma Association Classification, there were nine 62-A3, five 62-B1, three 62-B2, and three 62-B3. The mean follow-up was 21 months (range 12–28 months). The mean time from injury to surgery was 4 days (range 2–7 days).

Results

A total of 30 acetabular screws were inserted, including 21 anterior column screws and 9 posterior column screws. The average operation time was 24.6 min (range 16–47 min) from the image acquisition to wound closure. The average fluoroscopic time was 28.4 s (range 11–58 s). Compared to the final position of the screw, the average deviated distance of wire tip was 2.5 mm (range 1.1–3.6 mm) and the average trajectory difference was 2.45° (range 1.5°–4.6°). Maximal gap displacement averaged 10 mm (range 2–22 mm) preoperatively and 3 mm (range 0–5 mm) postoperatively; while maximal step displacement averaged 4 mm (range 1–10 mm) preoperatively and 2 mm (range 0–4 mm) postoperatively. One patient sustained a transient femoral nerve palsy and resolved 2 months after the operation. No superficial or deep infection occurred. Using the rating system of D’Aubigne and Postel, 13 patients had excellent results, 4 patients had good results, and 1 patient had a fair result.

Conclusion

Percutaneous screw fixation of acetabular fractures with 2D fluoroscopy-based navigation could be applied not only to non-displaced fractures but also to displaced fractures amenable to closed or limited open reduction.     

A new treatment for avulsion fracture of the calcaneus using an Ilizarov external fixator

Introduction

In the treatment of avulsion fractures of the posterior calcaneal tuberosity, open reduction and internal fixation are prone to several complications. We describe a new treatment using an Ilizarov external fixator, which can minimise the complications and achieve sufficient stability of the displaced fragment.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old woman sustained an avulsion fracture of the calcaneus. Examination revealed the development of bruising with extremely taut skin over the posterior prominence of the displaced bone. Radiographs demonstrated grossly proximal displacement of the tuberosity fragment. Surgery was exclusively percutaneous using an Ilizarov external fixator. The displaced fragment was adequately reduced and stabilised. Progressive weight bearing in the equinus position was initiated at the third week after surgery and the external fixator was removed at the seventh week. There was no skin necrosis or loss of reduction while the fixator was maintained. Postoperative follow-up for 2 years revealed full recovery.

Discussion

Major postoperative complications after conventional open reduction and internal fixation include skin necrosis, skin irritation by metal implants and re-displacement of the reduced fragment. Our method of using an external fixator may decrease the incidence of these three complications.Skin incision and the risk of skin necrosis are inevitable during internal fixation. On the other hand, the use of an external fixator reduces or eliminates skin necrosis, as it is applied percutaneously for reduction and stabilisation of the fragment. External fixation is mostly recommended in cases of poor vascularity or bruising. In addition, skin irritation can be avoided upon removal of the external fixator.Re-displacement occurs occasionally as a serious complication in lag screw fixation, particularly in cases with poor purchase of the osteoporotic bone. Tension band wiring and application of an Ilizarov external fixator in avulsion fractures of the calcaneus can neutralise tension on the Achilles tendon during the healing process. Thus, both these methods are believed to provide sufficient mechanical stability to fix the fragment.

Conclusion

This new method, involving application of an Ilizarov external fixator, is recommended when the avulsion fragment is large enough to accommodate Ilizarov wires, especially in cases of circulatory problems or bruising.     

双柱拉力螺钉固定治疗横断髋臼骨折

目的　回顾分析双柱拉力螺钉固定治疗横断髋臼骨折的疗效。方法　 1 3例髋臼横断骨折分别采用Smith Peterson入路或者后外侧K -L入路结合前侧髂腹股沟入路行切开复位 ,前后柱拉力螺钉沿其功能轴固定。术后平均随访 4年 2个月 ,按照美国矫形外科医师协会 (AAOS)标准评估患髋功能。结果　 1 3例中 1 2例获解剖复位 ,1例复位欠佳。术中、术后无严重并发症。患髋术后功能优良率为 85 %。结论　双柱拉力螺钉固定技术是一种治疗髋臼横断骨折的有效方法 ,但技术要求较高 ,应严格掌握手术适应证     

A reduction clamp for an aiming component in associated acetabular fractures

Background:

The treatment of acetabular fractures is complex and requires specialized equipment. However, all currently available instruments have some disadvantages. A new reduction clamp that can firmly enable reduction and not hinder subsequent fixation procedures for some special fracture types is needed.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, we introduce a new acetabular clamp and its preliminary clinical application in three T-shaped acetabular fractures.

Results:

This new clamp can successfully pull the posterior column back to the anterior column and firmly maintain the reduction. This clamp''s aiming plate can facilitate the insertion of long lag screws. The clamp is also easy to assemble and use.

Conclusion:

This reduction clamp is a useful instrument that can facilitate open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures.     

Modified Kocher-Langenbeck approach in combined surgical exposures for acetabular fractures management

Background:

Displaced fractures of the acetabulum are best treated with anatomical reduction and rigid internal fixation. Adequate visualization of some acetabular fracture types may necessitate extensile or combined anterior and posterior approaches. Simultaneous anterior iliofemoral and posterior Kocher-Langenbeck (K-L) exposures with two surgical teams have also been described. To assess whether modified Kocher-Langenbeck (K-L) approach can substitute standard K-L approach in the management of elementary acetabular fractures other than the anterior wall and anterior column fractures and complement anterior surgical approaches in the management of complex acetabular fractures.

Materials and Methods:

20 patients with transverse and associated acetabular fractures requiring posterior exposure were included in this prospective study. In 9 cases (7 transverse, 1 transverse with posterior wall, and 1 posterior column with posterior wall), stabilization was done through modified K-L approach. In 11 cases (3 transverse and 8 associated fractures), initial stabilization through iliofemoral approach was followed by modified K-L approach.

Results:

The average operative time was 183 min for combined approach and 84 min for modified K-L approach. The postoperative reduction was anatomical in 17 patients and imperfect in 3 patients. The radiological outcome was excellent in 15, good in 4, and poor in one patient. The clinical outcome was excellent in 15, good in 3 and fair and poor in 1 each according to modified Merle d’Aubigne and Postel scoring system.

Conclusion:

We believe that modified K-L approach may be a good alternative for the standard K-L approach in the management of elementary fractures and associated fractures of the acetabulum when combined with an anterior surgical approach. It makes the procedure less invasive, shortens the operative time, minimizes blood loss and overcomes the exhaustion and fatigue of the surgical team.     

Fractures of the Proximal Fifth Metatarsal: Percutaneous Bicortical Fixation

Background

Displaced intraarticular zone I and displaced zone II fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal bone are frequently complicated by delayed nonunion due to a vascular watershed. Many complications have been reported with the commonly used intramedullary screw fixation for these fractures. The optimal surgical procedure for these fractures has not been determined. All these observations led us to evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous bicortical screw fixation for treating these fractures.

Methods

Twenty-three fractures were operatively treated by bicortical screw fixation. All the fractures were evaluated both clinically and radiologically for the healing. All the patients were followed at 2 or 3 week intervals till fracture union. The patients were followed for an average of 22.5 months.

Results

Twenty-three fractures healed uneventfully following bicortical fixation, with a mean healing time of 6.3 weeks (range, 4 to 10 weeks). The average American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 94 (range, 90 to 99). All the patients reported no pain at rest or during athletic activity. We removed the implant in all cases at a mean of 23.2 weeks (range, 18 to 32 weeks). There was no refracture in any of our cases.

Conclusions

The current study shows the effectiveness of bicortical screw fixation for displaced intraarticular zone I fractures and displaced zone II fractures. We recommend it as one of the useful techniques for fixation of displaced zone I and II fractures.     

Mid-term results in relation to age and analysis of predictive factors after fixation of acetabular fractures using the modified Stoppa approach

Introduction

Data concerning outcome after management of acetabular fractures by anterior approaches with focus on age and fractures associated with roof impaction, central dislocation and/or quadrilateral plate displacement are rare.

Methods

Between October 2005 and April 2009 a series of 59 patients (mean age 57 years, range 13–91) with fractures involving the anterior column was treated using the modified Stoppa approach alone or for reduction of displaced iliac wing or low anterior column fractures in combination with the 1st window of the ilioinguinal approach or the modified Smith-Petersen approach, respectively. Surgical data, accuracy of reduction, clinical and radiographic outcome at mid-term and the need for endoprosthetic replacement in the postoperative course (defined as failure) were assessed; uni- and multivariate regression analysis were performed to identify independent predictive factors (e.g. age, nonanatomical reduction, acetabular roof impaction, central dislocation, quadrilateral plate displacement) for a failure. Outcome was assessed for all patients in general and in accordance to age in particular; patients were subdivided into two groups according to their age (group “<60 yrs”, group “≥60 yrs”).

Results

Forty-three of 59 patients (mean age 54 yrs, 13–89) were available for evaluation. Of these, anatomic reduction was achieved in 72% of cases. Nonanatomical reduction was identified as being the only multivariate predictor for subsequent total hip replacement (Adjusted Hazard Ratio 23.5; p < 0.01). A statistically significant higher rate of nonanatomical reduction was observed in the presence of acetabular roof impaction (p = 0.01). In 16% of all patients, total hip replacement was performed and in 69% of patients with preserved hips the clinical results were excellent or good at a mean follow up of 35 ± 10 months (range: 24–55). No statistical significant differences were observed between both groups.

Conclusion

Nonanatomical reconstruction of the articular surfaces is at risk for failure of joint-preserving management of acetabular fractures through an isolated or combined modified Stoppa approach resulting in total joint replacement at mid-term. In the elderly, joint-preserving surgery is worth considering as promising clinical and radiographic results might be obtained at mid-term.     

A safe technique of anterior column lag screw fixation in acetabular fractures

Purpose

Conventional anterior column lag screw fixation in acetabular fracture is a difficult technique that has potential risks of vascular injury, hip joint penetration and excessive radiation exposure. We propose a safe technique of anterior column lag screw fixation (in-out-in technique) and present the outcome.

Materials and methods

Twenty-seven acetabular fractures were operated through an iliofemoral approach, where the ‘in-out-in technique’ of lag screw fixation was a part of the surgical procedure. The technique involved insertion of a malleolar screw (4.5 mm) or 6.5 mm partially threaded cancellous screw from the outer side of the iliac wing, 0.5–1 cm posterior and inferior to the anteroinferior iliac spine. The screw comes out of the bone surface to re-enter into the anterior part of iliopectineal eminence, and finally gains purchase in the lateral part of superior pubic ramus. The screw fixation procedure was under direct visualization without resorting to an image intensifier. The average follow-up of the patients was at 18.6 months (range 12–36 months).

Results

No loss of reduction, joint penetration or visceral and neurovascular injury were documented. The average duration of surgery was 70 min and blood loss was 290 ml. All fractures were united after an average period of 2.8 months. Excellent to good functional outcome was observed in 24 patients (88 %), on evaluation with Merle D’Aubigne and Postel score at the latest follow-up.

Conclusion

We conclude that the ‘in-out-in technique’ is a safe and effective method of anterior column lag screw fixation in acetabular fractures. It provides rigid stability and minimizes surgical duration, radiation exposure and intra-operative complications.     

Iliosacral screw insertion using CT-3D-fluoroscopy matching navigation

Background

Percutaneous iliosacral screw insertion requires substantial experience and detailed anatomical knowledge to find the proper entry point and trajectory even with the use of a navigation system. Our hypothesis was that three-dimensional (3D) fluoroscopic navigation combined with a preoperative computed tomography (CT)-based plan could enable surgeons to perform safe and reliable iliosacral screw insertion. The purpose of the current study is two-fold: (1) to demonstrate the navigation accuracy for sacral fractures and sacroiliac dislocations on widely displaced cadaveric pelves; and (2) to report the technical and clinical aspects of percutaneous iliosacral screw insertion using the CT-3D-fluoroscopy matching navigation system.

Methods

We simulated three types of posterior pelvic ring disruptions with vertical displacements of 0, 1, 2 and 3 cm using cadaveric pelvic rings. A total of six fiducial markers were fixed to the anterior surface of the sacrum. Target registration error over the sacrum was assessed with the fluoroscopic imaging centre on the second sacral vertebral body. Six patients with pelvic ring fractures underwent percutaneous iliosacral screw placement using the CT-3D-fluoroscopy matching navigation. Three pelvic ring fractures were classified as type B2 and three were classified as type C1 according to the AO-OTA classification. Iliosacral screws for the S1 and S2 vertebra were inserted.

Results

The mean target registration error over the sacrum was 1.2 mm (0.5–1.9 mm) in the experimental study. Fracture type and amount of vertical displacement did not affect the target registration error. All 12 screws were positioned correctly in the clinical series. There were no postoperative complications including nerve palsy. The mean deviation between the planned and the inserted screw position was 2.5 mm at the screw entry point, 1.8 mm at the area around the nerve root tunnels and 2.2 mm at the tip of the screw.

Conclusion

The CT-3D-fluoroscopy matching navigation system was accurate and robust regardless of pelvic ring fracture type and fragment displacement. Percutaneous iliosacral screw insertion with the navigation system is clinically feasible.     

复杂髋臼骨折的手术入路与内固定方法的选择

目的探讨复杂髋臼骨折手术的理想入路和内固定方法,以提高疗效。方法采用改良Smith-Petersen切口手术治疗15例髋臼复杂型骨折,并按骨折的不同类型分别用钢丝张力带、普通螺钉、可吸收螺钉、AO拉力螺钉、重建钢板等固定：结果随访5～12个月,平均7．6个月,13例达解剖复位,术后4例出现并发症。功能参照美国矫形外科研究院标准评价,优8例,良5例,可2例：结论改良Smith—Petersen入路具有显露范围大、肌肉剥离少、异位骨化率低等特点,是复杂髋臼骨折手术的较好入路;重建钢板可作为复杂髋臼骨折固定的首选材料。     

Fractures of the posterior wall of the acetabulum: Treatment using internal fixation of two parallel reconstruction plates

Objectives

Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment method using internal fixation of parallel reconstruction plates for the posterior wall of the acetabulum fractures.

Design

Randomised, prospective.

Setting

Level I trauma centre. Patients/participants: 57 patients with posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum in our department from 2007 to 2010 were treated operatively using this technique. Intervention: internal fixation of two parallel reconstruction plates was used in this study. One of the plates was near the border of acetabulum. The other was parallel to the former one and was located to stress concentrated area. Main outcome measurements: The clinical outcome was evaluated using the clinical grading system and radiological outcome was evaluated according to the criteria described by Matta. In addition, complications were researched in this study.

Results

The percentages of the clinical excellent-to-good and fair-to-poor results were 93.0% and 7%, respectively. We found that clinical outcome had no correlation with age, operation time from injury to operation, nor had correlation with hip dislocation, comminuted fracture condition and marginal compression fracture. Anatomical reduction was significantly correlated with excellent-to-good clinical outcome. Necrosis of the femoral head and heterotopic ossification were prone to decline the outcome of acetabular fractures despite good fracture reduction.

Conclusions

the internal fixation of two parallel reconstruction plates facilitated rigid fixation and avoided fracture fragment injury, was an effective and reliable alternative method to treat fractures of the posterior wall of the acetabulum.     

Extrinsic femoral artery occlusion following internal fixation of an acetabular fracture. A case report

Vascular injury is one of the drastic complications that can arise from internal fixation of acetabular fractures. A 29-year-old, obese man sustained multiple trauma, including a displaced transverse acetabular fracture. Extreme obesity made adequate exposure to the posterior acetabular area difficult, causing placement of a large lag screw in malposition, such that it penetrated the superior pubic ramus at a point adjacent to the superficial femoral artery. Angiography, immediately after operation, revealed extrinsic compression of this vessel. The lag screw was successfully repositioned, with immediate return of vessel patency and no sequelae. The surgical approach and anatomic landmarks for placement of posterior to anterior lag screws are reviewed in an effort to prevent this complication.     

Effect of integrity of the posterior cortex in displaced femoral neck fractures on outcome after surgical fixation in young adults

Aim

To assess whether disruption of the posterior cortex of intracapsular femoral fractures leads to an increased incidence of complications following closed reduction and internal fixation by multiple cannulated screws in young adults.

Methods

A total of 146 consecutive adult patients with 146 femoral neck fractures were treated by closed reduction and internal fixation with parallel cannulated screw in inverted triangle or diamond configurations. All enrolled patients were divided into three groups: those with a non-displaced femoral neck fracture (Garden types I or II), those with a displaced femoral neck fracture (Garden types III or IV) but no posterior cortex disruption and those with a displaced femoral neck fracture (Garden types III or IV) and a disrupted posterior cortex.

Results

Based on an average follow-up of 4.76 years (range, 2-6 years), displaced femoral neck fractures with a disrupted posterior cortex demonstrated an increased risk for avascular necrosis of the femoral head, shortening, redisplacement and conversion of prosthetic replacement as compared with those fractures without posterior cortex disruption (p = 0.002, 0.016, 0.001 and <0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions

As compared with a femoral neck fracture with an intact posterior cortex, a displaced femoral neck fracture with a disrupted posterior cortex increases the risk for avascular necrosis, redisplacement and shortening and raises the likelihood that prosthetic replacement will be needed. Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of this prognostic factor.     

采用闭合复位经皮空心拉力螺钉固定治疗儿童闭合性胫骨干骨折的疗效观察

目的 观察和评估闭合复位经皮空心拉力螺钉内固定治疗儿童胫骨干骨折的疗效.方法 2015年1月至2018年12月,福建泉州市正骨医院小儿骨科采用闭合复位经皮空心拉力螺钉内固定治疗闭合性胫骨干骨折的患儿64例;男50例,女14例;平均年龄7.5(5～13)岁.依据Johner和Wruhs的字母数字组合分类法对单纯斜形或螺旋...     

Treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in elderly highrisk patients: Dynamic hip screw vs. external fixation

Introduction

Although the use of a dynamic hip screw (DHS) is considered to be the preferred treatment for intertrochanteric fractures, the external fixation device could produce clinical outcomes comparable to the outcomes obtained with conventional treatment. Furthermore, because external fixation is minimally invasive, we expected a lower rate of morbidity. Therefore, we compared the two treatments in a clinical trial of elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture.

Methods

60 elderly high-risk patients with an average age of 78 years were treated for intertrochanteric fracture, resulting from a low energy trauma. Patients were randomly divided in two groups regarding to treatment. In Group A the patients were treated with DHS, while in Group B were treated with external fixator.

Results

The fixator was well accepted and no patient had significant difficulties while sitting or lying. The average intraoperative time was 73 min in Group A and 15 min in Group B (p < 0.05). 27 patients of Group A need blood transfusion postoperatively and none in Group B (p < 0.05). The mean duration of hospitalization in Group A and Group B was 8.4 and 2.2 days, respectively (p < 0.05). 9 of patients Group B had pin-track infection grade 2 that all were treated by oral antibiotics. There were no differences in comorbidities, quality of reduction, screw cut out, bed sore and HHS between the two groups.

Conclusion

Treatment with external fixator is an effective treatment for intertrochanteric fractures in elderly highrisk patients. The advantages include quick and simple application, minimal blood loss, less radiation exposure, adequate fixation, pain reduction, early discharge from hospital, low costs and favourable functional outcomes.