Cartilage Plating in Flail Chest Fixation

Introduction: Operative stabilization of flail chest has been shown to have several benefits over nonoperative management. Often, flail chest injuries will involve the anterior ribs and their associated costal cartilage. In certain cases, operative fixation with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of anterior rib fractures involving the costal cartilage may be warranted. Currently, there is scant literature regarding the surgical approach and clinical outcomes of ORIF involving the costal cartilage. The purpose of this study is to describe the surgical approach and first reported clinical series for patients undergoing anterior rib ORIF involving the costal cartilage.Patients and Methods: After Institutional Review Board approval was obtained, a retrospective case series was performed at a single urban level 1 trauma center including patients 18 years of age or older who underwent ORIF of anterior rib fractures involving the costal cartilage. All surgical approaches were performed with muscle-sparing techniques. Patients were followed during their hospitalization period and postoperatively as routinely scheduled. Data collection including patient demographics, injury characteristics, operative variables, and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed.Results: Thirty patients, with a mean age of 54.4 years, were included in this study. All patients had a flail chest injury and were treated with ORIF on average 4.1 days following injury. There were no intraoperative complications reported. Total hospital length of stay averaged 22.8 days with an intensive care unit stay averaging 6.1 days; total ventilator time averaged 5.2 days. Six patients were diagnosed with postoperative pneumonia and no postoperative superficial infections, deep infections, or seromas were noted. Eight patients required tracheostomy postoperatively. Only 1 patient had evidence of radiographic malunion, and a separate patient had evidence of screw loosening; no patients required or requested implant removal. Union rate was 100% and one-year mortality was 0%.Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation of anterior rib fractures involving the costal cartilage is a safe procedure with low complication rates and favorable postoperative outcomes including hospital length of stay, intensive care unit length of stay, postoperative pneumonia, need for tracheostomy, and mechanical ventilation time.     

Radiographic follow-up of 84 operatively treated scapula neck and body fractures

BackgroundCertain scapula fractures may warrant surgical management to restore shoulder anatomy and promote optimal function. The purpose of this study is to determine the early radiographic follow-up of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for displaced, scapular fractures involving the glenoid neck and body.MethodsEighty-four patients with a scapula body or neck fracture (with or without articular involvement) underwent ORIF between 2002 and 2010 at a single level I trauma centre. This study represents a retrospective review of data prospectively collected into a dedicated scapula fracture database. All patients met at least one of the following operative criteria: ≥20 mm medial/lateral (M/L) displacement (lateral border offset), ≥45° of angular deformity on a scapular-Y X-ray, the combination of angulation ≥30° plus M/L displacement ≥15 mm, double disruptions of the superior shoulder suspensory complex both displaced ≥10 mm, glenopolar angle (GPA) ≤22° and open fractures. Eighty-eight percent (74/84) had sufficient follow-up defined as at least 6 months. Measured outcomes included rates of scapula union and malunion, as well as surgical complications and re-operations.ResultsAll fractures were caused by high-energy trauma with 24 (29%) resulting from motor-vehicle collisions. Associated injuries occurred in 94% of patients, most commonly involving the chest (70%) and ipsilateral shoulder girdle (43%). Forty-eight patients had M/L displacement as an operative indication with a mean displacement of 25.7 mm (range = 20–40). Thirty-eight (45%) had ≥2 operative indications. A single surgeon performed ORIF in all patients using a posterior approach. Five patients also required an anterior (deltopectoral) approach. The fixation strategy included lateral and vertebral border stabilisation with dynamic compression and reconstruction plates, respectively. Union was achieved in all cases. There were three cases of malunion based on a GPA difference >10° from the uninjured shoulder. Re-operations included removal of hardware (seven patients) and manipulation under anaesthesia (three patients). There were no infections or wound dehiscence.ConclusionsORIF for displaced scapula fractures is a relatively safe and effective procedure for restoration of anatomy and promotion of union.Level of evidenceTherapeutic study, level IV.     

Open reduction and internal fixation of the posterior malleolus fragment via the posterolateral approach is radiologically superior to ‘A to P’ screw fixation

PurposeFunctional outcome in trimalleolar fractures is largely correlated to the reduction of the posterior fragment. Until recently, fixation was mainly performed for large fragments, by percutaneous anterior to posterior (‘A to P’) screw placement after closed reduction. Nowadays, ORIF via a posterolateral approach seems to gain in popularity. The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative photographs of operated trimalleolar fractures after either fracture treatment method, for fracture diastasis and step-off.Material and methodsAll consecutive patients with trimalleolar fractures, including posterior fragments of >5% of the articular surface and operated between 2007–2013 were analysed on size of posterior fragment, post-operative gap and step-off by three observers. The patients were divided into three groups; A to P screw fixation, ORIF via the posterolateral approach and no posterior fragment fixation at all.Results180 patients with trimalleolar ankle fractures were included for analyses. Twenty five posterior fragments were fixated percutaneously from anterior to posterior (group 1) and 51 underwent open reduction and internal fixation through a posterolateral approach (group 2). 104 patients underwent no posterior malleolus fixation (group 3). The average size of posterior fragment was 34% in group 1, 27% in group 2 and 16% in group 3. A postoperative step-off >1 mm was found in 40% (group 1), 9% (group 2) or 34% respectively (group 3).ConclusionsFixation of the posterior malleolus through an open posterolateral approach leads to better radiological results as compared to percutaneous ‘A to P’ screw fixation or no fixation at all.     

Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty After Acetabular Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in the Elderly—Acute vs Delayed Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundOptimum management for the elderly acetabular fracture remains undefined. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in this population does not allow early weight-bearing and has an increased risk of failure. This study aimed to define outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the setting of an acetabular fracture and compared delayed THA after acetabular ORIF (ORIF delayed THA) and acute fixation and THA (ORIF acute THA).MethodsAll acetabular fractures in patients older than 60 years who underwent ORIF between 2007 and 2018 were reviewed (n = 85). Of those, 14 underwent ORIF only initially and required subsequent THA (ORIF delayed THA). Twelve underwent an acute THA at the time of the ORIF (ORIF acute THA). The ORIF acute THA group was older (81 ± 7 vs 76 ± 8; P < .01) but had no other demographic- or injury-related differences compared with the ORIF delayed THA group. Outcome measures included operative time, length of stay, complications, radiographic assessments (component orientation, leg-length discrepancy, heterotopic ossification), and functional outcomes using the Oxford Hip Score (OHS).ResultsOperative time (P = .1) and length of stay (P = .5) for the initial surgical procedure (ORIF only or ORIF THA) were not different between groups. Four patients had a complication and required further surgeries; no difference was seen between groups. Radiographic assessments were similar between groups. The ORIF acute THA group had a significantly better OHS (40.1 ± 3.9) than the ORIF delayed THA group (33.6 ± 8.5) (P = .03).ConclusionIn elderly acetabulum fractures, ORIF acute THA compared favorably (a better OHS, single operation/hospital visit, equivalent complications) with ORIF delayed THA. We would thus recommend that in patients with risk factors for failure requiring delayed THA (eg, dome or roof impaction) that ORIF acute THA be strongly considered.     

Displaced acetabular fractures in the elderly: Results after open reduction and internal fixation

BackgroundThe optimal management of elderly patients with displaced acetabular fractures remains controversial. This paper aims to summarize the clinical results of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and the possible factors influencing them.MethodsRadiographic and clinical data on 52 elderly patients with displaced acetabular fractures that were treated by ORIF between May 2000 and May 2008 were retrospectively analysed. Data, such as fracture type (Letournel's classification system), quality of reduction, clinical outcomes (Harris hip score and modified Merle d’Aubigne-Postel score), and radiological outcomes (Matta score), were evaluated.ResultsGood to excellent clinical and radiological outcomes were recorded in 43 (82.7%) and 37 patients (71.2%), respectively. Acetabular fractures without radiographic features, such as quadrilateral plate fracture, Gull sign, posterior dislocation of hip, posterior wall marginal impaction, comminuted posterior wall fracture, and femoral head injury, can still achieve good to excellent outcomes. However, patients with the abovementioned radiographic features tend to achieve fair or poor outcomes. When an acetabular fracture with the aforementioned features, except for femoral head injury, can achieve and maintain anatomic reduction until complete fracture healing, the difference between fractures with and without the radiographic features is no longer significant. The results indicate that the outcomes are more affected by reduction rather than radiographic features.ConclusionORIF may be suggested for displaced acetabular fractures in the elderly. Good to excellent outcomes and a high degree of patient satisfaction can be achieved in majority of the patients. We recommend ORIF as the preferred treatment for displaced acetabular fractures without the abovementioned radiographic features.Level of evidenceTherapeutic level IV.     

Retrospective study of consecutive rib fracture patients treated by open reduction internal fixation in a single major trauma centre,UK.

IntroductionRib fractures are a common presentation in both patients presenting with high impact poly-trauma and as a result of low energy falls in the elderly. This injury can lead to various complications including prolonged hospital admission, pneumonia, need for ventilation and in admission to intensive care unit. There is much controversy around the management of this injury in the literature, with favourable outcomes for patients treated non-operatively as well as surgically.MethodsWe collated a database for all rib fracture fixations between 2014 and 2019 that took place at the major trauma centre in Liverpool. The decision to undergo surgical fixation was after discussion with multidisciplinary team at trauma meeting. Following British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma and Orthopaedics (BOASTs), these injuries should ideally be operated on within 48 h.ResultsOverall, a total of 220 patients were included in the study (143 male and 77 female). 142 (64%) patients were operated on within 48 h of admission. A total of 101 (45%) patients required admission to ITU. Those in the early surgical fixation group had a statistically significant decrease in their hospital length of stay (12.8 days compared to 15.5 days, p=<0.001). Mean length of ITU stay was shorter in the early surgical group with no statistical significance (p = 0.1). Those patients that required mechanical ventilation in turn stayed in hospital for a longer period compared to those who did not (p=<0.001). There is no statistical difference in survival between the 2 patient groups (p = 0.3).DiscussionTo our knowledge, this is the largest data set published in the rib fracture fixation cohort. Our results agree with previous studies which have demonstrated that those who undergo ORIF tend require fewer days of hospital stay, less ventilatory support and overall have better outcomes in terms of pain when compared to those treated non-operatively. Our study adds that patients who receive treatment within 48-hours as per BOAST guidelines have better outcomes, specifically reducing hospital length of stay by nearly 4 days (p = 0.014).ConclusionEarly surgical fixation of rib fractures leads to significantly favoured outcomes.     

Early radiographic outcomes following deltoid ligament repair in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures

BackgroundIndications for deltoid ligament repair in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures are unclear. This study compared radiographic outcomes in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures undergoing open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) +/? deltoid ligament repair.MethodsA retrospective review of 1024 ankle fractures was performed. Bimalleolar equivalent injuries treated with ORIF +/? deltoid ligament repair were included. Radiographic assessment was performed preoperatively, and at three months postoperatively.ResultsOne hundred and forty-seven ankle fractures met inclusion criteria with 46 undergoing deltoid ligament repairs. There was a significant decrease in medial clear space (1.93 ± 0.65 mm vs. 2.26 ± 0.64 mm, p = 0.01), and tibiofibular clear space (3.89 ± 1.20 mm vs. 4.87 ± 1.37 mm, p = 0.0001) at 3 months postoperative in the deltoid repair group compared to the no repair group. When syndesmotic fixation was performed, there were no differences between groups.ConclusionDeltoid ligament repair in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures resulted in reduced medial clear space, and tibiofibular clear space in the early postoperative period. These differences were small and remained within established normal limits.Level of clinical evidenceLevel III, retrospective cohort study.     

Effectiveness of arthroscopically assisted surgery for ankle fractures: A meta-analysis

IntroductionThis meta-analysis was performed to determine whether the arthroscopically assisted open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for ankle fractures is more beneficial than the conventional ORIF.MethodsArticles in electronic medial databases were searched between March 1983 and August 2016, including Pubmed and SCOPUS. We included the studies with comparative design comparing the surgical outcomes between the arthroscopically assisted ORIF for ankle fractures and the conventional ORIF. Finally, two RCTs and two retrospective comparative studies were included for analysis. Mean and standard deviation (SD) of postoperative functional scores, number of subjects, and P-values were extracted from the studies. In addition, postoperative follow-up period, fracture type, and study quality were collected.ResultsThe pooled effect size of the four studies 0.535 (95% CI, 0.247–0.823) in Hedges’s g, which favored the arthroscopically assisted ORIF over conventional ORIF. There was no evidence of publication bias in funnel plot and in Egger’s test (p = 0.534).ConclusionThe arthroscopically assisted ORIF for ankle fractures were more beneficial than the conventional ORIF in the current evidences. However, since it needs more medical cost and longer operation time, possible additional complications and cost effectiveness are to be validated in future studies.     

Long term outcomes following rib fracture fixation in patients with major chest trauma

BackgroundSevere chest injuries are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical rib fixation has become a more commonplace procedure to improve chest wall mechanics, pain, and function. The aim of this study was to characterise the epidemiology and long-term functional outcomes of chest trauma patients who underwent rib fixation in a major trauma centre (MTC).MethodologyThis was a retrospective review (2014–19) of all adult patients with significant chest injury who had rib fixation surgery following blunt trauma to the chest. The primary outcome was functional recovery after hospital discharge, and secondary outcomes included length of intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stay, maximum organ support, tracheostomy insertion, ventilator days.Results60 patients underwent rib fixation. Patients were mainly male (82%) with median age 52 (range 24–83) years, injury severity score (ISS) of 29 (21–38), 10 (4–19) broken ribs, and flail segment in 90% of patients. Forty-six patients (77%) had a good outcome (GOSE grade 6–8). Patients in the poor outcome group (23%; GOSE 1–5) tended to be older [55 (39–83) years vs. 51 (24–78); p = 0.05] and had longer length of hospital stay [42 (19–82) days vs. 24 (7–90); p<0.01]. Injury severity, rate of mechanical ventilation or organ dysfunction did not affect long term outcome. Nineteen patients (32%) were not mechanically ventilated.ConclusionsRib fixation was associated with good long-term outcomes in severely injured patients. Age was the only predictor of long-term outcome. The results suggest that rib fixation be considered in patients with severe chest injuries and may also benefit those who are not mechanically ventilated but are at risk of deterioration.     

The multi-ligament ankle fracture: Epidemiology,key anatomical findings and fixation strategies in unstable open injuries

BackgroundAnkle fracture surgery has traditionally focussed on restoration of bony anatomy, with fixation of the malleoli and syndesmotic stabilisation where applicable. However, high energy open fracture-dislocations can also result in periosteal stripping of the stabilising capsuloligamentous attachments. As such, restoration of osseous anatomy alone may not result in sufficient articular stability.ObjectivesIn this series from a level 1 trauma centre, we report a subset of highly unstable open ankle fractures with combined capsuloligamentous injuries, in which restoration of osseous anatomy did not result in a stable joint. Supplementary soft tissue reconstruction and other stabilisation techniques were required.MethodsRetrospective case series of eligible patients from a level 1 trauma centre. Inclusion criteria were open ankle fractures with tibial extrusion (AO 44) and persistent instability post-bony fixation, age over 18 years and non-diabetic. Analysis of injury pattern, mechanism, pathological anatomy, soft tissue and orthopaedic reconstruction methods was performed.Results16 patients were identified during the study period who met the eligibility criteria, out of 95 open ankle fractures treated between January 2017–December 2020. Most patients were under 65 (n = 13; 81.3%) and sustained combined or isolated injuries of the deltoid ligament, anterior capsule, lateral ligament complex (ATFL±CFL) and tibialis posterior retinaculum. The commonest injury pattern was tibial extrusion via a medial soft tissue defect with deltoid ligament and anteromedial capsule rupture. Associated syndesmotic instability and fixation was common (n = 10; 62.5%). Supplementary stabilisation methods to standard bony fixation included capsuloligamentous reconstruction or repair, “ORIF+” external fixation, or conversion to primary fusion or hindfoot nail. Six patients required either local or free flap soft tissue coverage.ConclusionsA subset of up to 20% of open ankle fractures require supplementary fixation beyond anatomical restoration of the bony anatomy due to persistent ligamentous instability. They are associated with capsuloligamentous and syndesmotic disruption, more commonly affecting the medial structures. These rare injuries can be defined as multi-ligament ankle fractures. Surgeons should be aware of this subset and be able to recognise where supplementary stabilisation strategies are required.     

Treatment of select open calcaneus fractures with reduction and internal fixation: an intermediate-term review

BACKGROUND: Open calcaneal fractures are devastating, high-energy injuries frequently occurring in multiply-injured patients. Unsatisfactory outcomes with significant complications rates are frequently reported. Our purpose was to assess outcomes of delayed ORIF for open calcaneal fractures with medial hindfoot wounds and limited posterior facet comminution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Following acute management of the open fractures, seven patients were determined to have stable medial hindfoot wounds and posterior facet comminution of three or fewer fracture fragments. The average age was 32.5 years. These patients were treated with operative management with a plate-and-screw construct using the extensile lateral approach. RAND-36 Item Health, AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Survey, and physical examinations were undertaken to access outcomes. RESULTS: All open calcaneal injuries were initially treated with irrigation and debridement, intravenous antibiotics, and plaster immobilization. Definitive fixation was performed at an average of 11.7 days. Six of seven patients were multiply injured. Prior to injury, five were employed on a full-time basis. Four returned to their original or a comparable job. The results of the RAND-36 Item Health Survey and the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot scores were 56.7 and 71, respectively. There were no postoperative infections. No patients required additional operative hindfoot procedures. Five continued to use tobacco products. None reported chronic narcotic usage. CONCLUSION: Aggressive treatment of select open calcaneal fractures with delayed ORIF produced satisfactory functional results. Most patients were able to return to gainful employment. There were no infections or wound complications.     

Hemiarthroplasty for Unstable Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures: A Matched Cohort Study

BackgroundGeriatric intertrochanteric fractures remain a major public health concern due to the considerable disability, morbidity, mortality, and health care costs associated with these injuries. The underlying poor bone quality and unstable nature of these fractures makes them difficult to treat. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of hemiarthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures when compared to the traditional treatment options of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF).MethodsA retrospective 1:1 matched cohort of 150 patients who had intertrochanteric fractures treated with either hemiarthroplasty or ORIF was developed using a local institutional database. Demographic, perioperative, and postoperative variables were collected with at least 1 year of patient follow-up. Statistical analyses were performed with use of Student’s t-tests, chi-square tests, and analysis of variance.ResultsUnstable intertrochanteric fractures treated with ORIF were associated with significantly more blood loss and an increased need for revision surgery. This effect was most pronounced in Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen Orthopaedic Trauma Association classification type 31.A3 fractures, as patients treated with ORIF experienced significantly slower postoperative mobilization, increased blood loss, increased readmission, and revision surgery rates. Hemiarthroplasty was associated with an increased risk of greater trochanter escape, which did not appear to effect outcomes in this subset of patients.ConclusionHemiarthroplasty may improve outcomes for patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures. The benefit of this technique is likely maximized in Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association type 31.A3 fractures. It remains a good option in the hands of experienced surgeons.     

手法闭合复位经皮微创固定治疗肱骨近端骨折的病例对照研究

目的：采用手法闭合复位经皮运用锁定接骨板微创固定治疗肱骨近端骨折与常规切口切开复位内固定治疗肱骨近端骨折,比较两种方法临床效果.方法：2008年4月至2012年3月,75例肱骨近端骨折,男26例,女49例;年龄22～80岁,平均52.1岁;受伤至手术时间平均2.2d;分为微创组和常规组.微创组33例,男12例,女21例;平均年龄（47.30±8.72）岁;Neer分型Ⅱ型22例,Ⅲ型11例;在手法闭合复位后,采用锁定接骨板经肩峰下三角肌小切口插入固定进行治疗.常规组42例,男16例,女26例;平均年龄（49.10±9.29）岁;Neer分型Ⅱ型27例,Ⅲ型15例;手术经常规的三角肌胸大肌间隙入路,显露骨折端,直视下复位后用锁定接骨板固定治疗.分别记录两种术式的手术操作时间、出血量和手术切口长度;应用VAS评分记录术后1、3d手术伤口疼痛情况;比较两组骨折愈合时间,随访记录采用Constant-Murley评分对疗效进行评定并进行两组比较,同时比较两种患者术后肩关节正位X线片上肱骨近端颈干角.结果：75例均获随访,时间8～24个月.微创组手术切口（6.74±0.38） cm,常规组（16.82±1.74） cm,微创组较常规组切口小;微创组出血（110.15±29.49） ml,常规组（326.19±59.71）ml,微创组较常规组出血少;微创组手术时间（48.60±10.18） min,常规组（68.84±16.22） min,微创组较常规组手术时间短.常规组3例出现骨不连并再次手术,2例出现肱骨头坏死.微创组Constant-Murley评分88.94±2.57,常规组86.00±3.36,微创组评分高于常规组.结论：手法复位经皮运用锁定接骨板微创固定治疗肱骨近端骨折,既能减少手术创伤,又能保证关节的早期功能活动,使肩关节功能迅速恢复,具有创伤小、血运破坏少、固定可靠等优点,与常规手术方法相比更具有优势.     

Pre-and postoperative factors associated with functional outcomes in patients with posterior malleolar fractures

IntroductionRecent studies on posterior malleolar fractures mainly focus on the reduction quality and fixation of the posterior fragment since it contributes to ankle stability and articular congruency. However, the association of pre-and postoperative factors considering the whole ankle joint in postoperative functional outcomes remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association between pre-and postoperative variables for postoperative functional outcomes in patients with posterior malleolar fragments (classified as Haraguchi type I or II) and considered the association between reduction and fixation for small posterior malleolar fragments of less than 25% of the intra-articular surface.MethodsThis multicenter retrospective cohort study included 110 adult patients who underwent internal fixation for ankle fractures with posterior malleolar fragments. The primary outcome was the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score 12-months postoperatively. As pre-and postoperative variables, the preoperative demographic data, radiographic findings, operative method, postoperative radiographic findings, and complications were evaluated. In addition, univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between pre-and postoperative variables and AOFAS scores.ResultsTwenty-four (21.8%) cases had postoperative complications. Univariate analysis showed that age was significantly according to AOFAS score-stratified groups in patients with Haraguchi type II fractures. Multivariable logistic regression analysis using bootstrapping in the Haraguchi type II group showed that postoperative complications were significantly associated with low AOFAS scores, indicating poor functionality. In both fracture types, postoperative complications had the highest odds ratio among the explanatory variables. In patients with small posterior malleolar fragments, fragment reduction, fixation, and ankle stability were not associated with AOFAS scores.ConclusionsOur results suggest that postoperative complications were associated with AOFAS scores at postoperative 12 months in patients with ankle fractures with posterior malleolar fragments. In patients with small posterior malleolar fragments, reduction and fixation were not associated with AOFAS scores. Therefore, clinical decisions for posterior fragment fixation should be made based on the possible risk of complications related to the surgical procedures in addition to the posterior malleolar fragment size.     

The effect of posterior tibial and sural nerve blocks on postoperative pain of patients following open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures

IntroductionPostoperative pain control and achieving opioid-free anesthesia are major issues for surgically treated patients with calcaneal fractures. We evaluated the potential role of posterior tibial and sural nerve blocks as a part of multimodal pain control techniques in patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of calcaneal fractures via extensile lateral approach.MethodsForty-eight patients randomly allocated to receive either posterior tibial and sural nerve blocks with bupivacaine (peripheral nerve block (PNB) group) or normal saline, after induction of general anesthesia. Patients were assessed for pain intensity, Interval from entrance to the recovery room to the first request for analgesic, recovery room and ward morphine consumption, global satisfaction and morphine side effects.ResultsPNB group had less pain score compared to sham block (SB) group at each time point measurement during recovery room stay. There was also significant difference between the 2 groups regarding the pain scores after 2, 4 and 6 h of the operation in the ward. Time to the first request for analgesic was significantly prolonged in the PNB group (P < 0.001). The recovery room and ward morphine consumption was significantly lower in the PNB group (P < 0.001). Global satisfaction in PNB group was significantly more than that of SB group. No complication related to the nerve block was detected at the first postoperative visit in the outpatient clinic.ConclusionPeripheral nerve block could result in less postoperative pain especially in the early hours after ORIF of calcaneal fractures and reduce opioid administration within the first 24 h following the surgery.     

Machine Learning Accurately Predicts Short-Term Outcomes Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures are common orthopedic injuries with favorable outcomes when managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Several patient-related risk factors may contribute to poor short-term outcomes, and machine learning may be a valuable tool for predicting outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate machine-learning algorithms for accurately predicting short-term outcomes after ORIF for ankle fractures. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample and Nationwide Readmissions Database were queried for adult patients ≥18 years old who underwent ORIF of an ankle fracture during 2013 or 2014. Morbidity and mortality, length of stay >3 days, and 30-day all-cause readmission were the outcomes of interest. Two machine-learning models were created to identify patient and hospital characteristics associated with the 3 outcomes. The machine learning models were evaluated using confusion matrices and receiver operating characteristic area under the curve values. A total of 16,501 cases were drawn from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample and used to assess morbidity and mortality and length of stay >3 days, and 33,504 cases were drawn from the Nationwide Readmissions Database to assess 30-day readmission. Older age, Medicaid, Medicare, deficiency anemia, congestive heart failure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, hypertension, and renal failure were the variables associated with a statistically significant increased risk of developing all 3 adverse events. Logistic regression and gradient boosting had similar area under the curve values for each outcome, but gradient boosting was more accurate and more specific for predicting each outcome. Our results suggest that several comorbidities may be associated with adverse short-term outcomes after ORIF of ankle fractures, and that machine learning can accurately predict these outcomes.     

Intra-articular Fracture Pattern in Intercondylar Distal Femur Fractures: An Analysis of Frequency and Major Fracture Fragments

IntroductionThe treatment of intercondylar distal femur fractures requires anatomic reduction of intra-articular fragments and absolute fixation. Preoperative planning is necessary to understand fracture morphology. All fracture lines need to be recognized as the primary implant may not capture all articular fragments, mainly when coronal plane fractures are present. Oftentimes, independent interfragmentary compression screws are necessary. No recent studies have visually mapped out the distal femur articular fracture fragments necessary for absolute fixation. The objectives of this study are to determine the frequency of coronal plane fractures in intercondylar distal femur fractures and describe the pattern of intra-articular fracture fragments.Materials and MethodsThe hospital's trauma registry was queried for distal femur ORIF CPT codes logged in the past four years. A retrospective chart review was performed using the EMR and CT scans. Demographics and mechanisms of injury were analyzed. Fracture fragments were surveyed and drawn out by hand on a template for easy organization. Patients’ fractures were categorized into the following groups: fractures with no intra-articular coronal plane fractures, those with medial coronal fractures, those with lateral coronal fractures, or those with both medial and lateral coronal fractures. Major fracture fragments were identified.ResultsA total of 55 patients were included. 26 patients (47%) were found to have no intra-articular coronal plane fractures; 6 patients (11%) were found to have medial coronal plane fractures; 15 patients (27%) were found to have lateral coronal plane fractures, and 8 patients (15%) had medial and lateral coronal plane fractures. Collectively, intra-articular coronal plane fractures were identified in 29 patients (53%) with intercondylar distal femur fractures. Four major fracture fragments along with intercondylar and condylar comminution sites were identified.DiscussionDistal femur intra-articular coronal plane fractures can yield large anterior and posterior condylar fracture fragments of either the medial condyle, lateral condyle, or both condyles. Coronal plane fracture fragments must be identified to obtain absolute fixation. Our study found a higher coronal plane fracture line frequency (52.7%) than prior commonly cited studies. Surgeons must be on the lookout for anterior fracture fragments, posterior fracture fragments, and articular comminution when treating intercondylar femur fractures.     

经皮微创新型锁定钢板治疗老年肱骨近端骨折的病例对照研究

目的:评价经皮微创新型锁定钢板内固定治疗老年性肱骨近端3、4部分骨折的临床意义。方法:2008年6月至2010年12月,采用锁定钢板内固定治疗老年肱骨近端3、4部分骨折98例,男43例,女55例;年龄65～84岁,平均(71.3±6.2)岁。47例采取经三角肌外侧入路,经皮微创新型肱骨近端锁定钢板内固定治疗(MIPPO组);51例采取三角肌胸大肌间隙入路,切开复位锁定钢板内固定治疗(ORIF组)。记录患者的手术时间、术中出血量、伤口并发症、住院时间。术后应用Constant评分系统对肩关节进行功能评定。结果:96例患者均获随访,时间13～42个月,平均18.1个月,2例患者随访期内死亡。MIPPO组较ORIF组平均出血量减少125ml(P<0.05)。手术时间两组比较差异无统计学意义。平均住院时间MIPPO组较ORIF组缩短5.1d(P<0.05)。两组患者骨折愈合时间比较差异无统计学意义。末次随访肩关节功能Constant评分两组比较差异无统计学意义,但并发症发生率MIPPO组低于ORIF组(P<0.05)。结论:经皮微创肱骨近端新型锁定钢板内固定具有术中出血少、术后患者恢复快和血运破坏少、并发症发生率低等优点,是治疗老年肱骨近端3、4部分骨折有效的方法。     

电视胸腔镜手术及常规手术治疗多发性肋骨骨折的对比分析

目的比较电视胸腔镜手术与常规手术治疗多发性肋骨骨折的临床效果。方法自2010年1月至2012年12月,都江堰市人民医院收治多发性肋骨骨折173例,其中男122例,女51例;年龄19～71（41.3±7．1）岁。173例患者根据采用的治疗方法不同分为3组,非手术组：83例,肋骨骨折（4．9±1．3）处,连枷胸20例;常规手术组41例,肋骨骨折（5．2-＋1．1）处,连枷胸11例;电视胸腔镜手术组：49例,肋骨骨折（5_3±1．5）处,连枷胸14例。观察住院时间、疼痛时间、手术切口长度、手术时间、胸腔闭式引流时间及并发症发生情况,并进行比较。结果电视胸腔镜手术组切口长度[（5．2±1．5）cmvs．（8．5±2-3）cm,P=0．031]、手术时间[（1．1±0.3）hVS．（1．8±0．2）h,P=0．003]、胸腔引流时间[（0-3±0．0）dVS．（3．2±1．1）d,P=0．007]和住院时间[（13．7±1．5）dVS．（17．3±2．3）d,P=0．017]均短于常规手术组。本组159例患者完成随访,于出院后1、3、6个月随访复查胸部x线片,3个月后患者的肋骨骨折处均有明显的骨痂生长,未行手术治疗的部分患者肋骨畸形愈合。结论对多发性肋骨骨折的治疗,随着内固定材料的发展,手术治疗逐渐成为趋势,而电视胸腔镜手术具有微创手术的优点,效果良好。     

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis with locking compression plate in patients with Vancouver type B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures

BackgroundPeriprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) remain one of the most challenging complications to address. Although the principal treatment modalities for Vancouver type B1 fractures are open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), surgeons have not yet reached a consensus on the optimal method for reduction and fixation. We therefore investigated whether minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) using locking compression plate (LCP) would lead to favorable outcomes for patients with Vancouver type B1 PFFs. In addition, we also compared the outcomes of patients treated with MIPO to those treated with ORIF.MethodWe retrospectively evaluated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of a series of 21 Vancouver type B1 PFFs treated with MIPO and LCP between February 2011 and February 2017. The mean duration of follow-up was 33.8 months. We also compared outcomes of these patients to those of patients with 19 Vancouver type B1 fractures treated with ORIF between April 2006 and December 2011.ResultsFracture healing without complications was achieved in 20 (95.2%) out of 21 cases in the MIPO group and in 14 (87.5%) out of 16 cases in the ORIF group. There was one case of fixation failure with stem subsidence in the MIPO group. In the ORIF group, there were 2 nonunion with metal failure. Operation time was significantly shorter and intraoperative blood loss was significantly less in the MIPO group compared to the ORIF group. However, there were no significant differences in frequency of transfusion, time-to-union, walking abilities, modified Harris hip score, or complications.ConclusionThe radiological and clinical outcomes of MIPO using LCP in patients with Vancouver type B1 PFFs were shown not to be inferior to ORIF and resulted in fewer intraoperative complications than ORIF. If care is taken regarding the stability of femoral implant and optimal surgical techniques, MIPO may be a recommended option in the treatment of Vancouver type B1 periprosthetic fracture.