Suprapatellar versus infrapatellar nailing for tibial shaft fractures: A comparison of surgical and clinical outcomes between two approaches

BackgroundTibial shaft fractures are a relatively common injury and contemporary treatment includes on-axis fixation with a locked intramedullary nail in the majority of cases. The conventional technique is via an infrapatellar approach but currently there is a trend towards the use of a suprapatellar approach. We compared key variables including operative time, radiation exposure and early patient reported outcomes when adopting a suprapatellar approach to tibial nailing in our unit versus our previous experience of infrapatellar tibial nailing.MethodTwenty-eight consecutive patients with tibial fracture underwent tibial nailing via the suprapatellar (SPN) approach. Six patients in the study group were excluded due polytrauma and need for dual orthopaedic and plastic surgery management. We compared outcomes with our most recent 20 consecutive patients who had undergone tibial nailing via an infrapatellar (IPN) approach. Primary surgical outcomes were: operative time, radiation exposure and accuracy of entry point of the nail on both anteroposterior and lateral radiographs. Clinical outcomes included time to weightbearing, time to radiographic union and patient-reported outcome score (Lysholm score).ResultsForty-eight consecutive patients underwent intramedullary nail fixation for tibial shaft fractures and 42 were eligible for inclusion in our study (22 SPN vs 20 IPN). There were no significant differences in patient demographics or injury patterns between the two groups. Operative time and radiation exposure were significantly lower in the SPN group when compared to the IPN group (115 min vs 139 min ± 12.5) (36 cGY/cm² vs 76.33 cGY/cm² +/- 20.1). Furthermore, patients in the SPN group reported superior outcome scores at a mean follow up of 3 months (8–24 weeks) There were no observed differences in complication rate between groups and time of final clinical follow up at a minimum of 6 months.ConclusionOur study shows that adoption of the SPN approach requires minimal learning curve, and has the potential benefits of reduced operative time, radiation exposure and superior patient reported outcomes when compared to the conventional infrapatellar approach.     

不同手术入路对胫骨干骨折髓内钉固定术的疗效影响

目的:比较髌上入路、髌下正中和髌下旁入路髓内钉治疗胫骨干骨折的临床疗效.方法:自2012年6月至2018年6月,采用髓内钉治疗胫骨干骨折36例,按照手术入路不同分为髌上入路组、髌下正中入路组和髌下旁入路组.髌上入路组12例,男7例,女5例;年龄25～53(37.8±11.4)岁;AO分型A型4例,B型4例,C型4例.髌...     

Comparison between suprapatellar and parapatellar approaches for intramedullary nailing of the tibia. Cadaveric study

Intramedullary nailing is one viable option for treating fractures of the tibia with a short, proximal segment. For a procedure being carried out with the knee in a semi-extended position, either a suprapatellar or parapatellar approach may be used. The objective of this study is to demonstrate whether the entry point for tibia nails is obtainable through suprapatellar or parapatellar approaches and to evaluate the most frequent injuries of the knee with these two approaches.Materials and methodsPaired legs from 10 fresh frozen cadavers were used. An arthroscopy was performed in each knee, documenting the status of the knee prior to the insertion of the tibia nail. In a random manner, the left or right leg underwent nailing with a suprapatellar or parapatellar approach in a semi-extended position. Fluoroscopy was utilized in each case to localize the entry point, and a tibia nail was inserted in all cases. A knee arthrotomy was then performed and the status of the following structures was assessed: patella and trochlea cartilage, tibia plateau cartilage, inter-meniscal ligament, lateral and medial meniscus, and the ACL.ResultsThe correct fluoroscopy entry point was achieved in all of the specimens (20). Three legs (3/10) with parapatellar approach had intra-articular disruption. In legs with a suprapatellar approach, patellar cartilage and trochlea cartilage damage was found in two of the specimens, respectively. There was one specimen with cartilage damage in the parapatellar approach. There were no meniscal injuries. Partial laceration of the intermeniscal ligament was found in three of the knees for each approach. One ACL injury was found in the suprapatellar group. Mean distance from the entry point to major structures is not significantly different with either approach. (p = 0.45).ConclusionsA good fluoroscopic entry point can be achieved using either the parapatellar or suprapatellar approach. The parapatellar approach for tibia nailing has similar rate of soft tissue damage compared to the suprapatellar approach. The suprapatellar approach damaged the cartilage in one-third of the cases and if cartilage injury occurs with the parapatellar approach, this is located in a low risk area.     

Internal tibial torsion is related to syndesmosis injury in a large osteological collection

BackgroundThe long-term consequences of tibial torsion remain unclear. This study evaluated whether syndesmotic injuries are associated with tibial torsion.MethodsA collection of over 3000 cadaveric skeletons was screened for irregular bony prominence along the lateral distal tibia, consistent with previous syndesmosis injury. Tibial torsion was measured and compared to 1034 control cadaveric tibiae.ResultsMean torsion of 236 specimens with syndesmotic injury was 6.2 ± 8.9 degrees, while that of control specimens was 7.9 ± 8.8 degrees (P = 0.008). Multiple regression analysis showed a non-statistically significant trend toward internal torsion and syndesmotic injury (standardized beta = −0.051, P = 0.059). Syndesmosis injury was present in 48/200 specimens (24.0%) with internal torsion and 31/199 specimens (15.6%) with external torsion (P = 0.035).ConclusionThis association between internal tibial torsion and syndesmotic injury suggests that internal tibial torsion might not be an entirely benign condition and merits further study.     

髌上入路胫骨髓内钉治疗胫骨近端骨折

目的:探讨膝关节半伸直位髌上入路胫骨髓内钉治疗胫骨近端骨折的临床疗效。方法:2013年1月至2014年1月共收治胫骨近端骨折16例,男14例,女2例;年龄26～57岁,平均42.2岁。所有患者为单侧闭合骨折,采用膝关节半伸直位髌上入路META-NAIL胫骨髓内钉内固定治疗。记录手术时间、术后并发症、骨愈合时间、胫骨力线和膝关节活动范围,并采用视觉模拟评分法(visual analogue scale,VAS)和Lysholm膝关节评分评定手术疗效。结果:所有16例患者手术时间65～95 min,平均(75.7±8.3) min.无明显围手术期并发症发生。所有患者获随访,时间12～24个月,平均(15.6±8.1)个月。15例获得Ⅰ期骨愈合,平均骨愈合时间(3.6±1.8)个月(3～5个月).末次随访时,所有患者胫骨力线良好,无膝前疼痛。患侧膝关节屈伸活动范围平均(124.4±18.8)°,健侧(127.5±16.7)°。Lysholm膝关节评分77～92分,平均86.4±12.3.结论:膝关节半伸直位髌上入路胫骨髓内钉治疗胫骨近端骨折,术中复位及固定操作方便,术后并发症少,患肢功能恢复良好,临床疗效满意。     

Suprapatellar nailing of tibial fractures–Indications and technique

Intramedullary nailing is the standard procedure for surgical treatment of closed and Gustilo-Anderson Grade I-II° open fractures of the tibial shaft. The use of intramedullary nailing for the treatment of proximal metaphyseal tibia fractures is frequently followed by postoperative malalignment, whereas plate osteosynthesis is associated with higher rates of postoperative infection. Intramedullary nailing of tibial fractures is generally performed through an infrapatellar approach. The injured extremity must be positioned at a minimum of 90° of flexion in the knee joint to achieve optimal exposure of the correct entry point. The tension of the quadriceps tendon causes a typical apex anterior angulation of the proximal fragment.The suprapatellar approach improves reduction of the fracture and reduces the occurrence of malalignment during intramedullary nailing of extra-articular proximal tibial fractures. The knee is positioned in 20° of flexion to neutralise traction forces secondary to the quadriceps muscle, thus preventing an apex anterior angulation of the proximal fragment. An additional advantage of the technique is that it allows the surgeon to avoid or minimise further soft tissue damage because of the distance between the optimal incision point and the usual area of soft tissue damage.     

Fragility fractures of the ankle in the elderly: Open reduction and internal fixation versus tibio-talo-calcaneal nailing: Short-term results of a prospective randomized-controlled study

IntroductionThe management of ankle fractures in the elderly remains unpredictable, secondary to their various co-morbidities. Although tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) nailing has been an effective option for ankle arthrodesis due to ankle arthritis or Charcot arthropathy there are few reports regarding the use of TTC nail for the treatment of ankle fractures.PurposeAim of this study was to compare the results of ORIF versus TTC nailing for the treatment of unstable ankle fractures in the elderly. We hypothesized that the elderly may benefit from TTC nailing, as it allows the patient to be mobilized immediately after surgery and minimizes the risk of wound or bone problems.Patients and methodsThis was a prospective, randomized-controlled, comparative study. Between 2009 and 2015, 43 patients were treated with a TTC nail (Group A) and 44 with ORIF (Group B). The Olerud-Molander ankle score was obtained and intraoperative-postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, mobility status and reoperation rate were recorded. The nail fixation was performed with the TrigenR hindfoot nail after closed reduction. ORIF was performed, using a 1/3 tubular plate and 3.5 mm screws for the lateral malleolus and two 4.0 mm cannulated screws for the medial.ResultsMortality rate at one year was 13.9% for Group A and 18.1% for Group B. Mean follow-up was 14 months (12–18 m). There were no intraoperative complications. Three complications in Group A (8.1%) and twelve (33.3%) in Group B were encountered postoperatively (p < 0.05). There was significant shorter hospital stay in Group A (5.2 ± 3.1d) than in Group B (8.4 ± 5.2d). In Group A, 28 patients returned to their pre-injury mobility status (75.6%) while 9 declined one level of the mobility scale (24.3%). In Group B, 26 patients remained at the same mobility level (72.2%) and 10 declined one level (27.7%). There was no significant difference between the postoperative OMAS scores in the two Groups (56.9 ± 9.85 and 56.6 ± 9.3 respectively).ConclusionsWe believe that TTC nailing is a safe and effective method of treatment of unstable ankle fractures in the elderly because it has a low risk of complications and restores function and mobility allowing an immediate return to full weight-bearing.     

Computer-assisted navigation for intramedullary nail fixation of intertrochanteric femur fractures: A randomized,controlled trial

IntroductionLag screw cutout is one of the most commonly reported complications following intramedullary nail fixation of intertrochanteric femur fractures. However, its occurrence can be minimized by a well-positioned implant, with a short Tip-to-Apex Distance (TAD). Computer-assisted navigation systems provide surgeons with the ability to track screw placement in real-time. This could allow for improved lag screw placement and potentially reduce radiation exposure to the patient and surgeon.MethodsBetween Oct 2014 and Jan 2016, patients with intertrochanteric femur fractures being treated with intramedullary nail fixation by one of three fellowship-trained orthopaedic traumatologists were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were low-energy mechanism of injury and fracture class 31-A1/A2. Open fractures and patients with multiple injuries to the lower extremity were excluded. Patients were randomly assigned to computer-assisted navigation or a conventional fluoroscopic technique for lag screw placement. The primary outcomes were TAD, measured by postoperative anteroposterior and lateral x-rays by an independent reviewer, and radiation exposure measured in seconds of fluoroscopy time. Surgical time was also recorded.Results50 patients were randomized, 26 to the computer-assisted navigation group and 24 to the control group. The mean manually-measured TAD in the computer-assisted navigation group was 14.1 mm ± 3.2 and in the control group was 14.9 mm ± 3.0 (p = 0.394). There was no difference between groups in total radiation time (navigation: 58.8 s ± 23.6, control: 56.5 s ± 28.5, p = 0.337) or radiation time during lag screw placement (navigation: 19.4 s ± 8.8, control: 18.8 s ± 8.0, p = 0.522). The surgical time was significantly longer in the computer-assisted navigation group with a mean surgical time of 45.8 min ± 9.8 compared to 38.4 min ± 9.3 in the control group (p = 0.009).ConclusionsComputer-assisted navigation consistently produced excellent TADs, however it was not significantly better than conventional methods when done by fellowship-trained orthopaedic traumatologists. Surgeons with a lower volume trauma practice could potentially benefit from computer-assisted navigation to obtain better TAD.     

Anteromedialisation tibial tubercle osteotomy for recurrent patellar instability in young active patients: A retrospective case series

IntroductionRecurrent patellar instability can be a source of continued pain and functional limitation in the young, active patient population. Instability in the setting of an elevated tibial tubercle–trochlear groove (TT–TG) distance can be effectively managed with a tibial tubercle osteotomy. At the present time, clinical outcome data are limited with respect to this surgical approach to patellar instability.MethodsA retrospective chart review was performed to identify all cases of tibial tubercle osteotomy for the management of patellar instability performed at our institution with at least 1 year of post-operative follow-up. Patient demographic information was collected along with relevant operative data. Each patient was evaluated post-operatively with their outcomes assessed utilising a visual analogue score of pain, patient satisfaction, Tegner Activity Scale and Kujala score.Results31 patients (23 females and 8 males) with mean age of 27 years (17–43 years) and a mean BMI of 26.3 kg/m² (19.6–35.8) at time of surgery who underwent a tibial tubercle osteotomy as treatment for recurrent patellar instability were identified. The cohort had a mean follow up of 4.4 years (1.5–11.8 years). The mean pre-operative TT–TG distance was 18 mm (10–22 mm). The mean VAS pain score demonstrated a significant improvement from 6.8 (95% CI 6.1–7.5) at baseline to 2.8 (95% CI 1.9–3.7) post-operatively (p < 0.001). The Tegner score improved from 4.1 (95% CI 3.4–4.8) pre-operatively to 5.2 (95% CI 4.5–5.9) at the time of final follow up (p < 0.04). The Kujala score for anterior knee pain improved postoperatively from 62 (95% CI 55.4–68.7) to 76.5 (95% CI 69.5–83.5) at final follow up (p < 0.001). 26 of the 31 patients (83.8%) had good to excellent Kujala scores. 27 of 31 patients (87.1%) reported that they would undergo the procedure again if necessary.ConclusionFor the management of recurrent patellar instability in the setting of an increased tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance, a corrective tibial tubercle osteotomy is an effective treatment modality to reliably prevent patellar instability while reducing pain and improving function in this cohort of young, active patients.     

Clinical outcomes of autogenous cancellous bone grafts obtained through the portal for tibial nailing

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to introduce and review the clinical outcomes of a new technique for harvesting autogenous cancellous bone grafts in association with tibial intramedullary (IM) nailing.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed 21 patients who received autogenous cancellous bone grafts obtained from the entry portal of a tibial IM nail for fracture gaps, malalignment or nonunion in the lower extremities. All patients were scheduled to receive IM nailing or had already received IM nailing for the fixation of an ipsilateral tibia shaft fracture. A total of 33 patients who received only tibial IM nailing were selected as a control group. Through the follow-up, postoperative complications related to the bone harvest were monitored. Further by taking serial X-rays, radiographic changes of the donor site and the knee joint were closely observed. Knee pain (visual analogue scale (VAS)) and function (Lysholm knee score) were compared between the study group and the control group.ResultsAt the last follow-up, the average VAS in the study group was 1.28 (0–5), which was not significantly different from the control group (VAS: 1.36, range 0–7) (P = 0.985). The range of motion of the knee joint was similar in both groups, averaging 130.23° (range: 115–135°) and 131.36° (range: 115–135°), respectively. There was no significant difference in the Lysholm knee score between the study and control groups (P = 0.610). All patients exhibited complete fracture healing at an average of 6 months and no complications associated with the bone donor site were observed.ConclusionsBy using the new technique, autogenous cancellous bone grafting can be performed conveniently and safely to treat fracture gaps, malalignment or nonunion in the lower extremities without additional morbidity at the donor site.     

Reamed or unreamed intramedullary nailing for tibial fractures: a meta-analysis

Objective：To compare the treating effects of different intramedullary nailing methods on tibial fractures in adults.Methods：Literature reports in both Chinese and English languages were retrieved （from the earliest available records to October 1,2013） from the PubMed,FMJS,CNKI,Wanfang Data using randomized controlled trials （RCTs） to compare reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing for treatment of tibial fractures.Methodological quality of the trials was critically assessed,and relevant data were extracted.Statistical software Revman 5.0 was used for data-analysis.Results：A total of 12 randomized controlled trials,comprising 985 patients （475 in the unreamed group and 510 in the reamed group）,were eligible for inclusion in this meta-analysis.The results of metaanalysis showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the two methods in the reported outcomes of infection （RR=0.64; 95％CI,0.39 to 1.07;P=0.09）,compartment syndrome （RR=1.44; 95％CI,0.8to 2.41; P=0.16）,thrombosis （RR=1.29; 95％CI,0.43to 3.87; P=0.64）,time to union （WMD=5.01; 95％CI,-1.78 to 11.80; P=0.15）,delayed union （nonunion）（RR=1.56; 95％CI,0.97 to 2.49; P=0.06）,malunion （RR=1.75; 95％CI,1.00 to 3.08; P=0.05） and knee pain （RR=0.94; 95％CI,0.73 to 1.22; P=0.66）.But there was a significantly higher fixation failure rate in the unreamed group than in the reamed group （RR=4.29; 95％CI,2.58to 7.14; P＜0.00001）.Conclusion：There is no significant difference in the reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing for the treatment of tibial fractures,but our result recommends reamed nails for the treatment of closed tibial fractures for their lower fixation failure rate.     

The “Road to Union” protocol for the reconstruction of isolated complex high-energy tibial trauma

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to describe a standardized staged approach, “The Road to Union”, for the reconstruction of isolated complex tibial trauma, both acute and chronic in nature.MethodsThis retrospective study included all patients treated for complex tibial trauma at a specialized limb reconstruction centre, including acute open fracture as well as infected and aseptic non-unions. This standardized approach includes eight specific steps, employed in sequence. The time in external fixation (EFT), the external fixation index (EFI), and the distraction consolidation index (DCI) were the primary outcome measures. The relationship between EFI and DCI was assessed using Pearson’s moment correlations.ResultsThirty-two patients with a mean age of 34.7 ± 14.2 years were included; 12 were treated for complex open tibial fractures with bone loss, 13 for infected non-unions, and 6 for aseptic non-union. The mean bone defect was 66 ± 32 mm. The total EFT was 42.5 ± 14.8 weeks; the EFI measured 51.9 ± 25.3 days/cm, and the DCI measured 48.3 ± 21.4 days/cm. Union was achieved in 29 out of 32 patients (91%), and there was a strong and significant relationship between EFI and DCI (r = 0.92, p = 0.0001) measurements. Pin site infections were observed in 11 patients, and 3 patients had persistent non-union. Three patients underwent delayed amputations when reconstructive procedures were unable to achieve union.ConclusionThe findings of this study demonstrate that a standardized staged treatment protocol of debridement, circular external fixation, soft-tissue management, distraction osteogenesis, and functional rehabilitation can result in a high rate of union in cases of complex tibial trauma, both acute and chronic in nature.Level of evidenceLevel IV; case series     

Is device-assisted reduction prior to semi-extended intramedullary nailing of distal tibial fractures necessary?

IntroductionTraditional methods of nailing distal tibial fractures have an unacceptable risk of mal-alignment due to difficulty in obtaining and maintaining reduction intra-operatively. Methods to obtain and maintain reduction when nailing these fractures, and therefore reducing the risk of Mal-alignment include modified external fixators, distractors and commercial reduction tools. Semi-extended intramedullary nailing of distal tibial fractures via a supra-patellar approach is now being used more commonly. The aim of this study was to assess whether a commercial reduction device (Staffordshire Orthopaedic Reduction Machine − STORM, Intelligent Orthopaedics, Stafffordshire, UK) is necessary to reduce the risk of mal-alignment in patients undergoing semi-extended nailing for distal tibial fractures.MethodologyA case-control study was conducted in 20 patients who had STORM-assisted reduction of distal tibial fractures prior to intramedullary nailing and 20 controls without STORM. The control group was matched for age, sex, fracture type (AO/OTA), ASA and gender. All patients had an intramedullary nail (IMN) using the semi-extended system. Primary outcome measures were coronal and sagittal mal-alignment. Secondary outcome measure was unplanned return to theatre for complications and problems with fracture healing.ResultsThere was no difference in post-operative mal-alignment in both groups. There was no significant difference in time to union in both groups Both groups had equal number of patients requiring unplanned return to theatre. The STORM group was associated with a significantly increased operative time [p = 0.007, 130.3 min (SD 49.4) STORM vs 95.6 mins (SD 22.9) Control].ConclusionIntraoperative use of STORM significantly increases operative time with no difference in outcome. The superior orthogonal views and manual control obtained during semi-extended nailing via a supra-patellar approach obviate the need for additional methods: of intraoperative reduction for this fracture group.     

Surgical approaches to intramedullary nailing of the tibia: Comparative analysis of knee pain and functional outcomes

IntroductionPost-operative knee pain is common following intramedullary nailing of the tibia, regardless of surgical approach, though the exact source is controversial. Historically, the most common surgical approaches position the knee in hyperflexion, including patellar tendon splitting (PTS) and medial parapatellar (MPP). A novel technique, the semi-extended lateral parapatellar approach simplifies patient positioning, fracture reduction, fluoroscopic assessment, and implant insertion. It also avoids violation of the knee joint capsule. However, this approach has not yet been directly compared against the historical standards. We hypothesised that in a comparison of patient outcomes, the semi-extended approach would be associated with decreased knee pain and better function relative to knee hyperflexion approaches.MethodsA trauma patient database from a Level I centre was queried for patients who underwent intramedullary nailing of the tibia between 2009 and 2013. Patients were surveyed for knee pain severity (NRS scale 1 to 10) and location, and completion of the Lysholm Knee Scale (LKS). Data was compared between the semi-extended lateral parapatellar, medial parapatellar, and tendon splitting groups regarding knee pain severity, location, total LKS, and individual knee function scores from the Lysholm questionnaire. Pre-hoc power analysis determined the necessary sample size (n = 34). Post-hoc analysis utilised two-way ANOVA analysis with a significance threshold of p < 0.05.ResultsComparison of knee pain severity between the groups found no significant difference (p = 0.69), with average ratings of: semi-extended (3.26), PTS (3.59), and MPP (3.63). Analysis found no significant differences in total LKS score (p = 0.33), with average sums of: semi-extended (75.97), MPP (77.53), and PTS (81.68). Individual knee function scores from the LKS were similar between the groups, except for limping, with MPP being significantly worse (p = 0.04). There was no significant difference in knee pain location (p = 0.45).ConclusionIn this adequately-powered study, at minimum 1 year follow-up there were no significant differences between the 3 approaches in knee pain severity, location, or overall function. The three were significantly different in post-operative limping, with medial parapatellar having the lowest score. The semi-extended lateral parapatellar approach vastly simplifies many technical aspects of nailing compared to knee hyperflexion approaches, and does not violate the knee joint.     

Traction table versus manual traction in the intramedullary nailing of unstable intertrochanteric fractures: A prospective randomized trial

IntroductionThe purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare traction table with manual traction for the reduction and nailing of unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures.DesignProspective, randomized, two-center trial.Materials and methods72 elderly patients with AO/OTA 31A2 and 31A3 proximal femur fractures were randomized to undergo surgery with either manual traction (MT) or traction table (TT) facilitated intramedullary nailing. The demographics and fracture characteristics, duration of preparation and surgery, total anaesthesia time, fluoroscopy time, blood loss, number of assistants, early post-operative radiological evaluations and 6th month functional and radiological outcomes were evaluated. Data of 64 patients attending 6th month follow-up examination were evaluated statistically.ResultsNo significant differences were observed between groups regarding demographics and fracture characteristics. In the manual traction group, there was a significant time gain in respect of the positioning and preparation period (18.0 ± 1.6 min in MT group, 29.0 ± 2.4 min in TT group) (p < 0.05). In terms of total anaesthesia time (Preparation + surgery) approximately 6 min of difference was observed in favor of MT group (72.8 ± 14.0 min for MT and 78.6 ± 6.5 min for TT, [p < 0.05]). Median number of assistants needed was significantly lower in TT group (2 assistants [1], [2], [3]) in MT group and (1 assistant [1], [2]) in TT group [p < 0.05]). There was no significant difference between two groups regarding other surgical and outcome parameters.ConclusionsManual traction reduced the preparation time and total anaesthesia duration, despite an increase in number of surgical assistant.Level of evidenceLevel II.     

Moore I postero-medial articular tibial fracture in alpine skiers: Surgical management and return to sports activity

PurposeOver the past 10 years, like many authors, we observed an increasing number of Moore I tibial plateau fractures related to alpine skiing for which the surgeon may face difficult choices regarding surgical approach and fixation means. Some authors have recently been suggesting a posterior approach associated to open reduction and osteosynthesis by a buttress plate. But in our knowledge there is no specific study on sports activity recovery after Moore I tibial fractures. The aim of this work was to assess sports activities and clinical outcomes after surgically treated Moore I tibial plateau fractures in an athletic population of skiers.MethodsWe conducted a prospective case series between 2012 and 2014. This included fifteen patients aged 39.6 ± 7 years whom presented with a Moore I tibial plateau fracture during a skiing accident. 12 cases (80%) presented with an associated tibial spine fracture. Treatment consisted of a standard antero-medial approach, with a medial para patellar arthrotomy to allow direct visualisation of articular reduction and spinal fixation. Two or three 6.5 mm long cancellous bone screws were placed antero-posteriorly so as to ensure perfect compression of the fracture site. Radiological and functional results were assessed by an independent observer (Lysholm-Tegner, UCLA, KOOS scores) at the longest follow-up.ResultsMean follow-up was 18.2 ± 6 months (12–28). An immediate postoperative anatomical reduction was achieved in all cases and remained stable in time. At last follow-up Lysholm mean score was 85 ± 14 points (59–100), UCLA score was 7.3 ± 1.6 (4–10) and Tegner score was 4.6 ± 1.3 (3–6). Mean KOOS score was 77 ± 15 (54–97). 87% of patients had resumed their skiing activity and 93% were satisfied or very satisfied from their post-operative surgical outcome. We observed no pseudarthrosis or secondary varus displacement.ConclusionIn our series 87% of patients had resumed back to their sporting activities. Surgical management of Moore I tibial plateau fractures by isolated antero-posterior screwing provides excellent clinical and radiological results. The anteromedial incision has a dual advantage of anatomical reduction, tibial spine fixation (in 80% of our cases) and posteromedial fragment reduction.     

Distal locking in short hip nails: Cause or prevention of peri-implant fractures?

ObjectivesThe most common cause of femoral fractures after osteosynthesis of trochanteric fractures with short nails is weakening of the femoral cortex via distal locking and stress concentrations at the tip of the nail. The aim of the study was to verify whether the incidence of peri-implant fractures is dependent upon the distal locking technique.MethodsWe prospectively analysed a group of 849 pertrochanteric fractures (AO/ASIF 31-A1 + 2) managed with short nails from 2009 to 2013. Unlocked nailing was performed in 70.1% and distal dynamic locking was performed in 29.9%. The mean age was 82.0 years. Peri-implant fractures were divided into 3 groups according to the height of the fracture in relation to the tip of the nail.ResultsIn total 17 fractures (2.0%) were detected. One peri-implant fracture occurred after locked nailing, whereas 16 cases occurred after unlocked nailing (p = 0.037). Patients without distal locking had an 85.7% greater risk of peri-implant fracture. Fractures of the proximal femur (Type I) occurred significantly earlier than fractures at the tip of the nail (Type II) (p = 0.028).ConclusionUnlocked nails do not guarantee sufficient stability. Distal locking serves to prevent postoperative femoral fractures. We recommend the routine use of distal locking when utilizing short nails.     

Are bilateral tibial shaft fractures associated with an increased risk for adverse outcome?

IntroductionLong bone fractures are assumed to be an independent risk factor for systemic complications and death after trauma. Multiple studies have identified an increased risk for mortality and morbidity in patients with bilateral femoral fractures. Data about bilateral tibial shaft fractures is rare. The aim of our study was to analyze if patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures are at higher risk for systemic complications.MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of the TraumaRegister DGU^® from 1993 to 2008. Inclusion criteria were unilateral or bilateral tibial shaft fractures and an age ≥16. Additionally to the overall collective we analyzed different subgroups (divided into different injury severities and treatment periods).Results1899 patients with unilateral and 175 patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures were included. Age, gender and mean ISS (25.8 vs. 26.2, p = 0.51) in the two groups were comparable. Regarding the entire study population, patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures showed no significant higher incidence of respiratory organ failure (29.5% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.076) or mortality (20.0% vs. 16.3%, p = 0.203). However, subgroup analysis showed a significant higher rate of pulmonary organ failure for bilateral tibial shaft fractures as compared to unilateral tibial shaft fractures in the group ISS < 25 (20.7% vs. 11.7%, p = 0.023). Multivariate regression analysis identified the additional tibial shaft fracture as an independent risk factor for pulmonary organ failure (OR = 1.56) but not for mortality.DiscussionThe additional tibial shaft fracture is an independent risk factor for pulmonary organ failure but not for multiple organ failure or mortality. The impact of the additional tibial shaft fracture is especially pronounced in less severely injured patients (ISS < 25). These findings are comparable to results of bilateral femoral fracture studies and we therefore suggest to treat patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures with the same caution as those with bilateral femoral fractures.     

Minimally invasive fixation in tibial plateau fractures using an pre-operative and intra-operative real size 3D printing

The purpose of our study was to compare the outcome after minimally invasive reconstruction and internal fixation with and without the use of pre- and intra-operative real size 3D printing for patients with displaced tibial plateau fractures (TPFs). We prospectively followed up 40 consecutive adult patients with closed TPF who underwent surgical treatment of reconstruction of the tibial plateau with the use of minimally invasive fixation. Sixteen patients (group 1) were operated using a pre-operative and intra-operative real size 3D-model, while 24 patients (group 2) were operated without 3D-model printing, but using only pre-operative and intra-operative 3D Tc-scan images. The mean operating time was 148.2 ± 15.9 min for group 1 and 174.5 ± 22.2 min for group 2 (p = 0.041). In addition, the mean intraoperative blood loss was less in group 1 (520 mL) than in group 2 (546 mL) (p = 0.534). After discharge, all patients were followed up at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, 1 year and then every year post surgically and radiographic evaluation was carried out each time using clinical and radiological Rasmussen’s score, with no significant differences between the two groups. Two patients (group 2) developed infection which resolved within 3 weeks after usage of antibiotics. Neither superficial nor deep infections were present in group 1. In all patients, no non-union occurred. No intraoperative, perioperative, or postoperative complications, such as loss of valgus correction, bone fractures, or metallic plate failures were detected at follow-up. In patients operated with the use of 3D-model printing, we found a significant reduction in surgical time. Moreover, the technique without a 3D-model increased the patient’s and the surgeon’s exposure to radiation.     

Intramedullary tibial nailing using infrapatellar and suprapatellar approaches: A systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionIntramedullary nailing of diaphyseal tibial fractures has become the gold standard method of fixation with high rates of union and low complication rates reported. The suprapatellar (SP) approach may have many advantages over the traditional infrapatellar (IP) approach. Controversy exists due to potential damage to the patellofemoral joint leading to persistent anterior knee pain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the clinical and procedural outcomes of the SP approach in comparison to the traditional IP approach.MethodIn this PRISMA compliant systematic review and meta-analysis, five databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and CINAHL were searched from inception until May 2020. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and comparative observational studies involving adults with tibial fractures treated with intramedullary nail fixation using either the suprapatellar or infrapatellar approach were included. Data extracted included demographics, functional knee scores, fluoroscopy exposure, insertional accuracy and adverse events. The primary outcome was validated functional knee scores. Risk of bias was calculated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool version 2 (RoB 2) and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).ResultsIn total 16 studies were included consisting of 5 RCTs and 11 comparative observational studies. This included 1750 total operations with 810 in the SP group and 940 in the IP group. Meta-analysis was performed on the studies where appropriate data was reported. The SP approach demonstrated superior Lysholm scores (Mean Difference (MD) 5.63 [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 2.81 to 8.44]), reduced fluoroscopy times (MD -38.12 sec [95% CI: -47.96 to -28.28]) and increased entry point accuracy (Standard Mean Difference (SMD) -0.90 [95% CI: -1.22 to –0.59]). No differences in complication rates or blood loss were found.ConclusionBased on the data presented in this review, intramedullary nailing of the tibia using the SP approach demonstrates superior Lysholm knee scores, greater entry point accuracy and reduced fluoroscopy exposure with equivalent risk of developing complications when compared to the IP approach.