Use of a stockinette in closed reduction of distal extra-articular tibia fractures

Tibia fractures are common orthopaedic injuries. One of the most difficult tibia fractures that physicians encounter is the extra-articular distal third fracture. Operative fixation has certain risks depending on the procedure. Intramedullary nails fail to obtain adequate distal locking, and plate fixation increases the risk of soft tissue complications. Therefore, when indicated, closed reduction should be attempted. We have devised a method of applying in-line traction while performing closed reduction and casting with the use of a stockinette. This method avoids many of the problems encountered with other techniques such as calcaneal traction pins and hair splints. With the use of in-line traction through the stockinette, we are able to apply traction throughout casting without assistance, and the procedure is noninvasive.     

A method for early spica cast application in treatment of pediatric femoral shaft fractures

A method is described for early spica cast application in treatment of pediatric femoral shaft fractures whereby the variables are reduced and the cast is applied in stages. The fracture reduction is carefully planned, and molds are checked before final casting.     

Wound complications from idiopathic clubfoot surgery: a comparison of the modified Turco and the Cincinnati treatment methods

PURPOSE: Treatment protocols using the Turco and the Cincinnati incisions are widely used for the surgical correction of clubfoot deformity. However, it is unclear which surgical approach leads to fewer wound problems. We therefore sought to determine which treatment method led to a lower incidence of wound complications. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective chart review of 217 consecutive patients (308 feet) who underwent a primary posteromedial release for the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot under the age of 24 months via either the modified Turco or Cincinnati treatment methods was used to document the incidence of postoperative wound complications. The modified Turco protocol involved immediate postoperative casting in neutral, whereas the Cincinnati method involved staged casting with the foot initially in equinus, then to neutral with a cast change 7 days later. RESULTS: A significantly lower incidence of wound complications was seen in the Cincinnati treatment group when compared with the modified Turco treatment method (6.9% vs 19.6%, respectively, P < 0.003). When patients were stratified based on immediate versus staged postoperative casting methods, there was a significantly lower incidence of wound complications (P < 0.05) in feet in the Cincinnati treatment group versus the modified Turco treatment method; however, the statistical populations were markedly unequal. Among all feet treated with the Cincinnati method, patients who underwent a staged cast change had significantly fewer wound problems when compared with those who underwent immediate casting with the foot in neutral (5.1% vs 16.7%, respectively, P < 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: In the surgical correction of idiopathic clubfoot, the incidence of wound complications is significantly decreased with the use of the Cincinnati treatment method rather than the modified Turco treatment protocol. Whether this effect is a result of the incision or the postoperative casting protocol is unclear.     

Plaster of Paris: the forgotten hand splinting material.

This article examines the concept of tissue adaptation in response to the application of plaster of Paris splints and casts. A review of the history of plaster of Paris and its composition, its working properties, and precautions for its use introduces the reader to this oft-forgotten material. Four designs are described for plaster of Paris application-circumferential padded casts, digital unpadded casts, plaster slabs, and contour molds. The discussion of clinical application of plaster of Paris covers joint tightness, arthritis, contracted joints due to spasticity, muscle-tendon tightness, skin tightness, skin and joint tightness, and edema reduction. In addition, a new application called casting motion to mobilize stiffness (CMMS), developed by the author, is discussed. The use of plaster of Paris to improve postoperative flexor tendon glide is also discussed. This review article intends to stimulate the reader to use plaster of Paris splinting or casting more frequently to solve clinical problems.     

Cast immobilization versus percutaneous pin fixation of displaced distal radius fractures in children: a prospective, randomized study

Thirty-four patients were enrolled in a prospective randomized study comparing cast immobilization alone versus percutaneous pin fixation following closed reduction of distal radial metaphyseal fractures. Patients older than 10 years of age with greater than 30 degrees of dorsal angulation or with complete fracture displacement were eligible for enrollment. Average follow-up was 10.5 weeks. All fractures healed uneventfully without deformity, growth arrest, or functional limitations. Overall complication rates were similar between groups. Thirty-nine percent of patients treated with casting had subsequent loss of reduction requiring remanipulation; there were no cases of loss of reduction in patients treated with pin fixation. Thirty-eight percent of patients treated with pin fixation had pin-related complications; all resolved following pin removal without long-term sequelae. Cost analysis showed no significant difference in treatment charges between groups. Treating surgeons should be aware of the potential short-term complications of each treatment method and adjust their postoperative care appropriately.     

The Ponseti technique for treatment of talipes equinovarus

Traditional treatment for clubfoot usually includes initial casting and an extensive posterior medial soft tissue release with biplanar pinning, followed by more casting. This treatment has significant risks, complications, and the potential for a poorer prognosis as the patients age, usually with stiff and scarred feet. In contradistinction, Ignacio Ponseti has been using his unique technique of clubfoot manipulation, casting, and Achilles tenotomy for more than 50 years with a high degree of success. Currently, there are many peer-reviewed and independently verified studies that replicate his success in treating clubfoot. This technique is easy to learn and is becoming the accepted treatment of idiopathic clubfoot all over the world.     

Bleeding complications following percutaneous tendoachilles tenotomy in the treatment of clubfoot deformity

Ponseti demonstrated correction of most clubfeet in infants using proper manipulative techniques followed by application of well-molded long-leg plaster casts and a percutaneous tendoachilles tenotomy to correct residual equinus contracture. Medical complications occurring as a result of this technique have not to our knowledge been reported. The authors retrospectively reviewed 134 consecutive infants with 219 idiopathic clubfeet treated with the Ponseti method. A percutaneous tendoachilles tenotomy was performed on 200 clubfeet (91%) at a mean age of 16 weeks (range, 6-77 weeks) when less than 10 degress of ankle dorsiflexion was present after casting. A total of 4 patients had serious bleeding complications following the percutaneous tendoachillis tenotomy--3 due to presumed injury to the peroneal artery and 1 due to injury to the lesser saphenous vein. The authors detail the technique of performing a percutaneous tendoachilles tenotomy and offer guidelines that may help others avoid this same complication.     

Evidence-based Medicine: Management of Pediatric Forearm Fractures

Forearm fractures are common injuries in the pediatric population. Successful treatment of these fractures should result in complication-free functional pronosupination. Traditionally, these have been treated with closed reduction and casting, but the last several decades have seen a dramatic increase in the operative treatment of these fractures. However, little high-level evidence exists to guide management. The data from the limited set of studies available suggest that closed treatment does usually result in satisfactory outcomes, particularly in younger patients; operative fixation is usually successful as well but comes with a significantly increased complication rate. The ideal study to aid in evidence-based decision-making for pediatric forearm fractures would be a randomly controlled trial comparing closed reduction and casting versus intramedullary nailing versus plating; in children ranging from 8 years old to skeletally mature; with closed forearm fractures, complete or greenstick with >20 degrees of angulation; with a minimum of 5 years of follow-up (or to maturity); with the primary outcome defined as final pronation and supination; using an validated functional outcome tool; and precisely defining the complications from each treatment.     

Treatment of pediatric both-bone forearm fractures: a comparison of operative techniques

Both-bone forearm fractures of the radius and ulna are a common injury in children. Closed reduction and casting has historically been the primary means of treatment in over 90% of these fractures. Unstable and irreducible fractures, however, often pose a therapeutic challenge, with little data available to compare outcomes. The authors performed a retrospective review of 50 children with both-bones fractures treated with closed reduction and cast immobilization, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), or intramedullary (IM) nailing. Complications were tabulated and separated by treatment modality and subdivided into minor/major complications. Statistical regression was performed. There were 54 operations in 50 patients with both-bones fractures. All fractures healed within 8 to 10 weeks, except for two delayed unions and one nonunion. The complication rate was 5% for closed treatment, 33% for ORIF, and 42% for IM nailing. Complication rates were significantly different between the closed and operative groups. When comparing treatments in pediatric both-bones fractures, there are significantly more complications with operative techniques. Patients with ORIF had more major complications, often requiring a return to the operating room. IM nailing, when done correctly, is as acceptable and safe a form of treatment.     

Total contact casting and Keller arthoplasty for diabetic great toe ulceration under the interphalangeal joint

Interphalangeal (IP) ulcerations of the great toe are frequently encountered in neuropathic diabetic feet. While total contact casting is usually effective as a first line treatment, recalcitrant ulcers continue to present substantial management challenges. The authors retrospectively reviewed the results of Keller arthroplasty employed to accelerate ulcer resolution with total contact casting in fourteen patients with neuropathic ulcers under the great toe interphalangeal (IP) joint that were resistant to casting alone. These data were compared to a group of similar patients whose ulcers were successfully treated by non-operative measures. No operative complications were observed, and all ulcers healed within twenty-four days with no recurrence documented at an average follow-up of 26 weeks. In cases of resistant great toe IP plantar ulcers associated with hallux rigidus that have failed casting trials, this treatment method can be effective.     

Treatment of trophic ulcers using the method of constant vacuum extraction

The results of application of constant vacuum extraction, a new method of the lower extremities trophic ulcers treatment, are adduced. There was shown the method efficacy in the treatment of the varicose disease complications, there were noted the reduction of the wound healing terms in comparison with such using conventional methods of treatment, the advantages and peculiarities of the method as well.     

Principles of external fixation and supplementary techniques in distal radius fractures

External fixation for fractures of the distal radius has been used for almost 80 years. The main objective is to gain reduction and maintain the reduction throughout the treatment period. Several fixator concepts are available and selection is based on the complexity of the injury to be treated as well as the surgeon's experience. Periarticular application of the fixator with immediate use of the wrist joint is recommended whenever possible. For intra-articular fractures, transarticular application is advisable. External fixtion in complex fractures has to be supplemented by bone grafting, fixation wires and stabilization of the radioulnar joint. Associated injuries in distal radius fractures need to be identified and treated. The possible complications of external fixation and the means to prevent them are discussed. External fixation of the distal radius has found its place as an established method in treating certain types of this common fracture.     

Correction of juvenile hallux valgus deformity associated with metatarsus primus adductus using epiphysiodesis technique

A 4.5-year follow-up retrospective study on the use of epiphysiodesis procedure for juvenile hallux valgus deformity and metatarsus primus adductus deformity shows a good reduction of deformity in nine patients with minimal change in one patient that can be explained due to the timing of the procedure. This is a minor operation for juvenile bunion deformities, using epiphyseal arrest techniques. The only complication to this procedure was one case with a noted metatarsus primus elevatus due to incomplete epiphyseal arrest from dorsal to plantar. This procedure has been found to be a safe and effective way of dealing with juvenile hallux valgus deformity when metatarsus primus adductus is the deforming force. It should be stated that in all cases a follow-up biomechanical examination and casting for orthotics took place and to date no complications, other than what has been previously mentioned, has occurred. I shall continue to perform this procedure where indicated and shall report my findings as they become available.     

Titanium elastic nails for pediatric femur fractures: a multicenter study of early results with analysis of complications

Titanium elastic nailing is used instead of traction and casting in many European centers, but limited availability has prevented widespread use in North America. Before a planned general release in America, titanium elastic nails (TENs) were trialed at several major pediatric trauma centers. This multicenter study is a critical analysis of early results and complications of the initial experience. Overall, TENs allowed rapid mobilization with few complications. The results were excellent or satisfactory in 57 of the 58 cases. No child lost rotational alignment in the postoperative period. Irritation of the soft tissue near the knee by the nail tip occurred in four patients, leading to a deeper infection in two cases. As indications, implantation technique, and aftercare are refined, TENs may prove to be the ideal implant to stabilize many pediatric femur fractures, avoiding the prolonged immobilization and complications of traction and spica casting.     

Femoral shaft fracture treatment in patients age 6 to 16 years

Traction followed by spica casting, the one method used to treat femoral shaft fractures in children that was used in the past, has given way to a multiplicity of methods today. To evaluate the morbidity and costs of these various methods, 85 fractures in 81 patients age six to 16 years were evaluated. Early spica casting gave excellent results with low complications and low costs. All surgical treatments cost approximately the same: 3 times the cost of early spica casting and equivalent to traction followed by spica casting. Intramedullary flexible rods resulted in quicker healing and return to full weight bearing than did external fixation, which had the highest complication rate. One case of avascular necrosis in an 11-year-old girl treated with a reamed intramedullary rod suggests that this method is best reserved for children at or near skeletal maturity.     

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.     

Cast and splint immobilization: complications

During the past three decades, internal fixation has become increasingly popular for fracture management and limb reconstruction. As a result, during their training, orthopaedic surgeons receive less formal instruction in the art of extremity immobilization and cast application and removal. Casting is not without risks and complications (eg, stiffness, pressure sores, compartment syndrome); the risk of morbidity is higher when casts are applied by less experienced practitioners. Certain materials and methods of ideal cast and splint application are recommended to prevent morbidity in the patient who is at high risk for complications with casting and splinting. Those at high risk include the obtunded or comatose multitrauma patient, the patient under anesthesia, the very young patient, the developmentally delayed patient, and the patient with spasticity.     

Spica cast application in the emergency room for select pediatric femur fractures

OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of immediate spica casting in the emergency room (ER) and evaluate the effect of discharge from the emergency room on short- term complications. DESIGN: Retrospective review of patients treated with immediate spica casting in the ER between June 1, 1993 and July 30, 2001. SETTING: Major, pediatric, orthopaedic trauma and referral center. PATIENTS: A total of 145 pediatric femur fractures in children, younger than age 7 years, treated with immediate spica casting in the ER were reviewed to determine radiographic outcome and short-term complication rates. INTERVENTION: All patients underwent immediate spica cast placement in the ER under conscious sedation. Patients meeting specific criteria were discharged immediately from the ER. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Radiographic acceptability of alignment at fracture union (angulation, shortening), loss of reduction, number of return visits to the emergency room, and clinical outcome at final follow-up. RESULTS: Average follow-up was 20 +/- 16 weeks (range, 1-9 months). Forty-eight patients (33%) were discharged from the ER. No clinical complications were noted at last follow-up. All children younger than age 2 years, and 86.5% of children ages 2 to 5 years, met acceptable malalignment parameters on final radiographs. There were 16 ER visits (11%) for cast problems. Re-reduction in the operating room was needed in 11 patients (8.9%); 6.9% of patients had a cast problem noted during follow-up visits. Only 9% of patients developed a major complication. Initial shortening was the only independent risk factor found to be associated with loss of reduction. Admission status had no significant effect on the number of ER visits or development of a complication. CONCLUSIONS: If there are no associated factors requiring admission (ie, child abuse or polytrauma), spica casting in the ER for pediatric femur fractures followed by immediate discharge can be safely performed with a low complication rate in children younger than age 6 years, nearly eliminating the need for general anesthesia.     

Mid-third forearm fractures in children: an unorthodox treatment

Twenty children with fractures of both bones in the middle third of the forearm were immobilized in extension after closed reduction. Unlike distal-third fractures, these fractures are prone to develop rotary and angular deformities that may lead to permanent functional impairment and visible deformity. Mid-third forearm fractures with the radius fracture proximal to the ulnar fracture are even more troublesome. Nineteen patients had no clinical deformity at cast removal, and by 1 year, there was no difference in forearm rotation. Extension casting can be used initially for proximal fractures or to salvage forearms that lost reduction in flexed elbow casts. Extension cast application is easy while the reduction is maintained, whereas the problems are often encountered while applying a flexed elbow cast. This unorthodox treatment is safe and effective and may alleviate the need for surgical intervention.     

Gamma3 型髓内钉治疗股骨转子间骨折手术并发症的原因分析

 目的 分析 Gamma3 型髓内钉治疗股骨转子间骨折术后发生并发症的原因。方法 回顾性分析 2006 年 5 月至 2011 年 7 月应用 Gamma3 型髓内钉治疗股骨转子间骨折 186 例患者资料,其中 24 例出现手术并发症,男 19 例,女 5 例;年龄 42～81 岁,平均（69.00±3.27）岁。根据 AO/OTA 分型：A1 型 8 例,A2.1 型 1 例,A3 型 15 例;稳定性骨折 9 例,占 37.5%（9/24）;不稳定性骨折 15 例,占 62.5%（15/24）;均为新鲜骨折,排除病理性骨折。手术均采用闭合复位的方式进行固定,内固定器材为史赛克公司生产的短 Gamma3 型髓内钉。入院至手术时间为 3～12 d,平均 6 d;术后 3～16 d 出院。根据术中、术后随访的 X 线片及 Harris 功能评价标准对术后疗效进行评价,总结 Gamma3 型髓内钉在股骨转子间骨折应用中的并发症。结果 24 例患者手术时间为 45～160 min,平均 80 min;失血量为 300～800 ml,平均 600 ml;下地时间为术后 35～106 d。Harris 评分为 75～92 分,平均 81 分。24 例患者术后发生并发症的原因：1 例因未安装保护套筒而导致防旋钉进入大腿内侧肌间隙;3 例在闭合复位时进钉点偏外,扩髓时造成股骨外侧壁缺失;5 例因插入主钉前扩髓不充分而导致进钉时股骨干近端劈裂;6 例反转子间粉碎骨折,小转子嵌入骨折断端,致非解剖复位下置钉,对位欠佳;2 例难复型骨折术后出现再移位;3 例股骨外侧壁骨折,术后骨折移位;3 例骨折粉碎严重、大小转子分离移位明显者选用短 Gamma3 钉固定,术后发生拉力钉切出;1 例股骨干远端锁钉处再骨折。结论 对于 AO 分型中某些特殊类型的骨折,闭合复位短 Gamma3 钉固定具有较高并发症发生率,这多由复位方法、适应证选择不当以及非规范化使用器械造成,因此应明确长、短不同 Gamma 钉的适用范围及复位方法,尽量规避并发症发生。