关节镜下不可吸收缝线结合Endbutton钢板固定治疗儿童胫骨髁间棘骨折

目的探讨关节镜下不可吸收缝线结合Endbutton钢板固定治疗儿童胫骨髁间棘骨折的手术方法和疗效。方法对13例儿童胫骨髁间棘骨折患者行关节镜下复位,用不可吸收缝线结合Endbutton钢板对骨折块行内固定。结果 13例均获随访,时间14-23个月。无切口感染、关节强直等并发症发生。X线片显示13例均达解剖复位,术后膝关节Lachman征和抽屉试验均为阴性。伤膝关节活动度与健侧一致,关节稳定。结论关节镜下不可吸收线结合Endbutton钢板固定儿童胫骨髁间棘骨折是一种安全、有效的术式。     

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

Purpose

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

Materials and methods

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

Results

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

Conclusion

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

Biomechanical comparison of tension band- and interfragmentary screw fixation with a new implant in transverse patella fractures

Aim

The aim of the present study was to compare the primary fixation stability and initial fixation stiffness of two established fixation techniques, the tension band wiring technique and interfragmentary screw fixation, with a mini-screw fragment fixation system in a model of transverse patella fracture. It was hypothesised that the biomechanical loading performance of the fragment fixation system would not significantly differ from the loading characteristics of the two established methods currently investigated.

Materials and methods

Ninety-six calf patellae were used in this biomechanical model. A standardized transverse patella fracture was induced and three different fixation methods, including the modified tension band wiring technique, interfragmentary screw fixation, and the mini-screw fragment fixation system, were used for fragment fixation. Specimens were mounted to a loading rig which was secured within a material testing machine. In each fixation group, eight specimens were loaded to failure at a simulated knee angle of either 0° or 45°. Another eight specimens were submitted to a polycyclic loading protocol consisting of 30 cycles between 20 N and 300 N at a simulated knee angle of 0° or 45°. The residual displacement between the first and the last cycle was recorded. Differences in the biomechanical performance between the three fixation groups were evaluated.

Results

No significant differences between the three fixation groups were observed in the parameters maximum load to failure and linear fixation stiffness with monocyclic loading. Specimens being loaded at 45° showed significantly lower maximum failure loads and linear stiffness when compared with 0°. During polycyclic loading, no significant differences in the residual displacement were observed between the groups at 0° loading angle, while at 45°, residual displacement was significantly higher with tension band fixation when compared with interfragmentary screw fixation or the fragment fixation system.

Conclusion

The biomechanical performance of the fragment fixation system was comparable to interfragmentary screw fixation and superior to the tension band wiring technique. Given the advantages of a system which provides interfragmentary compression and which simplifies fracture fixation after open or closed reduction, we believe the fragment fixation system to be an adequate alternative in the osteosynthesis of transverse patella fractures.     

Tibial eminence fractures in the paediatric population: a systematic review

Introduction

We present a systematic review of the literature for the management of tibial eminence fractures in the paediatric population. Our aims were to assess modalities of injury, treatment options available and their associated complications.

Materials and methods

We found 740 relevant citations in the English literature up to 1 October 2012, of which 36 full text articles met our inclusion criteria.

Results

Our results show that skiing, sports and motor vehicle accidents are increasingly common modes of injury, in addition to the commonly described fall off of a bicycle. Most studies advocate non-operative management for type I Meyer’s and McKeever’s fractures and reduction and internal fixation for type II and III fractures. Better long-term results have been reported with arthroscopic surgery compared to open surgery. There is no consensus as to which type of fixation is best suited for tibial eminence fractures; methods available include excision of the bony fragment, K-wire, screw and, absorbable suture fixation, and more recently, suture anchor and meniscal arrow. The main complications reported include arthrofibrosis, non-union, mal-union, pain and severe laxity. Early post-operative range of motion exercises have been shown to reduce the incidence of arthrofibrosis.

Conclusion

As all papers report results from small case series, Level I studies are required to produce more definitive evidence for the management of paediatric tibial eminence fractures.     

Primary femoral shortening osteosynthesis in the management of comminuted supracondylar femoral fractures

Supracondylar fractures are most often the result of high-energy vehicular trauma in the young population, and the result of low-energy injuries in the elderly. Therefore, these fractures are generally associated with comminution or osteoporosis. Anatomic reconstruction with stable medial buttressing is often not possible. Utilization of AO principles and techniques with anatomic reduction and internal fixation often fails to yield sufficient stability. We have developed a technique for the treatment of these distal femoral fractures which involves shortening by impaction. Rather than achieving anatomic reduction, the femur is shortened by telescoping the fragments to reestablish inherent stability of the bone prior to internal fixation. Over a 20-year period we treated 25 commnnuted supracondylar femoral fractures with primary shortening osteosynthesis in 24 patients. Sixteen patients were available for review at an average follow-up of 10 years (range 4–24 years). Ninety-four percent of the patients demonstrated complete radiographic consolidation by 14 weeks after the operative intervention. One patient required secondary bone grafting and reached consolidation at 30 weeks. Primary cancellous grafting was utilized in only 25% of the patients. One-third of the patients in review were given a heel lift; the average shortening in these patients was 2.6 cm (range 2.1–5 cm). Two-thirds of the patients did not require a heel lift, the average shortening in this group of patients being 1.2 cm (range 0.8–2.0 cm). At follow-up the average range of motion of the knee was 114° (range 90°–130°). All patients had full extension and an average loss of flexion compared to the contralateral knee of 16°. The functional results of these patients at follow-up were analyzed according to criteria established by Neer. A functional evaluation and radiographs were obtained in all these patients at follow-up and showed an excellent result in 44%, a good result in 38%, and a satisfactory result in 18%. Primary shortening osteosynthesis is a very predictable method of managing comminuted supracondylar fractures of the femur with good results.     

A simple technique for arthroscopic suture fixation of displaced fracture of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia using folded surgical steels

Summary: The purpose of this article is to describe a new and simple technique for arthroscopic suture fixation of avulsion fractures of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia using surgical steels as both suture passers and suture. The looped ends of 2 folded surgical steels being used as suture passers were inserted through 2 tibial drill holes and through the reduced bone fragment into the knee joint cavity and pulled out through the anteromedial portal in front of the knee joint. Outside the knee joint, a third unbent surgical steel to be used as a suture was tied to the 2 small loops of the folded surgical steels very easily. The ends of the folded surgical steels outside the tibia were then retracted back through the tibial drill holes, thereby automatically bringing the third surgical steel through the holes while making a loop over the avulsed fragment. The advantage of this technique is that the suture can be tied to the suture passers outside of the knee joint.Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Vol 17, No 9 (November-December), 2001: pp 1007–1011     

Treatment of unstable distal clavicle fractures using two suture anchors and suture tension bands

Objective

The study presents a surgical technique using two suture anchors combined with two non-absorbable suture tension bands and the clinical and radiological results obtained in patients with acute distal clavicle fractures associated with coracoclavicular ligaments disruption.

Materials and methods

Nineteen patients with distal clavicle fractures were included with a mean follow-up of 25 months. All patients had type IIb fractures according to the Neer classification. Coracoclavicular ligaments were reconstructed using two suture anchors to maintain distal clavicle in an anatomical position, and supplementary interfragmentary fixation was performed using two non-absorbable suture tension bands in figure-of-eight configurations. Functional outcomes were assessed at final follow-up visits using the Constant score.

Results

The numbers of lateral fragments averaged 1.4. Seventeen patients maintained the same vertical coracoclavicular distance between both shoulders. However, in two patients, the coracoclavicular distance of the injured shoulder increased by 50% compared with that of the contralateral shoulder. Fracture union was obtained in 18 patients at a mean 4.8 months postoperatively. One patient had symptomatic nonunion until 9 months postoperatively, and subsequently, distal clavicle resection was performed. Two patients showed delayed union and achieved fracture union at 9 and 10 months postoperatively, respectively. Clavicular erosion was found in two patients. The lateral fragment of one patient united in an upward angulated position caused by over-tightening of the medial clavicle. The average Constant score improved to 94.

Conclusion

Coracoclavicular reconstruction using two suture anchors and supplementary interfragmentary fixation using two non-absorbable suture tension bands for acute distal clavicle fracture are reliable techniques for restoring stability in patients with acute distal clavicle fracture.     

Treatment of phalangeal fractures in the hand with the mini-Hoffman external fixator

Phalangeal fractures can be challenging injuries to manage, and their treatment is frequently complicated by deformity and stiffness. External fixation techniques have a well-established role in the treatment of these injuries. The mini-Hoffman external fixator is a particularly simple apparatus in design and in application. From 1998 to 2001 we used this method to treat 25 patients with phalangeal fractures and prospectively followed their progress. Mean patient age was 34 (range 15–62) years. Mean duration of follow-up was 64 (range36–125) weeks. For all fractures the mean total active range of movement for the injured digit was 205° (range 120–240°). When expressed as a percentage of the noninjured digit, a mean of 80% was achieved. Mean flexion deficit was 16 (range 0–50, median 8) mm. Mean extension deficit was 5.75 (range 0–20, median 0) mm. Grip strength when expressed as a percentage of the noninjured side was 92% with a mean recorded value of 39 (range 28–53) mmHg. All fractures united and there were no infective complications. Mean time to return to work was 5 (range 2–12) weeks.     

A new fixation method for Hoffa fracture

Purpose

To investigate the clinical effect of a new fixation method for Hoffa fractures.

Methods

We treated eleven patients with Hoffa fracture using the new fixation method (fixation with one screw inserted from the femoral intercondylar notch and two screws inserted from the nonarticular lateral (or medial) surface of the fractured condylar fragment; the two sets of screws were crossed).

Results

After an average follow-up period of 24 months (range 5–28 months), all fractures had healed. The average healing time was 11.6 weeks (range 9–14 weeks). On the version of the Knee Society Score modified by Dr. John Insall in 1993, the average score was 174.6 points (range 125–199 points).

Conclusions

The new fixation method for Hoffa fracture is effective, and may provide a new way to treat Hoffa fractures.     

Anterograde arthroscopic fixation of avulsion fractures of the tibial eminence with a cannulated screw

Purpose: Fractures of the tibial eminence can be treated arthroscopically. Fixation of the fracture is usually followed by temporary immobilization. The literature suggests that only anterograde fixation with cannulated screws and washer is considered stable enough to allow for immediate mobilization and weight bearing. The goal of this study was to evaluate the 5-year results of arthroscopic reductions and anterograde fixations of the tibial eminence fracture with cannulated screws. Type of Study: Retrospective study. Methods: Thirty-two patients were treated arthroscopically for type II, III, and IV fractures of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia. The fragments were reduced and fixed with a cannulated screw or cannulated screw and washer. The intermeniscal ligament was involved in the fracture in 29 cases, and the anterior part of the medial meniscus was involved in 3 cases, requiring a temporary shift before reduction of the fragment. Arthrotomy was not performed for reduction or fixation of the fragment. All patients began continuous passive and active motion of the involved knee and were mobilized on crutches the day after the procedure. They were allowed immediate weight bearing. The patients were followed up for 16 to 69 months. Results: Good therapeutic results were found at follow-up. Average value for KT-1000 testing was 1.1 mm; flexion deficit was 1.2°; extension deficit, 0.6°; and Lysholm score, 98.8. The average treatment duration was 12 weeks. There was one case of aseptic synovitis and no other complications. In all but 1 patient, the implants were removed. Conclusions: Arthroscopic fixation of the fracture of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia with a cannulated screw or screw and washer is a simple, safe, reproducible, and effective procedure. The fixation is stable even in type IV fractures, so that immobilization is unnecessary.     

Double fixation of displaced patella fractures using bioabsorbable cannulated lag screws and braided polyester suture tension bands

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a new double fixation technique for displaced patellar fractures using bioabsorbable cannulated lag screws and braided polyester suture tension bands.

Methods

Fifteen patients (mean age of 46.2 years) with displaced transverse or comminuted patella fractures were enrolled in this prospective study. All of the patients were treated via the open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) procedure using bioabsorbable cannulated lag screws and braided polyester suture tension bands. The patients were followed post-surgery to evaluate (1) the time required for radiographic bone union, (2) the knee joint range of motion at the time of radiographic bone union, (3) the degree of pain assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), (4) the function of the knee using the Lysholm score and (5) the presence of any additional complications from the surgery.

Results

All of the patients were followed post-treatment for more than 1 year (range, 12–19 months; mean post-treatment follow up time, 14 months). The bone union of the fractures as seen radiographically occurred approximately 3 months from surgery in all cases without implant failure or redisplacement of the fractured site. The mean knee joint range of motion was from 0 to 134.6°, and the mean VAS score was 0.7 at the time of bone union. The mean Lysholm scores at the time of bone union and 12 months post-surgery were 86.7 and 95.7, respectively. No postoperative complications, such as infection, dislocation or breakage of the implants, were observed. Moreover, all of the patients returned to their previous activity level.

Conclusion

This new double fixation technique using bioabsorbable cannulated lag screws and braided polyester suture tension bands resulted in satisfactory outcomes for patella fractures without any obvious complications.     

Fractures of the Proximal Fifth Metatarsal: Percutaneous Bicortical Fixation

Background

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusions

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

Treatment of distal femoral fractures in the elderly using a less-invasive plating technique

We treated 16 patients having fractures of the distal femur with the less-invasive stabilization system (LISS). Patients mean age was 75 (62–101) years. Fifteen patients had low-energy trauma. Eight fractures were type A (AO classification), three were type B and five were type C. In two cases, loosening of the proximal fixation was seen and surgical revision performed. Union time averaged 30 (16–68) weeks. There was no non-union. Average Oxford knee score was 46 (22–60). No loosening of the distal fixation was found. LISS appears to be an effective device in treating osteoporotic distal femoral fractures.

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Résumé Nous avons traité 16 malades présentant une fracture fémorale distale avec le Système de Stabilisation peu Invasif (LISS). Lâge moyen des malades était de 75 ans (62–101). Quinze malades avaient eu un traumatisme à basse énergie. Huit fractures étaient de type A (classification AO), trois étaient de type B, et cinq étaient de type C. Dans deux cas un démontage de la fixation proximale est survenu, avec nécessité de reprise chirurgicale. Le délai moyen de consolidation était de 30 semaines (16–68). Il ny avait aucune non—consolidation. Le score moyen de genou Oxford était 46 (22–60). Il ny a eut aucun démontage de la fixation distale. Le système LISS paraît être une méthode efficace pour traiter les fractures fémorales distales ostéoporotiques.

     

Biomechanical comparison of four different fixation techniques for pediatric tibial eminence avulsion fractures

BACKGROUND: Several different methods have been used to repair tibial eminence avulsion fractures. It is not clear which is the best stabilization method. The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical stability of tibial eminence avulsion fractures using suture, resorbable screw, resorbable nail, and metal screw techniques. METHODS: Sixteen immature bovine knees were dissected leaving just the anterior cruciate ligament. A fracture was created using a curved osteotome, The knees were randomly stabilized with either 2 single-armed #2 Ethibond sutures, 3 bioabsorbable nails, a single resorbable screw, or a single metal screw. Femurs were tested with the knee flexed to 35 degrees to simulate anterior tibial translation. Tests involved loading between 5 N and 150 N for 200 cycles, then a tensile failure test at 0.5 mm/sec. Cyclic fragment deformation, initial fragment stiffness, and failure load were compared using a 1-way analysis of variance (p < 0.05). RESULTS: There were no significant mechanical differences across groups. The variability in performance was much greater for both the suture and resorbable screw repairs. Both sutures and resorbable screw constructs resulted in a deformation that was 1 mm greater than that of the resorbable nails or a metal screw. CONCLUSIONS: Increased fracture separation for sutures and resorbable screw groups indicates a potential loss in reduction during cyclic, physiologic loads. Each group could withstand up to 85 lb of tensile force before failure, but it is unlikely that this force would occur with incidental loads during the early rehabilitation period. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: There was not a clear biomechanical advantage to performing any particular fixation method in this study. This suggests that the surgeon can use their clinical judgment and experience to determine the fixation technique.     

关节镜下8字法缝线固定治疗成人胫骨髁间隆突骨折

目的　介绍关节镜下“8”字法缝线固定治疗胫骨髁间隆突骨折的技术及临床应用效果。　方法　 1998年 1月～ 2 0 0 1年 6月 ,对 2 1例新鲜胫骨髁间隆突骨折 ,在关节镜下进行复位 ,使用 6号不吸收缝线进行“8”字法固定。术后行积极的康复训练 ,并随访 6～ 2 4个月 ,以了解骨折复位、愈合、膝关节松弛度、活动度及患肢整体功能康复情况。　结果　术后 6周 ,2 1例胫骨髁间隆突骨折均愈合 ,无骨折移位。术后 3个月 ,无膝关节松弛或不稳定 ,均恢复了与健侧相同的活动度。术后 6个月 ,L ysholm膝关节功能评分为 93.4± 2 .7。　结论　关节镜下“8”字法缝线固定治疗胫骨髁间隆突骨折 ,复位和固定可靠 ,有助于早期进行膝关节康复训练。关节镜手术有助于诊治合并损伤 ,创伤小 ,结合“8”字法缝线固定能够最大程度恢复膝关节功能。     

Bioabsorbable sutures versus screw fixation of displaced tibial eminence fractures: a biomechanical study

Background

In 1995, we developed a simple and safe arthroscopic technique of anterograde stable fixation of the displaced tibial eminence fractures using a cannulated screw and washer, allowing immediate mobilisation and weight bearing. Some authors described similar end results by arthroscopic fixation of this abruption with trans-osseous sutures. We proved with the biomechanical study that the fixation with strong trans-osseous sutures provides a comparable stable fixation the same as the cannulated screw and washer. We developed a test machine for cyclic loading and a machine for measuring of the pull-out strength for this study.

Methods

A standard osteotomy of the tibial spine was performed during the cadaveric biomechanical study. We performed an arthroscopic fixation with the cannulated screw and washer in ten knees, and in another group of ten knees, arthroscopic fixation was made using two trans-osseous Orthocord? sutures. The operating time for each procedure was measured, and any possible technical complications were recorded. One thousand cycles of flexion from 0° to 90° were performed on a special loading device on all knees. The macroscopic dislocation of the fragment was measured. After the cyclic loading, all soft tissue was resected except the anterior cruciate ligament with the fixed fragment. The pull-out strength defined as translation of the tibia in anterior direction by breakage was measured with a custom-made measuring device.

Results

The average time for the screw and washer fixation was 20 min, and average time for the sutures fixation was 48 min. After cyclic loading, we did not see any dislocation of the fragment. Average pull-out strength at which fixation with a cannulated screw and washer fell was 253.42 N and mean pull-out strength at which fixation with trans-osseous sutures fell was 330.32 N. Fixation of the fragment with trans-osseous sutures was statistically significantly stronger—Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney’s test, p = <0.00.

Conclusion

Fixation with strong trans-osseous sutures is stronger than fixation with a cannulated screw and washer on cadaveric knees. It appears that fixation with strong trans-osseous sutures allows immediate mobilisation and weight bearing like fixation with a cannulated screw and washer. Meanwhile, the time for fixation with trans-osseous sutures is significantly longer.     

Outcome of complex tibial plateau fractures treated with external fixator

Background:

Tibial plateau fractures are usually associated with communition and soft tissue injury. Percutaneous treatment of these complex fractures is intended to reduce soft issue complications and postoperative stiffness of the knee joint. We assessed the complications, clinical outcome scores, and postoperative knee range of movements, after fluoroscopic assisted closed reduction and external fixator application.

Materials and Methods:

Seventy eight complex tibial plateau fractures in 78 patients were included in the study. All fractures were managed with closed reduction and external fixator application. In 28 cases with intraarticular split, we used percutaneous cancellous screw fixation for reduction and fixation of condylar parts. In nine open fractures, immediate debridement was done. In 16 cases, elevation of depressed segment and bone grafting was required, which was done from a very small incision. All patients were clinically and radiographically evaluated at a mean followup of 26.16 months (range 6–60 months).

Results:

Clinical results were evaluated according to the Rasmussen''s criteria. Average healing time was 13.69 weeks (range 12– 28 weeks). Mean knee range of motion was 122.60° (range 110°–130°). Forty seven results were scored as excellent, 25 good, 2 fair, and 1 as poor.

Conclusion:

We believe that minimally invasive treatment by percutaneous techniques and external fixation is a fairly reasonable treatment alternative, if near anatomical reduction of joint surface can be confirmed on fluoroscopy.     

Retrograde Headless Intramedullary Screw Fixation for Displaced Fifth Metacarpal Neck and Shaft Fractures: Short Term Results

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the early clinical outcomes of retrograde headless intramedullary screw fixation for displaced fifth metacarpal neck and shaft fractures.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed nine patients treated with retrograde intramedullary screw fixation of fifth metacarpal neck and shaft fractures between 2011 and 2013. Patient demographics and outcomes including hand dominance, age, sex, type of injury, injury and postoperative radiographs, return to work, time to fracture union radiographically, complications, visual analog score, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand scores, postoperative metacarpophalangeal joint range of motion, and grip strength were recorded.ResultsNine fractures in nine patients with a mean age of 32 years (19–54) were included. There were seven metacarpal neck and two metacarpal shaft fractures. All patients sustained injury by direct impact of fist against an object. No case involved worker’s compensation. Patients had a mean follow-up of 36 weeks (6–57 weeks) and at the time of latest follow-up had no pain. Mean radiographic healing was 49 days (28–85 days). Mean return to work was 6 weeks (4–10 weeks). Mean metacarpalphalangeal joint motion was 0° extension and 90° flexion. Mean disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand scores pre- and postoperatively improved from 43 to 0.7, respectively. The mean postoperative grip strength was measured of the injured hand (40 kg) and un-injured hand (41 kg).ConclusionsRetrograde headless intramedullary screw fixation of fifth metacarpal neck and shaft fractures has overall favorable early outcomes and offers the benefit of stable fixation, early motion without cast immobilization, and the ability for early return to work. This technique is a viable surgical option for these fractures and may be considered in the appropriate patient population.     

Management of comminuted patellar fracture with non-absorbable suture cerclage and Nitinol patellar concentrator

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a fixation technique for comminuted patellar fracture using non-absorbable suture cerclage and nickel-titanium patellar concentrator (Ni-Ti PC).MethodsTwenty-nine consecutive patients with displaced comminuted patellar fractures accepted internal fixation procedure using Ni-Ti PC augmented with different types of non-absorbable suture cerclage. During follow-up, the clinical grading scales of Böstman, including range of movement, pain, work, atrophy, assistance in walking, effusion, giving way, and stair-climbing, were used to evaluate the clinical results. Complications including implant loosening, fragment displacement, bone nonunion, infection, breakage of the implants, painful hardware, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis were also assessed.ResultsPatients were followed up for a mean period of 27 months. The bone union radiographically occurred approximately 2.5 months without implant loosening and fragment displacement. According to Böstman method, satisfactory results were obtained, and the mean score at final follow-up was 28 (range 20–30) points. Twenty-two patients with excellent results had mean score of 29.8 ± 0.5 (range 28–30) and seven patients with good results had mean score of 22.7 ± 3.14 (range 20–27). No postoperative complications, such as infection, dislocation, breakage of the implants, painful hardware, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, were observed.ConclusionNi-Ti PC fixation with non-absorbable suture cerclage is a feasible approach for comminuted patellar fractures. Firm fixation with this technique resulted in satisfactory outcomes without obvious complications.     

Humeruskopfresektion als therapie bei oberarmkopftrümmerfrakturen —ergebnisse

Zusammenfassung Proximale Humerusfrakturen gehö-ren zu den häufigen Verletzungen des ä1teren Menschen. Gering dislozierte Brüche können mit gutem Erfolg konservativ behandelt werden. Therapeutische Schwierigkeiten bereiten vor allem dislozierte Mehrfragment- oder Trümmerfrakturen des Oberarmkopfes. Im Zeitraum von 1970–1988 wurde in unserer Klinik in dieser Situation bei 8 Patienten eine Resektion des Humeruskopfes durchgeführt. 6 Patienten konnten bei einer mittleren Beobachtungszeit von 69 Monaten nachuntersucht werden. Alle Patienten wiesen postoperativ eine erhebliche Bewegungseinscänkung im betroffenen Schultergelenk auf. Die durchschnittliche Abduktion betrug 60° (40–80dg), die Anteflexion 60° (40–80°) bei einer mittleren AuBenrotation von 17° (5–30°) und Innenrotation von 48° (5–90°). Eine Patientin war postoperativ schmerzfrei, 2 weitere verspürten nächtliche Schmerzen, während die übrigen 3 Patienten fiber eine unterschiedliche Schmerzsymptomatik klagten. Dennoch waren 5 der 6 Patienten mit dem Operationsergebnis zufrieden, eine Patientin bewertete das Resultat mit gut.

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Resection of the humeral head in cases of head-splitting humeral fractures — results

Summary Proximal humeral fractures are frequent injuries in older patients. Most of these fractures respond satisfactorily to conservative treatment. Problems arise in cases of four-part displacements and in head-splitting fractures with massive defects in the articular surface. Between 1970 to 1988 eight patients were treated in our clinic in this situation by resection of the humeral head. 6 patients could be followed-up for an average of 69 months. Postoperative findings showed a restricted range of motion in all operated shoulders. The average abduction of the arm was 6° (40-80°) and elevation 60° (40–80°). The patients showed a mean external rotation of 17° (5–30°) and an internal rotation of 48° (5–90°). Only one patient was painless, 2 patients had pain during the night, and 3 patients suffered from various pain symptoms. Nevertheless 5 of 6 patients assessed the result as satisfactory and one patient as good.