Percutaneous Sacroiliac Screw Placement: A Prospective Randomized Comparison of Robot-assisted Navigation Procedures with a Conventional Technique / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Sacroiliac (SI) screw fixation is a demanding technique, with a high rate of screw malposition due to the complex pelvic anatomy. TiRobot™ is an orthopedic surgery robot which can be used for SI screw fixation. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of robot-assisted placement of SI screws compared with a freehand technique.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Thirty patients requiring posterior pelvic ring stabilization were randomized to receive freehand or robot-assisted SI screw fixation, between January 2016 and June 2016 at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital. Forty-five screws were placed at levels S1 and S2. In both methods, the primary end point screw position was assessed and classified using postoperative computed tomography. Fisher's exact probability test was used to analyze the screws' positions. Secondary end points, such as duration of trajectory planning, surgical time after reduction of the pelvis, insertion time for guide wire, number of guide wire attempts, and radiation exposure without pelvic reduction, were also assessed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Twenty-three screws were placed in the robot-assisted group and 22 screws in the freehand group; no postoperative complications or revisions were reported. The excellent and good rate of screw placement was 100% in the robot-assisted group and 95% in the freehand group. The P value (0.009) showed the same superiority in screw distribution. The fluoroscopy time after pelvic reduction in the robot-assisted group was significantly shorter than that in the freehand group (median [Q1, Q3]: 6.0 [6.0, 9.0] s vs. median [Q1, Q3]: 36.0 [21.5, 48.0] s; χ2 = 13.590, respectively, P < 0.001); no difference in operation time after reduction of the pelvis was noted (χ2 = 1.990, P = 0.158). Time for guide wire insertion was significantly shorter for the robot-assisted group than that for the freehand group (median [Q1, Q3]: 2.0 [2.0, 2.7] min vs. median [Q1, Q3]: 19.0 [15.5, 45.0] min; χ2 = 20.952, respectively, P < 0.001). The number of guide wire attempts in the robot-assisted group was significantly less than that in the freehand group (median [Q1, Q3]: 1.0 [1.0,1.0] time vs. median [Q1, Q3]: 7.0 [1.0, 9.0] times; χ2 = 15.771, respectively, P < 0.001). The instrumented SI levels did not differ between both groups (from S1 to S2, χ2 = 4.760, P = 0.093).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Accuracy of the robot-assisted technique was superior to that of the freehand technique. Robot-assisted navigation is safe for unstable posterior pelvic ring stabilization, especially in S1, but also in S2. SI screw insertion with robot-assisted navigation is clinically feasible.</p>

Printed three-dimensional anatomic templates for virtual preoperative planning before reconstruction of old pelvic injuries: initial results / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Old pelvis fractures are among the most challenging fractures to treat because of their complex anatomy, difficult-to-access surgical sites, and the relatively low incidence of such cases. Proper evaluation and surgical planning are necessary to achieve the pelvic ring symmetry and stable fixation of the fracture. The goal of this study was to assess the use of three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques for surgical management of old pelvic fractures.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>First, 16 dried human cadaveric pelvises were used to confirm the anatomical accuracy of the 3D models printed based on radiographic data. Next, nine clinical cases between January 2009 and April 2013 were used to evaluate the surgical reconstruction based on the 3D printed models. The pelvic injuries were all type C, and the average time from injury to reconstruction was 11 weeks (range: 8-17 weeks). The workflow consisted of: (1) Printing patient-specific bone models based on preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans, (2) virtual fracture reduction using the printed 3D anatomic template, (3) virtual fracture fixation using Kirschner wires, and (4) preoperatively measuring the osteotomy and implant position relative to landmarks using the virtually defined deformation. These models aided communication between surgical team members during the procedure. This technique was validated by comparing the preoperative planning to the intraoperative procedure.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The accuracy of the 3D printed models was within specification. Production of a model from standard CT DICOM data took 7 hours (range: 6-9 hours). Preoperative planning using the 3D printed models was feasible in all cases. Good correlation was found between the preoperative planning and postoperative follow-up X-ray in all nine cases. The patients were followed for 3-29 months (median: 5 months). The fracture healing time was 9-17 weeks (mean: 10 weeks). No delayed incision healing, wound infection, or nonunions occurred. The results were excellent in two cases, good in five, and poor in two based on the Majeed score.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The 3D printing planning technique for pelvic surgery was successfully integrated into a clinical workflow to improve patient-specific preoperative planning by providing a visual and haptic model of the injury and allowing patient-specific adaptation of each osteosynthesis implant to the virtually reduced pelvis.</p>

Effect of two intensive insulin therapy regimens on perioperative glycemic control in bone fracture patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Currently, there are no uniform standards and methods for perioperative glycemic control in bone fracture patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety of two intensive insulin therapy regimens administered to bone fracture patients with T2DM in the perioperative period, to explore the best method of achieving perioperative glycemic control.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A number of 159 bone fracture patients with T2DM were divided into two groups. One group (n = 81) received multiple subcutaneous insulin injections (MSII group) and the other (n = 78) received continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII group). Blood glucose (BG) levels, time to achieve glycemic target, insulin dosage, and the incidence of hypoglycemia and complications were compared between groups.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Both regimens reduced BG to desired levels before surgery. The time to reach glycemic target in CSII group (2.5 days) was significantly shorter than that in the MSII group (7.3 days; P < 0.001). Mean insulin dosage in the CSII group (0.66 IU×kg(-1)×d(-1)) was significantly lower than that in the MSII group (0.74 IU×kg(-1)×d(-1); P = 0.005), as were the incidences of hypoglycemia (15.4% vs 32.1%) and infection (6.4% vs. 23.5%). Multiple regression analysis showed that the time to reach glycemia target was associated with the insulin therapy regimen and dosage. The insulin dosage on reaching glycemia target was positively associated with body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus course, glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and β-hydroxybutyric acid, and was negatively associated with age.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The efficacy and safety of CSII was superior to that achieved with MSII, suggesting that CSII should be considered as initial therapy to control perioperative BG in bone fracture patients with T2DM.</p>

Posterolateral approaches for treatment of pilon fractures / 中国骨伤

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the effect and complication of surgical treatment for Pilon fracture using the posterolateral approach.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From August 2009 to March 2011, 15 patients with Pilon fractures (2 in B3,13 in C) and with a separate displaced posterior malleolar fragment was treated in two-stage: the first stage management was on stabiliztion of the soft tissue envelope with temporary external fixator of spanning arthritis, and the second stage management was open reduction and internal fixation with posterolateral approach and anteromedial or anteralateral approach.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All patients were followed-up for 12 to 17 months (14.2 months in average). Thirteen of the 15 fractures healed, but 2 fractures needed autologous bone graft procedure duo to nonuion. There was no wound complication related to poterolateral incion. Fourteen fractures had less than 2 mm of incongruity of distal tibia joint. According to Baired-Jackson criteria, the results were excellent in 2 cases, good in 7, fair in 4, and poor in 2.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The posterolateral approach offers direct visualization for the reduction and fixation of the fibula and posterior distal fragment of the tibia Pilon fractures, faciliate the management of this difficult fracture pattern.</p>

Long-term outcome of operative management of delayed acetabular fractures / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Surgical treatment of acetabular fracture has long been a challenging area in the field of orthopedic trauma. The aim of this research was to investigate the operative methods for delayed acetabular fractures and to assess the operation results.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The operative approaches, procedures, results, and complications of the delayed acetabular fractures between 1995 and 2005 were retrospectively evaluated at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital. Quality of life was assessed for each patient with the Merle d'Aubingne and Postel fracture function rating scale and the radiological result was assessed using the Matta radiological score.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Sixty-eight cases (70 hips) were followed up with a minimal duration of five years (average of 5.8 years). Excellent functional results were observed in 10 hip joints, good results in 40, fair results in 11, and poor results in nine. The risks of poor prognosis include impact fracture or osteochondral fracture of femoral head, a time beyond 42 days from injury to operative management, and dislocation of femoral head during the injury. Some of the problems, which were observed included postoperative infection in two hips, iatrogenic sciatic nerve injury in eight hips, traumatic arthritis in 15 hips, heterotopic ossification in 17 hips, and necrosis of the femoral head in six hips.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>A careful selection of operative indications for delayed acetabular fractures in combination with a proper operative approach and appropriate reduction and fixation could guarantee relatively good results.</p>

Three nonparallel screws for the treatment of femoral neck fractures / 中国骨伤

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore clinical effects of three nonparallel screws in treating femoral neck fractures.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From September 2008 and May 2009, 29 patients were treated, including 12 males and 17 females with an average age of 52 years (ranged from 27 to 62 years). Before operation, according to Garden classification system, 2 cases were Garden type II (undisplaced fracture), 18 cases were Garden type III (partial displaced fracture) and 9 cases were Garden type IV (complete displaced fracture). After fracture reduction in operation, Pauwels classification system was used to classify the type, and 12 cases were type II, 17 cases were type III Closed reduction and internal fixation with three non-parallel screws were used to treat. The surgery X-ray and follow-up X-ray were compared to observe whether femoral neck abbreviate and screw exit appeare. Harris scoring was used to evaluate function.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All patients were followed-up from 34 to 44 months with an average of 38 months. The mean time of bone union was 7 (ranged, 3 to 12) months. Nonunion occured in 4 cases with Garden IV, and femoral head necrosis occurred in 2 cases. For Harris scoring, two cases with nondisplaced fracture were 100. Among 27 cases with displaced fractures, 23 cases achieved bone union without femoral head necrosis, average Harris scale was 91.35 +/- 8.00, and the average Harris scale of 4 cases with bone nonunion was 61.23 +/- 5.12. For all but one, there was no femoral neck crispation after bone union.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Nonparallel screws for femoral neck fractures can effectively control abbreviation and screw tail exit after fracture healing.</p>

Percutaneous pelvic fracture stabilization using CT-based 3D navigation software combined with targeting mechanical arm: a cadaver model trial / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVES</b>To investigate a new targeting mechanical arm for CT-based navigated percutaneous fixation of pelvic fractures, and to evaluate the safety and efficiency of the procedures.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Using CT-based 3D navigation software combined with targeting mechanical arm, percutaneous insertion of pelvic models (3 dry human cadaver pelvic skeletons and 5 plastic Sybone pelvic models) were performed, 8 pelvic models allowed percutaneous cannulated screw insertion of both S-I joint (2 S-I screws placement for each side, total 32 screws in this experiment) and both superior ramus (1 ramus medullary screw placement for each side, total 16 screws in this experiment). Percutaneous insertion of pelvic models (4 dry human cadaver pelvic skeletons and 4 plastic Sybone pelvic models, 1 S-I screws and 1 ramus medullary scre placement for each side, 32 screws in this experiment) were performed using fluoro-navigation system (Stryker, USA). Time necessary for every screw insertion were recorded. Accuracy of screw placement was assessed using C-arm imaging and direct eyes inspecting. The time and accuracy of the two methods were compared.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The time required for the CT-based 3D navigation procedure (3.6 ± 1.2) min was significantly less than using the targeting mechanical arm compared to drilling freehand with navigation (9.1 ± 0.8) min (t = 2.50, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in accuracy between the two methods.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>CT-based 3D navigation software combined with targeting mechanical arm should be potential to apply percutaneous sacroiliac screwing for pelvic fractures with more accurate and more reliable.</p>

Pilon fractures: a new classification and therapeutic strategies / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Operative decision-making of Pilon fractures are of great challenges until now. The aim of this study was to investigate the guidance of the four-column theory in decision-making therapeutic strategies for Pilon fractures and its result.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>One hundred and ten cases (107 patients) of Pilon fractures classified by the four-column theory and treated by ORIF, were reviewed. According to the four-column classification scheme, lateral column of 85 cases, posterior column of 66 cases, medial column of 77 cases, and anterior column of 61 cases are involved. Among all the 110 cases, single column of 14 cases, two columns of 46 cases, three columns of 17 cases, and all of four columns of 33 cases are involved.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>One hundred and eight cases have been followed up. The average follow up time is 14.7 months, varying between 7 and 52 months. The average healing time is 3.6 months, ranging from 2.5 to 8.0 months. Reduction of 86.1% reviewed Pilon cases are good or acceptable according to Burwell and Charley's Radiology Evaluation System. Ankle function of 87.1% cases are excellent or good according to the AOFAS evaluation system.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>As a simple and comprehensive classification, the four-column classification can contribute to reasonable operation decision-making and good prognosis of Pilon fracture.</p>

Correlation analysis between plasma D-dimer levels and orthopedic trauma severity / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>The correlation between the plasma D-dimer level and deep vein thrombosis has not been conclusive in various studies. The aim of this research was to study the relationship between plasma D-dimer levels and the severity of orthopedic trauma by retrospective examination of orthopedic trauma cases.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Clinically acute trauma and non-acute trauma patients were selected and their plasma D-dimer levels were measured. Plasma D-dimer levels in patients of these two groups were compared. The relationship between the plasma D-dimer level and the severity of the trauma was also studied.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There were 548 cases in the acute trauma group and 501 cases in the non-acute trauma group. The levels of plasma D-dimer were significantly higher in the acute trauma group than in the non-acute trauma group (P < 0.01). In the acute trauma group, the correlation between the D-dimer level and the number of fractures was a positive linear correlation (r = 0.9532).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Elevated plasma D-dimer is common in trauma patients. The D-dimer level and the number of fractures in the trauma patients are closely correlated. D-dimer is not only an indicator for the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolus, but also an indicator of the severity of trauma in acute trauma patients.</p>

Computer-assisted navigation systems for insertion of cannulated screws in femoral neck fractures: a comparison of bi-planar robot navigation with optoelectronic navigation in a Synbone hip model trial / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Computer-assisted procedures have recently been introduced for navigated femoral neck screw placement. Currently there is little information available regarding accuracy and efficiency of the different navigated procedures. The aim of this study was to compare two fluoroscopic navigation tracking technologies, a novel bi-planar robot navigation and standardized optoelectronic navigation, versus standard freehand fluoroscopic insertion in a Synbone hip model.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Eighteen fixed Synbone hip models were divided into 3 groups. C-arm navigated cannulated screws (AO-ASIF, diameter 7.3 mm) were inserted using freehand targeting (control group). A novel bi-planar robot system (TINAV, GD2000) and an optoelectronic system (Stryker OTS Navigation System) were used for the navigated procedures (robot group and optoelectronic group). Accuracy was measured using radiographic evaluation including the measurement of screw parallelism and decentralization, and joint penetration. To evaluate the efficiency, the number of guidewire passes, operative time and fluoroscopic images taken were noted.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The two computer-assisted systems provided significantly improved accuracy compared to the freehand technique. Each of the parameters, including guidewire passes and number of fluoroscopy images, was significantly lower when using the computer-assisted systems than for freehand-unguided insertion (P <0.05), but operative time was significantly shorter when using freehand-unguided insertion than for the computer-assisted systems (P <0.05). Accuracy, operative time and number of fluoroscopy images taken were similar among the two navigated groups (P >0.05), but guidewire passes in the robot group were significantly less than in the optoelectronic group (P <0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Both bi-planar robot navigation and optoelectronic navigation were similarly accurate and have the potential to improve accuracy and reduce radiation for freehand fluoroscopic targeting for insertion of cannulated screws in femoral neck fractures. Guidewire passes in the robot group were significantly less than in the optoelectronic group. However, both navigated procedures were associated with time-consuming registration and high rates of failed matching procedures.</p>

Treatment of malunited calcaneus fracture with subtalar distraction bone block fusion / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To report and evaluate the results of subtalar distraction bone block fusion in the treatment of malunited calcaneus fracture.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From September 2004 to January 2008, 32 cases of malunited calcaneus fracture were treated, among which 28 cases were classified type II and 4 cases type III by Stephens-Sander's classification. Preoperative X-ray and CT examination demonstrated a talocalcaneal angle of 18.1 degrees ± 2.3 degrees , and an AOFAS score of 36.3 ± 4.1. Subtalar distraction bone block fusion was performed in all cases in this series. Regular follow-up was done with talocalcaneal angle measurement and AOFAS scoring.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All the 32 patients had been followed-up of 34 months, ranging from 24 to 65 months, only to reveal a primary wound healing without infection in all but one, in which superficial skin necrosis occurred postoperatively and healed after dressing-changes. Bone healing at the fusion site was seen 3 months after operation in all cases. At the final follow-up, the talocalcaneal angle was 22.9° ± 1.9° and the AOFAS score 77.5 ± 4.1, both demonstrating a significant difference (P < 0.05), when compared with those before operation.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Subtalar distraction bone block fusion, together with the lateral wall decompression, can correct the main deformity and reduce major symptoms induced by the malunion of calcaneus fractures, being a convenient and practical option for the treatment of malunited calcaneus fracture.</p>

New strategy for decision making of Pilon fracture / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the guidance of four column theory in decision making of Pilon fractures and its result.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Ninety-one cases of Pilon fractures classified by four column method and treated by open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) were reviewed from March 2005 to June 2009. Four column classification:lateral column of 67 cases were involved, posterior column of 34 cases were involved, medial column of 34 cases were involved and anterior column of 34 cases were involved. Among all the 94 fractures, single column of 20 fractures were involved, 2 columns of 49 fractures were involved, 3 columns of 15 fractures were involved and all of 4 columns of 10 fractures were involved.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Eighty-nine cases had been followed up. The average follow-up time was 16.2 months ranging between 6.0 and 39.0 months. The average healing time was 3.7 months ranging from 3.0 to 5.0 months. Reduction of 91% reviewed Pilon cases were good or acceptable according to Burwell and Charley's radiology evaluation system. Ankle function of 87.6% cases were excellent or good according to AOFAS evaluation system.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>As a simple and comprehensive classification, four column classification can contribute to reasonable operating decision making and good prognosis of Pilon fracture.</p>

Clinical study to the cannulated screws with fluoroscopy in the operation of femoral neck fractures / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVES</b>To investigate the safe distance from the tip of the cannulated screw to the apex of the femoral head, and to avoid cutting out of the cannulated screws from the femoral head.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From November 2007 to April 2008, the placement configuration of the cannulated screws in the femoral head on the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral view was investigated. And the relation between the three-dimensional configuration and the two-dimensional perpendicular view of the femoral head to establish a solid geometry formula was analyzed. According to the configuration, the distances from the tips of different cannulated screws to the apex of the femoral head to confirm the screws placement within the femoral head was measured.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The actual risk of cutting out of the cannulated screws varied according to the different placement of the cannulated screws in the femoral head, even if the screw tips were within the femoral head on the AP and lateral radiograph. The mean diameter of femoral head was 49.8 mm. If the cannulated screw is in the center of femoral head on the lateral view, the cannulated screw would not cut out as long as it was in the femoral head on the AP view. When the angle was 22.5°on the lateral view, and under 22.5°on the AP view, the distance from the screw tip to the apex of the femoral head would exceeded 2.2 mm. If the angle > 45°on the AP view, the distance would exceed 9.6 mm. When the angle was 45°on the lateral view, and under 22.5°on the AP view, the distance would exceed 8.2 mm. When the angle > 45°on the AP view, the distance would exceed 17.7 mm. When the angle was 67.5°on the lateral view, the distance would exceed 23.1 mm on AP view.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>If the cannulated screw is in the center of femoral head on the lateral view, the cannulated screw won't cut out as long as it is in the femoral head on the AP view. The angle is larger on the AP and lateral view (especially on the lateral view), and the distance is longer.</p>

Complications of the locking plate for displaced proximal humeral fractures / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Although the locking plate has become popular for treating displaced proximal humeral fractures in recent years, the complications of this method are still underestimated. We tried to evaluate the factors that have an influence on the complications experienced after proximal humeral fractures fixed by locking plates and compare the results from patients having complications with those having no complications.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From September 2004 to September 2007, 92 out of 111 displaced proximal humeral fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation with a locking plate were available for follow-up, with an average time of 15.2 months (12 - 36 months). The range of motion, Visual Analog Score (VAS) for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons' Form (ASES), Constant-Murley, University of California-Los Angles scoring system (UCLA) score, and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) for function evaluation was all recorded at the latest follow-up. The results from patients with complications were evaluated according to the indices listed above and compared with those patients without any complications.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There were 17 patients with complications, an 18.5% complication rate. Among them, the forward flexion, external rotation and internal rotation were 139.1° ± 24.3°, 24.1° ± 19.6°, and up to T10 level on average. The mean VAS score was 1.0 ± 1.1, the ASES score was 82.9 ± 13.8, the Constant 82.1 ± 11.8, the UCLA 28.5 ± 4.1 and the mean SST 9.5 on average. There was no significant difference of complication rate among different age, sex, and injured side, fresh or delayed fracture, combined with other injury or not groups. Compared with the group without complications, patients with complications showed significantly less external rotation and lower Constant-Murley and UCLA functional scores (P < 0.05). A significant difference in results was seen between patients with complications and those without complications.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The indication control and appropriate surgical technique were important while performing the locking plate fixation for proximal humeral fractures.</p>

Primary clinical application of traction reductor for lower limb fracture / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To develop a traction reductor for the reduction of lower limb fractures during the minimally invasive surgery and explore its safety and efficacy.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From February 2007 to March 2009, closed or limited open reduction plus percutaneous plate and screw internal-fixation were conducted in 34 patients with fracture of distal femur and tibia metaphysic, among which there were 3 distal femoral fractures (2 33-B, 1 33-C), 14 proximal tibial fractures (9 41-A, 3 41-B, 2 41-C) and 17 distal tibial fractures (9 43-A, 5 43-B, 3 43-C, 2 Gustilo I a), according to the Association for Osteosynthesis-Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO-OTA) classification. Besides, closed reduction plus interlocking intramedullary nailing on tibial shaft fracture were applied in 36 patients (7 42-A, 21 42-B, 8 42-C, 2 Gustilo I a). All the 70 patients, with an average age of 37.6 years (range: 17 to 63 years) and average time before surgery of 4.7 d (range: 0.7 to 12.0 d), underwent reduction by self-designed traction reductor for lower limb fracture in the surgery. The reduction duration and C-arm fluoroscopy time were recorded. Recovery of the force line of affected limbs after surgery was determined by whether the line from anterior superior iliac spine to the interdigit between the first and second toe-web passed the patella center. And the distance from bilateral anterior superior iliac spine to medial malleolus tip as well as the difference between lower limbs were recorded to determine the recovery of length after surgery. Meanwhile, the varus-valgus and anteroposterior angulations after reduction were measured by AP and lateral X-ray.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The reduction duration was 12.7 min (range: 7 to 31 min); X-ray fluoroscopy time, 1.3 min (range: 0.4 to 3.0 min); length difference between both lower limbs (6.5 ± 1.1) mm; and axial alignment difference (7.0 ± 1.8) mm. The X-ray result showed that varus-valgus angle was (2.75 ± 0.16)°; and anteroposterior angulation (5.13 ± 0.51)°.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The traction reductor for lower limb fracture could achieve satisfying fracture reduction in the minimally invasive surgery of distal femur, tibia metaphysic and tibial shaft fracture.</p>

Semi-constrained total elbow arthroplasty for the treatment of the elbow disorders / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To retrospectively review the results of Coonrad-Morrey semi-constrained total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) for the treatment of different elbow disorders.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Between December 2003 and April 2008, 30 patients with different kinds of elbow disorders including elbow fracture, non-healing elbow fracture, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis were treated with TEA using the semi-constrained Coonrad-Morrey elbow replacement prostheses. One patient had bilateral total elbow replacements. There were 22 females and 8 males, with a mean age of 66 years (47 to 78).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Twenty patients (21 elbows) were available for review. The average length of follow-up was 35 months (from 12 to 52 months). The mean Mayo elbow performance score was 84 points. Excellent results were achieved in 6 elbows (28%), 11 elbows had good outcome (52%), 2 elbows had improvement (10%), while the other 2 elbows had no improvement (10%). The 2 elbows with distal humeral fractures, had no pain after treatment but developed heterotopic ossification, which caused stiffness and lower the Mayo elbow performance score. One delayed healing of the wound, one patient experienced temporary radial nerve hypesthesia and one elbow showed transparent region around the implant without radiological sign of loosening in the implanted prostheses.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>This study reveals good to excellent outcome with the use of semi-constrained TEA for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, elbow fracture, osteoarthritis and non-healing elbow fractures in elder patients. The non-healing elbow fractures in elder patients would accompany with severe osteoporosis and comminuted fracture, which would affect the result of open reduction internal fixation. So TEA may be one optimal treatment for these patients.</p>

Posterior monteggia fracture-dislocations of proximal ulna / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVES</b>To discuss the diagnosis and differential diagnosis, and to establish an effective protocol to treat the posterior Monteggia fracture-dislocations of proximal ulna in adult according to our experience.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Between April 2004 and December 2007, 16 patients with posterior Monteggia fracture-dislocations were treated surgically, 13 were followed up at a mean of 28 months (range, 12 - 58 months). All the operations were through the posterior midline approach. The fractures of radial head and coronoid process were reduced and fixed, if possible. The proximal ulna fractures were fixed with a single plate in 7 cases, plate combined with K-wires in 2, plate combined with K-wires tension band in 3, and K-wires tension band combined with screws in 1.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>No elbow was painful or unstable at the last follow up examination. They had an average of 100 degrees (range, 0 degrees to 145 degrees ) of flexion-extension of elbow. The average motion of forearm rotation was 119 degrees (range, 0 degrees to 170 degrees ). The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was 93.1 points (67 - 100 points), excellent and good results were achieved in 92.3%. The mean system of Broberg and Morrey score was 88.8 points (53 - 100 points), excellent and good results were achieved in 76.9%.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Attention should be paid to the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of the posterior Monteggia fracture-dislocation of proximal ulna. Anatomically reduction and stable fixation of proximal ulna is the keystone for the surgical treatment.</p>

Surgical resection of heterotopic ossification after open reduction internal fixation of acetabular fractures / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the clinical effect of surgical resection of the severe heterotopic ossification (HO) after the open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of acetabular fractures.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Five cases of severe HO after the ORIF of acetabular fractures were treated by surgical resection from October 2005 to April 2007. All patients were male, the average age was 34 years (22 to 45 years). The average time of HO after ORIF of acetabular fractures was 14.2 months (3 to 30 months). The original surgical approaches were: Kocher-Langenbeck approach as 4, ilioinguinal combined K-L approach as 1. According to the Brooker classification, there were 4 patients with IV degree and 1 with III degree. The average total movement for all the 5 patients was 8 degrees. All patients received one time radiation therapy before or after operation, the dosage was 7-8 Gy. The surgical approach was Kocher-Langenbeck for all patients. During operation the nerve stimulator was used to explore the sciatic nerve and carefully protected it, resected all HO bone and removed all implants. For one patient, because of confusion between femoral head and acetabulum, total hip replacement were performed. The joint exercise (passively and actively) began from the second day after operation, and at the same time, all patients took the indomethacin to prevent the occurrence of HO.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All patients were followed up for 4 to 22 months. There was no recurrence of HO, the average total movement for all the 5 patients was 160 degrees.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Early surgical resection and combined with radiation and indomethacin for the severe HO after the ORIF of acetabular fractures can obtain excellent results.</p>

The in vitro observational investigation of antibiotic coating on implants / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVES</b>To investigate the characteristics of antibiotic poly (D, L-lactide) (PDLLA) coating of implants, including its quantity, mechanical stability, sterility and antibiotic release in vitro.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The weight of the total coating mass was determined with an electronic semimicro balance before and after coating. Thickness of the coating was documented by scanning electronic microscopy. The stability and the loss of coating mass after implantation and extraction into the intramedullary canal was measured by electronic semimicro balance and the regularity and possible damage of the coating was examined by scanning electronic microscopy. Sterility of the coating procedure was tested by bacteria incubation. A group of coated implants were incubated in PBS to test the coating decrease and the release of gentamicin at different time points.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The quantification of the total coating mass was (7.2 +/- 0.9) mg and the thickness of coating was (13.5 +/- 1.7) microm. After explantation of the coated implants from the tibia medullary, the mean loss of coating mass was (3.5 +/- 1.3)%. Scanning electronic microscopy confirmed no defects of the coating layer extending to the metallic surface in any implant. None of the tested samples presented bacterial growth after incubation on blood agar and tryptic soy broth. The PDLLA depicted a weight reduction of about 6.4% after 6 weeks. Within the first 4 h, the release of gentamicin experienced an initial peak period, then a constant and gradual release was found for at least 6 weeks.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The antibiotic PDLLA coating on implants can meet the demands of the mechanical stability and sterility, and gentamicin releases quickly in the first hour and the release can last at least 6 weeks. These characteristics undoubtedly justify the feasibility of the coating usage in clinics.</p>

Preliminary report of surgical treatment of post-traumatic stiff elbow / 中华外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To report the method and result of open arthrolysis of patients who suffered from severe post-traumatic elbow stiffness.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Of the 12 patients, there were 9 male and 3 female, average age of 32 years old (16 - 47 years). Primary injury included 7 simple fractures, 1 simple dislocation, 2 fracture dislocations and 2 soft tissue injury. The averaged time of immobilization after injury was 3.3 weeks (0 - 8 weeks). The averaged time between injury and open arthrolysis was 6.4 months (1 - 14 months). Before open arthrolysis, the mean arc of total motion was 33.8 degrees (0 degrees - 80 degrees ). Three patients suffered from forearm rotation deficiency. Posterior approach was used for 4 patients, medial approach for 2 patients and both medial and lateral approach for 6 patients. tissues were resected, which hindered the motion of the elbow and perform proximal radioulnar joint arthrolysis for some patients. After arthrolysis, the arc of elbow motion could reach 0 degrees - 140 degrees , and for the patients who suffered from forearm rotation deficiency, pronation 80 degrees and supination 90 degrees were gotten. Ulnar nerve transposition was not a routine. The patients began active and active-assisted elbow and forearm movement the first day after operation. Indomethacin was taken the first day after open arthrolysis routinely.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Twelve patients were followed up for 14 - 18 months (averaged 15.8 months). At the latest follow-up, the mean arc of total motion was 120.8 degrees (100 degrees - 140 degrees ). Nine patients recovered the functional arc of 30 degrees - 130 degrees , and 10 patients extended to less than 10 degrees , and 4 patients could extend to 0 degrees . As for the 3 patients who suffered forearm rotation deficiency, the forearm rotation improved. The mean Mayo elbow performance score was 70.4 (50 - 90) before open arthrolysis, and 98.8 (85 - 100) after open arthrolysis. No patient was found to have signs of heterotopic ossification.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>For the treatment of post-traumatic stiff elbow, with careful open arthrolysis and early active and active-assisted exercise we can get good results.</p>