Surgical Treatment of AO/OTA 33-C Intra-Articular Distal Femoral Fractures through Parapatellar Approach

Purpose@#To report the surgical results of the parapatellar approach for AO/OTA 33-C distal femoral intra-articular fractures. @*Materials and Methods@#Twenty-one patients with AO/OTA 33-C distal femoral intra-articular fracture were included. There were 11 cases of C2 and 10 cases of C3 fractures. The time of union and the coronal alignment were radiographically investigated. The complications related to surgery were clinically investigated, and a functional evaluation using the range of motion and Oxford knee score was performed to compare the surgical results according to fracture classification. @*Results@#In all cases, sufficient articular exposure and anatomical reduction were achieved with the parapatellar approach. No cases of coronal malalignment, loss of reduction, and plate failure were noted. On the other hand, in four cases (19.0%), an autogenous bone graft was performed due to delayed union on the meta-diaphyseal fracture site. There were no differences in the radiological and clinical outcomes of the C2 and C3 fractures. The knee joint pain and Oxford knee score were poorer in the delayed union group than the normal union group. @*Conclusion@#The parapatellar approach is useful for achieving an anatomical reduction of the articular surface of the distal femur and minimally invasive plating technique. Although satisfactory surgical results could be obtained regardless of the degree of articular comminution, a study of the risk factors of delayed metaphyseal fusion may be necessary.

Comparing Outcomes of Retrograde Intramedullary Nail and Locking Plate Fixation in Distal Femoral Fractures

Purpose@#We compared the radiological and clinical results of fixation for distal femoral fracture (DFF) using a locking compression plate (LCP) or a retrograde intramedullary nail (RIN). @*Materials and Methods@#From October 2003 to February 2020, 52 cases of DFF with a minimum 1-year follow-up (with a mean follow-up of 19.1 months) were included: 31 were treated with LCP and 21 with RIN. The operation time, blood loss, and hospitalization period were compared, and the incidence of postoperative nonunion, malunion, delayed union and metal failure and other post-operative complications were evaluated and compared. @*Results@#There was no significant difference in the operating time between the two groups, but the mean blood loss was significantly higher in the LCP group (LCP 683.5 ml vs RIN; 134.9 ml; p=0.015). In 49 out of 52 cases, bone union was achieved without additional surgery in an average of 6.8 months, and a complete union was achieved after additional surgery in three cases of nonunion (LCP 2 cases vs RIN 1 case; p=0.065). One case of malunion and superficial infection was confirmed in each group. @*Conclusion@#Internal fixation using LCP and RIN give good outcomes with a low complication rate and can therefore be considered useful surgical treatments for DFF.

Brachial Plexus Neuropathy after Revision of Clavicular Fracture Nonunion: A Case Report

We performed a revisionary open reduction and internal fixation for treating nonunion of the mid-shaft of the left clavicle with an autogenous cancellous bone graft. On postoperative day 4, the patient presented with neurologic deficits in the left upper extremity. We removed the implant and made a superior angulation to decompress the brachial plexus. At 6 months postoperatively, callus bridging and consolidation were visible and all hand and elbow functions were fully recovered. Our case suggests that brachial plexus neuropathy may be caused by stretching and compression after reduction and straightening of the nonunion site around adhesions or scar tissue. Therefore, care should be taken whether there are the risk factors that can cause brachial plexus neuropathy when revision surgery is performed for treating nonunion of a clavicle shaft fracture.

Stoppa Approach for Anterior Plate Fixation in Unstable Pelvic Ring Injury

BACKGROUND: The Stoppa (intrapelvic) approach has been introduced for the treatment of pelvic-acetabular fractures; it allows easy exposure of the pelvic brim, where the bone quality is optimal for screw fixation. The purpose of our study was to investigate the surgical outcomes of unstable pelvic ring injuries treated using the Stoppa approach for stable anterior ring fixation. METHODS: We analyzed 22 cases of unstable pelvic ring injury treated with plate fixation of the anterior ring with the Stoppa approach. We excluded cases of nondisplaced rami fracture, simple symphyseal diastasis, and parasymphyseal fractures, which can be easily treated with other techniques. The average age of the study patients was 41 years (range, 23 to 61 years). There were 10 males and 12 females. According to the Young and Burgess classification, there were 12 lateral compression, 4 anteroposterior compression, and 6 vertical shear fracture patterns. The fracture location on the anterior ring was near the iliopectineal eminence in all cases and exposure of the pelvic brim was required for plate fixation. All patients were placed in the supine position. For anterior plate fixation, all screws were applied to the anterior ramus distally and directed above the hip joint proximally. Radiologic outcomes were assessed by union time and quality of reduction by Matta method. The Merle d'Aubigne-Postel score was used to evaluate the functional results. RESULTS: The average radiologic follow-up period was 16 months (range, 10 to 51 months). All fractures united at an average of 3.5 months (range, 3 to 5 months). According to the Matta method, the quality of reduction was classified as follows: 16 anatomical (73%) and 6 nearly anatomical (27%) reductions. There were no cases of screw or implant loosening before bone healing. The functional results were classified as 7 excellent (32%), 12 good (55%), and 3 fair (13%) by the Merle d'Aubigne-Postel score. There were no wound complications, neurovascular injuries, or other complications related to the surgical approach. CONCLUSIONS: Stable anterior ring fixation placed via the Stoppa approach can result in excellent reduction and stable screw fixation with a low complication rate.

Orthogonal Locking Compression Plate Fixation for Distal Humeral Intraarticular Fractures

PURPOSE: To investigate the surgical outcomes of orthogonal locking compression plate fixation for distal humeral intraarticular fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 18 patients presenting a distal humeral intraarticular fracture who were treated with orthogonal locking compression plate fixation. According to the AO/OTA classification, there were eight C2 and ten C3 fractures. We evaluated radiologic outcomes, clinical results with range of motion, operation-related complications, and functional score by Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS). RESULTS: The a verage u nion t ime was 3.5 months, and there was no c ase of r eduction l oss of a rticular f racture at t he last follow-up. Additional surgical procedures were needed in the three cases of C3 fractures. There was one case of heterotrophic ossification and one case of K-wire irritation. The average range of motion of elbow joint was 7° to 122°, and functional results were graded as 14 excellent, three good, and one fair by MEPS. CONCLUSION: Anatomical reduction and internal fixation with orthogonal locking compression plate could provide satisfactory surgical outcomes for the treatment of distal humeral intraarticular fracture.

The Surgical Outcome of Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures Treated with 2.4 mm Volar Distal Radius Locking Plate

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the surgical outcomes of unstable distal clavicular fractures treated with a 2.4 mm volar distal radius locking plate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From August 2009 to August 2012, 16 patients with distal clavicle fractures underwent surgical treatment. Mean age was 36 years (18-62 years) and mean follow-up period was 12.9 months (6-32 months). Two cases were Neer type I, six cases IIa, three cases IIb, three cases III, and two cases V. For the radiologic assessment, union time and metal failure were evaluated, and coracoidiologic assessment, union time and metal failure were evaluatethe acromioclavicular joint. The clinical results were evaluated by range of motion, postoperative complication, and University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) score. RESULTS: Mean time to fracture union was 7.4 weeks (6-14 weeks) in all cases. No statistical difference in coracoid-clavicle distance was observed between immediate post-operation group and contra-lateral group (p=0.6), but an increase of 2.1 mm was observed in the last follow up group compared with the contra-lateral group (p<0.01). The UCLA scoring system showed excellent results in 15 cases and good results in one case. Acromial-clavicle instability occurred in one case so that metal removal and distal clavicle resection were performed. CONCLUSION: A 2.4 mm volar distal radius locking plate can provide rigid fixation through several screw fixation in the short distal fragment and lead to satisfactory clinical outcomes in unstable distal clavicular fractures.

Insufficiency Fracture of Proximal Femur Shaft without Bisphosphonate Therapy: Report of Three Cases

There is a growing interest in the factors related to insufficiency fractures. We are going to report three insufficiency fracture cases which are considered to be caused by osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, steroid use and femoral shaft bowing among the patients not taking bisphosphonate. All cases are caused by low energy trauma and among these cases, one patient is being presented with a prodromal symptom and another patient complains of both prodromal symptoms and bilateral lesions.

Ceramic on Ceramic Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty with a 36 mm Diameter Femoral Head: More than Three Years Follow up / 대한고관절학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the results for clinical outcome and radiologic assessment of ceramic on ceramic cementless total hip arthroplasty using a 36 mm diameter femoral head. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included a group of 40 patients of 43 cases who underwent ceramic on ceramic cementless total hip arthroplasty using a 36 mm diameter femoral head. The age range of this group was 28 to 82(mean 56); we monitored them over a period of 5.3 years(3-7.5 years). This clinical evaluation process included monitoring the degree of pain, range of motion, and the Harris hip score after three years since the surgery was performed. Radiographic evaluation and complication were confirmed as well. RESULTS: The preoperative Harris hip score increased from 43.4(21-57) to 88.1(81-95) after the surgery. The average motion range of hip was 113degrees flexion, 30degrees abduction, 24degrees adduction, 36degrees external rotation, and 12degrees internal rotation. Subjective pain was zero or minimal in all cases. Among the complications, dislocation occurred in only one case by a fall from a height and was reduced by closed reduction. There was no occurrence of ceramic fracture, even though infection occurred in one hip. CONCLUSION: The clinical outcome and radiologic assessment of the ceramic on ceramic cementless total hip arthroplasty using a 36 mm diameter femoral head showed a satisfactory result at three-year follow-up. Longer-term follow up is needed for further assessment.

Mid-term Results of Patients with Femoral Intertrochanteric Fractures Treated with Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation / 대한고관절학회지

PURPOSE: To evaluate the mid-term results of patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures treated with proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) in the elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between March 2008 and February 2010, 93 patients with intertrochanteric femoral fractures were treated with PFNA. Of these patients, 43 could be followed for a mean of 19.1 months (range, 12-33 months). The mean age was 77.3 years (range, 62-93 years) and there were 6 males and 37 females. According to the AO/OTA classification, there were 14 cases of A1, 25 cases of A2, and 4 cases of A3. Radiological outcomes were assessed at the union period along with the sliding distance of the antihelical blade according to fracture type. Functional outcomes were assessed according to the Chanley hip pain scoring system, walking ability, and the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) index. RESULTS: All patients, except for one with a deep infection, had complete union at 3.5 months (range, 2-6 months). Postoperative X-rays showed a good or acceptable reduction in 43 cases(100%), and an ideal blade position without significant differences according to the fracture type. The mean sliding length of the blade was 6.1 mm (range, 0-21 mm) and mean Chanley hip pain score was 4.0 points (range, 0-6.0 points). 19 patients (44%) were restored to their preoperative walking ability. 22 patients(51.2%) were able to live independently without support. CONCLUSION: The PFNA is a very effective implant in the treatment of different patterns of intertrochanteric femoral fractures. But further studies are needed focusing on a functional recovery and rehabilitation to improve postoperative clinical outcomes.

Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis for Humeral Proximal or Distal Shaft Fractures Using a 3.5/5.0 Metaphyseal Locking Plate

PURPOSE: Our study aimed to investigate the clinical and radiological results of humerus proximal or distal shaft fractures treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) using a 3.5/5.0 metaphyseal locking plate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the clinical and radiographic records of 17 patients with humeral proximal or distal shaft fractures who had undergone 3.5/5.0 metaphyseal locking plate osteosynthesis with a minimally invasive technique. We evaluated the results with respect to the anatomical reduction and union of the humerus shaft fracture through radiologic studies. We also evaluated the clinical results using the motion of shoulder and elbow functional outcome, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS), and postoperative complications. RESULTS: Complete union was achieved in all cases. The mean union time was 14.2 weeks. According to the functional outcome rated by the ASES score and MEPS, 15 cases were considered excellent and 2 cases were good. There were no cases of surgically-related complications like metal failure, loss of anatomical reduction, or postoperative nerve injuries. CONCLUSION: Using a 5.0 metaphyseal locking plate for humerus shaft fracture has the limitation that difficulties can arise in achieving sufficient screw fixation for small bony fragments. The 3.5/5.0 metaphyseal locking plate used in MIPO for humerus 1/3 proximal or distal shaft fractures was concluded to give good clinical and radiologic results.

Anterior Knee Pain after Intramedullary Nailing for Tibial Shaft Fractures

PURPOSE: To analyze the possible causes and incidence of the chronic anterior knee pain follow after closed intramedullary nailing for the tibial shaft fractures, in a retrospective aspect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 52 patients who treated with intramedullary nailing for the tibial shaft fractures from January 2001 to October 2008 were reviewed. We analyzed the relationship between knee pain and the variables (sex, age, types of fracture, protrusion extent of intramedullary nailing on proximal tibia). The aspects of pain, its onset and relieving time, and how much it influences on daily living were analyzed retrospectively. For categorical variables, group variences were estimated using Chi-square test. RESULTS: 34 patients of 52 (65%) complaint of anterior knee pain followed after intramedullary nailing, and there were no statistical differences between pain and sex/age (p>0.05). Incidence of anterior knee pain becomes higher as the severity of fracture increases, but there was no statistical difference between pain and intramedullary nailing protrusion. Pain severity was mostly not influencing on daily living, and it mostly responded to conservative treatment. CONCLUSION: The incidence of anterior knee pain followed after intramedullary nailing was 65%, and its severity was mostly not influencing on daily living. There were no significant differences between pain and sex, age, protrusion extent of intramedullary nailing on proximal tibia, but as the severity of frature increases, the incidence of anterior knee pain became higher.

The Result of Osteosynthesis for Femur Neck Fracture in Old Age Patients

PURPOSE: We wanted to investigate the radiographic and clinical results of internal fixation with cannulated screws in elderly patients with femoral neck fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the results of 47 cases of elderly patients with femoral neck fractures that were treated by osteosynthesis from May 2000 and March 2009 and these patients could be followed up for more than one year. There were 11 males and 36 females with a median age of 72 years (65~85 years). They were classified by the Garden stage. The number of stage I and II fractures was 34 and 16, respectively. The postoperative follow up period was 24 months (12~84 months). The union time, horizontal shortening and complications were investigated. Walking ability was evaluated by Koval's scoring system and the quality of life was measured by the Korean EQ-5D. RESULTS: The average union time was 4.4 months. The complications were one case of nonunion, 6 cases of avascular necrosis and one case of subtrochanteric fracture. The average of the horizontal shortening was 6.815 mm (0~20 mm) in the fracture site. The walking ability was on average 1 step down and it was possible to walk independently using a walker for 69% of the patients. The Korean EQ-5D quality of life was reduced from 0.856 to 0.561 (P <0.01). CONCLUSION: In elderly patients with femur neck fracture, the decreased abductor moment arm may reduce the quality of life and walking ability after cannulated screw fixation.

Pathologic Fracture of Unicameral Bone Cyst / 대한골관절종양학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to observe unicameral bone cyst (UBC) outcome after the fracture has healed and if there is any identifiable prognostic factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 13 UBC patients with pathologic fracture from 2001 to 2010 were reviewed. The mean follow up were 26 months (3-90 months). There were 11 male and 2 female patients and the mean age of the patients were 10.2 years old (6-16 years). 9 involved proximal humerusand 2 involved humerus shaft and 1 involved proximal femur and 1 involved proximal tibia. The treatment of UBC fracture was conservative cast application to heal the fracture initially, and 1 patient was treated with primary auto bone graft and open reduction with internal fixation. 5 patients were treated with steroid injection during follow up period and 2 patients with auto bone graft. We analyzed the change of UBC during pathologic fracture healing period and prognostic factor about age, the size of UBC, the involvement of physis. RESULTS: The mean duration of the fracture healing was 8.2 months. Complete healing were occurred at 4 patients (31%). No statiscal difference was checked with age about UBC healing (p=0.42). But, more larger size about UBC and more closer to physis, the healing was difficult (p=0.05, p=0.03). CONCLUSION: While pathologic fracture of UBC was possibly healed, active treatment should be applied especially those cysts that involvescloser area of the physis or large size.

PFNA and PFN in Intertrochanteric Fractures: Comparison Study of Sliding

PURPOSE: This study compared sliding between (a) lag screws of PFN (Proximal Femoral Nail, AO synthes) and (b) the helical blade of PFNA (Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation, AO synthes) for femoral intertrochanteric fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We include in our study thirty seven cases who were classified as AO/OTA type A1 femoral intertrochanteric fractures and who underwent hip operations between October 2006 and December 2008. There were 19 patients in the PFN group and 18 in the PFNA group. Degrees of sliding were also measured with postoperative radiology on last follow up compared with immediate postoperative radiology. Both groups were also compared with regard too walking ability using the method of Koval. RESULTS: Average sliding was 5.0+/-2.3 mm for lag screws of the PFN group and 2.8+/-1.3 mm for the helical blade of the PFNA group. The difference was statistically significant (p=0.04). Ambulatory abilities were not statistically different (p=0.33). CONCLUSION: Patients in the PFNA group have less sliding of the implant, but their walking abilities are similar to patients in the PFN group.

Seven-year Results of a Tapered, Titanium, Hydroxyapatite-Coated Cementless Femoral Stem in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: Aseptic loosening of cemented hip prostheses is recognized as a long-term problem, and especially in males and younger patients. Much energy has been focused on developing new prostheses that are designed for cementless fixation. We evaluated the performance of and periprosthetic bone response to a tapered, titanium, hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated femoral hip prosthesis at a minimum of 7 years of follow-up after treatment with primary total hip arthroplasty. METHODS: Seventy-eight patients and 86 hips were included in the study. There were 35 men and 43 women; the mean age at the time of the operation was 59 years (range, 41 to 81 years). We used a tapered, titanium (Ti6Al4V), HA-coated femoral implant. We evaluated the patients at a minimum of 7 years of follow-up after treatment with primary total hip arthroplasty. Clinical evaluation was performed using the scoring system and the hip scores were assigned according to the level of pain, the functional status and the range of motion. The patients who refused to return, but who did forward X-rays for review after being contacted were questioned by phone about the functional status of their hip. Radiographic follow-up was performed at six weeks, at three, six and twelve months and yearly thereafter. All the available radiographs were collected and assessed for implant stability, subsidence, osseointegration, osteolysis, stress shielding and evidence of periprosthetic lucency. RESULTS: Eighty-six hips (78 patients) were available for review at follow-up of greater than 7 years. In 11 of the 86 cases, acetabular failure required revision of the acetabular component, but the femoral stem survived and it was available for long-term evaluation. The radiographs were obtained at 7-year follow-up for another 20 hips, but the patients would not come in for the 7-year clinical evaluation. Therefore, a phone interview was conducted to assess any change in the functional status at a minimum of 7 years. CONCLUSIONS: The mechanical fixation of a tapered, titanium, HA-coated femoral implant was excellent in this study. This femoral design provided reliable osseointegration that was durable at a mean of 7 years follow-up.

Management of Nounion: Lower Extremity

No abstract available.

Mid-term Results of Distal Tibial Fractures Treated with Ilizarov External Fixator

PURPOSE: We analyed the mid-term results of distal tibial fractures treated with ilizarov external fixator and functional results according to delayed metaphyseal healing and fracture pattern. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 23 distal tibial fractures treated with ilizarov external fixator followed for minimum two year (mean 53 months). There were 10 A fractures, 2 B fractures, and 11 C fractures according to the AO classification. Radiographically, we analyzed bony union time according to translation of diaphyseal-metaphyseal fracture line and assessed arthritic score. Functional results was assessed with AOFAS score and analyzed according to delayed healing and fracture pattern. RESULTS: Average union time was 21 weeks. Delayed healing of metaphyseal fracture line was associated translational displacement >3 mm (p=0.01). AOFAS scrore was averaged to 68 and there was no stastical significance between delayed metaphyseal healing and functional results (p=0.31). But, low AOFAS score and arthritis score was related to fracture type (p=0.02). In 11 C fractures, radiographic arthritic change were developed in 6 cases (55%). CONCLUSION: The main prognosis of distal tibial fractures depends on articular involvement and to shorten the external fixation time, metaphyseal fracture should be reduced within 3mm.

Mid-term Results of Distal Tibial Fractures Treated with Ilizarov External Fixator

PURPOSE: We analyed the mid-term results of distal tibial fractures treated with ilizarov external fixator and functional results according to delayed metaphyseal healing and fracture pattern. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 23 distal tibial fractures treated with ilizarov external fixator followed for minimum two year (mean 53 months). There were 10 A fractures, 2 B fractures, and 11 C fractures according to the AO classification. Radiographically, we analyzed bony union time according to translation of diaphyseal-metaphyseal fracture line and assessed arthritic score. Functional results was assessed with AOFAS score and analyzed according to delayed healing and fracture pattern. RESULTS: Average union time was 21 weeks. Delayed healing of metaphyseal fracture line was associated translational displacement >3 mm (p=0.01). AOFAS scrore was averaged to 68 and there was no stastical significance between delayed metaphyseal healing and functional results (p=0.31). But, low AOFAS score and arthritis score was related to fracture type (p=0.02). In 11 C fractures, radiographic arthritic change were developed in 6 cases (55%). CONCLUSION: The main prognosis of distal tibial fractures depends on articular involvement and to shorten the external fixation time, metaphyseal fracture should be reduced within 3mm.

Pediatric Forearm Bone Fractures Treated with Flexible Intramedullary Nail

PURPOSE: To determine the usefulness of flexible intramedullary fixation in pediatric forearm diaphyseal fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 22 cases of forearm diaphyseal fractures treated with flexible intramedullary nail and K-wire. The radiographic assessment was based on the time to union, maintenance of reduction and angular deformity. The functional outcome was assessed with the range of motion and complications at last follow up. RESULTS: Average length of follow up was 13.9 months with mean age of 10.8 years and the time to union was 5.2 weeks. There were no angular deformity and fuctional results were excellent in all cases. There were 5 cases of soft tissue irritation of nail insertion site as post operative complication which was resolved after nail removal. CONCLUSION: Flexible intramedullary for pediatric forearm bone fractures is an effective and safe method which gives a good functional outcome.

Excessive Sliding of Compression Hip Screw For the Treatment of Intertrochanteric Fracture in Elderly

PURPOSE: To analyze the cause of excessive sliding of a compression hip screw for the treatment of an intertrochanteric fracture in elderly patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 109 intertrochanteric fractures stabilized with a compression hip screw from January 2000 to December 2006 were analyzed. The lag screws that had slid for more than 15 mm were defined as excessive. The length and incidence of compression hip screw sliding, which were compared with the fracture type (AO classification), tip-apex distance (TAD), position of the lag screw in the femoral head, use of trochanteric stabilizing plate and displacement of lesser trochanter were analyzed. RESULTS: Fourteen out of 109 cases (13%) had slid more than 15 mm. In the AO classification, 3 out of 47 (6.4%)A1 fractures, 10 out of 59 (17%) A2 fractures, and 1 out of 3(33%) A3 fractures slid excessively. In patients with a displaced lesser trochanter fragment more than 10 mm, there were 9 cases (9/10) that slid excessively. Most of the lag screws (84 out of 109) were placed in zone 5, and 9(11%) of them had slid excessively. Five were placed in zone 2 and 4 (80%) had slid excessively. Five of the 18 with a tip-apex distance of 25 mm or more had slid excessively. CONCLUSION: In A2 fractures, the size and displacement of the lesser trochanter fragment appears to be an important factor for excessive sliding. In addition, the position of the lag screw and TAD (Tip-Apex Distance) are factors for excessive sliding.