Immediate effect of small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation in improving the treatment of braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To observe the immediate effect of small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation in improving the correction of braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Methods: A total of 50 cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were selected and given brace correction first. The whole spine anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were taken, the Cobb angle was measured, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score of pain caused by brace wearing was recorded. After removal of the brace, small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation was performed once. After treatment, the same brace was put on again to take a whole spine anteroposterior radiograph, the Cobb angle was measured, and the VAS score was recorded. The changes in Cobb angle and VAS score after manipulation were compared, and the immediate efficacy was evaluated. Results: After the manipulation, the Cobb angle was significantly smaller than that before treatment (P<0.01) and the VAS score was significantly lower than that before treatment (P<0.01). Conclusion: Small-angle Tui-Pushing and An-Pressing anti-rotation bone-setting manipulation can improve the immediate efficacy of brace in treating adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and relieve the pain caused by brace wearing at the same time.

Review of articulated elbow orthotics for joint stiffness rehabilitation / Revisão de órteses articuladas de cotovelo para reabilitação de rigidez articular

ABSTRACT Joint stiffness is the most common complication in elbow injuries, presenting several etiologies and pathophysiological mechanisms that hinder treatment and prognosis. Prevention and treatment of joint contracture depend on the cause of stiffness, and early intervention should modify its outcomes. The methods used may be conservative or surgical, alone or in combination, according to each individual situation. Objective: Review articles on articulated elbow orthosis for joint stiffness rehabilitation. Methods: A literature review was conducted in journals available at the PubMed, Medline and LILACS databases, using the following Health Science Descriptors (DeCS): orthotic devices; braces; elbow; elbow joint; contracture; joint disorders. It sought to retrieve and analyze studies with the highest level of evidence that have already been conducted on articulated elbow orthosis for joint stiffness rehabilitation. Results: After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, four articles were included from PubMed and none from Medline or LILACS. Of the four PubMed articles, two were systematic reviews and two were randomized clinical trials. Conclusion: Articulated elbow orthoses can benefit joint stiffness treatment, improving range of motion and pain, showing superior effect compared to non-articulated plaster orthotics. Level of Evidence III, Systematic Review of Level III Studies.

RESUMO A rigidez articular é a principal complicação do cotovelo, afetando o tratamento e o prognóstico. O manejo da contratura articular se baseia na sua etiologia, e a intervenção precoce deve modificar o desfecho dessa complicação. Objetivo: Revisar artigos sobre órtese articulada de cotovelo para reabilitação de rigidez articular. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica em periódicos disponíveis do PubMed, Medline e LILACS, utilizando os Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DeCS): aparelhos ortopédicos; braquetes; cotovelo; articulação do cotovelo; contratura; e transtornos da articulação. A intenção foi estabelecer e conhecer estudos de alto poder de evidência já realizados, que tenham tido como referência a temática de órteses articuladas de cotovelo para reabilitação de rigidez articular. Resultados: Após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, revisaram-se artigos indexados no PubMed, Medline e LILACS, encontrando-se quatro artigos pelo PubMed e nenhum pelo Medline ou LILACS. Dos quatro artigos, dois eram revisões sistemáticas e dois eram ensaios clínicos randomizados. Conclusão: Órteses articuladas de cotovelo podem ser benéficas no tratamento de rigidez articular, sendo sugerido que melhoram amplitude de movimentos (ADM) e dor, inclusive com efeito superior em relação às órteses não articuladas gessadas. Nível de Evidência III, Revisão Sistemática de Estudos de Nível III.

Broad pectus excavatum treatment: long term results of a brazilian technique / Tratamento do pectus excavatum amplo: resultados a longo prazo de uma técnica brasileira

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims the treatment results of broad pectus excavatum after a long-term follow-up and skeletal maturity. Methods: Eighty-four children and adolescents with broad-type pectus excavatum were selected for evaluation after treatment with a dynamic orthosis that applies compression to the lower rib projections and prescription of exercises. The broad pectus excavatum was defined as a deformity that the depressed area was greater and covered the area above and below the nipple line. All patients were evaluated for more than 1 year after the end of treatment and skeletal maturity. Post-treatment results were categorized as mild, moderate and severe. Statistic correlations between results and deformity flexibility, deformity severity, and adherence to treatment were assessed. Results: The mean age at the beginning of treatment was 13.3 years, and the follow-up duration was 25.7 months after suspension of orthosis use. Forty-eight percent of patients showed good results. With regular use of orthoses and performance of exercises, this rate increased to 70% (p < 0,001). Mild cases showed more success than severe cases (p = 0,007). Initial flexibility didn't influence the results (p = 0,63). Conclusion: Treatment of broad pectus excavatum with orthoses and exercises led to good definitive results in most resilient patients, especially in those with mild deformities. Level of Evidence V, Expert Opinion.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudar os resultados de longo prazo e com seguimento até a maturidade esquelética do tratamento do pectus excavatum amplo. Métodos: 84 crianças e adolescentes foram tratados com uma órtese que aplicacompressão nas saliências costais inferiores, associada a exercícios específicos. A deformidade foi classificada como ampla quando a depressão tem maior extensão e abrange uma área acima e abaixo da linha mamilar. Os resultados foram categorizados em ruim, regular ou bom, sendo correlacionados estatisticamente com a flexibilidade, a gravidade da deformidade e a adesão ao tratamento, com avaliação um ano após o fim do tratamento e na maturidade esquelética. Resultados: A idade média no início do tratamento foi de 13,7 anos e o seguimento médio foi de 25.7 meses após a suspensão do uso da órtese. 48% dos casos apresentaram sucesso com o tratamento, mas quando os exercícios e o uso da órtese foram regulares, esta taxa aumentou para 70% (p < 0,001). Os casos mais leves tiveram maior sucesso que os de maior gravidade (p = 0,007), mas a flexibilidade inicial não influenciou os resultados (p = 0,63). Conclusão: O tratamento do pectus excavatum amplo com o uso de órtese e exercícios apresentou bons resultados definitivos na maioria dos pacientes resilientes, em especial nos casos mais leves. Nível de Evidência V, Opinião do Especialista.

Ortodoncia Digital. Sistema de Alineación Mediante Placas Transparentes: caso clínico / Digital orthodontics. Alignment system using transparent plates: a clinical case

El tratamiento ortodóncico permite rehabilitar la función como también la estética facial y de la sonrisa. En muchos casos, esto puede realizarse sin la utilización de brackets. Las placas alineadoras realizan movimientos en las arcadas dentarias y las posibilidades y los resultados obtenidos cada vez son mejores. La utilización del sistema de alineación con placas permite que muchos pacientes, que no están dispuestos a utilizar brackets, encuentren una respuesta a sus problemas de oclusión (AU)

A new type of adjustable weight bearing rehabilitation brace for lower limbs in postoperative rehabilitation of proximal femoral nail anti-rotation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To study and analyze the clinical effect of the self-developed new adjustable weight-bearing rehabilitation brace in the rehabilitation of the femoral intertrochanteric fracture after the operation of PFNA.@*METHODS@#From July 2015 to June 2017, 62 patients with typeⅡ (Evans-Jensen classification) intertrochanteric fracture of femur were treated with PFNA internal fixation. There were 11 males and 19 females in the routine rehabilitation group, with an average age of (70.73± 6.09) years;17 males and 15 females in the brace rehabilitation group, with an average age of (71.25±6.60) years. Among them, the patients in the routine rehabilitation group recovered according to the routine method, and the patients in the support rehabilitation group used the self-developed new adjustable weight-bearing rehabilitation support of lower limbs to assist the early rehabilitation. The pain intensity(VAS score), weight-bearing of affected limb, clinical healing time of fracture, Harris score and complications were recorded and analyzed.@*RESULTS@#Nine patients lost their visit half a year later, the other 53 patients were followed up for 9 to 18 months. The VAS score at 1, 3, 6 months after operation of brace rehabilitation group was lower than that of routine rehabilitation group(<0.05). The weight bearing of the limbs in the rehabilitation group was significantly higher than that in the conventional rehabilitation group(<0.05), but the clinical healing time of fracture in the brace rehabilitation group was shorter than that in the routine rehabilitation group(<0.05). In addition, the Harris score of the postoperativebrace rehabilitation group was better than that of the conventional rehabilitation group(<0.05). The incidence of complications was lower than that of the conventional rehabilitation group(=0.048).@*CONCLUSION@#In the rehabilitation of Evans Jensen typeⅡintertrochanteric fracture after PFNA internal fixation, the new self-developed adjustable weight-bearing rehabilitation brace can significantly relieve postoperative pain, regulate and moderately increase the stress stimulation at the fracture end, so as to promote fracture healing, accelerate the recovery of hip joint function, reduce the incidence of complications, and its clinical effect is safe and reliable.

Fake Braces by Quacks in Malaysia: An Expert Opinion

@#Dental quackery has been a problem for decades and is becoming a major concern in many countries, including Malaysia. Recent development of a new service offered by quacks in Malaysia is “fake braces”, which alarmed dental professionals. The fake braces appear similar to the professionally fitted orthodontic appliances comprising of archwires that are secured on brackets by coloured ligatures except they are fitted by unqualified individuals who have no formal clinical training. In addition, the orthodontic materials and dental equipment used for this illegal service were substandard and unregulated. Therefore, such fitted appliances are harmful to the teeth and oral health. Efforts to record the extent of fake braces practice and its oral health consequences have been challenging as they are marketed through the social media, and the victims were either reluctant to come forward or did not know the appropriate channel to file a complaint to the health authority. This is an expert opinion paper with the aims to highlight typical presentation of fake braces, modus operandi of fake braces providers, the harmful effects of fake braces on the patient’s oral health, the role of social media advertising in promoting fake braces, and the impacts to the illegal providers.

Factors Related to Early Recurrence of Idiopathic Clubfoot Post the Ponseti Method

@#Introduction: Idiopathic clubfoot or congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) is managed by the Ponseti method worldwide; however, the recurrence of the deformity is a challenging problem. The purpose was to review the factors associated with early recurrence of CTEV post the Ponseti method. Materials and Methods: During 2011-2016, 34 infants with 52 CTEV, who underwent the Ponseti method and a minimum follow-up period of six months, were reviewed. Twenty-two infants (65%) were male, and 18 infants (53%) had bilateral CTEV . Recurrence of CTEV was defined as ar eappearance of at least one of the four components of thed eformity. The association between recurrence and factors,i ncluding age, gender, bilaterality, family geography, type ofp rincipal caregiver, severity at presentation, centre where theP onseti method was initiated, compliance to foot abductionb race (FAB), practice of stretching exercise, type of FAB,a nd complications of casting, were evaluated usingu nivariate logistic regression analysis. R esults: The median age at initiation of the treatment was3 .4 (IQR; 2.1-12.6) weeks. A median of six (range; 3-12)c asts were required. Tenotomy was performed in 32/34( 94%) of cases. Recurrence occurred in 14/52 feet (27%) ata n average follow-up period of 2.3±1.1 years. Non-c ompliance to FAB protocol began at an average age of1 1.2±6.5 months, and significantly increased the risk ofr ecurrence during the weaning phase [OR (95%CI)=8.4 (1.2-9 2.4), p=0.03]. Other factors were not associated with ther ecurrence. Conclusion: Non-compliance to FAB occurred early during the treatment and related to a risk of recurrence of CTEV .P hysicians should encourage the parents and/or guardians tof ollow the protocol to decrease the risk of recurrence.

Cuantificación de cambios en la morfología externa de la espalda mediante topografía de superficie basada en luz estructurada en la escoliosis idiopática del adolescente tras un año de tratamiento con corsé ortopédico / Quantification of changes in the external morphology of the back by means of surface topography based on structured light in idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents after a year of treatment with orthopedic corse

Resumen: Antecedentes: Cuantificar los cambios morfológicos producidos en la superficie de la espalda de adolescentes con escoliosis idiopática como resultado del tratamiento mediante corsé y correlacionarlos con las variaciones radiográficas. Material y métodos: Estudio analítico, de cohortes, prospectivo, sobre una muestra de 31 adolescentes con escoliosis idiopática divididos en dos grupos: 11 con tratamiento mediante corsé y 20 sin corsé. Se realizó una cuantificación de la deformidad en dos ocasiones separadas entre sí por un intervalo de un año mediante tres sistemas: 1) ángulo de rotación del tronco (escoliómetro); 2) topografía de superficie; 3) radiografía simple de raquis completo. Resultados: No se detectaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre la valoración inicial y final de las variables topográficas y radiográficas en el grupo con corsé. En el grupo no tratado, sólo hubo diferencias significativas para las medidas del escoliómetro. Se encontró una correlación positiva entre la diferencia del ángulo de Cobb de la curva principal con la de dos variables topográficas que cuantifican la asimetría en el plano axial y en el coronal, respectivamente. Discusión: En el seguimiento de pacientes con escoliosis tratados con corsé, se deben tener en cuenta y valorar no sólo parámetros radiográficos como el ángulo de Cobb, sino también parámetros clínicos y topográficos que cuantifiquen la deformidad externa de la espalda, ya que existe una discrepancia clínico-radiográfica demostrada de manera amplia en la literatura. La mejoría de la forma externa de la espalda es un factor muy importante para el paciente y es lo que va a percibir fundamentalmente, lo que puede influir en una mejor cumplimentación del tratamiento ortopédico. En nuestro estudio, la curva escoliótica, así como la deformidad externa de la espalda, se mantuvo estable en el período de seguimiento tanto en los pacientes tratados con corsé como en los no tratados.

Abstract: Background: To quantify the morphological changes in the surface of the back of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis as a result of treatment with braces and to correlate them with radiographic changes. Material and methods: An analytical, cohort, prospective study on a sample of 31 adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. We divided them into two groups: eleven treated with braces and twenty without them. Quantification of the deformity was performed on two separate occasions with an interval of one year using three systems: 1) angle of trunk rotation (scoliometer); 2) surface topography; 3) full spine X-rays. Results: No statistically significant differences were detected between the initial and final assessment of the topographic and radiographic variables in the group with braces. In the untreated group, only in measures with the scoliometer significant differences were registered. A positive correlation was found between the Cobb angle difference of the main curve with two topographic variables that quantify the asymmetry in the axial and coronal plane, respectively. Discussion: In following patients with scoliosis treated with braces, we should consider and evaluate not only radiographic parameters such as the Cobb angle, but also clinical and topographic parameters that quantify the external deformity of the back, as there is a clinical-radiographic discrepancy amply demonstrated in the literature. The improvement of the external shape of the back is a very important factor for the patient, and can influence a better completion of the orthopedic treatment. In our study, the scoliotic curve and external deformity of the back remained stable during the follow-up period in both treated and untreated patients.

Radiological and Clinical Effectiveness of a Novel Calcaneal Fracture Brace after Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture Surgery

BACKGROUND: After calcaneal fracture surgery, a short leg splint and cast are typically applied. However, these restrict joint exercises, which is inconvenient for patients. In addition, there is a risk of complications, such as pressure ulcers or nerve paralysis with a short leg cast. In this study, we evaluated clinical and radiological outcomes of the use of a specially designed calcaneal brace after calcaneal fracture surgery. METHODS: From among patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for calcaneal fracture between July 9, 2013 and May 31, 2017, 102 patients who wore a calcaneal fracture brace (group A) and 82 patients who wore a postoperative short leg cast (group B) were randomly chosen for this study. Radiological changes and clinical factors were compared between the two groups. After swelling at the surgical site decreased, a special calcaneal brace was applied to patients in group A. They were allowed to perform early weight bearing and joint motion. Patients in group B were immobilized in a short leg cast and were told to avoid weight bearing for 6 weeks. In each group, the Böhler's angle and Gissane's angle were measured and compared using postoperative and final follow-up radiographs. Pain (measured using a visual analogue scale [VAS]) and ankle joint range of motion (dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, eversion, and inversion) were measured serially until the final follow-up visit. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the Böhler's angle or Gissane's angle between the two groups as measured postoperatively and at the final follow-up (paired t-test). Differences in the VAS pain score and eversion were also statistically nonsignificant between the two groups. However, group A had a significantly higher range of dorsiflexion (p = 0.021), plantar flexion (p = 0.012), and inversion (p = 0.045) of the ankle than group B (independent t-test). CONCLUSIONS: Application of the calcaneal fracture brace after open reduction and internal fixation of a calcaneal fracture not only maintained the fracture reduction but allowed for greater joint motion than the short leg cast. Thus, the calcaneal fracture brace can be considered an effective postoperative management option that enables early resumption of daily activities and facilitates postoperative joint motion.

Functional Brace of Anterior Cruciate Ligament: Systematic Review / 대한스포츠의학회지

Functional knee braces are commonly prescribed to support anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current literature on the use of functional knee braces of ACL with respect to biomechanical, clinical and functional outcomes. A literature search was conducted (2000 to 2017) by two independent reviewers using PubMed MEDLINE database. Articles were retrieved by an electronic search using keywords (anterior cruciate ligament, brace, and bracing) and their combinations. Current functional braces used to treat ACL injury were identified. Studies that met inclusion criteria were assessed for pertinent data. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Functional knee brace reportedly did not improve long-term clinical and functional outcomes following ACL reconstruction, but some studies suggest that functional brace may have some benefit with regard to biomechanics, proprioception, and subsequent injury rates. Functional knee brace after ACL reconstruction was found no significant difference in clinical and functional outcomes. But Further large-scale recent studies will be required to determine long-term outcomes of the brace.

Uso rotineiro do colar cervical no politraumatizado. revisão crítica / Routine cervical collar use in polytrauma patients: a critical review

Conforme o conhecimento médico avança, medidas terapêuticas inquestionáveis na medicina de urgências e emergências passaram a ser reconsideradas. O uso do colar cervical no paciente politraumatizado intuitivamente poderia trazer segurança ao paciente, evitando uma possível piora da sua lesão raquimedular. Evidências atuais, no entanto, provam não somente que muitas vezes este dispositivo não traz benefício como agrava lesões intracranianas. Apresentamos aqui uma pesquisa qualitativa e descritiva por meio de revisão narrativa da literatura, trazendo dados recentes quanto à correta indicação para utilização do colar cervical no politraumatizado, apontando também seus malefícios e erros técnicos em sua utilização.(AU)

With the advance of medical knowledge, emergency and urgency medical procedures, once taken for granted, have been modified. Intuitively, the use of a cervical collar in polytrauma patients could be safe for the patient, avoiding a secondary spinal injury. However, recent evidence prove that sometimes this device not only gives no benefit to the patient but also worsen intracranial injuries. This is a qualitative and descriptive research using a narrative review of the literature, and which brings recent data on the correct indication of the cervical collar in the polytrauma patient, showing the harms and technical errors of its use.(AU)

Evaluation of occlusal stability after treatment with self-ligating Damon system brackets / Avaliação da estabilidade oclusal após tratamento com aparelho autoligável do sistema Damon

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the occlusal and arch form stability of self-ligating Damon System appliance treatment, after a mean period of 3 years. Methods: The sample consisted of 20 patients (10 female and 10 male) Class I malocclusion with mild to moderate crowding treated orthodontically without extractions, with a mean initial age of 14.66 years (SD +1.40), mean final age of 17.70 years (SD +1.39) and mean age at posttreatment of 20.62 years (SD +1.42). The mean treatment time was 3.03 years (S.D. +1.17) and the mean posttreatment time was 2.92 years (S.D +0.88). Initial, final and posttreatment dental casts and panoramic radiographs of each patient were evaluated. Crowding, transverse and anteroposterior arch dimensions were measured in digital models in the maxillary and mandibular dental arches. For evaluation of the occlusal stability of orthodontic treatment it was used the Objective Grading System (OGS) in dental casts and panoramic radiographs. Intragroup comparison of all variables evaluated was performed by ANOVA and Tukey test, when necessary. For OGS comparison the dependent T test were used. Intragroup comparison of all variables evaluated was performed by ANOVA and Tukey test, when necessary. For OGS comparison the dependent T test used. Results: During treatment, there was significant decrease in the Little's Irregularity Index in maxillary and mandibular arches. No statistically significant changes in the Little's Irregularity Index were found during the follow-up period after debonding in a mean period of 2.9 years. There was significant increase in all measurements of the maxillary arch width and arch length with treatment. The mandibular measurements of arch width and arch length also showed a significant increase during treatment. At posttreatment, all maxillary and mandibular measurements remained stable, with no significant relapse of arch changes. The OGS index did not show significant changes during the posttreatment period. Conclusions: Treatment with self-ligating Damon System appliances showed increase in maxillary and mandibular arch widths and lenghts, which remain stable after a mean period of 3 years posttreatment. Treatment with this system provides maxillary and mandibular incisor alignment, as defined by Little's Irregularity index, and occlusal stability, as defined by the OGS score, with stability after a mean period of 3 years posttreatment.(AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a estabilidade oclusal e a estabilidade da forma do arco em pacientes tratados com aparelho autoligável do Sistema Damon. Material e métodos: A amostra foi constituída por radiografias panorâmicas e modelos de gesso iniciais (T1), finais (T2) e pós-tratamento (T3) de 20 pacientes (10 homens e 10 mulheres) com má oclusão de Classe I, apinhamento moderado a severo, tratados ortodonticamente sem extrações. Os pacientes apresentaram idade inicial média de 14,66 anos (D.P= +1,40), idade final média de 17,70 anos (D.P= +1,39), tempo médio de tratamento 3,03 anos (D.P= +1,17), idade de pós-tratamento média de 20,62 anos (D.P= +1,42) e tempo médio de pós tratamento de 2,92 anos (D.P= +0,88). O Índice de Estabilidade Oclusal (OGS), foi avaliado por meio de modelos de gesso e radiografias panorâmicas. As medidas transversais, sagitais e o Índice de irregularidade de Little foram realizadas utilizando-se modelos de gesso que foram digitalizados com o scanner 3Shape R700 3D (3Shape A/S, Copenhagen, Dinamarca) e mensurados através do Software OrthoAnalyzerTM 3D (3Shape A / S, Copenhagen, Dinamarca). Para comparação intragrupo de todas as variáveis avaliadas entre as fases inicial (T1), final (T2) e controle (T3), ANOVA e teste de Tukey foram utilizados. Para avalição do OGS foi utilizado o teste t dependente. Resultados: No arco superior todas as medidas da forma e comprimento do arco apresentaram um aumento com o tratamento (T2-T1), com exceção do Índice de Irregularidade de Little que diminuiu significantemente com o tratamento. As medidas mandibulares da forma e comprimento do arco também tiveram um aumento significante com o tratamento, já o Índice de Irregularidade de Little diminuiu significantemente. No período pós-tratamento (T3-T2) todas as medidas maxilares e mandibulares permaneceram estáveis, não apresentando recidiva significante da forma do arco e do Índice de Irregularidade de Little. O índice OGS não apresentou alterações significantes do fim do tratamento para o controle. Conclusão: O tratamento com aparelho autoligável do Sistema Damon apresentou aumentos na forma e comprimento do arco, mantendo-se estáveis após o período de contenção. O tratamento com este Sistema promoveu o alinhamento dos incisivos tanto superiores quanto inferiores, com resultados oclusais estáveis após um período médio de 3 anos pós-tratamento.(AU)

Orthodontic fixed retainers: a systematic review / Retenedores fijos en ortodoncia: revisión sistemática

ABSTRACT Introduction: the objective of this study was to evaluate the periodontal effects of fixed retainers in the long term. Methods: a search in electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Embase, ProQuest, Ebsco, Biomed Central, Medline, Lilacs, and Google Scholar) and a manual search with no language restrictions. The inclusion criteria were: randomized clinical trials and meta-analysis, prospective and retrospective studies, studies in humans, clinical and radiographical studies evaluating the periodontium, performed during the 1987-2014 period, up to 10 years of follow-up. Four authors extracted data from the selected studies independently. Results: after applying the inclusion criteria, we selected 4 studies in which a total of 405 patients were evaluated. All the studies were longitudinal and retrospective. There was a greater prevalence of gingival recessions, especially in mandibular incisors, which are more vulnerable. There were no significant changes in terms of alveolar bone index or calculus index. The survival rate of fixed retainers was 50% or higher. Due to the heterogeneity of the selected studies, including difference in study population, differences in methods to assess the intervention, and follow-up periods, it was impossible to quantify the variables to perform a meta-analysis. Conclusions: the selected studies had a middle level of evidence. The greatest gingival recessions occurred with the use of fixed retainers in a long time; however, there is no alteration of the alveolar bone level. The studies recommend encouraging patients to maintain good oral hygiene. The findings of this review should be cautiously taken due to the resulting level of evidence, and the general recommendation for clinicians is that, in the long run, these retainers appear to be safe to maintain the alignment of mandibular incisors, although more studies with greater scientific rigor are required. There were no conflicts of interest and this study did not have any kind of financial support.

RESUMEN. Introducción: el objetivo del presente estudio consistió en evaluar los efectos periodontales de los retenedores fijos a largo plazo. Métodos: se realizó una búsqueda en bases de datos electrónicas (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Embase, ProQuest, Ebsco, Biomed Central, Medline, Lilacs y Google Scholar) y una búsqueda manual sin restricción de lenguaje. Los criterios de inclusión fueron: ensayos clínicos aleatorizados y metaanálisis, estudios prospectivos y retrospectivos, estudios en humanos, estudios en los que se evaluara clínica y radiográficamente el periodonto, periodo comprendido entre 1987 y 2014, seguimiento hasta 10 años. Cuatro autores extrajeron independientemente los datos de los estudios seleccionados. Resultados: después de aplicar los criterios de inclusión, se seleccionaron 4 estudios en los que se evaluaron un total de 405 pacientes. Todos los estudios fueron longitudinales retrospectivos. Se encontró una mayor prevalencia de recesiones gingivales, especialmente de los incisivos mandibulares, que son más vulnerables. No mostraron cambios significativos ni el índice de hueso alveolar ni el índice de cálculo. La tasa de supervivencia de los retenedores fijos fue mayor del 50%. Debido a la heterogeneidad de los estudios seleccionados, entre los cuales se encuentra la diferencia en la población de estudio, diferencias en los métodos para evaluar la intervención y el tiempo de seguimiento, fue imposible cuantificar las variables para realizar un metaanálisis. Conclusiones: los estudios seleccionados tuvieron un nivel de evidencia medio. Se presentan mayores recesiones gingivales con el uso de los retenedores fijos a largo plazo; sin embargo, no hay alteración del nivel óseo alveolar. Los estudios recomiendan incentivar al paciente para que mantenga una buena higiene oral. Los resultados de esta revisión se deben tomar con cautela por el nivel de evidencia que arrojaron, y la recomendación general para el clínico es que, a largo plazo, estos retenedores parecen ser seguros para mantener el alineamiento de incisivos mandibulares, aunque se requieren más estudios con mayor rigor científico. No hubo conflictos de intereses y la investigación no contó con ningún tipo de financiamiento.

Referências linguais da coroa dentária para o posicionamento vertical de braquetes / Lingual references of the tooth crown for vertical bracket positioning

Objetivo: determinar o posicionamento vertical da crista marginal (PVCM) e do centro lingual da coroa clínica (PVCC), bem como comparar a discrepância vertical de posição entre cristas marginais (DVCM) e centros de coroas clínicas (DVCC) de dentes adjacentes. Material e métodos: uma amostra foi selecionada a partir de um grupo de 1.430 pacientes. Duzentos pacientes que preenchiam os critérios de seleção tiveram seus modelos de gesso iniciais selecionados. Após a padronização do posicionamento do modelo de gesso, o PVCM e PVCC dos dentes posteriores de ambos os arcos foram medidos, permitindo o cálculo da DVCM e DVCC. Um medidor digital de altura com precisão de 0,01 mm foi utilizado para as avaliações, e os dados foram comparados estatisticamente (p < 0,05). Resultados: em geral, os dentes posteriores adjacentes apresentaram diferentes PVCM e PVCC. As variáveis DVCM e DVCC foram significantemente diferentes, exceto entre pré-molares inferiores. As diferenças entre DVCM e DVCC foram clinicamente significantes (> 0,5 mm). O PVCC foi significantemente correlacionado com a idade do paciente. Conclusão: as diferenças entre DVCM e DVCC indicaram que o centro lingual da coroa clínica não foi uma referência anatômica confiável para predizer o nivelamento das cristas marginais. A idade do paciente parece ser um fator adicional que limita o uso adequado deste referencial.

Objective: to determine the vertical positioning of the marginal ridge (VPMR) and clinical crown center (VPCC) regarding the tip of the lingual cusp, and to compare the vertical discrepancy between adjacent marginal ridges (VDMR) and clinical crown centers of adjacent posterior teeth (VDCC). Material and methods: the sample was selected from a pool of 1.430 patients. Two hundred initial dental casts were selected from patients that met the selection criteria. After standardization of the dental cast positioning, VPMR and VPCC of posterior teeth were measured in both arches, allowing the calculation of VDMR and VDCC. Measurements were performed with a digital height gauge and accuracy of 0.01 mm. Data were statistically compared at p < 0.05. Results: in general, adjacent posterior teeth had different VPMR and VPCC. The variables VDMR and VDCC were significantly different, except between mandibular premolars. The differences between VDMR and VDCC were clinically significant (> 0.5 mm). Patient age and VPCC were significantly correlated. Conclusion: the differences between VDMR and VDCC showed that lingual center of the clinical crown was not a reliable anatomical reference to predict the marginal ridge leveling. Patient's age seems to be an additional factor limiting the adequate use of this landmark.

Tratamento da tíbia vara de blount com órteses moldadas: uma nova perspectiva / Management of infantile blount’s disease with molded orthoses: a new perspective

Objetivo: Este estudo retrospectivo visa avaliar o tratamento com órteses moldadas individualmente em estágios precoces da doença.Métodos: Foram avaliados os prontuários de pacientes submetidos a tratamento da tíbia vara de Blount com órteses moldadas para descompressão medial entre 2010 e 2014. O ângulo de deformidade(ângulo meta-diafisário de Drennan) e a classificação Langenskiõldforam aferidos antes e após o tratamento por médico ortopedista especialista com mais de 5 anos de prática, no modo cego em relação a o estudo e aos pacientes. Resultados: A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 2,57 anos. Quatro eram do sexo feminino e seis do sexo masculino. Metade da amostra apresentava doença bilateral.O ângulo de deformidade dos pacientes apresentou redução média estatisticamente significativa após o tratamento (p < 0,001). Sexo e lateralidade não influenciaram estatisticamente na alteração do ângulo de deformidade após o tratamento (p > 0,05). Conclusão:O uso noturno de órteses moldadas para descompressão medial foi efetivo para redução do ângulo meta-diafisário na Doença de Blountem pacientes menores de 3 anos de idade, independente do sexo e bi lateralidade da doença. Pacientes com mais de 3 anos não se beneficiaram do uso da órtese. Nível de EvidênciaIV, Serie de Casos

Objective: This retrospective study evaluated treatment with individuallycontoured molded bracing at early stages of the disease.Methods: We evaluated the medical records of patients undergoingtreatment of Blount’s disease with molded orthoses formedial decompression between 2010 and 2014. The deformityangle (Drennan’s metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle) and Langenskiõldclassification were measured before and after treatment by a pediatricorthopedic surgeon with over 5 years of practice, blinded forthe study and patients. Results: The mean age was 2.57 years old.Four patients were female and six male. Half of the total sample hadbilateral disease. The average deformity angle showed a statisticallysignificant reduction after treatment (p <0.001). Gender and lateralitydid not statistically influence the change of the deformity angleafter treatment (p> 0.05). Conclusion: The nightly use of moldedorthoses for medial decompression was effective in reducing themetaphyseal-diaphyseal angle in Blount’s disease in children under3 years of age, regardless of gender and bilateral disease. Patientsover 3 years old did not benefit from bracing. Level of EvidenceIV, Case Series.

A Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Following Different Treatment Approaches for Adolescents with Severe Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine which is usually not symptomatic and which can progress during growth and cause a surface deformity. In adulthood, if the final spinal curvature surpasses a certain critical threshold, the risk of health problems and curve progression is increased. Although surgery is usually recommended for curvatures exceeding 40° to 50° to stop curvature progression, recent reviews have shed some light on the long-term complications of such surgery and to the lack of evidence for such complicated procedures within the scientific literature. Furthermore, a number of patients are very fearful of having surgery and refuse this option or live in countries where specialist scoliosis surgery is not available. Other patients may be unable to afford the cost of specialist scoliosis surgery. For these patients the only choice is an alternative non-surgical treatment option. To examine the impact of different management options in patients with severe AIS, with a focus on trunk balance, progression of scoliosis, cosmetic issues, quality of life, disability, psychological issues, back pain, and adverse effects, at both the short-term (a few months) and the long-term (over 20 years). We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINHAL and two other databases up to January 2016 with no language limitations. We also checked the reference lists of relevant articles and conducted an extensive hand search of the grey literature. We searched for randomised controlled trials as well as prospective and retrospective controlled trials comparing spinal fusion surgery with no treatment or conservative treatment in AIS patients with a Cobb angle greater than 40°. We did not identify any evidence of superiority of effectiveness of operative compared to nonoperative interventions for patients with severe AIS. Within the present literature there is no clear evidence to suggest that a specific type of treatment is superior to other types of treatment.

Progression of Compression and Related Factors in Conservative Management of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to determine the ideal period of brace application for thoracolumbar (T10-L2) osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) based on the progression of the vertebral compression with passage of time and to evaluate the factors associated with progression of thoracolumbar OVCF, when treated conservatively. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included a total of 46 patients who were diagnosed with thoracolumbar OVCF and could be followed-up for at least 6 months. In this study, the increase of compression rate and the mean slope of compression rate per weeks were compared between two periods (from diagnosed date to 8 weeks and from 8 weeks to 6 months), as the standard point. Age, bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis treatment after injury, diabetes mellitus (DM) as underlying disease were also compared between two groups (setting up 15% as standard point of increase of compression rate, or =15%). Statistical analyses were performed using the paired t-test to assess the increase of compression rate and using the linear mixed model to assess the mean slope change. The relationships between the factors and progression of compression were analyzed using t-test, chi-square test, and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: The increase of compression rate was 13.03% and 1.97% in each period and the difference between those two periods was 11.06% (p=0.00). At 8 weeks of follow-up, the mean slope was reduced by 1.12 (p=0.00). No statistically significant difference in related factors was observed between two groups. CONCLUSION: Considering the increase of compression rate with passage of time, brace should be applied strictly for an initial 8 weeks. And age, BMD, osteoporosis treatment after injury, and DM as underlying disease are not predictors of progression of compression in vertebral fractures.

Feasibility of cuttlebone/platelet-rich plasma compound in the repair of rabbit’s cartilage injuries / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:Platelet-rich plasma is a kind of autologous platelet concentrate that includes a large number of growth factors, and it can promote the regeneration of the tissue cels and matrix, and stimulate tissue repair, whereas it is easy to flow, and thus cannot be effectively fixed in the injured site. OBJECTIVE:To observe the effect of cuttlebone/platelet-rich plasma compound to repair the rabbit cartilage. METHODS:Twenty-one big-ear white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups. A model of osteochondral injury was made in the cartilage of the weight-bearing condyle of the rabbit right knee in the three groups, and respectively treated with implantation of cuttlebone/platelet-rich plasma compound in the experimental group, implantation of gelatin sponge/platelet-rich plasma compound in the control group, and nothing in the blank control group. The specimens were examined at 12 weeks postoperatively for gross observation and histological observation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:At 12 weeks after surgery, in the experimental group, the cartilage defect region was reduced significantly, chondrocyte-like cels appeared and arranged in alignment, showing a columnar distribution that is very close to the normal cartilage; in the control group, the cartilage defect region was narrowed a little, cartilage matrix-like tissues were visible but irregular; the blank control group, the cartilage defect region was narrowed slightly, and only bone cels, bone matrix and blood vessels were seen with no presence of cartilage or cartilage-like tissues. The defect diameter and depth in the experimental group were lower than those in the other two groups at 12 weeks after surgery (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that the cuttlebone/platelet-rich plasma compound can promote the healing of cartilage defects.

Evidence-Based of Nonoperative Treatment in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Until now because there are many published journals with a variety of opinions so I will stratify these articles by giving weighted value on grade evaluation which depend on each institution (written author and co-authors) and external evaluate status (SCI, SCIE, impact factor) rather than the outcomes provided by each article. Consequently, before evaluating publicized papers, study quality assessment of each interesting paper should be performed by mean of gauging the quality of evidence. Reviewing these articles, a grade of medical literature was divided into the following 5 levels as level I (randomized controlled study), level II (non-randomized controlled study), level III (case-control study), level IV (case series), and level V (expert opinions). However, in present article I concluded only involved medical literatures with weighted value of level I and II evidence.

Evaluation of Bone Mineral Status in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

BACKGROUND: Several reports have suggested low bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). We determined bone mineral status in patients with AIS to evaluate the effect of brace treatment on BMD. METHODS: BMD was measured in 46 patients (mean age, 17.8 +/- 4.9 years) with AIS (17 with brace and 29 without brace) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan and compared the results to an age-matched (mean age, 16.6 +/- 3.9 years) control group (n = 54). RESULTS: The AIS group had significantly lower bone mass at the lumbar spine (Z-score, -1.500 vs. -0.832) and hip (Z-score, -1.221 vs. -0.754) except at the femoral neck. No difference in BMD was found between patients with AIS who used a brace and those who did not. CONCLUSIONS: The results confirmed that BMD was low in AIS patients and it was not affected by brace treatment.