Caracterización de las fracturas supracondíleas del húmero en niños que requirieron manejo quirúrgico en un hospital de Santander, Colombia / Characterization of Supracondylar Fractures of the Humerus in Children who Required Surgical Management at a Hospital in Santander, Colombia / Caracterização das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero em crianças que precisaram de tratamento cirúrgico em um hospital de Santander, Colômbia

Introducción. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las características sociodemográficas, tratamiento y complicaciones pre y posquirúrgicas de las fracturas supracondíleas del húmero distal en niños que requirieron manejo quirúrgico en un hospital de Santander, Colombia. Metodología. Se trata de un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal con 58 pacientes que cumplieron los siguientes criterios de inclusión: edad entre 3 a 14 años, fracturas supracondíleas de manejo quirúrgico; como criterios de exclusión se tomó: antecedente de enfermedad ósea o neurológica previa y fracturas de más de 7 días de evolución. Para las variables continuas se usó medidas de tendencia central y dispersión, las categóricas en porcentajes y frecuencias absolutas. Resultados. La edad media de presentación fue de 6.2 años, el principal mecanismo de trauma fue caídas de altura con un 96.5%. El 65.5% provenía de zonas urbanas. El 13.8% se asoció con fracturas de antebrazo, y el 3.4% de epitróclea. La fijación se realizó en un 75% con técnica cruzada y un 17.2% se asoció con lesión iatrogénica del nervio ulnar. Discusión. En el estudio no se informaron lesiones vasculares; sin embargo, se documentó una alta prevalencia de lesión neurológica con la fijación medial, similar a lo descrito en la literatura (1.4%-17.7%); algunos autores describen técnicas que disminuyen estas lesiones hasta en un 0%. Conclusión. Las características sociodemográficas de nuestra población coinciden con la estadística publicada mundialmente; la principal complicación fue la lesión iatrogénica nervio ulnar, que se puede disminuir con un uso racional del pin medial y con el empleo de técnicas que busquen rechazar directamente el nervio. Palabras clave: Fracturas del Húmero; Fijación Interna de Fracturas; Clavos Ortopédicos; Codo; Niño; Nervio Cubital.

Introduction. The objective of this study was to describe sociodemographic characteristic, treatment, and pre- and post-surgical complications of supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus in children who required surgical management at a hospital in Santander, Colombia. Methodology. This was an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study involving 58 patients who met inclusion criteria: age between 3 and 14 years old, supracondylar fractures with surgical management; exclusion criteria include previous bone or neurological illness and fractures with more than 7 days of evolution. Central tendency and dispersion measures were used for continuous variables, and categorical variables in percentages and absolute frequencies. Results. The average age at presentation was 6.2 years old, the main mechanism of trauma was fall from height (96.5%). 65.5% came from urban zones. The 13.8% were associated with forearm fractures, and 3.4% with epitrochlear fractures. Pinning was performed at 75% with crossed technique and 17.2% were associated with iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury. Discussion. Study didn't inform vascular injuries. However, a high prevalence of neurological injury with medial pinning was documented, similar to that describe in the literature (1.4%-17.7%); some author described techniques that reduce these lesions by 0%. Conclusion. The sociodemographic characteristics of our population match with worldwide published statistics; the main complication was iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury, which can be reduced with the rational use of medial pin and with the application of techniques that seek to directly spare the nerve. Keywords: Humeral Fractures; Fracture Fixation, Internal; Bone Nails; Elbow; Child; Ulnar Nerve.

Introdução. O objetivo do estudo foi descrever as características sociodemográficas, o tratamento e as complicações pré e pós-cirúrgicas das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero distal em crianças que precisaram de tratamento cirúrgico em um hospital de Santander, Colômbia. Metodologia. Trata-se de um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal com 58 pacientes que atenderam aos seguintes critérios de inclusão: idade entre 3 e 14 anos, fraturas supracondilianas tratadas cirurgicamente. Os critérios de exclusão foram: histórico de doença óssea ou neurológica prévia e fraturas com duração superior a 7 dias de evolução. Para variáveis contínuas foram utilizadas medidas de tendência central e dispersão, as categóricas em percentuais e frequências absolutas. Resultados. A média de idade de apresentação foi de 6.2 anos, o principal mecanismo de trauma foi a queda de altura com 96.5%. 65.5% vieram de áreas urbanas. 13.8% estavam associados a fraturas de antebraço e 3.4% a epitróclea. A fixação foi realizada em 75% com técnica cruzada e 17.2% esteve associada à lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar. Discussão. Nenhuma lesão vascular foi relatada no estudo. No entanto, foi documentada alta prevalência de lesão neurológica com fixação medial, semelhante à descrita na literatura (1.4%-17.7%). Alguns autores descrevem técnicas que reduzem essas lesões em até 0%. Conclusão. As características sociodemográficas da nossa população coincidem com as estatísticas publicadas mundialmente. A principal complicação foi a lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar, que pode ser reduzida com o uso racional do pino medial e com o uso de técnicas que buscam rejeitar diretamente o nervo. Palavras-chave: Fraturas do Úmero; Fixação Interna de Fraturas; Pinos Ortopédicos; Cotovelo; Criança; Nervo Ulnar

Child Fractures: Are We Getting More Surgical? / Fraturas na criança: Estamos ficando mais cirúrgicos?

Abstract Historically, surgeries on the immature skeleton were reserved for open or articular fractures. In recent years, the improvement in the quality and safety of anesthesia, new imaging equipment, implants designed especially for pediatric fractures, associated with the possibility of shorter hospitalization time and rapid return to social life has demonstrated a new tendency to evaluate and treat fractures in children. The purpose of this update article is to answer the following questions: (1) Are we really turning more surgical in addressing fractures in children? (2) If this is true, is this surgical conduct based on scientific evidence? In fact, in recent decades, the medical literature demonstrates articles that support better evolution of fractures in children with surgical treatment. In the upper limbs, this is very evident in the systematization of the reduction and percutaneous fixation of supracondylar fractures of the humerus and fractures of the forearm bones. In the lower limbs, the same occurs with diaphyseal fractures of the femur and tibia. However, there are gaps in the literature. The available published studies show low scientific evidence. Thus, it can be inferred that, even though the surgical approach is more present, the treatment of pediatric fractures should always be individualized and conducted according to the knowledge and experience of the professional physician, taking into account the presence of technological resources available for the care of the small patient. All possibilities, non-surgical and/or surgical, should be included, always instituting actions based on science and in agreement with the family's wishes.

Resumo Historicamente, as cirurgias no esqueleto imaturo eram reservadas às fraturas expostas ou articulares. Nos últimos anos, a melhora na qualidade e segurança das anestesias, novos equipamentos de imagem, implantes desenhados especialmente para fraturas pediátricas, associados à possibilidade de menor tempo de hospitalização e rápido retorno ao convívio social vêm demonstrando uma nova tendência de avaliar e tratar fraturas na criança. O objetivo deste artigo de atualização é responder às seguintes questões: (1) estamos realmente ficando mais cirúrgicos na abordagem das fraturas em crianças? (2) Caso isto seja verdadeiro, esta conduta cirúrgica está baseada em evidências científicas? De fato, nas últimas décadas, a literatura médica demonstra artigos que suportam melhor evolução das fraturas na criança com o tratamento cirúrgico. Nos membros superiores, isto fica muito evidente na sistematização da redução e fixação percutânea das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero e das fraturas de ossos do antebraço. Nos membros inferiores, o mesmo ocorre com fraturas diafisárias do fêmur e tíbia. No entanto, há lacunas na literatura. Os estudos publicados são geralmente com baixa evidência científica. Assim, pode-se deduzir que, mesmo sendo a abordagem cirúrgica mais presente, o tratamento de fraturas pediátricas deve ser sempre individualizado e conduzido de acordo com o conhecimento e experiência do médico profissional, levando em conta a presença de recursos tecnológicos disponíveis para o atendimento do pequeno paciente. Deve-se incluir todas as possibilidades, não cirúrgicas e/ou cirúrgicas, sempre instituindo ações baseadas na ciência e em concordância com os anseios da família.

Biomechanical comparison of spatial weaving and conventional calcaneal plate fixation for calcaneal fracture / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To compare the biomechanical characteristics of screw only spatial weaving fixation and calcaneal plate fixation in calcaneal fractures.Methods:Sanders type III calcaneus fracture model was established by using calcaneus model specimens: the physiological model group were the normal calcaneal models; the steel plate group were conventional steel plate fixation fracture models; the metal screw group were fracture models with only metal screw weaving fixation; seven and nine absorbable screw spatial weaving groups (seven absorbable screw group, nine absorbable screw group) were used to weave and fix fracture models with seven and nine absorbable screws. Cyclic test and mechanical compression test were carried out, and load-displacement curves were recorded. The material properties of metal screw spatial weaving and calcaneal anatomical plate system were replicated, finite element fracture models were established, and the calcaneal internal fixation models of plate screw group and spatial weaving screw group were completed by reverse processing. The changes of biomechanical characteristics of calcaneal bone in human (70 kg) standing on one foot were simulated, and the distribution of structural strength was analyzed by Von Mises equivalent stress cloud diagram and displacement cloud diagram.Results:In the cyclic test of 20-200 N load, the physiological model group, the plate group, the metal screw group, the absorbable 7 screw group, the absorbable 9 screw group were 0.87±0.22, 0.82±0.08, 0.70±0.12, 1.04±0.13 and 0.83±1.76 mm, the difference in model gap was statistically significant ( F=3.16, P=0.037). Among them, the absorbable 7 screws group was larger than the metal screws group ( t=4.28, P=0.003), and the other pin-two comparisons were not statistically significant ( P>0.05). The deformation of the five groups was 0.37±0.06, 0.38±0.07, 0.38±0.06, 0.52±0.07 and 0.42±0.07 mm, and the difference was statistically significant ( F=4.39, P=0.010). The deformation of absorbable 7 screws group was greater than that of physiological model group, the plate group and metal screw group ( t=3.69, P=0.006; t=3.25, P=0.012; t=3.51, P=0.008). In static test, compression displacement was 7.14±0.79, 7.30±0.66, 6.95±0.28, 8.19±0.61 and 7.16±0.55 mm, the difference was statistically significant ( F=3.28, P=0.032). The displacement of the absorbable 7 screws group was greater than that of the metal screws group ( t=4.13, P=0.003). The stiffness changes were 570.60±122.62, 512.86±80.77, 497.40±66.50, 456.21±58.19 and 560.39±94.40 N/mm, respectively, with no statistical significance ( F=1.44, P=0.258). The results of finite element analysis showed that under 3 500 N axial pressure load, the maximum compression displacement and stiffness of the plate and screw set were 6.47 mm, 540.96 N/mm, and the Von Mises equivalent stress peaks were 450.31 and 353.15 MPa, respectively. The maximum compression displacement and stiffness of the braided screw group were 5.25 mm, 666.67 N/mm, and the peak Von Mises equivalent stress of the screw was 396.20 MPa. Conclusion:Compared with lateral plate fixation, spatial weaving fixation can provide sufficient biomechanical stability for calcaneal healing and is superior to plate fixation in terms of structural stability, which may help to improve the effectiveness of calcaneal fracture fixation.

Reduction of valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures by Schanz screw combined with rod stick technique / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of the femoral neck system (FNS) after the reduction of the Schanz screw combined with the rod stick technique in the treatment of valgus-impacted femoral neck fracture.Methods:A retrospective analysis of clinical data from 66 patients with valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures from December 2019 to November 2021 has been performed. All patients were treated with the Femoral Neck System. Auxiliary reduction group (using the Schanz screw and rod stick technique), including 32 cases, 9 males and 23 females with an average age of 52.7±12.0 years (range, 28-77 years); 14 patients on the left side and 18 patients on the right side; body mass index 23.1±2.6 kg/m 2. Manual reduction group (using the traditional Flynn closed reduction technique), including 34 cases, 18 males and 16 females with an average age of 52.1±12.7 years (range, 26-75 years); 18 patients on the left side and 16 patients on the right side; body mass index 23.4±2.3 kg/m 2. The surgery time, intraoperative blood loss, complications, and Harris hip score at the last follow-up were collected and compared between the two groups. Preoperative and postoperative abduction angle and posterior tilt angle were measured in the anterior-posterior and lateral positions of the hip, as well as the length of the femoral neck shortening at the last follow-up. Pearson analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between preoperative and postoperative abduction angle and posterior tilt angle, the length of femoral neck shortening, and Harris hip score. Results:There were no significant differences in baseline data such as gender, age, side of injury, height, weight, and body mass index, and the surgery time and intraoperative blood loss between auxiliary reduction group and manual reduction group ( P>0.05). All 66 cases with a mean follow-up of 20.4 months (ranges 12-29 mouths). The fracture healing time was 5.0±0.9 weeks in the auxiliary reduction group and 4.9±0.8 weeks in the manual reduction group ( t=-0.41, P>0.05). There were no significant statistical difference in the preoperative abduction angle and preoperative posterior tilt angle between the auxiliary reduction group and the manual reduction group ( P>0.05). The postoperative abduction angle and posterior tilt angle of the auxiliary reduction group (1.8°±3.1°, 1.2°±3.0°) were significantly lower than those of the manual reduction group (13.7°±6.5°, 6.8°±4.1°, t=-9.55, P<0.001; t=-7.42, P<0.001). Preoperatively, 61 cases (92%) were associated with a posterior tilt of the femoral head, and 30 (46%) of them had a posterior tilt angle of more than 10°. The length of femoral neck shortening at the last follow-up and the moderate and severe femoral neck shortening rate postoperatively in the auxiliary reduction group (1.4±2.1 mm, 0, and 3%) were significantly lower than those in the manual reduction group (8.1±4.8 mm, 38%, and 32%, P<0.05). Harris hip score at the last follow-up in the auxiliary reduction group 91.1±4.5 was significantly higher than those in the manual reduction group 85.5±5.4 ( t=4.54, P<0.001). The postoperative abduction angle and length of femoral neck shortening showed correlations with the Harris hip score respectively ( r=-0.551, -0.743; P<0.001). In the auxiliary reduction group, 1 case of broken temporary fixed Kirschner wire was removed by nucleus pulposus forceps, and the fracture site healed after surgery. In 2 cases, the Schanz screw loosened and pulled out during the reduction process, and the successful reduction was achieved after increasing the depth of the Schanz screw insertion, and no peri-Schanz screw fracture occurred. After surgery, 3 cases (1 case in the auxiliary reduction group and 2 cases in the manual reduction group) developed avascular necrosis of the femoral head (18 months, 18 months, and 2 years after surgery, respectively), femoral head collapse and severe shortening of the femoral neck, all of which underwent total hip arthroplasty. Conclusion:FNS after the reduction of the Schanz screw combined with the rod stick technique in the treatment of valgus-impacted femoral neck fracture has the advantages of effectively correcting preoperative abduction angle and posterior tilt angle and reducing the length of femoral neck shortening, and it can obtain satisfactory short and medium-term clinical efficacy.

"Frame and buttress" fixation for the treatment of acetabular quadrilateral fractures / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of the "frame and buttress" fixation in the treatment of acetabular quadrilateral fractures.Methods:A total of 26 patients with acetabular quadrilateral fractures treated with the "Frame and buttress" fixation strategy (reconstructing frame and providing buttress for quadrilateral surface) from January 2017 to January 2021 were retrospectively analyzed in the Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, including 17 males and 9 females, aged 47.7±16.5 years, (range, 25-71 years). There were 13 cases from car accidents, 8 cases from falls, and 5 cases from heavy objects. Quadrilateral fractures were classified according to whether the anterior column (A) and posterior column (P) of the acetabulum were fractured and whether the quadrilateral plate (Q) was partially (1) or completely (2) separated from the two columns. Among these cases, there were 5 cases of type AQ1, 1 case of type AQ2, 1 case of type PQ2, 14 cases of type APQ1 and 5 cases of type APQ2. The "frame and buttress" fixation strategy was used to perform open reduction and internal fixation. The Matta scale was used to assess the quality of resurfacing based on pelvic radiographs, and the Matta modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scores were referenced to evaluate hip function.Results:All the 26 patients successfully completed the operation, the operation time was 88.1±57.8 min (range, 90-320 min), the intraoperative bleeding was 753.8±309.5 ml (range, 400-1 400 ml). There were 14 cases of anatomical reduction, 8 cases of satisfactory reduction and 4 cases of unsatisfactory reduction with an excellent rate of 85% (22/26), the excellence rate was 85% (22/26). All patients were followed up for 16.3±4.3 months (range, 12-24 months). The hip function score after operation was higher than that before operation, and the difference was statistically significant ( F=19.80, P<0.001). The hip function score was 13.1±2.2 at 3 months postoperatively, increased to 15.9±2.3 at 6 months postoperatively, and increased to 16.6±1.9 at the last follow-up, with a statistically significant difference ( P<0.001). After operation, 5 patients showed symptoms of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury such as hypoesthesia and numbness in the anterolateral thigh. During the follow-up, there was no ectopic ossification, traumatic arthritis, necrosis of the femoral head and central dislocation of the femoral head. Conclusion:The "frame and buttress" fixation strategy based on quadrilateral fracture typing for acetabular quadrilateral fracture open reduction internal fixation provides strong fixation, satisfactory reduction quality, and facilitates joint function recovery after operation.

Robot-assisted screws fixation for the treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical outcomes of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) treated with robot-assisted screws, minimally reduction according to the pelvic osseous pathways.Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on the data of 50 elderly patients with FFP treated by the Department of Trauma and Pelvic Trauma of Tianjin Hospital from March 2016 to October 2021, and the 50 patients with FFP were divided into robotic-assisted screw fixation group (robot group) and open reduction steel plate fixation group (open group) according to the fixation method. There were 30 patients in the Robot group, 6 males and 24 females, average age 75.03±7.32 years (range, 60-90 years). According to Rommens and Hofmann FFP classification, there were 4 cases of IIc type, 8 cases of IIIa type, 1 case of IIIb type, 12 cases of IIIc type, 3 cases of IVa type, 2 cases of IVb type. There were 20 patients in the open group, 5 males and 15 females, average age 71.90±5.51 years (range, 62-85 years). According to Rommens and Hofmann FFP classification, there were 2 cases of IIc type, 6 cases of IIIa type, 9 cases of IIIc type, 3 cases of IVa type. The two groups were compared with age, pelvic fracture classification, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, fracture reduction quality, visual analogue scale (VAS), Majeed score, and wound healing or not.Results:All patients were followed up for 12.72 months (range, 6-24 months). In the robot group, the operation time was 50.17±19.32 min (range, 30-120 min), and intraoperative blood loss was 55.50±28.60 ml (range, 10-150 ml); in the open group, the operation time was 92.25±27.55 min (range, 60-180 min), and intraoperative blood loss was 217.50±67.20 ml (range, 150-400 ml), there were statistical differences ( t=6.36, P<0.001; t=11.72, P<0.001). According to Mears and Velyvis imaging evaluation criteria, in the robot group, anatomical reduction were achieved in 10 cases, satifactory reduction were achieved in 20 cases; in the open group, anatomical reduction were achieved in 14 cases, satifactory reduction were achieved in 6 cases, there were statistical differences (χ 2=6.46, P=0.011). In the robot group, VAS for pelvic pain was 7.33±1.32 points (range, 4-9 points) before operation, 4.13±1.07 points (range, 3-8 points) one week after surgery, and 2.30±0.84 points (range, 1-5 points) at the last follow-up; in the open group, VAS for pelvic pain was 7.45±1.23 points (range, 5-9 points) before operation, 5.25±1.25 points (range, 3-8 points) one week after surgery, and 2.80±1.24 points (range, 1-6 points) at the last follow-up, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant ( F=162.18, P<0.001; F=70.18, P<0.001), the difference between the two groups was statistically significant 1 week after surgery ( t=3.37, P=0.001), and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups before surgery and the last follow-up ( P>0.05). The Majeed score was 82.10±4.80 (range, 65-95) in the robot group, 77.60±5.40 (range, 70-93) in the open group at the last follow-up, there were statistical differences ( t=3.09, P=0.003). There was no wound complication in the robot group, there were 4 cases with wound infection or rupture in the open group. One LC-II screw loosen in the robot group, which needed reoperation with cement, there was also 1 screw of plate loosening in the open group with no reoperation. Conclusion:Robot-assisted screws fixation with minimally reduction based pelvic osseous pathways shows satisfactory clinical outcomes, satisfactory reduction, effective pain relief, and fewer postoperative complications in treatment of elderly FFP.

Surgical method and clinical effect of modified LC-II screws for fragility fractures of the pelvis in the elderly / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the surgical method of LC-II screws for fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) in the elderly and evaluate its clinical efficacy.Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on 45 patients with FFPs operated in our department from January 2011 to January 2022. The clinical information was as follows. The FFP classification of pelvic fracture was IIIA in 26 cases and IIIB in 19 cases. Among them, 22 cases were fixed with closed reduction and modified LC-II screws (experimental group), and 23 cases were fixed with open reduction and reconstruction plates (control group). In the experimental group, there were 6 males and 16 females. The age range was 62-90 years, with an average of 73.2±9.2 years. The FFP classification of pelvic fracture was IIIA in 12 cases and IIIB in 10 cases. In the control group, there were 8 males and 15 females. The age range was 60-87 years, with an average of 72.8±6.6 years. FFP classification of pelvic fracture was IIIA in 14 cases and IIIB in 9 cases. After admission, pelvic X-ray and CT scan were performed, and the surgery was prepared. In the experimental group, after closed reduction of the posterior ring, the modified LC-II screw was inserted below the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) toward the sacroiliac joint and penetrated the sacroiliac joint. For combined anterior ring fractures, the INFIX was used for anterior ring fixation. In the control group, the posterior ring was fixed with a reconstruction plate and/or sacroiliac screw after open reduction through the lateral rectus approach (LRA). The clinical efficacy was evaluated between the experimental group and the control group.Results:All 45 patients were successfully operated and followed up for 6 months to 3 years. All the pelvic fractures healed. In the experimental group of 22 cases, the time from injury to operation was 3-9 days, with an average of 5.8±1.9 days; the operation time was 25-70 min, with an average of 42.0±12.9 min. The intraoperative bleeding was 20-40 ml, with an average of 29.1±6.7 ml. According to the X-ray reduction evaluation criteria of Matta, 7 cases were excellent, 11 cases were good and 4 cases were medium, with an excellent and good rate of 81.8%. According to rehabilitation criteria of Majeed, 10 cases were excellent, 6 cases were good and 6 cases were fair, with a total excellent and good rate of 72.7%. At the last follow-up, sacroiliac joint pain was evaluated by VAS score: 0 in 10 cases, <3 in 7 cases, and 4-6 in 5 cases. No internal fixation loosening occurred. In the control group, the time from injury to operation was 5-20 days, with an average of 9.9±3.8 days; the operation time was 50-150 min, with an average of 89.1±29.5 min; the intraoperative bleeding was 220-1 000 ml, with an average of 509.2±214.3 ml. According to the X-ray reduction evaluation criteria of Matta, 16 cases were excellent, 4 cases were good and 3 cases was medium, with an excellent and good rate of 87.0%. According to rehabilitation criteria of Majeed, 12 cases were excellent, 6 cases were good and 7 cases were fair, with a total excellent and good rate of 78.3%. At the last follow-up, sacroiliac joint pain was evaluated by VAS score: 0 in 14 cases, <3 in 6 cases, and 4-6 in 3 cases. In the control group, posterior ring plate loosening was found in 2 cases and anterior ring pubic ramus plate and screw loosening was found in 4 cases, but there was no reduction loss.Conclusion:The modified LC-II screw is theoretically feasible in the treatment of FFP. Preliminary clinical results show good safety and efficacy, providing a new idea for minimally invasive treatment of FFP.

Imaging and clinical study on the relationship between abnormal development of the proximal sacrum and precise insertion of sacroiliac screws / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of robot-assisted sacroiliac screw implantation in the treatment of proximal dysplasia sacral fractures.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on 191 patients admitted to the Pelvic Department of Tianjin Hospital from May 2016 to January 2021 who underwent robot assisted sacroiliac screw implantation with sacral fractures, including 105 males and 86 females, aged 38.5±6.5 years (ranging from 19 to 69 years old). Among them, there were 85 patients with dysplasia of proximal sacrum. According to the classification of proximal sacral dysplasia, the patients were divided into five groups: the steep sacral alar slope group ( n=60), the mastoid protrusion group ( n=30), the lumbar sacralization group ( n=25), the sacral foramen oval degeneration group ( n=23) and the S 1 anterior cortical depression group ( n=10). The remaining 106 patients were normal group. Iliac cortical density (ICD) line typing was recorded in the 85 patients. The the completion of sacroiliac screw implantation, the Gras score of screw position after operation, the postoperative complications, the minimum diameter of S 1 screw channel (R1), the angle ∠A between the S 1 sacroiliac screw in the coronal plane and the cephalic side, and the angle ∠B between the S 1 sacroiliac screw in the water plane and the ventral side were recorded and compared with those of normal development patients. Results:The incidence of steep sacral alar slope was the highest (31.4%, 60/191). There were 2 or more developmental abnormalities in 24 cases. In 85 cases with dysplasia of proximal sacrum, ICD line type I was found in 8 cases, type II in 12 cases and type III in 65 cases. 49 patients (58.8%, 49/85) were able to complete the implantation of S 1 sacroiliac screw, while 36 patients (35.3%, 36/85) were only able to complete the implantation of S 2 sacroiliac screw. The Gras score of postoperative screw position was 90.05% for grade I, 9.94% for grade II, and 0 for grade III. In 1 case the sacroiliac screw pierced through the anterior cortex of the sacrum, and in 1 case the screw partially threaded into the sacral foramen, and there were no symptoms of iatrogenic nerve injury. The R1 values of the preoperative steep sacral alar slope group, the mastoid protrusion group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group, the lumbar sacralization group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group and normal development patient group were 11.4±3.0, 11.6±3.2, 9.8±3.0, 8.8±4.2, 6.5±4.4, and 11.4±3.4 mm, respectively. The differences between the lumbar sacralization group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group, and the S1 anterior cortical depression group with the normal development patients were statistically significant, respectively ( t=-3.05, P=0.005; t=-2.32, P=0.022; t=-3.45, P=0.006). The postoperative angle ∠A of the above six groups were 33.8°±4.2°, 20.8°±3.5°, 25.8°±2.5°, 35.5°±4.5, 27.8°±3.5° and 26.8°±5.0°, respectively. The postoperative angle ∠B of the above six groups were 27.8°±3.5°, 36.2°±3°, 26.3°±1.8°, 29.8°±2.7°, 14.8°±1.5° and 37.2±4.2°, respectively. The differences between the ∠A of the steep sacral alar slope group, the mastoid protrusion group, and tthe lumbar sacralization group with that of the normal development patients were statistically significant, respectively ( t=9.17, -7.48, 7.97, P<0.001). The differences between the ∠B of the steep sacral alar slope group, the lumbar sacralization group, the sacral foramen oval degeneration group, and the S 1 anterior cortical depression group with that of the normal development patients were statistically significant, respectively ( t=-14.68, -10.93, -19.79, -35.8, P<0.001). Conclusion:This study proposes the "absolute stenosis" of the S 1 screw channel; In the treatment of patients with abnormal proximal sacral fracture, attention should be paid to S 1 anterior cortical depression and lumbar sacralization, and robot-assisted sacroiliac screw implantation can further improve the safety and accuracy of sacroiliac screw implantation.

Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw fixation to treat fragility fractures of the sacrum in the elderly / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the clinical outcome of Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw fixation in the treatment of fragility fracture of the sacrum in the elderly.Methods:From March 2016 to June 2022, a retrospective analysis was performed on 30 patients with fragility fractures of the sacrum in the elderly who accepted robot-assisted sacroiliac screw to treat fragility fractures of the sacrum in our hospital. There were 12 males and 18 females with average age 71.03±8.25 years (range, 60-89 years). According to the classification of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) in the elderly, there were 22 patients with FFP II, 2 patients with FFP III, and 6 patients with FFP IV. Surgical planning was based on the average CT value of S 1 channel and whether there is a transsacral screw channel. Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw fixation was performed during surgery. The pain of pre-operation and post-operation was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the position of sacroiliac screws was evaluated by Gras grading, and the degree of functional recovery after surgery was evaluated using the Majeed function score. Results:All 30 patients successfully completed the operation. The mean operation time was 27.00±6.68 min (range, 18-35 min), the mean fluoroscopy times were 27.13±5.16 (range, 18-34), and the mean blood loss was 30.53±6.61 ml (range, 23-38 ml). All patients were followed up, and the mean follow-up time was 19.03±7.8 months (range, 8-25 months). The VAS was 5(5, 6), 4(3, 4), 3(2, 3), 0(0, 1) points before surgery, 1 week, 2 months and 6 months after surgery, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant ( H=103.26, P<0.001). After the surgery of 2 months, 6 months and the last follow-up time, the Majeed function scores were 88(83, 90), 91(87, 92), 92(90, 93) points, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant ( H=19.59, P<0.001). Screw position was evaluated according to Gras grading at 3 days after surgery, including 28 cases of level I, 2 cases of level II, and no screw penetrated the cortical bone or entered the sacral canal or sacral foramen. No vascular or nerve injury occured during the operation. 28 patients with FFS met the fracture healing criteria, and the healing time was 4.54±1.57 months (range, 3-7 months). Two patients had bone nonunion, one of whom underwent anterior ring plate removal due to infection of the pelvic anterior wound, and one month later, pelvic CT scan revealed loosening of the sacroiliac screw; the other one is considered to be related to too early weight bearing. Conclusion:For fragility fractures of the sacrum in elderly, Robot-assisted sacroiliac screw is an effective minimally invasive treatment, with high accuracy of screw placement, effective pain reduction, improved fracture healing rate, and achieve the satisfactory clinical efficacy.

Treatment of transverse with posterior wall fractures of acetabulum using robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screw combined with posterior plate / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the effectiveness and safety of robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screw combined with posterior plate fixtation treatment for transverse acetabular fractures with posterior wall.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of 13 patients with transverse acetabular fractures and posterior wall fractures treated by robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screws combined with posterior plate in Tianjin Hospital from May 2016 to May 2021. There were 9 males and 4 females, aged 49.1±8.5 years (range, 25-65 years), 9 cases of vehicle accidents, 2 cases of falling injuries, 2 cases of impact injuries, 7 cases of combined posterior hip dislocations, and 1 case of sciatic nerve injury. Apply Kocher-Langenbeck approach for reduction and fixation of the posterior wall and the posterior column and indirect reduction of the anterior column. Use robot navigation for percutaneous anterior column screw fixation, and record the time of inserting anterior column screws, incision length, and complications. The quality of fracture reduction was evaluated using Matta imaging, and the degree of ectopic ossification was evaluated using Brooker classification. The Matta modified Postel Merle D'Aobigne score was used to evaluate the function at 3, 6 months after surgery and at the last follow-up.Results:All 13 patients successfully completed the surgery. The insertion time of the anterior column screw was 19.4±4.0 min (range, 17-23 min), and the incision length was 8.0±1.4 mm (range, 6-10 mm). Postoperative imaging examination showed that all anterior column screws were located within the bone canal, with a screw length of 108.3±11.2 mm (range, 90-130 mm), and no complications such as nerve or vascular injury or incision infection occurred. All 13 patients were followed up for a period of 12-36 months, with an average of 18.6 months; All fractures healed, with a healing time of 2-6 months, average 3.4 months. According to the Matta imaging evaluation method, 11 of 13 patients had anatomical reduction of fractures, and 2 were evaluated as incomplete reduction due to a 1-2 mm gap in the anterior column. The anatomical reduction rate was 84%. At postoperative 3, 6 months and the last follow-up, the modified Postel Merle D'Aobigne scores were 13.4±1.1, 15.8±1.5, and 17.0±1.7, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=7.78, P=0.007). The difference between the last follow-up and postoperative 3 months was statistically significant ( P=0.002), and there was no statistically significant difference compared to postoperative 6 months ( P=0.222). At the last follow-up, 8 cases were excellent, 4 cases were good, and 1 case was fair, with an excellent and good rate of 92%. There was no occurrence of ectopic ossification, traumatic arthritis, or necrosis of the femoral head. Conclusion:Robot-aided percutaneous anterior column screw combined with posterior plate treatment for transverse acetabular fractures with posterior wall is safe and effective, and is worthy of clinical promotion.

Combination pattern of internal fixation for periprosthesis fractures of the proximal femur after hip replacement / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the combination of internal fixation for periprosthetic fractures of the proximal femur (PFFF) after hip arthroplasty.Methods:The data of 58 patients with periprosthetic fractures after hip arthroplasty from May 2008 to March 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, including 31 males and 27 females. The average age was 75.5±18.2 years (range, 35-95 years). There were 39 total hip arthroplasty and 19 hemiarthroplasty; 37 biological prosthesis and 21 cemented prosthesis. Intraoperative periprosthetic fractures occurred in 6 cases and 52 cases postoperatively. Unified classification system (UCS): UCS IV.3A1 type 2 cases, 3A2 type 1 case, 3B1.1 type 19 cases, 3B2.1 type 25 cases, 3B3 type 2 cases, 3C type 9 cases. Fracture site: 3 cases in zone A (greater trochanter), 46 cases in zone B (around the femoral stem), and 9 cases in zone C (distal to the tip of the femoral stem. Internal fixation is composed of primary and secondary fixation, the main fixation method was the cerclage of steel wire or titanium cable, locking compression plate, and locking attachment plate fixation. The secondary fixation method was the cerclage of titanium cable, which was required to cover three zones A, B and C to form an overall balanced fixation. The modified Harris hip scores (mHHS), plate length, working length and screw number of different internal fixation combinations were compared.Results:The follow-up time was 54.2±21.6 months (range, 11-86 months). All patients showed signs of fracture healing at 10.2±1.5 weeks (range, 7-13 weeks) after operation, and bony union was observed at 19.6±1.3 weeks (range, 17-22 weeks) after operation. No delayed union or nonunion was observed. After operation, one case had a stress fracture and was revised with double-plate internal fixation; one case had a failed internal fixation and was revised with double-plate internal fixation and a large allograft bone graft. The mHHS score of UCSIV.3B2.1 group (80.3±4.6) was the lowest at 6 months after operation, and the difference between the groups of different types was statistically significant ( F=256.72, P<0.001). The score of simple internal fixation group (91.6±4.2) was higher than that of revision combined with internal fixation group (81.9±4.1), and the difference was statistically significant ( t=8.32, P<0.001). The plate length and working length were 24.9±2.5 cm and 12.6±1.7 cm for UCS IV.3B1.1, 25.4±2.6 cm and 13.6±1.8 cm for 3B2.1 and 28.1±2.5 cm and 4.9±1.9 cm for 3C, respectively ( F=5.33, P=0.005; F=6.78, P<0.001). The number of screws in zone A was significant difference among different UCS types ( F=52.67, P<0.001); UCS IV.3B1.1 (6.5±2.3) and 3B2.1 (6.7±2.2) were more than 3B3 (3.5±1.5) and 3C (3.7±1.6). The number of screws in zone B was significant difference among different UCS types ( F=42.15, P<0.001); The number of UCS IV.3B1.1 (2.3±1.6) and 3B2.1 (2.8±1.9) were significantly more than that of 3B3 (1.0±0.5) and 3C (1.2±0.6). The number of screws in zone C was significant differences among different UCS types ( F=39.62, P<0.001); The number of UCS IV.3B1.1 (3.8±1.9) and 3B2.1 (3.9±1.7) were more than that of 3B3 (2.0±0.5), the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Conclusion:The function of hip after simple internal fixation of proximal femoral periprosthetic fractures was better than that of those who underwent revision at the same time; the number of screws of UCSIV.B1 and B2 is more than that of B3.

Current research on injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis and prospects of its treatment / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Among ankle injuries, the injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis is common and likely neglected. The stability of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis is related to the depth of the fibular notch. In imaging diagnosis, X-ray examination cannot be used for a definite diagnosis of the injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis. For diagnosis of the distal tibiofibular separation>3 mm, CT scan can be accurate but is not sensitive enough for a separation<1 mm while MRI is more sensitive in diagnosis of the injury. Arthroscopy has gradually been used as the "gold standard" in diagnosis of the injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis due to its advantage of direct vision. The distal tibiofibular separation occurs in the injuries of pronation external rotation Ⅳ°, supination external rotation Ⅲ° and Ⅳ°, and pronation abduction Ⅱ° and Ⅲ° by the Lange-Hansen classification. Most patients with simple stable injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis may have a good prognosis after nonoperative treatment. Surgical anatomic reduction and maintenance of stability of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis are the basic management principles for unstable distal tibiofibular syndesmosis or the injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis combined with ankle fracture. Screw fixation is the most commonly used in the surgical treatment of the injury. Elastic fixation has the advantages of maintaining the biological characteristics of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis fretting joint, better reduction fault tolerance, and lower rates of complications and long-term reduction loss. The angle of nail placement is the key to maintaining good reduction of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis, but there has been little description of the specific methods to ensure the theoretical angle of nail placement in practice. This article also reviews the prospects of the future treatment of the injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis.

Preliminary application of a novel distraction reductor in the surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with metaphyseal volar comminution / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate a novel distraction reductor in the surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with metaphyseal volar comminution.Methods:From January 2019 to December 2020, 27 patients with unstable distal radius fracture complicated with metaphyseal volar comminution were treated at Department of Orthopaedics, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences. They were 6 males and 21 females, with an age of (69.4±9.4) years. All fractures were unilateral and closed, involving the right side in 17 cases and the left side in 10 cases. All patients were treated by internal fixation with an anatomical locking plate through the volar approach and the novel distraction reductor was used to reduce the fracture ends. Regular imaging examinations were performed to evaluate the reduction, maintenance and union of fractures after surgery. One year after operation, the curative efficacy was assessed by evaluation of the range of wrist motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Gartland-Werley score and Bartra radiology score.Results:All the operations went on successfully with a duration of (92.3±8.9) min. All the incisions healed primarily. The follow-up time was (15.9±2.9) months. The radial height, palmar tilt, ulnar inclination and articular surface step-off immediately after operation [(11.23±1.51) mm, 12.10°±3.44°, 20.54°±3.44°, and (0.95±0.42) mm] were not significantly lost compared with those one year after operation [(11.22±1.55) mm, 12.07°±3.44°, 20.51°±3.33°, and (0.93±0.40) mm] (all P>0.05). One year after operation, the range of wrist motion was good with dorsiflexion of 59.7°±5.5°, palm flexion of 63.0°±9.1°, pronation of 66.5°±5.5°, supination of 61.2°±5.6°, radial deviation of 22.7°±4.8°, and ulnar deviation of 30.3°±6.1°; DASH score was 13.5±5.5; Bartra radiology score was 88.6±6.5, giving an excellent and good rate of 88.9% (24/27);Gartland-Werley score was 2.7±2.1, giving an excellent and good rate of 92.6% (25/27). Follow-ups observed no poor fracture healing, internal fixation failure, tendon or nerve injury or traumatic arthritis. Conclusion:In the surgical treatment of unstable distal radius fractures with metaphyseal volar comminution, the novel distraction reductor can lead to ideal reduction of displaced fractures and effectively correct the shortening caused by volar cortex comminution to achieve satisfactory functional effects in clinic.

Comparison of three surgical fixation methods for fracture of distal radial metaphyseal diaphyseal junction in children / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To compare the effects of anterograde elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN-A), retrograde K-wires fixation (KW-R) and retrograde precision shaping of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN-RPS) in the treatment of fractures of distal radial metaphyseal diaphyseal junction (DRMDJ) in children.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the data of 112 eligible children with DRMDJ fracture who had been treated at Department of Orthopedics, Children's Hospital, Anhui Medical University and Department of Orthopedics, The People's Hospital of Fuyang City,Anhui Medical University, from January 2016 to May 2022. There were 64 males and 48 females, with an age of (8.4±2.3) years. The children were divided into 3 groups according to different surgical fixation methods: group ESIN-A of 36 cases, group KW-R of 52 cases, and group ESIN-RPS of 24 cases. The operation time, intraoperative bleeding, fluoroscopy times, alignment rates and residual angulations by the anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films immediately after reduction were compared among the 3 groups. The Gartland-Werley evaluation of wrist function and complications were compared at the last follow-up.Results:There was no statistically significant difference in the preoperative general data among the 3 groups, indicating comparability ( P>0.05). In the operation time, group KW-R [(71.2±9.2) min] > group ESIN-A [(65.1±13.1) min] > group ESIN-RPS [(51.7±17.1) min]; in the fluoroscopy times, group KW-R [(13.9±6.3) times] > group ESIN-A [(9.0±2.8) times] > group ESIN-RPS [(6.4±2.0) times]; in the alignment rates by the anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films immediately after reduction, group ESIN-RPS (93.1%±4.6% and 95.2%±3.3%) > group KW-R (82.1%±11.0% and 88.1%±7.4%) > group ESIN-A (80.4%±9.9% and 86.7%±6.9%); in the residual angulations by the anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films immediately after reduction, group ESIN-RPS (3.3°±1.8° and 2.9°±2.1°) < group ESIN-A (5.2°±1.0° and 5.0°±3.2°) < group KW-R (6.6°±1.6°and 7.5°±2.7°). Pairwise comparisons in the above items were statistically significant ( P<0.05). In group ESIN-A, the incision length [(1.8±0.3) cm] was significantlylonger than that in group ESIN-RPS [(1.4±0.2) cm], and the intraoperative blood loss [(8.3±2.2) mL] significantly larger than that in group ESIN-RPS [(5.5±1.6) mL] ( P<0.05). One year after operation, the excellent and good rate by the Gartland-Werley evaluation of wrist function in groups ESIN-RPS, ESIN-A and KW-R, respectively, were 95.8% (23/24), 86.5% (31/36) and 86.1% (46/52), showing no statistically significant difference between the 3 group ( P>0.05), and the major incidence of complications in group KW-R (25.0%, 13/52) and in group ESIN-A (25.0%, 9/36) were significantly higher than that in group ESIN-RPS (4.2%, 1/24) ( P<0.05). Conclusion:In the treatment of DRMDJ fractures in children, compared with ESIN-A and KW-R, ESIN-RPS is an effective choice due to its advantages of shorter operation time, less intraoperative blood loss, less radiation, better alignment, and fewer complications.

A comparative study of three internal fixation techniques for comminuted fractures of humeral greater tuberosity / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To compare the clinical outcomes between anatomical locking plate, proximal humerus internal locking system (PHILOS) and anatomical locking plate combined with suture anchors in the treatment of comminuted fractures of humeral greater tuberosity.Methods:A total of 33 comminuted fractures of humeral greater tuberosity were surgically treated from October 2016 to October 2021 at Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University. There were 20 males and 13 females, with an age of (53.5±13.6) years. They were assigned into 3 groups according to different internal fixation techniques. Group A of 12 cases was subjected to fixation with anatomical locking plate via the deltoid approach, group B of 10 cases subjected to fixation with PHILOS via the pectoralis major and the deltoid approaches and group C of 11 cases subjected to fixation with anatomical locking plate combined with suture anchors via the deltoid approach. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, range of shoulder motion, Constant-Murley shoulder score, visual analogue scale (VAS) and postoperative complications were compared between the 3 groups.Results:The 3 groups were comparable because there was no significant difference between them in the general clinical data ( P>0.05). The follow-up duration for all patients was (14.5±4.1) months. All fractures got united at the last follow-up. In groups A, B and C, respectively, the operation time was (57.9±7.8), (73.0±7.1) and (63.6±9.5) min, and the intraoperative blood loss (41.7±18.9), (82.0±22.9) and (46.4±13.6) mL, showing significant differences between the 3 groups ( P<0.05). The operation time and intraoperative blood loss in groups A and C were significantly less than those in group B ( P< 0.05). At the last follow-up, in groups A, B and C, respectively, the shoulder abduction was 144.0°±7.7°, 138.7°±10.7° and 148.5°±6.2°, showing significant differences between the 3 groups ( P<0.05). Group C was significantly better than group B ( P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the forward flexion, external rotation, or internal rotation of the shoulder joint between the 3 groups ( P>0.05). The Constant-Murley scores in groups A, B and C, respectively, were (90.4±5.7), (86.1±6.6) and (93.1±3.4) points, showing significant differences between the 3 groups ( P<0.05). Group C was significantly better than group B ( P<0.05). The VAS scores in groups A, B and C, respectively, were 1 (0, 2), 1 (0, 2), and 1 (0, 1) point, showing insignificant differences between the 3 groups ( P>0.05). Group A had 1 case of shoulder joint stiffness and 1 case of fracture re-displacement complicated with acromial impingement syndrome, group B 1 case of shoulder joint stiffness and 3 cases of fracture re-displacement, but group C no post-operative complication. Conclusions:In the treatment of comminuted fracture of humeral greater tuberosity, all the 3 internal fixation techniques can lead to fine clinical outcomes. Conventional PHILOS may lead to relatively large trauma and a high incidence of postoperative complications. The anatomical locking plate may result in fine functional recovery of the shoulder due to advantages of less invasion, shorter operation time and fewer postoperative complications than PHILOS. The anatomical locking plate combined with suture anchors may lead to the best shoulder functional recovery and the least complications.

Oblique intervertebral fusion for treatment of failed internal fixation of thoracolumbar fractures / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of oblique intervertebral fusion in the treatment of failed internal fixation of thoracolumbar fractures.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 14 patients who had undergone revision surgery for failed internal fixation of thoracolumbar fracture at Department of Orthopedics, The First Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University from January 2014 to December 2021. There were 6 men and 8 women with a mean age of 47.5 (42.0, 54.3) years. Fracture segments: T 12 in 2 cases, L 1 in 3 cases, L 2 in 4 cases, L 3 in 3 cases, and L 4 in 2 cases; AO classification: type A in 1 case, type B in 7 cases, and type C in 6 cases. Their prior surgical method was posterior internal fixation with pedicle screws. The revision surgery consisted of subtotal vertebral resection through the oblique lateral approach, bone column reconstruction and lateral screw-rod internal fixation for intervertebral fusion after posterior internal fixation reset. The operation time, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative hospital stay, and incidence of complications were recorded. Compared were visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores for low back pain at preoperation, 3 days and 3 months postoperation, and the last follow-up, fusion at the last follow-up, and Frankel grading for neurological function at preoperation and postoperation. Results:All the 14 patients underwent surgery successfully and were followed up for 23 (18, 24) months. The operation time was (175.1±28.2) min, the intraoperative bleeding (300.4±122.6) mL, and the postoperative hospital stay 6 (6, 7) d. One case developed postoperative transient hip flexion weakness but was discharged after restoration of normal muscle strength by conservative treatment. Both VAS and ODI scores for low back pain at all postoperative time points were significantly improved compared with the preoperative values ( P<0.05), with a significant trend of 3 days postoperation >3 months postoperation > the last follow-up ( P<0.05). In the 12 patients with preoperative neurological damage, the Frankel grading rose by at least 1 level postoperatively ( Z=-3.110, P=0.002). The last follow-up revealed no loosening or fracture of the internal fixation. Complete bony fusion was visible in all CT sagittal reconstructions. Conclusion:For patients with thoracolumbar fracture undergoing failed internal fixation, oblique intervertebral fusion is an alternative minimally invasive surgical treatment due to its satisfactory overall outcomes.

Open reduction and internal fixation via anterior approaches for the geriatric acetabular fractures / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate open reduction and internal fixation via the anterior approaches in the treatment of geriatric acetabular fractures.Methods:Retrospectively analyzed were the clinical data of 74 consecutive patients with acetabular fracture who had been treated by open reduction and internal fixation via the anterior approaches from June 2018 to December 2020. The patients were divided into 2 groups. In the geriatric group (≥65 years old): 16 patients [8 males and 8 females with an age of (74.0±5.9) years]; 7 both column fractures, 4 anterior column fractures, and 5 anterior column plus posterior hemi-transverse fractures according to the Letournel-Judet classification; time from injury to operation: (6.1±3.4) d. In the young group (<65 years old): 58 patients [48 males and 10 females with an age of (46.7±10.9) years]; 28 both column fractures, 14 anterior column fractures, 8 anterior column plus posterior hemi-transverse fractures, 5 T type fractures and 3 transverse fractures; time from injury to operation: (5.4±2.7) d. The 2 groups were compared in terms of operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative reduction, operative complications, and functional results.Results:The 2 groups were comparable because there was no significant difference in the preoperative general data like fracture Letournel-Judet classification or dome impaction between them ( P>0.05). The intraoperative blood loss in the geriatric group was (715.6±285.0) mL, significantly less than that in the young group [(1,008.6±463.9) mL]( P<0.05). In the geriatric and young groups, respectively, the operation time was (167.2±44.3) min and (172.9±56.6) min, 3 and 6 cases had main operative complications, the good to excellent rate of postoperative reduction was 87.5% (14/16) and 84.5% (49/58), and the follow-up time was (26.6±10.7) months and (23.6±10.1) months, all showing no significant difference ( P>0.05). According to the improved Merle d'Aubigné & Postel scoring system, the hip function at the last follow-up was evaluated as excellent in 5 cases, as good in 10 cases, and as fair in 1 case in the geriatric group while as excellent in 21 cases, as good in 33 cases, and as fair in 2 cases (the other 2 cases were lost) in the young group, showing no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups ( P>0.05). Conclusion:Open reduction and internal fixation via the anterior approaches is as safe and effective for the geriatric patients with acetabular fracture as for the young and middle-aged ones.

Minimally invasive percutaneous anterior column screwing assisted by blocking screws for pelvic and acetabular fractures / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the feasibility and clinical efficacy of percutaneous anterior column screwing assisted by blocking screws for pelvic and acetabular fractures.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted of the 13 patients who had been admitted from July 2019 to April 2022 for pelvic and acetabular fractures. There were 8 males and 5 females with an age of (49.1±13.3) years, 7 acetabular fractures (6 on one side and 1 on both sides; by the Letournel-Judet classification: 5 anterior column fractures on 6 sides, and 2 transverse and posterior wall fractures on 2 sides), and 6 pelvic fractures (5 complicated with pelvic posterior ring fracture; by the Tile classification: 1 case of type B2, 3 cases of type C1, and 2 cases of type C2). According to the anatomic zones of the anterior column, 5 fractures were at zone Ⅲ, 3 ones at zone Ⅳ, and 6 ones at zone Ⅴ. The time from injury to surgery ranged from 3 to 14 days, averaging (8.2±2.9) days. Anterograde anterior column screwing assisted by blocking screws was performed for all the 13 patients; the posterior ring was fixated with percutaneous sacroiliac joint screws for the 5 patients complicated with pelvic posterior ring fracture. The surgical time, intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency, and intraoperative bleeding volume for insertion of anterior column screws, fracture reduction quality, and hip joint function at the last follow-up were recorded.Results:A total of 14 anterior column screws were inserted percutaneously in the 13 patients. For insertion of anterior column screws, the surgical time was (65.0±10.2) min, the intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency (63.5±14.5) times, and the intraoperative bleeding volume for each screw less than 30 mL. All the incisions healed primarily after surgery, without such complications as iatrogenic neurovascular injury or poor wound healing. All the 13 patients were followed up for (11.1±2.2) months after surgery. In the patient with bilateral acetabular anterior column fractures for which 2 anterior column screws had been inserted, one screw had to be removed due to its displacement at 1 month after surgery; no such complications as loosening of internal fixation or fracture re-displacement was found in the other patients. All fractures healed after (10.2±2.1) months. According to the Matta scoring for quality of fracture reduction, 7 sides were excellent, 5 sides good, and 2 sides poor; according to the Majeed scoring for the 6 patients with pelvic fracture at the last follow-up, the efficacy was rated as excellent in 4 cases and as good in 2 ones; according to the modified Merle d'Aubigné & Postel scoring for the 7 patients with 8 acetabular fractures at the last follow-up, the efficacy was rated as excellent in 4 hips, as good in 3 hips, and as fair in 1 hip.Conclusion:For pelvic and acetabular fractures, minimally invasive percutaneous anterior column screwing assisted by blocking screws can result in fine clinical efficacy, in addition to its easy procedures, safety and reliability.

The pubic symphysis orthotic compression anatomic plate for treatment of fractures and dislocations around the pubic symphysis / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate our self-designed pubic symphysis orthotic compression anatomic plate (PSOCAP) in the treatment of fractures and dislocations around the pubic symphysis.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the 16 patients with fracture or dislocation around the pubic symphysis who had been treated by our self-designed PSOCAP at Department of Traumatic Surgery, Center for Orthopaedic Surgery, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University from January 2021 to June 2022. There were 8 males and 8 females with an age of (41±19) years. According to the Tile classification for pelvic fractures, there were 3 cases of type B1, 2 cases of type B3, 1 case of type C1.2, 4 cases of type C1.3, 3 cases of type C2, and 3 cases of type C3. There were 8 cases of pubic symphysis separation and 8 fractures of the pubic ramus (2 ones at Nakatani zone Ⅰ and 6 ones at Nakatani zone Ⅱ). Time from injury to surgery was 16 (11, 53) days, ranging from 4 to 348 days. The fractures or dislocations around the pubic symphysis were exposed by the modified Stoppa approach, reduced with the assistance of PSOCAP and fixated with PSOCAP; the posterior pelvic ring was reduced and fixated by corresponding surgical methods. Recorded were the surgical time, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative quality of fracture reduction, surgical complications, and functional recovery at the last follow-up concerning the pelvic anterior ring.Results:Surgery went on successfully in the 16 patients. Their surgical time was (58±15) min, ranging from 40 to 90 min, and their intraoperative bleeding 85 (63, 150) mL, ranging from 50 to 250 mL. According to the Matta scoring, the fracture reduction was evaluated as excellent in 10 cases, as good in 3 cases and as fair in 3 cases. The (10±3)-month follow-up for the 16 patients revealed complete fracture union for all after (12±2) weeks. According to the Majeed scoring at the last follow-up, the pelvic function was evaluated as excellent in 5 cases, as good in 7 cases, and as fair in 4 cases. No such postoperative complications as fracture displacement or internal fixation failure occurred.Conclusion:Owing to the biplane and integrated structure, our self-designed PSOCAP can help reduce the fractures or dislocations around the pubic symphysis to achieve anatomical reduction and strong internal fixation, leading to good clinical efficacy.

Comparison of bone transport technique combined with bone grafting plus internal fixation versus simple bone transport technique for large segmental bone defects at lower limbs after trauma / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To compare the clinical efficacy between bone transport technique combined with bone grafting plus internal fixation and simple bone transport technique in the treatment of large segmental bone defects at lower limbs after trauma.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 42 patients with large segmental bone defects at lower limbs after trauma who had been treated at Department of Trauma Orthopaedics, Honghui Hospital Affiliated to Medicine College, Xi'an Jiaotong University from September 2015 to September 2019. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the different methods of repairing bone defects. In group A of 18 patients subjected to bone transport combined with bone grafting plus internal fixation, there were 11 males and 7 females with an age of (35.2±10.3) years, and 12 tibial defects and 6 femoral defects; in group B of 24 patients subjected to simple bone transport, there were 15 males and 9 females with an age of (37.3±9.4) years, and 17 tibial defects and 7 femoral defects. The external fixation time (EFT), external fixation index (EFI), total cure time and complications were recorded and compared between the 2 groups. At the last follow-up, the Ennecking score for limb functional recovery (score/total score 30) and Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) were used to evaluate respectively the functional recovery of the limbs and postoperative anxiety.Results:The 2 groups were comparable because there was no significant difference between them in preoperative general data or follow-up time ( P>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of surgeries between the 2 groups ( P>0.05). The EFT [(5.9±1.5) months], EFI [(0.45±0.09) months/cm], total treatment time [(16.2±2.4) months], Ennecking score for limb functional recovery (87.0%±8.6%), SAS score [(43.2±9.0) points], and complications per capita [(0.4±0.2) times/case] in group A were significantly better than those in group B [(15.3±4.2) months, (1.19±0.28) months/cm, (19.7±3.5) months, (77.3%±9.2%), (58.2±9.3) points, and (1.2±0.5) times/case] (all P<0.05). Conclusion:In the treatment of large segmental bone defects at lower limbs, compared with simple bone transport technique, bone transport technique combined with bone grafting plus internal fixation has advantages of shorter external fixation time and overall cure time, a lower rate of complications, and better functional recovery of the limbs.