Role of the distal fourth fixation factor in treatment of unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures with intramedullary nails / 第二军医大学学报

Objective: To investigate the role of the distal fourth fixation factor in the treatment of unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures with intramedullary nails. Methods: A total of 108 patients with unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures (AO type: A2.2-A.3.3) treated from Jun. 2014 to Jun. 2018 in our hospital were selected and divided into three groups. The injury was fixed with short intramedullary nails and had matched medullary cavity in group A (n=42). The injury was fixed with short intramedullary nails and had mismatched medullary cavity in group B (n=40). The injury was fixed with long intramedullary nails in group C (n=26). Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, fracture healing time, postoperative complications and clinical efficacy were compared among the three groups. The efficacy was evaluated by the Harris hip score. Results: There was no significant difference in the age, gender composition, or causes of injury between groups (P>0.05), but there was statistic difference in the AO type between groups (P0.05). The amount of intraoperative bleeding in group A was (149.19 ± 45.97) mL, which was significantly less than that in group C ([230.77 ± 57.40] mL, P0.05). The fracture healing time in group B was (14.10 ± 2.22) months, which was significantly longer than that in group A ([11.43 ± 2.95] months) and group C ([12.35 ± 4.47] months, P<0.05). At the last follow-up, the Harris score in group B was 77.33 ± 8.18, which was significantly lower than that in group A and C (85.52 ± 10.76, 89.12 ± 9.14, P<0.05). Two patients in group A developed coxa vara. Eight patients had lost restoration in group B. No complications occurred in group C. There was significant difference in the incidence of complication among the three groups (Fisher exact test, P=0.013). Conclusion: The technique using the distal fourth fixation factor can reduce the complications of unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures such as postoperative loss of restoration and internal fixation failure, shorten the fracture healing time, and achieve early weight-bearing exercise.

Effect of screw blade position on proximal femoral nail anti-rotation internal fixation for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the effect of the screw blade position on the effectiveness of proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) internal fixation for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly. Methods: A clinical data of 131 elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures who were treated with PFNA internal fixation between January 2010 and January 2017 was retrospectively analyzed. According to the anteroposterior X-ray films, the screw blades were placed in the middle of the femoral neck in 72 patients (group A) and at one-third of the femoral neck in 59 patients (group B). There was no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05) in the gender, age, bone density, classification of fractures, other medical diseases, and the time between injury and operation. Multiple treatment indexes were analyzed, including complications, hip Harris score, the healing status of fracture, tip-apex distance (TAD), and the height of the tail nail. Results: All patients were followed up 11-14 months, with an average of 12.1 months. All incisions healed by first intention with no complications. All fractures healed and no significant difference in bone healing time between the two groups ( Z=-0.190, P=0.849). At 6 months after operation, TAD was (2.23±0.07) cm in group A and (2.85±0.12) cm in group B, showing significant difference ( t=-47.643, P=0.000); and the height of the tail nail was (1.72±0.14) cm in group A and (0.53±0.26) cm in group B, showing significant difference ( t=31.031, P=0.000). According to the Harris score, the hip functions were rated as excellent in 48 cases, good in 15 cases, and poor in 9 cases in group A, while as excellent in 38 cases, good in 16 cases, and poor in 5 cases in group B, with no significant difference between the two groups ( Z=-0.075, P=0.941). Conclusion: For the unstable intertrochanteric fracture in the elderly, the PFNA internal fixation with appropriated TAD and the screw blades placed in the middle or at one-third of the femoral neck can obtain good effectiveness.

Application of anterior subcutaneous internal fixator combined with posterior plate in treatment of unstable pelvic fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of anterior subcutaneous internal fixator combined with posterior plate in the treatment of unstable pelvic fractures. Methods: Between January 2015 and January 2019, 26 cases of unstable pelvic fractures were treated with anterior subcutaneous internal fixator combined with posterior plate. There were 16 males and 10 females, with an average age of 42.8 years (range, 25-66 years). According to the Tile classification, 9 of them belonged to type B2, 6 to type B3, 7 to type C1, 3 to type C2, 1 to type C3. The injury severity score (ISS) was 6-43 (mean, 18.3). Four cases combined with brain injury, 7 with limb fractures, 3 with hemopneumothorax, 1 with sciatic nerve injury. The time from injury to operation was 4-12 days (mean, 6.4 days). The intraoperative blood loss, operation time, and the complications were recorded. The fracture reduction and the postoperative function of patients were evaluated. Results: All patients were followed up 12-26 months (mean, 16.8 months). The operation time was 65-142 minutes (mean, 72.5 minutes) and the intraoperative blood loss was 42-124 mL (mean, 64.2 mL). There were 2 cases of unilateral lateral femoral cutaneous nerve stimulation, 1 case of femoral nerve paralysis, and 1 case of superficial infection of incision, which were cured after corresponding treatment. X-ray films showed that all fractures healed at 3 months after operation. At last follow-up, according to Matta criteria for fracture reduction, the results were excellent in 8 cases, good in 15 cases, fair in 2 cases, and poor in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate of 88.5%. According to Majeed scoring system for pelvic function, the results were excellent in 10 cases, good in 12 cases, and fair in 4 cases, with an excellent and good rate of 84.6%. Conclusion: For unstable pelvic fractures, the anterior subcutaneous internal fixator combined with posterior plate has fewer operative complications, high security, and achieve good effectiveness.

Bursting Fracture of the Thoracic Spine in Ankylosing Spondylitis: No Visible in Standard Radiograph

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) are at high risk for spinal fracture even after a minor injury. Most spinal fractures with ankylosing spondylitis occur in the cervical spine, whereas spinal fractures in thoracic or lumbar spine are rare. These fractures are often difficult to detect on standard radiographs, because the normal anatomical landmarks are lacking and the abnormal spinal stiffness precludes optimal exposure of the spine. We report on a case of a 12th thoracic spine fracture in ankylosing spondylitis with bamboo spine after a minor injury. In this case, anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the thoracolumbar spine showed a bamboo spine typical for ankylosing spondylitis with no evidence of fracture. However, computed tomography showed a 12th thoracic fracture with burst. Therefore, this fracture, in a patient with AS involved all three spinal columns, was considered unstable.

Analysis of Treatment Results of Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures Using Hook Plate / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to analyze the treatment results and complications in unstable distal clavicle fractures which were treated with a Hook plate, and, in particular, to compare the functional results before and after removal of the Hook plate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 20 cases in 20 patients who underwent removal of Hook plates after bony union was obtained in an unstable fracture of the distal clavicle (Neer type II) from March 2009 to December 2012. The average follow-up period after initial surgery was 12 months (8-20 months). Plates were removed at 18 weeks (ranged from 10-36 weeks) after initial fixation. University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) and Korean Shoulder Scoring System (KSS) scores were used for clinical functional evaluation, and plain radiographs were used for radiological evaluation. RESULTS: In radiological evaluation, bony union was obtained at an average of 11.4 weeks (ranged from 8-14 weeks) in all of the 20 patients. All of the 20 patients showed limited range of motion, mild pain, and discomfort of the shoulder before removal of the Hook plate, and all of the 20 patients showed better results in UCLA and KSS score after removal of the plate, when compared to before removal. Stress fracture as a major complication, was united completely with a 'figure of 8' bandage and deep wound infection was resolved after repeated debridement and antibiotic treatment with satisfactory functional results. CONCLUSION: Hook plate in treatment of unstable fracture of the distal clavicle is considered to be a useful method because rigid fixation can be obtained. However, there are some complications, such as limited range of motion, pain, and discomfort of the shoulder joint, before removal of the Hook plate. Therefore, we think that removal of the Hook plate as soon as possible if bony union is obtained would be desirable.

Fractura de Jefferson asociada a fractura de apófisis odontoides, tratamiento conservador: reporte de un caso / Jefferson fracture associated with fracture of odontoid process, conservative treatment: a case report

Las Fracturas por estallido del atlas (fracturas de Jefferson: Nombrada así por Sir Geoffrey Jefferson1) se producen cuando una fuerza axial se transmite a través de la unión occipito-cervical, causando que el atlas sea comprimido entre la superficie articular de la angulación del Axis y los cóndilos occipitales. Las fuerzas de impacto causan una propagación hacia el exterior de las masas laterales de C1. El resultado es una fractura del atlas en cuatro partes, dos en el arco posterior y dos en el arco anterior2. Y la fractura de apófisis odontoides principalmente por flexion que es el mecanismo más común que produce el daño con el consecuente desplazamiento anterior de la apófisis de la primera vértebra cervical (C1) sobre la segunda (C2). Debido a extensión sólo ocasionalmente se producen FAPO (fractura de apófisis Odontoides), usualmente asociadas con desplazamiento posterior5,9. La frecuencia de accidentes fatales como consecuencia directa de esta lesión es desconocida pero se estima entre un 25 a un 40 por ciento6,7. El manejo de esta es aún controvertido. La mayoría son relativamente estables y no se asocia con deficiencias neurológicas y pueden ser tratadas mediante inmovilización externa con resultados satisfactorios9. Las fracturas inestables de Jefferson reflejan una lesión más grave del atlas que se producen cuando el ligamento transverso también se rompe, secundario a la extensión de la propagación del arco de Cl. Estas fracturas son más difíciles de tratar debido a la inestabilidad atlantoaxial. Muchos cirujanos recomiendan la estabilización quirúrgica de estas fracturas de Jefferson inestables.

The atlas burst fractures (Jefferson fractures: Named after Sir Geoffrey Jefferson1) occur when an axial force is transmitted through the occipito-cervical junction, causing the atlas is compressed between the articular surface of the Axis and angle of the occipital condyles. Impact forces cause an outward propagation of the lateral masses of C1. The result is a fracture of the atlas into four parts, two in the posterior arch and two in the anterior arch2. And the odontoid fracture mainly by flexion is the most common mechanism that causes the damage with the resulting anterior displacement of the apophysis of the first cervical vertebra (C1) on the second (C2). Because there are only occasional extension FAPO (odontoid fracture), usually associated with posterior displacement5,9. The frequency of fatal accidents as a direct result of this injury is unknown but is estimated between 25 to 40 percent6,7. Managing this is still controversial Most are relatively stable and is not associated with neurological deficits and can be treated by external immobilization with satisfactory results9. Unstable fractures of Jefferson reflect a more serious injury of the atlas that occur when the transverse ligament also ruptures secondary to the extent of spread of the arch of Cl These fractures are more difficult to treat due to atlanto-axial instability. Many surgeons recommend surgical stabilization of these unstable Jefferson fractures.

Clinical and Radiologic Outcomes of AO Type C1, 2 Distal Radius Fractures Treated with Percutaneous Pinning or Volar Locking Plating

PURPOSE: To compare clinical and radiological results between closed reduction followed by percutaneous K-wire fixation and volar locking compression plate fixation in the treatment of AO type-C1, 2 fractures of the distal radius. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The subjects of this study were 61 patients who had a AO type-C1,2 fracture of the distal radius treated from March 2006 to January 2010, and were followed up for over 12 months. Clinical evaluations included disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand score (DASH) score, patient-rated wrist evaluation questionnaires (PRWE) score, the Grip strength, and the range of joint motion at the last follow-up, and radiological assessment included the presence of bony union, the dorsal tilt angle of the radius, the inclination of the radius, and the radial shortening. RESULTS: The range of joint motion, the grip strength, DASH and PRWE demonstrated no significant difference between the two groups. Radiological results revealed that the patients treated with percutaneous K-wire fixation showed greater radial shortening than those treated with locking compression plate fixation. CONCLUSION: Although clinical results are similar between volar locking plating and percutaneous pinning in the treatment of AO C1, 2 distal radius fractures, volar locking plating is more effective in preventing radial shortening during fracture healing.

2.4 mm Volar Locking Compression Plate for Treatment of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures

PURPOSE: To evaluate outcomes 2.4 mm volar locking compression plate for treatment of unstable distal radius fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the results in 22 cases, which were treated by 2.4 mm volar locking compression plate. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist performance scoring system and radiographic results. RESULTS: All cases had bony union. The mean Mayo wrist performance score was 85.23. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurements, the mean radial length was improved from 6.04 mm to 9.68 mm, radial inclination from 15.61degrees to 19.61degrees, volar tilt from -13.73degrees to 7.66degrees and intraarticular step-off from 0.79 mm to 0.33 mm (p0.05). Postoperative complication included that flexor pollicis longus and 2nd flexor digitorum profundus were ruptured in 1 case. CONCLUSION: Treatment of unstable distal radius fractures using a 2.4 mm volar locking compression plate showed satisfactory outcomes. It is a good option to obtain stable fixation without significant loss of reduction.

Treatment for Unstable Distal Radius Fracture with Osteoporosis: Internal Fixation versus External Fixation

PURPOSE: To compare the functional and radiological outcomes of volar plating to that of external fixation for treating unstable osteoporotic distal radius fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From March 2006 to March 2008, 36 patients with osteoporosis over 60-year old were selected for this study. They were divided into two groups; group I (open reduction and internal fixation with volar fixed angle plate) and group II (closed reduction and external fixation). Clinical outcomes and radiologic outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: There was no statistical difference between group I and group II in range of motion and DASH score, BMD score. However, the grip strength and PRWE score were found to be higher in group II (p<0.05). In radiologic evaluation, group I showed higher radial inclination, volar tilting angle (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Internal fixation using Volar-fixed Angle Plate seems to give more stable fixation for distal articular fragments compared to external fixation. it could allow early postoperative exercise and could result in low incidence of postoperative complication such as pin track infections and joint stiffness. Therefore, the internal fixation could be more desirable treatment method to manage unstable distal radius fracture.

Volar T-Locking Compression Plate for Treatment of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures

PURPOSE: To evaluate outcomes volar T-locking compression plate for treatment of unstable distal radius fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analysed the results in 35 cases, which were treated by volar plating with T-LCP. We evaluated the clinical results according to the Mayo wrist scoring system and radiographic results. RESULTS: The mean score was 83.86 respectively. Between preoperative and immediate postoperative radiographic measurements, averaged radial length was improved from 5.75 mm to 11.53 mm, radial inclination from 12.86 degrees to 22.56 degrees, volar tilt from -3.64 degrees to 9.90 degrees and intraarticular step-off from 1.48 mm to 0.42 mm. Between immediate postoperative and latest follow-up radiographic measurements, mean loss of radial length measured 0.43 mm, radial inclination 0.46 degrees, volar tilt 0.89 degrees. CONCLUSION: Treatment of unstable distal radius fractures using a volar T-LCP showed satisfactory outcomes. We think that it is good surgical option to allow return to daily living, result in early postsurgical wrist motion.

3.5 mm T-shaped LCP (Locking Compression Plate) Fixation for Unstable Distal Clavicular Fractures

PURPOSE: To review the clinical and radiological results after an open reduction and internal fixation with a T-shaped LCP for unstable distal clavicle fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From February 2005 to June 2006, ten patients with distal clavicle Neer type II fractures were treated with an open reduction and internal fixation with a T-shaped LCP. Bony union was identified by plain radiography. The clinical results were analyzed according to the UCLA scoring system. RESULTS: The mean time to fracture union was 9weeks and union was achieved in all cases. The mean UCLA score was 33.4 (30-35); excellent in 8 cases and good in 2 cases. In one case, loosening of one distal screw was occured and mild AC joint subluxation was observed in another case. CONCLUSION: 3.5 mm T-shaped LCP fixation is a useful technique for treating unstable distal clavicle fractures. This procedure provide stable fixation with no further AC joint injury.

Comparison of hemiarthroplasty and PFN fixation for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients / 中国矫形外科杂志

[Objective]To discuss a reasonable treatment for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients by comparing the effects of PFN fixation and hemiarthroplasty.[Method]Totally 82 intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients with complete clinical data were retrospectively analyzed,who were treated with hemiarthroplasty or PFN fixation from April 2005 to April 2007.Forty-six were treated with hemiarthroplasty,36 were treated with PFN fixation.All of them had multiple medical co-morbidities.According to modified Evens-Jensen classification,all of them belonged to unstable fracture.Comparison was made between the two treated groups in terms of the length of incision,operative time,the blood lost,blood transfusion during or after surgery,time for bed rest postoperatively,postoperative complications and St.Michael hip score one year after surgery.[Result]The average duration of follow-up for PFN fixation and hemiarthroplasty were 16 and 18 months respectively.Compared with the group of hemiarthroplasty,the group of PFN fixation experienced longer operation time,longer time for bed rest postoperatively,less blood lost,less blood transfusion during or after surgery,shorter incision length,and the differences between two groups had statistical significance (P0.05).[Conclusion]Both of the two methods are reasonable treatment for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients.

Comparison of hemiarthroplasty and DHS fixation for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients / 中国矫形外科杂志

[Objective]To discuss a reasonable treatment for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients by comparing the effects of hemiarthroplasty and DHS fixation.[Method]Totally 126 intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients with complete clinical data were retrospectively analyzed,who were treated with hemiarthroplasty or DHS fixation from June 2002 to October 2005.Of the 126 patients,53 were treated with hemiarthroplasty,73 were treated with DHS fixation.All of them had multiple medical co-morbidities and were combined with severe osteoporosis.According to modified Even-Jensen classification,all of them belonged to unstable fractures.Comparison was made between the two treated groups in terms of operative time,blood transfusion during or after surgery,time for bed rest postoperatively,postoperative complications and St.Michael hip score one year after surgery.[Result]The average duration of follow-up for hemiarthroplasty and DHS fixation was 16 and 18 months respectively.Compared with the group of DHS fixation,the group of hemiarthroplasty experienced shorter time for bed rest postoperatively,fewer postoperative complications and higher St.Michael score 1 year after surgery,and the differences between two groups had statistical significance(P0.05).[Conclusion]Cemented hemiarthroplasty has the advantages of allowing early full weight bearing after surgery,low complication rate and satisfactory functional recovery.It is a reasonable treatment for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in senile patients.

Anterior and Posterior Stabilization by One Stage Posterolateral Approach in the Unstable Fracture of Thoracolumbar and Lumbar Spine

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical results of anterior and posterior stabilization by one stage posterolateral approach for the unstable fracture of thoracolumbar and lumbar spine. METHODS: By posterolateral approach with curved skin incision, unilateral facet and pedicle were removed. Through this route, corpectomy was performed, and then this space was replaced with mesh cage filled up with autologous bone graft. Both side pedicle screw fixation was followed to upper and lower levels. RESULTS: Six of seven patients of this study showed neurological improvement. The other one patient showed no neurological change. One patient had postoperative infection, another patient had postoperative kyphosis. The other patient had epidural hematoma on operation site after surgery. And all patinets on this study made to have spinal stability except one patient happened postoperative kyphosis. CONCLUSION: In the unstable fracture of thoracolumbar and lumbar spine, one stage anterior and posterior stabilization and fusion by posterolateral approach seems to be an effective procedure, if we have more care and supplementation.

T Plate Fixation for Unstable Fracture of Distal Clavicle

PURPOSE: To review clinical and radiological results after open reduction and internal fixation with T plate for unstable distal clavicle fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From July. 1999 to December 2002, nine patients with distal clavicle Neer type II fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with T plate. The bony union was confirmed by plain radiography. The clinical results were analyzed according to the classification by Kona et al. RESULTS: Average time to fracture union was 8 weeks in all cases. The functional results were as follows: excellent in 7 cases and good in 2 cases. Screw loosening occurred in one case, but bony union was achieved. CONCLUSION: We recommend T plate fixation as another treatment method for unstable distal clavicle fractures.

Surgical Treatment of Dorsally Displaced Unstable Distal Radius Fracture with Volar Plate Fixation / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: This study was performed to evaluate the usefulness of volar plate fixation of dorsally displaced unstable distal radius fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 48 patients with dorsally displaced unstable distal radius fracture were treated by volar plate fixation, between August 1993 and February 2003. Radial inclination, radial length and volar tilting were analyzed by radiographic evaluation. For clinical evaluation, the clinical ratings of Green and O'Brien were used. RESULTS: Radiographic analysis of extra-articular or non-comminuted intra-articular fractures (AO type A2, A3, and C1) demonstrated no significant differences in radial inclination, radial height and volar tilting between the immediate postoperative period and the last follow-up evaluation. However, in cases of comminuted intra-articular fractures (AO type C2), there were statistically significant differences. In clinical evaluation, 40 (83%) patients demonstrated excellent or good results based on the clinical ratings of Green and O'Brien. 32 (94%) of patients demonstrated excellent or good results in extra-articular (AO type A2 and A3) or non-comminuted intra-articular fractures (AO type C1) and 8 (57%) patients demonstrated excellent or good results in comminuted intra-articular fractures (AO type C2). The number of patients with complications was 4 (8%). Median nerve neuropathy developed in 2 patients, and hand and wrist stiffness in 2 patients. All cases achieved bony union. There was no implant failure or irritation. CONCLUSION: Volar plate fixation of extra-articular or non-comminuted intra-articular fractures (AO type A2, A3, and C1) was an effective treatment method for dorsally displaced unstable distal radius fractures. It provided stable fixation and allowed early postoperative rehabilitation.

External Fixation Combined with Limited Internal Fixation in the Treatment of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures / 中国微创外科杂志

Objective To investigate the efficacy of minimally invasive treatment by combination of external fixation with limited internal fixation for unstable distal radius fractures. Methods From September 2003 to September 2007,43 patients with unstable distal radius fractures were treated with external fixation combined with Kirschner wire fixation. According to AO classification,there were 10 cases of C1,21 cases of C2,and 12 cases of C3. Two external fixation clamp stand screws were inserted into the dorsal radius in operation,then external clamp stand was fixed when manipulative reduction were performed after C-arm perspective. The broken bones were sledged by Kirschner wire when articular facet and bone block were not peaceful and could not achieve reduction by traction. When the bone block was instable,a Kirschner wire fixation was needed. Bone graft through a limited incision were performed for bone defect if necessary. Results All of the 43 cases achieved anatomical reduction after the operation. The mean operaton time was 62.4 min (range from 43 to 121 min). And the mean intraoperative blood loss was 15.3 ml (ranged from 6 to 30 ml). The patients were discharged from hospital in 3 to 14 days with a mean of 5.5 days. After being discharged,they were followed up for 6 to 24 months (mean,12 months),during which,re-examination showed bone union and improved articular activities in all the cases. According to the Dienst scale system,30 patients achieved excellent,8 were good,and 5 were fair. The rate of excellent and good results was 88.4% (38/43). Conclusion External fixation combined with limited internal fixation is a simple,reliable and effective method for treatment of the unstable distal radius fractures.

Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis in Unstable Fractures of the Distal Tibia

PURPOSE: evaluate the effectiveness of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) in unstable fractures of the distal tibia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From March 2001 to December 2003, 21 cases with unstable fractures of the distal tibia were treated with MIPO technique and followed for at least one year. Eighteen cases were extra-articular and three cases were intra-articular fractures. According to AO classification, six cases were 42-A, four 42-B, one 42-C, seven 43-A, and three 43-C. There was only one case of Gustilo-Anderson type II open fracture. We reviewed the results of fracture healing, axial and rotational deformity, ankle motion, and complications RESULTS: All fractures were healed in an average of 16.1 weeks (range, 11 to 24 weeks). There was only one case of 7-degree posterior angular deformity, but no cases of rotational malalignment. Recovery of ankle motion was satisfactory in all patients within 5-degree loss of motion. Subcutaneous abscess was developed in one case after fracture healing and cured by a drainage with implant removal. CONCLUSION: Although MIPO technique is technically more demanding than the traditional open technique, MIPO technique is an effective method for unstable fractures of the distal tibia because it minimizes incidence of soft-tissue compromise and infection and provides good fracture healing.

The Compression Hip Screw with Trochanter Stabilizing Plate for Internal Fixation of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures

PURPOSE: To evaluate trochanter stabilizing plate and compression hip screw can prevent excessive impaction and cutting-out in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred twenty-one patients with intertrochanteric fractures were treated between December 1999 and March 2002. Of the patients, twenty-four patients were treated with an additional TSP on the CHS. Nineteen patients were followed for more than six months. The fractures were classified according to the AO classification. Impactions of compression lag screw were measured immediate postoperatively and postoperatively three months later on simple radiographs. Functional results were followed Salvati-Wilson assessment score at postoperative six months later. RESULTS: The group consisted of seven men and twelve women, and the mean age was 73 years. Two were classified as A2.2, six A2.3, one A3.2, and ten A3.3 fractures. Mean impaction was 5.4 mm (range 1.8 to 11.4 mm). Functional results were excellent in 32% and good in 53%. Eighteen patients had healed after operation. One complication required a bipolar hemiarthroplasty due to cutting-out of lag screw. CONCLUSION: In three-part and four-part intertrochanteric fractures with lateral cortex breakage or vertical fracture in greater trochanter, the addition of TSP to CHS can prevent abductor muscle weakness due to fracture impaction, limb shortening and additional lateral cortical fracture. It also helps early weight bearing and bone healing.

The forearm traction instrument —a new traction device / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Traction during reduction is essent ial for internal or external fixatio n of unstable distal radial fractures.Adequate and effective t raction is the key to the restoration of articular congruence,normal joint relation and the length of distal radius.The f orearm traction instrument develop ed by the authors is a simple,versatile and reliable device,from which stable,continuous and effective traction c an be expected during the surgery.The traction instrument is connected wi th the surgery-table before the operation.According to the needs of diff erent operations,many kinds of traction could be perfo rmed to support the operation.With t he help of the device,frac-ture reduction and fixation is signi ficantly improved during the surgery without excessively violent traction.The X-ray exposure and the operation hou rs can also be decreased as well.Over-traction or long-time violent traction could be avoided during the surgery.According to the author' s experience,the forearm traction i nstrument is an effective implemental device in the treatment of the unstable fractures of distal radius.[