A STUDY OF OUTCOMES OF DISTAL END RADIUS FRACTURES MANAGED BY EXTERNAL FIXATOR

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the distal radius continue to be the most common skeletalinjuries treated by the orthopedic surgeon. Unstable fractures of the distal part of the radiushave shown an inherent tendency towards loss of reduction after non-operative treatment.External skeletal fixation has been popular for the treatment of displaced, unstable fracturesof the distal part of the radius because it combines a minimally invasive procedure withreduction by ligamentotaxis.METHOD: A retrospective study of 70 patients of fracture of distal end radius treated withexternal fixator came to OPD at tertiary care hospital during the study period of 2 years fromJuly 2020 to June 2022, were included in the study after obtaining permission frominstitutional review board.RESULT: All 70 patients were assessed in the form of the functional and radiologicaloutcome based on Subjective evaluation by Modified Demerit Point System of Gartland andWerley (Functional) and Lidstorm and Frykman Criteria modified by Sarmiento(Anatomical). We obtained “excellent” results in 47.15%; “good” in 35.72% cases; “fair” in14.28% and “poor” in 2.85% cases with a mean G & W score of 6.35.CONCLUSION: Finding of this study shows that external fixator is an easy, cost effective,reliable and most suitable treatment in treating intraarticular and unstable extraarticular distalend radial fractures by the principle of ligamentotaxis.

Finite Element Analysis on Different Internal Fixations for Treating Proximal Humeral Fractures in Children / 医用生物力学

Objective To compare biomechanical characteristics of external fixator, Kirschner’s wire, elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) for fixing proximal humeral fractures in children by finite element method.Methods The CT scanning data from the healthy humerus of an 8-year-old patient with proximal humeralfractures were collected, and the image data were imported in Mimics 21. 0 to establish the rough humeralmodel, which was imported in Geomagic 2013 to construct the three-dimensional (3D) model of cancellous and cortical bones of the humerus. After the model was assembled with 3 fixators ( external fixator, Kirschner’swire, ESIN), it was imported in ANSYS 2019 to simulate the upper limb under quiet, abduction, adduction, flexion, extension, external rotation, internal rotation working conditions. The maximum displacement of the distal humerus, the maximum stress of the fixture, and the maximum displacement of the distal fracture surface were analyzed. Results The minimum values of the maximum displacement of the distal humerus in models fixed by external fixator, Kirschner’s wire, ESIN appeared under extension (2. 406 mm), external rotation (0. 203 mm), external rotation (0. 185 mm) working conditions, respectively. Conclusions External fixator is the most unstable fixation of proximal humeral fractures in children, and the biomechanical performance of ESIN is better than that of external fixator and Kirschner’s wire fixation

Correction of tibial multiplanar deformities using single Taylor external fixator combined with biplanar osteotomy / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effectiveness of single Taylor external fixator combined with biplanar osteotomy on correction of tibial multiplanar deformities.@*METHODS@#Between October 2016 and December 2021, 11 patients with tibial multiplanar deformities (20 sides) were treated with single Taylor external fixator and biplanar osteotomy. Of them, 4 were male and 7 were female; the average age ranged from 13 to 33 years (mean, 21.9 years). Diagnosis included rickets severe genu varum deformity (7 cases, 14 sides), rickets severe genu valgum deformity (2 cases, 4 sides), multiple osteochondromatosis calf deformity (1 case, 1 side), neurofibromatosis medial lower leg anterior arch deformity with short of leg (1 case, 1 side). After fibular osteotomy and tibial multiplanar osteotomy, a Taylor external fixator was installed. After operation, the deformities were corrected successively and fixed completely. The osteotomy healed, then the external fixator was removed. Before operation and at 12 months after operation, the full-length X-ray films were taken. The leg-length discrepancy, medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), lateral distal tibial angle (LDTA), posterior proximal tibial angle (PPTA), anterior distal tibial angle (ADTA), and tibial rotation angle were measured. The degree of lower limb deformity was scored with reference to a customized tibial mechanical axis scoring table.@*RESULTS@#Osteotomy was successfully completed without neurovascular injury and other complications. The external fixator was adjusted for 28-46 days, with an average of 37 days, and the external fixator was worn for 136-292 days, with an average of 169 days. Mild needle infection during the fixation period occurred in 3 sides, refracture at the distal tibial osteotomy in 1 side after removing the external fixator, and nonunion of the distal fibular osteotomy in 1 side. All patients were followed up 369-397 days (mean, 375 days). At 12 months after operation, the lower limb discrepancy decreased, but there was no significant difference ( P>0.05). MPTA, LDTA, PPTA, ADTA, and tibial rotation angle improved, and the differences in LDTA, ADTA, and tibial rotation angle were significant ( P<0.05). The score of lower limb deformity was significantly higher than that before operation ( P<0.05), and the results were excellent in 9 sides, good in 8 sides, fair in 3 sides, with the excellent and good rate of 85%.@*CONCLUSION@#Single Taylor external fixator combined with biplanar osteotomy is effective in the correction of tibial multiplanar deformities.

Limited internal fixation combined with a hinged external fixator in treatment of peri-elbow bone infection / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the effectiveness of limited internal fixation combined with a hinged external fixator in the treatment of peri-elbow bone infection.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 19 patients with peri-elbow bone infection treated with limited internal fixation combined with a hinged external fixator between May 2018 and May 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 15 males and 4 females with an average age of 44.6 years (range, 28-61 years). There were 13 cases of distal humerus fractures and 6 cases of proximal ulna fractures. All the 19 cases were infected after internal fixation of fracture, and 2 cases were complicated with radial nerve injury. According to Cierny-Mader anatomical classification, 11 cases were type Ⅱ, 6 cases were type Ⅲ, and 2 cases were type Ⅳ. The duration of bone infection was 1-3 years. After primary debridement, the bone defect was (3.04±0.28) cm, and the antibiotic bone cement was implanted into the defect area, and the external fixator was installed; 3 cases were repaired with latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap, and 2 cases were repaired with lateral brachial fascial flap. Bone defects repair and reconstruction were performed after 6-8 weeks of infection control. The wound healing was observed, and white blood cell (WBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reaction protein (CRP) were reexamined regularly after operation to evaluate the infection control. X-ray films of the affected limb were taken regularly after operation to observe the bone healing in the defect area. At last follow-up, the flexion and extension range of motion and the total range of motion of the elbow joint were observed and recorded, and compared with those before operation, and the function of the elbow joint was evaluated by Mayo score.@*RESULTS@#All patients were followed up 12-34 months (mean, 26.2 months). The wounds healed in 5 cases after skin flap repair. Two cases of recurrent infection were effectively controlled by debridement again and replacement of antibiotic bone cement. The infection control rate was 89.47% (17/19) in the first stage. Two patients with radial nerve injury had poor muscle strength of the affected limb, and the muscle strength of the affected limb recovered from grade Ⅲ to about grade Ⅳ after rehabilitation exercise. During the follow-up period, there was no complication such as incision ulceration, exudation, bone nonunion, infection recurrence, or infection in the bone harvesting area. Bone healing time ranged from 16 to 37 weeks, with an average of 24.2 weeks. WBC, ESR, CRP, PCT, and elbow flexion, extension, and total range of motions significantly improved at last follow-up ( P<0.05). According to Mayo elbow scoring system, the results were excellent in 14 cases, good in 3 cases, and fair in 2 cases, and the excellent and good rate was 89.47%.@*CONCLUSION@#Limited internal fixation combined with a hinged external fixator in the treatment of the peri-elbow bone infection can effectively control infection and restore the function of the elbow joint.

Fijadores externos para tratar fractura mandibular causada por herida de arma de fuego. Reporte de caso / External fxators as treatment for mandibular fracture caused by gunshot wound. Case report

Introducción: las heridas por proyectil de arma de fuego en la región craneofacial provocan daños funcionales devastadoras y deformidades estéticas, que se suman al trauma psicológico al momento del regreso a la vida cotidiana de un paciente. Por esta razón, la reconstrucción adecuada es esencial para una rehabilitación integral. La fijación externa es un método de reducción cerrada de fracturas que implica el uso de tornillos para manipular segmentos sueltos de hueso, que luego se fijan mediante conexiones externas. Es importante recalcar que las fracturas mandibulares causadas por proyectil de arma de fuego son un reto para este tipo de tratamiento. Objetivo: presentar el caso de un paciente con fractura mandibular por proyectil de arma de fuego tratado con fijadores externos y revisión de la literatura sobre este tipo de tratamiento. Caso clínico: paciente masculino de 19 años que presentó fractura de rama mandibular izquierda causado por proyectil de arma de fuego; la fractura se manejó mediante la colocación de fijación intermaxilar con arcos barra tipo Erich y fijación externa durante 3 meses. Como parte del resultado, el paciente presentó una correcta oclusión dentaria y mantiene sus movimientos mandibulares sin ninguna limitación. Esto demuestra que la reducción cerrada y fijación externa debe mantenerse en el arsenal terapéutico debido a sus adecuados resultados comprobados en la literatura y en este caso. Ahora bien, aunque la reducción abierta y fijación interna con material de osteosíntesis hace parte del manejo idóneo para todo tipo de fractura, todos los casos requieren ser individualizados.

Background: wounds from a frearm projectile in the craniofacial region cause devastating functional damage and aesthetic deformities, along with psychological trauma when returning to daily life. This is why proper reconstruction is essential for comprehensive rehabilitation. External fxation is a method of closed fracture reduction that involves the use of screws to manipulate loose segments of bone that are then fxed using external connections. Objective: to present the case of a patient with a mandibular fracture caused by a frearm projectile treated with external fixators and review the literature. Clinical case: a 19-year-old male patient who presented a fracture of the left mandibular ramus caused by a frearm projectile, the fracture was managed by placing intermaxillary fxation with Erich-type bar arches and external fixation for 3 months. The patient presented a correct dental occlusion and maintains his mandibular movements without any limitation. Conclusion: mandibular fractures caused by frearm projectiles are a challenge for treatment. Open reduction and internal fixation with osteosynthesis material is the ideal management for all types of fractures, however, all cases must be individualized, and it must be considered that closed reduction and external fxation must remain in our therapeutic arsenal due to their adequate results verifed in the literature and in our case.

Treatment of open tibial fractures in children with composite pin-rod external fixation / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the clinical efficacy of composite pin-rod external fixation in the treatment of open tibial fractures in children.Methods:The clinical data were retrospectively analyzed of the 21 pediatric patients with open tibial fracture who had been treated at Department of Pediatric Orthopeadics, Tianjin University by composite pin-rod external fixation from January 2019 to December 2021. There were 15 boys and 6 girls, and 9 left sides and 12 right sides. The age at the time of operation was (8.6±4.1) months. According to the Gustilo-Anderson classification, there were 3 cases of type Ⅰ, 12 cases of type Ⅱ, 3 cases of type ⅢA, 1 case of type ⅢB, and 2 cases of type ⅢC. Twenty cases had a concomitant fibular fracture, 3 cases multiple injuries, and 3 cases a segmental fracture. All the operations were performed at the emergency department. After debridement, the fractures were reduced and immobilized with a triangle external fixation of composite pin-rod system. In the patients whose conditions permitted, the wounds were closed at one stage, and no other external fixation was added after operation. Wound healing, fracture healing, frame time, knee and ankle functional results and complications were evaluated.Results:All patients were followed up for (20.7±15.8) months. Primary wound closure was achieved in 18 cases; the wound was covered by vacuum sealing drainage after debridement and reverse skin removal in the other 3 cases, of which 2 healed smoothly, and 1 was complicated with superficial infection of Gustilo type ⅢC treated eventually by an anterolateral thigh flap. Fractures healed satisfactorily in 20 cases, with a frame time of (4.5±1.7) months. At the last follow-up, there was no significant difference in the range of motion of the knee and ankle joints on the affected side compared with the uninjured side ( P>0.05). According to the Johner-Wruhs evaluation criteria, the functional recovery was excellent in 16 cases and good in 4 cases. Fracture nonunion happened in one child after skin flap operation, but fracture occurred again after reoperation for fracture, yielding a poor Johner-Wruhs evaluation. Needle tract infection was found in 9 cases but responded to therapy with no other complications. Conclusions:In the treatment of open tibial fractures in children, the composite pin-rod external fixation may lead to satisfactory clinical outcomes. It is easy in operation, provides stable fixation, and allows early rehabilitation after surgery. It can be used as a terminal treatment for wounds that can be closed at one stage.

Ilizarov Ring External Fixation for Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures / Fixação externa do anel de Ilizarov para fraturas complexas do platô tibial

Abstract Objective To analyze the results of clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes of tibial plateau fracture (Schatzker Type V, VI) treated with Illizarov ring external fixator with or without minimum opening. Methods A total of 52 tibial plateau fractures of type V, VI were treated with Ilizarov ring external fixator with or without mininum internal fixation were studied. Functional outcome assessment was done using the American Knee Society (AKS) score with clinical, radiological union, and complications were analyzed. Results There were 37 (71.15%) male and 15 (28.84%) female patients, with a mean age of 39.07 ± 12.58 years old. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) were the major cause of fracture, accounting for 32 cases (61.53%) followed by fall injury, with 16 cases (30.76%), and direct impact, with 4 cases (7.69%). Twenty-one (40.38%) cases were type V and 31 (59.61%) cases were type VI fractures, and there were 24 (46.15%) cases of open fracture. The mean AKS score of Type V and Type VI fractures were 82.8 and 80.70, respectively, but this was statistically not significant at p<0.05. The mean AKS score of closed and open fractures were also statistically not significant at p<0.05. Conclusions For Schatzker Types V and VI complex tibial plateau fractures, Ilizarov external fixation is a safe, cost-effective and efficient treatment method that presents a satisfactory outcome.

Resumo Objetivo Analisar os resultados clínicos, radiológicos e funcionais da fratura do planalto tibial (Schatzker Tipo V, VI) tratada com fixador externo do anel Illizarov com ou sem abertura mínima. Métodos Um total de 52 fraturas do planalto tibial dos tipos V e VI foram tratadas com fixador externo do anel Ilizarov com ou sem fixação interna mínima. A avaliação do desfecho funcional foi feita utilizando-se o escore da American Knee Society (AKS, na sigla em inglês) com consolidação clínica, radiológica e complicações encontradas. Resultados Foram 37 (71,15%) pacientes do sexo masculino e 15 (28,84%) do sexo feminino, com idade média de 39,07 ± 12,58 anos. Acidentes de trânsito (ATs) foram a principal causa das fraturas, contabilizando 32 casos (61,53%), seguidos por lesão por queda, com 16 casos (30,76%), e impacto direto, com 4 casos (7,69%). Foram 21 (40,38%) casos de fraturas tipo V, 31 (59,61%) casos do tipo VI e 24 (46,15%) casos de fratura exposta. Os escores médios da AKS para as fraturas tipo V e VI foram de 82,8 e 80,70, respectivamente, mas não foi estatisticamente significativo em p <0,05. O escore médio da AKS para fraturas fechadas e abertas também não foi estatisticamente significativo em p <0,05. Conclusões Para a fratura do planalto tibial complexa dos tipos V e VI de Schatzker, a fixação externa de Ilizarov é um método de tratamento seguro, econômico e eficiente que resulta em resultados satisfatórios.

Management of Comminuited Intra/Juxta Articular Fracture of Distal Radius Using Bridging External Fixator

Background: Distal radius fractures are the third most common osteoporotic fractures and are frequently treated in emergency department. They have a trimodal peak of occurrence and there has been a significant increase in incidence of involvement in elderly females and young males. Management of these fractures comes with lots of treatment options and challenges to provide good functional outcome. This prospective study was done for the management of communited intra/juxta articular fractures of distal end radius using a bridging external fixator on 25 patients. The principle of ligamentotaxis was used for alignment of fracture fragments and wrist spanning external fixator was used to maintain the fracture reduction.Methods:25 patients of either sex with age group 16 to 80 years were taken from the orthopedic department. After proper primary care, cases were classified using Fernandez classification, and posted for surgery as soon as investigations and fitness were taken.Results:Patients involved in the study were in range of 16 to 78 years with 16 patients having dominant side with road traffic accident as leading cause.Radiological union was seen at an average of 7.3 weeks, 4 patients had superficial pin tract infection, 3 patients had stiffnes and a single case had malunion. Conclusions:Modified clinical scoring system of Green and O払rien was used to evaluate the overall functional results which showed excellent to good results in 84% of cases. Hence, properly planned and executed bridging external fixator is an easy, cost-effective and reliable treatment modality through the 揚rinciple of Ligamentotaxis�.

Treatment of calcaneal fracture with anatomical calcaneal external fixator / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the short-term efficacy of anatomical calcaneal external fixator in the treatment of calcaneal fractures.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted of the 9 patients with calcaneal fracture who had been admitted to Department of Orthopedics, 920 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force between September 2019 and March 2020. There were 7 males and 2 females, aged from 23 to 66 years (mean, 41.3 years). The injury was caused by a fall from a height in 6 cases and a traffic accident in 3 cases. By the Sanders classification, there were 2 cases of type ⅡB, 2 cases of type ⅢAC, 3 type Ⅲ AB, one of type Ⅲ BC and one type Ⅳ. By the AO grading for closed soft tissue injury in the 8 closed fractures, there were 5 cases of grade Ⅰ and 3 cases of grade Ⅱ. The one open fracture was type ⅢB by the Gustilo-Anderson classification and treated with skin flap repair after debridement. All the 9 patients were treated with an anatomic calcaneal external fixator during stage-one or stage-two surgery (8 patients in stage-one and one in stage-two). The fracture union time for the patients was recorded; the ankle and hindfoot score of American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and the protocol of Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) were used at the last follow-up to assess the short-term efficacy.Results:Postoperative follow-up for the 9 patients ranged from 6 to 18 months (mean, 9.8 months). The duration of fracture union in the 9 patients ranged from 2 to 4 months (mean 2.8 months). The AOFAS ankle and hindfoot score at last follow-up ranged from 79 to 93 points (mean, 84.7 points) for the male patients (6 excellent and one good), and from 82 to 91 points (mean, 86.5 points) for the female patients (one excellent and one good). According to the ASAMI protocol at last follow-up, the short-term efficacy was rated as excellent in 6 cases, as good in 2 cases and as fair in one. The patients with closed fracture could get out of bed for rehabilitation on day 3 after surgery. None of the patients experienced such complications as pin tract infection and osteomyelitis during follow-up.Conclusion:The anatomic external calcaneal fixator demonstrates fine short-term efficacy in the treatment of calcaneal fractures, due to its advantages like anatomical configuration, a limited number of implants, and a possibility of partial weight-bearing for exercises on the third postoperative day.

One-stage biplanar osteotomy correction of angulation and shortening deformity of the lower extremity after epiphyseal injury of the distal femur with a monorail external fixator / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effectiveness of one-stage biplanar osteotomy correction of angulation and shortening deformity of the lower extremity after epiphyseal injury of the distal femur with a monorail external fixator.Methods:The data of 5 patients (2 males and 3 females) with angulation and shortening deformity in the lower extremity after epiphyseal injury of the distal femur were retrospectively analyzed.The patients underwent monorail external fixator assisted one-stage osteotomy correction of the distal femur and distraction osteogenesis of the middle and upper femur in Zhengzhou Orthopeadics Hospital from May 2017 to December 2019.The mean age was 13.6 years old (range: 10 to 17 years old). The affected limbs were shortened by 5.1 cm on average (range: 3.9 to 6.5 cm). The average angulation deformity of the distal femur was 24.9° (range: 17.0°to 30.5°). The mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), the mechanical posterior distal femoral angle (mPDFA), the mechanical axis deviation (MAD), the range of motion (ROM) of the knee, and the length of the lower limbs before surgery and at the final follow-up were measured and analyzed.Results:All patients were followed up for 22 months on average (range: 15 to 32 months). For all the 5 patients, the mechanical axis was well realigned, mLDFA, mPDFA, and MAD returned to normal range, and the length of the affected limb achieved the goal as planned before the surgery.Besides, the affected limbs were lengthened by 5.6 cm on average (range: 3.9 to 8.0 cm), and the median healing index was 35.6 d/cm (range: 29.0 to 45.0 d/cm). The bone callus in the distraction area and the osteotomy end were well healed at the final follow-up, as indicated by the X-ray results.At the end of the distraction period, the flexion ROM of the knee in all patients reached basically 90°.By the final follow-up, all patients had a normal knee ROM.No vascular or nerve injury, dislocation of hips or knee joints, re-fracture after disassembly, deep infection and other complications were observed in all patients.Conclusions:One-stage biplanar osteotomy correction of angulation and shortening deformity of the lower extremity after epiphyseal injury of the distal femur with a monorail external fixator is safe and feasible.The method requires no multiple operations and improves the tolerance of patients during the treatment period.

Stability of Fixation for AO-C2 Pilon Fracture with Horseshoe Ring External Fixator under Axial Loading / 医用生物力学

Objective The traditional circular external fixation structure was redesigned to make it more suitable for intraarticular Pilon fracture fixation. The stability of the horseshoe annular external fixator was verified by analyzing fracture displacement of the Pilon bone after fixation with the external fixator under loading.MethodsAO-C2 Pilon fracture model was prepared by pendulum saw according to predetermined osteotomy line, and then fixed by horseshoe ring external fixator. The fixed ankle model was subjected to axial loading on mechanical test machine. The axial force loading mode was from 0 N to 150 N, 300 N and 450 N successively. The displacement changes of fracture blocks in X (left-right), Y (up-down) and Z (anterior-posterior) axis during axial loading were recorded by dynamic capture instrument.ResultsThe overall left-right, up-down and anterior-posterior displacement of the fibula ranged from 0.32 mm to 0.70 mm, -0.27 mm to -0.23 mm and 0.23mm to 0.32 mm, and the maximum difference was 0.09 mm. The overall left-right, up-down and anterior-posterior displacement of medial malleolus fracture in the tibia range from 0.02 mm to 0.14 mm, -0.80 mm to -0.19 mm and -0.78 mm to -0.13mm.The overall left-right, up-down and anterior-posterior displacement of lateral malleolus fracture in the tibia ranged from -0.07 mm to 0.05 mm, -0.36 mm to -0.03 mm, 0.27 mm to 0.47 mm.ConclusionsThe horseshoe ring external fixator can not only stabilize the fracture end, but also produce micromotion which is beneficial to fracture healing, which accords with biomechanical characteristics of fracture healing. The external fixator structure is simple, suitable for the treatment of Pilon fracture, and worthy of popularization and application.

Caracterización de pacientes con fractura abierta de tibia tratados con fijación externa / Characterization of patients with open fracture of the tibia treated with external fixation

RESUMEN Introducción: La fractura de huesos largos es común, la de tibia presenta una elevada incidencia. No solo es frecuente, sino que a menudo es difícil de tratar. Su localización subcutánea provoca complicaciones como fractura abierta, pseudoartrosis y consolidación defectuosa. Objetivo: Determinar las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de los pacientes con fractura abierta de tibia, tratados con fijación externa. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal. El universo estuvo constituido por 134 pacientes con diagnóstico de fractura abierta de tibia. Se escogió a 64 lesionados que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Se analizaron las variables edad, sexo, etiología, localización anatómica, clasificación y trazo de la fractura, además de tipo de fijador externo utilizado y complicaciones. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizaron frecuencias absolutas y relativas como medidas resumen. Resultados: El grupo de edad más afectado fue el de 28-37 años, con el 60,9 % del total. Hubo predominio del sexo masculino, para el 95,3 %. Predominó el accidente automovilístico como causa, con un 54,7 %. El fijador externo Ilizarov es el modelo más utilizado para tratar la fractura abierta de tibia y las complicaciones asociadas, para un 89,7 %. Conclusiones: En pacientes con fractura abierta de tibia predomina en el sexo masculino, entre la tercera y cuarta década de la vida; los accidentes de tránsito son la causa principal y el fijador externo Ilizarov es el modelo más utilizado para tratar la fractura abierta de tibia y las complicaciones asociadas.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Long bone fractures are common; among them the tibia presents a high incidence. They are not only common, but often difficult to treat. Its subcutaneous location causes complications such as open fractures, pseudoarthrosis and defective consolidations. Objective: To determine the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients with open fracture of the tibia treated with external fixation. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out. The universe consisted of 134 patients with a diagnosis of open fracture of the tibia. Sixty-four injured patients who met the inclusion criteria were chosen. The variables age, sex, etiology, anatomical location, classification and fracture line were analyzed, in addition to the type of external fixator used and complications. Results: The most affected age group was 28-37 years old, with 60.9 % of the total. There was a predominance of the male sex for 95.3 %. The car accident prevailed as the cause of the injury with 54.7 %. The Ilizarov external fixator is the most used model for 89.7 % to treat open fracture of the tibia and associated complications. Conclusions: The open fracture of the tibia predominates in males between the third and fourth decade of life; traffic accidents are the main cause of this traumatic injury, and the Ilizarov external fixator is the most widely used model for treating open tibial fractures and associated complications.

Research of Building 3D Model in External Fixator for Proximal Femoral Fracture Based on Locking Plate Shape / 中国医疗器械杂志

The software of 3D-Modeling(UG NX 10.0) was used to design a new external fixator model for proximal femoral fracture, and fresh femoral cadaver specimens were used to simulate experimental operation. The results showed that the external fixator designed with the proximal femoral locking plate shape can improve the accuracy of Kirschner wire penetration into the femoral neck, reduce fluoroscopic and soft tissue incision injuries, and make a good stability and is easy to operate, which has a certain value for patients with proximal femoral fracture, such as intolerant surgery and poor physical condition.

Estudio comparativo entre fijador externo versus placa volar de estabilidad angular en las fracturas de radio distal / External fixator versus angular stability volar plates in distal radius fractures. A comparative study

Las fracturas del radio distal están entre las patologías más comunes en el área de la emergencia, actualmente los tratamientos más utilizados son la fijación con alambres de Kirschner y fijador externo (AKFE), o la osteosíntesis con placas volares de estabilidad angular (PVEA), realizamos un estudio comparativo de los resultados a corto plazo entre ambos métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal, retrospectivo y descriptivo desde el 2005 al 2019, donde se revisaron las historias de los pacientes con fracturas de radio distal tratados con AKFE o PVEA, evaluando el alta después de la medición de la amplitud de movimiento articular funcional. Se incluyeron 68 pacientes, 47(69,11%) pacientes tratados con PVEA y 21(30,88%) con AKFE, la edad promedio fue de 53,07 años, la causa más común fue la caída de su altura en 60,29% casos, el alta médica por mejoría se realizó a las 15,95 semanas para AKFE y a las 9,86 semanas para PVEA (<0.05). La osteosíntesis con PVEA evidenció un menor tiempo de recuperación de la amplitud de movimiento articular con respecto a los pacientes tratados con AKFE(AU)

Fractures of the distal radius are among the most common pathologies in the emergency area, currently the treatment more frequently used are fixation with Kirschner wires and external fixator (KWEF), or osteosynthesis with angular stability volar plates (FAVP), we carried out a comparative study of the short-term results between both methods. This is a cross-sectional, retrospective and descriptive study from 2005 to 2019, where the histories of patients with distal radius fractures treated with KWEF or FAVP revised, evaluated, evaluating at discharge after functional joint range of motion was measured.68 patients were evaluated, 47 patients treated with FAVP and 21 with KWEF, average age of 53.07 years, the most common cause was the fall from his height with 60.29%, the medical discharge was made at 15,95 weeks for KWEF and 9,86 weeks for FAVP; with a t student<0.05 between them. Osteosynthesis with FAVP evidenced a shorter recovery time for joint range of motion compared to patients treated with KWEF(AU)

Braquimetacarpia: Alargamiento mediante callotasis con fijador externo. Reporte de caso / Brachymetacarpy: Lengthening by callotasis with external fixator. Case report

Introducción La braquimetacarpia es una falta de longitud normal de los metacarpianos. La causa puede deberse a un síndrome, puede ser adquirida a partir de enfermedades infantiles, o puede surgir de forma idiopática. La incidencia es inferior a 1 en 1000, y la tasa de ocurrencia en las mujeres es 5 veces mayor que en los hombres. Reporte de caso Paciente que consulta por 4° dedo de la mano izquierda+corto y dolor en AMCF del mismo dedo con limitación funcional. RX: Braquimetacarpia del 4° metacarpiano. Se realizó: alargamiento mediante callotasis con fijador externo monolateral tipo Orthofix. Resultados Obtuvimos un resultado favorable, con un alargamiento progresivo del metacarpiano de 15mm y con buen resultado funcional sin complicaciones a los 2 años posquirúrgicos. Discusión La corrección quirúrgica de la braquidactilia se realiza principalmente por razones estéticas. Se usan varios métodos para alargar los metacarpianos. Algunos autores recomiendan el alargamiento gradual mediante distracción, argumentando que con esta técnica es más posible, con alta tasa de éxito cosmético y baja tasa de complicaciones. Destacamos en la resolución de este caso, una cuidadosa planificación preoperatoria, montaje intraoperatorio seguro del fijador externo y el seguimiento postoperatorio estricto, son esenciales para evitar la aparición de complicaciones.

Background Brachymetacarpy is a lack of normal metacarpal length. The cause may be due to a syndrome, it can be acquired from childhood diseases, or it can arise idiopathically. The incidence is less than 1 in 1000, and the occurrence rate in women is 5 times higher than in men. Case report Patient who consulted for the 4th finger of the left hand short and pain in the left finger with functional limitation. RX: Brachymetacarpy of the 4th metacarpal. It was carried out: lengthening by callotasis with Orthofix-type monolateral external fixator. Results We obtained a favorable result, with a progressive lengthening of the metacarpal of 15mm and with a good functional result without complications at 2 postoperative years. Discussion Surgical correction of brachydactyly is performed primarily for cosmetic reasons. Various methods are used to lengthen the metacarpals. Some authors recommend gradual lengthening through distraction, arguing that this technique is more possible, with a high rate of cosmetic success and a low rate of complications. We emphasize in the resolution of this case, careful preoperative planning, safe intraoperative mounting of the external fixator and strict postoperative follow-up, are essential to avoid the appearance of complications.

Feasibility study of correcting distal femoral valgus deformity with fixator-assisted plating technique in adolescent / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:Comparing with the external fixator technique, investigate the clinical effect of fixator-assisted plating technique for treatment distal femoral valgus deformity in adolescent.Methods:A retrospective analysis of the relevant data of 22 patients (25 limbs) with acute correction of distal femoral valgus deformities from July 2015 to June 2019, according to the difference of the final fixation, they were divided two groups. The fixator-assisted plating group, including 8 patients (9 limbs), 5 boys and 3 girls, 5 left and 2 right, 1 bilateral, the physis were closed in 4 cases and opened in 4 cases, age 14.04±1.99 years (11.7-18 years). The external fixator group, including 14 patients (16 limbs), 6 boys and 8 girls, 8 left and 4 right, 2 bilateral, the physis were closed in 9 cases and opened in 5 cases, age 13.33±1.88 years (10.1-16.5 years). Measuring the mechanical axis deviation (MAD) and the mechanical lateral distal femur angle (mLDFA) in full length standing AP view X-ray of the lower limb pre and post operation. Recording the changed of limb length discrepancy (LLD) before and after surgery and the knee range of motion at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and the last follow up post operation. The Kolcaba comfort status scale was used to evaluate the comfort of two groups at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and the last follow up. Meanwhile recorded the healing time of osteotomy sites and the complications.Results:The difference in general information between the two groups was not statistically significant. The fixator-assisted plating group followed up mean 26 months (range, 12-40 months), the healing time were 4.00±0.66 months, the mLDFA mean 73.33°±4.12° before surgery and 87.89°±1.69° after surgery and there was significant difference ( t=10.582, P<0.05). The external fixator group followed up mean 36 months (range, 22-42 months), the healing time were 4.00±0.66 months, the mLDFA mean 73.31°±3.95° before surgery and 87.31°±1.54° after surgery and there was significant difference ( t=14.118, P<0.05). The MAD were in the normal range in all patients after surgery, and there were no significant difference about healing time of the osteotomy sites and postoperative mLDFA between the two groups ( t=1.514, P=0.150; t=0.845, P=0.411). Comparing with the knee function, the fixator-assisted plating group was better at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months after surgery but there was no difference at the last follow up. Also, the fixator-assisted plating group felt more comfortable at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and there was no difference at the last follow up. All the patients with external fixator have mild pin sites infection and there were no obvious complications in patients with plate. Conclusion:The fixator-assisted plating technique can accurately correct the valgus deformity with satisfactory healing of the osteotomy in distal femoral compare with the external fixator technique, but the patients feel more comfortable and the knee joint function recovers faster and no risk of pin site infection, the clinical results was satisfactory with fewer complication.

Efficacy of distracting external fixator for tibiofibular fractures combined with osteofascial compartment syndrome / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To explore the efficacy of distracting external fixator for tibiofibular fractures combined with osteofascial compartment syndrome.Methods:A retrospective case-control study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 62 patients with tibiofibular fractures combined with osteofascial compartment syndrome admitted to Air Force Hospital from Eastern Theater of PLA from March 2009 to March 2019, including 47 males and 15 females, aged 20-78 years［（47.1±13.4）years］. There were 30 patients with tibia shaft fractures, 17 with tibia plateau fractures and 15 with tibia distal fractures. The fractures were classified as type 4A in 18 patients, type 4B in 24 and type 4C in 20 according to AO/OT classification. Distracting external fixation was performed for 30 patients（Group A）and calcaneal tuberosity traction for 32 patients（Group B）. Levels of alanine aminotransferase（ALT）, urea nitrogen（BUN）, creatine kinase（CK）and lactate dehydrogenase（LDH）of the injured limb were compared between the two groups during traction. Additionally, the fasciotomy rate, time of damage control treatment（observation interval from trauma to stage II definitive surgery）, time of stage II definitive surgery, internal fixation modalities of stage II definitive surgery, rate of needle tract infection and rate of non-planned secondary surgery were compared between the two groups. The limb function was assessed using Johner-Wruhs scoring system at the last follow-up.Results:All patients were followed up for 12-22 months［（15.1±2.7）months］. Level of CK in Group A was 315.6（140.0, 531.5）U/L, significantly lower than that in Group B［465.5（277.0, 1240.5）U/L］（ P<0.05）. The two groups revealed no statistical differences in levels of BUN, CK and LDH（ P>0.05）. The fasciotomy rate in Group A［40%（12/30）］was higher than that in Group B［34%（11/32）］, but the difference was statistically insignificant（ P>0.05）. The time of stage II definitive surgery in Group A was（68.5±17.1）minutes, significantly lower than that in Group B［（89.0±15.1）minutes］（ P<0.05）. The rate of non-planned secondary surgery in Group A［3%（1/30）］was lower than that in Group B［25%（8/32）］（ P<0.05）. There were no statistically significant differences in time of damage control treatment, internal fixation modalities of stage II definitive surgery and rate of needle infection between the two groups（ P>0.05）. According to Johner-Wruhs scoring system, the function in Group A were excellent in 17 patients, good in 5, fair in 2 and poor in 6 at the last follow-up, with the excellent rate of 73%. However, the difference was not statistically significant when compared to Group B: excellent in 13 patients, good in 3, fair in 7 and poor in 9, with the excellent rate of 50%（ P>0.05）. Conclusion:Compared with calcaneal tuberosity traction, the distracting external fixation of tibiofibular fractures combined with osteofascial compartment syndrome can attenuate soft tissue damage during the traction and shorten the time of stage II definitive surgery by maintaining intraoperative fracture reduction.

External fixators combined with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flap for treatment of Gustilo type ⅢB/C open tibiofibular fractures / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of external fixators combined with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flap for treatment of Gustilo type IIIB/C open tibiofibular fractures.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze clinical data of 15 patients with Gustilo type IIIB/C open tibiofibular fractures admitted to Ruihua Hospital of Soochow University from March 2016 to June 2019. There were 11 males and 4 females, with the age of (48.5±12.6)years (range, 22-67 years). All patients underwent emergency debridement in stage I, the major blood vessels, nerves and tendons were inspected and repaired, and the fracture ends were fixed by external fixator. There were different degrees of wounds necrosis, infection and bone defect after operation. After debridement in stage II, the soft tissue defects with the dimension of 10.0 cm×5.0 cm to 30.0 cm×8.0 cm were repaired with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flaps whose areas ranged from 10.5 cm×5.5 cm to 30.5 cm×8.5 cm. All donor areas of the musculocutaneous flaps were sutured directly in stage I. The healing of the donor areas and musculocutaneous flaps were observed within 2 weeks after operation. At the last follow-up, the shape and sensory recovery of the flap, healing of fractures and related complications were observed. The lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) was used to evaluate the injured limb function.Results:All patients were followed-up for 12-32 months [(22.0±5.8)months]. All donor areas were healed by first intention, leaving only linear scars. The musculocutaneous flaps survived completely in all patients. Partial necrosis of large area of musculocutaneous flap occurred in 2 patients, and healed after debridement and skin grafting. Another patient had vascular crisis after musculocutaneous flap operation and survived after the embolized vein repaired by contralateral great saphenous. At the last follow-up, the shape of flap recovered well, and the feeling partially recovered with the two-point discrimination of 18-26 mm. All fractures healed well, and there were no serious infection-related complications such as osteomyelitis. The LEFS score was 47-69 points [(59.0±9.5)points].Conclusion:Theexternal fixator combined with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flaps for treatment of Gustilo type IIIB/Copen tibiofibular fractures can better restore the appearance of soft tissue defect of the lower leg, and can effectively reduce the occurrence of severe infection-related complications.

A comparative study of variable angle volar plate and bridging external fixator with K-wire augmentation in comminuted distal radius fractures / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

PURPOSE@#Comminuted intraarticular distal radial fractures are difficult to treat conservatively and require operative treatment. This study compared the functional outcomes between variable angle volar plating and external fixator with K-wire augmentation in open reduction and internal fixation.@*METHODS@#A total of 62 adult patients with comminuted intraarticular distal radius fracture were randomized into 2 groups: volar plate group and external fixator group. These patients aged between 18 and 60 years had unilateral fractures, and agreed to be included in the study. Patients with a history of fracture, bilateral fracture, associated other injuries, delayed injury for more than 2 weeks, open fracture, pre-existing arthrosis or disability, psychiatric illness and pathological fracture were excluded. Patients were followed up at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. The assessment of pain, functional activity, range of motion and grip strength was done at each stage of follow-up. The pain and functional activities were assessed by patient rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score.@*RESULTS@#Patients in volar plate group had superior PRWE score and DASH score at each stage of follow-up. At 1 year follow-up, the mean PRWE score were 7.48 for volar plate group and 7.35 for external fixator group; while the mean DASH score was 4.65 for volar plate group and 5.61 for external fixator group. They had better flexion and extension range of movement. They also had better pronation and supination range of motion at initial follow-up, however the difference get attenuated by 1 year. Volar plate group had significantly better grip strength than external fixator group. Complication rates were higher in external fixation group.@*CONCLUSION@#Fixation with variable angle volar plate results in early wrist mobilization, better range of movement, less pain and disability and early return of function.

Limb Deformity Correction Using the Ortho SUV Frame

@#BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Limb deformity in terms of length discrepancy, angular and rotational deformities are amenable to correction using the Ilizarov method. The corrections can be achieved using the Ortho SUV Frame (OSF), a computer assisted six axes external fixator. Previous studies have reported easier and more accurate deformity correction. In this study, we report on our initial experience and treatment outcomes in using this system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is a case series of patients where the Ilizarov circular frame was applied and which the deformity correction was carried out using the OSF. Success and accuracy in correction, length of time to correct, number of revisions needed and complications were gathered from a review of medical records. RESULTS: Thirty limbs in twenty nine cases were included in this report. Seventy seven percent (23/30) of the deformities were due to previous trauma. The rest were due to Blounts, infection and tumor. Correction in eighty seven percent (26/30) were achieved using the turning schedule provided by the Ortho SUV application software. Three cases required surgical removal of soft tissue interposition before further correction using the software was achieved. One case with posterior translation underwent closed manipulation. In the end all planned deformity corrections were achieved. Complications included pin tract swelling and erythema in 13% and all resolved either with oral antibiotics alone or combined with surgical release of pin sites under local anesthesia. CONCLUSION: The Ortho SUV is an effective tool to carry out deformity corrections using the Ilizarov method.