Biomechanical behavior of three maxillary expanders in cleft lip and palate: a finite element study

Abstract: This study evaluated the stress distribution in the dentoalveolar and palatal bone structures during maxillary expansion in a 17-year-old male patient with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) using expanders with dental (HYRAX) and skeletal anchorage (MARPE). For the generation of the specific finite element models, cone-beam computed tomography was used, and the DICOM files were exported to Mimics 3-Matic (Materialise) and Patran (MSC Software) software. Three specific three-dimensional models were generated: A) HYRAX: conventional four-banded hyrax screw (9 mm); B) MARPE-DS: 3 miniscrews (1.8 mm diameter - 5.4 mm length) and four-banded dental anchorage; and C) MARPE-NoDS: 3 miniscrews without dental anchorage. Maxillary expansion was simulated by activating the expanders transversely 1 mm on the "X" axis. HYRAX resulted in higher levels of deformation predominantly in the dentoalveolar region. MARPE-DS showed stress in the dentoalveolar region and mainly in the center of the palatal region, at approximately 4,000 με. MARPE-NoDS exhibited evident stress only in the palatal region. High stress levels in the root anchoring teeth were observed for HYRAX and MARPE-DS. In contrast, MARPE-NoDS cause stress on the tooth structure. The stress distribution from the expanders used in the BLCP showed asymmetric expansive behavior. During the initial activation phase of expansion, the HYRAX and MARPE-DS models produced similarly high strain at the dentoalveolar structures and upper posterior teeth displacement. The MARPE-NoDS model showed restricted strain on the palate.

Radicular symptoms associated with extrapedicular screw placement / Sintomas radiculares associados com a colocação extrapedicular de parafusos / Síntomas radiculares asociados a la colocación de tornillos extrapediculares

ABSTRACT: Objective: Transpedicular fixation has rapidly evolved over the last 100 years. A common complication is screw misplacement which can lead to neurological deficits, vascular damage, or organ perforation. We intend to assess the correlation between screw misplacement and radicular symptoms through the Gertzbein scale. Methods: We conducted an observational longitudinal retrospective study on patients who underwent free-hand lumbar instrumentation surgery with fluoroscopy assistance. The patients were evaluated with postoperative CT scans, and screw positions were classified with the Gertzbein scale. Results: The initial sample included 99 patients who underwent surgery. Of the 317 screws placed, 201 did not show cortical damage, 105 screws exhibited variable invasion, and 11 screws displayed severe invasion. 96.5% screws were placed in the safe zone, with 8.6% of patients (n=5.0) exhibiting transitory weakness. 3.47% of screws (n=11) with severe invasion were seen in 7 patients of which two patients suffered from motor deficient and persistent radicular pain. Conclusion: It is of the utmost importance to pay attention to the precise insertion of the screws to minimize the risk of radicular manifestations. We recommend performing control CT scans after the procedure to ensure the correct insertion of the screws, and in case of finding a screw in a no-safe zone or Getsbein 3 position, considering screw repositioning due to high-risk neurologic damage is highly encouraged. Level of Evidence II; Observational Retrospective Study.

RESUMO: Objetivo: A fixação transpedicular evoluiu rapidamente nos últimos 100 anos, porém o deslocamento do parafuso é uma complicação comum que pode resultar em déficits neurológicos ou danos vasculares. Pretendemos correlacionar o deslocamento do parafuso com sintomas radiculares usando a escala de Gertzbein. Métodos: Conduzimos um estudo retrospectivo longitudinal observacional em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de instrumentação lombar à mão livre com assistência de fluoroscopia. Os pacientes foram avaliados com tomografia computadorizada pós-operatória e as posições dos parafusos foram classificadas com a escala de Gertzbein. Resultados: A amostra inicial incluiu 99 pacientes. Dos 317 parafusos colocados, 201 não mostraram danos corticais, 105 exibiram invasão variável e 11 invasão severa. 96,5% dos parafusos foram colocados na zona segura, com 8,6% dos pacientes apresentando fraqueza transitório. 3,47% dos parafusos com invasão severa foram observados em 7 pacientes, dos quais 2 sofreram de deficiência motora e dor radicular persistente. Conclusão: É crucial prestar atenção à inserção precisa dos parafusos para minimizar o risco de manifestações radiculares. Recomendamos tomografias de controle para garantir a correta inserção dos parafusos e, se necessário, reposicionamento devido ao alto risco de dano neurológico. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo Observacional Retrospectivo.

RESUMEN: Objetivo: La fijación transpedicular ha evolucionado en los últimos 100 años. Una complicación común es el desplazamiento de tornillos, causante de déficits neurológicos o daños vasculares. Buscamos correlacionar el desplazamiento con síntomas radiculares mediante la escala de Gertzbein. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional longitudinal retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a cirugía de instrumentación lumbar a mano alzada asistida por fluoroscopia. Los pacientes fueron evaluados con tomografía computarizada postoperatoria y las posiciones de los tornillos se clasificaron con la escala de Gertzbein. Resultados: La muestra inicial incluyó 99 pacientes. De los 317 tornillos colocados, 201 no mostraron daño cortical, 105 mostraron invasión variable y 11 mostraron invasión severa. El 96,5% de los tornillos se colocaron en la zona segura, y el 8,6% de los pacientes mostraron debilidad transitoria. Se observó un 3,47% de tornillos con invasión grave en 7 pacientes, 2 de los cuales sufrieron discapacidad motora y dolor radicular persistente. Conclusión: Es crucial prestar atención a la inserción precisa de los tornillos para minimizar el riesgo de manifestaciones radiculares. Recomendamos la realización de tomografias de control para asegurar la correcta inserción de los tornillos y, en caso necesario, su recolocación debido al elevado riesgo de daño neurológico. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudio Observacional Retrospectivo.

Analysis of the Mechanical Behavior of Porcine Graft Fixation in a Polyurethane Block Using a 3D-printed PLA Interference Screw / Análise do comportamento mecânico da fixação do enxerto suíno em um bloco de poliuretano usando um parafuso de interferência PLA impresso em 3D

Abstract Objective The interest in using 3D printing in the healthcare field has grown over the years, given its advantages and potential in the rapid manufacturing of personalized devices and implants with complex geometries. Thus, the aim of the present study was to compare the mechanical fixation behavior of a 3D-printed interference screw, produced by fused deposition modeling of polylactic acid (PLA) filament, with that of a titanium interference screw. Methods Eight deep flexor porcine tendons, approximately 8 mm wide and 9 cm long, were used as graft and fixed to a 40 pounds-per-cubic-foot (PCF) polyurethane block at each of its extremities. One group was fixed only with titanium interference screws (group 1) and the other only with 3D-printed PLA screws (BR 20 2021 018283-6 U2) (group 2). The tests were conducted using an EMIC DL 10000 electromechanical universal testing machine in axial traction mode. Results Group 1 (titanium) obtained peak force of 200 ± 7 N, with mean graft deformation of 8 ± 2 mm, and group 2 (PLA) obtained peak force of 300 ± 30 N, and mean graft deformation of 7 ± 3 mm. Both the titanium and PLA screws provided good graft fixation in the polyurethane block, with no slippage or apparent deformation. In all the samples, the test culminated in graft rupture, with around 20 mm of deformation in relation to the initial length. Conclusion The 3D-printed PLA screw provided good fixation, similar to that of its titanium counterpart, producing satisfactory and promising results.

Resumo Objetivo O interesse em utilizar a impressão 3D na área da saúde tem crescido ao longo dos anos, dadas as suas vantagens e o seu potencial na rápida fabricação de dispositivos e implantes personalizados com geometrias complexas. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o comportamento de fixação mecânica de um parafuso de interferência impresso em 3D, produzido pela modelagem fundida de deposição do filamento de ácido polilático (PLA), com o de um parafuso de interferência de titânio. Métodos Oito tendões suínos flexores profundos, de aproximadamente 8 mm de largura e 9 cm de comprimento, foram utilizados como enxerto e fixados em um bloco de poliuretano de 40 PCF em cada uma de suas extremidades. Um grupo foi fixado apenas com parafusos de interferência de titânio (grupo 1) e o outro apenas com parafusos PLA impressos em 3D (BR 20 2021 018283-6 U2) (grupo 2). Os testes foram realizados utilizando uma máquina de teste universal eletromecânica EMIC DL 10.000 no modo de tração axial. Resultados O grupo 1 (titânio) obteve força máxima de 200 ± 7 N com deformação média do enxerto de 8 ± 2 mm, e a força máxima do grupo 2 (PLA) foi de 300 ± 30 N e deformação média do enxerto de 7 ± 3 mm. Ambos os parafusos de titânio e PLA forneceram boa fixação de enxerto no bloco de poliuretano, sem deslizamento ou deformação aparente. Em todas as amostras o teste culminou na ruptura do enxerto, com cerca de 20 mm de deformação em relação ao comprimento inicial. Conclusão O parafuso PLA impresso em 3D proporcionou boa fixação, semelhante à de sua contraparte de titânio, produzindo resultados satisfatórios e promissores.

Screws versus plate with screws for osteosynthesis of the posterior malleolus: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Tornillos frente a placa con tornillos para la osteosíntesis del maléolo posterior: una revisión sistemática y meta-análisis

Abstract: Introduction: fractures involving the posterior malleolus (PM) of the ankle can have significant functional and clinical implications if not properly treated. The optimal treatment approach for these fractures remains uncertain. This review aims to compare the use of cannulated screws versus plate with screw fixation in terms of their impact on the development of postoperative ankle osteoarthritis and functional outcomes in patients with PM fractures. Material and methods: a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases to identify studies directly comparing cannulated screws versus plate with screw fixation for PM fractures and their association with the development of postoperative osteoarthritis and functional outcomes. The quality of the included studies was assessed using appropriate assessment tools. The data on osteoarthritis development and functional outcomes were extracted and analyzed. Results: a total of 691 articles were screened, and several studies were included for analysis. The findings revealed no statistically significant difference in the development of postoperative ankle osteoarthritis between the cannulated screws and plate with screw fixation groups. Similarly, there was no significant difference in functional outcomes between the two treatment approaches. Conclusion: based on the available evidence, there is no significant difference in the development of postoperative ankle osteoarthritis or functional outcomes between cannulated screws and plate with screw fixation for PM fractures. However, further research is needed to strengthen these findings and provide more conclusive evidence.

Resumen. Introducción: las fracturas que involucran el maléolo posterior (MP) del tobillo pueden tener importantes implicaciones funcionales y clínicas si no se tratan adecuadamente. El enfoque de tratamiento óptimo para estas fracturas sigue siendo incierto. El objetivo de esta revisión es comparar el uso de tornillos canulados versus placa con fijación de tornillos en cuanto a su impacto en el desarrollo de la osteoartrosis de tobillo postoperatoria y los resultados funcionales en pacientes con fracturas del MP. Material y métodos: se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva en las bases de datos de PubMed, EMBASE y Cochrane Library para identificar estudios que compararan directamente tornillos canulados versus placa con fijación de tornillos para fracturas de MP y su asociación con el desarrollo de osteoartrosis postoperatoria y los resultados funcionales. La calidad de los estudios incluidos se evaluó utilizando herramientas de evaluación adecuadas. Los datos sobre el desarrollo de osteoartrosis y los resultados funcionales se extrajeron y analizaron. Resultados: se revisaron un total de 691 artículos y se incluyeron varios estudios para su análisis. Los hallazgos revelaron que no hay una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el desarrollo de osteoartrosis de tobillo postoperatoria entre los grupos de tornillos canulados y placa con fijación de tornillos. Del mismo modo, no hubo una diferencia significativa en los resultados funcionales entre los dos enfoques de tratamiento. Conclusión: según la evidencia disponible, no hay una diferencia significativa en el desarrollo de osteoartrosis de tobillo postoperatoria o en los resultados funcionales entre los tornillos canulados y la placa con fijación de tornillos para las fracturas del MP. Sin embargo, se necesita más investigación para fortalecer estos hallazgos y proporcionar evidencia más concluyente.

Pipkin Type-II Femoral Head Fracture: A Biomechanical Evaluation by the Finite-Element Method / Fratura da cabeça femoral de tipo II de Pipkin: Avaliação biomecánica pelo método de elementos finitos

Abstract Objective To evaluate the biomechanical capacity of two forms of fixation for Pipkin type-II fractures, describing the vertical fracture deviation, the maximum and minimum principal stresses, and the Von Mises equivalent stress in the syntheses used. Materials and Methods Two internal fasteners were developed to treat Pipkin type-II fractures through finite elements: a 3.5-mm cortical screw and a Herbert screw. Under the same conditions, the vertical fracture deviation, the maximum and minimum principal stresses, and the Von Mises equivalent stress in the syntheses used were evaluated. Results The vertical displacements evaluated were of 1.5mm and 0.5mm. The maximum principal stress values obtained in the upper region of the femoral neck were of 9.7 KPa and 1.3 Kpa, and the minimum principal stress values obtained in the lower region of the femoral neck were of-8.7 KPa and -9.3 KPa. Finally, the peak values for Von Mises stress were of 7.2 GPa and 2.0 GPa for the fixation models with the use of the 3.5-mm cortical screw and the Herbert screw respectively. Conclusion The fixation system with the Herbert screw generated the best results in terms of reduction of vertical displacement, distribution of the maximum principal stress, and the peak Von Mises equivalent stress, demonstrating mechanical superiority compared to that of the 3.5-mm cortical screw in the treatment of Pipkin type-II fractures.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a capacidade biomecánica de duas formas de fixação de fraturas tipo II de Pipkin descrevendo o desvio da fratura no sentido vertical, as tensões máxima e mínima principais, e a tensão equivalente de Von Mises nas sínteses utilizadas. Materiais e Métodos Dois fixadores internos foram desenvolvidos para tratar a fratura tipo II de Pipkin por meio de elementos finitos: parafuso cortical de 3,5 mm e parafuso de Herbert. Sob as mesmas condições, foram avaliados o desvio da fratura no sentido vertical, as tensões máxima e mínima principais, e a tensão equivalente de Von Mises nas sínteses utilizadas. Resultados Os deslocamentos verticais avaliados foram de 1,5 mm e 0,5 mm. Os valores de tensão máxima obtidos na região superior do colo femoral foram de 9,7 KPa e 1,3 KPa, e os valores de tensão mínima obtidos na região inferior do colo femoral foram de -8,7KPa e -9,3 KPa. Por fim, os valores de pico da tensão equivalente de Von Misesforam de 7,2 GPa e2,0 GPa paraosmodelos de fixação com o uso do parafuso cortical de 3,5 mm e do parafuso de Herbert, respectivamente. Conclusão Osistema de fixação com parafuso de Herbert gerou os melhores resultados em termos de redução do deslocamento vertical, distribuição da tensão máxima e do pico da tensão equivalente de Von Mises, o que demonstra sua superioridade mecânica comparada à do parafuso cortical de 3,5 mm no tratamento da fratura tipo II de Pipkin.

Tomographic evaluation of mandibular buccal shelf in patients with different vertical growth pattern / Evaluación de la placa ósea mandibular en pacientes con diferente patrón de crecimiento vertical

The purpose of this research was the tomographic evaluation of the Mandibular Buccal Shelf (MBS) in orthodontic patients with different vertical growth pattern. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study was conducted. Tomographic images of patients aged 14 to 40 years were observed and a database was formed with those that met the inclusion criteria. The sample size was 10 for each group according to vertical growth pattern (hypodivergent, normodivergent and hyperdivergent). Then four zones of frequent insertion of extralveolar mini-screws were selected in the MBS, taking as a reference the mesial and distal roots of the first and second mandibular molar. When comparing the characteristics of MBS between vertical growth patterns, between sexes and hemiarchs, no statistically significant differences were found. However, when the characteristics of MBS were compared according to the reference root, it was found that there were statistically significant differences. The vestibular area to the distal root of the second mandibular molar presented the highest values in terms of angulation, height and thickness. There are no significant differences in the bone characteristics of MBS according to vertical growth patterns, sexes or hemiarchs. Angulation, height and thickness progressively increase from the vestibular bone of the mesial root of the first mandibular molar to the distal root of the second molar.

El propósito de esta investigación fue la evaluación tomográfica de la placa ósea mandibular (POM) en pacientes de ortodoncia con diferente patrón de crecimiento vertical. Se realizó un estudio de tipo observacional, descriptivo, transversal y retrospectivo. Se observó imágenes tomográficas de pacientes de 14 a 40 años de edad y se formó una base de datos con las que cumplían los criterios de selección. El tamaño de muestra fue de 10 para cada grupo según patrón de crecimiento vertical (hipodivergentes, normodivergentes e hiperdivergentes). Luego se seleccionaron cuatro zonas de inserción frecuente de minitornillos extralveolares en la POM, tomando como referencia las raíces mesial y distal del primer y segundo molar mandibular. Al realizar la comparación de las características de la POM entre patrones de crecimiento vertical, entre sexos y hemiarcadas no se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas. Sin embargo, cuando se comparó las características de la POM según la raíz de referencia se encontró que había diferencias estadísticamente significativas. La zona vestibular a la raíz distal de la segunda molar mandibular presento los mayores valores en cuanto angulación, altura y grosor. No existen diferencias significativas en las características óseas de la POM según patrones de crecimiento vertical, sexos o hemiarcadas. La angulación, la altura y el grosor aumenta progresivamente desde el hueso vestibular de la raíz mesial del primer molar mandibular hacia la raíz distal del segundo molar.

Is there a Difference in Interfragmentary Compression Strength Between Fully or Partially Threaded Screws? Results of an Experimental Biomechanical Pilot Study / Há diferença na força de compressão interfragmentar entre parafusos com rosca total ou parcial? Resultados de um estudo biomecânico experimental piloto

Abstract Objective This study assessed differences between fully- and partially-threaded screws in the initial interfragmentary compression strength. Our hypothesis was that there would be an increased loss in initial compression strength with the partially-threaded screw. Methods A 45-degree oblique fracture line was created in artificial bone samples. The first group (FULL, n = 6) was fixed using a 3.5-mm fully-threaded lag screw, while the second group (PARTIAL, n = 6) used a 3.5-mm partially-threaded lag screw. Torsional stiffness for both rotational directions were evaluated. The groups were compared based on biomechanical parameters: angle-moment-stiffness, time-moment-stiffness, maximal torsional moment (failure load), and calibrated compression force based on pressure sensor measurement. Results After loss of one PARTIAL sample, no statistically significant differences in calibrated compression force measurement were observed between both groups: [median (interquartile range)] FULL: 112.6 (10.5) N versus PARTIAL: 106.9 (7.1) N, Mann-Whitney U-test: p = 0.8). In addition, after exclusion of 3 samples for mechanical testing (FULL n = 5, PARTIAL n = 4), no statistically significant differences were observed between FULL and PARTIAL constructs in angle-moment-stiffness, time-moment-stiffness, nor maximum torsional moment (failure load). Conclusion There is no apparent difference in the initial compression strength (compression force or construct stiffness or failure load) achieved using either fully-or partially-threaded screws in this biomechanical model in high-density artificial bone. Fully-threaded screws could, therefore, be more useful in diaphyseal fracture treatment. Further research on the impact in softer osteoporotic, or metaphyseal bone models, and to evaluate the clinical significance is required.

Resumo Objetivo Este estudo avaliou diferenças entre parafusos com rosca total ou parcial na resistência à compressão interfragmentar inicial. Nossa hipótese era de que haveria maior perda de resistência à compressão inicial com o parafuso de rosca parcial. Métodos Uma linha de fratura oblíqua de 45 graus foi criada em amostras de osso artificial. O primeiro grupo (TOTAL, n = 6) foi fixado com um parafuso de 3,5 mm de rosca total, enquanto o segundo grupo (PARCIAL, n = 6) usou um parafuso de 3,5 mm de rosca parcial. Avaliamos a rigidez à torção em ambas as direções de rotação. Os grupos foram comparados com base nos seguintes parâmetros biomecânicos: momento de rigidez-ângulo, momento de rigidez-tempo, momento de torção máxima (carga de falha) e força de compressão calibrada com base na medida do sensor de pressão. Resultados Depois da perda de uma amostra PARCIAL, não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas na força de compressão calibrada entre os 2 grupos [mediana (intervalo interquartil)]: TOTAL: 112,6 (10,5) N e PARCIAL: 106,9 (7,1) N, com p = 0,8 segundo o teste U de Mann-Whitney). Além disso, após a exclusão de 3 amostras para testes mecânicos (TOTAL, n = 5, PARCIAL, n = 4), não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os construtos TOTAL e PARCIAL quanto ao momento de rigidez-ângulo, momento de rigidez-tempo ou momento de torção máxima (carga de falha). Conclusão Não há diferença aparente na força de compressão inicial (força de compressão ou rigidez do construto ou carga de falha) com o uso de parafusos de rosca total ou parcial neste modelo biomecânico em osso artificial de alta densidade. Parafusos de rosca total podem, portanto, ser mais úteis no tratamento de fraturas diafisárias. Mais pesquisas são necessárias sobre o impacto em modelos ósseos osteoporóticos ou metafisários de menor densidade e avaliação do significado clínico.

Intrusión acelerada con miniimplantes y corticotomía para crear espacio protésico para implante

La ausencia de un diente puede originar sobre-erupción de su antagonista debido al movimiento fisiológico. Distintos métodos se han empleado para lograr la rehabilitación en espacios interoclusales reducidos, la mayoría implica un tallado del diente antagonista o incluso la extracción dental. La intrusión dental periodontalmente asistida (corticotomía), es una alternativa terapéutica en la que el tallado del diente extruido ya no es necesario, conservando su integridad coronaria. Reporte de caso: Paciente femenino de 56 años con ausencia del 4.7, además presenta sobre-erupción del 1.7, limitando el espacio interoclusal y su rehabilitación. Se realizó intrusión del 1.7 mediante corticotomía con el Piezoeléctrico (técnica Piezocision) así como la colocación de minitornillos de ortodoncia para anclaje. Obtenido dicho espacio interoclusal, se rehabilitó con un implante dental. Conclusiones: La intrusión de molares con el apoyo de mini-implantes y corticotomías es un procedimiento que tiene como beneficio la creación de un espacio interoclusal para su restauración en un periodo corto de tiempo, sin tallar la estructura dentaria.

The absence of a tooth can cause over-eruption of its antagonist due to a physiological movement. Different methods have been used to achieve rehabilitation in reduced interocclusal spaces. Most of them involve the wear of the opposing tooth or even dental extraction. Periodontal-assisted dental intrusion is a therapeutic alternative that does not require the reduction of the extruded tooth and preserves its structure. Case report: 56-year-old female patient with absence of tooth 4.7, also presenting an over-eruption of 1.7, limiting the interocclusal space and rehabilitation. Intrusion of tooth 1.7 was performed with corticotomy using the piezocision technique and placement of mini-screws followed by the placement of a dental implant. Conclusions: The intrusion of molars aided by orthodontic mini-screws and piezocision technique is an effective treatment, whose benefit is the creation of an ideal prosthetic space in a short period of time, avoiding the reduction of dental structure.

Posterior Atlantoaxial Screw Placement in a Portuguese Population: A Morphometric Analysis Based on Computed Tomography Scan Measurements / Colocação de parafusos atlantoaxiais posteriores em uma população portuguesa: Uma análise morfométrica baseada em medidas de tomografia computadorizada

Abstract Objective The present study aims to evaluate the screw length and trajectory angles for posterior atlantoaxial fixation in a Portuguese population, through the study of cervical computed tomography (CT) scans. Methods Cervical CT scans of 50 adults were measured according to predefined screw trajectories of C1-C2 transarticular (C1C2TA), C1 lateral mass (C1LM), C2 pedicle (C2P), C2 pars and C2 laminar (C2L) screws. For each of these trajectories, screw length and angles were measured and compared between males and females. Results For the C1C2TA screw trajectory, the mean length, medial, and cranial angles were 34.12 ± 3.19 mm, 6.24° ± 3.06, and 59.25° ± 5.68, respectively, and for the C1LM screw trajectory, they were 27.12 ± 2.15 mm, 15.82° ± 5.07, and 13.53° ± 4.80, respectively. The mean length, medial, and cranial angles for the C2P screw trajectory were 23.44 ± 2.49 mm, 27.40° ± 4.88, and 30.41° ± 7.27, respectively; and for the C2 pars screw trajectory, they were 16.84 ± 2.08 mm, 20.09° ± 6.83, and 47.53° ± 6,97. The mean length, lateral, and cranial angles for the C2L screw trajectory were 29.10 ± 2.48 mm, 49.80° ± 4.71, and 21.56° ± 7.76, respectively. There were no gender differences except for the lengths of the C1C2TA (p= 0,020) and C2L (p= 0,001) screws, which were greater in males than in females. Conclusion The present study provides anatomical references for the posterior atlantoaxial fixation in a Portuguese population. These detailed data are essential to aid spine surgeons to achieve safe and effective screw placement.

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo tem como objetivo avaliar o comprimento e os ângulos de trajetória do parafuso para fixação atlantoaxial posterior em uma população portuguesa por meio do estudo de tomografia computadorizada (TC) cervical. Métodos Tomografias computadorizadas cervicais de 50 adultos foram analisadas quanto às trajetórias pré-definidas dos parafusos transarticulares C1-C2 (C1C2TA), na massa lateral de C1 (C1LM), no pedículo de C2 (C2P) e na pars de C2 e C2 laminar (C2L). O comprimento e os ângulos dos parafusos em cada uma destas trajetórias foram medidos e comparados entre homens e mulheres. Resultados O comprimento médio e ângulos medial e cranial da trajetória do parafuso C1C2TA foram de 34,12 ± 3,19 mm, 6,24° ± 3,06 e 59,25° ± 5,68, respectivamente; as medidas da trajetória do parafuso C1LM foram 27,12 ± 2,15 mm, 15,82° ± 5,07 e 13,53° ± 4,80. O comprimento médio e os ângulos medial e cranial da trajetória do parafuso C2P foram de 23,44 ± 2,49 mm, 27,40° ± 4,88 e 30,41° ± 7,27, respectivamente; as medidas da trajetória do parafuso da pars de C2 foram 16,84 ± 2,08 mm, 20,09° ± 6,83 e 47,53° ± 6,97. O comprimento médio e ângulos lateral e cranial da trajetória do parafuso C2L foram de 29,10 ± 2,48 mm, 49,80° ± 4,71 e 21,56° ± 7,76, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças entre os gêneros, à exceção do comprimento dos parafusos C1C2TA (p= 0,020) e C2L (p= 0,001), que foi maior no sexo masculino do que no feminino. Conclusão O presente estudo fornece referências anatômicas para a fixação atlantoaxial posterior em uma população portuguesa. Estes dados detalhados são essenciais para ajudar os cirurgiões de coluna a colocar os parafusos de maneira segura e eficaz.

Comparison between Fixation with Smooth Kirschner Wire and Cannulated Screws in Displaced Fractures of the Lateral Humeral Condyle in Children / Comparação entre fixação de fio de Kirschner liso e de parafusos canulados em fraturas deslocadas do côndilo lateral do úmero em crianças

Abstract Objective To compare the use of cannulated screws and smooth Kirschner wires in terms of reducing the presence of exuberant callus and complications in pediatric displaced fractures of the lateral humeral condyle. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study of consecutive cases was conducted from May to October 2021 with 30 children with displaced external humeral condyle fractures. The functional results regarding pain and range of motion were stratified using the Dhillon grading system. Results A total of 19 patients underwent Kirschner wire fixation, and 11 underwent cannulated screw fixation. Closed fixation was performed in 14 cases (47%), and open fixation, in 16 (53%). Of the cases included, there was no loss to follow-up. Te sample was composed of 21 (70%) male patients, and the age ranged from 5 to 15 years, with a mean of 6.96 years. The most frequent cause of fracture was fall from height (50%), which was related to greater displacement on baseline radiographs. Complications that were not related to the reduction approach or the implant used were observed in 12 (40%) cases. Conclusion The present study shows no benefits in relation to the use of smooth pins or cannulated screws to reduce the presence of exuberant callus in the consolidation of the fracture. We see that the complications that arise are related to the severity of the injury, and benefits cannot be identified in the choice of one implant over another. We could see that the Weiss classification helps to define the behavior in favor of open or closed reduction without interfering in kindness of the smooth pin or the cannulated screw for fracture fixation.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar o uso de parafusos canulados e de fios de Kirschner lisos em termos da redução da presença de calo exuberante e de complicações em fraturas pediátricas deslocadas do côndilo lateral do úmero. Métodos Um estudo analítico transversal de casos consecutivos foi realizado de maio a outubro de 2021 com 30 crianças com fraturas deslocadas de côndilo umeral externo. Os resultados funcionais para dor e amplitude de movimento foram estratificados utilizando o sistema de classificação Dhillon. Resultados Ao todo, 19 pacientes foram submetidos à fixação de fio Kirschner, e 11 à fixação de parafusos canulados. A fixação realizada foi fechada em 14 casos (47%) e aberta em 16 (53%). Dos casos incluídos, não houve perda no acompanhamento. A amostra continha 21 (70%) pacientes do sexo masculino, e a idade variou de 5 a 15 anos, com média de 6,96 anos. A causa mais frequente de fratura foi queda de altura (50%), e esteve relacionada ao maior deslocamento nas radiografias da linha de base. Complicações que não estavam relacionadas à abordagem de redução ou ao implante utilizado foram observadas em 12 (40%) casos. Conclusão Este estudo não mostra benefícios em relação ao uso de pinos lisos ou de parafusos canulados para reduzir a presença de calo exuberante na consolidação da fratura. Vemos que as complicações que surgem estão relacionadas à gravidade da lesão, e não é possível identificar benefícios na escolha de um implante ou outro. Pudemos ver que a classificação de Weiss ajuda a definir o comportamento em favor da redução aberta ou fechada sem dar preferência ao pino liso ou ao parafuso canulado para a fixação da fratura.

Treatment of acute non-displaced scaphoid fracture of wrist with syringe needle-guided percutaneous cannulated headless hollow compression screw internal fixation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the clinical efficacy of needle-guided percutaneous cannulated compression screw fixation in the treatment of acute non-displaced scaphoid fracture of wrist.@*METHODS@#The clinic data of twenty-eight patients with acute non-displaced scaphoid fracture from January 2014 to January 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. According to the intraoperative method of placement of cannulated screw, they were divided into Guide group(16 patients)and Conventional group(12 patients). There were 13 males and 3 females in Guide group, aged from 20 to 60 years old with an average of(31.42±9.71)years old;5 patients were classified as type A2, 3 patients were classified as type B1 and 8 patients were classified as type B2 according to Herbert classification;they were treated with percutaneous cannulated compression screw fixation under the guidance of needle. There were 11 males and 1 female in Conventional group, aged from 23 to 61 years old with an average of(30.51±7.52)years old;5 patients were classified as type A2, 2 patients were classified as type B1 and 5 patients were classified as type B2 according to Herbert classification;they were treated with conventional percutaneous cannulated compression screw fixation. The operation time, screw angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid and wrist function score were assessed and compared between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#A total of 28 patients were followed up from 20 to 45 months with an average of (33.00±8.72) months. None of patients had intraoperative complication and incision infection. These patients returned to work gradually 2 weeks after operation, and all fractures healed within 12 weeks. The operation time in the Guide group was significantly less than that in the Conventinal group(P<0.05). Screw angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid in the Guide group was significantly smaller than that in the Conventional group(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in Mayo wrist function scores at the last follow-up between the two groups(P>0.05). During the follow-up period, none of the 28 patients showed internal fixation displacement, arthritis, scaphoid necrosis and other complications.@*CONCLUSION@#In the treatment of acute non-displaced scaphoid fractures, the operation time of needle-guided percutaneous cannulated headless compression screw fixation is significantly shorter than that of conventional percutaneous screw fixation, and the screw axis is easier to be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid.

Evaluation of Screws Positioning in Latarjet Surgery: Is There a Correlation between Parallelism to Glenoid and Radiographic Complications? / Avaliação do posicionamento dos parafusos na cirurgia de Latarjet: Existe correlação entre paralelismo à glenoide e complicações radiográficas?

Abstract Objective To evaluate whether the parallelism of screws with glenoid in Latarjet surgery interferes in the positioning of the graft and to verify the reproducibility of a method of measuring screws positioning. Methods Retrospective, multicenter study, of patients with anterior shoulder instability submitted to modified Latarjet surgery and at least one year of postoperative follow-up. Two radiologists analyzed the postoperative tomographic images, acquired in a database, to evaluate the positioning of screws and radiographic complications. Results We evaluated 34 patients, aged between 21 and 60 years, one of them with bilateral shoulder involvement, totaling 35 shoulders evaluated. The tomographic evaluation of the inclination angles of the screws showed no difference between the observers. There was intra- and interobserver agreement to evaluate the following surgical parameters: graft position, presence or not of radiographic complications. Conclusion The technique described for measuring the parallelism of screws in Latarjet surgery presented a very good and excellent intra-observer agreement, respectively. Screw parallelism with glenoid is recommended; however, it is not a mandatory and unique condition to avoid radiographic complications.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar se o paralelismo dos parafusos com a glenoide na cirurgia de Latarjet interfere no posicionamento do enxerto e verificar a reprodutibilidade de um método de mensuração da posição dos parafusos. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo, multicêntrico, de pacientes com instabilidade anterior do ombro submetidos à cirurgia de Latarjet modificada e no mínimo 1 ano de seguimento pós-operatório. Dois médicos radiologistas analisaram as imagens tomográficas pós-operatórias, adquiridas em um banco de dados, para avaliação do posicionamento dos parafusos e das complicações radiográficas. Resultados Foram avaliados 34 pacientes, com idades entre 21 e 60 anos, sendo que um deles tinha acometimento bilateral dos ombros, totalizando 35 ombros avaliados. A avaliação tomográfica dos ângulos de inclinação dos parafusos não apresentou diferença entre os observadores. Houve concordância intra e interobservador para avaliação dos seguintes parâmetros cirúrgicos: posição do enxerto, presença ou não de complicações radiográficas. Conclusão A técnica descrita para mensuração do paralelismo dos parafusos na cirurgia de Latarjet apresentou uma concordância intra e inter observador muito boa e excelente, respectivamente. O paralelismo do parafuso com a glenoide é recomendado; no entanto, não é condição obrigatória e única para se evitar as complicações radiográficas.

Treatment of thoracolumbar fractures by closed reduction via a percutaneous solid pedicle screw / Tratamento de fraturas toracolombares por redução fechada com parafuso de pedículo percutâneo

ABSTRACT Objectives: Investigate the effect of closed reduction and per- cutaneous pedicle screw fixation in treating thoracolumbar fractures. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 12 cases of single-segment thoracolumbar spine fractures without spinal cord and nerve injury at our department from March 2016 to September 2017. Patients were treated with closed reduction, percutaneous reduction, and internal fixation with solid pedicle screws. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, anterior vertebral body height ratio (AVHR), Cobb angle (CA) of sagittal kyphosis, and VAS of back pain were determined and statistically compared. Results: The average operation time was 147.2 ± 45.6 min, and the average intraoperative bleeding was 67.8 ± 34.2 mL. All fractured vertebrae were completely reduced, their height was restored, and kyphosis was corrected. The average follow-up period was 10.6 ± 2.7 months, with significant improvements seen in the AVHR, CA of sagittal kyphosis, and VAS score (P < 0.01). One case had a broken rod after three months, and another had a postoperative infection. All the patients achieved bony healing. Conclusion: The treatment of thoracolumbar fractures by closed reduction and internal fixation with a percutaneous solid pedicle screw is simple, effective, and economical. Level of Evidence VI; Therapeutic Study, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar o efeito da redução incruenta e da fixação com parafuso de pedículo percutâneo no tratamento das fraturas toraco- lombares. Métodos: Este estudo retrospectivo analisou 12 casos de fraturas toracolombares com segmento único sem lesão medular ou neural, encontrados no departamento dentro do período de março de 2016 a setembro de 2017. Os pacientes foram tratados com redução fechada e fixação interna com parafusos de pedículo percutâneo. O tempo de operação, a perda sanguínea intra-operatória, a relação da altura do corpo vertebral anterior (AVHR), o ângulo de Cobb (CA) da cifose sagital e a EVA relativa à dor nas costas foram determinados e comparados estatisticamente. Resultados: O tempo médio da operação foi de 147,2±45,6 min, com sangramento intraoperatório médio de 67,8±34,2 mL. Todas as vértebras fraturadas foram com- pletamente reduzidas, suas alturas foram restauradas e a cifose foi corrigida. O período médio de acompanhamento foi de 10,6±2,7 meses, apresentando melhorias significativas observadas no AVHR, CA da cifose sagital e pontuação VAS (P <0,01). Um caso teve uma haste quebrada após 3 meses, e outro paciente apresentou uma infecção pós-operatória. Todos os pacientes alcançaram a recuperação óssea. Conclusão: O tratamento das fraturas toracolombares por redução fechada com fixação interna pelo parafuso de pedículo percutâneo é simples, eficaz e econômico. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudos Terapêuticos, Série de Casos

Biofilme em parafusos ortopédicos prontos para uso adquiridos por meio de sistema de consiganação/comodato / Biopelícula en tornillos ortopédicos listos para uso adquiridos por medio del sistema de consignación/comodato / Biofilm on patient-ready orthopaedic screws acquired through the loaner system

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a integridade da superfície e as condições microbiológicas de parafusos prontos para uso em bandejas ortopédicas após múltiplos processamentos. Métodos Após o processamento completo, as bandejas utilizadas em cirurgias de pequenos fragmentos, fornecidas por meio de sistema de consignação/comodato em um hospital brasileiro, foram selecionadas aleatoriamente durante quatro meses. Os parafusos mais utilizados (números 14, 16 e 18 - Grupo 1) e menos utilizados (números 10 e 38 - Grupo 2), portanto, os mais e menos expostos a agentes biológicos, químicos e físicos, foram aleatoriamente removidos e submetidos a inspeção visual (n=126), seguido de cultura bacteriana (n=6 parafusos/bandeja, 9 bandejas), teste de proteínas (n=6 parafusos/bandeja, 9 bandejas) e Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) (n=2 parafusos/bandeja, 9 bandejas). As culturas positivas foram submetidas a métodos automatizados de identificação bacteriana e suscetibilidade antimicrobiana. Resultados Foram detectadas ranhuras em 8,7% dos parafusos, predominantemente no Grupo 2 (8/11). Proteína residual foi detectada em 96,3%, e não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na quantidade de proteína entre os grupos (P=0,07). Crescimento bacteriano foi identificado em 3/54 parafusos. Danos na superfície e presença de sujidade foram visualizados em todos os parafusos submetidos a MEV. Formação de biofilmes extensos foi detectada em oito parafusos, três do Grupo 1 e cinco do Grupo 2. Conclusão Recuperação de bactérias viáveis, acúmulo de biofilme e danos na superfície foram detectados nos parafusos prontos para uso. Os parafusos costumam permanecer nas bandejas cirúrgicas e serem submetidos a múltiplos processamento, sendo expostos a contaminação e danos repetidas vezes. Esses achados apontam para a necessidade de discutir e repensar a forma como esses implantes de uso único são atualmente disponibilizados para cirurgias.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la integridad de la superficie y las condiciones microbiológicas de tornillos listos para uso en bandejas ortopédicas después de múltiples procesamientos. Métodos Después del procesamiento completo, fueron seleccionadas aleatoriamente durante cuatro meses las bandejas utilizadas en cirugías de pequeños fragmentos, proporcionadas mediante el sistema de consignación/comodato en un hospital brasileño. Los tornillos más utilizados (números 14, 16 y 18 - Grupo 1) y menos utilizados (números 10 y 38 - Grupo 2), por lo tanto, los más y menos expuestos a agentes biológicos, químicos y físicos, fueron quitados aleatoriamente y sometidos a inspección visual (n=126), seguido de cultivo bacteriano (n=6 tornillos/bandeja, 9 bandejas), prueba de proteínas (n=6 tornillos/bandeja, 9 bandejas) y microscopía electrónica de barrido (MEB) (n=2 tornillos/bandeja, 9 bandejas). Los cultivos positivos fueron sometidos a métodos automatizados de identificación bacteriana y susceptibilidad antimicrobiana. Resultados Se detectaron ranuras en el 8,7 % de los tornillos, predominantemente en el Grupo 2 (8/11). Se detectó proteína residual en el 96,3 % y no se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la cantidad de proteína entre los grupos (P=0,07). En 3/54 tornillos se identificó crecimiento bacteriano. Se visualizaron daños en la superficie y presencia de suciedad en todos los tornillos sometidos a MEB. En ocho tornillos se detectó la formación de biopelículas, tres del Grupo 1 y cinco del Grupo 2. Conclusión Se detectó recuperación de bacterias viables, acumulación de biopelícula y daños en la superficie en los tornillos listos para uso. Los tornillos suelen permanecer en las bandejas quirúrgicas y son sometidos a múltiples procesamientos, donde están expuestos a contaminación y daños repetidas veces. Estos descubrimientos señalan la necesidad de discutir y repensar la forma como estos implantes de uso único se ponen a disposición para cirugía actualmente.

Abstract Objective Assess the surface integrity and microbiological conditions of patient-ready screws in orthopaedic trays that had been multiply reprocessed. Methods After full reprocessing, clinical trays used for small fragment surgery provided through a loaner system to a Brazilian hospital were randomly selected during four months. The most (numbers 14, 16 and 18 - Group 1) and least (numbers 10 and 38 - Group 2) frequently implanted screws, therefore, the ones estimated to be the most and least exposed to biological, chemical and physical agents, were randomly removed and subjected to visual inspection (n=126), followed by bacterial culture (n=6 screws/tray, 9 trays), protein test (n=6 screws/tray, 9 trays) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) (n=2 screws/tray, 9 trays). Positive cultures were subjected to automated bacterial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility tests. Results Grooves were detected on 8.7% screws, predominantly in Group 2 (8/11). Residual protein was detected on 96,3%, and there was no statistically significant difference in the amount of protein between the groups (P=0.07). Bacterial growth was identified in 3/54 screws. Surface damage and soil were visualized on all screws subjected to SEM. Extensive biofilms were detected on eight screws, three from Group 1 and five from Group 2. Conclusion Recovery of bacteria, biofilm accumulation and surface damage were detected on patient-ready screws. Screws frequently remain in surgical trays for multiple reprocessing; thus they are repeatedly exposed to contamination and damage. These findings point to the need to discuss and review the way these single-use implants are currently made available for surgeries.

Lumbar arthrodesis in lateral single position: concepts, rational and clinical-functional results of 100 consecutive cases / Artrodese lombar em decúbito lateral único: conceitos, justificativas e resultados clínico-funcionais de 100 casos consecutivos / Artrodesis lumbar en posición lateral única: conceptos, justificaciones y resultados clínico-funcionales de 100 casos consecutivos

ABSTRACT Objective: Arthrodesis techniques such as anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) aim to reestablish physiological lordosis and minimize tissue damage to the paravertebral musculature. Supplementation with percutaneous pedicle screws is indicated in most cases, therefore, intraoperative changes in decubitus are necessary, generating costs and risks for the patient. This study aims to present concepts and results of a series of 100 cases of patients undergoing 360° fusion in lateral single position surgery (LSPS). Methods: retrospective analysis of databases collected between 2016 and 2021. Patients who underwent 360° fusion of the lumbar spine in single lateral decubitus to treat degenerative and infectious diseases were included. Cases with arthrodesis greater than 3 levels were excluded. Data collected include demographics, body mass index (BMI) and scores such as visual analog scale (VAS), EuroQOL 5D (EQ5D) and Oswestry disability index (ODI). Results: 100 patients were included in the study, submitted to LLIF and/or ALIF associated with percutaneous pedicle fixation. The lumbar VAS improved from 6.75 to 2.1 after 12 months, while the sciatica VAS started from 4.55 and reached 0.81 after one year. The EQ5D improved from 66.1 to 81.6 after the first year, while the ODI ranged from 28.54 to 14.18 in the same period. Conclusions: the clinical-functional results of the LSPS procedures are favorable and place the LSPS as an option to be studied, developed and practiced by spine surgery teams. Level of evidence: IV. Case series.

Resumo: Objetivo: Técnicas de artrodese como anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) e lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) tem como objetivos o reestabelecimento da lordose fisiológica e a mínima lesão tecidual da musculatura paravertebral. A suplementação com parafusos pediculares por via percutânea é indicada na maioria dos casos, sendo, portanto, necessárias mudanças de decúbito intraoperatórias, gerando custos e riscos para o paciente. Este estudo tem como objetivo apresentar conceitos e resultados de uma série de 100 casos de pacientes submetidos a fusão 360° em lateral single position surgery (LSPS). Métodos: análise retrospectiva de banco de dados coletados entre 2016 e 2021. Foram incluídos pacientes submetidos a fusão 360° da coluna lombar em decúbito lateral único para tratamento doenças degenerativas e infecciosas. Foram excluídos casos com artrodeses maiores que 3 níveis. Os dados coletados incluem demografia, índice de massa corpórea (IMC) e scores como visual analog scale (VAS), EuroQOL 5D (EQ5D) e Oswestry disability index (ODI). Resultados: 100 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo, submetidos a LLIF e/ ou ALIF associados a fixação pedicular percutânea. O VAS lombar apresentou melhora de 6,75 para 2,1 após 12 meses, já o VAS ciatalgia partiu de 4,55 e atingiu 0,81 após um ano. O EQ5D apresentou melhora de 66,1 para 81,6 após o primeiro ano, enquanto o ODI variou de 28,54 para 14,18 no mesmo período. Conclusões: os resultados clínico-funcionais dos procedimentos em LSPS se mostram favoráveis e a colocam o LSPS como uma opção a ser estudada, desenvolvida e praticada pelas equipes de cirurgia de coluna. Nível de evidência: IV. Série de casos.

Resumen: Objetivo: Las técnicas de artrodesis como la fusión intersomática lumbar anterior (ALIF) y la fusión intersomática lumbar lateral (LLIF) tienen como objetivo restablecer la lordosis fisiológica. La suplementación con tornillos pediculares percutáneos está indicada en la mayoría de los casos, por lo que son necesarios cambios en decúbito intraoperatorios, generando costos y riesgos para el paciente. Este estudio tiene como objetivo presentar conceptos y resultados de una serie de 100 casos de pacientes sometidos a fusión de 360° en cirugía de posición única lateral (LSPS). Métodos: análisis retrospectivo de bases de datos recolectadas entre 2016 y 2021. Se incluyeron pacientes que se sometieron a fusión de columna lumbar 360° en decúbito lateral y se excluyeron los casos con artrodesis mayores de 3 niveles. Los datos recopilados incluyen datos demográficos, índice de masa corporal (IMC) y puntajes como la escala analógica visual (VAS), EuroQOL 5D (EQ5D) y el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry (ODI). Resultados: 100 pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio, sometidos a LLIF y/o ALIF asociados a fijación pedicular percutánea. La EVA lumbar mejoró de 6,75 a 2,1 a los 12 meses, mientras que la EVA de ciática partió de 4,55 y llegó a 0,81 al año. El EQ5D mejoró 66,1 a 81,6 después del primer año, mientras que el ODI varió 28,54 a 14,18 en el mismo período. Conclusiones: los resultados clínico-funcionales de los procedimientos de LSPS son favorables y a sitúan como una opción a ser estudiada, desarrollada y practicada por los equipos de cirugía de columna. Nivel de evidencia: IV. Series de casos.

Axial instrument strategy for atlantoaxial dislocation with complex artery variation / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the axial instrument strategy for atlantoaxial dislocation with complex vertebral artery variation.Methods:A total of 55 patients with atlantoaxial dislocation who underwent surgical treatment from January 2019 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, including 14 males and 41 females, aged 54.0±12.8 years (range, 22-78 years). Among these patients, 10 patients with unilateral vertebral artery high ride with contralateral vertebral artery occlusion, 30 patients with bilateral vertebral artery high ride with single dominant vertebral artery, 15 patients with bilateral vertebral artery high ride. All patients underwent posterior reduction and internal fixation. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were used to evaluate the postoperative efficacy.Results:All patients completed the surgery successfully with a follow-up time of 14.6±5.5 months (range, 6-24 months). C 2 pedicle screw fixation was performed on the non-dominant side of unilateral vertebral artery high ride and the non-dominant side of bilateral vertebral artery high ride with one dominant vertebral artery (40 vertebraes). The dominant side of unilateral high vertebral artery and bilateral high vertebral artery with one dominant vertebral artery was fixed with C 2 medial "in-out-in" screw (10 vertebraes), C 2 isthmus screw (21 vertebraes), C 2 without screw (9 vertebraes) only extended the fixed segment. For bilateral vertebral artery high ride patients, one side was used C 2 "in-out-in" pedicle screws (right 10 vertebraes, left 5 vertebraes), and the other side was fixed with C 2 medial "in-out-in" screw (8 vertebraes), C 2 isthmus screw (5 vertebraes), C 2 without screw only extended the fixed segment (2 vertebraes). The JOA scores were 8.5±1.8, 13.9±1.3, and 14.4±1.1 preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and at the final follow-up, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=279.40, P<0.001). JOA at 6 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up was greater than preoperatively, and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05), whereas the differences in JOA scores at 6 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up was not statistically significant ( P>0.05). Preoperative, 6 months postoperatively and final follow-up cervical VAS scores were 3.7±1.9, 2.1±0.9 and 1.6±1.0, respectively, with statistically significant differences ( F=39.53, P<0.001). The cervical VAS at 6 months postoperatively and at the last follow-up was less than that before surgery, and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05). Cervical VAS scores at 6 months postoperatively were greater than at the last follow-up, with a statistically significant difference ( P<0.05). Conclusion:For patients with atlantoaxial dislocation with complex vertebral artery variation, C 2 lateral "in-out-in" screw, C 2 medial "in-out-in" screw, isthmus screw fixation or C 2 without screw only extended the fixed segment can obtain good clinical efficacy.

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

Objective:To compare the clinical effectiveness between arthroscopic hollow screws combined with a suture anchor, hollow screws and proximal humerus internal locking system (PHILOS) in the treatment of split-type fractures of humeral greater tuberosity.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the 54 patients with split-type fracture of humeral greater tuberosity who had been admitted to Department of Joint Surgery, Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated to Southwest Medical University from May 2015 to August 2020. There were 17 males and 37 females with an age of (58.4±12.1) years. According to different treatment methods, they were divided into 3 groups. Group A of 18 cases was treated with arthroscopic hollow screws combined with a suture anchor, group B of 18 cases with hollow screws, and group C of 18 cases with PHILOS. The length of surgical incision, and range of shoulder motion, visual analogue scale (VAS), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score at the last follow-up were recorded and compared between the 3 groups.Results:There was no statistically significant difference in the preoperative general information between the 3 groups, indicating the 3 groups were comparable ( P>0.05). The surgical incision in group A [(0.7±0.1) cm] was the shortest, followed by (5.0±1.4) cm in group B, and (12.8±2.1) cm in group C, showing statistically significant differences in pairwise comparison ( P<0.05). In the 3 groups at the last follow-up, respectively, the shoulder forward flexion was 159.7°±13.4°, 154.9°±16.2°, and 160.5°±12.9°, and the shoulder abduction 149.6°±11.3°, 142.4°±12.0°, and 145.1°±10.4°, showing no statistically significant difference among the 3 groups ( P>0.05); the external rotation was 41.1°±8.1°, 38.1°±7.8° and 43.7°±6.2°, showing a statistically significant difference between groups B and C ( P<0.05); the dorsal extension was T 12 (L 5 to T 6), T 12 (L 5 to T 7), and T 12 (L 3 to T 6), showing no statistically significant difference among the 3 groups ( P>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference among the 3 groups in the VAS score or ASES score at the last follow-up ( P>0.05). Respectively, there were 2, 6, and 4 patients in groups A, B and C who developed complications, showing statistically significant differences between the 3 groups ( P<0.05). Conclusions:In the treatment of split fractures of humeral greater tuberosity, arthroscopic hollow screws combined with a suture anchor, hollow screws and PHILOS can all relieve pain and restore joint function of the shoulder. However, arthroscopic hollow screws combined with a suture anchor are the most recommendable due to their advantages in minimally invasiveness and reduction in complications.

A clinical study of a novel manual screw placement based on anatomical study of the 7th cervical vertebra / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the feasibility, accuracy, effectiveness and safety of a novel manual placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws via the posterior approach of cervicothoracic junction.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze the 35 patients with injury to the lower cervical spine or cervicothoracic junction who had been treated by a novel manual placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws at Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from March 2015 to July 2021. There were 16 males and 19 females, with an age of (52.7±13.2) years. The core of this placement was to determine the entry point of cervical 7 pedicle screws. After the intersection of the upper edge of the cervical 7 lamina and the medial edge of the superior articular process was recorded as point A while the intersection of the lateral edge of the inferior articular process and the lower edge of the transverse process as point B, the intersection of the outer and middle 1/3 of the AB line was taken as the screw entry point, with the screw placement angle perpendicular to the lamina line or slightly inclined from 30° to 40° to the head side and outward. The length, diameter and placement angle of the cervical 7 pedicle screws were recorded and compared postoperatively between the left and right sides to explore the feasibility of this novel manual placement. According to the Rampersaud method, the screw positions were graded 1 week and 6 months after operation to evaluate the accuracy of this manual placement. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were compared between preoperation, 1 week and 6 months after operation to evaluate the effectiveness of this placement. The postoperative complications were counted to evaluate the safety of this method. Loosening, displacement and breakage of the screws were observed by CT scanning at 6 months after operation.Results:This case series was followed up for (9.8±1.7) months. There was no significant difference in the length, diameter or placement angle of the screws between the left and right sides ( P>0.05). A total of 66 cervical 7 pedicle screws were placed. There was no change in the screw position grading at 1 week or 6 months after surgery. Grade A was achieved in 64 screws, Grade B in 2 screws, and Grade C or D in none. The VAS scores before operation, 1 week and 6 months after operation were respectively 4.4±1.7, 3.8±1.0 and 1.1±1.1, and the JOA scores respectively 6.7±2.2, 13.2±1.5 and 15.3±1.2. The VAS and JOA scores at 1 week and 6 months after operation were significantly improved compared with the preoperative values ( P<0.05). The improvement rates in JOA at 1 week and 6 months after operation were 62.7%±13.3 % and 83.9%±11.6%, respectively. There were no complications related to the placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws; there was no wound hematoma or infection. No loosening, displacement or breakage of the screws was observed by the 6-month follow-up. Conclusion:The novel manual placement of cervical 7 pedicle screws via the posterior approach of cervicothoracic junction is feasible, accurate, effective and safe.

Efficacy of O-arm combined with CT three-dimensional navigation system assisted versus manual screw placement in the treatment of lower cervical fracture and dislocation / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To compare the clinical efficacies of O-arm combined with CT three-dimensional navigation system assisted screw placement versus manual screw placement in treating lower cervical fracture and dislocation.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was used to analyze the clinical data of 41 patients with lower cervical fracture and dislocation, who were treated in Honghui Hospital, Xi′an Jiaotong University from May 2021 to February 2022. The patients included 26 males and 15 females, aged 31.5-48.6 years [(41.5±15.0)years]. The injured segments were C 3 in 3 patients, C 4 in 12, C 5 in 13, C 6 in 10 and C 7 in 3. Nineteen patients were treated with cervical pedicle screws by O-shaped arm combined with CT three-dimensional navigation system (navigation group, 76 screws) and 22 by bare hands (traditional group, 88 screws). The total operation time, effective operation time, single nail placement time, single screw correction times, screw distance from anterior cortex, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopic radiation dose, incision length and length of hospital stay were compared between the two groups, and the height of intervertebral space, Cobb angle, interbody slip distance and American Spinal injury Association (ASIA) grade were compared before operation and at 3 days after operation. Visual analogue score (VAS), Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, and neck dysfunction index (NDI) were evaluated before operation, at 3 days, 3 months after operation and at the last follow-up. Accuracy of screw placement and incidence of complications (adjacent facet joint invasion, infection, screw loosening) were detected as well. Results:All the patients were followed up for 11.1-13.9 months [(12.5±1.4)months]. The total operation time, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopic radiation dose and incision length in the navigation group were more or longer than those in the traditional group (all P<0.05). The effective operation time, single nail placement time, single nail correction times and screw distance from anterior cortex in the navigation group were markedly less or smaller than those in the traditional group (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the length of hospital stay between the two groups ( P>0.05). There were significant improvements in the height of intervertebral space, Cobb angle and interbody slip distance between the two groups at 3 days after operation (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the height of intervertebral space, Cobb angle, interbody slip distance or ASIA grade between the two groups before operation or at 3 days after operation (all P>0.05). Compared with pre-operation, the VAS, JOA score and NDI were significantly improved in both groups at 3 days, 3 months after operation and at the last follow-up (all P<0.05), with further improvement with time. There was no significant difference in VAS between the two groups before operation or at 3 months after operation (all P>0.05), but it was markedly lower in the navigation group compared with the traditional group at 3 days after operation and at the last follow-up (all P<0.05). There were no significant differences in JOA score or NDI between the two groups before operation or at 3 days and 3 months after operation (all P>0.05), but both were lower in the navigation group compared with the traditional group at the last follow-up (all P<0.05). The accuracies of placement of grade 0 and grade 0+1 screws were 92.0% (70/76) and 96.6% (73/76) in the navigation group, respectively, which were markedly higher than 88.7% (78/88) and 93.5% (82/88) in the traditional group (all P<0.05). The rates of adjacent facet joint invasion of A, B, and C degrees were 71.2% (54/76), 28.8% (22/76) and 0% (0/76) in the navigation group, respectively, while the invasion rates were 60.5% (53/88), 32.3% (28/88) and 7.3% (7/88) in the traditional group ( P<0.05). No screw loosening was noted in the navigation group, but the screw loosening rate was 9.1% (8/88) in the traditional group ( P<0.01). Conclusion:Compared with manual screw placement, O-arm combined with CT three-dimensional navigation system assisted screw placement for lower cervical fracture and dislocation has the advantages of shorter effective operation time, quicker screw placement, stronger screw holding force, better cervical stability, slighter postoperative pain, higher screw placement accuracy, and lower facet joint invasion and screw loosening rates.

Anatomical analysis of C 7 pedicle screw implantation based on three-dimensional CT reconstruction model / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To analyze the ideal entry parameters and entry points for C 7 pedicle screws based on three-dimensional CT reconstruction model. Methods:A retrospective case series study was used to analyze the cervical spine CT image data of 50 adult volunteers collected from April 2021 to March 2022 at Taizhou People′s Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, including 25 males and 25 females; aged 20-67 years [(43.8±13.5)years]. No significant structural abnormalities were seen in the cervicothorax of all volunteers. First, the 50 CT images were imported into the medical engineering software Mimics 17.0 to reconstruct the three-dimensional C 7 model, and the C 7 pedicle screw diameter (PSD), pedicle screw length (PSL), sagittal angle (SA) and lateral angle (LA) were measured. Then, the anatomical markers, namely the lateral notch and the midpoint of the inferior edge of the C 6 articular process, were used to measure the horizontal distance between the midpoint of the inferior edge of the C 6 articular process and the ideal entry point (line segment A), and the horizontal and vertical distances between the lateral notch and the ideal entry point (line segments B and C). Finally, the lateral notch and the midpoint of the inferior edge of the C 6 articular process were used as markers to observe the distribution of entry points. The values of the above measured parameters were recorded and compared with each other to analyze the differences between different sides and genders. Intra-group correlation coefficients (ICC) were also used to assess intra- and inter-observer agreement. Results:All 100 pedicles from 50 C 7 models were accessed, with the PSD being (6.5±0.7)mm, PSL being (31.8±4.5)mm, SA being (89.8±8.8)°, LA being (31.0±6.7)°, line segment A being 0.9(-0.4, 2.1) mm, line segment B being (5.8±1.7)mm, and line segment C being (3.6±1.5)mm. All ideal entry points were located medial above the lateral notch; moreover, with the midpoint of the inferior edge of the C 6 articular process as a reference, 71 (71%) of the entry points were located laterally and 29 (29%) were located medially. The 12 mm area around the midpoint of the inferior edge of the C 6 articular process was divided into 6 sections, with 47% of the entry points being located within 2 mm lateral to the midpoint, 25% within 2 mm medial to the midpoint, 19% within 2-4 mm lateral to the midpoint, and only 9% within 50% lateral to the midpoint. The measured parameters were not significantly different between the left and right sides (all P>0.05). The PSD, SA, and line segment B in males were (6.8±0.7)mm, (92.0±8.2)°, and (6.3±1.6)mm, which were significantly greater than those in females [(6.2±0.6)mm, (87.5±8.0)°, and (5.3±1.6)mm] (all P<0.01). The remaining parameters were similar between two genders (all P>0.05). All measured parameters had high intra- and inter-observer agreement (ICC: 0.84-0.91), except for line segment A that had moderate intra- and inter-observer agreement (ICC: 0.46-0.63). Conclusions:For C 7 pedicle screw implantation, when the surface of the lateral mass is used as the reference plane, SA is approximately 90°; with reference to the lateral notch, all the ideal entry points are located medially above it; with reference to the midpoint of the inferior edge of the C 6 articular process, approximately 70% of the entry points are located laterally. There are no significant differences in the parameters between the different sides of screw implantation on pedicles. The measured parameters show high intra- and inter-observer agreement, except for line segment A.