Treatment of fracture of the oscalcis: comparative study of two methods

Fifty patients with 54 feet suffered from recent displaced intra-articular fractures of the os calcis. They were managed randomly by either one of two methods: 1] closed reduction and compression bandage with early mobilization, or 2] closed reduction using a pin and plaster [a modified Gissane's method]. The results of the second method were clinically better. The difference however was statistically insignificant. The results were found significantly affected by the age. The degree of displacement, the restoration of tuber joint angle and the period of follow-up showed an insignificant effect on the results. The period of incapacitation was shorter as compared with other previous studies. Closed reduction by Gissane's method helps much to restore the tuber-joint angle

Delayed compression plate fixation in fractures of both bones of the forearm

This study included 40 cases of fractures of both bones of the forearm that were fixed 2-20 weeks after the original trauma, by compression plate method. Excellent results were present in 15 cases [37.5%], satisfactory in 12 [30%], unsatisfactory in 10 [25%] and failure in 3 cases [7.5%]. Factors that were found to affect the results were time elapsed before surgery, presence of synostosis and radiological union. Loss of rigid fixation was intimately related to deep infection that was more common in the ulna. Use of bone graft was of no statistical significant effect on the results as well as the level, mechanism and type of fracture

Treatment of residual defects in the shoulder in Erb's palsy

Fifty-three patients suffering from Erb's palsy were treated surgically in order to improve the function of the shoulder. These surgical procedures were sever's release, L'Episcopo's transplant and derotation osteotomy of the upper end of the humerus according to certain indications. Forty-nine cases attended regular follow -up which ranged from 1-4 years. The overall results were satisfactory in 69.4% of cases. Improvement in the functional activity after derotation osteotomy was superior to the other two procedures since the operation did not disturb the muscles acting on the shoulder