[Comparison of Modifications of Femoral and Tibial Lengthening in Children]. / Srovnání modifikací prolongace femuru a bérce u detí.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Limb lengthening has always belonged to the most complex surgical techniques in paediatric orthopaedics. In our study, we compared the results of femoral and tibial lengthening using three different surgical techniques. The presented study aimed to shorten the duration of external fixation to a minimum and to reduce the complication rate. MATERIAL AND METHODS The retrospective study compared 74 patients (38 boys, 36 girls) who had undergone stepwise progressive lengthening of the femur or tibia between the years 2007 and 2019. The most frequent indication was the proximal focal femoral deficiency (PFFD, 33 patients). The total number of lengthening procedures was 130 (femur 72, tibia 58), the follow-up period was 2-14 years. The following modifications of surgical techniques were used: (i) standard approach, i.e. corticotomy with a two-stage removal of the fixator, (ii) preventive fixation with elastic stable intramedullary nails (ESIN) and also with a two-stage removal of the fixator, and (iii) standard approach with an early removal of the external fixator and plate osteosynthesis. RESULTS The mean lengthening achieved was 56 ± 18 (27-114) mm in femur and 54 ± 16 (25-110) mm in tibia. There was no statistical difference in the lengthening achieved by different modifications. The mean duration of external fixation in femur and tibia lengthening was comparable (166 and 164 days). The complications were observed in 60% of lengthening procedures, the most frequent being the pin release or axial malalignment of the lengthening (33 cases, 25%). The patients with ESIN displayed statistically the lowest complication rate (26%), the highest complication rate was seen in children with osteosynthesis using a plate (80%). CONCLUSIONS It follows from our results that fixation with intramedullary nails in comparison with the standard approach and plate osteosynthesis helped decrease the number of complications by more than 50%. The plate osteosynthesis is indicated in patients with repeated lengthening (achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia or PFFD with pronounced shortening) since it significantly reduces the duration of external fixation. Key words: limb lengthening, femur, tibia, surgical techniques, complications.

Analysis of Gene Expression of Pseudoarthrosis Tissue in Congenital Short Femur, Initial Study and First Exprerience.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Although the congenital short femur is morphologically well characterized, changes at the molecular level have not been described in the literature so far. The absence of such information, along with the unknown aetiology of the defect, was the motivation for analysing angiogenesis and osteogenesis in the pseudoarthrosis (false joint) tissue in PFFD patients compared to physiological bone. The authors expected differences in gene expression, particularly in the quantity of expressed genes. MATERIAL AND METHODS A piece of bone was removed during an elective surgery procedure, placed in an RNA stabilization reagent, which prevents RNA degradation, and deep frozen. Thereafter, RNA was isolated and the profile of transcription was analysed by biochip analysis (SuperArray Bioscience Corporation). In total, it is possible to detect 113 genes of osteogenesis and angiogenesis. From the end of 2005 until the end of 2008, samples of 7 patients with PFFD and 3 physiological bone samples were examined. Several analyses were repeated to confirm the results; in total 13 chips for osteogenesis and 11 chips for angiogenesis expression were used. RESULTS Differences in the quantity and representation of the genes were noted. Some genes were considered over-expressed in PFFD tissue compared with the control sample (e.g. the gene for calcitonin receptor, collagen XII, I alpha 2, collagen II, IX, FGFR2, fibronectin, integrin) and other genes under-expressed (e.g. the gene for annexin A5, collagen XVIII alpha1, collagen I alpha1, cathepsin K, FGFR1, FGFR3, IGF2, VEGFB). CONCLUSIONS The differences in gene expression confirmed the authors' hypothesis. So far, the results cannot be generalized; this is the first step for follow-up experiments to confirm the suggested information and to integrate it with clinical findings, such as the alternative blood supply of affected extremity in some patients. Key words: proximal femoral focal deficiency, gene expression, microarray analysis, angiogenesis, osteogenesis.

[Mid-Term Results of Treatment of Severe Grades of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis without Surgical Hip Dislocation]. / Strednedobé výsledky lécení skluzu tezkého stupne pri coxa vara adolescentium bez chirurgické luxace kycelního kloubu.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To evaluate the results of treatment of acute and chronic severe slips of slipped capital femoral epiphysis. The tested hypothesis was that the results will be comparable with the methods using surgical hip dislocation. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the period 1996-2014, 26 patients were treated for severe slips ( >60°). Boys prevailed (2:1) and were older on average (the mean age 13.8 vs.12 years). Chronic stable slips prevailed (16 patients) and were followed by acute-on-chronic slips (7 patients) and with acute slips (3 patients). The acute unstable slips were treated using closed reduction and transphyseal fixation. The acute-on-chronic slips were treated using closed reduction and fixation (2 patients) and subcapital osteotomy (5 patients), respectively. Chronic slips were treated as follows: with subcapital osteotomy (10 patients); with intertrochanteric femoral osteotomy (5 patients); and with transphyseal fixation without correction (1 patient). 22 patients were treated concurrently on the contralateral side as a prevention or to treat the slips. The follow-up ranged from 20 months to 13 years. The clinical results were evaluated according to four scores: 1) our own score (NB score) based on the reduction of ROM, shortening of extremity and limitations in activities; 2) Merle d'Aubigne score; 3) Harris hip score (HHS); 4) non arthritic hip score (NAHS). In the radiological evaluation, correction of slip angle, alpha-angle, avascular necrosis (AVN) and grade of arthrosis according to Toennis were observed. RESULTS According to the NB score 10 excellent results (38%), 11 very good results (42%), one good and one satisfactory result (4%) and 3 unsatisfactory results (11%) were achieved. According to the other scores the following results were reported: a) excellent: D'Aubigne-Postel - 19 (73%); HHS - 20 (77%); NAHS - 21(81%), b) good: D'Aubigne and HHS- 3 (11%); NAHS - 2 (8%), c) satisfactory: D 'Aubigne - one (4%), HHS and NAHS 0, d) unsatisfactory: D'Aubigne, HHS and NAHS - 3 (11%). The evaluation of surgical methods shows that the best results were achieved by closed reduction of acute slips (with 80% excellent results). The result of transphyseal fixation without reduction was satisfactory only. The intertrochanteric osteotomy led mostly to very good results (80%) and then to the excellent results (20%). After subcapital osteotomy, mostly excellent and very good results (40% each) were reported, followed by two unsatisfactory results (13%) and one good result (7%). As concerns the slip reduction and alfa angle, the best results were achieved by closed reduction and subcapital osteotomy. The FAI was observed/ in 10 patients. Arthrosis was observed as follows: grade I in 8 patients, grade II in 3 patients. The AVN was present as segmental in 4 patients (15%) and as complete in two patients (8%), namely in one after closed reduction and in one after subcapital osteotomy. Dislocations of the hip occurred twice after subcapital osteotomy. Chondrolysis and hip ankylosis were reported in one patient after subcapital osteotomy. DISCUSSION The hypothesis was confirmed because the results of treatment of severe slips without hip dislocation are comparable with procedures using the surgical hip dislocation. The results correspond with large published cohorts of patients in terms of correction as well as the rate of complications. CONCLUSIONS The best results were achieved by closed reduction of acute slips where no complications were present. Subcapital osteotomy without surgical dislocation is comparable with modified osteotomy with surgical hip dislocation. Intertrochanteric osteotomy represents an efficient method in treating grade II slips. Transphyseal fixation without slip correction cannot be recommended in treating severe slips. Key words: slipped capital femoral epiphysis, severe grades of slip, subcapital femoral osteotomy, intertrochanteric femoral osteotomy, closed reduction of slip.

[Results of Surgically Treated Patients for Hip Fracture - Complications, Mortality]. / Výsledky po operacích zlomenin proximálního femuru ­ komplikace, letalita.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Our main objective was to evaluate the mortality and complications of patients following surgical treatment of hip fractures and to identify the associated risk factors for postoperative mortality. MATERIAL AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all patients over the age of 50 who underwent surgical treatment for femoral neck and peritrochanteric fractures at our institution in 2003 and 2013. Mortality was compared between subgroups classified by age, gender, fracture type, method of treatment. Correlation between mortality and postoperative complications, time to surgery, and blood transfusion need were evaluated. Chi-square was used for categorical variables and two-tailed student's t-test for continuous variables. Survival curves were compared by the log-rank test. Mortality rates were adjusted for patient age and compared to the mortality rates of Prague's population in the given years. RESULTS Altogether 425 patients were surgically treated for proximal femoral fracture in 2013, while 229 patients were treated in 2003. The overall 1-year mortality decreased by 10% over the study period (38% in 2003 and 28% in 2013), despite the higher average age in 2013. Survival was better in all subgroups broken down by diagnosis and method of treatment, statistically relevant in the subgroup of femoral neck fractures, notwithstanding the method of treatment and in the subgroup treated with total hip arthroplasty. The strongest prognostic factor for survival was the advanced age. The mortality rate rises significantly over the age of 75. The largest age group was between 85-89 years, with 1-year mortality rate of 32%. The annual mortality of the general population in Prague aged 85-89 years was 13% and has improved only by 1% in the decade. The reoperative rate was 4% and did not affect mortality. There was no significant relationship between mortality and complications or delay of surgery for up to 4 days. DISCUSSION The factors that might have contributed to better survival are the introduction of guidelines for hip fracture care to our unit, better prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism, improvement of surgical skills due to the growing volume of these cases, and a higher rate of discharges to aftercare units. CONCLUSIONS Mortality has significantly decreased between 2003 and 2013 (p < 0.001). We didn't find a correlation between mortality and delay of surgery up to 4 days. That means that a complicated operation such as hip arthroplasty could be postponed and operated in more comfortable conditions (in superaseptic OR) by orthopedic surgeons. Although we haven't identified any modifiable risk factor, we believe that the reasons for better survival are multifactorial as discussed. Key words: hip fracture, proximal femoral fracture, mortality, complications, time to surgery.

[Operative Treatment for Saddle-Shaped Femoral Heads]. / Operacní resení sedlovité deformity hlavice kosti stehenní.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY A saddle-shaped deformity of the femoral head has a poor prognosis due to rapid development of secondary changes. A new method of treatment by intra-articular anteromedial wedge reduction osteotomy (AWRO) of the femoral head may preserve the hip for the future. This study was designed to ascertain that this invasive technique was safe and effective and to confirm our hypothesis that AWRO significantly improved functional and radiological parameters of the hip joint. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients who underwent AWRO between 2010 and 2013 were enrolled in this study. The indication criteria for the procedure included Stulberg grade V hips on AP radiographs, hinged abduction with pain, limping and a limited range of movement. Values of the Stulberg grading, capital diaphyseal index, caput-collum-diaphyseal angle and Harris hip score were recorded before and after surgery and the results were statistically evaluated using the paired t-test. The AWRO procedure was performed from the anterolateral approach after subperiosteal protection of the vessels had been ensured. The central necrotic part of the femoral head was removed, and the medial segment was mobilised and fixed to the intact lateral segment. Either a hip spica cast or bed-rest for six weeks was indicated. Full weight bearing was allowed at 3 months after surgery. RESULTS Twelve patients with an average follow-up of 55 months were evaluated. There were eight boys and four girls with an average age of 14 years at the time of surgery. The average Harris hip score improved from 54.52 before to 73.58 after surgery. The post-operative outcomes according to the Stulberg classification included one grade II hip, seven grade III hips, three grade IV hips and one grade V hip. The average capital-diaphyseal index dropped from 1.56 (1.19-1.92) to 1.28 (0.95-1.67) and the average caput-collum-diaphyseal angle increased from 134 degrees (121-143) to 140 degrees (130-155) after surgery. Avascular necrosis developed in two patients. All the differences were statistically significant. DISCUSSION Reduction osteotomies of the femoral head reported in the literature differ from the AWRO procedure used in this study in both the approach and the performance. The results presented here are in agreement with those published in the relevant literature. They showed no significant deterioration in comparison with the outcomes of our short-term study reported earlier. The outcome of treatment is related to the disease aetiology, functional parameters and previous procedures involving the hip joint. CONCLUSIONS AWRO is a salvage procedure that prolongs the longevity of joints in incongruent hips with very high morbidity. This procedure gave significantly better results in years after surgery, which confirmed our hypothesis. Level of evidence IV Key words: hinge abduction, Perthes disease, Stulberg, femoral head reduction osteotomy, avascular necrosis, arteria circumflexa femoris medialis.

[Complications after femoral lengthening with ring fixators in congenital femoral deficiency]. / Komplikace po prolongaci femuru kruhovým fixátorem pri vrozeném defektu femuru.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Congenital femoral deficiency (CFD) is a rare and complex deformity. The results and complications of surgical correction of this deformity using ring fixators (Ilizarov/Taylor Spatial Frame) have been evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 30 patients with CFD, between the ages of 3.3 and 17 years (mean, 9.3 years), with 35 lengthening procedures. Ten cases were treated with an Ilizarov frame, 25 cases with a Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF). RESULTS: The average lengthening at femoral osteotomy was 44.3 mm. Nine patients underwent an additional tibial lengthening by an average of 24.2 mm. The total lengthening was 50.5 mm (28-85 mm). A fracture after removal of the fixator occurred in 25.7% of the cases, and a pin-site infection with the subsequent need of operative revision was found in 8.5%. A subluxation of the knee joint was observed in 11.4% and a persistent limitation of the knee joint range of motion in 22.8%. CONCLUSIONS: Despite several complications, the use of ring fixators, especially the TSF, is an effective method for treatment of this complex deformity. The complication rate was similar with the use of either ring fixator. Some complications can be decreased with experience. The risk of knee dislocation can be reduced by joint bridging and fractures after frame removal can be avoided by prophylactic rodding.

[Efficiency of conservative treatment by overhead traction in developmental dysplasia of the hip]. / Úspesnost konzervativní lécby vývojové kycelní dysplazie metodou "over-head trakce"

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a disorder affecting the development of the acetabulum, proximal femur and joint capsule. The objective of this study was to analyse the results of closed reduction by overhead traction in subluxated and dislocated hips. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the period from 2002 to 2007, a total of 109 patients (124 hips) were treated by overhead traction. The indication criteria included adductor contracture and misalignment of the hip joint assessed as classes III A, III B or IV according to the Graf ultrasonographic classification. There were 96 (88 %) girls and 13 (12 %) boys. The left side was more frequently affected, at a ratio of 83 to 41, and bilateral DDH was found in 15 patients. Teratologic dislocations were not included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to age and the place of primary diagnosis. The children primarily diagnosed at our hospital Na Bulovce where placed in group 1, the patients diagnosed outside our hospital fell in group 2. The average age at the beginning of treatment was 2.2 months in the first group and 6 months in the second group. Our method of overhead traction consists of two phases. Horizontal traction is applied for two weeks in phase 1; the hips are then flexed beyond 90 degrees and gradually abducted for another 4 weeks in phase 2.The outcome of traction is examined by arthrography and a spica cast is applied in the safe zone.We observed the relation between the Graf classification and arthrograpy. The outcome of closed reduction was compared between the groups and the development of avascular necrosis was observed. The hips treated by open reduction were assessed in a different study. RESULTS The efficiency of closed reduction was 84 % in group 1 and 60 % in group 2 in which also two cases of recurrent dislocation were found. No significant differences between the Graf classification and the final arthrographic findings were recorded in either group (p ≥ 0.05). Avascular necrosis as defined by the Salter criteria was not diagnosed. DISCUSSION: Early reduction is essential to ensure normal development of the hip joint. Overhead traction therapy for misalignment of the hip joint is a safe method reducing damage to the femoral head. Its principle lies in gradual distraction of the contracted muscles and joint capsule with a concomitant change in traction direction in order to achieve a reduction manoeuvre without placing increased stress on the femoral head. CONCLUSIONS: Overhead traction is the method of choice for management of Graf's class III A, III B and IV hips. For the efficiency of treatment, an early diagnosis and a correct indication are essential. To avoid complications such as avascular necrosis, it is necessary to observe the principle of a safe zone.

[Osteosynthesis of intracapsular femoral neck fractures by dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation]. / Osteosyntéza intrakapsulárních zlomenin krcku stehenní kosti metodou DHS.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The treatment of femoral neck fractures shows a relatively high number of poor outcomes, usually due to late complications, such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head or pseudoarthrosis. The latter may develop when the osteosynthesis of osteoporotic bone fails. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate a group of patients treated by osteo- synthesis for intra-capsular femoral neck fractures at our department, and to verify indication criteria and identify the therapeutic procedures that are best suited to our conditions. MATERIAL: In the 1997-2001 period, a total of 81 patients with intra-capsular femoral neck fractures were operated on. Of these, 64 treated by dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation were followed up for at least 5 years. There were 33 women and 31 men; the average age was 21.5 years (range, 21 to 74 years). METHODS: The Garden classification was used to evaluate the displacement of femoral neck fractures. Preferably, osteosynthesis was carried out by closed reduction; only exceptionally was an extension device for the operating table used. A 135-degree sliding hip screw, with a short thread, directed to the head centre and a two-hole side plate were used most often.The average follow-up was 6.9 years. Evaluated were: the occurrence of late complications in relation to the length of time between injury and surgery, quality of fracture reduction, use of an anti-rotation screw and necessity of repeat surgery. RESULTS: Garden I or II fractures were diagnosed in 13 patients, 51 had Garden III or Garden IV fractures. Bone union without complications was achieved in 73.4 % of the patients within 12 months of surgery. Late complications were found in 26.6 %; of these, only one had Garden I fracture and the rest were Garden III and IV fractures. An anti-rotation screw was used in 39 patients (60.9 %) and its use had no effect on the development of late complications. Of the seven patients who developed pseudoarthrosis, the screw was used in four (57.1%); out of the nine patients with avascular necrosis, it was used in six (66.7 %). In the whole group, an unsatisfactory outcome of post-operative reduction was recorded in 29.7 %. In the patients with late complications this was found in 52.9 %, which was a statistically significant difference. Of the 17 patients with poor outcomes, 14 underwent total hip arthroplasty; in the patients with necrosis, arthroplasty was carried out at an average of 26 months post-operatively, in those with pseudoarthrosis it was at 7 months post-operatively. DISCUSSION: For the treatment of intra-capsular fractures of the femoral neck, surgery is the most frequent approach, but there are controversial views on various relevant issues. An important factor affecting the treatment outcome is the patient's bone quality. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show a direct relationship between the extent of fracture displacement and late complications, i.e., avascular necrosis and non-union. The quality of fracture reduction had a greater effect on fracture non-union than on the development of femoral head necrosis. The length of time between injury and surgery played a lesser role than it is believed. The use of an anti-rotation screw was not significantly related to the occurrence of late complications. The DHS method is economical and available, and provided sufficient results whose comparisons with the literature data show that this therapeutic approach is correct.

The role of triple pelvic osteotomy in therapy of residual hip dysplasia and sequel of AVN: long-term experience.

Triple pelvic osteotomy was performed for sequel of DDH including AVN between 1981 and 2002 for 329 patients (351 hips, 280 females, 49 males, average age at surgery 16.5 years, range 9-41 years, follow-up 4-25 years). A small modification of Steel's technique consisting of strictly subperiostal resection of segment from both pubic and ischial bone was used. Average gain of lengthening extremity was 1.8 cm. The average CE angle was improved from 7.8 to 35.5 degrees. Clinical results were evaluated according to Merle d'Aubigne and reflected to the preoperative clinical and radiological findings. There were 146 hip joints in 128 patients (76%) with excellent results in the group of congruent hips without arthrosis. In 182 hips in 178 patients with hip joints with some deformity, limited ROM and decentration, 40% were excellent, 32% good, 23% fair and 5% unsatisfactory results were achieved. The group of decentrated hip joints in young adults in incongruency, limited ROM and sometimes severe arthrosis consisted of 23 monolateral surgeries with 39% unsatisfactory, 39% fair and 22% good results, respectively. No major neurovascular complications were seen. Non-unions were recorded in 19 patients (5.4%), including 2 triple and 2 double non-unions. Based on our long-term experience, we can conclude that triple pelvic osteotomy according to Steel in our modification is a safe method and gives regularly excellent or good results for correction of clinical and radiographic appearance of acetabular dysplasia when there is a proper indication.

[Distal rectus femoris tendon transfer in cerebral palsy patients]. / Transfer distálního úponu m. rectus femoris u pacientu s detskou mozkovou obrnou.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Cerebral palsy is a serious world-wide problem; its incidence ranges from one to five per thousand of live-born children and is much influenced by gestation age and birth weight. In orthopaedic treatment of lower extremity motor disorders, one of the options for contracture or deformity elimination and for stiff leg gait improvement is rectus femoris tendon transfer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of this surgical technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the period from 1993 to 2003, 15 patients of both sexes, aged 5 to 13 years, were treated by the Gage method (22 operations) in our department. The indication for surgery was excessive spasticity of the femoral quadriceps muscle at the beginning of the swing phase of the gait cycle. The spastic syndromes included quadruparesis in seven patients, diparesis in seven patients and hemiparesis in one patient. After surgery, a circular plaster cast was applied for 4 weeks. Following immobilization, all patients received a short-term inpatient and long-term outpatient physical therapy. They were followed- up for 1 to 10 years and gait improvement was analyzed on the basis of three criteria in the swing phase: quality of the initial swing, frequency of tripping over the toe and the degree of knee flexion. The results were evaluated on a 1-to-4 scale (best to worst), categorizing the patients into four groups. RESULTS: The first, second and third categories included eight, five and two patients, respectively. None of the patients was placed in the fourth category. Surgery did not increase the initial range of inner hip rotation. Patients with milder forms of cerebral palsy (diparesis and hemiparesis) achieved better results. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that distal rectus femoris tendon transfer significantly improved knee flexion during the swing phase of the gait cycle. The prerequisite for a good outcome of surgery is a pre-operative potential for passive knee extension and stable function of the other lower extremity joints. Key words: cerebral palsy, surgical treatment, quadriceps tendon transfer.

[Treatment of calcaneal fractures using the medial approach for open reduction]. / Lécba zlomenin patní kosti otevrenou repozicí z mediálního prístupu.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: A comprehensive evaluation of the treatment of calcaneal fractures by open reduction is presented. The long-term results are compared with the relevant literature data. MATERIAL: In the period from 1987 to 2000, 60 displaced fractures of the calcaneus were treated in 51 patients. Of these, 49 patients suffered the fracture by falling from a height, which is generally the most common cause. Only two patients were injured during sports activities. Thirty eight injuries were classified as fractures of the joint depression type and 22 as fractures of the tongue type. The patients had surgery on the day they sustained the injury or after edema had subsided, if this was present on admission. The interval between injury and surgery was 4.6 days on the average. The fracture was fixed with Kirschner's wires (Kw) in 53 cases, a Kirshcner's wire and a hook-nail in five cases and a Kirchner's wire and a spongious screw in two patients. In May 2001, 23 patients were available for evaluation after a follow-up period of 6 to 120 months. METHODS: The patients underwent clinical and radiographic examination and filled a questionnaire. The fracture type was defined on the basis of the Essex-Lopresti classification system. Outcomes were scored according to the Creighton-Nebraska Health Foundation rating system that assessed pain, range of motion, edema, a change in shoe size, patient's activity after therapy termination and return to a job. RESULTS: In May 2001, 23 patients, with a follow-up ranging from 6 to 120 months were checked up. Of them, 20 (86.9%) had neither clinical manifestations nor subjective complaints. Three patients retired because of persisting complaints, two with disability pensions and one with an old-age pension. A total of 19 patients were evaluated by the Creighton-Nebraska Health Foundation rating system. The average score was 90.8 points. The results were excellent in 15 patients, good in three and poor in one patient. The complications reported by the patients included superficial infection in two, thromboembolic disease in one, and hypesthesia on the medial side of the leg in two patients. DISCUSSION: The optimal mode of treatment in dislocated intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus still remains open to discussion. Should conservative or surgical therapy be used? In agreement with others, the authors preferred early surgical intervention. This facilitated a better congruence of the dorsal articular surface. The average remaining dislocation of the articular surface was 1.1 mm in surgically treated as against the average of 4.7 mm in conservatively treated patients. It was possible to restore the length, height and width, and the correct axial position of the calcaneus by this surgery from the medial approach. However, in indicated cases, the procedure required an additional intervention from the lateral approach through a mini-incision. As reported in the literature, other authors have achieved comparable, or even better results but on the basis of either the lateral or the plantar approach. The application of primary spongioplasty or primary arthrodesis of the subtalar joint is discussed. The advantages of preoperative examination by computer-assisted tomography are emphasized. CONCLUSIONS: Good outcomes of the treatment of intra-articular, dislocated calcaneal fractures depend on a correct shape and position of the dorsal articular surface of the calcaneus. The open reduction procedure from the medial approach based on the principles of McReynold's technique allowed us to accomplish both these criteria.

[Restoration of elbow joint flexion by transfer of the pectoralis major muscle in patients with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Part II. Results of electromyographic and histologic examinations]. / Rekonstrukce flexe loketního kloubu u pacientu s arthrogryposis multiplex congenita prenosem m. pectoralis major. II. Cást: výsledky elektromygrafických a histologických vysetrení.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: In the framework of a prospective study on transposition of the m. pectoralis major according to Clark in patients with type I arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, electromyography was carried out in order to determine pre-operative states of the elbow joint flexors and m. pectoralis major and then the post-operative electric activity of a transposed muscle and to correlate changes with clinical findings. Histological examination was performed to reveal changes in muscle morphology and to complete a comprehensive assessment of muscle transposition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Electromyography was carried out on nine upper limbs of five pediatric patients aged 4.3 to 8.9 years. Using a needle electrode, activities of the elbow flexors (m. biceps and m. brachialis), m. pectoralis major, m. triceps brachii and m. deltoideus were examined. In the post-operative period, activity was repeatedly measured in both the transposed and non-transposed parts of the m. pectoralis major. In one patient, histological examination of muscle tissue was performed at 26 months after transposition; light microscopy of paraffin-mounted sections stained with hematoxylin-eosin was used. RESULTS: Out of seven arms examined by electromyography before muscle transfer, six showed complete and one incomplete atrophy of the m. biceps brachii and m. brachialis. The m. pectoralis major had a five- to four-degree electric activity, which provided enough strength for transposition. Post-operative examination revealed changes leading to re-innervation of the transposed muscle, which corresponded to a partial denervation of the muscle followed by repair of innervation. None of the muscles was markedly atrophic due to denervation. In muscles with a higher electric activity, clinical outcomes were better, although electric activity always slightly exceeded clinical activity. In terms of electric activity, the transposed muscle was stabilized a year after surgery. Non-transposed parts of the muscle were not damaged by the surgical procedure, as shown by electromyography. Histological examination showed the muscle at a state of partial atrophy but with signs of ongoing regeneration of muscle fibers. DISCUSSION: No data on examination of the electric activity of the m. pectoralis major following its transposition in patients with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita have been reported in the literature. Electromyography in this study proved useful for providing information on the electric activity of a muscle before transposition and on contractility of the muscle after surgery; it also allowed us to distinguish between a mechanical failure of transfer and muscle atrophy due to neurogenic or vascular causes. All transposed muscles that were examined revealed changes indicating a minimum denervation followed by re-innervation. This finding was confirmed by the results of histological examination. CONCLUSIONS: Electromyography showed that the electric activity of a transposed muscle corresponded to the clinical presentation of this muscle and thus became an indispensable part of both pre- and post-operative examination. Both electromyographic and histological examination confirmed the applicability of the treatment described here.

[Initial experience with implantation of the cemented Beznoska/S.V.L. total knee joint endoprosthesis]. / První zkusenosti s implantací cementované totální endoprotézy kolenního kloubu typu Beznoska/S. V. L.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The authors present the results of their first trial of a new, Beznoska/S. V. L. type, knee prosthesis in order to introduce it to a broad orthopedic public. MATERIAL: Clinical and radiological evaluation was carried out on 34 knee prostheses implanted in 31 patients between September 1997 and October 1999. The average patient age at the time of surgery was 71.3 years and the average interval between surgery and assessment was 22.4 months (range 6 to 31 months). All patients underwent implantation due to primary or secondary gonarthosis. A brief description of the implant and the instrumentation and used surgical technique is provided. METHODS: Clinical outcomes were evaluated according to the "Knee-Society Clinical Rating System" by John N. Insall. The system classifies both knee joint parameters and knee function. X-ray films were assessed on the basis of the "Knee-Society Total Knee Arthroplasty Roentgenographic Evaluation and Scoring System" by Frederic C. Ewald. In standardized X-ray projections, this allowed us to evaluate the implant position as well as radiolucent lines. RESULTS: On stability evaluation, we found anteroposterior instability up to 5 mm in 85% of the implants and mediolateral instability up to 9 degrees in 97% of them. A maximum flexion of 90 degrees to 120 degrees was achieved in 91% of the implants. The final outcome in terms of knee score was on average 80.3 points (range, 40 to 97 points), which was a very good result. Evaluation by function score showed that only 17% of the patients were not able to walk farther than 500 meters. Although 82% of them had to hold on a railing when going upstairs, all were able of stair ascent and descent; 13% had to use a walking stick permanently. The average function score was 68.4 points (range, 30 to 100), which was a good outcome. Radiograms in anteroposterior projection, assessed according to Ewald, showed the average femoral flexion angle (alpha) to be 95.2 degrees, the average tibial angle (beta) to be 89 degrees and the total valgus angle (omega) to be 3.2 degrees. In lateral projection, the femoral flexion angle (gamma) was on average 2.5 degrees and the average tibial angle (delta) was 86.7 degrees. An optimal position of the patella was achieved in 27 implants. Five radiolucent lines, up to 1 mm, were found in zone 1 of the femoral component and further lines were observed in zones 1, 2 and 4 of the tibial component. DISCUSSION: When assessing the results by the knee and function scores, it had to be taken into consideration that the average age of the patients was 71.3 years. At this age, walking without a stick, or stair ascent or descent without the use of a railing can hardly be expected. The average result of 68.4 points achieved can, therefore, be considered a very satisfactory outcome. The values shown by X-ray examination were close to the normal condition. The patients were also asked for their subjective opinion of the effect of arthroplasty; 97% of them regarded the effect as good or very good, only one patient reported no benefit. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the first trial of the use of a cemented prosthesis, type Beznoska/S. V. L., in total knee arthroplasty are presented, together with practical recommendations. Although the patient sample was small and the follow-up period short, the results are promising and suggest excellent prospects for this implant.

[Restoration of elbow joint flexion using pectoral muscle transfer in patients with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Part I: surgical method, rehabilitation and clinical results]. / Rekonstrukce flexe loketního kloubu u pacientu s arthrogryposis multiplex congenita prenosem m. pectoralis major. I. Cást: Popis operacní metody, rehabilitace a klinické výsledky.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: In patients with type I arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, elbows are fixed in extension. The m. biceps brachii and m. brachialis are usually atrophic. The main objective of arm treatment is to restore flexion in the elbow that would enable the patient to reach the mouth with the hand as well as maintain active extension of the arm for hygienic purposes. This can be achieved by several techniques of muscle transfer. Of these, we selected and modified the method of Clark based on transfer of distal parts of the greater pectoral muscle. The aim of this study was to develop the surgical procedure in detail, to design the course of rehabilitation and to evaluate the outcomes of treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The procedure for optimal transfer of three fifths of the m. pectoralis major was based on an anatomical study. In addition, a unified course of rehabilitation was developed. Between 1996 and 1999, this approach was applied to nine upper limbs in five patients (age range, 4.3 to 9 years). All the patients were evaluated in terms of their clinical state according to selected subjective and objective criteria. RESULTS: The outcomes of transfer of the m. pectoralis major were evaluated as very good and good in six cases. Active movement of the elbow was in the range of 15 degrees to 95 degrees; useful movement ranged from 40 degrees to 70 degrees. The strength of elbow flexion rated 4 or 4+. In three cases, although muscle transfer restricted active elbow extension it did not prevent the upper limb from being used for hygienic purposes. In the remaining three cases, the method failed to restore the patient's ability of reaching the mouth. The analysis of unsuccessful results showed that these were always related to a very limited pre-operative passive flexion of the elbow, restricted movement of the shoulder joint and a failure in distal fixation of the muscle transposed. DISCUSSION: Our results show that transfer of the distal three fifths of the m. pectoralis major, performed by a modified method of Clark, was an effective approach because the working capacity of this muscle was comparable with those of the m. biceps brachii and m. brachialis. Bilateral transfer enabled the patients to reach the mouth with both hands and to use the remaining elbow extension for hygienic purposes. The best function was achieved when active movement of the shoulder had permitted raising the arm above the horizontal and passive elbow flexion had been 90 degrees. Our results are comparable with those reported in the literature. The critical phase of this transfer involved fixation of the m. pectoralis major to the forearm. CONCLUSIONS: The surgical procedure for transfer of the m. pectoralis major and subsequent rehabilitation in patients with type I arthrogryposis are described in detail. Good results are achieved in patients who, pre-operatively, had passive movement of the elbow joint and active movement of the shoulder joint. The method is not suitable for patients with a markedly limited pre-operative movement of both the elbow and the shoulder in whom an alternative surgical treatment should be used.

[Knee joint synovectomy in treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis]. / Synovektomie kolene v lécení juvenilní idiopatické artritidy.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The objective of this study was to assess short-term outcomes of knee joint synovectomy in a group of patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and to present the authors' view on this approach. MATERIAL: Between 1990 and 1999, synovectomy of the knee joint was performed in a group of 46 children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. This group comprised 19 girls and 27 boys aged 4 to 16 years (mean 9.8 years) with all forms of the disease. A total of 85 synovectomy procedures, including repeat operations, were performed on 58 knee joints. METHODS: Arthroscopic synovectomy was used to treat 21 knee joints, open synovectomy from two approaches was indicated, as a primary procedure, in 37 knees. The assessment of subjective and functional conditions of patients was based on a modified rating systems of Lysholm and X-ray films were evaluated by the Larsen classification. The evaluation was carried out at 1 and 2 years after the primary operation. RESULTS: Articular lesions corresponding to mere synovitis were found in 10 knee joints (17.2%), a developing pannus without erosion was seen in 16 (27.6%) and erosion of the articular surface in 32 (55.2%) knee joints. At 1 year, the value of Lysholm's score rose from 47.9 to 84.3 points and was followed by a decrease to 73.2 at 2 years. Within 2 years of the primary operation, the condition recurred in 9 out of 21 knees (42.8%) treated by arthroscopic synovectomy and in 12 cases (32.4%) operated on by open synovectomy. The relapse was observed mostly in patients with an overall high inflammatory activity and polyarticular and systemic progression of the disease. DISCUSSION: We do not agree with the view of some authors that surgical intervention is not indicated until erosions are radiologically manifested. In children, erosions usually present at a late stage, as shown by 12 findings of articular surface destruction in our group that were not detected by radiography. For indication purposes, we distinguished between preventive and therapeutic synovectomy. We found a significant association between the overall activity and early recurrence of the disease. In 60.7% of the cases (28) with excellent outcomes, this activity was low at the time of surgery. On the other hand, in 75% of the cases (8) with poor outcomes, the activity of disease was very high and had a lasting tendency to recur. These findings are in agreement with the conclusions of several other authors who consider the presence of systemic disease to be a contraindication for synovectomy. Advantages of arthroscopic synovectomy reported in adult patients seem to be relative in children. A good view of and accessibility to individual articular components, which are made an advantage of in the adult knee, are rather exceptional in the "tight" child knee. The evaluation of our patients at a short-term follow-up did not give convincing results although the early effect of synovectomy was very good. The poor outcomes seen in our group, which corresponded with observations of other authors, allow us to learn more about the potentials of synovectomy and thus to promote our policy of a thorough consideration of indications for surgery. CONCLUSION: Indications for surgical treatment in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis are evaluated in cooperation with a rheumatologist after an appropriate conservative therapy administered for at least 6 months. Cases with clear signs of plastic synovitis and skeletal lesions shown by radiography as well as all recurrent conditions are treated by open synovectomy. The state of low disease activity is preferred for surgical intervention. It has to be borne in mind that, from whole range of curative procedures, conservative therapy supervised by a pediatric rheumatologist is the method of choice.

Long-term experience with operative treatment of clp by Salter and varus osteotomy.

None.

[Indications for the cementless Zweymuller Bicon cup in acetabular fractures]. / Necementovaná jamka Zweymüller Bicon v indikaci po zlomenine acetabula.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study is an assessment of short-term results after the implantation of cementless Zweymüller Bicon cup in patients with a complicated anatomy after acetabular fractures. MATERIAL: The group of 10 patients indicated for Zweymüller cementless THR in post-traumatic osteoarthritis after acetabular fracture was selected of the total number of 703 primary implantations performed in 1998 and 1999 at the authors' Orthopaedic Department. The group includes patients treated conservatively as well as by means of open reduction and fixation. METHODS: For the evaluation we used Harris Hip Score and radiographic assessment based on radiographs in two projections on which signs of implant loosening and incidence of particular ossifications were monitored. RESULTS: Harris Hip Score was in 6 cases higher than 90 points, in 2 cases its value was 80 points. The low score in another 2 patients related to the limitation of the function resulting from the trauma and in one case from the injury of sciatic nerve during open reduction and fixation with a subsequent common peroneal nerve palsy. Radiographic check did not reveal any signs of loosening of the implant. Within the evaluation of particular ossifications the finding was 3 times classified in Group 1 and twice in Group 2. DISCUSSION: The number of patients of the authors' group corresponds with the numbers of patients presented in literature, however, due to a short time of the follow-up both clinical and radiographic results in our group are better. In all cases a good primary stability and position of the acetabular cup in the complicated anatomical conditions was obtained. Structural bone grafting was not necessary in any of the cases. Peroperative complications were not encountered. CONCLUSION: Short-term results of our small group of patients are very good. Both in the clinical and radiographic evaluation they correspond with the results of Zweymüller THR performed in patients with dysplastic acetabulum.

[The Zweymuller endoprosthesis in hip joint revision surgery]. / Endoprotéza typu Zweymüller v revizní chirurgii kycelního kloubu.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study is the verification of the applicability of the Zweymüller system of total hip replacement in dependence on the size of defects of acetabulum and femur and evaluation of early results in patients operated on in 1998 and 1999. MATERIAL: In 1998 and 1999 we reimplanted 125 total hip replacements. In 60 revision surgeries we used at least one component of Zweymüller Bicon Plus system. We prospectively followed defects of acetabulum and femur in DGOT classification. The size of the stem was planned, final indication of the cup was determined peroperatively. METHODS: During the implantation of the cup we tried to achieve primary stability of the implant. The cup was implanted in uni- and bisegmental defects. In total we implanted 50 Bicon cups, in 24 hip joints we applied morselized allograft in the defect. In tri-segmental defects we used twice the Burch Schneider cage and in 4 hip joints a bone allo-graft with a cemented cup in combination with SL-Plus stem. In one female patients after the implantation of Bicon cup in type 7 defect there occurred an early failure. When removing bone cement we preferred fenestration of the cortical bone of the femoral shaft. In 30 hips SL-Plus stem was used and in 13 hip joints SLR-Plus was applied. We checked 50 hip joints operated on by the method after Harris and by radiographs in two projections. RESULTS: Fifteen patients are without pain, 14 patients take analgesics. The final result is excellent in 24% of patients, good result in 32%, satisfactory in 24% and poor in 20% of patients followed up. By comparison with HHS value prior to the surgery HHS got worse in two patients who are not satisfied with the result of the operation. Average score prior to surgery was 47.4 points (range, 23-82.6). Five times we encountered a radioluscent line of acetabular component in zone III. Radiograph signs of loosening of the cup or stem were not found in any of the hip joints. CONCLUSION: Zweymüller system is applicable in revision surgeries of both cemented and cementless hip joint replacements. The cup may be applied in uni-segmental and bi-segmental acetabular defects under the condition of achievement of primary stability. Applied morselized bone allografts have a good potential for osteointegration and remodeling. The rectangular stem is suitable for the treatment of defects extending as far as 5 cm below the level of lesser trochanter. Bone cement was extracted from fenestration, transfemoral approach was not required in any of the patients. Even with the use of SLR (revision) stem we did not transfer fixation of the femoral component to the lower half of femur.