Predictors of mortality one year after pelvic fractures in an older population: a retrospective cohort study.

The goal was to investigate if patient characteristics can be used to predict 1-year post-fracture mortality after pelvic fracture. Multivariate logistic regression identified male gender, comorbidities and presence of in-hospital complications as predictors of 1-year mortality. PURPOSE: Osteoporotic pelvic fractures have significant mortality and morbidity in the older population. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors predicting one-year mortality of patients sustaining a low-impact pelvic fracture (pelvic ring and acetabulum). METHODS: A total of 282 patients aged ≥ 65 years presenting with a low-energy pelvic ring (n =254) or acetabular (n =28) fracture to the emergency department at the University Hospitals Leuven were included. Demographic and clinical data were retrospectively collected and predictors for mortality one year after pelvic ring fractures were evaluated. RESULTS: The one-year mortality after osteoporotic pelvic ring fractures and acetabular fractures was respectively 20.4% (95% CI 15.7-26.0) and 14% (95% CI 4.0-32.7). Multivariate logistic regression adjusted for confounders identified male gender (OR 3.18; 95% CI (1.06-9.49), p =0.038), a higher number of comorbidities (OR 1.5; 95% CI (1.16-1.95), p =0.002) and in-hospital complications (OR 5.00; 95% CI (1.39-17.97), p =0.014) as independent predictors of one-year mortality after pelvic ring fractures. CONCLUSION: The one-year mortality after low-energy pelvic is high and can be predicted by different patient characteristics. These findings can guide pelvis fracture treatment decisions in the older population.

From research to daily clinical practice: implementation of orthogeriatric co-management in the trauma ward.

Introduction: Evidence strongly suggests that orthogeriatric co-management improves patient outcomes in frail older patients with a fracture, but evidence regarding how to implement this model of care in daily clinical practice is scarce. In this paper, we first describe the implementation process and selection of implementation strategies for an orthogeriatric co-management program in the traumatology ward of the University Hospitals Leuven in Belgium. Second, we report the results of a multi-method feasibility study. This study (1) measures the fidelity towards the program's core components, (2) quantifies the perceived feasibility and acceptability by the healthcare professionals, and (3) defines implementation determinants. Methods: Implementation strategies were operationalized based on the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) guidelines. In the feasibility study, fidelity towards the core components of the program was measured in a group of 15 patients aged 75 years and over by using electronic health records. Feasibility and acceptability as perceived by the involved healthcare professionals was measured using a 15-question survey with a 5-point Likert scale. Implementation determinants were mapped thematically based on seven focus group discussions and two semi-structured interviews by focusing on the healthcare professionals' experiences. Results: We observed low fidelity towards completion of a screening questionnaire to map the premorbid situation (13%), but high fidelity towards the other program core components: multidimensional evaluation (100%), development of an individual care plan (100%), and systematic follow-up (80%). Of the 50 survey respondents, 94% accepted the program and 62% perceived it as feasible. Important implementation determinants were feasibility, awareness and familiarity, and improved communication between healthcare professionals that positively influenced program adherence. Conclusions: Fidelity, acceptability, and feasibility of an orthogeriatric co-management program were high as a result of an iterative process of selecting implementation strategies with intensive stakeholder involvement from the beginning. Clinical trial registration: [https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN20491828], International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) Registry: [ISRCTN20491828]. Registered on October 11, 2021.

Dance Around the Fibula with a Twisted Plate: A Technical Note.

Nowadays, there is a better understanding of the role of the posterior malleolar fragment in trimalleolar ankle fractures. Not fragment size, but rather fragment morphology should guide the management of the posterior malleolar fracture (PMF). Anatomical reduction and fixation of the PMF is important, as an intra-articular step-off will eventually lead to osteoarthritis. Incongruency of the incisura fibularis tibia is associated with fibular dislocation, syndesmotic insufficiency, and poor functional outcomes. Open reduction and internal fixation through a posterior approach leads to ankle joint mobility restriction (i.e., dorsal flexion deficiency) due to arthrofibrosis of the ankle joint, fibrous adhesions and secondary shortening of the flexor muscles. In this technical note, we describe a surgical technique to fixate unstable ankle fractures with a combined PMF and a high supra-syndesmotic fibular fracture through two small surgical windows using a twisted one-third tubular plate. By reducing the size of the posterolateral window, fibrous adhesions and secondary flexor muscle shortening are diminished, favoring ankle joint mobility.

Treatment and outcome of fracture-related infection of the clavicle.

INTRODUCTION: The number of operatively treated clavicle fractures has increased over the past decades. Consequently, this has led to an increase in secondary procedures required to treat complications such as fracture-related infection (FRI). The primary objective of this study was to assess the clinical and functional outcome of patients treated for FRI of the clavicle. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the healthcare costs and propose a standardized protocol for the surgical management of this complication. METHODS: All patients with a clavicle fracture who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) between 1 January 2015 and 1 March 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. This study included patients with an FRI who were diagnosed and treated according to the recommendations of a multidisciplinary team at the University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium. RESULTS: We evaluated 626 patients with 630 clavicle fractures who underwent ORIF. In total, 28 patients were diagnosed with an FRI. Of these, eight (29%) underwent definitive implant removal, five (18%) underwent debridement, antimicrobial treatment and implant retention, and fourteen patients (50%) had their implant exchanged in either a single-stage procedure, a two-stage procedure or after multiple revisions. One patient (3.6%) underwent resection of the clavicle. Twelve patients (43%) underwent autologous bone grafting (tricortical iliac crest bone graft (n = 6), free vascularized fibular graft (n = 5), cancellous bone graft (n = 1)) to reconstruct the bone defect. The median follow-up was 32.3 (P25-P75: 23.9-51.1) months. Two patients (7.1%) experienced a recurrence of infection. The functional outcome was satisfactory, with 26 out of 28 patients (93%) having full range of motion. The median healthcare cost was € 11.506 (P25-P75: € 7.953-23.798) per patient. CONCLUSION: FRI is a serious complication that can occur after the surgical treatment of clavicle fractures. In our opinion, when treated adequately using a multidisciplinary patient-specific approach, the outcome of patients with an FRI of the clavicle is good. The median healthcare costs of these patients are up to 3.5 times higher compared to non-infected operatively treated clavicle fractures. Although not studied individually, we consider factors such as the size of the bone defect, condition of the soft tissue, and patient demand important when it comes to guiding our surgical decision making in cases of osseous defects.

3D-validation of a simple tool to measure tibiofemoral axial rotation in tibial plateau fractures.

OBJECTIVES: Rotated tibial plateau fractures (TPF) frequently involve multiple planes of movement, yet current presurgical assessment methods do not account for tibiofemoral axial rotation. This study introduces and validates a simple tool to measure rotation-the Gerdy-Tibial-Tuberosity-Surgical-Epicondylar-Axis (GTT-SEA) angle. METHODS: Forty-seven preoperative 2D CT from a TPF database at a tertiary trauma center were retrieved, and 3D models reconstructed. Three observers made repeated 2D and 3D measurements of the GTT-SEA angle, spaced 4 weeks apart, for 20 patients. Inter- and intra-observer agreement and 2D-3D correlation were calculated. A reference angle was defined from non-operated patients, to classify 28 patients with MRI into neutral, external rotation, and internal rotation groups. The classification agreement and soft tissue involvement between groups were analyzed. RESULTS: Mean 2D GTT-SEA angle was 17.65 ± 2.36° in non-operated patients, and 13.86 ± 3.90° in operated patients. 3D GTT-SEA angle was 18.92 ± 4.53° in non-operated patients, and 14.76 ± 6.03° in operated patients. 2D-3D correlation was moderate to good (ICC 0.64 ~ 0.83). Two-dimensional (ICC 0.70) and 3D (ICC 0.55) inter-observer agreements were moderate; 2D (ICC 0.82 ~ 0.88) and 3D (ICC 0.76 ~ 0.95) intra-observer agreements were good to excellent. Rotation classification agreement was slight (kappa 0.17) for 2D and good (kappa 0.76) for 3D. More popliteofibular ligament injury was detected in rotated knees (p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: The GTT-SEA angle offers simple, accessible, yet reliable measurement of tibiofemoral axial rotation. Though a true reference range remains to be determined, this tool adds valuable information to existing TPF classifications, potentially allowing assessment of soft tissue involvement in TPF. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The GTT-SEA angle will benefit patients who sustain tibial plateau fractures, by allowing physicians to more accurately measure and plan for the injury in 3D, and raising suspicion for otherwise undetected soft tissue injuries, which can impact operative outcomes. KEY POINTS: • Traumatic fractures of the tibial plateau may contain rotation-induced soft tissue injuries. • A new tool to measure axial rotation between the femur and tibia was found to have moderate to excellent inter- and intra-rater reliability. • The tool may have potential in predicting soft tissue injury and assisting with the decision to receive MRI.

Navigation assisted removal of a broken cannulated sacroiliac screw: A technical note.

Non-union of displaced pelvic ring injuries are challenging to treat. In cases where a previous osteosynthesis has failed it can be challenging to remove the previous implant. This technical note presents a technique for the removal of a broken SI screw in the sacrum. It is a navigation assisted technique that allows for minimal invasive screw remnant removal so that the sacral corridors remain available for later reconstruction.

Continuous Shoulder Activity Tracking after Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Proximal Humerus Fractures.

Postoperative shoulder activity after proximal humerus fracture treatment could influence the outcomes of osteosynthesis and may depend on the rehabilitation protocol. This multi-centric prospective study aimed at evaluating the feasibility of continuous shoulder activity monitoring over the first six postoperative weeks, investigating potential differences between two different rehabilitation protocols. Shoulder activity was assessed with pairs of accelerometer-based trackers during the first six postoperative weeks in thirteen elderly patients having a complex proximal humerus fracture treated with a locking plate. Shoulder angles and elevation events were evaluated over time and compared between the two centers utilizing different standard rehabilitation protocols. The overall mean shoulder angle ranged from 11° to 23°, and the number of daily elevation events was between 547 and 5756. Average angles showed longitudinal change <5° over 31 ± 10 days. The number of events increased by 300% on average. Results of the two clinics exhibited no characteristic differences for shoulder angle, but the number of events increased only for the site utilizing immediate mobilization. In addition to considerable inter-patient variation, not the mean shoulder angle but the number of elevations events increased markedly over time. Differences between the two sites in number of daily events may be associated with the different rehabilitation protocols.

Tibial plateau fractures in Belgium: epidemiology, financial burden and costs curbing strategies.

PURPOSE: We describe the incidence of tibial plateau fractures and the evolution of its management and financial burden in Belgium, perform a similar audit at University Hospitals Leuven, and define strategies to curb the increasing cost. METHODS: National data on tibial plateau fractures were collected from the NIHDI and compared to our performance. Several clinical parameters, such as age, sex, treatment modality and length-of-stay, were included. The total healthcare costs are considered as the sum of hospitalization costs and ambulatory care costs. RESULTS: Between 2006 and 2018, a total number of 35,226 tibial plateau fractures were diagnosed in Belgium and 861 at our center. The incidence increased 41% over time (mean 25/100,000 persons per year). The mean rate of surgery in Belgium was 37% and slightly decreased over time, due to a larger increase of non-operatively treated tibial plateau fractures. The rate of surgery at the UHL was 49%. Surprisingly, the average cost per patient was equal for operatively and non-operatively treated patients in Belgium, and driven by the length-of stay. CONCLUSION: Since length-of-stay is the main driver of the total healthcare costs of tibial plateau fractures, guidelines on appropriate length-of-stay can help to decrease variability and curb the total healthcare costs, particularly of the non-operatively treated patients. Our performance was in line with this. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Proximal humeral fracture osteosynthesis in Belgium: a retrospective population-based epidemiologic study.

PURPOSE: Proximal humeral fractures (PHF) comprise approximately five percent of all fractures and this percentage will continue to increase due to the aging population with accompanying osteoporosis. Most PHF can be treated conservatively; however, in displaced fractures, surgical treatment is recommended. Retrospective analyses of large groups or even populations are important as they can contribute to the needs of the community. The aim of this study was to assess the epidemiology and management of PHF fixation in Belgium based on the most recently available data from the last 5 years. METHODS: The governmental organization National Institute of Health and Disability Insurance provided a population-based database with all PHF treated surgically or nonoperatively. This database was retrospectively assessed. The data included age, sex, region of residence, year and treatment strategy for every patient. Healthcare expenses were also provided. RESULTS: A total of 62,290 PHF were identified in Belgium between 2014 and 2018. The incidence was 111 per 100,000 persons/year. The highest incidence was observed in females and people older than 80 years. The average proportion of osteosynthesis was calculated at 21%. The Belgian government spent on average more than two million euros each year on PHF treatment. CONCLUSION: The overall incidence of PHF increased by 12% over the last 5 years. The majority were treated nonoperatively in Belgium.

Plate fixation of the anterior pelvic ring in patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis.

INTRODUCTION: In fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP), fractures of the posterior pelvic ring are nearly always combined with fractures of the anterior pelvic ring. When a surgical stabilization of the posterior pelvis is performed, a stabilization of the anterior pelvis is recommended as well. In this study, we aim at finding out whether conventional plate osteosynthesis is a valid option in patients with osteoporotic bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed medical charts and radiographs of all patients with a FFP, who underwent a plate osteosynthesis of the anterior pelvic ring between 2009 and 2019. Patient demographics, fracture characteristics, properties of the osteosynthesis, complications and revision surgeries were documented. Single plate osteosynthesis (SPO) at the pelvic brim was compared with double plate osteosynthesis (DPO) with one plate at the pelvic brim and one plate anteriorly. We hypothesized that the number and severity of screw loosening (SL) or plate breakage in DPO are lower than in SPO. RESULTS: 48 patients with a mean age of 76.8 years were reviewed. In 37 cases, SPO was performed, in 11 cases DPO. Eight out of 11 DPO were performed in patients with FFP type III or FFP type IV. We performed significantly more DPO when the instability was located at the level of the pubic symphysis (p = 0.025). More patients with a chronic FFP (surgery more than one month after diagnosis) were treated with DPO (p = 0.07). Infra-acetabular screws were more often inserted in DPO (p = 0.056). Screw loosening (SL) was seen in the superior plate in 45% of patients. There was no SL in the anterior plate. There was SL in 19 of 37 patients with SPO and in 3 of 11 patients with DPO (p = 0.16). SL was localized near to the pubic symphysis in 19 of 22 patients after SPO and in all three patients after DPO. There was no SL in DPO within the first month postoperatively. We performed revision osteosynthesis in six patients (6/48), all belonged to the SPO group (6/37). The presence of a bone defect, unilateral or bilateral anterior pelvic ring fracture, post-operative weight-bearing restrictions, osteosynthesis of the posterior pelvic ring, and the presence of infra- or supra-acetabular screws did not significantly influence screw loosening in SPO or DPO. CONCLUSION: There is a high rate of SL in plate fixation of the anterior pelvic ring in FFP. In the vast majority, SL is located near to the pubic symphysis. DPO is associated with a lower rate of SL, less severe SL and a later onset of SL. Revision surgery is less likely in DPO. In FFP, we recommend DPO instead of SPO for fixation of fractures of the anterior pelvic ring, which are located in or near to the pubic symphysis.

Epidemiology and secular trends of pelvic fractures in Belgium: A retrospective, population-based, nationwide observational study.

INTRODUCTION: Fractures of the pelvis and acetabulum are associated with osteoporosis, and their incidence is rising in older adults. In the last decade an increasing number of these fractures are being operated in older patients in certain regions. The goal of this study was to describe the incidence of pelvic and acetabular fractures in Belgium between 1988 and 2018. MATERIALS & METHODS: This retrospective, nationwide, population-based study was conducted with the help of the national health insurance database from the Belgian National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (NIHDI-RIZIV-INAMI). Multiple codes for the reimbursement of the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic and acetabular fractures were collated and (since 2006) linked to the patients' age group, sex and region. RESULTS: Between 1988 and 2018, 91.317 pelvic and acetabular fractures were diagnosed. The overall incidence increased from 15,8/100.000 persons per year in 1988 to 29,7/100.000 persons per year in 2006 and to 37,6/100.000 persons per year in 2018. These fractures showed a bimodal incidence, with a small peak in children (particularly boys), and an increasing incidence in older adults, particularly in women. Between 2006 and 2018, 5.957 (12,4%) patients underwent surgical treatment for their pelvic fracture. 2.088 patients underwent an osteosynthesis of the acetabulum and 3869 patients underwent an osteosynthesis of the pelvic ring. There were 3622 osteosynthesises (60.8%) in patients younger than 60 years old and 2335 (39,1%) in patients over 60 years old. CONCLUSION: There is an increasing incidence of pelvic and acetabular fractures in Belgium with the majority of these fractures occurring in older people. Younger adults have the highest proportion of surgical treatment, but given the much higher incidence in older adults, there is a considerable amount of operations in older adults too.

Planning acetabular fracture reduction using a patient-specific biomechanical model: a prospective and comparative clinical study.

PURPOSE: A simple, patient-specific biomechanical model (PSBM) is proposed in which the main surgical tools and actions can be simulated, which enables clinicians to evaluate different strategies for an optimal surgical planning. A prospective and comparative clinical study was performed to assess early clinical and radiological results. METHODS: From January 2019 to July 2019, a PSBM was created for every operated acetabular fracture (simulation group). DICOM data were extracted from the pre-operative high-resolution CT scans to build a 3D model of the fracture using segmentation methods. A PSBM was implemented in a custom software allowing a biomechanical simulation of the surgery in terms of reduction sequences. From July 2019 to December 2019, every patient with an operated for acetabular fracture without PSBM was included in the standard group. Surgery duration, blood loss, radiological results and per-operative complications were recorded and compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients were included, 10 in the simulation group and 12 in the standard group. The two groups were comparable regarding age, time to surgery, fracture pattern distribution and surgical approaches. The mean operative time was significantly lower in the simulation group: 113 min ± 33 (60-180) versus 184 ± 58 (90-260), p = 0.04. The mean blood loss was significantly lower in the simulation group, p = 0.01. No statistical significant differences were found regarding radiological results (p = 0.16). No per-operative complications were recorded. CONCLUSION: This study confirms that pre-operative planning in acetabular surgery based on a PSBM results in a shorter operative time and a reduction of blood loss during surgery. This study also confirms the feasibility of PSBM planning in daily clinical routine. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II: prospective study.

Healthcare utilization and related cost of midshaft clavicle fracture treatment in Belgium.

INTRODUCTION: The debate regarding the economic impact and cost effectiveness of surgical midshaft clavicle fracture treatment is ongoing. Variations exist between healthcare systems in terms of financing, provider payment mechanism and the role of the government in all of this. Therefore, the primary aim of our study was to describe the in-hospital-related healthcare costs associated with midshaft clavicle fracture treatment in Belgium. The secondary aim was to define those clinical variables that drive the costs related to surgically treated clavicle fractures and define strategies that could reduce these costs. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 345 patients with a midshaft clavicle fracture were included in the study. We selected 17 clinical variables and 5 cost categories were defined. Three multivariate linear models were built to determine which parameters drive the costs. RESULTS: The median total healthcare cost for non-operatively treated patients was €367 and the median total cost for operatively treated patients was €3296. The length-of-stay was the most important variable that predicted the total cost. The clinical variables Number of fracture fragments, Delayed Stage Surgery, Revision Surgery and Infection most influenced the length-of-stay. DISCUSSION: In conclusion, the initial healthcare utilization cost of operatively treated midshaft clavicle fractures is larger than that of non-operatively treated fractures. The length-of-stay is the most important parameter that drives the cost and is predominantly influenced by patients' age, fracture complexity and complications requiring a surgical re-intervention. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Single stage reconstruction of a neglected open book pelvic injury with bladder herniation into the upper thigh: a case-report.

When open-book injuries are neglected and result into a pelvic malunion or nonunion, long-term problems, such as chronic pain, gait abnormalities, sitting discomfort, neurological symptoms and urogenital symptoms can occur. In this case report, we describe the repair of a neglected pelvic disruption with the dislocation of the urinary bladder in a one-stage procedure. The clinical image with which the patient presented could be split into unique sub-problems, for which separate solutions needed to be chosen: large symphysis diastasis, instability and pain in both SI joints, malunion of the superior and inferior pubic rami fractures; and urinary bladder herniation into the upper thigh. In a single-stage procedure, the pelvic ring was reconstructed and the bladder reduced. The patient was thereafter continent for urine and could walk independently. A complex clinical problem was divided into its sub-problems, for which specific solutions were found.

Medial buttressing of the quadrilateral surface in acetabular and periprosthetic acetabular fractures.

BACKGROUND: In geriatric acetabular fractures, the quadrilateral plate is often involved in the fracture pattern and medially displaced. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) includes reduction of the quadrilateral plate and securing its position. In this study, the concept of medial buttressing in acute and periprosthetic acetabular fractures is evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients, who sustained an acetabular fracture between 2012 and 2018, in whom ORIF with a specific implant for medial buttressing was performed, were included in the study. Patients were divided in two groups; acute acetabular fractures (group 1) and periprosthetic acetabular fractures (group 2). Demographics, type of fracture, surgical approach, type of implant for medial buttressing, comorbidities, general and surgical in-hospital complications and length of hospital stay were recorded retrospectively. The following data were collected from the surviving patients by telephone interview: EQ-5D-5L, SF-8 physical and SF-8 mental before trauma and at follow-up, UCLA activity scale, Parker Mobility Score and Numeric Rating Scale. RESULTS: Forty-six patients were included in this study, 30 males (65.2%) and 16 females (34.8%). Forty patients were included group 1 and six patients in group 2. The median age of patients of group 1 was 78 years. Among them, 82.5% presented with comorbidities. Their median length of in-hospital stay was 20.5 days. 57.5% of patients suffered from in-hospital complications. The concept of medial buttressing was successful in all but one patient. ORIF together with primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) was carried out as a single stage procedure in 3 patients. Secondary THA was performed in 5 additional patients (5/37 = 13.5%) within the observation period. Among surviving patients, 79.2% were evaluated after 3 years of follow-up. Quality of life, activity level and mobility dropped importantly and were lower than the values of a German reference population. SF-8 mental did not change. The median age of patients of group 2 was 79.5 years, all of them presented with one or several comorbidities. The median length of in-hospital stay was 18.5 days. 50% of patients suffered from in-hospital complications. The concept of medial buttressing was successful in all patients. 5 of 6 patients (83.3%) could be evaluated after a median of 136 weeks. In none of these patients, secondary surgery was necessary. Quality of life, activity level and mobility importantly dropped as well in this group. SF-8 mental remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: In geriatric acetabular fractures with involvement and medial displacement of the quadrilateral plate, medial buttressing as part of ORIF proved to be reliable. Only 13.5% of patients of group 1 needed a secondary THA within 3 years of follow-up, which is lower than in comparable studies. Despite successful surgery, quality of life, activity level and mobility dropped importantly in all patients. The loss of independence did however not influence SF-8 mental values.

Isolated Pubic Ramus Fractures Are Serious Adverse Events for Elderly Persons: An Observational Study on 138 Patients with Fragility Fractures of the Pelvis Type I (FFP Type I).

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the pubic ramus without involvement of the posterior pelvic ring represent a minority of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP). The natural history of patients suffering this FFP Type I has not been described so far. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients, who were admitted with isolated pubic ramus fractures between 2007 and mid-2018, have been reviewed. Epidemiologic data, comorbidities, in-hospital complications, and one-year mortality were recorded. Of all surviving patients, living condition before the fracture and at follow-up was noted. Mobility was scored with the Parker Mobility Score, quality of life with the European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level (EQ-5D-3L), subjective sensation of pain with the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). RESULTS: A consecutive series of 138 patients was included in the study. There were 117 women (84.8%) and 21 men (15.2%). Mean age was 80.6 years (SD 8.6 years). 89.1% of patients presented with comorbidities, 81.2% of them had cardiovascular diseases. Five patients (4%) died during hospital-stay. Median in-hospital stay was eight days (2-45 days). There were in-hospital complications in 16.5%, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia being the most frequent. One-year mortality was 16.7%. Reference values for the normal population of the same age are 5.9% for men and 4.0% for women. One-year mortality rate was 22.2% in the patient group of 80 years or above and 8.8% in the patient group below the age of 80. The rate of surviving patients living at home with or without assistance dropped from 80.5% to 65.3%. The median EQ-5D-Index Value was 0.62 (0.04-1; IQR 0.5-0.78). Reference value for the normal population is 0.78. Average PMS was 4 and NRS 3. Within a two-year period, additional fragility fractures occurred in 21.2% and antiresorptive medication was taken by only 45.2% of patients. CONCLUSION: Pubic ramus fractures without involvement of the posterior pelvis (FFP Type I) are serious adverse events for elderly persons. During follow-up, there is an excess mortality, a loss of independence, a restricted mobility, and a decreased quality of life. Pubic ramus fractures are indicators for the need to optimize the patient's general condition.

Anatomical Variation of the Tibia - a Principal Component Analysis.

Conventional anatomically contoured plates do not adequately fit most tibiae. This emphasizes the need for a more thorough morphological study. Statistical shape models are promising tools to display anatomical variations within a population. Herein, we aim to provide a better insight into the anatomical variations of the tibia and tibia plateau. Seventy-nine CT scans of tibiae were segmented, and a principal component analysis was performed. Five morphologically important parameters were measured on the 3D models of the mean tibial shapes as well as the -3SD and +3 SD tibial shapes of the first five components. Longer, wider tibiae are related to a more rounded course of the posterior column, a less prominent tip of the medial malleolus, and a more posteriorly directed fibular notch. Varus/valgus deformations and the angulation of the posterior tibia plateau represent only a small percentage of the total variation. Right and left tibiae are not always perfectly symmetrical, especially not at the level of the tibia plateau. The largest degree of anatomical variation of the tibia is found in its length and around the tibia plateau. Because of the large variation in the anatomy, a more patient-specific approach could improve implant fit, anatomical reduction, biomechanical stability and hardware-related complications.

Segmental Bone Loss of the Clavicle due to Fracture-Related Infection: A Multidisciplinary Challenge.

As the surgical treatment of clavicular fractures is increasingly utilized in orthopedics, the number of related complications rises as well. We present a case of segmental bone loss of the clavicle due to fracture-related infection. Treatment was based on a multidisciplinary team approach, which was important for a successful outcome.

Why off-the-shelf clavicle plates rarely fit: anatomic analysis of the clavicle through statistical shape modeling.

BACKGROUND: The clavicle presents a large variability in its characterizing sigmoid shape. Prominent and nonproperly fitting fixation plates (FP) cause soft tissue irritation and lead to hardware removal. It is therefore key in FP design to account for shape variations. Statistical shape models (SSMs) have been built to analyze a cluster of complex shapes. The goal of this study was to describe the anatomic variation of the clavicle using SSMs. METHODS: Two different SSMs of the clavicle were created, and their modes of variation were described. One model contained 120 left male and female clavicles. The other model consisted of 76 left and corresponding right clavicles, 41 originating from men and 35 from women. RESULTS: The model of 120 left clavicles showed that 10 modes of variation are necessary to explain 95% of the variation. The most important modes of variation are the clavicle length, inferior-superior bow, and medial and lateral curvature. Statistically significant differences between male and female clavicles were seen in length, sigmoid shape, and medial curvature. Comparison in men between left and right revealed significant differences in length and medial curvature. For women, a statistically significant difference between left and right was only seen in the length. CONCLUSIONS: Although the operative treatment of displaced midshaft clavicular fractures has clear benefits, the variable anatomy of the clavicle often makes it challenging for the surgeon to make the plate fit adequately. Based on the identified variability in the clavicle's anatomy, it seems unlikely that a clavicle plating system can fit the entire population.