Comparison of the popliteal artery and the capsule of the posterior knee (IPACK) block and the genicular nerve block in primary total knee arthroplasty: A prospective randomized trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy of genicular block and interspace between the popliteal artery and the posterior capsule (IPACK) block in the reduction of postoperative pain, the need for rescue analgesics, and the effects on a range of motion (ROM) in patients with TKA. METHODS: This prospective randomized controlled study was carried out between February and May 2023. Based on the block method, 60 participants were divided into three equal groups. These groups included the IPACK block group (n=20), the genicular block group (n=20), and control group (n=20). Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), Knee Society score (KSS) and Oxford Knee score (OKS) were used for clinical evaluation in the postoperative period. RESULTS: The KSS and OKS scores of the IPACK and GNB were significantly lower than the control group (p<0.001, p<0.001). The timed up and go (TUG) values of the IPACK and GNB groups at 12th and 24th hour were significantly lower than the control group (p<0.001, p<0.001). The Tramadol rescue values of the IPACK block and control groups were significantly higher than the GNB group (p=0.028, p=0.001, respectively). The ROM values of the IPACK and GNB groups were significantly higher than the control group (p<0.001, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Both GNB and IPACK blocks had a significant positive impact on postoperative pain scores within the initial 24 hours following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In comparison with IPACK, GNB had lower opioid consumption in the early postoperative period while also promoting better mobilization.

In Situ Design of a Nanostructured Interface between NiMo and CuO Derived from Metal-Organic Framework for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Solutions.

Hydrogen shows great promise as a carbon-neutral energy carrier that can significantly mitigate global energy challenges, offering a sustainable solution. Exploring catalysts that are highly efficient, cost-effective, and stable for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) holds crucial importance. For this, metal-organic framework (MOF) materials have demonstrated extensive applicability as either a heterogeneous catalyst or catalyst precursor. Herein, a nanostructured interface between NiMo/CuO@C derived from Cu-MOF was designed and developed on nickel foam (NF) as a competent HER electrocatalyst in alkaline media. The catalyst exhibited a low overpotential of 85 mV at 10 mA cm-2 that rivals that of Pt/C (83 mV @ 10 mA cm-2). Moreover, the catalyst's durability was measured through chronopotentiometry at a constant current density of -30, -100, and -200 mA cm-2 for 50 h each in 1.0 M KOH. Such enhanced electrocatalytic performance could be ascribed to the presence of highly conductive C and Cu species, the facilitated electron transfer between the components because of the nanostructured interface, and abundant active sites as a result of multiple oxidation states. The existence of an ionized oxygen vacancy (Ov) signal was confirmed in all heat-treated samples through electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. This revelation sheds light on the entrapment of electrons in various environments, primarily associated with the underlying defect structures, particularly vacancies. These trapped electrons play a crucial role in augmenting electron conductivity, thereby contributing to an elevated HER performance.

TIBIOCALCANEAL ARTHRODESIS: A COMPARISON OF ANTERIOR APPROACH AND TRANSFIBULAR APPROACH.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results and complications of patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis performed by the transfibular approach and anterior approach in end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. Methods: Between 2016 and 2022, 41 patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria for this retrospective comparative analysis were included. Of them, 19 patients are included in the anterior approach group and 22 patients are included in the transfibular approach group. The mean age of the participants is 58.9 years. Collected data included the BMI, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scale, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, diabetes, smoking, time to fusion, nonunion, union rate, preoperative and postoperative coronal tibiotalar angle and complications. Result: The mean time to bone union was 14.3 weeks (range 11-17 weeks) in the anterior approach group, and 11.3 weeks in the transfibular approach group. Statistically significant difference was found between the two groups. Nonunion occurred in one case in the transfibular approach group and three cases in the anterior approach group. There was no significant difference in the nonunion rate between the both groups (p = 0.321). VAS score, and AOFAS score of the two groups were similar and no significant differences were found (p = 0.491, p = 0.448, p = 0.146, p = 0.073, p = 0.173, p = 0.506, respectively). Conclusions: A stable and firm ankle arthrodesis and plantigrade foot can be achieved with both transfibular approach and anterior approach technique. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados clínicos e radiológicos e as complicações de pacientes submetidos à artrodese de tornozelo realizada por abordagem transfibular e abordagem anterior em fase terminal de osteoartrite de tornozelo. Métodos: Foram incluídos 41 pacientes atendidos entre 2016 e 2022 que satisfizeram os critérios de inclusão para esta análise comparativa retrospectiva. Destes, 19 incluídos no grupo de abordagem anterior e 22 no grupo de abordagem transfibular. A média de idade foi de 58,9 anos. Os dados coletados incluíram o índice de massa corporal (IMC), a escala de retropé da American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), o escore da escala visual analógica (EVA), assim como a presença de diabetes, tabagismo, tempo de fusão, não união, taxa de união, ângulo tibiotalar coronal pré e pós-operatório e complicações. Resultado: O tempo médio de consolidação óssea foi de 14,3 semanas (variação de 11 a 17 semanas) no grupo de abordagem anterior e 11,3 semanas no grupo de abordagem transfibular. Foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos. A consolidação não ocorreu em um caso no grupo de abordagem transfibular e em três casos no grupo de abordagem anterior. Não houve diferença significativa na taxa de não consolidação entre os dois grupos (p = 0,321). Os escores nas escalas EVA e AOFAS dos dois grupos foram semelhantes, não sendo encontradas diferenças significativas (p = 0,491, p = 0,448, p = 0,146, p = 0,073, p = 0,173, p = 0,506, respectivamente). Conclusões: Uma artrodese estável e firme do tornozelo e um pé plantígrado podem ser obtidos tanto com a abordagem transfibular quanto com a técnica de abordagem anterior. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Comparativo Retrospectivo.

PROPSEA, safety evaluation of palbociclib and ribociclib in older patients with breast cancer: A prospective real-world TOG study.

INTRODUCTION: In this study, the toxicities and management of palbociclib and ribociclib in older patients (≥65 years) with metastatic breast cancer patients were investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Among older patients receiving palbociclib and ribociclib, Geriatric 8 (G8) and Groningen Frailty Index were used to evaluate frailty status. Dose modifications, drug withdrawal and other serious adverse events (SAEs) were recorded and analyzed according to baseline patient characteristics. RESULTS: A total of 160 patients from 28 centers in Turkey were included (palbociclib = 76, ribociclib = 84). Forty-three patients were ≥ 75 years of age. The most common cause of first dose modification was neutropenia for both drugs (97% palbociclib, 69% ribociclib). Liver function tests elevation (10%) and renal function impairment (6%) were also causes for ribociclib dose modification. Drug withdrawal rate was 3.9% for palbociclib and 6% for ribociclib. SAEs were seen in 11.8% of those taking palbociclib and 15.5% of those on riboclib. An ECOG performance status of ≥2 and being older than 75 years were associated with dose reductions. Severe neutropenia was more common in patients with non-bone-only metastatic disease, those receiving treatment third-line therapy or higher, coexistance of non-neutropenic hematological side effects (for ribociclib). Neutropenia was less common among patients with obesity. DISCUSSION: Our results show that it can be reasonable to start palbociclib and ribociclib at reduced dose in patients aged ≥75 years and/or with an ECOG performance status ≥2.

Acetabular fractures from Judet and Letournel to the present: Research trends and global outcomes with bibliometric analysis during 1980 to 2022.

Fractures of the acetabulum are one of the most challenging injuries treated by orthopedic surgeons. However, a bibliometric analysis has not been performed in the literature on acetabular fractures, which seriously affect the quality of life of patients. The aim of this study was to summarize the bibliometric and intellectual structure, and determine and map the most recent trends on the topic of acetabular fractures by analyzing the social and structural relationships between the different research components of articles published on the acetabular fractures. 1599 articles on acetabular fractures published between 1980 and 2022 were extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) database and analyzed. Bibliometric visualization maps were used to reveal trending topics, citation analyses, and international collaborations. Spearman correlation analysis was performed for correlation investigations. The trend in the expected number of articles to be published over the next few years was displayed using the exponential smoothing estimator. The top 3 contributing countries to the literature were United States of America (USA) (551, 34.4%), China (170, 10.6%), and Germany (160, 10%). The most active author was Berton R. Moed (n = 29) and the most active institution was the University of California System (n = 41). A high-level statistically significant correlation was found between the number of articles on the topic of acetabular fractures published by nations and the gross domestic product (GDP) and GDP per capita values of those countries (R = 0.719, P < .001; R = 0.701, P < .001, respectively). The trending topics researched in recent years were 3D printing, 3-dimensional printing, outcomes, Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF), mortality, Kocher-Langenbeck, Pararectus approach, tranexamic acid, transfusion, epidemiology, fracture mapping, modified Stoppa approach, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, pelvis fracture, pelvic trauma, fracture reduction, and pelvic ring injury. The leading countries in research on the subject of acetabular fractures were seen to be western countries with large economies (especially the USA, European countries, and Canada) and China, India and Turkey.

Tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis: a comparison of anterior approach and transfibular approach / Artrodese tibiocalcaneana: comparação entre abordagem anterior e a abordagem transfibular

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results and complications of patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis performed by the transfibular approach and anterior approach in end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. Methods: Between 2016 and 2022, 41 patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria for this retrospective comparative analysis were included. Of them, 19 patients are included in the anterior approach group and 22 patients are included in the transfibular approach group. The mean age of the participants is 58.9 years. Collected data included the BMI, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scale, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, diabetes, smoking, time to fusion, nonunion, union rate, preoperative and postoperative coronal tibiotalar angle and complications. Result: The mean time to bone union was 14.3 weeks (range 11-17 weeks) in the anterior approach group, and 11.3 weeks in the transfibular approach group. Statistically significant difference was found between the two groups. Nonunion occurred in one case in the transfibular approach group and three cases in the anterior approach group. There was no significant difference in the nonunion rate between the both groups (p = 0.321). VAS score, and AOFAS score of the two groups were similar and no significant differences were found (p = 0.491, p = 0.448, p = 0.146, p = 0.073, p = 0.173, p = 0.506, respectively). Conclusions: A stable and firm ankle arthrodesis and plantigrade foot can be achieved with both transfibular approach and anterior approach technique. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados clínicos e radiológicos e as complicações de pacientes submetidos à artrodese de tornozelo realizada por abordagem transfibular e abordagem anterior em fase terminal de osteoartrite de tornozelo. Métodos: Foram incluídos 41 pacientes atendidos entre 2016 e 2022 que satisfizeram os critérios de inclusão para esta análise comparativa retrospectiva. Destes, 19 incluídos no grupo de abordagem anterior e 22 no grupo de abordagem transfibular. A média de idade foi de 58,9 anos. Os dados coletados incluíram o índice de massa corporal (IMC), a escala de retropé da American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), o escore da escala visual analógica (EVA), assim como a presença de diabetes, tabagismo, tempo de fusão, não união, taxa de união, ângulo tibiotalar coronal pré e pós-operatório e complicações. Resultado: O tempo médio de consolidação óssea foi de 14,3 semanas (variação de 11 a 17 semanas) no grupo de abordagem anterior e 11,3 semanas no grupo de abordagem transfibular. Foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos. A consolidação não ocorreu em um caso no grupo de abordagem transfibular e em três casos no grupo de abordagem anterior. Não houve diferença significativa na taxa de não consolidação entre os dois grupos (p = 0,321). Os escores nas escalas EVA e AOFAS dos dois grupos foram semelhantes, não sendo encontradas diferenças significativas (p = 0,491, p = 0,448, p = 0,146, p = 0,073, p = 0,173, p = 0,506, respectivamente). Conclusões: Uma artrodese estável e firme do tornozelo e um pé plantígrado podem ser obtidos tanto com a abordagem transfibular quanto com a técnica de abordagem anterior. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Comparativo Retrospectivo.

Comparison of the Hook Plate versus TightRope System in the Treatment of Acute Type III Acromioclavicular Dislocation.

Introduction: The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of the clavicular hook plate (HP) technique and the minimally invasive coracoclavicular (CC) fixation with a TightRope (MITR) procedure in treating acute unstable distal clavicle dislocation. Method: MITR (minimally invasive TightRope) group had 21 patients, and the open reduction and internal fixation (HP) group included 23 patients. Researchers compared MITR and HP (hook plate) outcomes for the treatment of acute type III AC joint dislocation in a retrospective analysis. The patients were followed up at 1 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Complications were analyzed such as redislocation, fractures, implant-related complications, or subacromial erosion. For the clinical outcomes, the visual analog scale (VAS) (0: no pain, 10: worst possible pain), Constant-Murley score (CMS) (100: no pain, 0: maximum pain), the average satisfaction score with their current shoulder function (range: 0-10), and the University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder score (UCLA) (>27 good/excellent <27 fair/poor) were recorded at the last follow-up. Result: There were 21 sufferers in the MITR group, which comprises 19 males and 2 females and 23 individuals in the HP group (20 men and 3 women), with average ages of 43.9 and 39.2, respectively. Age, sex, laterality, and the interval between injury and surgery did not significantly differ between the two groups (0.357, 0.792, 0.432, and 0.55, respectively). No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of the VAS score and CMS score at one year postoperatively. The mean CCD at the initial trauma and last follow-up was not significantly different between the MITR and HP groups (p=0.365, p=0.412 respectively). Conclusion: For treating acute type III AC dislocations, the minimally invasive TightRope (MITR) system and the hook plate technique were great options. However, the minimally invasive TightRope system showed further benefits such as reduced reoperation for implant removal and reduced risk of subacromial distal clavicle osteolysis.

Intratendinous Injection of Autologous Conditioned Serum for Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis of the Elbow: A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Autologous conditioned serum (ACS) has been effectively used in treatment of osteoarthritis. However, less is known about its efficacy in tendon disorders. In this pilot study, we aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of intratendinous injection of ACS in lateral epicondylitis (LE) of the elbow. METHODS: This prospective cohort included 42 patients with LE of the elbow who received 4 intratendinous injections of Orthokine® (Orthogen Lab Services GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany) under local anesthesia over 2 weeks in an outpatient setting. The clinical and functional outcomes of injections were evaluated at 3 months and 1 year after the procedure. Pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) and functional assessment was made using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Oxford Elbow Score (OES). RESULTS: The pre-injection VAS score (7.07±1.19) improved significantly after the procedure at both 3 months (3.55±0.56, P<0.001) and 1 year (1.73±0.82, P<0.001). Similarly, the mean MEPSs were significantly different between baseline and 3 months (56.42±7.51 vs. 79.76±3.81, P<0.001) and between baseline and 1 year (56.42±7.51 vs. 94.28±4.06, P<0.001). The baseline OESs (84.17±6.07) also improved with intratendinous injection of ACS at 3 months (41.96±9.23, P<0.001) and 1 year (7.43±4.31, P<0.001). Only six patients (14.2%) had mild ecchymosis and swelling around the injection site which resolved spontaneously. CONCLUSION: ACS is a promising option for treatment of LE of the elbow, given its early onset of pain-relieving action and longlasting functional effects. These findings await confirmation by large-scale and prospective trials.

Is Lever Test Superior to Lachman, Pivot Shift, Drawer Tests in Diagnosing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries?

INTRODUCTION: The physical examination in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries is extremely important, and the Lever test is commonly utilized on ACL evaluation. However, the number and scope of studies on the Lever test is limited. In this prospective cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the diagnostic values of Lachman, Pivot Shift, Lever, and Anterior Drawer tests in terms of quadriceps atrophy and case phase in ACL injuries. METHODS: In this prospective study, diagnostic values of Lachman, Pivot Shift, Lever, and Anterior Drawer tests were examined on 189 patients with positive MRI results as the gold standard. RESULTS: Lever test positivity was significantly more frequent in the group with quadriceps atrophy preoperative and after sedation (p<0.05). Anterior Drawer test positivity was significantly more frequent in the group with positive quadriceps atrophy preoperatively, after sedation and after spinal anesthesia (p<0.05). Lever and Anterior Drawer tests were positively correlated with quadriceps atrophy preop and after sedation (p<0.05). Lever test before surgery, after sedation and after spinal anesthesia in the chronic patient group was more positive than in the acute and subacute groups (p<0.05). Lever test was positively correlated with phase preoperatively, after sedation and after spinal anesthesia (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: The presence or absence of quadriceps atrophy in patients with acute, sub-acute, or chronic ACL injury has a significant effect on the predictive value of the Lever test. We think that univariate analyzes may give incorrect results when demonstrating predictive value, and it would be more correct to perform multivariate analyzes.

Treatment of Basicervical Femoral Fracture With Retractable Talon Hip Compression Screw.

Background Basicervical femoral fractures (BFFs) are rare and biomechanically unstable. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Talon™ DistalFix™ (Orthopedic Designs North America, Inc., Tampa, FL, USA) nail for the treatment of BFFs with a novel design. Methodology In this retrospective study, 25 patients with BFFs were analyzed between January 2016 and March 2020 at our institute. All patients were treated with the Talon™ DistalFix™ nail. Patients over the age of 60 years with basicervical fractures caused by low-energy trauma were included in this study. For inclusion into the study, the minimum follow-up time had to be longer than six months. The postoperative radiographic bone union, operative time, tip-apex distance (TAD), sliding distance of the lag screw, quality of fracture reduction, and major complications such as cut-out, non-union of the fracture, femoral head collapse, and cut-through were recorded. The Harris Hip Score was used to evaluate hip function at the end of the follow-up period. Results The mean follow-up period was 22 months (range, 16-28 months), and the mean age was 77.8 years (range, 61-91 years). The average sliding distance of the lag screw was 5.7 mm (range, 0.2-13.1 mm). The mean TAD of immediate postoperative view was 20.8 mm (range, 18.7-23.7 mm), and the TAD was <25 mm in all cases. Radiographic union was confirmed in most cases, and the average time for radiographic union was 18.8 weeks (range, 12-25 weeks). Most fractures (90.5%) had healed with no postoperative mechanical complications (cut-out, cut-thorough, or lateral wall fracture) at the final follow-up, except for two patients. One of the two patients had no evidence of union at six months, and mild varus reduction was observed in the other patient who had shortening of >10 mm. Conclusions According to the clinical and radiological findings of this study, treatment with the Talon™ DistalFix™ nail showed satisfactory results. Hence, it can be a suitable option in the treatment of BFFs.

Neuroendocrine Tumor of Tailgut Cyst with Unexpected Metastases / 대한핵의학회잡지

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) originate from the neuroendocrine cells, which are found in various organs. NETs occur frequently in the gastrointestinal tract. NETs arising from tailgut cysts are uncommon. We herein report an interesting case of metastatic tailgut cyst NET, which was firstly diagnosed as plasmacytoma.

ZnO and MXenes as electrode materials for supercapacitor devices.

Supercapacitor devices are interesting owing to their broad range of applicability from wearable electronics to energy storage in electric vehicles. One of the key parameters that affect the efficiency of supercapacitor devices is selecting the ideal electrode material for a specific application. Regarding this, recently developed metal oxides, specifically nanostructured ZnO, and MXenes with their defect structures, size effects, as well as optical and electronic properties have been presented as electrode material in supercapacitor devices. The discussion of MXenes along with ZnO, although different in chemistry, also highlights the differences in dimensionality when it comes to defect-driven effects, especially in carrier transport. The volume under the influence of the defect centers is expected to be different in bulk and 2D structures, regardless of composition. Hence, analysis and discussion of both materials provide a fundamental understanding regarding the manner in which 2D structures are impacted by defects compared to bulk. Such an approach would therefore serve the scientific community with the material design tools needed to fabricate the next generation of supercapacitor devices.

Blade expandable intramedullary nails for fixation of tibial shaft fractures.

This study is aimed to compare the clinical and radiological differences between classic locked intra- medullary nailing (LIN) and blade expandable intra- medullary nailing (BEIN) at tibia shaft fractures. Operation time, exposing of radiation time and fracture healing times were recorded. Pain visual anolog scale (VAS), shortening of tibia and angulation of fracture line were compared. All patients healed. In LIN group operation time, exposing of radiation time was longer (statistically significant). Because of shorter operation time and lower radiation exposure we recommend the BEIN technique as a preferable technique in tibia intramedullary nailing.

Use of Volar Locking Plate Versus Intramedullary Nailing for Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes.

BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of volar plate versus intramedullary nailing for fixation of distal radius fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study included 64 patients with extra-articular and simple intra-articular fractures of the distal radius who underwent intramedullary fixation using volar locking plate (n=35, mean age 47.3±16.4 years, 82.9% female) or intramedullary nailing (n=29, mean age 51.3±10.1 years, 58.6% female). Outcome measures were range of motion (ROM); visual analog scale (VAS); Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score; Gartland-Werley score; Stewart score; and radiographic findings. RESULTS Time to fracture union was 5.5±1.2 and 5.2±0.6 weeks after volar plate fixation and intramedullary nailing, respectively (p>0.05). Compared to volar plate fixation, intramedullary nailing provided better restoration of volar tilt (6.9±6.3° vs. 9.4±1.6°, p=0.004) and wrist flexion (74.3±15.1° vs. 67.9±13.1°, p=0.003). However, volar plate fixation was significantly better in restoration of supination (85.0±8.3° vs. 81.9±5.1°, p=0.001) and radio-ulnar variance (0.7±0.8 mm vs. 1.1±0.9 mm, p=0.05), DASH score (9.2± 9.0 vs. 15.0 ±3.3, p=0.035), and Gartland-Werley score (1.8±0.9 vs. 4.9±5.4, p=0.004). Volar plate and intramedullary nailing groups were comparable with respect to Stewart score (1.5±0.7 and 1.6±1.3, p>0.05) and complication rates (34.3% vs. 37.9%, p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Both volar plate fixation and intramedullary nail fixation provide good clinical and radiographic outcomes for primarily extra-articular or simple intra-articular distal radius fractures. As intramedullary nailing provides better restoration of volar tilt and wrist flexion, volar plate fixation provides better restoration of radio-ulnar variance and wrist supination.

Use of Different Methods of Intramedullary Nailing for Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes.

BACKGROUND We aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of using Sonoma WRx versus Micronail intramedullary nailing for the fixation of distal radius fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 68 patients with primarily extra-articular and simple intra-articular fractures of the distal radius who underwent intramedullary distal radius fixation using Sonoma WRx (n=39) or Micronail (n=29) intramedullary nails were enrolled in the study. The clinical outcome measures included the range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS), functional outcomes (patient-reported Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH] score and clinician-based Gartland-Werley score), radiographic scores (Stewart score), and parameters related to the quality of radiographic reduction and complications (radial inclination, volar tilt, radial height, and radio-ulnar variance). RESULTS Significantly higher DASH (15.0±3.3 vs. 8.3±1.5, p<0.001) and Gartland-Werley (4.9±5.4 vs. 2.9±4.2, p=0.029) scores, longer scopy time (21.0±3.9 min vs. 15.8±2.5 min, p<0.001), lower ROM for wrist extension (69.5±4.4° vs. 77.1±7.6°, p<0.001), higher ROM for wrist supination (81.9±5.1° vs. 78.7±3.1°, p<0.001), and higher complications rates (37.9% vs. 15.4%, p=0.034) were noted in the Micronail group compared to those in the Sonoma WRx group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed that Sonoma WRx and Micronail implants were equally effective and useful minimally invasive options for treating distal radius fractures. Further, we consider Sonoma WRx superior in terms of shorter operative time, lower complication rates, and better functional outcome scores.

Surgical treatment of displaced clavicle fractures with a novel intramedullary device; comparison of less-invasive versus standard technique.

This study compared the standard technique with a less invasive technique for implantation of Sonoma Crx device in patients with displaced clavicle fractures. Patients were randomly allocated into two treatment groups based on the planned surgical method; Group 1 patients (n = 36) received the standard method whereas group 2 patients (n = 35) received the less invasive method originally developed by our team. Follow-up information included radiographic data, quick-DASH scoring, range of motion measurement and Constant shoulder score. The time of operation (p < 0.001) and mean time of fluoroscopy were significantly shorter (p < 0.001) in Group 1 vs. to Group 2. The mean time of hospital stay was significantly longer in Group 1 vs. Group 2 (p = 0.01). The time until bony union was slightly longer in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (p = 0.01). Sonoma Crx device can safely be implanted through a medial single incision with closed reduction.

Prospective randomized study comparing results of fixation for clavicular shaft fractures with intramedullary nail or locking compression plate.

PURPOSE: To reveal whether minimal invasive implantation of a novel intramedullary device produces comparable outcomes with LCP fixation in patients with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. METHODS: A prospective randomized two-arm study was performed on patients presenting with Robinson type 2B1 and 2B2 displaced midshaft clavicle fractures with >2 cm shortening. In group 1 (n = 35, mean age; 42.02 ± 13.87) patients received minimal invasive intramedullary fixation with Sonoma Crx device (Sonoma, USA) whereas in group 2 (n = 40, mean age; 39.07 ± 7.04) patients received 3.5 mm locking compression plate (Synthes, USA). Functional assessment was made using range of motion measurement (ROM), constant shoulder score and DASH disability of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scoring. RESULTS: Mean time of operation was similar between the two groups (p = 0.46) whereas mean time of fluoroscopy was significantly longer in group 1 compared to group 2 (p < 0.001). At the 12 month follow-up, there was a slight but significant difference in ROM degrees between the two groups (p = 0.005). Mean quick DASH score was significantly lower in group 1 than that in group 2 (p < 0.001) whereas there was no significant difference in constant shoulder scores between the two groups (p = 0.06). Time to bony union was also shorter in group 1 compared to group 2 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Minimal invasive intramedullary implantation technique provided satisfactory clinical outcomes and shortened the time until bony union compared to LCP fixation. Further study on larger populations is required to establish whether the technique offers lower complication rates than LCP fixation.

Comparison between locked intramedullary nailing and anatomical locking plating in the treatment of displaced clavicular midshaft fractures.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the results of expandable flexible locked intramedullary nailing and anatomical locking plating in clavicular midshaft fractures. METHODS: Thirty-three patients (21 male, 12 female) who had displaced fractures and at least 2-cm shortening fixed with expandable flexible locked intramedullary nailing and 38 patients (24 male, 14 female) who underwent anatomical locking plating were recruited. Duration of surgery, incision size, duration of hospital stay, union time, and early and late complications were compared between the groups. Functional results were compared with Constant scoring system. RESULTS: Mean duration of surgery was 32.4±9.1 minutes (range: 20-42 minutes) in the nailing group and 54.1±11.9 minutes (range: 42-70 minutes) in the plating group. The incision was 4.1±0.9 cm (range: 3-5 cm) in the nailing group and 9.5±1.7 cm (range: 7-12 cm) in the plating group. Mean union time was 14.8 weeks (range: 10-24 weeks) in the nailing group and 21.3 weeks (range: 12-33 weeks) in the plating group. Mean duration of hospital stay was 3.6±1.1 days (range: 2-4 days) in the plating group, whereas it was 2.3±0.8 days (range: 1-3 days) in the nailing group. In the plating group, an average of 2.7-mm (range: 0-7 mm) shortening was determined in the clavicles that underwent surgery as compared to the intact clavicles, whereas shortening was 2.3 mm (range: 0-6 mm) in the nailing group. CONCLUSION: Expandable flexible locked intramedullary nailing can provide more successful outcomes than plating in displaced clavicular midshaft fractures, due to advantages such as shorter union time, lower complication rate, and better cosmetic outcomes.

Intramedullary repair device against volar plating in the reconstruction of extra-articular and simple articular distal radius fractures; a randomized pilot study.

PURPOSE: This prospective randomized pilot study reports our institutional experience and early results using Sonoma Wrx (Sonoma Orthopedic Products, Santa Rosa, CA) in the treatment of extra-articular and simple intra-articular distal radius fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 64 patients, were enrolled in the study. They were considered eligible if they had; unstable extra-articular distal radius fractures and simple intra-articular distal radius fractures suitable for closed reduction (AO types; A2.2, A2.3, A3.1 C2.1, C2.2). Patients in group I received intramedullary fixation using the Sonoma Wrx device and patients in group II received standard volar locking plate fixation. Radiographic criteria of acceptable healing were used for evaluation. RESULTS: Two groups were similar in terms of baseline characteristics. Mean time of operation was significantly shorter in Group 1 vs. in group 2 (36.81 ± 7.11 vs. 48.97 ± 5.9 minutes, p = 0.001). Time to healing of the fracture was not different between two groups (5.45 ± 1.09 vs. 5.70 ± 1.04 weeks for Group 1 vs. 2, respectively p = 0.36). Overall complications occurred in 9 patients in group 1 and in 15 patients in group 2 (p = 0.17). Follow-up was completed in all patients with a median time of 12 months and 13 months in group 1 and 2, respectively. On radiographic evaluation radial inclination, radial height and volar tilt were not significantly different between group 1 and 2, respectively. There were no significant differences between two groups in regard to wrist rotational degrees measured in last follow-up visit. CONCLUSION: Sonoma Wrx Device is reliable and effective in terms of achieving satisfactory outcomes in treatment of distal radius fractures. It may be reasonable to use this device to prevent complications that are related to extensive soft tissue dissection.

Color Doppler sonography examination of partially obstructed kidneys associated with ureteropelvic junction stone before and after percutaneous nephrolithotripsy: preliminary report.

AIM: To evaluate resistive index (RI) changes before and after unilateral percutaneous nephrolithotripsy in chronic partially obstructed kidneys due to ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) stones. METHODS: Intrarenal RI of obstructed and contralateral normal kidneys of 18 patients were recorded immediately before the operations and at postoperative days 1, 7 and 30. Postoperative RI measurements were compared with baseline values for all patients without grouping and separately for different groups according to the preoperative RI value of the obstructed kidney. RESULTS: Mean age and symptom duration were 27.5 years and 43.8 weeks, respectively. Preoperatively and at all postoperative controls, kidney diameters and renal parenchyma thicknesses were normal in all patients. Mean RI of obstructed kidneys decreased from 0.68 to 0.63 for all patients (P=0.032), from 0.64 to 0.63 for those with preoperative RI<0.70 (P=0.850) and from 0.73 to 0.62 for those with preoperative RI>or=0.70 (P=0.001). In patients with preoperative RI>or=0.70 in obstructed kidney, significant RI decreases were recorded at postoperative day 7 and RI differences between obstructed and contralateral kidneys disappeared after then. No difference was present pre- and postoperatively between the mean RI of obstructed and contralateral kidneys of the patients with RI<0.70. Mean RI of contralateral kidneys were normal preoperatively and showed no significant change postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative RI levels may indirectly reflect the presence of functionally significant obstruction in chronic obstructed kidneys related to UPJ stones. Patients with RI>or=0.70 may have a good indication for a surgical approach. Normalization of high RI occurs rapidly after percutaneous nephrolithotripsy.