Understanding limb necrotizing infections: A comprehensive approach.

INTRODUCTION: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI) are increasing, posing a significant risk of morbidity and mortality. Due to nonspecific symptoms, a high index of suspicion is crucial. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, with broad-spectrum antibiotics, early surgical debridement, and life support. This study analyzes the characteristics, demographics, complications, and treatment of NSTI in a hospital in Madrid, Spain. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted, including all surgically treated NSTI patients at our center from January 2016 to December 2022, examining epidemiological and clinical data. The Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) was prospectively calculated for all patients. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients (16 men, 6 women, mean age 54.8) were included. Median time from symptom onset to emergency room visit was 3.5 days. All reported severe treatment-resistant pain; sixteen had fever exceeding 37.8°C (72.7%). Skin lesions occurred in twelve (54.5%), and thirteen had hypotension and tachycardia (59.1%). Treatment involved resuscitative support, antibiotherapy, and radical debridement. Median time to surgery was 8.25h. Intraoperative cultures were positive in twenty patients: twelve Streptococcus pyogenes, four Staphylococcus aureus, one Escherichia coli, and four polymicrobial infection. In-hospital mortality rate was 22.73%. CONCLUSIONS: We examined the correlation between our results, amputation rates and mortality with LRINEC score and time to surgery. However, we found no significant relationship unlike some other studies. Nevertheless, a multidisciplinary approach with radical debridement and antibiotic therapy remains the treatment cornerstone. Our hospital stays, outcomes and mortality rates align with our literature review, confirming high morbimortality despite early and appropriate intervention.

Resultados clínicos de artroplastia total de cadera asistida por brazo robótico en España: estudio preliminar / Clinical results of total hip arthroplasty assisted by robotic arm in Spain: Preliminary study

Objetivos: Resultados clínicos, radiológicos y funcionales de la primera serie española de pacientes intervenidos de artroplastia total de cadera (ATC) asistida mediante brazo robótico Mako® (Stryker) del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) de Madrid. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo que analiza los primeros 25 pacientes intervenidos de ATC asistida por robot (ATCaR) en el HCSC, con un seguimiento mínimo de 4meses. Se evaluaron la demografía, los estudios de imagen (procesamiento Mako®, Rx y TAC), los parámetros clínicos, la funcionalidad (Harris modificada) y las complicaciones asociadas. Resultados: La edad media fue 67,2años (min 47, max 88), siendo el 56% varones. El 88% corresponden a coxartrosis primaria, el 4% postraumática, el 4% secundaria a NAV y el 4% secundaria a choque femoroacetabular. El tiempo medio de cirugía fue de 116,9minutos (min 92, max 150). La media de las cinco primeras intervenciones fue 122,6minutos, y la de las cinco últimas, de 108,2minutos. Como complicaciones intraoperatorias se cuantificaron 4 pérdidas de marcadores intraoperatorios. El tiempo de ingreso medio fue 4,4días (min 3, max 7), con una disminución de hemoglobina posquirúrgica media de 3,08±1,08g/dl, requiriendo transfusión en el 12% de los casos. Se registran tres complicaciones médicas durante el ingreso, destacando un síndrome confusional con caída y fractura periprotésica AG1 no desplazada. El análisis del posicionamiento de los implantes registrados con sistema Mako® fueron 40,55±1,53 grados de inclinación y 12,2±3,6 grados de anteversión acetabular. El estudio de imagen posquirúrgico realizado a los pacientes, en concordancia con Mako®, muestra valores de inclinación acetabular de 41,2±1,7 en Rx y versión acetabular de 16±4,6 en TAC. La discrepancia de longitud de cadera varía de valores preoperatorios de −3,91mm (DE: 3,9; min −12, max 3) a 1,29mm (DE: 1,96) tras la cirugía registrados con Mako...(AU)

Objectives: Clinical, radiological and functional results of the first Spanish series of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty assisted by Mako® (Stryker) robotic arm at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) in Madrid. Material and methods: Prospective and descriptive study analyzing the first 25 patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA at the HCSC, with a minimum follow-up of 4months. Demographics, imaging studies (Mako® processing, Rx and CT), clinical parameters, functionality (modified Harris) and associated complications were evaluated. Results: Average age was 67.2years (min 47, max 88), being 56% male population sample. 88% involves primary coxarthrosis, 4% post-traumatic coxarthrosis, 4% secondary avascular necrosis and 4% secondary femoroacetabular impingement. Average surgery time was 116.9min (min 92, max 150). The average time of the first five surgeries was 122.6min, and, regarding the last five interventions, it was 108.2min. Found medical intraoperative complications were four intraoperative markers loss. Average admission time was 4.4days (min 3, max 7), with an average postoperative hemoglobin decrease of 3.08±1.08g/dL, requiring a transfusion in 12% of the cases. Three medical complications have been registered in the meantime of the admission, with a relevant case of a confusional syndrome and a fall, which resulted in a non-displaced AG1 periprosthetic fracture. The analysis of the positioning of registered implants with Mako® system shows 40.55±1.53 acetabular inclination degrees and 12.2±3.6 acetabular anteversion degrees. The postoperative image study carried out on patients, are consistent with Mako® s results, as it shows an acetabular inclination of 41.2±1.7 in Rx, as well as acetabular anteversion of 16±4.6 in CT. Hip length variance ranges depending on preoperative values of 3.91mm (SD: 3.9; min −12, max 3) to 1.29mm (SD: 1.96) after surgery registered with...(AU)

[Translated article] Clinical results of total hip arthroplasty assisted by robotic arm in Spain: Preliminary study / Resultados clínicos de la artroplastia total de cadera asistida por brazo robótico en España: estudio preliminar

Objetivos: Resultados clínicos, radiológicos y funcionales de la primera serie española de pacientes intervenidos de artroplastia total de cadera (ATC) asistida mediante brazo robótico Mako® (Stryker) del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) de Madrid. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo que analiza los primeros 25 pacientes intervenidos de ATC asistida por robot (ATCaR) en el HCSC, con un seguimiento mínimo de 4meses. Se evaluaron la demografía, los estudios de imagen (procesamiento Mako®, Rx y TAC), los parámetros clínicos, la funcionalidad (Harris modificada) y las complicaciones asociadas. Resultados: La edad media fue 67,2años (min 47, max 88), siendo el 56% varones. El 88% corresponden a coxartrosis primaria, el 4% postraumática, el 4% secundaria a NAV y el 4% secundaria a choque femoroacetabular. El tiempo medio de cirugía fue de 116,9minutos (min 92, max 150). La media de las cinco primeras intervenciones fue 122,6minutos, y la de las cinco últimas, de 108,2minutos. Como complicaciones intraoperatorias se cuantificaron 4 pérdidas de marcadores intraoperatorios. El tiempo de ingreso medio fue 4,4días (min 3, max 7), con una disminución de hemoglobina posquirúrgica media de 3,08±1,08g/dl, requiriendo transfusión en el 12% de los casos. Se registran tres complicaciones médicas durante el ingreso, destacando un síndrome confusional con caída y fractura periprotésica AG1 no desplazada. El análisis del posicionamiento de los implantes registrados con sistema Mako® fueron 40,55±1,53 grados de inclinación y 12,2±3,6 grados de anteversión acetabular. El estudio de imagen posquirúrgico realizado a los pacientes, en concordancia con Mako®, muestra valores de inclinación acetabular de 41,2±1,7 en Rx y versión acetabular de 16±4,6 en TAC. La discrepancia de longitud de cadera varía de valores preoperatorios de −3,91mm (DE: 3,9; min −12, max 3) a 1,29mm (DE: 1,96) tras la cirugía registrados con Mako...(AU)

Objectives: Clinical, radiological and functional results of the first Spanish series of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty assisted by Mako® (Stryker) robotic arm at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) in Madrid. Material and methods: Prospective and descriptive study analyzing the first 25 patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA at the HCSC, with a minimum follow-up of 4months. Demographics, imaging studies (Mako® processing, Rx and CT), clinical parameters, functionality (modified Harris) and associated complications were evaluated. Results: Average age was 67.2years (min 47, max 88), being 56% male population sample. 88% involves primary coxarthrosis, 4% post-traumatic coxarthrosis, 4% secondary avascular necrosis and 4% secondary femoroacetabular impingement. Average surgery time was 116.9min (min 92, max 150). The average time of the first five surgeries was 122.6min, and, regarding the last five interventions, it was 108.2min. Found medical intraoperative complications were four intraoperative markers loss. Average admission time was 4.4days (min 3, max 7), with an average postoperative hemoglobin decrease of 3.08±1.08g/dL, requiring a transfusion in 12% of the cases. Three medical complications have been registered in the meantime of the admission, with a relevant case of a confusional syndrome and a fall, which resulted in a non-displaced AG1 periprosthetic fracture. The analysis of the positioning of registered implants with Mako® system shows 40.55±1.53 acetabular inclination degrees and 12.2±3.6 acetabular anteversion degrees. The postoperative image study carried out on patients, are consistent with Mako® s results, as it shows an acetabular inclination of 41.2±1.7 in Rx, as well as acetabular anteversion of 16±4.6 in CT. Hip length variance ranges depending on preoperative values of 3.91mm (SD: 3.9; min −12, max 3) to 1.29mm (SD: 1.96) after surgery registered with...(AU)

[Translated article] Validation of the Spanish version of the modified Harris score / Validación de la versión española de la escala de Harris modificada

Objetivos: Resultados clínicos, radiológicos y funcionales de la primera serie española de pacientes intervenidos de artroplastia total de cadera (ATC) asistida mediante brazo robótico Mako® (Stryker) del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) de Madrid. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo que analiza los primeros 25 pacientes intervenidos de ATC asistida por robot (ATCaR) en el HCSC, con un seguimiento mínimo de 4meses. Se evaluaron la demografía, los estudios de imagen (procesamiento Mako®, Rx y TAC), los parámetros clínicos, la funcionalidad (Harris modificada) y las complicaciones asociadas. Resultados: La edad media fue 67,2años (min 47, max 88), siendo el 56% varones. El 88% corresponden a coxartrosis primaria, el 4% postraumática, el 4% secundaria a NAV y el 4% secundaria a choque femoroacetabular. El tiempo medio de cirugía fue de 116,9minutos (min 92, max 150). La media de las cinco primeras intervenciones fue 122,6minutos, y la de las cinco últimas, de 108,2minutos. Como complicaciones intraoperatorias se cuantificaron 4 pérdidas de marcadores intraoperatorios. El tiempo de ingreso medio fue 4,4días (min 3, max 7), con una disminución de hemoglobina posquirúrgica media de 3,08±1,08g/dl, requiriendo transfusión en el 12% de los casos. Se registran tres complicaciones médicas durante el ingreso, destacando un síndrome confusional con caída y fractura periprotésica AG1 no desplazada. El análisis del posicionamiento de los implantes registrados con sistema Mako® fueron 40,55±1,53 grados de inclinación y 12,2±3,6 grados de anteversión acetabular. El estudio de imagen posquirúrgico realizado a los pacientes, en concordancia con Mako®, muestra valores de inclinación acetabular de 41,2±1,7 en Rx y versión acetabular de 16±4,6 en TAC. La discrepancia de longitud de cadera varía de valores preoperatorios de −3,91mm (DE: 3,9; min −12, max 3) a 1,29mm (DE: 1,96) tras la cirugía registrados con Mako...(AU)

Objectives: Clinical, radiological and functional results of the first Spanish series of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty assisted by Mako® (Stryker) robotic arm at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) in Madrid. Material and methods: Prospective and descriptive study analyzing the first 25 patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA at the HCSC, with a minimum follow-up of 4months. Demographics, imaging studies (Mako® processing, Rx and CT), clinical parameters, functionality (modified Harris) and associated complications were evaluated. Results: Average age was 67.2years (min 47, max 88), being 56% male population sample. 88% involves primary coxarthrosis, 4% post-traumatic coxarthrosis, 4% secondary avascular necrosis and 4% secondary femoroacetabular impingement. Average surgery time was 116.9min (min 92, max 150). The average time of the first five surgeries was 122.6min, and, regarding the last five interventions, it was 108.2min. Found medical intraoperative complications were four intraoperative markers loss. Average admission time was 4.4days (min 3, max 7), with an average postoperative hemoglobin decrease of 3.08±1.08g/dL, requiring a transfusion in 12% of the cases. Three medical complications have been registered in the meantime of the admission, with a relevant case of a confusional syndrome and a fall, which resulted in a non-displaced AG1 periprosthetic fracture. The analysis of the positioning of registered implants with Mako® system shows 40.55±1.53 acetabular inclination degrees and 12.2±3.6 acetabular anteversion degrees. The postoperative image study carried out on patients, are consistent with Mako® s results, as it shows an acetabular inclination of 41.2±1.7 in Rx, as well as acetabular anteversion of 16±4.6 in CT. Hip length variance ranges depending on preoperative values of 3.91mm (SD: 3.9; min −12, max 3) to 1.29mm (SD: 1.96) after surgery registered with...(AU)

[Translated article] Clinical results of total hip arthroplasty assisted by robotic arm in Spain: Preliminary study.

OBJECTIVES: Clinical, radiological and functional results of the first Spanish series of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty assisted by Mako® (Stryker) robotic arm at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) in Madrid. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective and descriptive study analyzing the first 25 patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA at the HCSC, with a minimum follow-up of 4 months. Demographics, imaging studies (Mako® processing, Rx and CT), clinical parameters, functionality (modified Harris) and associated complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Average age was 67.2 years (min 47, max 88), being 56% male population sample. 88% involves primary coxarthrosis, 4% post-traumatic coxarthrosis, 4% secondary avascular necrosis and 4% secondary femoroacetabular impingement. Average surgery time was 116.9min (min 92, max 150). The average time of the first five surgeries was 122.6min, and, regarding the last five interventions, it was 108.2min. Found medical intraoperative complications were four intraoperative markers loss. Average admission time was 4.4days (min 3, max 7), with an average postoperative haemoglobin decrease of 3.08±1.08g/dl, requiring a transfusion in 12% of the cases. Three medical complications have been registered in the meantime of the admission, with a relevant case of a confusional syndrome and a fall, which resulted in a non-displaced AG1 periprosthetic fracture. The analysis of the positioning of registered implants with Mako® system shows 40.55±1.53 acetabular inclination degrees and 12.2±3.6 acetabular anteversion degrees. The postoperative image study carried out on patients, are consistent with Mako® results, as it shows an acetabular inclination of 41.2±1.7 in Rx, as well as acetabular anteversion of 16±4.6 in CT. Hip length variance ranges depending on preoperative values of 3.91mm (SD: 3.9; min -12, max 3) to 1.29mm (SD: 1.96) after surgery registered with Mako®, with an increase of an average hip length of 5.64mm (SD: 3.35). Rx simple study results show a postoperative difference between both hips of 0.5±3.08mm, which is consistent with Mako® results. Native femoral offset was stable after surgery with a showing difference both pre and post operative of the intervened hip of 0.1mm (SD: 3.7), registered with Mako®. Preoperatory modified Harris punctuation was 41.6±13.3, improving to postoperative values of 74.6±9.7 after four months since the surgery. No complications were registered in immediate postoperative (4 months). CONCLUSIONS: Total hip arthroplasty robot-assisted achieves an adequate precision and repeatability of the implant positioning and the postoperative hip dysmetry without showing an increase of associated complications to the technique applied. Surgery time, complications and functional results in a short-time period are similar to conventional techniques applied to great series previously published.

Clinical results of total hip arthroplasty assisted by robotic arm in Spain: Preliminary study. / Resultados clínicos de artroplastia total de cadera asistida por brazo robótico en España: estudio preliminar.

OBJECTIVES: Clinical, radiological and functional results of the first Spanish series of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty assisted by Mako® (Stryker) robotic arm at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (HCSC) in Madrid. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective and descriptive study analyzing the first 25 patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA at the HCSC, with a minimum follow-up of 4months. Demographics, imaging studies (Mako® processing, Rx and CT), clinical parameters, functionality (modified Harris) and associated complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Average age was 67.2years (min 47, max 88), being 56% male population sample. 88% involves primary coxarthrosis, 4% post-traumatic coxarthrosis, 4% secondary avascular necrosis and 4% secondary femoroacetabular impingement. Average surgery time was 116.9min (min 92, max 150). The average time of the first five surgeries was 122.6min, and, regarding the last five interventions, it was 108.2min. Found medical intraoperative complications were four intraoperative markers loss. Average admission time was 4.4days (min 3, max 7), with an average postoperative hemoglobin decrease of 3.08±1.08g/dL, requiring a transfusion in 12% of the cases. Three medical complications have been registered in the meantime of the admission, with a relevant case of a confusional syndrome and a fall, which resulted in a non-displaced AG1 periprosthetic fracture. The analysis of the positioning of registered implants with Mako® system shows 40.55±1.53 acetabular inclination degrees and 12.2±3.6 acetabular anteversion degrees. The postoperative image study carried out on patients, are consistent with Mako® s results, as it shows an acetabular inclination of 41.2±1.7 in Rx, as well as acetabular anteversion of 16±4.6 in CT. Hip length variance ranges depending on preoperative values of 3.91mm (SD: 3.9; min -12, max 3) to 1.29mm (SD: 1.96) after surgery registered with Mako®, with an increase of an average hip length of 5.64mm (SD: 3.35). Rx simple study results show a postoperative difference between both hips of 0.5±3.08mm, which is consistent with Mako® results. Native femoral offset was stable after surgery with a showing difference both pre and post operative of the intervened hip of 0.1mm (SD: 3.7), registered with Mako®. Preoperatory modified Harris punctuation was 41.6±13.3, improving to postoperative values of 74.6±9.7 after four months since the surgery. No complications were registered in immediate postoperative (4month). CONCLUSIONS: Total hip arthroplasty robot-assisted achieves an adequate precision and repeatability of the implant positioning and the postoperative hip dysmetry without showing an increase of associated complications to the technique applied. Surgery time, complications and functional results in a short-time period are similar to conventional techniques applied to great series previously published.

Planificar fracturas es sencillo: desarrollo de un método básico de planificación digital basado en la técnica tradicional con lápiz y papel / Fracture planning is easy: Development of a basic method of digital planning based on the traditional pencil and paper technique

Introducción: La planificación preoperatoria constituye una herramienta fundamental en el manejo de fracturas; sin embargo, su aplicación práctica dista de lo deseado, quizá debido a la ausencia de un método básico y sencillo, adaptado a los tiempos actuales. Describimos un método de planificación digital, entre lo tradicional y lo tecnológico, que conserva su esencia educativa, permite comprender la fractura e individualizar la osteosíntesis. Material y métodos: Tras el análisis inicial de la fractura y características del paciente, se realizan diferentes mediciones en las imágenes de Rx y TC con un programa de imagen médica digital. Estas imágenes se copian en un programa de presentación (Microsoft® PowerPoint o Keynote ©Apple Inc.), en el que se reproducen con el puntero del ordenador los principales fragmentos y líneas de fractura. A continuación, estos se mueven a una posición reducida y se representan gráficamente los implantes para la fijación interna junto con un guion de la estrategia quirúrgica. Resultados: Mostramos 4 casos de diferentes tipos de fracturas intervenidas mediante reducción y osteosíntesis tras una planificación preoperatoria según el método descrito. Se detallan los puntos básicos para la planificación quirúrgica, logística, táctica y los resultados radiológicos postoperatorios de cada caso. Conclusiones: A pesar del auge de programas informáticos avanzados de planificación, los métodos tradicionales con lápiz y papel siguen siendo fundamentales, más aún para el traumatólogo en formación. El método de planificación digital descrito resulta muy adecuado para este objetivo, al aunar las ventajas de ambos métodos: sencillez, accesibilidad, rapidez, bajo coste, reproducibilidad, carácter formativo y eficacia y por posibilitar la simulación, correcciones y la reutilización de casos.(AU)

Introduction: Preoperative planning constitutes a fundamental tool in the management of fractures; however, its practical application is far from the desired, perhaps due to the absence of a basic and simple method, adapted to the current times. We describe a digital planning method, halfway between the traditional and the technological, which preserves its educational essence, allows the understanding of the fracture and the individualization of the osteosynthesis. Material and methods: After the initial analysis of the fracture and the patient's characteristics, different measurements are made on X-ray and CT images with a digital medical imaging software. These images are then copied into a presentation program (Microsoft® PowerPoint or Keynote ©Apple Inc.), in which the main fragments and fracture lines are traced with the computer pointer. These are subsequently moved into a reduced position and the implants for internal fixation are graphically represented together with a guide of the surgical strategy. Results: We show 4 cases of different types of fractures operated through reduction and osteosynthesis after preoperative planning according to the described method. The basic points for the surgical planning, logistics, tactics and postoperative radiological results of each case are detailed. Conclusions: Despite rise of advanced planning software, traditional paper and pencil methods are still fundamental, even more so for the trauma surgeon in training. The digital planning method described is very appropriate for this purpose, as it combines the advantages of both methods: simplicity, accessibility, quickness, low-cost, reproducibility, educational character, efficiency and possibility of simulation, corrections and reuse of cases.(AU)

[Translated article] Fracture planning is easy: Development of a basic method of digital planning based on the traditional pencil and paper technique / Planificar fracturas es sencillo: desarrollo de un método básico de planificación digital basado en la técnica tradicional con lápiz y papel

Introducción: La planificación preoperatoria constituye una herramienta fundamental en el manejo de fracturas; sin embargo, su aplicación práctica dista de lo deseado, quizá debido a la ausencia de un método básico y sencillo, adaptado a los tiempos actuales. Describimos un método de planificación digital, entre lo tradicional y lo tecnológico, que conserva su esencia educativa, permite comprender la fractura e individualizar la osteosíntesis. Material y métodos: Tras el análisis inicial de la fractura y características del paciente, se realizan diferentes mediciones en las imágenes de Rx y TC con un programa de imagen médica digital. Estas imágenes se copian en un programa de presentación (Microsoft® PowerPoint o Keynote ©Apple Inc.), en el que se reproducen con el puntero del ordenador los principales fragmentos y líneas de fractura. A continuación, estos se mueven a una posición reducida y se representan gráficamente los implantes para la fijación interna junto con un guion de la estrategia quirúrgica. Resultados: Mostramos 4 casos de diferentes tipos de fracturas intervenidas mediante reducción y osteosíntesis tras una planificación preoperatoria según el método descrito. Se detallan los puntos básicos para la planificación quirúrgica, logística, táctica y los resultados radiológicos postoperatorios de cada caso. Conclusiones: A pesar del auge de programas informáticos avanzados de planificación, los métodos tradicionales con lápiz y papel siguen siendo fundamentales, más aún para el traumatólogo en formación. El método de planificación digital descrito resulta muy adecuado para este objetivo, al aunar las ventajas de ambos métodos: sencillez, accesibilidad, rapidez, bajo coste, reproducibilidad, carácter formativo y eficacia y por posibilitar la simulación, correcciones y la reutilización de casos.(AU)

Introduction: Preoperative planning constitutes a fundamental tool in the management of fractures; however, its practical application is far from the desired, perhaps due to the absence of a basic and simple method, adapted to the current times. We describe a digital planning method, halfway between the traditional and the technological, which preserves its educational essence, allows the understanding of the fracture and the individualization of the osteosynthesis. Material and methods: After the initial analysis of the fracture and the patient's characteristics, different measurements are made on X-ray and CT images with a digital medical imaging software. These images are then copied into a presentation program (Microsoft® PowerPoint or Keynote ©Apple Inc.), in which the main fragments and fracture lines are traced with the computer pointer. These are subsequently moved into a reduced position and the implants for internal fixation are graphically represented together with a guide of the surgical strategy. Results: We show 4 cases of different types of fractures operated through reduction and osteosynthesis after preoperative planning according to the described method. The basic points for the surgical planning, logistics, tactics and postoperative radiological results of each case are detailed. Conclusions: Despite rise of advanced planning software, traditional paper and pencil methods are still fundamental, even more so for the trauma surgeon in training. The digital planning method described is very appropriate for this purpose, as it combines the advantages of both methods: simplicity, accessibility, quickness, low-cost, reproducibility, educational character, efficiency and possibility of simulation, corrections and reuse of cases.(AU)

[Translated article] Fracture planning is easy: Development of a basic method of digital planning based on the traditional pencil and paper technique.

INTRODUCTION: Preoperative planning constitutes a fundamental tool in the management of fractures; however, its practical application is far from the desired, perhaps due to the absence of a basic and simple method, adapted to the current times. We describe a digital planning method, halfway the traditional and the technological, which preserves its educational essence, allows for the understanding of the fracture and the individualisation of the osteosynthesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After the initial analysis of the fracture and the patient's characteristics, different measurements are made on X-ray and CT images with a digital medical imaging software. These images are then copied into a presentation programme (Microsoft® PowerPoint or Keynote ©Apple Inc.), in which the main fragments and fracture lines are traced with the computer pointer. These are subsequently moved into a reduced position and the implants for internal fixation are graphically represented together with a guide of the surgical strategy. RESULTS: We show 4 cases of different types of fractures operated through reduction and osteosynthesis after preoperative planning according to the described method. The basic points for the surgical planning, logistics, tactics and postoperative radiological results of each case are detailed. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the rise of advanced planning software, traditional paper and pencil methods are still fundamental, even more so for the trauma surgeon in training. The digital planning method described is very appropriate for this purpose, as it combines the advantages of both methods: simplicity, accessibility, quickness, low cost, reproducibility, educational character, efficiency and possibility of simulation, corrections and reuse of cases.

Suprapatellar tibial nailing, why have we changed? / Enclavado de tibia suprapatelar, ¿por qué hemos cambiado?

INTRODUCTION: Endomedullary nailing using the infrapatellar approach (IP) is considered the gold standard for the treatment of tibial diaphyseal fractures, however, it has been associated with greater difficulty in reduction and complications such as malalignment in procurvatum and anterior knee pain. The suprapatellar approach (SP) arises as an alternative to solve these aspects, also being associated with a shorter intraoperative time and a lower dose and fluoroscopy time. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective comparative study between a group of 22 fractures treated by SP approach and another of 30 fractures intervened by IP transtendinous approach. Perioperative variables were analyzed, as well as clinical, radiological, and functional aspects in outpatient visits at 3, 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: No differences were found between groups in terms of intraoperative time, anemization, quality of reduction or complications during follow-up, among others. At 12 months, 12 (54.5%) SP cases and 16 (53.3%) IP presented anterior knee pain, without significant differences. In the evaluation scales, significant differences were recorded in the IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) in favor of the SP technique 88.45 (76.44-91.1) vs. IP 69 (49.95-80) (p=.006), with no significant differences in other functional scales analyzed. CONCLUSIONS: According to what has been described so far in the literature, the present study supports the tendency toward SP nailing by improving the functional results (IKDC) in the medium term compared to the traditional IP technique, without increasing complications. Likewise, surgeons perceive greater technical ease for reduction and simplicity in obtaining intraoperative radiological images.

Enclavado de tibia suprapatelar, ¿por qué hemos cambiado? / Suprapatellar tibial nailing, why have we changed?

Introducción: El enclavado endomedular mediante abordaje infrapatelar (IP) se considera el gold estándar del tratamiento de las fracturas diafisarias de tibia, sin embargo, se ha asociado a mayor dificultad para la reducción y complicaciones como la mala alineación en procurvatum y al dolor anterior de rodilla. El abordaje suprapatelar (SP) surge como alternativa para solventar estos aspectos, asociándose también con un menor tiempo intraoperatorio y menor dosis y tiempo de fluoroscopia. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo comparativo entre: un grupo de 22 fracturas intervenidas mediante abordaje SP y otro de 30 fracturas intervenidas por abordaje IP trastendinoso. Se analizaron variables perioperatorias y aspectos clínicos, radiológicos y funcionales en consulta a los 3, 6 y 12 meses. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias entre grupos en cuanto a tiempo intraoperatorio, anemización, calidad de la reducción, o complicaciones en el seguimiento, entre otros. A los 12 meses, 12 (54,5%) casos SP y 16 (53,3%) IP presentaban dolor anterior de rodilla, sin diferencias significativas. En las escalas de evaluación, se registraron diferencias significativas en la IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) a favor de la técnica SP (88,45 [76,44-91,1] vs. IP 69 [49,95-80]) (p=0,006), sin diferencias significativas en otras escalas funcionales analizadas. Conclusiones: En consonancia con lo hasta ahora descrito en la literatura, el presente estudio apoya la tendencia hacia el enclavado SP por mejorar los resultados funcionales (IKDC) a medio plazo respecto a la técnica tradicional IP, sin aumentar las complicaciones. Asimismo se percibe por los cirujanos una mayor facilidad técnica para la reducción y sencillez en la obtención de imágenes radiológicas intraoperatorias.(AU)

Introduction: Endomedullary nailing using the infrapatellar approach (IP) is considered the gold standard for the treatment of tibial diaphyseal fractures, however, it has been associated with greater difficulty in reduction and complications such as malalignment in procurvatum and anterior knee pain. The suprapatellar approach (SP) arises as an alternative to solve these aspects, also being associated with a shorter intraoperative time and a lower dose and fluoroscopy time. Material and methods: Retrospective comparative study between a group of 22 fractures treated by SP approach and another of 30 fractures intervened by IP transtendinous approach. Perioperative variables were analyzed, as well as clinical, radiological, and functional aspects in outpatient visits at 3, 6 and 12 months. Results: No differences were found between groups in terms of intraoperative time, anemization, quality of reduction or complications during follow-up, among others. At 12 months, 12 (54.5%) SP cases and 16 (53.3%) IP presented anterior knee pain, without significant differences. In the evaluation scales, significant differences were recorded in the IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) in favor of the SP technique 88.45 (76.44–91.1) vs. IP 69 (49.95–80) (p=.006), with no significant differences in other functional scales analyzed. Conclusions: According to what has been described so far in the literature, the present study supports the tendency toward SP nailing by improving the functional results (IKDC) in the medium term compared to the traditional IP technique, without increasing complications. Likewise, surgeons perceive greater technical ease for reduction and simplicity in obtaining intraoperative radiological images.(AU)

Suprapatellar tibial nailing, why have we changed? / Enclavado de tibia suprapatelar, ¿por qué hemos cambiado?

Introduction: Endomedullary nailing using the infrapatellar approach (IP) is considered the gold standard for the treatment of tibial diaphyseal fractures, however, it has been associated with greater difficulty in reduction and complications such as malalignment in procurvatum and anterior knee pain. The suprapatellar approach (SP) arises as an alternative to solve these aspects, also being associated with a shorter intraoperative time and a lower dose and fluoroscopy time. Material and methods: Retrospective comparative study between a group of 22 fractures treated by SP approach and another of 30 fractures intervened by IP transtendinous approach. Perioperative variables were analyzed, as well as clinical, radiological, and functional aspects in outpatient visits at 3, 6 and 12 months. Results: No differences were found between groups in terms of intraoperative time, anemization, quality of reduction or complications during follow-up, among others. At 12 months, 12 (54.5%) SP cases and 16 (53.3%) IP presented anterior knee pain, without significant differences. In the evaluation scales, significant differences were recorded in the IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) in favor of the SP technique 88.45 (76.44–91.1) vs. IP 69 (49.95–80) (p=.006), with no significant differences in other functional scales analyzed. Conclusions: According to what has been described so far in the literature, the present study supports the tendency toward SP nailing by improving the functional results (IKDC) in the medium term compared to the traditional IP technique, without increasing complications. Likewise, surgeons perceive greater technical ease for reduction and simplicity in obtaining intraoperative radiological images.(AU)

Introducción: El enclavado endomedular mediante abordaje infrapatelar (IP) se considera el gold estándar del tratamiento de las fracturas diafisarias de tibia, sin embargo, se ha asociado a mayor dificultad para la reducción y complicaciones como la mala alineación en procurvatum y al dolor anterior de rodilla. El abordaje suprapatelar (SP) surge como alternativa para solventar estos aspectos, asociándose también con un menor tiempo intraoperatorio y menor dosis y tiempo de fluoroscopia. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo comparativo entre: un grupo de 22 fracturas intervenidas mediante abordaje SP y otro de 30 fracturas intervenidas por abordaje IP trastendinoso. Se analizaron variables perioperatorias y aspectos clínicos, radiológicos y funcionales en consulta a los 3, 6 y 12 meses. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias entre grupos en cuanto a tiempo intraoperatorio, anemización, calidad de la reducción, o complicaciones en el seguimiento, entre otros. A los 12 meses, 12 (54,5%) casos SP y 16 (53,3%) IP presentaban dolor anterior de rodilla, sin diferencias significativas. En las escalas de evaluación, se registraron diferencias significativas en la IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) a favor de la técnica SP (88,45 [76,44-91,1] vs. IP 69 [49,95-80]) (p=0,006), sin diferencias significativas en otras escalas funcionales analizadas. Conclusiones: En consonancia con lo hasta ahora descrito en la literatura, el presente estudio apoya la tendencia hacia el enclavado SP por mejorar los resultados funcionales (IKDC) a medio plazo respecto a la técnica tradicional IP, sin aumentar las complicaciones. Asimismo se percibe por los cirujanos una mayor facilidad técnica para la reducción y sencillez en la obtención de imágenes radiológicas intraoperatorias.(AU)

Fracture planning is easy: Development of a basic method of digital planning based on the traditional pencil and paper technique. / Planificar fracturas es sencillo: desarrollo de un método básico de planificación digital basado en la técnica tradicional con lápiz y papel.

INTRODUCTION: Preoperative planning constitutes a fundamental tool in the management of fractures; however, its practical application is far from the desired, perhaps due to the absence of a basic and simple method, adapted to the current times. We describe a digital planning method, halfway between the traditional and the technological, which preserves its educational essence, allows the understanding of the fracture and the individualization of the osteosynthesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After the initial analysis of the fracture and the patient's characteristics, different measurements are made on X-ray and CT images with a digital medical imaging software. These images are then copied into a presentation program (Microsoft® PowerPoint or Keynote ©Apple Inc.), in which the main fragments and fracture lines are traced with the computer pointer. These are subsequently moved into a reduced position and the implants for internal fixation are graphically represented together with a guide of the surgical strategy. RESULTS: We show 4 cases of different types of fractures operated through reduction and osteosynthesis after preoperative planning according to the described method. The basic points for the surgical planning, logistics, tactics and postoperative radiological results of each case are detailed. CONCLUSIONS: Despite rise of advanced planning software, traditional paper and pencil methods are still fundamental, even more so for the trauma surgeon in training. The digital planning method described is very appropriate for this purpose, as it combines the advantages of both methods: simplicity, accessibility, quickness, low-cost, reproducibility, educational character, efficiency and possibility of simulation, corrections and reuse of cases.

Renunciations in forefoot surgery. Critical analysis of surgical waiting lists. / Renuncias en cirugía del antepié. Análisis crítico de las listas de espera.

INTRODUCTION: The high prevalence of forefoot pathology generates long surgical waiting lists (SWL). We have detected a considerable number of patients who withdraw surgery, which creates an important distortion in our activity and high expenditure of resources. Our objective is to study the factors related to these resignations, as well as, compare them with other pathologies of high prevalence and ambulatory surgical treatment: carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and internal meniscopathy (IM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of the surgical cancellations on 2,399 patients included in the SWL of the Foot and Ankle Unit of our center for forefoot surgery, between January/2014 and March/2018, both included. RESULTS: We have found 389 renunciations, which represent 16.22% of the inclusions in SWL, with 84.83% of women. The pathologies with the highest rate of resignation have been Morton metatarsalgia (24%) and hallux rigidus (20.16%). The most frequent pathology, hallux valgus, records 15.96% of resignations that occur mostly between 6 and 9 months. In the CTS and IM, the resignation rate has been 17.42 and 8.92%, respectively, with higher resignation rates in the first 3 months. CONCLUSIONS: The withdrawal of a scheduled intervention on the forefoot registers a high frequency in our environment, which can be related to factors such as the type of pathology, its natural history, response to orthopedic interventions, time in LEQ, and other non-specific ones on which we must investigate, to rationalize and establish duties in our SWL.

Rotura de vasa previa en una inserción velamentosa de cordón umbilical. Importancia del diagnóstico prenatal / Vasa praevia rupture in velamentous insertion of the umbilical cord: The importance of prenatal diagnosis

La presencia de vasa previa es una afección poco frecuente en la que los vasos fetales atraviesan las membranas amnióticas por encima del cuello del útero y por debajo de la presentación fetal. Asocia una mortalidad elevada debida a la exanguinación fetal producida por el desgarro de los vasos fetales al romperse las membranas amnióticas. El diagnóstico prenatal puede disminuir significativamente la tasa de mortalidad, pero requiere un alto índice de sospecha. Por este motivo, aquellas mujeres embarazadas que presenten factores de riesgo de vasa previa deben ser exploradas con ecografía transvaginal y Doppler color. Si se confirma el diagnóstico, está indicada la realización de una cesárea electiva y una enérgica reanimación del recién nacido. Presentamos el caso de un recién nacido que nace en parada cardiorrespiratoria que no revierte, pese a una enérgica reanimación, debido a la rotura de un vasa previa no diagnosticado

Vasa praevia is a rare condition in which the foetal blood vessels cross the foetal membranes of the lower segment of the uterus below the presenting part. It has a high foetal mortality due to foetal exsanguination resulting from foetal vessels tearing when the membranes rupture. Prenatal diagnosis can reduce or even prevent foetal mortality, but it requires a high level of suspicion. For this reason, pregnant women with risk factors of vasa praevia should be examined using transvaginal ultrasound in combination with colour Doppler, and if the diagnosis is made, elective delivery by caesarean and aggressive resuscitation of the new born is indicated

Presión negativa multinivel en cobertura tisular compleja / Multilevel negative pressure in complex skin coverage

La pérdida de cobertura cutánea compleja secundaria a traumatismos, úlceras por presión, desforramientos cutáneos, etc, plantea un desafío a la hora de elegir la técnica quirúrgica que solucione el problema. Cualquiera que sea la elegida, conlleva un riesgo asociado de mayor pérdida cutánea, hematoma o seroma. En base a un estudio experimental sobre medición de presiones bajo y sobre colgajos sometidos a aplicación de presión negativa, decidimos aplicar el método a diferentes planos anatómicos de profundidad en pacientes con defectos complejos de cobertura tisular. Presentamos nuestra experiencia con el uso de presión negativa externa e interna (multinivel) como técnica de apoyo y prevención de complicaciones en la resolución de 19 casos de cobertura tisular compleja: desforramientos de piel, hematomas disecantes del tejido celular subcutáneo, úlceras por presión, colgajos complejos, cicatrices extensas y loxocelismo cutáneo, obteniendo resultados satisfactorios (AU)

Complex tissue loss secondary to traumatisms, pressure sores, degloving, etc, are a challenge when we try to choose the surgical technique to solve the problem. Every technique brings a risk of major skin coverage defect, hematoma or seroma. Based on an experimental study to measure pressure over and below a flap submitted to negative pressure, we decided to apply a vacuum system in different anatomic planes in patients with complex tissue loss. We report our experience with the use of negative pressure as external and internal (multilevel) technical support and prevention of complication in resolving 19 clinical cases of complex tissue loss: degloving, subcutaneous hematoma, pressure sores, complex flaps, extensive scarring skin loss, loxoscelism, with successful results (AU)

Relación entre el estado de gravedad previo y el pronóstico de la parada cardiaca intrahospitalaria / Relationship between previous severity of illness and outcome of in-hospital cardiac arrest

OBJETIVOS: Analizar si el estado de gravedad previo, el láctico, la creatinina y el índice inotrópico se relacionan con la mortalidad de la parada cardiaca (PC) intrahospitalaria en niños y si un índice de predicción pronóstica diseñado para adultos tiene utilidad en pediatría. MÉTODOS: Se estudió a 44 niños de edades entre un mes y 18 años de edad que presentaron una PC en el hospital durante un período de 2 años. Se analizaron la relación entre las puntuaciones de gravedad PRIMS y PELOD, el láctico, la creatinina, el tratamiento previo con fármacos vasoactivos, el índice inotrópico con la recuperación de la circulación espontánea (RCE) y la supervivencia. RESULTADOS: Un 90,3% de los pacientes recuperaron la circulación espontánea y un 59% sobrevivió al alta del hospital. Un 68,2% de los pacientes recibían inotrópicos previos a la PCR. Los pacientes fallecidos presentaban valores de lactato previos a la parada más elevados (3,4 mmol/L) que los supervivientes (1,4 mmol/L), p = 0,04. No existieron diferencias en las puntuaciones de PRISM, PELOD, los valores de creatinina, el tratamiento con inotrópicos, con adrenalina, el número de inotrópicos, o el índice inotrópico antes de la PCR entre fallecidos y supervivientes. CONCLUSIÓN: La elevación de ácido láctico previa a la parada cardiaca puede ser un indicador de mal pronóstico en la PC en los niños

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the relationship between previous severity of illness, lactic acid, creatinine and inotropic index with mortality of in-hospital cardiac arrest (CA) in children, and the value of a prognostic index designed for adults. METHODS: The study included total of 44 children aged from 1 month to 18 years old who suffered a cardiac arrest while in hospital. The relationship between previous severity of illness scores (PRIMS and PELOD), lactic acid, creatinine, treatment with vasoactive drugs, inotropic index with return of spontaneous circulation and survival at hospital discharge was analyzed. RESULTS: The large majority (90.3%) of patients had a return of spontaneous circulation, and 59% survived at hospital discharge. More than two-thirds (68.2%) were treated with inotropic drugs at the time of the CA. The patients who died had a higher lactic acid before the CA (3.4 mmol/L) than survivors (1.4 mmol/L), P=.04. There were no significant differences in PRIMS, PELOD, creatinine, inotropic drugs, and inotropic index before CA between patients who died and survivors. CONCLUSION: A high lactic acid previous to cardiac arrest could be a prognostic factor of in-hospital cardiac arrest in children

[Relationship between previous severity of illness and outcome of in-hospital cardiac arrest]. / Relación entre el estado de gravedad previo y el pronóstico de la parada cardiaca intrahospitalaria.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the relationship between previous severity of illness, lactic acid, creatinine and inotropic index with mortality of in-hospital cardiac arrest (CA) in children, and the value of a prognostic index designed for adults. METHODS: The study included total of 44 children aged from 1 month to 18 years old who suffered a cardiac arrest while in hospital. The relationship between previous severity of illness scores (PRIMS and PELOD), lactic acid, creatinine, treatment with vasoactive drugs, inotropic index with return of spontaneous circulation and survival at hospital discharge was analyzed. RESULTS: The large majority (90.3%) of patients had a return of spontaneous circulation, and 59% survived at hospital discharge. More than two-thirds (68.2%) were treated with inotropic drugs at the time of the CA. The patients who died had a higher lactic acid before the CA (3.4 mmol/L) than survivors (1.4 mmol/L), P=.04. There were no significant differences in PRIMS, PELOD, creatinine, inotropic drugs, and inotropic index before CA between patients who died and survivors. CONCLUSION: A high lactic acid previous to cardiac arrest could be a prognostic factor of in-hospital cardiac arrest in children.

[Vasa praevia rupture in velamentous insertion of the umbilical cord: the importance of prenatal diagnosis]. / Rotura de vasa previa en una inserción velamentosa de cordón umbilical. Importancia del diagnóstico prenatal.

Vasa praevia is a rare condition in which the foetal blood vessels cross the foetal membranes of the lower segment of the uterus below the presenting part. It has a high foetal mortality due to foetal exsanguination resulting from foetal vessels tearing when the membranes rupture. Prenatal diagnosis can reduce or even prevent foetal mortality, but it requires a high level of suspicion. For this reason, pregnant women with risk factors of vasa praevia should be examined using transvaginal ultrasound in combination with colour Doppler, and if the diagnosis is made, elective delivery by caesarean and aggressive resuscitation of the new born is indicated.

Incidencia de seroma postoperatorio tras reparación de la fascia de Scarpa en abdominoplastia-liposucción / Postoperatory seroma incidence after repair of Scarpa fascia in abdominoplasty-lipoaspiration

La fascia de Scarpa es un hito anatómico de la pared abdominal y divide el tejido graso de ésta en una capa superficial y en otra profunda. Existen publicaciones que aseguran que en una abdominoplastía, la preservación in situ de esta estructura mediante disección superficial a la misma puede prevenir la formación de seromas, pero en la ejecución de ésta técnica se han observado peores resultados estéticos. Consideramos que al reparar el defecto creado, mediante la sutura de la fascia de Scarpa, podemos emular el efecto de disminución de seromas pero sin comprometer el resultado estético. Mediante el uso de la base de datos del primer autor, seleccionamos pacientes que cumplan como criterios de inclusión: ser menores de 65 años, en rangos normales de peso, sometidas a abdominoplastia con lipoaspiración en el período comprendido entre abril del 2004 y diciembre del 2009, divididas en 2 grupos cuya diferencia es el cierre de la fascia de Scarpa (que hacemos de rutina desde julio del 2007). En total, 2 grupos de 97 pacientes cada uno en los que se midió el débito del drenaje que se retira al tercer día, y en controles médicos posteriores si se sospechaba la presencia de seroma, realizando punciones hasta obtener menos de 50 ml. Al comparar el débito de drenajes, número de punciones y cantidad de fluido obtenido en las punciones, encontramos diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre ambos grupos. No hubo diferencia en el índice de masa corporal (IMC), comorbilidad y complicaciones entre los grupos. En conclusión, planteamos que con la reparación de la fascia de Scarpa mediante su sutura en los procedimientos de abdominoplastia con lipoaspiración se remeda el efecto de prevención de formación de seroma de una disección más superficial, pero sin compromiso estético secundario; además, creemos que la retirada de los drenajes al tercer día postoperatorio es una práctica segura. Sin embargo, se requieren más estudios para profundizar y confirmar los hallazgos

The Scarpa fascia is an anatomic hint in the abdominal wall, and divides the fat tissue in a superficial and a deep layer. Other publications assert that in abdominoplasty, preserve this structure and making a more superficial dissection can prevent the seroma formation, but with worse aesthetic results. We consider that repairing the defect created by suturing the Scarpa fascia we can emulate the effects in diminishing the seroma, but without the aesthetic compromise. Using the first author´s data base, we select patients that complies with the following inclusion criteria of abdominoplasty plus liposuction: women, younger than 65, with no overweight, operated between April 2004 and December 2009, divided in 2 groups, with and without Scarpa´s fascia closure (that became a routine in July 2007). Two groups, 97 patients each. We measured drain content (all the drains were took away by day 3), and in subsecuent medic control if a seroma was clinically suspected, it was punctioned untill the amount of serum obtained was under 50 cc. Comparing both groups, there is statiscally significant difference between them in drainage and amount of fluid obtained by punctions; also in the number of punctions and number of patients that needed the procedure. There is no difference between groups in age, body mass index (BMI), co-morbidity or complications. We think that repairing the defect by stitching the Scarpa fascia redeems the effect of preserving it but without the aesthetic defect, and all drainages can be safely took away by day 3. Anyway, further studies are needed in order to confirm this aspect