Application direct anterior approach in pediatric femoral head and neck lesions.

BACKGROUND: Femoral neck is one of the high-risk areas for benign tumors and tumor-like lesions. Small range of lesions may also lead to pathological fracture, femoral head necrosis and other serious problems. PURPOSE: To investigate a new minimally invasive surgical approach to resect femoral head and neck lesions in children. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 20 patients with femoral neck and femoral head lesions from February 2019 to March 2023 in our hospital. Among them, 14 were boys and 6 were girls, 17 were femoral neck lesions and 3 were femoral head lesions. The age of the patients ranged from 3.2 to 12.6 years, with a mean of 7.1 years. The patients were divided into group A and group B according to different surgical approaches; group A used the Smith-Peterson approach, Watson-Jones approach or surgical dislocation approach and group B used the DAA. Intra-operatively, incision length, operative time and blood loss were recorded in both groups. Group A consisted of 1 femoral head lesion and 8 femoral neck lesions, including 5 cases of bone cyst and 4 cases of eosinophilic granuloma. Group B consisted of 2 femoral head lesion and 9 femoral neck lesions. A total of 11 patients with different types of disease were included in group B, including bone cysts (3 cases), aneurysmal bone cysts (1 case), eosinophilic granulomas (6 cases), Kaposi's sarcoma (1 case). RESULTS: The two groups of patients differed in terms of incision length (P < 0.05), operative blood loss (P < 0.05) and operative time (P < 0.05). At 6-48 months post-operatively, there were no significant differences in function and all patients had good hip function. CONCLUSION: The direct anterior approach is effective for resection of paediatric femoral head and neck lesions. It provides clear exposure of the surgical site, minimal trauma and does not compromise the integrity of the anterior musculature. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Radial nerve palsy in the newborn combined with congenital radial head dislocation: Case report and literature review.

RATIONALE: Radial nerve palsy in the newborn and congenital radial head dislocation (CRHD) are both rare disorders, and early diagnosis is challenging. We reported a case of an infant with concurrent presence of these 2 diseases and provide a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. The purpose of the study is to share diagnostic and treatment experiences and provide potentially valuable insights. PATIENT CONCERNS: A newborn has both radial nerve palsy and CRHD, characterized by limited wrist and fingers extension but normal flexion, normal shoulder and elbow movement on the affected side, characteristic skin lesions around the elbow, and an "audible click" at the radial head. The patient achieved significant improvement solely through physical therapy and observation. DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed with radial nerve palsy in the newborn combined with CRHD. INTERVENTIONS: The patient received regular physical therapy including joint function training, low-frequency pulse electrical therapy, acupuncture, paraffin treatment, as well as overnight splint immobilization. OUTCOMES: The child could actively extend the wrist to a neutral position and extend all fingers. LESSONS: If a neonate exhibits limited extension in the wrist and fingers, but normal flexion, along with normal shoulder and elbow movement, and is accompanied by skin lesions around the elbow, there should be a high suspicion of radial nerve palsy in the newborn.

Liberal surgical laparoscopy reduction for acute intussusception: experience from a tertiary pediatric institute.

The optimal treatment for acute intussusception has not yet been defined. In this study, we explored whether employing a liberal laparoscopic intervention for intussusception could lead to favorable outcomes. We performed a historical control analysis to evaluate the outcomes associated with this liberal surgical management protocol. This liberal surgical management protocol were revised to incorporate a new protocol centered around the laparoscopic approach. In some cases of acute intussusception, liberal laparoscopic exploration and intervention were undertaken without initial hydrostatic or pneumatic reduction. During the study interval, a retrospective review was conducted on a total of 3086 patients. These were categorized into two groups: 1338 cases before May 2019 (pre-protocol group) and 1748 cases after May 2019 (post-protocol group). Surgical intervention rates in the pre-protoco and post-protocol period were 10.2% and 27.4% respectively (odds ratio [OR] = 0.30 [95% CI 0.25-0.37]; p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in baseline clinical characteristics or demographic features between the two groups. The duration from admission to operation was longer for the pre-protocol group (p = 0.008) than for the post-protocol group. The post-protocol group demonstrated decreases in both intestinal resection (OR = 1.50 [95% CI 0.96-2.35]; p = 0.048) and total recurrent events (OR = 1.27 [95% CI 1.04-1.55]; p = 0.012) compared to the pre-protocol group. Liberal laparoscopic intervention for intussusception may effectively reduce the risk of intestinal resection and total recurrent events, thereby exhibiting promising outcomes for patients with intussusception.

Rapamycin prevents lung injury related to acute spinal cord injury in rats.

Severe injury occurs in the lung after acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) and autophagy is inhibited. However, rapamycin-activated autophagy's role and mechanism in lung injury development after ASCI is unknown. Preventing lung injury after ASCI by regulating autophagy is currently a valuable and unknown area. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect and possible mechanism of rapamycin-activated autophagy on lung damage post-ASCI. An experimental animal study of rapamycin's effect and mechanism on lung damage after ASCI. We randomly divided 144 female wild-type Sprague-Dawley rats into a vehicle sham group (n = 36), a vehicle injury group (n = 36), a rapamycin sham group (n = 36), and a rapamycin injury group (n = 36). The spine was injured at the tenth thoracic vertebra using Allen's method. At 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after surgery, the rats were killed humanely. Lung damage was evaluated via pulmonary gross anatomy, lung pathology, and apoptosis assessment. Autophagy induction was assessed according to LC3, RAB7, and Beclin 1 levels. ULK-1, ULK-1 Ser555, ULK-1 Ser757, AMPK α and AMPK ß1/2 were used to investigate the potential mechanism. After rapamycin pretreatment, the lung showed no obvious damage (e.g., cell death, inflammatory exudation, hemorrhage, and pulmonary congestion) at 12 h and 48 h after injury and Beclin1, LC3 and RAB7 levels increased. After rapamycin pretreatment, ULK-1, ULK-1 Ser555, and ULK-1 Ser757 levels increased at 12 h and 48 h after injury compared with the vehicle group, but they decreased at 12 h after injury compared with the rapamycin sham group. After rapamycin pretreatment, AMPKα levels did not change significantly before and after injury; however, at 48 h after injury, its level was elevated significantly compared with that in the vehicle group. Rapamycin can prevent lung injury after ASCI, possibly via upregulation of autophagy through the AMPK-mTORC1-ULK1 regulatory axis.

[Short-term effectiveness of transverse antecubital incision for failed closed reduction of Gartland type â ¢ supracondylar humerus fractures in children].

Objective: To investigate the short-term effectiveness of transverse antecubital incision in the treatment of failed closed reduction of Gartland type Ⅲ supracondylar humeral fractures (SHFs) in children. Methods: Between July 2020 and April 2022, 20 children with Gartland type Ⅲ SHFs who failed in closed reduction were treated with internal and external condylar crossing Kirschner wire fixation through transverse antecubital incision. There were 9 boys and 11 girls with an average age of 3.1 years (range, 1.1-6.0 years). The causes of injuries were fall in 12 cases and fall from height in 8 cases. The time from admission to operation ranged from 7 to 18 hours, with an average of 12.4 hours. The healing of the incision and the occurrence of complications such as nerve injury and cubitus varus were observed after operation; the elbow flexion and extension range of motion after removing the gypsum, after removing the Kirschner wire, and at last follow-up were recorded and compared, as well as the elbow flexion and extension and forearm rotation range of motion at last follow-up between healthy and affected sides; the Baumann angle was measured on the X-ray film, and the fracture healing was observed. At last follow-up, the effectiveness was evaluated according to the Flynn elbow function evaluation criteria. Results: All incisions healed by first intention, and there was no skin necrosis, scar contracture, ulnar nerve injury, and cubitus varus. Postoperative pain occurred in the radial-dorsal thumb in 2 cases. The gypsum was removed and elbow flexion and extension exercises were started at 2-4 weeks (mean, 2.7 weeks) after operation, and the Kirschner wire was removed at 4-5 weeks (mean, 4.3 weeks). All the 20 patients were followed up 6-16 months, with an average of 12.4 months. The fracture healing time was 4-5 weeks, with an average of 4.5 weeks, and there was no complication such as delayed healing and myositis ossificans. The flexion and extension range of motion of the elbow joint gradually improved after operation, and there were significant differences between the time after removing the gypsum, after removing the Kirschner wire, and at last follow-up ( P<0.017). There was no significant difference in the flexion and extension of the elbow joint and the forearm rotation range of motion between the healthy and affected sides at last follow-up ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in Baumann angle between the time of immediate after operation, after removing the Kirschner wire, and at last follow-up ( P>0.05). According to Flynn elbow function evaluation standard, 16 cases were excellent and 4 cases were good, the excellent and good rate was 100%. Conclusion: The treatment of Gartland type Ⅲ SHFs in children with failed closed reduction by internal and external condylar crossing Kirschner wire fixation through transverse antecubital incision has the advantages of complete soft tissue hinge behind the fracture for easy reduction and wire fixation, small incision, less complications, fast fracture healing, early functional recovery, reliable reduction and fixation, and can obtain satisfactory results.

Pathological anatomy, classification and treatment of the atypical Wassel Type VI thumb duplication.

We studied the pathological anatomical structures of atypical Wassel Type VI thumb duplication to provide a theoretical basis for surgical treatment. Forty-seven patients with atypical Wassel Type VI thumb duplication were treated. We found that some of cases had an ulnar thumb without an extensor tendon, or without a flexor tendon, or without both. All the ulnar metacarpal bones were abnormal to variable degrees. On-top-plasty is currently the best procedure for the treatment of this type of anomaly. Flexor tendon reconstruction is an important factor in functional reconstruction of the thumb, and keeping the pulley and sheath intact is a key step in flexor tendon reconstruction. Placing the on-top-plasty level at the distal end of the metacarpal or at the proximal phalanx depends on the presence of the flexor tendon. According to the condition of the flexor tendon, the atypical Wassel Type IV duplication can be divided into two types: the absent type and the intact type.Level of evidence: VI.

Trapezoidal Osteotomy for Treatment of Long-Standing Nonunion of Lateral Humeral Condyle Fracture With Cubitus Valgus Deformity.

PURPOSE: Long-term nonunion of the lateral humerus condyle fracture may lead to progressive cubitus valgus, elbow pain and instability, and secondary ulnar neuritis. A number of techniques of osteotomy are available for correction, but each has its disadvantages. The aim of this study was to present a technique of medial trapezoidal osteotomy for correcting nonunion of the lateral humeral condyle with an elbow valgus deformity >20°. METHODS: Eight patients (mean age, 7.5 years) with cubitus valgus, after neglected nonunion of a lateral humeral condyle fracture of greater than 2 years duration, were treated with trapezoidal combined osteotomy. The mean interval from the lateral condylar fracture to surgery was 3.1 years. The osteotomy lines were marked on the bone with a template made before surgery. The lateral condyle and osteotomy site were fixed with K-wires, and the elbow joint was immobilized in a plaster brace. Pre- and postoperative carrying angles, range of motion, elbow function, and ulnar nerve neuropathy were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 5.9 years. Union of the lateral condyle was achieved in all patients; 3 healed at 8 weeks, 2 healed at 9 weeks, 2 healed at 10 weeks, and 1 healed at 12 weeks. The mean carrying angle decreased from 30.1° before surgery to 5.8° after surgery. The surgery did not reduce the range of motion at the elbow. According to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, 6 patients had excellent elbow function, and 2 had good elbow function at the last follow-up. All preoperative ulnar nerve symptoms resolved. One patient had a mild surgical site infection. No other complications occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Medial trapezoidal osteotomy appears to be an effective method for treating nonunion of lateral humeral epicondyle fracture with cubitus valgus deformity. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

A novel method of lateral closing wedge osteotomy for cubitus varus deformity in children.

BACKGROUND: Humeral osteotomy is the best method for treatment of severe cubitus varus in children. Many osteotomy methods have been developed in the past. In this study, we describe a novel corrective technique by applying the principles described by Paley involving lateral osteotomy using Kirschner wires (K-wires). Vertices of the osteotomy should be located at the center of rotation of angulation. The anatomical and mechanical axes can be corrected with precision. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 21 patients (17 male, 4 female) who fulfilled the study criteria and underwent lateral closing osteotomy for cubitus varus deformity from July 2015 to October 2017 were included into the study. The osteotomy line of all patients was designed according to Paley's principles. An isosceles triangle template was made according to the design preoperatively. The lateral osteotomy was made with the assistance of C-arm radiographs. The osteotomy was fixed by K-wires laterally. Patients were followed up, and elbows were evaluated by radiography and using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) score. RESULTS: The mean correction angle obtained was 32.33°±2.83°. According to the MEPI score assessment, 19 of the 21 patients had an excellent outcome and two had a good outcome. Two patients complained of conspicuous scars; however, no further cosmetic surgery was performed. The range of motion was 135.0° preoperatively and 133.7° postoperatively, showing no significant difference (p = 0.326). None showed evidence of neurovascular injury or complained of prominence of the lateral humerus. CONCLUSION: Paley's principles for correcting cubitus varus deformity in children are effective and reliable for treating such a condition. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Modified Pemberton Pelvic Osteotomy Through Inner Ilium Approach for Treatment of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in Children.

Introduction: Pemberton osteotomy is a widely used operation in developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The traditional pelvic osteotomy was through outside of the ilium. However, in this study, we performed the pelvic osteotomy through the inner ilium approach. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 79 patients diagnosed with DDH with open surgery in our hospital from March 2016 to May 2018. There were 39 patients who underwent outside ilium Pemberton osteotomy (PO) and 40 patients who underwent inner "L shaped" ilium Pemberton osteotomy (ILSO). Acetabular index (AI), center-edge angle of Wiberg (CE angle), Severin grading scoring system, postoperative avascular necrosis (AVN) by Kalamchi and McEwen classification, and McKay grading scoring system were used for evaluation. Results: There was no significant difference between the PO group and ILSO group on AI (p = 0.476), CE angles (p = 0.225), avascular necrosis (Kalamchi and McEwen, p = 0.854), and hip function (McKay's, p = 0.444) on the final follow-up. There were significant differences in X-ray radiation (p < 0.001), blood loss (p = 0.011) and surgery time (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Inner side ilium is a viable approach for Pemberton osteotomy of DDH in children with less X-ray radiation, and less blood loss and shorter surgery time. Level of evidence: III. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-022-00676-7.

Effects of electric charge on fracture healing.

Fracture nonunion is a common and challenging complication. Although direct current stimulation has been suggested to promote fracture healing, differences in cell density near the positive and negative electrodes have been reported during direct current stimulation. This study aimed to explore the effects of these differences on osteoblast proliferation and fracture healing. MC3T3-E1 cells were stimulated by positive and negative charges to observe cell proliferation, apoptosis, and osteogenic factor expression in vitro, while positive and negative charges were connected to the Kirschner wires of the fractures in an in vivo double-toe fracture model in New Zealand white rabbits and fracture healing was assessed in digital radiography (DR) examinations performed on days 1, 15, 30. Bone tissue samples of all rabbits were analysed histologically after the last examination. The results showed that in comparison with the control group, after DC stimulation, the number of cells near the positive electrode decreased significantly (P < 0.05), apoptosis increased (P < 0.05), the expression of osteocalcin, osteoblast-specific genes, and osteonectin decreased significantly near the positive electrode (P < 0.05) and increased significantly at the negative electrode (P < 0.05). The fracture at the positive electrode junction of New Zealand white rabbits did not heal. Histomorphological analysis showed more bone trabeculae and calcified bone in the bone tissue sections of the control group and the negative electrode group than in the positive electrode group. The bone trabeculae were thick and showed good connections. However, positive charge inhibited osteoblast proliferation and a positive charge at fracture sites did not favour fracture healing. Thus, a positive charge near the fracture site may be a reason for fracture nonunion.

Correction to: Modified Pemberton Pelvic Osteotomy Through Inner Ilium Approach for Treatment of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in Children.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1007/s43465-022-00676-7.].

Is Femoral Neck System a Valid Alternative for the Treatment of Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures in Adolescents? A Comparative Study of Femoral Neck System versus Cannulated Compression Screw.

Background and Objectives: The femoral neck system (FNS) is a new minimally invasive internal fixation system for femoral neck fractures (FNFs), but its use has not been reported in adolescents. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of displaced FNF in adolescents treated with FNS or a cannulated compression screw (CCS). Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of 58 consecutive patients with displaced FNF treated surgically was performed; overall, 28 patients underwent FNS and 30 CCS fixation. Sex, age at injury, type of fracture, associated lesions, duration of surgery, radiation exposure, and blood loss were collected from the hospital database. The clinical and radiographic results, as well as complications, were recorded and compared. Results: The patients were followed up for 16.4 ± 3.1 months on average after index surgery (range, 12 to 24). Consolidation time among patients treated with FNS was significantly lower than those managed by CCS (p = 0.000). The functional scores of patients treated with FNS were significantly higher than those managed by CCS (p = 0.030). Unplanned hardware removal in patients treated with FNS was significantly lower than in those managed by CCS (p = 0.024). Conclusions: FNS has a lower complication rate and better functional outcome than CCS. It may be a good alternative to treat femoral neck fractures in adolescents.

Novel method for the treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia using the gastrocnemius flap: A preliminary study.

Purpose: Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia is a rare disease that is particularly difficult to treat; the most difficult complications include nonunion of the tibia, refracture, and failed surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of transposing gastrocnemius flaps for the treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia. Methods: Nine patients (aged 6.2 ± 3.6 years) diagnosed with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia in our hospital between March 2013 and March 2018 were enrolled. The tibial pseudarthrosis and thickened periosteum were completely removed, and intramedullary nails were used to fix the tibia. Bone harvest from the iliac, mixed with allogenic bone, was filled in the gap created by excision of the pseudarthrosis site and the surrounding periosteum; the gastrocnemius flap was then used to wrap the pseudoarthrosis site. The plaster cast was fixed postoperatively. The tibial union was evaluated via radiograph, and the plaster cast was removed after 12-24 weeks. Patients began walking approximately 12-14 weeks postoperatively. Results: Anatomical reduction was achieved in all the patients; the mean bone healing time was 10.1 ± 2.1 months. Bone nonunion was observed in one patient, and no neurovascular injury or wound infection occurred. Limb length discrepancy was in the range 3.2 ± 1.8 cm at 1 year and 4.7 ± 2.7 cm at 2 years after surgery. Two patients underwent replacement of the intramedullary nail, and eight patients exhibited good functional and radiographic outcomes. Conclusion: This preliminary study proved that using the gastrocnemius muscle flap to cover the pseudarthrosis site was an effective method to promote the tibial union and treat congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia.

A modified Bilhaut-Cloquet procedure for thumb duplication: Reconstruction of functionality and appearance.

BACKGROUND: The Bilhaut-Cloquet technique is the preferred surgical method for thumb polydactyly with symmetrical caliber and osseous components. However, the traditional Bilhaut-Cloquet technique has many esthetic and functional complications. In this study, we aimed to investigate an effective modified Bilhaut-Cloquet procedure for Wassel type IV thumb duplication. METHODS: The dorsal scar of the thumb was hidden on the ulnar side of the thumb through the flap design. The nail bed was sutured flat by combining the phalangeal bone and nail bed on different planes. The sensory function of the thumb was restored by keeping the ulnar skin of the thumb intact. RESULTS: Our modified Bilhaut-Cloquet procedure did not reduce the mobility of the joints. All patients had relatively rounded fingernails, and no seagull deformity was present. The ulnar side of the palm skin of the thumb remained intact with no scars, maximizing the preservation of the sensory function of the thumb. All the operated children and their parents were satisfied with the esthetic result. CONCLUSIONS: We hid the surgical scar by improving the surgical method and reducing the thumb seagull nail deformity, and the influencing of the finger sensation caused by the scar on the finger abdomen. The procedure improved not only the appearance of the reconstructed thumbs but also the sensory function of the thumbs.

Use of a radiopaque localizer grid and methylene blue staining as an aid to reduce radiation exposure.

BACKGROUND: Localization of small femur lesions for resection can be challenging and may be associated with the need for significant fluoroscopic imaging and tissue dissection. This study was performed to evaluate the use of a radiopaque localizer grid along with methylene blue staining for resection of small femur lesions in children, and to determine the effectiveness of this effectiveness at reducing radiation exposure and tissue injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A radiopaque localizer grid was used to identify the body surface site of bone lesions, and then 0.02-0.03 mL of methylene blue was injected into the bone lesions. After skin incision, the blue bone tissue was found and complete lesion resection performed. RESULTS: A radiopaque localizer grid was utilized to plan the point of entry for lesion resection. The average operation time was shorter, and the C-arm was used less frequently, and the incision length was shorter in the grid and methylene blue group compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: A radiopaque localizer grid is a simple and practical device for efficient localization of the skin entry site, and methylene blue accurately pinpoints bone lesions, reducing radiation exposure and tissue injury.

SV40T reprograms Schwann cells into stem-like cells that can re-differentiate into terminal nerve cells.

BACKGROUND: The specific effect of SV40T on neurocytes has seldom been investigated by the researchers. We transfected Schwann cells (SCs) that did not have differentiation ability with MPH 86 plasmid containing SV40T, in order to explore the effects of SV40T on Schwann cells. METHODS: SCs were transfected with MPH 86 plasmid carrying the SV40T gene and cultured in different media, and also co-cultured with neural stem cells (NSCs). In our study, SCs overexpressing SV40T were defined as SV40T-SCs. The proliferation of these cells was detected by WST-1, and the expression of different biomarkers was analyzed by qPCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: SV40T induced the characteristics of NSCs, such as the ability to grow in suspension, form spheroid colonies and proliferate rapidly, in the SCs, which were reversed by knocking out SV40T by the Flip-adenovirus. In addition, SV40T up-regulated the expressions of neural crest-associated markers Nestin, Pax3 and Slug, and down-regulated S100b as well as the markers of mature SCs MBP, GFAP and Olig1/2. These cells also expressed NSC markers like Nestin, Sox2, CD133 and SSEA-1, as well as early development markers of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) like BMP4, c-Myc, OCT4 and Gbx2. Co-culturing with NSCs induced differentiation of the SV40T-SCs into neuronal and glial cells. CONCLUSIONS: SV40T reprograms Schwann cells to stem-like cells at the stage of neural crest cells (NCCs) that can differentiate to neurocytes.

Modified osteotomy for treatment of forearm deformities (Masada IIb) in hereditary multiple osteochondromas: a retrospective review.

PURPOSE: Approximately 30% of patients with hereditary multiple osteochondromas (HMO) have forearm deformity and dysfunction. The aim of this retrospective study was to review our experience with the surgical treatment of children with HMO and Masada IIb forearm deformities. METHODS: Data of eight children treated for HMO Masada IIb forearm deformity at our hospital between 2015 and 2019 were collected from the hospital records and retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent ulnar lengthening by distraction osteogenesis using either the Orthofix or Ilizarov external fixator. Range of movements at the elbow and wrist joints, and forearm supination/pronation, before and after the operation were recorded. Radiographs were evaluated by the Fogel method, and wrist joint function by the Krimmer method. RESULTS: Follow-up radiographs showed significant improvement in relative ulnar shortening after treatment (pre-operative 9.23 ± 5.21 mm; post-operative 0.33 ± 4.13 mm). Changes in radial articular angle (pre-operative 33.55° ± 3.88° to 32.78° ± 6.57°) and carpal slip (pre-operative 45.00% ± 19.09%; post-operative 43.13% ± 16.68%) were not significant. Elbow flexion and extension, wrist flexion and extension, ulnar and radial deviation at wrist, and forearm rotation were significantly improved after surgery. Wrist function was graded as excellent in seven patients and as good in one patient. One patient treated with the Ilizarov external fixator had poor radial head reduction. CONCLUSION: Ulnar lengthening with distraction osteogenesis is an effective treatment for HMO Masada IIb deformities. The optimum site for ulnar osteotomy appears to be at the proximal one-third to one-fourth of the ulna.

Retrospective analysis of traumatic triradiate cartilage injury in children.

BACKGROUND: To summarize and analyze the epidemiological characteristics, treatment and corresponding curative effect of triradiate cartilage injury(TCI) in children after trauma, to provide a theoretical basis for early diagnosis and improvement of treatment. METHODS: The TCI was classified according to Bucholz classification, and the final curative effect was evaluated with Harris Hip Score and imaging examination during follow-up. Finally, a comprehensive analysis was made by reviewing the cases in the literature combined with the patients in our hospital. RESULTS: A total of 15 cases (18 hips) of triradiate cartilage injuries were collected in our hospital. There was 1 hip with type I injury, nine hips with type II injury, two hips with type IV injury, one hip with type V injury and five hips with type VI injury. Among the 12 cases with complete follow-up, the bone bridge was found in or around the triradiate cartilage in 8 cases, early fusion of triradiate cartilage occurred in 5 patients, 3 cases had hip dysplasia, 4 cases had a subluxation of the femoral head, and HHS was excellent in 8 cases and good in 4 cases. CONCLUSION: The early diagnosis of TCI is still a difficult problem. Conservative treatment is often the first choice. The overall prognosis of acetabular fractures involving triradiate cartilage is poor. The formation of the bone bridge in triradiate cartilage usually indicates the possibility of premature closure, which may lead to severe complications of post-traumatic acetabular dysplasia and subluxation of the femoral head.

Epidemiological statistics of congenital thumb duplication in the Chinese population.

BACKGROUND: Thumb duplication is a very common congenital malformation. This study describes and compares the phenotypic manifestations of polydactyly between southwest and northeast China. However, previous studies had a limited sample size. Therefore, this study used a large sample. METHODS: A total of 3549 well-characterized thumb duplication cases were divided into group A (southwest China) and group B (northeast China). RESULTS: In group A and group B, the left-to-right ratio was 1:1.5 and 1:1.75, respectively, and the female-to-male ratio was 1:1.5 and 1:1.58, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There were no significant differences in gender distribution or the distribution of left and right polydactyly between the two groups, but the distribution of bilateral polydactyly was significantly different.

BMP9 Can Induce Schwann Cells Expressing Simian Virus 40 T Antigen to Differentiate into Fat and Bone In Vivo and In Vitro.

In our previous study, we constructed Schwann cells (SCs) that stably express Simian virus 40 T antigen (SV40T-SCs). SV40T-SCs functions and markers are similar to those of neural crest cells. There we used bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) to induce SV40T-SCs differentiation in vitro and in vivo and study possible related mechanism. SV40T-SCs differentiation was induced by BMP9 conditioned medium. The lipogenic differentiation of SV40T-SCs was assessed by Oil Red O staining. Alizarin red and Alcian blue staining, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assays were used to evaluate the SV40T-SCs osteogenic differentiation. The expression of adipocyte differentiation (c/EBPα and c/EBPß) and osteoblast differentiation markers (OSX and RUNX2) were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). To study possible mechanism related to SV40T-SCs differentiation, the P53 and E2F1 activity were assessed by luciferase reporter plasmid, and Slug and E-cadherin expression by qPCR. In vivo, SV40T-SCs infected by Ad-BMP9 or Ad-GFP were injected under the skin of nude mice. After 4-6 W, the mice were euthanized and subcutaneously mass formed at injecting sites was collected for pathological analysis. After SV40T-SCs were cultured in BMP9 conditioned medium, lipid droplets were formed in the cytoplasm of these cells. Alizarin red and Alcian blue staining were positive, and ALP activity of SV40T-SCs increased significantly. The expression of adipocyte differentiation (c/EBPα and c/EBPß) and osteoblast differentiation markers (OSX and RUNX2) in SV40T-SCs was upregulated by BMP9. SV40T significantly increased Slug expression and decreased E-cadherin expression. SV40T-SCs infected with Ad-BMP9 were able to differentiate into adipose tissue and form a small bone matrix under the nude mice skin. SV40T-SCs have the ability to differentiate into adipocytes and osteoblasts in vivo and in vitro. SV40T can upregulate the Slug expression and downregulate the E-cadherin expression to produce endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The multidirectional differentiation ability of SV40T-SCs may be related to EMT.