Review and update on the management of triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries in professional athletes.

Triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries are common in amateur and professional sports. These injuries are mainly caused by acute or chronic repetitive axial loads on the wrist, particularly on the ulnar side and in association with rotations or radial/ulnar deviations. In order to treat professional athletes, a detailed specific knowledge of the pathology is needed. Moreover, the clinician should fully understand the specific and unique environment and needs of the athletes, their priorities and goals, the type of sport, the time of the season, and the position played. An early diagnosis and appropriate management with the quickest possible recovery time are the uppermost goals for both the athlete and the surgeon. A compromise between conservative vs surgical indications, athletes' needs and expectations, and financial implications should be achieved. Arthroscopic procedures should be timely planned when indicated as they could allow early diagnosis and treatment at the same time. Conservative measures are often used as first line treatment when possible. Peripheral lesions are treated by arthroscopic repair, whilst central lesions are treated by arthroscopic debridement. Further procedures (such as the Wafer procedure, ulnar osteotomies, etc.) have specific indications and great implications with regard to rehabilitation.

Update on surgical procedures for carpal tunnel syndrome: What is the current evidence and practice? What are the future research directions?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a multifactorial compression neuropathy. It is reported to be very common and rising globally. CTS's treatment varies from conservative measures to surgical treatments. Surgery has shown to be an effective method for more severe cases. However few unclear aspects and room for further research and improvements still remains. We performed a narrative literature review on the most up to date progress and innovation in terms of surgical treatments for CTS. The simple algorithm of leaving the choice of the surgical method to surgeons' preference and experience (together with consideration of patients' related factors) seem to be the best available option, which is supported by the most recent metanalysis and systematic reviews. We suggest that surgeons (unless in presence of precise indications towards endoscopic release) should tend to perform a minimally invasive open approach release, favoring the advantage of a better neurovascular structures visualization (and a consequent higher chance to perform a complete release with long term relief of symptoms) instead of favoring an early reduction (in the first postoperative days) of immobilization and pain. Research towards a universally accepted standardization should be aimed for by the researchers, who have failed to date to sufficiently limit bias and limitations.

A Novel Approach to Treat a Rare Case of Interprosthetic Humeral Fracture with Osteosynthesis and Combined Grafting: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Interprosthetic humeral fractures (IHFs) are severe injury patterns associated with surgical issues and contradictory results. The knowledge and literature on this topic are still lacking. A 76 year-old woman was treated for a fracture occurred between the shoulder and elbow stemmed prosthesis. Severe bone loss was associated with the fracture. Treatment: Open reduction, plate fixation, and bone grafting were considered. A xenograft (used as a mechanical strut medially), a synthetic graft associated with bone growth factors, and scaffolds improved the bone healing process. Satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes were obtained. A scoping review of the literature was also performed by the authors. Only eight papers reported IHFs with a low level of evidence. In total, eight patients were treated; one paper that reported on biomechanical aspects using finite element analysis is discussed. Conservative treatment leads to non-union, and the surgical approach is the gold standard. The osteosynthesis technique associated with bone grafting leads to the best outcomes. The use of a xenograft mechanical strut, associated with synthetic biological bone grafting, led to complete bone union at 9 months follow-up. Larger cohorts, more standardised results, and multicentric studies are mandatory in order to improve and establish a management and treatment algorithm.

The treatment of knee cartilage lesions: state of the art.

The management and repair of knee cartilage lesions currently represents a challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon. Identifiable causes are the characteristics of the involved tissues themselves and the presence of poor vascularization, which is responsible for overall reduced repair capacity. The literature reports three types of cartilage lesions' treatment modalities: chondroprotection, chondroreparation and chondrogeneration. The preference for one or the other therapeutic option depends on the pattern of the lesion and the clinical conditions of the patient. Each treatment technique is distinguished by the quality of the restorative tissue that is generated. In particular, the chondrorigeneration represents the last frontier of regenerative medicine, as it aims at the complete restoration of natural cartilage. However, the most recent literature documents good results only in the short and medium terms. In recent years the optimization of chondroregeneration outcomes is based on the modification of the scaffolds and the search for new chondrocyte sources, in order to guarantee satisfactory long-term results.

Obesity and Bone: A Complex Relationship.

There is a large literature on the relationship between obesity and bone. What we can conclude from this review is that the increase in body weight causes an increase in BMD, both for a mechanical effect and for the greater amount of estrogens present in the adipose tissue. Nevertheless, despite an apparent strengthening of the bone witnessed by the increased BMD, the risk of fracture is higher. The greater risk of fracture in the obese subject is due to various factors, which are carefully analyzed by the Authors. These factors can be divided into metabolic factors and increased risk of falls. Fractures have an atypical distribution in the obese, with a lower incidence of typical osteoporotic fractures, such as those of hip, spine and wrist, and an increase in fractures of the ankle, upper leg, and humerus. In children, the distribution is different, but it is not the same in obese and normal-weight children. Specifically, the fractures of the lower limb are much more frequent in obese children. Sarcopenic obesity plays an important role. The authors also review the available literature regarding the effects of high-fat diet, weight loss and bariatric surgery.

Two stage treatment of a proximal humeral fracture-dislocation with vascular injury: Case report of a multidisciplinary approach.

Proximal humeral fracture-dislocation associated with neurovascular injury is rare events, associated with poorer outcomes and higher risk of complications. A multidisciplinary approach including the orthopaedic and vascular department is essential in treating such kind of injury. The goal of the treatment is to restore the vascular supply and stabilize the fracture. Usually the orthopaedic surgical stabilization provides a stable substrate for the vascular repair. We report a case of 70 years old woman who sustained a 4 part proximal humerus fracture-dislocation with vascular injury at the level of the transition of the subclavian into axillary artery. Because of the impending severe limb ischemia, the priority of the treatment was given to vascular surgical intervention with a by-pass procedure. After 14 days a reverse shoulder prosthesis was thought to be the best alternative in the second stage surgery. At 18 months follow-up we achieved good clinical and radiological outcomes. Although a lack of consensus on the priority of treatments, we achieved good result following our proposed algorithm of treatment.

First reported case of a coronal hamate fracture associated with intrusion of the fifth metacarpal base, together with a fracture of the fourth metacarpal base.

We present a case reporting a rare combination of base of fourth metacarpal fracture and coronal body of hamate fracture, treated conservatively with excellent results. High index of suspicion for undetected bony injuries drove the execution of a CT scan, which allowed us to make a full correct diagnosis and plan treatment. Moreover, this case becomes the first reported case in the literature of such injury causing the intrusion of the base of the fifth metacarpal within the hamate bone, thus causing the coronal pattern of the hamate fracture. Differently from the common surgical management of this type of injury, we successfully treated this patient with close reduction and immobilisation, with full recovery after 3 months.

Locking retrograde nail, non-locking retrograde nail and plate fixation in the treatment of distal third femoral shaft fractures: radiographic, bone densitometry and clinical outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Distal third femoral shaft fractures are characterized by increasing incidence and complexity and are still considered a challenging problem (high morbidity and mortality). No consensus on best surgical option has been achieved. This study aims to investigate radiographic, mineral bone densitometry and clinical outcomes of locking retrograde intramedullary (LRN) nailing, non-locking retrograde intramedullary nailing and anatomical locking plate to surgically treat distal third femoral shaft fractures in young adults. Our hypothesis was that there is no significant statistical difference among the surgical options in terms of results (radiographic, bone densitometry and outcomes assessment). METHODS: Retrospective study: 90 patients divided into three groups (group 1 LRN, group 2 NLRN, group 3 plating). Average age was respectively 42.67 (± 18.32), 44.27 (± 15.11) and 42.84 (± 18.32) years. Sex ratio F:M was respectively 2.75, 2.33 and 2.00. AO Classification, KOOS, NUSS and RUSH score, VAS, DEXA scans and plain radiographs were used. Evaluation endpoint: 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences in terms of surgery time, transfusions, and wound healing. Results were similar with regard to average time of bone healing, RUSH scores, VAS, KOOS, regression between RUSH and VAS, average correlation clinical-radiographic results and patients outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed no statistical difference in the use of LNR, NLNR and plating for treatment of distal third femur shaft fractures in terms of radiographic, bone densitometry and clinical outcomes. Good subjective and objective results are provided by all three techniques. The choice among the studied techniques must be based on surgeons' experience, indications and subjective patients' aspects. The absence of relevant similar data in the published literature does not allow definitive validation (or rejection) of our hypothesis. A more powered study with a bigger cohort is needed for definitive validation.

Dorsally displaced distal radius fractures: introduction of Pacetti's line as radiological measurement to predict dorsal fracture displacement.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK: In the best of our knowledge there is not yet in the literature a measurement able to assess post reduction stability of distal radius fractures. AIM: to study the relationship between our newly introduced Pacetti's line, anatomical reduction of DRFs and post-reduction stability of fractures. METHODS: Patients/Participants: 230 patients (122men, 108women) who sustained a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture. Close reduction procedures attempted; below elbow cast applied. FOLLOW-UP: Pacetti's line used on true AP and lateral view xrays after reduction and casting (T0) and at 7-14 days (T1-T2). MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Assessment and prediction of early displacement of DRFs. RESULTS: The Pacetti's line intersected the lunate bone in 162 cases (70.4%) after anatomical reduction, of which 20.4% (N=33) lost anatomical reduction. Cramer's V test: significant relationship between transition of Pacetti's line through the semilunar bone and stability of anatomical reduction at T0 follow-up (p<0.001, Cramer's value=0.83). The Pacetti's line intersected the lunate bone in 119 cases (51.7%) at 7-14 days follow-up. None of patients lost anatomical reduction. Cramer's V test: significant relationship between transition of Pacetti's line through the semilunar bone and stability anatomical reduction at T1 and T2 follow-up (p<0.001, Cramer's value=0.73). CONCLUSIONS: We strongly recommend the use of the Pacetti's line as it seems to provide reliable prediction of further fracture displacement and consequently of definitive management. The Pacetti's line seems to represent a very useful tool providing simple, feasible, efficient and reliable information on DRFs characteristics and natural course.

Wound Infiltration with Levobupivacaine, Ketorolac, and Adrenaline for Postoperative Pain Control after Spinal Fusion Surgery.

STUDY DESIGN: This study enrolled patients in from a single center who underwent primary spinal fusion procedure and divided them into two groups (group-control study). PURPOSE: Good local infiltration can reduce postoperative analgesic requirements and enable expedited discharge. Administration of a combination of levobupivacaine (200 mg/100 mL, 0.9% normal saline), ketorolac (30 mg), and adrenaline (0.5 mg) as a wound infiltrate is recommended at an optimum combination. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: There is currently no consensus on the optimum intraoperative local infiltration of spinal surgery patients undergoing operative fusion. METHODS: Patients who were enrolled in two spinal centers (over 24 months) undergoing primary spinal fusion procedures were allocated into two groups, comparing the type of local infiltration used at the time of the procedure. Group 1 received the combination of levobupivacaine (200 mg), ketorolac (30 mg), and adrenaline (0.5 mg), while group 2 received other types of local anesthetics. Primary outcome measures include patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) use, morphine consumption, and length of hospital stay. Secondary outcome measure are as follows: days of physiotherapy, pain score, side effects, and complications. RESULTS: There are a total of 140 patients enrolled. Seventy-five patients enrolled were allocated to group 1, receiving the study combination, and 65 patients were assigned in group 2, receiving other local infiltrations. All primary outcome measures (consumption of morphine, use of PCA, and length of stay) were significantly higher in group 2 than the study combination (p<0.05). The secondary outcomes of pain scores and days of physiotherapy values were also significantly higher in group 2 (p<0.05). Patient satisfaction questionnaires gave significantly better results in group 1 (p<0.05). There were no significant statistical differences with regard to any postoperative complications between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the studied wound infiltration is a safe and feasible option that could provide good postoperative pain control without significant side effects. It also allowed to reduce dependence of opioids and PCA, earlier postoperative mobilization, lower pain scores postoperatively, and reduced hospital stay.

Over the top anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients with open physes: a long-term follow-up study.

INTRODUCTION: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture in skeletally immature athletes is becoming an injury with increasing incidence. Choices of treatment are still debated, including conservative management vs. various surgical techniques. The lack of long-term reports has been highlighted in the literature. AIM: To evaluate long-term results of ACL reconstructions performed in skeletally immature patients using the Over the Top technique with lateral extra-articular tenodesis. METHODS: Retrospective study. All surgeries performed by same surgeon. A total of 42 patients included. All patients had pre-operative radiological studies. SUBJECTS: 30 males and 12 females. Average age: 12.5 years (range 11-14 years). Average follow-up: 96.1 months. Clinical evaluation: Pedi-IKDC, Tegner-Lysholm, KT-1000 and plain radiographs. Standardized rehabilitation protocol. RESULTS: No instability or leg length discrepancy was recorded. Average pre-operative Tegner-Lysholm and Pedi-IKDC scores were 55 and 40, respectively, with a score of 94.8 (p < 0.05) and 94.78, respectively, at final follow-up (p < 0.05). Average post-operative (1 month) Tegner-Lysholm score: 75 (range: 62-79). Median post-operative Tegner activity: 8. Mean side-to-side (KT-1000): 1.2 mm. A total of 22 patients could go back to pre-injury sport activity, with an average rehabilitation of 7.3 months. DISCUSSION: A significant number of cases were included in our structured standardized study and follow-up. Functional scores were excellent overall. Excellent results are testified by a final achievement of 22 patients going back to pre-injury sport activity, which is in keeping with the literature. Our experience exhibited a low complication rate and no metalwork failure. We correlate our results to the use of the Over the Top technique with lateral extra-articular tenodesis. CONCLUSION: The studied procedure seems to be an excellent option and an effective, feasible and safe technique when treating ruptured ACLs in skeletally immature patients.

Feasibility and value of non-locking retrograde nail vs. locking retrograde nail in fixation of distal third femoral shaft fractures: radiographic, bone densitometry and clinical outcome assessments.

Aim Distal femoral shaft fractures are characterized by increasing incidence and complexity and are still considered a challenging problem. No consensus on best surgical option has been achieved. The aim of this study is to investigate mineral bone densitometry, radiographic and clinical outcomes of locking retrograde intramedullary nailing (LRN) and non-locking retrograde intramedullary nailing (NLRN) regarding surgical treatment of distal femoral shaft fractures in adults based on the hypothesis that there is no statistical difference among the results of both surgical options. Methods Retrospective study: 30 patients divided into 2 groups (Group 1 LRN, Group 2 NLRN). Average age was 42.67±18.32 for Group 1 and 44.27±15.11 for Group 2 (range of age 18-65 for both groups). Gender ratio (male:female) was 2.75 (11:4) for both groups. AO Classification, Non Union Scoring System (NUSS) and Radiographic Union Score Hip (RUSH), Visual Analogic Score (VAS), Dexa scans, plain radiographs were used. Evaluation endpoint: 12 months after surgery. Results No statistical difference was obtained in terms of surgery time, transfusions or wound healing. There were similar results regarding average time of bone healing, RUSH scores, VAS, regression between RUSH and VAS, average correlation clinical-radiographic results and patients outcomes. Only one patient of LRN group had reduction of mineral bone densitometry values. Conclusion No statistical difference in terms of radiographic, bone densitometry and clinical outcomes among LNR and NLNR for the treatment of distal femur fractures was found. The presence of no statistical difference regarding radiological findings is the main factor supporting our hypothesis given their strong objectivity.

Radiographic, Bone Densitometry and Clinic Outcomes Assessments in Femoral Shaft Fractures Fixed by Plating or Locking Retrograde Nail.

INTRODUCTION: Distal femoral shaft fractures are characterized by increasing incidence and complexity and are still considered a challenging problem (high morbidity and mortality). No consensus on best surgical option has been achieved. AIM: This study aims is to investigate radiographic, mineral bone densitometry and clinical outcomes of locking retrograde intramedullary (LRN) nailing and anatomical locking plate to surgically treat distal femoral shaft fractures in young adults based on the hypothesis that there is no statistical difference among the two surgical options in terms of results (radiographic, bone densitometry and outcomes assessment). METHODS: Retrospective study: 30 patients divided into 2 groups (Group 1 LRN, Group 2 Nailing). Average age was 42.67±18.32 for Group 1 and 42.84 ±18.32 for Group 2 (range of age 18-65 for both groups). Gender Ratio (male: female) was 2.75 (11:4) for both Group 1 and 2. AO Classification, NUSS and RUSH score, VAS, Dexa scans, plain radiographs were used. Evaluation endpoint: 12 months after surgery (mean follow up 16.24). RESULTS: No statistical difference in terms of surgery time, transfusions, wound healing. Similar results with regard to average time of bone healing, RUSH scores, VAS, regression between RUSH and VAS, average correlation clinical-radiographic results and patients outcomes. Only one patient of each group had reduction of mineral bone densitometry values. CONCLUSION: No statistical difference about the use of LNR or Nailing for treatment of distal femur shaft fractures in terms of radiographic, bone densitometry and outcomes has been found accordingly to our results. Good subjective and objective results are provided by both techniques. The choice among the two techniques must be based on surgeons' experience, indications and subjective patients' aspects. The absence of relevant similar data in the published literature does not allow definitive validation (or rejection) of our hypothesis. A more powered study with bigger cohort is needed for definitive validation.

A new plate design to treat displaced 3-4 parts proximal humeral fractures in comparison to the most tested and used plate: clinical and radiographic study.

Aim Proximal humeral fractures are common and most complex patterns currently represent a challenge for surgeons. Difficulties in obtaining good anatomical reduction (particularly of great tuberosity) often lead to unsatisfactory results; choices often fall onto prosthesis implantation against fixation options. The aim of this study was to compare a new design of proximal humeral plate with the most used plates in the treatment of these injures by analysing outcomes and complications. Methods Two hundred patients with proximal 3 or 4 parts humeral fracture were enrolled (Neer 3-4). First group treated with PGR Plate composed of 98 patients. Second group treated with Philos Plate composed of 102 patients. Evaluation criteria were Non-Union Scoring System, duration of surgery, complications, objective quality of life and elbow function (Constant Shoulder Score), subjective quality of life and elbow function (Oxford Shoulder Score), post-op radiographs, centrum collum diaphyseal angle. Evaluation endpoint was 12 months. Results There was no statistically significant difference between the groups with regard to the selected evaluation parameters. Achievement of good shoulder range of motion and ability to perform normal daily living activities was obtained in both groups. The PGR had a positive impact on treatment results of varuspattern of proximal humeral fractures. Conclusions The PGR allowed good clinical and radiographic results in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures, comparable to those obtained with Philos. Also, PGR had the advantage to aid and keep the anatomical reduction of patterns of fracture involving the greater tuberosity.

The challenge of nonunion and malunion in distal femur surgical revision.

Aim To demonstrate validity of a bio-metallic solution in bone healing combined with the quadriceps safe approach in the treatment of nonunions of distal femur while malunions were treated by metallic solution. Methods We treated 57 patients with nonunion or malunion of distal femur at the Orthopaedics and Traumatology Department of a single orthopaedic trauma centre (Italy). A total of 57 patients were divided in two groups: the first (NU) group was composed of 35 patients affected; the second group (MU) was composed of 22 patients affected by malunion of distal femur. Criteria chosen to evaluate the two groups during a clinical and radiological followup were: the quality of life measured by the Short Form (12) Health Survey, the knee function and quality of life related to it measured by the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score KOOS and the Knee Society Score, bone healing measured by modified Radiographic Union Score by X-rays during the follow-up and CT at one year after the surgery, the difference of the limbs length before and after the revision surgery, and postoperative complications. The evaluation endpoint was set at 12 months. Results There were no statistical differences between the two groups. Conclusion The role of bio-metallic solution in the treatment of nonunions and malunions is to recreate the knee anatomy and functionality compatible with a satisfactory quality of life.

Treating Primary Arthroprosthesis Infection Caused by Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. abscessus.

Prosthetic joint infections (PJI) caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria are very rare, and results of treatment can be unpredictable. A 72-year-old female underwent hip replacement after an accidental fall in a local hospital in Santo Domingo. The postoperative period was uneventful except for a traumatic wound near the surgical scar. PJI caused by Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. abscessus was diagnosed 6 months later. A two-stage reimplantation was performed after a 3-month period of aetiology-directed therapy, including amikacin, imipenem, and clarithromycin. M. abscessus isolate was reported to be resistant to clarithromycin when incubation was protracted for 14 days and to harbour the gene erm(41). The patient manifested major side effects to tigecycline. At reimplant, microbiologic investigations resulted negative. Overall, medical treatment was continued for a 7-month period. When discontinued and at 6-month follow-up, the patient was clinically well, inflammatory markers were normal, and the radiography showed well-positioned prosthesis. Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. abscessus is a very rare cause of PJI, yet it must be included in the differential diagnosis, especially when routine bacteria cultures are reported being negative. Further investigations are needed to determine any correlations between clinical results and in vitro susceptibility tests, as well as the clinical implications of M. abscessus subsp. abscessus harbouring the functional gene erm(41). Moreover, investigations are needed for determine optimal timings of surgery and lengths of medical therapy to improve patient outcome.

The Advantages of Type III Scaphoid Nonunion Advanced Collapse (SNAC) Treatment With Partial Carpal Arthrodesis in the Dominant Hand: Results of 5-year Follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The SNAC wrist (Scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse) is one of the complications following scaphoid fractures treated conservatively and one of the causes of wrist arthritis that the hand surgeon has to face most frequently. In these cases surgical management is usually warranted. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the set time frame of 6 years we treated 15 SNAC wrist cases. On average patients underwent surgery five years after the trauma. All patients were treated via dorsal incision with partial carpal arthrodesis and total scaphoidectomy, associated with denervation of the posterior interosseous nerves. A plaster cast was applied to all patients for 3 weeks postoperatively. In the preoperative stage, X-rays of the healthy contralateral limb were taken for the measurement of the normal radiocarpal joint space. Clinical and radiographic follow-ups were conducted at 1,3, 6 and 12 months from the trauma; then every 12 months. Criteria for the evaluation of patients: visual analog pain scale (VAS), average time of radiographic fusion of wrist bones, Active Range of Wrist Motion (WAROM), subjective Mayo Wrist Score (MWS) and The Short Form ( 36) Health Survey (SF-36), return to the main tasks and complications. The evaluation endpoint was set at 60 months. Average time of surgery: 48.3 minutes. Average time of arthrodesis consolidation: 67.8 days. The VAS and WAROM showed a gradual improvement in seriated controls, returning to values almost identical to pre-trauma at a 5-year follow-up. By this time, the MWS and SF-36 scores were similar to pre-trauma. On average, the return to pre-injury daily activities occurred in 12.5 months after surgery. There were no complications. CONCLUSIONS: The partial carpal arthrodesis is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of SNAC wrist cases. Our results show a progressive and significant improvement in ROM, VAS and great satisfaction from the patient.

Percutaneous screws CT guided to fix sacroiliac joint in tile C pelvic injury. Outcomes at 5 years of follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) vertical instability is a matter of current discussions and remains controversial. The aim of our study is the evaluation of the surgical management of SIJ vertical instability involving the use of cannulated screws introduced under CT guidance and local anesthesia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the set time frame of 7 years, 96 poly-trauma patients with Tile's type C fracture of the pelvis with vertical instability of the SIJ were treated. The average distance between the two stumps was 73.4 mm (range: 43-100 mm). All patients were treated with anterior stabilization and subsequent stabilization with cannulated screws (Asnis® Stryker® 6 mm, an average length of 70 mm; range from 55 to 85 mm) of the sacroiliac fracture. The clinical and radiological follow-up was performed with follow-up plain radiograph and Majeed score (from 1 to 60 months after injury). RESULTS: The consolidation of pelvic fractures was obtained after an average of 63 days. The average Majeed score was as follows: 96 points at 1 month, 84 points at 3 months, 62 points at 6 months, 44 points at 12 months, 42 points at 24 months, 32 points at 36 months, 28 points at 48 months and 28 points at 60 months. Complications were as follows: not fatal deep vein thrombosis in five cases, skin infection at the entry point of the screws in six cases, screw breakage in one case and loosening of the screws in one case. Radiological evidence of fracture consolidation was achieved on average at 63 days. Forty-seven patients managed to get back to their pre-trauma employment at the end of the convalescence period. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the stabilization of SI Tile type C fracture/dislocations with CT-guided percutaneous cannulated screws is a valid and feasible management option and associated with a low complication rate.

Introduction of clerking pro forma for surgical spinal patients at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust (London): an audit cycle.

As a tertiary referral centre of spinal surgery, the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) handles hundreds of spinal cases a year, often with complex pathology and complex care needs. Despite this, issues were raised at the RNOH following lack of sufficient documentation of preoperative and postoperative clinical findings in spinal patients undergoing major surgery. This is not in keeping with guidelines provided by the Royal College of Surgeons. The authors believe that a standardised clerking pro forma for surgical spinal patients admitted to RNOH would improve the quality of care provided. Therefore, the use of a standard clerking pro forma for all surgical spinal patients could be a useful tool enabling improvements in patients care and safety in keeping with General Medical Council/National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines. An audit (with closure of loop) looking into the quality of the preoperative and postoperative clinical documentation for surgical spinal patients was carried out at the RNOH in 2016 (retrospective case note audit comparing preintervention and postintervention documentation standards). Our standardised pro forma allows clinicians to best utilise their time and standardises examination to be compared in a temporal manner during the patients admission and care. It is the authors understanding that this work is a unique study looking at the quality of the admission clerking for surgical spinal patients. Evidently, there remains work to be done for the widespread utilisation of the pro forma. Early results suggest that such a pro forma can significantly improve the documentation in admission clerking with improvements in the quality of care for patients.

Delayed Presentation of a Symptomatic Psoas Hematoma Following Lumbar Vertebral Kyphoplasty for Myeloma: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION: The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) is a tertiary referral center and patients with spinal complications from multiple myeloma are managed here in a multidisciplinary approach. Balloon kyphoplasty(BKP) procedures are routinely performed in such patients when clinically indicated with good results and a low complication rate. There are little data reported in the literature about post-BKP hematoma formation and its management. We present the first known reported case delayed post-operative psoas hematoma in a myeloma patient following a BKP. CASE REPORT: A 40-year-old male patient with diagnosed Ig G lambda multiple myeloma was referred to the spinal unit based at the RNOH. An L5 fracture was deemed to be the cause of significant lower back pain. He underwent an L5BKP with good immediate results and in the absence of any immediate complications. Post-operative, the patient had normal distal neurology and was discharged1day postoperatively. 3 days after surgery, he underwent left hamstrings anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. 2 days following the latter, he developed significant pain in his left groin and thigh associated with numbness. A pelvicmagnetic resonance imaging scan confirmed a left iliopsoas hematoma. This case was treated conservatively under guidance of the multidisciplinary team. CONCLUSION: As psoas hematoma, formation is a rare complication following a BKP. The recommended management of a psoas hematoma is conservative with supportive therapy and regular clinical review. To reduce the risk of a psoas hematoma, the authors recommend that the trocar should be first placed on the transverse process and maneuvred medially to the start point on the pedicle. This would avoid injuries to the artery to the pars as well as structures deep to the intertransverse ligament avoiding this rare complication.