Analysis of compartment syndromes in lower extremity pediatric and adolescent trauma - are there predictors of a late onset?

INTRODUCTION: Purpose of the study was to answer the question, if there are common fracture or injury characteristics, which help to identify patient at risk for a secondary compartment syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2003 and 2022 all children and adolescents who were treated for a traumatic compartment syndrome in a lower extremity were retrospectively evaluated. Patient's demographics were recorded, the underlying trauma mechanism identified. Fractures were classified, treatment and complications were analyzed. We differentiated two groups of patients (early onset vs. late onset) and compared trauma mechanism, fracture location, classification and treatment between those two entities. RESULTS: Our collective consisted of 56 children and adolescents with 67 compartment syndromes, with an average age of 14.1 years (5-17). 41 (73.2 %) of the patients were male and 15 (26.8 %) female. Most people in our sample had previously been involved in traffic accidents (64.3 %), with the most common mechanism of injury being "motorbike accident" (34.3 %) and "pedestrian/cyclist accident against car" (26.9 %). There was an accumulation of fractures of the lower leg, in particular tibial shaft fractures (AO 42 and 43A; 49.3 %). In our survey, dislocated fractures and fractures of the foot always led to an early onset of compartment syndrome. The tibial shaft fracture and the surgical treatment with intramedullary nailing showed a significant frequency in the late onset group. CONCLUSIONS: Special attention should be paid to pediatric and adolescent patients with tibial shaft fracture and surgical treatment with intramedullary nailing in order to detect and treat a possible late onset of a compartment syndrome at an early stage.

Perceptions of critically ill individuals with acute and chronic spinal cord injury requiring a tracheostomy tube.

STUDY DESIGN: Observational study. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the perceptions of patients requiring a tracheostomy tube and to identify possible different perceptions in critically ill patients with tracheostomy tubes who have acute (ASCI) or chronic spinal cord injuries (CSCI). SETTING: Medical and surgical intensive care units (ICU) and intermediate care unit of the BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil Bochum, Germany. METHODS: Patients who met the inclusion criteria completed a 25-item questionnaire on two consecutive days regarding their experiences and perceptions in breathing, coughing, pain, speaking, swallowing, and comfort of the tracheostomy tube. RESULTS: A total of 51 persons with ASCI (n = 31) and CSCI (n = 20) were included with a mean age of 53 years. Individuals with ASCI reported significantly more frequent pain and swallowing problems as compared to individuals with CSCI (p ≤ 0.014) at initial assessment. There were no differences between ASCI and CSCI reported with respect to speaking and overall comfort. CONCLUSIONS: It is necessary to regularly assess the perceptions of critically ill patients with tracheostomy tubes with ASCI or CSCI in the daily ICU care routine. We were able to assess these perceptions in different categories. For the future, evaluating the perception of individuals with SCI and a tracheostomy should be implemented to their daily routine care. TRIAL REGISTRATION: DRKS00022073.

Medial augmentation plating of aseptic distal femoral nonunions.

BACKGROUND: Distal femur nonunions are well-recognized contributors to persistent functional disability, with limited data regarding their treatment options. In the current study, we asked whether additional medial augmentation plating is a feasible treatment option for patients with aseptic distal femoral nonunion and intact lateral implants. METHODS: We conducted a single-center, retrospective study including 20 patients treated for aseptic distal femoral nonunion between 2002 and 2017. The treatment procedure included a medial approach to the distal femur, debridement of the nonunion site, bone grafting and medial augmentation plating utilizing a large-fragment titanium plate. Outcome measures were bone-related and functional results, measured by the Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Rating Scale (HSS) and the German Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire (SMFA-D). RESULTS: Eighteen of 20 nonunions showed osseous healing at 8.16 ± 5.23 (range: 3-21) months after augmentation plating. Regarding functional results, the mean HSS score was 74.17 ± 11.12 (range: 57-87). The mean SMFA-D functional index was 47.38 ± 16.78 (range 25.74-71.32) at the last follow-up. Index procedure-associated complications included two cases of persistent nonunion and one case of infection. CONCLUSIONS: According to the assessed outcome measures, augmentation plating is a feasible treatment option, with a high proportion of patients achieving bony union and good functional outcomes and a few patients experiencing complications.

Feasibility, safety, and functional outcomes using the neurological controlled Hybrid Assistive Limb exoskeleton (HAL®) following acute incomplete and complete spinal cord injury - Results of 50 patients.

OBJECTIVE: Recent studies reveal that Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL®) locomotion training in paraplegic patients suffering from chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) induces improvements in functional and ambulatory mobility. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety, feasibility, and functional effectiveness of HAL® locomotion training in the initial rehabilitation of acute SCI patients. This clinical trial represents the first systematic intervention worldwide for acute SCI patients using a neurologically controlled exoskeleton. DESIGN: Single center, prospective study. SETTING: BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Bochum, Germany. PARTICIPANTS: Fifty acute SCI patients (14 women, 36 men). INTERVENTIONS: All participants received a daily (5 times/week) HAL® exoskeleton supported training for 12 weeks (mean amount of training sessions 60.4 ± 30.08). OUTCOME MEASURES: Functional outcome for overground walking was monitored using the 10-m-walk test (10 MWT) combined with the WISCI II score, 6-minute-walk test (6 MWT) and the timed-up and go test (TUG test). Treadmill-related parameters (speed, distance and walking time) and the Lower Extremity Motor Score (LEMS) were recorded separately. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed for HAL®-associated (walking time, distance and speed) and for functional outcomes (10 MWT, 6 MWT and TUG-test). WISCI-II-Score and the LEMS increased significantly compared with the status prior to training. CONCLUSION: HAL® locomotion training is feasible and safe in the rehabilitation of acute SCI patients. The HAL® exoskeleton enables the patient to perform effective treadmill training and leads to improvements in functional and ambulatory mobility. However, spontaneous recovery vs training-related effects remain unclear and findings should not be extrapolated beyond the acute in-patient rehabilitation setting.Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register identifier: DRKS00010250..

Rate of progressive healing with a carbon-fiber orthosis in cases of partial union and nonunion after ankle arthrodesis using the Ilizarov external fixator.

BACKGROUND: The Ilizarov fixator is a popular device for treating arthrodesis of the ankle joint in complex situations. However, the therapy can fail, with nonunion or partial union that might not be load stable. There is the possibility of follow-up surgery or extended wearing of the fixator. Full weight bearing with a carbon orthosis remains another treatment option, which has not yet been investigated.The aim of the study was to determine the rate of progress that can be obtained with a carbon orthosis in cases of partial union or nonunion after fixator removal. METHODS: In this retrospective observational study thirty-three patients received a carbon orthosis after fixator removal due to nonunion or partial union. All patients were allowed to walk with the orthosis under full load. The consolidation rate was determined radiologically and compared with the imaging data obtained during the last follow-up. In addition to demographic data, the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure and pain using a numeric rating scale were determined. Nine patients had to be excluded due to insufficient follow-up, and finally n = 24 patients were included in the study. RESULTS: The average duration of fixator use was 21 weeks (range 15-40 weeks), and the total average follow-up after removal of the fixator was 16 months (range 4- 56). For 14 (58.33%) patients, there was a further increase in consolidation with the orthosis after the fixator was removed. CONCLUSION: The results show that if there is only partial union or nonunion, further consolidations can be achieved after the application of a carbon orthosis. In a difficult patient population, using an orthosis should therefore be attempted to avoid unnecessary revision operations.

Influence of articular step-off on contact mechanics in fractures of the posterolateral-central tibial plateau - a biomechanical study.

BACKGROUND: The posterior quadrants of the tibial plateau are frequently involved in OTA type C tibial plateau fractures. The biomechanical influence of a residual articular step-off of the posterolateral-central (PLC) segment, which is difficult to visualize intraoperatively, remains unclear. Therefore, aim of this study was to investigate the contact area and stress of the tibial plateau in cases of different articular step-offs of the PLC segment. METHODS: Seven human cadaveric knees were used to simulate articular impressions of the PLC segment with step-offs of 1 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm. The knees were axially loaded up to 150 N during a total of 25 dynamic cycles of knee flexion up to 90°. Pressure mapping sensors were inserted into the medial and lateral joint compartments beneath the menisci to measure articular contact area and stress. RESULTS: Between 60° and 90° of knee flexion, increasing PLC segment impressions of the tibial plateau led to increasing contact stress and a significantly reduced contact area. The largest decrease in the contact area was 30 %, with an articular step-off of 5 mm (0.003). An increase in contact stress, especially from a 3-mm step-off, was measured, with a doubling of the mean contact stress at 3-mm and 5-mm step-offs and 90° knee flexion (p = 0.06/0.05). CONCLUSION: From a biomechanical point of view, posterior impressions of the PLC segment greater than a 1-mm step-off should be addressed as anatomically as possible, especially in active patients with the need for higher knee flexion angles.

Influence of Locomotion Therapy With the Wearable Cyborg HAL on Bladder and Bowel Function in Acute and Chronic SCI Patients.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective survey. OBJECTIVES: Purpose of this study was to explore whether bowel and bladder management can be influenced by locomotion therapy with HAL Robot Suit. METHODS: 35 subjects with acute (< one year since injury, n = 13) or chronic (> one year since injury, n = 22) incomplete paraplegia (American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) B, n = 1 / AIS C, n = 22 / AIS D, n = 7) or complete paraplegia (AIS A, n = 5) with zones of partial preservation (ZPP) participated. A retrospective survey was carried out asking for bowel incontinence (Wexner Score), constipation (Cleveland Clinic Constipation Scoring System (CCCS)) and bladder function (self-developed questionnaire) before and after completing a training period of 12 weeks with HAL. RESULTS: Wexner Score over all patients and for group of chronic patients decreased significantly. For group of acute patients Wexner Score decreased insignificantly. Patients from both groups with higher baseline scores could decrease significantly. CCCS was insignificantly reduced for all patients, group of acute and group of chronic patients. For subgroup of chronic patients with higher baseline scores, CCCS decreased at end of training period missing out significance. The self-developed questionnaire showed an improvement in bladder function in 28.24% of all patients, 31.43% of chronic patients, and 23.08% of acute patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show trends of enhanced bladder and bowel function following exoskeleton training. Patients with higher baseline scores in Wexner Score and CCCS seem to benefit more than those with mild to moderate scores.

Factors influencing the outcome after surgical reconstruction of OTA type B and C tibial plateau fractures: how crucial is the restoration of articular congruity?

INTRODUCTION: Only few and inconsistent data about the impact of articular congruity and tolerable residual intraarticular steps and gaps of the joint surface after tibial plateau fractures exist. Therefore, aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between OTA type B and C tibial plateau fracture outcomes and postoperative articular congruity using computed tomography (CT) data. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-five patients with a mean age of 45.5 ± 12.5 years and treated for 27 type B and 28 C tibial plateau fractures with pre- and postsurgical CT data were included. Primary outcome measure was the correlation of postoperative intraarticular step and gap sizes, articular comminution area, the postoperative medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and the Lysholm and IKDC score. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine threshold values for step and gap heights according to the following outcome scores: IKDC > 70; Lysholm > 80. Secondary outcome measures were the correlation of fracture severity, the number of complications and surgical revisions and the outcome scores, as well as the Tegner activity score before injury and at final follow-up. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up of 42.4 ± 18.9 months, the mean Lysholm score was 80.7 ± 13.3, and the mean IKDC score was 62.7 ± 17.6. The median Tegner activity score was 5 before the injury and 4 at final follow-up (p < 0.05). The intraarticular step height, gap size, comminution area and MPTA deviation were significantly negatively correlated with the IKDC and Lysholm scores. The cutoff values for step height were 2.6 and 2.9 mm. The gap size threshold was 6.6 mm. In total, an average of 0.5 ± 0.8 (range 0-3) complications occurred, and on average, 0.5 ± 1.1 (range 0-7) surgical revisions had to be performed. The number of complications and surgical revisions also had negative impacts on the outcome. Neither fracture severity nor BMI or patient's age was significantly correlated with the IKDC or Lysholm score. CONCLUSIONS: Tibial plateau fractures are severe injuries, which lead to a subsequent reduced level of patient activity. Precise reconstruction of the articular surface with regard to intraarticular step and gap size, residual comminution area and joint angle is decisive for the final outcome. Complications and surgical revisions also worsen it. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

First experiences of communication with mechanically ventilated patients in the intensive care unit using eye-tracking technology.

INTRODUCTION: Eye-tracking (ET) may be a novel tool for communication with intubated and mechanically ventilated critically ill patients. We hypothesized that ET could be learned fast and be used successfully by intensive care unit (ICU) and intermediate care (IMC) patients with artificial airways for communication. METHODS: Including all patients with mechanical ventilation via oral intubation or tracheostomy, who were at least 18 years of age with a score of -1 to +1 points on the Richmond agitation-sedation scale and a history of ventilation for more than 48 h. A commercially available ET was used. The investigations were performed by a physician with the support of a psychologist following a standardized study protocol. RESULTS: During a 4-week period a total of 11 patients completed all of the five steps of our study protocol. The time to complete our study protocol was 64 ± 23.8 min (range 43-125 min) with a mean of 1.5 ± 0.9 sessions (range 1-4 sessions). Seven patients (63.6 %) could run through all of the five steps within their first session. All patients (100%) preferred the gaze fixation technique to control the ET to the wink control. CONCLUSION: Mechanically ventilated ICU and IMC patients are able to use ET in a very short time for communication to indicate their basic needs, answer rating scales and pain scores as well as questionnaires about quality of life and self-esteem.Implications for rehabilitationCOMFORT - The novel communication device improves the patients' ability to communicate with the attending physicians, physiotherapists and nurses in order to provide a tailored rehabilitation approach.COMPLIANCE - The use of the eye-tracking technology enables the patients to communicate special needs and fears during the course of the rehabilitation.COMPLICATIONS - The eye-tracking technology enables the attending rehabilitation team to earlier detect complications (e.g. pain, depression) during the course of the rehabilitation.

[Traumatic spinal cord injuries in sports: a 22-year analysis performed by a specialized trauma centre]. / Traumatische Rückenmarkverletzungen im Sport ­ eine Analyse eines spezialisierten Traumazentrums von 22 Jahren.

INTRODUCTION: There is not much data on traumatic spinal cord injuries sustained during sports in Germany. This study aims to present the frequency of traumatic spinal cord injuries with neurological involvement within various sports over the past 22 years. METHODS: This study is a retrospective evaluation of traumatic spinal cord injuries (tSCI) in sports sustained in the past 22 years. The study was performed by a German level 1 trauma centre with a department for spinal cord injuries. The files of inpatients treated in the years 1998 to 2020 were evaluated with regard to patients' histories and traumatic spinal cord injuries. In addition, injury location and gender distribution were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 1630 patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries with neurological involvement were recorded. Of the 1630 patients, N=116 (7.1%) had had sports accidents. The age of this subpopulation was significantly younger at 41 years (p=0.05) than the age of the total group of tSCI at 50 years. A more detailed analysis of the sports injuries showed that in descending order equestrian sports (N=22), winter (N=18), air (N=16), motor sports (N=16) and cycling (N=15) were the most common causal factors for these particularly serious spinal injuries. As regards the distribution of the location of the spinal cord injury with a view to the type of sports practiced, a significant result was shown in aerial sports, with patients from this group mainly having had lumbar spine injuries (p <0.01), and in diving with cervical spine injuries (p=0). Gender distribution in the individual sports shows a significant difference in equestrian sports (male < female, p <0.01) as well as a significant difference in air sports (male > female, p = 0.05) and cycling (male > female, p=0.07). CONCLUSION: In summary, equestrian sports is the most common cause of spinal cord injuries with neurological involvement in the sports sector with a higher proportion of female participants, although the proportion of female patients is smaller compared with male patients in the section of traumatic spinal cord injuries. Winter (N=18), air (N=16), motor sports (N=15) and cycling (N=15) come next in descending order.Patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries caused by sports accidents are significantly younger than the entirety of patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Development of the Tracheostomy Well-Being Score in critically ill patients.

PURPOSE: Little attention has been given to understanding the experiences and perceptions of tracheostomized patients. This study aimed to measure the impact of tracheostomy on well-being in critically ill patients with the development of the Tracheostomy Well-Being Score (TWBS). METHODS: This is a prospective, monocentric, observational study including critically ill patients with a tracheostomy without delirium. A 25-item questionnaire with items from six categories (respiration, coughing, pain, speaking, swallowing, and comfort) was used to select the 12 best items (two per category) to form the TWBS score after testing on two consecutive days. Item selection secured (1) that there were no skewed response distributions, (2) high stability from day 1 to day 2, and (3) high prototypicality for the category in terms of item-total correlation. RESULTS: A total of 63 patients with a mean age of 56 years were included. The 12 items of the TWBS were characterized by a high retest reliability (τ = 0.67-0.93) and acceptable internal consistency. The overlap with the clinician rating was low, suggesting that acquiring self-report data is strongly warranted. CONCLUSION: With the TWBS, an instrument is available for the assessment of the subjective effects a tracheostomy has on in critically ill patients. The score potentially offers a chance to increase well-being of these patients. Additionally, this score could also increase their quality of life by improving tracheostomy and weaning management. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register Identifier DRKS00022073 (2020/06/02).

Locking the Taylor Spatial Frame - The effect of three additional longitudinal rods on osteotomy site movements.

BACKGROUND: In clinical practice, even when the fixator is locked, a noticeable laxity of the construct can be observed. This study was designed to measure the stiffness of the fixator and to analyze the movements of the osteotomy site. Furthermore, the effect of three additional longitudinal rods on the locking of the construct was analyzed. METHODS: Five synthetic tibia/fixator models (Model A) were tested under rotational torque (40 Nm) and axial compression (700 N). Three additional rigid rods were subsequently mounted, and the tests were repeated (Model B). The movements of the fixator as well as the osteotomy site were registered by a digital optical measurement system. Load- deformation curves, and so stiffness of the models, were calculated and compared. FINDINGS: Under rotational and axial loadings, Model A was found to be less rigid than Model B (p = 0.034; p = 0.194). Notably, Model A showed a region of laxity around neutral rotational (ΔF = 5 Nm) and axial (ΔF = 16.64 N) loading before a linear deformation trend was measured. Concomitantly, greater osteotomy site movement was measured for Model A than for Model B under full loading (p = 0.05) and within the region of increased laxity (p = 0.042). INTERPRETATION: The fixator showed an element of laxity around neutral axial and rotational loading, which transferred to the bone and led to a notable amount of osteotomy gap movement. Mounting three additional rods increased the stiffness of the construct and therefore reduced the movement of the osteotomy site.

Derotational osteotomy and internal fixation of a 180° malrotated humerus: A case report.

BACKGROUND: Humeral shaft fractures are relatively common in adults. Rotational malalignment is reported as one complication but severe rotational deformity of the humerus is extremely rare. To our knowledge, only three cases of symptomatic humeral malrotation have been reported. There are sparse literature reports of humeral reconstruction correction. CASE SUMMARY: We present a case of extreme rotational deformity of the humerus (180°) after humeral shaft fracture. The patient complained of pain and difficulties with activities of daily living. In addition, she found the deformity cosmetically unacceptable. Therefore, she was searching for surgical correction. Neurolysis of the radial nerve followed by derotational osteotomy of the humerus and internal fixation were performed. Postoperatively, the patient demonstrated transient iatrogenic radial nerve palsy which recovered completely during postoperative follow-up. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score improved from 55 preoperatively to 16 at the final 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Single-stage radial neurolysis, derotational osteotomy and stable fixation is a feasible option to improve anatomic and functional problems of severely malrotated humeral shaft fractures.

Introduction of a modified Degan classification to specify treatment algorithms in fractures of the anterior process of the calcaneus.

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the anterior process of the calcaneus are often missed, and their treatments and results receive little attention in the current literature. The aim of this study was to specify treatment algorithms through a modification of the Degan classification. METHODS: Between 2009 and 2019, patients with APC fractures were retrospectively analyzed. The Degan classification was used and modified. Type III fractures were further divided into subgroups A (not displaced) and B (displaced). The type of treatment and complications were recorded. Return to work and posttraumatic osteoarthritis were determined as primary and secondary outcome parameters, respectively. RESULTS: Forty-one patients with 43 fractures were included. Follow-up averaged 35,5 months (range 1,5-152 months). Fractures were eight type I, six type II, 15 type IIIA and 14 type IIIB. The fracture was initially recognized in 29 (70,7%) patients, and missed in 12 (29,3%) patients, respectively. Overall, the delayed diagnosed fractures had a significantly higher complication rate (p < 0,000) than the initially diagnosed fractures and received surgical treatment significantly (p < 0,009) more often. After surgical treatment of 13 type IIIB, one nonunion occurred. Six missed type IIIA fractures were treated surgically after delayed diagnosis because of persistent symptoms. Two type I fractures required arthrodesis of the Chopart joint. Four patients did not return to work during the follow-up (3 missed type IIIA fractures, 1 type II fracture). CONCLUSION: Missed APC type IIIA fractures are at risk to develop complications, which is why computed tomography diagnostics should be performed if there is any clinical suspicion.

Pilot study: advanced haemodynamic monitoring after acute spinal cord injury-Keep the pressure up?

BACKGROUND: Although the use of vasopressors to maintain haemodynamic goals after acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is still recommended, evidence regarding the target values and possible risks of this practice is limited, and data on haemodynamic parameters unaffected by catecholamines are rare. In this pilot study, we show the haemodynamic profile of patients with acute SCI mainly unaffected by vasopressor use and other factors that influence the cardiovascular system. METHODS: From March 2018 to March 2020, we conducted a prospective, single-centre pilot study of 30 patients with acute SCI. Factors that could affect the cardiocirculatory system other than SCI (sepsis, pre-existing heart disease or multiple trauma) led to exclusion. A total of 417 measurements were performed using the PiCCO™ system. RESULTS: The mean systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI, 1447.23 ± 324.71 dyn*s*cm-5*m2), mean central venous pressure (CVP, 10.69 ± 3.16) and mean global end-diastolic volume index (GEDVI, 801.79 ± 158.95 ml/m2) deviated from the reference range, while the mean cardiac index (CI), mean stroke volume index (SVI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and mean heart rate (HR) were within the reference range, as indicated in the literature. A mixed model analysis showed a significant negative relationship between norepinephrine treatment and MAP (83.97 vs. 73.69 mmHg, p < 0.001), SVRI (1463.40 vs. 1332.14 dyn*s*cm-5*m2, p = 0.001) and GEDVI (808.89 vs. 759.39 ml/m2, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: These findings could lead to an adaptation of the target range for SVRI and MAP in patients with acute SCI and therefore reduce the use of vasopressors.

An Evaluation of 7279 Sports Injuries from a Level 1 Trauma Center with a Focus on Gender Differences.

PURPOSE: Hardly any other topic is as current as the gender-conscious medical treatment of every individual. Similarly, in sports, there are crucial differences that should be considered in order to treat everyone appropriately, with the aim to prevent injuries according to their needs. The objective of this study is to show that the differences between biological males and females are so significant that they require both specific injury prevention and therapy programs. METHODS: This study is a retrospective analysis of letters from a department of orthopedics and trauma surgery between the years 2000 and 2015. RESULTS: The analysis of 20,567 inpatient and outpatient letters of a level 1 trauma center in Germany revealed that 5455 patients suffered 7279 injuries; 1475 of the patients were female and suffered 2035 injuries, and 3890 patients were male and suffered 5244 injuries. CONCLUSION: The results show the differences between males and females with regard to sport-specific injuries, pointing out the sex differences in the sport-specific area in relation to the body region.

[Femoral neck stress fracture in a young runner - a rare but severe injury]. / Laterale Schenkelhalsstressfraktur eines 29-jährigen Marathonläufers ­ eine seltene und risikobehaftete Überlastungsfraktur des Sportlers.

A 29-year-old athlete suffered from vague hip pain during the preparation for a marathon competition. During the competition, severe pain forced him to drop out after 29 kilometres. He underwent conventional x-rays immediately, which showed a displaced lateral fracture of the femoral neck. The fracture was immediately treated with a dynamic hip screw. A few days later, the patient was discharged. He returned to sport upon completion of treatment. Vague hip pain after exercise may be an indicator for a rare stress fracture of the femoral neck and should be taken into consideration in athletes. Delayed diagnostic investigation and treatment reduce return-to-sport rates and outcomes.

Factors Associated With Major Complications and Mortality During Hospitalization in Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis Undergoing Surgical Management for a Spine Fracture.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: To analyze factors associated with major complications (MC) in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) undergoing surgical management for a spine fracture. METHODS: Included were all persons with spine fractures and AS in a teriary health care center between 2003 and 2019. Clinical data and MC were characterized with descriptive characteristics. Multivariable analyses were used to find factors associated with MC. RESULTS: In total, 174 traumatic fracture incidents in 166 patients with AS were included, with a mean patient age of 70.7 ± 13.1 years. The main reason for spine fracture was minor trauma (79.9%). Spinal cord injuries (SCI) were described in 36.7% of cases. The majority of patients (54.6%) showed more than one fracture of the spine, with cervical fractures being the most common (50.5%). Overall, the incidences of surgical site infection, implant failure, nosocomial pneumonia (NP), and mortality were 17.2%, 9.2%, 31%, and 14.9%, respectively. ICU stay > 48 hours was associated with MC (including death). Posterior approach for spondylodesis, ICU stay > 48 hours and cervical SCI were related to MC (excluding death). Age > 70 years, NP and Charlson comorbidity index > 5 points were associated with in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with AS and surgical treatment of spine fractures are at high risk for MC. Therefore, our results might give physicians better insight into the incidence and sequelae of major complications and therefore might improve patient and family expectations.

Is the bioactivity of induced membranes time dependent?

PURPOSE: The induced membrane technique (IMT) is a two-stage surgical procedure for reconstruction of bone defects. Bone grafting (second stage of IMT) is recommend after 4-8 weeks assuming the highest bioactivity of IMs. However, larger studies concerning the biology and maturation of IMs and a potential time dependency of the bioactivity are missing. Therefore, aim of this study was the time-dependent structural and cellular characterization of cement spacer IMs concomitantly to an analysis of membrane bioactivity. METHODS: IMs from 60 patients (35-82 years) were obtained at different maturation stages (1-16 weeks). IMs were studied by histology and co-culture with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). IM lysates were analyzed by ELISA and protein microarray. RESULTS: Increasing vascularization and fibrosis were found in membranes older than 4 and 7 weeks, respectively. MSC grew out from all membranes and all membranes enhanced proliferation of cultured MSC. Osteocalcin and osteopontin (in membrane lysates or induced in MSC by membrane tissue) were found over all time points without significant differences. In contrast to alkaline phosphatase activity, increasing levels of osteoprotegerin were found in membranes. CONCLUSION: The histological structure of IMs changes during growth and maturation, however, biologically active MSC and factors related to osteogenesis are found over all time points with minor changes. Thus, membranes older than 8 weeks exert regenerative capacities comparable to the younger ones. The postulated narrow time frame of 4-8 weeks until bone grafting can be questioned and surgeons may choose timing for the second operation more independently and based on other clinical factors.