Concurrent uper limb and hip fracture in the elderly: experience at our centre. / Fracturas concomitantes de miembro superior y cadera en pacientes mayores de 65 años: experiencia en nuestro centro.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of hip fracture in the elderly is on the rise, occasionally accompanied by concurrent upper limb fractures. Our investigation aims to determine whether these patients experience poorer functional outcomes, prolonged hospitalization, or higher mortality rates when compared to those with isolated hip fracture. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 1,088 elderly patients admitted to our centre with hip fracture between January 2017 and March 2020. We recorded the presence of concomitant fractures and their treatment. We analyzed the duration of hospital stay, in-hospital mortality and function. RESULTS: We identified 63 patients with concomitant upper limb fracture (5.6%). Among them, 93.7% were women, and the average age was 86.4 years. 80.9% of the upper limb fractures were distal radius or proximal humerus. Patients with concomitant fracture had increased length of stay (mean, 19.6 vs, 12.8, p=0.002), decreased proportion of patients returning to their own home at discharge (23.6% vs, 26.3%, p=0.042) and increased in-hospital mortality rate (9.5% vs, 5.9%, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with concomitant upper limb fracture require a longer length of stay and exhibit an elevated in-hospital mortality rate. Furthermore, this condition is associated with a reduced short-term functional recovery, thereby decreasing the chances of the patient returning home upon hospital discharge.

Nailing intertrochanteric fractures in geriatric population: Do we know it all?

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Pertrochanteric fractures constitute an important part of the daily activity of the orthopedic surgeon. The aim of this study was to carry out an analysis of pre-, intra- and post-operative radiographic parameters and to analyze the results of stable and unstable intertrochanteric fractures treated with short nails with dynamic distal locking. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study in our center, between the years 2017-2021 of patients over 65 years of age with pertrochanteric fracture. We included 272 patients treated with Gamma3 Nail (Stryker®) with dynamic distal locking. As variables, we recorded: age, medical comorbidities, fracture pattern according to AO/OTA, osteopenia according to Singh's classification, pre-operative (such as diaphyseal extension), intra-operative (such as tip-to-the-apex or medial cortical support) and post-operative radiographic parameters (such as time to consolidation or loss of reduction), pre- and post-operative Barthel, quality of life and complications and reinterventions, such as non-union or cut-out. RESULTS: The mean age was 83.28 years (65-102). Two hundred four cases were women (75%). The average follow-up was 18.2 months (12-24). The distribution according to AO/OTA classification was 85.7% 31.A1; 12.5% 31.A2; 1.9% 31.A3. Radiographic consolidation was obtained in 97.4% of cases. Tip to apex distance was less than 25mm in 95.6% of cases. Medial cortical support was positive or neutral in 88.6% of cases. Sixty cases (22.1%) of screw back-out were recorded. Eight reinterventions (2.9%) were performed, corresponding to three cut-outs (1.1%), three non-unions (1.1%), one avascular necrosis (0.4%) and one secondary hip osteoarthritis (0.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Short nail with dynamic distal locking offers good clinical, radiological and functional results in all types of AO/OTA patterns, without increasing the complication rate, as long as there is an appropriate tip-to-the-apex distance and good medial cortical support.

Understanding limb necrotizing infections: A comprehensive approach.

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

External fixation in intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus: Is it a valid option as definitive treatment?

INTRODUCTION: The therapeutic management of calcaneal fractures is currently a major source of controversy in the literature. There is no consensus on the need to treat these injuries conservatively or surgically, nor on the criteria for deciding one option or the other. Although the gold standard has classically been the open approach and osteosynthesis, there are currently minimally invasive techniques that also report good results. Our objective is to present our results and experience with the MBA® Orthofix external fixator in a series of cases of calcaneal fractures. METHODS: We performed a retrospective observational study in our center, between the years 2019 and 2021, of Sanders types II-IV calcaneal fractures operated with MBA® Orthofix external fixator. We recorded a total of 38 patients, 42 fractures. We registered demographic information, intraoperative, postoperative, radiological and functional parameters, using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), EQ-5D and VAS scales. RESULTS: A total of 26 men and 12 women were included, and the median age was 38 years. Mean follow-up was 24,4 months (6, 8-40, 1). The average time to surgery was 7 days and partial loading was started at 2.5 weeks after external fixation, which was removed at 9.2 weeks. The average Böhler angle correction was 7, 4°, Gissane - 12,2°, length 2 mm and calcaneal width was reduced by 5 mm. We recorded two superficial infections, one peroneal entrapment and three subtalar arthrodesis due to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The AOFAS obtained was 79.1 + / - 15.7 points, MOXFQ 20.1 + / - 16.1 points, EQ-5D 0.84 + / - 0.2 and VAS 3.3 + / - 1.9. CONCLUSION: The external fixator is an excellent surgical alternative for complex articular fractures of the calcaneus, obtaining clinical and radiological results comparable to other osteosynthesis techniques and significantly reducing soft tissue complications.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fractures in patients with poliomyelitis: Past or current challenge?

Fractures in poliomyelitic limbs are a challenge to surgeons, due to polio's sequelae and morphological disorders, which make conventional osteosynthesis difficult. We present a retrospective study of 62 patients and 73 non-simultaneous fractures in their lower limbs. Average age was 61,7 years and 53,2% were females. We analyzed the preinjury functional level, etiology of the fracture, fracture pattern, treatment used (be conservative or surgical), and implant used in surgical cases. We treated 85,1% of them surgically and 37,9% of them maintained the same functional situation as before the fracture. 55,4% of them experienced the need to add some mechanical aids after the lesion and 6,8% lost the ability to walk. Most of the surgical treatments employed were similar as the ones used in non-poliomyelitic patients, although some cases required atypical implants, such as a Multiloc (® DePuy Synthes) humeral nail for a tibial shaft fracture, due to narrow bone. Mortality along the 1st year was 2.7%. We found similar functional and radiological results as those described in non-poliomyelitic limbs.

Tension subcutaneous haematomas associated with anticoagulants in the elderly: Do they have earlier morbidity and mortality than hip fractures? / Hematomas subcutáneos a tensión por anticoagulantes en ancianos: ¿más morbimortalidad precoz que las fracturas de cadera?

INTRODUCTION: Complications related to anticoagulant therapy have been widely described, although tension haematomas in the extremities are frequently undervalued, and commonly considered banal pathologies. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Retrospective descriptive study between 2014 and 2017, including patients with limb haematomas after minimal trauma related with anticoagulant therapy, and surgically treated by Traumatology. RESULTS: 32 cases were eventually included, 81% were women, average age of 83.56 years, and a mean aCCI of 5.97. Anatomical location of haematomas was 65.6% in leg/foot, 15.6% in thigh/buttock, and 18.8% in the upper limb. Seventy-eight point thirteen percent received acenocoumarol, 15.63% LMWH, and 3.13% NOACs. Of the cases, 59.38% were due to AF, 15.63% to valvular heart disease/valve prosthesis, and 12.5% to PE/DVT. The mean time from diagnosis to surgical drainage was 2.66 days, mainly as a result of alterations in coagulation parameters. Forty-six point eighty-eight percent were reoperated for new drainage, cure or skin defect coverage, and 3 patients required embolisation. Of the patients, 78% needed consultation with other specialties. The average length of stay was 22.34 days, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 9.38%. CONCLUSION: Tension haematomas in the extremities associated with anticoagulants occur in patients with multiple comorbidities that make them vulnerable. Surgical drainage is usually delayed by numerous factors which lead to skin defects that require further surgical operations, and prolonged hospital stays that are associated with medical complications. In our study, the average length of stay and in-hospital mortality rate were higher than those for hip fractures, so we should not underestimate this pathology.

[Effect of intramedullary reaming and nailing on the production of growth factors in the femur fracture callus in rats]. / Efecto del fresado y enclavado endomedular sobre la producción de factores de crecimiento en el callo de fractura de fémur en ratas.

INTRODUCTION: Many studies have been conducted to determine the different effects that reaming or intramedullary nailing have on fracture healing, but there is no evidence in the literature of the effect of intramedullary reaming on osteogenesis. We performed a prospective study to analyse the effect of intramedullary reaming and nailing on the production of growth factors during the process of fracture healing in the femur of rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A transverse mid-shaft non-comminuted femur fracture was produced in 64 rats; 34 rats did not receive any treatment, and a standardized surgical procedure was performed on 30 rats, by exposing the left knee, reaming the medullary canal from distal to proximal, and then fixing the fracture with a steel pin. The rats were sacrificed at the 24th hour, 4th, 7th and 15th days after the fracture. The amount of growth factors that appeared in the callus fracture was measured using histopathology studies. The primary categorical variables analysed were PDGFA, TGF2 and TGFß-R2. These variables were analysed in each group at the different sacrifice times. RESULTS: The results of the primary variables of the study, stratified by the time until sacrifice, showed no statistically significant differences. DISCUSSION: Even if the presence of an intramedullary wire facilitates the fracture repair and the stabilising the bridge of bone between both edges of the fracture site, no evidence was found that reaming changes the expression of the growth factors studied (PDGFA, TGFß-R2 and TGFß2) during the callus formation in rats.

[Posterolateral approach in trimalleolar ankle fractures: surgical technique]. / El abordaje posterolateral en las fracturas trimaleolares de tobillo. Técnica quirúrgica.

INTRODUCTION: Ankle fractures involving a posterior malleolar fragment are associated with worse clinical outcomes. The standard indication for its fixation is a displaced fragment that involves more than 25% of the distal articular tibia. The method of reduction and fixation of these fractures has not received much attention. The purpose of this paper is to describe the surgical technique and clinical results. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Over a 6 year period 10 patients with an ankle fracture involving more than 25% posterior malleolus were admitted for surgery, which was performed by the first author. Postoperative management and complications were recorded, reduction accuracy evaluated in the first postoperative radiograph, and functional outcomes were measured using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hind foot-ankle score and the modified Weber protocol. The surgical technique is described. RESULTS: A total of 10 patients were included in the study; and the overall mean age was 53.8 (range: 19-82) years. With regard to complications, none of the 10 patients had any postoperative complication. No cases of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, superficial infection, iatrogenic lesion of the sural nerve or failure of internal fixation were recorded. One of them had screw and plate removal surgery. Clinical results were good; 9 patients regained their pre-injury activity level, with excellent or good results in both AOFAS and modified Weber protocol. DISCUSSION: Given that posterior malleolus fractures are usually posterolateral, this approach allows perfect visualization of the fracture, articular anatomical reduction, and strong fixation. Clinical results obtained were at least equal to other case series published.