Guidelines for management of pediatric acute hyperextension spinal cord injury / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Pediatric acute hyperextension spinal cord injury (SCI) named as PAHSCI by us, is a special type of thoracolumbar SCI without radiographic abnormality and highly related to back-bend in dance training, which has been increasingly reported. At present, it has become the leading cause of SCI in children, and brings a heavy social and economic burden. Both domestic and foreign academic institutions and dance education organizations lack a correct understanding of PAHSCI and relevant standards, specifications or guidelines. In order to provide standardized guidance, the expert team formulated this guideline based on the principles of science and practicability, starting from the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, etiology, admission evaluation, treatment, complications and prevention. This guideline puts forward 23 recommendations for 14 related issues.

Comparison of Proximal Femoral Geometry and Risk Factors between Femoral Neck Fractures and Femoral Intertrochanteric Fractures in an Elderly Chinese Population / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>Background</b>Few studies have investigated the differences in proximal femoral geometry and risk factors between patients with different types of hip fracture, especially in elderly Chinese. This study aimed to assess the differences in proximal femoral geometry parameters between patients with femoral neck fractures and patients with intertrochanteric fractures to provide guidance for individualized customized prosthesis and accurate reconstruction of proximal femurs in elderly Chinese patients.</p><p><b>Methods</b>We retrospectively studied the electronic medical records of 198 elderly patients over 65 years of age who were admitted to the orthopedic department with hip fractures between January 2017 and December 2017 in The Third Hospital, Hebei Medical University. Age, fracture site, gender, and proximal femoral geometry parameters (neck shaft angle [NSA], center edge angle [CEA], femoral head diameter [FHD], femoral neck diameter [FND], femoral neck axial length [FNAL], hip axial length [HAL], and femoral shaft diameter [FSD]) were recorded. Student's t-test was used to compare the continuous variables, Chi-square test was used to analyze categorical variables, and multiple logistic stepwise regression analysis was used to evaluate the influencing factors of hip fracture type.</p><p><b>Results</b>Statistically significant differences in NSA (137.63 ± 4.56° vs. 132.07 ± 4.17°, t = 1.598, P < 0.001), CEA (37.62 ± 6.77° vs. 43.11 ± 7.09°, t = 5.597, P < 0.001), FND (35.21 ± 3.25 mm vs. 34.09 ± 3.82 mm, t = 2.233, P = 0.027), and FNAL (99.30 ± 7.91 mm vs. 103.58 ± 8.39 mm, t = 3.715, P < 0.001) were found between the femoral neck fracture group and femoral intertrochanteric fracture group. FHD, FND, FSD, HAL, and FNAL were different between sexes (all P < 0.001). The greater NSA was the risk factor for femoral neck fractures (odds ratio [OR]: 0.70, P < 0.001), greater CEA and longer FNAL were risk factors for femoral intertrochanteric fractures (OR: 1.15, 1.17, all P < 0.001), and greater FND was a protective factor for femoral intertrochanteric fractures (OR: 0.74, P < 0.001).</p><p><b>Conclusions</b>We demonstrate differences in geometric morphological parameters of the proximal femur in different hip fracture types, as well as an effect of sex. These differences should be considered in the selection of prostheses for fracture internal fixation and hip replacements. These data could help guide the design of individualized customized prostheses and improve the accurate reconstruction of the proximal femur for elderly Chinese hip fracture patients.</p>

Leg position influences early blood loss and functional recovery following total knee arthroplasty: A randomized study.

BACKGROUND: Hidden blood loss is a major factor influencing functional recovery and quality of life in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Special hip and knee flexion positions after have been reported to have promising results with respect to reducing perioperative blood loss. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of postoperative leg position on blood loss and functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: We enrolled 46 consecutive patients with degenerative osteoarthritis of the knee in this prospective, randomized study. The patients were randomly allocated to a flexion or an extension group. In the flexion group, the affected leg was elevated by 60° at the hip, and the knee was flexed by 60°, while in the extension group, the affected knee was fully extended postoperatively. Blood loss, hemoglobin level, knee circumference and range of motion (ROM) were recorded to determine the influence of postoperative leg position on clinical outcomes. RESULTS: Although the transfusion rate was similar between the two groups (P > 0.05), other parameters related to blood loss (including calculated blood loss, hidden blood loss and postoperative knee circumference) were significantly lower in the flexion group than in the extension group (P < 0.05). After 6 weeks of rehabilitation, patients from the flexion group had gained a better ROM in the affected knee than had patients from the extension group (P = 0.04). At 6 months, however, the ROM of the affected knee was similar in both groups. The hospital stay was 1.9 days shorter in the flexion group than in the extension group. Wound infection rates were similar in both groups, and no proven case of deep vein thrombosis was observed in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Elevation of the hip by 60° with 60° knee flexion is an effective and simple method to reduce blood loss after primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty, and contributes to better recovery of the functional ROM in the early postoperative period.

The reduction in blood loss with intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid in unilateral total knee arthroplasty without operative drains: a randomized controlled trial.

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intra-articular injections of tranexamic acid (TXA) on perioperative blood loss and transfusion in primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) without drainage. Primary TKA was performed on a total of 80 patients (80 knees) affected to various degrees by knee osteoarthritis. The patients were randomized to receive 500 mg of TXA in 20 mL of normal saline solution (n = 40) or an equivalent volume of normal saline solution (n = 40), applied into the joint for 5 min at the end of surgery. Data on routine blood examination, blood loss and blood transfusion after TKA were compared between the two groups. The results showed no significant difference between the two groups in intra-operative blood loss (P = 0.136). The mean postoperative visible blood loss, hidden blood loss and transfusion requests were significantly different between the two groups (P < 0.05). The values of postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit were lower in the control group compared with those in the treatment group (P < 0.05). No deep vein thrombosis was detected through Doppler ultrasound examination. Three hour postoperative D-dimer in the control group was higher than the treatment group (P = 0.02). There was no statistically significant difference between the coagulation indicators and range of motion in the two groups. We conclude that intra-articular TXA in patients undergoing unilateral TKA could significantly reduce postoperative blood loss and blood transfusion and avoid perioperative anemia-related complications without increased risk of venous thrombosis.

Biomechanical Comparison of Two Kinds of Internal Fixation in a Type C Zone II Pelvic Fracture Model / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Unstable pelvic fractures are complex and serious injuries. Selection of a fixation method for these fractures remains a challenging problem for orthopedic surgeons. This study aimed to compare the stability of Tile C pelvic fractures fixed with two iliosacral (IS) screws and minimally invasive adjustable plate (MIAP) combined with one IS screw.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>This study was a biomechanical experiment. Six embalmed specimens of the adult pelvis were used. The soft tissue was removed from the specimens, and the spines from the fourth lumbar vertebra to the proximal one-third of both femurs were retained. The pubic symphysis, bilateral sacroiliac joints and ligaments, bilateral hip joints, bilateral sacrotuberous ligaments, and bilateral sacrospinous ligaments were intact. Tile C pelvic fractures were made on the specimens. The symphysis pubis was fixed with a plate, and the fracture on the posterior pelvic ring was fixed with two kinds of internal fixation in turn. The specimens were placed in a biomechanical machine at a standing neutral posture. A cyclic vertical load of up to 500 N was applied, and displacement was recorded. Shifts in the fracture gap were measured by a grating displacement sensor.</p><p><b>STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED</b>Paired-samples t-test.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Under the vertical load of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 N, the average displacement of the specimens fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was 0.46, 0.735, 1.377, 1.823, and 2.215 mm, respectively, which was significantly lower than that of specimens fixed with two IS screws under corresponding load (P < 0.05). Under the vertical load of 500 N, the shift in the fracture gap of specimens fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was 0.261 ± 0.095 mm, and that of specimens fixed with two IS screws was 0.809 ± 0.170 mm. The difference was significant (P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The stability of Tile C pelvic fractures fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was better than that fixed with two IS screws.</p>

Evaluation of unicondylar knee arthroplasty and fibulectomy from a biomechanical viewpoint / 医用生物力学

Varus deformation in knee joint is one of the common symptoms caused by unicompartment knee osteoarthritis. Currently, several operations can be used for correcting such deformation, including high tibial osteotomy, unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) and fibulectomy. UKA has been developed for over 60 years, with the advantage of normal knee kinematics restored, less incision, more bony tissue preserved and larger range of motion than total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Therefore, UKA has become a reliable method for treating unicompartment knee osteoarthritis. Fibulectomy is a new kind of surgical technique for treating varus deformation in knee joint, with the advantage of simple operation, low cost and fast recovery. At present, fibulectomy has been widely applied, but its treatment mechanism is still not clear. In this review, two clinical operations UKA and fibulectomy were summarized, and the possible mechanism of fibulectomy for treating unicompartment knee osteoarthritis was proposed from the viewpoint of biomechanics. The author hypothesized that reduction in lateral muscle force after fibulectomy would cause rebalance of the resultant joint moment, therefore, the change of joint contact position and the decrease in joint contact force might be the cause of fibulectomy to release the pain for knee osteoarthritis patients.

Femoral Condyles Tangential Views: An Effective Method to Detect the Screw Penetration of Femoral Condyles After Retrograde Nailing / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Postoperative knee soft tissue irritation is a common complication after retrograde nail fixation of femoral fractures. Distal locking screw prominence is one of the causes for soft tissue irritation. This study aimed to determine whether the use of the femoral condyles tangential views improve the diagnostic accuracy compared with anteroposterior (A-P) view in detecting distal locking screw penetrations during retrograde femoral nailing.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The angle between the sagittal plane and lateral aspect of the condyle and the angle between the sagittal plane and medial aspect of condyle were measured on computed tomography (CT) images. After the angles were measured and recorded, cadaveric femurs were used in a simulated surgical procedure. The retrograde femoral nail was inserted into the femur and placed distal locking screws, which were left 2, 4, and 6 mm proud of the medial and lateral condyles for each femur. A-P view, lateral condyle tangential view and medial condyle tangential view were obtained. All fluoroscopic images were recorded and sent to three observers blinded to the experimental procedure to determine whether screws penetrated the condyle cortex or not.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>According to the results of CT scan, the lateral condyle view was 20.88 ± 0.98° and the medial condyle view was 40.46 ± 3.14°. In the A-P view, we detected 0% at 2 mm penetration, 16.7% (lateral condyle screw) and 25.0% (medial condyle screw) at 4 mm, and 41.7% (lateral condyle screw) and 58.3% (medial condyle screw) at 6 mm. In the lateral tangential view, we detected 91.7% at 2 mm penetration of the lateral condyle and 100% at 4 mm and 6 mm. In the medial tangential view, we detected 66.7% at 2 mm penetration of the medial condyle and 100% at 4 mm and 6 mm. The femoral condyle tangential views provided significant improvement in detecting screw penetrations at all lengths (2, 4, and 6 mm) compared with the A-P view (P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The femoral condyles tangential views increased the accuracy of detecting screw penetrations on the medial and lateral condyles. Routine clinical use of the femoral condyles tangential views has the potential to increase accuracy in detecting distal locking screw penetration during retrograde femoral nailing.</p>

Effect of Bushen Gujin Recipe on serum and synovia interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha of knee osteoarthritis model rabbits / 中国中西医结合杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the effect of Bushen Gujin Recipe (BGR) on serum and synovial expression of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) model rabbits.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Totally 36 8-month-old healthy male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 4 groups, i.e., the normal control group, the model group, the Western medicine group (Meloxicam, at the daily dose of 6 mg/kg), and the TCM group (BGR, at the daily dose of 53 g/kg), 9 in each group. Modeling was performed in all rabbits except those in the normal control group by using Hulth A method. All medication was performed for 8 consecutive weeks. Contents of IL-1 and TNF-α were detected using ELISA from serum, partial synovial tissue of the front knee joint, cartilage and subchondral bone of the medial femoral condyle.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The joint space became narrowed in the Western medicine group, ranging between the model group and the TCM group. The articular surface was rough with obvious osteophytes. The joint space was slightly narrower in the TCM group; the articular surface was slightly rough with mild osteophytes. Compared with the normal control group, contents of IL-1 and TNF-α in serum and synovial increased in the model group (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, contents of IL-1 and TNF-α in serum and the synovial fluid decreased in the two treatment groups (P < 0.01). There was no statistical difference in contents of IL-1 and TNF-α between the Western medicine group and the TCM group.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>BGR promoted the synthesis of cartilage matrix and carti- lage repair through inhibiting the secretion of IL-1 and TNF-α, and prolonging cartilage degeneration.</p>

Efficacy and Safety Evaluation of Bushen Shuji Granule in Treating Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients: a Clinical Study / 中国中西医结合杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the short-term efficacy and safety of Bushen Shuji Granule (BSG) in treating ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A prospective randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out in 62 active stage AS patients with Shen deficiency Du-channel cold syndrome (SDDCS), who were randomly assigned to the BSG group (treated with BSG) and the control group (treated with Celecoxib Capsule). Twelve weeks consisted of one therapeutic course. Therapeutic effects were evaluated by ASAS20 and ASAS40 (set by Assessments in Ankylosing Spondylitis working group) , BASDA150, Chinese medical (CM) syndrome efficacy evaluation standards. BASDAI, the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), the Bath AS Metrology Index (BASMI), scores for spine pain, scores for pain at night, patient global assessment (PGA) , erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) , and C reactive protein (CRP) were observed before and after treatment.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>After three-month treatment by BSG, ASAS20 standard rate was 63. 33% (19/30 cases) in the BSG group and 66.67% (20/30 cases) in the control group with no significant difference between the two groups (χ2 = 0.073, P > 0.05). The efficacy for CM syndromes was 70.00% (21/30 cases) in the BSG group, higher than that in the control group [40.00% (12/30 cases), χ2 = 5.455, P < 0.05]. Scores for CM syndromes, BASDAI, night pain index, spinal pain index, PGA, CRP were improved in the BSG group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The incidence of adverse events in the BSG group was lower than that of the control group.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>BSG based on Shen supplementing, Du-channel strengthening, blood activating, and channels dredging method had good short-term clinical efficacy and safety in treating AS.</p>

Reduced blood loss after intra-articular tranexamic acid injection during total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of the literature.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study is to conduct a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid (TXA) for reducing blood loss and transfusion in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). METHODS: A meta-analysis was conducted of RCTs published before March 2013, identified from the PubMed, EMBase, Cochrane library, ScienceDirect, and other databases. Two independent reviewers assessed the methodological quality of the studies and performed data extraction. Mean difference in blood loss and blood transfusions, risk ratios of transfusion rates, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) incidence in the TXA-treated group versus placebo group were pooled from the included studies. Data were analysed using Stata 11.0 software. RESULTS: Six studies were included, with a total sample size of 647 patients. The use of TXA significantly reduced total blood loss (mean difference: -344.96; 95% confidence interval (CI) -401.20 to -239.68; P < 0.01) and the proportion of patients requiring blood transfusions (risk ratios, 0.28; 95% CI: 0.19-0.42; P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in the incidence of DVT, pulmonary embolism, or other complications between the study groups. CONCLUSIONS: The present meta-analysis indicated that intra-articular injection of TXA in patients undergoing TKA may reduce total blood loss and the need for blood transfusions, particularly when a high dosage of TXA is used (≥30 mg/ml), without any increase in the risk of post-operative DVT. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

Four pins assisted reduction of complex segmental femoral fractures: a technique for closed reduction / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

Complex segmental femoral fractures are usually not amenable to closed reduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a series of patients who had undergone four pins assisted reduction and intramedullary nail fixation to determine the therapeutic effect of this closed reduction technique. Between December 2010 and January 2013, 15 consecutive patients with segmental femoral fractures were treated with four pins assisted reduction at our hospital. The patient was placed in a supine position on a radiolucent fracture table and a gentle traction was attempted on the limb. Usually, the proximal fracture segment exhibited the typical deformity of flexion, external rotation, and abduction, the middle segment exhibited adduction and distal fracture segment exhibited flexion. Four Schanz pins were placed percutaneously to fix one cortex and did not penetrate into the medullary cavity, and the "T" sharp handles were fixed on the Schanz pins. The fragments were then reduced by reversing the deforming forces for segmental fractures by two assistants. And then, the reduction could be easily achieved and intramedullary nail fixation was performed. Radiographs were evaluated for the quality of the reduction and fracture union. Closed reduction was achieved in all patients using the four pins technology. All 15 fractures united uneventfully. No patient had a rotational malunion or limb length discrepancy at the time of the last follow-up. Thirteen of the fifteen (86.7%) patients had anatomic reduction and two of them (13.3%) had minor varus alignment of 3° and 5°. Knee stiffness was observed in 2 patients and no implant failure was observed. Surgical treatment of complex segmental femoral fractures with four pins assisted reduction and intramedullary nail fixation techniques can result in excellent reductions and a high union rate.

Four pins assisted reduction of complex segmental femoral fractures: a technique for closed reduction / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

Complex segmental femoral fractures are usually not amenable to closed reduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a series of patients who had undergone four pins assisted reduction and intramedullary nail fixation to determine the therapeutic effect of this closed reduction technique. Between December 2010 and January 2013, 15 consecutive patients with segmental femoral fractures were treated with four pins assisted reduction at our hospital. The patient was placed in a supine position on a radiolucent fracture table and a gentle traction was attempted on the limb. Usually, the proximal fracture segment exhibited the typical deformity of flexion, external rotation, and abduction, the middle segment exhibited adduction and distal fracture segment exhibited flexion. Four Schanz pins were placed percutaneously to fix one cortex and did not penetrate into the medullary cavity, and the "T" sharp handles were fixed on the Schanz pins. The fragments were then reduced by reversing the deforming forces for segmental fractures by two assistants. And then, the reduction could be easily achieved and intramedullary nail fixation was performed. Radiographs were evaluated for the quality of the reduction and fracture union. Closed reduction was achieved in all patients using the four pins technology. All 15 fractures united uneventfully. No patient had a rotational malunion or limb length discrepancy at the time of the last follow-up. Thirteen of the fifteen (86.7%) patients had anatomic reduction and two of them (13.3%) had minor varus alignment of 3° and 5°. Knee stiffness was observed in 2 patients and no implant failure was observed. Surgical treatment of complex segmental femoral fractures with four pins assisted reduction and intramedullary nail fixation techniques can result in excellent reductions and a high union rate.

In vitro osteoclast-suppressing effect of sodium ibandronate / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Bisphosphonates (BPs) have been reported to reduce local recurrence in giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone because of their osteoclast-suppressing effect; however, the optimal mode of delivery and the dose and duration of treatment of BPs remain to be established. To address these issues, it is first necessary to clarify the manner of action of BPs on osteoclasts. We herein evaluated the osteoclast-suppressing effect of sodium ibandronate in vitro.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Mouse osteoclasts (OCLs) were generated in vitro using mouse bone marrow mononuclear cells. First, various concentrations of sodium ibandronate and equal amounts of phosphate-buffered saline were added to cell culture media. The number of multinucleated cells (over three nuclei) was recorded in each group, OCL formation was compared, and the most effective concentration of sodium ibandronate was determined. Then, high concentrations of sodium ibandronate were added to the experimental cell culture media; no ibandronate was given in the control group. Comparisons were made between the two groups in terms of OCL adhesion, migration, and bone resorption.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>OCL formation was suppressed by sodium ibandronate in vitro; the most pronounced effect was observed at the concentration of 10(-5) mol/L. OCL migration and bone resorption were significantly suppressed at this concentration, though there was no effect on OCL adhesion.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Sodium ibandronate was effective in suppressing OCLs and decreasing resorption in GCT. The strong anti-OCL effectiveness at a high concentration in vitro indicates a topical mode of application.</p>

Biomechanical comparison of gourd-shaped LCP versus LCP for fixation of comminuted tibial shaft fracture / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

The purpose of this study was to compare monotonic biomechanical properties of gourd-shaped LCP fixation with LCP fixation of human tibial shaft in gap fracture mode. Twenty paired fresh cadaveric human tibias were randomly divided into 4 groups (5 pairs each): (1) axial loading single cycle to failure testing, (2) torsion single cycle to failure testing, (3) 4-point bending single cycle to failure testing, and (4) dynamic 4-point bending testing. A 7-hole 4.5 mm gourd-shaped LCP was secured on the anteromedial surface of 1 randomly selected bone from each pair, respectively, using 6 locking screws in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th hole with the middle hole unfilled and just located at the mid-diaphysis of the tibia. A 7-hole 4.5 mm LCP was secured on the other bone with the same method. Standard AO/ASIF techniques were used. After fixation finished, a 10 mm gap in the mid-diaphysis of tibia was created, centrally located at the unfilled hole. The axial, torsional, and bending stiffness and failure strengths were calculated from the collected data in static testings and statistically compared using paired Student's t-test. The 4-point bending fatigue lives of the two constructs were calculated from the dynamic testing data and also statistically compared using paired Student's t-test. Failure modes were recorded and visually analyzed. P<0.05 was considered significant. Results showed that the axial, torsional and bending stiffness of gourd-shaped LCP construct was greater (4%, 19%, 12%, respectively, P<0.05) than that of the LCP construct, and the axial, torsional and bending failure strengths of gourd-shaped LCP construct were stronger (10%, 46%, 29%, respectively, P<0.05) than those of the LCP construct. Both constructs failed as a result of plate plastic torsional deformation. After axial loading and 4-point bending testings, LCP failed in term of an obvious deformation of bent apex just at the unfilled plate hole, while the gourd-shaped LCP failed in term of a deformation of bent arc between the 3rd and 5th holes, which indicated a more consistent stress distribution on gourd-shaped LCP. Fatigue life of gourd-shaped LCP construct was significantly greater than LCP construct (153 836±2 228 vs. 132 471±6 460 cycles, P<0.01). All constructs failed as a result of fracture of the plate through the compression hole of the unfilled combination screw hole. The biomechanical testing showed that gourd-shaped LCP can provide greater stiffness and strength, and longer fatigue life than LCP. The gourd-shaped LCP may be more advantageous mechanically and may reduce the plate breakage rate clinically.

Treating rheumatoid arthritis patients of Shen deficiency and cold invading syndrome by bushen quhan zhiwang decoction combined methotrexate: an evaluation of clinical efficacy and safety / 中国中西医结合杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of bushen quhan zhiwang decoction (BQZD) combined methotrexate (MTX) in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A prospective, randomized controlled study was carried out. RA patients of Shen deficiency and cold invading syndrome in the treatment group (120 cases) were treated with BQZD and MTX (10 mg/week), while those in the control group (120 cases) were treated with MTX (10 mg/week) alone. The therapeutic course for all was 24 weeks. The efficacy and safety indices were evaluated at the baseline and 24 weeks after treatment, including clinical signs and symptoms, condition assessment, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), disease activity index 28 (DAS28), laboratory parameters of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), safety indicators, and Chinese medical syndrome integrals.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The total effective rate was 80. 0% in the treatment group, better than that of the control group (66.7%), showing statistical difference (P <0.01). In the two groups significant improvement of clinical signs and symptoms, ESR, CRP, visual analogue scale (VAS) by both physicians and patients, HAQ, DAS28, and Chinese medical syndrome integrals after treatment were shown (P <0.01). Better effects were obtained in the treatment group in lessening tender joint numbers and swollen joint numbers, VAS by both physicians and patients, DAS28, and Chinese medical syndrome integrals (P < 0.05). Besides, adverse reactions occurred less in the treatment group than in the control group (P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>BQZD had roles in relieving symptoms, improving joint functions, signs, ESR, and CRP. It was an effective herb for RA patients of Shen deficiency and cold invading syndrome. It could enhance the efficacy and reduce adverse reactions of MTX through synergistic effects with MTX.</p>

Biomechanical comparison of gourd-shaped LCP versus LCP for fixation of comminuted tibial shaft fracture / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

The purpose of this study was to compare monotonic biomechanical properties of gourd-shaped LCP fixation with LCP fixation of human tibial shaft in gap fracture mode. Twenty paired fresh cadaveric human tibias were randomly divided into 4 groups (5 pairs each): (1) axial loading single cycle to failure testing, (2) torsion single cycle to failure testing, (3) 4-point bending single cycle to failure testing, and (4) dynamic 4-point bending testing. A 7-hole 4.5 mm gourd-shaped LCP was secured on the anteromedial surface of 1 randomly selected bone from each pair, respectively, using 6 locking screws in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th hole with the middle hole unfilled and just located at the mid-diaphysis of the tibia. A 7-hole 4.5 mm LCP was secured on the other bone with the same method. Standard AO/ASIF techniques were used. After fixation finished, a 10 mm gap in the mid-diaphysis of tibia was created, centrally located at the unfilled hole. The axial, torsional, and bending stiffness and failure strengths were calculated from the collected data in static testings and statistically compared using paired Student's t-test. The 4-point bending fatigue lives of the two constructs were calculated from the dynamic testing data and also statistically compared using paired Student's t-test. Failure modes were recorded and visually analyzed. P<0.05 was considered significant. Results showed that the axial, torsional and bending stiffness of gourd-shaped LCP construct was greater (4%, 19%, 12%, respectively, P<0.05) than that of the LCP construct, and the axial, torsional and bending failure strengths of gourd-shaped LCP construct were stronger (10%, 46%, 29%, respectively, P<0.05) than those of the LCP construct. Both constructs failed as a result of plate plastic torsional deformation. After axial loading and 4-point bending testings, LCP failed in term of an obvious deformation of bent apex just at the unfilled plate hole, while the gourd-shaped LCP failed in term of a deformation of bent arc between the 3rd and 5th holes, which indicated a more consistent stress distribution on gourd-shaped LCP. Fatigue life of gourd-shaped LCP construct was significantly greater than LCP construct (153 836±2 228 vs. 132 471±6 460 cycles, P<0.01). All constructs failed as a result of fracture of the plate through the compression hole of the unfilled combination screw hole. The biomechanical testing showed that gourd-shaped LCP can provide greater stiffness and strength, and longer fatigue life than LCP. The gourd-shaped LCP may be more advantageous mechanically and may reduce the plate breakage rate clinically.

Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis by modified bushen zhuanggu recipe: a clinical observation / 中国中西医结合杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To observe the clinical effect and safety of modified Bushen Zhuanggu Recipe (BZR) in treating ankylosing spondylitis (AS).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Recruited were 96 AS outpatients of Shen deficiency induced cold-dampness syndrome (SDCDS) or Shen deficiency dampness-heat syndrome (SDDHS) at clinics of China-Japan Friendship Hospital from May 2010 to May 2011. They were randomly assigned to the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment group and the Western medicine (WM) treatment group in the ratio of 1:1. Those in the TCM treatment group were syndrome typed as the SDCDS group (group A, 22 cases, treated by Bushen Zhuanggu Quhan Decoction + WM placebos) and the SDDHS group (group B, 26 cases, treated by Bushen Zhuanggu Qinghua Decoction +WM placebos). Those in the WM treatment group were syndrome typed as SDCDS group (group C, 27 cases, treated by SASP + TCM placebos) and the SDDHS group (group D, 21 cases, treated by SASP +TCM placebos). Totally 12 weeks consisted of one therapeutic course. BAS-G, BASFI, BASDAI, spine pain, pain at night, TCM symptom score, distance between occipital and wall, distance between finger and ground, thoracic activity, spine activity, Schober test, ESR, CRP were observed as the observing indices; ASAS20, ASAS50, ASAS70, BASDAI50, and criteria of TCM were explored for clinical evaluation and safety evaluation.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In comparison with the same group before treatment,BAS-G, BASFI, BASDAI, spine pain, pain at night, TCM syndrome score,distance between finger and ground, Schober test, ESR, and CRP were improved after treatment (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). In group A and C, thoracic activity and spine activity were getting better (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). In group B distance between occipital and wall and spine activity were getting better (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). In comparison with group C, BAS-G, BASFI, BASDAI, spine pain, distance between finger and ground,thoracic activity,spine activity, Schober test, ESR, CRP were getting better in group A after treatment (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). In comparison with group D, BASFI, BASDAI, spine pain, pain at night,distance between finger and ground, distance between occipital and wall, spine activity, Schober test, and ESR were getting better in group B after treatment (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). The total effective rate, ASAS20, ASAS50, ASAS70, and BASDAI50 were higher in the TCM treatment group than in the WM treatment group (P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Modified BZR was more effective than SASP method in relieving clinical symptoms and signs, TCM syndrome scores, and inflammatory activity indicators of AS patients.</p>

Removal versus preservation of the posterior longitudinal ligament in Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty can be used to restore and maintain the mobility and function of the involved cervical spinal segments. The efficiency of posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) resection in anterior cervical decompression and fusion has been demonstrated. However, no clinical reports have compared PLL removal with preservation in Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty. This study aimed to assess the role of removal of PLL in Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty at an 18-month follow-up.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>We performed a prospective investigation of clinical and radiological outcomes in patients after Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty. Sixty patients who underwent Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty were included. The PLL was removed in 35 patients (investigational group) and preserved in 25 patients (control group). All of the patients were followed up for more than 18 months. Clinical (Japanese Orthopedic Association score and Visual Analogue Scale pain score) and radiological (functional spinal unit (FSU) angle, range of movement (ROM), and diameter of the spinal cord) parameters were compared between the two groups before and after surgery (18 months).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Clinical outcomes in the investigational group were significantly superior to those in the control group. There were no significant differences in the FSU angle and ROM (P = 0.41 and 0.16, respectively) between the two groups. However, the increase in diameter of the spinal cord in the investigational group was significantly greater than that in the control group (P < 0.01).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Removal of the PLL can improve the clinical outcomes of Bryan cervical disc arthroplasty. This procedure does not have a large effect on imbalance and motion of the cervical spine.</p>

Clinical results and intramedullary signal changes of posterior decompression with transforaminal interbody fusion for thoracic myelopathy caused by combined ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament and ligamentum flavum / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Surgical treatment of thoracic myelopathy caused by ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) and ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) is technically demanding, and the results tend to be unfavorable. Various operative approaches and treatment strategies have been attempted, and posterior decompression with transforaminal thoracic interbody fusion (PTTIF) may be the optimal method with which the anterior-posterior compression was removed in one step. It is comparatively less traumatic with fewer serious complications.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Sixteen patients with thoracic myelopathy due to concurrent OLF and OPLL at the same level underwent PTTIF. We investigated clinical outcomes and neurological improvements. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on all patients preoperatively and postoperatively, and intramedullary signal changes were evaluated.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The mean operating time was 275 minutes, and the mean operative bleeding amount was 1031 ml. Cerebrospinal fluid leakage occurred in three patients and healed well after repair. Neurological symptom deterioration occurred in one patient, but the patient recovered to nearly the preoperative level after methylprednisolone treatment. The follow-up period ranged from 28 to 47 months. The mean score on the Japanese Orthopedic Association scale improved from 4.3±1.2 preoperatively to 7.3±1.7 at 3 months postoperatively to 8.5±1.5 at the final follow-up (P < 0.01), with a recovery rate of (63.6±20.0)%. Postoperative images showed a significant improvement in local kyphosis (P < 0.01). Eleven patients (68.8%) showed increased signal intensity (ISI) on preoperative T2-weighted MRI. At the final follow-up, the intramedullary ISI totally recovered in five patients. Neurological improvement was worse in patients with persistent ISI than in the other patients (P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>PTTIF is an effective therapeutic option for combined OPLL and OLF and provides satisfactory neurological recovery and stabilized thoracic fusion through a single posterior approach. Intramedullary signal changes do not always indicate a poor prognosis; only irreversible ISI is correlated with a poor clinical result.</p>

Closed patella fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury: a case control study / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Patellar fracture and cruciate ligament injury are a common consequence of traumatic knee injury. Patellar fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury is rarely reported, although the mechanisms of two things are similar. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of closed patella fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From 2012 March 1 to June 30, magnetic resonance images of 60 patients with unilateral closed patellar fracture were studied in our institution. The mean age of the patients at presentation was 40.2 years (range, 13-64 years) and 48 patients were men. First, patients were divided according to the cause of injury. Twenty-eight patients had high-energy trauma from a falling injury or motor vehicle accident, and 32 patients had low-energy trauma resulting from a tumbling injury. Second, according to the fracture pattern, 31 patients had a transverse fracture and 29 patients had a comminuted fracture.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>We found seven cases of closed patellar fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury among 60 patients, including two cases of a completely ruptured posterior cruciate ligament, two with a partially torn posterior cruciate ligament, and three with a partially torn anterior cruciate ligament. The percentage of this combined injury was 11.6% (7/60). The incidence of a combined injury of the cruciate ligament with a comminuted fracture (6/29, 20.7%) was significantly higher than that with a transverse fracture (1/31, 3.2%, P < 0.05). The most common mechanism of injury in patellar fracture combined with cruciate ligament injury was high-energy trauma from road traffic accidents (94%), whereas in the patellar fracture alone, it was tumbling (62%). The incidence of combined injury with high-energy trauma (6/28, 21.4%) was significantly higher than that with low-energy trauma (1/32, 3.1%, P < 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>These data suggest that high-energy trauma often results in a comminuted patellar fracture, which is often combined with cruciate ligament injury. Traffic accidents are the main risk factor for this combined injury. Understanding the relationship between patellar fracture and cruciate ligament injury for diagnosis and treatment is important.</p>