Polyene phosphatidylcholine promotes tibial fracture healing in rats by stimulating angiogenesis dominated by the VEGFA/VEGFR2 signaling pathway.

One of the factors that predispose to fractures is liver damage. Interestingly, fractures are sometimes accompanied by abnormal liver function. Polyene phosphatidylcholine (PPC) is an important liver repair drug. We wondered if PPC had a role in promoting fracture healing. A rat model of tibial fracture was developed using the modified Einhorn model method. X-rays were used to detect the progression of fracture healing. Progress of ossification and angiogenesis at the fracture site were analyzed by Safranin O/fast green staining and CD31 immunohistochemistry. To investigate whether PPC has a direct angiogenesis effect, HUVECs were used. We performed MTT, wound healing, Transwell migration, and tube formation assays. Finally, RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis were used to study the underlying mechanism. The results showed that PPC significantly shortened the apparent recovery time of mobility in rats. PPC treatment significantly promoted the formation of cartilage callus, endochondral ossification, and angiogenesis at the fracture site. In vitro, PPC promoted the proliferative viability of HUVECs, their ability to heal wounds, and their ability to penetrate membranes in the Transwell apparatus and increased the tube formation of cells. The transcription of VEGFA, VEGFR2, PLCγ, RAS, ERK1/2 and MEK1/2 was significantly up regulated by PPC. Further, the protein level results demonstrated a significant increase in the expression of VEGFA, VEGFR2, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 proteins. In conclusion, our findings suggest that PPC promotes angiogenesis by activating the VEGFA/VEGFR2 and downstream signaling pathway, thereby accelerating fracture healing.

Is Using a Ring External Fixator in the Treatment of Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Tibia Associated With Better Results or Using a Locking Plate?

BACKGROUND: Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a rare disease. CPT is often unilateral and occurs between the middle and distal third of the tibia. Concurrent involvement of the fibula is present in more than half of cases. histologic studies indicate the presence of fibrous hamartoma tissue and a sick periosteum, which leads to recalcitrant bone fracture and, eventually, pseudoarthrosis. Although there are various surgical techniques, we intend to compare the 2 methods of external fixation versus internal plating. METHODS: Demographic data were collected from 26 patients with frank pseudoarthrosis. After exclusion criteria, patients were compared in groups A (12 patients) and B (11 patients). Resection of hamartoma and sclerotic bone, intramedullary rodding and autologous bone, and periosteal grafting were performed for all patients. In group A, we used a ring external fixator for compression and rotational stability, but in group B, a locking plate was used for these purposes. RESULTS: Plating takes less time to use during surgery. In group A, the primary bony union was obtained in 67% of patients, while in group B, 82% of patients had a primary union. Meanwhile, the average time till the final union in group A was 6 months, while in group B, this time was 3.5 months. Positive union mass was obtained in 58% of the patients in group A and 82% of group B. In addition, plating prevented ankle valgus deformity in group B. CONCLUSIONS: Permanent intramedullary rodding is a surgical requirement for correction of deformity and refracture prevention, but additional stability can be achieved with the use of a ring external fixator or internal plate. Cross union and positive union mass are 2 important factors in the treatment of pseudoarthrosis; these results are achieved to a greater extent and in a shorter period of time using the plate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: level IV - case series.

External fixator versus Ilizarov external fixator for pediatric tibial shaft fractures: A retrospective comparative study.

INTRODUCTION: External fixators (EF) are widely employed for pediatric tibial shaft fractures, being a prevalent choice in clinical practice. However, they are associated with numerous complications, such as loss of reduction, delayed union, and nonunion. An alternative approach involves the use of Ilizarov external fixators (IEF), which have been documented in the treatment of tibial shaft fractures in various studies. This study endeavors to retrospectively compare the clinical outcomes of EF and IEF in the treatment of pediatric tibial shaft fractures. METHODS: The study retrospectively examined patients aged 5-14 years who underwent treatment for tibial shaft fractures at our institute between January 2017 and January 2023. These individuals were subsequently classified into EF and IEF groups. Exclusions comprised patients presenting with pathological fracture, neuromuscular disorder, metabolic disease, prior tibial fracture or instrumentation, and polytrauma. Additionally, individuals with a follow-up duration of more than 12 months or incomplete medical records were excluded. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients were divided into two groups: the EF group, comprising 24 patients (18 males, 6 females), and the IEF group, consisting of 21 patients (17 males, 4 females). The two groups exhibited no statistically significant differences in terms of sex, age, body weight, time from injury to surgery, AO classification, or concomitant injuries. There were two cases of nonunion in the EF group. Radiological union occurred more rapidly in the IEF group (7.8 ± 0.4 weeks) than in the EF group (9.3 ± 1.1 weeks) (P < 0.05). The mean hospitalization duration differed significantly between the EF group (6.7 ± 3.4 days) and the IEF group (7.5 ± 1.1 days) (P > 0.05). The mean duration of the operative procedure significantly differed between the IEF group (147.8 ± 24.5 min) and the EF group (77.2 ± 43.9 min) (P < 0.001). A significant difference (P < 0.001) in weight-bearing time was observed between the IEF group (2.6 ± 0.7 weeks) and the EF group (9.9 ± 1.4 weeks). According to the Johner-Wruhs criteria, no significant differences were found between the two groups. A significant difference (P < 0.001) in hospitalization costs was observed between the IEF group (7848.0 ± 262.4 $) and the EF group (5403.0 ± 233.3 $). CONCLUSION: EF is cheaper, quicker and simpler and we need more randomized controlled studies and that this is a pilot study only. Both types of surgery are good choices for children. Nevertheless, the IEF group demonstrates advantages such as early weight-bearing capability and faster fracture healing.

Minced muscle autografting improves bone healing but not muscle function in a porcine composite injury model.

Composite tissue injuries (CTIs) in extremities include segmental bone defects (SBDs) and volumetric muscle loss. The objective of this study was to determine if skeletal muscle autografting with minced muscle grafts (MMGs) could improve healing in an SBD and improve muscle function in a porcine CTI model that includes an SBD and adjacent volumetric muscle loss injury. Adult Yucatan Minipigs were stratified into three groups including specimens with an isolated SBD, an SBD with volumetric muscle loss (CTI), and an SBD with volumetric muscle loss treated with MMG (CTI + MMG). Bone healing was quantified with serial x-rays and postmortem computed tomography scanning. Muscle function was quantified with a custom in vivo force transducer. Muscle tissue content was determined by biochemical analyses and histology. Anterior cortex-modified Radiographic Union Score for Tibia fractures (mRUSTs) decreased from 2.7 to 1.9 (p = 0.003) in CTI versus SBD animals. MMG improved anterior mRUST scores to 2.5 in CTI + MMG specimens (p = 0.030 compared to CTI specimens) and overall mRUST scores increased from 9.4 in CTI specimens to 11.1 in CTI + MMG specimens (p = 0.049). Residual strength deficits at euthanasia were 42% in SBD (p < 0.001), 44% in CTI (p < 0.001), and 48% in CTI + MMG (p < 0.001) compared to preoperative values. There were no differences in strength deficits between the three groups. Biochemical and histologic analyses demonstrated scattered differences between the three groups compared to contralateral muscle. MMG improved bone healing. However, the primary cause of muscle dysfunction and biochemical changes was the presence of an SBD. Clinical significance: Early mitigation of SBDs may be necessary to prevent muscle damage and weakness in patients sustaining composite extremity trauma.

The value of magnetic resonance imaging in the preoperative diagnosis of tibial plateau fractures: a systematic literature review.

PURPOSE: The outcome of a tibial plateau fracture (TPF) depends on the fracture reduction achieved and the extent of soft-tissue lesions, including lesions in the ligaments, cartilage, and menisci. Sub-optimal treatment can result in poor knee function and osteoarthritis. Preoperative planning is primarily based on conventional X-ray and computed tomography (CT), which are unsuitable for diagnosing soft-tissue lesions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not routinely performed. To date, no literature exists that clearly states the indications for preoperative MRI. This systematic review aimed to determine the frequency of soft-tissue lesions in TPFs, the association between fracture type and soft-tissue lesions, and the types of cases for which MRI is indicated. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was based on articles located in PubMed/MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), supplemented by searching the included articles' reference lists and the ePublication lists of leading orthopedic and trauma journals. RESULTS: A total of 1138 studies were retrieved. Of these, 18 met the eligibility criteria and included a total of 877 patients. The proportion of total soft-tissue lesions was 93.0%. The proportions of soft-tissue lesions were as follows: medial collateral ligament 20.7%, lateral collateral ligament 22.9%, anterior cruciate ligament 36.8%, posterior cruciate ligament 14.8%, lateral meniscus 48.9%, and medial meniscus 24.5%. A weak association was found between increasing frequency of LCL and ACL lesions and an increase in fracture type according to Schatzker's classification. No standard algorithm for MRI scans of TPFs was found. CONCLUSION: At least one ligament or meniscal lesion is present in 93.0% of TPF cases. More studies with higher levels of evidence are needed to find out in which particular cases MRI adds value. However, MRI is recommended, at least in young patients and cases of high-energy trauma.

Tratamiento mínimamente invasivo/percutáneo de fracturas de pilón tibial con asistencia artroscópica en Hospital Regional de Talca / Minimally invasive/percutaneous treatment of tibial pilon fractures with arthroscopic assistance at the Regional Hospital

Tibial pilon fractures are a complex injury to treat due to the great involvement of soft and bone tissues. The classic surgical treatment is based on open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF), adding morbidity to the soft tissues, increasing the risk of complications. This has motivated the development of minimally invasive and/or percutaneous techniques to reduce complications, and with the advent of arthroscopy, achieve anatomical reductions. METHODS: A retrospective observational study of twelve patients with tibial pilon fractures who were treated in our center with minimally invasive and/ or percutaneous osteosynthesis with arthroscopic support was carried out between January 2019 and June 2021. Fractures were characterized using the AO/OTA classification for tibial pilon. Age, sex, fracture mechanism, exposure and initial management in the emergency department (cast immobilization or external fixation), definitive treatment, complications and clinical and functional evaluation twelve months after definitive osteosynthesis. For this last point, plantar flexion, dorsiflexion and the AOFAS and FAOS Score were measured. RESULTS: The operated patients were 12, 8 were men (67%) and 4 were women (33%). The average age was 49 (17-68) years. The definitive treatment was carried out after an average of 8 days (5-12 days). Surgical treatment schemes were as follows: percutaneous osteosynthesis with medial anatomical plate and arthroscopic support (OPAA), minimally invasive osteosynthesis with cannulated screws and arthroscopic support (OMIAA) and osteosynthesis with external circular guide and arthroscopic support (OTCAA). In the AOFAS Score, three patients had excellent results (≥ 90 points), 6 patients had good results (≥ 80 points) and 3 patients had acceptable results (≥ 70 points). In the FAOS Score, eight patients had over 80% (good results) and 4 patients had over 60% (accep - table results). DISCUSSION: Historically, tibial pilon fractures have been considered non-reconstructable and with poor long-term results. Initially this paradigm changed with the principles of Rüedi for the reconstruction of the tibial pilon and improve the results. ORIF has been widely used until today, it allows achieving an anatomical joint reduction, it allows to give stability and length to the fibula, graft contribution and sta - bilization with the medial plate. Today this concept is changing again, since the emphasis is on the care of the soft tissues to allow a better recovery of the patient and reduce the complications of the classic approach, it is in this context that the appearance of minimally invasive and/or percutaneous techniques with arthroscopic assistance has allowed us to have excellent functional and clinical results with less da - mage to the soft tissues. CONCLUSION: The proper management and care of the soft tissues in a high-energy fracture of the tibial pilon is essential to obtain favorable clinical results and thus achieve restoration of ankle function. Percutaneous and minimally invasive management has optimized management of the tibial pilon, redu - cing the rates of complications, amputation, and pri - mary arthrodesis.

Application of Low-Dose CT and MRI in the Evaluation of Soft Tissue Injury in Tibial Plateau Fractures.

Objective: To explore the application value of low-dose CT and MRI in the evaluation of soft tissue injury in tibial plateau fractures. Methods: This study included 89 patients with high suspicion of TPF and KI admitted to our hospital from July 2015 to May 2021. After arthroscopy, 81 patients were diagnosed with FTP combined with KI. The Schatzker classification based on X-ray and CT plain scan combined with three-dimensional reconstruction was recorded, and the soft tissue injury was recorded according to the MRI examination of the affected knee joint. Results: With the results of pathological examination and arthroscopic surgery as the gold standard, the results of MRI and pathological examination and arthroscopic examination were in good agreement (Kappa = 0.857, 0.844), and CT was moderately in agreement (Kappa = 0.697, 0.694). In KI examination, CT and MRI had no difference in the evaluation of ligament injury and bone injury (P > 0.05), but MRI had better diagnostic effect on meniscus injury (P < 0.05). Finally, the satisfaction survey showed that patients in the CT group were more satisfied with clinical services (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Both CT and MRI have certain diagnostic value for occult tibial plateau fractures, among which CT examination is more advantageous for trabecular bone fractures, MRI examination is more advantageous for cortical bone fractures, and MRI examination can improve occult tibial plateau fracture inspection accuracy.

Interleukin-13 Affects the Recovery Processes in a Mouse Model of Hemorrhagic Stroke with Bilateral Tibial Fracture.

As one form of stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a fatal cerebrovascular disease, which has high morbidity and mortality and lacks effective medical treatment. Increased infiltration of inflammatory cytokines coupled with pyroptotic cell death is involved in the pathophysiological process of ICH. However, little is known about whether concomitant fracture patients have the same progression of inflammation and pyroptosis. Hence, we respectively established the mouse ICH model and ICH with bilateral tibial fracture model (MI) to explore the potential cross-talk between the above two injuries. We found that MI obviously reversed the expressions of pyroptosis-associated proteins, which were remarkably up-regulated at the acute phase after ICH. Similar results were observed in neuronal expressions via double immunostaining. Furthermore, brain edema was also significantly alleviated in mice who suffered MI, when compared with ICH alone. To better clarify the potential mechanisms that mediated this cross-talk, recombinant mouse interleukin-13 (IL-13) was used to investigate its effect on pyroptosis in the mouse MI model, in which a lower level of IL-13 was observed. Remarkably, IL-13 administration re-awakened cell death, which was mirrored by the re-upregulation of pyroptosis-associated proteins and PI-positive cell counts. The results of hemorrhage volume and behavioral tests further confirmed its critical role in regulating neurological functions. Besides, the IL-13-treated MI group showed poor outcomes of fracture healing. To sum up, our research indicates that controlling the IL-13 content in the acute phase would be a promising target in influencing the outcomes of brain injury and fracture, and meanwhile, provides new evidence in repairing compound injuries in clinics.

Better discrimination of the concomitant peri-ankle fractures in the spiral tibial shaft fractures by thin-slice axial and three-dimensional CT.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to examine the morphologic features of spiral tibial shaft as well as concomitant fibular and peri-ankle fractures on multidetector high-resolution CT and to speculate about the mechanisms underlying these combined fractures.This is a retrospective cohort study. A total of 197 tibial shaft fractures underwent multidetector high-resolution CT before intramedullary nailing. The presence and location of peri-ankle fractures were recorded using thin-slice axial CT. Tibial shaft fractures were classified as spiral or non-spiral. The morphologies of spiral tibial fractures and concomitant lateral malleolar fractures were delineated using three-dimensional CT.Seventy-five spiral and 122 non-spiral fractures were identified. Peri-ankle fractures excluding lateral malleolar fractures were found in 77.3% of spiral fractures and 18.9% of non-spiral fractures. The most frequent location of peri-ankle fractures in the spiral group was the posterior malleolus, followed by the anterolateral distal tibia, while the medial malleolus was the most frequent site in the non-spiral group. Of 75 spiral fractures, 72 showed a fracture morphology attributed to external rotation force. There were 13 lateral malleolar fractures that were defined as within 6 cm from the distal end of the fibula. No lateral malleolar fractures showed the typical morphology of isolated supination/external rotation-type ankle injuries. The displaced syndesmotic injuries commonly coexisting in pronation/external rotation-type ankle injuries were not observed.Most spiral tibial shaft fractures were caused by external rotation force. However, the morphology of concomitant peri-ankle fractures was inconsistent with typical mechanisms of isolated external rotation ankle injuries.

Structural Bicortical Autologous Iliac Crest Bone Graft Combined with the Tunnel Bone Tamping Method for the Depressed Tibial Plateau Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Clinically, autologous iliac crest bone grafts (ICBG) and bone tamping methods are often applied to manage depressed tibial plateau fractures (DTPFs). The purpose of this study was to describe and evaluate the technique of using structural bicortical autologous ICBG combined with the tunnel bone tamping method (TBTM) for treating DTPFs. METHODS: All patients with DTPFs who underwent structural bicortical autologous ICBG combined with TBTM from January 2016 to February 2018 were prospectively analysed. Demographics, injury, surgery, postoperative complications, and clinical outcomes were recorded. All patients were followed up for more than 30 months. Postoperative radiography and CT were employed to assess fracture healing and the reduction quality. RESULTS: Forty-three of the included patients completed the follow-up. No malreduction was observed. Based on the immediate postoperative imaging, the intra-articular step-off was significantly reduced (8.19 mm preoperatively vs. 1.30 mm immediate postoperatively, P < 0.001). From the immediate operation to the latest follow-up, the reduction was maintained significantly well, with a nonnegligible absolute difference (0.18 mm, P = 0.108). A remarkable secondary loss of reduction (intra-articular step off > 3 mm) was found in two elderly patients (2/43, 4.65%). The incidence of complications related to the bone-graft donor and bone-graft site was 2.33% and 4.65%, respectively. At the final follow-up, the mean Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score of the knee was 98.19 ± 2.89, and the mean 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) score was 95.65 ± 4.59. CONCLUSION: Structural bicortical autologous ICBG combined with TBTM is radiologically effective and stable in terms of complications for the DTPFs.

The Tibial Plateau Map: Fracture Line Morphology of Intra-Articular Proximal Tibial Fractures.

The purpose of this study was to characterize the patterns of a large series of tibial plateau fractures with the use of fracture mapping, with regard to different fracture types using the OTA/AO and Schatzker classification. Patients with intra-articular fractures of the tibial plateau were evaluated, using the OTA/AO and Schatzker classification on CT scans. For fracture mapping, the axial slice that completely displayed the tibial joint plane was first identified, then matched to a template congruently, and the fracture lines were identified and reproduced. In addition to epidemiological data (age and gender), the trauma mechanism (high-energy, low-energy, and pathological fracture) was recorded. In total, 271 patients with 278 intra-articular fractures of the tibial head were analyzed, including seven patients with both sides affected. The mean age was 49.1 years (men 46.3 years, women 53.5 years). The majority of fractures was caused by high-energy trauma. No significant difference could be shown with respect to trauma mechanism and resulting fracture type in terms of OTA/AO (p = 0.352) or Schatzker classification (p = 0.884). A significant difference could be found with respect to gender and resulting fracture type in terms of OTA/AO (p = 0.031). 170 (61.2%) were OTA/AO type B fractures, and 108 (38.8%) were type C fractures. Using the Schatzker classification, we found 53 type I (19.1%), 60 type II (21.6%), 27 type III (9.7%), 32 type IV (11.5%), 16 type V (5.8%), and 90 type VI (32.4%) fractures. The main affection was found in the lateral and intermedial column of the tibial plateaus, concerning both OTA/AO and Schatzker classification. The variability of intra-articular tibial head fractures is very high. In consequence, an individual analysis of fracture patterns and therapy planning by using CT scans is crucial.

Comparison of outcomes of ORIF versus bidirectional tractor and arthroscopically assisted CRIF in the treatment of lateral tibial plateau fractures: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Lateral tibial plateau fractures (TPFs) are often treated with conventional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) through standard anterolateral sub-meniscal arthrotomy. There has been increasing support for "bidirectional rapid redactor" device-assisted closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) for treating TPFs. The aim of the present study is to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between CRIF and ORIF procedures. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 55 lateral TPF patients (Schatzker types I-III) who accepted surgical treatment at our trauma level 1 center between January 2016 and January 2018. They were divided into the CRIF group (32 patients) and the ORIF group (23 patients) based upon the different surgical protocols. The patients' clinical outcome analysis was evaluated by using the Knee Society Score (KSS) and Rasmussen's clinical score. For radiological assessment, changes in tibial plateau width (TPW), articular depression depth (ADD), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and posterior tibial slope angle (PTSA) were evaluated using radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scan. RESULTS: The CRIF group had a mean follow-up of 28.9 months, and the ORIF group had a mean follow-up of 30.7 months (p>0.05). Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in terms of age, gender, injury mechanism, follow-up time, time interval from injury to surgery, and Schatzker classification in the two groups. With respect to the clinical outcomes including the KSS score and Rasmussen's clinical score, there was also no significant difference (p>0.05). Nevertheless, the CRIF group had lower intra-operative blood loss, shorter hospitalization days, and better range of movement of the knee joint than the ORIF group (p<0.05). Furthermore, CRIF had better radiological results when compared to the ORIF group using Rasmussen's radiological score (p<0.05), although no significant difference was observed in TPW, ADD, MPTA, and PTSA between the two groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The present study showed that CRIF could achieve comparable clinical outcomes and better radiological results for treating lateral TPFs as compared with conventional ORIF.

Total Knee Arthroplasty with Intra-Articular Resection of Bone for Knee Arthritis Secondary to Malunion of a Tibial Shaft Fracture: A Radiological Evaluation of Correction of the Tibial Deformity.

This retrospective study was aimed to evaluate the clinical outcome and the extent of correction of the tibial deformity by a radiological evaluation following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) combined with intra-articular bone resection, in patients with knee arthritis and ipsilateral malunited tibial fractures. Fifteen patients (15 knees) with severe arthritis of the knee and extra-articular malunion of the tibia were treated using TKA with intra-articular bone resection. The extra-articular deformities in the coronal plane were 10 tibia vara (mean 15°, range 9°-30°), 4 tibia valgum (mean 12°, range 6°-20°), and one double deformity in the tibial shaft. The follow-up duration was 84 months (24-240). At the last follow-up, the mean Knee Society knee and function scores had improved, respectively (p = 0.001). The mean arc of knee motion improved from 97° preoperatively to 118.3° at the last follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean mechanical axis improved from a preoperative 15.5° to 1.5° of varus (p = 0.013). Excluding the patient with a double tibial malunion, in the 10 patients with varus tibial angulations, the tibia vara had improved from 15° preoperatively to 2.6° (p = 0.005). There were no observed complications except for one with a postoperative deep infection. In conclusion, our results indicated that TKA with intra-articular resection of the bone is an effective procedure for the treatment of severe arthritis of the knee with extra-articular malunion of the tibia in the coronal plane (≤30° of varus; ≤20° of valgus).

Posterior Tibial Slope is Increased in Patients With Tibial Tubercle Fractures and Osgood-Schlatter Disease.

BACKGROUND: Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) and tibial tubercle fractures are pathologies that affect the tibial tubercle apophysis in preadolescents and adolescents. Anatomic alignment of the proximal tibia may explain why some children develop OSD or sustain tibial tubercle fractures and some do not. Recent data has shown an association between posterior tibial slope angle (PTSA) and both OSD and proximal tibia physeal fractures. In this study, we compare radiographic parameters between patients with non-OSD knee pain, knees with OSD, and knees with tibial tubercle fracture to elucidate a difference between these groups. METHODS: Patients treated for OSD, tibial tubercle fractures, and knee pain, from 2012 to 2018, were retrospectively reviewed. Radiographic parameters for each study group included PTSA, anatomic lateral distal femoral angle, anatomic medial proximal tibial angle, patellar articular height, and the distance from the inferior aspect of the patellar articular surface. Caton-Deschamps index was then calculated. Demographic data was collected including age, sex, and body mass index. Demographic and radiographic data was compared using analysis of variance tests, χ2 tests, 2-sample t tests, and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: Two hundred fifty-one knees in 229 patients met inclusion criteria for the study. In all, 76% were male and the average age of the overall cohort was 14 years old. In patients with tibial tubercle fractures, the majority of fractures were Ogden type 3b (65%). After controlling for demographic variability, average PTSA in the fracture cohort was significantly greater than that in the control cohort (ß=3.49, P<0.001). The OSD cohort had a significantly greater posterior slope (ß=3.14) than the control cohort (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the fracture and OSD cohorts. There was also no difference in Caton-Deschamps index between the 2 study groups when compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that patients with tibial tubercle fractures and patients with OSD have an increased PTSA when compared with the control group. This information adds to the body of evidence that increased tibial slope places the proximal tibial physis under abnormal stress which may contribute to the development of pathologic conditions of proximal tibia such as OSD and tibial tubercle fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III; retrospective comparative study.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Suppresses Synovial Macrophage Infiltration and Inflammation in Injured Knees in Rats.

This study was designed to investigate how low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) suppresses traumatic joint inflammation and thereafter affects the progression of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Intra-articular fracture (IAF) was created in the right knee of rats. LIPUS was applied to the knees with IAFs for 20 min/d for 2 wk-LIPUS(+) group. The study controls included rats that underwent sham surgery but no LIPUS treatment (control group) or underwent IAF surgery without LIPUS treatment-LIPUS(-) group. By histology, at 4 wk, leukocyte infiltration in the synovium was reduced in the LIPUS(+) group. Furthermore, LIPUS treatment reduced CD68+ macrophages in the synovium and limited their distribution mostly in the subintimal synovium. Measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) in the joint fluid of the LIPUS(+) group was reduced to about one-third that in the LIPUS(-) group. By reducing synovial macrophages and lowering IL-1ß in the joint fluid, LIPUS is potentially therapeutic for posttraumatic osteoarthritis.

Percutaneous bridge plating of extra-articular distal fibular fracture for the management of distal tibia type III open fracture.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to conduct clinical and radiographic evaluations of the use of percutaneous bridge plating for distal fibular fractures combined with distal tibia type III open fractures. METHODS: Thirty-four patients with acute distal third fibular shaft fractures (4F2A(c) and 4F2B(c) according to the AO/OTA classification) combined with distal tibia type III open fractures were enrolled. Concurrent fibular fractures were fixed with the percutaneous bridge plating simultaneously, while distal tibia open fractures were temporally stabilized with a spanning external fixator. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), the proportional length difference of the fibula, the talocrural angle, the union rate of the fibula and tibia, the operation time, and complications at the final follow-up. RESULTS: All fibular fractures healed with an average bone healing time of 20.7 ± 6.3 weeks (range, 16-35). The mean proportional length difference was 0.492 ± 0.732% compared with that in the uninjured fibula. The functional assessment result according to the LEFS was 74.0 ± 3.70 points (range, 57-80). No cases of fibula fracture infection developed throughout the follow-up period in any of the patients. Iatrogenic postoperative superficial peroneal nerve injury was not found in any of the patients. CONCLUSION: With the perspective of minimizing soft tissue problems due to high-energy trauma, the application of percutaneous bridge plating for the treatment of distal fibular fractures can be an alternative to conventional treatment methods.

Inducing pilon fractures in human cadaveric specimens depending on the injury mechanism: a fracture simulation.

BACKGROUND: Operative management of pilon fractures, especially high-energy compression injuries, is a challenge. Operative education is of vital importance to handle these entities. Not rarely, it is cut by economics and staff shortage. As public awareness toward operative competence rises, surgical cadaver courses that provide pre-fractured specimens can improve realism of teaching scenarios. The aim of this study is to introduce a realistic pilon fracture simulation setup regarding the injury mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 8 cadaveric specimens (two left, six right) were fixed onto a custom drop-test bench in dorsiflexion (20°) and light supination (10°). The proximal part of the lower leg was potted, and the specimen was exposed to a high energetic impulse via an axial impactor. CT imaging was performed after fracture simulation to detect the exact fracture patterns and to classify the achieved fractures by two independent trauma surgeons. (AO/OTA recommendations and the Rüedi/Allgöwer). RESULTS: All cadaveric specimens could be successfully fractured: 6 (75%) were identified as a 43-C fracture and 2 (25%) as 43-B fracture type. Regardless of the identical mechanism two different kinds of fracture types were reported. In five cases (62.5%), the fibula was also fractured and in three specimens, a talus fracture was described. There was no statistically significant correlation found regarding Hounsfield Units (HU) and age as well as HU and required kinetic energy. CONCLUSION: A high energetic axial impulse on a fixed ankle specimen in light dorsiflexion (20°) and supination (10°) induced by a custom-made drop-test bench can successfully simulate realistic pilon fractures in cadaveric specimens with intact soft tissue envelope. Although six out of eight fractures (75%) were classified as a 43-C fracture and despite putting a lot of effort into the mechanical setup, we could not achieve an absolute level of precision. Therefore, we suggest that the injury mechanism is most likely a combination of axial loading, shear and rotation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

The amount of displacement can determine non-operative treatment in posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture.

PURPOSE: It is generally agreed that surgical treatment is warranted for acute posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture with displacement. However, the amount of displacement that warrants surgical treatment has not been defined. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal cut-off value for displacement of posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture in determining non-operative treatment and to compare the results of non-operative treatment in acute isolated PCL avulsion fractures with non-operative treatment of acute PCL injury. METHODS: Between 2007 and 2017, 30 consecutive patients with acute isolated PCL avulsion fractures and 70 consecutive patients with acute isolated PCL injuries, all of whom underwent non-operative treatment (cast immobilization with > 2 years of follow-up) were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical scores including the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective score, Lysholm score, and Tegner activity score, as well as side-to-side differences on stress radiographs, were compared between the PCL avulsion fracture and PCL injury groups at the final follow-up. The failure rates of non-operative treatment were also compared. The predictive value of the amount of fracture displacement for successful non-operative treatment was calculated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). The optimal cut-off of the amount of fracture displacement to determine non-operative treatment was based on the maximal sum of sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS: The two groups exhibited comparable clinical scores and mean side-to-side differences on stress radiographs. There were 5 (16.6%) failures of non-operative treatment in the PCL avulsion fracture group and 19 (27.1%) failures in the PCL injury group. (n.s) There was a significant positive correlation between the amount of initial avulsion fracture displacement and side-to-side difference in posterior stress radiographs at final follow up (P < 0.001). The optimal cut-off value for the amount of fracture displacement in PCL avulsion fracture to predict failure of non-operative treatment was 6.7 mm (AUROC = 1.0). CONCLUSION: The outcomes of non-operative treatment of acute isolated PCL avulsion fractures were comparable to those of patients with acute isolated PCL injuries. Acute PCL avulsion injuries with displacement of less than 6.7 mm should be considered for non-operative treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Treatment of Isolated Posterolateral Tibial Plateau Fracture with a Horizontal Belt Plate through the Anterolateral Supra-Fibular-Head Approach.

The posterolateral tibial plateau fracture was not easy to be exposed and fixed with usual techniques. The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical stability and clinical outcome of the isolated posterolateral tibial plateau fracture fixed with a single horizontal belt plate through the anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach. Fracture models were created by 18 synthetic tibias and fixed with three different fixation modes. Each group was fixed and tested on the loading machine, and final vertical displacement of the fragment was detected and calculated. Clinically, a retrospective analysis of 12 cases of posterolateral tibial plateau fracture from January 2013 to December 2017 was performed. There were 8 males and 4 females, aged 33-72 years, with an average age of 49.6 years. Isolated posterolateral tibial plateau fractures were identified according to preoperative X-ray and computed tomography scan. Through the modified anterolateral supra-fibular-head approach, the fracture was reduced and fixed by a prebending T-shaped distal radius plate and rafting screws, with bone substitute grafting or autogenous iliac bone implantation. Patients were followed up to a minimum one year of time period, and the outcome was evaluated clinically and radiologically. The biomechanical study shows that horizontal belt plate fixation for the isolated PL tibial plateau fracture can provide sufficient stability, allowing early knee functional exercise and partial weight bearing. For clinical case series, the average operation time in this group was 73.3 ± 10.2 mins (range: 55-90), and the average duration of hospitalization was 9.1 ± 3.3 days (range: 5-16). Patients were followed up for 12-24 months with an average of 16.5 months, and all patients achieved radiological fracture union after an average of 13.7 weeks. At one year after operation, the average knee score of the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scale was 93.2 ± 4.2 points(range: 90-98), the average score of SMFA was 21.1 ± 5.6 points (range: 14-31), and the average knee range of motion (ROM) was 121.48° ± 8.88° (range: 105°-135°). There were 8 cases that were very satisfied and 3 cases that were satisfied with the operation. For an isolated posterolateral tibial plateau fracture, the supra-fibular-head approach can fully expose the fracture site; the horizontal belt plate fixation of the fracture is stable and reliable to allow for early-stage knee rehabilitation, and the outcome of medium-term clinical follow-up was satisfactory.

Open Tibial Shaft Fractures: Treatment Patterns in Latin America.

BACKGROUND: Open tibial shaft fractures are an important source of disability in Latin America. High-income countries (HICs) worldwide have established standardized treatment protocols for open tibial fractures, but less is known about their treatment in middle-income countries (MICs) in Latin America. This survey of Latin American orthopaedic surgeons characterizes open tibial fracture treatment patterns. METHODS: Orthopaedic surgeons from 20 national orthopaedic societies throughout Latin America completed an online survey assessing their treatment of open tibial fractures. Demographic information was collected. Treatment patterns were queried according to 2 groupings of Gustilo-Anderson (GA) fracture types: treatment of type-I and type-II fractures (GA-I/II) and treatment of type-III fractures (GA-III). Treatment patterns were evaluated across 4 domains: antibiotic prophylaxis, irrigation and debridement, fracture stabilization, and wound management. Summary statistics were reported; analysis was performed using the Fisher exact test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: There were 616 survey participants from 20 Latin American countries (4 HICs and 16 MICs). Initial external fixation followed by staged internal fixation was preferred for GA-I/II (51.0%) and GA-III fractures (86.0%). Nearly one-third (31.5%) of GA-IIIB fractures did not receive a soft-tissue coverage procedure. Stratifying by country socioeconomic status, surgeons in MICs more commonly utilized delayed internal fixation for GA-I/II (53.3% versus 22.0%, p < 0.001) and GA-III fractures (94.0% versus 80.4%, p = 0.002). Surgeons in MICs more commonly used primary closure for GA-I/II (88.9% versus 62.8%, p < 0.001) and GA-III fractures (32.6% versus 9.8%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This survey reports Latin American orthopaedic surgeons' treatment patterns for open tibial shaft fractures. Surgeons in MICs reported higher delayed internal fixation use for all fracture types, while surgeons in HICs more routinely avoid primary closure. Soft-tissue coverage procedures are not performed in nearly one-third of GA-IIIB fractures because of a lack of operative personnel and training.