Characterization of spatial integrity with active and passive implants in a low-field magnetic resonance linear accelerator scanner.

Background and Purpose: Standard imaging protocols can guarantee the spatial integrity of magnetic resonance (MR) images utilized in radiotherapy. However, the presence of metallic implants can significantly compromise this integrity. Our proposed method aims at characterizing the geometric distortions induced by both passive and active implants commonly encountered in planning images obtained from a low-field 0.35 T MR-linear accelerator (LINAC). Materials and Methods: We designed a spatial integrity phantom defining 1276 control points and covering a field of view of 20x20x20 cm3. This phantom was scanned in a water tank with and without different implants used in hip and shoulder arthroplasty procedures as well as with active cardiac stimulators. The images were acquired with the clinical planning sequence (balanced steady-state free-precession, resolution 1.5x1.5x1.5 mm3). Spatial integrity was assessed by the Euclidian distance between the control point detected on the image and their theoretical locations. A first plane free of artefact (FPFA) was defined to evaluate the spatial integrity beyond the larger banding artefact. Results: In the region extending up to 20 mm from the largest banding artefacts, the tested passive and active implants could cause distortions up to 2 mm and 3 mm, respectively. Beyond this region the spatial integrity was recovered and the image could be considered as unaffected by the implants. Conclusions: We characterized the impact of common implants on a low field MR-LINAC planning sequence. These measurements could support the creation of extra margin while contouring organs at risk and target volumes in the vicinity of implants.

[Minimally Invasive Techniques for the Treatment of Acute and Chronic Acromioclavicular Joint Instabilities]. / Minimalinvasive Techniken zur Therapie der Schultereckgelenksprengung.

Acromioclavicular joint instabilities are one of the most common injuries of the shoulder girdle. Diagnostic measures include the vertical and horizontal components of instability. The main goals of treatment include pain reduction, joint stabilization, and return to physical activity. For operative treatment, there are numerous techniques available. Recently, minimally-invasive techniques were developed and showed equal results as with open approach. These procedures facilitate simultaneous treatment of concomitant shoulder lesions and reduce soft tissue trauma as well as the risk of infection. This article presents an overview of such minimally-invasive techniques for both acute and chronic instabilities. Both techniques address the aspect of horizontal instability, which was found to compromise clinical results. For an acute injury, we describe the use of a low-profile button system combined with an additional acromioclavicular cerclage. In the chronic setting with a bidirectional (vertical and horizontal) instability, a free tendon graft combined with a single TightRope augmentation is recommended.

Does the magnitude of injuries affect the outcome of proximal humerus fractures treated by locked plating (PHILOS)?

PURPOSE: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) becomes increasingly relevant in an aging society. Functional outcome (FO) and the patient-reported outcome (PRO) after surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHF) depends on numerous factors, including patient- and injury-specific factors. There is little evidence on how the FO and the PRO vary in different settings such as monotrauma or multiple injuries, even though the PHF is one of the more frequent fractures. In addition, to a previous study, on multiple injured patients and upper extremity injuries, the aim of the current study was to investigate the impact of multiple injuries, quantified by the ISS, on the FO and PRO after surgically treated PHF by PHILOS. METHODS: A retrospective cohort-study was conducted with an additional follow-up by a questionnaire. HRQoL tools such as range of motion (ROM), the Quick-Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand score (DASH), EuroQol Five Dimension Three Levels (EQ-5D-3L), and EuroQol VAS (EQ-VAS) were used. The study-population was stratified according to ISS obtained based on information at discharge into Group I/M-H (ISS < 16 points) and Group PT-H (ISS ≥ 16). Median outcome scores were calculated and presented. INCLUSION CRITERIA: adult patients (> 18 years) with PHF treated at one academic Level 1 trauma center between 2007 and 2017 with Proximal Humeral Inter-Locking System (PHILOS) and preoperative CT-scan. Group stratification according Injury Severity Score (ISS): Group PT-H (ISS ≥ 16 points) and Group I/M-H (ISS < 16 points). EXCLUSION CRITERIA: oncology patients, genetic disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system, paralysis or inability to move upper extremity prior or after injury, additional ipsilateral upper limb fractures, open injuries, associated vascular injuries as well brachial plexus injuries and nerve damages. Follow-up 5-10 years including PRO: EQ-5D-3L and EQ-VAS. FO, including DASH and ROM. The ROM was measured 1 year after PHILOS. RESULTS: Inclusion of 75 patients, mean age at injury was 49.9 (± 17.6) years. The average follow-up period in Group I/M-H was 6.18 years (± 3.5), and in Group PT-H 5.58 years (± 3.1). The ISS in the Group I/M-H was 6.89 (± 2.5) points, compared to 21.7 (± 5.3) points in Group PT-H (p ≤ 0.001). The DASH-score in Group I/M-H was 9.86 (± 13.12 and in Group PT-H 12.43 (± 15.51, n.s.). The EQ-VAS in Group I/M-H was 78.13 (± 19.77) points compared with 74.13 (± 19.43, n.s.) in Group PT-H. DASH, EQ-VAS as well as ROM were comparable in Groups I/M-H and PT-H (9.9 ± 13.1 versus 12.4 ± 15.5, n.s.). The EQ-5D-3L in Group I/M-H was 0.86 (± 0.23) points compared to Group PT-H 0.72 (± 0.26, p ≤ 0.017). No significant differences could be found in Group I/M-H and PT-H in the severity of traumatic brain injury (TBI). A multivariable regression analyses was performed for DASH, EQ-5D-3L and EQ-VAS. All three outcome metrics were correlated. There was a significant difference between the EQ-5D-3L and the ISS (Beta-Coefficient was 0.86, 95% low was 0.75, 95% high was 0.99, p ≤ 0.041). No significant correlation could be found comparing DASH, EQ-5D-3L and EQ-VAS to age, gender and TBIs. CONCLUSION: Multiple injuries did not affect the DASH, ROM or EQ-VAS after PHILOS; but a higher ISS negatively affected the EQ-5D-EL. While the ROM and DASH aim to be objective measurements of functionality, EQ-5D-3L and EQ-VAS represent the patients' PRO. The FO and PRO outcomes are not substitutable, and both should be taken into consideration during follow-up visits of multiple injured patients. Future research should prospectively explore whether the findings of this study can be recreated using a larger study population and investigate if different FO and PRO parameters come to similar conclusions. The gained information could be used for an enhanced long-term evaluation of patients who suffered a PHF from multiple injuries to meet their multifarious conditions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

A retrospective comparison of clinical and radiological outcomes using palmar or dorsal plating to treat complex intraarticular distal radius fractures (AO 2R3 C3).

INTRODUCTION: Complex intraarticular distal radius fractures are common, and treatment with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) can be done through either the palmar or dorsal approach. There is scant evidence, however, indicating which approach is more suitable. We compared clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with AO 2R3 C3 fractures surgically treated with one of these approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2015 to November 2018, 72 surgically treated patients with AO 2R3 C3 fractures were radiologically (12 months) and clinically (mean 26 months) evaluated. Forty-one patients underwent ORIF using the palmar approach (Group 1), and the dorsal approach was used in 31 patients (Group 2). Radiological parameters were measured using the AO scoring system immediately following surgery and 12 months later. Clinical assessments included the range of motion, PRWE and DASH scores. RESULTS: At the immediate postoperative assessment, the median AO score was 5.5 (IQR 2-9.5, range 0-30.5) for Group 1 and 8 (IQR 5-15, range 0-27) for Group 2, and 12-month follow-up results were 4.5 (IQR 1.5-10, range 0-41) and 6.5 (IQR 5-11, range 0-29.5), respectively. Group 1 had more favorable results for the flexion, extension, radial abduction, PRWE and DASH parameters. The plate removal and reoperation rates were higher in Group 2. DISCUSSION: When treating complex intraarticular distal radius fractures, we found the palmar approach was more advantageous for this fracture pattern. Nevertheless, a dorsal approach may still be suitable for intraarticular comminuted distal radius fractures with dorsally displaced joint fragments.

Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs): comparison of functional outcome 1 year after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) versus open reduction internal fixation (ORIF).

PURPOSE: Osteosynthetic treatment strategies of PHFs include MIPO or ORIF techniques. The aim of this study was to compare the 1 year outcome following either technique in type B PHFs. METHODS: This study was designed as a retrospective cohort study of patients treated at one academic Level 1 trauma center. Patients from 2009 to 2019 who required surgical treatment of a type B PHF were eligible to be included in this study. Patients with A- or C-type fractures or patients requiring arthroplasty were excluded. All patients were treated with Proximal Humerus Interlocking System (PHILOS) and stratified according the approach into Group MIPO or Group ORIF. Outcome measures include local complications that occurred during hospitalization, nonunion after 12 months, and range of motion after 1 year follow-up. RESULTS: This study included 149 (75.3%) patients in Group ORIF, and 49 (24.7%) in Group MIPO. The fracture morphology and concomitant injuries were comparable amongst these groups. When compared with Group MIPO, Group ORIF had a 2.6 (95% CI 0.6-11.7) higher risk of suffering from local complications. The rate of postoperative nerve lesions was comparable (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.1-9.7) as was the rate of soft tissue complications (OR 2.0, 95% CI 0.2-17.2). The risk for nonunion was 4.5 times higher (95% 1.1-19.5) in Group ORIF when compared with Group MIPO. Group MIPO had a higher chance of flexion above 90° (OR 8.2, 95% CI 2.5-27.7). CONCLUSION: This study provides indications that patients following surgical treatment of PHFs in MIPO technique might have favourable outcome. Large-scale and high-quality studies are warranted to confirm these results.

Comparison of Injury Patterns between Electric Bicycle, Bicycle and Motorcycle Accidents.

BACKGROUND: Electric bicycles (E-bikes) are an increasingly popular means of transport, and have been designed for a higher speed comparable to that of small motorcycles. Accident statistics show that E-bikes are increasingly involved in traffic accidents. To test the hypothesis of whether accidents involving E-bikes bear more resemblance to motorcycle accidents than conventional bicyclists, this study evaluates the injury pattern and severity of E-bike injuries in direct comparison to injuries involving motorcycle and bicycle accidents. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, the data of 1796 patients who were treated at a Level I Trauma Center between 2009 and 2018 due to traffic accident, involving bicycles, E-bikes or motorcycles, were evaluated and compared with regard to injury patterns and injury severity. Accident victims treated as inpatients at least 16 years of age or older were included in this study. Pillion passengers and outpatients were excluded. RESULTS: The following distribution was found in the individual groups: 67 E-bike, 1141 bicycle and 588 motorcycle accidents. The injury pattern of E-bikers resembled that of bicyclists much more than that of motorcyclists. The patients with E-bike accidents were almost 14 years older and had a higher incidence of moderate traumatic brain injuries than patients with bicycle accidents, in spite of the fact that E-bike riders were nearly twice as likely to wear a helmet as compared to bicycle riders. The rate of pelvic injuries in E-bike accidents was twice as high compared with bicycle accidents, whereas the rate of upper extremity injuries was higher following bicycle accidents. Conclusion: The overall E-bike injury pattern is similar to that of cyclists. The differences in the injury pattern to motorcycle accidents could be due to the higher speeds at the time of the accident, the different protection and vehicle architecture. What is striking, however, is the higher age and the increased craniocerebral trauma of the E-bikers involved in accidents compared to the cyclists. We speculate that older and untrained people who have a slower reaction time and less control over the E-bike could benefit from head protection or practical courses similar to motorcyclists.

Nonunion After an Open Trimalleolar Ankle Fracture: An Extended Clinical Course and a Novel Approach to Tibio-Talo-Calcaneal Arthrodesis.

Nonunion in the setting of chronic osteomyelitis after severe open ankle fractures is a feared outcome with severe loss in patient quality of life. Tibio-talo-calcaneal arthrodesis is a good salvage treatment option in this difficult patient cohort. We report a case of chronic osteomyelitis with severe destruction of the ankle joint after failed fracture fixation of an open trimalleolar ankle fracture. Fusion was ultimately achieved 5 years later using a novel-staged Masquelet technique with external ring fixator stabilization and bone graft reconstruction including femoral harvested autograft using reamer-irrigator-aspirator. This case shows that infection free arthrodesis of the ankle can be achieved even years after failed treatment. This procedure restored significant quality of life through pain relief and much improved mobility and may be a helpful technique in complex tibio-talo-calcaneal arthrodesis in the setting of chronic osteomyelitis and significant joint destruction.

Using mini-arthrotomy for dorsal plating to treat intraarticular distal radius fractures: can it improve radiological and clinical outcomes?

PURPOSE: Using palmar plating to treat complex intraarticular distal radius fractures is standard of care. However, fracture fragments can also be managed using a dorsal approach with arthrotomy, which is useful when treating fractures involving the dorsal joint aspect. We compared radiological and clinical outcomes after dorsal plating with or without an intraoperative arthrotomy. METHODS: 31 of the 359 patients with a distal radius fracture had an AO Type 2R3 C3 fracture surgically treated using a dorsal approach (01/2015-10/2018). Fractures other than C3 were excluded from this analysis. Group 1 (n = 14) had no arthrotomy, Group 2 (n = 17) underwent intraoperative dorsal mini-arthrotomy. Clinical results were measured by range of motion (ROM), Patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and Disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores. Radiological results were evaluated using the AO scoring system. RESULTS: ROM, DASH and PRWE did not differ significantly between groups. Joint surface restoration was insufficient in five patients in Group 1 (p = 0.05). A trend towards better radiological results, although not statistically significant, was noted in Group 2 (p = 0.06). Plate removal was performed in 12 patients due to limited ROM (6 patients in each group). One patient (Group 2) with chronic pain and step off in the joint line underwent corrective osteotomy. CONCLUSIONS: We did not detect a difference in patient outcomes using the dorsal longitudinal mini-arthrotomy; however, it may prevent incongruent joint reconstruction since all cases occurred in Group 1. In the absence of intraoperative CT scan, longitudinal mini-arthrotomy may be used to enhance visualization and achieve joint surface reconstruction.

Is the Additional Effort for an Intraoperative CT Scan Justified for Distal Radius Fracture Fixations? A Comparative Clinical Feasibility Study.

INTRODUCTION: It is currently unclear whether the additional effort to perform an intraoperative computed tomography (CT) scan is justified for articular distal radius fractures (DRFs). The purpose of this study was to assess radiological, functional, and clinical outcomes after surgical treatment of distal radius fractures when using conventional fluoroscopy vs. intraoperative CT scans. METHODS: Inclusion criteria: Surgical treatment of DRF between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2011, age 18 and above. Group distribution: intraoperative conventional fluoroscopy (Group Conv) or intraoperative CT scans (Group CT). EXCLUSION CRITERIA: Use of different image intensifier devices or incomplete data. DRF classification according to the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classification. Outcome variables included requirement of revision surgeries, duration of surgery, absorbed radiation dose, and requirement of additional CT scans during hospitalization. RESULTS: A total of 187 patients were included (Group Conv n = 96 (51.3%), Group CT n = 91 (48.7%)). AO Classification: Type A fractures n = 40 (50%) in Group Conv vs. n = 16 (17.6%) in Group CT, p < 0.001; Type B: 10 (10.4%) vs. 11 (12.1%), not significant (n.s.); Type C: 38 (39.6%) vs. 64 (70.3%), p < 0.001. In Group Conv, four (4.2%) patients required revision surgeries within 6 months, but in Group CT no revision surgery was required. The CT scan led to an intraoperative screw exchange/reposition in 23 (25.3%) cases. The duration of the initial surgery (81.7 ± 46.4 min vs. 90.1 ± 43.6 min, n.s.) was comparable. The radiation dose was significantly higher in Group CT (6.9 ± 1.3 vs. 2.8 ± 7.8 mGy, p < 0.001). In Group Conv, 11 (11.5%) patients required additional CT scans during hospitalization. CONCLUSION: The usage of intraoperative CT was associated with improved reduction and more adequate positioning of screws postoperatively with comparable durations of surgery. Despite increased efforts by utilizing the intraoperative CT scan, the decrease in reoperations may justify its use.

Transitional fracture of the distal radius: a rare injury in adolescent athletes. Case series and literature review.

BACKGROUND: Transitional fractures are fractures in adolescents where partial closure of the epiphyseal growth plate has occurred. These fractures are most commonly reported in the distal tibia. With respect to the distal radius, only a few case reports describing transitional fractures exist. Furthermore, relatively little is known about epiphyseal closure of the distal radius. A case series of four transitional fractures of the distal radius is presented by comparing non-operative and operative treatment options. At present, this is the largest case series in the literature dealing with this rare injury. CASE PRESENTATION: We present three cases of four transitional fractures of the distal radius including 1-year follow-up. Patient age ranged from 16 to 18 years including a gender ratio of two males to one female. Clinical and radiographic assessments took place 6 and 12 weeks and 1 year after trauma/surgery. Three transitional fractures were treated with open reduction and internal volar plate fixation followed by functional rehabilitation. One transitional fracture was treated non-operatively. All cases showed an excellent functional outcome. CONCLUSIONS: The primary treatment goal in transitional fractures is anatomic reduction of the articular surface. Non-operative treatment of transitional fractures of the distal radius is the most commonly reported treatment option. Additionally, different fixation options have been described, including the use of Kirschner wires (K-wires) and lag screws. The presented cases demonstrate that volar plate fixation followed by functional rehabilitation is a valuable treatment option in significantly displaced transitional fractures of the distal radius. Furthermore, we discuss the pathogenesis as well as the different treatment options by critical reviewing the literature.

Prevalence, injury-, and non-injury-related factors associated with anxiety and depression in polytrauma patients - A retrospective 20 year follow-up study.

INTRODUCTION: Survival rate after polytrauma increased over the past decades resulting in an increase of long-term complaints. These include physical and psychological impairments. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence and risk factors for developing depression and anxiety more than twenty years after polytrauma. METHODS: We contacted patients who were treated due to a polytrauma between 1973 and 1990 at one level 1 trauma center after more than 20 years. These patients received a self-administered questionnaire, to assess symptoms of depression and anxiety. Analysis based on multivariable logistic regression models include injury severity and non-injury related factors to determine risk factors associated with the development of depression and anxiety. RESULTS: Patients included in this study (n = 337) had a mean ISS of 20.3 (4 to 50) points. In total, 173 (51.3%) showed psychiatric sequelae (depression n = 163, 48.2%; anxiety n = 14, 4.1%). Injury severity was not associated with the development of depression or anxiety. However, the patients, who required psychiatric therapy prior to the injury had higher risk of developing psychiatric symptoms (OR 1.3, 95%CI 1.1 to 1.8, p = 0.018) as did patients who suffered from additional psychiatric insults after the injury (OR 1.4, 95%CI 1.2 to 2.0, p = 0.049). CONCLUSION: More than half of polytrauma patients developed psychiatric sequelae. Risk factors include mainly non-injury related factors such as psychiatric comorbidities and additional psychiatric insults after the injury.

Treatment of proximal humerus fractures in geriatric patients - Can pathological DEXA results help to guide the indication for allograft augmentation?

INTRODUCTION: Reconstruction of proximal humerus fracture continues to represent a challenge, especially in severe osteopenia. However, there still is a lack of consensus and clear indication on use of allograft augmentation. Therefore, this study aims to investigate outcome after osteosynthesis with and without allograft augmentation. It focuses on bone density results obtained by DEXA as potential examination that might help decision-making. METHODS: This study included patients aged 65 years and older that were treated at one Level 1 trauma center between 2007 and 2018. Inclusion criteria: Proximal humerus fracture treated with or without allograft, conclusive data-sets. Exclusion criteria: prior surgical treatment of the proximal humerus, open fracture with bone loss, neurological damage. Patients were stratified according to the use of allograft augmentation in two groups: Group NA (no allograft augmented PHILOS) and Group A (PHILOS with allograft augmentation). Comorbidity was assessed using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Fractures were graded according to the classification by Neer. Radiographic union was analyzed at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and at year follow up. Complications include surgical site infection, implant failure, humeral head necrosis, or delayed union. Allograft was used in cases of 1inch/3cm3 bone-loss or an egg-shell situation, where the patient refused arthroplasty. RESULTS: This study included 167 patients, with 143 (85%) in the Group NA, and 24 (15%) in the Group A. There were no significant differences in age, gender, injury distribution, and distribution of Neer classification or CCI. Patients in Group A had significantly lower T-scores preoperatively (-2.87 ± 1.08 versus -0.9 ± 2.12, p = 0.003). No difference occurred in any of the complications. At one-year follow-up, the range of motion was comparable in both groups. CONCLUSION: In patients with allograft augmentation and severe osteopenia, similar clinical and radiological results were obtained when compared with patients with better preoperative bone density scores (T-scores, DEXA). In view of a lack of guidelines indicating the indication for the use of allograft, this difference may be worth further study.

Inter- and intraobserver agreement of three classification systems for lateral clavicle fractures - reliability comparison between two specialist groups.

BACKGROUND: Although of great value in the management of lateral clavicle fractures, substantial variation in their classification exists. We performed a retrospective study to address the inter- and intraobserver reliability of three different classification systems for lateral clavicle fractures. METHODS: Radiographs of 20 lateral clavicle fractures that represented a full spectrum of adult fracture patterns were graded by five experienced radiologists and five experienced trauma surgeons according to the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA), the Neer, and the Jäger/Breitner classification systems. This evaluation was performed at two different time points separated by 3 months. To measure the observer agreement, the Fleiss kappa coefficient (κ) was applied and assessed according to the grading of Landis and Koch. RESULTS: The overall interobserver reliability showed a fair agreement in all three classification systems. For the OTA classification system, the interobserver agreement showed a mean kappa value of 0.338 ranging from 0.350 (radiologists) to 0.374 (trauma surgeons). Kappa values of the interobserver agreement for the Neer classification system ranged from 0.238 (trauma surgeons) to 0.276 (radiologists) with a mean κ of 0.278. The Jäger/Breitner classification system demonstrated a mean kappa value of 0.330 ranging from 0.306 (trauma surgeons) to 0.382 (radiologists).The overall intraobserver reliability was moderate for the OTA and the Jäger/Breitner classification systems, while the overall intraobserver reliability for the Neer classification system was fair.The kappa values of the intraobserver agreements showed, in all classification systems, a wide range with the OTA classification system ranging from 0.086 to 0.634, the Neer classification system ranging from 0.137 to 0.448, and a range from 0.154 to 0.625 of the Jäger/Breitner classification system. CONCLUSIONS: The low inter- and intraobserver agreement levels exhibited in all three classification systems by both specialist groups suggest that the tested lateral clavicle fracture classification systems are unreliable and, therefore, of limited value. We should recognize there is considerable inconsistency in how physicians classify lateral clavicle fractures and therefore any conclusions based on these classifications should be recognized as being somewhat subjective.

Comparison of intraoperative 2D vs. 3D imaging in open reduction and fixation of distal radius fractures.

PURPOSE: In the volar plating of distal radius fractures, intraoperative three-dimensional (3D) imaging is designed to allow better judgment regarding screw and implant positioning compared with conventional intraoperative two-dimensional (2D) imaging. We evaluated the impact of these two imaging modalities on the rates of intraoperative revision and secondary surgery, as well as the need for implant removal during follow-up. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who underwent volar plate osteosynthesis for isolated distal radius fractures between January 2008 and April 2016 was performed. Patient files were evaluated for intraoperative imaging findings, intraoperative and postoperative revision rates, and implant removal during follow-up. Additional analyses of radiation exposure, operation time, and hospitalization time were performed. RESULTS: A total of 314 patients were analyzed (mean age: 54 ± 19 years; 210 females). For 246 patients, only 2D imaging was performed, while the remaining 68 patients underwent both 2D and 3D imaging (O-Arm, Medtronic). The intraoperative revision rate was significantly (p < 0.001) higher with 3D imaging (32.4%) compared with 2D imaging (2.0%). The postoperative revision rates were similar between both the groups (2.9% vs. 2.0%; p = 0.674). Compared with 2D imaging, the use of the Medtronic O-Arm resulted in a significantly lower implant removal rate (8.8% vs. 18.7%; p = 0.036) during follow-up. CONCLUSION: Compared with conventional 2D imaging, the use of intraoperative 3D imaging significantly increased the intraoperative revision rate and has the potential for positive long-term effects for lowering the risk of requiring an implant removal.

Clinical outcomes after carbon-plate osteosynthesis in patients with distal radius fractures.

BACKGROUND: Surgical implant material has changed over time, from metal to stainless steel to titanium. In recent decades a new material, carbon-fibre-reinforced polyether ether ketone, has been introduced. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and radiological feasibility and functional outcome after treatment of distal radius fractures with this new implant. METHODS: Inclusion criteria: AO type B distal radius fractures treated with 2.7 mm CF/PEEK plates at one Level 1 trauma centre between 2016 and 2017. Follow-up period 1 year, measurement of range of motion and radiographic assessment, histological analysis of debris only after plate removal. RESULTS: Out of 112 eligible patients, 10 (8.9%) patients were included. Mean operation time was 65 ± 10 min. Radiographic healing was confirmed by radiologists at 6 weeks follow-up. During one-year follow-up, no adverse events were reported and functionality and patients subjective satisfaction improved significantly (p < 0.05). Only one plate was removed, with no histological signs of inflammation or allergic reaction. CONCLUSIONS: The 2.7 mm CF/PEEK plate osteosynthesis appears to be a reliable and safe implant for certain types of distal radius fracture. Assessment of fracture union is substantially more practical and functionality improved significantly over 1 year.

Principles and current concepts in the surgical treatment of fragility fractures in the elderly.

The constant rise in fragility fractures is proportional to the constant rise in life expectancy. Treatment of fragility fractures can be challenging because of severe fractures, poor bone quality, significant co-morbidities, and reduced mobility. However, new surgical techniques and implants have been developed that address these challenges and show improvement in overall patient outcomes. This review addresses general considerations including nonsurgical and surgical treatments of fractures as well as treatment of specific fragility fractures of the extremities. Based on these findings, this chapter gives treatment recommendations for a selection of common geriatric fractures. The aim of treating fragility fractures is on the early mobilization to prevent complications such as pneumonia. However, the patient's general situation should be taken into consideration while recommending appropriate treatment strategies.

If there is smoke, there must be fire - Isolated distal, non-displaced, intraarticular ulna fracture: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Falling on the outstretched arm is a frequent trauma. The consequences can be isolated fractures of the distal radius, combined fractures of the distal radius and distal ulna - whereas the isolated fracture of the distal ulna is an uncommon trauma. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report on a 20- year- old male who presented at the emergency department after a motorcycle accident, suffering pain at his left forearm and left wrist. After an unremarkable x-ray in two planes, a CT- scan of the left wrist was performed and detected an isolated distal ulna fracture. The patient was treated with a forearm cast which led to a satisfying long term outcome. DISCUSSION: Based on the presented case the anatomical peculiarities of the distal radioulnar joint and the different trauma mechanisms as well as the resulting lesions, the diagnostic modalities and the treatment options are discussed. CONCLUSION: We recommend performing an additional CT scan of the wrist in case of credible complaints after trauma to avoid baulking this very rare type of fracture.

Psychiatric outcome at least 20 years after trauma: A survey on the status of subjective general health and psychiatric symptoms with a focus on posttraumatic stress disorder.

BACKGROUND: Information on long-term psychiatric sequelae after severe trauma is sparse. We therefore performed a survey addressing several symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients who sustained multiple injuries more than 20 years after trauma. METHODS: Patients injured between January 1, 1973, and December 31, 1990, were contacted at least 20 years later. We included multiply injured patients aged between 3 and 60 years from a single level 1 trauma center. A questionnaire based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, diagnostic criteria for PTSD, including individual symptoms related to intrusion, avoidance, and hyperarousal was sent to all patients. RESULTS: A total of 359 patients (56.35%) received a questionnaire. Of these, 337 patients (93.87%) returned the questionnaire and were included in the study (223 males [66.17%] and 114 females [33.82%]). Mean ± SD follow-up was 29.5 ± 8.5 years. Nearly half the study population (47.18%) experienced lasting psychiatric sequelae, such as intrusive recollection (n = 65, 19.28%), avoidance (n = 92, 27.29%), or hyperarousal (n = 95, 28.18%) at least monthly. Ten patients (2.96%) fulfilled all Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, diagnostic criteria for PTSD. A total of 131 patients (38.87%) reported fair or poor general health status. There was no difference in injury severity in patients with or without PTSD (injury severity score, 8.33 vs. 20.36, respectively; p = 0.52) or PTSD-related symptoms including intrusion (19.88 vs. 20.32, p = 0.74), avoidance (19.99 vs. 20.3, p = 0.79), and hyperarousal (19.36 vs. 20.68, p = 0.26). CONCLUSION: At least 20 years after injury, no correlation was found between the development of psychiatric complications and the severity of injury. While the rate of full-blown PTSD was low, nearly half the study population regularly suffered from at least one psychiatric symptom attributable to the initial trauma. Awareness for the development of psychiatric complications and early initiation of psychiatric counseling are advisable. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic and epidemiologic, level II.

Does the time of day in orthopedic trauma surgery affect mortality and complication rates?

BACKGROUND: Orthopedic trauma surgery has multiple, both patient-based and surgeon-based risk factors. Evaluating and modifying certain patient safety factors could mitigate some of these risks. This study investigates the influence that the time of day of surgery has on mortality and complication rates. QUESTION/PURPOSE: This study evaluates whether the time of day of orthopedic trauma surgery influences complication or mortality rates. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective Swiss surgical database developed as a nationwide quality assurance project was reviewed retrospectively. All patients with trauma-coded diagnoses that were surgically treated in Swiss hospitals between 2004 and 2014 were evaluated. Surgery times were stratified into morning, afternoon, evening and night. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and complication rates. Co-factors were sought in bivariate and multivariable analysis. RESULTS: Of 31,692 patients, 13,969 (44.3%) were operated in the morning, 12,696 (40.3%) in the afternoon, 4,331 (13.7%) in the evening, and 550 (1.7%) at night. Mortality rates were significantly higher in nighttime (2.4%, OR 1.26, p=0.04) and afternoon surgery (1.7%, OR 1.94, p=0.03) vs. surgery in the morning (1.1%). Surgery performed in the afternoon and at night showed significantly increased general complication rates vs. surgery performed in the morning. (OR 1.22, p=0.006 and OR 1.51, p=0.021, respectively). CONCLUSION: This study observed higher complication and mortality rates for surgery performed after-hours, which correlates with other recent studies. Surgeon fatigue is a potential contributing factor for these increased risks. Other potential factors include surgeon experience, surgery type, and the potential for more severe or emergent injuries occurring after-hours.

Risk factors for complications and adverse outcomes in polytrauma patients with associated upper extremity injuries.

BACKGROUND: In terms of upper extremity fractures by patients with multiple injuires, a lot of studies have assessed the functional outcome following trauma to have less favorable outcomes in regards to functional recovery. We tested the hypothesis that differences in clinical outcome occur between shaft and articular injuries of the upper extremity, when patients that sustained neurologic deficits (e.g. brachial plexus lesions) are excluded. METHODS: We involved Patients with isolated or combined upper extremity fracture, ISS > 16 in a level one trauma center. The follow up was at least 10 years after the initial injury. Both clinical examination (range of motion, instability, contractures, peripheral nerve damage) and radiographic analysis were carried out. We evaluated also the development of heterotopic ossifications. To analyse patients were subdivided into 3 different subgroups (articular [IA], shaft [IS], and combined [C]). RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found when ROM was compared between Group IS and C (p = 0.012), for contractures between Groups IA and C (p = 0.009) and full muscle elbow forces between Groups IS and C (p = 0.005) and Group IA and IS (p = 0.021). There was a significantly increased incidence in heterotopic ossifications when articular involvement was present. This applied for the isolated (p < 0.02) and the combined group (Group C vs Group IS, p = 0.003).When Brooker type I/II in group IA and Brooker types III/IV were combined, there was a significant difference (p < 0.001). In group IA (n = 1) and in group C (n = 6), HO developed or worsened after revision surgery, all of which were performed for malunion or nonunion. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, patients with isolated shaft fractures of the upper extremity tend to have a more favorable outcome in comparison with combined to isolated articular fractures in terms of range of motion, pain and the ability to use the arm for everyday activities.In the clinical practice of the treatment of polytraumatized patients with upper extremity injuries, we feel that the relevance of these injuries should not be underestimated. They are especially prone to development of heterotopic ossifications, thus requiring prophylactic measures, if necessary. As their incidence increases with the rate of reoperations, we feel that even during initial care, meticulous surgery is required to avoiding the necessity of revision surgeries. Similar to injuries below the knee, upper extremity injuries, should be treated to avoid any functional disability.