Minimally invasive endoscopic management of tubercular tenosynovitis of the anterior tibial tendon.

The incidence of tubercular tenosynovitis around the foot and ankle is rare even in endemic areas. We present an unusual case involving the isolated tubercular tenosynovitis of the Anterior Tibial tendon, which was successfully managed through a combination of medical treatment and endoscopic intervention. Our patient, a 30-year-old female, sought medical attention due to a gradually worsening painful swelling localized to the anterior aspect of her left ankle. Diagnostic imaging, specifically Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), revealed alterations in signal intensity within the Anterior Tibial tendon. Importantly, the infection had not spread to involve the ankle joint. We performed both diagnostic and therapeutic tenosynovectomy endoscopically and subsequently sent the tissue for histopathological examination. The histopathological findings revealed the presence of histiocytic granulomas containing Langhans' giant cells, which strongly suggested a tuberculosis infection. Consequently, we initiated anti-tubercular chemotherapy as the treatment approach. Our patient exhibited a positive response to the treatment, and after one year, she experienced complete resolution of the disease. This case underscores the importance of maintaining a high level of clinical suspicion for tuberculosis, especially in endemic areas, when encountering unusual presentations. Level of evidence: V.

A systematic review of techniques for step cut osteotomy in cubitus varus: A comprehensive analysis.

Background: Cubitus varus, a common post-traumatic deformity of the elbow in children, poses challenges for both patients and surgeons. Step cut osteotomy has emerged as a reasonable surgical technique to address this condition, offering multiple approaches and modifications. Methods: We present a comprehensive systematic review of techniques for step cut osteotomy in cubitus varus, analyzing 13 studies that meet our inclusion criteria. These studies encompass diverse patient populations, including pediatric and adult cases, and span different geographical regions. Results: Our systematic review explores three primary osteotomy techniques-Classic Step-Cut Osteotomy, Reverse V Osteotomy, and Modified Step Cut Osteotomy-along with their modifications, providing surgeons with valuable options for individualized correction. Functional outcomes showcase improvements in range of motion, functional scores, and carrying angle, highlighting the technique's efficacy in restoring elbow function and enhancing quality of life. Radiological evaluations demonstrate successful corrections of various angles and achievement of bony union, reinforcing the stability and anatomical improvements achieved through step cut osteotomy. Conclusions: Complication rates are notably low, with transient nerve palsies being the most commonly encountered, often resolving within months. Implant failure and other complications are infrequent, underlining the safety and reliability of step cut osteotomy as a surgical intervention for cubitus varus.While the predominance of retrospective studies and heterogeneity across included studies warrant caution, our systematic review provides a robust and diverse synthesis of evidence. It underscores the significance of step cut osteotomy in managing cubitus varus deformity, emphasizing its versatility, favourable outcomes, and safety profile. Further research with rigorous designs and longer follow-up periods will enhance our understanding of step cut osteotomy's role in cubitus varus correction.

Inter- and Intra-observer Reliability of a New Classification System for Calcaneus Fracture Malunions: The ADEINS Classification.

Background: Currently, two classification systems, namely Stephens and Sanders, based on axial CT images, and Zwipp and Rammelt, which consider deformities, are used for calcaneus malunions. Existing classifications have limitations due to their pure anatomical basis, and the complexity of the problem, involving both bone and soft tissues. As a solution, the senior author proposed a novel ADIENS classification system for calcaneal malunion, based on pain generators. This study aimed to introduce and evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reliability of a new classification system for calcaneal malunions. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included adult cases with post-traumatic calcaneus malunion. Three experienced foot and ankle surgeon volunteers underwent training session on the classification system, which classifies malunions based on A arthritis, D deformity, E exostosis, I implant issues, N nerve issues, and S soft tissue issues. Post-training, two rounds of classification exercises were conducted. Inter-rater and intra-rater agreements were determined using Gwet's AC coefficient. Results: Out of 15 cases, 6 were of Stephen and Sanders types, and 8 were of Zwipp and Rammelt types, the rest fell out of these classifications. Inter-rater agreement for ADEINS classification was noted to be 'very good' for all six domains. Intra-observer agreements were 'very good' for four out of six domains of classification and 'fair' for two domains of classification. Conclusion: Pain generators-based new ADEINS classification has demonstrated good intra- and inter-observer reliability and seemed user-friendly. However, results need to be replicated in a larger, multicentric cohort before wider clinical applicability. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective study.

Demystifying Giant Cell Tumours of Tendon Sheath (GCTTS): A Case Series of 18 Cases with Review of Literature.

Background: The giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath (GCTTS) is the second most frequent soft tissue tumour affecting the hand. No consensus exists on the etiology, prognostic factors, or recurrence rate of GCTTS. This article presents a series of 18 cases supplemented by a literature review that examines the epidemiology, presentation, gross and microscopic characteristics, and recurrence rate of GCTTS. Methods: A total of 18 patients with a histo-pathological diagnosis of a GCTTS of the hand or finger were reviewed. The location for the tumour was limited to the wrist and hand. All cases were operated under Wide Awake Local anaesthesia (WALANT), and using a magnifying loupe. Results: A total of 18 patients presented at our institution with a diagnosis of GCTTS from 2016 to 2018. Of the 18 patients, 11 were female and 7 were male. The mean age of included patients was 43.6 years (31-59 years). The most common site for the lesion was the middle finger (4/18), followed by the index finger, wrist, and thumb (3/18 each). The little and ring finger were least commonly affected with one case each. The mean size of the tumour was 2.4 cm (0.5-5 cm). None of the patients reported recurrence of the lesion on an average follow-up of 18.8 months. Conclusion: GCTTS is a benign, slowly growing lesion of the hand that typically does not cause any symptoms and is treated with surgical resection. Meticulous excision of the GCTTS using magnification loupes to ensure appropriate wide excision of the tumour is the treatment of choice to prevent a recurrence. In addition, a radiographic and histopathological examination must be performed on the tumour to rule out other diagnoses. Finally, the function of the hand should be reconstructed to minimize the loss of any functional unit.

Patient and Surgical Factors Affecting Fusion Rates After Arthroscopic and Open Ankle Fusion: A Review of a High-Risk Cohort.

Abstract: We present a case series with the objective of identifying risk factors for nonunion after open and arthroscopic primary ankle arthrodesis. Eighty-seven patients who underwent primary ankle arthrodesis and met inclusion criteria were divided into open (N = 46) and arthroscopic (N = 41) groups. Patient and operative characteristics were retrospectively analyzed as possible risk factors for nonunion within each technique. The nonunion rate was 11% in the open and 12% in the arthroscopic group. Obesity, smoking, and ASA class 3 were highly prevalent in both groups. In the arthroscopic group, a remote history of infection and the use of headed screws had notably higher risk of nonunion, though not statistically significant. In the open group, use of bone graft trended toward lower risk of nonunion, though also not statistically significant. The results of this study demonstrated, nonunion rates are comparable between open and arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis in high-risk patients. For patients with a remote history of infection, open ankle arthrodesis may be preferable, and bone graft importance may vary with open versus arthroscopic technique. Level of evidence: III.

Pulley Reconstruction Following Surgical Release of DC1 Pulley in De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Surgical Technique and Case Series.

De Quervain's disease (DQD) is tenosynovitis of the first dorsal compartment (DC1) of the wrist between the osteofibrous tunnel and the tendons involving the APL and EPB sheaths at the radial styloid. Surgical intervention is indicated when pain does not resolve despite 3 to 6 months of conservative management. Release of the first dorsal compartment is an effective treatment of DQD. In addition to surgical release, we performed pulley reconstruction using a new technique in the present series of 20 patients which has not been previously described with a followup of over 1 year. All patients showed a consistent improvement in VAS score at over one year followup with resolution of Finkelstein, Eichoff and WHAT test. Only one temporary neuropraxia was encountered due to stretching/scar entrapment of superficial branch of radial nerve. Our innovative technique of pulley reconstruction is not only easy to understand and perform but has shown consistent result in the 20 cases operated with this technique with a follow up of at least 1 year. The technique has the distinct advantage of having a quick learning curve and gives reliable, lasting results without complications or recurrence.

Expanding Indications of Primary Arthrodesis in Selected Individuals for Managing Complex Hindfoot Trauma During COVID-19 Pandemic.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health measures to encourage social distancing have been implemented, including cancellation of outdoor activities, organized sports, and schools/colleges. Neglected hindfoot fractures have emerged as a consequence with increased frequency. Similarly, complex ankle and pilon fractures that require staged management, prolonged hospital stay, and soft-tissue care have emerged as a potential concern as prolonged exposure to healthcare setting adds to risk of acquiring as well as transmitting COVID-19 infection. The authors present their experience with expanding these indications for hindfoot arthrodesis as they encounter a greater number of neglected ankle and hindfoot trauma. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of collected data from the trauma unit of our hospital. Inclusion criteria included all trauma classified by the AO/OTA as occurring at locations 43, and who underwent subtalar and ankle arthrodesis. This included distal tibia, malleolar, talus, and calcaneus fractures. These patients were followed up to at least 6 months till complete fracture union. Results: A total of 18 patients underwent arthrodesis of either the ankle or subtalar joint between March and October 2020. Mean age of patients undergoing arthrodesis of the hindfoot was 69.2 years (43-84 years). Indications for the procedure included Displaced and comminuted intra-articular distal tibia fractures in elderly (6 patients), Malunited ankle fractures (2 patients), Neglected Ankle fractures managed conservatively (3 patients), Calcaneus fractures (5 patients), and neglected Talus body fracture (2 patients). All patients were followed up to at least 6 months and everyone went onto successful painless union between 3 and 6 months of the arthrodesis procedure without any significant complications. Conclusion: In summary, COVID-19 pandemic has led to a change in paradigm of trauma management and foot and ankle management is no different than other musculoskeletal trauma systems. The authors propose an expansion of indications for hindfoot arthrodesis in managing complex hindfoot trauma in pandemic situation.

A Potentially Dangerous Industrial Projectile Lodged in the Leg of a Steel Factory Worker.

Penetrating injuries due to fragments energized by an explosive event are life/limb-threatening and are associated with poor clinical and functional outcomes. Penetrating injuries are commonly inflicted in attacks with explosive devices. The extremities, especially the leg, are the most commonly affected body areas, presenting a high risk of infection, slow recovery, and the threat of amputation. This report presents a case of a young factory worker who sustained an injury to the leg with a foreign body lodged near the neuro-vascular bundle. A 44-year-old gentleman sustained a projectile injury while working in a stainless steel factory from the rula (steel rolling) machine with a foreign body getting lodged in the leg in March 2019. He was initially managed with wound care and didn't report any functional impairment. Gradually patient developed numbness and claudication symptoms of the foot over the next couple of years. He was subsequently operated on in 2021 for removal of the stainless steel foreign body encased in dystrophic calcification close to the tibial nerve and posterior tibial vessels. Interestingly the entry point of the foreign body was on the anterolateral aspect of the leg. The foreign body was removed using the postero-lateral approach to the tibia with careful dissection close to the neurovascular bundle. At a follow-up of 3 months, the patient is symptom-free with significant improvement of limb function. The authors propose that the foreign body crossed the interosseous membrane to get lodged close to the posterior tibial neurovascular bundle. In such a scenario, the patient was extremely lucky to have survived an amputation or significant functional injury of the limb. Proper protective equipment is needed not only for the torso but also for extremities to protect industrial workers from such limb-threatening injuries. Moreover, primary care physicians should be sensitised for the proper management of such injuries.

Evaluation of Direct Anterior Approach for Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review.

The direct anterior approach (DAA) is an established approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) but has been sparingly tried for revisions. The purpose of this study was to examine the available literature in order to consolidate information available on revision THA using the DAA. A PubMed, Embase, and Scopus search was performed using relevant keywords. Studies reporting on patients undergoing revision THA using DAA were included for analysis. In a review of the literature, nine studies matched the pre-decided inclusion criteria with 319 hip joints undergoing revision THA. Mean follow-up of all included studies was 34 months. The indications of revision after primary THA in decreasing order were aseptic loosening (53%), prosthetic joint infection (20.7%), peri-prosthetic fracture (16.9%), dislocation (7.2%), psoas impingement (1.9%), polyethylene wear (1.2%), pain (0.6%), and instability (0.3%). Of the 319 revisions evaluated, 107 underwent a stem revision, 142 underwent cup revision, 49 underwent a combined revision, and 21 underwent isolated liner/head change. A statistically significant improvement in functional score (P<0.05) was observed for all studies reporting on functional outcomes. A low complication rate (51/319, 16.0%), which includes dislocation (12), infection (12), loosening of the acetabular shell (5), peri-prosthetic fractures (6), haematoma (4), and transient nerve palsy (6), was reported. Based on available level III-IV evidence, DAA appears to be a reliable alternative for revision of the failed hip arthroplasty with acceptable complication rates. Evidence of a higher quality is needed to further characterize its role in revision scenarios.

Efficacy of Autologous Conditioned Serum (ACS), Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Steroid for Early Osteoarthritis Knee: A Comparative Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Intra-articular injection therapy constituting corticosteroids, viscosupplements and blood-derived products are considered to have a key role in non-operative management of osteoarthritis knee. While corticosteroids and viscosupplements have proven short-term efficacy in early osteoarthritis; orthobiologics are gaining increased attention in osteoarthritis management. The aim of present study was thus to compare two commonly used biologics (platelet-rich plasma/PRP and autologous conditioned serum/ACS) to each other and to established therapies. METHODS: After required institutional clearances, all patients presenting with early primary osteoarthritis knee who had failed initial conservative management and received only unilateral knee injection were included. Patients in the PRP group were compared to the other groups (comprising the HA/hyaluronic acid group, steroid group, and a matched cohort who had been administered ACS for the same indication earlier). Clinical outcome was evaluated using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire and Visual Analogue scale (VAS) pre-injection and at 6 months. RESULTS: ACS and PRP did not have any significant difference in terms of either WOMAC score (p = 0.154) or VAS score at 6 months (p = 0.850). The scores for both these orthobiologics were better than the control groups (HA group and Steroid group). Between the two control groups, HA group had better VAS scores as compared to the Steroid group (p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: The clinical outcomes following intra-articular injection of ACS and PRP are better than controls (HA and steroid), but a difference between the two orthobiologics could not be demonstrated. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3b.

Is routine removal of syndesmotic screw justified? A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Syndesmosis injuries are common with rotational ankle injuries, and placement of a positional syndesmotic screw to maintain its reduction is used as the ligaments heal. There is no clear consensus on routine removal or retention of syndesmotic screw. This study aimed to appraise the current evidence both on removal and retention of syndesmotic screw and to conduct a meta-analysis comparing outcomes and rate of complications of syndesmotic screw removal and retention. METHODS: Following PROSPERO registration, a systematic search using was performed using keywords ('Syndesmosis' OR 'Syndesmotic' OR 'Transsyndesmotic' OR 'distal tibiofibular') AND ('Screw') AND ('Removal' OR 'Retention') AND 'Outcome' in various databases. No language restrictions were applied and the meta-analysis incorporated the PRISMA statement. VAS (Visual analogue scale for pain), AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot And Ankle Society) scores expressed as mean ± SD, and both groups' complication rates were compared. Comparisons with a random-effects model were performed, and heterogeneity between the studies was calculated using the I2 statistic. T-test for two independent sample means was used to compare pooled mean and Z-test for two proportions to assess the difference in the proportion of complications. RESULTS: A total of 7 studies with 522 patients were included in this review for analysis. Pooled analysis showed non-significant difference in AOFAS score (MD = -1.84; 95% CI: -4.33 to 0.66; p = 0.150) as well as for VAS score (MD = -0.48; 95% CI: -1.56 to 0.60; p = 0.390) between the two groups. The value of z and p-value for complication rates was 0.6021 and 0.5485, respectively, which was not significant. CONCLUSION: There doesn't appear to be a difference in functional outcome, pain scores, and complication rates between patients who had their syndesmotic screws removed and those where screw was retained. The fear of inferior outcomes with retained screws is thus unfounded, and routine removal adds to morbidity and financial burden. In conclusion, present data does not support the routine removal of the intact syndesmosis screw, and a change in practice is needed to abandon routine syndesmotic screw removal.

Closed Transverse Pinning for Reduction and Fixation of Metatarsal Neck Fractures: Surgical Technique.

Most metatarsal neck fractures can be successfully treated non-operatively in a cast boot. Displaced metatarsal neck fractures tend to be less stable and have a propensity for the distal fragment to angulate, secondary to the strong flexor tendons, which often forces the distal fracture fragment in a plantar direction and leads to relative metatarsal shortening. Most literature is focussed on antegrade fixation of metatarsal neck fractures using pre-bent K wires or thin elastic nails. Apart from the technical challenges, this technique is limited when bones are osteoporotic as the pre-bent distal end of the K-wire may penetrate the plantar cortex of the proximal metatarsal and prevent the wire from entering the medullary canal of the metatarsal and advancing to the fracture site. Furthermore, when the medullary canal is narrow especially in Asian patients, it may be difficult to pass a bent K-wire through the isthmus of the metatarsal shaft. We describe an innovative technique of closed transverse wiring of the metatarsal head necks that has a distinct advantage in Asian population with osteoporotic bones. With percutaneous manipulation using digital pressure, closed reduction of fracture fragments of the most displaced fracture is done under fluoroscopic guidance to achieve a satisfactory alignment followed by closed transverse wiring of the metatarsal heads. With this procedure, adjacent fractures remain stable within an acceptable range because of intermetatarsal ligaments connected to the adjacent intact head. Our technique has a relatively short operating time and allows for early motion of the metatarso-phalangeal joint. This is especially useful for those with osteoporosis, narrow canal, soft tissue compromise, intra-operative failure of ante-grade pinning and in scenarios of limited surgical equipment/expertise.

Comparison of midterm results of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) versus Steroid for plantar fasciitis: A randomized control trial of 118 patients.

BACKGROUND: Plantar fasciitis, which is a common cause of heel pain, often results in significant morbidity. In cases who are not responsive to initial conservative treatment, invasive procedures, often in the form of local infiltration of steroid are required. These procedures are associated with significant complications. Local Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) infiltration is an emerging addition to these treatments. However, whether it is more effective in reducing pain and improving function than other treatments (such as steroid injections or whole blood) remains controversial. METHODS: Skeletally mature patients with plantar fasciitis who had failed conservative therapy were randomized using envelope method into 2 groups: PRP and Steroid group. The participants were assessed for pain using Visual Analog Scale on the day of presentation, and then after therapy at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. They were additionally assessed on final follow-up using AOFAS hind-foot Score. RESULTS: 118 patients were randomized into 2 groups: 58 patients to the PRP group and 60 to the Steroid group. PRP was associated with greater improvement in VAS score and resulted in superior AOFAS score at 6 months as compared to steroid injection. The authors did not find any local or systemic complications in any of the groups. The result and difference were more pronounced as the time from injection increased and maximal benefit was observed at 6 months follow-up. None of the patients needed a repeat injection at 6 months. CONCLUSION: Our study expands on the previous studies to provide a better evidence for superiority of PRP over local injection of steroid in plantar fasciitis, and the authors conclude that PRP provides better pain relief and function as compared to steroid injection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 1 Prospective Randomized Control Trial (RCT).

Diagnosis and conservative management of great toe pathologies: a review.

Acute great toe (Hallux) pain is a common complaint encountered by the primary care physician. Pathological conditions can vary from acute trauma to acute exacerbation of underlying chronic conditions. Delay in treatment or misdiagnosis can lead to debilitating loss of function and long-lasting pain. This review endeavors to discuss the pertinent history, physical exam findings, radiographic evidence, conservative treatment options, and surgical management for the musculoskeletal causes of acute and acute on chronic great toe pain in the adult population. The acute pathologies discussed in this review are hallux fractures and dislocations, turf toe, sand toe, and sesamoid disorders. The chronic pathologies discussed include hallux rigidus, hallux valgus, and chronic sesamoiditis.

Management of acute lesser toe pain.

Patients with foot pain commonly present to their primary care physicians for their initial management and treatment. These patients and their respective foot or lesser toe pain can present the physician with a complex problem with a long differential list. Depending on the timing of the pain and underlying pathology, these differentials can be divided into acute and acute exacerbation of chronic conditions. This review categorizes the history, physical exam, radiological findings, conservative treatment, and surgical management for each major cause of lesser toe pain, whether acute or chronic. The acute conditions surrounding lesser toe pain in the adult population discussed are toe fractures, toe dislocations, and metatarsal head and neck fractures. The chronic pathologies surrounding lesser toe pain in the adult population evaluated in this review include metatarsalgia, Morton's neuroma, Freiberg infraction, brachymetatarsia, bunionettes, and lesser toe disorders.

Predictors of Malreduction in Zone II and III Fifth Metatarsal Fractures Fixed With an Intramedullary Screw.

BACKGROUND: Proper implant selection and placement is crucial during fixation of zone II and III fifth metatarsal fractures to avoid postoperative complications. This study examined the effects of screw parameters and placement on malreduction, delayed union, nonunion, and refracture rate. METHODS: A retrospective review of zone II and proximal zone III fifth metatarsal fractures managed with intramedullary screw fixation was conducted. Comparisons were made between cortex distraction (gap) and ratios of screw length, diameter, and entry point. Further analysis was carried out between time to union and distraction in the lateral and plantar cortices. RESULTS: The plantar and lateral gaps were both associated with the mean entry point ratio on the lateral and anteroposterior (AP) views (P < .001 for both views). No association between the plantar and lateral gaps and the screw diameter ratio (P = .393 for AP and P = .981 for lateral) or the screw length ratio (P = .966 for AP and P = .740 for lateral) was identified. The ratio of postoperative to preoperative apex height on AP and lateral views was correlated with the presence of lateral and plantar fracture gaps (P < .001). The presence of a plantar gap was associated with increased time to union (P = .022). A majority of fractures showed radiographic union at 12 weeks (38/43). Only 5 of 38 patients had delayed union. There were no refractures or nonunions as per available records. CONCLUSION: Plantar or lateral fracture site distraction (gap) was not influenced by screw diameter ratio or screw length ratio. The entry point ratio had a significant effect on plantar and lateral gaps on postoperative radiographs, with lateral and inferior placement leading to fracture site distraction. Patients with a plantar gap did have an increased risk of delayed union. The results of this study emphasize the significance of the entry point when managing zone II and III fifth metatarsal base fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, case series.

Minimally invasive vs open distal metatarsal osteotomy for hallux valgus - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Numerous publications of the late 20th century have presented the radiological outcome of open technique for distal metatarsal osteotomy for mild to moderate hallux valgus and the clinical outcomes by means of well-established scoring systems which have been published and make these open techniques today's benchmark and gold standard. Minimally invasive procedures reduce surgical trauma because they are performed without large incisions, and injury to the soft tissues is limited. This has the theoretical advantages of improved recovery and decreased rehabilitation times. There is however limited literature to prove the same for minimally invasive surgery for hallux valgus.Our aim was thus to pool all available comparative literature on minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery done for mild to moderate hallux valgus versus open surgical approaches. METHODS: A PubMed, Embase and Scopus search was performed using the keywords ('hallux valgus' OR bunion) AND ('minimally invasive' OR percutaneous) AND osteotomy. A total of 473 records were identified and out of which nine studies were included in the final review. RESULTS: Most available studies are either randomized control trials, or prospective cohort studies providing good level of evidence. Radiological analysis showed similar correction with both MIS and open osteotomies. In functional analysis results were different with open techniques providing better results in terms of AOFAS score. (p < 0.0001). VAS score and complication rate were similar in both groups. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: We conclude that based on available literature MIS provides equivalent radiological outcomes with respect to open surgery but functionally despite the promising results (good to excellent in most series), the outcomes in terms of function are not as good as open surgery. MIS techniques provide satisfactory outcomes for mild-to-moderate severity of hallux valgus though not as good as open surgery. There is evolving literature for this relatively new procedure. Longer duration of follow up and bigger numbers would allow for more meaningful data analysis and conclusions to be drawn as more studies come forward.

Proximal femoral fracture in ankylosed hip treated with primary total hip arthroplasty: Technical tips with report of two cases.

Proximal femoral fracture in an ankylosed hip is a challenging condition. There is no consensus on fixation method for these fractures. In addition, despite union the best outcome possible is the restoration of the pre morbid status. We report two different presentations of proximal femoral fracture in ankylosed hip that were successfully treated with primary total hip arthroplasty. We also discuss the surgical principles, technique and advantages of doing primary total hip arthroplasty in such cases.

Can Three Screws and a Fibula be a Viable Treatment for Managing Neglected Femoral Neck Fracture in Trans-Femoral Amputees? - A Report of Two Cases.

Management of neglected femoral neck fracture in a trans-femoral amputee is difficult and challenging. There are limited options available for management of such a fracture. While arthroplasty (hemi or total) can be offered in older individuals, young patients should be offered an attempt of salvage of their native hips. Neglected femoral neck fracture in two young male patients who were trans-femoral amputees was managed by fixation through a Watson-Jones approach. Strategically placed Schanz screws and K-wires were used as joysticks for obtaining reduction and three 6.5mm cannulated screws were placed in a triangular fashion. An augmentation of the fixation was done with free fibula autograft placed in the center of the triangle. Union was achieved in both the cases. Patients were pain-free at the latest follow-up visit. Meticulous clinical and radiological evaluation is mandatory in multiply injured patients to avoid missing fractures. Fixation of neglected femoral neck fractures in young transfemoral amputees with three screws and a fibula can be considered a viable alternative to valgus osteotomy in cases where the stump is small for successful placement of the implant and where implant availability is an issue or the surgeon is comfortable in using screws and fibula for non-unions of femoral neck.