RISK FACTORS AT NON-UNION OF TIBIAL FRACTURE TREATED WITH INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL.

Objective: Identify the predictors associated with delayed union at 6 months and non-union at 12 months in tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN). Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study included a cohort of 218 patients who sustained tibial shaft fractures and received IMN between January 2015 and March 2022. We gathered data on a range of risk factors, including patient demographics, trauma intensity, associated injuries, fracture characteristics, soft tissue injuries, comorbidities, addictions, and treatment-specific factors. We employed logistic bivariate regression analysis to explore the factors predictive of delayed union and non-union. Results: At the 6-month follow-up, the incidence of delayed union was 28.9%. Predictors for delayed union included flap coverage, high-energy trauma, open fractures, the use of external fixation as a staged treatment, the percentage of cortical contact in simple type fractures, RUST score, and postoperative infection. After 12 months, the non-union rate was 15.6%. Conclusion: the main predictors for non-union after IMN of tibial shaft fractures are related to the trauma energy. Furthermore, the initial treatment involving external fixation and postoperative infection also correlated with non-union. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Longitudinal Study.

Objetivo: identificar os fatores preditivos associados ao atraso de consolidação em 6 meses e à não união em 12 meses em fraturas da diáfise da tíbia tratadas com haste intramedular (HIM). Métodos: O estudo longitudinal retrospectivo de coorte incluiu 218 pacientes, que apresentaram fraturas da díafise da tíbia e receberam HIM entre janeiro de 2015 e março de 2022. Os desfechos principais pesquisados foram atraso de consolidação em 6 meses de acompanhamento, e não união em 12 meses. Coletou-se dados de uma variedade de fatores de risco. Utilizou-se análise de regressão logística bivariada para explorar os fatores preditivos de atraso de consolidação e não união. Resultados: Aos 6 meses, a incidência de atraso de consolidação foi de 28,9%. Os preditores de atraso de consolidação incluem cobertura de retalho, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples, escore RUST e infecção pós-operatória. Após 12 meses, a taxa de não união foi de 15,6%, com fatores preditivos sendo necessidade de cobertura por retalho, lesão vascular, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples e infecção pós-operatória. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Longitudinal Retrospectivo.

LOW INFECTION AND NON-UNION RATES IN POLYTRAUMA FEMORAL FRACTURES: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY.

Objective: Assess complications and risks in staged femoral shaft fracture treatment using external fixation and intramedullary nailing (DCO). Methods: Analysis involved 37 patients with 40 fractures, mostly male (87.5%), average age 32.9 years. Data included ASA score, AO/OTA and Gustilo classifications, Glasgow Coma Score, Injury Severity Score, times to external fixation and conversion, ICU duration, nail type, and reaming status. Complications tracked were mortality, deep infection, and non-union. Results: Predominant fracture type was AO/OTA A (45%), with 40% open (Gustilo A, 93.8%). Average ISS was 21; GCS was 12.7. Median ICU stay was 3 days; average time to conversion was 10.2 days. Retrograde nails were used in 50% of cases, with reaming in 67.5%. Complications included deep infections in 5% and non-union in 2.5%. Conclusion: DCO strategy resulted in low infection and non-union rates, associated with lower GCS and longer ICU stays. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Cohort Study.

Objetivo: Analisar taxa de complicações e riscos no tratamento estagiado de fraturas diafisárias do fêmur com fixador externo e conversão para haste intramedular (DCO). Métodos: Estudo com 37 pacientes, 35 masculinos, idade média de 32,9 anos, abordando escores ASA, classificação AO/OTA, Gustilo, Glasgow e ISS, tempo até a fixação externa, na UTI e tipo de haste. Complicações como mortalidade, infecção profunda e não união foram registradas. Resultados: Fraturas tipo AO/OTA A foram as mais comuns (45%), com 40% expostas (Gustilo A, 93,8%). ISS médio de 21 e ECG de 12,7. Média de 3 dias na UTI e 10,2 dias até a conversão. Uso de haste retrógrada em 50% dos casos e fresagem em 67,5%. As complicações incluíram infecção profunda em 5% e não união em 2,5%. A não união correlacionou-se com baixo ECG e tempo prolongado na UTI. Conclusão: A estratégia de DCO mostrou-se eficaz com baixas taxas de infecção e não união, associada a baixo ECG e tempo na UTI. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo de Coorte Retrospectivo.

Establishing Consensus on Essential Resources for Musculoskeletal Trauma Care Worldwide: A Modified Delphi Study.

BACKGROUND: Despite evidence that formalized trauma systems enhance patient functional outcomes and decrease mortality rates, there remains a lack of such systems globally. Critical to trauma systems are the equipment, materials, and supplies needed to support care, which vary in availability regionally. The purpose of the present study was to identify essential resources for musculoskeletal trauma care across diverse resource settings worldwide. METHODS: The modified Delphi method was utilized, with 3 rounds of electronic surveys. Respondents consisted of 1 surgeon with expertise in musculoskeletal trauma per country. Participants were identified with use of the AO Trauma, AO Alliance, Orthopaedic Trauma Association, and European Society for Trauma and Emergency Surgery networks. Respondents rated resources on a Likert scale from 1 (most important) to 9 (least important). The "most essential" resources were classified as those rated ≤2 by ≥75% of the sampled group. RESULTS: One hundred and three of 111 invited surgeons completed the first survey and were included throughout the subsequent rounds (representing a 93% response rate). Most participants were fellowship-trained (78%) trauma and orthopaedic surgeons (90%) practicing in an academic setting (62%), and 46% had >20 years of experience. Respondents represented low-income and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs; 35%), upper-middle income countries (UMICs; 30%), and high-income countries (HICs; 35%). The initial survey identified 308 unique resources for pre-hospital, in-hospital, and post-hospital phases of care, of which 71 resources achieved consensus as the most essential. There was a significant difference (p < 0.0167) in ratings between income groups for 16 resources, all of which were related to general trauma care rather than musculoskeletal injury management. CONCLUSIONS: There was agreement on a core list of essential musculoskeletal trauma care resources by respondents from LMICs, UMICs, and HICs. All significant differences in resource ratings were related to general trauma management. This study represents a first step toward establishing international consensus and underscores the need to prioritize resources that are locally available. The information can be used to develop effective guidelines and policies, create best-practice treatment standards, and advocate for necessary resources worldwide. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study utilized the Delphi method representing expert opinion; however, this work did not examine patient management and therefore does not have a clinical Level of Evidence.

Protected immediate weight-bearing is safe after fixation of ankle fractures with syndesmosis injury fixed with position screw. A retrospective case-series study.

BACKGROUND: About 10% of ankle fractures are located above the syndesmosis, which causes injury to the ligament structure of the syndesmosis. There is no consensus regarding when to allow weight-bearing on the operated limb of patients who suffered ankle fractures requiring intraoperative fixation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is the evaluation of radiographic parameters of syndesmosis reduction and fixation in patients with ankle fracture who underwent immediate protected weight-bearing (use of walking-boot and crutches). PATIENT AND METHODS: Retrospective case series from January 2015 to December 2020. Evaluation of the tibiofibular clear space, tibiofibular overlap, and medial clear space in the preoperative x-ray, immediate postoperative, 3-, 6- and 12-month after syndesmosis fixation and rehabilitation with protected immediate weight-bearing with crutches and walking-boot. RESULTS: Out of 137 ankle fractures 39 were included. There was no significant difference in the tibiofibular clear space between the immediate x-ray and after 12 months (4.5 mm ± 1.1 vs. 4.6 mm ± 1.8; p > 0.999). Tibiofibular overlap hasn't shown significant difference between immediate and 12-month x-ray (6.2 mm ± 2.6 vs. 6.6 mm ± 2.6; p > 0.999). Medial clear space also has shown no worsening from immediate to 12-month x-ray (3.1 mm ± 0.9 vs. 2.8 mm ± 0.9; p > 0.999). There were no fixation failure nor postoperative infection. CONCLUSION: Immediate weight-bearing for patients with ankle fractures with syndesmosis injury and treated with intraoperative fixation with positioning screw proved to be safe with good maintenance of the reduction, no failures of the synthesis material observed and no reports of postoperative infection in the period. LEVEL 3 EVIDENCE: therapeutic retrospective case-series.

Infection after intramedullary nailing of femoral and tibial diaphyseal fractures.

PURPOSE: Management of fracture-related infection (FRI) after intramedullary fixation (IF) is a challenge. The aim of the present study is to describe a series of 26 patients with FRI after IF and to evaluate factors possibly related to the outcome. METHODS: Baseline variables were obtained at the time of IF: age, sex, body mass index, affected bone, open fracture, substance abuse, use of an external fixator, type of nail, reaming, soft-tissue reconstruction and surveillance culture result. After diagnosis of the infection, information was obtained about the time interval between IF and diagnosis and classification according to both the Willeneger and Roth and Makridis systems. Treatment modalities were grouped and analysed according to: use of antimicrobials, surgical debridement, nail removal or retention and spacer use. Cultures of bone or deep soft tissues were performed. Patients were followed up for 12 months, and outcomes (remission, relapse, death and loss of follow-up) were evaluated, as well as fracture consolidation. RESULTS: Remission was observed in 42.3% of patients. There was no significant association between any baseline variable and outcome. There was a significant association between Makridis stage 2 classification and recurrence or death. Treatment strategy was not significantly associated with outcome, and 65.4% of cases had positive culture results, with Enterobacter cloacae as the predominant agent. Consolidation was observed in 81.8% of patients and was not significantly related to the outcome. CONCLUSION: There was a significant association between Makridis classification and the outcome. Consolidation rate was not associated with the outcome regarding the treatment of the infection.

HUMERAL SHAFT FRACTURE WITH AN INTACT WEDGE FRAGMENT: MIPO VS CONVENTIONAL PLATING.

Objectives: Evaluate bone healing time, consolidation, and the complication rate between the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis and open reduction with plate osteosynthesis in humeral diaphyseal fractures with an intact wedge (AO 12B2). Methods: A retrospective study was carried out between 2016 and 2020. The medical records and radiographs of 18 patients were analyzed, and data were collected regarding the time of consolidation, age, sex, plate size, number of screws, complications such as iatrogenic injury damage to the radial nerve, material failure, and postoperative infection. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in the variables of age, sex, plate size, and number of screws used or in the RUSHU index (Radiographic Union Score for Humeral fractures). There were no postoperative infections, material failure, or need for reoperation, nor cases of secondary radial nerve injury. After one year, all patients had a consolidation index analyzed by RUSHU >11. Conclusion: both techniques showed similar results, with a high consolidation rate and low rates of complications or iatrogenic damage to the radial nerve. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

Objetivos: Comparar o tempo de consolidação e o índice de complicações entre os métodos de osteossíntese com placa minimamente invasiva e estabilidade absoluta através da placa nas fraturas diafisárias do úmero com cunha intacta (AO 12B2). Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo entre os anos de 2016 e 2020. Foram analisados os prontuários e radiografias de 18 pacientes e coletados dados referentes a: tempo de consolidação, idade, sexo, tamanho da placa, número de parafusos, presença de complicações como lesão iatrogênica do nervo radial, falha do material e infecção pós operatória. Resultados: Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas variáveis de idade, sexo, tamanho da placa e número de parafusos utilizados, ou no índice de RUSHU (Radiographic Union Score for Humeral fractures). Não houve casos de infecção pós-operatória, falha do material ou necessidade de reoperação, nem casos de lesão secundária do nervo radial. Após 1 ano todos os pacientes tiveram índice de consolidação analisado pelo RUSHU >11. Conclusão: Ambas as técnicas se mostraram com resultados similares, com alta taxa de consolidação e baixas taxas de complicações ou lesão iatrogênica do nervo radial. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

WEDGE FRAGMENT VARIATIONS OF TIBIAL SHAFT FRACTURES WITH INTRAMEDULLARY NAILING.

Introduction: Tibial shaft fracture is the most common long-bone fracture, and the standard treatment is intramedullary (IM) nail fixation. Regardless of the development of this technique pseudoarthrosis remains prevalent. Objectives: Evaluate the correlation between wedge fragment size and displacement, displacement of the main fragments of the 42B2 type, and pseudoarthrosis incidence. Methods: We retrospectively assessed all patients with 42B2 type fracture treated with IM nailing between January, 2015 and December, 2019. Six radiographic parameters were defined for preoperative radiographs in the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. Another six parameters were defined for postoperative radiographs at three, six, and 12 months. The Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures score was used to assess bone healing. Results: Of 355 patients with tibial shaft fractures, 51 were included in the study. There were 41 (82.0%) male patients, with a mean age of 36.7 years, 37 (72.5%) had open fractures, and 28 (54.9%) had associated injuries. After statistical analysis, the factors that correlated significantly with nonunion were wedge height > 18 mm, preoperative translational displacement of the fracture in the AP view > 18 mm, and final distance of the wedge in relation to its original anatomical position after IM nailing > 5 mm. Conclusion: Risk factors for nonunion related to the wedge and42B2 fracture are wedge height > 18 mm, initial translation in the AP view of the fracture > 18 mm, and distance > 5 mm of the wedge from its anatomical position after IM nailing. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

Introdução: A fratura da diáfise da tíbia é a fratura mais comum dentre os ossos longos, sendo o tratamento padrão a fixação com haste intramedular (HIM). Independentemente do desenvolvimento da técnica cirúrgica, a pseudoartrose continua prevalente. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o tamanho e o desvio da cunha, os desvios dos fragmentos principais do tipo 42B2 e a incidência de pseudoartrose. Métodos: Avaliamos, retrospectivamente, todos os pacientes com fraturas tipo 42B2 tratados com hastes intramedulares entre janeiro de 2015 e dezembro de 2019. Seis parâmetros radiográficos foram definidos para as radiografias pré-operatórias nas incidências anteroposterior (AP) e perfil. Outros seis parâmetros foram definidos para as radiografias pós-operatórias em 3, 6 e 12 meses de acompanhamento pós-operatório. O Escore Radiográfico de União para as Fraturas da Tíbia (RUST) foi o instrumento usado para avaliar a consolidação óssea. Resultados: Dos 355 pacientes com fraturas da diáfise da tíbia, 51 foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes incluídos foram 41 (82,0%) do sexo masculino, com idade média de 36,7 anos, 37 (72,5%) com fraturas expostas e 28 (54,9%) com lesões associadas. Após análise estatística, os fatores que se correlacionaram significativamente com a não consolidação foram a altura da cunha > 18 mm, o deslocamento translacional pré-operatório da fratura na incidência AP > 18 mm e a distância final da cunha em relação à sua posição anatômica original após a cravação do MI > 5 mm. Conclusão: Os fatores de risco para a pseudartrose relacionada com a fratura em cunha e42B2 são a altura da cunha > 18 mm, a translação inicial na vista AP da fratura > 18 mm e a distância > 5 mm da cunha em relação à sua posição anatómica após a fixação IM. Nível de evidência III; estudo comparativo retrospectivo. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

Clinical data or scoring system for predicting mortality in elderly patients with hip fracture: A prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Hip fracture in elderly individuals is frequent and is related to a high rate of mortality. Finding the best predictor of death will help to develop better patient care. Aim - To analyze the reliability of the clinical data and assessment scores to predict mortality in acute hip fracture in elderly patients. PATIENT AND METHODS: Prospective data were collected from all patients > 65 years with acute hip fracture from May to October 2020. The clinical data collected were age, sex, comorbidities, medication, type of fracture and presence of delirium. The assessment scores were ASA, Lee, ACP and Charlson. RESULTS: The statistically significant results were age > 80 years (OR 1.121 IC95% [1.028-1.221] p = 0.0101) and number of medications (OR5.991 95% CI [2.422-14.823] p <0.001). Three scores showed a correlation with mortality: ASA score (p = 0.017), Lee score (p = 0.024) and ACP score (p = 0.013). The Charlson Comorbidity Index did not correlate with mortality (p = 0.172). CONCLUSION: To stratify the risk of death, both clinical data and scores should be used. The best clinical indicators are age and number of medications, and the scores are ASA, Lee and ACP.

Adapting non-medical applications for medical use: Ethical limits, coverage, and validation.

The widespread adoption of smartphones and other mobile devices amongst healthcare providers opened new possibilities arising from the use of non-medical apps, social media, meeting platforms, and non-medical devices with intended medical purposes, thus expanding the communication and imaging chat systems between these professionals and their patients, as well as amongst healthcare professionals. However, adapting non-medical applications, social media, videoconference platforms and devices for medical use present potential limitations, barriers, and risks, which should be fully recognized to reduce crossing the fine line between ethical and unethical. In the herein study, we analyse the ethical limits, coverage, and validation of non-medical applications adapted for medical use. Level of evidence: IV (evidence from well-designed case-control or cohort studies).

Humeral shaft fracture with an intact wedge fragment: mipo vs conventional plating / Fraturas diafisárias de úmero com cunha intacta: mipo x estabilidade absoluta com placa

ABSTRACT Objectives: Evaluate bone healing time, consolidation, and the complication rate between the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis and open reduction with plate osteosynthesis in humeral diaphyseal fractures with an intact wedge (AO 12B2). Methods: A retrospective study was carried out between 2016 and 2020. The medical records and radiographs of 18 patients were analyzed, and data were collected regarding the time of consolidation, age, sex, plate size, number of screws, complications such as iatrogenic injury damage to the radial nerve, material failure, and postoperative infection. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in the variables of age, sex, plate size, and number of screws used or in the RUSHU index (Radiographic Union Score for Humeral fractures). There were no postoperative infections, material failure, or need for reoperation, nor cases of secondary radial nerve injury. After one year, all patients had a consolidation index analyzed by RUSHU >11. Conclusion: both techniques showed similar results, with a high consolidation rate and low rates of complications or iatrogenic damage to the radial nerve. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

RESUMO Objetivos: Comparar o tempo de consolidação e o índice de complicações entre os métodos de osteossíntese com placa minimamente invasiva e estabilidade absoluta através da placa nas fraturas diafisárias do úmero com cunha intacta (AO 12B2). Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo entre os anos de 2016 e 2020. Foram analisados os prontuários e radiografias de 18 pacientes e coletados dados referentes a: tempo de consolidação, idade, sexo, tamanho da placa, número de parafusos, presença de complicações como lesão iatrogênica do nervo radial, falha do material e infecção pós operatória. Resultados: Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas variáveis de idade, sexo, tamanho da placa e número de parafusos utilizados, ou no índice de RUSHU (Radiographic Union Score for Humeral fractures). Não houve casos de infecção pós-operatória, falha do material ou necessidade de reoperação, nem casos de lesão secundária do nervo radial. Após 1 ano todos os pacientes tiveram índice de consolidação analisado pelo RUSHU >11. Conclusão: Ambas as técnicas se mostraram com resultados similares, com alta taxa de consolidação e baixas taxas de complicações ou lesão iatrogênica do nervo radial. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

Wedge fragment variations of tibial shaft fractures with intramedullary nailing / Fragmento em cunha das fraturas da diáfise da tíbia com haste intramedular

ABSTRACT Introduction: Tibial shaft fracture is the most common long-bone fracture, and the standard treatment is intramedullary (IM) nail fixation. Regardless of the development of this technique pseudoarthrosis remains prevalent. Objectives: Evaluate the correlation between wedge fragment size and displacement, displacement of the main fragments of the 42B2 type, and pseudoarthrosis incidence. Methods: We retrospectively assessed all patients with 42B2 type fracture treated with IM nailing between January, 2015 and December, 2019. Six radiographic parameters were defined for preoperative radiographs in the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. Another six parameters were defined for postoperative radiographs at three, six, and 12 months. The Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures score was used to assess bone healing. Results: Of 355 patients with tibial shaft fractures, 51 were included in the study. There were 41 (82.0%) male patients, with a mean age of 36.7 years, 37 (72.5%) had open fractures, and 28 (54.9%) had associated injuries. After statistical analysis, the factors that correlated significantly with nonunion were wedge height > 18 mm, preoperative translational displacement of the fracture in the AP view > 18 mm, and final distance of the wedge in relation to its original anatomical position after IM nailing > 5 mm. Conclusion: Risk factors for nonunion related to the wedge and42B2 fracture are wedge height > 18 mm, initial translation in the AP view of the fracture > 18 mm, and distance > 5 mm of the wedge from its anatomical position after IM nailing. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

RESUMO Introdução: A fratura da diáfise da tíbia é a fratura mais comum dentre os ossos longos, sendo o tratamento padrão a fixação com haste intramedular (HIM). Independentemente do desenvolvimento da técnica cirúrgica, a pseudoartrose continua prevalente. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o tamanho e o desvio da cunha, os desvios dos fragmentos principais do tipo 42B2 e a incidência de pseudoartrose. Métodos: Avaliamos, retrospectivamente, todos os pacientes com fraturas tipo 42B2 tratados com hastes intramedulares entre janeiro de 2015 e dezembro de 2019. Seis parâmetros radiográficos foram definidos para as radiografias pré-operatórias nas incidências anteroposterior (AP) e perfil. Outros seis parâmetros foram definidos para as radiografias pós-operatórias em 3, 6 e 12 meses de acompanhamento pós-operatório. O Escore Radiográfico de União para as Fraturas da Tíbia (RUST) foi o instrumento usado para avaliar a consolidação óssea. Resultados: Dos 355 pacientes com fraturas da diáfise da tíbia, 51 foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes incluídos foram 41 (82,0%) do sexo masculino, com idade média de 36,7 anos, 37 (72,5%) com fraturas expostas e 28 (54,9%) com lesões associadas. Após análise estatística, os fatores que se correlacionaram significativamente com a não consolidação foram a altura da cunha > 18 mm, o deslocamento translacional pré-operatório da fratura na incidência AP > 18 mm e a distância final da cunha em relação à sua posição anatômica original após a cravação do MI > 5 mm. Conclusão: Os fatores de risco para a pseudartrose relacionada com a fratura em cunha e42B2 são a altura da cunha > 18 mm, a translação inicial na vista AP da fratura > 18 mm e a distância > 5 mm da cunha em relação à sua posição anatómica após a fixação IM. Nível de evidência III; estudo comparativo retrospectivo. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF TREATMENT OF DEVIATED OLECRANON FRACTURE (MAYO 2A) BY AN INTRAMEDULLARY SCREW WITH TENSION BAND COMPARED TO CLASSIC TENSION BAND - A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY.

Objective: evaluate the functional treatment outcome of deviated transverse olecranon fractures (Mayo 2A) after treatment with tension-banded intramedullary screw (PIBT) compared to classical tension band (BTC). Methods: Prospectively collect all deviated transverse olecranon fractures from 2012 to 2016 and randomize them into PIBT and BTC groups. Range of motion (ROM) was measured after 2 and 5 weeks, 3 and 6 months, and 1 and 2 years. Functional assessments (DASH, Oxford Elbow Score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Index) were performed after 3 and 6 months and 1 and 2 years. Complications were collected up to 2 years of follow-up. Results: 22 patients were included, 11 in each group. The mean age was 47.9 years, and the left side was injured in 13 (59.0%) patients. All patients completed the 2-year follow-up. There was no ROM difference at any time between the two groups (p> 0.005). Flexion and extension gain was maximum at three months and remained unchanged until two years. Neither flexion nor extension returned to normal, missing around 10°. Pronation and supination returned to normal. All three functional scores showed almost complete recovery of elbow function after three months postoperatively, with no difference between the groups. No group had complications, no reoperation, and no implant removal. Conclusion: PIBT had similar results in ROM and functional score compared to BTC. Both had low complication rates and no need for implant removal. Level of evidence I; Randomized Trial .

Objetivo: Avaliar o resultado funcional do tratamento das fraturas transversas desviadas do olécrano (Mayo 2A) após o tratamento com parafuso intramedular com banda de tensão (PIBT) em comparação com a banda de tensão clássica (BTC). Métodos: Foram coletados prospectivamente todas as fraturas transversas do olécrano desviadas de 2012 a 2016 e randomizá-las em dois grupos: PIBT e BTC. A amplitude de movimento (ADM) foi medida após 2 e 5 semanas, 3 e 6 meses e 1 e 2 anos. As avaliações funcionais (DASH, Oxford Elbow Score e Mayo Elbow Performance Index) foram realizadas após 3 e 6 meses e 1 e 2 anos. As complicações foram coletadas até 2 anos de acompanhamento. Resultados: Foram incluídos 22 pacientes, 11 em cada grupo. A idade média foi de 47,9 anos, e o lado esquerdo foi lesado em 13 (59,0%) pacientes. Todos os pacientes completaram o acompanhamento de 2 anos. Não houve diferença na ADM em nenhum momento entre os dois grupos (p> 0,005). O ganho de flexão e extensão foi máximo aos 3 meses e permaneceu inalterado até 2 anos. Nem a flexão nem a extensão voltaram ao normal, faltando em torno de 10º. A pronação e a supinação voltaram ao normal. Todos os três escores funcionais mostraram uma recuperação quase completa da função do cotovelo após 3 meses de pós-operatório, sem diferença entre os grupos. Nenhum grupo apresentou complicações, nem reoperação ou retirada do implante. Conclusão: O PIBT teve resultados semelhantes na ADM e pontuação funcional em comparação com o BTC. Ambos tiveram baixas taxas de complicações e não há necessidade de remover implantes. Nível de evidência I; Estudo clínico randomizado.

DISTAL FEMORAL FRACTURES FROM HIGH-ENERGY TRAUMA: A RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW OF COMPLICATION RATE AND RISK FACTORS.

Objective: Determine complications' incidence and risk factors in high-energy distal femur fractures fixed with a lateral locked plate. Methods: Forty-seven patients were included; 87.2% were male, and the average age was 38.9. The main radiographic parameters collected were distal lateral femoral angle (DFA), distal posterior femoral angle (DPLF), comminution length, plate length, screw working length, bone loss, and medial contact after reduction and plate-bone contact, location of callus formation, and implant failure. The complications recorded were nonunion, implant failure, and infection. Results: Complex C2 and C3 fractures accounted for 85.1% of cases. Open fractures accounted for 63.8% of cases. The mean AFDL and AFDP were 79.8 4.0 and 79.3 6.0, respectively. The average total proximal and distal working lengths were 133.3 42.7, 60.4 33.4, and 29.5 21.8 mm, respectively. The infection rate was 29.8%, and the only risk factor was open fracture (p = 0.005). The nonunion rate was 19.1%, with longer working length (p = 0.035) and higher PDFA (p = 0.001) as risk factors. The site of callus formation also influenced pseudoarthrosis (p = 0.034). Conclusion: High-energy distal femoral fractures have a higher incidence of pseudoarthrosis and infection. Nonunion has greater working length, greater AFDL, and absence of callus formation on the medial and posterior sides as risk factors. The risk factor for infection was an open fracture. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Cohort Study .

Objetivos: Determinar a incidência e os fatores de risco de complicações nas fraturas de alta energia das fraturas distais do fêmur fixadas com placa bloqueada lateral. Métodos: Foram incluídos 47 pacientes, sendo 87,2% homens e idade média de 38,9 anos. Os principais parâmetros radiográficos coletados foram o ângulo femoral distal lateral (AFDL), ângulo femoral distal posterior (AFDP), comprimento da cominuição, comprimento da placa, comprimento de trabalho dos parafusos, perda óssea, contato medial após a redução e contato placa-osso, localização da formação do calo e falha do implante. As complicações registradas foram não união, falha do implante e infecção. Resultados: Fraturas complexas C2 e C3 representaram 85,1% dos casos. As fraturas expostas corresponderam a 63,8% dos casos. O AFDL e AFDP médios foram 79,8° ± 4,0° e 79,3°± 6,0°, respectivamente. Os comprimentos de trabalho total, proximal e distal médios foram 133,3 ± 42,7, 60,4 ± 33,4 e 29,5 ± 21,8 mm, respectivamente. A taxa de infecção foi de 29,8% e o único fator de risco foi a fratura exposta (p = 0,005). A taxa de não união foi de 19,1%, com maior comprimento de trabalho (p = 0,035) e maior PDFA (p = 0,001) como fatores de risco. O local de formação do calo também influenciou na pseudoartrose (p = 0,034). Conclusões: Fraturas distais do fêmur de alta energia apresentam maior incidência de pseudoartrose e infecção. A não união tem como fatores de risco maior comprimento de trabalho, maior AFDL e ausência de formação de calo nos lados medial e posterior. O fator de risco para infecção foi a fratura exposta. Nível de evidência III; Estudo de Coorte Retrospectivo .

RADIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF IMMEDIATE LOADING SAFETY AFTER SURGICAL REDUCTION IN ACETABULAR FRACTURES: A COMPARATIVE-RETROSPECTIVE STUDY.

Objective: Radiographically evaluate the quality of reduction over six weeks of follow-up in patients with surgically treated deviated acetabular fractures who underwent rehabilitation with immediate loading as tolerated and compare this with the results of the unloaded protocol. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the records of 137 patients with deviated acetabular fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Sixty-six (48.2%) patients underwent postoperative rehabilitation with immediate loading as tolerated, while 71 (51.8%) patients completed rehabilitation using a no-load protocol. The quality of the reduction was assessed radiographically by measuring the fracturing step and gap on radiographs taken immediately after surgery and three and six weeks after surgery. Results: Comparing the joint step, group 1 had an average of 0.44 ± 1.4 mm, 0.47 ± 1.5 mm, and 0.51 ± 1.6 mm immediately, three and six weeks after surgery, respectively. Group 2 had a mean step of 0.24 ± 0.8 mm, 0.27 ± 0.9 mm, and 0.37 ± 1.2 mm immediately, three, and six weeks after surgery. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups. With a joint gap, group 1 had a mean of 1.89 ± 1.7 mm, 2.12 ± 1.8 mm, and 2.36 ± 2.1 mm; and group 2 had a mean of 2.16 ± 2.4 mm, 2.47 ± 2.6 mm, and 2.67 ± 2.8 mm in the immediate postoperative period, three, and six weeks, respectively. There was also no statistical difference between groups in these measurements. Conclusion: Immediate loading after surgical treatment of deviated acetabular fracture had no negative impact on radiographic reduction parameters and had similar results to the protocol without weight bearing. Level of evidence III; Therapeutic Retrospective Cohort Study .

Objetivo: Avaliar radiograficamente a qualidade da redução ao longo de 6 semanas de acompanhamento em pacientes com fratura desviada do acetábulo tratados cirurgicamente e submetidos à reabilitação com carga imediata conforme tolerado e comparar com os resultados do protocolo sem carga. Métodos: Avaliamos retrospectivamente os prontuários de 137 pacientes com fraturas desviadas do acetábulo que foram tratadas com redução aberta e fixação interna. Sessenta e seis (48,2%) pacientes foram submetidos à reabilitação pós-operatória com carga imediata conforme tolerado, enquanto 71 (51,8%) pacientes completaram a reabilitação utilizando um protocolo sem carga. A qualidade da redução foi avaliada radiograficamente pela medição do degrau da fratura e do gap nas radiografias feitas imediatamente após a cirurgia e três e seis semanas após a cirurgia. Resultados: Comparando o degrau articular, o grupo 1 teve uma média de 0,44 ± 1,4 mm, 0,47 ± 1,5 mm e 0,51 ± 1,6 mm imediatamente, três e seis semanas após a cirurgia, respectivamente. O grupo 2 teve um degrau médio de 0,24 ± 0,8 mm, 0,27 ± 0,9 mm e 0,37 ± 1,2 mm imediatamente, três e seis semanas após a cirurgia. Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas significantes entre os grupos. Com gap articular, o grupo 1 teve uma média de 1,89 ± 1,7 mm, 2,12 ± 1,8 mm e 2,36 ± 2,1 mm; e o grupo 2 de 2,16 ± 2,4 mm, 2,47 ± 2,6 mm e 2,67 ± 2,8 mm nos pós-operatório imediato, três e seis semanas, respectivamente. Também não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos nessas medidas. Conclusão: A carga imediata após o tratamento cirúrgico da fratura do acetábulo desviada não teve impacto negativo nos parâmetros de redução radiográfica e teve resultados semelhantes em comparação com o protocolo sem descarga de peso. Nível De Evidência III; Estudo Terapêutico de Coorte Retrospectivo .

Isolated open tibial shaft fracture: a seven-hospital, prospective observational study in two Latin America countries.

INTRODUCTION: open tibial fractures are challenging due to the frequent severe bone injury associated with poor soft tissue conditions. This is relevant in low- and middle-income countries, mainly related to delayed definitive fixation and lack of adequate training in soft tissue coverage procedures. Due to these factors, open tibial fracture is an important source of disability for Latin American countries. Herein we sought to provide an epidemiological overview of isolated open tibial shaft fracture across seven hospitals in southern cone of Latin America. The secondary goal was to assess the impact on quality of life based on return-to-work rate (RWR). METHODS: patients with an isolated open tibial shaft fracture treated in seven different hospitals from Brazil and Argentina from November 2017 to March 2020 were included in the study. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated throughout the 120-day follow-up period. Final evaluation compared RWR with the SF-12 questionnaire, bone healing, and gait status. RESULTS: Seventy-two patients were treated, 57 followed for 120 days and 48 completed the SF-12 questionnaire. After 120 days, 70.6% had returned to work, 61.4% had experienced bone healing. Age, antibiotic therapy, type of definitive treatment, and infection significantly influenced the RWR. Gait status exhibited strong correlations with RWR and SF-12 physical component score. CONCLUSIONS: Isolated open tibial shaft fractures are potentially harmful to the patient's quality of life after 120 days of the initial management. RWR is significantly higher for younger patients, no history of infection, and those who could run in the gait status assessment.

Pre-operative predictors of poor reduction in acetabular fractures submitted to surgical treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Acetabular fractures are among the most complex orthopedic injuries, and their treatment and understanding have evolved remarkably in the last 50 years. Several factors affect the reduction quality of the surgically treated displaced acetabular fractures. Thus, this study aimed to identify these factors by analyzing patients' data. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective data from fractures operated in one center over 8 years were analyzed. Patients with a mature skeleton who underwent open reduction and internal fixation and had a minimum follow-up period of 6 weeks were included. Non-displaced fractures were excluded from the study. Radiographic assessment of the reduction was performed before surgery and at follow-up using the method described by Borelli et al. The effects of age (<40 or >40 years), sex, initial displacement (< 20 mm or > 20 mm), time to surgery (<14 days or>14 days), fracture pattern (elementary or associated), number of associated fractures (< 3 or > 3), and associated pelvic injury were analyzed RESULTS: The study included 115 (83.9%) men and 22 (16.1%) women, with a mean age of 34.1 years (range 16-74 years). In the sixth week of follow-up, reductions were satisfactory in 96 (70.7%) patients and unsatisfactory in 41 (29.3%). The most prevalent patterns were the posterior wall (23.1%) and both column (15.7%). Linear regression showed that residual displacement was directly correlated with initial displacement (p = 0.027) but without association with reduction quality. Age, sex, and initial displacement had no effect on reduction quality, which is in contrast with longer time to surgery (p = 0.004), associated fracture pattern (p = 0.002), three or more associated fractures (p = 0.001), and presence of associated pelvic injury (p = 0.021). CONCLUSION: Attempting to shorten the time to operate the fractures can lead to better results for patients because the other factors associated with poor reduction are inherent the trauma and cannot be modified by the surgeon.

Nonoperative Treatment for Displaced Proximal Humeral Fractures in Elderly Patients: Correlation Between Deviations and Clinical Outcomes.

Objectives To describe the functional result of the conservative treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures (PHF) using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score after 12 months and assess whether the different initial classifications and radiographic measurements are related to clinical results. Methods Forty patients > 60 years old, with displaced PHUs submitted to conservative treatment were evaluated at standardized times (3, 6, and 12 months). The American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant-Murley and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scales were used as clinical outcomes. Radiographic variables included the Neer and Resch classifications, the presence and displacement of tuberosity fracture, metaphyseal comminution, medial periosteal lesion, and angular and translational deviations of the head in the coronal and sagittal plane. Results The result of the ASES score was 77.7 ± 23.2 for the whole sample, the mean absolute values of the Constant-Murley score were 68.7 ± 16 and 82.6% for the scale relative to the contralateral side. The SANE scale at 12 months was 84.8 ± 19. We observed that the severity of the Neer classification and the coronal plane angular deviation (measured by the head-shaft angle) and the presence of fractures in both tuberosities negatively influenced the ASES score after 12 months of treatment. Conclusion Nonoperative treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures in elderly patients results in good clinical results. Clinical results are negatively influenced by the angular deviation of the humeral head and the presence of fractures of the greater and lesser tubercles, as well as by the Neer classification.

RADIOLOGICAL RESULTS OF SEVERE SCFE TREATMENT AT IOT-FMUSP FROM 2012 TO 2018.

Objective: To assess the complications in patients with severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis treated with the Dunn or modified Dunn procedure from 2012 to 2018 at the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Medical School, Universidade de São Paulo. Methods: Analysis of medical records, preoperative and postoperative radiographs with at least one year of radiographic follow-up of patients with severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Results: We reviewed the complications in 19 operated cases from 2012 to 2018, out of which 36.8% had osteonecrosis of the femoral head, one patient had chondrolysis, and another had postoperative infection. Conclusion: The osteonecrosis rate observed in this series of cases is similar to that described in other orthopedic facilities. We assessed factors that could potentially influence this outcome, including other characteristics of the patient (obesity, endocrine diseases, and history of sports activities) and of the health system. Level of Evidence III, Restropective Case Series.

Objetivo: Avaliar as complicações apresentadas nos pacientes com epifisiolistese grave tratados por meio do procedimento de Dunn ou Dunn Modificado entre 2012 e 2018 no IOT-FMUSP. Métodos: Análise de prontuários, radiografias pré-operatórias e radiografias pós-operatórias com pelo menos 1 ano de seguimento radiográfico dos pacientes com epifisiolistese grave. Resultados: Analisou-se a presença de complicações em 19 casos operados de 2012 a 2018. Desses pacientes, 36,8% apresentaram osteonecrose da cabeça femoral, oi observada condrólise em 1 paciente e infecção pós-operatória em 1 paciente. Conclusão: A taxa de osteonecrose observada nesta série de casos está próxima à descrita em outros serviços. Alguns fatores que potencialmente influenciariam neste desfecho poderiam ter sido avaliados, como outras características do paciente (obesidade, doenças endócrinas e atividade esportiva) e do sistema de saúde. Nível de Evidência III, Série Retrospectiva de Casos .

Discrimination, reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of metric-based assessment of an unstable pertrochanteric 31A2 intramedullary nailing procedure performed by experienced and novice surgeons.

INTRODUCTION: Identifying objective performance metrics for surgical training in orthopedic surgery is imperative for effective training and patient safety. The objective of this study was to determine if an internationally agreed, metric-based objective assessment of video recordings of an unstable pertrochanteric 31A2 intramedullary nailing procedure distinguished between the performance of experienced and novice orthopedic surgeons. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Previously agreed procedure metrics (i.e., 15 phases of the procedure, 75 steps, 88 errors, and 28 sentinel errors) for a closed reduction and standard cephalomedullary nail fixation with a single cephalic element of an unstable pertrochanteric 31A2 fracture. Experienced surgeons trained to assess the performance metrics with an interrater reliability (IRR) > 0.8 assessed 14 videos from 10 novice surgeons (orthopaedic residents/trainees) and 20 videos from 14 experienced surgeons (orthopaedic surgeons) blinded to group and procedure order. RESULTS: The mean IRR of procedure assessments was 0.97. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups for Procedure Steps, Errors, Sentinel Errors, and Total Errors. A small number of Experienced surgeons made a similar number of Total Errors as the weakest performing Novices. When the scores of each group were divided at the median Total Error score, large differences were observed between the Experienced surgeons who made the fewest errors and the Novices making the most errors (p < 0.001). Experienced surgeons who made the most errors made significantly more than their Experienced peers (p < 0.003) and the best performing Novices (p < 0.001). Error metrics assessed with Area Under the Curve demonstrated good to excellent Sensitivity and Specificity (0.807-0.907). DISCUSSION: Binary performance metrics previously agreed by an international Delphi meeting discriminated between the objectively assessed video-recorded performance of Experienced and Novice orthopedic surgeons when group scores were sub-divided at the median for Total Errors. Error metrics discriminated best and also demonstrated good to excellent Sensitivity and Specificity. Some very experienced surgeons performed similar to the Novice group surgeons that made most errors. CONCLUSIONS: The procedure metrics used in this study reliably distinguish Novice and Experienced orthopaedic surgeons' performance and will underpin quality-assured novice training.