Coccygectomy for coccygodynia: do we really have to wait?

AIM: To determine the results of 21 cases of persistent coccygodynia unresponsive to conservative management and treated with coccygectomy. METHODS: Of 81 patients with coccygodynia, 21 underwent surgical excision of the coccyx with a minimum 5 days of antibiotic prophylaxis. All 21 patients were followed for at least 2 years and questioned about their satisfaction with the operation and its timing. Pain levels were recorded preoperatively and during the postoperative period using the VAS scale. RESULTS: The mean VAS score was 51.88 (40-70), and this decreased to 3.17, 2.94 and 2.76 in the 6th, 12th and 24th months, respectively. This change was statistically significant. Of the 21 cases, 17 had an excellent result and 4 had a good result. None had a wound healing problem or infection. All were satisfied with the operation, and all stated that they would have liked to have undergone it sooner. CONCLUSION: For unstable coccygeal fracture and persistent coccygodynia, coccygectomy is a reliable method of treatment with a high satisfaction and a low complication rate.

Self-locking tension band technique. A new perspective in tension band wiring.

After experiencing some complications with the AO modified tension band technique, we have made a small modification to prevent proximal migration of the Kirschner wires. In this modification, the proximal ends of the wires are bent to form a loop and the cerclage wire passed through them. In this way, Kirschner wires and cerclage wire lock each other, preventing migration. We have treated 51 patients with this technique, including 22 transverse patellar, 11 olecranon, 3 medial and 5 lateral malleolar fractures, 3 acromioclavicular separations, 4 olecranon chevron osteotomy fixations and 3 trochanter major fixations. Fracture union occurred in 8 weeks (mean). We did not see any postoperative complications or implant failures. Rigid fixation allows early mobilization which quickly restores functional status.

Repair of neglected Achilles tendon ruptures: procedures and functional results.

Surgical repair of neglected Achilles tendon ruptures presents the challenge of restoring the function of the Achilles tendon complex while repairing the large defect that is created by the delay in appropriate treatment. We present our preferred technique for delayed repair and the results of six patients who were available for complete follow-up evaluation. The combined surgical technique includes: V-to-Y gastrocnemius recession or advancement, excision of the fibroadipose defect, end-to-end anastomosis, gastrocnemius aponeurotic flap to reinforce the anastomosis. Each of six patients were interviewed and examined clinically and by Cybex II isokinetic strength testing. All six patients have been able to return to their pre-injury activities. Cybex II isokinetic strength testing demonstrated peak torque deficiencies in plantar flexion ranging from 2.5%-22% as compared with the unaffected limb. The overall results of the technique described indicate that very satisfactory functioning of a neglected Achilles tendon rupture can be obtained.

Self locking tension band technique in transverse patellar fractures.

Following tension band wiring of fractures of the patella, proximal K-wire migration is a common complication. To prevent this we have devised the 'self locking tension band' technique. The proximal K-wire ends are bent to form a loop and the cerclage wire passed through them. This prevents subsequent migration of the K-wires. We have treated 15 fractures using this technique. At a mean follow up of 30 months, no postoperative complications were found.