Arthroscopy-assisted Procedures in Hand and Wrist Surgery: An Update. Where Are We So Far?

Wrist and hand arthroscopy, despite being an old tool, has gained popularity and advanced in assisting in the treatment of various injuries and conditions in the region in recent years. Dorsal, volar, ulnar, and radial accessory portals are used to reach all points of the carpal and hand joints. The minimal tissue damage, lesser injury to the capsule and its mechanoreceptors, the assessment of injuries associated with the reason for surgery, and aesthetically more favorable scars have attracted many doctors and their patients. As a result, there has been an increase in publications and diversifications of arthroscopic techniques. The aim of this update article is to present the advances and the evidence available in the literature to assist readers in their decision on which technique to use in the treatment of wrist and hand conditions.

[Trans-scapho-perilunar fracture-dislocation: a case report]. / Fractura-luxación transescafo-perilunar: reporte de un caso clínico.

Trans-scaphoid perilunate fractures-dislocations are rare injuries caused by high-energy trauma of the wrist. Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and tools such as radiographs, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging. Early treatment consists of closed reduction and casting to stabilize the limb. Definitive treatment is surgical and includes bone and soft tissue repair. A case of trans-scaphoid perilunate fracture-dislocation is presented, along with diagnosis, management and outcome.

Las fracturas-luxaciones transescafo-perilunares son lesiones infrecuentes causadas por impactos de alta energía hacia la muñeca. El diagnóstico se basa en la historia clínica, exploración física y herramientas como la radiografía, la tomografía computarizada y la resonancia magnética. El manejo inmediato consiste en una reducción cerrada e inmovilización para estabilizar la extremidad. El tratamiento definitivo es de carácter quirúrgico e incluye la reparación ósea y de tejidos blandos. Se presenta un caso de fractura-luxación transescafo-perilunar, su diagnóstico, manejo y evolución.

Arthroscopy-assisted Procedures in Hand and Wrist Surgery: An Update. Where Are We So Far? / Procedimentos assistidos por artroscopia no punho e na mão: Atualização. Onde nós estamos?

Abstract Wrist and hand arthroscopy, despite being an old tool, has gained popularity and advanced in assisting in the treatment of various injuries and conditions in the region in recent years. Dorsal, volar, ulnar, and radial accessory portals are used to reach all points of the carpal and hand joints. The minimal tissue damage, lesser injury to the capsule and its mechanoreceptors, the assessment of injuries associated with the reason for surgery, and aesthetically more favorable scars have attracted many doctors and their patients. As a result, there has been an increase in publications and diversifications of arthroscopic techniques. The aim of this update article is to present the advances and the evidence available in the literature to assist readers in their decision on which technique to use in the treatment of wrist and hand conditions.

Resumo A artroscopia de punho e mão, apesar de ser uma ferramenta antiga, tem ganhado popularidade e avançado no auxílio do tratamento das mais diversas lesões e doenças da região nos últimos anos. Utilizam-se portais acessórios dorsais, volares, ulnares e radiais para se alcançar todos os pontos das articulações do carpo e da mão. O menor dano tecidual, a menor lesão da cápsula e de seus mecanoceptores, a avaliação de lesões associadas ao motivo da cirurgia e as cicatrizes esteticamente mais favoráveis têm atraído muitos médicos e seus pacientes. Com isso, houve um aumento das publicações e diversificações de técnicas artroscópicas. O objetivo deste artigo de atualização é mostrar os avanços e o que temos de evidência na literatura para apoiar os leitores na sua decisão sobre qual técnica utilizar nos tratamentos das doenças do punho e da mão.

Distal Radial Fractures with Scaphoid Fractures.

Objective This study evaluated the epidemiological data and functional outcomes from patients with concomitant distal radial and scaphoid fractures treated in a single center specialized in hand surgery. Functional outcomes analysis used validated instruments. Methods Patients diagnosed with distal radial and scaphoid fractures treated from January 2011 to December 2021 underwent assessments using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, goniometry, radiographic consolidation, and complications six months after surgery. Results The study included 23 patients, 73.9% men and 26.1% women. Most (56.5%) fractures occurred on the right side, and 43.5% happened on the left side. Treatment of most (56%) distal radial fractures used a locked volar plate. Functional assessment by PRWE resulted in a mean score of 35.9 points (range, 14 to 71 points), while DASH showed a mean score of 37.8 points (range, 12 to 78 points). The mean VAS was 2.33 during activities (range, 0.6 to 6.2). Conclusion Distal radial fractures associated with scaphoid fractures resulted from high-energy trauma, and most patients were males. There was a low rate of complications with surgical treatment, and the patients had satisfactory functional evolution with a low level of pain.

Distal Radial Fractures with Scaphoid Fractures / Fraturas do rádio distal associadas à fratura do escafoide

Abstract Objective This study evaluated the epidemiological data and functional outcomes from patients with concomitant distal radial and scaphoid fractures treated in a single center specialized in hand surgery. Functional outcomes analysis used validated instruments. Methods Patients diagnosed with distal radial and scaphoid fractures treated from January 2011 to December 2021 underwent assessments using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, goniometry, radiographic consolidation, and complications six months after surgery. Results The study included 23 patients, 73.9% men and 26.1% women. Most (56.5%) fractures occurred on the right side, and 43.5% happened on the left side. Treatment of most (56%) distal radial fractures used a locked volar plate. Functional assessment by PRWE resulted in a mean score of 35.9 points (range, 14 to 71 points), while DASH showed a mean score of 37.8 points (range, 12 to 78 points). The mean VAS was 2.33 during activities (range, 0.6 to 6.2). Conclusion Distal radial fractures associated with scaphoid fractures resulted from high-energy trauma, and most patients were males. There was a low rate of complications with surgical treatment, and the patients had satisfactory functional evolution with a low level of pain.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os resultados epidemiológicos e funcionais dos pacientes que apresentaram fraturas concomitantes do rádio distal e do escafoide e foram tratados em um único centro especializado em cirurgia da mão, através de instrumentos validados para analisar os desfechos funcionais desses pacientes. Métodos Foram avaliados os pacientes com diagnóstico de fratura do rádio distal e escafoide tratados de janeiro de 2011 até dezembro de 2021, através dos questionários Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) e Escala Visual Analógica da dor (EVA); goniometria; consolidação radiográfica; complicações em seis meses de pós-operatório. Resultados Vinte e três pacientes foram incluídos no estudo, sendo 73,9% homens e 26,1% mulheres; 56,5% das fraturas ocorreram à direita e 43,5% à esquerda. A maioria das fraturas do rádio distal foi tratada com placa volar bloqueada, totalizando 56%. Na avaliação funcional pelo PRWE, obteve-se média de 35,9 pontos (variação de 14 a 71 pontos) e pelo DASH média de 37,8 pontos (variação de 12 a 78 pontos). A EVA apresentou uma média de 2,33 durante a atividade (variação de 0,6 a 6,2). Conclusão Verificou-se que as fraturas do rádio distal associadas a fraturas do escafoide foram causadas por traumas de alta energia, com o sexo masculino mais acometido. Houve baixo índice de complicações com tratamento cirúrgico e os pacientes tiveram evolução funcional satisfatória, com baixo índice de dor.

OSTEOSYNTHESIS OF A SCAPHOID NECK FRACTURE WITH A CANNULATED COMPRESSION SCREW: EVALUATION OF 52 PATIENTS.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the dorsal fixation technique with a cannulated compression screw (CCS) for transverse scaphoid neck fractures. METHODS: A case series study was carried out with patients treated with a CSS between April 2014 and May 2021. The main outcome was the healing of the fracture, verified by radiographic evaluation that used images of the wrist in anteroposterior, lateral, radial deviation, ulnar deviation and oblique views, obtained in the postoperative period. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients aged between 15 and 65 years were analyzed, of which 43 (83%) were male. Of the 52 patients, 19 (36.53%) had a right-hand injury and 33 (63.46%) had a left-hand injury. Results were excellent in 47 patients (90.38%); good in 4 patients (7.69%), with reduced mobility compared to contralateral and poor in 1 patient (1.92%), with failure of consolidation and breakage of the synthesis material. In 51 cases (99%) there was bone consolidation at the end of six months. CONCLUSION: Osteosynthesis with a cannulated compression screw is a safe, effective and promising method for the treatment of scaphoid neck fractures. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficácia da técnica de fixação dorsal com parafuso canulado de compressão (CCS) para fraturas transversas do colo do escafoide. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de série de casos com pacientes tratados com CSS entre abril de 2014 e maio de 2021. O desfecho principal foi a consolidação da fratura, verificada por meio da avaliação radiográfica das imagens do punho em anteroposterior, perfil, desvio radial, desvio ulnar e oblíquo obtidas no pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 52 pacientes com idade entre 15 e 65 anos, sendo 43 (83%) do sexo masculino. Dos 52 pacientes, 19 (36,53%) tinham lesão na mão direita e 33(63,46%) na mão esquerda. Os resultados foram excelentes em 47 dos pacientes (90,38%); bons em quatro (7,69%), com mobilidade reduzida comparada ao membro contralateral; e ruim em um (1,92%), com falha da consolidação e quebra do material de síntese. Em 51 casos (99%) houve consolidação óssea ao final de seis meses. Conclusão: A osteossíntese com parafuso canulado de compressão é um método seguro, eficaz e promissor para o tratamento das fraturas no colo do escafoide. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Late consolidation of the scaphoid. Case report and literature review.

Scaphoid fractures are a common wrist injury accounting for 2-7% of all adult fractures. Nonunion is described in 5-12% of cases leading to osteoarthritis. Several classifications have been developed focused on this pathology and its complication. We present a case of a 28 years old male patient with a scaphoid fracture and nonunion who spontaneously consolidates without treatment. We performed a literature review to recognize this pathology, its common evolution and possible treatment options.

Las fracturas de escafoides son una lesión frecuente de la muñeca y representan de 2-7% de todas las fracturas en adultos. La no unión se describe en 5-12% de los casos y conduce a la osteoartritis. Se han desarrollado varias clasificaciones centradas en esta patología y su complicación. Presentamos el caso de un paciente varón de 28 años con fractura y no unión de escafoides que consolida espontáneamente sin tratamiento. Realizamos una revisión bibliográfica para reconocer esta patología, su evolución habitual y las posibles opciones de tratamiento.

Comparative analysis of cancellous graft and cortico-cancellous graft in osteosynthesis of scaphoid pseudoarthrosis with plate.

INTRODUCTION: Scaphoid is the most fractured carpal bone, with a 5-10% nonunion rate. Treatment challenges include choosing the implant and graft that best corrects humpback deformity and carpal malalignment with higher chances of bony healing. OBJECTIVE: Compare cortico-cancellous and cancellous grafts between two groups of patients treating scaphoid nonunion with locking plates using autologous bone graft and evaluate bone healing rates and radiographic, tomographic, and functional parameters before and after surgery. METHODS: Non-randomized prospective study including 20 cases of scaphoid nonunion. Groups were divided into Group A (ten patients treated with cortico-cancellous iliac graft) and Group B (ten patients treated with cancellous iliac graft). Patients underwent pre- and postoperative radiographs, computed tomography, and functional evaluation. RESULTS: In postoperative analysis, Group A showed a statistically significant difference in intrascaphoid angle (p = 0.002) and scapholunate angle (p = 0.011) correction when comparing the pre- and postoperative periods. Group B showed a statistically significant difference in intrascaphoid angle (p = 0.002) and scapholunate angle correction (p = 0.0018), grip strength (p = 0.002), and tip pinch strength (p = 0.001) when comparing the pre- and postoperative periods. By comparing both groups, Group B showed a statistically significant difference in intrascaphoid angle correction (p = 0.002), grip strength (p = 0.002), tip pinch strength (p = 0.002), and radial deviation (p = 0.0003). There was no statistical difference when comparing bony healing between groups. CONCLUSION: Scaphoid nonunion treatment with a locking plate was effective, showing a high bony healing rate and improved carpal alignment in imaging tests for both graft types. However, results for intrascaphoid angle correction, grip strength, tip pinch strength, and radial deviation were better in Group B. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, case series.

Late consolidation of the scaphoid. Case report and literature review / Consolidación tardía del escafoides. Reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura

Abstract: Scaphoid fractures are a common wrist injury accounting for 2-7% of all adult fractures. Nonunion is described in 5-12% of cases leading to osteoarthritis. Several classifications have been developed focused on this pathology and its complication. We present a case of a 28 years old male patient with a scaphoid fracture and nonunion who spontaneously consolidates without treatment. We performed a literature review to recognize this pathology, its common evolution and possible treatment options.

Resumen: Las fracturas de escafoides son una lesión frecuente de la muñeca y representan de 2-7% de todas las fracturas en adultos. La no unión se describe en 5-12% de los casos y conduce a la osteoartritis. Se han desarrollado varias clasificaciones centradas en esta patología y su complicación. Presentamos el caso de un paciente varón de 28 años con fractura y no unión de escafoides que consolida espontáneamente sin tratamiento. Realizamos una revisión bibliográfica para reconocer esta patología, su evolución habitual y las posibles opciones de tratamiento.

Comparative analysis of scaphoid nonunion treatment with screw fixation and angular stable plate.

INTRODUCTION: Scaphoid fractures represent 5-10% of nonunion rate and the treatment options consist of an open reduction with correction of deformity, restoration of the scaphoid length with autologous wedge grafting and fixation. However, there is still no consensus in the literature on the best fixation method. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to compare plate fixation and screw fixation in treating scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity and carpal instability. METHODS: Prospective, non-randomised study comparing the treatment of two groups of patients with scaphoid nonunion. A total of 19 patients were included in the study, the first ten patients were included in group 1 (plate fixation), subsequently nine patients were included in group 2 (screw fixation). The nonunion duration was longer than 6 months and patients did not present type III Scaphoid Nonunion Advanced Collapse (SNAC). Clinical evaluations included pain intensity, range of motion, grip strength, pinch test and functional scales Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Mayo Wrist Score. Radiographic evaluations consisted of radiographs of both wrists in AP, AP with ulnar deviation, lateral and oblique views. Patients further underwent a tomography of the affected wrist for bone deformity, carpal collapse and later consolidation evaluation. RESULTS: According to post-operative measurements, group 1 showed a significant improvement in the scapholunate angle (p = 0.011) and in the intrascaphoid angle (p = 0.002). Group 2 only showed an improvement in the scapholunate angle (p = 0.011). All patients in group 1 achieved consolidation in 8 weeks, while group 2 patients had a slower consolidation, with a mean of 14 weeks and standard deviation (SD) of 4.2, with statistical significance (p = 0.006). CONCLUSION: Our prospective study, despite the limitations, contributes to the literature for demonstrating a better fixation using plate, with a better correction of humpback deformity and Dorsal Intercalated Segment Instability (DISI) and a faster consolidation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II, therapeutics studies; prospective comparative study.

Osteosynthesis of a scaphoid neck fracture with a cannulated compression screw: evaluation of 52 patients / Osteossíntese de fratura no colo do escafoide com parafuso canulado de compressão: avaliação de 52 pacientes

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the dorsal fixation technique with a cannulated compression screw (CCS) for transverse scaphoid neck fractures. Methods: A case series study was carried out with patients treated with a CSS between April 2014 and May 2021. The main outcome was the healing of the fracture, verified by radiographic evaluation that used images of the wrist in anteroposterior, lateral, radial deviation, ulnar deviation and oblique views, obtained in the postoperative period. Results: Fifty-two patients aged between 15 and 65 years were analyzed, of which 43 (83%) were male. Of the 52 patients, 19 (36.53%) had a right-hand injury and 33 (63.46%) had a left-hand injury. Results were excellent in 47 patients (90.38%); good in 4 patients (7.69%), with reduced mobility compared to contralateral and poor in 1 patient (1.92%), with failure of consolidation and breakage of the synthesis material. In 51 cases (99%) there was bone consolidation at the end of six months. Conclusion: Osteosynthesis with a cannulated compression screw is a safe, effective and promising method for the treatment of scaphoid neck fractures. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da técnica de fixação dorsal com parafuso canulado de compressão (CCS) para fraturas transversas do colo do escafoide. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de série de casos com pacientes tratados com CSS entre abril de 2014 e maio de 2021. O desfecho principal foi a consolidação da fratura, verificada por meio da avaliação radiográfica das imagens do punho em anteroposterior, perfil, desvio radial, desvio ulnar e oblíquo obtidas no pós-operatório. Resultados: Foram analisados 52 pacientes com idade entre 15 e 65 anos, sendo 43 (83%) do sexo masculino. Dos 52 pacientes, 19 (36,53%) tinham lesão na mão direita e 33(63,46%) na mão esquerda. Os resultados foram excelentes em 47 dos pacientes (90,38%); bons em quatro (7,69%), com mobilidade reduzida comparada ao membro contralateral; e ruim em um (1,92%), com falha da consolidação e quebra do material de síntese. Em 51 casos (99%) houve consolidação óssea ao final de seis meses. Conclusão: A osteossíntese com parafuso canulado de compressão é um método seguro, eficaz e promissor para o tratamento das fraturas no colo do escafoide. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

WALANT Technique in Percutaneous Scaphoid Osteosynthesis.

Scaphoid fractures account for 50 to 70% of all carpal bone fractures. Percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis can use the dorsal or volar approach, both with good results, and is most commonly performed under general anesthesia or regional nerve block. The wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) technique is already considered a safe and cost-effective technique in hand surgery around the world. Local anesthesia with epinephrine causes vasoconstriction, which obviates the need for tourniquet and, consequently, the need to use patient sedation. Thus, the possibility of testing fixation stability under physiological forces is another great advantage of using local anesthesia. In the technique described in the present paper, active wrist and hand motion can be tested immediately after scaphoid fixation. Wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet has been increasingly used in soft-tissue hand surgery and in the fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. However, to date, there is no published literature addressing the use of this technique in percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis. The purpose of the present technical note is to describe the use of WALANT for both the dorsal and volar approaches in percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis.

WALANT Technique in Percutaneous Scaphoid Osteosynthesis / WALANT na osteossíntese percutânea do escafoide

Abstract Scaphoid fractures account for 50 to 70% of all carpal bone fractures. Percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis can use the dorsal or volar approach, both with good results, and is most commonly performed under general anesthesia or regional nerve block. The wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) technique is already considered a safe and cost-effective technique in hand surgery around the world. Local anesthesia with epinephrine causes vasoconstriction, which obviates the need for tourniquet and, consequently, the need to use patient sedation. Thus, the possibility of testing fixation stability under physiological forces is another great advantage of using local anesthesia. In the technique described in the present paper, active wrist and hand motion can be tested immediately after scaphoid fixation. Wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet has been increasingly used in soft-tissue hand surgery and in the fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. However, to date, there is no published literature addressing the use of this technique in percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis. The purpose of the present technical note is to describe the use of WALANT for both the dorsal and volar approaches in percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis.

Resumo As fraturas do escafoide representam entre 50 e 70% de todas as fraturas dos ossos do carpo. A osteossíntese percutânea do escafoide pode usar a abordagem dorsal ou volar, ambas com bons resultados. É mais comumente realizada sob anestesia geral ou bloqueio nervoso regional. A técnica de anestesia local com o paciente totalmente acordado e sem torniquete (WALANT, na sigla em inglês) já é considerada uma técnica segura e eficaz na cirurgia da mão. A anestesia local com epinefrina causa vasoconstrição, o que evita o uso de torniquete e, consequentemente, a necessidade de sedação do paciente. Assim, a possibilidade de testar a estabilidade da fixação sob forças fisiológicas é outra grande vantagem do uso da anestesia local. Na técnica descrita aqui, o movimento ativo do punho e da mão pode ser testado imediatamente após a fixação escafoide. A técnica WALANT tem sido cada vez mais utilizada na cirurgia da mão em partes moles e na fixação de fraturas de metacarpo e falanges. No entanto, até o momento, não há literatura publicada abordando o uso dessa técnica na osteossíntese percutânea do escafoide. O objetivo desta nota técnica é descrever o uso de WALANT tanto para a abordagem dorsal quanto volar na osteossíntese percutânea do escafoide.

Tratamiento de no unión de fractura de escafoides con tornillos canulados sin cabeza e injerto autólogo esponjoso de radio distal / Treatment for non-union scaphoid fractures with headless cannulated screws and distal radius cancellous autograft

Resumen: Introducción: las fracturas de escafoides representan 50-80% de las fracturas de los huesos del carpo. De las fracturas de escafoides 10% evolucionan a no unión con tratamiento conservador y presentan cambios degenerativos en el carpo en 75-97% a cinco años y en 100% a 10 años. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la tasa y tiempo de consolidación en pacientes con diagnóstico de no unión de fractura de escafoides, sin fragmentación del polo proximal, tras tratamiento con dos tornillos canulados sin cabeza e injerto autólogo esponjoso de radio distal. Material y métodos: serie de casos de cuatro pacientes con diagnóstico de no unión de fractura de escafoides sin fragmentación del polo proximal, tratados mediante reducción abierta y fijación interna utilizando dos tornillos canulados sin cabeza y toma más aplicación de autoinjerto esponjoso de radio distal. Todos recibieron el mismo tratamiento postoperatorio y se tomó control radiográfico para evidenciar consolidación una vez que el paciente experimentó resolución clínica. Resultados: la tasa de consolidación radiográfica fue de 100% con un tiempo de consolidación promedio de 11.25 ± 3.4 semanas. No presentaron complicaciones y no fue necesaria una cirugía de revisión. Conclusión: el resultado del uso de dos tornillos canulados sin cabeza y toma más aplicación de autoinjerto óseo esponjoso de radio distal avala la técnica como una opción efectiva y segura para el tratamiento de no unión de fracturas de escafoides sin fragmentación del polo proximal.

Abstract: Introduction: scaphoid fractures comprise 50-80% of the fractures of the carpal bones. Ten percent of the scaphoid fractures evolve to non-union and show degenerative changes in the carpus in 75-97% at five years and in 100% at 10 years. The objective of this work was to evaluate the rate and time to union in patients with diagnosis of scaphoid non-union without fragmentation of the proximal pole after treatment with two cannulated headless screws and distal radius cancellous autograft. Material and methods: case series with short-term follow-up of four patients with scaphoid non-union without fragmentation of the proximal pole treated by internal fixation using two cannulated headless screws and distal radius cancellous bone autograft. All received the same postoperative treatment and radiographic control was taken as soon as the patient experienced clinical resolution. Results: the radiographic union rate was 100% with an average time to union of 11.25 ± 3.4 weeks. There were no complications and revision surgery was not necessary. Conclusion: the results of the use of two cannulated headless screws and distal radius cancellous bone autograft endorses the technique as an effective and safe option for the treatment of scaphoid non-union without fragmentation of the proximal pole.

Percutaneous Grafting and Screw Fixation in Patients with Scaphoid Nonunion / Enxerto percutâneo e fixação de parafusos em pacientes com não consolidação do escafoide

Abstract Objective The aim of the present study was to analyze the clinical and radiological results of patients with type-V cystic scaphoid nonunion who were treated with percutaneous grafting and screw. Methods A total of 11 patients were treated with a percutaneous bone graft with screw fixation. The criteria for inclusion in the study were a type-V scaphoid nonunion and age > 18 years old. Those with humpback deformity, arthritis, ligament damage determined on magnetic resonance imaging, or avascular necrosis (AVN) in the nonunion fragment were excluded from the study. Results The mean follow-up time was 36 months (range: 15-53 months). At the final follow-up examination, the mean visual analogue scale score was 1.06 (range: 0-2.3). Postoperatively, the mean extension was 61.6° (44-80°), flexion 66° (60-80°), radial deviation 12° (7-20°), and ulnar deviation 25° (20-34°). The mean grip strength of the operated hand was found to be 94%, compared with the healthy side. The results obtained in the Mayo Modified Wrist Score were poor in 2 patients, good in 2 and excellent in 7 (64%). With the exception of 2 patients, union was obtained radiologically in 9 patients, with a mean of 12.6 weeks (range, 8-16 weeks). Conclusion Percutaneous grafting and screw fixation cannot replace open surgery in cases with deformity, shortening, humpbacking, or in long term nonunions; however, it is a reliable and effective treatment method in selected cases, such as Slade & Dodds type-V cystic nonunion.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os resultados clínicos e radiológicos de pacientes com não consolidação do escafoide que foram tratados com enxerto percutâneo e parafuso. Métodos Um total de 11 pacientes foram tratados com enxerto ósseo percutâneo com fixação de parafuso. Os critérios de inclusão no estudo foram não consolidação do escafoide do tipo 5 e idade > 18 anos. Foram excluídos do estudo aqueles com deformidade corcunda, artrite, dano ligamentar determinado por ressonância magné- tica ou necrose avascular (NAV) no fragmento de não consolidação. Resultados O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 36 meses (intervalo: 15-53 meses). No exame final de seguimento, o escore médio de escala visual analógica foi de 1,06 (intervalo: 0-2,3). No pós-operatório, a extensão média foi de 61,6° (44-80°), flexão 66° (60-80°), desvio radial 12° (7--20°) e desvio ulnar 25° (20-34°). A força média de aderência da mão operada foi de 94% em comparação com o lado saudável. Os resultados obtidos no Mayo Modified Wrist Score foram ruins em 2 pacientes, bons em 2 e excelentes em 7 (64%). Com exceção de 2 pacientes, a consolidação foi confirmada radiologicamente em 9 pacientes com média de 12,6 semanas (intervalo: 8-16 semanas). Conclusão Enxerto percutâneoe fixação de parafusos não podem substituir a cirurgia aberta em casos de deformidade, encurtamento ou acorcundamento ou em não consolidação a longo prazo; no entanto, é um método de tratamento confiável e eficaz em casos selecionados, tais como a não consolidação do tipo V de Slade e Dodds.

[Treatment for non-union scaphoid fractures with headless cannulated screws and distal radius cancellous autograft]. / Tratamiento de no unión de fractura de escafoides con tornillos canulados sin cabeza e injerto autólogo esponjoso de radio distal.

INTRODUCTION: scaphoid fractures comprise 50-80% of the fractures of the carpal bones. Ten percent of the scaphoid fractures evolve to non-union and show degenerative changes in the carpus in 75-97% at five years and in 100% at 10 years. The objective of this work was to evaluate the rate and time to union in patients with diagnosis of scaphoid non-union without fragmentation of the proximal pole after treatment with two cannulated headless screws and distal radius cancellous autograft. MATERIAL AND METHODS: case series with short-term follow-up of four patients with scaphoid non-union without fragmentation of the proximal pole treated by internal fixation using two cannulated headless screws and distal radius cancellous bone autograft. All received the same postoperative treatment and radiographic control was taken as soon as the patient experienced clinical resolution. RESULTS: the radiographic union rate was 100% with an average time to union of 11.25 ± 3.4 weeks. There were no complications and revision surgery was not necessary. CONCLUSION: the results of the use of two cannulated headless screws and distal radius cancellous bone autograft endorses the technique as an effective and safe option for the treatment of scaphoid non-union without fragmentation of the proximal pole.

INTRODUCCIÓN: las fracturas de escafoides representan 50-80% de las fracturas de los huesos del carpo. De las fracturas de escafoides 10% evolucionan a no unión con tratamiento conservador y presentan cambios degenerativos en el carpo en 75-97% a cinco años y en 100% a 10 años. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la tasa y tiempo de consolidación en pacientes con diagnóstico de no unión de fractura de escafoides, sin fragmentación del polo proximal, tras tratamiento con dos tornillos canulados sin cabeza e injerto autólogo esponjoso de radio distal. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: serie de casos de cuatro pacientes con diagnóstico de no unión de fractura de escafoides sin fragmentación del polo proximal, tratados mediante reducción abierta y fijación interna utilizando dos tornillos canulados sin cabeza y toma más aplicación de autoinjerto esponjoso de radio distal. Todos recibieron el mismo tratamiento postoperatorio y se tomó control radiográfico para evidenciar consolidación una vez que el paciente experimentó resolución clínica. RESULTADOS: la tasa de consolidación radiográfica fue de 100% con un tiempo de consolidación promedio de 11.25 ± 3.4 semanas. No presentaron complicaciones y no fue necesaria una cirugía de revisión. CONCLUSIÓN: el resultado del uso de dos tornillos canulados sin cabeza y toma más aplicación de autoinjerto óseo esponjoso de radio distal avala la técnica como una opción efectiva y segura para el tratamiento de no unión de fracturas de escafoides sin fragmentación del polo proximal.

A Rare Presentation of Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon Rupture After Nondisplaced Scaphoid Fracture.

Extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture is a reported complication after nondisplaced distal radius fractures. These are thought to occur secondary to mechanical irritation or compromised blood supply. We present a case of extensor pollicis longus rupture after a healed nondisplaced scaphoid fracture, which may have involved a similar attritional process. We are unaware of any prior reports of extensor pollicis longus rupture after this type of injury.

Internal Fixation of Scaphoid Nonunion with Humpback Deformity Using Iliac Graft and Volar Plate: Series of Eight Cases.

Objectives The aim of the present article is a clinical and radiographic evaluation of scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity using an iliac graft and a volar plate. Methods Eight patients were followed-up prospectively, all male, with a mean age of 39.6 years old, with scaphoid waist nonunion, with an average of 19 months of trauma without previous surgery. The patients were treated with a graft removed from the iliac crest and a 1.5 mm blocked volar scaphoid plate (Medarthis AG, Basel, Switzerland). The patients were followed-up with radiographic evaluations and computed tomography (CT) scans in the preoperative period and 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after the operation. The carpal height and the scaphosemilunar and intrascaphoid angles were measured preoperatively, 3 months, and 1 year postoperatively. The function was assessed preoperatively and repeated 1 year postoperatively using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Patient-related Wrist Evaluation (PWRE scores), as well as by measurement of forceps clamp and wrist and thumb range of motion. Results All cases were consolidated, with an average time of 3.38 months. Two complications were observed: an infection of the iliac surgical wound and a plaque element placed in the scapholunate space. Two patients opted to remove the implant because they had a painful click at maximum wrist flexion. There was improvement in the parameters of wrist and thumb range of motion and pinch strength in all measurements, with statistical significance for the PRWE and the scapholunate angle. Conclusion Although our sample was small, we achieved consolidation in all cases; the complications were expected in the literature and there were improvements in the radiographic patterns, in the functional assessment, and in the pain scale of our patients.

Treatment of Chondral Knee Lesions with Autologous Chondrocytes Embedded in a Fibrin Scaffold. Clinical and Functional Assessment / Tratamento de lesões condrais no joelho com condrócitos autólogos embebidos em arcabouço de fibrina. Avaliação clínica e funcional

Abstract Objective The aim of our study is to analyze the clinical and functional results obtained using autologous chondrocytes embedded in a fibrin scaffold in knee joint injuries. Methods We included 56 patients, 36 men and 20 women, with a mean age 36 years. Six of the patients were professional athletes, with single knee injuries that were either chondral or osteochondral (43 chondral, 9 osteochondral, 2 cases of osteochondritis dissecans and 2 osteochondral fractures), 2 to 10 cm2 in size and ≤ 10 mm deep, with no signs of osteoarthritis. The location of the injury was in the patella (8), the medial femoral condyle (40) and lateral femoral condyle (7) and one in the trochlea. The mean follow-up was 3 (range: 1-6) years. The clinical course was assessed using the Cincinnati and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome (KOOS) scores, 6 and 12 months after surgery. The paired Student t-test was used to compare pre-and postoperative results. Results Six months after the implant, patients resumed their everyday activities. On the assessment scores, their condition was improving in comparison with their presurgical state (p < 0.05). They were also able to carry out their sporting activities more easily than prior to surgery (p < 0.05). Conclusion The seeding of chondrocytes in fibrin may provide a favorable microenvironment for the synthesis of extracellular matrix and improved the clinical condition and activity of the patients 1 year after surgery.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do nosso estudo é analisar os resultados clínicos e funcionais do tratamento de lesões nas articulações do joelho com condrócitos autólogos embebidos em arcabouço de fibrina. Métodos O estudo foi realizado com 56 pacientes (36 homens e 20 mulheres) com idade média de 36 anos; 6 indivíduos eram atletas profissionais. Os pacientes apresentavam lesões únicas, condrais ou osteocondrais (43 condrais, nove osteocondrais, 2 casos de osteocondrite dissecante e duas fraturas osteocondrais) no joelho, com 2 a 10 cm2 de tamanho e ≤ 10 mm de profundidade, sem sinais de osteoartrite. As lesões estavam localizadas na patela (8), no côndilo femoral medial (40), no côndilo femoral lateral (7) e na tróclea (1). O período médio de acompanhamento foi de 3 anos (faixa de 1-6 anos). A evolução clínica foi avaliada pelos escores de Cincinnati e Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome (KOOS), 6 e 12 meses após a cirurgia. O teste t de Student pareado foi utilizado para comparação dos achados pré e pós-operatórios. Resultados Os pacientes retomaram suas atividades diárias 6 meses após o implante. Os escores avaliados demonstraram a melhora em comparação ao estado pré-cirúrgico (p < 0,05). Além disso, os pacientes conseguiram realizar suas atividades esportivas com mais facilidade do que antes da cirurgia (p < 0,05). Conclusão A cultura de condrócitos em fibrina pode proporcionar um microambiente favorável para a síntese de matriz extracelular e melhorar a condição clínica e a atividade dos pacientes 1 ano após a cirurgia

What is the role of ultrasonography in the early diagnosis of scaphoid fractures?

Scaphoid fractures are the most prevalent type of carpal bone fractures. High-spatial-resolution sonography detects direct signs of scaphoid fractures such as scaphoid cortical disruption; nevertheless, indirect signs such as radiocarpal effusion and scapho-trapezium-trapezoid effusion can also be visible. The diagnosis is performed when both direct and indirect signs of scaphoid fracture are presented. The presence of indirect signs alone is not enough to complete the diagnosis, for which more advanced imaging modalities are usually required. Here, we review the anatomy of the scaphoid, the clinical manifestations of scaphoid fractures, as well as ultrasonographic findings and differential diagnosis.