Surgical fixation with K-wires versus casting in adults with fracture of distal radius: DRAFFT2 multicentre randomised clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess wrist function, quality of life, and complications in adult patients with a dorsally displaced fracture of the distal radius, treated with either a moulded cast or surgical fixation with K-wires. DESIGN: Multicentre randomised clinical superiority trial, SETTING: 36 hospitals in the UK National Health Service (NHS). PARTICIPANTS: 500 adults aged 16 or over with a dorsally displaced fracture of the distal radius, randomised after manipulation of their fracture (255 to moulded cast; 245 to surgical fixation). INTERVENTIONS: Manipulation and moulded cast was compared with manipulation and surgical fixation with K-wires plus cast. Details of the application of the cast and the insertion of the K-wires were at the discretion of the treating surgeon, according to their normal clinical practice. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome measure was the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score at 12 months (five questions about pain and 10 about function and disability; overall score out of 100 (best score=0 and worst score=100)). Secondary outcomes were PRWE score at three and six months, quality of life, and complications, including the need for surgery due to loss of fracture position in the first six weeks. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 60 years and 417 (83%) were women; 395 (79%) completed follow-up. No statistically significant difference in the PRWE score was seen at 12 months (cast group (n=200), mean 21.2 (SD 23.1); K-wire group (n=195), mean 20.7 (22.3); adjusted mean difference -0.34 (95% confidence interval -4.33 to 3.66), P=0.87). No difference was seen at earlier time points. In the cast group, 33 (13%) of participants needed surgical fixation for loss of fracture position in the first six weeks compared with one revision surgery in the K-wire group (odds ratio 0.02, 95% confidence interval 0.001 to 0.10). CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture that needed manipulation, surgical fixation with K-wires did not improve patients' wrist function at 12 months compared with a cast. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN registry ISRCTN11980540.

A Prospective, Median 15-Year Comparison of Ponseti Casting and Surgical Treatment of Clubfoot.

BACKGROUND: In 2010, 2 authors of this current study reported the results of Ponseti treatment compared with primary posteromedial release (PMR) for congenital talipes equinovarus in a cohort of 51 prospective patients. This current study shows outcomes recorded at a median of 15 years after the original treatment. METHODS: Patient health records were available for all 51 patients at a median of 15 years (range, 13 to 17 years) following treatment of congenital talipes equinovarus with either the Ponseti method (25 patients [38 feet]) or PMR (26 patients [42 feet]). Thirty-eight of 51 patients could be contacted, and 33 patients (65%) participated in the clinical review, comprising patient-reported outcomes, clinical examination, 3-dimensional gait analysis, and plantar pressures. RESULTS: Sixteen (42%) of 38 Ponseti-treated feet and 20 (48%) of 42 PMR-treated feet had undergone a further surgical procedure. The PMR-treated feet were more likely to undergo osteotomies and intra-articular surgical procedures (15 feet) than the Ponseti-treated feet (5 feet) (p < 0.05). Of the 33 patients reviewed with multimodal assessment, the Ponseti group, compared with the PMR group, demonstrated better Dimeglio scores (5.8 compared with 7.0 points; p < 0.05), Disease Specific Instrument (80.7 compared with 65.6 points; p < 0.05), Functional Disability Inventory (1.1 compared with 5.1; p < 0.05), and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Foot and Ankle Outcomes Questionnaire scores (52.2 compared with 46.6 points; p < 0.05), as well as improved total sagittal ankle range of motion in gait and ankle plantar flexion range at toe-off. The PMR group with clinical hindfoot varus displayed higher pressures in the lateral midfoot and the forefoot. CONCLUSIONS: Although the numbers of repeat surgical interventions following Ponseti treatment and primary PMR were similar, the PMR-treated feet had greater numbers of osteotomies and intra-articular surgical procedures. Functional outcomes were improved at a median of 15 years for feet treated with the Ponseti method compared with feet treated with PMR, with advantages seen in the Ponseti group over several domains. This study provides the most comprehensive evaluation of outcomes close to skeletal maturity in prospective cohorts, reinforcing the Ponseti method as the initial treatment of choice for idiopathic clubfeet. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Cost Analysis of Volar Plate Fixation Versus Plaster Cast Immobilization for Intra-Articular Distal Radial Fractures.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility between plaster cast immobilization and volar plate fixation for acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fractures. METHODS: A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted as part of a randomized controlled trial comparing operative (volar plate fixation) with nonoperative (plaster cast immobilization) treatment in patients between 18 and 75 years old with an acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fracture. Health-care utilization and use of resources per patient were documented prospectively and included direct medical costs, direct non-medical costs, and indirect costs. All analyses were performed according to the intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS: The mean total cost per patient was $291 (95% bias-corrected and accelerated confidence interval [bcaCI] = -$1,286 to $1,572) higher in the operative group compared with the nonoperative group. The mean total number of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained at 12 months was significantly higher in the operative group than in the nonoperative group (mean difference = 0.15; 95% bcaCI = 0.056 to 0.243). The difference in the cost per QALY (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio [ICER]) was $2,008 (95% bcaCI = -$9,608 to $18,222) for the operative group compared with the nonoperative group, which means that operative treatment is more effective but also more expensive. Subgroup analysis including only patients with a paid job showed that the ICER was -$3,500 per QALY for the operative group with a paid job compared with the nonoperative group with a paid job, meaning that operative treatment is more effective and less expensive for patients with a paid job. CONCLUSIONS: The difference in QALYs gained for the operatively treated group was equivalent to an additional 55 days of perfect health per year. In adult patients with an acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fracture, operative treatment is a cost-effective intervention, especially in patients with paid employment. Operative treatment is slightly more expensive than nonoperative treatment but provides better functional results and a better quality of life. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Economic and Decision Analysis Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

One Versus 3-Week Immobilization Period for Nonoperatively Treated Proximal Humeral Fractures: A Prospective Randomized Trial.

BACKGROUND: There is no consensus on the duration of immobilization for nonoperatively treated proximal humeral fractures (PHFs). The main objective of the study was to determine the differences in pain between PHFs that were treated nonoperatively with 3-week immobilization and those treated with 1-week immobilization. METHODS: A prospective randomized trial was designed to evaluate whether the immobilization time frame (1-week immobilization [group I] versus 3-week immobilization [group II]) for nonoperatively treated PHFs had any influence on pain and functional outcomes. Pain was assessed using a 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS) that was administrated 1 week after the fracture, at 3 weeks, and then at the 3, 6, 12, and 24-month follow-up. The functional outcome was evaluated using the Constant score. To assess the functional disability of the shoulder, a self-reported shoulder-specific questionnaire, the Simple Shoulder Test (SST), was used. The Constant score and the SST were recorded at the 3, 6, 12, and 24-month follow-up. Complications and secondary displacement were also recorded. RESULTS: One hundred and forty-three patients were randomized, and 111 (88 females and 23 males) who had been allocated to group I (55 patients) or group II (56 patients) were included in the final analysis. The mean age of the patients was 70.4 years (range, 42 to 94 years). No significant differences were found between the 2 groups in terms of pain as measured with the VAS at any time point (1 week [5.9 versus 5.6; p = 0.648], 3 weeks [4.8 versus 4.1; p = 0.059], 3 months [1.9 versus 2.4; p = 0.372], 6 months [1.0 versus 1.2; p = 0.605], 1 year [0.65 versus 0.66; p = 0.718], and 2 years [0.63 versus 0.31; p = 0.381]). No significant differences were found in the Constant score or SST score at any time point. No significant differences were noted in the complication rate. CONCLUSIONS: Short and long periods of immobilization yield similar results for nonoperatively treated PHFs, independent of the fracture pattern. These fractures can be successfully managed with a short immobilization period of 1 week in order to not compromise patients' independence for an overly extended period. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Randomized controlled trial Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Preliminary results of rigid fixation (locking plate/screw) after triple pelvic osteotomy without a hip spica cast: A modified fixation method in 21 patients.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to investigate whether rigid fixation after triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) utilizing a 3.5-mm locking plate and screws without hip spica cast can provide enough stability and prevent correction loss in pediatric patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 21 hips of 21 pediatric patients (9 males, 12 females; mean age: 9.3±2.0 years; range, 6 to 14 years) who underwent rigid fixation with locking plate/screws after TPO for DDH and LCPD between June 2015 and October 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and six-month follow-up anteroposterior radiographs were compared for the Wiberg's center-edge angle (CE), Sharp angle, acetabular coverage of the femoral head (ACFH), and center-head distance discrepancy (CHDD). The patient demographics, surgery time, perioperative complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Underlying diagnosis were DDH in 14 patients and LCPD in seven patients. In patients with DDH, postoperative evaluation showed significant increase in the mean CE angle (5.6±16.1° vs. 30.5±9.3°, respectively) and ACFH (46.4±16.8% vs. 84.5±12.1%, respectively), and a significant decrease in the mean Sharp angle (55.3±6.2° vs. 35.6±7.8°, respectively) and CHDD (14.6±10.7% vs. 6.2±5.6%, respectively). The final follow-up revealed that there was no correction loss in these parameters. In the patients with LCPD, postoperative evaluation showed a significant increase in the mean CE (20.1±11.1° vs. 38.3±9.6°, respectively) and ACFH (62.9±18% vs. 91.4±10.1%, respectively), and a significant decrease in the mean Sharp angle (46±3.6° vs. 25.2±5.5°, respectively). The final follow-up revealed that there was no correction loss in radiological parameters. No perioperative complications were noted. CONCLUSION: Our study results suggest that rigid fixation construct with a 3.5-mm locking plate and screws without hip spica cast can provide adequate stability to allow early mobilization following TPO in children without any loss of correction, until bony healing at the osteotomy sites.

What Are the Tradeoffs in Outcomes after Casting Versus Surgery for Closed Extraarticular Distal Radius Fractures in Older Patients? A Statistical Learning Model.

BACKGROUND: Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are one of the most common major fractures. Despite their frequency, the tradeoffs in different outcomes after casting or surgery for closed extraarticular DRFs in older adults are unknown. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) For adults older than 60 years with closed extraarticular DRFs, what are the tradeoffs in outcomes for choosing casting versus surgery? (2) In what settings would surgery be preferred over casting? METHOD: This is a secondary analysis of data from the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial (WRIST), a randomized, multicenter clinical trial that enrolled patients from April 10, 2012 to December 31, 2016. For WRIST, researchers recruited patients older than 60 years who sustained closed extraarticular distal radius fractures from 24 sites in the United States, Canada, and Singapore. We conducted a secondary analysis using data from WRIST, which had longitudinal data from a robust collection of covariates for patients who underwent surgery and casting. Among the 296 patients recruited in the WRIST study, 59% (174) of patients (mean age 71 ± 9 years) with complete sociodemographic data and 12-month follow-up for each primary outcome were included in the main analysis. More patients underwent surgery than casting (72% [126 of 174] versus 28% [48 of 174]). Most sociodemographic variables were similar between the surgery and casting groups, except for age and volar tilt. The surgical cohort was composed of patients randomized to external fixation, closed reduction percutaneous pinning, or volar locking plate internal fixation. The casting cohort consisted of patients who elected to be treated with closed reduction and casting. A tree-based reinforcement statistical learning method was used to determine the best treatment, either surgery or casting, to maximize functional and esthetic outcomes while minimizing pain. Tree-based reinforcement learning is a statistical learning method to build an unsupervised decision tree within a causal inference framework that will identify useful variables and their cutoff values to tailor treatment assignment accordingly to achieve the best health outcome desired. The primary outcome was minimization of pain (12-month Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire pain subdomain score), maximization of grip strength, total ROM (supination and wrist arc of motion), and esthetics (12-month Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire esthetics subdomain score). RESULTS: Casting was the best treatment to reduce pain and maximize esthetics, whereas surgery maximized grip strength and ROM. When the patient favored gaining ROM over pain reduction (more than 80:20), surgery was the preferred treatment. When the patient prioritized the importance of grip strength over pain reduction (more than 70:30), surgery was also the preferred treatment. CONCLUSION: There are tradeoffs in outcomes after treating patients older than 60 years with closed extraarticular distal radius fractures with casting or surgery. When patients are attempting to balance minimizing pain and improving functional outcomes, unless they desire maximal functional recovery, casting may be the better treatment. Surgery may be beneficial if patients want to regain as much grip strength and ROM as possible, even with the possibility of having residual pain. These findings can be referenced for more concrete preoperative counseling and patient expectation management before treatment selection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

The impact of Covid-19 pandemic related lockdown on clubfoot practice: Type of study design: Retrospective cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT: We investigated whether the number of pediatric patients with congenital clubfoot treated with the Ponseti method decreased during the Covid-19 pandemic or not in a rural area. So we aimed to guide orthopedic surgeons and health infrastructure for future pandemics to be prepared in hospitals of rural areas for the treatment of children with congenital clubfoot.One hundred and fifty-four patients with clubfoot who were admitted to our clinic were evaluated retrospectively from March 2017 to December 2020. Institutional hospital electronic database was used to detect the number of weeks between the birth and first cast performed in clinic and the number of casts been applied and unilaterality or bilaterality. Patients were divided into four groups, which included pandemic period and three previous years. Recorded data were analyzed statistically to detect if there is a difference between the numbers of the patients in pandemic period and three previous years.The number of patients with clubfoot admitted to our hospital between March 2020 and December 2020 increased by 140% compared to previous year. There was a statistically significant difference between the average number of cast applications of Group 4 and other groups (P <.001). Achilles tenotomy was performed in 44 (61.1%) of 72 patients admitted during the pandemic period. Only 4 (13.3%) out of 30 patients admitted between March 2019 and December 2019 were performed Achilles tenotomy.We detected an increase in the number of clubfoot cases admitted to our rural-based hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic, treated with casting or surgically. We think this is because of preventive measures during the pandemic, which caused parents could not reach urban for treatment.

Comparison of Short-leg and Long-leg Casts for the Treatment of Distal Third Tibial Shaft Fractures in Children.

BACKGROUND: Long-leg casts (LLCs) are an established treatment for pediatric tibial shaft fractures including fractures involving the distal third. There is a paucity of literature assessing the use of short-leg cast (SLC) for tibial shaft fractures. The purpose of this study was to determine if SLC were as effective as LLC for the treatment of pediatric distal third tibial shaft fractures. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted on consecutive distal third tibial shaft fractures treated at a tertiary pediatric hospital from 2013 to 2018. Exclusion criteria included midshaft and proximal fractures of the tibia, distal fractures that violated the tibial physis or plafond, and pathologic fractures. We compared primary outcomes of time to weight-bearing, time to union, and final angulation between LLC and SLC groups. RESULTS: Eighty-five patients aged 5 to 17 years (mean age: 9.2±3.2 y) met inclusion criteria, including 50 LLC and 35 SLC patients. Time to weight-bearing for SLC (3.3±0.6 wk) was shorter compared with LLC (6.4±0.7 wk, P<0.0001). Overall, fractures treated with SLC had a shorter time to the union (7.4±0.9 wk) compared with LLC (9.0±0.9 wk, P=0.026) without statistical differences in final angulation at the time of union. There was a higher percentage of cast complications in the LLC treatment group (12%) compared with SLC (6%). CONCLUSIONS: SLC demonstrated earlier time to weight-bearing and shorter time to fracture union when compared with LLC. Surgeons should consider SLC and early weight-bearing for the treatment of distal third tibial shaft fractures in children. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Cost-Effectiveness of Treatments after Closed Extraarticular Distal Radius Fractures in Older Adults from the WRIST Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: This study performs an economic analysis of volar locking plate, external fixation, percutaneous pinning, or casting in elderly patients with closed distal radius fractures. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial, a randomized, multicenter, international clinical trial with a parallel nonoperative casted group of patients older than 60 years with surgically indicated, extraarticular closed distal radius fractures. Thirty-Six-Item Short-Form Health Survey-converted utilities and total costs from Medicare were used to calculate quality-adjusted life-years and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. RESULTS: Casted patients were self-selected and older (p < 0.001) than the randomized surgical cohorts, but otherwise similar in sociodemographic characteristics. Quality-adjusted life-years for percutaneous pinning were highest at 9.17 and external fixation lowest at 8.81. Total costs expended were $16,354 for volar locking plates, $16,012 for external fixation, $11,329 for percutaneous pinning, and $6837 for casting. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for volar locking plates and external fixation were dominated by percutaneous pinning and casting. The ratio for percutaneous pinning compared to casting was $28,717. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed a 10, 5, 53, and 32 percent chance of volar locking plate, external fixation, percutaneous pinning, and casting, respectively, being cost-effective at the willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000 per quality-adjusted life-year. CONCLUSIONS: Casting is the most cost-effective treatment modality in the elderly with closed extraarticular distal radius fractures and should be considered before surgery. In unstable closed fractures, percutaneous pinning, which is the most cost-effective surgical intervention, may be considered before volar locking plates or external fixation.

Successful Ponseti-treated Clubfeet at Age 2 Years: What Is the Rate of Surgical Intervention After This?

BACKGROUND: In recent decades, nonoperative Ponseti casting has become the standard of care in the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot. However, the rate of recurrence, even after successful Ponseti treatment is not insignificant. The purpose of this study was to determine the future rate, timing, and type of surgery needed in patients whose idiopathic clubfeet treated by Ponseti casting were considered successful at the age of 2 years. METHODS: Inclusion criteria for this retrospective study were patients under 3 months with idiopathic clubfoot treated exclusively by Ponseti casting, who had successful outcomes at 2 years of age without surgery, and who had at least 5 years of follow-up. The total number of surgical interventions in the age range 2 to 5 and above 5 years, the number and type of procedures performed, and the timing of surgery were reviewed. RESULTS: Three hundred thirty-six patients with a total of 504 clubfeet fulfilled the inclusion criteria. One hundred twenty-two of these 336 patients (36.3%) eventually underwent surgical intervention. Between 2 and 5 years of age, 79 patients (23.5%) with 104 feet (20.6%) underwent surgery. The most common procedures performed between 2 and 5 years were limited (a la carte) in scope: tibialis anterior tendon transfer, posterior release, plantar fascia release, and repeat tendo-Achilles lengthening. At age above 5 years, 53 patients (20.1%) with 65 feet (16.9%) underwent surgery. Ten of these 53 patients had already undergone surgery between 2 and 5 years of age. The procedures most commonly performed were similar. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with idiopathic clubfoot who reached 2 years of age with successful outcomes from Ponseti cast treatment, ∼35% eventually underwent surgical intervention, mostly limited (a la carte), to regain or maintain a plantigrade foot. The most commonly performed procedures include tibialis anterior tendon transfer, posterior capsular release, plantar fascia release and repeat tendo-Achilles lengthening, either in isolation or in combination. However, before considering surgery, the need for these procedures can, and should, be minimized by recasting recurrent deformities using Ponseti method. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

A comparative study on treatment outcomes of bandage and casting in non-displaced extra-articular fracture of distal radius: A clinical trial study.

<b>Background:</b> Some therapeutic methods for treating non-displaced extra-articular fracture (NDEA) of distal radius are sometimes met with controversy in their selection. We explored and compared two such methods - bandaging and casting - for this study. <br><b>Methods:</b> This prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted during 2015 on patients (n = 62) with an NDEA fracture of the distal radius. Patients were randomly assigned to either the casting (n = 32) or bandage (n = 30) group to receive the respective fracture-repair procedure. Follow-up contact was made during the first, second, third, and sixth weeks after treatment. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire was completed and the visual analog scale (VAS) for measuring pain was assessed. All patients underwent an X-ray radiographic assessment to evaluate any potential complications. <br><b>Results:</b> At the end of the study, 30 patients in the bandage group and 32 in the casting group finished the study. Statistical analyses indicated the bandage group exhibited a significantly higher mean DASH score than the casting group during the first week. This higher mean score decreased enough during the second week that, by the third week, the casting group scored higher. During the sixth and final week of study, the two groups showed no significant difference in DASH value. No significant differences between the two groups was evident in the VAS scores obtained during all follow-up assessments. Patients in the bandage group were able to return to work sooner than those in the casting group; their cost of treatment was lower, too. <br><b>Conclusion:</b> Bandage is the more appropriate treatment option for NDEA fractures of distal radius.

Practice Patterns for Management of Pediatric Femur Fractures in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

BACKGROUND: Femoral shaft fractures in children are common in low and middle income countries. In high-income countries, patient age, fracture pattern, associated injuries, child/family socioeconomic status, and surgeon preference dictate fracture management. There is limited literature on treatment patterns for pediatric femur fractures in resource-limited settings. This study surveys surgeons from low (LIC), lower-middle (LMIC), and upper-middle income (UMIC) countries regarding treatment patterns for pediatric femur fractures. METHODS: Surgeons completed an electronic survey reporting surgeon demographics and treatment preference for pediatric femur fractures. Treatment preferences and indications for treatment were separated into 4 groups: infant (0 to 6 mo); toddler (7 mo to 4 y); child (5 to 12 y); adolescent (12 to 17 y). The survey was available in English, Spanish, and French. Analysis was completed with t test and χ test for continuous and categorical variables, respectively, and weighted Pearson correlation (P<0.05). RESULTS: Survey respondents consisted of 413 surgeons from 83 countries (20 LIC, 33 LMIC, 30 UMIC). The majority of respondents were fellowship trained (83%) most commonly in pediatrics (26%) and trauma (43%). Most treated >10 pediatric femur fractures per year (68%). Respondents reported treating infant femur fractures nonoperatively using Pavlik harness (19%), spica cast (60%), or traction with delayed spica cast (14%). Decreasing socioeconomic status was associated with higher nonoperative treatment rate in toddlers, children, and adolescents. Respondents commonly utilize bed rest and traction for child femur fractures in LICs (63%) and LMICs (65%) compared with UMICs (35%) (UMIC vs. LMIC P<0.001; UMIC vs. LIC P<0.001). Surgeries in children more commonly involve open reduction with internal fixation (UMIC 19%, LMIC 33%, LIC 40%; P<0.05 between UMIC-LMIC and UMIC-LIC). CONCLUSION: This is one of the largest surveys describing treatment patterns for pediatric femur fractures in low and middle income countries. Differences are evident including lower operative treatment rate in younger children and lower intramedullary fixation rates in older children. Future studies should investigate the value of treatment options in resource-limited settings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II-prospective comparative study.

The Song Classification Is Reliable and Guides Prognosis and Treatment for Pediatric Lateral Condyle Fractures: An Independent Validation Study With Treatment Algorithm.

BACKGROUND: Lateral condyle fractures account for 15% to 20% of pediatric elbow fractures. Among numerous proposed classification systems, the Song classification appears the most comprehensive. The utility of any classification system relies on its ability to be descriptive, reproducible, and to guide prognosis/treatment. We assessed the Song classification by applying it to 736 retrospectively treated patients. METHODS: A total of 736 pediatric patients with lateral condyle fractures were identified between 2007 and 2014. In total, 60 patients were selected for a radiographic interclass and intraclass correlation study. Radiographs of the patients were reviewed by 6 observers, who independently measured radiographs for displacement on radiographs and assigned a Song classification. Treatment and outcomes were then reviewed on all 736 patients and evaluated as a successful outcome when achieving a healed fracture at discharge without significant complication or necessitating a change from initial treatment modality. RESULTS: Weighted κ values for intrarater and interrater reliability to assign Song classification indicated excellent agreement. Intraclass correlation coefficients of 6 observers measuring displacement on radiographs in millimeters indicated good to excellent agreement. In total, 106 Song 1 fracture were primarily treated by casting alone and only 5.5% required conversion to operative intervention. Overall, 139 Song 2 fractures were treated by closed treatment (n=114, 82% successful nonoperatively, 16% converted to operative management) or surgical means (n=25, 100% success) without treatment superiority (P>0.999) and both modalities had high success rates. Song 3 fractures (n=17) demonstrated a failure rate of 80% with casting (n=10) and were better managed by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (n=7, 100% success, P=0.002). Song 4 (n=325) fractures had low success rate (34%) with casting (n=35), but achieved higher success rates (P<0.001) when managed with either closed (n=57) or open reduction (n=233) and pin fixation (89.5% and 92.7% success, respectively, P=0.401). Song 5 fractures (n=149) generally required an open reduction in our series with good success rates (91.2%). CONCLUSION: This study validates the Song classification with high interobserver and intraobserver reliability. The Song classification improves on existing classification systems by better distinguishing fractures at risk for failure of nonoperative treatment and guiding treatment outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Stable rates of operative treatment of distal radius fractures in Ontario, Canada: a population-based retrospective cohort study (2004­2013)

Background: Rates of surgical management of distal radius fractures are increasing internationally despite the higher cost and limited outcome evidence to support this shift. This study examines the epidemiology of distal radius fractures and asks if the same shift has occurred in Ontario, Canada (population 13.9 million). Methods: This population-based, retrospective cohort study examined distal radius fractures in people aged 18 years and older over a 10-year period (2004­2013). The incidence analyses were based on the first occurrence of a fracture within a 2-year time period. The number of fractures, age-adjusted incidence rates and frequency of fracture treatment type by year were assessed. We used a Poisson regression with robust standard errors to determine if there was a statistically significant change in the frequency of fracture treatment type over time. Results: There were 25 355 distal radius fractures among Ontarians 18 years of age and older in 2013. Between 2004 and 2013, the age-adjusted incidence rate for people 35 years of age and older was stable, between 2.32 and 2.70 per 1000 population. Rates of cast immobilization remained stable between 82% and 84%. Of those patients treated surgically, the rate of open reduction and internal fixation rose from 7% in 2004 to 13% in 2013 at the expense of other types of surgical management. Conclusion: In Ontario, rates of cast immobilization are stable and there has been a movement toward open reduction and internal fixation among patients treated surgically.

Contexte: Le taux de prise en charge chirurgicale des fractures du radius distal augmente partout dans le monde, malgré le coût supérieur de l'intervention et le manque de données probantes sur les issues. Cette étude se penche sur l'épidémiologie des fractures du radius distal et cherche à savoir si cette augmentation se reflète en Ontario, au Canada (population : 13,9 millions). Méthodes: Cette étude de cohorte rétrospective basée sur la population examinait les fractures du radius distal chez les personnes âgées de 18 ans et plus sur une période de 10 ans (de 2004 à 2013). Les analyses de l'incidence étaient fondées sur la première occurrence de fracture en 2 ans. Le nombre de fractures, le taux d'incidence ajusté en fonction de l'âge et la fréquence annuelle des types de traitement des fractures ont été évalués. Nous avons utilisé une régression de Poisson avec des erreurs types robustes pour déterminer s'il y avait des changements statistiquement significatifs dans la fréquence des types de traitement des fractures au fil du temps. Résultats: Il y a eu 25 355 fractures du radius distal chez les Ontariens de 18 ans et plus en 2013. Entre 2004 et 2013, le taux d'incidence ajusté en fonction de l'âge pour les personnes de 35 ans et plus était stable, entre 2,32 et 2,70 pour 1000 personnes. Le taux d'immobilisation plâtrée est demeuré stable entre 82 % et 84 %. Chez les patients traités par chirurgie, le taux de réduction chirurgicale et de fixation interne est passé de 7 % en 2004 à 13 % en 2013, au détriment des autres types de prise en charge chirurgicale. Conclusion: En Ontario, le taux d'immobilisation plâtrée est demeuré stable et il y a eu une augmentation de la réduction chirurgicale et de la fixation interne chez les patients traités par chirurgie.

Clubfoot and Tethered Cord Syndrome: Results of Treatment With the Ponseti Method.

BACKGROUND: The Ponseti technique has demonstrated high success rates worldwide for the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot. The purpose of this study was to determine whether clubfoot associated with tethered cord syndrome (TCS) was more resistant to Ponseti treatment than isolated clubfoot. METHODS: An IRB-approved retrospective cohort study of subjects undergoing Ponseti treatment of clubfoot between 2002 and 2013 was conducted. Subjects with TCS were matched to subjects with isolated clubfoot (1:2) on the basis of laterality, date of birth, sex, and age at presentation. Subject demographics, number of casts placed (pretenotomy and posttenotomy), and recurrence data were collected. Generalized logistic regression and linear mixed model regression analyses were used to compare recurrence within 2 years of the initiation of casting and the log number of casts needed to achieve an acceptable correction, respectively. RESULTS: Data from 24 subjects (16 isolated clubfeet, 8 with TCS) with clubfoot (12 bilateral, 12 unilateral) were analyzed. The isolated clubfoot group was the same age at presentation on average (21.9±4.7 d) as the TCS group (28.3±9.6 d) (P=0.55). The number of casts required to achieve an acceptable correction was 54% higher (95% CI, 7.8%-120.3%; P=0.0217) in the TCS group compared with the isolated clubfoot group. The cumulative crude incidence of deformity recurrence within the first 2 years after casting initiation was 8% in the isolated clubfoot group compared with 42% in the TCS group. The odds of deformity recurrence in the TCS group were 5.6 (95% CI, 0.7-45.2; P=0.1054) times the odds of deformity recurrence in the isolated clubfoot group. Furthermore, the incidence of deformity recurrence was higher among subjects who had a tethered cord release posttenotomy (56%, 5/9) as compared with pretenotomy (0%, 0/3). CONCLUSION: Clubfoot associated with TCS required more casts to achieve an acceptable correction. Subjects with tethered cord were also at an increased risk of deformity recurrence compared with subjects with isolated clubfoot. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II-retrospective prognostic study.

Is Buddy Taping as Effective as Plaster Immobilization for Adults With an Uncomplicated Neck of Fifth Metacarpal Fracture? A Randomized Controlled Trial.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: We compare buddy taping with plaster casting for uncomplicated fifth metacarpal (boxer's) fractures. We hypothesize buddy taping will give superior functional outcomes at 12 weeks, defined as a 10-point difference on the Shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (quickDASH) score. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial included patients aged 18 to 70 years, with uncomplicated boxer's fractures in 2 hospitals in Queensland, Australia. The intervention consisted of buddy taping of the ring and little fingers on the affected side, in which the control group received plaster casting. Primary outcome was hand function as measured by quickDASH score (0 to 100, with 0 indicating no disability) at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes measured at 3, 6, and 12 weeks included time off work and activities, pain, satisfaction, and the EuroQol 5-Dimension 3-Level score (measure of overall health). RESULTS: Ninety-seven patients with primary endpoint data were available for analysis, 48 in the buddy taping group and 49 in the plaster group. At 12 weeks, median quickDASH scores were the same for both groups (buddy 0, interquartile range [IQR] 0 to 2.3; plaster 0, IQR 0 to 4; difference 0; 95% confidence interval of the difference 0 to 0). Patients in the buddy taping group missed a median 0 days (IQR 0 to 7) of work compared with the plaster group's 2 days (IQR 0 to 14). Other secondary outcome measures were the same in both groups. CONCLUSION: We found that patients with boxer's fractures who were randomized to buddy taping had functional outcomes similar to those of patients randomized to plaster cast at 12 weeks. We advocate a minimal intervention such as buddy taping for uncomplicated boxer's fractures.

Management Modalities and Outcomes Following Acute Scaphoid Fractures in Children: A Quantitative Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Early evaluation and appropriate management of pediatric scaphoid fractures are necessary to avoid complications. To date, current management of pediatric fractures varies among providers. The objective of this study was to compare clinical outcomes following different treatment modalities. METHODS: A PubMed literature search identified studies involving acute scaphoid fractures in children. Studies were evaluated for treatment provided and their respective effects on union rate, wrist range of motion, and wrist pain. Data were pooled across studies, and quantitative statistical analysis was conducted to compare outcomes. RESULTS: Seventeen studies representing 812 acute pediatric scaphoid fractures were included in the current analysis. We found 93.5% of scaphoid fractures were treated with cast immobilization vs 6.5% treated surgically as 13 of 17 authors treated all fractures with immobilization vs 4 of 17 studies who offered surgical intervention. We found pediatric scaphoid fractures had excellent bone union rates (96.2%) with no difference between the cast immobilization and surgery groups ( P value NS). Long- and short-arm thumb spica immobilization protocols were commonly employed; however, we found no difference in the rates of union ( P value NS). At follow-up, 99.0% of patients treated nonoperatively had normal wrist range of motion and 96.8% were pain free. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric scaphoid fractures have excellent outcomes. Nonoperative treatment results in a high rate of union with few posttreatment wrist symptoms. Nonsurgical treatment represents an adequate treatment modality in a majority of acute pediatric scaphoid fractures, wherein the role for surgery needs to be better defined.

Casting Protocols Following BoNT-A Injections to Treat Spastic Hypertonia of the Triceps Surae in Children with Cerebral Palsy and Equinus Gait: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

AIM: To study the effects of single versus serial casting post-Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) injections on hypoextensibility of triceps surae in children, 2-7 years old, with cerebral palsy and equinus gait. METHODS: A randomized, stratified, parallel, two-group trial was conducted at a pediatric health center with assessments at baseline, precast, postcast and, 1-, 2-, and 6-month follow-ups. One week following BoNT-A injections into triceps surae muscle, a single below-knee cast (n = 10) or 3 serial casts (n = 10) were applied for 3 weeks. Primary outcome measure was the Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS), secondary outcome measures were Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), GAITRite™, Gross Motor Function Measure-66 (GMFM-66), and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). RESULTS: Significant effects of time, but not group-by-time, were found for MTS R1 (P < 0.001), MTS R2 (P < 0.001), MAS (P = 0.001), GMFM-66 (P = 0.002), and PEDI (P < 0.001-0.009). One participant who received a single cast did not complete the 6-month assessment. CONCLUSIONS: Magnitudes of improvements were similar using single or serial casting. If these findings are corroborated in a larger scale study, the recommendation of a single cast may be appropriate due to its greater convenience for families and clinicians.

Remote Injuries and Outcomes After Distal Radius Fracture Management.

BACKGROUND: Distal radius fracture (DRF) is a common fracture of the upper extremity. The role of concurrent injuries in patients treated for DRFs is poorly elucidated. The authors sought to determine whether remote injuries were associated with worse outcomes after management of DRFs. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study including all consecutively seen patients by a university hospital hand service between 2010 and 2015. Preoperative radiographs were analyzed, and patients were managed by surgeon preference and evaluated postoperatively using pain scores. Remote injury was defined as any other injury sustained at the time of fracture not localized to affected extremity. Univariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with risk of complication. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed, controlling for confounding factors. RESULTS: A total of 181 DRFs in 176 patients were treated over the 5-year period of the study. Forty-eight (26.5%) of the fractures were managed nonoperatively with casting, 12 (6.6%) with closed reduction and pinning, and 119 (65.7%) with open reduction and plating. The mean follow-up was 5.2 months. The complication rate was 18.2%. The most common complication was persistent pain in 5 patients, followed by median neuropathy, loss of reduction, arthritis, and distal radioulnar joint instability. After controlling for age, body mass index, hand surgeon, and other confounders, remote injury was associated with a significantly increased risk of complications ( P = .04, odds ratio: 6.03, 95% confidence interval: 1.05-34.70). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with remote injuries have a 6-fold increased risk of complications after DRF treatment. The additional risk in these patients should be considered during patient/family counseling and clinical decision-making in DRF management.

Minimally Displaced Humeral Lateral Condyle Fractures: Immobilize or Operate When Stability Is Unclear?

BACKGROUND: Either casting or in situ fixation (to prevent displacement) are recommended for minimally displaced pediatric lateral condyle fractures of indeterminate stability with ≤2 mm lateral displacement and narrowed fracture extension to the epiphyseal articular cartilage. This study compares casting only, acute prophylactic in situ pinning, and surgery if casting fails due to displacement. METHODS: In total, 738 fractures at a level 1 trauma center between 2008 and 2014 were reviewed. All fractures were assigned a Song classification and Song 2 fractures followed to union were analyzed. Worsening displacement was defined as an increase in Song stage. Patients were grouped per treatment: (1) cast only; (2) in situ pinning; or (3) closed or open reduction percutaneous pinning after displacement during attempted cast treatment. RESULTS: In total, 139 fractures were included and 45 (32%) underwent surgery. Among 114 fractures intended for casting, only 20 (18%) displaced and needed surgery. This implies 82% of fractures prophylactically pinned in situ may have remained stable in a cast. On average, displaced fractures were noted 6.5 (2 to 13) days after presentation and required 1 extra clinic visit and week of immobilization without increased complications. Surgeons chose open reduction percutaneous pinning more often for displaced fractures. CONCLUSIONS: Our data estimate 82% of Song 2 fractures never meaningfully displace in a cast. Meaningful displacements occur in <2 weeks. Benefits of prophylactic pinning include 1 less x-ray and clinic visit in exchange for a clinically insignificant lateral cortex reduction and inherent surgical risks. Compliance, surgical scheduling, and a higher rate of open reduction after displacement should influence early treatment decisions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.