Arthroscopic-assisted Reduction Research Articles

Comparing Outcomes between Arthroscopic-Assisted Reduction and Fluoroscopic Reduction in AO Type C Distal Radius Fracture Treatment.

Background Distal radius fracture is one of the most common injuries. Poor functional result with restricted wrist motion can be developed when there is intra-articular fibrous tissue development arising from articular step-off and gapping. Objectives The aim of this study is to compare the functional and radiological outcome between arthroscopic-assisted reduction and fluoroscopic reduction in treating unstable intra-articular distal radius fracture. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 12 patients with intraarticular AO type C distal radius fracture treated with arthroscopic-assisted fracture reduction and internal fixation and compared them with another group of 12 patients in which fracture reduction is assessed by fluoroscopy alone (15 males and 9 females, mean age 57.3, range 27-73). The two cohorts were analyzed for differences in radiological parameters including articular stepping and gapping, palmar tilt, radial inclination, ulnar variance as well as functional outcome in range of motion, grip strength, modified mayo wrist score, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score at an average of 12.5 months (range 5-26) after surgery. Results Arthroscopic-assisted fracture reduction group has statistically better restoration of articular stepping and gapping, volar tilt and ulnar variance. Range of motion, grip strength, modified mayo wrist score and Quick DASH score also had statistically significant improvement in arthroscopic group. Conclusion Our study showed arthroscopic-assisted technique can precisely restore radiological parameters in highly comminuted distal radius fracture with good functional outcome. Also, associated intra-articular soft tissue injury can be detected and treated simultaneously. Level of Evidence This is a level III, retrospective cohort study.

Clinical outcomes after arthroscopically assisted talus fracture fixation.

The purpose of this article is to describe the novel technique of arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) of talar neck fractures, presenting also the outcomes of this treatment method in a series of four patients. Between 2011 and 2019, we have treated in our service a number of four patients with talar neck fractures, by the arthroscopic technique. The surgical intervention consists in arthroscopic exploration of tibiotalar and subtalar joints, arthroscopic lavage and debridement, reduction, and osteosynthesis with two cannulated screws under both arthroscopic and fluoroscopic control. Post-operative care consists in non-weightbearing immobilization for 6weeks, followed by partial loading under the protection of a walking brace for the next sixweeks and ROM exercises. The patients were followed up at threemonths, when a CT scan was performed, and at oneyear, when X-ray images showed the consolidation of fractures. Normal or slightly reduced ROM of the ankle and hindfoot was noted in three out of four patients, absence of any pain, or disability (3 patients). The AOFAS' Ankle-Hindfoot scale showed good and excellent results; mean score was 92.75 points (86-98p) at oneyear after the surgery. Arthroscopic-assisted management of talar fractures offers the advantages of minimally invasive surgery combined with good visualization of the fracture, good control of anatomic reduction, and the possibility to treat associated lesions. Main disadvantages of the method are technical difficulties, requires a prolonged learning curve, and offers limited fixation alternatives.

An Arthroscopic Procedure for Restoration of Posterolateral Tibial Plateau Slope in Tibial Plateau Fracture Associated With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

High-energy anterior cruciate ligament (high-energy ACL) injury, occurring in high-energy rotatory trauma of the knee, can accompany a unique fracture pattern that involves depression of the slope of the posterolateral tibial plateau (PLTP). These injuries are challenging to manage due to the lack of a gold-standard arthroscopic procedure that addresses both ACL deficiency and depressed PLTP slope. In such injuries, a one-stage approach may be used to (1) reconstruct the ACL or (2) reduce and fix the avulsed tibial spine, while concomitantly performing an arthroscopy-assisted reduction of a PLTP fracture that restores the anatomic slope of the tibial plateau. To summarize, using combined arthroscopic and fluoroscopic visualization, a tibial tunnel reaching 1 cm distal to the depressed plateau fragment is created using a cannulated drill. The drill is used to punch up the depressed fragment to its anatomic location, restoring the original slope of the PLTP. The corrected slope is then fixed in situ using a press-fit fibular allograft to stabilize the corrected PLTP slope. Use of this minimally invasive arthroscopic technique to restore the PLTP slope may help prevent graft failure of the reconstructed ACL and improve patient outcomes.

Comparison of arthroscopy-assisted vs. open reduction and fixation of coronoid fractures of the ulna

The purpose of this study was to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes and complications for arthroscopy-assisted vs. open reduction and fixation of coronoid fractures in patients with complex elbow fracture-dislocations. This retrospective study analyzed patients with complex elbow fracture-dislocations who underwent surgical fixation for coronoid fractures of the ulna from March 2009 to January 2016. Subjects included those who received either arthroscopy-assisted (group A) or open surgery (group O) for coronoid fractures and concurrent reconstruction of the lateral column (radial head and/or lateral ulnar collateral ligament) with follow-up for at least 2 years. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale for pain, range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score at 2 years after surgery. For radiographic assessment, union of the coronoid, development of heterotopic ossification, and arthritic changes were evaluated. We also reviewed surgery-related complications. Twenty-five patients (mean age, 40.0 ± 12.4 years) were enrolled in this study (group A, 15 patients; group O, 10 patients), and there were no statistical differences in baseline data between the 2 groups. Clinical outcomes did not differ between the 2 groups. All fractures were united and that the prevalence of heterotopic ossification and arthritic changes were similar between the 2 groups. However, operation-related complications were more common in group O than in group A (group A, 13.3%; group O, 40.0%), including 1 patient who underwent ulnar nerve neurolysis and anterior transposition at 3 months after the initial operation. Eliciting fewer complications, arthroscopy-assisted reduction and fixation of coronoid fractures shows union rates and clinical results comparable to open fixation in patients with complex elbow fracture-dislocation.

Prognostic Factors Affecting Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Assisted Reduction and Volar Plating through Preservation of Pronator Quadratus for Intra-Articular Distal Radius Fracture.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes following an arthroscopic-assisted reduction and volar plating (AR-VP) surgery through pronator quadratus (PQ) preservation for treating intra-articular distal radius fractures (IA-DRFs) and to assess prognostic factors that affect functional outcomes. Methods: Between March 2014 and February 2017, 54 patients who had intra-articular DRF and underwent AR-VP through the PQ preservation technique and completed 1-year follow-up were enrolled. Patients were divided into the satisfactory group (excellent and good results) and an unsatisfactory group (fair and poor results) based on the modified Mayo Wrist Scoring System (MMWS) scored at 1-year follow-up to determinate prognostic factors that affected clinical outcomes. Patients' demographics, clinical outcome measures (VAS, DASH, PRWE, etc.), and pre-and post-operative radiographic parameters were analyzed. Results: The outcomes according to MMWS were 10 excellent, 22 good, 14 fair, and 8 poor. A univariate analysis showed a significant difference between the groups (p < .05) for all radiographic parameters, sex, and the presence of an intra-articular comminution. In the multivariate analysis, female gender, presence of an intra-articular comminution, and difference of palmar articular tilt compared to uninjured wrist (> 20.1°) at trauma were considered as significant poor prognostic factors of functional outcome. Conclusions: AR-VP surgery through PQ preservation for intra-articular DRFs has reliable clinical and radiological outcomes. However, female gender, presence of an intra-articular comminution, and difference of palmar articular tilt compared to the uninjured wrist (> 20.1°) at initial injury were considered poor prognostic factors for AR-VP through PQ preservation for intra-articular DRF.

Arthroscopically-assisted reduction and pinning of a radial neck fracture in a child: a case report and review of the literature

BackgroundDisplaced radial neck fractures in children are challenging to treat. The age of the patient and the degree of angulation are the main criteria to consider when managing these fractures in children. Various surgical techniques have been described in the literature for both indirect and direct reduction and for fixation. However, the best treatment is still debated.Case presentationThe case presented is of a 6-year-old Caucasian boy with an impacted and displaced radial neck fracture. With the patient in lateral position, under general anesthesia, elbow arthroscopy was performed to better visualize the articular surface and to assist with reduction and fixation. The fracture was reduced and fixed with a single K-wire under direct arthroscopic visualization. No associated lesions were found. An above-elbow cast was applied after surgery. The cast and K-wire were removed 3 weeks later. At the 3-month follow-up, the patient showed a full recovery with complete range of movement without any postoperative and radiographic complications.ConclusionTraditionally, surgery for displaced radial neck fractures in children is performed by closed reduction with percutaneous pinning or elastic intramedullary nail fixation under fluoroscopic guidance. Direct visualization of the articular surface via an open approach allows better reduction in complex fracture patterns but is related to a higher risk of complications: elbow stiffness, instability, or avascular necrosis. Elbow arthroscopy in children could be a valid alternative to open fixation surgery for displaced radial neck fractures without the complications associated with articular exposure, allowing the direct visualization of the fracture and reducing radiation exposure. Although technically demanding, we believe elbow arthroscopy should be considered an alternative option because it is effective in assisting reduction and fixation and enables the detection of associated joint lesions.

Arthroscopy-Assisted Corrective Osteotomy, Reduction, Internal Fixation and Strut Allograft Augmentation for Tibial Plateau Malunion or Nonunion.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to present the results of arthroscopy-assisted corrective osteotomy (AACO), reduction, internal fixation, and strut allograft augmentation for tibial plateau malunion or nonunion. Methods: Fifty-eight patients, mean age 49 ± 11.9 years old, with tibial plateau malunion (n = 44) or nonunion (n = 14), were included in this study. There were 19 Schatzker type II fractures (32.7%), 2 type III fractures (3.4%), 7 type IV fractures (12%), 20 type V fractures (34.5%), and 10 type VI fractures (17.2%). The mean follow-up period was 46.2 ± 17.6 months. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were scored by the Rasmussen system. Articular depression was measured from computed tomography. Secondary osteoarthritis was diagnosed when radiographs showed a narrowed joint space in the injured knee at follow-up. Results: Mean clinical score improved from 15.4 ± 3.9 (pre-revision) to 23.2 ± 4.5 (post-revision). Mean radiologic score improved from 7.7 ± 2.5 (pre-revision) to 12.0 ± 3.9 (post-revision). Fifty-six fractures achieved successful union. The average union time was 19.6 ± 7.5 weeks. Post-revision, 81% had good or excellent clinical results and 62% had good or excellent radiological results. Secondary osteoarthritis (OA) was noted in 91% of all injured knees, where 25.8% were mild OA, 25.8 % were moderate OA, and 38% were severe OA. There were 6 cases of deep infection (10.3%) and 1 case of wound edge necrosis (1.7%). Five cases were converted to total knee replacement after the index surgery with an average period of 13.5 months (range 8–24 months). Conclusions: Arthroscopy-assisted corrective osteotomy, reduction, internal fixation, and strut allograft augmentation can restore tibial plateau malunion/nonunion with well-documented radiographic healing and good clinical outcomes.

Arthroscopy-assisted tibial plateau fracture surgery - Minimum 2 years follow up results

BackgroundAccurate anatomical reduction plays a crucial role in the surgical management of tibial plateau fractures. Arthroscopic visualization of the articular surface can allow for a precise reduction. ObjectivesTo evaluate the outcome of arthroscopy-assisted reduction and internal fixation for tibial plateau fractures, Schatzker Type III to VI. MethodsThirty-five patients with tibial plateau fractures treated by arthroscopy-assisted fixation were enrolled in this prospective study. According to the Schatzker classification, the fractures types were as follows: type III (n=15); type IV (n=6); type V (n=8); type VI (n=6). The mean age was 36 years (range 24–58 years). The mean follow-up period was 38 months (range, 26–72 months). During surgery, initial arthroscopic evaluation was done, followed by provisional reduction using fluoroscopy. Subsequently, a final arthroscopic confirmation was done before definitive fixation. Bone grafting was done in all except 6 patients. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were scored by the Knee society score and Rasmussen system. ResultsThe Knee society functional score and Knee society knee score assessed at 6 months, 1 year and 2 years. Final follow up results showed good to excellent outcome in three out of four patients. With increasing severity of injury (from Schatzker types III to VI), the functional score deteriorated. The Rasmussen’s Radiological Score at 24 months showed good to excellent scores in 86% individuals. The association between the condylar widening and functional score was found to be significant (p value < 0.05). The radiological and functional scoring was found to have a percentage agreement of 24%. Persistence of condylar widening had a less favorable functional outcome. Postoperative wound breakdown and infection are among major complications. ConclusionsArthroscopic assisted fracture fixation for complex tibial plateau fractures with associated soft-tissue injuries is a safe and effective procedure that provides good functional outcomes.

A Staged Arthroscopic Approach to Fixation of Unstable Osteochondritis Dissecans in the Medial Femoral Condyle of the Knee Using Nonabsorbable Fixation Screws

Osteochondritis dissecans is a focal lesion of articular cartilage that can result in fragment instability with progression of early osteoarthritis. Regarding the knee joint, salvage of an unstable lesion can be achieved using arthroscopic-assisted reduction and fixation via a 2-stage process. The first involves arthroscopic fixation of the fragment using nonbioabsorbable screws, whereas the second stage performed 12 weeks later involves removal of the screws and confirmation of successful healing of the lesion. Previous studies have demonstrated excellent outcomes in patients undergoing fixation for unstable chondral lesions not amenable to conservative treatment. A critical component of successful treatment is understanding the importance of hardware placement and technique. The purpose of the Technical Note is to describe a method performing this 2-stage arthroscopic repair of an unstable chondral lesion located on the medial femoral condyle of the knee.

Syndesmosis Injury From Diagnosis to Repair: Physical Examination, Diagnosis, and Arthroscopic-assisted Reduction.

Injuries to the tibio-fibular syndesmotic ligaments are different than ankle collateral ligament injuries and occur in isolation or combination with malleolar fractures. Syndesmotic ligament injury can lead to prolonged functional limitations and ultimately long-term ankle dysfunction if not identified and treated appropriately. The syndesmosis complex is a relatively simple construct of well-documented ligaments, but the dynamic kinematics and the effects of disruption have been a point of contention in diagnosis and treatment. Syndesmotic ligament injuries are sometimes referred to as "high ankle sprains" because the syndesmotic ligaments are more proximal than the collateral ligaments of the ankle joint. Rotational injuries to the ankle often result in malleolar fractures, which can be combined with ankle joint or syndesmotic ligament injuries. Most of the orthopaedic literature to this point has addressed syndesmosis ligament injuries in combination with fractures and not isolated syndesmotic ligament injuries. Thus, we propose a simplified general video guide to do the diagnostic examinations and arthroscopic-assisted reduction based on current evidence-based medicine.

Arthroscopy-Assisted Reduction in the Management of Isolated Medial Malleolar Fracture

To evaluate the feasibility of arthroscopic reduction percutaneous fixation (ARPF) in the treatment of isolated medial malleolar fracture and compare the results with those of conventional open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). This prospective study enrolled 77 patients with isolated medial malleolar fracture between November 2011 and February 2016. The patients were assigned to the ARPF (n= 34) and ORIF (n= 43) groups. The Olerud-Molander ankle score (OMAS), ankle range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale, and radiographic evaluation were determined at the scheduled follow-up. In the ARPF group, 11 of 34 patients (32.4%) had chondral lesions. Tears of the deltoid ligament and anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament were noted in 3 (8.8%) and 15 (44.1%) patients, respectively. The mean follow-up was 5 years. The mean OMAS was higher in the ARPF group than in the ORIF group. The differences were statistically significant at 6 months (mean ± standard deviation, 80.2 ± 4.0 for ARPF vs 77.2 ± 4.1 for ORIF, P=.005) and 1 year (92.9 ± 4.9 vs 88.1 ± 4.6, P < .001), but not at the latest follow-up (P= .081). Ankle ROM was markedly improved in the ARPF group, unlike in the ORIF group at 6 months (dorsiflexion, P= .025; plantarflexion, P<.001) and 1 year (dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, P < .001). The improvement remained at the latest follow-up in plantarflexion (P= .001) but not in dorsiflexion (P= .354). Arthroscopy-assisted reduction is a feasible alternative modality with superior short-term outcomes for treating isolated medial malleolar fracture, but its superiority may be attenuated in the intermediate term. Level III, comparative study.

Arthroscopically-assisted Reduction and Internal Fixation (ARIF) of tibial plateau fractures: clinical and radiographic medium-term follow-up.

Background and Aim of the work:Tibial plateau fractures include a wide spectrum of lesions with potentially disabling sequelae. Arthroscopically-assisted Reduction and Internal Fixation (ARIF) is an alternative to traditional ORIF. The aim of this retrospective single centre study is to evaluate medium-term clinical and radiographic outcomes achieved in a consecutive series of patients treated with ARIF.Methods:21 patients, with a mean age of 52.2 ± 13.4 years at surgery, were included. According to Schatzker classification, there were 9 type II, 10 type III, 2 type IV fractures. Associated intra-articular injuries (meniscal tears, tibial spine fractures, chondral lesions) were detected in 8 patients. At follow up, patients were clinically and radiographically evaluated according to knee ROM, KOOS, OKS and Rasmussen Clinical and Radiological Scores.Results:At an average follow-up of 84 ± 22.5 months, 18 patients were evaluated. Mean values recorded were the following: knee ROM 1° - 135°, OKS 41.6 / 48 ± 8.18, subscale KOOS scores ranged from 75% ± 25.4 (Quality of Life) to 91.1% ± 11.2 (Pain), Rasmussen Clinical e Radiological 27.2 ± 2.64 (14 excellent, 3 good, 1 fair) and 9.1 ± 0.64 (15 excellent, 3 good), respectively. Worse results were observed in 5 patients with pre-existing degenerative chondropathy.Conclusions:ARIF revealed to be an effective technique for surgical treatment of unicondylar tibial plateau fractures. Our findings support the favourable results reported by other authors. ARIF is not a simple technique and requires specific experience in knee arthroscopy and a steep learning curve. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Posterior Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation for Treatment of Posterior Malleolus Fractures.

Posterior malleolus fractures and pilon variants refer to a pattern of fractures involving the posterior weightbearing surface of the tibial plafond. The surgical indications for fixation of posterior malleolus fractures varies considerably throughout the literature, based on the size and/or displacement. There is controversy on how to best address fracture fixation, with the main workhorses being either the posterior-lateral approach or indirect anterior-posterior-directed screws. We present an alternative technique for posterior malleolus fracture fixation using a direct posterior arthroscopic-assisted reduction internal fixation method. With this method, posterior malleolus fractures are reduced arthroscopically and percutaneous fixation is placed through the arthroscopic portals. Level of Evidence: Level V, expert opinion.

Role of Arthroscopy in Ankle Fracture Surgery

The ankle arthroscopy is widely used as an essential tool for the various ankle disorders. The use of arthroscopy has also been tried for the treatment of acute ankle fractures, in the hope of improving the postoperative outcome. It was initially thought that the properly reduced ankle fractures had generally acceptable outcomes, with a reported rate of 81% good to excellent results. However further investigation and longer term follow-up has shown more mixed and less encouraging results. Some patients have persistent pain and poor outcomes following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), although the cause of poor outcome is not clearly understood. It may be secondary to intra-articular injuries at the time of fracture, which occur in up to 88% of fractures. Ankle arthroscopy at the time of ORIF has been proposed to address these intraarticular injuries. Arthroscopy-assisted reduction and percutaneous screw fixation for syndesmosis injury has been performed as well by some surgeons. However the effectiveness of true arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation compared with ORIF for ankle fractures has yet to be determined, in spite of the advantages such as limited exposure, preservation of blood supply, and improved visualization of the pathology. Postoperative chronic pain and arthrofibrosis after ankle fracture are another good indication for ankle arthroscopy, which can be performed at the time of implant removal. In conclusion, the ankle arthroscopy is a safe adjunctive procedure for the treatment of ankle fractures. It can be performed as well for the evaluation and management of syndesmotic injury, and for persistent pain following the definitive treatment of ankle fractures.

Coronal Shear Fractures of the Distal Humerus: A Review of Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcomes.

Fractures of the capitellum and trochlea are uncommon fractures of the elbow and can be challenging to treat due to their size, location, and articular nature. Because of their intra-articular nature and predilection toward displacement, these fractures are typically treated operatively. Furthermore, capitellum fractures have high rates of associated injuries, including radial head fractures or lateral collateral ligament injury in ~30% to 60% of patients. In addition to open reduction internal fixation, operative options include fragment excision, arthroscopic assisted reduction and fixation, and elbow arthroplasty. In this article, we undertake a comprehensive literature review of capitellum fractures of the distal humerus, in an attempt to summarize the existing body of evidence and propose areas of future study.

Hip arthroscopy-assisted reduction and fixation for femoral head fracture dislocations: Clinical and radiographic short-term results of seven cases.

Femoral head fracture dislocations are serious articular fractures that are associated with soft tissue injuries and are challenging to treat. Arthroscopic surgery may be a way to treat fracture reduction and fixation, thereby avoiding the need for extensive arthrotomy. We followed up a consecutive series of seven patients with femoral head fracture dislocation via a scope-assisted percutaneous headless screw fixation between 2016 and 2017. The clinical and radiological results were assessed. The locations of the fracture were all involving infra-foveal area. The mean follow-up duration was 18 (range 12-24) months. The mean Harris hip score was 90.8 (range 88-93) at the latest follow-up. None of the patients showed early osteoarthritis, heterotopic ossification, or avascular necrosis. The average maximal displacement of the fracture site was improved from preoperative 6.79 mm (range 4.21-12.32) to postoperative 2.76 mm (range 0.97-3.97). Concomitant intra-articular hip lesions secondary to traumatic hip dislocation can also be treated. Managing the infra-foveal fracture of the femoral head using arthroscopic reduction and fixation with headless screws can be a safe and minimally invasive option. More patients and longer follow-up are needed for a definite conclusion.

Clinical study of percutaneous hollow screw combined with tension band internal fixation for comminuted patellar fracture after arthroscopic reduction

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of percutaneous hollow screw combined with tension band internal fixation for comminuted patellar fracture after arthroscopic reduction. Methods 105 patients with comminuted patellar fracture in our hospital from April 2013 to September 2017 were selected and divided into observation group (n=53) and control group (n=52) according to different treatment schemes. The control group was treated with conventional open reduction and Kirschner wire combined with tension band internal fixation, while the observation group was treated with arthroscopic assisted reduction and percutaneous cannulated screw combined with wire tension band internal fixation. The operation status and postoperative fracture healing time of the two groups were compared. One-year follow-up was performed after operation. The incidence of complications, the excellent and good rate of operation, and the preoperative and postoperative pain scores (VAS) and knee were compared. Hospital for special surgery knee score (HSS), Activity of Daily Life Scale (ADL), quality of life score (the Mos 36-item Short Form Health Survey, SF-36) were compared. Results The observation group had fewer fluoroscopy times during operation, shorter incision length and shorter healing time after operation than the control group (P<0.05); the incidence of complications in the observation group was 3.85%, lower than 20.00% in the control group, and the excellent and good rate of operation was 96.15%, higher than 82.00% in the control group (P<0.05); the VAS scores of the two groups were lower than those of the control group one year after operation, and the scores of HSS, ADL and SF-36 were lower than those of the control group. The preoperative improvement was higher in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions Arthroscopic reduction combined with percutaneous hollow screw and tension band internal fixation for patellar comminuted fracture can reduce surgical trauma and accelerate the rehabilitation of patients. It can reduce the incidence of complications, relieve pain, improve knee function, daily living ability and quality of life, and the effect is remarkable. Key words: Arthroscopy; Patella; Fractures, comminuted; Fracture fixation, internal; Bone screws; Bone wires

Arthroscopic Assisted Reduction and Internal Fixation of Tibial Plateau Fractures.

BACKGROUND:Tibial plateau fractures present an important entity in orthopaedic fractures. Arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation is a good alternative to ORIF as it has the advantage of direct visualisation of the articular surface of the plateau, direct assessment of the reduction of the articular surface, and managing any associated intra-articular pathology.AIM:Our study aim is to determine the results of arthroscopic assisted reduction and internal fixation of tibial plateau fractures.METHODS:This study involved 25 patients with tibial plateau fractures presenting to the emergency department of Cairo University Hospitals between the periods of November 2016 and May 2017. The patients were followed up for an average of 14 months (11-18 months). According to Schatzker’s classification, five patients had type I, eleven had type II, and nine patients had type III fractures.RESULTS:The average time to full union in Schatzker type I was 9.1 weeks, in type II was 10.2 weeks, and in type III it was 9.4. The mean clinical Rasmussen score among the 25 patients was 26 (range, 24-30). A group of 19 patients (76%) had excellent results, (4 type I, 8 types II, and 7 types III) 6 patients (24 %) had good results (1 type I, 3 types II, 2 types III). Radiologic results were excellent in (14 cases) 56.0% and good results (11 cases) 44%.CONCLUSION:Arthroscopic assisted reduction and fixation of tibial plateau fractures have the advantages of checking the adequacy of reduction, avoiding the need for detachment of the meniscus, and allowing for accurate diagnosis and management of associated knee injuries. Therefore, we recommend that arthroscopic assisted reduction and fixation of tibial plateau fractures should be used more often.

Arthroscopically-Assisted Reduction and Internal Fixation of Intra-Articular Fractures of the Lateral Tibial Plateau

Arthroscopically-Assisted Reduction and Internal Fixation of Intra-Articular Fractures of the Lateral Tibial Plateau

Single portal arthroscopic-assisted reduction technique in the treatment of irreducible developmental dislocation of the hip in infants and toddlers

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of single-portal arthroscopic-assisted reduction technique in the developmental dislocation of the hip in infants. Methods: From January 2014 to December 2016, 12 dislocated hips in 12 children with a median age of 14 months (10 to 20 months) were treated with single-portal arthroscopic-assisted reduction technique. The indication for intervention was failure of closed reduction after bilateral adductor and unilateral iliopsoas release under anesthesia. Adductor and iliopsoas tendon were released routinely through a medial approach. Through the same medial approach a single-portal arthroscopic-assisted reduction technique was selected, with a medial sub-adductor portal for both 4.0 mm cannulated system with a 30° arthroscope and the instruments. After assessing of the intraarticular structures, the hypertrophic ligamentum teres and acetabular pulvinar were resected, and transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) was incised and a limited release of the capsule was performed prior to reduction of the hip. Arthrography was performed after reduction in all children. Safe zone angle and the medialization ratio on the arthrogram were compared pre and post arthroscopic reduction. Acetabular index were compared at two time points: before operation and at the latest follow-up with paired t test. Results: All hips were reduced with single-portal arthroscopic procedures. The reduction was confirmed on arthrography. With a median follow-up of 26 months (18 to 36 months), all 12 hips remained stable. Safe zone angle increased from 18.5°±3.8° to 61.9°±6.5° immediately after arthroscopic reduction(t=-28.944, P<0.01); and the medialization ratio on the arthrogram increased from 62%±20% to 104%±16% immediately after arthroscopic reduction (t=-3.519, P<0.05). The mean acetabular index decreased from 40.6°±5.0° to 29.4°±5.0° at the latest follow-up (t=5.463, P<0.01). However, Kalamchi-MacEwen type Ⅰ avascular necrosis was developed only in 1 case, and residual dysplasia was observed in 2 hips. Conclusions: Single-portal arthroscopic-assisted reduction technique is a safe and effective treatment for developmental dislocation of the hip in infants and toddlers.