Cases Of Superficial Infection Research Articles

Screw and absorbable suture tension band technique for geriatric weber type A lateral malleolus fractures

PurposeThe optimal method of internal fixation for ankle fractures in geriatric patients remains debated. This study aims to assess the efficacy of the screw and absorbable suture self-compression tension band technique in treating Weber Type A lateral malleolus fractures in geriatric patients. MethodsClinical data were analyzed from 31 geriatric patients with Weber Type A lateral malleolus fractures treated between March 2018 and June 2022. All patients underwent fixation with two screws combined with an absorbable suture self-compression tension band. The cohort comprised 18 males and 13 females, with a mean age of 65.6 ± 7.3 years. The study recorded operative time, intraoperative blood loss, fracture healing time, and postoperative complications. Outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and ankle range of motion (ROM). ResultsOf the 31 patients, 30 achieved primary wound healing. Follow-up periods ranged from 12 to 36 months (mean: 19.5 months). The average operative time was 44.7 ± 13.6 min, with slightly longer times for patients with additional injuries. Fracture healing time ranged from 8 to 16 weeks (mean: 12.1 weeks), with no cases of delayed healing or non-union, and no instances of fixation loosening or failure. Postoperative complications included one cases of superficial infection, one case of numbness, one case of foreign body sensation, and one case of prolonged pain. At the final follow-up, the mean AOFAS score was 89.8 ± 6.2, with VAS scores of 0 in 18 cases, 1 in 11 cases, and 2 in 2 cases. The average ROM was 65.4° ± 4.3°, resulting in a clinical satisfaction rate of 87.1 %. ConclusionThe use of screws combined with an absorbable suture self-compression tension band for treating Weber Type A lateral malleolus fractures in geriatric patients is straightforward, effective, and warrants broader adoption.

Clinical Outcomes After Mini-Open Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis

Background Long head of the biceps tendon pathology is a common cause of shoulder pain. Current surgical treatment options for long head of the biceps tendon disorders include tenotomy and tenodesis. Younger and high-demand patients are usually treated with tenodesis since tenotomy is associated with increased biceps pain and cramping, cosmetic deformity and patient dissatisfaction. Previous studies have shown biomechanical advantages of subpectoral open approach over arthroscopic suprapectoral approach, with less biceps over tension and increased ultimate load to failure. Despite this, there is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding the management of biceps-related pathology. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent subpectoral biceps tenodesis with unicortical endo-button fixation between January 2015 and December 2019. Only patients who had a minimum of 24 months follow-up were included in the study. We reviewed patient demographics. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Visual Analogue score were assessed and complications were recorded. Results A total of thirty-two patients were enrolled in this study. 15 were young patients and sports athletes with SLAP (Superior Labrum from Anterior to Posterior) lesions or isolated biceps instability and the remaining 17 were middle-age patients with degenerative biceps disease and concomitant pathology. The mean follow-up time was 36 months. SLAP lesions group average age was 24,3 and degenerative group average age was 53,8. The ASES score and the VAS score and were statically significative better in the isolated subpectoral tenodesis due to SLAP lesions 99,8 and 0,1 respectively in comparison with the degenerative group, 85,7 and 1,5 respectively. We recorded two complications. One case of superficial infection and one case of a patient that was concomitant submitted to arthroscopic rotator cuff tear repair with persisting shoulder pain. There was no case of failure of fixation or associated Popeye deformity. Conclusions Subpectoral biceps tenodesis with unicortical endo-button fixation is a viable treatment option for patients with symptomatic biceps disease. Anterior shoulder pain and biceps symptoms were resolved with this technique. Patients with coexistent rotator cuff lesion may have less favorable outcomes.

Safety and efficacy of intrawound vancomycin powder in the prevention of lumbar surgical site infection: A prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study.

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-wound vancomycin powder in reducing surgical site infections (SSIs) after spine surgery. A prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study. Patients who underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery from May 2021 to September 2022. Patients who underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery between May 2021 and September 2022 were included. Participants were randomized to the vancomycin treatment or control groups using block randomization (block size 4). Except for baseline and surgical data, the plasma levels of white blood cells, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and serum vancomycin concentration in the groups were analyzed on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, and 5. Vancomycin concentration was measured daily until the drainage tubes were removed. The primary outcomes were the 90-day vancomycin-related adverse reactions and SSI rates. Secondary outcomes were perioperative hematological parameters and vancomycin serum (drain) concentrations. A total of 156 participants (78 each in each group) were analyzed by an independent researcher. The follow-up rate was 91%. All participants were followed up for at least 90 days. The 90-day SSI rate in the vancomycin group was 1.3% (1/78), comprising one case of superficial infection. The SSI rate in the control group was 10.3% (8/78), comprising seven cases of superficial infection and one case of deep infection. Compared with that in the control group, the SSI rate in the vancomycin group was decreased by 87.5%, with a statistically significant difference (RR=0.125, 95% CI=0.016-0.976). Additionally, the vancomycin group demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in serum ESR on POD 3 (P=0.039) and CRP on POD 5 (P=0.024) compared to the control group. The local plasma concentration of vancomycin remained elevated for at least 4 days postoperatively, while the serum concentration of vancomycin remined low. Vancomycin-associated adverse reactions were not observed. Intra-wound application of vancomycin powder is a safe and effective procedure for reducing the risk of SSI during PLIF surgery.

A Dilemma in the Management of Distal Tibia Fractures Solved by Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Plate Osteosynthesis Technique: A Prospective Study.

Introduction Managing distal tibia fractures is challenging for trauma surgeons because of their peculiar anatomy with less soft tissue coverage and poor blood supply. There are various treatment options for distal tibia fractures such as open reduction and plating, minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis, and intramedullary interlocking nailing. Open reduction and internal fixation can lead to excessive soft tissue dissection and devascularization of fracture fragments. We conducted a study on the functional outcome of distal tibia fractures treated by biological fixation with minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis. Methods A total of 23 patients with distal one-third tibia fractures, fulfilling the inclusion criteria, who were treated at St. John's Medical College Hospital with minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis between November 2020 and November 2022 were studied using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score at six weeks, three months, and six months postoperative follow-up. Results This study included 17 males and six females. The mean age of the study participants was 43.78 years, with most of the participants being in the age group between 51 and 60 years (29.2%, n = 7). All the study participants were employed. The mean operative time was two hours and 10 minutes. The mean duration for the radiological union was 22 weeks. The mean AOFAS score at six months was 92.43 + 5.696. There was only one case of superficial infection, which was treated with intravenous antibiotics. There were no cases of malunion/nonunion. Conclusion Minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis is an effective treatment for distal tibia fractures avoiding most of the complications such as wound dehiscence and malunion/nonunion involved in conventional open reduction and internal fixation with plating. Therefore, we recommend this technique for all distal tibia fractures.

Comparison of ultrasound-guided closed reduction and percutaneous pinning fixation for unstable humeral lateral condylar fractures.

Ultrasound-guided techniques have become popular in severe humeral lateral condylar fractures (HLCFs). This study compared the results of ultrasound-guided closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (UG-CRPP) for Song types 4 and 5 and dislocation type of HLCFs. This retrospective study was conducted in patients with HLCFs treated between January 2021 and October 2022 at three hospitals. The patients were divided into three groups according to Song's classification and elbow dislocation. The surgical time, reduction failure rate, and outcomes of the three groups were compared. The mean surgical time of the 94 patients across the three groups (Song 4 group, 42 cases; Song 5 group, 38 cases; and dislocation group, 14 cases) was the longest for Song 4 (66.14 ± 23.05 min), followed by the dislocation group (59.71 ± 21.07 min) and Song 5 (52.16 ± 14.94 min) (for all, P = 0.009). The failure rate decreased in the following order: dislocation group (5/14), Song 4 group (7/42), and Song 5 group (2/38). The failure rate of closed reduction in Song 4 was 3.2-fold higher than that in Song 5, and for the dislocation group, it was 7.6-fold higher than that in Song 5. Significant differences were observed between the Song 4, Song 5, and dislocation groups in terms of shaft-condylar angle and supination (P = 0.015, P = 0.043). No significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in the carry angle, flexion, extension, or pronation of the three groups. Two cases of delayed healing, four cases of superficial infection, one case of trochlear necrosis, and 39 cases of lateral spur in the Song 4 group were observed. In the Song 5 group, five had a superficial infection, one had re-displacement, and 26 had a lateral spur. In the dislocation group, there were two cases of superficial infection and 10 of lateral spurs. Song 4 HLCFs require longer surgical time and present more postoperative complications than Song 5 and dislocation-type HLCFs and can easily lead to lateral spurs. The failure rates of closed reduction in Song 4 and the dislocation type were higher than those in Song 5. Thus, UG-CRPP can be used to treat patients with unstable HLCFs.

The use of triple antibiotic prophylaxis during total knee replacement surgeries in Awka, Nigeria

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) poses a significant challenge in orthopaedic surgery, often resulting in early failure and associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Various treatment strategies exist, including debridement, antibiotic therapy, and prosthesis retention, with preventive measures such as antibiotic-impregnated cement and prophylactic antibiotics administration recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Methodology: This prospective cohort study was conducted in an orthopaedic hospital in Awka, Southeast Nigeria, spanning seven years (2014-2021). A total of 134 patients who underwent primary and revision knee arthroplasty were included. The hospital's antibiotic prophylaxis protocol for implant surgeries, including arthroplasties, involved a triple combination of ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and metronidazole administered pre-, intra-, and postoperatively for a minimum of 7 days. Results: The study population had a mean age of 63.6 years, predominantly female (77.7%), and of Christian faith (100%). Most participants were of Igbo ethnicity (99.3%), married (90.7%), and engaged in business (37.7%). Severe osteoarthritis was the primary diagnosis in 97.0% of cases, while rheumatoid arthritis accounted for 3.0%. The triple antibiotic prophylaxis regimen resulted in only one case of superficial infection, with no instances of deep infection recorded. Conclusion: Triple antibiotics prophylaxis, comprising ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and metronidazole, demonstrated effectiveness in preventing infections associated with total knee arthroplasty. This regimen maintained surgical site infection prevalence within acceptable limits for clean surgeries, without observable antibiotic resistance in the study population.

The linked nail/plate construct for the management of distal femur fractures in the elderly.

Distal femoral fractures represent a challenging injury, with many different factors such as the method of fixation, complexity of fracture pattern, and patient co-morbidities affecting the outcome. Lots of surgical treatment options have been described, but recently double construct fixation, using a nail/plate combination, has received lots of attention, a technique that leads to faster weight-bearing, low risk of metalwork failure, and non-union. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the linked nail/plate construct in the management of complex distal femur fractures and to investigate if the above technique leads to faster recovery and earlier radiographic union. In total 15 cases were included in the study, that underwent a combined nail/plate construct for a distal femur fracture between January 2021 and December 2022. Only cases with a linked nail/plate construct were included, with a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Open femur fractures, single implant fixation cases, and revision procedures were excluded. In this cohort study, 11 cases were periprosthetic distal femur features, and 4 cases were distal femur fractures around a native knee joint. The mean age group was 74 years, 86.6% of the patients had a BMI>25 and the mean time to fracture union was 24 weeks (range from 20 to 26 weeks). All cases healed uneventfully and the complication rate was 6.6%, including 1 case of superficial infection which resolved completely with oral antibiotics. The increasing age population, the complexity of distal femoral fractures along with the increasing physiological demands of the elderly population, drive the need for double fixation constructs that allow early mobilization and enhance fracture stability. In our study, the linked nail/plate construct seems to provide adequate stability and excellent union rates (100%) with no associated increased risk of complications.

Outcomes of late-stages infantile Blount's disease managed by acute single stage: medial hemi-plateau elevation and metaphyseal osteotomy. Eight case series.

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of surgical intervention involving acute medial hemi-plateau elevation and metaphyseal osteotomy with internal fixation and growth modulation for late-stages Blount's disease. A retrospective analysis was conducted on consecutive patients with late-stages infantile tibia vara between 2014 and 2020. Inclusion criteria consisted of children aged 8 years and older with Blount's disease with Langenskiold stage IV, V or VI, tibia vara more than 30*, medial plateau depression angle (MPDA) exceeding 25* and knee instability with a minimum follow-up period of 3 years. Patients with Limb length discrepancy greater than 5 cm were excluded. Data collection included assessments of age, weight, disease stage, clinical tibiofemoral angle (TFA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA), MPDA, tibial torsion and knee instability. Functional outcomes were evaluated using modified Pediatric Outcome Data Collection Instruments (PODCI) scores. The study included 5 children with 8 affected limbs. Among them, three children with five limbs had recurrent deformities after previous surgeries. All cases showed significant improvements in TFAs, mMPTA, tibial torsion, knee instability and modified PODCI scores. Complications included 4 cases of superficial infections, 1 intra-articular fracture, 2 minor screw breakage and 2 on-table under correction. Surgical intervention involving acute Single-stage medial hemi-plateau elevation and metaphyseal osteotomy leads to satisfactory outcomes in late-stages Blount's disease among older children. It is crucial to achieve proper correction of all deformity components during surgery, with epiphysiodesis on the lateral side to prevent further recurrence. Continuous follow-up until skeletal maturity is essential for optimal results.

Retrograde tibial intramedullary nail versus minimally invasive locking plate for extra-articular distal tibial fractures: A comparative and retrospective study

BackgroundThe fractures of distal tibia represent common lower limb injuries, frequently accompanied by significant soft tissue damage. The optimal surgical approach for these fractures remains a considerable debate. This study was to perform a comparative analysis of retrograde intramedullary tibial nails (RTN) and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for extra-articular distal tibial fractures. Patients and methodsBetween December 2019 and December 2021, a retrospective review was conducted on 48 patients who sustained extra-articular distal tibial fractures. Patients underwent either RTN or MIPO procedures. Operative duration, intraoperative fluoroscopy exposure, time to union, duration until full weight-bearing, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, and related complications were recorded and compared between the two groups. ResultsNo statistically differences were observed in operative duration, time to union, angulation of the distal tibial coronal plane, or AOFAS scores between RTN and MIPO groups. However, the RTN group had a higher average number of intraoperative fluoroscopy images (8.2 ± 2.3) compared to the MIPO group (4.1 ± 2.0). The RTN group demonstrated shorter average hospital stays (7.1 ± 1.4 days) and a quicker return to full weight-bearing (9.9 ± 1.3 weeks), which were significantly superior to the MIPO group (9.0 ± 2.0 days and 11.5 ± 1.5 weeks, respectively). In terms of complications, the RTN group had one case of superficial infection, whereas the MIPO group exhibited two cases of delayed union and nonunion, one instance of implant failure, two occurrences of deep infection, and an additional three cases of superficial infection. The complications rate was remarkably higher in the MIPO group. ConclusionBoth RTN and MIPO are effective treatment options for extra-articular distal tibial fractures. However, RTN may offer superior outcomes in terms of reduced hospital stay duration, faster return to full weight-bearing capacity, and a lower rate of complications.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Tension Band Wiring Fixation for Chaput Tubercle Fractures.

Chaput tubercle fractures, located at the attachment site of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) on the distal tibia, have the potential to destabilize the syndesmosis joint. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of tension band wiring (TBW) as a surgical intervention for managing Chaput fractures and the consequent syndesmosis instability. A retrospective review of patient charts was undertaken for those who had undergone ankle fracture surgery from April 2019 through May 2022. The surgical procedure involved direct fixation of the Chaput fractures using the TBW method. Radiological assessments were performed using postoperative simple radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans, while clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) and the visual analog scale (VAS). The study included 21 patients. The average OMAS improved significantly, rising from 5.95 preoperatively to 83.57 postoperatively. Similarly, the average VAS score dropped from 7.95 before the surgery to 0.19 thereafter. Minor wound complications were reported by three patients, and one case of superficial infection was resolved with antibiotic therapy. Our findings suggest that the TBW technique is an effective surgical approach for treating Chaput fractures and associated syndesmosis instability. It provides reliable fixation strength and leads to improved long-term functional outcomes. Further research is needed to compare the TBW technique with alternative methods and optimize the treatment strategies for these complex ankle fractures.

Surgical Treatment of Neglected Elbow Dislocation by Posterior Approach

Background: Neglected elbow dislocation often results in contracture and functional impairments. Surgical treatment is challenging because of the accompanying triceps retraction. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to surgical outcomes of treating the neglected dislocations of elbow joint using the posterior approach. Methodology: This was a non-randomized clinical trial over a three years period from January 2017 to December 2019. All the patients who were presented with a neglected elbow dislocation which was older than 21 days were selected as study population. The average follow-up was 18 months with the range 12 to 24 months after surgical procedure. Results: A total number of 10 patients were treated with an average age of 24.6±10.52 years (range 14 to 48 years). The dislocations were 6.6±3.69 months old on average (range 2 to 12months). Average elbow flexion was 46.5±26.04(15º-90º) and the extension deficit was 14.5±19.58(0º-50º) before the surgery. A paratricepital approach was used in all patients. In 7 patients, the dislocation was reduced without triceps lengthening. In 3 patients, a V-Y plasty of the triceps muscle was required. The improvements in the overall range of motion were statistically significant. Average elbow flexion was118±11.35 (100º-130º) and extension deficit was 20.5±15.17. Complications included one case of ulnar nerve paresis, which subsided within two months, and one case of superficial infection. Conclusion: In conclusion the functional improvement in neglected elbow dislocations is outstanding. Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research, July 2022;9(2):63-68

Tension band wiring of fracture distal end of clavicle: Favorable clinical outcome among the patients

Background: A fracture of the clavicle is common traumatic injury. It can be classified into middle third, medial third, and distal third fractures. Around 10–15% of clavicle fractures occur in the distal third. The ideal method of fixation in distal third clavicle fracture remains controversial till date. Aims and Objectives: The clinical outcome of the patients having fracture of the distal end clavicle using rigid fixation with tension band wiring (TBW) with Kirshner wires and SS wire to be assessed instead of other conventional procedures. Materials and Methods: Eight patients of Neer type II closed distal-third clavicle fracture of <3 weeks of duration were included in our study. The fractures were reduced by open reduction and fixed with TBW with two K-wires and SS wire. Results: The mean average age of patients was 41.87 years. All fractures united clinically and radiologically. The mean average time of union was 12 weeks. There was two case of hardware prominence, no fracture related complications. One case of superficial infection was found in study. All of them regained near normal range of motion, and the mean average constant Murley score for distal clavicle fracture at the end of 1 year was 88. At the end of 1 year follow-up, all patients had reached their pre-injury performance levels. Conclusion: There was an encouraging result with TBW in distal third clavicle fracture in our study. This technique is simple with lesser need of expertise and is also cost effective.

Extension block pinning combined with traction using towel clamps for effective reduction of mallet fracture: a technical tip

Purpose: Although closed reduction and extension block pinning have been widely used for acute mallet finger fracture, the problem of reduction remains a concern. We describe a tip for the reduction technique using a towel clamp, which provides a longitudinal traction force to the distal phalanx, and report the results of the technique.Methods: The medical records of 14 consecutive cases from 12 patients with acute mallet fractures were retrospectively reviewed. Reduction was achieved using the towel clamp reduction technique. The radiologic results were evaluated by simple radiographs, the functional results were analyzed in terms of range of motion, and remaining pain was assessed using Crawford criteria.Results: The mean follow-up period was 8.4 months. The mean union duration was 6 weeks. The mean range of motion was 73°. Eight cases had excellent outcomes, one had good outcomes, four had fair outcomes, and one had poor outcomes. One case of superficial infection and one case of skin necrosis developed, and three cases showed arthritic changes in the distal interphalangeal joint.Conclusion: The towel clamp technique can provide good reduction during surgery, with favorable radiologic and clinical results.

Skin Reactions Following Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty With an Adhesive Superficial Closure System: A Case Series

BackgroundWe investigated a skin adhesive closure device consisting of a self-adhesive polyester mesh placed over the surgical incision, followed by a liquid adhesive that is spread over the mesh and surrounding the skin. It is intended to reduce wound closure times, scarring, and skin complications associated with traditional closure with sutures or staples. The aim of this study was to report on skin reactions in patients who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using the skin adhesive closure system. MethodsA retrospective review of patients who underwent TKA using adhesive closure between 2016 to 2021 at a single institute was performed. A total of 1,719 cases were analyzed. Patient demographics were collected. The primary outcome was any postoperative skin reaction. Skin reactions were classified as allergic dermatitis, cellulitis, or other. Treatment(s), duration of symptoms, and surgical infections were also collected. ResultsA total of 5.0% (86) of patients were found to have any type of skin reaction following their TKA. Of these 86, 39 (2.3%) had symptoms of allergic dermatitis (AD), 23 (1.3%) had symptoms of cellulitis, and 24 (1.4%) had other symptoms. A total of 27 (69%) allergic dermatitis patients were treated with a topical corticosteroid cream only; their symptoms resolved within an average of 25 days. There was only 1 case of superficial infection (<0.001%). No prosthetic joint infections were observed. ConclusionDespite skin reactions appearing in 5.0% of cases, the rate of infection was low. A patient-specific preoperative workup and effective treatment strategies can minimize complications associated with adhesive closure system and increase patient satisfaction following TKA.

Simplicillium sinense sp. nov., a novel potential pathogen of tinea faciei.

Simplicillium species are widely distributed with a broad spectrum of hosts and substrates. Generally, these species are entomopathogenic or mycoparasitic. Notably, some isolates of Simplicillium lanosoniveum and Simplicillium obclavatum were obtained from human tissues. In this study, two fungi were isolated from the annular itchy patch of infected skin of a 46-year-old man with diabetes mellitus. Based on a combination of morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, a novel species, Simplicillium sinense, was introduced herein. It morphologically differs from the remaining Simplicillium in the size of phialides and conidia. Additionally, it grows slowly on YPD at 37°C. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing presented that this fungus is resistant to most azole antifungals. Therefore, the diagnosis of tinea faciei was made, and after 2 weeks of being treated with oral terbinafine (250 mg, once a day) and topical terbinafine cream for 1 month, the rash was mainly resolved and no recurrence happened after 6 months of follow-up. Herein, Simplicillium sinense was introduced as a new fungal taxon. Meanwhile, a case of superficial infection caused by S. sinense was reported. So far, it is the third Simplicillium species obtained from human tissue. Meanwhile, terbinafine is recommended as the first-line antifungal treatment against Simplicillium infection.

Submuscular bridge plating in the treatment of length unstable femur fracture in adolescents

Background The most common fractures in teenagers that need hospitalization are femoral shaft fractures. Aim This study aims to evaluate the role of the submuscular bridging plate in the treatment of length unstable femur fracture as a safe and alternative option in cases where use of intramedullary nails and open reduction methods is debatable regarding healing and functional outcomes. Patients and methods Submuscular bridge plate for femur fracture was performed on 20 patients having length unstable femoral shaft fractures through a minimally invasive technique. Results There was a significant positive link between age and healing time, but no such relationship existed between healing time and patient sex, level, type of fracture, or injury mechanism. The patients’ average age was 11 years (10–19 years). Overall, 12 patients were males and eight were females. There was no infection except for three cases of superficial infection. There was no significant swelling except in four cases; all patients restored full range of motion except four patients had limited knee flexion for a short period. No patient had a deformity greater than 10° in the frontal or sagittal planes, or a limb-length disparity greater than 1 cm. There has been no clinically obvious malrotation, late union, or nonunion. Conclusion Submuscular plating is a dependable method with excellent healing capacity and fixing mechanics. Submuscular plating is a surgical technique with a learning curve. It offers clear benefits over other operative procedures and is linked to minimization of complications.

ANKLE FUSION WITH TIBIOTALOCALCANEAL RETROGRADE NAIL FOR FRAGILITY ANKLE FRACTURES: OUTCOMES AT A MAJOR TRAUMA CENTRE

Fragility ankles fractures in the geriatric population are challenging to manage, due to fracture instability, soft tissue compromise, patient co-morbidities. Traditional management options include open reduction internal fixation, or conservative treatment, both of which are fraught with high complication rates. We aimed to present functional outcomes of elderly patients with fragility ankle fractures treated with tibiotalocalcaneal nails.171 patients received a tibiotalocalcaneal nail over a six-year period, but only twenty met the inclusion criteria of being over sixty and having poor bone stock, verified by radiological evidence of osteopenia or history of fragility fractures. Primary outcome was mortality risk from co-morbidities, according to the Charlson co-morbidity index (CCI), and patients’ post-operative mobility status compared to pre-operative mobility. Secondary outcomes include intra-operative and post-operative complications, six-month mortality rate, time to mobilisation and union.The mean age was 77.82 years old, five of whom are type 2 diabetics. The average CCI was 5.05. Thirteen patients returned to their pre-operative mobility state. Patients with low CCI are more likely to return to pre-operative mobility status (p=0.16; OR=4.00).Average time to bone union and mobilisation were 92.5 days and 7.63 days, respectively. Mean post-operative AOFAS ankle-hindfoot and Olerud-Molander scores were 53.0 (range 17-88) and 50.9 (range 20-85), respectively. There were four cases of broken distal locking screws, and four cases of superficial infection. Patients with high CCI were more likely to acquire superficial infections (p=0.264, OR=3.857). There were no deep infections, periprosthetic fractures, nail breakages, non-unions.TTC nailing is an effective treatment methodology for low-demand geriatric patients with fragility ankle fractures. This technique leads to low complication rates and early mobilisation. It is not a life-changing procedure, with many able to return to their pre-operative mobility status, which is important for preventing the loss of socioeconomic independence.

Closed Reduction and High-Strength Sutures for Transverse Patella Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of closed reduction high-strength sutures combined with Nice knots in treating transverse patella fractures.MethodWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 28 patients who underwent surgery for transverse patella fractures from January 2019 to January 2020. Twelve cases of the study group were treated with closed reduction high-strength sutures combined with Nice knots, and 16 cases in the control group were treated with tension band wiring. Observations included patellar healing, follow-up knee mobility with Böstman score, Lysholm score, surgical data, postoperative complications, and secondary surgery rate.ResultNo statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in the Patient demographic data, with a mean follow-up of 13.14 ± 1.58 months. There was no delayed healing or deep infection in the two groups. In the control group, 2 cases of internal fixation failure and 1 case of superficial infection were observed. The differences in mean fracture healing time, follow-up Böstman score, Lysholm score and knee mobility between the two groups were not statistically different. However, the differences were statistically significant for the duration of surgery, Incision length, intraoperative bleeding and the secondary surgery rate was lower in the study group.ConclusionClosed reduction high-strength sutures have good clinical efficacy in treating transverse patella fractures, with the advantages of shorter duration of surgery and Incision length,less intraoperative bleeding and no secondary removal.

Functional outcome of free fibula grafting in benign non-reconstructable bone tumours involving the hand

BACKGROUND: Bone tumours involving hands are usually benign but can be locally aggressive. Several treatments have been described. Usual modalities of treatment include curettage and bone grafting. In more advanced stages when short bones of the hand are involved with more than 70% cortical destruction, or when such treatment option is not possible (as with non-contained tumours with cortical breaches, pathological fracture), only the resection or amputation of the affected segment can offer an effective cure. We studied the role of the free fibula graft (non-vascularised) in such types of benign non-reconstructable (by conventional methods) hand tumours. The aims and objectives were to study the functional outcome of free fibula grafting in benign non-reconstructable bone tumours involving the hand and to analyse the complications, if any, and assess the causes and solutions for them METHODS: We prospectively studied 15 patients with different types of benign, non-reconstructable bone tumours involving the hand operated by free fibula grafting. The study period ranged from January 2014 to December 2021. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 8 years (average of 4.26 years RESULTS: Results were analysed by the QuidkDASH-9 score system. There was no recurrence. One case of superficial infection was treated with antibiotics and dressing. All patients were happy with the treatment and resumed their normal duties and functional movements CONCLUSION: Use of the free fibula graft can be a good option for benign non-reconstructable bone tumours involving the hand to avoid amputation. The free fibula graft gives better results due to total excision of the lesion and strut graft support for good functional outcomes Level of evidence: Level 3

A study of functional outcome in patients undergoing arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament injury using hamstring tendon graft with interference screws

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament is the primary stabilizer of the knee and prevents the knee against anterior translation. It is also important in counteracting the rotational and valgus stress. The arthroscopically aided approach has the advantages of smaller skin and capsular incisions, improved viewing of the intercondylar notch for placement of the tunnel and attachment sites, less postoperative pain, fewer adhesions, earlier motion and easier rehabilitation. Approximately 100,000 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are performed in the USA each year. Interference screw fixation is considered the standard for rigid fixation of the graft and provides higher fixation strength compared with other devices such as staples or buttons. Most studies showed no intergroup difference in terms of outcomes measured with validated clinical scores such as IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee), Lysholm score and Tegner activity level. There was no significant difference regarding range of motion. Knee stability as evaluated with pivot shift and KT arthrometer showed a significant difference only in one study, favouring metallic interference screws. Materials and Methods: Patients admitted to CG hospital and Bapuji hospital in Davangere, Karnataka between 2019 October to 2021 October were taken into the study after taking informed consent. Results: This study consists of 25 cases of Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury. All cases were performed arthroscopically. ACL rupture was common in second and third decade. In our study, male preponderance was found with 23 (92%) and female preponderance of 2 (8%). Side affected was 13 (52%) right side and 12 (48%) left side. Mode of injury in the present study includes various sources such as sports, RTA, fall. Results were evaluated by using International Knee Documentation committee (IKDC) and Lysholm knee scoring scale. In present study we have 22 patients with Excellent results, 2 cases as Good, 1 case as Fair and 0 cases as Poor. No case needed re-surgery. In the present study there were no cases of superficial infection. Conclusion: Arthroscopic reconstruction of ACL using Semitendinous and Gracilis tendon graft (Hamstring tendon) with Interference screws can be considered the best mode of treatment for ACL rupture.