Compression Plate Fixation Research Articles

Comparison of plate and compression screw in the treatment of hallux rigidus with arthrodesis: a retrospective study

Objectives: Although numerous surgical techniques and fixation methods have been described for the treatment of hallux rigidus (HR) with arthrodesis, consensus on the gold standard treatment has not been reached. The aim of this study is to retrospectively compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of compression screw fixation and plate fixation in the treatment of HR with arthrodesis. Methods: Patients who underwent arthrodesis surgery due to HR between January 2021 and December 2023 at a single center were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups: those who underwent arthrodesis with plate fixation (PLATE) and those who underwent arthrodesis with compression screw fixation (SCREW). Demographic data including age, gender, affected side, operative time, hallux valgus angle (HVA), dorsiflexion angle, AOFAS scores, and implant irritation data were compared among patients with at least 3 months of follow-up. Results: It was observed that all patients included in the study had successful bone union without any complications. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, gender, affected side, preoperative HVA, and preoperative AOFAS scores (P=0.970, P=0.426, P=0.694, P=0.216, and P=0.905, respectively). The mean operation time and postoperative AOFAS score were lower in the PLATE group compared to the SCREW group (P=0.006 and P=0.004, respectively). However, in the SCREW group, the dorsiflexion angle and the rate of implant irritation were lower compared to the PLATE group (P=0.016 and P=0.01, respectively). Conclusions: In the surgical treatment of HR, both plate fixation arthrodesis and compression screw arthrodesis are reliable surgical techniques. While plate fixation arthrodesis is a faster and more practical method, arthrodesis with a compression screw results in fewer complaints related to the implant and provides a more functional recovery.

Both-Bone Forearm Shaft Fractures Treated with Compression Plate Fixation in Adults: A Systematic Review on Adverse Events and Outcomes.

Both-bone forearm shaft fractures (BBFFs) in adults carry a significant risk of adverse events (AEs). Based on the current literature, there is considerable variance in AE incidence reporting. We aimed to systematically review the literature on BBFFs in adults treated with compression plate fixation, assessing AEs and long-term outcomes. We performed a systematic review based on the PubMed database on the current literature on adult BBFFs treated with open reduction and internal fixation with compression plates. Two authors independently collected the data, and a third author resolved disagreements between the 2 reviewers. The primary outcome measure was postoperative AEs, whereas the secondary outcome was to review the long-term outcomes. We evaluated the methodological quality of the studies with a modified version of the Coleman Methodology Score. Fifteen studies (12 retrospective case series and 3 randomized controlled trials) met the set inclusion criteria. In total, there were 944 patients, of whom 24% (n = 224) experienced some AEs, and 14% had major AEs requiring secondary operations or remaining persistent. The most common AEs were postoperative nerve injuries (incidence 7%, n = 64/944) and fracture nonunion (incidence 5%, n = 45/944). Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores were available for 135 patients (5 studies), with a mean score of 12.5 (range 0-61). According to the modified Coleman Methodology Scores, there were 2 good-, 1 fair-, and 12 poor-quality studies among the included studies. BBFF compression plate fixation in adults poses a relatively high AE risk (24%). According to available patient-reported outcomes and range of motion measurements, the average postoperative outcomes are good, although a minor disability typically persists to some extent. There is a need for high-quality prospective trials assessing the treatment and outcomes of BBFFs in adults to improve forearm fracture treatment. Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

A Short-Term Study of 18 Cases of Distal Femur Fractures Managed By Locking Compression Plate [Lcp] Using A Less Invasive Skeletal Stabilisation System [LISS

Distal femur fractures have traditionally been the most challenging to treat. Restoring full motion and function to the knee may be challenging due to these fractures' proximity to the knee joint. Regardless of the treatment method, comminution, damage of soft tissue, fracture extension into the knee joint, and related injury to the quadriceps mechanism frequently concludes in suboptimal outcomes. The early surgical fixation notion, increased implant availability, early postoperative knee joint immobilization, and a better understanding of damage patterns have all significantly improved the patient's functional result. Our study focuses on distal femur fractures managed by LCP [locking compression plate] using a less invasive skeletal stabilization system [LISS]. This is a retrospective research of 18 cases of distal femur fractures in adults who had LCP treatment with the LISS. The operation at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital in Chennai runs from January 2021 to January 2022. All types of intercondylar and supracondylar fractures are included. Children's fractures and pathological fractures were not included. Age distribution, side of injury, sex distribution, anatomy of injury, mechanism of injury, damage grading, subtype of fracture, concomitant injuries, and open fractures were the parameters used to assess the cases. AP and lateral views of the X-ray were taken. A thorough preoperative workup was completed. Every case was scheduled for surgery as soon as feasible. External fixators were used in the initial treatment of complicated cases. Patients underwent locking compression plate (LCP) fixation with the LISS. Radiological examination immediately following surgery, four weeks, six weeks, eight weeks, twelve weeks, four months, and every six months for a maximum of one year.The age range of the patients was 21 to 70 years, with a mean age of 30 years. A maximum incidence of fractures was noted in individuals aged 40 to 60. Males accounted for the majority of the 18 cases, with a female-to-male ratio of 3:5. Our series was predominantly right-sided. The most frequent cause of injury has been traffic accidents. Throughout the research period, no patients were lost to follow-up. Of the eighteen cases, the majority involved distal femur fractures, with intercondylar extension accounting for a higher number of cases, and isolated supracondylar fractures following. A head injury was present in one case, and acetabular fracture in another, a Boxer’s fracturein a third case, and 2 open fractures (1 compound grade III A, the other compound grade II). The fractures took an average of 13.3 weeks to heal. It required an average of 15.3 weeks longer in cases of compound fractures. Less than six degrees of malalignment (varus, valgus) were present. Every patient exhibited optimal articular alignment.Excellent outcomes were obtained with the LISS, which combines appropriate physiotherapy with an LCP (angle stable build). In principle, an LCP implant is the best option for fractured and osteoporotic bones. In summary, the use of LCPs in the LISS appears to yield superior outcomes when managing distal femur fractures.

Effect analysis of 90° hip locking compression plate fixation in treatment of femoral supracondylar fracture.

Effect analysis of 90° hip locking compression plate fixation in treatment of femoral supracondylar fracture.

Analysis of the Effect of Interlocking Intramedullary Nail Fixation on Treating Bone Nonunion After Extremity Trauma Fracture

Objective: To analyze the effect of interlocking intramedullary nail fixation on treating bone nonunion after extremity trauma fracture. Methods: 80 patients with bone nonunion after extremity trauma fracture were selected and divided into two groups according to different treatment methods, each group having 40 cases. The control group performed compression plate fixation, and the observation group performed interlocking intramedullary nail fixation. A comparison of surgical indexes, bone metabolism indexes, and surgical effects was done. Results: The observation group had shorter operation time and postoperative hospitalization time, the levels of various bone metabolism indexes were higher than those of the control group one month after operation, and the total effective rate of the operation was higher than that of the control group (P＜0.05). Conclusion: Interlocking intramedullary nail fixation is more effective in the treatment of post-traumatic fracture of the extremities with bone nonunion.

Displaced humeral shaft fractures: Assessment of fracture union and complications following dual plate fixation using an anterior approach

The humeral bone is subject to torsional forces. In case of displaced shaft fractures, internal fixation remains the standard of care. This retrospective two-center study assessed the fracture union rate and complications after dual 3.5 mm locking compression plate (LCP) fixation using an anterolateral approach. Over a 9-year period, 38 patients underwent surgery in two centers. They had a mean age of 53.7 years (15–97, ± standard deviation (SD) 26) and there were three open fracture cases (7.9 %). The dominant side was affected in 21 cases (55.3 %) and there were 11 polytrauma patients (29 %). Mean operative time was 78 min (40–124, ± 19.8 SD). Patients were treated with dual 3.5 mm LCP fixation (6 screws on either side of the fracture line, anterolateral approach without a tourniquet). The first two orthogonal views showing at least 3 cortical bridges out of 4 determined fracture healing, as assessed by two independent raters. Pre- and postoperative complications were tabulated. Clinical outcomes included range of motion (ROM) and return to activities, while functional outcomes were assessed with the Disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH), the Constant score, the Subjective Shoulder Score (SSV) and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Minimum follow-up was 1 year. Four patients were given a shoulder immobilizer to wear for 3 weeks; immediate mobilization was the standard of care for the other patients. Fracture union was achieved in all cases within a mean of 11.7 weeks (6–28 ± 7.1 SD) without any heterotopic ossification of the brachialis muscle. There were eight patients with preoperative radial nerve palsy and two cases of postoperative palsy. There was one surgical site infection (2.6 %). Return to work for active patients was possible in 87 % of cases within a mean of 23 weeks (6–72 ± 11 SD). The Constant score was 84.6 (35–100, ± 13.4 SD), the SSV score was 80.7 (60–100, ± 8.2 SD), the DASH score was 13.5 (0–38.3, ± 8.8 SD) and the MEPS score was 85 (55–100, ± 11.9 SD). Traditional fixation methods provide little control over torsional forces, leading to non-union rates between 3 % and 12 % and delayed union (12 to 20 weeks). The simplicity of the technique described here, and the short operative time, may help explain the low infection rate. Dual plate fixation makes it possible to use more screws and allows nerve exploration and decompression in case of preoperative nerve palsy. Dual plate fixation to treat humeral shaft fractures is a simple and reliable technique.

Four-screw compression plate fixation for diaphyseal humerus fractures.

While many humeral shaft fractures can be successfully treated with nonoperative management, compression plating techniques using at least three or four screws on either side of the fracture are the current gold standard. We hypothesized that a less rigid construct using compression with only two screws on either side of the fracture can provide adequate strength for uneventful fracture union. This is a retrospective review of all the patients who underwent open reduction and compression plate fixation for acute diaphyseal humerus fractures (ADHFs) at an academic Level-1 urban trauma center between 2018 and 2023. Patients treated with compression plating using only two screws and three or four plate-holes on either side of the fracture (Group 1) were matched one-to-one with patients treated using the conventional number of screws (three or more on either side of the fracture - Group 2). The incidence of nonunion/malunion, infection, and implant failure was compared among the two groups. There were eleven matched patients in both groups. The nonunion, infection complications, and hardware failure rates were 0% and 9.1% for the control group (Group 2) and four-screw group (Group 1) respectively. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 1.00). Although convention dictates the use of six or more bicortical screws (at least three bicortical screws on each side of the fracture), four-screw bicortical fixation may be a feasible option for ADHFs treated with large fragment compression plating techniques.

Numerical study of pedicle screw construction and locking compression plate fixation in posterior pelvic ring injuries: Analyzed by finite element method.

The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical performance of pedicle screw construction and locking compression plate fixation in posterior pelvic ring injuries analyzed by finite element method. A 3-dimensional finite element model of the spine-pelvis-femur complex with ligaments was reconstructed from computed tomography images. An unstable posterior pelvic ring injury was created, which was fixed with a pedicle screw construction or locking compression plate. A follower load of 400 N was applied to the upper surface of the vertebrae to simulate the upper body weight, while the ends of the proximal femurs were fixed. The construct stiffness, the maximum vertical displacement, the maximum posterior displacement, the maximum right displacement, and the overall maximum displacement of the sacrum, and stress distributions of the implants and pelvises were assessed. The construct stiffness of the pedicle screw model (435.14 N/mm) was 2 times that of the plate model (217.01 N/mm). The maximum vertical displacement, the maximum posterior displacement, the maximum right displacement, and the overall maximum displacement of the sacrum in the pedicle screw model were smaller than those in the plate model (0.919, 1.299, 0.259, and 1.413 mm in the pedicle screw model, and 1.843, 2.300, 1.053, and 2.895 mm in the plate model, respectively). The peak stresses of the implant and pelvis in the pedicle screw model decreased by 80.4% and 25% when compared with the plate model (44.57 and 34.48 MPa in the pedicle screw model, and 227.47 and 45.97 MPa in the plate model, respectively). The study suggested that the pedicle screw construction could provide better fixation stability than the locking compression plate and serves as the recommended fixation method for the treatment of posterior pelvic ring injuries.

Evaluation of functional outcome in patients treated with locking compression plate for distal femur fractures

Distal femur fractures are always a challenge to an orthopedic surgeon. They may be unstable and comminuted. Thin cortex, wide medullary canal, relative osteopenia and short distal segment adds to the complexity. The present study assessed the functional outcome of using locking compression plate fixation for fractures of distal end of femur in patients admitted to JMMC orthopedics department satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria from December 2017 to may 2019. Twenty cases were taken in this study. Serial follow up was done at 4, 8, 12, 24 weeks and functional outcome was assessed at the end of 24 weeks using NEERS criteria. 18 patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. 2 of the fractures were stabilized via MIPPO technique. No patients had implant failure and none of the cases were complicated by deep infection. 5 of the 20 patients had ‘Excellent’ Neers scores and 14 had ‘Good’ scores. Only one patient had ‘Fair’ score.
 Conclusion: Locking compression plate fixation is a safe procedure for supracondylar fractures of distal femur with good functional outcome. It can be done on a routine basis with a minimum risk of complications.
 Keywords: Functional Outcome, LCP, Open Reduction Internal Fixation, Prospective Study, Supracondylar Fracture.

Dynamic Compression Plating Versus Antegrade Intramedullary Nailing for the Treatment of OTA/AO 12-A Fractures: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Fractures of the humerus diaphysis are common and often result from motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Treatment methods range from nonoperative approaches to various operative techniques, including antegrade intramedullary nailing (AIMN) and dynamic compression plate (DCP) fixation. This study aimed to compare the cost effectiveness and outcomes of plating and nailing for humerus diaphyseal fractures. A retrospective cohort study involving 59 cases of humerus diaphyseal OTA/AO 12-A fractures was conducted at King Saud Medical City (KSMC), a level I trauma center located in the center region in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Patients treated with AIMN, anterolateral plating, or posterior plating were included. Data on demographics, clinical parameters, radiographic healing, and costs were collected and analyzed. The average surgical duration was shorter in the AIMN group compared to the anterolateral and posterior plating groups but with no statistical significance (P > 0.05). The average length of stay (LOS) was shorter, and the change in hemoglobin levels was lower in the AIMN group when compared to other groups but without a statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). The average cost of AIMN was significantly higher than that of anterolateral and posterior plating groups (P < 0.0001). While both nailing and plating procedures are options for treating OTA/AO 12-A fractures, AIMN carries a higher overall procedural cost. The practice of drain placement in our study population is likely the cause of the increased LOS in the plating groups. Relative additional analgesic requirements were associated with AIMN. Surgeons should consider meticulous hemostasis to avoid drain placement, which can decrease LOS, thus possibly decreasing unnecessary treatment costs of humerus shaft fractures.

Bone Healing and Clinical Outcome Following Medial Opening-wedge High Tibial Osteotomy Using Wedge-Shaped Cancellous Allograft.

Medial opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) is considered to be an effective treatment for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (KOA) of isolated the medial compartment with varus alignment of the lower extremity. However, the choice of material to fill the void remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the bone union of the osteotomy gap using a novel wedge-shaped cancellous allograft after MOWHTO and its effect on clinical outcomes. All patients who underwent MOWHTO using a novel wedge-shaped cancellous allograft combined with TomoFix locking compression plate (LCP) fixation between January 2016 and July 2020 were enrolled. The radiographic parameters including hip-knee-ankle angle (HKAA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), femorotibial angle (FTA) and posterior tibial slope angle (PTSA) were measured between pre-operative and post-operative radiographs. Knee Society score (KSS) and range of motion (ROM) were assessed preoperatively and at last follow-up. Patients included in this study were divided into two groups according to the correction angle: small correction group (< 10°; SC group) and large correction group (≥ 10°; LC group). The modified Radiographic Union score for tibial fractures (mRUST) was used to assess the difference in bone healing between the two groups at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up. A paired student's t test was conducted for comparison of differences of the relevant data pre-operatively and post-operatively. A total of 82 patients (88 knees) were included in this study. The HKAA, MPTA, FTA and PTSA increased from -6.4° ± 3.0°, 85.1° ± 2.6°, 180.1° ± 3.2° and 7.7° ± 4.4° preoperatively to 1.2° ± 4.3° (p < 0.001), 94.4° ± 3.3° (p < 0.001), 171.0° ± 2.8° and 11.8° ± 5.8° (p < 0.001) immediately postoperatively, respectively. However, no significant statistic difference was found in above-mentioned parameters at last follow-up compared to immediate postoperative data (p > 0.05). All patients in this study achieved good bone healing at the final follow-up and no significant differences in mRUST scores were seen between the SC group and LC group. The KSS-Knee score and KSS-Function score improved significantly from 55.4 ± 3.7 and 63.3 ± 4.6 preoperatively to 86.4 ± 2.8 (p < 0.001) and 89.6 ± 2.9 (p < 0.001) at last follow-up, respectively. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference in ROM between pre-operation and last follow-up (p > 0.05). For MOWHTO, the wedge-shaped cancellous allograft was a reliable choice for providing good bone healing and clinical outcomes.

Outcomes of spring-locking plate fixation method using locking mesh plate/box plate for posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum: a retrospective single-centre study

IntroductionThis retrospective study evaluated the outcomes of variable-angle locking compression plate, mesh plate, or footplate box fixation for posterior acetabular wall fractures. Patients and methodsThe study included nine patients with unstable posterior acetabular wall fractures who underwent internal fixation with the "spring-locking plate fixation method" between January 2015 and December 2019. Patient demographics, fracture classifications, surgical details, radiological and clinical evaluations, and complications were collected from electronic medical records. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the relationship between preoperative and postoperative dislocations. ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 46 years, and the majority were men (88.9%). Fracture types included posterior wall fractures and posterior column plus posterior wall fractures. The mean operative time was 246 min and the mean blood loss was 663 mL. The surgical approaches included the Kocher–Langenbeck, Ganz trochanteric flip, and transtrochanteric approaches. Variable-angle locking compression plate mesh plates and footplate box type implants were used for fixation. The mean preoperative dislocation was 23 mm, which was significantly reduced to 1 mm immediately post-operation and at the final observation. The bone fusion rate was 100% and radiological and clinical evaluations revealed favourable outcomes. Complications were minimal, with mild heterotopic ossification observed in four patients. ConclusionThe spring-locking plate fixation method demonstrated satisfactory outcomes for the treatment of posterior acetabular wall fractures. This technique provides rigid fixation. Furthermore, the use of variable-angle locking screws minimizes the risk of intra-articular perforations. Despite limitations such as a small sample size and the absence of a control group, the results suggest that the spring-locking plate fixation method may be valuable in managing these fractures.

Biomechanical and clinical evaluation of minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis for two-part clavicle shaft fractures

BackgroundMany surgical treatment methods exist for clavicle shaft fractures. A locking compression plate (LCP) fixation with three screws per fracture side is commonly used. For certain fractures a stabilization with 2 screws per side is potentially suitable, offering the advantage of reduced soft tissue approach, while avoiding the disadvantages of minimally-invasive nailing at the same time. This hypothesis was evaluated biomechanically and clinically.MethodsFour treatment procedures were investigated biomechanically using composite human clavicle specimens. A load-to-failure test was performed using a three-point cantilever test. In group 1, a simple shaft fracture was simulated and stabilized with 2 screws per fracture side (5-hole LCP). In the second group 3 screws per side (7-hole LCP) were used. In group 3, a non-reduced fracture zone was simulated and treated with 3 screws per side (7-hole LCP). In group 4, an anatomically reduced fracture zone was simulated and treated with 3 screws per side (7-hole LCP). Furthermore 27 patients treated with a short plate and 2 screws per side (similar to group 1) were assessed after a minimum follow-up of 12 months (Constant and DASH Score).ResultsThe maximum load-to-failure of group 1 was 367N. We observed the highest load-to-failure in group 2 with 497N and the lowest in group 3 with 90N. In group 4 a maximum load-to-failure of 298N could be evaluated. There was no significant difference in load-to-failure between the treatment of a simple clavicle fracture using 5- or 7-hole LCP (p = 0.121). However, we found a significant difference of load-to-failure between the simple and anatomically reduced fracture using a 7-hole plate (p = 0.014). The mean constant score of the surgically treated patients was 95 and the DASH score 3.0. Fracture consolidation was observed in 96.3%.ConclusionsFor certain non-fragmented and well interlocking 2-part fractures, a plate osteosynthesis fixed with only 2 screws per fracture side might offer sufficient biomechanical stability, better soft tissue preservation and comparable fusion rates compared to the operative treatment with 3 screws per side. However, the maximum load-to-failure of the 7-hole LCP was higher than of the 5-hole LCP, but this difference was not statistically significant.Trial registrationApproval from the ethics committee of the Technical University of Dresden was retrospectively obtained (EK 588122019).

Evaluation of Intramedullary Olecranon Screw Fixation for Simple Olecranon Fractures: A Biomechanical Study

The purpose of this study was to biomechanically evaluate the stability of the 6.5 mm intramedullary (IM) olecranon screw compared to locking compression plate fixation for Orthopedic Trauma Association/AO Foundation (OTA/AO) 2U1B1 olecranon fractures under cyclic range of motion of the elbow. Twenty paired elbows were randomized to either IM olecranon screw or locking compression plate fixation of a simulated OTA/AO 2U1B1 fracture. Pullout strength was tested by increasing force applied to the triceps and proximal fragment. Fracture gap displacement was measured using differential variable reluctance transducers as the elbow was cycled through a 135° arc of motion using a servohydraulic testing system. Analysis of variance revealed significant interaction between group and load on fracture distraction after the 500th cycle in three settings: between the plate at 5-pound load and screw at 35-pound load, the screw at 5-pound load and screw at 35-pound load, and between the plate at 15-pound load and screw at 35-pound load. The difference in the rate of failure between plate (2 of 80 samples) and screw (4 of 80 samples) was not statistically significant. For OTA/AO 2U1B1 olecranon fractures, a single 6.5 mm IM olecranon screw demonstrated similar stability when compared to the locking compression plates throughout range of motion testing. From a biomechanical perspective, 6.5 mm IM screws and locking compression plates have similar ability to maintain fracture reduction following simulated elbow range of motion exercises in OTA/AO 2U1B1 fractures, giving surgeons another option in the management of these fractures.

The Efficiency of Locking Compression Plates versus Dynamic Compression Plates in the Treatment of Low Distal Fibula Fracture: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Uncertainties remain as to which type of plate [locking compression plate (LCP) or dynamic compression plate (DCP)] is more efficient and cost-effective in fixing and stabilizing the fractures. We aimed to compare the clinical utility of the two types of plates including LCPs and 3.5-mm DCPs in the treatment of low distal fibula fracture (distal lateral malleolus fractures).&#x0D; Methods: This randomized single-blinded clinical trial was performed on 54 patients with distal fibula fractures who were candidates for surgical treatment using compression plate fixation. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups scheduled for treatment with fixation of LCPs or with 3.5-mm T-plates (DCPs). The patients were finally followed-up for two years to assess the clinical outcome of the procedures.&#x0D; Results: No difference was revealed between the two groups in the prevalence of postoperative infection, nonunion, wound dehiscence, skin reactions, and local surgical pain. The mean functional score [Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS)] in the DCP and LCP groups was 85.33 ± 4.92 and 84.85 ± 5.12, respectively, indicating no difference between the groups (P = 0.726).&#x0D; Conclusion: In the treatment of low distal fibula fractures, the use of LCPs and 3.5mm DCPs can similarly result in improving functional status with minimal postoperative complications. Due to the similarity of the consequences of using both plates and the fact that the DCP type is more cost-effective and available in remote and deprived areas, this type seems to be preferred.

Functional outcome by using American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society: Ankle and hind foot scale scoring system of distal fibula fractures with syndesmotic injury managed by distal fibula anatomical locking compression plate and syndesmotic suture-button fixation

Abstract Background: The study aimed to study the functional outcome by using American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS)—ankle and hind foot scale scoring system of distal fibula fractures with syndesmotic injury managed by distal fibula anatomical locking compression plate and syndesmotic suture-button fixation. Objective: Solated fibula fractures are very common injuries. Diagnostic exams must rule out ankle instability. Surgical treatment must be considered in the case of associated ankle instability. Risk factors for wound related complications must be considered when choosing the surgical technique. Materials and Methods: The study was performed at the Ravindra Nath Tagore Medical College and Maharana Bhupal Government Hospital, Udaipur, in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. The type of the study is prospective. Inclusion criteria are as follows: Age above 18 years/skeletally matured; distal fibula fractures with Weber B and Weber C type of Danis–Weber classification; X-ray (stress view) suggestive of associated syndesmotic injury; and patients willing to give consent and willing for follow-up. Exclusion criteria are as follows: Weber A type fractures; distal fibula fracture without syndesmotic injury; pediatric and skeletally immature patients; compound injuries; and patients unfit for surgery. The sample size was 25. Results: Twenty-five cases were operated and followed up. A total of 22 cases (85%) had an excellent outcome, and three cases (15%) had a good outcome. The average AOFAS score is 92.84. All the patients at the end of 6 months were comfortable to do their day-to-day activities without any pains. No case required routine implant removal. Conclusions: Injuries to the syndesmosis are a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. The lack of clear radiographic parameters on which to make surgical decisions places greater importance on the physical examination and advanced imaging. Lack of injury to the deltoid ligament and posterior tibiofibular ligament based on magnetic resonance imaging is a reliable determinant to consider nonoperative treatment. Injury to the deltoid ligament or disruption of the relationship of the tibia and fibula typically is treated with surgical reduction and fixation. Use of the contralateral lower extremity is the most reliable in determining the normal relationship of the tibia and fibula for the patient both preoperatively and intraoperatively. Sagittal instability is more critical than coronal instability and must be taken into account when considering reduction of fixation of the syndesmosis. Further studies will determine the need for primary repair of the deltoid ligament and fixation of the posterior malleolus in the setting of ankle fracture and syndesmotic injuries. As the understanding of the longer term outcomes following injury to the syndesmosis advances, a logical algorithm to the treatment of these injuries should emerge.

Comparison of Fixation Techniques for Lower Extremity Rotationplasty.

Rotationplasty is a reconstructive, limb-sparing surgery indicated for patients with lower extremity musculoskeletal tumors. The procedure involves rotation of the distal lower extremity to allow the ankle to function as the new knee joint and provide an optimum weight-bearing surface for prosthetic use. Historically there is limited data comparing fixation techniques. The purpose of this study is to compare clinical outcomes between intramedullary nailing (IMN) and compression plating (CP) in young patients undergoing rotationplasty. A retrospective review of 28 patients with a mean age of 10±4 years undergoing a rotationplasty for either a femoral (n=19), tibial (n=7), or popliteal fossa (n=2) tumor was performed. The most common diagnosis was osteosarcoma (n=24). Fixation was obtained with either an IMN (n=6) or CP (n=22). Clinical outcomes of patients undergoing rotationplasty were compared between the IMN and CP groups. Surgical margins were negative in all patients. The mean time to union was 24 months (range 6 to 93). There was no difference in the meantime to the union between patients treated with an IMN versus those with a CP (14±16 vs. 27±26mo, P =0.26). Patients undergoing fixation with an IMN were less likely to have a nonunion (odds ratio: 0.35, 95% confidence interval: 0.03-3.54, P =0.62). Postoperative fracture of the residual limb only occurred in patients undergoing CP fixation (n=7, 33% vs. n=0, 0%, P =0.28). Postoperative fixation complications occurred in 13 (48%) patients, most commonly a nonunion (n=9, 33%). Patients undergoing fixation with a CP were more likely to have a postoperative fixation complication (odds ratio: 20, 95% CI: 2.14-186.88, P <0.01). Rotationplasty is an option for limb salvage for young patients with lower extremity tumors. The results of this study reveal fewer fixation complications when an IMN can be used. As such, IMN fixation should be considered for patients undergoing a rotationplasty, though equipoise should be shown by surgeons when determining technique.

Single dorsal incision approach for plate fixation of radius ulna midshaft fracture; interesting case report

Radius and ulna shaft fractures, also known as both bone forearm fractures, are common fractures caused due to direct or indirect trauma. Open reduction and internal fixation with plating by two separate incisions is a standard and widely accepted mode of fixation. We report a case where we approached the fracture with a single dorsal incision. An eighty years old female had fractures of both radius and ulna shaft with Gustilo Anderson type two open injury. We managed the patient with single-stage debridement, open reduction, and dynamic compression plate (DCP) fixation of both bones with a single dorsal curvilinear incision and followed up postoperatively for one year. At the end of the last follow-up, the patient had no pain with a full range of movement. There were no wound-related issues. Radiologically complete union occurred without complications mentioned in the literature, such as synostosis.: We found that under specific circumstances such as open injury where two separate incisions for radius and ulna are inappropriate, a single dorsal curvilinear incision for radius and Ulna midshaft fractures is a safe and effective alternative method.

Functional Outcomes of Varus Osteotomy with Locking Compression Plate Fixation in Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Purpose: Patients with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease are treated to preserve the roundness of the femoral head. Surgical treatment includes the proximal femur or acetabulum operations, however, remains controversial. Herein, we investigated the clinical findings and outcomes of varus osteotomy with locking compression plate fixation. Methods: We reviewed 19 children (20 hips) with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease who underwent varus osteotomy with locking compression plate fixation at our hospital. The time to re-ossification, Stulberg classification, and Harris hip score were recorded preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Results: We included 16 boys and two girls with unilateral hip involvement and one girl with bilateral hip disease. The mean age at the time of surgery was 7.9 years. Based on the Catterall classification, one, 10, and nine patients were classified as grades II, III, and IV, respectively. All patients were followed for 33 months. The mean time to re-ossification was 167 days. At final follow-up, based on the Stulberg classification, seven, nine, and four patients were categorized as class II, III, and IV, respectively. Based on the Harris hip score, 21.1%, 47.7%, and 31.6% of patients showed excellent, good, and fair functional outcomes, respectively. The Harris hip scores at the final follow-up were significantly improved compared to preoperative values. Following adjustment for sex and disease severity, age at disease onset and time of surgery were associated with Harris hip scores. Conclusions: Varus osteotomy with locking compression plate fixation yields good results and significantly improves functional outcomes, although patient age affects the outcomes.

Double screw versus angular stable plate fixation of scaphoid waist nonunions in combination with intraoperativeextracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT).

Over the past years, different fixation techniques focused on rotational stability in order to increase stability and stimulate union rates. Additionally, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has gained importance in the treatment of delayed and nonunions. Purpose of this study was to compare the radiological and clinical outcome of two headless compression screws (HCS) and plate fixation in scaphoid nonunions, in combination with intraoperative high energy ESWT. Thirty-eight patients with scaphoid nonunions were treated by using a nonvascularized bone graft from the iliac crest and stabilization with either two HCS or a volar angular stable scaphoid plate. All patients received one ESWT session with 3000 impulses and energy flux per pulse of 0.41mJ/mm2 intraoperatively. Clinical assessment included range of motion (ROM), pain according to the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), grip strength, disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Score, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Score, Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire and modified Green O'Brien (Mayo) Wrist Score. To confirm union, a CT scan of the wrist was performed. Thirty-two patients returned for clinical and radiological examination. Out of these, 29 (91%) showed bony union. All patients treated with two HCS compared to 16 out of 19 (84%) patients treated by plate showed bony union on the CT scans. The difference was not statistically significant.However, at a mean follow-up interval of 34months, no significant differences could be found in ROM, pain, grip strength and patient-reported outcome measurements between the two HCS and plate group. Height-to-length ratio and capitolunate angle improved significantly in both groups compared to preoperative. Scaphoid nonunion stabilization by using two HCS or angular stable volar plate fixation and intraoperative ESWT results in comparable high union rates and good functional outcome. Due to the higher rate for a secondary intervention (plate removal), HCS might be preferable as first choice, whereas the scaphoid plate fixation should be reserved for recalcitrant (substantial bone loss, humpback deformity or failed prior surgical intervention) scaphoid nonunions.