Double Plate Fixation Research Articles

Comparison of two different double-plate fixation methods with olecranon osteotomy for intercondylar fractures of the distal humeri of young adults

Although several studies have demonstrated good results with open reduction and internal fixation of intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus, few have specifically addressed the results of such surgical fixation in young adults. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes in patients with intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus treated using two different double-plating methods. Twenty-five patients with distal humeral fractures classified as type C according to the Association for Osteosynthesis/Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO/ASIF) classification system, who were admitted to the Second Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University (Hefei, China) from October 2008 to October 2011, were included in the study. The patients were treated with two different double-plate fixation and olecranon osteotomy methods. Thirteen patients were treated by perpendicular plating (group I) and twelve patients by Y-shaped double-plating in the coronal plane (group II). All the patients were followed up for 12–38 months, with an average of 19.2±7.1 months in group I and 18.3±4.0 months in group II. All the osteotomies and fractures had healed by the final follow-up. Complications developed in 4 patients in group I and 3 patients in group II. According to the Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS), 84.6% of patients in group I and 83.3% in group II had excellent or good scores. No significant differences were identified between the clinical outcomes of the two plating methods. The olecranon osteotomy approach with double-plate fixation is a good choice for the surgical treatment of type C intercondylar fractures in young adult distal humeri. The two plating methods provide solid fixation, permit early rehabilitation and result in satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Reconstruction of Proximal Humeral Defects with Shoulder Arthrodesis Using Free Vascularized Fibular Graft: Surgical Technique.

We describe upper-extremity reconstruction after proximal humeral bone loss by means of glenohumeral arthrodesis using a vascularized fibular graft and double plate fixation. Use preoperative imaging to estimate the length of the humeral defect, the absence or presence of a glenoid defect, and the available length of fibular graft. Place the patient in the beach-chair position, securing him/her with side supports. The approach is a typical anterior approach to the shoulder following an anterolateral approach to the humeral shaft. Harvest the full length of the fibula, after leaving 6 cm proximally and distally for ankle and knee stability. Ream the humeral medullary canal by hand to avoid fracture and prepare the profunda brachii or brachial artery as recipient vessels. Insert the bare osseous fibula into the humeral canal, pass the graft pedicle through the loose tunnel, and anastomose the vessels. It is very important to bend the lateral plate to match the contour of the osseous surfaces. Immobilize the shoulder until union is achieved and then start scapula-thoracic exercises. We recently reported on a retrospective series of nine shoulder arthrodeses performed with use of a free vascularized fibular graft. IndicationsContraindicationsPitfalls & Challenges.

Surgical interventions for treating distal humeral fractures in adults

Distal humeral fractures in adults are relatively uncommon injuries that require surgical intervention in most cases. There is a lack of consensus regarding the best management of distal humeral fractures in adults, including the role of conservative treatment, appropriate surgical approach, fixation strategies, the role of total elbow arthroplasty and handling of nerves such as the ulnar nerve. To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of surgical interventions for distal humeral fractures in adults. We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register (May 2012), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, 2012 Issue 4), MEDLINE (1946 to April Week 4 2012), EMBASE (1980 to 2012 Week 17), Current Controlled Trials (1st May 2012), the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (1st May 2012) and the bibliographies of trial reports and relevant articles. All randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials pertinent to the management of distal humeral fractures in adults were included. Two review authors independently performed study selection, assessed of risk of bias and extracted data. Pooling of data was impossible due to study heterogeneity. Three small randomised controlled trials, with a total of 109 participants with Orthopaedic Trauma Association/Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (OTA/AO) type C distal humeral fractures, were included. Overall, the quality of the available evidence is limited. As well as the small sample sizes and detection bias from the lack of blinding of subjective outcomes, the methods and results of all three trials were incompletely reported.One trial, involving 42 participants, compared open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF) with total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in patients aged over 65 years. Of the 40 participants followed up for two years, five allocated ORIF underwent intraoperative conversion to TEA. These participants were crossed-over to the TEA group in the analyses. The reported Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) results were consistently better in the TEA group at follow-up after 6, 12, and 24 months, whereas the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, Hand (DASH) scores showed short term (after 6 months), but not longer term (after 12 and 24 months), superiority in the TEA group. The reoperation rate, complication rate and elbow range of motion results showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups. While an intention-to-treat analysis of treatment failure, where the five cross-over participants are placed in their original allocated group, is in favour of TEA, the result did not reach statistical significance (9/21 versus 3/21; RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.94 to 9.55).The second trial, involving 38 patients but reporting results for 35, compared perpendicular versus parallel double plate fixation strategies. There was a consistent finding of a lack of significant differences between the two treatment groups in terms of MEPS, re-operation for complications (3/17 versus 3/18; RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.25 to 4.54), complications and elbow joint range of motion.The third trial, which included 29 patients with preoperative ulnar nerve compression symptoms, compared anterior subfascial transposition with in situ decompression of the ulnar nerve. Although results for complete recovery of ulnar nerve function (12/15 versus 8/14; RR 1.4, 95% CI 0.83 to 2.35) and grades based on the Bishop rating system tended to favour the transposition group, none of the differences were statistically significant. Overall, this review found there is either no or insufficient evidence from randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials to determine whether surgery is, and which surgical interventions are, the most appropriate for the management of different types of distal humerus fractures. Well designed and reported large and multi-centre randomised controlled trials testing current interventions, such as pre-contoured and locking plating systems, are needed.

Efficacy analysis of pedicle screw internal fixation of fractured vertebrae in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures

The present study aimed to discuss the method and effect of posterior internal fixation of thoracolumbar fractures strengthened by the vertical stress pedicle screw fixation of fractured vertebrae. Patients with single thoracolumbar fractures were examined retrospectively. Fourteen patients (group A) had been treated with vertical stress pedicle screw fixation of a fractured vertebra and sixteen patients (group B) received traditional double-plate fixation, as a control. All patients were diagnosed with fresh fractures with a complete unilateral or bilateral pedicle and no explosion of the inferior half of the vertebral body or inferior endplate. In group A, patients received conventional posterior distraction and lumbar lordosis restoration, as well as pedicle screws in the fractured vertebra in a vertical direction to relieve stress to achieve a local stress balance. All patients were followed up postoperatively for 4–18 months (average, 12.6 months). The vertical stress pedicle screw fixation assisted in the reduction of vertebrae fracture, which reduced the postoperative Cobb’s angle loss. There was a significant difference in the change of Cobb’s angle between the two groups one year after surgery (P<0.01). Conditional application of pedicle screws in a single thoracolumbar fracture enhances the stability of the internal fixation system and is conducive to the correction of kyphosis and maintenance of the corrective effects.

Treatment of Complex Proximal Tibial Fractures (Types V &amp;amp; VI of Schautzker Classification) by Double Plate Fixation with Single Anterior Incision

Background: complex proximal tibial fractures (Types V & VI of Schautzker classification) are the major problems in orthopedic surgery and associated with high complication rates. There are many alternatives in treatment of these fractures. Aim: to evaluate the results of double plating with single anterior incision in complex proximal tibial fractures (Types V& VI of Schautzker classification).Methods and Materials: 22 patients (16 males and 6 females) with Types V and VI of Schautzker classification of proximal tibial fractures (14 cases were Type V and 8 cases were Type VI) were treated by double plating with single anterior incision method between May 2006 and May 2011. The bony and functional outcome was evaluated according to Knee Society Score. Results: According to Knee Society Score, the results were as follows: excellent in 19 patients (86.4%), good in 2 patients (9.1%), fair in 1 patient (4/5%), and poor in no patient (0%).Conclusion: the double plate fixation with single anterior incision is the best, effective and simple procedure in treatment of complex proximal tibial fractures (Types V and VI of Schautzker classification).

Design optimisation and experimental evaluation of dorsal double plating fixation for distal radius fracture

This study determines the relative effects of changes in osteoporosis condition, plate/screw design factors (plate angle/length/width/thickness and screw diameter) and fixation methods (screw number and screw length) on the biomechanical response of dorsal double plating (DDP) fixation at a distal radius fracture to determine the optimal design and evaluate its biomechanical strength using the dynamic fatigue test. Eighteen CAD and finite element (FE) models corresponding to a Taguchi L18 array were constructed to perform numerical simulations to simulate the mechanical responses of a DDP fixed in a simply distal radius fracture bone. The Taguchi method was employed to determine the significance of each design factor in controlling bone/plate/screw stress and distal fragment displacement under axial (100N), bending (1Nm) and torsion (1Nm) loads. Simulation results indicated that the order rank to determine the mechanical response was the plate thickness, plate width, screw diameter, and number of screws. Dorsal intermediate (L) plate with 60mm length, 1.8mm thickness, 6.0mm width and 2.8mm diameter, 20mm length dual-thread locking screw can be found for optimisation. The DDP, including an L plate with 0°, 30° and 60° angles and a straight I plate, were made with Ti6Al4V to fix onto the sawbones with three corresponding radius fractures to perform the dynamic testing. The specimens were oscillated with loads between 10N and 150N at 5Hz for 20,000 cycles. The average stiffness in 20,000 test cycles was 425.7N/mm, 461.1N/mm and 532.1N/mm for the 0°, 30° and 60° constructs, respectively. No difference in stiffness was found in the same angled constructs throughout the 20,000 cycles of testing (p>0.05). Lack of gross construct failures during cyclic testing and reasonable stiffness corroborated that our new constructs tested to date seem stable enough to support restricted post-operative loads.

Reconstruction of Proximal Humeral Defects with Shoulder Arthrodesis Using Free Vascularized Fibular Graft

Treatment of proximal humeral bone loss resulting from tumor resection or from infection following shoulder arthroplasty represents a reconstructive challenge. Shoulder arthrodesis is an appropriate salvage procedure but is associated with a high rate of complications. The purpose of this report is to describe the surgical technique and report the functional outcomes in a series of patients treated with shoulder arthrodesis using free vascularized fibular graft. Nine patients were included in this study. Two-stage reconstruction was performed in three patients with a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection following primary shoulder hemiarthroplasty. The remaining six patients had an aggressive or malignant tumor of the proximal aspect of the humerus, and tumor resection included the rotator cuff in all of these patients and the axillary nerve in three. All nine patients underwent shoulder arthrodesis using free vascularized fibular graft; eight patients had fixation with two plate-screw constructs, and one patient had fixation with only one plate and screws. Clinical and radiographic evaluation of all patients was performed at a mean of sixty months postoperatively. The Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) function score and the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) were used to assess overall function of the upper limb. Mean active shoulder abduction and flexion were both 80° (range, 60° to 100°). All but one patient could bring the hand to the mouth. The mean MSTS function and TESS values were twenty-four of thirty and 82%, respectively, representing a good functional outcome. Two of nine patients had a major complication. Union and fibular hypertrophy were achieved in seven of the nine patients. Shoulder arthrodesis using free vascularized fibular graft with double plate fixation is a reliable salvage procedure in patients with major proximal humeral bone loss.

Radial Nerve Injury During Double Plating of a Displaced Intercondylar Fracture

Double-plate fixation is a popular treatment method for intercondylar humeral fractures. Ulnar nerve complications are emphasized, but radial nerve complications are rarely mentioned. We present a case of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy following open reduction and double plating of a supracondylar/intercondylar fracture of the humerus. Before surgery, only a sensory deficit in the radial nerve territory was present, but after surgery, there was a complete motor deficit of the wrist and finger extensors. On exploration, a segment of nerve was found crushed within the reduced lateral condyle fracture site, with a screw from the posteroradial plate going through the nerve. Although rare, radial nerve injury can occur with posteriorly displaced supracondylar/intercondylar humerus fractures. When preoperative signs of radial nerve injury are present, we recommend that the radial nerve be identified and protected during double-plate fixation.

Neglected Femoral Neck Fractures in Adults

To assess treatment outcomes in adults with neglected femoral neck fractures, and propose a treatment protocol based on bone quality measured by the Singh index. 16 men and 6 women aged 18 to 48 (mean, 33) years presented with neglected (>3 weeks old) femoral neck fractures. Those with good bone quality (Singh index, >3) underwent closed reduction and valgus osteotomy and fixation with 120º double angle blade plates (group 1, n=8), whereas those with poor bone quality (Singh index, >3) and/or communition of the posterior femoral neck underwent fibular grafting and internal fixation with one or two 7-mm cannulated cancellous screws (group 2, n=14). Functional outcome was assessed at the 6-month follow-up, according to modified Askin and Bryan criteria. The mean delay in surgery was 12 (range, 4-21) weeks. Patients were followed up for a mean of 19 (range, 12-24) months. The mean time to union was 20 (range, 12-52) weeks. The mean time to full weight bearing was 18 (range, 12-40) weeks. All patients achieved bone union except one in group 1 who had non-union and breakage of the blade plate at week 20 and underwent total hip arthroplasty. Other complications included slippage of fibular graft (n=1), delayed union (n=1), avascular necrosis of the femoral head (n=2), limb length discrepancy (n=3), and superficial infection (n=1). Functional outcome was excellent in 2 patients, good in 17, and poor in 3. Valgus osteotomy and double angle blade plate fixation, and fibular grafting and cancellous screw fixation appeared to be appropriate treatments for neglected femoral neck fractures in adults.

Dorsal double plates for treatment of comminuted distal radius fractures

Objective To discuss the indications, methods and treatment outcomes of double plate internal fixation of comminuted distal radius fractures via a dorsal approach. Methods Ten patients of type C comminuted distal radius fractures were treated by dorsal approach reduction, bone graft and double plate internal fixation. Among them, 2 were male and 8 were female. The average age of the patients was 72 years. Results Postoperatively the patients were followed up for 6 to 26 month, with an average of 14 months. The mean Garland and Werley score was 2 (range 0 to 12). Results were considered excellent in 5 cases, good in 4 cases and fair in 1 case. Conclusion Dorsal double plate fixation for comminuted distal radius fracture is technically challenging. However dorsal reduction, bone grafting and fixation is more in line with the anatomy of distal radius and the injury mechanism. It is one of the most effective methods for treating this type of complex fractures. Key words: Radius fracture; Fracture fixation,internal; Fracture healing

Double-Plate Fixation in Lateral Clavicle Fractures—A New Strategy

Lateral clavicle fractures Neer type II often lead to the dislocation of the medial fragment and an increased rate of nonunion after conservative treatment. Therefore, most authors recommend an open reduction and internal fixation. Double-plate fixation is a common technique in the treatment of complex radius fractures. The authors use it as a routine procedure in the treatment of lateral clavicle fractures Neer type II. In this article, we present our experiences. From January 2006 to June 2008, 11 patients with lateral clavicle fractures of Neer type II were treated with an open reduction and internal fixation using the double-plate technique. All patients showed osseous union on radiographs after 10 weeks to 16 weeks. In eight of nine cases, the operated shoulder regained full range of motion. In all patients, we observed immediate postoperative recovery without severe complications. One female patient complained about slight pain and restricted motion in abduction of > 90°. In two patients, we observed the migration of one screw. It was removed under local anesthesia 9 weeks and 26 weeks after surgery. This study, for the first time, describes the technique of double-plate fixation for the treatment of lateral clavicle fractures. This technique provides a stable fixation even in small and comminuted distal fragments.

Medial Gastrocnemius Muscle Flap for Treating Wound Complications After Double-Plate Fixation via Two-Incision Approach for Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures

In medical literature, few articles have reported the treatment of wound complications occurring after double-plate fixation via a two-incision approach for complex tibial plateau fractures. A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a medial gastrocnemius muscle flap transfer in treating this complicated disability. We treated 16 consecutive adult patients, including 6 cases of wound complications without previous deep infection and 10 cases of wound complications with deep wound infection. A one-stage medial gastrocnemius muscle flap transfer was performed after excision of gangrened eschar in cases with wound complication after fracture fixation without infection. A staged flap transfer was performed after debridement and antibiotic administration in cases with wound complication after fracture fixation and wound infection. Bone grafting supplementation was performed in cases where a sequestrectomy had been performed. All 16 patients were followed up for an average of 31 months (range, 13-50 months). The wound complications were successfully treated in 93.8% (15/16) of patients by medial gastrocnemius flap transfer. The fracture healed in 93.8% (15/16) of patients within an average period of 17.2 weeks (range, 10-51 weeks). One patient had gastrocnemius muscle necrosis with fracture nonunion and was treated with free vascularized muscle and osseous flap transfers. Knee function was satisfactory in 62.5% (10/16) of patients. Medial gastrocnemius muscle flap transfer is a reliable technique for treating wound complications that occur after double-plate fixation via a two-incision approach in the treatment of complex tibial plateau fractures. A high success rate of wound healing with bone union can normally be achieved. We, therefore, recommend its widespread use in candidate patients.

Clinical study of treatment of intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus by double plate fixation viacombined medial and lateral triceps approach

Objective To evaluate the treatmene results of double plating of type C1,C2(AO/ASIF) intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus through combinod mediolateral tricepe-sparing approach (TSA).Methods A retrospective analysis of 7 cases of intercondylar comminuted fractures of the distal humerus was conducted. There were 3 cases of type C1 and 4 cases of type C2. All the patients were treated with open reduction and double plate and cannulated screw fixation through combined mediolateral triceps-sparing approach. Results Postoperative follow up period was 15 montks (range, 8 to 18 months). Results were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Five cases were graded as excellent, while 2 cases good. Average elbow flexion was (118.6±11.4)°. Average extension lag was (22.9±12.1)°. Carrying angle was (20±5)°. No implant loosening or breakage was noted. Conclusion Combined mediolateral TSA is an ideal approach for fixation of type C1, C2 intercondylar fractures of the distal humerus in that it provides adequate exposure to the fracture site, facilitates fracture reduction and allows early rehabilitation. Key words: Humeral fractures; Fracture fixation, internal; Orthopedic procedures

An In Vitro Biomechanical Comparison of Dynamic Condylar Screw Plate Combined with a Dorsal Plate and Double Plate Fixation of Distal Diaphyseal Radial Osteotomies in Adult Horses

To compare stiffness and strength of a dynamic condylar screw plate combined with dorsal broad dynamic compression plate (DCS-bDCP) fixation with double broad dynamic compression plate (dbDCP) fixation used to repair oblique distal fractures of adult equine radii. Experimental. Adult equine radii (n=10 pair). An unconstrained three-dimensional loading-measurement system was used to determine stiffness of a 50 mm long intact, and then DCS-bDCP or dbDCP-plated osteotomized/ostectomized segment of radii when subjected to a nondestructive sequence of compression, torsion, and lateral-to-medial (LM), medial-to-lateral (ML), cranial-to-caudal (CrCa), and caudal-to-cranial (CaCr) bending. Uniform load over the entire length of construct identified its weakest characteristics during torsion and LM and CrCa bending to failure. No difference was observed between osteotomized/ostectomized DCS-bDCP and dbDCP construct stiffness for all 6 loading modes, and strength for all 3 failure loads. Ostectomized DCS-bDCP and dbDCP construct stiffness was significantly lower than osteotomized radii, the latter approaching intact for axial, LM, and CrCa bending. Most frequent failure was bone fracture through exit site of a screw located adjacent to osteotomy/ostectomy. DCS-DCP and dbDCP constructs had comparable strength and stiffness when repairing osteotomies/ostectomies in equine adult radius bone. Fracture reduction increased stiffness that approached intact bone for loads that placed the unplated side in compression. DCS-bDCP and dbDCP constructs are comparable in stiffness and strength when applied to oblique distal diaphyseal osteotomies/ostectomies in equine radius bone. However, the DCS's localized effect on distal epiphyseal structure because of additional bone removal remains to be investigated under in vivo articular loading conditions.

Fixation of Extra-Articular Distal Humerus Fractures Using One Locking Plate Versus Two Reconstruction Plates: A Laboratory Study

To compare the strength and stiffness of standard double-plate fixation with that of a single-locking plate for comminuted extra-articular distal humeral fractures. Eight matched pairs of humeri were used. One of each pair was fixed with two 3.5-mm standard reconstruction plates applied dorsally; the other was fixed with one precontoured locking plate applied to the posterior aspect of the lateral column. A 1-cm gap was created to simulate a distal fracture model with 100% metaphyseal comminution with no bony apposition. Stiffness testing of these constructs was performed in axial compression, anterior, posterior and lateral bending, and torsion. They were then cyclically loaded for 4000 cycles with 60 N in posterior bending and the stiffnesses retested. Finally, each construct was posteriorly loaded to failure to determine its ultimate strength. The double-plate construct was significantly stiffer than the one locking plate construct in anterior bending (39%; p = 0.02), posterior bending (23%; p = 0.04), and lateral bending (60%; p = 0.01). No significant stiffness differences were seen in axial compression and torsion (p = 0.64 and 0.25, respectively). After cyclic loading, all construct stiffnesses were relatively unchanged. Both construct types had similar failure strengths (p = 0.76) of approximately 400 N. Double-plating provides a more rigid fixation than a single-locked plate for fixation of extra-articular comminuted distal humeral fractures. This could be clinically relevant in situations with 100% comminution as seen in gun shot injuries.

Osteoporotic periprosthetic fractures of the femur in elderly patients: Outcome after fixation with the LISS plate

Longer patient survival and the extension of joint arthroplasty to older patients means that osteoporotic fractures of the femur are often associated with joint implants. This poses a significant trauma work load. This problem is likely to increase over time. The management of these periprosthetic fractures may be difficult and strategies are not universally agreed. Revision arthroplasty, single or double plate fixation with or without augmentation with methylmethacrylate or bone grafting, are all variously advocated in the literature for different indications. We retrospectively identified 28 elderly patients consecutively treated in our institution with Less Invasive Stabilisation System (LISS) plate fixation for osteoporotic and periprosthetic fractures of the femur. We present prospectively collected data for clinical and radiographic follow-up and patient outcomes. Patients had a mean age of 86.7 years. A fall from a standing height was the most common mechanism of injury. No cases of non-union were seen in survivors. Mortality in the first year was a major complication (5 patients). Rates of revision surgery were low (2 patients). Most patients required a formal period of rehabilitation, however, only half of the patients were successfully discharged to their own homes. The LISS plate provides good fixation in osteoporotic periprosthetic fractures of the femur. It restores a stable limb allowing early weight bearing as well as achieving clinical and radiographic union. Patients return to mobility levels approaching their pre-injury status although most benefit from a formal period of rehabilitation. In this patient group, the LISS plate often outlives the patient.

Severe Genu Recurvatum after a Closing-wedge High Tibial Osteotomy - A Case Report -

Although a closing wedge high tibial osteotomy can decrease the posterior tibial slope, there are no reports of severe genu recurvatum after a closing wedge osteotomy that required corrective surgery. A 54-year-old male with medial compartment osteoarthritis and genu varum was treated with a closing wedge high tibial osteotomy in another hospital, which led to severe recurvatum because of surgical failure. He complained of knee pain and a severe deformity, but of which were corrected by an open wedge corrective osteotomy, a two-wedge bicortical autograft reconstruction, and double plate fixation. Surgeons should pay close attention to both varus deformity correction and changes in the posterior tibial slope during a closing wedge high tibial osteotomy.

Dorsal Double-Plate Fixation of the Distal Radius.

Restoration of the intra- and extraarticular anatomy of the distal radius. Stable internal fixation of fragments, with the possibility of early functional rehabilitation. Distal intraarticular radius fractures with impacted articular fragments and displaced dorsoulnar fragment. Distal intraarticular radius fractures with bony or ligamentous injury of the proximal carpal row. General medical contraindications for surgical intervention. Distal radius fractures with palmar tilt of the distal fragment. Dorsal longitudinal incision. Approach to the intermediate column via the third extensor compartment by detaching the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon. Arthrotomy and revision of the proximal carpal row. Reconstruction of the radiocarpal articular surface and support with a plate applied to the dorsoulnar aspect. Approach to the radial column by subcutaneous preparation between skin flaps (cave: superficial branch of the radial nerve) and retinaculum, incision of the first extensor compartment and support of the radial column with a preshaped plate, which is pushed through under the tendons of the first compartment. Cancellous bone grafting is usually not necessary. Subcutaneous displacement of the EPL tendon with the aid of a small retinacular flap. Application of a removable velcro cuff. Immediate functional postoperative physiotherapy, without the cuff. No straining or forcing until first radiographic examination at 6 weeks after the operation. 25 consecutive patients were monitored following a double-plate fixation, with a minimum follow- up of 12 months. In all cases the reduction, in accordance with the Stewart Score, was very good, a loss of reduction was not observed. The range of motion was between 100° and 160° for flexion/extension and between 160° und 180° for pronation/supination. The average DASH Score was 7.2 points, the PRWE Score 8.0 points. No relevant loss of strength (JAMAR dynamometer) was found in any of the patients in comparison with the healthy side. Complications noted were a muscle adhesion in the region of the first extensor compartment as well as a mild reflex sympathetic dystrophy, which healed without consequences. Implants were removed from six of the patients.

Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Long Bone Fractures in Foals

Long bone fractures in foals are common and in many cases are amenable to current fixation techniques. The goals of management are first and foremost, appropriate first aid in the field to protect the bone and soft tissues from further trauma. An envelope of intact skin overlying the fracture is a major contributor to a successful outcome. Case selection for open reduction and internal fixation should be based on an understanding of the mechanical characteristics and biologic environment of the fracture zone. With few exceptions, double plate fixation is the treatment of choice to ensure a fixation with the requisite stability and strength to allow unrestricted weight bearing on the repaired fracture immediately after surgery. Major complications include problems of the fracture construct, most commonly infection or instability, and axial limb deformities secondary to reduced weight bearing on the injured limb or direct injury to the growth plate following a physeal fracture.

Buttressing angle of the double-plating fixation of a distal radius fracture: a finite element study

Treatment of a distal radius fracture should consider principles including stable fixation and early motion. The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical interactions of plate-fixation angles in the internal double-plating method coupled with various load conditions using non-linear finite element analysis (FEA). A 3D finite element distal radius fracture model with three separation angles (50, 70, and 90 degrees ) between the buttressed L- and straight plates was generated based on computed tomography data. After model verification and validation, frictional (contact) elements were used to simulate the interface condition between the fixation plates and the bony surface. The stress/strain distributions and displacements at the radius end were observed under axial, bending, and torsion load conditions. The simulated results indicated that the bending and torsion increased the stress values more than the axial load. The radius and straight plate stress values decreased significantly with increasing fixation angles for all load conditions. However, the L-plate stress values increased slightly under the bending buckling effect. The displacements at the radius end and strains at the fracture healing interface decreased with increasing fixation angles for axial and torsion conditions but displayed a slight difference for the bending condition. The findings using FEA provide quantitative evidence to identify that much larger plate fixation angles could provide better mechanical strength to establish favorable stress-transmission and prevent distal fragment dislocation.