European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society Research Articles

Study Characteristics and Impact of Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America Annual Meeting's "Best Papers" From 2009 to 2019.

Award-winning abstracts are selected every year at the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) annual meeting as "best paper" or poster. It is unknown how many achieve publication in peer-reviewed journals and the impact they have. We sought to determine the characteristics, including the level of evidence (LoE), publication rates, and the impact of award-winning abstracts on pediatric orthopaedic surgery practice from 2009 to 2019. Award-winning abstracts or "best papers" from 2009 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed from the POSNA website from abstract publication to manuscript publication. A search across Pubmed was used to match abstracts to their publications by comparing author names, titles, study design and methodology, results, and conclusions. Area of focus, abstract authors, institutions, publication status, LoE, time to publication, authors of publication, journals of publication, and the journal's latest Hirsch Index and impact factor were recorded. There have been 54 "best papers" at the POSNA annual meeting from 2009 to 2019. Of those, 39 have been published across 17 different journals for a publication rate of 72%. The average time from abstract presentation to publication was 21.2 months with a range of 0 to 121 months. Of the published award-winning abstracts, 64% (25) were published within 2 years, 87% (34) within 3 years, and 95% (37) within 4 years. Out of the published abstracts, 26% (10) were in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics , 23% (9) were in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery , and 10% (4) were in the Journal of Child Orthopaedics . The median number of abstract authors was 4 and increased to a median of 6 authors once published. Most award-winning abstracts had a LoE of 3. The average journal impact factor for all publications was 4; the average Hirsch Index for the corresponding author was 29.9, and the average number of citations for a publication was 41 with a range of 0 to 270. The majority of the "best papers" presented at POSNA annual meetings from 2009 to 2019 were published in peer-reviewed journals within 2 years of presentation, with approximately half being published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics or Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery . The publication rate of "best papers" at the POSNA annual meeting was found to be higher than rates reported for abstracts presented at the annual meetings of POSNA, American Society for Surgery of the Hand and European Pediatric Orthopaedic Society, but similar to the rates observed for American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and Orthopaedic Trauma Association. Most of the selected "best papers" at the POSNA annual meeting are published and have a substantial impact on pediatric orthopaedic surgery practice. Level IV.

Trigger thumb treatment approach: Results of a survey of EPOS members.

The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical reality of pediatric trigger thumb among members of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society. A 35-question survey was sent to all European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society members, focusing on surgeon's profile and experience, trigger thumb diagnostic and trigger thumb treatment approach. Descriptive statistics were performed. A total of 99 responses were analyzed. Most important factor considered in the therapeutic approach was the presence of a locked interphalangeal joint (52%). Regarding treatment, 41.4% opt for conservative approach as the first line of treatment, while 30.3% consider surgery and 28.3% just observe. Nevertheless, 76% mention to treat conservatively their patients and 99% to consider surgery at some stage. Regarding surgical technique, 96% do it open and 56% consider 2 years as the minimum age for procedure. Most surgeons perform this procedure in out-patient care (87%), don't administer prophylactic antibiotherapy (80%), use a tourniquet (75%), don't use any postoperative immobilization (64%), and report complications related to surgery (64%), mainly recurrence/incomplete division (59%) and superficial wound infection (30%). Our study shows a significant variability in the initial management of pediatric trigger thumb with a predominance of conservative management, followed by surgery and observation without treatment. The disparity in treatment options and timing, or waiting times before moving on to different therapeutic options, shows us that this is a controversial issue and that the development of prospective randomized controlled studies is needed to analyze the different treatment methods and determine which ones give the best outcomes.

Current trends in the treatment of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children: Results of a survey of the members of European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society.

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to evaluate the current trends in the treatment of supracondylar humerus fractures as well as the preferred post-operative follow-up protocol among members of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society.Methods:The survey was composed by four main domains and 26 items: (1) surgeon information (3 items); (2) treatment (8 items); (3) post-operative treatment (3 items); and (4) factors influencing the outcome (12 items). All active members of European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society were invited by email to answer an electronic questionnaire.Results:The survey was submitted to 397 European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society active members; 184 members answered (46.3%) the questionnaire. Among respondents, 64.1% declared >10 years of experience and 55.4% declared to treat >20 supracondylar humerus fractures per year. Closed reduction, percutaneous pinning, and supine position were the preferred treatment option for Gartland type II and III supracondylar humerus fractures by 79.9%, 95.5%, and 84.8% of respondents, respectively. Supracondylar humerus fractures are treated within 24 h from trauma by 33.2% of respondents. Pins are removed 4 weeks from index procedure by 58.2% of respondents. Fracture type (72.3%), surgeon experience, and (71.2%) are of “crucial importance” for expected outcome of supracondylar humerus fractures treatment.Conclusion:Surgeon experience, type of fracture, treatment modality, and pins configuration were considered the main factors potentially influencing the outcome of supracondylar humerus fractures. European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society members agreed on the treatment modality of Gartland type II and III supracondylar humerus fractures, patient positioning, and timing of hardware removal. Other important issues such as timing of surgery, pins configuration, surgical approach, and post-operative protocol are still debated.Level of evidence:level II.

Многоуровневые ортопедические вмешательства у детей со спастическим параличом

Introduction The purpose of the article was to review the modern literature on the role of multilevel single-stage interventions in the surgery of secondary orthopaedic complications in children with cerebral palsy. Material and methods The review was done using the databases of the current sources of scientific information including PubMed, Scopus, ResearchGate, RSCI and Elsevier, Springer publishing products. A report made for the first educational meeting of the European Pediatric Orthopaedic Society held in Russia at the Ilizarov Center in 2021 was used for the contribution. Results and discussion The article discusses terminology, indications, particular techniques and early postoperative period, long-term outcomes of multilevel orthopaedic interventions and aspects of iatrogenic orthopaedic conditions in children with cerebral palsy. Conclusion Multilevel intervention is the surgical procedure of choice for the correction of secondary orthopaedic complications in patients with cerebral palsy. The success of the surgery would depend on adequately identified indications and quantitative values of the correction to be performed on the basis of 3D gait analysis, the compliance with specific technical requirements for the procedure and an early rehabilitation program. The strategy of multilevel interventions suggests the greatest possible reduction in the number of orthopaedic surgeries and can be considered successful if the patient undergoes a maximum of two multilevel reconstructive interventions in the childhood.

Реконструктивные вмешательства при вывихе бедра у детей с церебральным параличом

Introduction The article is a literature review focusing on reconstruction surgery for dislocated hips in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Material and methods Publications in Scopus, PubMed, RSCI indexed journals over the past 20 years were reviewed for hip dislocation in children with CP. Results and discussion The article discusses the prevalence of the orthopaedic complication of cerebral palsy, pathogenesis, diagnosis, indications to surgery, choice of surgical technique, early rehabilitation and long-term outcomes. A report made for the first educational meeting of the European Pediatric Orthopaedic Society held in Russia at the Ilizarov Center in 2021 was used for the contribution. Conclusion Surgical treatment is indicated for hip dislocation in children with CP using holistic approach and principles of single-event multilevel surgery that suggest hip reconstruction, addressing contractures and deformities of the subjacent segments and creating conditions for postoperative postural management. Standardized indications, patient selection and optimal time for intervention are to be carefully considered for the procedure with the use of customized orthopaedic implants and techniques.

Diagnosis and treatment of flexible flatfoot: results of 2019 flexible flatfoot survey from the European Paediatric Orthopedic Society.

The aim of the study was to evaluate flexible flatfoot (FFF) diagnostic and current therapeutic modalities, as well as treatment expectations, among members of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS). A 59-questions survey on FFF diagnosis and treatment preferences was distributed to EPOS members. The survey consisted of six sections (1) general clinical parameters; (2) foot aspects; (3) X-ray angles (or lines); (4) expectations; (5) standard clinical assessment; and (6) management options. Descriptive statistics were performed. A total of 93 responses were analysed. In general, clinical parameters, age (91.4% of cases), laxity (81.7%), diffuse pain (84.9%), and pain at the ankle joint (81.7%) were rated as 'average' and 'crucial importance' by the vast majority of respondents. Meary's angle (47.3% of cases), talonavicular coverage (35.5%), and lateral talocalcaneal angle (35.5%) were assessed as main radiological tools in the FFF evaluation. Among respondents, 61.3% rated 'improved ability to walk longer without symptoms' as of 'crucial importance'. Eighty-two percent of the respondents felt less than 10% of patients with FFF are candidates for corrective surgery. Arthroereisis (29.3%) was the most common surgical procedure (16.4% for subtalar and 12.9% for extra-articular arthroereisis, respectively), followed by lateral column lengthening (17.9%) and medializing calcaneal osteotomy (12.3%). There is great variation among respondents in diagnostic and treatment preferences in the management of children with FFF. The results of the EPOS 2019 FFF survey clearly show that large-scale, multicentric, international studies are necessary to elucidate which diagnostic and treatment practices lead to the best outcomes.

Paediatric anterior cruciate ligament tears: management and growth disturbances. A survey of EPOS and POSNA membership.

PurposeThe therapeutic algorithm of paediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears remains controversial. The primary aim of the study was to describe variations in practice patterns among European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) and Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) members with respect to management of ACL tears in skeletally immature patients. The secondary objective was to determine the number, type and severity of growth disturbances associated with ACL reconstruction (ACLR).MethodsAn email invitation to complete a 52-question survey was sent to all members of POSNA and EPOS. Data were collected automatically. Descriptive statistics were applied.ResultsIn all, 305 (25.4%) surgeon members responded. Only 182 (60%) of the participants treated ACL injuries in skeletally immature patients and completed the survey. A total of 17% of EPOS and 70% of POSNA members recommended ACLR within three months for a prepubescent paediatric ACL tear. In total, 61% of POSNA and 83% of EPOS members recommended ACLR within three months for a pubescent paediatric ACL tear. Epiphyseal tunnels were the preferred technique in prepubescent children (43% at the tibia and 49% at the femur), while transphyseal tunnels were recommended preferentially in pubescent children (85% at the tibia and 63% at the femur). In all, 5.5% of participants reported growth disturbances after ACLR.ConclusionCurrent practice patterns across the Atlantic remain varied and controversial. Consensus remains elusive; as such, research collaboration among societies will be important to develop an evidence-based treatment algorithm. The use of transphyseal tunnels has been reinforced. The number of cases of significant growth disturbance is minimal, yet worrisome.Level of EvidenceII

Lessons taught by a knee arthroscopy simulator about participants in a European arthroscopy training programme

BackgroundArthroscopy simulators offer safe and reproducible training to orthopaedic residents, thereby obviating the need for cadaver specimens. In addition, they collect data that can serve to investigate learning curves and evaluate training programmes with the goal of improving the quality of arthroscopy teaching. In this study, a cohort of surgeons was evaluated before and after a European theoretical and practical training programme that used a knee arthroscopy simulator. The primary objective was to assess whether the overall performance score was improved by the training programme. The secondary objectives were to determine which tasks and skills were improved by the programme, to compare a novice group to an experienced group, and to identify targets for improvement. HypothesisA theoretical and practical training course improves the scores achieved on an arthroscopy simulator task. MethodsA prospective comparative study was performed in 34 surgeons during the advanced arthroscopy training course organised by the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) in January 2018. All participants performed a diagnostic task on the VirtaMed ArthroS™ simulator before and after the programme. The participants were divided into two groups based on number of knee arthroscopies performed each year, i.e.,>20 (experienced group) vs.≤20 (inexperienced group). The following parameters were compared between the two groups: overall score, operative time, percentage of iatrogenic injuries, camera and hook path lengths, and success in identifying anatomical structures. ResultsThe overall score on the diagnostic task was 199 before and 203 after the training programme (p=0.02). The operative time decreased significantly, from 185 to 115.9seconds (p<0.01). Camera path length decreased from 85.2 to 49.2cm and hook path length from 65.5 to 15.0cm (p<0.05). The mean proportion of arthroscopies with iatrogenic tibial cartilage injuries diminished from 2.7%±1.7% (range, 0–6.7) to 1.8%±1.8% (range, 0–7) (p=0.03); no change occurred in femoral injuries. When each group was assessed separately, the only significant change found in the experienced group was a decrease in operative time, whereas in the inexperienced group all parameters improved significantly. However, visualisation of anatomical structures was unchanged. ConclusionParticipation in the training programme improved overall performance, and the gains were greatest in the inexperienced group. During the post-training evaluation, some of the major anatomical structures were classified by the simulator as incompletely visualised, raising concern about a risk of underdiagnosis during arthroscopic explorations. Level of evidenceIII, prospective comparative study.

2018 International Olympic Committee consensus statement

Summary In October 2017, the International Olympic Committee hosted an international expert group of physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons who specialise in treating and researching paediatric ACL injuries. Representatives from the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society, European Society for Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery & Arthroscopy, International Society of Arthroscopy Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America and Sociedad Latinoamericana de Artroscopia, Rodilla y Deporte attended. Physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons with clinical and research experience in the field, and an ethics expert with substantial experience in the area of sports injuries also participated. Injury management is challenging in the current landscape of clinical uncertainty and limited scientific knowledge. Injury management decisions also occur against the backdrop of the complexity of shared decision-making with children and the potential long-term ramifications of the injury. This consensus statement addresses six fundamental clinical questions regarding the prevention, diagnosis and management of paediatric ACL injuries. The aim of this consensus statement is to provide a comprehensive, evidence-informed summary to support the clinician, and help children with ACL injury and their parents/guardians make the best possible decisions.

The orthopaedic management of long bone deformities in genetically and acquired generalized bone weakening conditions.

PurposeDiseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta, fibrous dysplasia, hypophosphataemic rickets and others lead to soft and weak bones and long bone deformity in affected patients. As a consequence, these patients lose their walking capacity and functional abilities of the upper extremities as well.MethodsIn combination with bisphosphonate treatment and physical rehabilitation programmes surgical interventions are being applied to correct and stabilize the deformed and less mechanically resistant long bones. Intramedullary devices, ideally with an elongating telescopic mechanism, have proven to be the most suitable implants.ResultsThe surgical correction and stabilization of deformed bones in weak bone diseases is very beneficial to the patients. Pain restriction, reduction of fracture events, minimization of consequences of traumatic events and falls have resulted in a significant functional improvement. The patients live on a better activity level with a much-improved individual independence. Despite a high complication and revision rate of the intramedullary rods the gain of quality of life outweighs these negative aspects by far.ConclusionOrthopaedic surgical treatment for deformed bones in patients with weak bone diseases has changed the life of the patients and plays a very important role in the disease management protocols.This paper was written under the guidance of the Study Group Genetics and Metabolic Diseases of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society.

Complex spine deformities in young patients with severe osteogenesis imperfecta: current concepts review.

The severity of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), the associated reduced quality and quantity of collagen type I, the degree of bone fragility, ligamentous laxity, vertebral fractures and multilevel vertebral deformities all impair the mechanical integrity of the whole spinal architecture and relate to the high prevalence of progressive kyphoscoliotic deformities during growth. Bisphosphonate therapy may at best slow down curve progression but does not seem to lower the prevalence of deformities or the incidence of surgery. Brace treatment is problematic due to pre-existing chest wall deformities, stiffness of the curve and the brittleness of the ribs which limit transfer of corrective forces from the brace shell to the spine. Progressive curves entail loss of balance, chest deformities, pain and compromise of pulmonary function and eventually require surgical stabilization, usually around puberty. Severe vertebral deformities including deformed, small pedicles, highly brittle bones and chest deformities, short deformed trunks and associated issues like C-spine and cranial base abnormalities (basilar impressions, cervical kyphosis) as well as deformed lower and upper extremities are posing multiple peri- and intraoperative challenges. Hence, an early multidisciplinary approach (anaesthetist, pulmonologist, paediatric orthopaedic spine surgeon) is mandatory.This paper was written under the guidance of the Spine Study Group of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society. It highlights the most pertinent information given in the current literature and various practical aspects on surgical care of spine deformities in young OI patients based on the personal experience of the contributing authors.

Current concepts in osteogenesis imperfecta: bone structure, biomechanics and medical management.

The majority of patients with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) have mutations in the COL1A1 or COL1A2 gene, which has consequences for the composition of the bone matrix and bone architecture. The mutations result in overmodified collagen molecules, thinner collagen fibres and hypermineralization of bone tissue at a bone matrix level. Trabecular bone in OI is characterized by a lower trabecular number and connectivity as well as a lower trabecular thickness and volumetric bone mass. Cortical bone shows a decreased cortical thickness with less mechanical anisotropy and an increased pore percentage as a result of increased osteocyte lacunae and vascular porosity.Most OI patients have mutations at different locations in the COL1 gene. Disease severity in OI is probably partly determined by the nature of the primary collagen defect and its location with respect to the C-terminus of the collagen protein. The overall bone biomechanics result in a relatively weak and brittle structure. Since this is a result of all of the above-mentioned factors as well as their interactions, there is considerable variation between patients, and accurate prediction on bone strength in the individual patient with OI is difficult.Current treatment of OI focuses on adequate vitamin-D levels and interventions in the bone turnover cycle with bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates increase bone mineral density, but the evidence on improvement of clinical status remains limited. Effects of newer drugs such as antibodies against RANKL and sclerostin are currently under investigation.This paper was written under the guidance of the Study Group Genetics and Metabolic Diseases of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society.

Diagnostic and treatment preferences for developmental dysplasia of the hip: a survey of EPOS and POSNA members.

PurposeThe aim of this study was to elucidate developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) diagnosis and treatment preferences among members of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) and European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS).MethodsA 54-question survey on DDH diagnosis and treatment preferences was distributed to POSNA and EPOS members. Descriptive statistics were performed.ResultsA total of 459 responses were analyzed. Ultrasound was the preferred modality for diagnosing DDH in infants less than six months old; few surgeons preferred radiographs. In all, 57% of POSNA members had radiology technicians perform ultrasounds, only 7% of EPOS members did. The percent coverage defining a dislocated hip varied greatly, the most frequent response being < 20% for POSNA and < 40% for EPOS members. Pavlik harnesses were the most popular harness/brace, used by 90% of POSNA and 71% of EPOS members. POSNA members were more likely than EPOS members to use a rigid abduction brace following initial harness/brace failure. For residual acetabular dysplasia, POSNA members were twice as likely as EPOS members to institute hip abduction bracing. Most surgeons would not perform closed reduction at less than three months of age or open reduction at less than six months of age. Most EPOS ­members used traction prior to reduction; few POSNA members did. Few POSNA and EPOS members believed that reduction should be delayed until the ossific nucleus was visible.ConclusionThere is great variation in the preferred methods for diagnosing and treating DDH. This survey is the largest transcontinental survey to compile diagnostic and treatment preferences for DDH. With wide variations in practice, there is room for quality improvement.Level of Evidence II

2018 International Olympic Committee consensus statement on prevention, diagnosis and management of paediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

In October 2017, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) hosted an international expert group of physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons who specialise in treating and researching paediatric ACL injuries. The purpose of this consensus statement was to provide a comprehensive, evidence-informed summary to support the clinician, and help children with ACL injury and their parents/guardians make the best possible decisions. Representatives from the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society, European Society for Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery & Arthroscopy, International Society of Arthroscopy Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, and Sociedad Latinoamericana de Artroscopia, Rodilla y Deporte attended. Physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons with clinical and research experience in the field, and an ethics expert with substantial experience in the area of sports injuries also participated. This consensus statement addresses 6 fundamental clinical questions regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and management of paediatric ACL injuries. Injury management is challenging in the current landscape of clinical uncertainty and limited scientific knowledge. Injury management decisions also occur against the backdrop of the complexity of shared decision-making with children and the potential long-term ramifications of the injury.

2018 International Olympic Committee Consensus Statement on Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management of Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries.

In October 2017, the International Olympic Committee hosted an international expert group of physical therapists and orthopaedic surgeons who specialize in treating and researching pediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The purpose of this meeting was to provide a comprehensive, evidence-informed summary to support the clinician and help children with ACL injury and their parents/guardians make the best possible decisions. Representatives from the following societies attended: American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine; European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society; European Society for Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery, and Arthroscopy; International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine; Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America; and Sociedad Latinoamericana de Artroscopia, Rodilla, y Deporte. Physical therapists and orthopaedic surgeons with clinical and research experience in the field and an ethics expert with substantial experience in the area of sports injuries also participated. This consensus statement addresses 6 fundamental clinical questions regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and management of pediatric ACL injuries. Injury management is challenging in the current landscape of clinical uncertainty and limited scientific knowledge. Injury management decisions also occur against the backdrop of the complexity of shared decision making with children and the potential long-term ramifications of the injury.

2018 International Olympic Committee consensus statement on prevention, diagnosis and management of paediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

In October 2017, the International Olympic Committee hosted an international expert group of physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons who specialise in treating and researching paediatric ACL injuries. Representatives from the American...

The most relevant diagnostic criteria for developmental dysplasia of the hip: a study of British specialists.

BackgroundDevelopmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is the most common orthopaedic disorder in newborns. Despite this considerable variation in practice exists. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical relevance and a ranking order for the diagnostic criteria in DDH amongst paediatric orthopaedic surgeons practicing in the UK.MethodOne hundred members of the British Society of Children’s Orthopaedic Surgery (BSCOS) were asked to rate the importance of 37 criteria useful in the diagnosis of DDH in newborns, using a 10 cm visual analogue scale. We determined the consistency among specialists in rating the criteria with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and compared the results to a group of international peers.ResultsOrtolani/Barlow tests, asymmetry in abduction ≥20° and a first-degree relative treated for DDH ranked among the top ten. Participants demonstrated poor consistency in rating the 37 criteria (ICC 0.39; 95 % CI 0.29, 0.52), but for clinical examination criteria alone their consistency improved (ICC 0.52; 0.35, 0.75). The importance ratings of members of BSCOS and members of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society differed for 15/37 (41 %) criteria (p <0.05).ConclusionsMembers of BSCOS had a preference for criteria relating to clinical examination and ultrasound.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12891-016-0867-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita-an update.

This special issue of Journal of Children’s Orthopaedics includes seven papers on arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC). Arthrogryposis is derived from the Greek words arthro (joint) and gryposis (crooked). The papers are based on lectures presented during the 31st Annual Meeting of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) held in Helsinki, April 18th–21st 2012, where EPOS Educational Committee arranged a BAT Advanced Course on ‘Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita—an update’. The authors present the most recent updates on the clinical features, etiology, diagnosis and management of AMC. The articles emphasize the importance of early identification and implementation of a therapy plan for an optimal outcome. AMC is a rare syndrome even though it is seen in more than 400 different clinical settings. The etiology is multifocal as approximately 200 syndromes are registered today with components that are genetically similar to AMC. Hence, the word arthrogryposis does not refer to a single syndrome but to a symptom complex, where congenital non-progressive joint contractures are the main finding. The prevalence of AMC is 1:5,100 live births; clubfoot and hip luxations are seen in 1:200 live births [1]. Today, the most widely used and accepted classification is by Bamshad et al. [2], which was published in 2009 in a review on AMC including a classification (see below courtesy F Hefti, Basel). The management of hip pathology is comprehensively described by Christopher Bradish [3]. Open reduction through the medial approach, first described by Ludloff in 1913 [4], is recommended from the age of 3 months onwards, giving better postoperative range of motion compared to patients treated by the anterolateral approach. Eva Ponten [5] describes the management of knee joint contractures and congenital knee joint dislocation. Treatment should be initiated as early as possible, preferably within the first 24 h, primarily as manipulation and splinting for the dislocated knee. Ruth Lester [6] emphasizes the necessity of assessing the full forearm including the shoulder girdle, and not only the hand, so that no existing or potential function is diminished. The use of orthosis and gait analysis in children suffering from AMC is fully described by Asa Bartonek [7]. Finally, Jean Dubousset and Michel Guillaumat [8] describe the long-term outcome for patients with AMC. Sixty-five patients were reviewed and no loss of function beyond adolescence was reported. The papers highlight the challenge that AMC poses to every physician. In order to give the best management to each child, a thorough examination by a team of dedicated physicians with a wide range of up-to-date skills and knowledge is recommended in order to benefit the children suffering from AMC.

Publication Rate of Abstracts Presented at European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society Annual Meetings, 2006 to 2008

The quality of the abstracts presented at a conference reflects the scientific work and level of activity of the scientific association concerned. The aim of the present study was to determine the rate of publications of podium presentations and posters at the conferences of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) from 2006 to 2008 and to identify factors that favor publication in peer-reviewed journals. The results are compared with those of other international societies. All 646 abstracts (including podiums, posters, and e-posters) presented at the EPOS conferences were investigated using the PubMed database to identify any corresponding published articles in the journals listed in the database. A period of 5 years before and after the relevant conference was used for the PubMed search. Factors influencing publication and the quality of the study, such as the type of presentation and the level of evidence, were also investigated. A publication rate of 36.7% was observed, corresponding to 237 publications of 646 abstracts. The period to publication showed a mean of 13.88 ± 1.34 months. It was found that abstracts of podium presentations were published significantly more often than poster abstracts (P<0.001). Experimental studies, with a publication rate of 50.9%, showed better results than clinical studies (36.0%). Overall, the articles were published in 61 different journals, with the largest number (n=50) appearing in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics. In addition, the present study shows that abstracts with a higher level of evidence were associated with a higher publication rate. At 36.7%, the rate of publication of EPOS abstracts is within the range reached by other specialist orthopaedics societies, such as the German Society of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery (36%) and the British Orthopaedic Association (36%). However, it is lower than the publication rate of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA), at 50%. The high percentage of unpublished conference abstracts (63%), which did not go through a peer-reviewed process, casts doubts upon the practice of utilizing the citation of abstracts based purely on conference abstracts. Statistical study.

Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: The results of an evolving protocol of management

This retrospective cohort study assesses the outcomes of a protocol of management, based on the recommendations of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) multi-centre study, for the management of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia. Utilising an incremental protocol of bracing, intramedullary rods and circular frame fixation with or without bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), 11 patients had reached skeletal maturity or had follow up of 5years from radiological union of the pseudarthrosis. Demographic data, deformity parameters before and after treatment, and functional outcome scores were recorded. Ten of the 11 patients successfully healed and two sustained a refracture. All deformity parameters improved and a mean leg length discrepancy of 2.5cm (range 0-7.5cm) existed at the time of the last follow up. Some pseudarthroses healed with deformity correction and rod insertion alone. Six of the 11 patients had a confirmed diagnosis of neurofibromatosis and nine had sustained a fracture before 4years of age. Refracture was associated with malalignment after healing. This method of treatment provides a successful stepwise protocol for the management of this complex disorder, avoiding the use of aggressive limb reconstruction techniques at a young age in some cases. Level of evidenceCase series Level IV.