Fracture Repair Research Articles

Reprogramming macrophages with R848-loaded artificial protocells to modulate skin and skeletal wound healing.

After tissue injury, inflammatory cells are rapidly recruited to the wound where they clear microbes and other debris, and coordinate the behaviour of other cell lineages at the repair site in both positive and negative ways. In this study, we take advantage of the translucency and genetic tractability of zebrafish to evaluate the feasibility of reprogramming innate immune cells in vivo with cargo-loaded protocells and investigate how this alters the inflammatory response in the context of skin and skeletal repair. Using live imaging, we show that protocells loaded with R848 cargo (which targets TLR7 and TLR8 signalling), are engulfed by macrophages resulting in their switching to a pro-inflammatory phenotype and altering their regulation of angiogenesis, collagen deposition and re-epithelialization during skin wound healing, as well as dampening osteoblast and osteoclast recruitment and bone mineralization during fracture repair. For infected skin wounds, R848-reprogrammed macrophages exhibited enhanced bactericidal activities leading to improved healing. We replicated our zebrafish studies in cultured human macrophages, and showed that R848-loaded protocells similarly reprogramme human cells, indicating how this strategy might be used to modulate wound inflammation in the clinic.

Seasonal patterns of hip fracture incidence and mortality rates across age groups of older adults in Israel.

This study investigates the seasonal patterns of hip fracture occurrence and mortality rates in the elderly population of Israel. In this retrospective study, we examined a random sample of 400 patients who underwent a hip fracture repair surgery at a 495-bed hospital in northern-central Israel during the years 2021-2022. Our findings reveal a heightened incidence of hip fractures during the spring (30.8%) in contrast to relatively consistent rates during other seasons (22-24.2%). Patients experiencing hip fractures in the spring were notably younger and had shorter hospital stays compared to those in other seasons. Furthermore, we identified seasonal variations in hip fracture incidence concerning gender, culture, and nationality. Over the 2-year follow-up period, 20% of patients had succumbed to mortality. The highest survival rate was associated with hip fractures sustained in the spring, while the lowest rates were observed in the autumn and winter. While our study highlights significant seasonal variations in hip fracture occurrence and mortality rates among the elderly population in Israel, caution is warranted in interpreting the implications for post-fracture care and resource allocation. The observed heightened incidence of hip fractures during the spring, particularly among younger patients with shorter hospital stays, suggests the need for further investigation into potential risk factors and preventive measures specific to this season. Additionally, our identification of seasonal variations in hip fracture incidence across demographic factors underscores the importance of tailored interventions to address the diverse needs of different populations.

A genetic mouse model mimicking MET related human osteofibrous dysplasia is characterized by delays in fracture repair and defective osteogenesis.

Osteofibrous dysplasia (OFD) is a rare, benign, fibro-osseous lesion that occurs most commonly in the tibia of children. Tibial involvement leads to bowing and predisposes to the development of a fracture which exhibit significantly delayed healing processes, leading to prolonged morbidity. We previously identified gain-of-function mutations in the MET gene as a cause for OFD. In our present study, we test the hypothesis that gain-of-function MET mutations impair bone repair due to reduced osteoblast differentiation. A heterozygous Met exon 15 skipping (MetΔ15-HET) mouse was created to imitate the human OFD mutation. The mutation results in aberrant and dysregulation of MET-related signaling determined by RNA-seq in the murine osteoblasts extracted from the wide-type and genetic mice. Although no gross skeletal defects were identified in the mice, fracture repair was delayed in MetΔ15-HET mice, with decreased bone formation observed 2-week postfracture. Our data are consistent with a novel role for MET-mediated signaling regulating osteogenesis.

Enhanced Degradability of Thiol-Ene Composites through the Inclusion of Isosorbide-Based Polycarbonates.

Open reduction internal fixation metal plates and screws remain the established standard-of-care for complex fracture fixation. They, however, have drawbacks such as limited customization, soft-tissue adhesions, and a lack of degradation. Bone cements and composites are being developed as alternative fixation techniques in order to overcome these issues. One such composite is a strong, stiff, and shapeable hydroxyapatite-containing material consisting of 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-trione (TATO) monomers, which cures through high energy visible light-induced thiol-ene coupling (TEC) chemistry. Previous human cadaver and in vivo studies have shown that patches of this composite provide sufficient fixation for healing bone fractures; however, the composite lacks degradability. To promote degradation through hydrolysis, new allyl-functionalized isosorbide-based polycarbonates have been added into the composite formulation, and their impact has been evaluated. Three polycarbonates with allyl functionalities, located at the termini (aPC1 and aPC2) or in the backbone (aPC3), were synthesized. Composites containing 1, 3, and 5 wt % of aPCs 1-3 were formulated and evaluated with regard to mechanical properties, water absorption, hydrolytic degradation, and cytotoxicity. Allyl-functionalized polycaprolactone (aPCL) was synthesized and used as a comparison. When integrated into the composite, aPC3 significantly impacted the material's properties, with the 5 wt % aPC3 formulation showing a significant increase in degradation of 469%, relative to the formulation not containing any aPCs after 8 weeks' immersion in PBS, along with a modest decrease in modulus of 28% to 4.01 (0.3) GPa. Osteosyntheses combining the aPC3 3 and 5 wt % formulations with screws on synthetic bones with ostectomies matched or outperformed the ones made with the previously studied neat composite with regard to bending stiffness and strength in four-point monotonic bending before and after immersion in PBS. The favorable mechanical properties, increased degradation, and nontoxic characteristics of the materials present aPC3 as a promising additive for the TATO composite formulations. This combination resulted in stiff composites with long-term degradation that are suitable for bone fracture repair.

Biomechanical analysis of an absorbable material for treating fractures of the inferior orbital wall.

To investigate the biomechanical properties and practical application of absorbable materials in orbital fracture repair. The three-dimensional (3D) model of orbital blowout fractures was reconstructed using Mimics21.0 software. The repair guide plate model for inferior orbital wall fracture was designed using 3-matic13.0 and Geomagic wrap 21.0 software. The finite element model of orbital blowout fracture and absorbable repair plate was established using 3-matic13.0 and ANSYS Workbench 21.0 software. The mechanical response of absorbable plates, with thicknesses of 0.6 and 1.2 mm, was modeled after their placement in the orbit. Two patients with inferior orbital wall fractures volunteered to receive single-layer and double-layer absorbable plates combined with 3D printing technology to facilitate surgical treatment of orbital wall fractures. The finite element models of orbital blowout fracture and absorbable plate were successfully established. Finite element analysis (FEA) showed that when the Young's modulus of the absorbable plate decreases to 3.15 MPa, the repair material with a thickness of 0.6 mm was influenced by the gravitational forces of the orbital contents, resulting in a maximum total deformation of approximately 3.3 mm. Conversely, when the absorbable plate was 1.2 mm thick, the overall maximum total deformation was around 0.4 mm. The half-year follow-up results of the clinical cases confirmed that the absorbable plate with a thickness of 1.2 mm had smaller maximum total deformation and better clinical efficacy. The biomechanical analysis observations in this study are largely consistent with the clinical situation. The use of double-layer absorbable plates in conjunction with 3D printing technology is recommended to support surgical treatment of infraorbital wall blowout fractures.

COVID-19 Inpatient Caseloads in General Hospitals Did Not Affect Quality Indicator Compliance Rates in Israel.

Early in the global COVID-19 pandemic, a concern was raised that potentially high volumes of COVID-19 inpatients in general hospitals might compromise the hospitals' capabilities to maintain high-quality care for routine patients and, thereby, to comply with indicators specifying quality of care. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of the surges of COVID-19 inpatients into general hospitals in Israel on the compliance rates for selected quality indicators reported by these hospitals within the Israeli National Program for Quality Indicators (NPQI). Compliance rate data were collected from the quality indicators reports made to the NPQI by participating hospitals. COVID-19 inpatient volume data were obtained from the Ministry of Health Digital Technologies and Data Division. Both datasets were analyzed on a week-by-week basis and plotted one alongside the other on a time scale. Association of each quality indicator's compliance rate with the number of COVID-19 inpatients was tested by Pearson's correlation analysis. The study included data from July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2022, spanning the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel. Five quality indicators included in the study were: Surgical repair of femoral neck fracture within 48h of admission; Assessment of cerebral ischemic event risk for patients with atrial fibrillation; Duplex carotid ultrasound within 72h of emergency department admission for patients with suspected transient ischemic attack; Antibiotic prophylaxis for caesarean sections; and Percutaneous coronary intervention within 90min for patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Compliance rates for five quality indicators, representing different aspects of routine health care, remained steady - even at times with high volumes of COVID-19 inpatients in general hospitals. This lack of effect was prominent throughout the analyzed period, i.e., general hospitals maintained similar compliance rates for all quality indicators both during the surges of COVID-19 patients and between these periods. Statistical analysis showed no correlation between the quality indicators' compliance rates and the number of COVID-19 inpatients. Our findings indicate that high volumes of COVID-19 inpatients in general hospitals did not affect the hospitals' capability to comply with routine health care quality indicators. The results of our study imply that general hospitals in Israel were able to withstand the challenges associated with the care of COVID-19 inpatients while preserving high quality of care for routine patients.

Platelet transfusion prior to major surgery in a thrombocytopenic dog

AbstractFresh platelet concentrate (FPC) is described as the product of choice for the control of bleeding due to severe thrombocytopenia and has recently become commercially available in the UK. We report a successful, prophylactic FPC transfusion when given in combination with tranexamic acid prior to fracture repair in a 4‐year‐old Whippet. The patient presented with right radial and ulnar fractures and severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count 23 × 109/L). Viscoelastic coagulation monitoring (VCM) revealed coagulopathy, with prolonged clot formation times, but other coagulation parameters were within normal limits. One unit (65 mL) of FPC was given pre‐operatively. The dog underwent surgery without excessive bleeding and experienced no complications. Post‐transfusion VCM showed improved clot formation and clot strength. Transfusion of FPC in combination with tranexamic acid increased this dog's ability to clot, suggesting that it is an effective perioperative therapy for severely thrombocytopenic patients requiring urgent surgery.

Microbiota-bone axis in ageing-related bone diseases.

Bone homeostasis in physiology depends on the balance between bone formation and resorption, and in pathology, this homeostasis is susceptible to disruption by different influences, especially under ageing condition. Gut microbiota has been recognized as a crucial factor in regulating host health. Numerous studies have demonstrated a significant association between gut microbiota and bone metabolism through host-microbiota crosstalk, and gut microbiota is even an important factor in the pathogenesis of bone metabolism-related diseases that cannot be ignored. This review explores the interplay between gut microbiota and bone metabolism, focusing on the roles of gut microbiota in bone ageing and aging-related bone diseases, including osteoporosis, fragility fracture repair, osteoarthritis, and spinal degeneration from different perspectives. The impact of gut microbiota on bone metabolism during aging through modification of endocrinology system, immune system and gut microbiota metabolites are summarized, facilitating a better grasp of the pathogenesis of aging-related bone metabolic diseases. This review offers innovative insights into targeting the gut microbiota for the treatment of bone ageing-related diseases as a clinical therapeutic strategy.

Deletion of the transcription factor EBF1 in perivascular stroma disrupts skeletal homeostasis and precipitates premature aging of the marrow microenvironment

Early B cell factor 1 (EBF1) is a transcription factor expressed by multiple lineages of stromal cells within the bone marrow. While cultures of Ebf1-deficient cells have been demonstrated to have impaired differentiation into either the osteoblast or adipogenic lineage in vitro by several groups, in vivo there has been a nominal consequence of the loss of EBF1 on skeletal development. In this study we used Prx-cre driven deletion of Ebf1 to eliminate EBF1 from the entire mesenchymal lineage of the skeleton and resolve this discrepancy. We report here that EBF1 is expressed primarily in the Mesenchymal Stem and Progenitor Cell (MSPC)-Adipo, MSPC-Osteo, and the Early Mesenchymal Progenitors, and that loss of EBF1 has a plethora of consequences to maintenance of the skeleton throughout adulthood. Stroma from the Prx-cre;Ebf1fl/fl bones had impaired osteogenic differentiation, an age-dependent loss of CFU-F, and elevated senescence accompanying Ebf1-deletion. New bone formation was reduced after 3 months, and resulted in a quiescent bone environment with fewer osteoblasts and an accompanied reduction in osteoclast-mediated remodeling. Consequently, bones were less ductile at a younger age, and deletion of EBF1 dramatically impaired fracture repair. Disruption of EBF1 in perivascular populations also rearranged the vascular network within these bones and disrupted cytokine signaling from key hematopoietic niches resulting in anemia, reductions in B cells, and myeloid skewing of marrow hematopoietic lineages. Mechanistically we observed disrupted BMP signaling within Ebf1-deficient progenitors with reduced SMAD1-phosphorylation, and elevated secretion of the soluble BMP-inhibitor Gremlin from the MSPC-Adipo cells. Ebf1-deficient progenitors also exhibited posttranslational suppression of glucocorticoid receptor expression. Together, these results suggest that EBF1 signaling is required for mesenchymal progenitor mobilization to maintain the adult skeleton, and that the primary action of EBF1 in the early mesenchymal lineage is to promote proliferation, and differentiation of these perivascular cells to sustain a healthy tissue.

Hybrid fixation for repair of dual forearm fractures of adolescent patients: A case report and literature review

Purpose: To assess hybrid fixation as an alternative option for repair of dual forearm fractures of adolescent patients. Case presentation: An 11-year-old boy presented with trauma to his right forearm resulting from playing on a trampoline. X-ray examinations confirmed fractures of both the right ulna and radius. Closed reduction and internal ESIN (elastic stable intramedullary nailing) fixation was selected for repair of the radius. Closed reduction of the ulnar fracture was unsuccessful, thus open reduction was performed. However, due to instability of the ulnar fracture after open reduction, internal plate fixation of the ulna was selected. At 3 months after surgery, the patient demonstrated full range of motion with no pain.

Requirement of Pdgfrα+ cells for calvarial bone repair.

Platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα) is often considered as a general marker of mesenchymal cells and fibroblasts, but also shows expression in a portion of osteoprogenitor cells. Within the skeleton, Pdgfrα+ mesenchymal cells have been identified in bone marrow and periosteum of long bones, where they play a crucial role in participating in fracture repair. A similar examination of Pdgfrα+ cells in calvarial bone healing has not been examined. Here, we utilize Pdgfrα-CreERTM;mT/mG reporter animals to examine the contribution of Pdgfrα+ mesenchymal cells to calvarial bone repair through histology and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq). Results showed that Pdgfrα+ mesenchymal cells are present in several cell clusters by scRNA-Seq, and by histology a dramatic increase in Pdgfrα+ cells populated the defect site at early timepoints to give rise to healed bone tissue overtime. Notably, diphtheria toxin-mediated ablation of Pdgfrα reporter+ cells resulted in significantly impaired calvarial bone healing. Our findings suggest that Pdgfrα-expressing cells within the calvarial niche play a critical role in the process of calvarial bone repair.

A maternal brain hormone that builds bone

In lactating mothers, the high calcium (Ca2+) demand for milk production triggers significant bone loss1. Although oestrogen normally counteracts excessive bone resorption by promoting bone formation, this sex steroid drops precipitously during this postpartum period. Here we report that brain-derived cellular communication network factor 3 (CCN3) secreted from KISS1 neurons of the arcuate nucleus (ARCKISS1) fills this void and functions as a potent osteoanabolic factor to build bone in lactating females. We began by showing that our previously reported female-specific, dense bone phenotype2 originates from a humoral factor that promotes bone mass and acts on skeletal stem cells to increase their frequency and osteochondrogenic potential. This circulatory factor was then identified as CCN3, a brain-derived hormone from ARCKISS1 neurons that is able to stimulate mouse and human skeletal stem cell activity, increase bone remodelling and accelerate fracture repair in young and old mice of both sexes. The role of CCN3 in normal female physiology was revealed after detecting a burst of CCN3 expression in ARCKISS1 neurons coincident with lactation. After reducing CCN3 in ARCKISS1 neurons, lactating mothers lost bone and failed to sustain their progeny when challenged with a low-calcium diet. Our findings establish CCN3 as a potentially new therapeutic osteoanabolic hormone for both sexes and define a new maternal brain hormone for ensuring species survival in mammals.

Experience of the Early Penile Fracture Repair: A Cross-Sectional Study in A Tertiary Care Center

Background: Penile fracture is a surgical emergency and most often it can be diagnosed clinically. But delayed presentation due to the embarrassing nature of the injury makes surgical outcome worse. Objectives: This study was conducted to compare results of early and delayed surgical interventions of patients presenting with penile fracture. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of Urology, in Dhaka Medical College of hospital, Bangladesh from 30th July 2018 to 30th January 2020. Twenty- Seven (27) patients with penile fracture were enrolled in this study. They were diagnosed on the basis of history and clinical findings. They were divided into two groups; early presenter (15 patients) who came within 24 hours and delayed presenter (12 patients) who came after 24 hours. Among the early presenters, 13 patients had unilateral corporeal injury and 2 patients had bilateral corporeal injury. On the other hand, in delayed presenters, 11 patients had unilateral corporeal injury and 1 patient had bilateral corporeal injury. Surgical repair was done in all patients. Results: Patient age range was between 15 to 60 years. The commonest presenting complaints were cracking sound 26 out of 27 (96.30%), penile swelling 24 out of 27 (88.88%), pain 22 out of 27(81.48%) and detumusence during sexual intercourse or an erection 17 out of 27(62.96%), urethra bleeding 3 out 27(11.1%). Among different causes, vigorous intercourse where female on top (62.9%) was the commonest followed by bending during erection (18.5%), masturbation (11.1%) And rolling over bed (7.4%). Out of 15 patients in early group, patients presented with urethral injury. The complications in delayed repair group were, plaque formation 3 out of 15 (20%); penile shaft deformity 2(13.3%); erectile dysfunction 1(6.6%) and skin necrosis 2 (13.3%). But in early repair group only one patient developed skin necrosis which was managed conservatively. Conclusion: Fracture of the penis is a surgical emergency. Immediate surgical repair gives excellent results even in the presence of urethral injury. Early diagnosis by history and clinical examination and timely surgical intervention is essential for better outcome with minimal longterm complications. J Dhaka Med Coll. 2022; 31(2) : 210-214

261 PLASTICS-UK (Plastic Surgery Teaching in the Undergraduate Curriculum of Medical Students - United Kingdom): A UK National Collaborative Evaluation of Plastic Surgery in the Undergraduate Medical Curriculum

Abstract Aim Plastic surgery incorporates all anatomical regions, age groups and tissue types; clinical challenges vary from trauma and burns to congenital defects and cancer. Although ∼50% of workload is trauma, it is often misperceived to revolve around cosmetic work. This study investigated national undergraduate plastic surgery exposure and perceptions amongst UK medical students. Method Ethical approval was granted. Permission was obtained from 27 UK medical schools. A national survey was conducted (31/03/23-07/07/23). National trends were analysed, with comparisons between established and new medical schools, and surgical and non-surgical aspirants. Results Data included 2513 students from 27 UK medical schools. 29.2% had surgical career aspirations. Students perceived plastic surgery as challenging, competitive, and impacting quality-of-life, however most had no formal teaching (56.3%); merely 6.2% had clinical exposure. Breast reconstruction was the most recognised procedure; the least were head and neck cancer surgery, fasciotomy, and hand fracture repair. Students at new medical schools were more likely to overestimate private practice and pursue the profession, but less likely to have sutured (22.2% vs 34.7%). Surgical aspirants were less likely to overestimate private practice, but more confident in their understanding of plastic surgery, and more likely to pursue it (p<0.001). Conclusions This was the largest UK national plastic surgery undergraduate curriculum survey to-date. A greater need for undergraduate plastic surgery teaching was determined. Significant heterogeneity across medical schools was identified. Formation of a national undergraduate plastic surgery curriculum, led by professional bodies, may tackle disparities amongst medical schools, improve accessibility and facilitate knowledge in hand trauma and burns.

Rationale of using magnetically sensitive biomaterials in bone tissue therapy: a review

INTRODUCTION. Currently, new biomaterials are being intensively developed to improve the efficiency of repair of damage to hard and soft tissues. New approaches and methods for functionalizing biomaterials have been proposed. One such method is the use of magnetic nanoparticles. This approach is new and still little studied, however, the annual increase in the number of publications on this topic indicates the promise of studying the osteogenic effect of magnetic nanoparticles. AIM. To summarize the results of current research devoted to studying the effect of magnetically sensitive biomaterials on the functional activity of cells involved in the reparation of bone tissue damage. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A literature review was conducted using the databases PubMed and Scopus. Keywords used to conduct the search: electromagnetic field, magnetic nanoparticles, biomaterials, osteoinduction, bone regeneration. Request dates: February-March 2024, publication period 2000–2024 years. MAIN CONTENT. New approaches and methods for functionalizing biomaterials have been proposed. One such approach is the use of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). Traditionally, in medicine, MNPs are used as a contrast agent to improve the visualization of cancer tumors; in addition, MNPs can act as a matrix in targeted drug delivery systems and in hyperthermic therapy of cancer tumors. New experimental data show that the use of MNPs as a magnetically sensitive component in biomaterials is a promising way to stimulate the repair of bone defects and fractures. It has been shown that biomaterials modified by nanoparticles stimulate osteogenic differentiation of stem cells, increase proliferative activity and secretion of extracellular matrix proteins by bone cells. CONCLUSION. Integration of MNPs with organic and synthetic polymers, and other biomimetic constructs is a promising direction for creating osteogenic biomaterials for medical use, including those aimed at increasing the efficiency of regeneration of bone defects. The use of magnetically sensitive biomaterials makes it possible to create “smart” tissue-engineered structures controlled by external electromagnetic stimulus.

External skeletal fixation for the treatment of pelvic fractures in cats.

To report the technique and the outcome for the repair of pelvic fractures in cats using external skeletal fixation (ESF). Retrospective case series. Client-owned cats (n = 125). Medical records of cats with pelvic fractures, treated with an ESF between June 2001 and June 2009, were reviewed. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and more than 4 weeks' postoperative radiographs were compared. Clinical examination was performed 4 to 9 weeks following surgery. Longer term follow up (4 to 80 months) was conducted by client questionnaire. No intraoperative complications occurred. There was no change in the pelvic canal width observed on follow-up radiographs (p = .16). Implant loosening was noted on follow-up radiographs in 16/125 (13%) of cases, and 67/803 (8%) pins were palpably loose at the time of frame removal. The mean time to frame removal was 37 ± 9 days. No long-term complications were reported. Long-term mean mobility score was 95 ± 5 and median lameness was 0 (range: 0-2). An ESF may be successfully applied for the stabilization of various pelvic fractures in cats. The application of an ESF for the management of pelvic fractures in cats provides good outcomes.

Phalangeal fractures: A retrospective comparison of open reduction and internal fixation vs. closed reduction and percutaneous pinning

The treatment of phalangeal fractures is guided by fracture characteristics, patient factors and surgeon judgment. This study retrospectively compares characteristics of phalangeal fractures treated with closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) with those of fractures treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) to identify risk factors associated with reoperation. A total of 901 phalangeal fractures were included and treated operatively by either CRPP (748 fractures, 83 ​%) or ORIF (153 fractures, 17 ​%). Demographics, surgical management, and complication data were collected. Statistical analyses were performed to stratify risk associations and identify potential predictors of reoperation. With multivariate analysis and bootstrapped LASSO regression, fractures addressed by means of ORIF (vs. CRPP), work-related fractures, and open fractures were found to be independently associated with reoperation. These findings can be used to guide patient selection, surgical planning and timing of fracture repair. Level of evidenceLevel III, Therapeutic.

Paper 25: Enhancing Tibial Spine Fracture Repair: Suture Plus Diaphyseal Suture Anchors Biomechanically Outperform Sutures and Screws in Pediatric Cadaveric Knees

Paper 25: Enhancing Tibial Spine Fracture Repair: Suture Plus Diaphyseal Suture Anchors Biomechanically Outperform Sutures and Screws in Pediatric Cadaveric Knees

Dual-layered carbonated hydroxyapatite/polypyrrole: A novel strategy for bone fracture repair implants

This study presents the fabrication of a carbonate-doped hydroxyapatite/polypyrrole thin film on 304 stainless steel (CHA/PPY/304 SS) using a cyclic voltammetry electrochemical method to enhance bone fracture repair. The in-situ substitution mechanism was evaluated through estimated reaction energy, and the impact of surface modification on structural properties was examined using the Rietveld refinement method. Following the electrodeposition of CHA on PPY-coated 304 SS, a distinctive flower-like structure emerged, with average cluster and pore sizes of 3 ± 1 μm and 130 ± 10 nm, respectively. Rietveld refinement analysis revealed A-type carbonate substitution, indicated by an increase in the a parameter and a reduction in the c parameter compared to the standard. Subsequent deposition of the bilayer coating on 304 SS significantly improved adhesion strength to 10.7 ± 0.2 MPa, along with increased hydrophilicity and Vickers hardness. Notably, enhanced bioactivity was observed, evidenced by thickened nanoflake-like structures and the formation of island-like apatite deposits after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 7 days. This bilayer coating shows promise for surface modification of metallic implants and tissue engineering scaffolds.

The role of reconstructive plastic surgery in the treatment of victims of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake

Objective: As a result of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, medical institutions experienced a large influx of patients requiring acute multidisciplinary surgical and medical care. This study aimed to evaluate the patient demographics and treatment management of survivors admitted to our reconstructive plastic surgery department. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the age, sex, time under the wreckage, time of admission, types and locations of injuries, treatment modalities, receipt of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and receipt of vacuum-assisted closure therapy of the earthquake victims referred to our department. Results: The definitive management of all 42 earthquake survivors admitted to our department was reviewed. This included five free flaps, four regional flaps, 18 split-thickness skin grafts, and one maxillofacial fracture repair. Eight patients were treated conservatively including two with non-displaced maxillofacial fractures. Of the 26 patients treated for lower extremity injuries, four were already amputees. Among the remaining 22 patients with such injuries, one underwent Charcot amputation plus free flap reconstruction to preserve extremity length and one underwent below-the-knee amputation. Of the 16 upper extremity injuries, two patients referred with extensive forearm necrosis underwent forearm amputation. To preserve extremity length and ensure the limbs were suitable for biomechanical orthoses, free transverse upper gracilis musculocutaneous flaps and free chimeric Anterolateral- Vastus Lateralis musculocutaneous flaps were performed. Conclusion: This study illustrates the value of multi-modal reconstructive plastic surgery in the treatment of disaster survivors, particularly in the management of multi-trauma.