Fracture Clinic Research Articles

Can Ordinary AI-Powered Tools Replace a Clinician-Led Fracture Clinic Appointment?

Introduction Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools are increasingly integrated into healthcare. The purpose of the present study was to compare fracture management plans generated by clinicians to those obtained from ChatGPT (OpenAI, San Francisco, CA) and Google Gemini (Google, Inc., Mountain View, CA). Methodology A retrospective comparative analysis was conducted. The study included 70 cases of isolated injuries treated at the authors' institution fracture clinic. Complex, open fractures and non-specific diagnoses were excluded. All relevant clinical details were introduced into ChatGPT and Google Gemini. The AI-generated management plans were compared with actual documented plans obtained from the clinical records. The study focused on treatment recommendations and follow-up strategies. Results In terms of agreement with actual treatment plans, Google Gemini matched in only 13 cases (19%), with disagreements in the remainder of cases due to overgeneralisation, inadequate treatment, and ambiguity. In contrast, ChatGPT matched actual plans in 24 cases (34%), with overgeneralisation being the principal cause for disagreement. The differences between AI-powered tools and actual clinician-led plans were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion Both AI-powered tools demonstrated significant disagreement with actual clinical management plans. While ChatGPT showed closer alignment to human expertise, particularly in treatment recommendations, both AI engines still lacked the clinical precision required for accurate fracture management. These findings highlight the current limitations of ordinary AI-powered tools and negate their ability to replace a clinician-led fracture clinic appointment.

Improving Patient Care and Streamlining Follow-Up: Compliance With National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidelines for Pediatric Distal Radius Buckle Fractures.

Torus fractures, also known as buckle fractures, are among the most common types of fractures seen in children who present to the emergency department (ED). These injuries usually occur when a child falls onto an outstretched hand, resulting in the compression and buckling of the dorsal cortex of the radius while the volar cortex remains intact. These fractures generally have a good prognosis and heal well with simple immobilization with a low risk of complications. However, current treatment practices often involve using a rigid cast and scheduling multiple follow-up clinic visits, which increases the hospital's financial strain. We conducted an initial audit that reviewed the practice in our unit between August and October 2017 at Queen's Hospital, Burton Upon Trent, United Kingdom. It included all children below the age of 16 who had radiograph images confirming distal radius buckle fractures and have been referred to the fracture clinic. Patient demographics, clinic visits, treating doctor grade/specialty, radiographs, initial and final treatment outcomes, and cast application were collected. After the initial audit, compliance with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines was promoted through the education of healthcare providers. A second audit was performed within 12 months to reassess the compliance. This study looked at the management of pediatric distal radius buckle fractures in a cohort of 152 patients, of which 65 and 87 children were included in audit cycles I and II, respectively. In the ED, splint usage increased from 0% in the first cycle (all children initially treated in a back slab) to 20% following new recommendations. In the fracture clinic, there was a notable improvement in the use of splints over full plaster casts between the first and second cycles. Initially, in the first cycle, only 5% of patients were treated in a splint, with 95% receiving full plaster casts. Following recommendations, splint use increased significantly in the second cycle, rising to 53%, while cast use decreased to 47%. In the first audit, only 7.7% (five patients) were discharged at the first visit, compared to 44.8% (39 patients) in the second audit. In the first audit, 86.2% (56 patients) required a second visit, whereas in the second audit, this decreased to 55.2% (48 patients). Four individuals received a cast owing to splint size difficulties or patient preferences. Despite the improvement seen regarding compliance with NICE guidelines, work is still needed to further enhance compliance. Staff education and optimizing splint availability will be a priority to reduce the burden on fracture clinic resources by unnecessary follow-up appointments.

Evaluation of Patient-Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) Service in a Fracture Clinic: A Comprehensive Service Evaluation and Patient Satisfaction Audit.

Background Outpatient clinics are increasingly challenged by high patient volumes and rising "did not attend" (DNA) rates, leading to extended wait times and declines in patient satisfaction. Traditional follow-up (FU) models with routinely scheduled appointments contribute to inefficiencies, as stable patients may attend unnecessary visits, thus straining clinic resources. The patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) model offers an alternative where patients schedule appointments only when necessary. This study evaluates PIFU's efficacy in improving outpatient services and patient satisfaction by reducing routine appointments and prioritizing patient-driven follow-up. Methods This service evaluation and patient satisfaction audit was conducted at the fracture clinic of Royal Shrewsbury Hospital over three months (December 2023-March 2024). Out of 3828 patients seen, 203 were assigned to PIFU based on criteria indicating stable conditions with minimal follow-up requirements. The remaining patients were either scheduled for routine follow-ups or discharged. Data were collected retrospectively from clinic records, and a structured questionnaire assessed patient satisfaction with the PIFU service. Results Among the 203 patients assigned to PIFU, 183 (90.15%) patients received an informational leaflet, with all respondents finding it easy to understand. However, only 41 (20.2%) of patients utilized the PIFU service, primarily for concerns about pain, healing, or complications. Satisfaction among PIFU users was high, with 163 (80.3%)patientsrating the service 5/5. Non-users mostly cited no perceived need for follow-up. Demographic analysis indicated that patients aged 40-60were predominant (n=132; 65.02%) among the PIFU cohort. Conclusion The PIFU model demonstrated the potential to alleviate clinic workload by reducing routine follow-ups while maintaining high patient satisfaction. Although utilization rates were low, those who engaged found the service beneficial, suggesting PIFU's value for patients comfortable with self-management. Improved patient education may enhance engagement, supporting the broader implementation of PIFU in outpatient settings. Further research is warranted to explore barriers to patient-initiated follow-up and refine eligibility criteria for optimal outcomes.

A survey of patient acceptability of the use of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of paediatric fractures: an observational study.

This study aimed to assess carer attitudes towards the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in management of fractures in paediatric patients. As fracture clinic services come under increasing pressure, innovative solutions are needed to combat rising demand. AI programs can be used to diagnosis fractures, but patient perceptions towards its use are uncertain. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of carers of paediatric patients presenting to fracture clinic at a tertiary care centre, combining single-best-answer questions and Likert-type questions. We investigated patient perception of clinical review in the emergency department (ED), disruption to school to attend fracture clinic, and attitudes towards AI. Of the paediatric fracture patients participating in this study, 45% were seen within two hours, 29% were seen between two and four hours, and 26% were seen after four hours; 75% were seen by both a nurse and a doctor, 16% were seen only by a nurse and 9% only by a doctor. A total of 61% of children had to take time off school for their appointment and 59% of parents had to take time off. Of all respondents, 56% agreed that more research is needed to reduce waiting times, 76% preferred a nurse or doctor to review their child's radiograph, 64% were happy for an AI program to diagnose their child's fracture, and 82% were happy with an AI program being used as an adjunct to a clinician's diagnosis. Carer perceptions towards the use of AI in this setting are positive. However, they are not yet ready to relinquish human decision making to automated systems.

Collection of Multiple Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (CRAM-PROMs) in orthopaedic trauma: a randomized trial to assess the impact of quantity on quality

BackgroundWe rely on sound clinical research to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions. We are nowadays experiencing an increased utilization of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in research, for which there is good evidence on validity and reliability. However, these measures are often validated in isolation and not in a real-life setting where they are used in conjunction with other questionnaires and measures. Our study objective was to determine if the number of PROMs questionnaires completed by fracture patients affected their reliability; more specifically, the internal consistency of the EuroQuol Five Dimension-Five Level (EQ-5D-5 L) questionnaire. HypothesisOur hypothesis was that there is a progressive decline in reliability as we increase the number of questionnaires given to participants. Patients and methodThis is a randomized study carried out in a single Level I academic trauma center. Patients presenting to the fracture clinic for follow-up were screened. Participants were randomly assigned to 4 groups: group 1 only answered the EuroQol Five Dimension–Five Level (EQ-5D-5 L) questionnaire, group 2 answered one additional questionnaire before the EQ-5D-5 L, group 3 answered two and group 4 answered three additional questionnaires before the EQ-5D-5 L. The primary outcome measured was the internal consistency of the EQ-5D-5 L as a measure of reliability. ResultsEnrolment was 115 participants. Twenty-eight participants were randomized to Group 1, 29 to Group 2, 29 to Group 3, and 29 to Group 4. There was a progressive decline of reliability as number of questionnaires increased except for a sudden rise in group 4. (Group 1: 0.83, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.70 to 0.91; Group 2: 0.74, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.87; Group 3: 0.68, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.83; Group 4: 0.81, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.90). Completeness was 100% for Group 1, 98.5% for Group 2, 100% for Group 3, and 92% for Group 4. DiscussionThese results cannot strongly support our initial hypothesis. Although there is an initial decrease in Cochran’s alpha for Groups 2 and 3 consecutively, the sudden rise in group 4 limits the validity our results. Notwithstanding, researchers should consider these findings when designing their research trials to avoid potential misleading results. Hence, the number of given questionnaires in research should be limited in order for these to maintain their reliability. Level of evidenceII.

Change in Patient Perceptions of Electronic Communication Methods for an Orthopaedic Fracture Clinic Between 2019 and 2024.

Introduction Outpatient appointments are essential to patient care, yet rising non-attendance rates ('did not attend' DNAs) pose significant challenges, costing the National Health Service (NHS) over £1 billion annually. Traditional postal communication is inefficient and costly, while digital methods like short messaging service (SMS) and electronic mail (email) show the potential to improve attendance and reduce costs. This study investigates changes in patient preferences for orthopaedic outpatient communication methods between 2019 and 2024 at a busy district general hospital in London, UK. Methods A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 and repeated in 2024. A total of 202 participants were involved in this study. A paper questionnaire was administered during fracture clinic visits, collecting data on electronic communication preferences, technology access, and missed appointments. Results The proportion of participants preferring email communication increased significantly from 68.89% in 2019 to 80.61% in 2024 (p < 0.05). Smartphone ownership also significantly rose from 66.32% to 84.46% (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in satisfaction with other-based communication across cohorts, but an increasing trend towards digital communication was noted (p > 0.05). Conclusion Patients show a preference for digital communication over traditional methods. Adopting email-based systems could potentially improve attendance and reduce missed appointments. Further research is needed to address privacy concerns and optimise communication based on patient preferences.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving: A Substudy of Patient Perception Data From the DRIVSAFE Observational Study.

To determine how fracture clinic patients perceive the dangers of distracted driving. Analysis of patient perception subset data from the original DRIVSAFE study; a large, multicenter cross-sectional study, surveying fracture clinic patients about distracted driving. Four Level 1 Canadian trauma center fracture clinics. English-speaking patients with a valid Canadian driver's license and a traumatic musculoskeletal injury sustained in the past 6 months. Primary outcome was patients' safety ratings of driving distractions. As per the original DRIVSAFE study, patients were categorized as distraction-prone or distraction-averse using their questionnaire responses and published crash-risk odds ratios (ORs). A regression analysis was performed to identify associations with unsafe driving perceptions. The study included 1378 patients, 749 (54.3%) male and 614 (44.6%) female. The average age was 45.8 ± 17.0 years (range 16-87). Sending electronic messages was perceived as unsafe by 92.9% (1242/1337) of patients, while reading them was seen as unsafe by 81.2% (1086/1337). Approximately three-quarters of patients viewed making (78.9%, 1061/1344) and accepting (74.8%, 998/1335) calls on handheld mobile phones as unsafe. However, 31.0% (421/1356) of patients believed that they had no differences in their driving ability when talking on the phone while 13.1% (175/1340) reported no driving differences when texting. Younger age (OR, 0.93 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.90-0.96], P < 0.001), driving experience (OR, 1.06 [95% CI 1.02-1.09], P < 0.001), and distraction-prone drivers (OR, 3.79 [95% CI 2.91-4.94], P < 0.001) were associated with unsafe driving perceptions. There is a clear association between being prone to distractions and unsafe driving perceptions, with distraction-prone drivers being 3.8 times more likely to perceive driving distractions as safe. This information could potentially influence the appropriate delivery and content of future educational efforts to change the perception of driving distractions and thereby reduce distracted driving. Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Virtual Fracture Clinics in Managing Toe Fractures: Patient Demographics and Outcomes.

Background Virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) offer a remote alternative to traditional fracture clinics, potentially reducing the burden on in-person services. This is particularly relevant for fractures that typically do not require follow-up, such as toe fractures, which are commonly managed conservatively. Methods This study evaluated the effectiveness of VFCs in managing toe fractures. Patients treated conservatively were identified using HIVE software, and their outcomes were assessed via a telephone survey. The survey included the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and additional questions about their recovery process. Results Among 56 respondents (62.5% male, median age 26.0 years), the majority sustained injuries to the right foot (62.5%), great toe (71.4%), and proximal phalanx (67.9%). Patient satisfaction was high, with 92.9% reporting a positive experience and 98.2% finding the advice provided helpful. Median FAAM scores were 100% across both subscales, with a median recovery time of 6.0 weeks. Despite high satisfaction and favorable clinical outcomes, factors such as female gender and increased age were linked to poorer outcomes. Conclusion VFCs demonstrate high patient satisfaction, positive clinical outcomes, and cost-efficiency, making them a viable alternative to traditional fracture clinics, particularly for conservatively managed fractures. Further research should involve larger sample sizes, prospective study designs, and control groups to validate these findings.

Uncemented and cemented hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture with end-stage renal failure

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of hemiarthroplasty performed with cemented and uncemented femoral stem in femoral neck fractures with ESRF. Material and Methods: Patients aged over 65 years with ESRF who admitted to our clinic for femoral neck fractures between January 2019 and June 2021 and underwent hemiarthroplasty, included in the study. Group 1 included patients with ESRF who underwent hemiarthroplasty with cemented stem due to femoral neck fracture. And group 2 included patients with ESRF who underwent hemiarthroplasty with uncemented stem due to femoral neck fracture. Functional scores of the patients and femoral stem loosening rates were evaluated with Harris Hip Score and radiographs. Result: 48 patients (21 male, 27 female) were included in the study. Twenty of the patients were treated with posterior approach and 28 were treated with anterolateral approach. The mean age of the patients was 78,6±11,32 years (range: 65-93 years).The mean follow up time was 28,9 months (24-36 months).There was no significant difference between loosening of cemented and uncemented stems (p= 0,087). The mean HHS of the patients was 69.5 for group 1 and 71.8 for group 2 (range 40-85). There was no significant difference between HHS of group 1 and 2 (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Patients with ESRF who underwent hemiarthroplasty due to femoral neck fracture have a higher complication risk. The loosening rates and functional scores of cemented and uncemented hemiarthroplasty are similar.

Optimising Emergency Care for Older Adults: A Case Study of the EDITH Service Following a Proximal Humerus Fracture

Abstract Background The Emergency Department in the Home (EDITH) service offers emergency Occupational Therapy and medical assessments to older adults at home, thus negating the need for hospital attendances. Mr X, an 86-year-old with vascular dementia and hypertension, sustained a left proximal humerus fracture from a fall. Following assessment in the ED, Mr X was deemed fit for discharge and was referred to EDITH for an acute functional assessment and clinical review. Methods Within 72 hours of discharge, Mr X was visited at home by an Occupational Therapist (OT) and an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP). The OT conducted a home environment assessment, falls-risk screening, delirium screening, reviewed social supports, and performed a functional assessment. Education on one-handed dressing techniques and falls prevention was provided. The ANP conducted a clinical review, and reviewed Mr X’s medication and analgesia. Mr X had the support of his wife to assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), functional mobility and medication management. Mr X’s son purchased assistive equipment recommended by the OT, to enhance home safety. Referrals were made to the local memory support service, a Physiotherapist, and his Public Health Nurse to organise formal care supports. Results Mr X remained at home with support from his wife, primary care services, and virtual EDITH follow-up. Mr X had a scheduled review at the fracture clinic following his ED attendance. Conclusion Emergency care practitioners play a crucial role in addressing acute functional and clinical changes in older adults attending the ED. Supported ED discharges and service integration during the acute phase can prevent hospital admissions. Collaboration between emergency medicine and primary care is essential for addressing acute medical needs and long-term functional outcomes. With adequate social support and timely services, older adults can recover successfully at home.

EP241 - Managing Cervical Spine fracture in a district general hospital

Abstract Introduction Cervical spinal injury affects 2–3% of trauma patients and accounts for 8.2% of all trauma-related deaths. Respiratory complications are cited as the primary cause of mortality with a 14 - &amp;gt;27 % rate in patients aged more than 65 years old. Aim Produce a clear set of guidelines in an aim to reduce mortality in patients &amp;gt; 65 years presenting with cervical spine fracture. Method Data was retrospectively collected for patients aged &amp;gt;65 between September 2021 and August 2022 in a district general hospital. Patients with confirmed cervical spine injury were included in the study. Data was collated and analysed using Excel. Results 36 patients presented to ED with acute cervical spine fracture. 22 (61%) were female and 14 (39%) male with an age range of 66-98 years old. 31 (84%) patients were discussed with a tertiary centre. Complications ranged from constipation, delirium, DVT/PE, chest infections (n=5, 36%) to spinal shock (n= 3, 27%). 11 (30.6%) patients presenting with a c-spine fracture died within 30 days of admission.9 (25%) patients had an outpatient appointment booked in a tertiary centre and 13 (36%) were seen locally in the fracture clinic. 14 (39%) patients did not have any follow ups planned. Conclusions To mitigate in-hospital complications and improve outcomes, shared care with orthopaedics, geriatrics, and physiotherapy is being proposed for this group of patients. It would be beneficial to compare the data from the local network and aim at publishing an up-to-date set of robust guidelines.

The Effect of a Separate Flow of Patients With Small Traumatic Injuries on Consult Time and Patient Satisfaction: A Retrospective Cohort Study During COVID-19 in the Emergency Department.

With emergency department (ED) crowding and high workloads burdening healthcare, efficient patient flow management becomes increasingly crucial. A significant portion of this crowding is attributed to patients with minor traumatic injuries. The objective of this study is to investigate to what extent a separate patient flow for patients with small traumatic injuries influences consult times and patient satisfaction. During COVID-19, patients with small traumatic injuries in the ED were redirected to an outpatient clinic (the Fracture Clinic). The Fracture Clinic was maintained for seven weeks during which the consult time and patient satisfaction were recorded for every individual. Retrospectively, the same procedure was followed for the seven weeks prior to the outbreak of COVID, with the regular procedure in place. In total, 922 patients were included in the research: 415 patients in the intervention group (Fracture Clinic) and 507 patients in the control group (ED group). The consult time in the Fracture Clinic (median = 30 min) is significantly lower compared to the ED group (median = 86 min) (U = 25,147.500, z = 19.9, p < 0.001). The overall consult in terms of patient satisfaction scored higher for the Fracture Clinic Group than the ED group (T[df] = -4.449 [479], p < 0.001). The Fracture Clinic resulted in shorter consult times and an increased patient satisfaction compared to the usual patient flow for patients with small traumatic injuries in the ED. These patients could be redirected to an outpatient clinical setting to improve efficiency in patient flow, while avoiding a negative impact from the triage system in which they usually are the lowest priority.

A mixed-method review of the efficacy of a virtual fracture clinic: an 8-year follow up

Background: Virtual fracture clinics are well established methods of managing trauma patients safely and effectively. While they have been widely adopted, there is a lack of research on their longer-term implementation and success. Aims: This paper aimed to review factors that may influence the success of a virtual fracture clinic. Methods: Business analytics were used to calculate clinic discharge and return rates, as well as the reasons for them. Qualitative analysis was used to look at patient satisfaction with virtual consultations; data were extracted from two differing time points via telephone interviews. Results: The mean discharge rate across the 2014–2021 period was 28%. The largest discharge rate was seen in 2014 (43%) and the lowest was seen in 2021 (28%). Return rates to the emergency department at the two different time points were 2% and 0.9% respectively. Patient satisfaction was rated as ‘good’ or higher in all parameters at both time points. Discussion: This article describes the long-term success of a virtual fracture clinic. Results demonstrate excellent patient satisfaction coupled with the lowest return rates in the published literature. Discharge rates started extremely high and have declined with time. The factors for these results are discussed along with ideas for further prospective research.

Is the Diagnosis of fifth Metatarsal Fracture Type Consistent? An Interobserver Reliability Study.

Treatment pathways of fifth metatarsal fractures are commonly directed based on fracture classification, with particular proximal fractures typically requiring closer observation and possibly more aggressive management. Our aim is to investigate the interobserver reliability of assessment of subtypes of fifth metatarsal fractures. We included all patients referred to our virtual fracture clinic with a suspected or confirmed fifth metatarsal fracture. Plain anteroposterior radiographs were reviewed by 2 novice observers, initially trained on the fifth metatarsal classification identification. Eight different zones were defined based on anatomical location. Patients were excluded from analysis if neither observer could identify a fracture. An interobserver reliability analysis using Cohen κ coefficient was carried out, and degree of observer agreement described using Landis and Koch's description. All data were analyzed using IBM SPSS, version 27. A total of 1360 patients who met the inclusion criteria were identified. The 2 observers had moderate agreement when identifying fractures in all zones, apart from zone 1.2 and distal metaphysis (DM) fractures, which only achieved fair agreement (κ = 0.308 and 0.381 respectively). Zone 3 has slight agreement with zone 2 proximally, and there is an apparent difficulty with distal diaphyseal shaft (DS) fractures, resulting in a lot of crossover with DM, achieving a fair level of agreement (DS 312 vs 196; DM 120 vs 237; κ = .398, P < .001). Reliability of subcategorizing fifth metatarsal fractures using standardized instructions conveys moderate agreement in most cases. If the region of the fracture is going to be used in an algorithm to guide a management plan and clinical follow-up during a virtual clinic review, defining fractures of zones 1-3 needs careful consideration. Level III, retrospective cohort study.

757 Rapid Deployment of a Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) at a London District General Hospital: Safely Building on a Pragmatic Measure to Bring About Lasting Service Impact

757 Rapid Deployment of a Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) at a London District General Hospital: Safely Building on a Pragmatic Measure to Bring About Lasting Service Impact

Advancing orthopaedic trauma care through WhatsApp: An analysis of clinical and non-clinical applications, challenges, and future directions.

The integration of WhatsApp, a widely-used instant messaging application (IMA), into the realm of orthopaedics and trauma surgery has emerged as a significant development in recent years. This paper explores the multifaceted role of WhatsApp in orthopaedics, focusing on its clinical and non-clinical applications, advantages, disadvantages, and future prospects. The study synthesizes findings from various research papers, emphasizing the growing reliance on mobile technology in healthcare. WhatsApp's role in orthopaedics is notable for its ease of use, real-time communication, and accessibility. Clinically, it facilitates triage, teleconsultation, diagnosis, treatment, patient advice, and post-operative monitoring. Non-clinically, it supports telemedicine, teleradiology, virtual fracture clinics, research, and education in orthopaedic surgery. The application has proven beneficial in enhancing communication among healthcare teams, providing quick responses, and motivating junior physicians. Its use in educational settings has been shown to improve learner's understanding and patient care. However, the use of WhatsApp in orthopaedics is not without challenges. Risks include the potential spread of misleading information, privacy concerns, and issues with image quality affecting diagnosis and treatment decisions. The paper acknowledges the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and the need for oversight measures to ensure content accuracy. Looking forward, the potential of WhatsApp and similar IMAs in orthopaedics lies in their ability to streamline data collection and retrieval, improve doctor-patient communication, and address challenges like bureaucratic red tape and limited resources. The paper suggests that future orthopaedic practice, particularly in emergency departments, will increasingly rely on such technologies for efficient patient management. This shift, however, must be approached with an understanding of the ethical, legal, and practical implications of integrating social media and mobile technology in healthcare.

IS THE DIAGNOSIS OF FIFTH METATARSAL FRACTURE SUBTYPE CONSISTENT? AN INTEROBSERVER RELIABILITY STUDY

IntroductionTreatment pathways of 5th metatarsal fractures are commonly directed based on fracture classification, with Jones types for example, requiring closer observation and possibly more aggressive management.Primary objectiveTo investigate the reliability of assessment of subtypes of 5th metatarsal fractures by different observers.MethodsPatients were identified from our prospectively collected database. We included all patient referred to our virtual fracture clinic with a suspected or confirmed 5th metatarsal fracture. Plain AP radiographs were reviewed by two observers, who were initially trained on the 5th metatarsal classification identification. Zones were defined as Zone 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2, 3, diaphyseal shaft (DS), distal metaphysis (DM) and head. An inter-observer reliability analysis using Cohen's Kappa coefficient was carried out, and degree of observer agreement described using Landis &amp; Koch's description. All data was analysed using IBM SPSS v.27.Results878 patients were identified. The two observers had moderate agreement when identifying fractures in all zones, apart from metatarsal head fractures, which scored substantial agreement (K=.614). Zones 1.1 (K=.582), 2 (K=.536), 3 (K=.601) and DS (K=.544) all tended towards but did not achieve substantial agreement. Whilst DS fractures achieved moderate agreement, there was an apparent difficulty with distal DS, resulting in a lot of cross over with DM (DS 210 vs 109; DM 76 vs 161). Slight agreement with the next highest adjacent zone was found when injuries were thought to be in zones 1.2, 1.3 and 2 (K=0.17, 0.115 and 0.152 respectively).ConclusionsReliability of sub-categorising 5th metatarsal fractures using standardised instructions conveys moderate to substantial agreement in most cases. If the region of the fracture is going to be used in an algorithm to guide a management plan and clinical follow up during a virtual clinic review, defining fractures of zones 1–3 needs careful consideration.

Virtual Fracture Clinic Patients' Satisfaction Outcomes.

Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a need to balance optimum treatment service and the safety of patients and hospital staff. The British Orthopaedic Association recommended a virtual fracture clinic to give the right first-time decision and to minimize patient exposure to disease. This study aimed to evaluate the patients' satisfaction outcomes for the service provided through the virtual fracture clinic. Methodology From January to May 2022, all patients seen by the staff in the Emergency Department (ED) at Queens Burton Hospitals were enrolled in a prospective study. An Excel spreadsheet was provided to both ED personnel and the orthopaedic team for accessibility. Patients were continually added to the spreadsheet, and their cases were reviewed by the on-call consultant to devise treatment plans. A satisfaction questionnaire was collected from patients about their virtual clinic experience as a route to provide treatment service. Results The study comprised 150 patients, with an average age of 40 years. Distal radial fractures represented one-third of the cases. Different modalities of management were offered such as a sling, splint, cast, or referral to physiotherapy. Around 75% of cases were satisfied, understood the advice given over the phone, and were not required to attend the actual clinic. The remaining quarter attended the clinic either for further reassessment by an orthopaedic surgeon or for discussion of their injury as they could not get the full message over the phone due to fast calls, hearing struggles, or just listening to messages. Conclusions The virtual fracture clinic is an effective standalone service that gained around 75% satisfaction in patients' outcome questionnaires. It saved the actual fracture clinic slots and hospital resources. It is recommended to be part of the standard daily practice throughout the United Kingdom.

Audit of a Revised Pathway Aimed at Expediting Diagnosis and Treatment for Suspected Achilles Tendon Rupture

Treatment outcomes for Achilles tendon ruptures depend upon prompt diagnosis and management. A local study in 2018 highlighted inefficiencies in patient management, and a revised protocol was introduced allowing investigation and referral to be initiated by other healthcare professionals. This retrospective audit evaluates the impact of this on the timescale from presentation to treatment. It analyzes all suspected Achilles tendon ruptures within one District General Hospital from April 2021 to March 2022. Data regarding patient timelines was compared to the 2018 study. Over 12 months, 99 patients were referred to Virtual Fracture Clinic, 87.8% (n = 87) of which had a complete or partial tear on ultrasound scan (USS). In comparison to 2018, the average time from presentation to USS request reduced from 2.9 to 1.1 days (p < .01). 95% were scanned within one week of USS request and 31.3% within 48 hours (81% and 18%, previously). The average time from USS request to scan went from 6.8 to 3.2 days (p < .01). The time from presentation to treatment decision reduced from 10.9 to 6.2 days (p < .01) and the percentage of patients with a definitive treatment plan within one week increased from 34.5% to 74.2% (p < .01). Patients required 0.8 fewer appointments (p < .01) giving an estimated total saving of $10,110 ($128 per patient) during the analyzed period. The Achilles Tendon Rupture Pathway has significantly improved the proportion of patients undergoing USS within 48 hours and receiving a treatment decision within one week. This study demonstrates an efficient, cost-saving and replicable pathway for Achilles tendon ruptures.

Outcomes of a Novel Spine Virtual Fracture Clinic in an Australian Tertiary Hospital.

This was a retrospective cohort study. To determine the proportion of referrals diverted by the spine virtual fracture clinic (SVFC) from traditional outpatient clinic management. The consistent rise in demand for orthopedic outpatient clinic services is creating marked challenges to the provision of quality care. Virtual fracture clinics for upper and lower limb fractures have reduced the burden on outpatient clinics by providing an alternative telehealth management pathway. To date, no study describes the expansion of virtual care to the spine trauma population. A study of spine fractures referred to the RMH Department of Orthopaedic Surgery was conducted comparing outcomes before (January to December 2021) and following (July 2022 to November 2023) implementation of an SVFC. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a telephone-based SVFC on outpatient clinic activity, represented by the proportion of referrals discharged without requiring an outpatient clinic appointment. Secondary aims included appointment utilization, lost to follow-up rates, duration of care, missed or misdiagnoses, unplanned operations, and complications. Of the 731 referrals managed by the SVFC, 91.1% were discharged without requiring in-person outpatient clinic attendance. Compared with the outpatient clinic historical cohort (150 referrals), SVFC management was associated with reductions in the average number of consultations per referral (1.8 vs . 2.4, P <0.001), appointments not attended (5% vs . 13%, P <0.001), referrals lost to follow-up (0% vs . 10.7%, P <0.001), and a shorter duration of care (median 48 vs . 58d, P <0.001). A total of 65 patients (8.1%) were redirected to the outpatient clinic, of which three underwent surgical intervention. No diagnostic errors, complications or adverse events were identified. This study demonstrates that an SVFC is an effective and safe alternative pathway to traditional hospital-based outpatient clinics, ith low-risk for any adverse outcomes.