Fractures In Clinical Practice Research Articles

The Comparison between Spinal Facet Joint Toothed Plate and Traditional Pedicle Screw-rod on Reduction of Thoracolumbar Fracture.

Thoracolumbar fractures are one of the most common fractures in clinical practice. Surgical intervention is recommended to restore spinal alignment or decompress the nerves when there are unstable fractures or neurological injuries. However, after excessive forward thrust force restoration, facet joint dislocation often occurs between the upper vertebra and the fractured vertebra, which usually leads to unsatisfactory reduction outcomes. Herein, we propose a novel spinal facet joint toothed plate to assist in fracture reduction. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the new spinal facet joint toothed plate in preventing facet joint dislocation, and its advantages compared to traditional pedicle screw-rod decompression. A total of 26 patients in the toothed plate group and 93 patients in the traditional group who experienced thoracolumbar fracture with reduction were retrospectively included. Relevant patients' information and clinical parameters were collected. Furthermore, visual analogue scores (VAS) scores and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were also collected. Moreover, imaging parameters were calculated based on radiographs. Correlated data were analyzed by χ2 test and t test. All patients in this study had no postoperative complications. Postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores (p < 0.001) were statistically significant (p < 0.001) in both groups compared with preoperative scores and further decreased (p < 0.001) at final follow-up. In addition, the postoperative vertebral margin ratio (VMR) (p < 0.001) and vertebral angle of the injured vertebrae (p < 0.001) were significantly improved compared with the preoperative period. There were no significant differences in postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores between the two groups. However, toothed plate reduction significantly improved the VMR (p < 0.05) and vertebral angle (p < 0.05) compared with conventional reduction. Ultimately, the total screw accuracy was 98.72% (sum of levels 0 and I), with 100% screw accuracy in the segment related to the tooth plate in the tooth plate group. The dislocation rate was higher in the conventional group (6.45%) than in the new serrated plate repositioning group (0.00%). The facet toothed plate assisted reduction method prevents facet joint dislocation and improves fracture reduction compared to traditional reduction technique, hence it could be considered as a novel surgical strategy for thoracolumbar fracture reduction.

Long-term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes Following Surgical Treatment for Ankle Fracture-Dislocations: Do poor radiographic outcomes always matter?

Background Ankle fractures constitute 10% of all traumatic fractures in clinical practice. Concurrent tibiotalar dislocations form 21-36% of all ankle fractures. Although mechanism of injury is similar to non-dislocated ankle fractures, fracture-dislocations cause more extensive bone and soft tissue damage. Treatment is a challenge for orthopedic surgeons due to concomitant pathologies. It is associated with malreduction, chronic pain and most importantly, posttraumatic osteoarthritis. We aimed to investigate the relationship between ankle osteoarthritis radiographic stage and clinical outcomes. Methods 27 patients (17 female, 10 male) were included in the study. Records and data were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical status at the final follow-up was evaluated by a single orthopedic surgeon. Range of motion (ROM), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score, visual analogue scale (VAS) were the clinical parameters that were assessed. Radiological assessment was made by standard anteroposterior [AP], lateral, and mortise views. Pre-operative osseo-ligamentous injury pattern, presence of posterior malleolar fracture, syndesmosis injury and post-operative ankle osteoarthritis were investigated. Results For 27 patients that were evaluated, at the final follow-up, mean AOFAS was 85 ± 8.12, and mean VAS during daily activities was 1.52 ± 0.70. Mean ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion were significantly lower on the affected sides (14.07 ± 7.97° and 36.30 ± 6.59°) than on the unaffected sides (28.15 ± 2.82° and 46.30 ± 2.97°), respectively (p < 0.001). No significant difference for inversion and eversion was observed. Twenty-four patients demonstrated radiographic signs of ankle osteoarthritis, and three remained without evidence of osteoarthritis. No significant difference was found among Takakura's stages in any of the variables. Conclusion The results illustrated that although post-traumatic osteoarthritis rate was high for ankle fracture-dislocation patients, surgical treatment achieved excellent functional results. Even if advanced stages of ankle arthritis according to Takakura's classification developed, patients had satisfactory clinical and functional results.

Use of hyaluronic acid matrix in dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty

ABSTRACT Augmentation rhinoplasty sometimes is required for patients with saddle nose deformity caused by failed rhinoplasty or facial trauma; finding appropriate grafting material remains a significant problem for this procedure. We investigated hyaluronic acid matrix as an allograft for dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty in a rabbit model. We performed an osteotomy on the nasal bones of eight rabbits. Four animals were sham operated as the control group and four were administered a mixture of saline-gelled hyaluronic acid matrix and sliced cartilage. Ultrasonography and three-dimensional reconstruction tomography were performed at the end of the experimental period. After sacrifice of the animals, nasal tissues were examined for histopathology, and both collagen scores and number of capillaries were compared between the two groups. Increased collagen and capillaries were apparent in the hyaluronic acid matrix group compared to controls. The median collagen score was significantly greater for the hyaluronic acid matrix group than for the control group. Although the number of capillaries for the hyaluronic acid matrix group was greater than for the control group, the difference was not statistically significant. Three weeks is sufficient for adhesion of ends of fractures in clinical practice; however, we found no ossification at this time in either group. A hyaluronic acid matrix may be a useful alternative supplement for dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty. Development of collagen was commensurate with membranous ossification; however, assessment of complete ossification requires a longer experimental period.

Expert consensus for Jiegu Qili Tablets (Capsules) in treatment of fracture in clinical practice

Fracture is one of the common diseases in the department of orthopaedics and traumatology. Jiegu Qili Tablets(Capsules) are a Chinese patent medicine commonly used to treat fractures in clinical practice, which has been included in the Class A drugs of the catalog of medicines covered by the National Medical Insurance System. However, no consensus or guideline has yet been developed to guide clinicians based on an evidence-based approach in detail, which has severely limited the clinical value of this drug. According to the guiding principle of evidence as the key, consensus as the supplement, and experience as the reference, a consensus was developed in strict accordance with the steps stipulated in the expert consensus on clinical applications of proprietary Chinese medicines. Based on literature review and questionnaire survey, the consensus was a timely summary of the existing clinical evidence on the treatment of fractures with Jiegu Qili Tablets(Capsules), and incorporated the treatment experience of a number of clinical experts. The preparation process took more than a year and the consensus(GS/CACM 293-2021) was officially released by the China Association of Chinese Medicine in September 2021, with the participation of multidisciplinary experts from 27 organizations of Chinese and Western medicine and research institutions. This article introduces the background and objectives of the consensus in detail, and describes the main process of proposal, drafting, expert consensus, and consultation. In particular, 5 consensus recommendations and 12 consensus suggestions are formed with regard to the key issues of indications, treatment timing, dose, duration, and safety in the clinical application of Jiegu Qili Tablets(Capsules) for the treatment of fractures, which guide and standardize the rational use by clinicians and improve the accuracy and safety of drugs.

Outcome Analysis of Distal End Radius Fractures Managed With Antegrade Intramedullary K-wire Fixation.

Background The most frequent upper limb fractures are distal end radius fractures, accounting for around 17% of all fractures in clinical practice. Falling on an outstretched hand is the most common mechanism of injury, and it can also occur in high-energy trauma in young individuals. A minimally invasive technique ofpercutaneous pinning was introduced to sustain the fracture's reduction after manipulation and avoid there-displacement of fractured fragments. Antegrade intramedullary K-wire fixation is a cost-efficient procedure that can be done in rural settings. Methodology A total of 30 patients with fractures of the distal end radius managed with antegrade intramedullary K-wire fixation were included in the study. Operated patients were followed up at one month, three months, and six months for functionalassessment. An X-ray was taken on every follow-up to assess the union and implant positioning. Results In our study, the mean age was 45.6 years. Out of the 30 patients, 12 were males and 18 were females. All 30 patients at the final follow-up showed good functional improvement, with statistically significant improvements in palmar flexion, adduction and abduction, and pain scale scores. Conclusions Antegrade K-wire fixation is an effectivetechnique for fractures of the distal end radius that can be performed in rural settings with effective results.

Fracture risk in Parkinson's disease according to its severity and duration.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is reported to be associated with a high risk of fractures. Several studies found an association between severity and duration of PD and falls or bone mineral density, but those factors have not been considered in most previous research. The aim of this study was to determine the fracture risk in PD patients according to their disease severity and duration. This population-based, retrospective cohort study used data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database. The study population included 10,333 patients with prevalent PD and 6,501,464 comparison cohort. Fracture risks according to the prevalence, severity, and duration of PD were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard methods. Fracture risk was elevated in PD patients at all sites compared with controls (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.44-1.56 for any fracture). When comparing fracture sites, hip fractures showed the largest risk increase in PD patients (aHR 2.16, 95% CI 1.95-2.38). Among PD patients, the risk of any fracture increased linearly with PD severity and was highest in patients with severe disease (aHR 1.65, 95% CI 1.53-1.79 compared with controls). Meanwhile, no significant association was observed between PD duration and fracture risk. The prevalence of PD was related to an increased risk of fractures in this nationwide study, and PD severity was linearly associated with fracture risk. PD prevalence and severity should be considered when evaluating the risk factors of fracture in clinical practice.

Management of vertebral compression fractures: the role of dual-energy CT in clinical practice.

To evaluate the role of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in the management of vertebral compression fractures in clinical practice. This retrospective IRB-approved study included 497 consecutive patients with suspected acute vertebral fractures, imaged either by DECT (group 1) or MRI (group 2) before vertebroplasty. The site, number and type of fractures at imaging findings, and clinical outcome based on any change in pain (DELTA-VAS), before (VAS-pre) and after treatment (VAS-post), were determined and compared. Two radiologists evaluated DECT and MRI images (15 and 5years of experience, respectively), and inter-observer and intra-observer agreement were calculated using k statistics. Both in the control group (n = 124) and in the group of patients treated by vertebroplasty (n = 373), the clinical outcome was not influenced by the imaging approach adopted, with a DELTA-VAS of 5.45 and 6.42 in the DECT group and 5.12 and 6.65 in the MRI group (p = 0.326; p = 0.44). In the group of treated patients, sex, age, lumbar fractures, multiple fractures, previous fractures, Genant grade, involvement of anterior apex or superior endplates, and increased spinal curvatures were similar (p = ns); however, dorsal fractures were more prevalent in group 1 (p = 0.0197). Before treatment, the mean VAS-pre was 8.74 in group 1 (DECT) and 8.65 in group 2 (MRI) (p = 0.301), whereas after treatment, the mean VAS-post value was 2.32 in group 1 (p = 0.0001), and 2.00 in group 2 (p = 0.0001). The DELTA-VAS was 6.42 in the group of patients imaged using DECT and 6.65 in the group imaged using MRI (p = 0.326). Inter-observer and intra-observer agreement were 0.85 and 0.89 for DECT, and 0.88 and 0.91 for MRI, respectively. The outcome of vertebral compression fracture management was no different between the two groups of patients studied.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Appropriate Use Criteria: Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has developed Appropriate Use Criteria for the Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures . Evidence-based information, in conjunction with the clinical expertise of physicians, was used to develop the criteria to determine the appropriateness of various treatments in the management of distal radius fractures. The Appropriate Use Criteria for the Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures were derived by identifying clinical indications typical of patients with a distal radius fracture in clinical practice. These indications were most often variables observable by the clinician, including symptoms or results of diagnostic tests. In addition, "patient-level variables" (eg, activity level or demographics) can be considered. In total, 2,160 patient scenarios and 9 treatments were developed by the writing panel, a group of clinicians who are specialists in this Appropriate Use Criteria topic. Next, a separate, multidisciplinary, voting panel (made up of specialists and nonspecialists) rated the appropriateness of treatment of each patient scenario using a 9-point scale to designate a treatment as "appropriate" (median rating, 7 to 9), "may be appropriate" (median rating, 4 to 6), or "rarely appropriate" (median rating, 1 to 3).

Treatment of Pauwels type III femoral neck fracture with medial femoral neck support screw: a biomechanical and clinical study

A femoral neck fracture is currently one of the most common types of fracture in clinical practice. The incidence continues to increase due to traffic accidents, trauma, and osteoporosis. This research includes a biomechanical study and a clinical retrospective study. In the biomechanical studies, three groups’ effects (Control Group: 3CCS, DHS group, and study Group: 3CCS + mFNSS group) were compared by vertical compression tests, torsion tests, and fatigue tests. All the data were collected and analyzed. We subsequently performed a retrospective analysis of 131 patients with femoral neck fractures. The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, quality of postoperative fracture reduction, and follow-up observation of fracture healing, screw retreatment rates and fixation failure rates, as well as femoral head necrosis rates and hip function in two groups with 3CCS and 3CCS + mFNSS were compared. By the biomechanical study, we found that 3CCS + Mfnss group were biomechanically superior to 3CCS group and superior to the DHS group in terms of resistance to torsion. However, it was less effective than the DHS group in compressive strength and fatigue resistance. In terms of clinical application, 3CCS + mFNSS group was found to have lower screw retreatment rates and femoral head necrosis rates, and to have better fracture healing rates than group with 3CCS, indicating that medial support screws can effectively resist the vertical shear forces of fracture ends and promote the stability and healing of fracture ends, as well as to reduce the incidence of postoperative complications.

Exosomes: A Friend or Foe for Osteoporotic Fracture?

The clinical need for effective osteoporotic fracture therapy and prevention remains urgent. The occurrence and healing of osteoporotic fracture are closely associated with the continuous processes of bone modeling, remodeling, and regeneration. Accumulating evidence has indicated a prominent role of exosomes in mediating multiple pathophysiological processes, which are essential for information and materials exchange and exerting pleiotropic effects on neighboring or distant bone-related cells. Therefore, the exosomes are considered as important candidates both in the occurrence and healing of osteoporotic fracture by accelerating or suppressing related processes. In this review, we collectively focused on recent findings on the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of exosomes in osteoporotic fracture by regulating osteoblastogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and angiogenesis, providing us with novel therapeutic strategies for osteoporotic fracture in clinical practice.

Development of nanostructured titanium implants for biomedical implants – A short review

Implants for bio medical applications have undergone rapid and dramatic developments in the past two decades. From the point of bio-compatibility, titanium (Ti) is superior to other metallic materials due to the formation of a stable passive layer of TiO2 on its surface. Another favorable properties of Ti are the low elastic modulus, light-weight than other surgical metals, and produce fewer artifacts on computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Ti–6Al–4 V (Ti64) is the most widely used surgical Ti alloy. Despite the excellent passivity and corrosion resistance of Ti64, elevated concentrations of metal ions were detected in the tissues around the implants, questions the long-term safety of Ti64 alloy implants. An alternative approach to overcome the problem of harmful ion release is to use pure titanium. However, the mechanical properties of commercially pure (CP) Ti are not as good as Ti64.Severe Plastic Deformation processing provides an opportunity for refining the grains of conventional bulk solids to produce grain sizes within the sub-micrometer or even the nanometer range with higher strength, bioactivity and antibacterial properties. Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) is a promising and efficient method for the production of bulk ultrafine-grained or nanostructured material with excellent biocompatibility and extraordinary mechanical properties. There have been reports of dental implant fractures in clinical practice, but the success rate of restoration is limited since for the dental and maxillofacial implants, nanostructured CPTi should have, in addition to high strength, and increased fatigue life, even at the locations with stress concentrators. Therefore, the mechanical properties especially fatigue strength of CPTi in clinical practice need to be improved. This short review briefly focuses on the suitability of ECAPed CPTi for medical implants.

MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOME ANALYSIS OF PROXIMAL HUMERUS FRACTURES BY PHILOS - A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Introduction: Proximal humerus fracture is considered as one of the commonest fractures in clinical practice. Most of these fractures occur as a result of osteoporosis. Proximal humerus fractures are often nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures with two parts, which can be managed conservatively. Surgical interventions include closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP). It also involves trans-osseous suture fixation, Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) with either conventional or Proximal Humerus Interlocking Osteosynthesis System (PHILOS) or hemiarthroplasty. Good clinical outcomes have been achieved by the PHILOS as they stabilize the proximal humeral fractures with steady fixation in osteoporotic bone and assisted aged patients in early functional exercises which resulted in early recovery. &#x0D; Aim: To analyse the functional results and complications associated with management of proximal humerus fractures treated with PHILOS.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study conducted at Department of Orthopaedics, Prathima Institute Of Medical Sciences, Nagunur, Karimnagar, from July 2017 to January 2019. 58 patients were taken into study with two-part, three-part, four-part fracture of the proximal humerus in adults &gt;18 years of age. In all patients PHILOS plating was done and surgical events and surgical difficulties faced, post-surgery local or systemic complications, time needed for fracture union and time taken to return to pre-fracture activity were documented. They were followed up till there were signs of union on radiographs or for at least a period of 1 year.&#x0D; Results: The results were assessed with Constant Murley Score at 6 months post-surgery and Visual Analogue Scale at 6 weekly intervals. The mean Constant score for two-part fractures was 88.1, for Three-part 82.5, for Four-part 72.7. The patients with two-part and three-part fractures had a significantly better VAS than patients with four-part fractures till 18 months of surgery. After 18 months the VAS was similar for all 3 groups. 6.9% developed shoulder stiffness, 2 patients from four-part fracture group developed Varus angulation.&#x0D; Conclusion: we conclude that the PHILOS is safe, effective and provides stable fixation for proximal humerus fractures and in patients with indigent bone quality. &#x0D; Keywords: PHILOS, Proximal Humerus Fracture

Defining Outcomes Following Distal Radius Fractures: Correlation of Function, Pain, and Hand Therapy Utilization.

BackgroundDistal radius fractures (DRF) is one of the most common fractures in clinical practice. Our objective was to study the role of early hand therapy and its impact on pain and return to daily activities.MethodsThe charts of patients with DRFs seen between January 2016 and November 2017 in the Hand Center of Mayo Clinic Florida were reviewed retrospectively. Forty-nine patients with DRFs who met inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. The variables collected included: age, gender, side of the fracture, surgery vs non-surgery, time to start hand therapy, number of visits, shortened disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (QuickDASH) initial and discharge scores, and visual analog scale (VAS) initial and discharge.ResultsThe patients’ mean age was 67.90 years, (standard deviation (SD) 14.54), 38 (77.6%) were female, 28 (57.1%) had a right DRF, 21 (42.9%) had a left DRF, 38 (77.6%) had no surgery, 11 (22.4%) had surgery. The mean time from fracture to therapy is 32.41, (SD 24.13) days, and the mean total number of visits is 6.20 (SD 3.49). We noticed a statistically significant difference between the initial QuickDASH (59.27, SD 16.93) compared to the discharge QuickDASH (24.08, SD 12.77) (P-value <.001); and initial VAS (3.57, SD 1.71) with a discharge VAS (1.33, SD 0.97) (P-value <.001). ConclusionThis retrospective study found a statistically significant reduction in the QuickDASH and VAS scores after six hand therapy visits. The results suggest that early rehabilitation interventions lead to improvements in pain and return to daily activity following DRF.

General physician’s and primary care nurse’s contribution to the osteoporotic hip fracture identification in the Republic of Uzbekistan

Precise population-based data on the osteoporotic hip fracture (HF) rate play an invaluable role in the assessment of burden of osteoporosis as well as in development of the national clinical fracture risk prediction tool (FRAX). Currently, these data in Uzbekistan is unavailable. Aim. To create a system for the all HF detection to calculate their incidence in Uzbekistan, and to assess the general physicians (GP) and primary care nurses role in this system.&#x0D; Materials and methods. Cohort study was carried out in 20112017 in the Pap district of Uzbekistan We had revealed the national trauma care records peculiarities and then organized the prospective study. The trauma care records were monitored. Besides, all medical specialists including GPs, GP nurses and the community leaders were actively involved into the search and verification of non-hospitalized hip fracture patients escaping trauma care statistics.&#x0D; Results. Overall, among HF patients, only 34% were hospitalized, and 26% took outpatient trauma care. Additional 29% of HF patients were found only with the help of GPs. GP nurses in collaboration with the community leaders disclosed additional 11% patients who had been staying at home without any medical care. The annual standardized HF incidence in people older than 40 years enriched 357.7 for women and 190.2 for men per 100 000.&#x0D; Conclusion. Collection of epidemiological information on HF incidence in Uzbekistan was possible only with the help of GPs and GP nurses as key figures of primary care. The obtained epidemiological data will be incorporated into the first created Uzbek national FRAX model to assess the 10-year risk of osteoporotic fracture in clinical practice.

In Vitro Comparison of Three Dimensional Cone Beamed Dental Tomography with Intraoral Radiography in Detection of Dental Tomography with Intraoral Radiography in Detection of Dental Root Factures Root Factures

The precise diagnosis of dental root fractures in clinical practice is quite difficult. The aim of this study is to compare the results of three dimensional cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and conventional intraoral radiography images in the diagnosis of dental root fractures. 50 maxillar central teeth with healthy roots were shot in a single blow in laboratory environment for cracks were studied for 10 teeth and horizontal root fractures created for 40 teeth. Parts of root fractures were sticked together by forming root fractures in five groups as crack, fracture without gap and fracture with 0,2 mm, 0,4 mm and 0,6 mm gaps. Images of all teeth were taken with CBCT and conventional intraoral radiography. Accurate diagnosis averages and positive predictive value test calculated through the data taken from the evaluation results of 30 dentists. Generally the results showed that images taken by the CBCT are better than images taken by the periapical radiography which obtained with traditional methods for the diagnosis of root fractures and cracks. The results also showed that the quality of the images increased as the voxel of the CBCT images decreased. It is shown that images taken by the CBCT provides better and clearer than the images taken by the traditional intraoral radiography in order to diagnose root fractures and cracks.

Evolving concept in treatment of intertrochanteric fractures and development of internal fixation devices

To summarize the evolving concept in treatment of intertrochanteric fractures and the development of internal fixation devices. Related literature concerning the implant devices to treat intertrochanteric fractures was reviewed and analyzed in terms of the biomechanical characteristics, clinical application, and complications. The treatment of intertrochanteric fractures has undergone an evolving concept from conservative treatment to surgical treatment. Surgery strategies include extramedullary fixation and intramedullary fixation. Intramedullary fixation has gradually become the main treatment of intertrochanteric fractures due to its minimally invasive and biomechanical advantages. However, the current intramedullary fixation system still can not reconstruct the medial cortical support of the proximal femur, which leads to some failures in the treatment of unstable fractures. The development of internal fixation of intertrochanteric fractures is based on the deep understanding and biomechanical theory of intertrochanteric fractures in clinical practice. In the future, the updated design of internal fixation devices will depend on the treatment principle of reconstruction of medial support and secondary stabilization of intertrochanteric fractures, and finally the purpose of improving success rate and reducing postoperative complications of intertrochanteric fracture will achieved.

Are the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire used in distal radial fractures truly valid and reliable?

ObjectivesThe patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire are patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used for clinical and research purposes. Methodological high-quality clinimetric studies that determine the measurement properties of these PROMs when used in patients with a distal radial fracture are lacking. This study aimed to validate the PRWE and DASH in Dutch patients with a displaced distal radial fracture (DRF).MethodsThe intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used for test-retest reliability, between PROMs completed twice with a two-week interval at six to eight months after DRF. Internal consistency was determined using Cronbach’s α for the dimensions found in the factor analysis. The measurement error was expressed by the smallest detectable change (SDC). A semi-structured interview was conducted between eight and 12 weeks after DRF to assess the content validity.ResultsA total of 119 patients (mean age 58 years (sd 15)), 74% female, completed PROMs at a mean time of six months (sd 1) post-fracture. One overall meaningful dimension was found for the PRWE and the DASH. Internal consistency was excellent for both PROMs (Cronbach’s α 0.96 (PRWE) and 0.97 (DASH)). Test-retest reliability was good for the PRWE (ICC 0.87) and excellent for the DASH (ICC 0.91). The SDC was 20 for the PRWE and 14 for the DASH. No floor or ceiling effects were found. The content validity was good for both questionnaires.ConclusionThe PRWE and DASH are valid and reliable PROMs in assessing function and disability in Dutch patients with a displaced DRF. However, due to the high SDC, the PRWE and DASH are less useful for individual patients with a distal radial fracture in clinical practice.Cite this article: Y. V. Kleinlugtenbelt, R. G. Krol, M. Bhandari, J. C. Goslings, R. W. Poolman, V. A. B. Scholtes. Are the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire used in distal radial fractures truly valid and reliable? Bone Joint Res 2018;7:36–45. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.71.BJR-2017-0081.R1.

The Feasibility of 3D Printing Technology on the Treatment of Pilon Fracture and Its Effect on Doctor-Patient Communication.

Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the three-dimensional (3D) printing technology in the treatment of Pilon fractures. Methods 100 patients with Pilon fractures from March 2013 to December 2016 were enrolled in our study. They were divided randomly into 3D printing group (n = 50) and conventional group (n = 50). The 3D models were used to simulate the surgery and carry out the surgery according to plan in 3D printing group. Operation time, blood loss, fluoroscopy times, fracture union time, and fracture reduction as well as functional outcomes including VAS and AOFAS score and complications were recorded. To examine the feasibility of this approach, we invited surgeons and patients to complete questionnaires. Results 3D printing group showed significantly shorter operation time, less blood loss volume and fluoroscopy times, higher rate of anatomic reduction and rate of excellent and good outcome than conventional group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.040, and P = 0.029, resp.). However, no significant difference was observed in complications between the two groups (P = 0.510). Furthermore, the questionnaire suggested that both surgeons and patients got high scores of overall satisfaction with the use of 3D printing models. Conclusion Our study indicated that the use of 3D printing technology to treat Pilon fractures in clinical practice is feasible.

Production of Composite Scaffold Containing Silk Fibroin, Chitosan, and Gelatin for 3D Cell Culture and Bone Tissue Regeneration.

BackgroundBone tissue engineering, a powerful tool to treat bone defects, is highly dependent on use of scaffolds. Both silk fibroin (SF) and chitosan (Cs) are biocompatible and actively studied for reconstruction of tissue engineering. Gelatin (Gel) is also widely applied in the biomedical field due to its low antigenicity and physicochemical stability.Material/MethodsIn this study, 4 different types of scaffolds were constructed – SF, SF/Cs, SF/Gel, and SF/Cs/Gel – and we compared their physical and chemical properties as well as biological characterization of these scaffolds to determine the most suitable scaffold for use in bone regeneration. First, these scaffolds were produced via chemical cross-linking method and freeze-drying technique. Next, the characterization of internal structure was studied using scanning electron microscopy and the porosity was evaluated by liquid displacement method. Then, we compared physicochemical properties such as water absorption rate and degradation property. Finally, MC3T3-E1 cells were inoculated on the scaffolds to study the biocompatibility and osteogenesis of the three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds in vitro.ResultsThe composite scaffold formed by all 3 components was the best for use in bone regeneration.ConclusionsWe conclude that the best scaffold among the 4 studied for MC3T3-E1 cells is our SF/Cs/Gel scaffold, suggesting a new choice for bone regeneration that can be used to treat bone defects or fractures in clinical practice.

Treatment of Hip Fractures in the Elderly.

Evidence-based information, in conjunction with the clinical expertise of physicians, was used to develop the Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) document Treatment of Hip Fractures in the Elderly to improve patient care and obtain optimal outcomes while considering the subtleties and distinctions necessary in making clinical decisions. The AUC clinical patient scenarios were derived from indications typical of patients commonly presenting with hip fractures in clinical practice, as well as from current evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and supporting literature. The 30 patient scenarios and 6 treatments were developed by the Writing Panel, a group of clinicians who are specialists in this AUC topic. A separate, multidisciplinary Voting Panel made up of specialists and nonspecialists rated the appropriateness of treatment of each patient scenario using a 9-point scale to designate a treatment as Appropriate (median rating, 7 to 9), May Be Appropriate (median rating, 4 to 6), or Rarely Appropriate (median rating, 1 to 3).