Headless Compression Screws Research Articles

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Mandibular Condyle Fractures Using AUTOFIX 2.0® Cannulated Compression Screw System: A Technical Innovation with Intraoperative CT-Scan

Condylar process fractures remain a matter of ongoing controversy in maxillofacial surgery because of variety of opinions and proposed treatment modalities offered in the literature. The trend is toward open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) whenever there is displacement or dislocation combined with unstable occlusal conditions. The fundamental treatment goals are anatomical fixation and early return to function. However, ORIF of a fractured condyle carries significant risks, including facial nerve damage, and presents challenges in reducing and stabilizing the fractured segment in an area of limited access. We present here an innovative technique for ORIF of condylar head fractures. It consists in fracture reduction and stabilization with two Kirschner wires followed by osteosynthesis with two cannulated headless compression screws using the AUTOFIX 2.0® system (Stryker, Kalamazoo, USA). This new technique, combined with intraoperative CT scan, ensures satisfactory reduction and stabilization of the dislocated joint segment, thereby restoring the condyle to its physiologically normal position.

Our Experience with Surgical Treatment of Scaphoid Fractures with Headless Compression Screw

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the scaphoid bone are quite common, and they come with their own set of challenges due to the specific shape of the fractures and the delicate blood supply to the scaphoid bone. Failing to diagnose and treat acute scaphoid fractures promptly can result in failure of the bone to heal and subsequent development of wrist arthritis. Advances in diagnosis, surgery, and implant materials have led to a growing inclination towards early surgical fixation, even for non-displaced scaphoid fractures that could potentially be treated without surgery. AIM: The study's goal was to assess the effectiveness of headless compression screws for treating acute scaphoid fractures and, in two cases, nonunion following previous conservative therapy. METHODS: Between January 2022 and March 2024 ten patients with scaphoid fractures were surgically treated at the University Clinic of Traumatology Skopje, within twelve months follow-up. All of them were male with mean age of 27,3 years. All were diagnosed with X-rays and CT scans. Six of the fractures were on the right hand and four on the left. RESULTS: All the patients were surgically treated with open reduction and internal fixation with headless compression screw. Volar approach was used in 9 cases and dorsal approach in only one of them. Six of the patients were surgically treated within 4-14 days after injury and four of them were surgically treated due to non union after previous conservative treatment, two of them after three and two of them after seven months of injury. All fractures united after a mean time of 9,5 weeks, without secondary displacement. Throughout the follow-up period, there were no incidences of developing osteoarthritis of the wrist. CONCLUSIONS: It is crucial to understand that achieving a positive result is not guaranteed for every patient and relies on selecting the right patients and fractures. However, our study shows favorable results in sooner surgical treatment with the headless compression screw, rather than delayed treatment of scaphoid fractures. Surgical treatment with headless compression screw showed both functional and radiographic results. While it is beneficial for the screw to be positioned in the subchondral area, it is important to be cautious to avoid cortical penetration, as this will require the screw to be removed later.

What Is the Optimal Method of Fixation for Scaphoid Nonunion Relative to the Location of the Lesion?

Scaphoid nonunion is a typical complication of scaphoid fractures, with the nonunion rate varying by the location of the scaphoid. The current widely used method for treating scaphoid nonunion, which is challenging for surgeons, is the headless compression screw (HCS). Various surgical approaches, such as the scaphoid plate, have been proposed to address the problem of screw fixation; however, no consensus exists regarding the optimal treatment method. This study focused on analyzing appropriate treatment methods based on the anatomical location of the scaphoid nonunion. Ninety-seven patients with scaphoid nonunion were treated between 2008 and 2023. All patients underwent treatment using 1 HCS or scaphoid volar locking plate with nonvascularized bone graft from the distal radius depending on the scaphoid's location. The scaphoid angle and bone union were confirmed using radiological examinations. The clinical evaluations included range of motion, pain, grip strength, and functional wrist scores. Fifty-seven patients were included in the final analysis. In the screw group, 26 patients (26/42 [62%]) obtained a bone union, and all 15 patients (15/15 [100%]) in the plate group obtained a union ( P = 0.005). In the waist group, 16 patients with screw (16/25 [64%]) and 8 using a plate (8/8 [100%]) showed bony healing. In the proximal group, 3 patients with HCS (3/9 [33%]) and 4 using plate (4/4 [100%]) showed bone union. In the distal group, 7 patients with a screw (7/8 [87%]) and 3 with the plate (3/3 [100%]) showed bone union. Significant differences were found in the waist ( P = 0.047) and proximal groups ( P = 0.026), but not in the distal group ( P = 0.521). All groups showed improved radiological angles associated with the scaphoid and better clinical outcomes postoperatively. Plate fixation was overall superior to screw fixation for scaphoid nonunion, especially in the waist and proximal poles, providing better union rates and stability. For the distal group, both methods are effective, with the choice depending on the surgeon's expertise and patient factors. The results highlight the importance of the lesion's anatomical location in selecting the appropriate fixation method.

Allograft Screws as Fixation of the Scarf Osteotomy.

Background: In comparison to titanium screws, novel cortical bone allograft screws may come with advantages in osseointegration and with avoidance of potential material removal surgery after scarf osteotomy. Methods: A scarf osteotomy with allograft bone screws as fixation was performed in 21 patients (30 feet). Clinical and radiological parameters were prospectively collected until one year after surgery. A retrospective control group, consisting of 75 patients (82 feet) after scarf osteotomy using headless compression screws, was used to compare clinical outcomes. Results: After fixation with allograft bone screws, the mean preoperative AOFAS score increased from 51.5 points preoperatively to 93.5 points one year after surgery. In radiological assessments, a continuous osseointegration with the remodeling of the bone screw was observed in all patients that finished follow-up. However, four metatarsal fractures occurred early postoperatively after fixation using allograft bone screws. There were only three material removal surgeries in patients treated with headless compression screws. Conclusions: Allograft bone screws display a safe fixation and are a biological alternative for scarf osteotomy. Enough distance between the screw and the proximal osteotomy should be ensured to avoid fractures.

Patient-specific finite element analysis of four different fixation methods for transversely unstable radial head fractures

Plate fixation is a common treatment option for radial head fractures (RHFs). Due to the benefits of less invasiveness and fewer complications of internal fixation, the application of small-diameter headless compression screws (HCSs) to treat RHFs has become a new trend. This study aimed to compare the mechanical stability of four distinct internal fixation protocols for transversely unstable RHFs via finite element analysis. Using computed tomography data from 10 patients, we developed 40 patient-specific FE models of transversely unstable RHFs fixed by parallel, crossed, and tripod HCSs and mini-T plate (MTP). Under simulated physiological loading of the elbow joint, the construct stiffness, displacement, and von Mises stresses were evaluated and verified by a biomechanical experiment. Under shear loading, the MTP group exhibited lower construct stiffness, larger displacement, and higher Von Mises stress than the HCSs group. The stiffness of tripod HCSs was greater than parallel and crossed screw fixation techniques. There was a strong relationship between apparent bone density and construct stiffness (R = 0.98 to 0.99). In the treatment of transversely unstable RHFs, HCSs have superior biomechanical stability than MTP. The tripod technique was also more stable than parallel and crossed fixation.

Olecranon Stress Fracture Treated with Headless Compression Screws and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Augmentation: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature

Olecranon Stress Fracture Treated with Headless Compression Screws and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Augmentation: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature

Two-screw osteosynthesis is biomechanically superior to single-screw osteosynthesis for type II odontoid fractures

The data on the use of a one- or two-screw technique (1S, 2S) for ventral osteosynthesis of type II dens fractures are contradictory. The aim was to design an apparatus to mimic the physiological conditions and test stability with 1S, 2S, and a headless compression screw (HCS) for osteosynthesis of artificially created type II odontoid fractures. The apparatus was mounted on a Zwick materials testing machine. A total of 18 C1–2 specimens were stratified into three groups (1S, 2S, HCS). Odontoid fractures were artificially created, and osteosynthesis was performed. Each specimen was tested at loads increasing from 1 to 40 N. Screw loosening was observed visually, by fatigue data, and by a camera tracking system. Analysis of the Zwick data and the camera data revealed a significant higher stability after 2S compared to 1S and HCS treatment (Zwick data: p = 0.021, camera data: p < 0.001), while visible screw loosening showed a superiority of the 2S only over HCS (p = 0.038). The developed apparatus allowed the dynamic study of the atlantoaxial joint with a high approximation to physiological conditions. The results demonstrated superiority of the 2S over the 1S and HCS in biomechanical stability in the treatment of type II odontoid fractures.

A biomechanical study comparing the compression force and osseous area of contact of two screws fixation techniques used in ankle joint arthrodesis model

IntroductionArthrodesis of a (diseased) ankle joint is usually performed to achieve pain relief and stability. One basic principle of arthrodesis techniques includes rigid fixation of the surfaces until union. It seems plausible that stable anchoring and homogeneous pressure distribution should be advantageous, however, it has not been investigated yet. The aim is to achieve uniform compression, as this is expected to produce favorable results for the bony fusion of the intended arthrodesis. Numerous implants with different biomechanical concepts can be used for ankle fusion. In this study, headless compression screws (HCS, DePuy Synthes, Zuchwil, Switzerland) were compared biomechanically to an alternative fixation System, the IOFix device (Extremity Medical, Parsippany, NJ, USA) in regard to the distribution of the compression force (area of contact) and peak compression in a sawbone arthrodesis-model (Sawbones® Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, WA, USA).This study aims to quantify the area of contact between the bone interface that can be obtained using headless compression screws compared to the IOFix. In current literature, it is assumed, that a large contact surface with sufficient pressure between the bones brings good clinical results. However, there are no clinical or biomechanical studies, that describe the optimal compression pressure for an arthrodesis.Material and methodsTwo standardized sawbone blocks were placed above each other in a custom-made jig. IOFix and headless compression screws were inserted pairwise parallel to each other using a template for a uniform drilling pattern. All screws were inserted with a predefined torque of 0.5 Nm. Pressure transducers positioned between the two sawbone blocks were compressed for the measurement of peak compression force, compression distribution, and area of contact.ResultsWith the IOFix, the compression force was distributed over significantly larger areas compared to the contact area of the HCS screws, resulting in a more homogenous contact area over the entire arthrodesis surface. Maximum compression force showed no significant difference.ConclusionThe IOFix system distributes the compression pressure over a much larger area, resulting in more evenly spread compression at the surface. Clinical studies must show whether this leads to a lower pseudarthrosis rate.

Miniplates versus Headless Screws for Fixation of Displaced Radial Head Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundFixation of displaced radial head fractures using miniplates is technically challenging and has some drawbacks like hardware prominence and limitation of forearm rotation. Fixation by headless compression screws has emerged as a less invasive alternative to miniplates. This study compares the radiological and functional outcomes of both methods of fixation. MethodsThis single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted at an academic level 1 trauma center. Sixty patients with displaced isolated radial head fractures were randomized to treatment using either headless compression screws or miniplates in 2 parallel groups. At the final follow-up of 18 months, patients were evaluated radiologically for union and clinically using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), elbow range of motion, grip strength, the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and the Disabilities of the Shoulder, Arm, and Hand (DASH) score. ResultsUnion was achieved after 8±1.7 weeks in the screw group and after 8.5±2.7 weeks in the plate group. The MEPS was significantly better in the screw group (87.7±10.7) than in the plate group (80.5±13.9). However, this difference is below the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for the MEPS and as such may not be clinically meaningful. No significant differences were observed between both groups regarding flexion, extension ranges, VAS, grip strength, or the DASH score. However, supination and pronation were significantly better in the screw group. The rate of complications was higher in the plate group (26.7%) than in the screw group (3.3%). ConclusionBoth techniques yielded comparable outcomes with better forearm rotation, a lower complication rate, and a lower hardware removal rate in the screw group.

Clinical Outcomes and Management Strategies for Capitellum and Trochlea Fractures: A Systematic Review.

Capitellum and trochlea fractures, also referred to as coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus, are infrequent yet challenging intra-articular fractures of the elbow. There are a variety of surgical approaches and fixation methods with often variable outcomes. This systematic review investigates interventions, outcomes and complications of capitellum and trochlea fractures. A systematic review of studies published in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health literature (CINAHL) was conducted to assess the clinical outcomes of capitellum and trochlea fractures managed surgically. Data on patient demographics, surgical approach, implant usage, postoperative outcomes and complications were compiled. Forty-one studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 700 patients. Surgical interventions primarily utilized either the lateral (79%) or antero-lateral (15%) approaches with headless compression screws as the most common fixation method (68%). Clinical outcomes were measured using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) with a mean score of 89.9 (±2.6) and the DASH score with a mean of 16.9 (±7.3). Elbow range of motion showed a mean flexion of 126.3° (±19.4), extension of 5.71° (±11.8), pronation of 75.23° (±12.2), and supination of 76.6° (±9.8). The mean flexion-extension arc was 113.7° (±16.9), and the mean pronation-supination arc was 165.31° (±9.41). Complications occurred in 19.8% of cases, with re-interventions required in 8.3% of cases, mainly due to symptomatic implants and elbow stiffness requiring surgical release. Other complications included implant removal (10.4%), overall reported stiff elbows (6%), nerve palsies (2%), non-union (1.5%), and infection (1.2%). The treatment of capitellum and trochlea fractures yields satisfactory outcomes but has a considerable rate of complications and reoperations primarily due to symptomatic implants and elbow stiffness. There is noteworthy variability in the achieved range of motion, suggesting unpredictable outcomes. Deficits in functionality and range of motion are common after surgery, especially with more complex injury patterns.

High Rate of Union of Scaphoid Pseudoarthrosis Treated With Arthroscopic Olecranon Bone Graft Using Antegrade Percutaneous Headless Compression Screw

To assess the healing rate of scaphoid pseudoarthrosis treated with wrist arthroscopy, olecranon bone graft, and anterograde screw fixation, as well as evaluate complications and clinical and radiologic outcomes. All patients with scaphoid nonunion were selected between January 2017 and December 2022. Inclusion criteria were patients between 18 and 60 years of age, a diagnosis of scaphoid pseudoarthrosis, complete clinical patient-reported outcomes, radiographic measurements, and at least a 1-year follow-up. Scaphoid pseudoarthrosis was treated arthroscopically with olecranon bone graft and anterograde screw fixation. Clinical assessment was performed through visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, QuickDASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) questionnaire, wrist range of motion using a standard goniometer, and grip strength in kilograms with a Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer. Clinical relevance was measured with the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for VAS and QuickDASH. Scapholunate angle was measured. Union was assessed on a computed tomography scan. Seventeen patients were included with a mean follow-up of 17.2 months. The mean age was 30.1 years, and the average time from injury to arthroscopic surgery was 11.1 months. At latest follow-up, there was an improvement in VAS pain score and QuickDASH score. Range of motion and grip strength increased at last follow-up. MCID threshold for the VAS and QuickDASH score was reached by 100% and 94.1%, respectively. Union was achieved in 16 patients (94.1%) after a median of 16 weeks (interquartile range, 16-20). Arthroscopic treatment of scaphoid pseudoarthrosis with olecranon bone graft and antegrade percutaneous headless compression screw allows a high grade of union and improves pain and function at short-term follow-up. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Technique for Minimally Invasive, Arthroscopic-assisted Distal Radius Fracture Fixation.

Distal radius fractures are common injuries that often require surgical intervention. Commonly, these fractures are fixed using open reduction internal fixation with plating and screws. This often requires a more extensive soft tissue dissection and exposure. In contrast for certain cases, percutaneous headless compression screws may be appropriate. We present a technique for minimally invasive arthroscopic-assisted reduction and percutaneous screw fixation with an extremity traction device. A case is provided to demonstrate the technique as a viable option for the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures.

Arthrodesis for Eaton-Littler stage III degenerative trapeziometacarpal arthritis: a retrospective comparative study of fixation methods

Purpose: This study compared clinical outcomes depending on the fixation modality in patients who underwent arthrodesis surgery for Eaton-Littler stage III trapeziometacarpal (TM) joint arthritis between 2009 and 2022. Methods: In total, 39 patients with 44 hands (five patients had surgery on both hands) were selected. Depending on the operative fixation instruments, patients were divided into two groups: group 1, surgery with 25-gauge interosseous wiring and Kirschner wire or headless screw fixation; group 2, surgery with only multiple headless screws for fixation. Bone union was achieved at 62 days after surgery in group 1 and 75 days in group 2 (p=0.165). Results: The preoperative mean visual analogue scores improved during the postoperative outpatient follow-up period in both groups (group 1, from 4.0 preoperatively to 1.0 at the final follow-up; group 2, from 5.0 preoperatively to 2.0 at the final follow-up). Mean grip strength and pinch strength increased after surgery. One patient (4.8%) experienced nonunion in group 1, whereas nonunion occurred in four patients (17.4%) in group 2. This difference was not statistically significant. Four patients in group 1 and no patients in group 2 underwent fixation instrument removal after sound union. Conclusion: Adequate stability can be achieved during arthrodesis by combining interosseous wiring and other implants or multiple headless compression screws, resulting in successful outcomes for patients with Eaton-Littler stage III degenerative TM arthritis.

ARTHROSCOPIC ARTHRODESIS OF THE ISOLATED TALONAVICULAR JOINT

BackgroundWhereas arthroscopic arthrodesis of the ankle is commonplace and of the subtalar joint is established, reports of arthroscopic talo-navicular fusion are a rarity.AimTo review a case series to establish if arthroscopic talo-navicular arthrodesis is a feasible surgical option.MethodsArthroscopic decortication of the talo-navicular joint is performed via x1-2 sinus tarsi portals and x1-2 accessory talo-navicular portals using a standard arthroscope and a 4.5 barrel burr. Internal fixation is by a 5mm screw from the navicular tuberosity and x2 headless compression screws introduced under image intensification from the dorsal navicular to the talar head. Between 2004 and 2017 a consecutive series of 164 patients underwent arthroscopic hindfoot arthrodeses of which 72 involved the talo-navicular joint. Only 13 procedures were of that joint alone in unsullied feet. The medical records of these 13 patients were reviewed to assess radiological fusion, complications and improvement of pre-operative state.ResultsAll Talo-navicular joints were successfully decorticated. All united radiologically by a mean 4.4 months (range 3–8). There were no major complications. All patients reported improvement to their pre-operative symptoms but one patient developed lateral column pain requiring fusion.ConclusionsArthroscopic Talo-navicular arthrodesis is technically feasible with good rates of union. Complications were rare, making the technique attractive when encountering a poor soft tissue envelope. The surgery cannot be used if bone grafting is required. Long term discomfort can arise from adjacent joints. Accurate alignment is critical.

Treatment of AVN-Induced Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunion Using a Fifth and Fourth Extensor Compartmental Artery as a Vascularized Pedicle Bone Graft: A Retrospective Case Series.

BACKGROUND Scaphoid nonunion (SN) is a challenging condition in wrist pathology, often resulting in severe consequences if left untreated. Surgical intervention, particularly using vascularized bone grafts (VBGs), is a promising but uncertain approach. The 4+5 extensor compartment artery (ECA) pedicled graft, less commonly used for SN, has potential benefits due to its vascular supply and accessibility to the scaphoid. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the 4+5 ECA pedicled graft combined with headless compression screw fixation in treating avascular necrosis (AVN)-induced proximal pole SN. Radiological results, functional outcomes, and complications related to this method were assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of 19 proximal pole SN cases with AVN treated using the 4+5 ECA-VBG technique from 2016 to 2022. Patients underwent preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up for at least 1 year. Data on surgery, demographics, radiological assessments, and functional outcomes were recorded and analyzed statistically. RESULTS All patients achieved radiographic union within 8.5 weeks postoperatively, with revascularization of proximal pole necrosis. Significant improvements in functional outcomes were observed, including pain reduction, increased wrist range of motion, improved grip and pinch strength, and enhanced wrist scores. No major complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS The 4+5 ECA-VBG technique, with headless compression screw fixation, showed high success rates in treating AVN-induced proximal pole SN. This method offers comprehensive restoration of wrist function and minimal complications, making it a viable option for SN management, especially in AVN cases. Further research is needed to confirm these results and establish standardized protocols for SN treatment.

Biomechanical comparisons of F.E.R.I. techniques with different type of intramedullary screws fixation for Jones fractures.

Introduction: Jones fractures frequently fail to unite, and adequate fixation stability is crucial. This study aimed to elucidate the biomechanical stability of various intramedullary screw fixation constructs. Methods: Jones fracture model over the proximal 5th metatarsal of artificial bone was created in all specimens. Six groups were divided based on varied screw constructs with different screw lengths, either 30 or 40mm, including cannulated screws-C30 and C40 groups, one high-resistance suture combined with intramedullary cannulated screws (F.E.R.I. technique)-CF30 and CF40 groups, and second-generation headless compression screws (SG-HCS) -HL30 and HL40 groups. Mechanical testing was conducted sequentially, and the maximal force (N) and stiffness (N/mm) of all constructs were recorded. Results: The maximal force (N) at 1.0mm downward displacement in C30, C40, CF30, CF40, HL30, and HL40 groups were 0.56 ± 0.02, 0.49 ± 0.02, 0.65 ± 0.02, 0.49 ± 0.01, 0.68 ± 0.02, and 0.73 ± 0.02, respectively, and the stiffness (N/mm) in subgroups were 0.49 ± 0.01, 0.43 ± 0.01, 0.67 ± 0.01, 0.42 ± 0.01, 0.61 ± 0.01, and 0.58 ± 0.02, respectively. SG-HCS subgroups exhibited greater maximal force and stiffness than conventional cannulated screws. Screws of 30mm in length demonstrated better stability than all 40mm-length screws in each subgroup. In C30 fixation, the stiffness and maximum force endured increased by 1.16 and 1.12 times, respectively, compared with the C40 fixation method. There were no significant differences between CF30 and SG-HCS groups. Only the F.E.R.I technique combined with the 4.5mm cannulated screw of 30mm in length increased the biomechanical stability for Jones fractures. Discussion: These biomechanical findings help clinicians decide on better screw fixation options for greater stability in Jones fractures, especially when large-diameter screws are limited in use. However, this biomechanical testing of intramedullary screw fixation on Jones fracture model lacks clinical validation and no comparisons to extramedullary plate fixations. Moving forward, additional clinical and biomechanical research is necessary to validate our findings.

Finite Element Analysis of Postoperative Stability of Transverse Scaphoid Waist Fracture.

Scaphoid waist fractures are often stabilised with compression screws, Kirschner wires (K-wires), or a combination of both. While clinical and bio-mechanical studies evaluating their utility are available, the ideal configuration of implant that would provide adequate stability to permit early use of the hand is debatable. We examined configurations of a single screw, one screw along with a K-wire, and two K-wires used for a transverse scaphoid waist fracture fixation aiming to assess the stability provided by each in the immediate postoperative period. Computer-aided design (CAD) models of the scaphoid, K-wire, and headless compression screw were created. A transverse fracture was created at the scaphoid waist, and the CAD models of the screw and K-wire were used to fix the fracture in different configurations in a distal to proximal direction. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was used to examine the strength of configurations when they were subjected to compression and distraction forces. The total maximum deformation (TDef) and factor of safety (FoS) for each configuration were calculated and used as indirect indicators of postoperative stability. When a single screw was used, the configurations with the screw directed posteriorly from either centre or anterior had the best combined TDef and FoS values. For one screw and one K-wire, the configuration with screw and K-wire parallel to each other with the screw located along the long axis in the AP projection and anterior to the K-wire in the lateral projection had the best combined TDef and FoS values. When using two K-wires, configurations with the two wires diverging proximally on the lateral projection had the best combined TDef and FoS values. When fixing a transverse scaphoid waist fracture with a single screw, the screw directed posteriorly from either the centre or anterior aspect of the distal pole has the best stability, a parallel configuration has the best stability when fixing it using a screw and a K-wire, and divergent configuration has the best stability when fixing it with two K-wires only.

Bilateral Scaphoid Fractures: A Systematic Literature Review.

Bilateral scaphoid fractures are rare lesions, warranting a review to synthesize current knowledge, identify gaps, and suggest research directions. Two authors, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, in January 2024 identified 16 case reports (1976-2023). Data extraction included demographics, injury mechanisms, associated injuries, fracture sites, treatments, and outcomes. Among 121 initial outcomes, 16 articles met the criteria, predominantly affecting young people (93.75% males, mean age 22 years). High-energy traumas (75%) often caused associated wrist injuries (68.75%). Most fractures required surgical intervention (68.75%), primarily headless compression screws. Bilateral scaphoid fractures, which are rare but associated with high-energy traumas, commonly involve wrist injuries. Surgical management is often necessary, yielding better outcomes with fewer complications. Further research is essential to understand the epidemiology, optimal management, and long-term results. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for preventing complications and ensuring favorable patient outcomes.

Nonvascularized Bone Grafting for Scaphoid Nonunion

Abstract Background Surgical management of scaphoid nonunions requires not only stable fixation but restoration of carpal alignment and reconstruction of bone defects. The latter can be done with either vascularized or non-vascularized bone grafts, depending largely on surgeon preference. Materials and Methods This article describes the use of non-vascularized bone grafts for scaphoid nonunions and examines reported outcomes. We also describe the senior author's preferred surgical treatment, the hybrid Russe procedure. Description of Technique The hybrid Russe procedure utilizes a corticocancellous strut from the volar aspect of the distal radius to restore anatomy in scaphoid nonunions with flexion deformities. Once the alignment of the scaphoid and associated lunate postural deformities are corrected, fixation then proceeds with a headless compression screw. This combination resulted in healing of 17 scaphoid fracture nonunions at an average time of 15 weeks. Conclusions The literature does not demonstrate a difference in union rates when comparing the use of vascularized and non-vascularized grafts for scaphoid nonunions. When the proximal pole of the scaphoid can be salvaged, the choice of fixation is left to the surgeon's discretion.

Outcome determinants for coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus.

Coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus involving the capitellum and trochlea are rare injuries. Internal fixation with headless compression screws provides a stable construct facilitating early mobilisation. Our study aimed to identify the key determinants of both radiological and functional outcomes of patients with distal humerus coronal shear fractures treated with internal fixation. A retrospective analysis of 61 patients with distal humerus coronal shear fractures who were treated surgically was done. Demographics, fracture morphology, time to surgery, operative details such as surgical approach and implant used, quality of reduction, time to union, and associated complications from hospital records. Radiological outcomes were assessed using plain radiographs, and the functional outcomes were by Oxford Elbow Score (OES) and Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI). Patients with anatomical reduction of the fracture had better functional outcomes and range of motion. The presence of posterior comminution of capitellum resulted in poorer outcomes (p = 0.03). Delayed presentation did not alter the outcome when the anatomical reduction was achieved. Myositis ossificans was noted in nine patients and non-union in five patients. Two patients developed avascular necrosis of the capitellum and arthritis of the elbow joint. Anatomical reduction and posterior comminution are the two key determinants of the functional outcome in these coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus. Early mobilisation following a stable fixation is crucial in achieving a good outcome.