Rate Of Implant-related Complications Research Articles

3D-Printed Prosthesis with an Articular Interface for Anatomical Acetabular Reconstruction After Type I + II (+ III) Internal Hemipelvectomy: Clinical Outcomes and Finite Element Analysis.

Pelvic reconstruction after type I + II (or type I + II + III) internal hemipelvectomy with extensive ilium removal is a great challenge. In an attempt to anatomically reconstruct the hip rotation center (HRC) and achieve a low mechanical failure rate, a custom-made, 3D-printed prosthesis with a porous articular interface was developed. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical outcomes of patients treated with this prosthesis. This retrospective cohort study included 28 patients with type I + II (+ III) internal hemipelvectomy through the articular interface of the sacroiliac joint and managed with a prosthesis at a single center between August 2016 and August 2021. Complications and oncological outcomes were analyzed. The position of the reconstructed HRC was assessed and lower-limb function was evaluated. Biomechanical analyses of different fixation modes of the prosthesis were conducted using finite element analysis. The displacement distance of the HRC from preoperatively to postoperatively was a mean (and standard deviation) of 14.12 ± 8.75 mm. The rate of implant-related complications was 14.3% (4 of 28) for prosthetic breakage, 14.3% (4 of 28) for aseptic loosening, 7.1% (2 of 28) for dislocation, and 7.1% (2 of 28) for deep infection. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS)-93 score was 18.2. The aseptic loosening rate was significantly greater for prostheses fixed with 3 sacral screws (4 of 10, 40.0%) than for those fixed with 4 (0 of 10, 0%) or 5 screws (0 of 8, 0%) (p = 0.024). The prosthetic breakage rate was lower in patients who underwent lumbosacral fixation (0 of 13, 0%) than in those who did not (4 of 15, 26.7%), although the difference did not reach significance (p = 0.102). Biomechanical analyses suggested that the addition of lumbosacral fixation or increasing the number of sacral screws from 3 to 4 or 5 visibly reduced the peak stress of the sacral screws. The use of a 3D-printed prosthesis with an articular interface for pelvic reconstruction demonstrated stable prosthetic fixation, anatomical acetabular reconstruction, and acceptable early functional outcomes. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Do Obese Patients Have Worse Outcomes in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgeries?: A Meta-analysis.

A meta-analysis study. This meta-analysis evaluates the difference in surgical outcomes between obese and nonobese patients undergoing adult spinal deformity (ASD) corrective surgery. ASD encompasses a wide range of debilitating spinal abnormalities. Concurrently, obesity is on the rise globally and has been shown to influence the outcomes of ASD management. The relationship between obesity and surgical outcomes in ASD has been the focus of recent studies, yielding various results. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar (pages 1-20) through June of 2024. The surgical outcomes assessed included postoperative complications, revision rates, wound infections, thromboembolic events, implant-related complications, and nonhome discharge. Surgical parameters such as operative time, length of stay (LOS), and estimated blood loss (EBL), as well as functional outcomes like the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and pain scores were analyzed. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Nonobese patients exhibited a lower rate of implant-related complications [odds ratio (OR)=0.25; 95% CI: 0.12-0.52, P =0.0002] and nonhome discharge (OR=0.52; 95% CI: 0.32-0.84, P =0.007). In addition, nonobese patients had reduced LOS (MD=-0.29; 95% CI: -0.53 to -0.05, P =0.02) and EBL (SMD=-0.68; 95% CI: -1.19 to -0.18, P =0.008). No statistically significant differences were observed for the remaining outcomes. Nonobese patients undergoing ASD corrective surgery are associated with fewer implant-related complications, a lower EBL, shorter LOS, and a higher likelihood of being discharged home compared with their obese counterparts.

The Effectiveness of Temporary Hemiepiphysiodesis for Non-idiopathic Coronal Angular Deformity of the Knee in Children: A Comparison of Hinge Eight-Plate and Traditional Eight-Plate.

Temporary hemiepiphysiodesis (TH) is a very common technique for coronal angular deformity of the knee in children, especially non-idiopathic. However, there is currently a dearth of comparative research on the hinge eight-plate (HEP) and traditional eight-plate (TEP). This study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness and implant-related complication rates of TH using TEP and HEP for non-idiopathic coronal angular deformity, as well as to identify clinical factors affecting correction velocity. We retrospectively observed a consecutive series of patients with non-idiopathic coronal angular deformity of the knee who underwent TH using HEP or TEP and completed the deformity correction process from July 2016 to July 2022. According to the kind of eight plates, we divided those patients into the HEP group and the TEP treatment group. Relevant clinical factors, including the mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA), screw divergence angle (SDA), angle of plate and screw (APS), hinge angle of HEP (HA), and the knee zone location of the lower extremity mechanical axis, were documented. Additionally, deformity correction velocity, complications, and clinical efficacy were assessed. Categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-squared test, Fisher exact test, or Wilcoxon test, while continuous variables were evaluated using the t-test or analysis of variance (ANOVA). There were 29 patients in the HEP treatment group (seven girls and 22 boys) and 33 patients (12 girls and 21 boys) in the TEP treatment group. In all, 91.86% (79/86 knees) of the genu angular deformities were completely corrected, 6.98% (6/86 knees) had the overcorrection condition, and 10.47% (9/86 knees) had screw loosening. The swayback HEP rate was 11.29% (7/62 HEPs), which was related to the screw loosening in the HEP group (p < 0.001). The overall correction velocities and screw divergence angle change speeds in the HEP group were all significantly faster than those in the TEP group (p < 0.05). The initial APS of the HEP implanted was higher than that of TEP (p < 0.01), and multisite changes of APS during deformity correction of the HEP group were smaller than that of the TEP group. HEP proved to be an appropriate device for TH for non-idiopathic coronal angular deformities of the knee with high correction velocity in children. Avoiding the occurrence of the swayback phenomenon may reduce the complications of HEP.

Effect of Different Screw Materials on ACL Reconstruction With the Tape Locking Screw Technique: A Retrospective Study From the FAST Cohort.

Screws for graft fixation are available in 3 different materials for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with the Tape Locking Screw (TLS) technique: titanium, poly-l-lactic acid bioabsorbable, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). To compare the effect of the 3 different fixation materials on graft and implant survival after ACLR with the TLS technique. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Included were 521 patients from the French Prospective ACL Study (FAST) cohort who underwent primary surgical ACLR with the TLS technique. Patients were divided into 3 groups depending on the type of screw material used: titanium (TLS-T group), poly-l-lactic acid bioabsorbable (TLS-B group), or PEEK (TLS-P group). The primary endpoint was a retear within 2 years after ACLR. The secondary endpoints were complication rate, return to sports rate, and functional scores. Objective and subjective functional scores-including the International Knee Documentation Committee, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and the Lysholm score-were evaluated preoperatively and at the 2-year follow-up. Pain was assessed with the KOOS-Pain subscore recorded pre- and postoperatively every 6 months up to 2 years. Patient satisfaction was recorded at the 2-year follow-up. No significant differences between the study groups were found in retear rates (4.4%, 4.5%, and 4.3% in the TLS-T, TLS-P, and TLS-B groups 2 years after surgery) or subjective and objective outcomes. The TLS-T group had the lowest rate of intraoperative implant-related complications (0.9%) compared with the TLS-P (4.3%) and TLS-B (7.7%) groups. Young age was a significant risk factor for retear in the TLS-T (P = .03) and TLS-B (P = .0001) groups, while a high level of sports was found to be a significant risk factor in the TLS-P (P = .04) group. All functional scores improved significantly at the 2-year follow-up (P < .0001), with no significant group difference. The KOOS-Pain subscore improved continuously with no significant group difference. The rate of return to preinjury sports was between 43.4% and 58.6%. The rate of highly satisfied patients at the final follow-up was between 86.2% and 91.8%. There was no difference in retear rate or objective and subjective functional scores between implant materials for TLS ACLR in this study.

Valgising angular stable plate fixation in the treatment of multifragmentary proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients.

The frequency of proximal humeral fractures shows an increasing tendency, especially in the elderly, who are frequently affected by osteoporosis. The adequate treatment of complex, displaced fractures poses a serious challenge. Among surgical treatment options, osteosynthesis with an angular stable plate is preferred, however, the implant-related complication rate may be exceptionally high. In our present study, we report the short-term outcomes of our new method of valgising angular stable plate fixation which we use for multifragmentary, displaced proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes of 52 patients (46 female and 6 male, age: 71.9 ± 9.6) who suffered dislocated three- or four-part fractures and underwent valgising angular stable plate fixation. Mean follow-up time was 17.3months, while the functional outcomes were as following: excellent in 26, good in 18, moderate in 5 and poor in 3 patients. The mean Constant-Murley Score was 82.5 ± 11.2. Functional outcomes only showed significant correlation (p = 0.031) with age and were proven unrelated to fracture type, BMI and known primary diseases. The cumulative complication rate was 9.6% and revision rate was 5.8%. Neurological deficit, pseudoarthrosis or avascular humeral head necrosis did not occur during the follow-up period. Valgising angular stable plate fixation that we apply for proximal humeral fractures provided favourable functional outcomes and a low postoperative complication rate due to the optimal head and plate placement. The method is especially effective for the treatment of displaced three- and four-part fractures with weakened, osteoporotic bone structure.

BIOMECHANICAL EVALUATION OF AN ALLOGRAFT FIXATION SYSTEM FOR ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION IN COMPARISON WITH THE INTERFERENCE SCREW

Screw fixation is an established method for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, although with a high rate of implant-related complications. An allograft system for implant fixation in ACL reconstruction, the Shark Screw ACL (surgebright GmbH) could overcome some of the shortcomings of bioabsorbable screws, such as foreign body reaction, need for implant removal and imaging artefacts. However, it needs to provide sufficient mechanical stability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical stability, especially graft slippage, of the novel allograft system versus a conventional bioabsorbable interference screw (BioComposite Interference Screw; Arthrex Inc.) for tibial implant fixation in ACL reconstruction.Twenty-four paired human proximal tibiae (3 female, 9 male, 72.7 ± 5.6 years) underwent ACL reconstruction. The quadrupled semitendinosus and gracilis tendon graft were fixed in one specimen of each pair using the allograft fixation system Shak Screw ACL and the contralateral one using an interference screw. All specimens were cyclically loaded at 1 Hz with peak load levels monotonically increased from 50 N at a rate of 0.1 N/cycle until catastrophic failure. Relative movements of the graft versus the tibia were captured with a stereographic optical motion tracking system (Aramis SRX; GOM GmbH).The two fixation methods did not demonstrate any statistical difference in ultimate load at graft slippage (p = 0.24) or estimated survival at slippage (p = 0.06). Both, the ultimate load and estimated survival until failure were higher in the interference screw (p = 0.04, and p = 0.018, respectively). Graft displacement at ultimate load reached values of up to 7.2 mm (interference screw) and 11.3 mm (Shark Screw ACL).The allograft screw for implant fixation in ACL reconstruction showed similar behavior in terms of graft slippage compared to the conventional metal interference screw but underperformed in terms of ultimate load. However, the ultimate load may not be considered a direct indicator of clinical failure.

Avoiding Spinal Implant Failures in Osteoporotic Patients: A Narrative Review

Narrative review. With an aging population, the prevalence of osteoporosis is continuously rising. As osseous integrity is crucial for bony fusion and implant stability, previous studies have shown osteoporosis to be associated with an increased risk for implant failure and higher reoperation rates after spine surgery. Thus, our review's purpose was to provide an update of evidence-based solutions in the surgical treatment of osteoporosis patients. We summarize the existing literature regarding changes associated with decreased bone mineral density (BMD) and resulting biomechanical implications for the spine as well as multidisciplinary treatment strategies to avoid implant failures in osteoporotic patients. Osteoporosis is caused by an uncoupling of the bone remodeling cycle based on an unbalancing of bone resorption and formation and resulting reduced BMD. The reduction in trabecular structure, increased porosity of cancellous bone and decreased cross-linking between trabeculae cause a higher risk of complications after spinal implant-based surgeries. Thus, patients with osteoporosis require special planning considerations, including adequate preoperative evaluation and optimization. Surgical strategies aim towards maximizing screw pull-out strength, toggle resistance, as well as primary and secondary construct stability. As osteoporosis plays a crucial role in the fate of patients undergoing spine surgery, surgeons need to be aware of the specific implications of low BMD. While there still is no consensus on the best course of treatment, multidisciplinary preoperative assessment and adherence to specific surgical principles help reduce the rate of implant-related complications.

Can unsupervised cluster analysis identify patterns of complex adult spinal deformity with distinct perioperative outcomes?

The objective of this study was to use an unsupervised cluster approach to identify patterns of operative adult spinal deformity (ASD) and compare the perioperative outcomes of these groups. A multicenter data set included patients with complex surgical ASD, including those with severe deformities, significant surgical complexity, or advanced age who underwent a multilevel fusion. An unsupervised cluster analysis allowing for 10% outliers was used to identify different deformity patterns. The perioperative outcomes of these clusters were then compared using ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and chi-square tests, with p values < 0.05 considered significant. Two hundred eighty-six patients were classified into four clusters of deformity patterns: hyper-thoracic kyphosis (hyper-TK), severe coronal, severe sagittal, and moderate sagittal. Hyper-TK patients had the lowest disability (mean Oswestry Disability Index [ODI] 32.9 ± 17.1) and pain scores (median numeric rating scale [NRS] back score 6, leg score 1). The severe coronal cluster had moderate functional impairment (mean physical component score 34.4 ± 12.3) and pain (median NRS back score 7, leg score 4) scores. The severe sagittal cluster had the highest levels of disability (mean ODI 49.3 ± 15.6) and low appearance scores (mean 2.3 ± 0.7). The moderate cluster (mean 68.8 ± 7.8 years) had the highest pain interference subscores on the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (mean 65.2 ± 5.8). Overall 30-day adverse events were equivalent among the four groups. Fusion to the pelvis was most common in the moderate sagittal (89.4%) and severe sagittal (97.5%) clusters. The severe coronal cluster had more osteotomies per case (median 11, IQR 6.5-14) and a higher rate of 30-day implant-related complications (5.5%). The severe sagittal and hyper-TK clusters had more three-column osteotomies (43% and 32.3%, respectively). Hyper-TK patients had shorter hospital stays. This cohort of patients with complex ASD surgeries contained four natural clusters of deformity, each with distinct perioperative outcomes.

Increased Risk of Periprosthetic Fractures and Revision Arthroplasty in Patients Undergoing Shoulder Arthroplasty With a History of Prior Fragility Fractures: A Matched Cohort Analysis.

As rates of anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (SA) continue to grow, an increase in the number of osteoporotic patients undergoing SA, including those who have sustained prior fragility fractures, is expected. The purpose of this study was to examine short-term, implant-related complication rates and secondary fragility fractures after SA in patients with and without a history of fragility fractures. A propensity score-matched retrospective cohort study was done using the PearlDiver database to characterize the effect of antecedent fragility fractures in short-term complications after SA. Rates of revision SA, periprosthetic fractures, infection, and postoperative fragility fractures were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Risks of these complications were also studied in patients with and without preoperative osteoporosis treatment. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. A total of 91,212 SA patients were identified, with 13,050 (14.3%) experiencing a fragility fracture within the 3 years before SA. Two years after SA, there were increased odds of periprosthetic fracture (odds ratio [OR] 2.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.68 to 2.99), fragility fracture (OR 9.11, 95% CI 8.43 to 9.85), deep infection (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.34 to 2.12), and all-cause revision SA (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.44 to 1.96) within those patients who had experienced a fragility fracture within 3 years before their SA. Patients who were treated for osteoporosis with bisphosphonates and/or vitamin D supplementation before their SA had similar rates of postoperative periprosthetic fractures, fragility fractures, and all-cause revision SA to those who did not receive pharmacologic treatment. Sustaining a fragility fracture before SA portends substantial postoperative risk of periprosthetic fractures, infection, subsequent fragility fractures, and all-cause revision SA at the 2-year postoperative period. Pharmacotherapy did not markedly decrease the rate of these complications. These results are important for surgeons counseling patients who have experienced prior fragility fractures on the risks of SA.

Clinical performance of the Femoral Neck System within 1 year in 125 patients with acute femoral neck fractures, a prospective observational case series

IntroductionOsteosynthesis of femoral neck fractures (FNFs) is an important treatment option, especially for younger patients. We aimed to assess the rate of early implant-related complications in FNF osteosynthesis using the Femoral Neck System (FNS).Patients and methodsConsecutive patients diagnosed with displaced or nondisplaced FNFs were treated with FNS in this prospective, observational, multicenter investigation. Patients were followed up for minimally 3 months and up to 12 months if radiologic bone union and no pain was not achieved beforehand. Predefined treatment-related adverse events (AEs, defined as implant failure, loss of reduction, iatrogenic fractures, deep infection, and surgical revision), radiologic bone union, and patient-reported Harris hip score (HHS) and EQ-5D-5L index score were assessed.ResultsOne hundred and twenty-five patients were included in the study. Thirty-eight (30.4%) fractures were displaced (Garden III and IV), and 37 (29.6%) were vertical fractures (Pauwels type III). Predefined treatment-related AE rate at 3 months was 8 patients, 6.4% (95% CI, 2.8–12.2), and at 12 months, 11 patients, 8.8% (95% CI, 4.5–15.2). Cumulative incidences of bone union were 68% at 3 months, 90% at 6 months, and 98% at 12 months. The mean changes of HHS and EQ-5D-5L index score between preinjury and at 12 months were -7.5 (95% CI, [ – 21.1] to [6.2]) and – 0.03 (95% CI, [ – 0.21] to [0.15]), respectively; neither were statistically significant.ConclusionThe current study on osteosynthesis of FNFs with the FNS resulted in treatment-related complication rates of 6.4% (95% CI, 2.8–12.2) at 3 months and 8.8% (95% CI, 4.5–15.2) at 12 months. On average, patients returned to preinjury function and quality of life. The current study may also indicate that the conventional wisdom of treating stable FNF in patients aged between 60 and 80 years with osteosynthesis may need to be reconsidered.RegistrationThe study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number: NCT02422355).

The impact of Parkinson's disease on results of primary total knee arthroplasty.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder. When patients with PD undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for knee osteoarthritis, poorer knee function and poorer quality of life are obtained than in matched cohorts (MCs). However, the degree of patient satisfaction is usually high. The mean length of stay is 6.5% longer in patients with PD than in MCs. Compared with MCs, patients with PD undergoing TKA have a 44% higher risk of complications. In patients with PD, the overall complication rate is 26.3% compared with 10.5% in MCs; the periprosthetic joint infection rate is 6.5% in patients with PD vs 1.7% in MCs; and the periprosthetic fracture rate is 2.1% in patients with PD vs 1.7% in MCs. The 90-day readmission rate is 16.29% in patients with PD vs 12.66% in MCs. More flexion contractures occur in patients with PD. The rate of medical complications is 4.21% in patients with PD vs 1.24% in MCs, and the rate of implant-related complications is 5.09% in patients with PD vs 3.15% in MCs. At 5.3 years' mean follow-up, the need for revision surgery is 23.6%. The 10-year implant survival, taking revision of any of the components as an endpoint, is 89.7% in patients with PD vs 98.3% in MCs.

Skull Reconstruction Using a Custom-Made, Three-Dimensional–Printed, Hydroxyapatite-Titanium Cranioplasty Implant: Largest Single-Center U.S. Experience

Although several material options, both natural and synthetic, are available for cranioplasty, the rate of implant-related complications has remained high. A relatively novel, synthetic hydroxyapatite-titanium implant, which combines biocompatibility with biomechanical resilience, has been reported to reduce tissue inflammation, infection, and explantation rates, while delivering superior cosmetic results. However, despite such promising preliminary reports, clinical data supporting its use have remained scarce. All the patients who had undergone cranioplasty between 2019 and 2022 using this implant were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed and the following variables recorded: demographic data, clinical data, radiologic findings, operative details, complications (implant-related and unrelated), and outcomes. A total of 18 patients (12 men and 6 women), with a mean age of 39 years (range, 20-70 years), were identified. The indications for craniectomy were traumatic brain injury (n= 13; 72.2%), hemorrhagic stroke (n= 3; 16.7%), and ischemic stroke (n= 2; 11.1%). The median time to cranioplasty was 140 days (range, 51-1717 days). The median modified Rankin scale score before cranioplasty was 4 (range, 0-5). Cranioplasty was technically successful in all 18 patients. Minor postoperative complications, none related to the implant, were managed conservatively in 3 patients (16.6%), including a small intraparenchymal hematoma in 1, an extra-axial hematoma in 1, and a seizure in 1. Of these 3 patients, 1 (5.6%) died 1 week later of a suspected pulmonary embolism. No implant-related complications occurred after a median follow-up of 6 months (range, 1-38 months). All 17 survivors exhibited some degree of neurologic improvement. The cosmetic result was good or excellent for all patients. Our experience, the largest in the United States, confirms the previously reported benefits associated with the use of 3-dimensional-printed hydroxyapatite-titanium cranioplasty implants.

Long-term outcomes after chest wall resection and repair with titanium bars and sternal plates.

ObjectivesEn-bloc complete resection remains the treatment of choice for localized chest wall (CW) tumors. Titanium bars reconstruction demonstrated encouraging results with satisfactory early outcomes. However, long-term outcomes remain under-reported. The purpose of this study is to evaluate long-term outcomes after CW resection and repair with titanium devices.MethodsFrom June 2012 to December 2018, we retrospectively reviewed all patients with CW tumors who underwent surgical resection and repair using titanium. Long-term outcomes were assessed.ResultsWe identified 87 patients who underwent CW tumor resections and titanium reconstruction. Sixty-eight patients were included in the study (excluding benign tumors, Pancoast tumors, palliative surgeries, or clavicle reconstruction). There were 29 sarcomas, 20 isolated CW metastases, eight lung cancers, four breast cancers, three thymic malignancies, two sarcomatoid mesothelioma, and one desmoid tumor. Complete resection was achieved in 64 patients (94%), while R1 resection in four patients (6%). Resection involved one rib in two patients, two ribs in thirteen, three ribs in eighteen, four ribs in nine, five ribs in two, seven ribs in one, partial sternum in fifteen, and full sternum in sixteen patients. No patient experienced flail chest. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year overall survival rates and disease-free survivals were 82.3%, 61.4%,57.3%, and 67.6%,57.3%,52.6%, respectively. Surgical site infection occurred in 18% (n = 12) of cases. Eleven of twelve patients had an early infection (<1 year), which required material removal in six patients. Asymptomatic connector unsealing occurred in 6% (n = 4), with only one re-intervention. Titanium allergy has never been reported. Chronic chest pain (lasting more than 3 months after surgery, with daily use of pain killer) was reported in 24% of patients. ConclusionCW resections with titanium reconstruction are associated with long-term survivors. Titanium devices were safe, reliable, and achieved satisfactory oncological results with low morbidity and implant-related complication rates.

Wandel in der Behandlung der Patellafrakturen

Fractures of the patella can lead to substantial functional impairments due to its crucial function in the extensor mechanism of the knee joint. Patellar fractures are associated with acomparatively high complication rate depending on the osteosynthesis procedure used. Despite established diagnostics and various osteosynthesis procedures they are still atherapeutic challenge. This article gives an overview of the change in the treatment of patellar fractures and highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnostics and fracture-adapted treatment, especially for the increasing fractures in old age. Evaluation of the current literature, discussion of biomechanical and clinical studies and expert recommendations (guidelines) RESULTS: Tension band wiring is still the most commonly used procedure; however, it is associated with ahigh rate of implant-related complications and failure rates. In particular, multifragmented comminuted fractures can often not be adequately treated by tension band wiring. Anterior locking plates seem to be biomechanically and clinically superior. For agood functional result after apatellar fracture, the fracture morphology must be completely understood and the optimal choice of the osteosynthesis method is crucial. Distal (or proximal) pole fractures and the increasing number of osteoporotic fractures of old patients due to the demographic change, remain atherapeutic challenge and require special consideration in the selection of the osteosynthesis procedure.

Polydioxanone Internal Support Matrix: A Rationale for Prophylactic Internal Bra Support in Breast Augmentation.

BackgroundTextured breast implants have been used in aesthetic breast surgery to decrease the rates of implant malposition. A recent analysis of a large-volume single-surgeon experience found statistically similar rates of malposition in smooth vs micro-textured breast implants.ObjectivesProphylactic use of a polydioxanone (PDO) internal support matrix in breast augmentation was hypothesized to prevent scar malposition and increase pocket control.MethodsIn total, 200 patients received silicone gel primary augmentations performed by a single surgeon from January 2018 to December 2020; 84 patients received smooth implants alone; 49 patients received micro-textured implants; and 67 patients received smooth implants plus PDO internal support matrix. All surgeries were performed in the dual plane using an inframammary incision. Implant-related complications and scar malposition were recorded and compared.ResultsNo significant difference in implant-related complication rates was found between shell types (3.57% for smooth devices alone and 2.04% for textured devices [P = 0.62; 95% CI −0.06 to 0.01]). There were zero complications in the smooth plus mesh study arm. A comparison of scar malposition rates between the smooth alone and textured groups revealed no significant difference (15.4% for smooth devices and 8.16% for textured devices [P = 0.23; 95% CI −0.12 to 0.01]). The smooth implant group with the prophylactic placement of PDO mesh had the lowest scar malposition rate of 4.48%, a significant difference compared with the smooth devices alone (P = 0.03; 95% CI −0.21 to −0.01).ConclusionsMicro-textured devices show a trend toward decreased scar malposition, although not significant. Prophylactic use of PDO internal support matrix in silicone gel breast augmentation is safe and has the lowest incidence of scar malposition.Level of Evidence: 3

Proximal humeral fracture locking plate fixation with anatomic reduction, and a short-and-cemented-screws configuration, dramatically reduces the implant related failure rate in elderly patients.

BackgroundMultiple studies have reported an unacceptable implant-related complication rate in proximal humeral fractures treated with locking plates, particularly in older patients. Our objective was to compare the fracture fixation failure rates in elderly patients, after a dedicated technique for locking plate fixation with cement augmentation or without it.MethodsA total of 168 open reduction and internal fixation with locking plates were performed for complex proximal humerus fractures by a single surgeon in 136 women and 32 men older than 65 years of age (average 76 years). Treatment groups included group 1 with noncemented screws (n = 90) and group 2 with cemented screws (n = 78). As per Mayo-FJD Classification, there were 74 (44%) varus posteromedial impaction, 41 (24%) algus impaction, 46 (28%) surgical neck, and 7 (4%) head dislocation injuries. A retrospective radiographic and a clinical analysis was performed.ResultsAt a mean follow-up of 33 months, the implant failure rate was significantly lower in the cement augmentation group (1% vs. 8%, P = .03). The overall complication rate was 21% (25% group 1, 15% group 2; P = .1). Global avascular necrosis was associated with sustaining a valgus impacted fracture (P = .02 odds ratio 5.7), but not to augmentation. Partial avascular necrosis occurred only in patients treated with cemented screws (3.8%). The overall revision rate was 9% in both groups. Forward elevation was 126 ± 36 degrees and external rotation was 44 ± 19 degrees. The mean Constant score was 70 ± 15 in group 1 and 76 ± 15 in group 2 (P = .03).ConclusionCement augmentation significantly decreased the rate of implant failure. Good results are expected for most patients treated with this technique.

Obesity and the Latissimus Dorsi Flap: A Radiologic Study.

Introduction: The increasing prevalence of obesity in patients with breast cancer has prompted a reappraisal of the role of the latissimus dorsi flap (LDF) in breast reconstruction. Although the reliability of this flap in obese patients is well-documented, it is unclear whether sufficient volume can be achieved through a purely autologous reconstruction (eg, extended harvest of the subfascial fat layer). Additionally, the traditional combined autologous and prosthetic approach (LDF + expander/implant) is subject to increased implant-related complication rates related to flap thickness in obese patients. The purpose of this study is to provide data on the thicknesses of the various components of the latissimus flap and discuss the implications for breast reconstruction in patients with increasing body mass index (BMI). Methods: Measurements of back thickness in the usual donor site area of an LDF were obtained in 518 patients undergoing prone computed tomography-guided lung biopsies. Thicknesses of the soft tissue overall and of individual layers (e.g., muscle, subfascial fat) were obtained. Patient, demographics including age, gender, and BMI were obtained. Results: A range of BMI from 15.7 to 65.7 was observed. In females, total back thickness (skin, fat, muscle) ranged from 0.6 to 9.4 cm. Every 1-point increase in BMI resulted in an increase of flap thickness by 1.11 mm (adjusted R2 of 0.682, P < .001) and an increase in the thickness of the subfascial fat layer by 0.513 mm (adjusted R2 of 0.553, P < .001). Mean total thicknesses for each weight category were 1.0, 1.7, 2.4, 3.0, 3.6, and 4.5 cm in underweight, normal weight, overweight, and class I, II, III obese individuals, respectively. The average contribution of the subfascial fat layer to flap thickness was 8.2 mm (32%) overall and 3.4 mm (21%), 6.7 mm (29%), 9.0 mm (30%), 11.1 mm (32%), and 15.6 mm (35%) in normal weight, overweight, class I, II, III obese individuals, respectively. Conclusion: The above findings demonstrate that the thickness of the LDF overall and of the subfascial layer closely correlated with BMI. The contribution of the subfascial layer to overall flap thickness tends to increase as a percentage of overall flap thickness with increasing BMI, which is favourable for extended LDF harvests. Because this layer cannot be separated from overall thickness on examination, these results are useful in estimating the amount of additional volume obtained from an extended latissimus harvest technique.

Biomechanical comparison of bi- and tricortical k-wire fixation in tension band wiring osteosynthesis

BackgroundPatients with a simple transversal fracture of the olecranon are often treated with a tension band wiring (TBW), because it is known as a biomechanically appropriate and cost-effective procedure. Nevertheless, the technique is in detail more challenging than thought, resulting in a considerable high rate of implant-related complications like k-wire loosening and soft tissue irritation. In the literature, a distinction is generally only made between transcortical (bi-) and intramedullary (mono-) fixation of the wires. There is the additional possibility to fix the proximal bent end of k-wire in the cortex of the bone and thus create a tricortical fixation. The present study investigates the effectiveness of bi- and tricortical k-wire fixation in a biomechanical approach.MethodsTBW of the olecranon was performed at 10 cadaver ulnas from six donors in a usual manner and divided into two groups: In group 1, the k-wire was inserted by bicortical fixation (BC), and in group 2, a tricortical fixation (TC) was chosen. Failure behavior and maximum pullout strength were assessed and evaluated by using a Zwick machine. The statistical evaluation was descriptive and with a paired t test for the evaluation of significances between the two techniques.ResultsThe average age of the used donors was 81.5 ± 11.5 (62–92) years. Three donors were female, and three were male. Ten k-wires were examined in BC group and 10 in the TC group. The mean bone density of the used proximal ulnas was on average 579 ± 186 (336–899) HU. The maximum pullout strength was 263 ± 106 (125–429) N in the BC group and increased significantly in the TC group to 325 ± 102 (144–466) N [p = .005].ConclusionThis study confirms for the first time biomechanical superiority of tricortical k-wire fixation in the olecranon when using a TBW and may justify the clinical use of this method.

Safety and performance of a novel articulating cage for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in the setting of intraoperative spinal navigation

ObjectiveTransforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) has been described as safe and effective procedure for the treatment of low back pain. However, only a few retrospective articles describing articulating cages exist in literature. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and radiological results, as well as patient safety and complications by using a novel articulating TLIF cage. Patients and MethodsOut of 50 patients, 49 were included in this prospective study. Under computer tomography (CT) guided spinal navigation the TLIF procedure was performed. Clinical outcome scores visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI) and short form-36 health survey questionnaire (SF-36) were obtained preoperatively, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Radiological data were acquired preoperatively, after 6 weeks, as well as 6 and 12 postoperatively and included measurements for disc height (anterior/posterior), foraminal height, segmental and global lumbar lordosis. Results71% of the included patients have undergone previous lumbar surgery. In total, 80 SYNCHRO® cages have been implanted. The clinical results revealed a highly significant improvement of VAS, ODI and SF-36 after 6 and 12 months, compared to baseline levels (p < 0.05). Radiological analysis revealed a significant increase in anterior and posterior disc height, foraminal height, segmental and global lumbar lordosis postoperatively (p < 0.05). 47 out 49 patients (96%) showed evidence for fusion at the 12 months follow-up. Cage dislocation was found in 1 of 80 implanted cages (1%), which required revision surgery. Two dural tears occurred intraoperatively, which have been fixed. Another two patients needed surgical revision due to infection. The overall complication rate was 10% (n = 5/49). ConclusionsThe current study delineates satisfactory clinical and radiological results by using a novel articulating TLIF-cage. The implant-related complication rate was acceptable with low revision rate.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty has higher perioperative implant complications and transfusion rates than total shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundIndications for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) have expanded. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate national trends in shoulder arthroplasty utilization and to compare national perioperative complication rates for hemiarthroplasty (HA), total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), and RTSA in a matched cohort.MethodsThe National Inpatient Sample was queried from 2011-2013 to identify patients who underwent HA, TSA, or RTSA. Age, sex, race, insurance type, Elixhauser comorbidity index, and perioperative complications were identified. A coarsened exact matching algorithm was used to match RTSA patients with TSA and HA patients to compare medical and implant-related perioperative in-hospital complications. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed on unmatched data to identify risk factors for development of perioperative complications.ResultsOverall, 42,832 shoulder arthroplasties were identified (44% TSAs, 34% RTSAs, 19% HAs). After matching, RTSAs had 6.2 times the odds of a perioperative implant-related complication (P < .001) and 2 times the odds of a red blood cell transfusion compared with TSAs (P < .001). The logistic regression model showed that prior shoulder arthroplasty (odds ratio [OR], 15.1; P < .001), younger age (OR, 0.98; P = .006), earlier year of index surgery (OR, 0.83; P = .002), history of illicit drug use (OR, 6.2; P = .008), and depression (OR, 2.3; P = .003) were risk factors for development of in-hospital implant-related complications after RTSA.ConclusionThe perioperative implant-related complication rate and postoperative transfusion rate of RTSAs were significantly higher than those of TSAs. In addition, prior shoulder surgery, younger age, earlier year of index surgery, history of illicit drug use, and depression were risk factors for implant-related complications after RTSA. However, the perioperative RTSA implant-related complications did decline each year, suggesting a growing national proficiency with performing RTSA.