Initial Postoperative Radiographs Research Articles

Long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of arthroscopic acromioclavicular stabilization for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Standard open acromioclavicular (AC) stabilization is associated with increased postoperative complications including deltoid injury, infection, tunnel complications, loss of reduction, and wound/cosmetic concerns. Arthroscopy may offer superior visualization and advantages that limit these risks. The aim of this prospective non-randomized study is to evaluate advantages and long-term reliability of arthroscopic AC stabilization. Thirty-two patients with acute grade III, IV and V AC dislocations underwent arthroscopic AC reconstruction with long-term assessment by clinical AC examination, Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, visual analog scale, Specific AC Score and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores. Radiographs verified conservation of initial reduction and presence of coracoclavicular (CC) ossifications. Complications, revision rate, and satisfaction were assessed and compared to the literature. Mean follow-up time was 67.6 months. All clinical outcome scores improved and differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). Initial postoperative radiographs consistently showed complete reduction. Two patients experienced relapse to grade II AC dislocation without clinical implications. In total, 71.8% showed CC ossifications without functional impairment, and in 31.3% concomitant injuries were observed. Reintervention rate was 9.4%, and 96.9% of patients were satisfied with procedure outcomes. Arthroscopic stabilization for acute AC joint dislocations offers satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes, and our results show that the arthroscopic technique is reliable in the long run. We report better reduction in maintenance, fewer complications, and similar reoperation rates compared to other techniques. Level of evidence: III.

Postoperative Maintenance of Sagittal Plane Positioning of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint After Arthrodesis with an Isolated Dorsal Plate Construct: A Retrospective Review of 43 Feet.

First metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with isolated dorsal plating without a lag screw and without a compressive mechanism incorporated into the plate is not well studied. Although surface area for bony fusion is increased, there is concern for lower fusion rates and progressive loss of sagittal plane positioning. We present fusion rates and progressive sagittal plane deviation with isolated dorsal plate fixation. A retrospective review was performed of 41 patients (43 feet) who underwent first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with isolated dorsal plate fixation. Patients were excluded if another form of fixation was used, if there was a compressive feature to the dorsal plate, or if a lag screw was used. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and final postoperative radiographs were reviewed to assess radiographic alignment and fusion about the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Specific attention was placed on hallux dorsiflexion in relation to the first metatarsal. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ .05 a priori. Patients were followed for an average of 55.7 weeks. Overall union rate was 97.62%. The average time to union was 42.55 days. Reoperation rate was 4.65%, with one patient requiring revisional arthrodesis with a lag screw construct. Hallux abduction and first-second intermetatarsal angle correction reached significance (P < .00001). Hallux dorsiflexion increased by 1.05° between initial postoperative and final postoperative radiographs (P = .542). Although fusion rates and progressive loss of sagittal plane position have been concerns for first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with an isolated dorsal plate construct, these results suggest this to be a stable construct without loss of positioning over time.

The Effects of Interbody Device Design and Placement on Lumbar Lordosis and Disc Height in Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion

There are a wide variety of interbody devices available for use in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). While traditionally these interbodies are bullet-shaped, crescent-shaped cages have become increasingly common. There is a paucity of literature comparing the effect of cage geometry with substratification for surgical approach (minimally invasive (MIS) vs. open). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of implant geometry, positioning, and surgical approach on the correction of different spinal alignment parameters in patients undergoing TLIF. A retrospective chart and imaging review was performed on 103 patients with a total of 131 instrumented segments performed by a single surgeon. Preoperative, initial postoperative, and final postoperative standing lateral lumbar radiographs were evaluated for lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lordosis (SL), anterior disc height (ADH), and posterior disc height (PDH). Anterior-posterior implant positioning was recorded for initial and final postoperative radiographs. These measurements were compared among four groups: open bullet (OB), MIS bullet (MB), open crescent (OC), and MIS crescent (MC). SL increased in all groups by a mean of 2.9° at initial imaging and 2.2° at final imaging. The OC group had greater initial improvement in SL compared to the MB group (p = 0.02), though this effect was lost at final follow-up (p = 0.11). The OB and OC groups conferred greater initial improvement in ADH (p = 0.02; p = 0.04), while the OC group had greater final improvement in ADH compared to the MB and MC groups (p = 0.01; p = 0.01). The OC group had less initial improvement in PDH compared with the other groups (p = 0.03, p = 0.02, p &lt; 0.01). The MB group provided greater final improvement in PDH compared with the MC and OC groups (p = 0.04, p = 0.01). Cage geometry, surgical approach, and implant position all demonstrated a statistically significant but clinically minor impact on segmental alignment for TLIF procedures.

Limb length deceleration or coronal plane deformity correction using tension band plates: does plate configurations determine the intraarticular deformity of proximal tibia?

We studied whether the two-plate tension band configuration is more prone for intraarticular deformations than the single plate application used for coronal plane deformities (CPD). The study was based on radiological chart review (retrospective cross-sectional) of records of children [15 patients (30 plates) with limb length discrepancies (LLD) and 20 patients (36 plates) with CPD]. Interscrew angle, slope angle, and roof angle were compared in the initial postoperative and final radiographs to determine changes of tibial morphology. The mean patient age and follow up for the LLD and CPD groups respectively were 6.5 years, 39.8 months and 8.1 years, 15.5 months respectively. The interscrew angles widened between initial and final radiographs in the CPD group and for both sides in the LLD group. The initial and final slope angles were not significantly different in both LLD and CPD groups. Similar trend was observed for roof angle in either group. In the intergroup comparisons between LLD and CPD group, the slope angle of medial/lateral operated side in LLD group versus that of the operated side in CPD group matched statistically in the final radiographs. Similarly, the final roof angle in LLD and CPD groups was statistically similar. No significant intraarticular morphological change was demonstrated following tension band plating epiphysiodesis of the proximal tibia for our series involving young children. It was observed neither with the two-plate configuration used for limb length decelerations nor with the single plate application for coronal plane corrections.

Impact of humeral stem length on calcar resorption in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty

Use of standard-length anatomic total shoulder (TSA) humeral stems has been associated with high rates of medial calcar bone loss. Calcar bone loss has been attributed to stress shielding, debris-induced osteolysis, and undiagnosed infection. Short stem and canal-sparing humeral components may provide more optimal stress distribution and thus lower rates of calcar bone loss related to stress shielding. The purpose of this study is to determine whether implant length will affect the rate and severity of medial calcar resorption. A retrospective review was performed on TSA patients treated with three different-length humeral implants (canal-sparing, short, and standard-length designs). Patients were matched 1:1:1 based on both gender and age (±4 years), resulting in 40 patients per cohort. Radiographic changes in medial calcar bone were evaluated and graded on a 4-point scale, from the initial postoperative radiographs to those at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. The presence of any degree of medial calcar resorption demonstrated an overall rate of 73.3% at one year. At 3 months, calcar resorption was observed in 20% of the canal-sparing cohort, while the short and standard designs demonstrated resorption in 55% and 52.5%, respectively (P=.002). At 12 months, calcar resorption was seen in 65% of the canal-sparing design, while both the short and standard designs had a 77.5% rate of resorption (P=.345). The severity of calcar resorption for the canal-sparing cohort was significantly lower at all time points when compared to the short stem (3 months, P=.004; 6 months, P=.003; 12 months, P=.004) and at 3 months when compared to the standard-length stem (P=.009). Patients treated with canal-sparing TSA humeral components have significantly lower rates of early calcar resorption with less severe bone loss when compared to patients treated using short and standard-length designs.

Reduction of Posterior Malleolus Fractures With Open Fixation Compared to Percutaneous Treatment.

Operative decision making between approaches to posterior malleolus reduction remains a challenge. The purpose of this study is to compare the quality of reduction between percutaneous and open reduction of posterior malleolus fractures and to identify factors associated with malreduction. Operatively managed ankle fractures that included posterior malleolus fixation were reviewed. Fracture characteristics were determined on preoperative CT scans. Initial postoperative radiographs were used to measure reduction of the posterior malleolus articular surface and graded as satisfactory (<2 mm step-off) or malreduced (≥2 mm step-off). Final postoperative PROMIS scores and 1-year complications were compared between percutaneous and open cohorts. A multivariate stepwise regression model was used to evaluate predictors for malreduction. A total of 120 patients were included. Open reduction was performed in 91 (75.8%) compared with 29 (24.2%) who underwent percutaneous reduction. Malreduction (≥2-mm articular step-off) occurred in 11.7% of patients. Malreduction rates were significantly higher with percutaneous fixation than open fixation (24.1% vs 7.7%, P = .02). Multiple fragments and those with ≥5 mm of displacement demonstrated higher malreduction rates with percutaneous fixation (P < .05 for both), whereas single fragments and those with <5 mm of displacement experienced similar malreduction rates with percutaneous or open fixation. Initial displacement ≥5 mm (relative risk [RR] = 3.8, 95% CI = 1.2-11.5, P = .02) and percutaneous treatment (RR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1.6-10.5, P < .01) were identified as independent risk factors for malreduction. There were no significant differences in 1-year complication rates or final PROMIS scores between groups. Open reduction of the posterior malleolus may lead to improved fracture reduction compared to percutaneous reduction without significant increase in complications. Open fixation improves reduction among fractures with multiple fragments or ≥5 mm of displacement, whereas fractures with a single fragment or <5 mm of displacement achieve similar reductions regardless of approach. Initial displacement ≥5 mm and percutaneous reduction are independent risk factors for malreduction. Level III, therapeutic.

Radiographic Outcomes of Titanium Augment vs Bone Graft in Lateral Column Lengthening for Adult-Acquired Flatfoot Deformity.

Lateral column lengthening (LCL) is a surgical procedure used to manage forefoot abduction and, in theory, also increases the longitudinal arch by plantarflexion of the first ray through tensioning the peroneus longus for patients with stage IIB adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD). This procedure utilizes an opening wedge osteotomy of the calcaneus, which is then filled with autograft, allograft, or a porous metal wedge. The primary aim of this study was to compare the radiographic outcomes of these different bone substitutes following LCL for stage IIB AAFD. We conducted a retrospective review of all patients who underwent LCL from October 2008 until October 2018. Preoperative weightbearing radiographs, initial postoperative radiographs, and 1-year weightbearing radiographs were reviewed. The following radiographic measurements were recorded: incongruency angle, talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA), talar-first metatarsal angle (T-1MT), and calcaneal pitch. A total of 44 patients were included in our study. The mean age of the cohort was 54 (range, 18-74). The study cohort was divided into 2 groups. There were 17 (38.7%) patients who received a titanium metal wedge and 27 (61.5%) that received autograft or allograft. Patients that underwent LCL with the autograft/allograft group were significantly older (59 vs 47 years old, P = .006). Patients who underwent LCL with a titanium wedge had a significantly higher preoperative talonavicular angle (32 vs 27 degrees, P = .013). There were no significant differences in postoperative TNCA, incongruency angle, or calcaneal pitch at 6 months or 1 year. At 6 months and 1 year, no radiographic differences were found between autograft/allograft bone substitutes vs titanium wedge in LCL. Level III, retrospective cohort study.

No Difference in Subsidence Between Modern Monoblock and Modular Titanium Fluted Tapered Femoral Stems

BackgroundSubsidence remains a concern when utilizing tapered fluted titanium (TFT) femoral stems and may lead to leg length discrepancy, impingement, instability, and failure to obtain osseointegration. This study aims to compare stem subsidence across 3 modern TFT stems. Our secondary aim was to investigate the influence of bicortical contact or “scratch fit” on subsidence, as well as the role of intraoperative imaging in maximizing bicortical contact and preventing stem subsidence. MethodsA retrospective review of 271 hip arthroplasties utilizing modern TFT stems at a single institution was performed. Three stem designs were included in the analysis: 1 monoblock TFT stem (n = 91) and 2 modular TFT stems (n = 90; n = 90). Patient demographics, Paprosky femoral bone loss classification, bicortical contact, utilization of intraoperative imaging, and stem subsidence (comparison of initial postoperative radiograph to the latest follow-up radiograph—minimum 3 months) were recorded. ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference in overall subsidence (P = .191) or the incidence of subsidence >5 millimeters between stems (P = .126). Subgroup analysis based on femoral bone loss grading showed no difference in subsidence between stems. Increased bicortical contact was associated with reduced subsidence (P = .004). Intraoperative imaging was used in 46.5% (126 of 271) of cases; this was not correlated with bicortical contact (P = .673) or subsidence (P = .521). ConclusionAll 3 modern TFT stems were highly successful and associated with low rates of subsidence, regardless of modular or monoblock design. Surgeons should select the stem that they feel is most clinically appropriate.

Outcomes of Total Hip Replacement for Failed Hemiarthroplasty.

Our study aims to analyze the outcomes of conversion total hip replacement (THR) done for failed hemiarthroplasty. We retrospectively analyzed 104 consecutive patients who underwent conversion THR for failed hemiarthroplasty between January 2012 and December 2018. The patient's records were analyzed for demographic information, index surgery details, preoperative functional status, and perioperative complications. Patients were analyzed according to the various modes of failure of hemiarthroplasty. The radiographs were analyzed for any progressive osteolysis, cup migration and stem subsidence. All the patients were evaluated using the modified Harris hip score (HHS) for clinical outcome. Complications, revision or reoperation in the follow-up period was recorded. A total of 73 patients were included in the study for final analysis after exclusion criteria. The average follow-up was 48.2 ± 29.6months. There was a significant improvement in mean HHS from 38.5 ± 9.1 preoperatively to 80.9 ± 4.3 at the last follow-up (p < 0.05). The different modes of failure had no statistically significantdifference in the postoperative Harriship score (p = 0.393). None of the patients had progressive radiolucent lines more than 2mm or significant subsidence in the final follow-up compared to the initial postoperative radiograph. There was one deep infection, one patient had grade 2 heterotopic ossification, intraoperative calcar fracture was fixed with cerclage wiring in 11 patients, and postoperative periprosthetic fracture in two patients was treated with plate osteosynthesis. There were no neurovascular complications or dislocation during the follow-up. Conversion THR for failed hemiarthroplasty is a challenging procedure and results in good functional outcome and provides reliable pain relief. Conversion THA for septic loosening by two stage revision have comparable postoperative outcomes like THA for aseptic loosening. Caution is required owing to high incidence of peri-prosthetic fracture during conversion THA. Dislocation rate is negligible even with smaller head provided the prosthesis is implanted in the proper orientation and adequate soft tissue balancing is achieved.

Early Clinical Outcomes of the Prone Transpsoas Lumbar Interbody Fusion Technique.

The prone transpsoas (PTP) approach for lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a relatively novel technique. Currently, little is known about its associated complications and early patient-reported outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of LLIF performed via the PTP approach on sagittal radiographic parameters, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and rates of complications. A retrospective review was performed of 82 consecutive patients who underwent LLIF via a PTP technique. Lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lordosis (SL), anterior disc height (ADH), and posterior disc height (PDH) were measured on preoperative, initial postoperative, and 3-month postoperative radiographs. PROMs including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI); the visual analog scale (VAS); and pain portions of the EQ5D, VAS back, and VAS leg ratings were collected at the preoperative and subsequent postoperative visits. Length of hospital stay and postoperative complications related to the procedure were recorded. Significant improvements were seen at the initial (4.5° ± 8.6°, P < 0.001) and 3-month (4.4° ± 7.2°, P < 0.001) postoperative periods for LL, as well as SL (6.8° ± 4.8°, P < 0.001; 6.7° ± 4.4°, P < 0.001), ADH (8.0 mm ± 3.6, P < 0.001; 7.4 mm ± 3.6, P < 0.001), and PDH (3.3 mm ± 2.4, P < 0.001; 3.1 mm ± 2.5, P < 0.001). Significant improvements were seen at 3 months postoperatively for ODI (P < 0.001), EQ5D pain (P = 0.016), VAS leg (P < 0.001), and VAS back (P < 0.001). The average length of stay was 2.7 ± 4.5 days. The most common complications were ipsilateral thigh pain/numbness (45.1%), ipsilateral hip flexor weakness (39.0%), and contralateral thigh pain/numbness (14.6%). While early PROMs and correction of sagittal radiographic parameters show promising results for the PTP approach for LLIF, it is not without risks. PTP interbody fusion is an emerging technique that allows for simultaneous access to the anterior and posterior columns of the lumbar spine. This early case series demonstrates significant improvement in functional outcomes and lumbar lordosis with a safety profile comparable to other well-established techniques.

Risk factors for loss of reduction following locked plate fixation of proximal humerus fractures in older adults

PurposeTo identify characteristics associated with loss of reduction following open reduction and locked plate fixation (ORIF) of proximal humerus fractures in older adults and determine if loss of reduction affects patient reported outcomes (PROs), range of motion (ROM), and complication rates during the first postoperative year. MethodsPatients >55 years old who underwent proximal humerus ORIF were reviewed. Patient and fracture characteristics were recorded. Fixation characteristics were measured on the initial postoperative AP radiograph including humeral head height (HHH) relative to the greater tuberosity (GT), head shaft angle (HSA), screw-calcar distance, and screw tip-joint surface distance. Loss of reduction was defined as GT displacement >5 mm or HSA displacement >10° on final follow up radiographs. Patient, fracture, and fixation characteristics were tested for association with loss of reduction. Outcomes including ROM, visual analog scale pain and PROMIS scores, and complication/reoperation rates during the first postoperative year were compared between those with or without loss of reduction. ResultsA total of 79 patients were identified, 23 (29.1%) of which had a loss of reduction. Calcar comminution (relative risk [RR]=2.5, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]=1.3–5.0, p<0.01), HHH <5 mm above GT (RR=2.0, CI=1.0–3.9, p = 0.048), and screw-calcar distance ≥12 mm (RR=2.1, CI=1.1–4.1, p = 0.03) were risk factors for loss of reduction. Upon multivariate analysis, calcar comminution was determined to be an independent risk factor for loss of reduction (RR=2.4, CI=1.2–4.7, p = 0.01). Loss of reduction led to higher complication (44% vs 13%, p<0.01) and reoperation rates (30% vs 7%, p<0.01), and decreased achievement of satisfactory ROM (>90° active forward flexion, 57% vs 82%, p = 0.02) compared to maintained reduction, but similar PROs. ConclusionsCalcar comminution, decreased HHH, and increased screw-calcar distance are risk factors for loss of reduction following ORIF of proximal humerus fractures. These morphologic and technical factors are important considerations for prolonged reduction maintenance.

The Impact of Cement Mantle Characteristics on Early Loosening in Primary Total Elbow Arthroplasty

To assess the association between cement mantle characteristics and early radiographic loosening in total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). We aimed to determine whether shorter mantle heights (<20 mm) were associated with loosening. We reviewed primary TEAs from a single healthcare system from 2006 to 2020. TEAs complicated by infection or performed for oncologic conditions were excluded. Initial postoperative radiographs were reviewed to determine cement mantle and component characteristics (mantle quality, mantle height, and component angulation). One-year postoperative radiographs were reviewed to assess for implant loosening, and we compared demographics and radiographic criteria for cases with and without early loosening. We noted whether cases underwent subsequent revision for aseptic osteolysis. A total of 54 TEA cases were included. Forty percent of ulnar and 24% of humeral mantles were classified as short (between 1 and 19 mm). According to the Morrey classification, 6 (11%) cases had an inadequate cement mantle Twenty-four (45%) cases had radiographic evidence of loosening at 1 year. Of the cases with early loosening, 6 (25%) had initial inadequate mantle quality. There were no inadequate mantles in the group without loosening. There were no statistically significant differences in mantle heights for cases with and without loosening at 1 year after surgery. Eight (33%) cases underwent revision in the group with early loosening compared with 1 (3%) case without early loosening. Inadequate cement mantle quality was associated with an increased risk of early aseptic loosening after primary TEA. Cement mantles that extended past the tip of the prosthesis were not associated with loosening. Considering the potential need for future revision and morbidity of cement removal, surgeons should focus on mantle quality and carefully plan mantle height because shorter heights may not be associated with early implant failure. Prognostic II.

Spontaneous resolution of asymptomatic alumina matrix composite ceramic liner dissociation: a case report

BackgroundTotal hip arthroplasty(THA)is widely used to treat end-stage hip disorders. Ceramic-on-ceramic total hip prostheses are widely used because of their durability. Alumina matrix composite (AMC), known as the fourth-generation ceramics, reduces implant fracture and wear rate compared to their predecessors. However, ceramic acetabular liner dissociation is a complication that necessitates revision of the AMC prostheses. To date, only few cases of AMC liner dissociation have been reported and all of which have been treated with revision surgery. Therefore, the prognosis of non-operated AMC liner dissociation remains unknown so far.Case presentationA 57-year-old man with avascular necrosis of the femoral head was treated with THA, wherein a Pinnacle® (DePuy, J&J, Warsaw, IN) acetabular cup and AMC liner were implanted. Intraoperative examination confirmed proper seating of the liner, whereas the initial postoperative radiograph revealed liner dissociation. The patient refused surgical revision due to the absence of symptoms and was discharged and followed-up. The patient made an uneventful recovery, and radiographic follow-up at 6-month post-operation showed that the liner was re-seated to its right position. No clinical or radiographic anomaly was found at the 15-month of postoperative follow-up.ConclusionsHere, we report an unprecedented case of AMC ceramic liner dissociation with spontaneous resolution. This case shows that ceramic liner dissociation could be asymptomatic, and careful postoperative examination of the patient is important. Spontaneous resolution is possible, but the underlying mechanism and the eligible patient to benefit from it must be investigated. Before clarifying these questions, revision surgery should be the first-line treatment.

Anatomic Radial Head Arthroplasty: The Importance of Implant Angle

Multifragmentary radial head and neck fractures not amenable to open reduction and internal fixation are usually treated with radial head arthroplasty (RHA). Although the optimal implant design is still subject to debate, anatomic designs are common. We hypothesized that positioning of the implant leading to increased radial stem angle (RSA) (angle of the RHA stem with respect to the proximal radius shaft, RSA) in anatomic RHA designs will contribute to failures. The aim of this study was to characterize the risk of RHA failure with respect to the stem angle in anatomic RHA design. A retrospective review of patients who underwent anatomic RHA for acute fractures between 2006 and 2019 at 2 academic centers was conducted. Initial postoperative elbow radiographs were reviewed to measure RSA on the anterior-posterior and lateral views. Radiolucency, stress shielding, and radiocapitellar arthritis were also evaluated. Implant failure was defined as prosthesis removal or revision. Implant failure was associated with significantly larger lateral RSA than that in intact implants. Increasing stem shaft angle on a lateral radiograph was associated with decreased implant survival. Radiolucency, stress shielding, and radiocapitellar arthritis were similar between the 2 groups. Anatomic radial head implants are commonly used; however, the importance of prosthesis positioning, specifically that of the stem within the proximal radius, remains understudied. Higher RSA is associated with the risk of implant failure and need for revision. Prognostic IV.

Initial and 1-Year Radiographic Comparison of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty With a Short Versus Standard Length Stem.

In an effort to preserve bone, humeral stems in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) have gradually decreased in length. The purpose of this study was to compare the immediate postoperative radiographic appearance of short-length with standard-length RTSA stems. Patients who underwent RTSA using a press-fit standard-length or short-length humeral implant with a consistent geometry (Univers Revers or Revers Apex) were evaluated in a multicenter retrospective review. Initial postoperative radiographs were used to assess initial alignment and filling ratios. In addition, radiographs were evaluated for early signs of stress shielding and/or loosening. Clinical outcome scores and range of motion were also evaluated. Overall, 137 short-length stems and 139 standard-length stems were analyzed. Initial radiographs demonstrated a significantly higher percentage of stems placed in neutral alignment in the short-stem group (95.6% vs 89.2%, P = 0.045). Similar metaphyseal filling ratios were seen between groups, but a significantly higher diaphyseal filling ratio was observed in the short-stem group (57% vs 34%, P < 0.001). Less calcar osteolysis (2.2% vs 12.9%; P = 0.001) and fewer overall number of radiographic changes (tuberosity resorption, lucencies, and subsidence) (0.7% vs 5.0%; P = 0.033) were seen with short stems compared with the standard-length stems. RTSA with a short-stem humeral implant demonstrates excellent radiographic outcomes, including low rates of loosening and subsidence at 1 year, with less early calcar osteolysis compared with a standard-length stem. III (Case-control).

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Lateral Interbody Fusion for Adjacent Segment Degeneration.

Retrospective cohort study. Assessment of outcomes in patients undergoing lateral interbody fusion as part of the surgical treatment of adjacent segment deterioration after previous lumbar spine fusion. Adult patients with previous lumbar posterior spinal fusion who presented with adjacent segment degeneration and stenosis refractory to nonoperative treatment and who underwent lateral lumbar interbody fusion were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed and comparisons made between preoperative baseline and postoperative values. Thirty-six patients with symptomatic adjacent segment degeneration at 46 motion segments were included. Thirty (83.3%) of the 36 patients had complete relief of both preoperative lower extremity pain and back pain at the time of final follow-up. Six (16.7%) of the 36 patients had persistent pain, though in all 6 cases, the pain was less postoperatively than preoperatively. Oswestry Disability Index scores were improved significantly at final follow-up (P = .001). Compared with preoperative baseline parameters, initial and final postoperative radiographs had an increase in segmental lordosis (P < .001 and P < .001, respectively), increase in overall lumbar lordosis (P < .05 and P = .094, respectively), decrease in segmental coronal angulation (P = .63 and P < .01, respectively), decrease in overall coronal angulation (P = .063 and P = .009, respectively), and increase in intervertebral height (P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). Lateral lumbar interbody fusion achieves favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes for the treatment of adjacent segment degeneration after previous lumbar fusion. 4.

A novel reduction support frame for management of unstable tibial fractures with intramedullary nail: Preliminary report.

Management of unstable tibial fractures (UTF) can be challenging due to widening of the proximal and distal metaphyseal zone, soft tissue problems, and poor vascularity. We aimed to compare the effect of novel tibial orthopedic reduction support (TORS) frame constructed by re-used tubular external fixator systems and manual traction with regard to the quality of re-duction, and fracture healing. A total of 65 patients who were admitted with UTF and underwent intramedullary nailing were assessed; 43 patients un-derwent manual traction technique, and 22 patients underwent TORS technique. The sagittal and coronal plane angulations were eval-uated in initial postoperative radiographs, and radiologic union scores for tibial fractures (RUST) were compared at follow-up X-rays. The mean age of patients was 43.49±19.09 years in the manual-traction group and 43.41±16.8 years in the TORS group. The mean coronal plane angulation was 1.84±3.16 in the manual traction group and 1.86±4.21 in the TORS group. The mean sagittal plane angulation was 1.19±1.93 in manual traction group and 0.32±0.65 in the TORS group. The number of coronal and sagittal plane angulations >5° was higher in manual traction group than TORS group. The mean RUST was significantly higher in the TORS group than in the manual traction group at 6th, 9th, and 12th-month controls. The union rates were also higher in the TORS group at 9th and 12th-month controls. TORS frame is a simple and cheap technique and should be considered as reduction support in the management of UTF by intramedullary nailing.

Early loss of fixation after surgical treatment of distal radius fractures: Does the number of screws matter?

Fixation methods in distal radius fractures has been studied biomechanically, but studies evaluating clinical correlation of that data are lacking. We hypothesize that the use of unthreaded pegs and decreased screw number would correlate with an early failure of fixation. There were 50 operatively treated distal radius fractures with initial post-operative radiographs that demonstrated loss of fixation. An age, BMI, and fracture-type matched cohort of 50 non-failed distal radius fractures was used for comparison. The average number of distal screws in the failed fixation group was 5.3 compared to 4.8 in the group with no loss of fixation (p = 0.07). The average number of proximal shaft screws used in the failed fixation group was 3.2 compared to 3.2 in the control group (p = 0.60). There was no difference between the use of pegs in either group. There was a significant difference between distal screw number between constructs that failed from distal screw pullout as compared to the control group, 5.6 vs. 4.8 (p = 0.0001). In conclusion, there was no difference in the number of proximal screws used in distal radius fractures that demonstrated loss of early fixation. Additionally, having more than five screws in the distal fragment had a higher rate of failure from distal screw pullout, however this was likely confounded by the more severe intra-articular fractures that had additional fixation applied in an attempt to increase stability. Finally, using smooth pegs or screws in the distal fragment made no difference in loss of fixation.

Untreated small posterior fragment of ankle fracture with early removal of syndesmotic screw is associated with recurrent syndesmotic instability

IntroductionThis retrospective study aimed to report outcomes of fixation of bi-malleolar or tri-malleolar fractures combined with syndesmotic injury with or without posterior malleolar fracture (PMF), and to ascertain whether syndesmotic screw removal at 6 to 8 weeks or 3 months postoperatively is more beneficial. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed patients who received open reduction and internal fixation for bi-malleolar (without PMF) or tri-malleolar ankle fracture (with PMF) with syndesmotic injury between January 2013 and December 2017 with at least 24 months of postoperative follow-up. All patients suffered syndesmotic instabilities and were treated using a syndesmotic screw without PMF fixation. Patients with bi-malleolar fracture with syndesmotic screw removal at 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively were included in Group I, tri-malleolar fracture with syndesmotic screw removal at 6 to 8 weeks in Group II, and tri-malleolar fracture with syndesmotic screw removal at 3 months in Group III. Demographic data, clinical and radiographic outcomes were analyzed. ResultsA total of 113 patients were included (Group I, n=47; Group II, n=43; Group III, n=23). Average size of PMF was 14% in patients with tri-malleolar fractures (Groups II and III). No significant difference in ankle functional outcome among groups was observed. The recurrence rate of syndesmotic instability was 10.6% in Group I, 20.9% in Group II, and 8.7% in Group III. Although the difference in recurrence rates of syndesmotic instability among three groups was not statistically significant (P=0.264), Group II showed more interval change in tibiofibular clear space between initial postoperative radiographs and last follow-up radiographs (P=0.028) compared to the other two groups. Fracture union was achieved in all patients without screw breakage. ConclusionWe suggest that the better timing for syndesmotic screw removal is 3 months, instead of 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively, to reduce the risk of recurrence of syndesmotic instability for tri-malleolar fracture without posterior fragment fixation. Level of EvidenceLevel III- Case-control study.

Radiographic Outcomes in the Treatment of Type II Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity Following Lateral Column Lengthening with a Titanium Wedge versus Autograft or Allograft

Category:Midfoot/ForefootIntroduction/Purpose:Lateral column lengthening (LCL) is a surgical procedure used to manage forefoot abduction occurring in patients with stage IIB Adult Acquired Flat Foot Deformity (AAFD). This procedure utilizes an opening wedge osteotomy of the calcaneus which is then filled with autograft, allograft, or a titanium wedge. The primary aim of this study was to compare the radiographic outcomes of these different bone substitutes in the setting of stage IIB AAFD with the use of LCL.Methods:All patients who underwent LCL from October 2008 until October 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative weight bearing radiographs, initial postoperative radiographs and 1-year weight bearing radiographs were reviewed. The following radiographic measurements were recorded: talonavicular uncoverage angle, incongruency angle, and calcaneal pitch.Results:A total of 44 patients were included in our study. The mean age of the cohort was 54 (range 18-74). The study cohort was divided into two groups. There were 17 (38.7%) patients that received a titanium wedge and 27 (61.5%) that received autograft or allograft. Patients that underwent LCL with the autograft/allograft group were significantly older (p=0.006). Patients who underwent LCL with a titanium wedge had a significantly higher preoperative talonavicular angle (p=0.013). There were no significant differences in post-operative talonavicular uncoverage angle, incongruency angle or calcaneal pitch at 6 months or 1 year.Conclusion:Adult acquired flat foot deformity is a difficult disorder to treat surgically. Lateral column lengthening is a common surgical procedure used to treat forefoot abduction that occurs. Our results show that at 6 months and 1 year no radiographic difference exists between autograft/allograft bone substitutes versus titanium wedge in LCL. Future research should evaluate the differences in patient reported outcomes between autograft/allograft versus titanium wedge bone substitutes.