Open Internal Fixation Research Articles

Perioperative antibiotics prophylaxis for only 24 hours in orthopaedic surgeries

Background: The objective was to analyse the incidence of surgical site infection in patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgeries procedure when antibiotics prophylaxis is done for 24 hours only. Methods: Between June 2020 and January 2022, 50 cases of orthopedic trauma as well as soft tissue surgeries, who were given perioperative antibiotics for only 24 hours post-surgery at our institution, were included in the study. All 50 patients who received 24 hours antibiotics only after surgery were compared with those who received the same for longer duration. Statistics calculated on MS excel. Results: Rate of infection in this study was 4% which is comparable to other studies but the rate of infection in the present study in cases of open reduction internal fixation was higher (12%) compared to other studies (2%). Conclusions: 24 hours antibiotics is sufficient in key hole surgeries like closed reduction internal fixation and soft tissue surgery. However, it does not seem to be sufficient in cases of open reduction internal fixation which last for more than 1.5 hours.

Clinical Management, Prognosis, and Outcomes of Bilateral Acetabular Fractures: A Case Report

Background: Bilateral acetabular fractures are a rare type of acetabular fracture, and due to the scarcity of information regarding these types of fractures, managing bilateral acetabular fractures presents significant challenges. We presented a 25-year-old man with bilateral acetabular fractures (left transverse fracture of the acetabulum and right posterior column fracture of the acetabulum) secondary to severe trauma following a road accident with no other pelvic damage. Case Report: Because the displacement was more on the patient's left side (although the patient's pain was more on the right side), the open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgery was first performed on the left side, and secondary ORIF surgery was performed on the right side, under general anesthesia with Kocher-Langenbeck approach for both sides. Conclusion: Due to the increase in road traffic accidents (RTAs) and improper safety of cars, especially in developing countries, this type of fracture may be repeated in the future, and regarding the complexity and comorbidities associated with this type of fracture, the high experience of the surgeon and detailed investigations are required to achieve successful results.

Effect of Yiqi Huoxue Decoction on Neurological Function for Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

Cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) can lead to neurological dysfunction, such as limb numbness, muscle stiffness, and motor disorders. Although early decompression surgery has demonstrated efficacy in alleviating symptoms for patients with CSCI, there are still some limitations in the recovery of motor function. It has been reported that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has advantages in the treatment of CSCI due to its safety and efficacy and its ability to modulate the immune system and promote neuroregeneration. In this study, we investigate the clinical efficacy of combining Yiqi Huoxue Decoction with acupoint massage therapy in patients with CSCI after decompression and fixation surgery. A total of 140 patients who were first diagnosed with CSCI at our hospital and underwent early decompression and internal fixation surgery from October 2022 to June 2023 were included in this study. They were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 70) received conventional Western medicine treatment, and Group B (n = 70) received Yiqi Huoxue Decoction and acupoint massage therapy. We observed significant improvements in the American Spinal Injury Association scores after the combined treatment. Moreover, the levels of neuron-specific enolase decreased, while the levels of nerve growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 increased. Additionally, the levels of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells exhibited a notable decrease. Furthermore, acupoint massage was found to stimulate nerve endings, thereby promoting nerve regeneration and repair. In summary, this combined treatment effectively improves the neurological function of patients with CSCI.

The effects of prophylactic administration of tranexamic acid on the operative time and the amount of blood transfused during open fixation of pelvis and acetabulum fractures

BackgroundOrthopedic surgeons face challenges regarding perioperative bleeding during the operations of pelvic and acetabular fracture cases. Although the recently popular tranexamic acid (TXA) has proven to be a useful tool, this study primarily aimed to conduct a retrospective comparative analysis of the results of the prophylactic administration of tranexamic acid during open fixation of pelvis and acetabulum fractures, especially regarding operative time and the amount of blood transfused; and in addition, share the results related to other findings including the management of the erythrocyte suspension use and overall cost as secondary aims and thus providing a comprehensive point of view.MethodsThe files of patients with pelvis or acetabulum fractures admitted to the Emergency Clinic of the Adana City Training and Research Hospital between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2023, were analyzed retrospectively. The inclusion criteria were as follows: patients aged 18 years or older who had undergone open reduction for pelvis or acetabulum fractures.ResultsThere were 78 files identified for analysis. Among the fractures, 27 were located at the pelvis (34.61%) and 51 at the acetabulum (65.38%). The pelvic fracture cases’ age and preoperative hemoglobulin levels were significantly lower (p = 0.019 and p = 0.006, respectively). When all cases were dichotomized into two groups, ones requiring ICU monitoring and the remaining, there were statistically significant differences in terms of the preoperative hemoglobin levels (p = 0.0446), intraoperative bleeding (p = 0.0134), units of erythrocyte suspension used (p = 0.0066), drain output (p = 0.0301), hospitalization duration (p = 0.0008), and the overall cost (p = 0.0002). The comparison regarding TXA use showed that the use of blood products was significantly higher in the pelvic fractures not treated with TXA (6.44 ± 4.42 units, p = 0.0029). The duration of surgery was shorter for pelvic fractures treated with TXA (98.33 ± 21.76 min, p = 0.047).ConclusionAmong the variables, the amount of intraoperative bleeding emerged as the most correlated element, which strongly suggests that in managing open reduction internal fixation surgeries performed for pelvis and acetabulum fractures, intraoperative bleeding should be considered as the crucial factor. Therefore, the administration of TXA, by effectively reducing the amount of intraoperative bleeding, should be considered as an essential tool for orthopedic surgeons.

A retrospective comparative study of robot-assisted unilateral biportal endoscopic lumbar decompression and fusion surgery versus percutaneous endoscopic lumbar decompression and fusion surgery.

The objective of this study is to illustrate the advantages of robot-assisted unilateral biportal endoscopy in lumbar decompression fusion and internal fixation surgery. According to the different surgical methods, we divided the 26 patients into 2 groups, robot-assisted unilateral biportal endoscopy for lumbar interbody fusion (R-ULIF) group and percutaneous endoscopic lumbar decompression and interbody fusion (Endo-LIF) group, with a 1:1 ratio. Gender, disease course, lesion site, fluoroscopy times, operative time, blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, screw placement success rate, fusion rate, complications rate, postoperative pain visual analog scale (VAS) (The VAS score is used only to evaluate pain in the lower back and legs.) Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) (The ODI score can serve as a reference indicator for evaluating the effectiveness of treatment for patients with low back pain, and has good responsiveness in assessing patients with chronic low back pain), and MacNab (The MacNab standard is divided into 4 levels: excellent, good, fair, and poor, which can be used to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of certain spinal surgeries) standard efficacy evaluation were analyzed and compared between the 2 groups. All patients successfully completed the surgery. Compared with the Endo-LIF group, the R-ULIF group had fewer fluoroscopy procedures, less intraoperative blood loss, and shorter postoperative hospital stay (P < .05). The VAS scores and ODI scores of both groups significantly decreased at all-time points (P < .05). The ODI scores of the R-ULIF group were better than the Endo-LIF group at 1 month and 3 months after surgery (P = .017/P = .047), but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups before surgery and 1 week after surgery (P > .05). The efficacy was evaluated using the MacNab criteria at 6 months after surgery. The R-ULIF group has an excellent and good rate of 84.6%, while the Endo-LIF group has an excellent and good rate of 76.9% (P = 1.000). Robot-assisted unilateral biportal endoscopy for lumbar interbody and fusion surgery has shown short-term clinical efficacy in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation combined with lumbar instability, surpassing endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion surgery. Robot-assisted unilateral biportal endoscopy for lumbar interbody and fusion surgery has demonstrated high success rate in screw placement, minimal radiation exposure, less intraoperative blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and thus deserves further clinical promotion.

Patellar Sleeve Fracture: An Update of Literature

Patellar sleeve fractures, though relatively rare, present unique challenges in diagnosis and management. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of patellar sleeve fractures, focusing on their epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging, and management strategies. Epidemiologically, these fractures are uncommon, representing approximately 1% of all fractures in pediatric patients, yet they account for 50% of all patella fractures in this population. They predominantly affect adolescents, with a peak incidence around 12.7 years of age, and are more common in boys, occurring at a ratio of 3 to 5:1. Understanding these demographic patterns is crucial for early recognition and appropriate management. Clinically, patellar sleeve fractures typically present with the sudden onset of severe pain, often associated with explosive activities such as jumping. However, diagnosis can be challenging, particularly in cases with minimal displacement or where alternative muscle groups compensate for the injury. Differential diagnosis is essential, and clinicians should be vigilant for signs such as palpable gaps at the lower pole of the patella and patella alta. Imaging modalities play a vital role in diagnosis, with plain X-rays often revealing no bony damage. Ultrasonography may offer a cost-effective alternative, especially in cases where radiographic findings are inconclusive. Advanced imaging techniques such as MRI can assist in characterizing the extent of the injury and assessing for associated complications. Management strategies encompass a spectrum of approaches, ranging from conservative measures such as immobilization and physical therapy to surgical interventions, including open reduction and internal fixation or arthroscopic surgery. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the fracture pattern, displacement, patient age, activity level, and associated injuries. Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, the optimal management of patellar sleeve fractures remains a clinical challenge. Further research is warranted to elucidate optimal algorithms for diagnosis and treatment, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes and reducing the risk of long-term complications associated with this rare but clinically significant knee injury.

The combined internal and external fixation surgery is effective and safe in treating posterior lateral tibial plateau fractures: An observational study.

To investigate the treatment outcomes of combined internal and external fixation surgery for patients with posterior lateral tibial plateau fractures and explore its safety. The study was conducted from February 2020 to February 2023 and included a total of 77 patients with Schatzker IV and Schatzker V type posterior lateral tibial plateau fractures. Patients were divided into control group and treatment group according to different treatment methods: the control group with 38 cases received treatment with dual-support plates, and the study group with 39 cases received treatment with internal fixation using medial plates combined with lateral locking plates. Clinical indicators during treatment, immediate postoperative and 12-month postoperative radiographic indicators, Rasmussen knee joint function scores before and 3 months after surgery, knee joint function recovery, quality of life, and postoperative complications were recorded and compared between the 2 groups. The inter-group comparisons were made for intraoperative blood loss, surgical duration, and the time to start weight-bearing postoperatively (P > .05). The study group had shorter postoperative hospital stays and fracture healing times compared to the control group (P < .05). Immediately postoperatively, the medial tilt angle and posterior tilt angle in both groups were compared (P > .05). At 12 months postoperatively, the medial tilt angle decreased and the posterior tilt angle increased in both groups compared to immediately postoperative values (P < .05), with no significant difference between the groups (P > .05). However, at 3 months postoperatively, the scores for various dimensions in both groups increased compared to preoperative values, and the study group had higher scores than the control group (P < .05). However, at 3 months postoperatively, the quality of life scores were higher than preoperative values in both groups, with the study group having higher scores (P < .05). The occurrence of complications during the treatment period was compared between the 2 groups (P > .05). The medial and lateral combined plate fixation has a good clinical effect in the treatment of posterolateral tibial plateau fractures, which can shorten the fracture healing time, help the recovery of knee joint function and improve the quality of life of patients after operation, and has high safety in the treatment process.

Machine learning models to predict osteonecrosis in patients with femoral neck fractures undergoing internal fixation

ObjectiveThis study aimed to use machine learning (ML) to establish risk factor and prediction models of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) in patients with femoral neck fractures (FNFs) after internal fixation. MethodsWe retrospectively collected clinical data of patients with FNFs who were followed up for at least 2 years. Only intracapsular FNFs were included. In total, 437 patients and 24 variables were enrolled. The entire dataset was divided into training (89.5 %) and test (10.5 %) datasets. Six models—logistic regression, naive Bayes, decision tree, random forest, multilayer perceptron, and AdaBoost—were established and validated for predicting postoperative ONFH. We compared the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, recall, and F1 score of different models. In addition, a confusion matrix, density curve, and learning curve were used to evaluate the model performance. ResultsThe logistic regression model performed best at predicting ONFH in patients with FNFs undergoing internal fixation surgery, with an AUC, accuracy, recall, F1 score, and prediction value of 0.84, 0.89, 1.00, 0.94, and 89.1 %, respectively. The learning and density curves demonstrated a good prediction fitting degree and distinct separation. When establishing the ML models, the reduction quality, internal fixation removal, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, injury mechanism, and displacement distance of the medial cortex were the top five risk factors positively correlated with the occurrence of ONFH. ConclusionsThe logistic regression model had excellent performance in predicting ONFH in patients with FNFs after internal fixation and could provide valuable guidance in clinical decision-making. When choosing treatment options for patients with FNFs, doctors should identify the risk factors and consider using the presented models to help anticipate outcomes and select individualised treatment.

Arthroscopic reduction and hollow screw internal fixation for Eyres Type IIIA scapular coracoid fracture: a case report

BackgroundA coracoid process fracture combined with an acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is an uncommon injury that typically causes significant pain and limits shoulder movement. Open reduction and internal fixation have been the traditional treatment approach. However, arthroscopic techniques are emerging as a promising alternative for managing these injuries.Case representationA 35-year-old woman presented with right shoulder pain following an accidental fall. Imaging studies revealed a coracoid process fracture along with an AC joint dislocation. The fracture was classified as an Eyres Type IIIA, which warranted surgical intervention. Our team performed arthroscopic coracoid fracture reduction and internal fixation surgery, as well as AC joint dislocation repair using Kirschner wires. Six months after surgery, the patient demonstrated a satisfactory functional outcome with complete bone healing.ConclusionThis case report highlights the potential of arthroscopic reduction and fixation as a novel treatment option for fractures of the coracoid base.

Evaluating Return to Sports After Surgical Treatment of Unstable Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee: A Systematic Review.

Although the incidence of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee may be low, an overview and comparison of sports-related outcomes with current surgical management techniques are needed. To summarize the available evidence regarding outcomes for different surgical treatment options for unstable OCD of the knee in both skeletally mature and immature patients by calculating the return to sports (RTS) rate, the mean RTS time, and other sports-related postoperative outcome measures. Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. A systematic review of studies on RTS after surgical correction of unstable OCD within the knee was conducted utilizing PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane databases. Included were studies discussing the treatment of unstable OCD with minimum 1-year follow-up outcomes. Multivariate analysis was used to compare studies grouped together based on RTS and skeletal maturity. Of 2229 articles, 6 studies (197 patients; 198 knees) met the inclusion criteria and were included in our analysis. The percentage of patients who returned to the previous level of sport ranged from 52% to 100%; those returning to any level of sport ranged from 87% to 100%. Clinical outcomes did not differ between patients with open versus closed physes. Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System (OATS) procedures had a 100% RTS rate across several studies with skeletally mature and mixed cohorts, and microfracture had the lowest overall RTS rate (52%). For skeletally immature patients, all examined studies that utilized either open or arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation, 77% and 78%, respectively, had acceptable RTS rates. Arthroscopic fixation had a higher rate of revision surgery in both skeletally mature and immature patients. Our analysis indicated that the treatment of unstable OCD lesions using the OATS technique demonstrated high RTS rates across several studies, while microfracture alone exhibited the lowest RTS rate. Both arthroscopic and open internal fixation utilizing bioabsorbable screws yielded satisfactory RTS rates for juvenile patients with OCD.

Clinical effects of endoscope-assisted anterior cervical discectomy, fusion, internal fixation, and conventional surgery on treatment of cervical disc herniation

Clinical effects of endoscope-assisted anterior cervical discectomy, fusion, internal fixation, and conventional surgery on treatment of cervical disc herniation

Micro-Computed Tomography Analysis and Histological Observation of the Screw-Bone Interface of Novel Porous Scaffold Core Pedicle Screws and Hollow Lateral Hole Pedicle Screws: A Comparative Study in Bama Pigs

Screw loosening is a common complication of pedicle screw internal fixation surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether the application of a porous scaffold structure can increase the contact area between screws and bone tissue by comparing the bone ingrowth and screw-bone interface of porous scaffold core pedicle screws (PSCPSs) and hollow lateral hole pedicle screws (HLHPSs) in the lumbar spine of Bama pigs. Sixteen pedicle screws of both types were implanted into the bilateral pedicles of the L1-4 vertebrae of 2 Bama pigs. All Bama pigs were sacrificed and the lumbar spine was freed into individual vertebrae at 16weeks postoperatively. After the vertebrae were made into screw-centered specimens, micro-computed tomography analysis and histological observation were performed to assess the screw-bone interface and bone growth around and within the screws. We found that the bone condition around PSCPSs and HLHPSs did not show significant differences on micro-computed tomography three-dimensional reconstruction images. CT transverse views showed different bone growth inside the 2 screws. In PSCPSs, bone tissue was seen to fill the internal pores and was evenly distributed around each strut. Inside HLHPSs, bone growth was confined to 1 side of the screw and did not fill the entire cavity. Osteometric analysis showed that bone volume fraction and trabecular number, the parameters representing bone mass, were higher in PSCPSs than in HLHPSs. These differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Histological observations visualized that the osseointegration within PSCPSs was superior to that of HLHPSs, and the tight integration of bone tissue with the porous scaffold resulted in a larger screw-bone integration area in PSCPSs than in HLHPSs. Compared with HLHPSs, PSCPSs possessing a porous scaffold core could promote bone ingrowth and osseointegration, resulting in an effective enhancement of the combined area of the screw-bone interface.

Association between surgical delays for femoral neck fractures and early postoperative complications in young and middle-aged adults: A study based on the national inpatient sample database

BackgroundFemoral neck fractures (FNF) in young and middle-aged adults are primarily caused by high-energy injuries in traffic accidents. Surgical delays often occur due to transportation issues, preoperative evaluations, and economic burdens. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on young and middle-aged FNF patients undergoing reduction and internal fixation surgeries from 2010 to 2019 with the use of the National Inpatient Sample database. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between surgical delays and complications, and the independent risk factors contributing to delays. Categorical variables were investigated via a chi-square test, while continuous variables including Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) scores, length of hospital stay (LOS), and total medical costs were analyzed via t-test or rank-sum test. Results9,204 patients undergoing reduction and internal fixation surgeries were included. In the delayed group, patients had higher ECI scores, longer hospital stays, higher expenses, and increased inpatient mortality (1.61% vs. 0.28 %, P < 0.0001). Longer surgical delays were associated with higher risks of complications, including femoral head osteonecrosis, internal fixation loosening and breakage, and respiratory complications. Fluid and electrolyte disorders, metastatic cancer, pulmonary circulation disorders, and renal failure were identified as independent risk factors for surgical delays. Except for anemia (OR=2.37, P < 0.0001), no significant differences in early postoperative complications were found between open-reduction and closed-reduction internal fixation (ORIF/CRIF) surgeries. ConclusionEarly surgical intervention, within a 2-days period after injury, seems to be crucial for young adults with FNF. If CRIF is challenging in some cases, ORIF can be another choice.

Clinical study on freehand of bicortical sacral screw fixation with the assistance of torque measurement device

BackgroundSacral screw loosening is a typical complication after internal fixation surgery through the vertebral arch system. Bicortical fixation can successfully prevent screw loosening, and how improving the rate of bicortical fixation is a challenging clinical investigation.ObjectiveTo investigate the feasibility of improving the double corticality of sacral screws and the optimal fixation depth to achieve double cortical fixation by combining the torque measurement method with bare hands.MethodsNinety-seven cases of posterior lumbar internal fixation with pedicle root system were included in this study. Based on the tactile feedback of the surgeon indicating the expected penetration of the screw into the contralateral cortex of the sacrum, the screws were further rotated by 180°, 360°, or 720°, categorized into the bicortical 180° group, bicortical 360° group, and bicortical 720° group, respectively. Intraoperatively, the torque during screw insertion was recorded. Postoperatively, the rate of double-cortex engagement was evaluated at 7 days, and screw loosening was assessed at 1 year follow-up.ResultsThe bicortical rates of the 180° group, 360° group, and 720° group were 66.13%, 91.18% and 93.75%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the 180° group and both the 360° and 720° groups (P < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the 360° group and the 720° group (P > 0.05).The rates of loosening of sacral screws in the 180° group, 360° group, and 720° group were 20.97%, 7.35% and 7.81%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences between the 180° group and both the 360° and 720° groups (P < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the 360° group and the 720° group (P > 0.05). The bicortical 360° group achieved a relatively satisfactory rate of dual cortical purchase while maintaining a lower rate of screw loosening.ConclusionManual insertion of sacral screws with the assistance of a torque measurement device can achieve a relatively satisfactory dual cortical purchase rate while reducing patient hospitalization costs.

Perioperative impact of ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve blocks in patients undergoing pelvic fracture surgery.

Pelvic fractures present a severe and complex clinical challenge. This study aimed to compare ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal (IIN) and iliohypogastric nerve (IHN) blocks with conventional general anesthesia (GA) in patients undergoing internal fixation surgery for pelvic fractures. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 100 patients equally divided into ultrasound-guided and control groups. The study monitored hemodynamics, intraoperative anesthesia drug usage, postoperative pain levels, and the incidence of adverse reactions between the 2 groups. The ultrasound-guided group underwent ultrasound-guided IHN and IIN blocks combined with GA. The ultrasound-guided group exhibited significant advantages for hemodynamic measurements at specific time points, lower consumption of Propofol and Remifentanil, and reduced pain intensity across all evaluated time intervals (P < .05). The incidence rate of adverse reactions was significantly lower in the ultrasound group (P = .016). Ultrasound-guided anesthesia is a superior alternative to conventional GA for managing pelvic fractures through internal fixation surgery. It offers advantages in terms of hemodynamic stability, drug consumption, postoperative pain management, and adverse reaction reduction.

Autologous rib grafts for craniocervical junction surgery in children: a clinical application

ObjectiveAutologous iliac bone is commonly used as a bone graft material to achieve solid fusion in craniocervical junction (CVJ) surgery. However, the developing iliac bone of children is less than ideal as a bone graft material. The matured rib bone of children presents a potential substitute material for iliac bone. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of autologous rib grafts for craniocervical junction surgery in children.MethodsThe outcomes of 10 children with abnormalities of the craniocervical junction who underwent craniocervical junction surgery between January 2020 and December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent posterior fusion and internal fixation surgery with autologous rib grafts. Pre- and post-operative images were obtained and clinical follow-ups were conducted to evaluate neurological function, pain level, donor site complications, and bone fusion rates.ResultsAll surgeries were successful. During the 8- to 24-month follow-up period, all patients achieved satisfactory clinical results. Computed tomography at 3–6 months confirmed successful bone fusion and regeneration of the rib defect in all patients with no neurological or donor site complications.ConclusionAutologous rib bone is a safe and effective material for bone grafting in craniocervical junction fusion surgery for children that can reduce the risks of donor site complications and increase the amount of bone graft, thereby achieving a higher bone fusion rate.

Medical Adhesive-related Skin Injuries Caused by Eye Taping: A Case Report

This case report discusses medical adhesive-related skin injuries (MARSIs) caused by eye taping during an emergency open reduction internal fixation surgery under general anesthesia. The presented case involves a 72-year-old woman with a proximal humeral fracture, where 3M Transpore adhesive tape caused blisters on both eyelids. This tape is an acrylic-based medical adhesive and is commonly used to keep eyelids closed during general anesthesia. MARSIs can largely be prevented through evidence-based clinical guidance. Enhancing awareness of MARSIs among anesthesia providers and perianesthesia nurses is crucial to prevent and manage such injuries effectively.

Hip Abductor Muscle Strength Recovery: A Comparison Between Joint Replacement Surgery and Internal Fixation Surgery.

Introduction Proximal femoral fractures are common fractures of the hip that are considered a major healthcare concern globally; these include subtrochanteric, intertrochanteric, and theneck of the femur fractures. Internal fixation surgery and joint replacement surgery are the two most common intervention techniques used to treat these fractures. Consequently, weakness in the hip abductor muscle post-surgery may lead to implant loosening, necessitating revision of the surgery. In light of this, this study aimed to compare hip abductor strength recovery outcomes between joint replacement surgery and internal fixation surgery. Methodology A comparative study was performed over six months at the Department of Orthopaedics and Physiotherapy. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and anticipating potential dropouts, a total of 56 patients were included in thestudy, and their hip abductor strength was measured using a sphygmomanometer. The patients were classified into two groups: Group A or Group B as per the type of hip surgery. Group A included 29 patientswho underwent joint replacement surgeries involving either cemented or uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hip hemiarthroplasty (HHA). Group B comprised 27 patientswho were operated on using either proximal femoral nail (PFN) or dynamic hip screw (DHS). Results The cohort consisted of 36 males and 20 females, with a mean age of51.71 years. The overall mean value of hip abductor muscle strength at postoperative day (POD) three in the internal fixation group was 65.06 ±5.98, which progressed to 107.51 ±24.76 after six months; in the joint replacement surgery group, it was 70.03 ±12.46 at POD three, which progressed to 113.11 ±21.27 after six months. The age-wise distribution demonstrated that the patients in the age group of 18-50 years demonstrated progressive results: from 65.33 ±4.9 at POD three to 105.95 ±22.71 after six months in the internal fixation group;from 66.82 ±7.72 at POD three to 109.59 ±22.54 after six months in the joint replacement group. Moreover, patients aged above 50 yearsshowed progression from 64.80 ±6.98 at POD three to 103.33 ±27.30 after six months in the internal fixation group, and from 69.58 ±14.75 at POD three to 108.22 ±20.62 after six months in the joint replacement group. Conclusions Our findings revealed thatjoint replacement surgery resulted in greater improvements in the hip abductor muscle strength compared to internal fixation surgery in the immediate postoperative period and during follow-ups. Additionally, younger patients exhibited better strength-related outcomes in comparison to the elderly population regardless of the type of surgery.

Risk Factors of Postoperative Acute Heart Failure in Elderly Patients After Hip Fracture Surgery.

Background Postoperative acute heart failure (AHF) in elderly patients after hip fracture surgery is a common complication. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the risk factor of AHF after hip fracture surgery among the older population. Methods This retrospective cohort study was performed on 88 admitted patients whose hip fractures were fixed via internal fixation surgery in a tertiary care hospital in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January 2022 to March 2023. Recruitment of patients was made through established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ethical approval and informed consent were also gained before the data collection. A self-designed form was used to collect data. Data analysis was carried out in the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25 (Released 2017; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Both descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to compare the attributes of the patients with AHF and patients without AHF. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between the postoperative AHF and its potential risk factors. Results Out of 88 enrolled patients, 12 (13.64%) had developed postoperative AHF. Age ≥ 65 years (OR = 2.606, 95% CI = 1.035~4.160, p = 0.010), anemia (OR = 3.178, 95% CI = 1.847~5.990, p = 0.029), hypertension (OR = 2.019, 95% CI = 1.110~4.034, p = 0.012), diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.003, 95% CI = 1.115~4.012, p = 0.015), hypoalbuminemia (OR = 2.486, 95% CI = 1.218~4.619, p = 0.030), and operation time ≥ 120 minutes (OR = 1.702, 95% CI = 1.099~2.880, p = 0.018), were the risk factors of postoperative AHF in elderly patients after hip fracture surgery. Conclusions In the study population, the incidence of postoperative heart failure was significant and age ≥ 65 years, anemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypoalbuminemia, and operation time ≥ 120 were significantly involved in the development of it. Preoperative identification and management of AHF risk factors could lead to the prevention of postoperative complications.

LONG-TERM FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN YOUNG ADULTS WITH INTERNAL FIXATION OF FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Purpose: Although internal fixation surgery of femoral shaft fracture (FSF) has high rates of union, it affects the patient’s functionality and quality of life due to additional health conditions depending on the traumatic nature of these injuries. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the long-term functional outcomes and quality of life of young adults who underwent internal fixation of isolated FSF to compare with healthy peers. Methods: The Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Stair Climb Test (SCT) were used to evaluate the functionality of the participants. The EuroQol 5-Dimension Questionnaire (EQ-5D) was used to assess the quality of life. Results: Twenty young adult volunteers with internal fixation surgery aged 18-55 years are included in the FSF group (mean age: 39.55±11.92 years; duration after surgery: 28±7.2 months) and 20 healthy peers (mean age: 42.75±8.83 years) as the control group. The HHS and EQ-5D scores were lower (p