Intramedullary Fixation Of Fractures Research Articles

Clinical application of lower extremity axial distractor in closed reduction and retrograde intramedullary nail fixation of distal femoral fractures

To explore the efficacy and advantages of the lower extremity axial distractor assisted closed reduction and retrograde intramedullary nail internal fixation in the treatment of distal femoral fractures. The clinical data of 49 patients with distal femoral fractures treated with retrograde intramedullary nail internal fixation between April 2016 and December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the different methods of intraoperative reduction, the patients were divided into trial group (29 cases, using lower extremity axial distractor to assist closed reduction) and control group (20 cases, using free-hand retraction reduction). There was no significant difference in general information between the two groups ( P>0.05), such as gender, age, side of injury, cause of injury, and fracture classification. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency, and callus formation time were recorded and compared between the two groups. The function of the affected limb was evaluated according to the Schatzker-Lambert standard at 1 year after operation. All patients successfully completed the operation. In the control group, there was 1 case with open reduction and internal fixation, and the rest of the two groups were closed reduction. There was no significant difference in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency between the two groups ( P>0.05). There was no complication such as vascular or nerve injury and iatrogenic fracture, etc. during and after operation, and the incisions healed by first intention. Except for 2 patients in the trial group who were lost to follow-up at 3 months after operation, the rest of the patients were followed up 12-36 months, with an average of 16.0 months. There was no significant difference in the callus formation time between the two groups ( t=2.195, P=0.145). During the follow-up, postoperative knee joint stiffness occurred in 1 case in the control group, which improved by strengthening the knee joint function exercise and removing the internal fixator; the rest were not found to be associated with delayed or nonunion fractures, knee stiffness, and internal fixation complication. The function of the affected limb was evaluated according to the Schatzker-Lambert standard at 1 year after operation, the trial group achieved excellent results in 22 cases, good in 4 cases, and fair in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate of 96.3%; in the control group, the results were excellent in 16 cases, good in 3 cases, and fair in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate was 95.0%; showing no significant difference in the excellent and good rate between the two groups ( χ 2=0.451, P=0.502). The lower extremity axial distractor assisted closed reduction and retrograde intramedullary nailing for the treatment of distal femoral fractures is convenient, which has satisfactory efficacy.

Rigid intramedullary nail fixation of traumatic femoral fractures in the skeletally immature.

Objective:To determine the rate of femoral head osteonecrosis, and other complications following rigid intramedullary (IM) nail fixation of traumatic diaphyseal femur fractures through the greater trochanter in the skeletally immature.Design:Retrospective review, case series.Setting:Level I academic trauma center.Patients/Participants:One hundred forty-eight traumatic pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures in 145 patients treated with rigid IM nail fixation from November 1, 2004 to December 31, 2018.Intervention:Rigid intramedullary nail fixation of traumatic diaphyseal femur fractures through a trochanteric start point in the skeletally immature.Main outcome measurement:Rate of osteonecrosis of the femoral head.Results:Sixty-five fractures in 64 skeletally immature patients met inclusion criteria. Motor vehicle collisions were implicated in 32 fractures. Of the 65 fractures, 5 were open. All rigid IM nails were anterograde with a trochanteric start point. Mean radiographic follow-up was 27.4 ± 8.1 months. Twenty-two patients experienced postoperative pain and/or hardware irritation, with 24 patients (36.9%) undergoing reoperation for hardware removal. No occurrences of infection, malunion, nonunion, refracture, venous thromboembolism, fat embolism, significant leg length discrepancy, or femoral head osteonecrosis were documented. Two cases of heterotopic ossification were observed, 1 requiring surgical excision, yielding a complication rate of 3.1%.Conclusions:No cases of femoral head osteonecrosis were observed following treatment of 65 traumatic diaphyseal femur fractures with rigid IM nailing through the greater trochanter with a mean radiographic follow-up of 27 months. Rigid IM nail fixation with a trochanteric start point is both safe and efficacious for management of diaphyseal femur fractures in the skeletally immature.

Postoperative computed tomography assessment of anteromedial cortex reduction is a predictor for reoperation after intramedullary nail fixation for pertrochanteric fractures.

Postoperative radiographs are routinely used to assess fracture reduction following intramedullary nail fixation for pertrochanteric fractures, even though computed tomography (CT) is a superior modality. We aimed to determine the association between reduction quality assessed by CT and rates of reoperation and to evaluate the association of reoperation and reduction quality according to the assessment modality (plain radiographs vs. CT). A retrospective analysis of 299 consecutive patients treated with intramedullary nail fixation for pertrochanteric fractures was conducted. Fracture reduction measured by postoperative radiographs and CT was categorized as anatomical type, extramedullary type, or intramedullary type. Postoperative data for analysis included reduction status,tip-apex distance(TAD), screw position in the femoral head, sliding distance, and conditions associated with reoperation. Of the 299 patients included with a mean age of 83.1 ± 8.2years, there were six patients who required reoperation (2.0%). According to the CT assessments, there were 42 intramedullary reductions (14.0%). Patients with a non-intramedullary reduction based on postoperative CT images were significantly more likely to have proper placement of the screw, a reduced TAD, a reduced sliding distance, and a lower reoperation rate than those with an intramedullary reduction (P < 0.05). The reduction quality assessed by postoperative CT was significantly associated with reoperation (95% CI, 1.45-29.31). Intramedullary reduction assessed by CT was associated with reoperation. The reduction quality based on CT findings was more predictive for reoperation than that from plain radiographs.

Intramedullary percutaneous fixation of metacarpal fractures: screw versus connected K-wires.

The purpose of the present study was to determine clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients treated with limited-open retrograde intramedullary headless screw fixation for metacarpal neck and shaft fractures (group I) versus percutaneous antegrade and retrograde intramedullary double pinning linked by a connector (group II). We designed a retrospective comparative study, with the inclusion of two groups (20 patients each) of metacarpal unstable fractures. Both groups showed similar outcomes at the final follow-up, except for extension lag (significantly better in group II) and return to sport (significantly better in group I). Intramedullary screw fixation did not accelerate bone union and range of motion recovery in the early follow-up. In conclusion, limited-open retrograde intramedullary headless screw fixation and percutaneous connected antegrade and retrograde intramedullary double pinning are both reliable techniques of fixation for metacarpal neck and shaft fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Efficacy and safety of intravenous combined with topical administration of tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss after intramedullary fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures

To investigate the efficacy and safety of intravenous combined with topical administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss after intramedullary fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures by a prospective controlled trial. Patients with intertrochanteric femoral fractures, who were admitted for intramedullary fixation between June 2015 and July 2019, were selected as the study subjects, 120 of whom met the selection criteria. The patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups: intravenous administration group (group A, 41 cases), topical administration group (group B, 40 cases), and combined administrations group (group C, 39 cases). In group A, 4 patients occurred deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity before operation, 1 patient died of myocardial infarction on the 5th day after operation, and 1 patient developed severe pulmonary infection after operation. In group B, 2 patients occurred deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity before operation and 1 patient had iatrogenic fracture during operation. In group C, 3 patients occurred deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity before operation and 1 patient developed pulmonary infection before operation and gave up surgical treatment. All the above patients were excluded from the study, and the remaining 107 cases were included in the analysis, including 35, 37, and 35 cases in groups A, B, and C, respectively. There was no significant difference in gender, age, height, body mass, injury cause, fracture side and type, the interval between injury and operation, and preoperative hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit between groups ( P>0.05). Intraoperative TXA (15 mg/kg) was injected intravenously in group A at 30 minutes before operation, and 1 g of TXA was injected into the medullary cavity in group B after the proximal femur was grooted and before the intramedullary nail implantation, respectively. TXA was given in group C before and during operation according to the administration methods and dosage of groups A and B. Total blood loss, maximum Hb decrease, blood transfusion rate, operation time, fracture healing time, and the incidence of complications were recorded and compared between groups. The hip joint function were evaluated by Harris score. There was no significant difference in operation time between groups ( P>0.05). The total blood loss, the maximum Hb decrease, and the blood transfusion rate in group B were the highest, followed by group A and group C, and the differences between groups were significant ( P<0.05). No incision infection or pulmonary embolism occurred in the 3 groups after operation. The incidence of anemia in group C was significantly lower than that in groups A and B, the difference was significant ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of subcutaneous hematoma, aseptic exudation, and deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity between groups ( P>0.05). All patients in the 3 groups were followed up 8-35 months, with an average of 16.2 months. The fracture healing time of groups A, B, and C was (6.12±1.78), (5.89±1.63), and (5.94±1.69) months, respectively, and there was no significant difference between groups ( P>0.05). At last follow-up, the Harris scores of the hip joints in groups A, B, and C were 83.18±7.76, 84.23±8.01, and 85.43±8.34, and the difference was not significant ( P>0.05). Preoperative intravenous injection combined with intraoperative topical application of TXA can effectively reduce blood loss and blood transfusion after intramedullary fixation of femoral intertrochanteric fracture, without increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and the efficacy is better than that of intravenous injection or topical administration.

Locking compression plate fixation of femoral intertrochanteric fractures in patients with preexisting proximal femoral deformity: a retrospective study

BackgroundTo investigate the clinical efficacy of locking compression plate fixation for the treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fractures in patients with preexisting proximal femoral deformity.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 37 patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures combined with preexisting proximal femoral deformity between January 2013 and July 2019. The patients included 24 males and 13 females aged from 23 to 69 years old, with an average age of 47.5 years. The preexisting proximal femoral deformities resulted from poliomyelitis sequela, proximal femoral fibrous dysplasia, malunion and implant failure combined with coxa vara after intramedullary nailing fixation. There were 6 cases of 31-A2.1, 6 cases of 31-A2.2, 20 cases of 31-A3.1, and 5 cases of 31-A3.2, determined based on the AO classification of intertrochanteric fractures. All fractures were managed through open reduction and locking plate fixation. The hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) was used to assess hip function before injury and at the last postoperative follow-up. The short form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey Questionnaire was used to assess quality of life.ResultsThirty-seven patients were followed up for 12 to 27 months (average, 20.7 months). All patients achieved bone healing within 5.1 months on average (range, 3 to 6 months). Postoperative complications included deep vein thrombosis in three patients, bedsores in one and delayed union in one patient. No other complications, such as surgical site infection, fat embolism, nonunion and re-fracture, were presented. There was no significant difference in the HOOS scores and the SF-36 Health Questionnaire outcomes at pre-injury and at the last postoperative follow-up (p > 0.05).ConclusionsIt is difficult to perform intramedullary fixation of femoral intertrochanteric fractures in patients with preexisting proximal femoral deformity, while locking compression plate fixation is a simple and effective method of treatment.

Intramedullary Ulnar Fixation for the Treatment of Monteggia Fracture.

Although many pediatric Monteggia fractures can be treated nonoperatively, the presence of any residual radiocapitellar subluxation following ulnar reduction mandates a more aggressive approach to restore and maintain ulnar length. In younger children, restoration and maintenance of ulna length may be achieved through intramedullary fixation of the ulnar shaft. A Steinmann pin or flexible intramedullary nail is introduced percutaneously through the olecranon apophysis and advanced within the medullary canal to the ulnar fracture site. If necessary, the ulnar length and alignment are then restored by either a closed reduction or open reduction. The pin or nail is advanced across the fracture site into the distal fracture fragment and then advanced to a point just proximal to the distal ulnar physis. Once restoration of normal radiocapitellar alignment is verified fluoroscopically, the pin is bent and cut outside of the skin and a cast or splint is applied. Closed reduction and cast immobilization is a well-accepted form of treatment for a Monteggia fracture. If ulnar length and alignment along with an anatomic reduction of the radiocapitellar joint can be achieved in this fashion, surgery can be avoided, but close radiographic follow-up is recommended to assess for loss of alignment with subsequent radial-head subluxation. Open reduction and internal fixation with use of a plate-and-screw construct can achieve similar results to intramedullary fixation and should be considered for length-unstable fractures and those in which an appropriately sized intramedullary implant fails to maintain adequate ulnar alignment. If plastic deformation of the ulna is present with residual radiocapitellar subluxation following reduction of the ulnar diaphysis, consideration should be given to elongating the ulna through the fracture site with use of plate fixation in order to allow reduction of the radial head. Intramedullary fixation provides several benefits over open reduction and plate fixation for these injuries. In general, treatment can be rendered with a shorter anesthetic time, less scarring, and without the concern for symptomatic retained hardware associated with plating along the subcutaneous boarder of the ulna shaft. Compared with nonoperative treatment, intramedullary fixation of length-stable Monteggia fractures has lower rates of recurrent radial-head subluxation and loss of ulnar alignment requiring subsequent operative treatment1. If healing is achieved without residual radiocapitellar instability, good elbow function can be expected. The entry point for the intramedullary implant should be slightly radial to the tip of the olecranon apophysis to compensate for the anatomic varus bow of the proximal aspect of the ulna.Intramedullary fixation is ideal for length-stable ulnar fractures. If a comminuted or long oblique fracture is present, an intramedullary device may not maintain ulnar length, leading to residual or recurrent radiocapitellar instability. For length-unstable fractures, therefore, a plate-and-screw construct should be considered.No more than 3 attempts should be made to pass the intramedullary implant into the distal ulnar segment by closed means in order to limit the risk of iatrogenic compartment syndrome.If anatomic alignment of the radiocapitellar joint is not achieved following an apparent anatomic reduction of the ulna, assess for plastic deformation of the ulna and consider open elongation of the ulna through the fracture site with use of plate fixation.Following fixation and radial-head reduction, immobilize the forearm in the position of maximal radiocapitellar stability (typically in supination).

A Simple Procedure for a Common Problem: Screw/Blade Exchange for Symptomatic Lateral Hardware Associated With Fracture Compression Following Dynamic Cephalomedullary Fixation of Pertrochanteric Hip Fractures

A Simple Procedure for a Common Problem: Screw/Blade Exchange for Symptomatic Lateral Hardware Associated With Fracture Compression Following Dynamic Cephalomedullary Fixation of Pertrochanteric Hip Fractures

Treatment of peri-implant refracture after intramedullary nail fixation for intertrochanteric fractures

To investigate the occurrence, treatment, and effectiveness of peri-implant refracture after intramedullary nail fixation for intertrochanteric fractures. The clinical data of 16 patients with peri-implant refracture after intramedullary nail fixation for intertrochanteric fractures who met the inclusion criteria between April 2014 and November 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 7 males and 9 females with an average age of 78.4 years (range, 65-93 years). The 14 cases of initial intertrochanteric fractures were classified according to the classification of AO/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA): 5 cases of type A1, 7 cases of type A2, and 2 cases of type A3; the other 2 cases were intertrochanteric combined with subtrochanteric fractures (Seinsheimer type Ⅴ). According to the classification of peri-implant refracture which was proposed by Chan et al., there were 10 cases of type 1 (6 cases of type 1A, 3 cases of type 1B, 1 case of type 1C) and 6 cases of type 2 (4 cases of type 2A and 2 cases of type 2B). The average interval between refracture and initial surgery was 14.6 months (range, 1-52 months). The incidence of peri-implant refracture in short nail group (the length of intramedullary nail used in initial surgery≤240 mm) was 1.92% (11/573), while the incidence of long nail group (the length of intramedullary nail used in initial surgery≥340 mm) was 1.66% (5/301), showing no significant difference between the two groups ( χ 2=0.073, P=0.786). The peri-implant refractures were revised with extended intramedullary nail (5 cases) or fixed with additional limited invasive stabilization system (11 cases). The average operation time was 115.8 minutes (range, 78-168 minutes) and the average intraoperative blood loss was 283.1 mL (range, 120-500 mL). One patient died of myocardial infarction at 3 months after operation, and the other 15 patients were followed up 9-46 months (mean, 16.8 months). The peri-implant refractures healed at 14-20 weeks (mean, 16.4 weeks) after operation. There was no complications such as incision infection, nonunion, internal fixator loosening and rupture, screw cutting-out, and the second refracture during the follow-up. At last follow-up, all injured limbs regained walking function, and the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score was 56-92 (mean, 80.2). The results were classified as excellent in 2 cases, good in 10, fair in 2, and poor in 1, with the excellent and good rate of 80%. Stress concentration at the tip of initial intramedullary nail and distal interlocking screw aera is the main cause of peri-implant refracture after intramedullary nail fixation for intertrochanteric fractures. Revision with extended intramedullary nail or fixation with limited invasive stabilization system according to the length of initial intramedullary nail and the type of refracture can get satisfactory effectiveness.

Distal locking of short cephalomedullary nails decreases varus collapse in unstable intertrochanteric fractures – a biomechanical analysis

Peritrochanteric fractures are a growing problem and complications relating to operative fixation of these fracture, including varus collapse and screw cutout, are common in elderly osteoporotic patients. We hypothesize that unlocked nails will demonstrate increased varus collapse and inferior construct stiffness in specimens with increased diaphyseal medullary diameter. Sixteen non-cadaveric osteoporotic biomechanical femur specimens were utilized in this study, with eight specimens having an artificially large femoral canal to represent Dorr C femurs. All femurs were instrumented with a short cephalomedullary nail with and without distal cross-lock screw fixation and had an unstable intertrochanteric fracture created in a repeatable pattern. Specimens underwent cyclic compression to a maximal load of 1000N with segmental motion quantified through the use of visual tracking markers. Statistical comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc analysis to determine differences between specific groups. Significance was defined as p<0.05. Unlocked short cephalomedullary nails showed increased varus collapse due to motion of the nail within the femoral canal in capacious femoral canals compared with narrow femoral canals and distally cross-locked nails. The coronal deformation of the wide canal unlocked group (17.9 o±2.6o) was significantly greater in the varus direction than any other fixation under compressive load of 1000N. There was no significant difference in varus angulation between the wide canal or narrow canal locked groups (11.1o±8.7o vs. 8.2o±1.7o respectively, p=0.267). The narrow canal unlocked group (13.7o±2.4o) showed significantly greater varus angulation than the narrow canal locked (p=0.015). The wide canal unlocked group showed significantly greater varus angulation than the wide canal locked group (p=0.003). Motion between the femoral shaft and the cephalomedullary nail (toggling of the nail within the shaft) was significantly greater in narrow or wide canal unlocked specimens, 7.94o±2.13o and 10.2o±1.7o respectively, than in the narrow or wide canal locked specimens, 2.4o±0.2o and 4.2o±0.5o respectively (p<0.05) CONCLUSION: Unlocked short intramedullary fixation for unstable peritrochanteric fractures results in increased varus collapse under axial compression. This study supports the use of distal cross-locking of short intramedullary fixation for unstable peritrochanteric fractures in patients with capacious femoral canals secondary to osteoporosis who might otherwise be as risk for varus collapse, device failure, and malunion.

Suprapatellar versus infrapatellar nailing for tibial shaft fractures: A comparison of surgical and clinical outcomes between two approaches

BackgroundTibial shaft fractures are a relatively common injury and contemporary treatment includes on-axis fixation with a locked intramedullary nail in the majority of cases. The conventional technique is via an infrapatellar approach but currently there is a trend towards the use of a suprapatellar approach. We compared key variables including operative time, radiation exposure and early patient reported outcomes when adopting a suprapatellar approach to tibial nailing in our unit versus our previous experience of infrapatellar tibial nailing. MethodTwenty-eight consecutive patients with tibial fracture underwent tibial nailing via the suprapatellar (SPN) approach. Six patients in the study group were excluded due polytrauma and need for dual orthopaedic and plastic surgery management. We compared outcomes with our most recent 20 consecutive patients who had undergone tibial nailing via an infrapatellar (IPN) approach. Primary surgical outcomes were: operative time, radiation exposure and accuracy of entry point of the nail on both anteroposterior and lateral radiographs. Clinical outcomes included time to weightbearing, time to radiographic union and patient-reported outcome score (Lysholm score). ResultsForty-eight consecutive patients underwent intramedullary nail fixation for tibial shaft fractures and 42 were eligible for inclusion in our study (22 SPN vs 20 IPN). There were no significant differences in patient demographics or injury patterns between the two groups. Operative time and radiation exposure were significantly lower in the SPN group when compared to the IPN group (115 min vs 139 min ± 12.5) (36 cGY/cm2 vs 76.33 cGY/cm2 +/- 20.1). Furthermore, patients in the SPN group reported superior outcome scores at a mean follow up of 3 months (8–24 weeks) There were no observed differences in complication rate between groups and time of final clinical follow up at a minimum of 6 months. ConclusionOur study shows that adoption of the SPN approach requires minimal learning curve, and has the potential benefits of reduced operative time, radiation exposure and superior patient reported outcomes when compared to the conventional infrapatellar approach.

Complications after fibula intramedullary nail fixation of pilon versus ankle fractures

BackgroundIntramedullary nail (IMN) fixation of the fibula in malleolar ankle fractures has been shown to result in less wound complications then plate fixation. Therefore, IMN fibula fixation may also be associated with lower rates of wound complications when used for higher-risk pilon fractures. The purpose of this study was to compare complications of fibula IMN fixation in pilon versus malleolar ankle fractures. MethodsA retrospective cohort comparison was performed at an urban level one trauma center involving fibula fractures in 47 patients with AO/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) type 43 fractures and 48 patients with AO/OTA type 44 fractures being treated with fibula IMN fixation. Complications, fibula-specific complications, revision surgeries, and implant removals were reviewed. ResultsThere was no detectable difference in complications (27% vs. 23%, 95% confidence interval of the odds ratio (CIOR) 0.5 to 3.2), fibular-specific complications (6% vs. 10%, CIOR 0.1 to 3.5), revision surgeries (4% vs. 4%, CIOR 0.1 to 7.5), or symptomatic fibula implant removals (13% vs. 21%, CIOR 0.1 to 1.6) between pilon and ankle fracture groups, respectively. There was one (2%) fibular nonunion and one wound complication (2%) in each of the fracture groups. ConclusionFibula IMN fixation of pilon versus ankle fractures resulted in a similar number of complications. Comparative studies of fibula IMN and plate fixation are necessary to determine if the benefits of fibula IMN in ankle fractures extends to pilon fractures. Level of evidenceLevel III, retrospective cohort.

Functional and radiological outcome of short intramedullary nail for the treatment of unstable pertrochanteric fractures

Introduction: Intertrochanteric or pertrochanteric fractures of the femur are commonest fractures encountered in day-to-day orthopaedic practice and the most devastating injuries of old age. The incidence of this fracture increases with age even though the femur's neck is more common in the oldest.Aim: Our study aims to assess the radiological and functional outcome of Intramedullary fixation of unstable pertrochanteric fractures with Trochanteric Fixation Nail.Methods: Patients with unstable pertrochanteric fractures according to Boyd and griffin classification type-2, 3 & 4 injury between 25 to 85 years were included. Study parameters like the interval between injury and surgery, Boyd and griffin classification, operating time, c-arm exposure, blood loss fracture union, unaided weight-bearing, functional outcomes and complications were collected.Results: Out of 20 patients operating time less than 35mins for 1 patients, 45-60mins for 14 patients, 61-75mins for 3 patients and 76-90mins for 2 patients, fracture union between 6-10 weeks for 14 patients and 11-15 weeks for 6 patients, weight-bearing in 0-6 weeks for 16 patients,7-10 weeks for 2 patients and 11-15 weeks for 2 patients, functional outcome is excellent for 16 patients and good for 4 patients and complications like abductor lurch for 4 patients, screw breakage for 2 patients and screw back out for 1 patient.Conclusion: The Trochanteric Fixation Nail (TFN) is a versatile load sharing device that can be used for the fixation of unstable pertrochanteric fractures with less blood loss and shorter operating time than the dynamic hip screw.

Evaluation and outcomes of surgical management of radius Sulna diaphyseal fracture using titanium elastic nailing system (TENS)

Introduction: Management of radius ulna diaphyseal fracture in the age group of 3–17 years. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of intramedullary fixation of radius ulna shaft fractures by using titanium elastic nailing system (TENS). Materials and methods: 40 pediatric patients (31 boys, 9 girls) aged 3–17 years with diaphyseal radius ulna fractures were treated by TENS fixation. The final results were evaluated by using criteria. Results: 100% Pediatric patients had excellent to good results radiological results and 95% Pediatric patients had excellent to good functional results. Conclusion: TENS is a safe and effective method for the treatment of pediatric radius ulna shaft fractures, because it is minimally invasive, relatively easy to use and shows very good functional and cosmetic results.

Incidence of radius shortening following intramedullary nail fixation for gunshot fractures: a retrospective radiological audit

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Intramedullary nail fixation is an option to manage highly comminuted fractures of the radius shaft resulting from gunshot wounds. However, complications including nail migration and malunion are well documented. We have noticed some patients presenting to our clinic with radiological shortening following nail fixation. This may result in chronic pain, reduced pronation and supination, poor grip strength and early onset arthrosis. This study aimed to quantify the incidence of radiological shortening following fixation of isolated gunshot wound (GSW) fractures of the radius with an intramedullary nail. Our secondary objectives were to identify if length of the zone of comminution and anatomical location of the fractures were risk factors for shortening, and to assess whether shortening was a result of surgical error, or whether shortening occurred over time. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of all (n = 40) isolated radius nails performed between January 2012 and January 2019. Two doctors assessed the latest anterior-posterior forearm X-ray of every patient, using the rule of perpendiculars to calculate ulnar variance (UV). Shortening was defined as a UV &gt; 5.0 mm. If the radius was deemed shortened by consensus, then the immediate postoperative X-ray was also assessed to gauge when shortening occurred. Anatomical location in thirds and length of comminution (mm) were also assessed. RESULTS: Forty patients with a mean age of 32 years (range 15-59) were included. Twelve patients' radiuses were assessed as radiologically short. All 12 were deemed to have been fixed short. One case shortened further over time. We found the incidence of shortening being dependent on the fracture location (p = 0.03), with the fractures occurring in the middle third of the arm shortening more. The measured zone of comminution between the shortened and non-shortened groups was not found to be statistically significant (p = 0.55). CONCLUSION: The radius nail remains useful to manage comminuted radius shaft fractures following GSW. Meticulous technique is needed to avoid radiological shortening, seen in 30% of our series. This can lead to chronic pain, reduced grip strength and early onset arthrosis. We found no evidence that shortening develops over time. We found that the incidence of shortening is dependent on fracture position but did not And any causative relationship between length of the zone of fracture comminution and shortening. Level of evidence: Level 4 Keywords: radial nail, shortening, gunshot

Development of a Nomogram to Predict Postoperative Transfusion in the Elderly After Intramedullary Nail Fixation of Femoral Intertrochanteric Fractures.

PurposeThe aim of our study was to explore the risk factors related to blood transfusion after intramedullary nail fixation of elderly femoral intertrochanteric fracture (FTF) and establish a nomogram prediction model.Patients and MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study including elderly FTF patients treated by intramedullary nail between January 2017 and December 2019. Perioperative information was obtained retrospectively, uni- and multivariate regression analyses were performed to determine risk factors for blood transfusion. A nomogram model was established to predict the risk of blood transfusion, and consistency coefficient (C-index) and correction curve were used to evaluate the prediction performance and consistency of the model.ResultsOf 148 patients, 119 were finally enrolled in the study and and 46 patients (38.7%) received a blood transfusion after the operation. Logistic regression analysis the female, lower preoperative Hb, ASA score >2, general anesthesia, and higher intraoperative blood loss were independently associated with the blood transfusion. The accuracy of the contour map for predicting transfusion risk was 0.910.ConclusionThese risk factors are shown on the nomogram and verified. Through the assessment of the risk of blood transfusion and the intervention of modifiable risk factors, we may be able to reduce the blood transfusion rate to a certain extent, so as to further guarantee the safety of the elderly patients during the perioperative period.

Outcomes of intramedullary steinmann pin fixation for concurrent fibula fracture in comminuted tibia shaft or distal metaphyseal tibia fractures

Background: Fracture of the tibia shaft accounts for 17% of lower extremity fractures, with concurrent fibula fracture in about 78% of these cases. Intramedullary fixation for fibula fractures can restore fibula alignment and thus facilitate fracture reduction, especially in cases with comminuted shaft or distal metaphyseal tibia fractures. Methods: Patients who had internal fixation of comminuted tibia shaft or distal metaphyseal tibia fracture and a concurrent fibular fracture treated with intramedullary Steinman pin fixation were included in this study. Patients' demographic data and fracture patterns were analyzed retrospectively. Postoperative X-rays were used for fracture union evaluation and alignment analysis. Results: Nine males and one female were included in the present study. Tibia fractures were classified as four OTA42 and as six OTA43, including one type I, two type II, one type IIIA, and three type IIIB open fractures. Intramedullary nail and locking plate were used as definitive fixation in four and six cases, respectively. Complications required additional surgeries including wound debridement for one patient, bone graft for three patients, and revision surgery from a broken plate to an intramedullary nail for one patient. A total of 14 fibula fractures were identified in ten patients due to four segmental fractures. Eight were Weber type C, one was Weber type B, and five were midshaft fractures. The mean duration of fibula fracture healing according to radiographs was 6.9 months. Conclusions: This study suggests that intramedullary Steinmann pin fixation for concurrent fibula fracture is a critical procedure when dealing with comminuted shaft or distal metaphyseal tibia fractures.

Orthopedic implant design from concept to final tested product: A design surgeon's experience

Background: Orthopedic surgeons are invariably faced with situations where contemporary surgical techniques and implants are not satisfactory for a specific clinical scenario. One such scenario frequently arises around the lack of implant choice for intramedullary fixation of radius and ulna fractures. We will describe our experience designing and testing a new radius and ulna nail, inclusive of protecting the underlying intellectual property. Design Process: Phase 1: Identifying a need: Current intramedullary forearm devices have abandoned the ability to place interlocking screws at the nondriving end and are therefore not length stable. As current nails only come in 20 mm length increments, this may pose challenges in attaining accurate anatomical length restoration. Phase 2: Concept: (1) Anatomically designed in terms of length, diameter, and radius of curvature. (2) Nail inventory that has the optimal choice of implants to manage the majority of forearm injuries. (3) Locking system at the nondriving end that is easily targeted and has an acceptable radiation exposure for freehand locking. Phase 3: Anatomical study: Multiplanar reconstruction of upper limb computer tomography angiography scans were used to analyze the forearm osteology of 98 individuals. Primary measurements included the lengths of both radius and ulna shafts, the minimum canal diameter size, the proximal shaft angle of the ulna, and the radius of curvature of the radius. The size of the proximal ulna and distal radius were also measured for design parameters of the nondriving end of the nail. Phase 4A: Prototype design: To improve the usability of these nails, the design priorities were set as: (1) Locking hole design. (2) Jig and instrument design for insertion and removal. (3) Pressure release during insertion. Phase 4B: Prototype testing: Prototype testing consisted of nail insertion into human cadaver forearm bones using the initial prototype and instruments. The design aspects of the implant such as the locking holes with X-ray-assisted screw insertion or the radius of curvature were also evaluated. Mechanical testing will also be done.

Intramedullary Screw Fixation of Mid-shaft Clavicle Fractures

Aim: To investigate the use of intramedullary screw for fixation of mid-shaft clavicle fractures including indications, preoperative planning, operative technique, and complications during the study period. Setting and design: Prospectively we used intramedullary screw for fixation of mid-shaft clavicle fractures either nondisplaced, minimally displaced guided by fluoroscopy. Patients and methods: The study included 20 patients after obtaining informed consent who underwent mid-shaft clavicle fractures using intramedullary screw fixation between February 2018 and January 2019.Statistical analysis used: The software for statistical package for social sciences for Windows 10 was used for all statistical calculations. Each variable was tested for its normal value using the Mann-Whitney Test and exact P values were calculated. Significance was set at the P value of less than 0.05.Results: All cases had “good to excellent” functional results according to the Constant and Murley shoulder score. Conclusion: Our results show that intramedullary screw fixation of mid-shaft clavicle fractures inserted from the lateral to the medial fragment is a simple, reliable and effective method of treatment with overall satisfactory functional and cosmetic results and low morbidity.

Quantitative Evaluation of Embolic Load in Femoral and Tibial Shaft Fractures Treated With Reamed Intramedullary Fixation.

To compare the volume of embolic load during intramedullary fixation of femoral and tibial shaft fractures. Our hypothesis was that tibial intramedullary nails (IMNs) would be associated with less volume of intravasation of marrow than IM nailing of femur fractures. Prospective observational study. Urban Level I trauma center. Twenty-three patients consented for the study: 14 with femoral shaft fractures and 9 with tibial shaft fractures. All patients underwent continuous transesophageal echocardiography, and volume of embolic load was evaluated during 5 distinct stages: postinduction, initial guide wire, reaming (REAM), nail insertion, and postoperative. Volume of embolic load was measured based on previously described luminosity scores. The embolic load based on fracture location and procedure stage was evaluated using a mixed effects model. The IMN procedure increased the embolic load by 215% (-12% to 442%, P = 0.07) in femur patients relative to tibia patients after adjusting for baseline levels. Of the 5 steps measured, REAM was associated with the greatest increase in embolic load relative to the guide wire placement and controlling for fracture location (421%, 95% confidence interval: 169%-673%, P < 0.01). Femoral shaft IMN fixation was associated with a 215% increase in embolic load in comparison with tibial shaft IMN fixation, with the greatest quantitative load during the REAM stage; however, both procedures produce embolic load. Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.