Minimal Internal Fixation Research Articles

English

The aim of the study was to evaluate the functional outcome in patients treated with proximal humeral fracture who were treated with minimally internal fixations like K-wires, osteosutures etc. Accurate definition of the type of fracture, patient compliance problems that limit rehabilitation medical co-morbidities affecting prognosis, and time from injury to treatment are critical factors affecting outcomes of these injuries. Additionally, technical factors in the surgical reconstruction of these fractures require surgical experience that few surgeons have the opportunity to develop. 2 About 2 to 3 % of upper extremity fractures occur in proximal humerus and 3/4 th of these fractures occur after 60 years of age and commonly seen in women. More than 85% of proximal humerus fractures are minimally displaced. In the remaining 15% of fractures, only a few are severe fracture dislocations, about which much debate is centered.3, 4 The aim of the study was to evaluate the functional outcome in patients treated with proximal humeral fracture who were treated with minimally internal fixations like K-wires, osteosutures etc. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted at PSG Institute of Medical Science and Research, Coimbatore. Our study was a retrospective study and involved 21 patients with proximal humerus fractures that were treated by minimal internal fixation. The age of our patients ranged from 21 to 70 years. Fractures were classified according to Neer's classification system. Patients were initially assessed for airway, breathing and circulation. Initial immobilization was done for the affected arm with a sling. Assessment was also done for associated injuries. Routine antero posterior and lateral radiographs were taken and CT-Scan was done if needed.

The Results of Closed Intramedullary Nailing for Intra-articular Distal Tibial Fractures

To evaluate the long-term radiological, clinical, and functional result of the intramedullary nailing in intra-articular distal tibia fractures. Retrospective clinical study. Level II Trauma Hospital. Between December 2000 and December 2006, 185 consecutive intra-articular distal tibia fractures were admitted in our institution. Fifty fractures were included in the study. According to the OTA classification, there were 28 (56%) fractures type 43 C1 and 22 (44%) type 43 C2. All fractures were treated with closed static intramedullary nailing with distal locking. In 37 (74%) patients, reduction of the articular extension of the fracture with additional internal fixation preceded the nailing. Fibula fixation was applied in 32 (64%) fractures. Routine dynamization of the fixation was performed in all cases at a mean time of 10 weeks postoperatively. The mean follow-up was 42 months (range: 36-54 months). Leg length, tibia alignment, articular reduction, and ankle arthrosis were assessed radiographically. The clinical outcome was assessed using the Olerud-Molander score. The functional limitation was assessed using the musculoskeletal functional assessment. All fractures healed at an average of 16.3 weeks (range: 14-28 weeks). Anatomic reduction of the articular surface was obtained in all fractures. The average coronal plane deformity was 0.74 degree (range: 0-4 degrees) and the average sagittal plane deformity was 0.62 degree (range, 0-4 degrees). The mean Olerud-Molander score was 92.8/100 (range: 80-100). The average short musculoskeletal function assessment score was 34.55 ± 31.88 (range: 0.8-96). Intramedullary nailing augmented with minimal internal fixation is a safe alternative for the treatment of distal tibial fractures with a simple articular extension. Because all objectives of the treatment were obtained, the results did not deteriorate over time. Therapeutic level IV. See instructions for authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Percutaneous Plating of the Proximal Humerus

Percutaneous plating was developed in an attempt to address the issues of humeral head necrosis associated with open reduction through an extensive approach and insufficient primary stability associated with previous attempts at limited exposure with minimal internal fixation. Our minimally invasive approach consists of 2 separate mini-incisions. The proximal incision is a direct anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach of <5 cm that exposes the humeral head and tuberosities. The distal incision of 1 to 2 cm exposes the humeral shaft and distal part of the plate. Before plate insertion underneath the deltoid, the axillary nerve must absolutely be identified and protected to prevent entrapment. The block guide attachment to the plate cannot be safely used as it stretches directly the nerve at the distal edge. With our approach, indirect reduction techniques are needed to achieve good reduction. Ideal fracture types include 2-part surgical neck fractures, isolated greater tuberosity fractures, and all valgus-type injuries. With increased experience, indications can be extended to many 3-part fractures and some 4 parts. Good outcomes can be expected if patients are well selected.

Management of high-energy bicondylar tibial plateau fractures by minimal internal fixation and the ilizarov frame: the knee function

Management of comminuted bicondylar tibial plateau fractures remains a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. Studies of long-term outcomes of treatment of the tibial plateau have included a mixture of fracture types, including low-energy split and split-depressed fractures. Thus, the middle- to long-term results of management of high-energy fractures are still lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knee function and development of arthrosis after a minimum of 3 years in high-energy tibial plateau fractures treated by the Ilizarov external fixator. This is a retrospective study performed at an academically supervised level III, trauma center, in which percutaneous and/or limited open internal fixation and an Ilizarov frame were applied for displaced bicondylar high-energy tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker types V and VI, and Orthopedic Trauma Association types C1, C2, and C3). There were 55 patients in this study and they were followed for a minimum of 3 years. Completion of the Iowa knee score, and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) General Health Survey, was a must. After healing, none of the studied patients needed a secondary reconstructive procedure. The knee motion ranged between 15° of extension and 155° of flexion, with an average of 88 % of the total arc of the contralateral knee. The average Iowa knee score was 94 points (range, 65 to 100 points), at the final follow-up visit. Twenty-eight patients rated their outcome as excellent; 17, as good; and 10, as fair. All the studied patients returned to their previous original works. Thirty-five of them were performing strenuous labor. At the final follow-up visit, there were arthrosis grade 1 in the X-rays of 25 patient, grade 2 in 10, grade 3 in 2, and no evidence of arthrosis was found in 18 X-rays (grade 0). Compared with the radiographic appearance 3 years after surgery, there was no evidence of progression of arthrosis in 42 patients, while arthrosis progressed for one grade in 13 patients. The SF-36 subscale scores were similar to those of age-matched controls. Patients suffering from high-energy bicondylar tibial plateau fractures could be safely treated by minimal internal fixation and Ilizarov external fixation. This procedure has good prognosis for satisfactory knee function for up to 16 years of follow-up. The intra-articular displacement should be reduced properly, and only very minimal displacements are accepted. This leads to a better knee function and low arthrosis rate.

Treatment of complicated distal tibial fractures in diabetic patients

Background The treatment of fractures of the distal tibia is associated with high complication rates. Diabetes mellitus places patients at an increased risk for complications following distal tibia fractures whether treated conservatively or surgically. However, this risk is specific to patients with comorbidities of diabetes. There has been debate on the ideal method for the treatment of these patients because much of the literature has highlighted the extremes of potentially poor outcomes. Less invasive techniques for realignment of distal tibial fractures and reduction of the articular fragments using an Ilizarov fixator with or without minimal internal fixation have been recommended as reliable and safe methods for the treatment of these patients. Patients and methods Between June 2008 and January 2012, 25 patients with type II diabetes mellitus receiving oral and/or insulin for blood sugar control, with complicated distal tibia fractures, were treated using an Ilizarov fixator. All patients presented within 6 months from their primary treatment in other centers. Fifteen patients were treated conservatively in a cast or braces. Ten patients were treated surgically. All patients presented with nonunited fractures and 22 patients had varus malalignment. Ten of the 15 patients who were treated conservatively had deep pressure sores. Assessment of the ankle brachial index and vascular Doppler study were used as noninvasive techniques to verify the vascularity in the affected limb. Results In all patients, the fractures healed, with no need for any procedure to enhance healing. All patients were followed up for 12 months after fixator removal. The average time in an external fixator was 18.1 weeks (average12–22 weeks). On the final follow-up, none of the patients had a long-term sequel of infection. Malunion with less than 5π varus occurred in five patients. None of the patients developed Charcot neuroarthropathy or required amputation during the treatment or at the final follow-up. Long-term bracing for up to 6 months after frame removal was required in five patients with varus malalignment and in the patient who had a proximal fracture. Conclusion Diabetic patients with recent or complicated distal tibia fractures having one or more diabetic comorbidities, but with good peripheral vascularity and continuous control of blood sugar level, they can be treated using an Ilizarov external fixator with a lower complication rate than open reduction and internal fixation procedures and with results comparable to those of nondiabetic patients.

Distal tibial pilon fractures (AO/OTA type B, and C) treated with the external skeletal and minimal internal fixation method

Distal tibial pilon fractures include extra-articular fractures of the tibial metaphysis and the more severe intra-articular tibial pilon fractures. There is no universal method for treating distal tibial pilon fractures. These fractures are treated by means of open reduction, internal fixation (ORIF) and external skeletal fixation. The high rate of soft-tissue complications associated with primary ORIF of pilon fractures led to the use of external skeletal fixation, with limited internal fixation as an alternative technique for definitive management. The aim of this study was to estimate efficacy of distal tibial pilon fratures treatment using the external skeletal and minimal internal fixation method. We presented a series of 31 operated patients with tibial pilon fractures. The patients were operated on using the method of external skeletal fixation with a minimal internal fixation. According to the AO/OTA classification, 17 patients had type B fracture and 14 patients type C fractures. The rigid external skeletal fixation was transformed into a dynamic external skeletal fixation 6 weeks post-surgery. This retrospective study involved 31 patients with tibial pilon fractures, average age 41.81 (from 21 to 60) years. The average follow-up was 21.86 (from 12 to 48) months. The percentage of union was 90.32%, nonunion 3.22% and malunion 6.45%. The mean to fracture union was 14 (range 12-20) weeks. There were 4 (12.19%) infections around the pins of the external skeletal fixator and one (3.22%) deep infections. The ankle joint arthrosis as a late complication appeared in 4 (12.90%) patients. All arthroses appeared in patients who had type C fractures. The final functional results based on the AOFAS score were excellent in 51.61%, good in 32.25%, average in 12.90% and bad in 3.22% of the patients. External skeletal fixation and minimal internal fixation of distal tibial pilon fractures is a good method for treating all types of inta-articular pilon fractures. In fractures types B and C dynamic external skeletal fixation allows early mobility in the ankle joint.

Treatment of Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures With Combined Transarticular External Fixation and Minimal Internal Fixation

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes after surgery for displaced intra-articular fractures using an external fixator and minimal internal fixation. In this retrospective observational study, a total of 39 patients (32 [82%] men and 7 [18%] women) with 48 displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures were included. An extended lateral approach was used to stabilize fractures using multiple sagittal plane screws, axial percutaneous threaded Kirschner wires for the frontal fracture plane, and an external fixator for reduction assistance and maintenance. The following variables were assessed: preoperative and postoperative Böhler's angle; calcaneal length, height, and width; postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores; and complications. Mean duration of follow-up was 74 ± 26 months. The mean time from surgery to external fixator removal was 12 ± 1 weeks. The mean preoperative Böhler's angle (-3 ± 21 degrees), calcaneal length (7.9 ± 0.6 cm), and calcaneal height (3.6 ± 0.5 cm) were significantly increased (P < .05) at final follow-up (28.3 ± 6.5, 8.3 ± 0.6, and 4.5 ± 0.5, respectively), whereas the mean preoperative calcaneal width (4.2 ± 0.5) was significantly decreased from the final follow-up mean (3.8 ± 0.5). There were no significant differences between any of the normal and postoperative measures. The mean AOFAS score was 82 ± 12. Complications included superficial pin tract infection (n = 7, 15%), superficial wound edge necrosis (n = 4, 8%), and deep infection (n = 2, 4%). Our findings suggest that use of an external fixator with minimal internal fixation is an effective option for treating displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Management of simple (types A and B) closed tibial shaft fractures using percutaneous lag-screw fixation and Ilizarov external fixation in adults

Although intramedullary fixation of closed simple (type A or B) diaphyseal tibial fractures in adults is well tolerated by patients, providing lower morbidity rates and better mobility, it is associated with some complications. This study evaluated the results of managing these fractures using percutaneous minimal internal fixation using one or more lag screws, and Ilizarov external fixation. This method was tested to evaluate its efficacy in immediate weight bearing, fracture healing and prevention of any post-immobilisation stiffness of the ankle and knee joints. This randomised blinded study was performed at a referral, academically supervised, level III trauma centre. Three hundred and twenty-four of the initial 351 patients completed this study and were followed up for a minimum of 12 (12-88) months. Patient ages ranged from 20 to 51 years, with a mean of 39 years. Ankle and knee movements and full weight bearing were encouraged immediately postoperatively. Solid union was assessed clinically and radiographically. Active and passive ankle and knee ranges of motion were measured and compared with the normal side using the Wilcoxon signed rank test for matched pairs. Subjective Olerud and Molander Ankle Score was used to detect any ankle joint symptoms at the final follow-up. No patient showed delayed or nonunion. All fractures healed within 95-129 days. Based on final clinical and radiographic outcomes, this technique proves to be adequate for managing simple diaphyseal tibial fractures. On the other hand, it is relatively expensive, technically demanding, necessitates exposure to radiation and patients are expected to be frame friendly.

Outcomes of open bicondylar tibial plateau fractures treated with Ilizarov external fixator with or without minimal internal fixation

This study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of treatment for open fractures of the tibial plateau using external circular fixation combined with or without limited internal fixation. Twenty-five patients (16 males and 9 females) with open fracture tibial plateau were treated with circular external fixator with minimal internal fixation. The mean age of the patients was 36years (range between 23 and 62years). According to AO classification system, there was six (24%) C1, eleven (44%) C2, and eight (32%) C3. According to Gustilo and Anderson classification, seven (28%) were grade 1; nine (36%), grade 2; six (24%), grade 3b; and three (12%), grade 3c. According to ASAMI score, Italy, the results were excellent in 8 (32%) cases, good in 12 (48%) cases, and fair in five (20%) patients. The patients' satisfaction was significantly related to the functional results (p<0.05). Complications included skin gaping in one case 10days postoperatively. Pin tract infection was seen in 20% of cases, one case showed deep infection and no cases of septic arthritis. There is no correlation between the final outcome and articular depression (p>0.05). Ilizarov external fixator provides acceptable outcomes but with a high rate of complication rate, typical of this type of fracture. It avoids extensive soft tissue dissection.

High energy tibial plateau fractures treated with hybrid external fixation

Management of high energy intra-articular fractures of the proximal tibia, associated with marked soft-tissue trauma, can be challenging, requiring the combination of accurate reduction and minimal invasive techniques. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether minimal intervention and hybrid external fixation of such fractures using the Orthofix system provide an acceptable treatment outcome with less complications. Between 2002 and 2006, 33 patients with a median ISS of 14.3 were admitted to our hospital, a level I trauma centre, with a bicondylar tibial plateau fracture. Five of them sustained an open fracture. All patients were treated with a hybrid external fixator. In 19 of them, minimal open reduction and stabilization, by means of cannulated screws, was performed. Mean follow-up was 27 months (range 24 to 36 months). Radiographic evidence of union was observed at 3.4 months (range 3 to 7 months). Time for union was different in patients with closed and grade I open fractures compared to patients with grade II and III open fractures. One non-union (septic) was observed (3.0%), requiring revision surgery. Pin track infection was observed in 3 patients (9.1%).Compared to previously reported series of conventional open reduction and internal fixation, hybrid external fixation with or without open reduction and minimal internal fixation with the Orthofix system, was associated with satisfactory clinical and radiographic results and limited complications.

Surgical treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture using a single small lateral approach

The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcome of semi-open reduction and minimal internal fixation through a single small lateral approach as a minimally invasive technique for treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. This prospective study was conducted on eighteen patients (16 men and 2 women). The average age was 37.7 (22–55). The most common cause of injury was a fall from height in fourteen patients. Patients were operated on within a mean time of 4.8 days of admission (1–11 days) and were followed up for an average period of 24.1 months (6–39 months). Patients were evaluated clinically using the Creighton-Nebraska Heath Foundation Assessment score of Crosby and Fitzgibbons (J Bone Joint Surg (Am) 72-A:852–859, 1990). The scoring system proposed by Knirk and Jupiter was used for radiological assessment of the posterior subtalar joint (Knirk and Jupiter in J Bone Joint Surg (Am) 68-A: 647–659, 1986). The skin incision healed in all cases without necrosis, infection, or sural nerve injury. All fractures healed after an average of 8 weeks (7–10 weeks), and patients returned to the routine daily activities after an average time of 4.3 months (3–7 months). In conclusion, semi-open reduction and minimal internal fixation through a small lateral approach is an effective treatment for carefully selected cases of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Combination of Fine Wire Fixation and Limited Internal Fixation for High-Energy Tibial Plateau Fractures: Functional Results at Minimum 5-Year Follow-up

To assess knee function and the development of knee arthrosis, at 3 and 5 years postoperatively, in high-energy tibial plateau fractures that were treated with minimal internal fixation augmented by small wire circular frames. Level II trauma hospital. : Retrospective study. Between October 1988 and December 1999, 145 consecutive high-energy tibial plateau fractures were treated with hybrid fixation including small wire circular or hybrid frames, minimal internal fixation, and occasionally provisional extension of the external fixation to the distal femur. One hundred twenty-seven patients with 129 fractures (89%) were included in the study. There were 68 (53%) C1, 20 (15%) C2, and 41 (32%) C3 fractures. Forty-seven (36.5%) of the total were open fractures. Clinical, subjective, objective, and radiographic results were evaluated at the time of union, at a minimum 3 years postoperatively, and at final minimum follow-up of 5 years. Results were assessed according to the Honkonen-Jarvinen criteria. An excellent or good subjective result was noted in 106 fractures (82%) at a minimum 3-year follow-up, whereas an excellent or good score was achieved in 101 fractures (78%) at a minimum 5 years. A statistically significant deterioration (P = 0.001) of the post-traumatic radiographic arthritis was recorded at 5 years postoperatively. High-energy tibial plateau fractures treated with minimal internal fixation augmented by small wire external fixation frames yielded a high percentage of cases exhibiting radiographic post-traumatic arthritis. However, because all the objectives of fracture treatment seemed to be obtained, the functional results remain satisfactory over time.

External fixation combined with minimal invasion internal fixation for complex diaphyses fracture combined with femur condyle fractures

Objective To discuss external fixation method for the complex diaphyses fracture involving condyles of femur and evaluate its clinical efficacy.Methods A retrospective study was done on 42 patietns with comminuted femur diaphyses fracture combined with distal intra-articular fractures treated surgically from January 2001 to Janurary 2007.There were 24 males and 18 females at mean age of 33 years (20-66 years).According to AO/ASIF classification,there were 18 patients with type C2 fractures and 24 with type C3 ones.Simple internal fixation plus external fixation was performed on patitents with C3 fractures but only external fixation on those with C2 fractures.Four patients were treated with intramedular fixation.Results All patients were followed up for 1-12 months.According to Kotmert's assessment standard on function of proximal femur,the knee function was satisfactory in 35 patients (83% ) ,good in six (14% ) and unsatisfactory in one (2% ).Conclusions Minimally invasive external fixation can utmostly restore relative length of the femur and regulate between articular face of the femur and longitudinal axis of femur shaft to reach a symmetrical relation with middle and inferior part of opposite femur.Postoperative exercise is important for maximal recovery of the knee function.Attention should be paid to reconstruction of tubiform structure of the femur. Key words: Femoral fractures; Fracture fixation; External fixators

Treatment Strategies for Complex Fractures of the Tibial Plateau With External Circular Fixation and Limited Internal Fixation

We intended to evaluate the technique of treatment of complex fractures of the tibial plateau using external circular fixation combined with limited internal fixation, and to evaluate the treatment outcomes. From 1992 to 2002, we treated 59 patients (40 men, 19 women) ranging in age from 23 to 63 years with the external circular fixation. All the cases were classified preoperatively as Schatzker types V, VI/Orthopedic Trauma Association 41-C1.3, C2.3, C3.1, C3.3. Five fractures were open. Three different strategies of treatment were used: (1) the frame is confined to the tibia when the external fixation is stable enough to allow knee bending; (2) the frame is extended onto the distal femur, with the proximal tibial ring located at the level of the tibial plateau when the joint surface is severely unstable; and (3) the frame is extended onto the distal femur, with the proximal tibial ring located more distally, bypassing the fracture, when the skin and soft tissue are compromised and within the fracture there is no bone suitable to place wires and pins for the external fixation construct. The results were evaluated as excellent in 30 patients (50.85%), good in 27 patients (45.76%), fair in 1 patient (1.695%), and poor in another 1 (1.695%). The patients' satisfaction was significantly related with the functional results. Our hybrid Ilizarov method combined with minimal internal fixation enables excellent to good results in most cases of complex tibial plateau fractures.

Outcome of open comminuted tibial plateau fractures treated using an external fixator

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of open severe comminuted tibial plateau fractures treated with minimal internal fixation and circular external fixation frames. MethodsFifteen open comminuted tibial plateau fractures were involved in this retrospective study. In eight knees, the fracture was reduced through an extended open traumatic wound. In seven patients, another limited incision over the major fracture line or area of comminution was performed to assist in reducing the articular reduction. Simultaneous bone grafting, soft tissue reconstruction, and stabilization of the fracture using a circular external fixator were carried out. ResultsThe patients were followed for an average of 32 months (range 24–54 months). The average time to union of the fractures and frame removal was 22.8 weeks (range 16–44 weeks). The quality of the reduction of the joint surface was rated as anatomical in four patients, good in five patients, fair in three patients, and poor in three patients. Four patients experienced loss of articular reduction. The Knee Society Clinical Rating scores indicated that three knees were excellent, seven were good, one was fair, and four were poor. Complications included one case of septic arthritis, one of osteomyelitis, one of malunion, and four with loss of reduction. ConclusionsThis technique provided acceptable results for open severe comminuted fractures of the tibial plateau without comminuted posterior wall fractures. The most significant disadvantage of the technique is insufficient anatomical reduction and loss of reduction in comminuted posterior wall fractures in the coronal plane. This technique should be combined with a minimally invasive internal fixation method to prevent loss of reduction in open severe comminuted and irreducible tibial plateau fractures.

Open grade III “floating ankle” injuries: a report of eight cases with review of literature

"Floating ankle" injuries result from high-energy trauma and are usually associated with extensive soft tissue damage. Such rare and complex injuries in the acute phase pose therapeutic dilemma to the treating surgeon. When salvage instead of amputation is preferred, a variety of treatment options are available ranging from open reduction along with minimal internal fixation to external fixation. In this retrospective case series study we report eight patients with open "floating ankle" injuries who had been treated with external fixation with or without internal fixation. Eight consecutive patients (7M: 1F) with mean age of 28 years (range 18-35 years) were treated. All had Grade III open fractures of the distal tibia with foot fractures and various degrees of soft tissue injuries. ISS and MESS were used to assess injury severity. Immediate radical wound debridement; skeletal stabilization and early soft tissue coverage were done by combined trauma and plastic surgical services followed by standard post-operative rehabilitation. All the patients were assessed with SF-36 questionnaire at mean follow-up of 2.5 years (range 2-4 years). Three patients were treated primarily with Ilizarov ring fixators, one had hybrid fixation and the other four had Hoffman frames. Four patients needed further surgeries. One patient developed metatarsal osteomyelitis, which was debrided and treated with antibiotics. The SF-36 results were compared with age matched UK norms for men and women in all categories. Only two patients returned to their previous employment. Six suffered varying degrees of disability out of which one underwent amputation. External fixation with or without internal fixation is an option when salvaging rare injuries like open grade III "floating ankle" injuries. Salvaged patients do suffer a cocktail of crippling disease characterized by psycho-socio-economic and physical disability and result in increased hospital costs. We recommend more prospective studies with long-term follow-up of such complex injuries to identify the indications for salvage and also the criteria for a successful salvage.

(iii) Bernese periacetabular osteotomy

The periacetabular osteotomy is a strategy for the treatment of residual hip dysplasia in young adults with the aim of preventing secondary coxarthrosis. This polygonal, juxta-articular osteotomy respects the vascular blood supply to the acetabular fragment and thus facilitates an extensive acetabular reorientation with improvement of the insufficient coverage of the femoral head, including medial displacement of the fragment. All osteotomies are performed by one approach, the modified Smith-Petersen, which allows an anterior capsulotomy. Inspection of the joint not only provides information on acetabular rim pathologies, but also facilitates the control of impingement-free range of motion after the correction. The posterior column remains partially intact, allowing minimal internal fixation of the acetabular fragment and early mobilization similar to that after an intertrochanteric osteotomy. The dimensions of the true pelvis are unchanged, providing the capacity to have an unimpeded delivery in women. This paper describes the preoperative evaluation, current indications, surgical technique, postoperative care, and the results of this osteotomy.

External fixation combined with limited internal fixation in the treatment of pilon tibia fractures

Intraarticular fractures of the tibial plafond (pilon fractures) belong to the group of most severe fractures. They are usually caused by high-energy trauma and frequently associated with a marked soft-tissue damage. Surgical treatment has replaced the traditional nonoperative treatment. The aim of this study was to present the results of the treatment of distal tibial intraarticular fracture by the use of internal fixation, as well as the combination of minimal internal fixation and external fixation. The study included 47 patients with pilon tibia fractures who went through at the Clinic for Orthopedics and Traumatology, School of Medicine, Nis (1995-2004). Within the analayzed group there were 33 (70.2%) males and 14 (29.8%) females. The patients mean age was 45.8 years. In the first group, which consisted of 22 patients, open reduction and internal fixation of both the tibia and the fibula was performed in the two separate incisions. The second group consisted of 25 patients managed with external fixation by external fixator "Mitković" with limited internal fixation. Besides external fixation, a minimal internal fixation was performed by the use of Kirschner wires and screws. The patients were followed-up inside a 24-months-period. Results. The obtained was a substantially high number of complications after open reduction and internal fixation in the group of patients. There was no difference in a long-term clinical outcome. Postoperative osteitis, as the most severe complication in the management of closed pilon tibia fractures, was not registered in the second group. Considering the results obtained in this study, it can be concluded that external fixation by the "Mitković" external fixator with the minimal internal fixation is a satisfactory method for the tratment of fractures of the tibial plafond causing less complications than internal fixation.

Type C 1 and 2 Fractures of the Distal Femur Treated with a Retrograde Nail: Knee Recovery at Six Years Follow-Up

Purpose: The object of this study was to assess the function of the knee joint and the development of post-traumatic arthritis at a minimum of six years in patients in whom an intra-articular distal femoral fracture had been treated with a reamed retrograde intramedullary nail. Methods: This is a retrospective study of thirty intercondylar-supracondylar femoral fractures treated with a reamed retrograde nailing. According to the OTA classification, there were 19 (63 %) type C 1 fractures and 11 (37 %) type C 2 fractures. The operative technique included reduction of the fracture, minimal internal fixation and the insertion of a retrograde interlocked intramedullary nail. Follow-up ranged from 61 to 84 months (average: 72 months). Functional results were assessed using the Neer score and the radiographic appearance of post-traumatic arthritis using the Ahlback score. Results: Fourteen fractures (46.6 %) achieved an excellent Neer score and only three fractures (10 %) a poor Neer score. No correlation was found between the type of fracture and the final score (p = 0.763). No significant correlation was found between the final Ahlback and Neer scores (p = 0.162). Conclusions: A high percentage of radiographic post-traumatic arthritis should be expected after intra-articular femoral fractures that have been treated with intramedullary nailing. However, because all the objectives of the fracture treatment can be obtained, the functional results remain satisfactory over time.

Complex head-splitting fracture–dislocation of the proximal humerus successfully treated with minimal internal fixation: A case report and discussion

Complex head-splitting fracture–dislocation of the proximal humerus successfully treated with minimal internal fixation: A case report and discussion