Monolateral External Fixator Research Articles

Integrating 3D-printed customized guides with hemicorticotomy bone transport: clinical outcomes in chronic osteomyelitis management

PurposeChronic osteomyelitis with large bone defects remains a challenging condition in orthopedic surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of hemicorticotomy bone transport assisted by 3D-printed customized guides in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis with bone defects.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 21 patients with chronic osteomyelitis treated with hemicorticotomy bone transport with 3D-printed guide assistance between January 2015 and January 2021. Preoperative planning utilized 3D CT reconstruction for precise guide design and osteotomy placement. The surgical technique involved hemicorticotomy, placement of the 3D-printed guide, and gradual bone transport using a monolateral external fixator. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Association for the Study and Application of Methods of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system. The external fixation time (EFT), external fixation index (EFI), and complications evaluated using the Paley classification were recorded.ResultsThe mean bone defect size was 7.9 ± 2.0 cm. The average follow-up period was 28.6 ± 6.4 months. The mean external fixation time was 289.4 ± 52.7 days, with an external fixation index of 36.8 ± 4.2 days/cm. According to the ASAMI criteria, the bone results were excellent in 17 patients (81%), good in 3 (14%), and fair in 1 (5%). The functional results were excellent in 15 patients (71%), good in 4 (19%), and fair in 2 (10%). Complete eradication of the infection and union at the docking site were achieved in all patients. The complication rate was 38% and all of which were successfully managed.ConclusionHemicorticotomy bone transport assisted by 3D-printed customized guides is an effective treatment for chronic osteomyelitis with bone defects. This technique offers excellent bone healing, favorable functional results, and a relatively low complication rate. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings.

Effective Compression and a Minimally Invasive Rail Plate to Optimize Bone Transport in Distraction Osteogenesis: New Concepts.

Bone transport in distraction osteogenesis is an effective, well-known procedure. However, bone compression is an aspect of this technique for which there is no objective information. The lack of direct bone compression measurements may result in a lack of uniformity in the bone transport process, which can result in its ineffective application and may be contributing to its underutilization. This study describes the results of applying objectively measured compressions to achieve a distraction regeneration zone and docking site consolidation during bone transport in distraction osteogenesis. This prospective study describes the results of a single cohort of 32 patients who underwent distraction osteogenesis with bone transport utilizing a combination of a minimally invasive rail plate and monolateral external fixation. The patients were categorized into 2 groups: (1) those with hypertrophic, atrophic, or infectious pseudarthrosis-nonunion (the pseudarthrosis-nonunion group), and (2) those with bone loss due to trauma or osteomyelitis (the bone loss group). The initial bone compression was measured during the latency phase, and the final compression was measured during the distraction phase. The healing index, external fixation index, healing time, consolidation time, and docking time were calculated for each patient. The Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for comparisons between and within groups. In this study, 28 (88%) of the patients were male. The mean patient age was 44.93 ± 16.21 years. The median values were 3.2 Nm for the initial compression and 3.4 Nm for the final compression, with no significant difference between or within groups of patients. The osseous results were excellent in 29 patients (91%), and the functional results were good or excellent in 31 patients (97%). This study is the first to objectively measure compression in the bone transport process. Our findings showed that all patients who had an initial compression of ≥3.2 Nm achieved 100% consolidation of the distraction regeneration zone, and those who had a final compression of ≥2.9 Nm achieved complete docking site consolidation without complications. These 2 values thus represent effective compression and highlight the role of bone compression in bone transport. Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Results of LRS (Limb Reconstruction System) in Management of Infected Non Unions of Femur

Introduction: Infected non-union needs prolonged treatment and repeated surgeries which significantly impacts patient’s social, financial, physical and mental life. In relation to Ilizarov technique monolateral external fixator is less bulky, more comfortable and better tolerated by patient. In this study we aim to assess the union rates, infection control, alignment, complications and the functional outcome of infected femoral non-union managed with monolateral external fixator. Material and methods: This is a prospective interventional study carried out between June 2017 and June 2021 at tertiary care centre operated by a single surgeon. Patients diagnosed as infected non-union of femur clinically and radiologically and operated with monolateral external fixator were assessed. Functional and radiological assessment was done using ASAMI classification. Results: In our study 21 patients were operated which included 20 males (95.2%) and one female with mean follow up is 29.85 ± 11.42 months. The most common site of non-union is mid-shaft of the femur. The mean bone defect after debridement is 3.52 ± 2.23cm (1 -10cm). The mean time of bony union in our study is 180.65 days (range 95-740 days). The ASAMI classification of bone results is Excellent to good in 90% of patients. Conclusion: Our study suggested that the Limb reconstruction system can be successfully used in the management of infected non-union of femur as a stable fixation modality and achieve satisfactory outcome in terms of bony union and functional results. Pre-operatively planning of the LRS frame, radical debridement and maintaining stability of the LRS frame are key steps of the treatment.

Clinical and radiological outcomes of gunshot-induced femur fractures: a comparative study of monolateral external fixators and hybrid advanced ilizarov method

Aims: Clinical and radiological outcomes, complication rates, and 10-year follow-up results of comminuted femoral open fractures resulting from firearm injuries were evaluated by comparing the Hybrid Advanced Ilizarov method (HAIM) and monolateral external fixator (MEF) of the limb reconstruction system (LRS) for treatment.
 Methods: Nineteen patients (18 males, 1 female) treated with HAIM and 14 male patients treated with MEF-LRS for femoral comminuted open fractures due to firearm injuries were retrospectively analyzed. Complication rates, pin tract and deep infection rates, time to union, and the need for secondary surgeries were assessed. The Tegner activity score and Short Form-36 (SF-36) were used for comparative evaluation of functional and radiological outcomes and comfort levels with the fixator.
 Results: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, gender, follow-up duration, time to union, union rate, delayed union, or deep infection. No infections were detected in either group that required a change in the fixation method. There were no significant differences in radiological and functional outcomes between the groups. Significant differences were observed in terms of pin tract infections between the groups. The comfort level of MEF-LRS patients was significantly higher than that of HAIM patients.
 Conclusion: In the treatment of femoral fractures due to firearm injuries in early and long-term follow-ups, similar complication rates and functional outcomes were achieved for both MEF-LRS and HAIM methods. When considering external fixator preference, MEF-LRS is a better alternative, with a lower rate of pin tract infections and higher patient comfort level.

OUTCOMES OF OPEN TIBIA FRACTURES IN CHILDREN

Open tibia fractures are common injuries in our paediatric population and are often associated with high-energy trauma such as pedestrian-vehicle accidents. At our institution, these injuries are routinely treated with debridement and mono-lateral external fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine the outcome of open tibia fractures treated according to this protocol, as well as the complication rate and factors contributing to the development of complications.We performed a retrospective folder review of all patients with open tibia fractures that were treated according to our protocol from 2015–2019. Patients treated by other means, who received primary treatment elsewhere, and with insufficient data, were excluded. Data was collected on presenting demographics, injury characteristics, management, and clinical course. Complications were defined as pin tract infections, delayed- or non-union, malunion, growth arrest, and neurovascular injury. Appropriate statistical analysis was performed.One-hundred-and-fifteen fractures in 114 children (82 males) with a median age of 7 years (IQR 6–9) were included in the analysis. Pedestrian vehicle accidents (PVA's) accounted for 101 (88%) of fractures, and the tibial diaphysis was affected in 74 cases (64%). Fracture severity was equally distributed among the Gustillo-Anderson grades. The median Abbreviated Injury Score was 4 (IQR 4;5). Ninety-five fractures (83%) progressed to uneventful union within 7 weeks. Twenty patients (17%) developed complications, with delayed union and fracture site infections being the most common complications. Gustillo-Anderson Grade 3 fractures, an increased Abbreviated Injury Score, and the need for advanced wound closure techniques were risk factors for developing complications.Surgical debridement and external fixation in a simple mono-lateral frame is an effective treatment for open tibia fractures in children and good outcomes were seen in 83% of patients. More severe injuries requiring advanced wound closure were associated with the development of complications.

Gradual Correction of Valgus Deformities of the Tibia Using a Monolateral External Fixator.

To present a review of patients subjected to gradual correction of a valgus deformity of the tibia using a monolateral external fixator. This retrospective review included patients from January 2012 to May 2022 who met the following inclusion criteria: deviation of mechanical axis of the limb due to valgus deformity of the tibia; tibial deformity in the coronal plane on radiographic examination; a documented outpatient pre-operative evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon and age between 10 and 70 years. The following exclusion criteria were applied: the presence of another tibia deformity preventing gradual correction using the proposed assembly; skin conditions incompatible with the surgical procedure; inadequate pre- or post-operative radiological evaluation; and insufficient information in the medical records. The mean age of patients with a valgus deformity of the tibia was 30.8 ± 15.9 years. These patients had a body mass index (BMI) of 26.1 ± 5.5 kg/m2. A congenital or developmental aetiology was attributed to 58.3% of the cases. Most commonly, the deformity was found in the middle third of the tibia with a mean deformity of 14.7 ± 6.6 degrees. The total external fixator time ranged from 73 to 229 days (average 149.7 ± 36.1 days). The mean medial proximal and lateral distal tibial angles differed significantly for pre- and post-operative measurements (p ≤ 0.05). There were complications in eight cases; five cases of pin site infections, two cases of medial cortical fracture and one case of peroneal nerve neuropraxia. The proposed correction technique produces a satisfactory angular correction and with similar outcomes as described in the literature. Motta DP, Faria JLR, Couto A, et al. Gradual Correction of Valgus Deformities of the Tibia Using a Monolateral External Fixator. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2023;18(2):123-132.

Letter to the Editor regarding Liu et al.: 'Ulnar osteotomy and monolateral external fixator for the treatment of chronic Monteggia fractures in children: comparison between gradual and acute radial head reduction'.

Letter to the Editor regarding Liu et al.: 'Ulnar osteotomy and monolateral external fixator for the treatment of chronic Monteggia fractures in children: comparison between gradual and acute radial head reduction'.

Tibial Bone Loss: How to Treat without Circular Fixation?

Segmental tibial bone defects (STBD) represent a dilemma for the trauma surgeon; these defects could result from trauma, after debridement for infection, or after tumor resection. We aimed in this review to shed some light on the various reconstruction options without the need to use a circular fixator. Reconstruction options rely on various factors related to the patient, the surgeon, and the nature of the defect (location and size). Various reconstruction techniques include simple bone grafting (autograft or allografts), bone transport [distraction osteogenesis (DO)], induced membrane technique, and vascularized fibular graft. Fixation could be performed using either internal or external fixators; the latter could be a circular or a unilateral frame. Although circular frames (Ilizarov) fixators reported good results, they are still considered cumbersome, need special attention, carry pin tract infection risk, and could not be tolerated by patients. Hence, various other options were introduced, such as bone transport over an intramedullary nail (IMN), rail monolateral external fixator, and tibialisation of the ipsilateral fibula.

Ulnar osteotomy and monolateral external fixator for the treatment of chronic Monteggia fractures in children: comparison between gradual and acute radial head reduction.

This study evaluated the outcomes of chronic Monteggia fractures (CMFs) treated by ulnar osteotomy and monolateral external fixator (MEF), and compare the outcome of gradual versus acute radial head reduction. Two groups of patients were identified. Group 1: gradual reduction of the radial head ( n = 13); group 2: acute reduction ( n = 6). Clinical outcome was evaluated by Kim Elbow Score, whereas radiographic outcome was assessed on plain radiographs. The effect of age, side, time from initial trauma to surgery, rate of unplanned surgery, amount of angulation and lengthening, and final outcome were evaluated. Univariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with good radiographic outcome. Thirteen patients underwent gradual correction of the ulna. The mean duration of correction was 43.4 days (range, 21-82); the mean angulation and lengthening of the ulna were 22.8° (range, 0°-35°) and 22.2 mm (range, 12.2-40.9), respectively. Six patients underwent acute reduction intraoperatively, the mean angulation and lengthening of the ulna were 17.2° (range, 4°-33.9°) and 5.2 mm (range, 2.5-12.2), respectively. CMF treated by ulnar osteotomy and gradual distraction had better radiological outcome (Group 1; 92.3% 12/13) than those treated by acute reduction of the radial head (Group 2; 3/6, 50%) ( P = 0.071). Reoperation rate was found to be significantly correlated with a fair or poor radiographic results ( P = 0.016). Good clinical and radiological outcomes should be expected in CMF patients treated by gradual lengthening and angulation of the ulna with a MEF.

Bone Transport in the Management of Post-Osteomyelitis Tibial Defects in Pediatric Population. A Long Term Follow-up Study in Uganda

Background: This study was designed to evaluate the long-term results and complications of using the bone transport technique in the management of post-osteomyelitis tibial defects in a low income country. Design: Retrospective study in a cohort of pediatric patients. Methods: Twenty-two patients were included in the study; all patients were treated between 2005 and 2014. The mean age at time of surgery was 9.5 years. The mean bone defect was 8.2 cm. Transport was done using both ring and monolateral external fixators; the fixator stayed in place for 290 days on average. Clinical and radiological evaluations were performed after a minimum follow-up period of 7 years. Patients were interviewed by social workers with focus on the psychosocial and economic costs of the procedure. Results: The bone and soft tissues management required a total of ninety-one surgeries, with an average of four surgeries per child. Eradication of infection was obtained in all patients. Bone results were graded as excellent in 10, good in 7, fair in 2 and poor in 3. Functional results were graded as excellent in 8, good in 6, fair in 7 and poor in 1. Major and minor complications were numerous during the bone transport procedure. Three cases of non-union at the docking point were observed. Twelve patients had a limb length discrepancy, four had slight angular deformities. Reduced range of motion was observed both in the ankle (n=4) and knee (n=2). Seven joint fusions were noted, two knees and five ankles. Conclusion: Bone transport is a valid option in the management of bone defects in children, providing satisfactory long-term outcomes. Bone gaps, soft tissue defects, limb discrepancy and joint disorders can be managed concurrently. The procedure is lengthy and prone to complications.

MANAGEMENT OF COMPLICATED TRAUMA BY LIMB RECONSTRUCTION SYSTEM (MONO-LATERAL EXTERNAL FIXATOR) IN LOWER EXTREMITY

Introduction: High velocity trauma is the cause of maximum number of fatality in the younger age group worldwide. In the field of trauma surgery open fractures of the leg remain with the higher complication rate. Treatment options include wound debridement reduction and immobilization with cast, open reduction and plate fixation, external fixation, and IM nailing. Limb reconstruction system (LRS) is a unilateral rail system which consists of Schanz pins, rail rods, and sliding clamps. LRS was considered as definitive management for open fractures. LRS with its modular attachments, it is specifically designed to enable the surgeon to perform simple and effective surgery as it offers rigid fixation of fracture fragments, allows early weight bearing, and reduces the economic burden. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the efficacy of mono-lateral external fixator LRS for management of the lower extremity long bone fracture (tibia/femur). Methods: A prospective study was carried out where 26 cases of lower extremity trauma (complicated) managed by LRS over a period of 5–6 months. The patients ranged from age 13 years to 67 years. Majority were male and predominant mode of injury was road side accidents. Majority of case were exposed to multiple the surgeries before LRS application. Most of the cases are of infection non-union. All the patients were treated at our hospital. These surgeries were done from June, 2005 to 2007. Any bone fragments that were protruding out we recovered with sterile dressing. The patient were taken to the operating room and treated by pulsed lavage and debridement the wound and splints. In patients, whose bone was exposed, as the wound condition improved the patients were planned for flap rotation. Assessment of quality of regenerate was done by plain radiography and clinical assessment at every follow-up. Final assessment for bone results and functional results was done using Association of the study and application of the method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) score. Results: Among 26 patients, bony results as per ASAMI score were excellent in 73.07% (n=19), good in 19.23% (n=5), fair in 3.84% (n=1), and poor in 3.84% (n=1). Functional results were excellent in 84.7% (n=22), good in 11.5% (n=3), and fair in 3.8% (n=1). All the 26 cases of lower extremity fracture were kept on LRS external fixator for a period of 5–6 months on an average depending on the rate of union, after which the fixator was removed. For 2 patients nailing was done after LRS frame removal. Average time for frame removal was 28 weeks. In most cases union was complete by 7–8 months, the least being 5 months for a tibia shaft fracture. The average hospital stay for the patients was 7 days and as compared to multi staged surgery financial burden was reduced by 40%. The average time of return to work for the patients was 3 weeks. Conclusion: Overall LRS proved to be an effective modality of treatment in cases of the lower extremity fracture with bone loss as definite modality of treatment for damage control as well as for achieving union and lengthening/transportation, deformity correction simultaneously, with the advantage of simple surgical technique, ease of application, minimal invasive, strong fixation, high patient compliance, early weight bearing, easy wound management, and the lower rate of complication.

Lateral Gradual Opening Osteotomy of the Tibia With Monolateral External Fixator for Correcting the Valgus Deformity of the Tibia

The valgus deformity in the tibia requires correction because it places increased pressure on the lateral compartment of the knee, intensifying the degenerative process. Correction strategies are diverse and depend on patient profile, age, and soft-tissue conditions as well as the orthopaedic surgeon’s experience with different surgical materials. Deformity size and location are the primary factors contributing to material and shape choice, whether gradual or acute. The only gradual correction approach involves the use of a monolateral or circular external fixator. This is the only indication for correction in cases of excellent deformity, soft-tissue involvement, and a history of bone infection. This study aimed to present a gradual correction technique for tibial valgus deformity using a monolateral external fixator as well as its postoperative follow-up. This technique has the advantages of greater patient acceptance, lighter assembly, and briefer distraction owing to the use of a single piece as well as the ability of the operated limb to bear a load the day after the surgical procedure and dynamic outpatient follow-up.

To Angulate or Not to Angulate the Ulna during the Progressive Distraction Period Performed with a Monolateral External Fixator in Paediatric Patients with a Chronic Monteggia Fracture?

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic evolution of chronic Monteggia fractures (CMFs) treated by ulnar osteotomy and monolateral external fixators (MEFs) with or without angulation of the ulna during the distraction period. This retrospective study evaluated 20 children (14 boys and 6 girls) with CMFs. According to the strategy of ulnar lengthening, two groups of patients were identified: patients undergoing gradual lengthening with (Group A, n = 11) or without ulna angulation (Group B, n = 9). The mean age at the time of surgery was 7.7 years old (range, 5.4-12.9). The mean time from initial trauma to surgery was 26.3 months (range, 1-96), and the mean follow-up was 24.6 months (range, 5.5-45.4). Clinical outcomes were evaluated by Kim et al.'s Elbow Performance Score, while radiographic outcomes were assessed on plain radiographs. Age at surgery, sex, laterality, time between trauma and surgery, and time of follow up in the two groups of patients showed no significant differences. The radial head was successfully reduced in 9 of 9 and 10 of 11 patients in Groups B and A, respectively (p = 1.00). The mean time to achieve radial head reduction was shorter in Group B (18.1 ± 5.3 days) than in Group A (39.2 ± 18.7 days; p = 0.004). The mean angulation of the ulna at the end of treatment was significantly lower in Group B (0.6° ± 1.1°) than in Group A (25.9° ± 6.3°; p < 0.0001). The average ulnar lengthening at the end of treatment in Group B (14.1 ± 5.8 mm) was, on average, 7.7 mm less than that in Group A (21.8 ± 9.7 mm; p = 0.05). The Kim et al. Elbow Performance Score at the last follow-up visit was comparable between the two groups of patients (p = 1.00). A shorter time to achieve radial head reduction and less deformity of the ulna can be expected in paediatric patients with CMFs undergoing intraoperative restoration of ulnar alignment and gradual lengthening without angulation postoperatively.

Mono-Lateral External Fixation for Treatment of Femoral Osteomyelitis.

Maintenance of stability using external fixation devices is an important principle to ensure successful treatment of osteomyelitis (OM). In this study, we report our experience with femoral OM treated with acute compression and bone transport using the Orthofix limb reconstruction system (LRS). This prospective study included 30 consecutive patients with femoral OM. LRS insertion and corticotomy were done according to the standard technique. Radiographic evaluation was performed every 2 weeks during the distraction phase and every 2-4 weeks during the consolidation phase. The clinical outcome measurements included union time, limb length discrepancy, additional operative procedures, refracture and infection. The present study included 30 patients with femoral OM. They comprised 27 males (90.0%) and 3 females (10.0%) with an age of 28.1 ± 15.6 years. All, except one, achieved union with a mean union time of 8.6 months (range 4-20 months). The mean union time for acute compression was 7.6 months (range 4-20 months) while for patients with bone transport it was 14.5 months (range 12-18 months). The mean limb length discrepancy was 1.8 cm (range 0-4 cm). At the end of the follow=up, two patients were not able to ambulate without support; one due to non-union and one due to paraplegia. The present study identified treatment of femoral OM using LRS as a feasible and effective technique with good outcomes. Reported complications could be adequately managed in most cases.

Comparative study of monolateral and circular fixator in the treatment of infectious tibial nonunion

To compare treatment effect of monolateral and circular external fixator in infectious tibial nonunion and to explore external fixation structure with better osteogenic ability and fewer complications. A retrospective analysis was performed on 150 patients with infectious tibial nonunion admitted from January 2010 to December 2014. Patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were divided into monolateral fixator group and circular fixator group according to the type of external fixation. Demographic and perioperative data of the two groups were collected. New bone quality was assessed by pixels ratio, treatment effect was assessed by complications. Notes for treatment was explored by case analysis. A total of 64 patients with infectious mid-tibial nonunion were included, 26 in monolateral fixator group and 38 in circular fixator group. There was no difference in demographic data between two groups. The pixel ratio of new bone between two groups was from 0.91 to 0.97 with an average of (0.94±0.03), and from 0.93 to 0.97 with an average of(0.95±0.02), respectively, with no statistical significance (P>0.05). The external fixation index was from 34.1 to 50.6 with an average of (42.3±8.3) days /cm in monolateral fixator group and from 44.5 to 56.1 with an average of (45.8±10.3) days/cm in the circular fixator group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). There were 7 cases (26.9%) of complications in monolateral fixator group and 5 cases (13.2%) in circular fixator group, the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05), but 5 cases of foot ptosis in monolateral fixator group and none in circular fixator group. The time of weight bearing in monolateral fixator group was later than that in circular fixator group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Monolateral and circular fixators can achieve equivalent bone formation in the treatment of infected tibial nonunion. Circular fixator is recommended for patients with severe osteoporosis or concomitant medical diseases requiring early weight bearing. Hydroxyapatite coated screws are recommended if a monolateral external fixator is selected when the expected enlarged length is long and the fixation time is long and close monitoring of the ankle movement is required to avoid foot droop.

Distraction osteogenesis at the proximal third of the ulna for the treatment of Masada type I/IIb deformities in children with hereditary multiple exostoses: a retrospective review of twenty cases.

Ulna distraction by monolateral external fixator (MEFix) is a good option for the treatment of Masada type I and IIb deformities in children with hereditary multiple exostoses (HMEs). However, there is no consensus regarding where to perform ulnar osteotomy. Our hypothesis is that osteotomy at the proximal third of the ulna and progressive distraction with MEFix can simultaneously correct elbow and wrist deformities in patients with HME. We retrospectively reviewed patients with HME who underwent ulna distraction osteogenesis from June 2014 to March 2019. The carrying angle (CA), radial articular angle (RAA), ulnar variance (UV), radial variance (RV) and range of motion (ROM) of the affected forearm and elbow were clinically assessed before lengthening and at the last follow-up visit. The total ulna lengthening distance (LD) and radiographic outcome were also recorded. Nineteen patients (20 forearms) with HME aged 9.1 ± 2.4years at the time of surgery were retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up period was 26.1 ± 5.6months. There were 11 patients (12 forearms) with Masada type I deformities and eight patients (8 forearms) with Masada type IIb deformities. Patients with type IIb deformity had higher RV, lower CA values, less elbow flexion and forearm pronosupination than those with type I deformity (p < 0.05); RV was an independent risk factor for radial head dislocation, with the cut off at RV > 15.5mm. The mean LDs in patients with type I and type IIb deformities were 33.6 ± 6.6mm and 41.4 ± 5.4mm, respectively. The mean CA, UV, RV, forearm pronation and ulna deviation at the wrist improved significantly following surgery in all patients. In particular, five of eight patients (62.5%) with type IIb deformities had concentric reduction of the radiocapitellar joint, while no radial head subluxation was detected in patients with type I deformities at the last follow-up. Three complications were recorded: two pin-track infections and one delayed union. Distraction osteogenesis at the proximal third of the ulna provides satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes in patients with Masada type I and IIb deformities. Early treatment of Masada type I deformities is indicated before progression to more complex type IIb deformities.

Temporary circular external fixation for spanning the traumatised ankle joint: A cohort comparison study

BackgroundTemporary spanning fixation aims to provide bony stability whilst allowing access and resuscitation of the traumatised soft-tissue envelope. Conventional monolateral fixators are prone to half-pin morbidity in feet, variation in construct stability and limited weight-bearing potential. This study compares traditional delta-frame monolateral external fixators to ankle spanning circular fixators. MethodsTwo cohorts were matched for demographics and fracture patterns. The quality of initial reduction and the maintenance of reduction until definitive surgery was assessed by two authors and categorised into four domains. Secondary measures included fixator costs, time to definitive surgery and complications. ResultsFifty-five delta-frames and 51 circular fixators were statistically matched for demographics and fracture pattern. “Excellent” and “Good” initial reduction was achieved in 50 (91%) delta-frames and 51 (100%) circular fixators (p = 0.027). Deterioration of initial reduction quality was seen in 12 (22%) delta-frames and two (4%) circular fixators (p < 0.001). Post-fixator dislocation occurred in five (9%) delta-frames and one (2%) circular fixator (p = 0.147). Median duration in spanned fixation was 11 days in both groups (p = 0.114). Three (5%) delta-frames and 13 (25%) circular fixators were used as definitive fixation. The mean implant cost was 4,307 USD for delta-frames and 3747 USD for circular fixators. ConclusionTemporary spanning circular fixation offers superior intra-operative reduction and maintenance of reduction and provides more opportunity to be used as definitive fixation. Circular fixation implants also proved to be less expensive and protected against further scheduled or unscheduled returns to theatre. Level of evidenceIV, retrospective cohort study.

Use of LRS mono-lateral external fixator for the treatment of comminuted femoral fracture with bone loss

Background: Comminuted fracture femur with bone loss is a high energy injury with variable clinical and radiological scenarios; therefore, management has been a challenge to Orthopaedic surgeons because of associated complications and absence of standard guidelines to organize the different treatment options. The aim of the work is to assess radiological and functional results of managing comminuted fracture femur with bone loss by mono lateral external fixator, study the technique of application and related complication. Methods: This retrospective case series study was done in May 2010 to December 2016 with mean follow up period 1.5 years and included 21 patients who were divided into two main groups, group (I) included 11 patients managed by acute shortening and distraction, and the group (II) included 10 patients managed by bone transport technique. Outcome in both groups was compared regarding time to union (external fixator time), length gained, healing index (external fixator time/length gained), bone results and functional results according to Paley. Complications in both groups have been compared and classified according to Paley into 3 categories: problems, obstacles, and sequelae.

Bone Defects in Tibia Managed by the Bifocal vs. Trifocal Bone Transport Technique: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and determine the differences, if any, between the trifocal bone transport (TFT) technique and the bifocal bone transport (BFT) technique in the reconstruction of long segmental tibial bone defects caused by infection using a monolateral rail external fixator.MethodsA total of 53 consecutive patients with long segmental tibial bone defects caused by infection and treated by monolateral rail external fixator in our department were retrospectively collected and analyzed from the period January 2013 to April 2019, including 39 males and 14 females with an average age of 38.8 ± 12.4 years (range 19–65 years). Out of these, 32 patients were treated by the BFT technique, and the remaining 21 patients were managed by the TFT technique. The demographic data, operation duration (OD), docking time (DT), external fixation time (EFT), and external fixation index (EFI) were documented and analyzed. Difficulties that occur during the treatment were classified according to Paley. The clinical outcomes were evaluated by following the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) criteria at the last clinical visit.ResultsAll patients achieved an infection-free union finally, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic data and both ASAMI bone and functional scores (p > 0.05). The mean defect size and OD in TFT (9.4 ± 1.5 cm, 161.9 ± 8.9 min) were larger than that in BFT (7.8 ± 1.8 cm, 122.5 ± 11.2 min) (p < 0.05). The mean DT, EFT, and EFI in TFT (65.9 ± 10.8 days, 328.0 ± 57.2 days, 34.8 ± 2.1 days/cm) were all less than those in BFT (96.8 ± 22.6 days, 474.5 ± 103.2 days, 60.8 ± 1.9 days/cm) (p < 0.05). Difficulties and complications were more prevalent in the BFT group than in the TFT group (p < 0.05).ConclusionBoth the trifocal and BFT techniques achieve satisfactory clinical outcomes in the reconstruction of long segmental tibial bone defects caused by infection using a monolateral rail external fixator. The TFT technique can significantly decrease the DT, EFT, EFI, difficulties, and complications compared with the BFT technique.

What Are the Risks and Functional Outcomes Associated With Bilateral Humeral Lengthening Using a Monolateral External Fixator in Patients With Achondroplasia?

What Are the Risks and Functional Outcomes Associated With Bilateral Humeral Lengthening Using a Monolateral External Fixator in Patients With Achondroplasia?