Neutralization Plate Research Articles

Pengaruh Variasi Diameter Lubang dan Bentuk Profil Elektroda serta Jumlah Pelat Netral terhadap Produksi Brown Gas

Electrolysis is a process of decomposing water molecules (H 2 O) into hydrogen (H 2 ) and oxygen (O 2 ) with the help of electrical energy as a trigger for the process. In the electrode process, it takes two electrodes to be placed in water. Electrolysis reaction is a redox reaction, in which the reduction reaction occurs at the cathode forming hydrogen and oxidation occurs at the anode and forms oxygen. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of variations in the diameter of the electrode hole, the shape of the electrode and the number of neutral plates on the production of Brown Gas by using NaOH as a catalyst. The electrodes used are plain, square, circle and cross shape, and the diameter of the electrode hole is 5 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm and 12 mm. besides that the number of neutral plates varied 4 pieces, 6 pieces, and 8 pieces. NaOH dissolved in water has a percentage of 1.77%. From the results of the study, it is shown that the rate of production increased as the number of neutral plates increased and the power needed by the generator also increased, but the efficiency of the generator was smaller. The diameter of the electrode hole and the shape of the electrode also affect Brown gas production, this is because the electrode cross-sectional area in contact with the electrolyte also has different values. The highest productivity value on cross shape electrode, 10 mm electrode hole diameter and the number of neutral plate 8 pieces, and the lowest in the form of the plain electrode, 5 mm hole diameter and 4 neutral plates. The lowest generator efficiency in the electrode variation is a circular shape, the diameter of the electrode hole is 12 mm and the use of 8 neutral plates and the largest in the square electrode, 12 mm electrode hole diameter and 4 neutral plates.

Effect of pH on Dimethylamine Borane Reduced Electroless Nickel Deposits on AISI/SAE 1045 Steel Surface

Electroless Ni–B coatings using DMAB-reduced plating baths at different pH conditions were formed on AISI/SAE 1045 carbon steel. Substrates were grit-blasted with alumina, generating a rough surface suitable for anchorage and nucleation of the coating. The surface of the substrates were examined at selected times of electroless treatment using scanning electron microscopy. The structure of the coating was studied by means of X-ray diffraction. A low-cost boron determination procedure was implemented in order to determine the amount of boron incorporated into the electroless coatings. Coatings nucleate faster at acid and neutral pH conditions; however, at the end of the plating process all coatings were adherent, with the typical morphology of Ni–B electroless coatings. Substrates slightly corroded inside the plating bath at acid pH condition. The amount of boron into the coatings was approximately 2.15, 2.14 and 1.10% (wt%) for the acid, neutral and alkaline pH plating baths, respectively.

Neutralization versus Compression Plate on Lateral Malleolus Fracture: Is Lag Screw Necessary?

Introduction: Our aim was to compare clinical and radiological results of lateral malleolus fracture treated with neutralization and compression plate. Material and Methods: 54 patients with isolated lateral malleolus fractures treated between March 2012 and April 2015 at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital were evaluated with the Ankle-Hindfoot Scale of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score (excellent, ≥90; good, 75 - 89; acceptable, 50 - 74; poor, <50); patient satisfactory score (PSS) (0, very unhappy; 10, very happy) and weight-bearing walking based a visual analogue scale (VAS) (0, pain-free; 10, the most unbearable pain). The union of the fractures also evaluated. Results: There was no significant change in AOFAS, VAS, PSS and the union rates between two plating techniques. Conclusion: Similar results have shown both of two plating techniques were successful treating isolated lateral malleolus fracture.

Experimental Studies of the Effect of Electrolyte Strength, Voltage and Time on the Production of Brown’s (HHO) Gas Using Oxyhydrogen Generator

A great challenge in water electrolysis is how to optimize the major factors that influence the production of hydrogen gas. Over the past years, different methods have been used to produce hydrogen gas from carbon-base fossil fuels but these methods have been proven to be environmentally unfriendly due to the enormous release of greenhouse gases associated with their use. In this work, an experimental study was carried out to evaluate the effect of electrolyte strength, voltage and time on the volume of HHO gas produced using a design built HHO gas generator. The generator was constructed from Stainless Steel 316 L plates made of 3 anodes, 3 cathodes, and 20 neutral plates. During the study, the strengths of KOH, NaOH, and NaHCO3 was prepared within the range of 0.010 M - 0.030 M. The prepared strengths for each catalyst were then varied across voltage range of 9 V to 13 V for 50 seconds. The experimental results obtained showed that, increasing electrolyte strength, voltage and time proportionally increased the yield of HHO gas. An optimal yield rate of 2.27 cm3/s of HHO gas was obtained when the generator was run at 13 V using 0.025 M KOH. In addition, other factors studied including electrode surface morphology, plate’s configuration, and temperature also showed improvement in yield of HHO gas by 41.85%, 69.74%, and 71.96% respectively.

Pulsed Galvanostatic Electrodeposition of Copper on Cobalt Using a pH-Neutral Plating Bath and Electroless Seeds

Due to its notable retention of electrical conductivity in nanoscale features, cobalt is a leading material candidate for diffusion barriers in the sub-14 nm node copper interconnects. In this application, Co also facilitates high aspect ratio gap-filling by serving as a substrate for direct electrochemical deposition (ECD) of Cu. However, the Co-Cu ECD system is associated with several technical challenges, which include dissolution of Cu seeds (and Co) in conventional acidic baths, interference of hydrogen evolution, and solution-sensitive nucleation barriers. We investigate here this ECD system by using pulsed galvanostatic ECD in a neutral plating bath of CuSO4, with in situ electroless deposition of Cu seeds. Both seeding and ECD of Cu are enhanced with the use of a carbon based catalytic activator. These observations are explained in terms of a proposed mixed-potential mechanism. Nucleation of the ECD-Cu is detected with voltammetry, and further quantified as an instantaneous step by measuring the associated kinetic parameters with chronoamperometry. Spatially uniform layers of pulse-deposited Cu on Co are detected by electron microscopy, and the deposition rates are determined using energy dispersed X-Ray spectroscopy. Corrosion tests performed in a glycine-based solution for Cu planarization confirm the general CMP compatible electrochemistry of the ECD-Cu.

Anatomic Feasibility of Distal Fibula Bicortical Screw Fixation With Lateral Neutralization Plating for Rotational Ankle Fractures

A common technique for fixation of rotational fibular fractures is to use an interfragmentary compression screw with a laterally positioned neutralization plate. The objective of the present investigation was to examine the anatomic feasibility of distal fibula bicortical fixation within this plating technique. A specific screw insertion technique was performed through a laterally positioned one-third tubular plate on a consecutive series of 81 intact cadaveric ankle mortises. The most distal plate hole was drilled, aimed 10° posterior to the midline of the fibula. The second-most distal plate hole was drilled, aimed 25° superiorly. The specimens were then dissected, and the screw termini were physically examined for whether they had penetrated the articular cartilage of the ankle mortise. The length of the most distal bicortical screw measured a mean ± standard deviation of 20.44 ± 2.49 (range 14 to 26) mm, with an extra-articular terminus in 95.06% of specimens. The length of the second-most distal bicortical screw measured a mean ± standard deviation of 19.68 ± 3.02 (range 12 to 28) mm, with an extra-articular terminus in 100% of the specimens. The results of the present study provide evidence that bicortical distal fibular fixation in accordance with basic fixation principles is anatomically possible and feasible with a one-third tubular plate. This could potentially obviate the need for more expensive fixation options (i.e., locked plates or anatomically contoured plates) and fixation options that are biomechanically stable but potentially anatomically impeding (i.e., posterior antiglide plating).

A novel method for fixation of Weber B Distal fibular fractures: a biomechanical comparative study of posterolateral versus lateral neutralization plating: erratum

A novel method for fixation of Weber B Distal fibular fractures: a biomechanical comparative study of posterolateral versus lateral neutralization plating: erratum

A novel method for fixation of Weber B distal fibular fractures: a biomechanical comparative study of posterolateral versus lateral neutralization plating

Background: In this biomechanical study, a new technique of posterolateral plating is compared with lateral plating fixation method for Weber type B ankle fractures. Methods: Ten dry fibulae were osteotomized obliquely to simulate a Weber B lateral malleolar fracture. Specimens were divided randomly into two groups: five fibulae were fixed using a lateral plate (Group 1), while the remaining fibulae were fixed with a posterolateral plate (Group 2). The fixed bones were tested for axial load and torsion to failure using a servohydraulic axial compression-distraction device. Results: The mean force required to disrupt the fracture fixation in group 2 (54.98 Nm) was significantly higher than in group 1 (21.94 Nm) [P-value=0.028]. The mean angular rotation to failure in group 1 (18.938 degrees) was significantly lower than in group 2 (33.66 degrees) [P-value=0.047]. A highly significant difference in favor of group 2 was reported when distal-end (osteotomized and fixed) torque to failure for each specimen was compared with the corresponding proximal-end (intact) in both groups [P-value=0.009]. Conclusions: The newly developed technique of posterolateral plating for Weber B fractures has shown improved biomechanical properties over conventional lateral plating and can be used for fixation of such fractures.

Calcar screw position in proximal humerus fracture fixation: Don’t miss high!

IntroductionIn locked plate fixation of proximal humerus fractures, the calcar is an important anchor point for screws providing much-needed medial column support. Most locking plate implants utilize a fixed-trajectory locking screw to achieve this goal. Consequently, adjustments of plate location to account for patient-specific anatomy may result in a screw position outside of the calcar. To date, little is known about the consequences of “missing” the calcar during plate positioning. This study sought to characterize the biomechanics associated with proximal and distal placement of locking plates in a two-part fracture model. Materials and methodsThis experiment was performed twice, first with elderly cadaveric specimens and again with osteoporotic sawbones. Two-part fractures were simulated and specimens were divided to represent proximal, neutral, and distal plate placements. Non-destructive torsional and axial compression tests were performed prior to an axial fatigue test and a ramp to failure. Torsional stiffness, axial stiffness, humeral head displacement and stiffness during fatigue testing, and ultimate load were compared between groups. ResultsCadavers: Proximal implant placement led to trends of decreased mechanical properties, but there were no significant differences found between groups. Sawbones: Distal placement increased torsional stiffness in both directions (p = 0.003, p = 0.034) and axial stiffness (p = 0.018) when compared to proximal placement. Distal placement also increased torsional stiffness in external rotation (p = 0.020), increased axial stiffness (p = 0.024), decreased humeral head displacement during fatigue testing, and increased stiffness during fatigue testing when compared to neutral placement. DiscussionThe distal and neutral groups had similar mechanical properties in many cadaveric comparisons while the proximal group trended towards decreased construct stiffness. Resultsfrom the Sawbones model were more definitive and provided further evidence that proximal calcar screw placements are undesirable and distal implant placement may provide improved construct stability. ConclusionSuccessful proximal humerus fracture reconstruction is inherent upon anatomic fracture reduction coupled with medial column support. Results from this experiment suggest that missing the calcar proximally is deleterious to fixation strength, while it is safe, and perhaps even desirable, to aim slightly distal to the intended target.

Non-restricted weight-bearing after modified Lapidus arthrodesis

Category: Bunion, Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Modified lapidus arthrodesis is performed in the treatment of different pathologies, including hallux valgus and osteoarthritis of the first cuneo-metatarsal joint. Complications of this procedure include delayed union and non-union, reported to be between 5 to 20%. To prevent them, prolonged foot unloading and rigid fixation methods have been proposed. We sought to investigate our clinical results and complications in patients operated on with a modified Lapidus arthrodesis and inmediate weight bearing in a rigid post-operative shoe. Methods: After IRB approval, we conducted a retrospective patient chart review in a single center. Dedicated foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons performed all procedures. Patients were included if they were older than 18 years, had a minimum follow up of one year and agreed to participate in the study. Patients with neuropathy, revision arthrodesis or those with concomitant midfoot/hindfoot procedures were excluded. All patients were operated on with an inter-articular lag screw and a locking neutralization plate. Patients were allowed to weight bear without restriction in a rigid post-operative shoe from postoperative day one. An independent musculoskeletal radiologist evaluated bone consolidation of the arthrodesis in x-rays or CT scan, when available. Results: Fifteen patients (18 feet) with an average age of 47 years (15-66) met inclusion criteria. All patients were female. Mean follow up was 19 months (12-24). Surgical indications were: hallux valgus in 14 cases and cuneo-metatarsal osteoarthritis in one case. Consolidation rate was 94% (14/15). Average time for radiological consolidation was 11 weeks (7-27). One patient (6%) developed non-union and required a revision arthrodesis with bone grafting. No loss of radiological correction or malalignment of the first ray was observed at last follow-up. Conclusion: Our results suggest that modified lapidus arthrodesis with rigid fixation methods and non restricted weight bearing is a safe and effective alternative to manage first ray pathology. This approach may not increase non-union rates or affect the reduction obtained.

Studi Eksperimen Pengaruh Penggunaan Koh Terhadap Performa Generator HHO Tipe Dry Cell Dengan Dimensi Setiap Plat 3.046,59 Mm2

This research is aimed to analyze efficiency and produced HHO gas from HHO type dry cell generator. The experimental apparatus of a generator consists of 4 cells and four neutral plates for each cell is produced. The generator plate used in the electrolysis process has dimension 30.29 mm2. The total area of plate is 70 mm x 70 mm and it has a single hole with diameter 12 mm located in the middle of the plate. To collect the data, the generator has been operated for 2 hours. The efficiency of the generator is evaluated by addition of 5, 7 and 9 gram KOH into the cell. It was shown from the experiment that, the average of HHO gas resulting from 5 gram KOH is 6.45 ml/s with efficiency 89.39%. Meanwhile, for 7 and 9 gram KOH, the average HHO gas are 9.31 ml/s and 12.92 ml with efficiency 72.29% and 83.49%, respectively.

Ex vivo biomechanical analysis of two methods of osteosynthesis in canine mandibular fractures

Mandibular fractures represent an orthopedic challenge in veterinary medicine consideringthe large number of fixation methods that could be used depending on the location and manner in which the fracture occurs. Bone plates are a method of internal fixation that allows the correction of single or bilateral fractures, simple or comminuted; which appropriate material and technical knowledge for their use. Recent studies have demonstrated the superior strength that the locked plates present in relation to the neutralization plates, especially when used in flat bones or with lower bone density. The present study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical strength of neutralization plates and locked plates in oblique mandibular fractures in dogs. Sixteen hemimandibles from mesocephalic dogs were selected, weighing between 15 and 25 kg, without mandibular pathological alterations. Unfavorable fractures were performed between the 2nd and 3rd premolar teeth. The hemimandibles were allocated to two groups and stabilized with neutralization (Group 1) and locked (Group 2) plates. Both groups were subjected to the vertical compression test using the EMIC DL500 machine, sought to note the difference of maximum resistance between the implants. The statistical analysis used was the t-test and showed no difference (P = 0.135) between the strength of the group receiving neutralization plates (21.08±9.766kgf) and the group that received locked plates (25.96±7.029kgf). From the point of view of resistance to vertical compression, the neutralized and locked plates have the same biomechanical strength.

Visual Performance of Yellow, Orange and Red LSCs Integrated in a Smart Window

Abstract The present work aims to experimentally analyze daylighting performances of the LSC-Smart Window developed by a joint R&D collaboration project between Eni (the largest Italian integrated energy company) and the Politecnico di Milano. The LSC-Smart Window, designed with the aim of enhancing the use of luminescent solar concentrators in the building sector, will be analyzed in an array of different configurations, realized with LSCs of different colors (specifically: red, orange and yellow) and compared to neutral PMMA plates. Our Smart Window represents an active element in the energy performance of a building, providing a multifunctional contribution in terms of energy saving through dynamic solar control and renewable energy production. A prototype of the Smart Window has been realized and installed in one of Eni's headquarter buildings for its accurate performance analysis.

Iodine-loaded metal organic framework as growth-triggered antimicrobial agent

Zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) is one of easily available metal organic frameworks because of its facile preparation via mixing aqueous solutions of zinc nitrate and 2-methylimidazole. It turned into a very effective pH-responsive bactericide after loading with iodine. Approximately, 0.9g of iodine could be readily loaded into one gram of ZIF-8 from iodine dissolved n-heptane solution. Both Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus could be very effectively killed by iodine loaded ZIF-8 (ZIF-8@I) at pH6.0 within 3min. In contrast, at pH above 7.0, no appreciable antimicrobial activity could be detected. The bacteria killing effect is resulted from the iodine released from ZIF-8@I disintegrated at acidic pH. ZIF-8@I coated surface also showed its acidic pH-triggered antimicrobial activity against deposited bacterial cells. The antimicrobial activity of ZIF-8@I against actively grown bacterial lawns on a pH neutral agar plate was also observed. The result demonstrates that iodine was released from the disintegrated ZIF-8@I to kill bacteria in response to the bacterial growth-induced pH lowering.

Locking versus Non-locking Neutralization Plates with Limited Excision and Internal Fixation for Treatment of Extra-articular Type a Distal Tibial Fractures.

Purpose:This study aimed to compare the clinical, radiologic, and cost-effectiveness results between locking and non-locking plates for the treatment of extra-articular type A distal tibial fractures.Methods:We performed a retrospective review of AO/OTA 42-A1, A2 distal tibial fractures treated by plates from January 2011 to June 2013. Patients were divided to the locking plate group or the non-locking plate group. Clinical outcomes, radiographic outcomes, and hospitalization fee were compared between the two plates groups.Results:28 patients were treated with a locking plate and 23 patients were treated with a non-locking plate. The mean follow-up was 18.8 months (12-23 months). There were no significant differences between the groups in surgical time, bleeding, bone union time, or AOFAS scores. The cost of the locking plate was ¥24,648.41 ± 6,812.95 and the cost of the non-locking plate was ¥11,642 ± 3,162.57, p < 0.001. Each group had one patient that experienced superficial infection these wounds were readily healed by oral antibiotics and dressing changes. To date, five patients in the locking group and ten patients in the non-locking group had sensations of metal stimulation or other discomfort (X2 = 3.99, p < 0.05) Until the last follow-up, 14 patients in the locking plate group and 18 patients in the non-locking plate group had their plates removed or wanted to remove their plates (X2 = 4.31, p < 0.05).Conclusion:The use of locking or non-locking plates provides a similar outcome in the treatment of distal fractures. However the locking plate is much more expensive than the non-locking plate.

Influence of hooks and a lag screw on internal fixation plates for lateral malleolar fracture: a biomechanical and ergonomic study

BackgroundFor internal fixation of AO classification Type B lateral malleolar fracture, insertion of lag screws into the fracture plane and fixation with a one-third tubular plate as a neutralization plate are the standard treatment procedures. The one-third tubular plate is processed to a hook shape and hung on the distal end of the fibula. In this study, to compare the function of the hook and lag screws of a one-third tubular plate and LCP for osteosynthesis of lateral malleolar fracture, mechanical indices of internal fixation were compared among the one-third tubular plates with lag screws with and without the hook and a locking compression plate.MethodsAs mechanical tests, a compression test was performed in which compression in the bone axis direction produced by supporting the body weight was simulated, and a torsion test was performed in which external rotation of the bone axis caused by plantar flexion of the ankle joint was simulated. Muscle strength during walking and the force and torque acting on the ankle and knee joints were determined using inverse dynamic analysis. Finite element analysis was performed to analyze the function of hooks and lag screws. The joint reaction force determined by inverse dynamic analysis was adopted as the loading condition of finite element analysis.ResultsA stiffness equivalent to that of healthy bone could be achieved by all three internal fixations. It was clarified that the presence of the hook does not make a difference in stiffness. Displacement of the one-third tubular plate was small regardless of the presence or absence of the hook compared with those of locking compression plates.ConclusionsThe presence of the hook did not make any difference in stiffness, suggesting that active preparation of the hook is unnecessary. We also clarified that lag screws inhibit displacement.

Step-Cut Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy for Ulnar Impaction Syndrome.

The step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy for the treatment of ulnar impaction syndrome is a safe, reliable, and less expensive technique that uses a 7-hole 3.5-mm standard neutralization plate and a lag screw for fixation, thus avoiding the need for the special instrumentation that other ulnar shortening techniques require. Perform a physical examination and obtain imaging studies to identify all associated abnormalities. Verify the diagnosis of ulnar impaction syndrome and treat concurrent intra-articular abnormalities. Make a longitudinal skin incision along the distal third of the ulna. Design the step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy. Create the step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy using an oscillating saw. Fix the osteotomy with a lag screw and volar plate. Meticulously close the wound in layers. Protect the affected arm for the first 6 weeks. In our original study, 164 patients with symptomatic ulnar impaction syndrome were treated with a step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy using a volar 3.5-mm standard neutralization plate and a lag screw14.

Long-Term Outcome of Step-Cut Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy for Ulnar Impaction Syndrome.

Extra-articular ulnar shortening osteotomy is a common procedure for the surgical treatment of ulnar impaction syndrome. Several techniques for this osteotomy have been developed to avoid the morbidity associated with a standard transverse osteotomy. However, these techniques require special instrumentation and are expensive. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy without special jigs for ulnar impaction syndrome. A retrospective study of 164 consecutive patients who underwent step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy between 2000 and 2010 was performed. The long arm of the step-cut osteotomy was oriented in the coronal plane parallel to the long axis of the ulna. The short arms of the osteotomy were perpendicular to the long axis in the axial plane. Fixation was performed with a palmar 3.5-mm standard neutralization plate and a lag screw. The goal of the osteotomy was to reduce ulnar variance, which was assessed in all patients with pronated grip-view radiographs preoperatively and postoperatively. Preoperative ulnar variance ranged from +1 to +6 mm. All patients were followed for at least 24 months. Union of the osteotomy site was achieved at a mean of 8.2 weeks. The union rate was 98.8%. There were 2 cases of nonunion, which required additional surgery. The mean postoperative ulnar variance was +0.2 mm (range, -1 to +1.5 mm) after a mean overall ulnar shortening of 2.5 mm. All patients returned to their previous work, in a mean of 4 months. The plate was removed from 12 patients because of plate-related symptoms. No other complications were encountered. The step-cut ulnar shortening osteotomy provides ample bone-to-bone contact and simplifies control of rotation. Stable internal fixation with standard techniques allowed an early return to functional activities. Palmar placement of the plate diminishes the need for plate removal. This is a simple and less expensive technique for ulnar shortening that does not require the use of special instrumentation in patients with ulnar impaction syndrome. Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Long-Term Outcome of Step-Cut Ulnar-Shortening Osteotomy for Ulnar Impaction Syndrome

Objective/Hypothesis: Extra-articular ulnar-shortening osteotomy is a common procedure for the surgical treatment of ulnar impaction syndrome. Several techniques for this osteotomy have been developed to avoid the morbidity associated with a standard transverse osteotomy. However, these techniques require special instrumentation and are expensive. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of step-cut ulnar-shortening osteotomy without special jigs for ulnar impaction syndrome. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review was performed of 164 consecutive patients who underwent step-cut ulnar-shortening osteotomy between 2000 and 2010. Eighty-eight patients were female and 76 were male with a mean age of 36.8 years. Idiopathic ulnar impaction syndrome was diagnosed in 116 patients, while a posttraumatic etiology was seen in 48 patients. The step-cut osteotomy had its long arm oriented in the coronal plane parallel to the long axis of the ulna. The short arms of the osteotomy were perpendicular to the long axis in the axial plane. Fixation was performed with a palmar 3.5 mm standard neutralization plate and a lag screw. The goal of the osteotomy was to reduce ulnar variance by shortening the ulna 2 to 3 mm and not to create neutral variance. Ulnar variance was assessed radiographically preoperatively and postoperatively with the pronated grip view in all patients. The preoperative ulnar variance ranged from +1 mm to +6 mm. Results: Mean follow-up was 62.4 months (24-86 months). Union of the osteotomy was achieved with a mean of 8.2 weeks. The union rate was 98.78%. There were 2 cases of nonunion, which required additional surgery. The mean postoperative ulnar variance was +0.2 mm (range, −1 mm to +1.5 mm) after a mean overall shortening of 2.5 mm. Modified Mayo Wrist Scores improved significantly from a mean of 47.3 (25-65) preoperatively to 88.8 (60-100) postoperatively. All patients returned to their work in a mean of 4 months. Hardware removal was performed in 12 patients (7.3%) due to plate-related symptoms. No other complications were encountered. Conclusions: The step-cut ulnar-shortening osteotomy provides ample bone-to-bone contact and simplifies control of rotation. Stable internal fixation with standard techniques allowed early return to functional activities. Palmar placement of the plate diminishes the need for plate removal caused by irritation. The step-cut ulnar-shortening osteotomy is a simple and cost-effective technique for ulnar-shortening without the use of special instrumentation in patients with ulnar impaction syndrome.

Comparison of Patients Undergoing 1st MTP Fusion With and Without Lag Screw Fixation for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus

Comparison of Patients Undergoing 1st MTP Fusion With and Without Lag Screw Fixation for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus