Nonaugmented Group Research Articles

Augmented versus non-augmented locking-plate fixation in proximal humeral fractures.

Proximal humeral fractures are the third most common fracture among the elderly. Complications associated with fixation include screw perforation, varus collapse, and avascular necrosis of the humeral head. To address these challenges, various augmentation techniques to increase medial column support have been developed. There are currently no recent studies that definitively establish the superiority of augmented fixation over non-augmented implants in the surgical treatment of proximal humeral fractures. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent locking-plate fixation with cement augmentation or bone-graft augmentation versus those who underwent locking-plate fixation without augmentation for proximal humeral fractures. The search was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. Articles involving patients with complex proximal humeral fractures treated using open reduction with locking-plate fixation, with or without augmentation, were considered. A meta-analysis of comparative studies comparing locking-plate fixation with cement augmentation or with bone-graft augmentation versus locking-plate fixation without augmentation was performed. A total of 19 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, and six comparative studies were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, 120 patients received locking-plate fixation with bone-graft augmentation, 179 patients received locking-plate fixation with cement augmentation, and 336 patients received locking-plate fixation without augmentation. No statistically relevant differences between the augmented and non-augmented cohorts were found in terms of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire score and Constant-Murley Score. The cement-augmented group had a significantly lower rate of complications compared to the non-augmented group. While locking-plate fixation with cement augmentation appears to produce a lower complication rate compared to locking-plate fixation alone, functional outcomes seem comparable between augmented and non-augmented techniques.

Augmented versus non-augmented Trochanteric Fixation Nail-Advanced (TFNA) nails for treating trochanteric fractures in patients over sixty-five years of age.

Intramedullary nailing is a common treatment for pertrochanteric fractures. However, implant-related mechanical failures, such as cut-out and cut-through, lead to higher rates of revision surgery, loss of autonomy, and mortality. Cemented augmentation enhances the bone-implant interface. This study compared the frequency of mechanical failures between augmented and non-augmented Trochanteric Fixation Nail-Advanced (TFNA) nails. This descriptive, retrospective study at a level 1 trauma centre included patients aged > 65years with pertrochanteric fractures treated by a short augmented or non-augmented TFNA nail. The primary outcome was the comparison of cut-out or cut-through rates between groups at three and sixmonths postoperatively. Of the 181 patients analysed, 103 had augmented TFNA nails and 78 had non-augmented TFNA nails. There were no statistically significant differences between groups in terms of demographic characteristics, AO/OTA classification, or quality of reduction. The failure rate was significantly lower in the augmented group than in the non-augmented group: 1 (0.97%) versus 9 (11.54%) (p = 0.005). At sixmonths postoperatively, there was no significant difference between the two groups concerning functional recovery, as measured by the Parker and EuroQoL 5-Dimensions scores. For patients aged over 65years, the use of the augmented TFNA nail may reduce the risk of fixation failures such as cut-out.

There is no difference in the efficacy of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using autograft combined with or without ligament augmentation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study aims to determine the efficacy of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using autograft combined with or without ligament augmentation. A computerized search of the databases was conducted, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and the Cochrane Library. Only prospective or retrospective comparative studies with a minimum 2-year follow-up were considered for inclusion. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and methodological quality assessment. A Mantel-Haenszel analysis was used for the pooling of results. Sensitivity analysis was performed to maintain the stability of results. The egger test was applied to assess the publication bias. Fourteen studies were included. The total cohort was 1353 patients (non-augmented group: 763 patients; augmented group: 590 patients). There were three Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs, Level I), six retrospective comparative studies (Level III) and five case-control studies (Level III). The follow-up rate was ≥ 88% and the follow-up periods were ≥ 24months in all included studies. The augmented graft used to compare with autograft included the Ligament Augmentation Device (LAD), the Ligament Advanced Reinforcement System (LARS) artificial ligament, FiberTape, hamstring tendon allograft, degradable poly (urethane urea). No significant differences were observed between the augmented and non-augmented groups regarding postoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including the International Knee Documentation Committee score, Lysholm score and Tegner score, knee laxity, including KT-1000, side-to-side difference, Lachman test and pivot shift and rate of graft failure. ACLR using autografts combined with ligament augmentation shows no advantages in PROs, knee laxity and graft failure rate compared with using autografts only. Level III. The research protocol was registered at the PROSPERO database (CRD42022324784).

Outcomes of arthroscopic single-row repair alone vs. repair with human dermal allograft patch augmentation in patients with large to massive, posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: a retrospective comparative study

Large to massive rotator cuff tears (RCTs) affect shoulder functions profoundly with unmanageable disability without intervention. The retear rates with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) in these patients are abysmal. Patch augmentation has been credited for preventing retears, improving functions by increasing the strength, and acting as a bioconductive scaffold. This study aimed to assess the retear rates and compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between the ARCR with and without acellular human dermal allograft (HDA) augmentation. This is a retrospective comparative study among patients diagnosed with large to massive, posterosuperior RCTs, operated between January 2020 and December 2021, including 36 patients (group I) with and 131 patients (group II) without HDA augmentation, with a mean follow-up of 20 (range, 12-35) months. The average age was 64 (range, 49-80) and 66 (range, 41-81) years in groups I and II, respectively. In group I, there were 16 male and 20 female patients, whereas in group II, there were 58 male and 73 female patients. The visual analog scale score improved to 1.1±1.7 in group I and 2.1±1.7 in group II (P=.005). There was a greater improvement in the University of California, Los Angeles shoulder score to 30.1±4.2 in group I compared with 23.2±3.9 in group II (P=.046). Forward flexion (degrees) improved from a mean of 103.2 ± 18.6 to 138.9 ± 23.5 in group I and from 106.4 ± 21.3 to 127.0 ± 19.5 in group II (P=.004). The acromiohumeral interval (mm) measured in anteroposterior radiographs increased to 8.4±1.8 in group I and 8.2±2.0 in group II (P=.006). The satisfaction after the procedure was 4.4±0.6 in group I and 3.1±1.1 in group II (P=.044). The retear rate in the HDA-augmented group was 5.6% as compared with 29.1% in the nonaugmented group, which was statistically significant (P=.007). There were no complications or adverse tissue reactions against HDA seen in any patients. In patients with large to massive, posterosuperior RCTs, patch augmentation with acellular HDA significantly averted the retears after ARCR without any graft-related complications. The augmentation also resulted in improved shoulder function and greater range of motion compared with the nonaugmented group.

Cohort study of short-term outcomes after ACL-reconstruction using autograft with internal brace reinforcement versus isolated autograft demonstrating no significant difference

BackgroundThe gold standard treatment for Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury is reconstruction (ACL-R). Graft failure is the concern and ensuring a durable initial graft with rapid integration is crucial. Graft augmentation with implantable devices (internal brace reinforcement) is a technique purported to reduce the risk of rupture and hasten recovery. Few studies have examined these techniques, in particular when compared to non-augmented grafts. This study assesses the short-term outcome of ACL-R using augmented and non-augmented hamstring tendon autografts. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study comparing augmented and non-augmented ACL-R. All procedures were performed in a single centre using the same technique. The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS] was used to assess patient-reported outcomes. ResultsThere were 70 patients in the augmented and 111 patients in the control group. Mean graft diameter in the augmented group was 8.82 mm versus 8.44 mm in the non-augmented. Six strand graft was achievable in 73.5% of the augmented group compared to 33% in the non-augmented group. Two graft failures were reported in the non-augmented group and none in the augmented group. Patient satisfaction rates were higher in the augmented group. There was a statistically insignificant improvement in the postoperative KOOS in the augmented group compared to the non-augmented group (p 0.6). Irrespective of augmentation status, no correlation was found between the functional score and age, or femoral tunnel width. ConclusionNo statistically significant difference was demonstrated in the short-term functional outcome of ACL reconstruction using an augmented or non-augmented hamstring graft. Augmented ACL-R may achieve superior graft diameters, failure rates and patient reported outcomes when compared to nonaugmented ACL-R. Prospective trials are needed to examine this further.

Augmentation with Fibertape Leads to Biomechanically Superior but Similar Clinical Outcomes in ACL Surgeries: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

The current generation has witnessed significant progress in the field of knee arthroscopy. Suture tapes have gained immense popularity due to perceived improved biomechanical support to the graft while it heals. The purpose of the present systematic review is to analyze the biomechanical construct of suture tapes in ACL repairs and reconstructions along with clinical outcomes. Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase were searched until December 2021. All Biomechanical Studies on animal or cadaver knees that compared construct characteristics of suture tape in ACL repair or reconstruction and clinical studies in English focusing on outcomes following suture tape augmentation in ACL repair or reconstruction were included. The quality of clinical studies using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS). A total of 16 studies biomechanical and 23 clinical studies were included in qualitative synthesis, leaving nine biomechanical studies for final quantitative analyses. Suture tape revealed biomechanical superiority in terms of ultimate strength, stiffness, cyclic displacement, and elongation of graft, while comparing ACLR with internal brace to standard ACLR. No significant difference in retear rates was seen in clinical studies. Clinical score(IKDC score) was found similar in both augmented and non-augmented construct. Similar results were obtained in biomechanical studies. The use of suture tape as a ligament augmentation in both ACL reconstruction and ACL repair offers more strength, less elongation or displacement, and is biomechanically stable and sound. There is a lack of data to comprehensively comment upon the clinical superiority of the use of internal augmentation. However, a meta-analysis of the retear rates and clinical outcome score revealed similar outcomes between suture tape augmented and nonaugmented groups.

Outpatient total shoulder arthroplasty in the ambulatory surgery center: a comparison of early complications in patients with and without glenoid bone loss

The purpose of this study is to compare the 90-day complications and readmission rates between patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) with glenoid bone loss requiring an augmented glenoid component compared to patients without bone loss. This is a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing outpatient TSA at an ASC (2018-2021). Readmission, direct transfer, and complications were recorded. Major and minor complications were compared. Secondary outcomes included operative time, estimated blood loss, range of motion, and patient-reported outcome measures. There were 44 patients (45 shoulders) included in the study, 20 with augmented implants for glenoid bone loss and 25 nonaugmented with a concentric glenoid. There were no statistical differences in demographics. Two complications were seen in both the augmented and nonaugmented groups (10% vs. 8%). There were no readmissions or direct transfers. The augmented group had significantly increased preoperative glenoid retroversion (23° vs. 9°, P<.05), posterior humeral head subluxation (78% vs. 61%., P<.05), and longer operative time (124.4 min vs. 112.3 min., P<.05). Patient-specific instrumentation was used in 60% of augmented cases and 29% of nonaugmented cases. There was no significant difference in complications, direct transfers, or readmissions between patients with and without glenoid bone loss being treated in an outpatient ASC. The augmented group had significantly worse preoperative deformities, longer operative times, and increased utilization of patient-specific instrumentation. Outpatient TSA in the setting of glenoid bone loss requiring augmentation was found to be safe and effective at a stand-alone ASC.

Comparison of surgical outcomes with and without Ologen collagen matrix augmentation during XEN gel stent implantation

BackgroundTo compare the surgical outcomes and postoperative complications with and without Ologen collagen matrix augmentation during XEN gel stent implantation.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent XEN gel stent implantation with an ab externo technique. The amount of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, percentage of postoperative complications and additional management, and surgical success defined as IOP reduction greater than 20% compared with the preoperative IOP measurement were compared between Ologen-augmented and non-augmented groups. Groups of patients who underwent XEN gel stent implantation alone and combined with phacoemulsification were analyzed separately.ResultsA total 103 eyes of 103 participants were included. Of those, 72 eyes underwent standalone XEN gel stent implantation: 42 eyes with Ologen augmentation (Oloxen group) and 30 eyes without Ologen augmentation (Xen group). Thirty-one eyes underwent XEN gel stent implantation with phacoemulsification: 19 eyes with Ologen augmentation (Phaco-Oloxen group) and 12 eyes without Ologen augmentation (PhacoXen group). The surgical success rate at six months postoperatively was not different between the Oloxen and Xen groups (56.4% vs 43.3%, P > 0.05) or between the Phaco-Oloxen group and PhacoXen group (57.9% vs 41.7%, P > 0.05). The prevalence of postoperative hypotony, 5-fluorouracil injections, use of anti-glaucoma medications, bleb needling, and additional glaucoma surgeries was not different between the Oloxen and Xen groups or between the Phaco-Oloxen and PhacoXen groups when assessed six months postoperatively.ConclusionsAll groups showed significant IOP reduction after XEN gel stent implantation, but there was no significant difference between the Ologen collagen matrix augmented and non-augmented groups in surgical outcomes.

Elderly unstable distal radius fractures a prospective cohort study of bone substitutes-augmented percutaneous pinning

BackgroundBased on debatable recommendations of using bone substitutes for filling of metaphyseal void in elderly unstable distal radius fractures; this study investigated the following question “Do bone substitutes effectively contribute to postoperative stability of k-wire fixation construct and accelerate healing in elderly unstable distal radius fractures?”.MethodsThis prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2014 to April 2021. According to use of bone substitutes, 40 patients of elderly unstable distal radius fractures were alternately allocated into; group-(A) of bone substitutes-augmented percutaneous pinning (19 patients); and group-(B) of non-augmented percutaneous pinning (21 patients). Groups were compared for preoperative patients’ demographics and postoperative ROM, Quick-DASH and Mayo Wrist scores, radiographic parameters (palmar tilt, radial height and inclination, ulnar variance and intra-articular step-off) and duration until radiographic fracture healing.ResultsStatistically, augmented and non-augmented groups were matched in terms of patients’ demographics (mean age; 58.7 vs. 62.0 years respectively, P-value = 0.25). All included fractures have healed with insignificantly longer duration in augmented group (7.1 vs. 6.8 weeks, P-value = 0.26). At 12-week postoperative evaluation, radiographic parameters of both groups were comparably well-maintained except for intra-articular step-off which showed significantly less secondary displacement in augmented group (0.1 vs. 0.4 mm, P-value = 0.01). There were insignificant differences in 6-month postoperative ROM, and Quick-DASH and Mayo Wrist scores.ConclusionCompared to its bone substitutes-augmented counterpart; non-augmented percutaneous pinning of elderly unstable distal radius fractures can offer advantages of comparable healing rates and functional and radiographic outcomes, less-invasive approach, shorter operative time and lower cost.Level of evidenceIII

Ligament Augmentation With Mersilene Tape Reduces the Rates of Proximal Junctional Kyphosis and Failure in Adult Spinal Deformity

ObjectiveTo investigate prevention of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and failure (PJF) following adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery utilizing a novel technique of posterior ligament augmentation with polyester fiber tether. MethodsThis study evaluated ASD adult patients who underwent posterior decompression and instrumented fusion from the thoracolumbar junction (T9–L1) to the pelvis from 2011–2017. Basic demographic data were obtained. Radiographic outcomes included proximal junctional angle (PJA), sagittal vertical axis, PJK, and PJF. The study population was divided into patients who had ASD surgery with and without ligamentous augmentation. ResultsA total of 43 subjects were evaluated, including 20 without and 23 with ligamentous augmentation. PJA increased over time for both groups. PJA was smaller for the augmented group, and rate of increase in PJA was slower in the augmented group (p<0.0001). The rate of PJK was significantly higher in the nonaugmented group (p=0.01). PJF was significantly less common in the augmented group (p=0.003). Time to revision surgery was lower in the nonaugmented group (p=0.003). ConclusionOur novel ligament augmentation technique utilizing polyethylene tape is an effective technique to slow progression of the PJA and lower the risk for proximal junctional disease in ASD surgery.

Cement augmentation for trochanteric femur fractures: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials and observational studies.

To date, it is unclear what the clinical benefit of cement augmentation in fixation for trochanteric fractures is. The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare cement augmentation to no augmentation in fixation of trochanteric femur fractures in the elderly patients (>65 years) following low energy trauma. PubMed/Medline/Embase/CENTRAL/CINAHL were searched for both randomized clinical trials (RCT) and observational studies comparing both treatments. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models. Subgroup analysis was performed stratified by study design (RCTs and observational studies). The primary outcome is overall complication rate. Secondary outcomes include re-operation rate, mortality, operation duration, hospital stay, general quality of life, radiologic measures and functional hip scores. A total of four RCT's (437 patients) and three observational studies (293 patients) were included. The effect estimates of RCTs were equal to those obtained from observational studies. Cement augmentation has a significantly lower overall complication rate (28.3% versus 47.2%) with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.3 (95%CI 0.1-0.7). The occurrence of device/fracture related complications was the largest contributing factor to this higher overall complication rate in the non-augmented group (19.9% versus 6.0%, OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1-0.6). Cement augmentation also carries a lower risk for re-interventions (OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1-0.7) and shortens the hospital stay with 2 days (95%CI -2.2 to -0.5 days). The mean operation time was 7 minutes longer in the augmented group (95%CI 1.3-12.9). Radiological scores (lag screw/blade sliding mean difference -3.1mm, 95%CI -4.6 to -1.7, varus deviation mean difference -6.15°, 95%CI; -7.4 to -4.9) and functional scores (standardized mean difference 0.31, 95%CI 0.0-0.6) were in favor of cement augmentation. Mortality was equal in both groups (OR 0.7, 95%CI 0.4-1.3) and cement related complications were rare. Cement augmentation in fixation of trochanteric femoral fractures leads to fewer complications, re-operations and shorter hospital stay at the expense of a slightly longer operation duration. Cementation related complications occur rarely and mortality is equal between treatment groups. Based on these results, cement augmentation should be considered for trochanteric fractures in elderly patients.

Cement augmentation for trochanteric femur fractures: A meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized clinical trials and observational studies

Abstract Objective To date, it is unclear what the clinical benefit of cement augmentation in fixation for trochanteric fractures is. The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare cement augmentation to no augmentation in fixation of trochanteric femur fractures in the elderly patients (&amp;gt;65 years) following low energy trauma. Methods PubMed/Medline/Embase/CENTRAL/CINAHL were searched for both randomized clinical trials (RCT) and observational studies comparing both treatments. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models. Subgroup analysis was performed stratified by study design (RCTs and observational studies). The primary outcome is overall complication rate. Secondary outcomes include re-operation rate, mortality, operation duration, hospital stay, general quality of life, radiologic measures and functional hip scores. Results A total of four RCT's (437 patients) and three observational studies (293 patients) were included. The effect estimates of RCTs were equal to those obtained from observational studies. Cement augmentation has a significantly lower overall complication rate (28.3% versus 47.2%) with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.3 (95%CI 0.1-0.7). The occurrence of device/fracture related complications was the largest contributing factor to this higher overall complication rate in the non-augmented group (19.9% versus 6.0%, OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1-0.6). Cement augmentation also carries a lower risk for re-interventions (OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1- 0.7) and shortens the hospital stay with 2 days (95%CI -2.2 to -0.5 days). The mean operation time was 7 minutes longer in the augmented group (95%CI 1.3-12.9). Radiological scores (lag screw/blade sliding mean difference -3.1mm, 95%CI -4.6 to -1.7, varus deviation mean difference -6.15°, 95%CI; -7.4 to -4.9) and functional scores (standardized mean difference 0.31, 95%CI 0.0-0.6) were in favor of cement augmentation. Mortality was equal in both groups (OR 0.7, 95%CI 0.4-1.3) and cement related complications were rare. Conclusion Cement augmentation in fixation of trochanteric femoral fractures leads to fewer complications, re-operations and shorter hospital stay at the expense of a slightly longer operation duration. Cementation related complications occur rarely and mortality is equal between treatment groups. Based on these results, cement augmentation should be considered for trochanteric fractures in elderly patients.

Indications for cement augmentation in fixation of geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures: a systematic review of evidence.

Achieving durable mechanical stability in geriatric intertrochanteric proximal femur fractures remains a challenge. Concomitant poor bone quality, unstable fracture patterns, and suboptimal reduction are additional risk factors for early mechanical failure. Cement augmentation of the proximal locking screw or blade is one proposed method to augment implant anchorage. The purpose of this review is to describe the biomechanical and clinical evidence for cement augmentation of geriatric intertrochanteric fractures, and to elaborate indications for cement augmentation. The PubMed database was searched for English language studies up to January 2021. Studies that assessed effect of calcium phosphate or methylmethacrylate cement augmentation during open reduction and internal fixation of intertrochanteric fractures were included. Studies with sample size < 5, nontraumatic or periprosthetic fractures, and nonunion or revision surgery were excluded. Study selection adhered to PRISMA criteria. 801 studies were identified, of which 40 met study criteria. 9 studies assessed effect of cement augmentation on fracture displacement. All but one found that cement decreased fracture displacement. 10 studies assessed effect of cement augmentation on total load or cycles to failure. All but one demonstrated that augmented implants increased this variable. Complication rates of cement augmentation during ORIF of intertrochanteric fractures ranged from 0 to 47%, while non-augmented implants ranged from 0 to 51%. Reoperation rates ranged from 0 to 11% in the cement-augmented group and 0 to 11% in the non-augmented group. Fixation failure ranged from 0 to 11% in the cement-augmented group and 0 to 20% in the non-augmented group. Nonunion ranged from 0 to 3.6% in the cement-augmented group and 0 to 34% in the non-augmented group. Calcium phosphate or PMMA-augmented CMN fixation of IT fractures increased construct stability and improved outcomes in biomechanical and early clinical studies. The findings of these studies suggest an important role for cement augmentation in patient populations at high risk of mechanical failure.

Removal of cement-augmented screws in distal femoral fractures and the effect of retained screws and cement on total knee arthroplasty: a biomechanical investigation

BackgroundGiven the increasing number of osteoporotic fractures of the distal femur, screw augmentation with bone cement is an option to enhance implant anchorage. However, in implant removal or revision surgeries, the cement cannot be removed from the distal femur without an extended surgical procedure. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate (1) whether cement augmentation has any influence on screw removal and removal torque, and (2) whether the implantation of a femoral component of a knee arthroplasty and its initial interface stability are affected by the remaining screws/cement.Material and methodsEight pairs of fresh-frozen human female cadaveric distal femurs (mean age, 86 years) with a simulated AO/OTA 33 A3 fracture were randomized in paired fashion to two groups and fixed with a distal femoral locking plate using cannulated perforated locking screws. Screw augmentation with bone cement was performed in one of the groups, while the other group received no screw augmentation. Following biomechanical testing until failure (results published separately), the screws were removed and the removal torque was measured. A femoral component of a knee arthroplasty was then implanted, and pull-out tests were performed after cement curing. Interference from broken screws/cement was assessed, and the maximum pull-out force was measured.ResultsThe mean screw removal torque was not significantly different between the augmented (4.9 Nm, SD 0.9) and nonaugmented (4.6 Nm, SD 1.3, p = 0.65) screw groups. However, there were significantly more broken screws in in the augmented screw group (17 versus 9; p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the pull-out force of the femoral component between the augmented (2625 N, SD 603) and nonaugmented (2653 N, SD 542, p = 0.94) screw groups.ConclusionThe screw removal torque during implant removal surgery does not significantly differ between augmented and nonaugmented screws. In the augmented screw group, significantly more screws failed. To overcome this, the use of solid screws in holes B, C, and G can be considered. Additionally, it is possible to implant a femoral component for knee arthroplasty that retains the initial anchorage and does not suffer from interference with broken screws and/or residual cement.Level of Evidence 5

The Correlation between Synthetic Oxytocin Given during Labor and Women’s Personality Traits According to the SSP (Swedish University Scales of Personality) Survey: A Pilot Study

Background: In modern obstetric care, oxytocin is one of the most frequently used drugs, and the possible mental impact this drug has on women is very little studied. The objective of this study is to investigate whether women augmented with oxytocin during labor will rate their personality profile differently after childbirth than non-stimulated women. Methods: Prospective cohort study was performed at Women’s Clinic, Soder hospital, Stockholm.76 women received the SSP (Swedish University Scales of Personality) questionnaire to fill in during their stay in the post-maternity ward after labor. Information about the use of oxytocin was retrieved from the women’s medical records. Primary outcome: Differences in the SSP scores in the group augmented with synthetic oxytocin during labor compared with the non-augmented group. Results: Women with and without oxytocin estimates on the SSP subscale form differed regarding personality traits described as “lack of assertiveness” (p = 0.04), which means “lack of ability to speak up and to be self-assertive in social situations”. The result also showed that women that had a long time of augmentation with oxytocin (>5 h) scored higher for “social desirability” (p = 0.004), which was defined as being “socially adapted,” “friendly,” and “helpful”. A difference in “psychological anxiety” (p = 0.04) and “social desirability” (p = 0.004) was found among women who had oxytocin in a dose of at least 200 ImU/h for ≥1 hour. This group also had a lower rate of “mental anxiety” than those who received lower oxytocin doses. Conclusion: Synthetic oxytocin given during labor may affect the woman mentally. The total time and volume of given oxytocin seem to be essential factors when discussing augmentation’s maternal psychological response. We conclude that prolonged and extended use of synthetic oxytocin during labor should be avoided if possible.

Cement augmentation of an angular stable plate osteosynthesis for supracondylar femoral fractures - biomechanical investigation of a new fixation device

BackgroundImplant anchorage in highly osteoporotic bone is challenging, since it often leads to osteosynthesis failure in geriatric patients with supracondylar femoral fractures. Cementation of screws is presumed to prevent such osteosynthesis failure. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a newly designed, cementable fenestrated condylar screw for plate fixation in a biomechanical setting.MethodsEight pairs of osteoporotic cadaver femora with an average age of 77 years, ranging between 62 and 88 years, were randomly assigned to either an augmented or a non-augmented group. In both groups an instable 33-A3 fracture according to the AO / OTA classification was fixed with an angular stable locking plate. All right samples received a cement augmentation of their fenestrated condylar screws with calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC). Mechanical testing was performed at a load to failure mode by cyclic axial loading, using a servohydraulic testing machine.ResultsWith a mean of 2475 N (95% CI: 1727–3223 N), the pressure forces resulting in osteosynthesis failure were significantly higher in specimen with cemented condylar screws as compared to non-cemented samples (1875 N (95% CI: 1320–2430 N)) (p = 0.024). In both groups the deformation of the constructs, with the distal screws cutting through the condylar bone, were the most frequent cause for failure. Analysis of axial stiffness (p = 0.889) and irreversible deformity of the specimens revealed no differences between the both groups (p = 0.161). No cement leakage through the joint line or the medial cortex was observed.ConclusionBased on the present study results, the newly introduced, cementable condylar screw could be an encouraging feature for the fixation of supracondylar femoral fractures in patients with reduced bone quality in terms of load to failure accuracy of the cement application.

Prospective randomized controlled trial for patch augmentation in rotator cuff repair: 24-month outcomes

To evaluate the anatomic integrity of rotator cuff repair performed by medialized single row and augmented by a porcine dermal patch, in comparison with a nonaugmented group. We conducted a single-center, prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. The sample size was predefined, and patients were divided into a study group and a control group, assessed preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. The EuroQol-visual analog scale; Constant-Murley questionnaire; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score; and Simple Shoulder Test were administered. The humeral-acromial distance was calculated on radiographs. Tendon thickness, tear extension, and tendon signal intensity were all measured on magnetic resonance images (MRIs) along with an evaluation of footprint extension and a classification into one of 4 healing grades-healed, thinned, partially healed, not healed. The study population consisted of 92 patients who were equally randomized into 2 homogenous groups. Sixty-nine patients completed the 24-monthfollow-up. The study group showed a healing rate of 97.6% compared with 59.5% for the standard repair group. The study group showed better results in terms of repaired tendon thickness and footprint coverage, with a P value < .05, although the tendon density was comparable. The study group showed better strength recoveryand functionality with the outcome scores submitted. During the entire study, only 2 patients reported complications, calling for a biopsy during revision surgery. Rotator cuff repairs augmented with a porcine dermal patch resulted in excellent clinical outcomes with a higher healing rate and close-to-normal MRI findings. The technique is safe and effective; in addition, it is reproducible and allows for better outcomes compared with those of standard medialized single-row repairs.

Comparative study of functional outcomes of arthroscopic ACL reconstruction by augmented hamstring graft with Fiber tape and hamstring graft alone: A prospective study

Background: Study is carried out to measure the additional effect of using Fiber-tape on functional outcome of anterior cruciate ligament tear managed by augmenting ACL reconstruction with Fiber tape. Methods: The standardised, Anterior Drawer test Lachman test, Pivot shift test, Lysholm knee score quantified in terms of the side-to-side difference in laxity both preoperatively and postoperatively.Result: The present study was conducted on patients with anterior cruciate ligament tear admitted in department of orthopaedics, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow. The present study had total of 50 subjects among which 25 were assigned in to two groups randomly, viz Group 1 of the treatment procedure – Quadruple hamstring graft alone and Group 2 of patients with augmented hamstring graft with fibertape. On comparing the improvement in grades at 12 weeks and 6 months follow-up, fiber group showed significantly more improvement compared with the non-fiber group. None of the cases in both the groups showed positive pivot shift test at 6 months follow up.Conclusion: In our study it was found that the improvement in grades of anterior drawer test and Lachman test in fibertape augmented group was significantly more than the non-augmented group at 12 weeks and 6 months. Follow up period of 6 months was a limiting factor in our study. This technique needs further clinical evaluation to assess the long term results and the effect of protection of the graft and also to study the clinical behavior of the resultant collagen fibertape.

Screw tip augmentation leads to improved primary stability in the minimally invasive treatment of displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus: a biomechanical study.

To investigate if the stability of minimally invasive screw osteosynthesis of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACF) can be effectively increased by an innovative approach to screw tip augmentation. In eight-paired human cadaver hindfoot specimens, DIACF of Sanders type IIB were treated with either standard screw osteosynthesis or with bone cement augmentation of the screw tips in the main fragments. The instrumented specimens were subjected to a cyclic loading protocol (9000 cycles, with stepwise increasing loads, 100-1000N). The interfragment motions were quantified as tuber fragment tilt (TFT) and posterior facet inclination angle (PFIA) using a 3-D motion analysis system. Böhler's angle (BA) was evaluated from X-rays. A load-to-failure test was performed after the cyclic loading protocol. All but one specimen of the augmented group withstood more cycles than the respective specimens of the non-augmented group. Mean cycles to failure for the failure criterion of 5° TFT were 7299 ± 1876 vs. 3864 ± 1810, corresponding to loads of 811N ± 195 vs. 481N ± 180, (P = 0.043). There were no significant differences observed in the PFIAs. The failure criterion of 5° BA was reached after a mean of 7929cycles ± 2004 in the augmented group and 4129cycles ± 2178 in the non-augmented group, corresponding to loads of 893N ± 200 vs. 513N ± 218, (P = 0,090). The mean load-to-failure of the four specimens in the augmented group that completed the cyclic loading was 1969N over a 1742-2483N range. Screw tip augmentation significantly improved the mechanical stability of the calcanei after osteosynthesis in terms of decreased tuber fragment tilts and less changes in Böhler's angle.

Intramedullary cortical bone strut improves the cyclic stability of osteoporotic proximal humeral fractures

BackgroundProximal humeral fractures treated with locking plate can fail due to varus collapse, especially in osteoporotic bone with medial cortex comminution. The use of an intramedullary strut together with locking plate fixation may strengthen fixation and provide additional medial support to prevent the varus malalignment. This study biomechanically investigates the influence of an intramedullary cortical bone strut on the cyclic stability of proximal humeral fractures stabilized by locking plate fixation in a cadaver model.MethodsTen cadaveric humeri were divided into two groups statistically matched for bone density. Each specimen was osteotomized with 10 mm gap at the surgical neck. The non-augmented group stabilized with locking plate alone; in the augmented group, a locking plate was used combined with an intramedullary cortical bone strut. The strut was retrograded into the subchondral bone, and three humeral head screws were inserted into the strut to form a plate-screw-strut mechanism. The cyclic axial load was performed to 450 N for 6000 cycles and then loaded to failure. Construct stiffness, cyclic loading behavior and failure strength were analyzed to identify differences between groups.ResultsThe augmented constructs were significantly stiffer than the non-augmented constructs during cycling. On average, the maximum displacements at 6000 cycles for non-augmented and augmented groups were 3.10 ± 0.75 mm and 1.7 ± 0.65 mm (p = 0.01), respectively. The mean peak-to-peak (inter cycle) displacement at 6000 cycles was about 2 times lower for the augmented group (1.36 ± 0.68 mm vs. 2.86 ± 0.51 mm). All specimens showed varus collapse combined with loss of screw fixation of the humeral head. The failure load of the augmented group was increased by 2.0 (SD = 0.41) times compared with the non-augmented group (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe stability and strength of the locking plate augmented with an intramedullary strut were significantly increased. For bone with poor quality, the subsidence of the locked screws led larger displacement, decreased the stability of the constructs, however, the plate-screw-strut mechanism provided more rigidity to stabilize the fixation. This study emphasized the importance of intramedullary support for the proximal humeral fractures fixed with a locked plate under cyclic loading, especially in bone with poor quality. This work is based on the results of cadaver model, further in vivo analysis is necessary to determine if the clinical results can be extrapolated from this data.