Plate Fixation Research Articles

Intramedullary locking mini-plate screw system in Lindgren osteotomy: a more effective fixation technique in mild and moderate hallux valgus cases.

In the treatment of mild and moderate hallux valgus (HV) cases, the Lindgren distal osteotomy (LDO) technique has been one of the most frequently preferred methods, and screw fixation has been the most preferred material for surgery. However, considering the implant removal operations due to the reaction to the material, the risk of unsteadiness, retarded union, and malunion has limited the amount of safe application of lateralization of the distal fragment in distal osteotomy surgery and has yielded the researchers for a better alternative. This study compared the results of the LDO cases using headless cannulated screws and intramedullary plate fixation materials. The retrospective study included 31 files of patients operated for HV between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022, in Adana City Training and Research Hospital Orthopedics Clinic, Adana, Turkey. In the radiological evaluation, the hallux valgus angle (HVA), the intermetatarsal angle (IMA), the length of the first metatarsal (ML), and the distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) recorded preoperatively and postoperatively were analyzed. The functional results of the operations were evaluated by using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), and EuroQol (EQ-5D) scores. Postop HVA, IMA, MU, and DMMA values were significantly higher in patients in Group 1 than in patients in Group 2 (p<0.001; p=0.004; p=0.004; p=0.049; p<0.001, respectively). The change in Delta (∆) HVA and EQ-5D values was significantly higher in patients in Group 2 compared to patients in Group 1 (p=0.020; p=0.016, respectively). The easily available and low-cost locking plates produced for mini-fractures may safely be used in distal osteotomy surgery of mild and moderate HV successfully combined with screws if intramedullary-placed, allowing accurate lateralization and improving overall outcome.

Corrigendum: Effect of Additional Medial Locking Plate Fixation and Autogenous Bone Graft for Distal Femur Nonunion after Lateral Locking Plate Fixation

Corrigendum: Effect of Additional Medial Locking Plate Fixation and Autogenous Bone Graft for Distal Femur Nonunion after Lateral Locking Plate Fixation

Effect of Additional Medial Locking Plate Fixation and Autogenous Bone Graft for Distal Femur Nonunion after Lateral Locking Plate Fixation

Effect of Additional Medial Locking Plate Fixation and Autogenous Bone Graft for Distal Femur Nonunion after Lateral Locking Plate Fixation

Secondary Displacement was Common in Healing Distal Femur Fractures in a Cohort of Elderly Patients.

Surgical treatment of distal femoral fractures (DFFs) in osteoporotic bone is challenging despite improvements in hardware and surgical techniques. The occurrence and degree of secondary displacement during healing after bridging plate fixation are still unknown. This study aimed to assess the occurrence and degree of secondary displacement in healing DFFs in elderly patients and correlate the secondary displacement to body mass index, bone density, and weight-bearing regimen. The study involved 32 patients, 65years or older, with a DFF of AO/OTA types 33 A2-3, B1-2, C1-2, and 32(c) A-C,1-3, including peri-prosthetic fractures with stable implants. Twenty-seven patients had at least 8weeks of follow-up, and 21 patients had a complete 1-year follow-up. Minimally invasive surgery was performed using a distal anatomical femoral plate as a long bridge-plating construct. Secondary displacement was assessed with computed tomography of the entire femur postoperatively and at 8, 16, and 52weeks. Femoral length, coronal angulation (varus/valgus), and subsidence as the change in distance between the distal joint surface and a specified locking screw were measured. There was a statistically significant mean femoral shortening at 52weeks of 4.7mm (SD 3.9, (95% CI 2.9-6.5), P < 0.001) mainly by subsidence of the distal fragment. Most patients experienced limited coronal angulation. There was no correlation between body mass index or bone density and secondary displacement. At the 1-year follow-up, no patient needed revision surgery for non-union or plate breakage. Restricted weight-bearing for 8weeks did not prevent secondary displacements or adverse events such as cut-outs. Modern dynamic plate osteosynthesis could not prevent commonly occurring fracture subsidence in DFF in an elderly cohort. Restricted weight-bearing for 8weeks did not prevent secondary displacements or mechanical adverse events.

Anterolateral Dual Plate Fixation for Distal Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Junction Fractures of the Humerus: Biomechanical Finite Element Analysis with Clinical Results.

Distal metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction fractures of the humerus are a subset of injuries between humeral shaft fractures and distal intra-articular humerus fractures. A lack of space for distal fixation and the unique anatomy of concave curvature create difficulties during operative treatment. The closely lying radial nerve is another major concern. The aim of this study was to determine whether anterolateral dual plate fixation could be effective for a distal junctional fracture of the humerus both biomechanically and clinically. A right humerus 3-dimensional (3D) model was obtained based on plain radiographs and computed tomography data of patients. Two fractures, a spiral type and a spiral wedge type, were constructed. Three-dimensional models of locking compression plates and screws were constructed using materials provided by the manufacturer. The experiment was conducted by using COMSOL Multiphysics, a finite element analysis, solver, and simulation software package. For the clinical study, from July 2008 to March 2021, a total of 72 patients were included. Their medical records were retrospectively reviewed to obtain patient demographics, elbow range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores, Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS), and hand grip strength. No fracture fixation construct completely restored stiffness comparable to the intact model in torsion or compression. Combinations of the 7-hole and 5-hole plates and the 8-hole and 6-hole plates showed superior structural stiffness and stress than those with single lateral plates. At least 3 screws (6 cortices) should be inserted into the lateral plate to reduce the load effectively. For the anterior plate, it was sufficient to purchase only the near cortex. Regarding clinical results of the surgery, the range of motion showed satisfactory results in elbow flexion, elbow extension, and forearm rotation. The average DASH score was 4.3 and the average MEPS was 88.2. Anterolateral dual plate fixation was biomechanically superior to the single-plate method in the finite element analysis of a distal junctional fracture of the humerus model. Anterolateral dual plate fixation was also clinically effective in a large cohort of patients with distal junctional fractures of the humerus.

Comparative Study Between Intramedullary Nail and Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis in Tibial Shaft Fracture

Background: Casting, open plate fixation, minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis, intramedullary nailing, and external fixation are some treatment options for tibial fractures. The aim of treatment is anatomical alignment with sufficient stability to permit early motion. The least invasive and most popular techniques are intramedullary nailing, external fixation, and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis. Aim of Study: To compare the clinical and functional outcome between Intramedullary nailing and external fixation and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in treating tibial shaft fracture. Patients and Methods: A randomized clinical trial study was conducted at Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital and other private hospitals in Baghdad, Iraq, during a period of 17 months from September 2020 to January 2022, including a period of one year for follow-up. Patients were selected according to certain inclusion criteria and divided into two groups, each with 20 patients. IMN was treated by intramedullary nailing, and the MIPO group was treated by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis. Patients were followed up radiologically and clinically using the JETTS Lower Extremity Trauma Scale score. Result: The difference was significant (P&lt; 0.05) regarding partial and full weight bearing, union time, and return to work. Ankle stiffness, implant irritation, and knee pain revealed significant differences. Conclusion: Intramedullary nailing and external fixation and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis are effective methods for the treatment of extra-articular tibial shaft fracture. They provided rigid fixation, preventing major complications and good functional and anatomical outcomes.

Comparison of American orthopedic foot and ankle society score between anterior to posterior lag screws versus posterior buttress plating for posterior malleolus fixation in tri-malleolar ankle fracture

Background: Posterior malleolar fractures are frequent, occurring in up to 44% of all ankle fractures. Surgical management typically involves anterior to posterior (AP) lag screws or posterior buttress plates. This study aimed to compare the AOFAS (American orthopedic foot and ankle society) score between AP lag screw and posterior buttress plating for posterior malleolus fixation in tri-malleolar ankle fracture. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at the department of orthopedics and traumatology, Chittagong medical college hospital, Chattogram, Bangladesh, from November 2020 to October 2021. It involved 28 patients with ankle fractures, equally divided into two groups. Group A received AP lag screw fixation, and group B underwent posterior buttress plating. Data analysis was performed using MS office tools and SPSS version 23.0. Results: The posterior plating group demonstrated superior postoperative AOFAS scores compared with the AP screw group with statistically significant differences (88 versus 81, p=0.008). Significant differences were noted in the AOFAS pain score (p=0.045) and function score (p=0.019) at the final follow-up between the two groups. Conclusions: Patients with tri-malleolar ankle fractures in whom the posterior malleolus is treated with posterior buttress plating show superior postoperative AOFAS scores at follow-up compared to those treated with AP screws.

Immediate Unprotected Weightbearing vs 2 Weeks Nonweightbearing After Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures.

Postoperative care protocols for ankle fracture surgery remain controversial with variability among care providers. This prospective controlled trial compared 12-week postoperative outcomes for immediate unprotected weightbearing (IMWB) vs nonweightbearing (NWB) for 2 weeks in a splint followed by weightbearing as tolerated (WBAT) in a boot after surgical fixation of selected low-energy ankle fractures without superior articular involvement. Eighty-seven patients undergoing surgical fixation of ankle fractures at a single level 1 trauma center were recruited according to specific criteria and enrolled by presentation date. The first 43 eligible patients were allocated to the control group, with NWB in a splint for 2 weeks followed by WBAT in a walker boot. The next 44 patients recruited were allocated to the IMWB group. The primary outcome was the Olerud-Molander score (OMAS). Secondary outcome measures included the Euroquol-5D (EQ5D) score and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment: Specific Health Problem (WPAI:SHP) scores, ankle range of motion (ROM), wound complications, time to return to work, radiograph measurements, and fracture reduction loss. In this perioperative-focused study, we collected data on patients until 12 weeks postoperation. The IMWB group had 5 superficial wound complications vs 1 in the control group. At 12 weeks, we found no difference in OMAS, EQ5D, WPAI:SHP scores, ROM, time to return to work, or radiographic measurements. In this short-term and relatively small prospective trial, we found more wound complications among patients treated with immediate unprotected weightbearing compared with patients treated with 2 weeks of NWB followed by protected weightbearing. Given the low incidence and small sample size, we do not know if these observed findings are generalizable. However, we also found no difference in functional outcomes at 12 weeks postoperation between these 2 groups. In light of that, we do not recommend IMWB after open reduction internal fixation of low-energy ankle fractures with plate and/or screw fixation. Level II, prospective controlled trial.

A Comparative Analysis of Between Percutaneous Cannulated Screw Fixation and Traditional Plate Internal Fixation in Treatment of Sanders II and III Calcaneal Fractures

The objective of this study is to compare the clinical efficacy of percutaneous cannulated screw fixation and traditional plate internal fixation in the treatment of Sanders II and III calcaneal fractures. The records of 64 patients were retrospectively analyzed. Thirty-three cases were fixed by percutaneous cannulated screws. Thirty-one cases were fixed with traditional steel plates. The preoperative preparation time of the screw group and plate group was 3 ± 1.7 days and 4.6 ± 2.1 days. The surgery time was 118.9 ± 43.8 minutes and 146.9 ± 47.6 minutes. The length of hospitalization was 8.7 ± 3.9 days and 17.0 ± 7.9 days. Intraoperative blood loss was 38.2 ± 27.7 mL and 67.1 ± 58.8 mL. The postoperative drainage volume of the plate group was 85.1 ± 53.7 mL, and no wound drainage was needed in the screw group after surgery. Postoperative wound complications occurred in 2 cases of the screw group and 8 cases of the plate group. The recovery effects of Gissane angle and Bohler angle are similar in the 2 groups. The excellent and good rate of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot Scale in the screw group was 96.8% at 12 months after surgery, whereas the rate was 93.5% in the plate group. Compared with the traditional plate internal fixation, the percutaneous cannulated screw group achieved a similar excellent and good rate of clinical treatment. It has the advantages of less trauma, less bleeding, low incidence of complications, short preoperative preparation, and hospitalization time.

Outcome of Plate Fixation in Treatment of Lisfranc Injuries

Outcome of Plate Fixation in Treatment of Lisfranc Injuries

The Duration of Bone Healing and Nonunion Ratio After Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy Using a 5-Hole Forearm Compression Plate With Transverse Osteotomy.

Ulnar shortening osteotomy using various osteotomy sites, osteotomy methods, and surgical techniques with a variety of implants has been reported, but nonunion rates and the duration of bone healing are not uniform by the authors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the duration of bone healing and nonunion ratio in patients who underwent ulnar shortening osteotomy by a 5-hole nonlocking plate with a simple transverse osteotomy for ulnar impaction syndrome and to determine the correlation between the gap length of the osteotomy site and the duration of bone healing. We assessed patients who underwent ulnar shortening osteotomy for ulnar impaction syndrome using a 5-hole nonlocking plate fixation followed by a simple transverse osteotomy between July 2012 and October 2021. This study was a case series study, and the level of evidence was IV. A total of 80 patients were included. The mean age of the patients was 46.7 years, and 46 patients were men. The average bone union period was 41.8 ± 18.7 weeks. The correlation between the gap length of the osteotomy site and the duration of bone union of the osteotomy site was not significant. The nonunion ratio of our method was 2.5%. The nonunion rate of our ulnar shortening osteotomy with a simple transverse osteotomy and a 5-hole nonlocking plate was comparable to that in previous reports, but our method required slightly longer periods for bone union. There was no correlation between the gap length of the osteotomy and the duration of bone union. Level IV (Case series).

The Biomechanical Performance of Different Plate Fixation Configurations to Repair Vancouver Type C Periprosthetic Femur Fractures

Objectives The incidence of femoral periprosthetic fractures (PPF) is rising. Vancouver type C PPFs compromise the majority type of fracture associated with high complication rates. The complexity of Vancouver C-type PPFs lies in the presence of the femoral stem in the proximal fracture fragment. This study compares the biomechanical performance of four plate fixation configurations to repair Vancouver type C periprosthetic femur fractures. Methods Six large adult 4th generation biomechanical low-density femur Sawbones instrumented with cemented femoral stems were used to conduct this study. A comminuted Vancouver-type C PPF was simulated and fixed with a plate. Four proximal fragment construct configurations were studied with combinations of unicortical screws, bicortical screws, and cerclage cable fixation. Constructs were loaded in axial compression and four-point bending, and the stiffness was calculated. Results Constructs with bicortical screw fixation had significantly greater stiffness than those with unicortical screw and cerclage cable fixation in axial and four-point bending loads. Constructs with cerclage cable and unicortical screw fixation had greater stiffness than ones with unicortical screw fixation. Conclusion Using bicortical screws in the proximal construct of Vancouver type C PPFs increases construct stiffness in axial and bending loads. Though controversial, using cerclage cables might have a place for construct augmentation when using only unicortical screws or a combination of unicortical and bicortical screws.

Long-term outcome after surgical management of symptomatic non-union rib fractures

IntroductionTraumatic chest wall injuries are common however the incidence of non-union rib fractures is unknown. Previous studies have suggested that surgical management of symptomatic non-union rib fractures could be beneficial in selected patients, although many experience persisting pain despite surgery. The aim of this study is to investigate the long-term outcome after surgical management of symptomatic non-union rib fractures. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study including adults (≥18 years) managed surgically for symptomatic non-union rib fractures with plate fixation during the period 2010–2020 at Sahlgrenska University Hospital. Patients operated for acute chest wall injury or injury due to cardiopulmonary resuscitation were excluded. Patients answered standardized questionnaires concerning remaining symptoms and satisfaction with surgery, quality of life (QoL, EQ-5D-5 L) and disability (Disability Rating Index, DRI). Lung function, movement of chest wall and thoracic spine, and shoulder function (Boström index) were assessed. ResultsSixteen patients, 12 men and four women, with mean age 61.6± 11.1 were included in the study. The mechanism of injury was trauma in 10 patients and cough-induced injuries in five patients. Lung disease was significantly more prevalent in cough-induced injuries compared to traumatic injuries, 5 vs 1 (p = 0.008). The mean follow-up time was 3.5 years. Ninety-four percent were satisfied with the surgery and reported that their symptoms had decreased, although 69 % had remaining symptoms, especially pain, from the chest wall. Quality of Life was decreased with EQ-5D-5 L index 0.819 (0.477–0.976) and EQ-VAS 69 (10–100). Disability Rating Index was 31.5 (1.3–76.7) with problems running, lifting heavy objects, and performing heavy work. Predicted lung function was decreased with Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) 86.2 ± 14.2 %, Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1) 79.1 ± 10.7 % and Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) 89.7 ± 14.5 %. Patients with cough-induced injuries had full shoulder mobility. ConclusionsChest wall surgery for symptomatic non-union rib fractures results in decreased symptoms and patient satisfaction in most cases despite remaining symptoms, reduced lung function, chest wall movement, and QoL and persistent disability.

Biomechanical comparison of different internal fixation devices for transversely unstable Mason type II radial head fractures.

Background: The integrity of the radial head is critical to maintaining elbow joint stability. For radial head fractures requiring surgical treatment, headless compression cannulated screw fixation is a less invasive scheme that has fewer complications. The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical stability of different fixation devices, including headless compression cannulated screws and mini-T-plates, for the fixation of transversely unstable radial head fractures. Methods: Forty identical synthetic radius bones were used to construct transverse unstable radial head fracture models. Parallel, cross, and tripod headless compression cannulated screw fixation and mini-T plate fixation were applied. The structural stiffness of each group was compared by static shear loading. Afterward, cyclic loading was performed in each of the three directions of the radial head, and the shear stability of each group was compared by calculating the maximum radial head displacement at the end of the cycle. Findings: The mini-T plate group had the lowest structural stiffness (51.8 ± 7.7N/mm) and the highest relative displacement of the radial head after cyclic loading (p < 0.05). The tripod headless compression cannulated screw group had the highest structural stiffness among all screw groups (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the relative displacement of the radial head between the screw groups after cyclic loading in different directions (p > 0.05). Interpretation: In conclusion, the biomechanical stability of the mini-T plate for fixation of transverse unstable radial head fractures is lower than that of headless compression cannulated screws. Tripod fixation provides more stable fixation than parallel and cross fixation with headless compression cannulated screws for the treatment of transversely unstable radial head fractures.

Biomechanical comparison of different fixation methods in tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis: a cadaver study

BackgroundVarious fixation methods are available for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis: nail, plate, or screws. An intramedullary bone stabilization system within a balloon catheter has not previously been used in tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis. The aim of this study was to compare the stability of these techniques.MethodsTwenty-four lower legs from fresh-frozen human cadavers were used. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis was performed with a retrograde nail, a lateral locking plate, three cancellous screws, or an intramedullary bone stabilization system. The ankles were loaded cyclically in plantarflexion and dorsiflexion.ResultsFor cyclic loading at 125 N, the mean range of motion was 1.7 mm for nail, 2.2 mm for plate, 6.0 mm for screws, and 9.0 mm for the bone stabilization system (P < .01). For cyclic loading at 250 N, the mean range of motion was 4.4 mm for nail, 7.5 mm for plate, 12.1 mm for screws, and 14.6 mm for the bone stabilization system (P < .01). The mean cycle of failure was 4191 for nail, 3553 for plate, 3725 for screws, and 2132 for the bone stabilization system (P = .10).ConclusionsThe stability of the tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis differs depending on the fixation method, with nail or plate showing the greatest stability and the bone stabilization system the least. When three screws are used for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis, the stability is intermediate. As the biomechanical stability of the bone stabilization system is low, it cannot be recommended for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis.

Outcomes of Guided Personalized Surgery (GPS)-Navigated Reverse Polarity Total Shoulder Joint Replacement in a Low-Volume Hospital.

Introduction Reversepolarity shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is an evolving surgery, and its indications have expanded over time. Apart from cuff tear arthropathy (CTA), it is recommended for complex proximal humerus fractures in the elderly, inflammatory arthritis, primary osteoarthritis in the elderly, and revision for failed hemiarthroplasty. Glenoid base plate placement and fixation are important to prevent complications, especially glenoid base plate loosening, dislocation, and scapular notching, and to improve longevity. Guided personalized surgery (GPS)-navigated RSA was devised to optimize the glenoid base plate position and fixation. Methodology A retrospective study was carried out in a low-volume district general hospital in England. All the patients who underwent GPS-navigated RSA were included. Their preoperative glenoid version, bone stock, glenoid base plate, and glenoid screw lengths were analysed. Preoperative and post-surgery patient-reported outcomes were gathered using the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) at six months and annually thereafter. Results Fourteen patients have undergone GPS-navigated RSA in our institute since 2018. Ten patients were female. All of them had a retroverted glenoid with a mean value of 13.6 degrees. Ten out of 14 patients had an augmented glenoid base plate. This included six eight-degree posterior augmentations, three 10-degree superior augmentations, and one extended cage peg. The follow-up period was six months to five years, depending on the date of surgery, and none of the patients dropped out of follow-up. The OSS revealed statistically significant improvement from preoperative values to six months postoperative, an improvement of 21.64±7.175. It also showed progressive improvement over time during postoperative follow-up, and the three-year mean was 47. The commonest complication was fractures, which happened in four cases. There were no infections or dislocations. Discussion Guided personalized surgery-navigated RSA was performed on selected patients at our institution when they were not suitable for conventional RSA due to distorted glenoid anatomy. Glenoid base plate positioning and fixation are important to optimize the outcome of RSA. Guided personalized surgery navigation is helpful in achieving optimum glenoid base placement, especially when the normal glenoid anatomy is distorted. There were no dislocations, glenoid base plate loosening, or scapular notching in the study group. There were four reported fractures, which was comparable with the published literature.

Efficacy of the titanium double ‘Y’- shaped mini plate compared with conventional mini plates in fixation of anterior mandibular fractures: A prospective clinical study

: Anterior mandibular fracture management is commonly dealt in oral and maxillofacial surgery and most accepted treatment modality is open reduction and internal fixation with miniplates. With ongoing research, various shapes of miniplates were tried for osteosynthesis and biomechanical properties tested in invitro studies, but they lack testing in clinical scenarios. The present study was conducted to compare clinically and radio graphically, the efficacy of double Y-shaped mini plate with two conventional 4 hole mini plates in management of anterior mandibular fractures. : Study consisted of 20 patients, 10 in each group with anterior mandibular fractures. 10 patients (group 1) were treated with double ‘Y’ shaped miniplate with bar and 10 patients (group 2) with conventional 4 hole two miniplates. Clinically post-operative Pain, edema, occlusion, neurosensory deficit and wound healing were assessed. Clinical evaluation was done at 1st postop day, 1st week, and 1st and 3rd month postoperatively. Radiographic evaluation was done to record fracture gap in both the groups and timing for plate adaptation and fixation was recorded intra-operatively. The data was recorded and statistical analysis was done.: Clinical and radiographic evaluation done for each group did not show any statistical difference at 3 months postoperatively. However significant difference was noted in time taken for adaptation and fixation of plates and screws. Double ‘Y’ shaped miniplate was found to be easier to place and required less time to adapt and fix to bone compared to 4-hole miniplates. The study concluded that the double ‘Y’ miniplate and conventional 4-hole miniplates are found to be equally effective for clinical use in treatment of anterior mandibular fractures. The double ‘Y’ miniplate were found to be superior in terms of handling characteristics, less hardware and better radiographic outcome when compared to conventional 4-hole miniplates.

Does Flipping From Prone to Supine for Medial Malleolar Fixation of Trimalleolar Ankle Fractures Improve Results?

There has been a paradigm shift towards fixing the posterior malleolus in trimalleolar ankle fractures. This study evaluated whether a surgeon's preference to intraoperatively flip or not flip patients from prone to supine for medial malleolar fixation following repair of fibular and posterior malleoli impacted surgical outcomes. A retrospective patient cohort treated at a large urban academic center and level 1 trauma center was reviewed to identify all operative trimalleolar ankle fractures initially positioned prone. One hundred and forty-seven patients with mean 12-month follow-up were included and divided based on positioning for medial malleolar fixation, prone or supine (following closure, flip and re-prep, and drape). Data was collected on patient demographics, injury mechanism, perioperative variables, and complication rates. Postoperative reduction films were reviewed by orthopedic traumatologists to grade the accuracy of anatomic fracture reduction. Overall, 74 (50.3%) had the medial malleolus fixed prone, while 73 (49.7%) were flipped and fixed supine. No differences in demographics, injury details, and fracture type existed between the groups. The supine group had a higher rate of initial external fixation (p = .047), longer operative time in minutes (p < .001), and a higher use of plate and screw constructs for medial malleolar fixation (p = .019). There were no differences in clinical and radiographic outcomes and complication rates. This study demonstrated that intraoperative change in positioning for improved medial malleolar visualization in trimalleolar ankle fractures results in longer operative times but similar radiographic and clinical results. The decision of operative position should be based on surgeon comfort.

Study of the position of six volar locking plates for distal radius fracture relative to the watershed line

IntroductionVolar plate malpositioning in the treatment of distal radial fracture can lead to tendinitis or even tendon tear, especially when the plate position is very distal. We studied the impact of design on plate position in the distal radius. The primary aim was to compare the position of six volar wrist plates relative to the watershed line using the Soong classification. The secondary objectives were to assess the epidemiology of volar locking plate fixation within the administrative Département of Finistère (northwestern France) and to study whether the type of fracture played a role in plate position. HypothesisThe plate design itself influences positioning relative to the watershed line on the Soong classification. Materials and methodsA total of 2723 volar locking plate fixation cases were analyzed and categorized according to the Soong classification. Plates used were divided into six groups based on design: Zimmer Biomet®, Newclip Technics®, Stryker®, Synthes®, Medartis® and Medartis® Footprint. The number of Soong 0 + 1 plates (i.e., plates graded 0 and 1 taken together) was determined for each design, then compared using the Marascuilo procedure with a significance level of α = 0.05. ResultsOn the Marascuilo procedure, we found significant differences in the number of Soong grade 0 + 1 plates. The Zimmer Biomet and Newclip Technics® plates were significantly more often proximal to the watershed line than the Synthes and Medartis Footprint plates. Plate position with the Medartis® design was significantly more proximal to the watershed line than for its companion design, the Medartis® Footprint plate. The rate of volar locking plate fixation of distal radial fractures over the past 10 years increased in Finistère. Also, the type of fracture affected the choice of plate when different designs were available within a hospital center (Medartis® Footprint plate used in 2R3A fractures). ConclusionOur study highlights a significant difference in volar locking plate position relative to the watershed line between the various models available. Plate design is a deciding factor when treating distal radial fracture, to avoid impingement when implant removal is not routinely planned. Level of evidence3.

Hoffa fractures are associated with concomitant soft tissue injures and a high postoperative complication rate

IntroductionHoffa fractures are a rare and often overlooked entity. The main goal of surgical treatment is to restore the articular surface and maintain knee function. However, current clinical data indicate heterogeneous outcomes. The aim of this multicenter study was to obtain a representative data set of patients with isolated Hoffa fractures with special emphasis on concomitant soft tissue injuries, diagnostic algorithms, treatment strategies and functional outcomes.Materials and methodsParticipating Level I trauma centres were asked to review their internal database for isolated Hoffa fractures treated surgically between 2010 and 2020. Demographics, mechanism of injury, diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm, Letenneur classification, concomitant soft tissue injuries, and postoperative knee function and complications were analysed.ResultsA total of 56 patients from six participating trauma centres were included. The median age at injury was 45 years (15–94) with a median follow-up of 19 months (2–108). The most common mechanism of injury was high-energy trauma, with unicondylar lateral Letenneur type I and II fractures being the most common. Surgical treatment was independent of the type of fracture and included isolated screw fixation, combined plate and screw fixation and isolated plate osteosynthesis. Isolated screw fixation resulted in significantly better range of motion (ROM) values (p = 0.032), but the highest number of postoperative complications (n = 14/20, n.s.) compared to the other fixation techniques. The highest number of fixation failures requiring revision was observed in the plate and screw fixation group (n = 3/8, p = 0.008). Osteochondral flake fractures (n = 12/43, 27%) and lateral meniscus injuries (n = 5/49, 10%) were commonly seen in Hoffa fractures.ConclusionsTreatment of Hoffa fractures with screw fixation resulted in significantly better functional outcomes, probably due to less comminuted fractures. Concomitant cartilage, meniscal and ligamentous injuries are common and warrant preoperative recognition and management.