Plate Osteosynthesis Research Articles

Functional reliability of means of fixation for complex pelvic fractures. Part 3. Experimental studies under cyclic loads

Fixation of fragments of human pelvic bones by standard and new means of osteosynthesis, in addition to clinical indicators, should have sufficiently high mechanical characteristics. In particular, the “bone with a fracture - osteosynthesis system” system must be sufficiently strong, rigid and stable during long-term treatment, which may be accompanied by certain physiological loads. Today, in traumatology and orthopedics, two methods of fixation are used to fix complex fractures of the pelvic bones caused by high-velocity wounding projectiles: parallel insertion of spongy screws (osteosynthesis of the posterior pelvic ring) and stabilization with a rod apparatus of external fixation and fixation by means of reinforced with application of extramedullary reconstructive plate (osteosynthesis of the anterior pelvic ring). The anterior pelvis is stabilized more often because this technique is simpler, does not require much time and high qualification of the surgeon. However, this method of fixation does not provide sufficient stability of the connection of the pelvic ring bone fragments. This work is devoted to the study of the processes of occurrence and development of mutual displacements of fracture points of pelvic bones under the action of long-term cyclic loads. Experimental studies were carried out under the action of bending cyclic loads, which are close to physiological ones. Calculated creep deformations and irreversible displacements of fracture points. The stiffness characteristics of pelvic fracture fixation systems were studied.

Plate osteosynthesis of phalanx fractures using wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet technique is cost-effective and associated with less postoperative pain.

The wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) technique, which is based on the local infiltration of lidocaine and epinephrine, is widely used in hand and wrist surgery. However, few studies have been conducted on the cost-benefit analysis of phalanx fracture surgery using the WALANT technique. This study aimed to investigate the clinical condition, time spent on anesthesia and operation. We also perform an economic analysis among general anesthesia, local anesthesia with a tourniquet, and the WALANT technique for plate fixation of phalanx fractures. This retrospective study included all patients with single phalanx fractures who underwent open reduction internal fixation with plating between January 2015 and December 2019. Patients were divided into three groups according to the anesthesia method: general anesthesia with a tourniquet (GA group), local anesthesia with a tourniquet (LA group), and the WALANT technique (WALANT group). Data, including demographics, anesthesia and surgical time, postoperative pain score, and vomiting ratio, were collected and analyzed. A total of 62 patients were included in this study. Of the 62 patients, 15 were included in the GA group, 32 in the LA group, and 15 in the WALANT group. No complications were reported during surgery or follow-up in either group. The GA group exhibited a significantly longer anesthesia time than the other two groups, with an average of 32.4 min. However, no significant difference in surgical time was observed among the three groups. The WALANT group exhibited a significantly lower postoperative pain score than the other two groups. The additional cost of general anesthesia was approximately 350 US dollars (USD), accounting for approximately one-third to one-fourth of the total expenses for phalanx surgery. Open reduction with plate fixation of phalanx fractures using the WALANT technique and local anesthesia was cost-effective compared with general anesthesia. Patients who underwent phalanx fracture surgery using the WALANT technique experienced less pain on the first postoperative day than those who underwent surgery using general or local anesthesia with a tourniquet because of the adequate tumescent technique and not using a tourniquet during surgery.

Traumatic Periprosthetic Fractures Following Total Ankle Replacement A Systematic Review and Proposed Classification

Total ankle replacements (TAR) are increasingly utilized, but postoperative traumatic periprosthetic fractures remain a rare yet challenging complication. This systematic review aims to address the gap in literature by proposing a comprehensive classification system for these fractures, considering implant stability, fracture location, and surrounding bone quality. A systematic review identified 13 cases from 9 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Fractures were categorized using the proposed Hill-Brown classification: Type A (talus or fibula), Type B (distal tibial component), and Type C (diaphysis/proximal tibial metaphysis). Implant stability was a key factor, with Type B fractures further classified as B1 (stable), B2 (unstable with adequate bone stock), and B3 (unstable with poor bone stock). Most fractures occurred at or near the distal tibial component (Type B), with implant stability largely dependent on fracture location and bone quality. Surgical fixation, particularly minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) with locking plates, was the preferred treatment for stable implants, showing low complication rates. Unstable implants often required revision TAR or conversion to arthrodesis. Surgical intervention is recommended following all traumatic periprosthetic fractures in the setting of a TAR. Bone quality, particularly in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis, significantly impacted treatment decisions. Our findings emphasize the importance of fracture location, implant stability, and bone quality in managing these fractures. Future multicenter studies are necessary to validate this classification system and refine treatment protocols. Level of Evidence: Level III

Titanium Cable Cerclage Increases the Load to Failure in Plate Osteosynthesis for Distal Femoral Fractures.

Background and Objectives: The reduction of two-part oblique or spiral fractures of the distal femur using steel wire cerclage prior to plate osteosynthesis is a proven procedure. In addition to being useful in fracture reduction, wire cerclage was also shown to increase the stability of osteosynthesis. Nevertheless, metal corrosion and the allergenic potency of steel remain problematic disadvantages of this method. A biomechanical study was carried out to evaluate titanium cable cerclage as an alternative supplement for plate osteosynthesis of a distal femoral two-part fracture. Materials and Methods: An unstable AO/OTA 32-A2.3 fracture was created in eleven pairs of nonosteoporotic human cadaver femora. All the samples were treated with polyaxial angular stable plate osteosynthesis. One femur from each pair was randomly selected for an additional fracture fixation with multifilament titanium cable cerclage. Stepwise cyclic axial loading was applied in a load-to-failure mode using a servohydraulic testing machine. Results: All specimens (mean age: 80 years; range: 57-91 years) withstood a cycling force of at least 1800 N. With a mean load of 2982 N (95% CI: 2629-3335 N), the pressure forces resulting in osteosynthesis failure were significantly higher in specimens with an additional titanium cerclage (Group 1) than in samples that were solely treated with plate osteosynthesis (Group 2) at 2545 N (95% CI: 2257-2834 N) (p = 0.024). In both groups, cutting out the distal screws at the condyle region, resulting in shearing of the distal fragment proximal to the fracture line, was the most frequent cause of construct failure. Among the specimens assigned to Group 1, 36% exhibited a specific fracture pattern, namely, a fracture of the dorsal buttress above the cerclage. Analysis of axial stiffness (p = 0.286) and irreversible deformity of the specimens revealed no differences between the groups (p = 0.374). Conclusion: Titanium cable cerclage application, as a supplement to an angular stable plate, resulted in an increased load to failure. In terms of stability, the use of this adjunct for fracture fixation of supracondylar two-part oblique femoral fractures might, therefore, be an option, especially in patients who are sensitive to nickel.

Assessing functional and radiological outcomes: open reduction and internal fixation vs. minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for humerus shaft fractures-a prospective comparative study.

To analyse and compare the functional and radiological outcome of different methods of surgical management of humerus shaft fractures in 30 patients treated by conventional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). This prospective interventional study was conducted among 30 patients by dividing into two equal groups over oneyear and sixmonths. All patients were followed up for a minimum of at least sixmonths. Radiological outcome was assessed using fracture union in serial radiographs and functional outcome was measured using DASH scoring. The majority of patients (26.7%) were between 18 to 30years, overall mean age was 44.4years, most of the patients (50%) had 12A3 AO type fractures, and 73.3% of patients had injuries following two-wheeler road traffic accidents. On comparing multiple factors, we found a statistically significant reduction of intra-operative blood loss in MIPO compared to ORIF. Though time taken for fracture union, functional outcome and complication rate were better in MIPO when compared to ORIF, these differences were not statistically significant. two patients in the MIPO group and one patient in the ORIF group had a peri-implant fracture following slip and fall again within the study period and underwent Revision plating. Excluding cases of peri-implant fractures, out of 13 patients in the MIPO group, only one patient developed fracture non-union. Of 14 patients in the ORIF group, three developed fracture non-union. MIPO is a safe, reproducible, efficient and good if not a better alternative to ORIF as it offers good radiological and functional outcomes with advantages of minimal soft tissue damage, minimal blood loss, better cosmesis, no incidence of radial nerve palsy and with few concerns such as the need for fluoroscopy, and a learning curve.

Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis for Comminuted Fractures of Long bones: A Prospective Study on Outcomes and Complications

The surge in comminuted bone fractures, attributed to modern lifestyles and increased trauma incidents, poses significant challenges in management. Traditional open reduction and plating methods, while effective, are associated with drawbacks like delayed union and higher infection rates. The evolution of MIPO (Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis) seeks to overcome these limitations. The potential effects of MIPO in the management of severely comminuted long bone fractures are investigated in this work. The Saveetha Medical College's Department of Orthopaedics carried out a prospective study from March 2022 to March 2024. Patients aged 20 to 60 with fractures of the femur, tibia, and humerus resulting from road traffic accidents were included. The AO Fracture classification system was utilized, and MIPO techniques were employed for fixation. Clinical and radiological assessments were conducted at various follow-up intervals. Statistical analysis using IBM SPSS Version 22.0 assessed outcomes, with a P-value<0.05 countedas significant. MIPO was performed on twenty-four male patients, ages averaging 34.4 years, for severely comminuted fractures. The distal 1/3 of the femur, the tibia, and the humerus shaft were among the fractures. Union was rapid in 15 cases, with delayed consolidation in two requiring secondary bone grafting. Functional outcomes assessed using the Neer–Grantham–Shelton Criteria, demonstrated excellent outcomes- 65%, good- 30%, and fair- 5% of events. Complications included infection (5%), wound gaping (5%), joint stiffness (25%), and limb length discrepancy (20%). This study reinforces MIPO as a promising approach for severely comminuted fractures, showcasing excellent union rates and functional outcomes. Studies highlight its advantages in preserving soft tissue and periosteal circulation. The shift from anatomic reduction to optimal stability in such fractures aligns with current trends. Complications, though present, are manageable. The study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting MIPO, emphasizing its potential advantages in minimizing surgical trauma and maintaining biological stability. Further research, including comparative studies and exploration of other fixation methods, is warranted for a comprehensive understanding of MIPO's role in fracture management.

Distal femoral fractures: periprosthetic fractures have four times more complications than non-periprosthetic fractures and cerclage should be avoided: retrospective analysis of 206 patients

BackgroundDistal femoral fractures account for less than 1% of all fractures. The therapy of choice is usually surgical stabilization. Despite advances in implant development over the past few years, complication rate remains comparatively high. The aim of this study is to analyze our results with plate fixation of distal femoral fractures with a focus on complication and fracture healing rates.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, patients (> 18 years) with distal femoral fractures treated at an urban level I trauma center between 2015 and 2022 were analyzed.ResultsIn total, 206 patients (167 female, 39 male) with an average age of 75 (SD 16) years were diagnosed with a fracture of the distal femur. One hundred fourteen of these patients were treated surgically by means of plate osteosynthesis. In 13 cases (11.41%), a revision procedure had to be performed. The indication for surgical revision was mechanical failure in eight cases (7.02%) and septic complication in five cases (4.39%). Periprosthetic fractures were more likely to cause complications overall (19.6% versus 4.76%) and further included all documented septic complications. The analysis of modifiable surgical factors in the context of plate osteosynthesis showed higher complication rates for cerclage in the fracture area compared with plate-only stabilizations (44.44% versus 22.22%).ConclusionsThe data show an increased amount of revisions and a significantly higher number of septic complications in the treatment of periprosthetic fractures of the distal femur compared with non-periprosthetic fractures. The detected combination of plates together with cerclage was associated with higher complication rates.Level of evidence Level III retrospective comparative study.

Determination of the internal loads experienced by proximal phalanx fracture fixations during rehabilitation exercises.

Phalangeal fractures are common, particularly in younger patients, leading to a large economic burden due to higher incident rates among patients of working age. In traumatic cases where the fracture may be unstable, plate fixation has grown in popularity due to its greater construct rigidity. However, these metal plates have increased reoperation rates due to inflammation of the surrounding soft tissue. To overcome these challenges, a novel osteosynthesis platform, AdhFix, has been developed. This method uses a light-curable polymer that can be shaped in situ around traditional metal screws to create a plate-like structure that has been shown to not induce soft tissue adhesions. However, to effectively evaluate any novel osteosynthesis device, the biomechanical environment must first be understood. In this study, the internal loads in a phalangeal plate osteosynthesis were measured under simulated rehabilitation exercises. In a human hand cadaver study, a plastic plate with known biomechanical properties was used to fix a 3mm osteotomy and each finger was fully flexed to mimic traditional rehabilitation exercises. The displacements of the bone fragments were tracked with a stereographic camera system and coupled with specimen specific finite element (FE) models to calculate the internal loads in the osteosynthesis. Following this, AdhFix patches were created and monotonically tested under similar conditions to determine survival of the novel technique. The internal bending moment in the osteosynthesis was 6.78 ± 1.62Nmm and none of the AdhFix patches failed under the monotonic rehabilitation exercises. This study demonstrates a method to calculate the internal loads on an osteosynthesis device during non-load bearing exercises and that the novel AdhFix solution did not fail under traditional rehabilitation protocols in this controlled setting. Further studies are required prior to clinical application.

Management of Intraoperative Acetabular Fractures in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Current Concept Review.

Intraoperative acetabular fractures (IAFs), a complication seldomly encountered in total hip arthroplasty, are typically a result of the impact of insertion of a cementless press-fit cup. Factors that contribute to the risk of these types of fractures include poor bone quality, highly sclerotic bone, and the use of a press-fit cup that is excessively large. The approach to management of these fractures is dependent on when they are identified. Immediate stabilization measures should be implemented for management of fractures detected during surgery. When fractures are detected postoperatively, the decision regarding conservative treatment is dependent on the stability of the implant and the specific fracture pattern. In the majority of cases, effective treatment of an acetabular fracture detected intraoperatively can be administered using a multi-hole revision cup along with anchoring screws in the various regions of the acetabulum. Selection of plate osteosynthesis of the posterior column is recommended when there is a large posterior wall fragment or pelvic discontinuity. In cases where anatomical dimensions allow, cup-cage reconstruction may offer a promising alternative to a combined hip procedure. The number of reports addressing the management of IAFs is limited. This review focuses on outlining the strategies that are currently available for management of this seldomly encountered complication.

Treatment of rotational tibial malunion after minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO): Corrective osteotomy with original plate retention (PR-Osteotomy).

Residual axial and rotational deformities in tibial shaft fracture, after minimally invasive osteosynthesis (MIO) treatment, are widely described in literature. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of evidence about the malunion treatment strategies and results. The aim of our study is to present an innovative technique for tibial shaft malunion: a derotational proximal tibial osteotomy without removing the original plate (Plate-Retaining-Osteotomy: PR-Osteotomy). We present the results of two consecutive patients' treatment, affected by tibial shaft fracture malunion, as sequelae of MIO treatment. The two patients, male 60 years old and female 39 years old, underwent previous surgical treatment with an average of 9 months span time before surgical revision. The affected limb showed significant external torsional defect associated with gait impairment, pain and limping. The amount of rotational deformity and the bone healing condition is assessed through a methodical preoperative planning, including weight bearing lower limbs Xray and bilateral computed tomography (CT) scan of the lower limbs. The surgical technique involves a monoplanar tibial osteotomy, in a perpendicular fashion to the tibial axis, at a level that would allow at least 3 proximal screw-holes to become available for subsequent fixation. Proximal to the osteotomy line the screws are removed, while the distal ones, if stable after testing, are left in place. The amount of torsional correction, planned on CT, is reproduced intraoperatively with the assistance of graduated templates. A fibular osteotomy may be performed if required. After temporary stabilization, the correct functional reduction is checked with the aid of fluoroscopy and empirical rod measurement, using the contralateral limb alignment as a reference. Once the desired correction is achieved, absolute stability is applied to the osteotomy site. Postoperative rehabilitation protocol involves partial weight bearing for 6-8 weeks with progression to full weight bearing by 10-12 weeks. Both patients showed complete osteotomy healing at the 13th and 16th week respectively, with no complications and full recovery of normal gait and daily life activities. To our knowledge, this is the first description of such surgical technique. Less invasiveness, fast recovery time and cost reductions are the foremost proposed benefits. Further larger case series with longer follow up are needed to assess the advantages of the proposed treatment strategy.

Surgical access route and choice of implant in the region of the clavicle shaft

Clavicle fractures are among the most frequent injuries of the shoulder girdle. Nondisplaced fractures are generally treated conservatively, whereas dislocated fractures require surgical reduction and stabilization. A variety of implants and surgical techniques with reliable results are available. While all techniques provide similar healing rates, they share acommon disadvantage with the high incidence of implant irritation and correspondingly high rates of second interventions for material removal. The various surgical techniques for clavicle shaft fractures with their specific areas of application as well as advantages and disadvantages are presented. This review also provides an aid for deciding which surgical technique is most appropriate based on the fracture morphology. Furthermore, an overview of current research activities is presented, with aspecific focus on new implants which could help to reduce implant irritation. Open superior and anteroinferior plate osteosyntheses each show similar reliable results. The minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique offers an alternative for multifragmented fractures as it has alower complication rate compared to the open procedure. Double plate osteosynthesis using minifragment plates shows promising results with respect to the incidence of implant-related irritation. Larger prospective studies are still pending. Intramedullary nailing offers agood alternative, especially if material removal is planned anyway, e.g., in the pediatric setting.

Posttraumatic growth disturbances of the distal radius in childhood

Fractures of the distal radius in childhood are frequent but rarely lead to relevant growth disturbances. The experiences of apediatric trauma center over 15years are exemplarily presented and discussed. Osteotomies of the distal radius were selected and the clinical and radiological findings were recorded and analyzed. Posttraumatic growth disturbances were corrected in 10 cases with amedian age of 13 ½ years. In six cases an iatrogenic cause was also possible. In two cases callus distraction with secondary palmar plate osteosynthesis was used for consolidation. In eight cases primary ad hoc corrections were carried out using palmar plate osteosynthesis (six with iliac crest and two with allogeneic grafts). In five cases the distal ulnar growth plate was also addressed. During follow-up breakage of one plate was registered. After an average of 31months postoperatively, 9 children had full range of motion (ROM) and in 1 case there was an extension deficit of 10o. It is important to evaluate the cause of the mostly partially inhibiting growth disturbances to draw preventive conclusions. From a clinical perspective the visible deformity is given priority and the pain and functional limitations are less relevant. The indications for corrective surgery must include the age of the patient, remaining growth potential, size and localization of the growth plate bridge, the deformity and the individual wishes of patients and parents. In most cases afull correction is possible with palmar plate osteosynthesis and an iliac crest graft. External fixation and callus distraction is an alternative in cases where the correction is more extensive. The distal ulnar growth plate should be controlled concerning further growth potential before hardware removal.

Intramedullary nailing of proximal humerus fractures does not achieve superior functional results to non-operative treatment in the long term.

Non-operative treatment (NOT) of proximal humerus fractures (PHF) has regained significance due to recent evidence. Additionally, positive outcomes of plate osteosynthesis and fracture arthroplasty prompt a reassessment of the role of intramedullary nailing (IMN). While favorable short and medium-term results have been documented following IMN, little is known regarding functional outcomes and quality of life in the long-term. Data from 180 patients with dislocated PHF of Neer types III, IV and V, treated at our level-I trauma center between 2004 and 2014 using IMN or NOT therapy, were scanned. Patients were re-evaluated after a minimum of 5 years to assess functional outcomes (age- and sex-adapted Constant Score, QuickDASH), quality of life (SF12), and complications or reoperations. Out of the initially identified 180 patients, 51 were unavailable for follow-up (FU) and 71 had deceased during the FU period. Functional outcomes and quality of life was, therefore, assessed in 58 patients (30 IMN, 28 NOT) with an average age at injury of 68 years after a mean FU time of 10.3 ± 3.4 years. Epidemiological patient characteristics did not exhibit significant differences between the two groups (p > .05). The functional outcome assessed by age- and sex-adapted Constant Score (NOT: 74 ± 28; IMN: 68 ± 24; p = .438), QuickDASH (NOT: 25 ± 27; IMN: 31 ± 23; p = .374) or quality of life using the SF12 (p > .05) revealed no significant disparities in long-term outcomes between the treatment groups. 10 of 30 patients in the IMN group underwent surgical revision to address complications, exceeding mere implant removal. Conversely, no patient in the NOT group underwent a revision surgery during the FU period. In the long-term, functional and quality of life-related outcomes of IMN did not diverge significantly from those of NOT, while causing a higher incidence of follow-up interventions.

A high hospital frailty risk score indicates an increased risk for complications following surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures

BackgroundApproximately 70 % of proximal humerus fractures (PHF) occur after the age of 60. High complication rates have been described in correlation with the treatment of PHF. Major risk factors for the outcome might be frailty, mobility and comorbidities of patients at the time of hospital admission. The aim of this study was to create risk adjusted quality indicators for surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures based on German claims data and to evaluate the impact of the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) on risk adjustment. MethodsRetrospective claims data (2015–2021) were used to create risk adjusted quality indicators for eight outcomes by clustered multivariable logistic regression. The comparison of different risk adjustment model performances was done by ROC-AUC and Standardized Mortality/Morbidity Ratios. ResultsIn total, N = 34,912 patients (median age 75 years, 80.3 % female) were included. The most common surgical procedure was open reduction and internal fixation with plate osteosynthesis with 39.7 %, followed by reverse shoulder arthroplasty with 25.3 %. The most influential risk factor for all outcomes was a high HFRS with an Odds Ratio of 2.0 (95 %-Confidence Interval 1.8–2.3) for any secondary surgery (365 days) up to an Odds Ratio of 17.6 (95 %-Confidence Interval 14.9–20.8) for general complications during the index stay. ConclusionComparative quality reporting for the surgical treatment of PHF appears feasible with the developed models for risk adjustment using claims data. Preoperative evaluation of HFRS in PHF can contribute to risk assessment, and individual patient management. It therefore enables personalized treatment decisions.

Functional Outcome of Forearm Fractures Managed With Screw Nails vs. Dynamic Compression Plates: A Prospective Study.

Background Fractures of the forearm are very frequently encountered in day-to-day practice. These fractures have a bimodal age distribution. The forearm fractures are considered intra-articular and need absolute stability for adequate healing. The current treatment modalities include using intramedullary devices such as a square nail, locking intramedullary nail, or using a plate for fixation. In this study, we aim to determine the functional outcome of forearm fractures managed with a screw nail used as an intramedullary device as compared to a locking plate using the Grace-Eversmann criteria. Methodology Patients with forearm fractures were divided into two groups and treated with a screw nail and a dynamic compression plate. Patients were followed up at one month, three months, six months, and one year postoperatively and assessment was done using the Grace-Eversmann criteria. Results The study included a total of 30 subjects, ranging in age from 18 to 65. The majority of the patients had encountered a road traffic accident, following which they incurred a forearm fracture. Grace-Eversmann criteria was used for these patients at follow-up, and a total of 13 patients (86.6%) had good to excellent scores, which was similar when compared to the plate osteosynthesis group (86.6%). A significant difference in the amount of blood loss was noted in the screw nail osteosynthesis group as compared to the plate osteosynthesis group (p<0.05). Conclusions Though a dynamic compression plate is considered a standard method for fixation of the forearm fractures, the use of an intramedullary screw nail as a fixation device gives a similar result with excellent functional outcomes (Grace-Eversmann criteria). It also gives an added benefit of reduced blood loss and preservation of fracture biology.

Virtual surgical planning and use of a 3D-printed, patient-specific reduction system for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of diaphyseal tibial fractures in dogs: A historic case control study.

To compare the efficacy and clinical outcomes of computed tomography (CT)-based virtual surgical planning (VSP) and a three-dimensional (3D)-printed, patient-specific reduction system to conventional indirect reduction techniques for diaphyseal tibial fractures stabilized using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) in dogs. A prospective clinical study with a historic control cohort. Dogs undergoing MIPO stabilization of diaphyseal tibial fractures using a custom 3D-printed reduction system (3D-MIPO; n = 15) or conventional indirect reduction techniques (c-MIPO; n = 14). Dogs were prospectively enrolled to the 3D-MIPO group and CT scans were used to design and fabricate a custom 3D-printed reduction system to facilitate MIPO. Medical records were searched to identify dogs for the c-MIPO group. Pre-, intra- and postoperative parameters were compared between groups. The duration from presentation until surgery was 23 h longer in the 3D-MIPO group (p = .002). Fewer intraoperative fluoroscopic images were acquired (p < .001) and mean surgical duration was 34 min shorter in the 3D-MIPO group (p = .014). Median postoperative tibial length, frontal alignment, and sagittal alignment were within 4 mm, 3° and 3°, respectively, of the contralateral tibia in both groups and did not differ between reduction groups (p > .1). Postoperative complications occurred in 27% and 14% of fractures in the 3D-MIPO and c-MIPO groups, respectively. Both reduction methods yielded comparable results. Although the preoperative planning and guide preparation was time consuming, surgery times were shorter and fluoroscopy use was lessin the 3D-MIPO group. VSP and the custom 3D-printed reduction system facilitated efficient MIPO.

Comparison of classical and minimally invasive superolateral approach for reconstruction of proximal humerus fractures with locking plates

ContextMinimally invasive (MI) approaches are purported to present advantages for osteosynthesis when compared with conventional approaches. This study aimed to compare the medium-term clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with proximal humerus fractures treated by plate osteosynthesis with conventional and MI superolateral approaches. MethodThe study carried out was a retrospective monocentric comparative analysis. Forty-three cases were followed up – 18 were treated with an MI approach and 25 with a conventional approach. Constant-Murley, DASH and SSV scores were established and standard complications were investigated. ResultsNo significant differences in functional scores or complications were found between the 2 groups. The only significant difference was for pain which was significantly lower for the MI group. The overall revision rate was 18.3 %. The mean adjusted Constant-Murley for the entire population was 80.1 ± 20.2; the mean DASH score was 17.8 ± 15.9 and the mean SSV was 73.2 ± 19.5. ConclusionThis study did not demonstrate any significant differences between the 2 approaches. Given the low patient population in our series, the superiority of the MI approach – as indicated in the literature – was not proven.

Clavicle nonunion

After conservative treatment nonunion (pseudarthrosis) of the clavicle can be observed approximately 10times more frequently (15-24%) than after surgical treatment (1.4%). Risk factors include the fracture location, displacement, fracture type, sex, the severity of the accident and refractures. The diagnosis of pseudarthrosis of the clavicle can be made by athorough medical history, clinical examination and imaging procedures. The main symptom is pain, often accompanied by malalignment, instability, neurological symptoms and restricted mobility of the affected shoulder. The diagnosis is confirmed by X‑ray images and, if necessary, acomputed tomography (CT) scan. Pseudoarthrosis is classified according to the morphological appearance in X‑ray images and the cause. A differentiation is made between vital and nonvital pseudarthroses. Only symptomatic pseudarthrosis requires treatment. Nonoperative methods, such as magnetic field therapy or ultrasound are minimally effective. Surgical interventions are indicated for pain, movement restrictions or neurovascular problems. The goals of surgical treatment are to restore the vitality, bone length and stability through angular stable osteosynthesis. In cases of surgical pretreatment the anteroinferior plate position offers agood alternative to the superior plate position. In some cases double plating osteosynthesis can be indicated. Autogenous bone material, allogeneic substitute material and vascularized grafts are used for bony defects. Surgical treatment shows high rates of healing but also carries an increased risk of infection.

Intraoperative Doppler flowmetry evaluation of humeral head perfusion after proximal humerus fracture

Understanding vascularity and assessing the risk of post-traumatic avascular necrosis are crucial for predicting outcomes and identifying optimal treatment options in proximal humerus fractures (PHFs). Until now, Hertel etal have been the only researchers to evaluate the intraoperative perfusion of the humeral head after fracture using Doppler flowmetry in a central single drill hole within the head. This pilot study aims to standardize the evaluation of intraoperative perfusion measurements in different areas of the humeral head in patients with PHF. In this prospective pilot study, intraoperative semiquantitative Doppler perfusion measurements were conducted during plate osteosynthesis for PHF treatment in our institution between July 2021 and May 2022. The fracture morphology was classified radiologically according to Resch's criteria. Quality of reduction was determined postoperatively to be either anatomical, minor malreduced, or major malreduced according to Peters etal in conventional and computed tomography examinations. Medial hinge integrity and medial metaphyseal extension were assessed radiographically according to Hertel etal. Intraoperatively, after drilling screw holes through the plate, a Doppler probe was inserted through all nine drill holes on the humeral head and at least one on the humeral shaft to successively measure the presence of a pulse to indicate if perfusion is present. A total of ten patients (mean age 59 years, range, 36-83) with a humeral head fracture (2× 2GL, 3× 3G, 2× 4G, 2× 4GL, 1× 5aG according to Resch) were included. Nine of the ten patients showed a pulse signal on the humeral shaft. Overall, pulse-synchronous perfusion was detected using Doppler sonography in at least one hole in the humeral head of all patients. In patients with an intact medial hinge (N=6), pulse-synchronous perfusion could be measured in almost twice as many humeral head holes on average (5.7 vs. 3.0 drill holes) compared to patients with a dislocated medial hinge (N=4). In patients with metaphyseal extension (N=3), pulse-synchronous perfusion was measured in an average of 6.7 humeral head holes compared to 3.7 holes in patients without metaphyseal extension (N=7). Semiquantitative, intraoperative Doppler flowmetry offers a noninvasive and rapid assessment of humeral perfusion which allows an understanding of humeral head perfusion, when used in a standardized fashion to measure flow in different areas of the humeral head.

Combining robotics and 3D printing facilitates closed reduction of humeral shaft fractures using a minimally invasive plate as a reduction template: A proof-of-concept study.

Minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis for humeral shaft fractures (HSFs) has limitations due to malreduction and radiation exposure. To address these limitations, we integrated robotics and 3D printing by incorporating plates as reduction templates. The innovative technology facilitated closed reduction of HSFs in the operating theatre using 18 models with cortical marking holes. The dataset of the precontoured plate was imported into 3D planning software for virtual fixation and screw path planning. The models were divided into half to simulate transverse fractures. During the operation, the software generated drilling trajectories for robot navigation, and precise plate installation achieved automatic fracture reduction. The evaluation results of reduction accuracy revealed variations in length, apposition, alignment, and rotation that meet the criteria for anatomic reduction. High interoperator reliabilities were observed for all parameters. The proposed technology achieved anatomic reduction in simulated bones.