Posteromedial Fragment Research Articles

Posterior Malleolus Fracture Fixation In Lateral Decubitus Position: Surgical Technique and Results in 60 Patients

The present study shows how posterior malleolus fractures (PMFs) and distal fibular fractures were fixed using the posterolateral approach with the patient in lateral decubitus position, not previously described in the literature. This technique has been used in 60 consecutive patients (42 women and 18 men; mean age 54.7; range 21-92 years), 33 of which presented as fracture dislocations from March, 2021 to December, 2023. After PMFs fixation in lateral decubitus position, release of the sacral support allowed patients to be placed supine (without de-sterilizing the operative field), in order to proceed with medial malleolus or posteromedial fragment fixation. Fractures were classified according to the Lauge Hansen classification as SER4 (n = 50), PER4 (n = 7), SAD (n = 1), and PAB (n = 2). Fractures were classified according to Rammelt & Bartonicek, as type B (n = 40), C (n = 13), and D (n = 7). During the same period of time 14 fractures involving the PM, classified as type A, were treated with indirect fixation, whilst 6 geriatric and/or poor mobility patients with fracture dislocations were treated with retrograde hindfoot nail fixation. Follow-up period ranged from 4-36 months (mean = 14.4; SD = 8.8). Complications occurred in 5 patients (8.3%; 3 had delayed (medial) wound healing, one developed CRPS and one required implants removal and arthroscopy because of metal irritation and stiffness). No deep infections, thromboembolic events, fracture malreductions or malunions were recorded and all patients returned to the preinjury mobilization status. In conclusion, PM fracture fixation was feasible and safely performed with patients in lateral decubitus position.

ANATOMY OF THE INSERTION OF THE POSTERIOR INFERIOR TIBIOFIBULAR LIGAMENT AND ITS RELEVANCE TO POSTERIOR MALLEOLAR ROTATIONAL PILON FRACTURES

IntroductionThe treatment of posterior malleolar fractures is developing. Mason and Molloy (Foot Ankle Int. 2017 Nov;38(11):1229-1235) identified only 49% of posterior malleolar rotational pilon type fractures had syndesmotic instabilities. This was against general thinking that fixation of such a fragment would stabilize the syndesmosis.MethodsWe examined 10 cadaveric lower limbs that had been preserved for dissection at the Human Anatomy and Resource Centre at Liverpool University in a solution of formaldehyde. The lower limbs were carefully dissected to identify the ligamentous structures on the posterior aspect of the ankle. To compare the size to the rotational pilon posterior malleolar fracture (Mason and Molloy 2A and B) we gathered information from our posterior malleolar fracture database. 3D CT imaging was analysed using our department PACS system.ResultsThe PITFL insertion on the posterior aspect of the tibia is very large. The average size of insertion was 54.9×47.1mm across the posterior aspect of the tibia. Medially the PITFL blends into the sheath of tibialis posterior and laterally into the peroneal tendon sheath.78 posterior lateral and 35 posterior medial fragments were measured. On average, the lateral to medial size of the posteromalleolar fragment was 24.5mm in the posterolateral fragment, and 43mm if there is a posteromedial fragment present also. The average distal to proximal size of the posterolateral fragment was 24.5mm and 18.5mm for the posteromedial fragment.ConclusionThe PITFL insertion on the tibia is broad. In comparison to the average size of the posterior malleolar fragments, the PITFL insertion is significantly bigger. Therefore, for a posterior malleolar fracture to cause posterior syndesmotic instability, a ligamentous injury will also have to occur. This explains the finding by Mason and Molloy that only 49% of type 2 injuries had a syndesmotic injury on testing.

Computed tomography changes diagnosis, management and surgical planning of ankle fractures.

To demonstrate how the use of adjunctive Computed Tomography (CT) can modify diagnosis, treatment options, and operative planning of ankle fractures in comparison with conventional radiographs (CR) in isolation. A total of 53 patients diagnosed with an ankle fracture between 2011 and 2016, were assessed with CT and CR. Evaluations of the fractures using CR in isolation and CR combined with CT were compared using different readers. Fractures were assessed in terms of type, displacement, size, associated injuries, treatment, patient position and surgical planning. The medial malleolus fractures characteristics (posteromedial fragment and anterior colliculus), the presence of posterior malleolus fracture and its characteristics (displacement, size, posteromedial or posterolateral segment) (ps < 0.042), syndesmosis injury (p < 0.001), and the absence of deltoid ligament lesion (p < 0.001), were more evident with the combination of CT and radiographs. There was an increase in operative indication (p = 0.007), prone positioning (p = 0.002), posterior malleolus surgical treatment (p < 0.001), posterolateral approach for the lateral malleolus (p = 0.003), and syndesmosis fixation (p = 0.020) with the association of CT and CR, among all groups of expertise, with a high interobserver reliability (> 0.75). The CR may fail to demonstrate subtle lesions, such as posterior malleolus fractures and syndesmotic injuries. The CT evaluation increases the diagnostic precision and improves the quality of information the surgeon receives, what might positively affect patient care. Retrospective Comparative Study.

Comparative Outcome of Short Proximal Femoral Nail Versus Proximal Femoral Locking Compression Plate in the Management of Unstable Trochanteric Fractures

Introduction: Trochanteric fractures are mostly due to RTA and falls. Unstable trochanteric fractures include those with a reverse oblique fracture line, intertrochanteric comminution, big posteromedial fragment, subtrochanteric extension, a broken greater trochanter and lateral cortex breach. As per the AO Classification of intertrochanteric fractures, AO31-2.2, AO31-2.3, AO31-3.1, AO31-3.2 and AO31-3.3 fall under the category of unstable trochanteric fractures. Internal fixation is mandatory to provide early mobilization of patients with partial weight-bearing and prevent further compli&amp;cations. Materials and Methods: 43 patients more than 18 years old with unstable trochanteric fractures, less than 3 weeks old trauma were included in the prospective study for 1 year period (1st June 2020 to 31st May 2021). 22 cases were treated with short Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) and 21 cases were treated with Proximal Femoral Locking Compression Plate (PFLCP). Results: (P&lt;0.05), mean duration of surgery, blood loss was less in the PFN group (67minutes; 80mL) than PFLCP group (99 minutes; 152 ml). Union and partial weight-bearing was seen earlier in PFN group (14.1weeks; 10.6weeks) than in PFLCP group (18.7 weeks; 15.8weeks) (P&lt;0.05). Good-excellent outcome was seen in 100% cases in PFN group and 85.71% cases in PFLCP group. There were 3 cases of delayed union in PFLCP group and 1 in PFN group. 1 PFLCP case had malunion in varus deformity. Conclusion: Short PFN is the optimum implant in treatment of unstable trochanteric fractures as it is an intramedullary, load sharing device with short lever arm and hastens biological healing with early ambulation and minimal complications.

Outcome of management of tibial plateau fracture by posterior Lobenhoffer approach: case series.

Displaced Tibiai plateau fractures are complex periarticular injuries. Restoration of the anatomy and internal fixation are key elements for early return to function and better functional outcome. Newer modalities like CT scans has enabled better understanding of these fractures. Posterior approaches were not very common as compared to anteromedial and anterolateral surgical approach. Posterior approach has the advantage of avoiding anterior skin and soft tissues that has been compromised as a result of the fracture; it is also particularly helpful in direct and accurate reduction in certain fracture patterns. This case series highlights the importance of posterior approach to restore the articular surface of complex periarticular proximal Tibial fractures. All displaced tibial plateau fractures with posteromedial fragment were included in the study. Pathological fractures and all open fractures were excluded from this study. Oxford Knee score was done at regular intervals for functional outcome assessment. No wound complications or iatrogenic neurovascular damage were observed with this approach in this series. Anatomical reduction and radiological union was obtained in all patients with excellent functional outcome. We recommend posterior Lobenhoffer approach for fixation in select group of patients with Tibial plateau fractures.

Fixation of posteromedial fragment combined with anterolateral plating in bicondylar tibial plateau fractures

Background Three-column classification of tibial plateau fractures had addressed the problems of posteromedial fragment fractures; many authors have discussed the mechanical instability of that fragment. Consideration of specific fixation of this fragment in tibial plateau fracture had been discussed by many authors. The aim of our study was to evaluate the results of fixation of posteromedial fragment in bicondylar tibial plateau fractures. Patients and methods In all, 21 patients were included in this study. All of them had bicondylar fracture tibial plateau fractures, which involve the anterolateral column in conjunction with the posteromedial fragment of the tibial plateau as diagnosed by a computed tomography scan and a three-dimensional scan. All the patients had antigliding plate fixation for posteromedial fragment through the posteromedial approach and anterolateral plate fixation for anterolateral column fracture. Results All the patients had completed a minimum 1-year follow-up. All the patients had satisfactory outcomes according to Rasmussen’s clinical and radiological scores. Conclusion Fixation of the posteromedial fragment in tibial plateau fractures gives good outcomes as regards the stability and function

Posteromedial Buttress Plate for Schatzker 6 Fractures as Double Column Fixation

Objective: Treatment of Schatzker Type 6 fractures is to use a posteromedial buttress plate as part of a double-column fixation technique. Materials &amp; Methods: The design of this study was a cross sectional study design and this study was conducted in DHQ Teaching Hospital Gujranwala. patients with posterior medial fracture of Schatzker type 6 and having associated damage of some soft tissue present within the joint underwent surgery at our institutional operation theatre. In this Study setting we included total 20 patients (14 male [70%] and 6 females [30%]) who came with Bicondylar fractures having Comminuted Posteromedial Fragments of tibia. Results: Of the Patients, 12 (60%) had excellent results, 5(25%) had good results , and 3 (15%) had fair results. In total, 17 patients (85%) achieved cheering results. Walking, Stability, and motion were good or excellent in all cases. Practical Implication: One of the main advantages of the posteromedial buttress plate fixation technique is that it provides support to the medial column of the tibia, which is an important weight-bearing structure in the lower extremity. By restoring the structural integrity of the medial column, the technique can help promote early weight-bearing and facilitate early rehabilitation. All displaced posteromedial tibial plateau fractures should be surgically stabilized and buttressed using plate to restore joint congruity and prevent late subluxation and early arthritis. The aim is to study the role of posteromedial plating in the management of complex tibial plateau fractures with a posteromedial fragment Conclusion: Use of a posteromedial buttress plate as part of a double-column fixation technique can be an effective approach for treating Schatzker Type 6 fractures. Keywords: Fixation of Posterior Column, Buttress plate, Schatzker 6 fracture

Relative instability ratios of bone wall defects in trochanteric hip fractures: A finite element analysis.

Background: For decades, medial and lateral wall fragments of trochanteric hip fractures were considered two pivotal factors that could influence the stability of postoperative femur-implant complex. However, most studies seemed to misunderstand the concept of the posteromedial fragment and equated it with the medial wall, which overlooked vital roles of the anteromedial wall. Roles of the posterior coronal bone fragment were also highlighted in some research. However, influences of the bone walls above the trochanteric fracture instability are yet to be investigated and quantified by means of finite element analysis. Methods: Eight trochanteric fracture fixation models with different wall defects were constructed. Outcome indicators were the von Mises stress of the implant models, the maximum/minimum principal strain, the risky tensile/compressive volume and the volume ratios of the bone models, the femoral head vertex displacement, and the fracture surface gap. Based on these indicator values, the relative instability ratios were computed. Results: Outcome indicators, absolute values, and nephograms of all models showed the same upward and concentrating trends with exerted hip contact loads shifting from static walking to dynamic climbing. Similarly, these indicators also exhibited the same trends when the eight models were solved in sequence. Moreover, the relative instability ratio of the medial wall (100%), particularly the anteromedial part (78.7%), was higher than the figure for the lateral wall (36.6%). Conclusion: The anteromedial wall played relatively pivotal stabilizing roles in trochanteric hip fractures compared with the posteromedial wall and the lateral wall, which indicated that orthopedic surgeons should attach more importance to the anteromedial cortex support in an operating theatre.

TIBIAL PLATEAU FRACTURE CHARACTERISTICS: RELIABILITY AND DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF 3D-PRINTED MODELS

Classification systems for tibial plateau fractures suffer from poor interobserver agreement, and their value in preoperative assessment to guide surgical fixation strategies is limited. For tibial plateau fractures four major characteristics are identified: lateral split fragment, posteromedial fragment, anterior tubercle fragment, and central zone of comminution. These fracture characteristics support preoperative assessment of fractures and guide surgical decision-making as each specific component requires a respective fixation strategy. We aimed to evaluate the additional value of 3D-printed models for the identification of tibial plateau fracture characteristics in terms of the interobserver agreement on different fracture characteristics.Preoperative images of 40 patients were randomly selected. Nine trauma surgeons, eight senior and eight junior registrars indicated the presence or absence of four fracture characteristics with and without 3D-printed models. The Fleiss kappa was used to determine interobserver agreement for fracture classification and for interpretation, the Landis and Koch criteria were used.3D-printed models lead to a categorical improvement in interobserver agreement for three of four fracture characteristics: lateral split (Kconv = 0.445 versus K3Dprint = 0.620; P &lt; 0.001), anterior tubercle fragment (Kconv = 0.288 versus K3Dprint = 0.449; P &lt; 0.001) and zone of comminution (Kconv = 0.535 versus K3Dprint = 0.652; P &lt; 0.001).The overall interobserver agreement improved for three of four fracture characteristics after the addition of 3D printed models. For two fracture characteristics, lateral split and zone of comminution, a substantial interobserver agreement was achieved.Fracture characteristics seem to be a more reliable way to assess tibial plateau fractures and one should consider including these in the preoperative assessment of tibial plateau fractures compared to the commonly used classification systems.

Study on outcome of posteromedial buttress plating in proximal tibia fracture

Introduction: Proximal tibia fractures having posteromedial (PM) fragment is very necessary to reduce, to maintain knee joint articular congruity, alignment and movement. Because of morphology of fracture, lateral locking plate may not be sufficient to hold posteromedial fragment, so we used posteromedial buttress plate for posteromedial fragment.Aims & Objectives: 1) To assess functional & radiological outcome and complication of posteromedial buttress palting. 2) To evaluate role of posteromedial buttress plating in preventing late collapse & subsequent varus deformity.Materials &Methods: This was a prospective case study carried out between Dec 21 to Dec 22 at SSGH, BARODA. 20 patients with schatzker type IV, V, VI having PM fragment included. They all were operated with posteromedial buttress plate. These patients were followed up at 2 week, 1 month, 3 month, 6 month & outcome was assessed according to rasmussen's radiological & functional scoring. Results: Excellent outcome was found in 70% patients, good outcome in 20% patients, fair outcome in 10% patients & no case of poor outcome. There were no case of loss of articular reduction or varus collapse. Conclusion: Posteromedial fragment in proximal tibia fracture is best managed by posteromedial buttress plate. Properly planned, rigid fixation with accurate anatomical reduction results in overall excellent outcome with low rate of complication.

Computed Tomography Changes Diagnosis, Management and Surgical Planning of Ankle Fractures

Category: Trauma; Ankle; Other Introduction/Purpose: Ankle fractures correspond to a substantial portion of traumatic injuries assisted in a primary health care unit. These fractures are usually promptly recognized by physical exams and conventional radiographs. Nevertheless, the number and pattern of the lesions and the identification of possible associated injuries still fail when using only these methods. CT scans have developed into an excellent instrument to analyze joint fractures in recent years. This study aims to compare ankle fracture assessment using CR in isolation with CT and CR in combination. This comparison will be performed considering diagnosis, lesions features, and treatment. We hypothesize that CT, in conjunction with CR, can significantly modify the diagnosis, therapeutics, and operative planning of ankle fractures when confronted with isolated CR. Methods: A total of 53 patients (mean age: 42 years, 15 - 75) diagnosed with an ankle fracture between 2011 and 2016, were assessed with CT and CR. Evaluations of the fractures using CR in isolation and CR combined with CT were compared using seven different readers. Fractures were assessed in terms of type, displacement, size, associated injuries, treatment, patient position, the implant of choice, and surgical planning considering the presence or absence of malleolar fractures and potential associated injuries. The concordance was measured for the own examiner's evaluations and between the examiners' assessments (intra-observer and inter-observer) by the Kappa coefficient. The results were determined by relative frequency distribution analysis (in percentage terms) and compared using a two-proportions test. Results: The Kappa index was higher than 0.75 for all interobserver and intra-observer reliabilities. Medial malleolus fractures characteristics (posteromedial fragment and anterior colliculus), the presence of posterior malleolus fracture and its characteristics (displacement, size, posteromedial or posterolateral segment) (ps&lt;0.042), syndesmosis injury (p&lt;0.001), and the absence of deltoid ligament lesion (p&lt;0.001), were more evident with the combination of CT and radiographs. There was an increase in an operative indication (p=0.007), prone positioning (p=0.002), posterior malleolus surgical treatment (p&lt;0.001), posterolateral approach for the lateral malleolus (p=0.003), and syndesmosis fixation (p=0.020) with the association of CT and CR, among all groups of expertise, with high inter-observer reliability (&gt;0.75). Conclusion: Conventional radiographs may fail to demonstrate subtle and more complex lesions of the ankle joint, such as posterior and medial malleolus fractures, undermining its capability to determine the appropriate treatment plan. This study showed evidence that a CT scan, a widespread available exam, and the standard for the study of other articular fractures, increased the diagnostic capability in ankle fractures when used with radiographs. In addition, the combination of methods may improve the quality of the information received by the orthopedic surgeon, providing more details for a proper surgical or non- surgical treatment, positively affecting patient care.

The lesser trochanter “Sling fixation technique” in proximal intramedullary nailing of unstable intertrochanteric fractures: A polymer-based cerclage wiring

IntroductionLesser trochanter (LT) fixation to restore the continuity of the posteromedial fragment using a cerclage wire has been reported to provide a more stable reduction in the treatment of unstable femoral neck fractures with LT involvement. However, LT fixation is not commonly performed due to the complications associated with the traditional monofilament cerclage metal wires. In this study, we investigate the clinical and radiological outcomes of a new technique for LT fixation in conjunction with Intramedullary (IM) fixation with nail and screws when compared to isolated IM fixation. The Sling Fixation Technique involves a new wiring technique and the use of a polymer-based cerclage cable characterized by iso-elastic properties that is hypothesized to provide better clinical and radiographic outcomes. Patients and methodsThis prospective observational study included 30 patients who underwent proximal IM nailing from July 2019 to April 2020. Thirty consecutive patients (30) were assigned to 2 different treatment groups. Fifteen (15) patients were treated with the IM Nailing and Sling Fixation Technique and 15 with IM nailing only. Patients were comparable for demographic features, fracture pattern, age, gender and associated medical comorbidities. Clinical outcomes were analyzed in terms of time needed to achieve complete weight bearing, Harris hip score (HHS), Barthel Index (BI) and Radiographic Union Scale for Hip (RUSH). The follow-up period was one year. ResultsTime for fracture healing and to achieve weight-bearing in the “Sling” group were shown to be significantly shorter than in the IM group. The Sling group showed furthermore better HHS, BI and RUSH scores when compared to the IM group at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months from the surgery. No complications such as wiring breakage, cut-outs, breakage or pullout of the fixation screws were observed; one case of heterotrophic ossification was reported. ConclusionIn cases of unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the proximal femur with lesser trochanter involvement, the Sling fixation technique using an isoelastic polymer-based wire showed superior results in terms of stability and consequently better clinical and radiographic outcomes than IM nailing only.

Biomechanical Study of Intramedullary Versus Extramedullary Implants for Four Types of Subtrochanteric Femoral Fracture.

ObjectivesTo compare the biomechanical performance of proximal femoral nail anti‐rotation (PFNA), the “upside‐down” less invasive plating system (LISS), and proximal femoral locking plate (PFLP) in fixing different fracture models of subtrochanteric fractures.MethodsThirty composite femurs were divided into three equal groups (PFNA, PFLP, and reverse LISS). The implant‐femur constructs were tested under axial compression load (0–1400 N) from models I to IV, which represented the Seinsheimer type I subtrochanteric fracture, type IIIa subtrochanteric fracture with the posteromedial fragment reduced; type IIIa subtrochanteric fracture with the posteromedial fragment lost; and type IV subtrochanteric fracture, respectively. Axial stiffness was analyzed for each group. Each group was then divided into two subgroups, one of which underwent torsional and axial compression failure testing, while the other subgroup underwent axial compression fatigue testing. The torsional stiffness, failure load, and cycles to failure were analyzed.ResultsPFNA had the highest axial stiffness (F = 761.265, p < 0.0001) and failure load (F = 48.801, p < 0.0001) in model IV. The axial stiffness and failure load of the PFLP were significantly higher than those of the LISS (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001). However, no significant difference in axial stiffness was found between models I to III (model I: F = 2.439, p = 0.106; model II: F = 2.745, p = 0.082; model III: F = 0.852, p = 0.438) or torsional stiffness in model IV (F = 1.784, p = 0.187). In fatigue testing, PFNA did not suffer from construct failure after 90,000 cycles of axial compression. PFLP and LISS were damaged within 14,000 cycles, although LISS withstood more cycles than PFLP (t = 3.328, p = 0.01).ConclusionThe axial stiffness of the three implants was similar in models I to III. The biomechanical properties of PFNA were the best of the three implants in terms of axial stiffness, failure load, and fatigue testing cycles in model IV. The axial stiffness and failure load of the PFLP were better than those of the reverse LISS, but PFLP had fewer cycles in the fatigue tests than the reverse LISS.

Clinical and radiological significance of posteromedial fragment in tibial plateau fractures

IntroductionThe effect of joint fragmentation, especially the posteromedial fragment, on treatment outcomes in tibial plateau fractures has been better understood in recent years. In this study, we wanted to examine whether the accompanying posteromedial fragment has an effect on clinical and radiological results. Patients and methodsPatients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation with plate and screw due to tibial plateau fracture were retrospectively screened. The patients were divided into two groups as with and without posteromedial fragment. Clinical, radiological and complications were compared statistically. Results38 out of 52 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 46.08, 26 (68.42%) were female and 12 (31.58%) were male. Mean follow-up was 18.55 months. Posteromedial fragment was present in 21 (55.6%) patients, but not in 17 (44.4%) patients. When the two groups were compared according to the Rasmussen clinical and radiological criteria, no statistically significant difference was found. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the rates of infection, non-union, malunion, joint separation, early arthrosis and arthrofibrosis (p > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of reduction loss rates (p < 0.05). ConclusionsThe accompanying tibial plateau fractures of the posteromedial fragment are characteristic fractures. Care should be taken to maintain the stability of the fracture fixation.

Clinical Outcomes for Pilon Variant Posterior Malleolar Fractures: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis

Currently, there is no consensus on surgical approach for posterior malleolar fracture fragments with significant posteromedial involvement. The Bartonicek type III/Haraguchi type II posterior malleolar morphologies typically involve large posteromedial fragments, behaving like a pilon injury and have been reported as pilon variant fractures. We performed a retrospective chart review at 2 large healthcare institutions, evaluating patients that underwent surgical management of pilon variant posterior malleolar fractures and determining clinical outcomes including: time to union, union rates, soft tissue complications, infection and time to weight bearing. A total of 68 patients were included (51 females, 17 males). A total of 51 direct (19 posterolateral, 31 posteromedial), 6 indirect, and 11 no-fixation approaches were identified. Significantly different time-to-union was found between direct fixation (mean = 85.1 days), indirect fixation (mean = 74 days) and no-fixation (mean = 174.3 days) (p < .001). A posteromedial approach (mean = 63.0 days, SD = 16.6) was associated with significantly shorter time to union when compared to a posterolateral approach (mean = 124.8 days, SD = 59.4; p < .001). Fixation (direct or indirect) was associated with significantly increased likelihood of union of the overall ankle fracture pattern (52/57 = 91%) when compared to no fixation of the posterior malleolar component (9/14 = 64%), p = .01. Patients who underwent direct fixation had significantly lower incidence of neurovascular damage (6%) when compared to patients who underwent indirect fixation (33%) or no-fixation (29%) (p = .02). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of tendon damage (p = .54), infection rates (p = .45) and time to weight bearing (p = .66). The authors suggest that surgical management and specifically direct approaches have better outcomes in the short-term follow up.

Posteromedial tibial plateau fractures – Functional outcome of posteromedial buttress plating with precontoured locking plate using modified lobenhoffer approach

Posterior tibial plateau fractures have a complex intra-articular fracture pattern, representing approximately 1.2% of all fractures. The occurrence of the posteromedial shear fragment is relatively common in high-energy tibial plateau fractures. Aims and Objectives: To study the role of posteromedial plating in the management of complex tibial plateau fractures with a posteromedial fragment. Materials and Methods: Only patients with posteromedial fracture patterns alone are taken into account. Twenty cases above 20 years of age, from the patient, admitted to Government Medical College, Thrissur, with posteromedial fragment in tibial plateau fractures that were operated were undertaken for the study. The patients were followed up for 2 years. Results: Of the 20 patients with posteromedial tibial plateau fractures from X-ray and computed tomography scan of the knee joint, all patients were treated with precontoured posteromedial buttress plating using single anatomical locking plate. We analyzed patients with Rasmussen scoring postoperatively. In our analysis, among 20 patients, the functional score was excellent in 14, good in 5, fair in 1, and poor in none. There was one patient with compartment syndrome who had developed a mild surgical site infection that later resolved. No excessive collapse is seen postoperatively since locked plate is used. Four patients had transient paraesthesia of the saphenous nerve; both resolved completely.

Computerized Tomography Scans for Ankle Fracture: Diagnosis, Management and Surgical Plan Modifier

Category:Trauma; AnkleIntroduction/Purpose:Ankle fractures are one of the most operated injuries in orthopedic practice. The decision upon the best management is based on the displacement of the bone fragments and the presence of associated lesions (osseous and/or soft tissues). The therapeutic decision is classically established upon plain radiographs, which might be temerarious due to the usual difficulty in analyzing those exams. In recent years, some authors have advocated that computed tomography could be used as an assistant instrument on the decision-making. Our study aims to demonstrate the superiority of the association between both methods on diagnosis, therapeutic decision, and surgical plan for these injuries.Methods:Patients diagnosed with an ankle fracture, between 2011 and 2016, and assessed with CT and X-ray were included in our investigation. Seven examiners with different degrees of experience analyzed the exams, determined the injuries, chose how they would treat, and the defined surgical strategy when applicable. This was done, at first, only with radiographs and after with the combination of CT and radiographs. The data were statistically compared.Results:Fifty-three patients were included. The medial malleolus fractures characteristics (posteromedial fragment and anterior colliculus), the presence of posterior malleolus fracture and its characteristics (displacement, bone fragment greater than 25%, posteromedial or posterolateral segment), syndesmosis injury, and the absence of deltoid ligament lesion were more noticeable from the combination of CT and radiography. Concerning surgical treatment, the prone position, the posterolateral surgical approach (rather than anterolateral) on lateral malleolus osteosynthesis, the decision to surgically treat the posterior malleolus fracture (through posterolateral approach with posterolateral plate), the option to include the syndesmosis approach in the treatment, and not to include deltoid ligament repair were more noticeable from the combination of CT and radiography, among all groups of expertise, with high inter-observer reliability.Conclusion:The usual radiographs may fail to demonstrate subtle lesions, as posterior malleolus fractures and syndesmotic injuries. The tomographic evaluation increases the precision of diagnosis and improves the quality of information that the surgeon receives, providing data that can positively affect patient care.

Comparison of 3D Surface Rendering CT to Plain Lateral Radiographs for Quantification and Characterisation of Posterior Malleolar Fracture Fragment Size and Morphology

Category:Ankle; TraumaIntroduction/Purpose:The aim of this study was to compare the size of the posterior malleolar fracture (PMF) fragment on plain lateral radiographs compared to three-dimensional (3D) surface rendering CT imaging, and to compare both modalities in the characterisation of PMF morphology.Methods:Measurements of 180 lateral radiographs of PMF's were compared to their respective 3D surface rendering CT reconstructions, by two independent observers reviewing percentage articular involvement of the PMF fragment. Morphology of the PMF was categorised initially by the CT scan as classified by Mason and Molloy and was compared to this classification using radiographs.Results:When calculating the percentage joint surface involved by the PMF fragment, inter-observer variability was greater than 0.8 for radiographic and CT measurement. Significant differences in size of PMF on radiograph compared to CT were found for type 1 and type 2A fractures (p<0001 type 1, p=.071 type 2A). Radiographs consistently over-estimated the PMF fragment size, although in type 2B fracture patterns there was an equivalent number that were under-estimated due to the underappreciation of the posteromedial fragment. Comparison of fracture fragment morphology found that type 2A and 2B fractures (rotational Pilon's) had poor agreement between radiographs and CT (34.15%).Conclusion:This study shows that the use of a lateral radiograph in a PMF to estimate fracture size and morphology is poor. Additional CT imaging is imperative to allow for appropriate treatment planning in the management of PMF.

Morphological study of CT image of posterior pilon variant fracture and its possible clinical significance.

The incidence of posterior pilon variant fractures has been underestimated. The purpose was to study the characteristics of posteromedial (PM) and posterolateral (PL) fragments in CT imaging of posterior pilon variant fractures, and to provide help for clinical diagnosis and treatment. CT imaging data of 109 cases of posterior pilon variant fractures in our hospital from January 2013 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. According to Mason and Molloy classification, PM fragments were further divided into pilon subtypes and avulsed subtypes. The largest actual area of fragments in axial and sagittal were selected as the study plane, and the maximum axial lengths of X, Y and Z, α angle, β angle, fragment area (S1-7) and fragment area ratio (FAR1-4), interfragmentary (IF) angle, and back of tibia (BT) angle were measured. A total of 109 cases were included in this study, 61 of whom were pilon subtypes [90.16% were supination-external rotation (SER) injuries]. 48 cases were avulsed subtypes [81.25% were pronation-external rotation (PER) injuries]. Pilon subtypes were larger than avulsed subtypes in X, Y, Z, α2 Angle, β2 Angle, fragment area and ratio, and IF and BT angle (P < 0.05). There was no difference between α1 and β1 angle (P > 0.05). The morphology of pilon subtype was larger than that of avulsion subtype. According to fragment size, morphology, and injury mechanism, two fragments of pilon subtype should be anatomic reduction and fixation. However, the PL fragment of avulsion subtype should to be fixed, while PM fragment may only need conservative treatment.

Biomechanical Evaluation of a Fin-type Implant Compared to Traditional Buttress Plate for the Stabilization of the Posteromedial Fragment in Tibial Plateau Split Fractures

Biomechanical Evaluation of a Fin-type Implant Compared to Traditional Buttress Plate for the Stabilization of the Posteromedial Fragment in Tibial Plateau Split Fractures