Postoperative Full Weight Bearing Research Articles

Enhanced Outcomes in Femoral Subtrochanteric Fractures Using Long INTERTAN Nails with Titanium Cable Cerclage: A Retrospective Analysis.

BACKGROUND The evidence on use of supplementary titanium cable cerclage (TCC) in treating femoral subtrochanteric fractures (FSF) remains scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic effects for FSF patients using TCC. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study of 68 FSF patients treated by a long intramedullary (IM) nailing with (Observation group, n=41) or without (Control group, n=27) TCC was conducted from January 2020 to December 2021. The primary outcome measure was time to postoperative full weight-bearing. Secondary outcome measures were operation time, intraoperative blood loss, number of blood transfusions needed, varus angle loss, excellent and good rate of fracture reduction, Harris score, and survival rate. RESULTS Patients were followed up for 13 to 36 months. The excellent and good rate of fracture reduction was 100% in the Observation group versus 92.6% in the Control group (P=0.013), and the varus angle loss and time to postoperative full weight-bearing in the Observation group were significantly less than in the Control group (P<0.05). The intraoperative blood loss in the Observation group was significantly higher than in the Control group (P<0.001). No differences were noted between groups for Harris scores and survival rates at last follow-up. CONCLUSIONS TCC fixation combined with IM nailing can improve the excellent and good rate of fracture reduction and reduce varus angle loss, as well as shorten the time to full weight-bearing and promote early functional exercise, which offers an effective treatment option for FSF patients who have failed closed reduction.

Acetabular fractures in geriatric patients: epidemiology, pathomechanism, classification and treatment options.

The incidence of geriatric acetabular fractures has shown a sharp increase in the last decades. The majority of patients are male, which is different to other osteoporotic fractures. The typical pathomechanism generally differs from acetabular fractures in young patients regarding both the direction and the amount of force transmission to the acetabulum via the femoral head. Geriatric fractures very frequently involve anterior structures of the acetabulum, while the posterior wall is less frequently involved. The anterior column and posterior hemitransverse (ACPHT) fracture is the most common fracture type. Superomedial dome impactions (gull sign) are a frequent feature in geriatric acetabular fractures as well. Treatment options include nonoperative treatment, internal fixation and arthoplasty. Nonoperative treatment includes rapid mobilisation and full weighbearing under analgesia and is advisable in non- or minimally displaced fractures without subluxation of the hip joint and without positive gull sign. Open reduction and internal fixation of geriatric acetabular fractures leads to good or excellent results, if anatomic reduction is achieved intraoperatively and loss of reduction does not occur postoperatively. Primary arthroplasty of geriatric acetabular fractures is a treatment option, which does not require anatomic reduction, allows for immediate postoperative full weightbearing and obviates several complications, which are associated with internal fixation. The major issue is the fixation of the acetabular cup in the fractured bone. Primary cups, reinforcement rings or a combination of arthroplasty and internal fixation may be applied depending on the acetabular fracture type.

Is immediate weight bearing safe for subtrochanteric femur fractures in elderly patients treated by cephalomedullary nailing? A multicentric study in one hundred eighty-two patients.

Biomechanical superiority of intramedullary nails over extramedullary implants has been proved for subtrochanteric fractures. Nevertheless, postoperative management of these patients has not changed, with high rates of protected weight-bearing after intramedullary nailing. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical complications of immediate postoperative full weigh-bearing for subtrochanteric femur fractures in elderly patients treated with a cephalomedullary nail. We performed a retrospective case series study from patients treated with a cephalomedullary nail for subtrochanteric fractures (AO/OTA 31A.3 and 32A-32C) over a nine-year period. Patients in the immediate full weight-bearing (IFWB) group received orders for immediate full weight bear as tolerated on postoperative 48h. Patients in the non- or limited- weight-bearing (NLWB) group received orders not to full weight bear in the immediate postoperative. There were five (2.7%) cases of implant failure including four cutouts and one nail breakage that needed a reoperation. Of them, one (2.2%) followed the NLWB protocol and four (2.9%) followed the IFWB protocol. Mean length of stay was 7.9days (median 8, range 3-21) in the NLWB group and 10.7days (median 8, range 2-60) in the IWBAT group. The NLWB group observed a 2.8-day shorter postoperative length of stay when compared to the IFWB, but the median remained equal. This study suggests that geriatric patients with subtrochanteric fractures treated by intramedullary nailing and in which a good fracture reduction was achieved, may be able to tolerate immediate postoperative full weight-bearing, not increasing reoperation rates due to implant failure.

Cement in revision arthroplasty-what about the "glacier effect"? : Case studies viewed from different perspectives

The number of operations concerning revision arthroplasty has been increasing continuously in recent years, and it can be assumed that they will continue to increase in the future. If an arthroplasty implant becomes loose, it must be changed. The question often arises as to how the new implant should be fixed in the bone. Revision implants can be inserted into the bone without cement. In the subsequent period, asecondary osseointegration of the implant takes place. Another possibility is to anchor the implant by using bone cement. The advantage of cemented anchorage is that the implant is firmly fixed in the bone, in principle, immediately, and it is possible to fully load the implant directly. Direct postoperative full weight bearing is helpful, especially for older and multimorbid patients, in order to achieve rapid mobilization. When using cement in revision cases, however, there are afew prerequisites and challenges that the surgeon should definitely take into account. In the case of revision, the bone in the former implant bed is often deficient and appears thinned and sclerosed. It is, therefore, important to analyze the bone quality preoperatively on radiographic images and to include it in the planning of the anchoring strategy. In addition, the individual bone quality of the patient must also be taken into account intraoperatively. In any case, it must be clarified whether the basic prerequisites for the sufficient bond strength of the cement with the bone to be formed can still be met. Furthermore, the principles of cementing technique must be strictly observed, and the goal of aperfect cement mantle must be aimed for. If the indication for this is overstated, early loosening of the cemented revision arthroplasty is very likely.

Antegrade Posterior Column Acetabulum Fracture Screw Fixation via Posterior Approach: A Biomechanical Comparative Study.

Background and Objectives: Minimally invasive surgeries for acetabulum fracture fixation are gaining popularity due to their known advantages versus open reduction and internal fixation. Antegrade or retrograde screw fixation along the long axis of the posterior column of the acetabulum is increasingly applied in surgical practice. While there is sufficient justification in the literature for the application of the anterior approach, there is a deficit of reports related to the posterior approach. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical competence of posterior column acetabulum fracture fixation through antegrade screw placement using either a standard cannulated screw or a cannulated compression headless screw (CCHS) via posterior approach. Materials and Methods: Eight composite pelvises were used, and a posterior column acetabulum fracture according to the Letournel Classification was simulated on both their left and right sides via an osteotomy. The sixteen hemi-pelvic specimens were assigned to two groups (n = 8) for either posterior column standard screw (group PCSS) or posterior column CCHS (group PCCH) fixation. Biomechanical testing was performed by applying steadily increased cyclic load until failure. Interfragmentary movements were investigated by means of motion tracking. Results: Initial stiffness demonstrated significantly higher values in PCCH (163.1 ± 14.9 N/mm) versus PCSS (133.1 ± 27.5 N/mm), p = 0.024. Similarly, cycles and load at failure were significantly higher in PCCH (7176.7 ± 2057.0 and 917.7 ± 205.7 N) versus PCSS (3661.8 ± 1664.5 and 566.2 ± 166.5 N), p = 0.002. Conclusion: From a biomechanical perspective, CCHS fixation demonstrates superior stability and could be a valuable alternative option to the standard cannulated screw fixation of posterior column acetabulum fractures, thus increasing the confidence in postoperative full weight bearing for both the patient and treating surgeon. Whether uneventful immediate postoperative full weight bearing can be achieved with CCHS fixation should primarily be investigated in further human cadaveric studies with a larger sample size.

Non-union incidence of different joint preparation types, joint fixation techniques, and postoperative weightbearing protocols for arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in moderate-to-severe hallux valgus: a systematic review.

A systematic review to determine the effect of different types of joint preparation, joint fixation, and postoperative weight-bearing protocols on non-union frequency in first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus. A systematic literature search (PubMed and EMBASE), adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data on MTPJ preparation, fixation, weight-bearing, and non-union in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus were collected. Quality assessment was performed using the Coleman Methodology Score. Sixteen studies (934 feet) were included, generally of medium quality. Overall non-union rate was 7.7%. At 6.3%, convex/concave joint preparation had the lowest non-union rate vs 12.2% for hand instruments and 22.2% for planar cuts. Non-union of 2.8% was found for joint fixation with a plate combined with a lag screw vs 6.5% for plate fixation, 11.1% for crossed screw fixation, and 12.5% for a plate with a cross plate compression screw. A 5.1% non-union frequency was found following postoperative full weight-bearing on a flat shoe vs 9.3% for full weight-bearing on a heel weight-bearing shoe and 0% for a partial weight-bearing regimen. Based on medium-quality papers, joint preparation with convex/concave reamers and joint fixation with a plate using a lag screw show the lowest non-union rate. Full postoperative weight-bearing in a stiff-soled postoperative shoe is safe and not associated with non-union vs a more protective load-bearing regimen. Further research should focus on larger sample sizes, longer follow-ups, and stronger study designs.

High Percentage of Complications and Re-Operations Following Dynamic Locking Plate Fixation with the Targon® FN for Intracapsular Proximal Femoral Fractures: An Analysis of Risk Factors.

The ideal surgical treatment of femoral neck fractures remains controversial. When treating these fractures with internal fixation, many fixation constructs exist. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and specific risk factors associated with complication and re-operation following fixation of intracapsular proximal femoral fractures using the Targon-FN system (B.Braun Melsungen AG). A secondary aim was to identify if lateral prominence of the implant relative to the lateral border of the vastus ridge was a specific risk factor for elective plate removal. Methodically, a retrospective case series was conducted of all consecutive adult patients treated at a single level 1 trauma center in Switzerland for an intracapsular proximal femoral fracture with the Targon-FN. Demographic data were collected. Patients with a follow-up of less than three months were excluded. Complications as well as plate position were recorded. Statistical analysis to identify specific risk factors for re-operation and complications was performed. In result, a total of 72 cases with intracapsular femoral neck fractures were treated with the Targon-FN locking plate system between 2010 and 2017. Thirty-four patients (47.2%) experienced one or more complications. The most common complication was mechanical irritation of the iliotibial band (ITB) (23.6%, n = 17). Complications included intraarticular screw perforation (6.9%, n = 5), avascular necrosis (5.6%, n = 4), non-union (5.6%, n = 4) among others. In total, 46 re-operations were required. Younger age, fracture displacement and time to postoperative weight bearing were identified as risk factors for re-operation. In conclusion, intracapsular femoral neck fractures treated with the Targon-FN system resulted in a high rate of post-operative complication and re-operation. Statistical analysis revealed patient age, fracture displacement, time to postoperative full weight bearing were risk factors for re-operation. The main limitation is the limited number of cases and a short follow-up of less than 12 months in a subgroup of our patients.

LOQTEQ® VA Periprosthetic Plate-A New Concept for Bicortical Screw Fixation in Periprosthetic Fractures: A Technical Note.

Internal fixation using angle stable plates is the treatment standard in periprosthetic fractures around stable implants. To provide instant postoperative full weight-bearing, bicortical screw fixation is advisable but often surgically demanding. This work presents the first clinical results of the LOQTEQ® VA Periprosthetic Plate (aap Implantate AG, Berlin, Germany), a new plate system to simplify screw placement around implants. This plate system uses insertable hinges that allow for variable angle screw anchorage. Data of 26 patients with a mean age of 80 years and a mean follow-up of 13.9 months were retrospectively collected. Patients were clinically and radiologically examined. Bony union was achieved in 14 out of 15 patients with no signs of non-union or implant loosening. One patient, however, presented with implant failure. Clinical scores demonstrated acceptable results. Since the hinge plates are easy to apply, the first results are promising.

Intertrochanteric fractures treated by diaphyseal support arthroplasty with hook plate vs cerclage wires only: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundThe treatment of unstable fractures of the intertrochanteric region of the hip in the elderly is controversial. Conventionally, internal fixation with intramedullary nail or a dynamic hip screw is the treatment of choice in intertrochanteric fractures. Nowadays, some authors encouraged the use hip arthroplasty for management of these fractures with good outcome. The aim of this study is to compare total hip arthroplasty with hook plate against total hip arthroplasty with cerclage cables in the management of unstable intertrochanteric fractures. Materials and methodsOut of 100 admitted patients to a central university hospital in Beirut between 2013 and 2019 with a diagnosis of unstable intertrochanteric fracture of the hip, only 64 (36 hook plate vs 28 cerclage) patients were selected. This is a retrospective study, patients were excluded if lost to follow up, or if follow up less than one year is available. The data were retrieved from inpatient and outpatient hospital files. Functional outcomes were assessed according to ambulatory capacity. The main clinical measures were early postoperative full weight bearing, postoperative complications, functional outcome and radiologic assessment done by a radiologist in addition to measuring the dysfunction via the Harris Hip Score. ResultsThe time to full weight bearing, the rate of postoperative complications, radiologic outcome and the functional outcomes were more satisfactory in the hook - plate group than in the cerclage - cable group. ConclusionAccording to the results, total hip arthroplasty with hook plate is considered the preferred modality of treatment in mobile elderly patients above sixty-five years of age with an unstable intertrochanteric femoral fracture, despite being a bulky foreign material that can lead to trochanteric bursitis.

Radiographic Outcomes of Cotton Osteotomy in Treatment of Adult-Acquired Flatfoot Deformity.

We investigated the long-term radiographic outcomes of the Cotton osteotomy performed at our institution by the 2 senior authors in conjunction with other reconstruction procedures to correct adult-acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD). We retrospectively studied patients who underwent Cotton osteotomy between 2005 and 2010 with minimum 4-year follow-up. Radiographic assessment was made on weightbearing radiographs taken at 4 different time intervals: preoperative, early (first postoperative full weightbearing), intermediate (between 1 and 4 years postoperatively), and final (over 4 years postoperatively). Nineteen patients were included. Final follow-up was 8.6 ± 2.6 years. The lateral talus-first metatarsal angle improved significantly from preoperative to early radiographs (n = 15; mean change: 30 degrees, 95% CI, 21.6-38.7; P < .0001). A significant loss of correction was observed between intermediate and final radiographs (n = 11; mean change: 17 degrees, 95% CI, 8.1-26.4; P < .0001). Of 14 patients with early radiographs, 8 lost >50% of the correction initially achieved. Medial column height decreased by 3.0 mm (95% CI, 1.80-7.90; P = .35) between early radiographs and final follow-up. This is the longest reported radiographic follow-up of the Cotton osteotomy performed to address forefoot varus deformity as part of AAFD. The Cotton osteotomy achieved radiographic correction of the medial longitudinal arch at early follow-up, but approximately half of the patients had lost over 50% of that correction at final follow-up. The lengthened angular shape of the cuneiform did not collapse, implying that further collapse occurred through the medial column joints. Level IV, case series.

The acetabular roof reinforcement plate for the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures in the elderly: results in 59 patients

IntroductionOpen reduction and internal fixation is considered the gold standard of treatment for displaced acetabular fractures in younger patients. For elderly patients with osteoporotic bone quality, however, primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the advantage of immediate postoperative mobilization might be an option. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of surgical treatment of displaced osteoporotic acetabular fractures using the acetabular roof reinforcement plate (ARRP) combined with THA.Materials and methodsBetween 2009 and 2019, 84 patients were operated using the ARRP combined with THA. Inclusion criteria were displaced osteoporotic fractures of the acetabulum with or without previous hemi- or total hip arthroplasty, age above 65 years, and pre-injury ability to walk at least with use of a walking frame. Of the 84 patients, 59 could be followed up after 6 months clinically and radiographically. Forty-nine (83%) were primary fractures and 10 (17%) periprosthetic acetabular fractures.ResultsThe mean age was 80.5 years (range 65–98 years). The average time from injury to surgery was 8.5 days (range 1–28). Mean time of surgery was 167 min (range 100–303 min). Immediate postoperative full weight bearing (FWB) was allowed for 51 patients (86%). At the 6-month follow-up, all 59 patients except one showed bony healing and incorporation of the ARRP. One case developed a non-union of the anterior column. No disruption, breakage or loosening of the ARRP was seen. Additional CT scans performed in 18 patients confirmed bony healing. Twenty-six patients (44%) had regained their pre-injury level of mobility. Complications requiring revision surgery occurred in 8 patients. Five of them were suffering from a prosthetic head dislocation, one from infection, one from hematoma and one from a heterotopic ossification.ConclusionsThe ARRP has proven to provide sufficient primary stability to allow for immediate FWB in most cases and represents a valuable option for the surgical management of displaced acetabular fractures in this challenging patient group.

Early full weight-bearing in patients with isolated displaced lateral malleolar fracture after rigid internal fixation with locking plates.

The timing of post-operative full weight-bearing in patients of isolated displaced lateral malleolar fractures remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of early full weight-bearing after rigid internal fixation of such fractures with locking plates. From 2012 to 2018, 46 patients who had closed isolated displaced lateral malleolar fractures were included in the study. All fractures were managed with open reduction and internal fixation with locking plates. The patients were allowed to walk bearing their full weight 2 weeks after the operation. The follow-up period was 41.5 months on average (range: 12-70 months). The patients were available to evaluate union conditions, functional results, and complications. The fractures united smoothly with an average union time of 10.5 weeks (range: 8-16). At the final follow-up, the average American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score Ankle-Hindfoot Score was 91 (range: 85-98). No complications were observed. For patients with isolated displaced lateral malleolar fractures, full weight-bearing is safe and effective, without an increase in the rate of complications, 2 weeks after open reduction and rigid fixation with locking plates.

Mid-term outcome of bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum after bisegmental transsacral stabilization versus spinopelvic fixation.

Minimally invasive fixation of pelvic fragility fractures is recommended to reduce pain and allow early mobilization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of two different stabilization techniques in bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum (BFFS). A non-randomized, prospective study was carried out in a level 1 trauma centre. BFFS in 61 patients (mean age 80 years (SD 10); four male, 57 female) were treated surgically with bisegmental transsacral stablization (BTS; n = 41) versus spinopelvic fixation (SP; n = 20). Postoperative full weightbearing was allowed. The outcome was evaluated at two timepoints: discharge from inpatient treatment (TP1; Fitbit tracking, Zebris stance analysis), and ≥ six months (TP2; Fitbit tracking, Zebris analysis, based on modified Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Majeed Score (MS), and the 12-Item Short Form Survey 12 (SF-12). Fracture healing was assessed by CT. The primary outcome parameter of functional recovery was the per-day step count; the secondary parameter was the subjective outcome assessed by questionnaires. Overall, no baseline differences were observed between the BTS and SP cohorts. In total, 58 (BTS = 19; SP = 39) and 37 patients (BTS = 14; SP = 23) could be recruited at TP1 and TP2, respectively. Mean steps per day at TP1 were median 308 (248 to 434) in the BTS group and 254 (196 to 446) in the SP group. At TP2, median steps per day were 3,759 (2,551 to 3,926) in the BTS group and 3,191 (2,872 to 3,679) in the SP group, each with no significant difference. A significant improvement was observed in each group (p < 0.001) between timepoints. BTS patients obtained better results than SP patients in ODI (p < 0.030), MS (p = 0.007), and SF-12 physical status (p = 0.006). In all cases, CT showed sufficient fracture healing of the posterior ring. Both groups showed significant outcome improvement and sufficient fracture healing. Both techniques can be recommended for BFFS, although BTS was superior with respect to subjective outcome. Step-count tracking represents a reliable method to evaluate the mobility level. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(3):462-468.

Cupule sans ciment de révision pour arthroplastie primaire pour fracture de l’acetabulum chez des patients gériatriques ostéoporotiques

BackgroundElderly patients suffering from hip fractures are usually not able to fulfill postoperative weight-bearing restrictions. Therefore, the operative fixation construct has to be as stable as possible. Aim of the present study was to determine: (1) whether a therapeutic advantage could be achieved when using hip arthroplasty to treat acetabular fractures in geriatric patients; (2) whether an acetabular revision cup would be suitable for achieving fast postoperative mobilization and full weight-bearing; and (3) when a treatment with an uncemented hip revision cup for the primary fixation of osteoporotic acetabular fractures in geriatric patients is indicated. Materials and methodsThe functional outcome of THA using a reconstruction cup for an acetabular fracture was evaluated in ten patients using standardized scoring instruments. In addition, an analysis of the preexisting literature referring to total hip replacement in geriatric acetabular fractures was conducted and an algorithm for standardizing the treatment approach for geriatric patients with acetabular fractures was developed. ResultsThe mean EQ-5D-3L quality of life score 0.7. The mean VAS score was 58.2. The average Barthel Index was 80.0 points [range: 0–100]. The mean HHS was 72.0 points, while the MHH Score yielded an average of 63.4 points. The average AP Score was 7.5. The literature analysis showed that total hip arthroplasty could be a feasible option for geriatric acetabular fractures. ConclusionPrimary hip arthroplasty using uncemented revision cup fixed with angular stable screws showed good results and is a feasible treatment option of acetabular fractures in geriatric patients. The approach is especially beneficial in patients with poor bone stock and allows postoperative full weight-bearing. The presented treatment algorithm could be a useful tool for identifying the most appropriate treatment option. Level of evidenceIIb.

Cementless hip revision cup for the primary fixation of osteoporotic acetabular fractures in geriatric patients

BackgroundElderly patients suffering from hip fractures are usually not able to fulfil postoperative weight-bearing restrictions. Therefore, the operative fixation construct has to be as stable as possible. Aim of the present study was to determine (1) whether a therapeutic advantage could be achieved when using hip arthroplasty to treat acetabular fractures in geriatric patients; (2) whether an acetabular revision cup would be suitable for achieving fast postoperative mobilization and full weight-bearing; and (3) when a treatment with an uncemented hip revision cup for the primary fixation of osteoporotic acetabular fractures in geriatric patients is indicated. Materials and methodsThe functional outcome of THA using a reconstruction cup for an acetabular fracture was evaluated in ten patients using standardized scoring instruments. In addition, an analysis of the preexisting literature referring to total hip replacement in geriatric acetabular fractures was conducted and an algorithm for standardizing the treatment approach for geriatric patients with acetabular fractures was developed. ResultsThe mean EQ-5D-3L quality of life score 0.7. The mean VAS Score was 58.2. The average Barthel Index was 80.0 points [range: 0–100]. The mean HHS was 72.0 points, while the MHH Score yielded an average of 63.4 points. The average AP Score was 7.5. The literature analysis showed that total hip arthroplasty could be a feasible option for geriatric acetabular fractures. ConclusionPrimary hip arthroplasty using uncemented revision cup fixed with angular stable screws showed good results and is a feasible treatment option of acetabular fractures in geriatric patients. The approach is especially beneficial in patients with poor bone stock and allows postoperative full weight-bearing. The presented treatment algorithm could be a useful tool for identifying the most appropriate treatment option. Level of evidenceIIb.

Results of the Total Hip Arthroplasty Using 3D Printing Technology

Objectives: To study the value of 3D printing of custom THA femoral prostheses with conventional femoral prostheses in total hip arthroplasty for severe hip deformity. Methods: Total hip arthroplasty was used in the treatment of 107 severe hip joint deformity cases from June 2018 to June 2019. Fifty-six patients received conventional hip replacement stems and 51 patients received a custom 3D printed hip replacement stem designed to address their proximal deformity and leg length discrepancy. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative weight-bearing time, Harris score before and after the operation, complications after surgery and the main angle measurement of compared to their contralateral hip were evaluated to determine the short-term efficacy of 3D printed total hip replacement femoral prosthesis compared to the common total hip replacement femoral prosthesis. Results: A total of 107 patients were followed up for an average of 12 months. The use of 3D printing technology in the preoperative design and custom prosthesis fabrication was associated with shortened operation time, less intraoperative blood loss, quicker time to postoperative full weight-bearing, and improved the Harris score in 1 year after the operation compared to conventional total hip replacement stem (p&lt;.05). Our results revealed that there was a significant reduction in the femoral anteversion with a value of 13.06 ± 1.93 degrees (mean ± SD) in the custom prosthesis group compared to the conventional hip replacement group. However, there was no significant difference in neck-shaft angle, acetabular angle, and Sharp angle between both groups (p&gt;.05). Conclusion: 3D printing technology created a virtual and realistic simulation, and personalized operation plan for patients with severe hip deformity, which was helpful for surgical treatment. The anatomical characteristics of patients with complex deformities were better addressed using the 3D printed femoral component and resulting in better patient outcomes and provided a new option for surgeons to manage these difficult cases.

Establishment of a clinically relevant large animal model to assess the healing of metaphyseal bone.

Despite the high incidence of metaphyseal bone fractures in patients, the mechanisms underlying the healing processes are poorly understood due to the lack of suitable experimental animal models. Hence, the present study was conducted to establish and characterise a clinically relevant large-animal model for metaphyseal bone healing. Six female adult Merino sheep underwent full wedge-shaped osteotomy at the distal left femur metaphysis. The osteotomy was stabilised internally with a customised anatomical locking titanium plate that allowed immediate post-operative full-weight bearing. Bone healing was evaluated at 12 weeks post-fracture relative to the untouched right femur. Histological and quantitative micro-computed tomography results revealed an increased mineralised bone mass with a rich bone microarchitecture. New trabeculae healed by direct intramembranous ossification, without callus and cartilaginous tissue formation. Stiffness at the cortical and trabecular regions was comparable in both groups. Functional morphological analysis of the osteocyte lacunae revealed regularly arranged spherically shaped lacunae along with the canalicular network. Bone surface biochemical analysis using time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry showed high and homogeneously distributed levels of calcium and collagenous components. Ultrastructure imaging of the new trabeculae revealed a characteristic parallel arrangement of the collagen fibrils, evenly mineralised by the dense mineral substance. The specialised bone cells were also characterised by their unique structural features. Bone remodelling in the fractured femur was evident in the higher expression levels of prominent bone formation and resorption genes. In conclusion, the novel metaphyseal fracture model is beneficial for studying healing and treatment options for the enhancement of metaphyseal bone defects.

Dual Mobility Acetabular Cup Versus Hemiarthroplasty in Treatment of Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures in Elderly Patients: Comparative Study and Results at Minimum 3-Year Follow-up.

Background:Hip fractures are serious injuries associated with relatively high mortality rates and disabilities, commonly seen in elderly persons. There is an ongoing debate regarding the advantages of various hip arthroplasty devices. This study aimed to analyze the long-term advantages of 2 different surgical procedures and assess if the dislocation rate, Harris Hip Score (HHS), and functional independence measure (FIM) are more favorable in dual mobility (DM) than those in hemiarthroplasty (HA).Hypothesis:Dual mobility procedures provide better postoperative outcomes than HA in terms of HHS, FIM, and dislocation rate.Materials and Methods:The survey was a prospective, comparative interventional single-blinded study performed at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo, a tertiary health-care institution. A total of 94 patients underwent DM or conventional bipolar HA for repair of displaced femoral neck fractures within 2 weeks of injury. Primary outcomes were postoperative dislocation rate, FIM, and HHS. Secondary outcomes included duration of surgery, estimated intraoperative blood loss, time to first postoperative full weight-bearing, time to walking ability with and without crutches, mortality rate, and postoperative infection rate.Results:There were no significant differences for most parameters between the groups. We found a significant difference in the dislocation rate between the 2 groups, wherein there were no dislocations in the DM group and 3 dislocations in the HHS group (0% vs 6.4%). In terms of postoperative HHS at 12 months and 3 years, DM provided better outcomes (<0.034 and <0.014, respectively).Discussion:Dual mobility compares favorably to HA in terms of dislocation rate and HHS, while no difference was found for FIM. In order to have a more complete overview, we recommend more intense long-term studies including several heterogeneous parameters to compare the clinical outcomes between DM and HA.Level of evidence (with study design):Level II.

L’appui complet immédiat est-il possible en cas de fracture de l’arrière-fond acétabulaire au cours d’une arthroplastie totale de hanche ?

BackgroundA breach of the medial acetabular wall is a phenomenon seen frequently due to over-reaming during total hip arthroplasty (THA). The consequences of this issue are not fully understood particularly in cementless THA. A retrospective study was performed to answer whether: (1) immediate postoperative full-weight bearing in the presence of a medial acetabular wall breach after THA results in more short-term revisions of the acetabular component, (2) increases the risk for migration of the acetabular component? HypothesisImmediate full-weight bearing in the presence of a medial breach is not associated with an increased likelihood for acetabular-related revision surgery or migration of the cup. Patients and methodsIn this retrospective cohort study, consecutive patients (n=95; mean age 68±13 years; 67 female) who underwent THA with an uncemented acetabular component were identified and a retrospective chart review was performed (follow-up 23±17 months, range 6 to 79 months). The presence of a postoperative radiographic medial acetabular breach was documented and the need for revision surgery and the rate of acetabular component migration were assessed during follow-up. ResultsSome extent of radiographic medial acetabular wall breach was seen in 26/95 patients (27%). With regard to the primary outcome, 2/95 patients (2%) required revision surgery during follow up. All revision surgeries occurred in the group without a medial breach (p=0.280) for causes related to the femoral or the head components. Persistent pain was present in 1/26 patients (3.8%) in the medial breach group and 8/69 patients in the control group (11.6%; p=0.436). In the radiographic follow-up, (n=81), there was no significant difference between the control group and the medial breach group with regard to cup migration (Δ ilio-ischial overlap (distance between the ilio-ischial line and a parallel line tangential to the acetabular cup on AP views): −0.5±0.9mm (range, −2.9 to 0.8) vs. −0.3±1.7mm (range, −1.9 to 2.2), Δ overlap tangent (defined as the distance between the two crossings of ilio-ischial line and the acetabular component on AP views): −2.2±6.1mm (range, −21.4 to 0.0) vs. 0.4±6.9mm (range, −6.2 to 17.6). Similarly, according to variation in the ilio-ischial overlap distance between postoperative and follow-up on pelvic AP views, 0/56 hips (0%) had cup migration≥5mm in the control group versus 1/25 (4%) in the medial breach cohort (p=0.3). DiscussionIn this retrospective observation of patients with immediate postoperative full-weight bearing after THA, a radiographic breach of the medial acetabular wall was not associated with an increased risk for short-term revision surgery or radiographic migration at follow-up. According to the findings of this study and in the light of previous biomechanical studies, there is no clear evidence for postoperative partial-weight bearing in case of a medial breach as far as the surgeon feels that the acetabular component is stable. Level of evidenceIV, Retrospective cohort study.

Immediate weight bearing after plate fixation of fractures of the tibial plateau

BackgroundProximal articular fractures of the tibia are commonly stabilised with internal fixation using plates and screws. There is a lack of evidence and conflicting guidelines as to the most suitable post-operative rehabilitation regime including weight bearing status. There are numerous physiological and socioeconomic benefits of early weight bearing after orthopaedic surgery, but concerns remain around loss of fracture reduction. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether the weight bearing status after tibial plateau plate fixation is associated with any loss of reduction or articular collapse. MethodsWe retrospectively analysed data from our prospectively collected major trauma centre database. All tibial plateau fractures that required open reduction and internal fixation with plate and screws were included. The immediate post-operative weight bearing status of these patients was recorded. Group I consisted of those patients that were either non-weight bearing or touch weight bearing for the first six post-operative weeks. Group II consisted of patients who were instructed to weight bear fully (as tolerated) immediately after the operation. Radiographs were taken on day one post-operation, at six weeks and at three months and analysed for fracture displacement and joint depression or loss of fixation. ResultsA total of 90 patients were included in the study. Group I (non-weight bearing or touch weight bearing) consisted of 60 patients (67%). Group II (full weight bearing as tolerated) consisted of 30 patients (33%). The follow up radiographs demonstrated no failure of fixation in either study group. One patient from the weight bearing group had >1mm joint depression (4mm) identified at the first follow up, which did not progress. ConclusionsThis study shows immediate post-operative full weight bearing does not affect the fixation or cause articular collapse up to three months after surgery and thus we propose that patients should be allowed to weight bear immediately after surgical stabilisation of tibial plateau fractures. This will enable patients to benefit from the positive effects on fracture healing of early weight bearing post-surgery and avoid the complications of non-weight bearing without loss of fixation or articular collapse.