Radial Shortening Research Articles

Evaluating the necessity of bone augmentation for distal radius fracture fixed with a volar locking plate: a retrospective study

BackgroundMultiple approaches for fixation of distal radius fractures exist; nonetheless, there is no consensus on the optimal treatment for these injuries. Although using volar locking plates has become increasingly common as a surgical intervention, the usefulness of bone augmentation remains debatable. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the necessity of bone augmentation for distal radius fractures fixed with a volar locking plate.MethodsThis retrospective study enrolled patients with a single distal radius fracture treated with a volar locking plate between January 2014 and December 2016. Overall, 105 fractures were included and divided into two groups (non-bone augmentation: group 1, n = 88; bone augmentation: group 2, n = 17). Images were reviewed, and dorsal cortex collapse, volar tilting, and radial height and inclination were measured immediately after surgery and at the 6-month follow-up.ResultsBoth groups exhibited significant differences in dorsal collapse (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively) and radial height shortening (p < 0.001 and p = 0.039, respectively); volar tilting and radial inclination did not differ significantly. There was no difference in the degree of dorsal collapse (p = 0.715) and radial height shortening (p = 0.651) between the two groups. Of the 105 fractures, 54 were identified as comminuted type according to the AO classification (A3, C2, and C3), and similar radiographic outcomes were noted.ConclusionsVolar locking plates for the treatment of distal radius fractures with or without bone augmentation do not affect the radiographic outcomes. In comminuted fractures, additional bone augmentation is unnecessary if intraoperative anatomical reduction and fixation are performed when possible.

Radiological results of surgical management of fracture of the distal radius treated with volar locking plates

ObjectivesDistal radius fracture (DRF) is the most common upper extremity fracture. The incidence of complications after surgical treatment still remains high.The objective of our study was to assess functional and radiological results of DRF treated with volar locking plate. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study including DRF treated by open reduction and internal fixation with a volar locking plate during a period of 8 years (2010–2018). Data were collected from clinical records and included patient demographics, fracture characteristics, radiological parameters (radial inclination, palmar tilt, ulnar variance, articular step-off), range of motion (ROM), complications and reinterventions. ResultsA total of 170 patients (63.5% female) met the inclusion criteria with a mean age of 55.9 years [24.1–83.7; 13.76]. High energy injuries were more frequent in younger patients (25.56% vs 3.95%; p < 0.0001). AO classification was: 2R3A: 23.5%, 2R3B: 24.1% and 2R3C: 52.4%. Time until surgery was 8.5 days, longer in extraarticular fractures (AO-2R3A: 12.22 days, AO-2R3B: 7.97 days, AO-2R3C: 7.04 days, p = 0.018). Younger patients had better radial inclination (excellent in 85.1% vs 59.21%, p = 0.001) and radial shortening (excellent in 100% vs 88.15%, p = 0.001).ROM was: flexion 63° [0–90°; 19.73], extension 57.67° [5–90°; 21.61], pronation 78.94° [40–90°] and supination 81.76° [38–90°; 8.87]. We found a weak correlation between ROM in flexion-extension and radial shortening (r = 0.218; p = 0.001) and articular step-off (r = −0.269; p = 0.002). We had 39 complications (21.18% of patients). 10.6% of patients needed a re-operation, being the most frequent hardware removal (6.5%) and tendinous disruptions repairs (2.4%). Reintervention rate was higher in younger patients (14.9% vs 5.3%; p = 0.042), complete articular fractures (AO-2R3A: 2.5%; AO-2R3B: 7.3%; AO-2R3C: 15.7%; p = 0.037) and high energy injuries (8.4% vs 22.2%; p = 0.044). Patients undergoing reintervention had a decreased flexion-extension (94.44° vs 123.83°, p = 0.007). ConclusionRadial shortening and articular step-off seem the most important predictors for postoperative range of motion. Worse radiological outcomes are observed in complete articular fractures and those affecting elder population.Although radiological and functional results are good or excellent in most of cases, the incidence of complications and need for reintervention still remains noticeable. Re-operations were more frequent in younger patients, complete articular fractures and high energy injuries, and it worsened functional outcomes.

Sequential Radiographic Evaluation During Closed Treatment of Distal Radius Fracture.

To test the null hypothesis that there is no significant change in radiographic parameters, which determines an acceptable reduction, beyond 3 weeks in distal radius fractures with closed treatment. Retrospective review of a prospectively gathered registry of distal radius fractures. Academic medical center. Patients who underwent closed treatment of distal radius fracture. Sequential radiographic evaluation. Change of radiographic measurement including radial inclination, radial height, ulnar variance, articular tilt, teardrop angle, anteroposterior distance, intra-articular gap, and step-off. We compared postreduction radiographic parameters once within 2 weeks, at the third week, at cessation of immobilization, and analyzed the interobserver reliability test. There was a statistically significant difference between radiographic measurements, which determined an acceptable reduction between radiographs performed within 2 weeks versus the third week. Radial inclination and ulnar variance were statistically different at the third week compared with the time of cessation of immobilization. Seventy-seven percent of patients who had an acceptable reduction after 2 weeks maintained acceptable alignment at cessation of immobilization. Eighty-five percent of patients with acceptable reduction after 3 weeks maintained acceptable alignment at cessation of immobilization. Radial shortening >1.8 mm at the third week predicts an unacceptable radiographic outcome at cessation of immobilization (sensitivity 94.5% and specificity 90%). Radiographic parameters that determine acceptable reduction for closed treatment of distal radius fractures change minimally after 3-week postacceptable closed reduction. Radial shortening at the third week can be used to predict an unacceptable radiographic outcome. Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Multiple Hereditary Exostosis of Distal Ulna with Dislocation of Radial Head: A Case Report

Background: Multiple hereditary exostosis of the forearm is typically formed in the distal ulna causing disturbances in the growth of the ulna and functional disability. Multiple hereditary exo­stosis inhibits the growth of the ulna leading to an acquisition of a varus deformity in the ra­dius which sometimes leads to dislocation of the radial head, the development of limitations in the pronation-supination of the forearm, and cos­me­tic problems. This study aimed to report the mul­ti­ple hereditary exostosis of distal ulna with dis­location of radial head. Case Presentation: We present a case of a 14 year-old girl with main complaint of a bony prominence on her right elbow which limits the elbow flexion range of motion. 3D CT-Scan re­vealed a dislocation of radial head, shortening and posterior bowing of ulna. We performed excision of the prominent radial head, recons­truction, and temporary arthrodesis of the elbow. Results: The forearm deformity in patients with multiple hereditary exostosis related to the cross-sectional area of the distal ulnar physis was only one-quarter of the distal radius, the distal ulna is more involved in the condition. There was more longitudinal growth at the distal ulnar physis than at the distal radial physis, the distal ulnar physis contributed more total Ulnar Length than the distal radial physis did to Radial length. Known surgical interventions including simple excision, ulnar lengthening, corrective radial os­teo­­tomy, hemi-epiphyseal stapling of the distal radius, the Sauve-Kapandji procedure. Conclusion: Simple excision could improve the range of movement of the forearm but would not halt the progression of disease, particularly in younger patients. It was not effective in con­troll­ing progression of the deformity. Mature patients did not recur, but in patients that had been excis­ed before puberty the results were varied and unpredictable. Keywords: multiple hereditary exostosis, radial head dislocation, excision Correspondence: Pamudji Utomo. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology Prof. Dr. R.Soeharso Ortho­paedics Hospital, Surakarta. Email: utomodr­@yahoo.com. Indonesian Journal of Medicine (2020), 05(01): 63-69 https://doi.org/10.26911/theijmed.2020.05.01.10

Triquetrum Excision in Radioscapholunate Arthrodesis for Posttraumatic Radiocarpal Osteoarthritis With Ulnar Impaction Syndrome.

Dependent on fracture type, concomitant carpal injuries, and operative treatment, distal radius fractures can lead to symptomatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis. In addition, radial shortening can cause ulnar impaction syndrome. Radiocarpal arthrodesis and ulnar shortening osteotomy are known and frequently applied surgical procedures for each of those pathologies. There are limited data concerning treatment options for a combined disorder. The presented technique in this article demonstrates that radioscapholunate arthrodesis with distal pole scaphoidectomy and total triquetrum excision successfully treats both symptomatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis and ulnar impaction syndrome without further surgery on the ulna.

Vascularized Bone Graft to the Lunate Combined with Shortening of the Capitate and Radius for Treatment of Advanced Kienböck Disease After a Follow-Up for More Than 10 Years

PurposeThis study aimed to report the outcomes of patients with stage III Kienböck disease after treatment with a vascularized bone graft (VBG) to the lunate combined with capitate shortening osteotomy (CS) after a more than 10-year follow-up.MethodsA VBG to the lunate was combined with CS in 10 patients with stage III Kienböck disease (6 patients with stage IIIA and 4 with stage IIIB). We performed VBG, CS, and radial shortening osteotomy (RS) on 7 patients. Among them, 4 had undergone RS previously. The passive wrist extension angle and wrist flexion angle, grip strength (GS), carpal height ratio, Stahl index, visual analog scale of wrist pain, and Mayo modified wrist score were assessed before surgery and at the final follow-up.ResultsThe flexion angle decreased markedly after surgery, when GS increased in all 10 patients. Radiographic examinations revealed that the carpal height ratio decreased in 9 of 10 patients, whereas the Stahl index increased in 8 patients and remained unchanged in 2. The oldest 3 of 7 patients who underwent VBG, CS, and RS exhibited fusion of the proximal carpals except the pisiform. The mean visual analog scale decreased from 27.6 before surgery to 5.7 afterward. The Mayo modified wrist score improved in 9 patients after surgery and remained unchanged in one.ConclusionsIn stage III Kienböck disease, VBG to the lunate combined with CS relieved wrist pain and increased GS and lunate height but was followed by severely restricted wrist motion. Fusion of the proximal carpals developed in 3 of 7 patients who received VBG with CS and RS.Type of study/level of evidenceTherapeutic Ⅳ.

Is Joint Levelling Procedure Better than Temporary Scaphocapitate Pinning in Patients Undergoing Vascularized Bone Graft for Kienböck Disease?

Background: Although there have been many studies of the vascularized bone graft (VBG) or unloading procedures alone for the treatment of Kienböck disease, little information has been reported about patients treated with VBG combined with unloading procedures. The purpose of this study is to 1) describe the outcomes in patients treated with VBG combined with unloading procedures, 2) compare the outcomes according to the unloading procedures and 3) find any radiologic parameters affecting revascularization in Kienböck disease. Methods: A retrospective review was performed involving in 20 patients undergoing 4th and 5th extensor compartmental VBG with unloading procedures for Kienböck disease from 2010-2015. After VBG in all patients, unloading procedures were additionally performed depending on the ulnar variance. These additional operations included joint leveling procedures (radial and capitate shortening osteotomy) or temporary scaphocapitate pinning. Radiologic outcome was evaluated according to Lichtman stage and presence of revascularization evidence. Clinical evaluations included wrist range of motion, grip strength, visual analogue scale (VAS), and Mayo wrist score. Results: VBG with joint leveling procedures was performed in 11 patients (5 radial shortening and 6 capitate shortening) and VBG with temporary scaphocapitate pinning was performed in 9 patients. Although clinical outcomes were not significantly different according to the unloading procedures, there were significantly more patients with evidence of healing of osteonecrosis on radiographs in joint leveling procedure group than temporary scaphocapitate pinning group. Overall, evidence of healing of osteonecrosis was found on plain radiographs in 11 patients and was not found in 9 patients. However, there were no significant preoperative radiological parameters affecting revascularization on radiographs. Conclusions: Not all patients had evidence of revascularization on radiography after VBG combined with unloading procedures for Kienböck disease. However, among the unloading procedures, joint-leveling procedures positively influenced the revascularization process.

Comparison of 2-year clinical and radiological outcomes between volar plating and external fixation with additional K-wires for AO Type C distal radius fractures.

Background/aimSurgical treatment of distal intraarticular radius fractures remains controversial. Our aim was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between volar plating (VP) and external fixation (EF) for distal intraarticular radius fractures two years postoperatively.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study included 59 patients with 62 intraarticular AO Type C distal radius fractures. We distinguished two groups: patients treated with internal fixation (volar locking plate, VP group: 41 fractures), and patients treated with an external fixator and K-wires (EF group: 21 fractures). The clinical assessment included range of motion, grip strength, disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH), and visual analog scale scores. Radiological measurements comprised flexion and extension, radial volar tilt, inclination, height, shortening, and ulnar variance.ResultsPostoperative grip strength and flexion angles were better after VP (P = 0.004, P = 0.009), but there was no difference in DASH scores (P = 0.341). Radial inclination was significantly different compared to that of the uninjured hand after VP (P = 0.0183), but not EF (P = 0.11). ConclusionVP and EF result in similar clinical and radiological outcomes after 2 years. Function is not restored to the functionality of the contralateral and noninjured hand.

Bifocal osteosynthesis to treat radial shortening deformity with dislocation of the inferior radioulnar joint

BackgroundSeveral methods have been reported to correct deformity and shortening of the distal radius. However, the results are not entirely satisfactory. The results of bifocal osteosynthesis were retrospectively analyzed in this study.MethodsEight patients treated with bifocal osteosynthesis were evaluated retrospectively. Pre-operative and post-operative clinical and radiographic examinations were performed. Subjective symptoms and objective joint function were assessed. Radiographic data of the extent of radial lengthening and distal radial articular angle were collected.ResultsThe mean follow-up period was 46 months (37–68 months). Satisfactory wrist appearance and radial lengthening was achieved in all patients. All patients were satisfied with the wrist appearance and willing to undergo the same treatment again. The range of motion (ROM) of the forearm and wrist was significantly improved. Pin-track infections occurred in two patients, for which they received wound care and oral antibiotics. Complications such as fixation device failure, tendon rupture, fracture of regenerated bone or nerve impairment did not occur. The duration of lengthening depended on the shortening of the radius. Delayed union in the docking site was observed in two patients and union was achieved after bone grafting.ConclusionsBifocal osteosynthesis using the Ilizarov method provides a useful method for correction of radial shortening deformity with dislocation of the inferior radioulnar joint. Despite the fact that we did not validate pre-and post-operation functional outcome scores, all patients were satisfied with the wrist appearance and function.

5939Perioperative shift in right ventricular mechanical pattern in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery: a predictor of right ventricular failure?

Abstract Background Severe mitral regurgitation (MR) induces significant changes not only in the left, but also in the right ventricular (RV) morphology and function. Early treatment of MR is recommended, however, surgical procedure disrupts the native RV contractile pattern and predisposes the at-risk ventricle to develop postoperative RV failure (RVF) which is associated with poor outcomes. Purpose Accordingly, the PREPARE-MVR study (PRediction of Early PostoperAtive Right vEntricular failure in Mitral Valve Replacement/Repair patients) aims to explore the alterations of RV contraction pattern in patients undergoing MVR and to investigate the association of preoperative echocardiographic findings with early postoperative RVF. Methods We prospectively enrolled 70 patients (62±12 years, 67% males) undergoing open heart MVR. Thirty age and gender matched healthy volunteers served as control group. Transthoracic 3D echocardiography was performed preoperatively and at intensive care unit discharge. Furthermore, focused 2D echocardiogram was also obtained during the ICU stay. Forty-three patients also completed 6 months follow-up. 3D model of the RV was reconstructed and end-diastolic volume index (EDVi) along with RV ejection fraction (RVEF) were calculated. For in-depth analysis of RV mechanics, we decomposed the motion of the RV to compute longitudinal (LEF) and radial ejection fraction (REF). Right heart catheterization was performed to monitor RV stroke work index (RVSWi). Results RV morphology as assessed by EDVi was unaffected by surgery (preoperative vs postoperative; 73±17 vs 71±16 mL/m2, p=NS). RVEF was slightly decreased after MVR (52±6 vs 48±7%, p&lt;0.05), whereas RV contraction pattern has changed notably. Before MVR, the longitudinal shortening was the main contributor to global systolic function (LEF/RVEF vs REF/RVEF; 0.53±0.10 vs 0.43±0.12; p&lt;0.001), whereas in controls the longitudinal and radial shortening contributed equally to RVEF (0.47±0.07 vs 0.43±0.09; p=NS). Postoperatively, the radial motion became dominant (0.35±0.08 vs 0.47±0.09; p&lt;0.001). However, this shift was only temporary as 6 months later the contraction pattern became similar to controls showing equal contribution of the two components (0.44±0.10 vs 0.42±0.11; p=NS). Postoperative RVF (defined as RVSWi &lt;300 mmHg*mL/m2 or ICU TAPSE &lt;10 mm) was detected in 14 [20%] patients. Preoperative LEF was associated with postoperative RVSWi (r=−0.61, p&lt;0.001) and it was an independent predictor of postoperative RVF (OR=1.16 [1.03–1.35], p&lt;0.05). Conclusion Severe MR induces a significant shift in the RV mechanical pattern which may influence the development of postoperative RV dysfunction and failure after MVR. Advanced indices of RV mechanics are associated with invasively measured parameters of RV contractility and may predict postoperative RVF.

Factors associated with the decision for operative versus conservative treatment of displaced distal radius fractures in the elderly.

The treatment of senile distal radius fractures had not been clearly defined. The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with the decision for operative treatment of displaced distal radius fractures in patients aged over 55 years. Data of 318 patients with displaced distal radius fractures were collected on patient-, fracture- and surgeon-related characteristics that were plausibly related to the decision for operation. Mean comparisons or chi-squared test were used for univariate analysis of the above-mentioned factors, and then multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the decision for operation. Univariate analysis showed that age, osteoporosis, Charlson score, associated orthopaedic injuries requiring surgery, Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO) and Fernandez classification, radial height, volar tilt, volar/dorsal comminution, ulnar variance, intra-articular displacement/step-off, associated distal radioulnar joint instability or radiocarpal joint dislocation and subspecialty of treating surgeons had statistically significant association with operative intervention. In the multivariate analysis, the predictors of operative intervention were younger patient age (P = 0.028), associated orthopaedic injuries requiring surgery (P = 0.020), higher AO classification (P = 0.037), higher Fernandez classification (P = 0.041), radial shortening >5 mm (P = 0.020), volar tilt > -10° (P = 0.020), volar/dorsal comminution (P = 0.020), ulnar variance >5 mm (P = 0.023), intra-articular displacement/step-off >2 mm (P = 0.004), associated distal radioulnar joint instability or radiocarpal joint dislocation (P = 0.047) and treatment by an upper extremity specialist (P = 0.038). The decision for surgery was predominantly influenced by the characteristics and severity of the fracture. Patients' age and treatment by an upper extremity specialist were also significant factors associated with a higher likelihood of operative intervention.

Functional outcome and management pathways for adult patients presenting to an Australian health service with distal radius fracture.

Primarily to determine mid-term functional outcome for patients with distal radius fracture (DRF) and to compare this between operative and conservatively managed patients. Secondarily to examine for differences in age, gender and number of instability factors between management groups. Eligible patients (age 18 years or more, closed DRF managed to completion of care within Monash Health), presenting between 1 January and 31 December 2016. Completion of the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) questionnaire was sought at 6-12 months post-injury. Management was noted (operative or conservative). Age, sex and number of defined instability factors present (dorsal angulation >20°, intra-articular fracture, associated ulna fracture, dorsal comminution, radial shortening >2 mm) are reported and compared between management groups. Of 369 eligible patients, 199 (54%) completed a PRWE. Median age was 60 years (interquartile range [IQR] 45-71), 150 (75%) were women, median number of instability factors present was 2 (IQR 1-4) and 45 (23%) underwent operative management. Difference in PRWE scores between operative and conservatively managed patients was not significant (20 [IQR 7-36] vs 16 [IQR 5-35]). Differences in age and gender between management groups were not significant. Significantly more in the operative group had presence of four or more instability factors (44% [95% confidence interval 30-60] vs 20% [14-27]). The mid-term median PRWE score was 18 (IQR 5-36). This was not significantly different between operative and conservatively managed patients. Operation was more likely when four or more instability factors were present.

Small splint external fixation combined with 3D printing brace for the treatment of Colles fractures

To explore the short-term clinical efficacy of manipulation reduction-combined with small splint and 3D printing wrist brace external fixation of wrist brace for Colles fracture and the advantages of using the brace. A total of 60 patients with Colles fractures who were treated in Zhongshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from February to December 2017 were selected. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups according to the order of treatment, with 30 patients in the control group, including 13 males and 17 females, aged from 16 to 66 years, with a mean of (49.46±12.63) years; the time from injury to consultation ranged from 3 to 18 h, averaged (6.86±3.15) h. In the experimental group, there were 30 cases, 12 males and 18 females, ranging in age from 14 to 68 years old, with a mean of (46.73±14.40) years old; the time from injury to consultation ranged from 3 to 19 h, averaged(7.06±3.45)h. All the patients in the experimental group and the control group were treated with the same doctor's manipulation to reduce the fracture. The small splints were applied for external fixation after the satisfactory reduction shown in the X-ray. After 1 week of fracture treatment, the small splints were removed from the patients in the experimental group and the 3D printing braces were replaced to maintain fixation until the fracture healed. In the control group, small splints were maintained until the fracture healed. Wrist joint X-ray films were taken before and after reduction and 4 weeks after reduction to observe the palmar inclination angle, ulnar deviation angle, radius height and compare; VAS score and swelling degree score were recorded before and after reduction for 1 and 2 weeks; Cooney and PRWE score of wrist joint were compared after 6 to 8 weeks of reduction. The VAS score of 2 weeks after reduction was 2.40±0.49 in the experimental group and 2.43±0.50 in the control group. There was no statistical difference in the VAS score between the two groups before and after reduction(P=0.364). The swelling degree of 2 weeks after reduction was 0.50±0.50 in the experimental group and 0.53±0.50 in the control group. There was no statistical difference in the swelling degree between the two groups before and after reduction(P=0.746). The Cooney and PRWE scores of the experimental group were better than those of the control group 6 to 8 weeks after reduction (P<0.05), and the anatomical characteristics of palmar inclination, ulnar deviation and radial shortening of the experimental group were better than those of the control group(P<0.05). 3D printing braces are light and breathable, comfortable and beautiful, and convenient for dressing. The combination of small splint sequentially applied to Colles fracture has a definite clinical effect, which enriches the means of external fixation treatment. It is believed that with the deepening of clinical research, the design and materials of 3D printing braces as well as their application in future medical treatment will be further developed.

Management of Volar Barton fracture with volar plate osteosynthesis - Prospective study

Introduction- Distal radius reconstruction needs aggressive operative intervention is still a debate among researchers & orthopaedic surgeons. There is very little role of non operative management in geriatric unfit patients. Revolution of implants & techniques advocated the best clinical outcome. Material & methods- Prospective research study is conducted at G.S. medical college Hapur, in department of orthopaedics. 20 patients of volar Barton fractures between the age group of 20 to 50 years were included in the study and treated with volar locking plate. out come of study was evaluated by using the Gartland & Werly score modified by Sarmiento & patient rated wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score. Results- Mean palmar flexion was 74 degree, dorsi flexion was 84 degrees observed, average supination & pronation was 85 & 80 degrees respectively. Radial & ulnar deviations average 10 and 25 degrees observed. 85% of patient had loss of radial inclination less than 10 degrees. All the patient had less than 5 mm radial shortening. Loss of palmar tilt less than 6 degrees was observed. More than 90% of the patients had excellent to good outcome based on Gartland & Werley score. Conclusion- Volar plating reproducible & proven method of choice in majority of Volar Barton factures of radius irrespective of comminution & fragments separation. Keywords: Volar Barton fracture, volar plate, osteosynthesis

Treatment of Advanced Kienbock's Disease (Lichtman Stage IIIB with Carpal Collapse) by a Shortening Osteotomy of the Radius: 21 Cases.

Purpose To review the results of shortening osteotomies of the radius in our stage IIIB Kienbock's disease patients. Materials and Methods In the past 30 years, we treated 52 cases of Kienbock's disease by a shortening osteotomy of the radius, of which 21 already had carpal collapse. All patient charts and X-rays were reviewed, but only the cases already with carpal collapse (stage IIIB) are presented here. Results All patients improved after surgery. Pain, on a scale of 0 to 3, generally 2 or 3 before surgery (median: 2.3), was normally 1 or 0 afterward (median: 0.9); median flexion-extension of the wrist improved from 77 to 99 degrees; and grip strength of the other hand improved from 26 to 76%. The last clinical and radiological review was performed 1 to 23 years after surgery (median: 8 years). Conclusion Advanced Kienbock's disease with carpal collapse is not a contraindication for carpal-sparing surgery radial shortening osteotomy.

Effect of Radial Lengthening on Distal Forearm Loading Following Simulated In Vitro Radial Shortening During Simulated Dynamic Wrist Motion

To evaluate the effect of radial length change on distal forearm loading during simulated dynamic wrist motion. A custom-built adjustable radial implant was used to simulate up to 4 mm of distal radius shortening (-4 mm) and 3 mm of lengthening (+3 mm). Load cells were placed in the distal radius and ulna in cadavers to measure their respective axial loads. The specimens were mounted on a wrist motion simulator that produced active wrist motion via tendon actuation. To simulate radial lengthening osteotomy following radial shortening from malunion, the radius was sequentially lengthened by 1-mm intervals from -4 mm to+3 mm. Radial and ulnar loads were measured during simulated wrist flexion, ulnar deviation (UD), and flexion dart throw (DT) at each interval of radial lengthening up to+3 mm. During wrist flexion and UD, for each millimeter of radial lengthening from -4 mm to the native length, there was a significant increase in distal radial loads. No significant change in radial load was observed beyond the native length during flexion and UD. There was no change in distal radial loads during DT for each interval of radial lengthening from -4 mm to+3 mm. A sequential decrease in ulnar loads was observed as the radius was lengthened from -4 mm to+3 mm for all wrist motions evaluated. Radial lengthening beyond the native length was not detrimental to radial loading and further reduced distal ulnar loading; achieving at least native ulnar variance seems to be appropriate to restore normal biomechanical loading based on this invitro study. Lengthening of the radius beyond native variance in the setting of ulnar impaction syndrome, distal radius malunion, or distal radioulnar instability may not result in excessive loading of the distal radius and further reduces loading on the distal ulna. Surgeons should obtain contralateral wrist x-rays to serve as a template when performing distal radius osteotomies.

Emplacement levels and pre-existing structures control mechanisms and host rock interactions of three granitic plutons, western Arabian Shield

Field relations, structural measurements, and microfabric analyses are used to explain the emplacement mechanisms of granitic plutons in the Asir terrane. These circular-to-elliptical granitic intrusions are prominent plutons scattered across the Arabian–Nubian Shield. Various structural and tectonic fabrics affecting three plutons in the western Arabian Shield encouraged studying the effect of pre-existing structures and emplacement levels on the emplacement mechanisms and related solid-state deformation. Two of these plutons, called Al Sayl and Um Ar Raka, are circular and enveloped by ductile or brittle solid-state deformation. Pre- and post-emplacement tectonic fabrics controlled the distribution and superposition of the solid-state deformation. Lateral expansion of magma during the emplacement of these plutons induced significant radial shortening that was associated with either high or low heat transfer into the host rocks and developed brittle or ductile solid-state deformation, respectively. Heat transfer was controlled by the emplacement level and magma pressure of each pluton. The third, oval-shaped Al Hawiyyah pluton was structurally controlled, where magma was emplaced first into twofold hinges on both sides of a thrust fault under low-to-intermediate differential stress. Syn-emplacement shortening was accommodated mainly by upward and lateral magma flows. Continuous magma flow caused uplift of the pluton and its surrounding host rocks and developed stretching structures in these rocks.

Distal radius fractures and radiographic assessment: a systematic review of measurement accuracy.

Background Distal radius fracture characterization and treatment are mainly based on radiographic measurements but with contradictory findings on the correlation of those measurements to clinical outcome. Before applying radiographic measurement to the treatment decision and before correlating the measurements to clinical outcome, an accuracy of measurements must be established. Purpose To summarize existing evidence on accuracy of the radiographic measurements of: (i) dorsal/volar tilt of the distal radius; (ii) radial shortening; (iii) ulnar variance; (iv) radial inclination; and (v) articular step-off of the distal radius. We conducted a systematic critical review of the literature. Material and Methods MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library database were searched. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Quality of included studies was assessed using a tailored version of the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. Results A total of 5908 publications were screened and five studies met the inclusion criteria. Four studies assessed accuracy of articular step-off but with contradictory outcomes. Radiographic measurements of step-off were accurate in two studies and inaccurate in one study. In the last step-off study, some of their measurements varied significantly but accuracy was not reported. The radiographic measurements of ulnar variance were significantly underestimated when compared to the true variance. We were not able to include studies that assessed accuracy of radial shortening, radial inclination, or dorsal/volar tilt against a reference standard. Conclusion Currently, evidence is not available to support accuracy of the radiographic measurements commonly used to characterize distal radius fractures.

Evaluation of a shape memory staple (Qual®) in radial shortening osteotomy in Kienböck's disease: A retrospective study of 30 cases

The QUAL® (Memometal, Stryker) device is a shape memory staple used for bone fixation during distal radius shortening osteotomy in the context of Kienböck's disease. The present study is a retrospective, single-center and multisurgeon study of 30 patients with a mean follow-up of 8 years. Clinical criteria (range of motion (ROM), strength, pain and functional score) and radiographic data (ulnar variance, distal radius articular surface inclination, Lichtman stage, carpal height and bone healing) were evaluated pre- and post-operatively. We found satisfactory results with the mean grip strength of 22 kg/F before surgery and 24 kg/F after surgery. The mean ROM was 88° preoperatively and 82° postoperatively and the mean ulnar deviation was 23° preoperatively and 21° post-operatively. There was no change in radial deviation and pronation–supination after surgery. The average ulnar variance was 1 mm before surgery and 0.2 mm after surgery. The inclination of the distal radius articular surface on lateral and anteroposterior views and the mean carpal height were similar to the pre-operative ones. There was no delay in bone healing. The mean pain score was 2 at rest on a visual analogue scale after surgery. Seven patients experienced an increase in their Lichtman stage at the follow-up, and two patients were waiting for conversion to a non-conservative surgical treatment. Seven staples were removed postoperatively. Seventy-eight percent of patients returned to work after 3 months on average. Seventy-five percent of patients were at least satisfied with the outcome of their surgery. The QUAL® staple is a reliable option for fixation during shortening osteotomy of the radius in Kienböck's disease.

Solitary ulnar shortening osteotomy for malunion of distal radius fractures: experience of a centre in the UK and review of the literature.

Isolated ulnar shortening osteotomies can be used to treat ulnocarpal abutment secondary to radial shortening following distal radius fractures. Given the increase of fragility distal radius fractures awareness of treating the sequelae of distal radius fractures is important. We present the largest reported case series in the UK of ulnar shortening osteotomies for this indication. Twenty patients with previous distal radial fractures were included, who presented with wrist pain and radiologically evident positive ulnar variance secondary to malunion of the distal radius with no significant intercalated instability. Patients were treated with a short oblique ulnar shortening osteotomy, using a Stanley jig and small AO compression plate system. Pre- and postoperative radiographical measurements of inclination, dorsal/volar angulation and ulnar variance were made. Patients were scored pre- and postoperatively using the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores by two orthopaedic surgeons. Mean follow-up was 24 months after surgery. Radiographical analysis revealed a change in the ulnar variance with an average reduction of 5.74 mm. Mean preoperative scores were 61.1 (range 25-95.5) for QuickDASH and 70.4 (range 33-92) for Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation. At the latest follow-up, mean postoperative QuickDASH scores were 10.6 (range 0-43.2) and 17.2 (range 0-44) for Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation. Differences in scores after surgery for both QuickDASH and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation were statistically significant (P < 0.01). The ulnar shortening osteotomy is a relatively simple procedure compared with corrective radial osteotomy, with a lower complication profile. In our series, patients showed significant improvement in pain and function by correcting the ulnar variance thus preventing ulna-carpal impaction.