Soft Tissue Complication Rate Research Articles

Complicated Tibial Plateau Fractures In Young Patients: Functional Outcome With Dual Plating Via two Incision Technique

Objective: Motorbike accidents contribute one of the most important factors of tibial plateau fracture among young populations in Karachi Pakistan. Most surgeons feel challenging to treatment complicated bicondylar fractures of the tibial plateau.This prospective study was designed to evaluate the functional outcomes of dual plating through a two-incisions technique for the fixation of complicated bicondylar tibial plateau fractures in young patients in Karachi Pakistan. Methods: This prospective study includes 94 cases of Type V and VI tibial plateau fractures of young patient’s age range from 15 to 45 years, operated between January 2014 and December 2016 conducted in two public sector hospital of Karachi Pakistan (Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Center, Civil Hospital Karachi). Exclusion criteria include patients with multiple fractures on the same side or same bone, age >45 years, open contaminated fracture, open fracture,and patients with head injuries. All cases were operated either by lateral locking plate fixation by anterolateral approach or dual plating through double incisions. These all cases were followed for a minimum of 24 months radiologically and clinically. The statistical analysis was performed using software SPSS 20.0 to analyze the data. Results: A total of 94 patients (45 Single Plating and 49 Dual Plating)were operated during the study period of 2 years. However, four patients (4 single plating and 0 dual plating) were lost during follow-up who could not be tracked. Both groups were somewhat similar in relation to the age, mechanism of injury, fracture pattern, and soft tissue injury. Preoperatively, there was a significant increase in surgical time with the dual plating group; however, the mean time of reduction between the two groups was not significant. The decision to put bone graft was at the choice of the operating surgeon and was an intra operative decision with 74 (78.7%) patients receiving the bone graft. Post-operatively, there was no immediate difference in between the groups considering thermal alignment and reduction. It took approximately 4–5 months for the fractures to get united. There was normal union,non union or implant failure seen among those patients. There were 10 cases with superficial infection in wounds of dual plating group which were treated with culture sensitive antibiotics for average 2 weeks, healed subsequently. There were three patients found having an incidence of deep infection in a double plating group, wherein 2 patients were positive with Staphylococcus aureus and 1 patient with Escherichia coli was isolated. Extensive wound irrigation and lavage with antibiotic cement beads were given. Repeated irrigation and lavage were done again after 2 weeks with the removal of beads followed by prolonged course of antibiotic therapy for 6 weeks after which the infection resolved.A total of 38 (77%) patients in a double plating group regained full flexion (135°) and full extension (0°) with a good alignment and no pain and instability as compared to single plating group, seen in 30 (66%) patients at follow-up. Conclusion: Dual plating by two-incision method resulted in better functional outcome regarding limb alignment and range of movements at knee joint with an acceptable soft tissue complication rate in young patients. Keywords: Complicated tibial plateau fracture, Young patients, Double incision, Dual plating.

Tourniquet application does not affect the periprosthetic bone cement penetration in total knee arthroplasty.

Poor scientific evidence exists on the issue of tourniquet application during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It has been suggested that tourniquet application might improve interdigitation of the cement into the periprosthetic bones due to relatively dry surgical field. The hypothesis of the present study was that tourniquet use did not affect the periprosthetic bone cement penetration. The single-centre, randomized, controlled trial included 86 patients undergoing primary TKA (Clinical-Trials.gov NCT02475603). All patients meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to the tourniquet (n = 43) or non-tourniquet (n = 43) group after obtaining a written informed consent. The cumulative bone cement penetration was radiologically measured in AP (seven zones) and lateral views (three zones) as defined by Knee Society Scoring System. Further parameters such as perioperative blood loss, soft tissue swelling, pain level/analgesic consumption, operative time, length of hospital stay (LOS) and complication rate were statistically compared between the groups. The cumulative bone cement penetration averaged 28.5 ± 1.7mm in tourniquet versus 26.6 ± 1.6mm in non-tourniquet groups (n.s.). The mean intraoperative blood loss was 250ml higher in the non-tourniquet group (p = 0.0001). Patient-reported pre- to 6th-day post-operative reduction of the pain level was significantly higher in the non-tourniquet group (p = 0.003). The Morphine Equivalent Dose was higher in the Tourniquet group at discharge day (p = 0.02). Parameters such as total blood loss, soft tissue swelling, surgical time, LOS, and complication rates revealed similar results between the groups. Tourniquet application did not influence the bone cement penetration significantly. Even though the intraoperative blood loss was reduced, the total blood loss was not affected significantly by tourniquet use. There was a tendency of higher post-operative pain and opioid analgesic requirement in the tourniquet group. I.

Minimally Invasive Osteosynthesis of Distal Tibia Fractures using Anterolateral Locking Plate.

Introduction: Plating in distal tibia fractures are associated with higher rate of soft tissue complications. As adequate soft tissue cover is available over anterolateral surface of the tibia, use of anterolateral plate fixation in distal tibia fractures has increased. The purpose of our research is to evaluate the outcomes of anterolateral locking plate fixation in distal tibia fractures using ORIF.Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 25 patients, who had distal tibia fractures and underwent open reduction and anterolateral plating. Bone and soft tissue healing and complications encountered were analysed.Result: Full weight bearing was allowed at an average of 5.4 months (range: 3-12 months) after seeing radiological union. We have observed superficial wound infection in four cases. Two cases had marginal necrosis, two cases had sensory disturbance over dorsolateral aspect of foot and two cases had delayed non-union. Mean length of surgical incision was 9cm (range: 5-12 cm).Conclusion: Open reduction internal fixation of distal tibia fractures with anterolateral plating is a reliable way of fracture fixation and stabilisation with proper surgical technique and aseptic precautions.

Minimally invasive anterior muscle-sparing versus a transgluteal approach for hemiarthroplasty in femoral neck fractures-a prospective randomised controlled trial including 190 elderly patients

BackgroundThe relevance of femoral neck fractures (FNFs) increases with the ageing of numerous societies, injury-related decline is observed in many patients. Treatment strategies have evolved towards primary joint replacement, but the impact of different approaches remains a matter of debate. The aim of this trial was to evaluate the benefit of an anterior minimally-invasive (AMIS) compared to a lateral Hardinge (LAT) approach for hemiarthroplasty in these oftentimes frail patients.MethodsFour hundred thirty-nine patients were screened during the 44-months trial, aiming at the evaluation of 150 patients > 60 yrs. of age. Eligible patients were randomised using an online-tool with completely random assignment. As primary endpoint, early mobility, a predictor for long-term outcomes, was evaluated at 3 weeks via the “Timed up and go” test (TUG). Secondary endpoints included the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), pain, complications, one-year mobility and mortality.ResultsA total of 190 patients were randomised; both groups were comparable at baseline, with a predominance for frailty-associated factors in the AMIS-group. At 3 weeks, 146 patients were assessed for the primary outcome. There was a reduction in the median duration of TUG performance of 21.5% (CI [− 41.2,4.7], p = 0.104) in the AMIS-arm (i.e., improved mobility). This reduction was more pronounced in patients with signs of frailty or cognitive impairment. FIM scores increased on average by 6.7 points (CI [0.5–12.8], p = 0.037), pain measured on a 10-point visual analogue scale decreased on average by 0.7 points (CI: [− 1.4,0.0], p = 0.064). The requirement for blood transfusion was lower in the AMIS- group, the rate of complications comparable, with a higher rate of soft tissue complications in the LAT-group. The mortality was higher in the AMIS-group.ConclusionThese results, similar to previous reports, support the concept that in elderly patients at risk of frailty, the AMIS approach for hemiarthroplasty can be beneficial, since early mobilisation and pain reduction potentially reduce deconditioning, morbidity and loss of independence. The results are, however, influenced by a plethora of factors. Only improvements in every aspect of the therapeutic chain can lead to optimisation of treatment and improve outcomes in this growing patient population.Trial registrationwww.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01408693 (registered August 3rd 2011).

Interlocking Nail Fixation for the Treatment of Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures.

Less invasive restoration of joint congruity and calcaneal shape in displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures via a sinus tarsi approach followed by percutaneous internal fixation with an interlocking nail results in a low rate of soft-tissue complications and good short-term outcomes1 (Video 1). Place the patient in the lateral decubitus position, supporting the involved extremity with a soft radiolucent pillow, flex the contralateral knee, check with fluoroscopy before draping, and obtain lateral radiographs. Use a sinus tarsi approach for control of the articular reduction. Percutaneously manipulate the main fragments to facilitate reduction of the main tuberosity fragment toward the sustentacular fragment and subsequent joint reduction. Reduce the joint with direct manipulation of the main fragments through the sinus tarsi approach. Check the congruency of the posterior subtalar joint facet, stabilize the posterior facet with 2 screws, reduce the tuberosity against the joint block and anterior process, and temporarily fix with Kirschner wires. Make a 10-mm vertical incision below the attachment of the Achilles tendon, direct the guidewire toward the center of the calcaneocuboid joint, place the guidewire centrally within the calcaneal body, ream over the guidewire, and introduce the intramedullary nail with the attached aiming device. Use the aiming device to position the proximal Kirschner wire into the sustentacular fragment, place the nail so that it hits the sustentaculum tali properly, insert a second Kirschner wire through the other hole of the guiding arm, exchange the wires after drilling for locking screws, apply an end cap to extend the length of nail, if needed, and then verify proper reduction and implant position fluoroscopically. Manage the patient with continuous passive motion and active range-of-motion exercises of the ankle beginning on postoperative day 2 and allow partial weight-bearing of 20 kg for 6 to 10 weeks. Recently, we reported on 103 patients with 106 intra-articular calcaneal fractures treated with the C-Nail by 4 senior surgeons from February 2011 to October 20131.

Severe tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker V–VI): open reduction and internal fixation versus hybrid external fixation

Tibial plateau fractures (TPF) are highly prone to complications and adverse effects. Their treatment has long been a matter of controversy, as fracture patterns and possible damage to soft tissues can easily aggravate complications. On the one hand, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) techniques provide a good approach to joint shape restoration and biomechanics, but they may also provoke a higher rate of soft-tissue complications. On the other, hybrid external fixation (HEF), although allowing little facility for reduction, may, theoretically, produce much less damage to the soft tissues. We present 93 cases of TPF classified as type V or VI that were followed up for at least 24 months. There were no statistical differences among them in relation to consolidation, secondary malalignment or range of motion, according to whether ORIF or HEF was employed. However, when external fixation followed open reduction, both superficial and deep-infection rates were higher.

Endoscopic All-inside Repair of the Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon in Posterior Ankle Impingement Patients

Longitudinal flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon tears are sometimes complicated by posterior ankle impingement syndrome (PAIS), especially in ballet dancers. In recent years, PAIS has been treated endoscopically, but it is difficult to suture FHL tendon tears endoscopically. In this report, we describe how to suture the FHL tendon endoscopically with the Meniscal Viper Repair system (Arthrex, Naples, FL). Without our endoscopic technique, when a patient is found to have a longitudinal tear of the FHL under endoscopy, we must choose to either neglect the tear or convert to an open repair. Open tendon suture techniques have reportedly had relatively good results but require a longer skin incision than endoscopic surgery for PAIS. Compared with the open repair, the advantages of our technique include earlier recovery, less pain, a lower rate of soft tissue complications, and improved healing through better preservation of the blood supply. This technique is an attractive and useful option because it is an easy and safe method for longitudinal FHL tendon tears.

Wound Healing Complications Following Guided Bone Regeneration for Ridge Augmentation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The rate of developing soft tissue complications that accompany guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures varies widely, from 0% to 45%. The present review was conducted to investigate the rate for resorbable versus nonresorbable membranes and the timing of soft tissue complications. Electronic and manual literature searches were conducted by two independent reviewers using several databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register, for articles published through July 2015, with no language restriction. Articles were included if they were clinical trials aimed at demonstrating the incidence of soft tissue complications following GBR procedures. Overall, 21 and 15 articles were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis, respectively. The weighted complication rate of the overall soft tissue complications, including membrane exposure, soft tissue dehiscence, and acute infection/abscess, into the calculation was 16.8% (95% CI = 10.6% to 25.4%). When considering the complication rate based on membrane type used, resorbable membrane was associated with a weighted complication rate of 18.3% (95% CI: 10.4% to 30.4%) and nonresorbable membrane with a rate of 17.6% (95% CI: 10.0% to 29.3%). Moreover, soft tissue lesions were reported as early as 1 week and as late as 6 months based on the included studies. Soft tissue complications after GBR are common (16.8%). Membrane type did not appear to significantly affect the complication rate, based on the limited number of data retrieved in this study. Technique sensitivity (ie, soft tissue management) may still be regarded as the main component to avoid soft tissue complications and, hence, to influence the success of bone regenerative therapy.

Increased wound complication with intramedullary screw fixation of clavicle fractures: Is it thermal necrosis?

Adult mid-shaft clavicle fractures are common injuries. For displaced fractures, open reduction with plate or intramedullary (IM) fixation is the widely used techniques. All methods have their own potential drawbacks, especially related to local soft tissue complications. There is little information about outcome and management of local wound complications after clavicle fracture fixations. Ninety-seven patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation, 17 were treated with IM screw fixation and 80 with plate fixation. Wound complication occurred in eight patients (8.2%) and rates differed significantly between IM and plate fixations (29.4% vs. 3.8%). Patients were assessed on average 58.3 months with visual analogue pain scores (VASs), Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), and QuickDash (QD) score. Five patients had wound breakdown and three patients had wound erythema. In seven patients with stable fixation, it was possible to "dress and suppress" with average 3 weeks of oral antibiotics. One patient had unstable fixation and required longer antibiotic treatment with early screw removal. One patient developed a chronic discharging wound, requiring debridement and later plate removal. At final follow-up, all wounds remained healed, bony union was achieved in all. The average scores were: VAS 1, OSS 46, and QD 4.5. Good function with dry healed wound and united clavicle can be achieved. Further studies are required to investigate the difference in soft tissue complication rates, which may be due to the IM technique of retrograde drilling with a guide wire and due to aseptic thermal bone necrosis, rather than true infection.

Radiologic and Clinical Outcomes of Ollier Approach with Screw Fixation for Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures – Comparative Study with Extensile Lateral Approach with Lateral Plating

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: This study aims to assess the detailed radiologic outcomes which used uninjured side weight-bearing radiograph as a template as well as clinical results to compare the Ollier approach with screw fixation and the extensile lateral approach with lateral plating. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of intra-articular calcaneal fractures treated operatively in our hospital from January 2009 to November 2014. Radiologic outcomes were assessed using radiologic parameters such as Böhler angle, calcaneal height, and talar sagittal angles represent calcaneal deformation by the comparison of the final follow-up bilateral weight-bearing lateral radiograph. Functional outcome was assessed through the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores. Postoperative complications were investigated. Results: Ninety-seven unilateral fractures were appeared to match our inclusion criteria: forty-six fractures were treated by using the extensile lateral approach with lateral plating (the ELP group), and fifty-one fractures were treated with the Ollier approach and screw fixation (the OS group). The operation time was significantly shorter in the OA group (p<0.05). There were no significant difference of the final follow-up radiologic parameters between two groups. The mean AOFAS scores were significantly higher in the OS group (p = 0.020) and both groups showed similarity in the VAS pain scores (p = 0.175). Overall soft-tissue complications were 28.3% in the ELP group and 9.8% in the OS group (p = 0.034). Conclusion: No difference could be shown in the postoperative and final follow-up radiological outcomes between the Ollier approach and the extensile lateral approach, but the Ollier approach had better functional score and lower soft tissue complication rate with shorter operative time.

Single stage management of Gustilo type III A/B tibia fractures: Fixed with nail & covered with fasciocutaneous flap

PurposeTo evaluate the role of immediate and definitive management of Gustilo type III A/B tibia fractures with intramedullary nailing and fasciocutaneous flap. MethodsFrom August 2010 to July 2012, 22 patients with Gustilo Grade III A/B tibia fractures were managed with a single stage treatment of ipsilateral fasciocutaneous flap & reamed intramedullary nailing and were included in the study. The severity of the injury was calculated with Ganga Hospital injury severity score. ResultsThe mean age of patients was 41 years and the follow-up time ranged from six months to one year. Among the 22 patients, 73% were type III B fractures with upper leg involved in 55% of them. The time interval from injury to completion of surgery was 8–14 h. The incidence of bone infection requiring secondary procedure was 9%; the major and minor soft tissue complication rate was 9% and 14% respectively. The limb salvage rate was 100%. ConclusionMultidisciplinary management of severe lower limb trauma is important and provides good outcomes. Intramedullary nailing and immediate flap fixation can achieve early bone union and good soft tissue coverage, leading to good outcomes in patient with Grade III A & B tibia fractures.

Subcutaneous Achilles tendon rupture: A comparison between open technique and mini-invasive tenorrhaphy with Achillon® suture system

BackgroundSurgical management of Achilles tendon rupture is still controversial: open techniques have a higher rate of soft tissue complications but a lower incidence of re-rupture than percutaneous tenorrhaphies. The aim of our retrospective study was to analyze and compare clinical and functional results in patients treated with either the conventional open or minimally invasive suture treatment with the Achillon® system. MethodsA retrospective review of 140 patients was performed; 72 were treated with open tenorrhaphy, 68 with the minimally invasive Achillon® suture system. ResultsWith a comparable re-rupture rate, there was a statistically significant reduction in surgical time, incidence of minor complications, time required to return to sport activities and return to work in the minimally invasive group. ConclusionsAchillon® mini-invasive suture system is a reliable tool for the Achilles tendon ruptures, able to reduce the incidence of soft tissues complications if compared to the classic open tenorrhaphy, while maintaining strength of the suture and leading to superimposed functional outcomes.

Radiographic Outcomes for Intra-Articular Calcaneus Fractures Treated with a Two-Incision Medial and Lateral Minimally Invasive Approach

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Calcaneus fractures are serious injuries that can have disabling outcomes. Achieving anatomic reduction and minimizing postoperative complications are crucial to successful treatment. Recent literature has focused on minimally invasive techniques; however, there are concerns about the ability of such techniques to reliably achieve anatomic reduction. The extensile lateral approach has demonstrated high rates of postoperative soft tissue complications. This study reviews the radiographic and clinical outcomes of a two-incision (medial and sinus tarsi), minimally invasive approach for displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures treated by a single surgeon. We hypothesized that this technique would provide successful radiographic reduction with minimal complications. Methods: A retrospective radiographic and chart review was performed on patients with displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures that underwent open reduction and internal fixation with a medial and sinus tarsi approach. The surgical procedure utilizes a medial incision with a push-pull technique facilitating anatomic reduction of the calcaneal tuberosity due to the stability of the medial cortex, thus re-establishing calcaneal length and height and eliminating heel varus. Reduction of the tubercle allows for reduction of the posterior facet through a sinus tarsi approach. Posterior screws were utilized for cases with severe comminution. Primary outcome measures included radiographic angular and linear dimensions and the rate of post-operative wound complications. Secondary outcomes included rate of nonunion, secondary surgeries, and other complications. Demographic data included the patient’s age, gender, mechanism of injury, injured extremity, time to surgery, smoking and diabetes history, presence of fracture blisters, and time to follow-up. Patients were followed to radiographic union. Results: Twenty-two patients (age 50.6 +/- 16.1 years) met the inclusion criteria. Preoperatively, 11 were Sanders IIA, 7 Sanders IIB, 1 Sanders IIIAB, 2 Sanders IIIAB, and 1 Sanders IV. Two (9.1%) had a superficial wound infection treated with local wound care. Two patients underwent removal of hardware (posterior screws). There were no cases of nonunion, osteomyelitis, deep infection, tibial nerve injury, or loss of fixation. The preoperative Bohler’s angle averaged 11.3 +/- 10.0 (range -5 to 36) degrees and the postoperative Bohler’s angle averaged 30.3 +/- 7.6 (range 16 to 40) degrees (p < 0.05). Calcaneal height measured 4.6 +/-0.41 (range 4.2 to 5.2) cm preoperatively and 4.96 +/- 0.48 (range 4.3 to 5.8) cm postoperatively (p < 0.05). No patients underwent a subtalar fusion. Conclusion: The goals of any approach for calcaneus fractures are to obtain anatomic fracture reduction and stable fixation while minimizing postoperative complications. Our study demonstrates a significant improvement in radiographic calcaneal alignment utilizing a novel minimally invasive medial and sinus tarsi approach to intra-articular calcaneus fractures. Our postoperative complication rate is at or below that published for other techniques. In conclusion, the two-incision, medial and sinus tarsi approach provides a significant improvement in calcaneal alignment and is a safe and technically attainable approach in the management of intra-articular calcaneus fractures.

Radiographic and CT Assessment of Reduction of Calcaneus Fractures Using a Limited Sinus Tarsi Incision.

The lateral extensile incision for fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures allows for fracture reduction but has been associated with high rates of soft tissue complications. This has prompted a search for less invasive methods of fracture fixation. The purpose of the present study was to determine the adequacy of reduction and rate of complications associated with operative fixation of calcaneal fractures using a limited sinus tarsi approach. A limited sinus tarsi incision with plate fixation was utilized for treatment of 39 displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures in 35 consecutive patients as part of a single surgeon series. Imaging assessment of previously described fracture displacement measures was undertaken in preoperative and postoperative radiographs and CT. A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify postoperative complications. Mean preoperative Bohler angle measurement was 7.7 (range, -26.0 to 30.0) degrees and the mean final postoperative standing Bohler angle was 25.5 (range, 12.3 to 37.7) degrees. Postoperative CT demonstrated that subtalar articular reduction was within 2 mm of anatomic in 91% of patients. There were 2 instances of superficial wound dehiscence (5.1%) and 1 deep infection (2.6%) that required debridement and complete hardware removal. Visual analog score (VAS) for pain averaged 3 of 10 in the 32 available patients at 1-year follow-up. Eight of these patients (25%) reported no pain (0/10) at final follow-up. Operative fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures utilizing the limited sinus tarsi approach resulted in acceptable fracture reduction and a low rate of complications. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Kidney transplantation in obese patients.

The World Health Organization estimated that in 2014, over 600 million people met criteria for obesity. In 2011, over 30% of individuals undergoing kidney transplant had a body mass index (BMI) 35 kg/m(2) or greater. A number of recent studies have confirmed the relationship between overweight/obesity and important comorbidities in kidney transplant patients. As with non-transplant surgeries, the rate of wound and soft tissue complications are increased following transplant as is the incidence of delayed graft function. These two issues appear to contribute to longer length of stay compared to normal BMI. New onset diabetes after transplant and cardiac outcomes also appear to be increased in the obese population. The impact of obesity on patient survival after kidney transplantation remains controversial, but appears to mirror the impact of extremes of BMI in non-transplant populations. Early experience with (open and laparoscopic) Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy support excellent weight loss (in the range of 50%-60% excess weight lost at 1 year), but experts have recommended the need for further studies. Long term nutrient deficiencies remain a concern but in general, these procedures do not appear to adversely impact absorption of immunosuppressive medications. In this study, we review the literature to arrive at a better understanding of the risks related to renal transplantation among individuals with obesity.

Arthroscopic-Assisted Ankle Arthrodesis: A Surgery Simplified

Abstract Ankle arthrodesis is a salvage procedure for end-stage ankle arthritis. Arthroscopic-assisted ankle arthrodesis is a novel technique over open methods, as it is a minimally invasive procedure with insignificant blood loss, rapid union, less chances of infection, and soft tissue complication rates. We describe our experience of special surgical technique of arthrodesis of ankle using arthroscopy and also discuss technical tips and pearls for the procedure.

Use of tightrope fixation in ankle syndesmotic injuries

Conventional fixation of syndesmotic injuries with screws remains problematic. A novel fibrewire device (Tightrope® has suggested advantages. However, small case series have reported high soft tissue complication rates. The purpose of our study was to quantify complication rates and further procedures in patients treated with Tightropes. A secondary objective was to determine incidence of complications and further procedures in those treated with syndesmotic screws over the same period. All patients undergoing syndesmotic fixation for ankle fracture between May 2008 and October 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Incidence of complications, secondary procedures, maintenance of syndesmotic reduction and time spent on non-weight bearing were recorded. Family doctors were contacted for those treated with Tightropes to check for any complications managed elsewhere. Thirty-five patients required syndesmotic fixation, in which 12 were treated with Tightropes. They were followed up in clinic for a mean of 12.4 weeks. Family doctors were contacted at mean 14.6 months after treatment to determine any complications suffered. There were no complications attributable to method of fixation. In this series, 12 patients underwent 13 procedures and no patient had recurrent diastasis at discharge; 23 patients treated with screw fixation underwent 45 procedures (19 were screw removals). There was 1 case of syndesmotic diastasis. Screw removal resulted in 2 minor complications. Tightrope fixation provideds effective syndesmotic fixation that is maintained at discharge. We do not experience soft tissue complications reported elsewhere.

Comparative study of single lateral locked plating versus double plating in type C bicondylar tibial plateau fractures.

Background:Bicondylar tibial plateau fractures are complex injuries and treatment is challenging. Ideal method is still controversial with risk of unsatisfactory results if not treated properly. Many different techniques of internal and external fixation are used. This study compares the clinical results in single locked plating versus dual plating (DP) using two incision approaches. Our hypothesis was that DP leads to less collapse and change in alignment at final followup compared with single plating.Materials and Methods:61 cases of Type C tibial plateau fractures operated between January 2007 and June 2011 were included in this prospective study. All cases were operated either by single lateral locked plate by anterolateral approach or double plating through double incision. All cases were followed for a minimum of 24 months radiologically and clinically. The statistical analysis was performed using software SPSS 10.0 to analyze the data.Results:Twenty nine patients in a single lateral locked plate and 32 patients in a double plating group were followed for minimum 2 years. All fractures healed, however there was a significant incidence of malalignment in the single lateral plating group. Though there was a significant increase in soft tissue issues with the double plating group; however, there was only 3.12% incidence of deep infection. There was no significant difference in Hospital for special surgery score at 2 years followup.Conclusion:Double plating through two incisions resulted in a better limb alignment and joint reduction with an acceptable soft tissue complication rate.

Pilon fractures. Part 2: Repositioning and stabilization technique and complication management

The management of complex pilon fractures with soft tissue injuries has seen many trends, with changes toward staged protocols of temporary external fixation followed by delayed open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO) techniques and special implants, the benefits of negative pressure wound sealing and early "fix and flap" efforts to reconstruct soft tissue defects. Reduction and fixation must involve cautious management and careful handling of soft tissue in order to minimize the well-known complications of this difficult fracture. With these changes, the rate of soft tissue complications, infections and non-unions has decreased. The target remains the anatomical reconstruction of the articular surface as well as the geometric integrity of the distal tibia and fibula. Currently it is still unclear how much articular anatomy and perfection in reduction is needed as the radiographic results do not always correlate with the clinical results.

Temporary bridging external fixation in distal tibial fracture

Fractures that involve the distal area of the tibia are associated with a high percentage of complications. Soft tissue oedema, swelling, blisters, skin abrasions and open wounds could compromise the outcome of these lesions. The waiting time before surgery with ORIF is mostly due to soft tissue conditions. Early application of a simple joint-spanning external fixator would achieve the initial goal of stability and the respect of soft tissue, thereby decreasing the time necessary for definitive treatment.A total of 40 consecutive patients (22 male and 18 female) with a mean age of 52 years (range 17–82 years) with distal tibial fracture treated between January 2010 and January 2013 were evaluated. Early temporary external fixation was the first treatment step. Twenty patients had pilon fractures, characterised by the intra-articular involvement of the distal tibia with metaphyseal extension, and 20 patients had malleolar fracture-dislocation.Patients were divided into two groups, A and B. Group A comprised 10 patients with ankle fracture-dislocation and bone fragmentation, who were treated with a temporary bridging external fixation that was maintained after ORIF to exploit ligamentotaxis during the first phases of bone healing.In Group B (30 patients), the external fixation was removed after ORIF.The results of the study are in line with the recent literature: temporary external fixation in high-energy trauma and fracture-dislocation of the ankle enables soft tissue to be restored, which facilitates postoperative assessment of bone fragments by CT scan. The complication rate in this study was 5% in patients with malleolar fractures and 20% in patients with pilon fractures.The maintenance of temporary external fixation after ORIF synthesis during the entire first stage of bone healing seems to be a good method of treatment that has a low rate of soft tissue complications.