Risk Of Neurovascular Injury Research Articles

Mechanical testing of scapular neck fracture fixation using a synthetic bone model

BackgroundTrauma can fracture the scapular neck. Typically, a single plate along the lateral scapula border affixes the glenoid fragment to the scapula. This method is limited by difficulty in screw placement, frequent excessive soft tissue dissection, and risk for neurovascular injury. Substituting 2 smaller plates bridging the scapular neck mitigates these limitations, but no comparative mechanical data between techniques exists. Therefore, we compared the mechanical properties of two constructs securing a simulated scapular neck fracture. MethodsTwenty synthetic human scapulae underwent a templated scapular neck fracture. Repairs were performed with a single plate on the lateral scapular border (Column method), or two small plates parallel to the lateral border (Neck method). Measures of displacement, force, and stiffness were quantified during cyclic testing (20–150 N, 1 Hz, 1000 cycles) and loading to failure. Statistical comparisons were made with t-tests (p ≤ 0.050). FindingsThe column constructs had higher displacements than neck constructs after 1000 cycles, but differences were small (mean) 0.18 (SD 0.01) vs. 0.15 (0.02) mm (p ≤ 0.004). Cyclic stiffness was 655 (43) and 790 (88) N/mm for the column and neck constructs, respectively (p ≤ 0.003). Both techniques performed comparably in failure loading: at 1 mm of gap reduction the compressive loads were 426 (61) N and 428 (48) N and stiffness was 354 (129) and 334 (80) N/mm for the column and neck constructs, respectively. InterpretationGiven the surgical advantages, the neck fixation may be more suitable without biomechanical compromise compared to traditional lateral column fixation.

Structures at Risk During Percutaneous Screw Fixation for Talonavicular Fusion.

Talonavicular (TN) fusion using screws dorsomedially and dorsolaterally can cause neurovascular injury. The purpose of our cadaveric study was to evaluate the safety of percutaneous screw insertion in relation to dorsal neurovascular structures. Ten fresh-frozen cadaver legs were used for this study. Percutaneous cannulated screws were inserted to perform isolated TN arthrodesis. The screws were inserted at 3 consistent sites: a "medial screw" at the dorsomedial navicular where it intersected at the medial plane of the first cuneiform, a "central screw" at the edge of the dorsal navicular between the medial and intermediate cuneiforms, and a "lateral screw" at the edge of the dorsal navicular between the intermediate and lateral cuneiforms. Superficial and deep dissections were carried out to identify any injured nerves, arteries, and/or tendons. The medial screw injured the anterior tibialis tendon in 2 cases (20%), the central screw injured the extensor hallucis longus tendon in 3 cases (30%), and the lateral screw injured the anterior branch of the superior peroneal nerve (SPN), the lateral branch of the SPN, and the medial branch of the distal peroneal nerve (DPN) once each in a total of 3 cases (30%). Despite no direct injury, the central screw indicated a potential risk of neurovascular injury: closest distance to the anterior SPN was 2 mm and to the medial DPN 2 mm. Although neurovascular injury risk exists for all of these screw placements, TN fusion with a central screw introduced a potentially decreased risk of neurovascular injury at the expense of increased risk of tendon injury compared to the lateral screw. Based on these results, we recommend a careful dissection be performed prior to percutaneous screw insertion.

A novel technique of cervical pedicle screw placement with a pilot screw under the guidance of intraoperative 3D imaging from C-arm cone-beam CT without navigation for safe and accurate insertion.

The cervical pedicle screw (CPS) requires careful and accurate placement because of the critical risk for neurovascular injury. This study aimed to introduce and evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new CPS placement technique using intraoperative C-arm cone-beam CT (CBCT) and a pilot screw without navigation system. This was a case-control study to compare the accuracy and safety of intraoperative C-arm CBCT-guided CPS placement with freehand CPS placement under lateral fluoroscopy using control data from a previous multicenter study. A total of 166 CPSs were inserted under intraoperative C-arm CBCT guidance in 48 consecutive patients (20 rheumatoid arthritis, 16 degenerative spinal disorders, 6 spinal tumor, 2 congenital deformity, 2 ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament, and 2 fracture dislocation). Accuracy and safety of CPS placement were assessed. The overall malposition rate was 2.4% (4 screws in grade 1: malposition by less than half-screw diameter, 0 in grade 2: malposition by more than half-screw diameter), which was significantly lower than the reported malposition rate of 14.8% in lateral fluoroscopy-guided freehand placement. There were no complications directly related to CPS insertion. The average estimated effective radiation dose per surgery was 14.7mSv. The novel technique enables intraoperative adjustment of the trajectory of the CPS as well as confirmation of the CPS path before penetrating the isthmus of the pedicle, resulting in accurate and safe CPS placement, which outweighs the demerits of radiation exposure. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Does endoscopic piriformis tenotomy provide safe and complete tendon release? A cadaver study

BackgroundEndoscopic piriformis release (EPR) is among the available treatments for piriformis syndrome. This procedure typically involves dividing the muscle near the sciatic nerve in the sub-gluteal space, which contains numerous blood vessels and nerves. The objectives of this prospective cadaver study were: 1) to assess the reproducibility and quality of endoscopic piriformis tenotomy near the greater trochanter; 2) to detect iatrogenic injuries to the lateral hip rotators, nerves, and vessels; 3) and to define the surgical safety margins relative to the sciatic nerve and inferior gluteal bundle. HypothesisEPR at the greater trochanter ensures full release of the muscle with a limited risk of neuro-vascular injury. Material and methodsEPR was performed via two portals on 10 cadaver hips preserved in zinc chloride and placed in the prone position. A third, ancillary portal was required in 7 cases. The area was then dissected with the Kocher-Langenbeck approach to allow an assessment of the tenotomy, detect iatrogenic injuries, and measure the distances separating the tenotomy site from the sciatic nerve and inferior gluteal artery. ResultsComplete tenotomy was achieved in 9 (90%) cases. The tendon adhered to the capsule in 2 (20%) cases and showed acquired avulsion in 1 case. No injuries to the sciatic nerve or inferior gluteal artery occurred. Mean distances from the tenotomy site were 5.21±0.59cm (range, 4.5–6.6cm) for the sciatic nerve and 7.1±0.89cm (range, 5.4–8.5cm) for the inferior gluteal artery. DiscussionEPR by a tenotomy at the greater trochanter without sciatic nerve release provides full release of the muscle with satisfactory safety margins and a short learning curve. Level of evidenceIII, prospective cadaver case-control study.

Arthroscopic Management of Tibial Spine Avulsion Fractures: Principles and Techniques.

Tibial spine fractures are uncommon injuries affecting the insertion of the anterior cruciate ligament on the tibia. They typically occur in skeletally immature patients aged 8 to 14 years and result from hyperextension of the knee with a valgus or rotational force. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, and standard radiographs. The use of MRI can identify entrapped soft tissue that may prevent reduction. Open or arthroscopic repair is indicated in patients with partially displaced fractures (>5 mm) with one third to one half of the avulsed fragment elevated, in patients who have undergone unsuccessful nonsurgical reduction and long leg casting or bracing, and in patients with completely displaced fractures. Arthroscopy offers reduced invasiveness and decreased morbidity. Suture fixation and screw fixation have produced successful results. Suture fixation can eliminate the risk of fracture fragment comminution during screw insertion, the risk of neurovascular injury, and the need for hardware removal. Suture fixation is ideal in cases in which existing comminution prevents screw fixation.

Safety of dorsolateral talonavicular joint fixation in modified double arthrodesis: an anatomic study

Background: Augmentation of talonavicular fusion with a retrograde percutaneous naviculocalcaneal screw has been shown to increase fixation stiffness of double (subtalar and talonavicular joint) arthrodesis. However, previous authors have speculated that neurovascular structures could be at risk in a percutaneous procedure. We investigated the safety of this procedure. We hypothesized that a high risk of neurovascular injury would be found. Methods: Dorsolateral talonaviculocalcaneal screw fixation was performed in 17 fresh-frozen cadaver limbs. A 1.5-cm incision was created over the lateral third of the navicular. Using percutaneous technique, a 4.5-mm cannulated screw was inserted using a guide wire. Blunt dissection and careful soft-tissue retraction were performed. The incision was extended, and a caliper was used to measure the distance from the guide wire to the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN), extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, deep peroneal nerve (DPN), and deep peroneal artery (DPA). All injuries were recorded. Results: Injury to the deep neurovascular bundle occurred in five of 17 specimens. These injuries involved four insults to the DPN, two to the DPA, and one to branches of the SPN. Conclusions: Use of a retrograde naviculocalcaneal screw to augment talonavicular fusion in the setting of double arthrodesis was associated with high risk of injury to anatomic structures, including the deep neurovascular bundle. Clinical Relevance: An open procedure with careful dissection along the neurovascular bundle should be considered with use of a retrograde naviculocalcaneal screw to augment talonavicular fusion to avoid risk to nearby anatomic structures.

Mandibular canal branching assessed with cone beam computed tomography.

The mandibular canal must be considered in dental procedures to avoid injuries of the alveolar inferior nerve. The occurrence of anatomical variations of the mandibular canal increases the risk of neurovascular injuries. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the prevalence of mandibular canal branching (MCB) using cone beam computer tomography (CBCT). Seven hundred standardized CBCTs were selected. The images were evaluated for the presence of MCB and for the detection of pathologies that could affect the structure of the canals. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-squared test. The prevalence of MCB was 41.1%. There was no statistical difference between genders with the presence of the branches (p > 0.005). The highest prevalence was in the premolar and retromolar regions. Pathologies found in the molar region were frequently connected with MCB (77.8%), and the most common pathology related to branches was periapical lesion. Mandibular canal branching presented a high prevalence in CBCT imagery, more frequently located in regions of the premolar and retromolar. An adequate diagnosis of the MCB is necessary to perform dental procedures and verify possible associated pathologies.

Treatment of unstable pelvic fractures by cannulated screw internal fixation with the assistance of three-dimensional printing insertion template

To evaluate the effectiveness of unstable pelvic fractures treated by cannulated screw internal fixation with the assistance of three-dimensional (3D) printing insertion template. The clinical data of 10 patients who underwent surgical treatment for unstable pelvic fractures by cannulated screw internal fixation with the assistance of 3D printing insertion template between May 2015 and June 2016 were retrospectively analysed. There were 7 males and 3 females with an average age of 37.5 years (range, 20-58 years). The causes of injury included falling from height in 5 cases, crushing from heavy load in 1 case, and traffic accidents in 4 cases. The interval from injury to admission was 1-5 hours (mean, 3.1 hours). The fracture situation included 6 cases of sacral fracture, 1 case of right sacroiliac joint dislocation, and 3 cases of iliac bone fracture. There were 10 cases of superior and inferior pubic rami fracture, including 3 cases on the left side (2 cases of suprapubic fracture adjacent to symphysis pubis), 2 cases on the right side, and 5 cases on the bilateral. All fractures were classified according to the Tile system, there were 4 cases of type B2, 1 of type B3, 4 of type C1, and 1 of type C2. The radiological outcome was evaluated by Matta scale, and the positions of the iliosacral screw and superior pubic ramus screw were evaluated according to 3D reconstruction of CT postoperatively. The functional outcome was evaluated by Majeed function scale. The average time of each screw implantation was 30 minutes, and the average blood loss per screw incision was 50 mL. The time of implantation of each sacroiliac screw was 24-96 seconds (mean, 62 seconds), and the time of implantation of each suprapubic screw was 42-80 seconds (mean, 63.2 seconds). The hospitalization duration was 17-90 days (mean, 43.7 days). All incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 12-22 months (mean, 15.6 months). The radiological outcome was excellent in 8 cases and good in 2 cases according to Matta scale; and 3D reconstruction of CT demonstrated that all the 9 iliosacral screws were placed as type Ⅰ, and all the 13 suprapubic ramus screws were placed as grade 0 on the first postoperative day. No complication such as neurovascular injury, screw back out or rupture, or secondary fracture displacement was observed during the follow-up. At 6 months after operation, the X-ray films showed good fracture healing in all the 10 patients. The functional outcome was excellent in 9 cases and good in 1 case according to Majeed scale at 1 year after operation. One patient sustained Tile C2 pelvic disruption complicated with L 5 nerve root injury achieved complete nervous functional recovery at last follow-up. It has advantages of precise screw insertion and lower risk of neurovascular injury to treat unstable pelvic fractures by cannulated screw internal fixation with the assistance of 3D printing insertion template, which can be a good alternative for the treatment of unstable pelvic fractures.

Risk Stratification for Erectile Dysfunction After Pelvic Fracture Urethral Injuries

To compare the frequency and severity of erectile dysfunction (ED) among pelvic fracture patients with and without urethral injuries and to identify potential risk factors for ED in the setting of pelvic fracture injury. A retrospective review was conducted of male patients treated for pelvic fractures with and without urethral injuries at a Level 1 trauma center between 2005 and 2016. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire was administered to patients by telephone to assess post-injury ED. Additional questions about pre-injury ED, post-injury symptoms, and past medical history were reviewed. Fifty patients (42%, n = 118) responded to the IIEF-5 questionnaire: 29 with pelvic fractures alone and 21 with PFUIs. We observed a numerical increase in frequency of new onset ED in patients with pelvic fracture urethral injuries (PFUIs) (n = 12, 57%) compared with patients with pelvic fractures alone (n = 11, 38%) (P = .3). Patients with PFUIs reported lower IIEF-5 scores (ie worse ED) than patients with pelvic fractures alone (13 versus 18, P = .05). There were no significant differences in potential risk factors between the 2 groups on univariate analyses. ED was more severe following PFUI than pelvic fracture alone. We suspect that urethral injury is not the direct cause of ED, but rather a surrogate for extensive pelvic injury and risk for neurovascular injury. A larger prospective analysis is warranted to clarify this hypothesis and to further stratify risk factors for developing ED in pelvic fracture patients with and without urethral injuries.

The Distribution Pattern of the Neurovascular Structures for Anterior Ankle Arthroscopy to Minimize Structural Injury: Anatomical Study.

Introduction The aim of this study was to investigate entry points for anterior ankle arthroscopy that would minimize the risk of neurovascular injury. Methods Thirty-eight specimens from 21 Korean cadavers (age range from 43 to 92 years, mean age of 62.3 years) were used for the study. For the measurements, the most prominent points of the lateral malleolus (LM) and the medial malleolus (MM) were identified before dissection. A line connecting the LM and MM, known as the intermalleolar line, was used as a reference line. We measured 14 variables passed on the reference line. Results This study found that the nerves were located at 40.0%, 50.0%, and 82.0% of the reference line from the lateral malleolus. We also found that the arteries were located at 22.0%, 35.0%, and 60% of the reference line from the lateral malleolus. Discussion If all the variables are combined (nerves, arteries, and veins), then there is no safety zone for anterior portal placement. Therefore, we recommend that surgeons concentrate primarily on the arteries and nerves in the clinical setting.

Radiographic Analysis of Psoas Morphology and its Association With Neurovascular Structures at L4-5 With Reference to Lateral Approaches.

Retrospective imaging review. Utilize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to expand the anatomical description of psoas morphology and its association with neurovascular structures at L4-5. Anatomical psoas muscle variants may present a greater risk of neurovascular injury at the L4-5 level during lateral transpsoas approaches. Axial L4-5 sections of consecutive patients who obtained lumbar MRIs were analyzed. Teardrop psoas morphology was assessed qualitatively. MRI described psoas morphology and proximity of neurovascular structures, whereas plain radiographs were evaluated for lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV). Teardrop morphology was tested for associations with radiographic measurements using t tests and χ analysis. Fifty teardrop and 476 nonteardrop psoas muscles were identified. Teardrop morphology was associated with greater longitudinal length (53.1 vs. 49.3 mm, P = 0.012), and shorter transverse length (34.9 vs. 44.8 mm, P < 0.001) compared with nonteardrop. Teardrop morphology was associated with anterior and lateral migration of the psoas with greater distance between the anterior borders of the psoas and disc (13.5 vs. 6.3 mm, P < 0.001), and greater distance between the medial border of the psoas to the lateral disc border (1.6 vs. 0.5 mm, P < 0.001). Teardrop morphology was associated with a higher incidence of the lumbar plexus migrating anteriorly adjacent to the middle-third of the disc (43.4% vs. 17.6%, P < 0.001) and the iliac vasculature being more laterally and posteriorly located, adjacent to the anterior-third of the disc (43.4% vs. 30.0%, P = 0.047). Teardrop morphology was not associated with presence of LSTV (3.8% vs. 7.6%, P = 0.306). The current study provides detailed metrics of teardrop psoas muscles and surrounding structures. The study confirms that the presence of teardrop anatomy on L4-5 axial imaging is associated with anterior migration of the lumbar plexus and posterolateral migration of the iliac vasculature which may increase the risk of neurovascular injury during direct and oblique-lateral lumbar spine procedures. 3.

Median Nerve Injury After Removal of Subdermal Implantable Contraceptive.

Background: Subdermal implantable contraceptives are highly effective, approved in over 60 countries, and used by millions of women. Due to simple insertion and removal protocols, these procedures are often performed in the outpatient clinic setting, and procedural complications are rare. However, given the location of the implant in the medial antebrachial interval, there is a risk of neurovascular injury, especially with malpositioned or deeply placed implants. Methods: We present a case of proximal median nerve injury leading to severe neuropathy after attempted removal of a subdermal implantable contraceptive requiring neurolysis and tendon transfers. Results: At 6 months post surgery, the patient regained flexion of the index interphalangeal joints and protective sensation in the thumb and index fingers. Conclusions: Subdermal implant retrieval can lead to nerve injury, despite the relative simplicity of the procedure. If difficulty is encountered, imaging or open retrieval should be considered. Improvement in function can be gained through operative interventions including neurolysis and tendon transfers in the setting of severe neuropathy.

Simple Lateral Suboccipital Approach and Modification for Vertebral Artery Aneurysms: A Study of 52 Cases Over 10 Years.

Complex skull base approaches are frequently used to treat intracranial vertebral artery (VA) and proximal posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms. These complex procedures are associated with higher risk of neurovascular injury. Hence, a less-invasive surgical approach is needed to improve the efficacy and safety of treatment. A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical and radiologic data from surgeries in which simple lateral suboccipital and "lateral-enough" approaches were used to clip VA aneurysms in the Department of Neurosurgery at Helsinki University Central Hospital from 2000 to2009. Fifty-two VA or PICA aneurysms were treated using the simple lateral suboccipital approach. Sixteen patients (31%) presented with an unruptured aneurysm, 21 patients (40%) with World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade 1-3, and 15 patients (29%) with World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies grade 4-5. The aneurysms were saccular in 48 cases (92%), dissecting in 3 cases (6%), and fusiform in 1 case (2%). The most common aneurysm location was the VA-PICA junction (81%). The mean final modified Rankin Scale score was 2, and in unruptured cases, all patients had favorable clinical outcomes. The main causes of unfavorable outcome were poor preoperative clinical grade (P= 0.002), preoperative intraventricular hemorrhage (P= 0.008), postoperative hydrocephalus (P= 0.003), brain infarction (P= 0.005), and postoperative pneumonia (P < 0.001). We describe a 10-year experience using a simple lateral suboccipital approach and its modification by the senior author (J.H.) to treat VA and proximal PICA aneurysms. Unfavorable outcome was related to the poor preoperative clinical grade, preoperative intraventricular hemorrhage, and postoperative pneumonia.

Biomechanical study of novel unilateral C1 posterior arch screws and C2 laminar screws combined with an ipsilateral crossed C1-C2 pedicle screw-rod fixation for atlantoaxial instability.

Current surgical methods to treat atlantoaxial instability pose potential risks to the surrounding blood vessels and nerves of operative approach. Therefore, more secure and highly effective methods are expected. This study sought to assess the biomechanical efficacy of a novel unilateral double screw-rod fixation system by comparing with traditional and emerging fixation methods in cadaveric models. Ligamentous cervical spines (C0-C7) from ten fresh cadaveric specimens were used to complete range of motion (ROM) test in their intact condition (control group), destabilization, and stabilization after different fixations, including unilateral C1-C2 pedicle screws (PS) with a screw-rod system (Group A), bilateral C1-C2 PS with screw-rod systems (Group B), unilateral C1 posterior arch screws (PAS) and C2 laminar screws (LS) combined with an ipsilateral paralleled C1-C2 PS-rod (Group C), and unilateral C1 PAS and C2 LS combined with an ipsilateral crossed C1-C2 PS-rod (Group D). After that, pullout strength test was performed between PS and PAS using ten isolated atlas vertebras. All fixation groups reduced flexibility in all directions compared with both control group and destabilization group. Furthermore, comparisons among different fixation groups showed that bilateral C1-C2 PS-rod (Group B), unilateral C1 PAS+C2 LS combined with an ipsilateral paralleled C1-C2 PS-rod (Group C) and unilateral C1 PAS+C2 LS combined with an ipsilateral crossed C1-C2 PS-rod (Group D) could provide a better stability, respectively, in all directions than unilateral C1-C2 PS-rod (Group A). However, no statistical significance was observed among Groups B, C, and D. Data from pullout strength test showed that both C1 PS (585±53N) and PAS (463±49N) could provide high fixed strength, although PS was better (P=0.009). The surgical technique of unilateral C1 PAS+C2 LS combined with a ipsilateral crossed C1-C2 PS-rod fixation could provide a better stability than the traditional unilateral PS-rod fixation and a same stability as bilateral PS-rod fixation, but with less risk of neurovascular injury. Therefore, this new technique may provide novel insight for an alternative of atlantoaxial instability treatment.

Quantitative assessment of mandibular canal compression assessed by cone beam computed tomography

The aim of this study was to objectively quantify the topographic relation of the mandibular canals, impacted third molars, and cortical plates using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A retrospective chart review was conducted using the database of a university-based imaging service. Two calibrated reviewers examined the CBCT images of 100 cases scheduled for mandibular third molar removal. They characterized the position and condition of the mandibular canal and measured its dimensions at 3 different points relative to the third molars. The mandibular canal is more often located buccal to the third molars but is more likely to be compressed when in a lingual position. The vertical (cephalocaudal) dimensions of the mandibular canal change significantly as the canal progresses toward the ramus. The horizontal (buccolingual) dimensions of the mandibular canal fluctuate very little but significantly narrow in proximity to the third molars. Thinning of the lingual cortical plate is common, whereas grooving of molar roots is uncommon. Minor variations in the horizontal dimensions of the mandibular canal close to the third molars signify an effect on the canal. This effect may indicate an increased risk of neurovascular injury. The mandibular canal can have a direct or indirect effect on the cortical plates.

Horizontal Cleavage Meniscus Tear Treated With All-inside Circumferential Compression Stitches

Horizontal cleavage meniscus tears are a common orthopedic injury often treated with partial or total meniscectomy versus repair. This Technical Note presents a technique for all-inside repair with uniform compression of the superior and inferior leaflets by placement of multiple circumferential compression stitches using an all-inside self-retrieving suture passing device. The currently described technique provides several advantages for all-inside repair of a horizontal cleavage tear: (1) eliminates the need for a posterior incision, (2) minimizes the risk of neurovascular injury, (3) uses standard arthroscopy portals (or small modifications), and (4) requires only a single suture deployment with a self-retrieving device for each circumferential compression stitch. The resulting circumferential stitch provides uniform compression to the superior and inferior leaflets, promoting meniscal healing. This configuration has been shown to have the highest load to failure of all repair patterns.

Indications for Hip Arthroscopy

Context:Hip arthroscopy is gaining popularity within the field of orthopaedic surgery. The development and innovation of hip-specific arthroscopic instrumentation and improved techniques has resulted in improved access to the hip joint and ability to treat various hip pathologies.Evidence Acquisition:Electronic databases, including PubMed and MEDLINE, were queried for articles relating to hip arthroscopy indications (1930-2017).Study Design:Clinical review.Level of Evidence:Level 4.Results:Initially used as a technique for loose body removal, drainage/debridement of septic arthritis, and treatment of pediatric hip disorders, hip arthroscopy is currently used to treat various hip conditions. The recognition of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) as a source of hip pain in young adults has rapidly expanded hip arthroscopy by applying the principles of osseous correction that were previously described and demonstrated via an open surgical dislocation approach. Hip pathologies can be divided into central compartment, peripheral compartment, peritrochanteric space, and subgluteal space disorders.Conclusion:Although hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that may offer decreased morbidity, diminished risk of neurovascular injury, and shorter recovery periods compared with traditional open exposures to the hip, it is important to understand the appropriate patient selection and indications.

Evaluation of the Mandibular Lingual Canal and Anterior Loop Length to Minimize Complications Associated With Anterior Mandibular Surgeries: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study

This retrospective study evaluated the localization, incidence, and dimensions of the mandibular lingual canal and the anterior loop in the Taiwanese population using the simulation and visual interpretation of cone-beam computed tomography to minimize complications during symphysis block surgical procedures. The sample population consisted of 215 patients (105 men and 110 women; mean age, 57yr). The median lingual canal, symphysis bone thickness, and anterior loop length were defined and calculated using cone-beam computed tomography and 3-dimensional reconstructed images. The correlation of all data for men and women was assessed and analyzed statistically using unpaired t tests. All patients exhibited at least 1 median lingual canal in the symphysis, and the diameter of the main branch ranged from 0.21 to 1.48mm (mean, 0.85mm), with relevant differences between genders (longer in men than in women). A harvesting depth of 4mm for the distance from the buccal bone to the terminal end of the median lingual canal resulted in a risk of neurovascular injury (13.0%); this risk was notably higher in women (19.1%) than in men (6.7%). The right and left anterior loop lengths ranged from 0 to 5.46mm (mean, 2.60mm) and from 0 to 5.57mm (mean, 2.61mm), respectively, with no relevant differences between genders or sides. The results suggest that routine cone-beam computed tomographic examinations before surgical interventions in the symphysis region are necessary because of the numerous complicated anatomic variations.

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis on anterior pelvic ring injury and anterior column acetabular fracture.

In performing surgery for fractures of the pelvis and acetabulum, various surgical approaches have been introduced with their own advantages and drawbacks. The extensile nature of ilioinguinal approach gives excellent exposure but was related to wound healing problems. Modified stoppa has a higher difficulty and poses a risk for neurovascular injury. In this study, we elaborate our experience using the Modified Stoppa approach with additional lateral window while adding few modifications to simplify the procedure and facilitate future implant removal. A prospective-retrospective cohort involving 30 anterior pelvic ring and/or anterior column acetabulum fracture patients were conducted from 2012-2016. Fifteen cases were prospectively treated using the modified approach since 2014, while the remaining fifteen cases that were treated using Ilioinguinal approach were retrospectively reviewed. Intraoperative parameters such as blood loss, duration of surgery, quality of reduction (Matta) and postoperative functional outcome (Majeed and Hannover score) at 12 months period were recorded and evaluated by a blinded reviewer. There were no significant differences between the two groups in mean age, sex and fracture type. The mean blood loss in the MIPO group were 325±225 mL versus 710.67±384.51 mL in the control group (p=0.002). Duration of surgery were 149.33±91.92 minutes in MIPO group versus 235.71±65.79 minutes in ilioinguinal group (p=0.014). There were no significant differences noted between the two groups in the quality of reduction and postoperative functional outcome, either by using Majeed or Hannover pelvic score. No complications were found after a 12-months follow up period. Two modified cases already had their implant removed and during the procedure, fibrotic tissue were minimal making the implant removal was less complicated and easier. Modified stoppa and lateral window technique can be used as a safe and effective alternative approach for anterior pelvic ring fracture and/or anterior column acetabulum fracture. This approach decreased the duration of surgery and blood loss without compromising the quality of reduction and functional outcome in patients.

Limited incision carpal tunnel release.

Background:Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common peripheral entrapment neuropathy. Limited incision techniques for carpal tunnel release are gaining popularity. The main advantages of these techniques are less scar load, less pillar pain, shorter recovery, and return-to-work time. However, the completeness of release, and risk of neurovascular injury are always a concern. We devised a method of limited incision release with two mini-incisions and use of nasal speculum and a probe. We aimed to evaluate the clinical and neurological outcome of this technique.Materials and Methods:Twenty seven cases (9 male and 18 female, age 28–56 years) of isolated CTS cases were enrolled in the study. A total of 33 hands (six bilateral) underwent limited incision carpal tunnel release. In this study, two mini-incisions were used and release was done with the help of nasal speculum. Evaluation preoperatively and in 6 months and at 1-year postoperatively was done, namely, (a) clinical status examination, (b) motor testing using grip and pinch dynamometer, and (c) neurological outcome measure using nerve conduction study.Results:All the patients had good clinical and neurological outcome with no recurrence during followup. The first symptom to get relieved was night pains, with a mean of 4.5 days (range 2–14 days). Compared to pain, improvement of sensory symptoms was delayed; the mean duration was 42.8 days (range 30–90 days). Scar tenderness was present only for a mean duration of 9 days (range 7–21 days). The mean duration for patients to resume their daily activities was12 days (range 7–28 days) and to work was 32 days (range 21–90 days). The hand grip showed mean values of 45.12 ± 16.16 g/mm2 preoperatively, 62.45 ± 18.86 g/mm2 at 6 months postoperatively, and 74.87 ± 20.35 g/mm2 at 1-year postoperatively. The key pinch showed mean values of 11.27 ± 3.51 g/mm2 preoperatively, 20.181 ± 3.94 g/mm2 at 6 months postoperatively, and 27.96 ± 94.42 g/mm2 at 1-year postoperatively. The tip pinch showed mean values of 8.88 ± 2.39 g/mm2 preoperatively, 15.393 ± 3.25 g/mm2 at 6 months postoperatively, and 19.27 ± 4.81 g/mm2 at 1-year postoperatively. The palmar pinch showed mean values of 14.42 ± 2.92 g/mm2 preoperatively, 19.303 ± 3.62 g/mm2 at 6 months postoperatively, and 22.97 ± 4.08 g/mm2 at 1-year postoperatively.Conclusion:Limited incision carpal tunnel release can be considered a feasible alternative to traditional open release and endoscopic release.