Smith-Petersen Approach Research Articles

Using an Intraoperative Stress Exam to Direct Treatment in Posterior Femoral Head Fracture-Dislocations.

To examine the results of a treatment algorithm incorporating an EUA performed intraoperatively after fixation of the femoral head through a Smith Petersen approach to determine need for posterior wall or capsule repair. Design: Retrospective review. Two Level 1 trauma centers. All acute, traumatic femoral head fractures from posterior hip dislocations treated at participating centers over a 5-year period from 2017-2022. Injuries were classified according to the Pipkin system. The primary outcome was the result of intraoperative EUA performed after femoral head fixation to determine the need for Kocher-Langenbeck exposure for posterior wall and/or capsule fixation. The secondary outcomes included rates of avascular necrosis, heterotopic bone formation, late instability, and conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Studied were 63 males and 22 females with mean age 32.5 (range 18-71). 79 of 85 (92.9%) patients had a stable EUA after fixation of the femoral head through a Smith-Petersen approach. Six (6/85, 7.1%) underwent an additional Kocher-Langenbeck approach for posterior wall or capsule fixation. This included 1 Pipkin I, 1 Pipkin II, and 4 Pipkin IV injuries. Of the Pipkin IV injuries, 51/55 (92.7%) had stable EUA and did not require fixation of their posterior wall. This included 7 patients with wall involvement >20%. Five patients were excluded because of planned fixation of their posterior wall based on preoperative imaging. Of patients with at least 6 months follow up, 16 of 65 (26.4%) developed radiographic evidence of AVN and 21 of 65 (32.3%) evidence of heterotopic bone formation. Seven out of 65 (10.8%) were converted to total hip arthroplasty over the study period. When comparing patients with a single exposure with those with additional KL exposure, they did not vary in their rate of AVN (27.1% vs. 0.0%, P=0.3228), HO formation (30.5% vs. 50.0%, P=0.3788), or conversion to total hip arthroplasty (10.2% vs. 16.7%, P=0.510). This study found residual posterior hip instability after femoral head fixation in patients with and without posterior wall fractures after posterior dislocations. The results of this study support use of an EUA after femoral head fixation to identify residual posterior hip instability in all femoral head fractures from posterior hip dislocations, regardless of Pipkin type. Use of the Smith-Petersen exposure remains a viable surgical option and may be improved with incorporation of an EUA after femoral head fixation. For Pipkin IV injuries with posterior wall fractures with indeterminate stability, an EUA accurately identifies residual instability. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Early results of modified Bikini approach periacetabular osteotomy for the treatment of developmental hip dysplasia under 50 years of age

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of modified Bikini approach periacetabular osteotomy in the treatment of developmental hip dysplasia under 50 years of age. Methods: The clinical data of 39 patients with developmental hip dysplasia who underwent periacetabular osteotomy in the Department of Orthopedics, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital from June 2016 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed.Among them, 20 patients (21 hips) underwent the improved Bikini approach (study group) and 19 patients (20 hips) underwent the improved Smith-Petersen approach (control group).In the study group, there were 3 males and 17 females, aged(M(IQR))27.5 (14.3) years (range:11 to 44 years).In the control group, there were 2 males and 17 females, aged 27.5 (19.3) years (range:17 to 47 years).Both groups were sutured in the same manner by the same physician.Incision length, operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complications were recorded.X-ray images, anterior central marginal angle (ACE), lateral central marginal Angle (LCE) and acetabulum tilt angle (Tonnis AI) were measured before and after the operation.The coverage rate of acetabulum to femoral head (AHI) was measured and calculated, and the healing time was observed.Harris Hip score, International Hip score (IHOT)-12 and visual analogue scale (VAS) were recorded before and after surgery.Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) score and patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) score were recorded 12 months after surgery.The independent sample t test,Wilcoxon rank sum test, χ2 test or Fisher exact test were used to compare the clinical efficacy between the two groups. Results: All patients successfully completed the operation.There was no significant difference in operation time and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups (all P>0.05).The incision length of the study group was smaller than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (10.5(5.0)cm vs.15.0(3.0),W=309.000,P=0.007).Patients were followed up for (19.1±11.1) months (range:12 to 60 months).Femoral nerve stretching injury occurred in 2 cases and sciatic branch fracture occurred in 1 case in the study group, all of which recovered to normal at 3 months follow-up, while no corresponding injury occurred in the control group.Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury occurred in 3 cases in the study group and 2 cases in the control group.Delayed wound healing occurred in 1 case in each of the two groups, and both healed after re-operation debridement and suture.Pubic branch nonunion occurred in 4 patients in the study group and 5 patients in the control group.There were no serious complications such as sciatic nerve and femoral blood vessel injury between the 2 groups, and there was no statistical significance in the incidence of complications between the 2 groups (52.4%(11/21)vs.40.0%(8/20),χ2=0.631,P=0.427).The clinical healing time of the patient was (4.5±1.3) months after surgery (range:3.0 to 8.0 months).There were no significant differences in ACE, LCE, Tonnis AI and AHI between the 2 groups (all P>0.05).At the last follow-up, there were no significant differences in VAS,Harris hip score and IHOT-12 score between the two groups (all P>0.05).The incision scars in the study group were smaller than those in the control group, and the differences in VSS and POSAS were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Conclusion: Compared with the improved Smith-Petersen approach, the improved Bikini approach has the same early clinical efficacy in the treatment of patients with developmental hip dysplasia under the age of 50, and has the advantages of smaller postoperative incision scars, more hidden and beautiful incision, and no serious complications, which is worthy of further study and promotion.

Surgical Approaches for Femoral Neck Fractures: A Review Article

Displaced femoral neck fractures in the young are difficult to treat. The complexity of the fractures for closed or open reduction requires careful surgical planning and experience. Acceptable reduction criteria in this fracture is crucial and should be followed strictly in order to get the favorable outcomes. Various reduction techniques have been described ranging from closed reduction by traction table or closed reduction with minimal direct manipulation with instruments to direct open reduction. This manuscript describes the mini open reduction, Watson-Jones and Smith-Petersen approaches, and some modifications in terms of indications, advantages, and disadvantages of each approach for the decision-making in these complex fractures.

Dual medial and anterior approach for excision of extraosseous synovial hip osteochondroma: a case report

BackgroundOsteochondromas are the most common benign bone tumors occurring near the end of long bones. In this case report, we demonstrate the successful treatment of a proximal femoral osteochondroma in a pediatric patient excised through a dual medial and anterior approach with no hip dislocation.Case presentationWe present the case of a white Arab 14-year-old boy with chronic hip pain and inability to ambulate. He failed conservative treatment and was referred to us after X-rays revealed two osseous masses. He was diagnosed with an intra-articular hip osteochondroma confirmed on magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scan. He was treated surgically with excision using two incisions: Smith-Petersen approach and Ferguson approach.ConclusionThis case presents the successful resection of a symptomatic pediatric proximal femoral osteochondroma, using dual medial and anterior approaches without the need for hip dislocation. This was optimal for both the safety and accessibility of this unusual condition.

Modified Smith–Petersen approach with rectus-sparing reduces severe avascular necrosis for developmental dysplasia of the hip at walking age: minimum 5-year follow-up

BackgroundDevelopmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is one of the most common orthopedic malformations in children. Open reduction for DDH at walking age remains a major concern. The goal of this study is to evaluate the mid-term effect of a modified Smith–Petersen approach which preserves the rectus femoris on DDH at walking age, in particular avascular necrosis (AVN).MethodsA retrospective review of DDH patients aged between 12 and 24 months was carried out between January 2010 and June 2016. Open reduction through the Smith–Petersen approach (Group A) and modified Smith–Petersen approach, which preserves the rectus femoris (Group B), were both used. Measurement of hip geometry included acetabular index, the International Hip Dysplasia Institute classification, and AVN degree. Clinical records included operation time, bleeding volume, and abduction angle.ResultsThere were 101 children (119 hips) with DDH who met the inclusion criteria. There were 66 hips in Group A and 53 in Group B. The mean surgical age at open reduction was 17.0 ± 2.4 months, with a mean 104.9 ± 19.5 months at last follow-up. There was no statistical difference in surgical age between the two groups (17.2 vs. 16.4 months). There was no significant difference in the incidence of all types of clinically significant AVN between group A and group B (27.3 vs. 18.9%), but the incidence of severe AVN was lower in group B (19.7 vs. 5.7%, P = 0.026). In addition, the lower the age at the time of open reduction, the lower the severity of AVN (P = 0.002).ConclusionsThese mid-term data suggest that the modified Smith–Petersen approach with rectus-sparing could reduce severe AVN more than the classical Smith–Peterson approach in open reduction in DDH at walking age. In addition, early open reduction can reduce the postoperative degree of AVN.

Treatment of symptomatic hip dysplasia by posterolateral small incision assisted Bernese periacetabular osteotomy

BackgroundFor periacetabular osteotomy, traditional approaches usually have a long learning curve. We aimed to evaluate the postoperative results and complications of periacetabular osteotomy under a new double-incision approach.MethodsThe records of 58 consecutive patients (65 hips) who underwent periacetabular osteotomy using the new approach were retrospectively reviewed and evaluated. There were 52 women and 6 men with a mean age of 28.1 years at the time of surgery.ResultsThe average follow-up period was 35.2 months, during which no patients were converted to total hip arthroplasty. Complications included 6 hips (9.2%) with nerve dysesthesias and 1 hip (1.5%) with delayed wound healing. The mean operative time and intraoperative blood loss were 88.6 min and 402.8 ml, respectively. The mean modified Harris hip score had improved from 72.2 points preoperatively to 91.3 points at the last follow-up. Fifty-five patients (62 hips, 95.4%) were satisfied to their outcomes, and good preoperative functional score was associated with a satisfactory outcome. Furthermore, the average lateral center–edge angle, anterior center–edge angle and acetabular index angle were corrected well after surgery.ConclusionPeriacetabular osteotomy using modified Smith-Petersen or Bikini approach with posterolateral assisted small incision can be performed safely and with satisfactory results. In addition, this technique shortens the learning curve, and reduces the operating complexity, especially for beginner.

Arthroscopic assisted mini-open arthrotomy for the treatment of the femoroacetabular impingement

Treatment of pathologies of the central and peripheral compartment of the hip using arthroscopic assisted mini-open arthrotomy via the Smith-Petersen approach. Cam- and pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tear, loose bodies. Osteoarthritis of the hip with Tönnis classification grade ≥ 2. After mini-open approach to the hip joint via direct anterior muscular gap, the anterior capsule is split with protection of the labrum. Decompression allows the joint to be inspected using an arthroscope. Depending on the intra-articular findings, additional procedures can be performed (e.g., curettage of the cartilage, microfracturing, matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation [MACI]). Cases with pincer-type FAI or labral tear can also be addressed. After partial release, the cam-type FAI can be resected using asurgical burr. Partial weightbearing for 2-6weeks with 10-20 kg or half body weight using crutches depending on the intraoperative treatment. Radiological analysis of the pre- and postoperative X‑rays (n = 69) prove that this surgical technique is suitable to address pathologies especially FAI syndromes. The α‑angle according to Nötzli could be reduced from amean preoperative value of 72.8° to 49.4° postoperative. In combined cam-type and Pincer-type FAI syndrome (n = 16), the lateral center-edge angle could be reduced from amean preoperative value of 50.2° to 37.6° postoperatively. The clinical follow-up (n = 29) revealed good midterm outcomes after arthroscopic assisted mini-open arthrotomy (modified Harris Hip Score [mHHS] 84.8points after 4.9years [range 4.2-5.7; ±0.43]).

Which surgical approach provides maximum visualization and access for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of femoral neck fractures?

ObjectivesAppropriate visualization of the femoral neck is critical when performing open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a femoral neck fracture. The purpose of this study was to objectively identify which surgical approach provided the most extensive visualization of the femoral neck during ORIF. Our hypothesis was that the Smith-Petersen approach with rectus release would provide the most extensive visualization. MethodsTen cadaveric hips were utilized to compare 4 different surgical approaches to the femoral neck: Smith-Petersen (SP), Smith-Petersen with rectus release (SPwR), Watson-Jones (WJ), and Hueter approach. After surgical exposure, calibrated digital images were captured and analyzed using a computer software program to determine the percent-area visualized. Three trained investigators separately assessed each specimen to determine clinical visualization and ability of the surgeon to manually outline anatomic locations of the femoral neck: subcapital, trans-cervical, and basicervical. Data were analyzed for significant (p < 0.05) differences using ANOVA and Fisher Exact tests. ResultsFor calculated percent-visualization, SP and SPwR allowed for significantly more (p = 0.003) visualization than the Hueter and WJ approaches. For surgeon visualization, SP and SPwR were significantly higher (p < 0.029) when compared to WJ. The ability for the individual surgeon to outline the femoral neck's anatomical landmarks was significantly higher (p < 0.049) with SP and Hueter approaches compared with SPwR. ConclusionThe SP and SPwR provided superior visualization of femoral neck anatomy compared to Hueter and WJ approaches. Similarly, the SP approach allowed for optimal surgeon visualization of and access to clinically relevant femoral neck anatomic landmarks compared to other approaches assessed.

Smith-Petersen Versus Watson-Jones Approach Does Not Affect Quality of Open Reduction of Femoral Neck Fracture.

To compare immediate quality of open reduction of femoral neck fractures by alternative surgical approaches. Retrospective cohort study. Twelve Level 1 North American trauma centers. Eighty adults 18-65 years of age with isolated, displaced, OTA/AO type 31-B2 or -B3 femoral neck fractures treated with internal fixation. Thirty-two modified Smith-Petersen anterior approaches versus 48 Watson-Jones anterolateral approaches for open reduction performed by fellowship-trained orthopaedic trauma surgeons. Reduction quality as assessed by 3 senior orthopaedic traumatologists as "acceptable" or "unacceptable" on AP and lateral postoperative radiographs. No difference was observed in the rate of acceptable reduction by modified Smith-Petersen (81%) versus Watson-Jones (81%) approach (risk difference null, 95% confidence interval -17.4% to 17.4%, P = 1.00) with 90.4% panel agreement (Fleiss' weighted κ = 0.63, P < 0.01). Stratified analyses did not identify a significant difference in the rate of acceptable reduction between approaches when stratified by Pauwels angle, basicervical or transcervical fracture location, or posterior comminution. The Smith-Petersen approach afforded a better reduction when preoperative skeletal traction was not applied (RR = 1.67 [95% CI 1.10-2.52] vs. RR = 0.87 [95% CI 0.70-1.08], P = 0.006). No difference was observed in the quality of open reduction of displaced femoral neck fractures in young adults when a Watson-Jones anterolateral approach versus a modified Smith-Petersen anterior approach was performed by orthopaedic trauma surgeons. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Excision of Heterotopic Ossification around the Hip: Arthroscopic and Open Techniques

Heterotopic ossification (HO) can occur as a complication of various pathologies affecting the hip including trauma, tendon avulsions, chronic injury, spinal cord injury, and soft-tissue disruption caused by surgery. When HO is present alongside intra-articular hip pathology such as femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) or labral pathology, consideration should be made to combine the surgical excision of the HO with the FAIS decompression or labral repair if the location and size of the HO is appropriate for arthroscopic excision. Often times, the HO is located in such a position that any central compartment work can be completed before turning to the HO excision. If an open approach is required, the modified Gibson approach can be used for lateral hip access, whereas the Smith-Petersen approach provides anterior hip access. In this Technical Note we discuss arthroscopic techniques for excision of HO in the setting of concomitant FAIS, with discussion of when HO excision occurs in relation to cam decompression and labral repair, and mention tips on how to approach HO excision through an open approach.

Surgical Anatomy of the Rectus-Sparing Approach for Periacetabular Osteotomy: A Cadaveric Study.

The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a widely used technique for the management of acetabular dysplasia and other hip deformities in adolescents and young adults. Originally, the approach was described with a release of both origins of the rectus femoris muscle1. In the more recently described rectus-sparing approach, both heads remain attached2,3. It has been proposed that this modification may decrease pain, ease postoperative rehabilitation, and avoid heterotopic ossifications, without limitations of the surgical overview. Both the original and the rectus-sparing approach are modifications of the Smith-Petersen approach. The skin incision and further dissection remain identical in both approaches for the protection of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, the osteotomy of the anterior superior iliac spine (or takedown of the inguinal ligament), the exposure of the iliac fossa, and the medial retraction of the abdominal and iliopsoas muscles. In both variants, the further dissection traverses the iliopectineal bursa. In contrast to the original approach, in which the rectus muscle becomes part of the medial flap after releasing both heads, the rectus-sparing approach involves the undetached rectus muscle becoming part of the lateral flap while the medial flap includes the sartorius and iliacus-iliocapsularis muscles. The anterior capsule and deep structures can be accessed through the interval between the rectus femoris and iliopsoas muscles or lateral to the rectus muscle. The remaining surgical steps are again similar in both techniques. According to preference, the surgeon starts with the pubic osteotomy or with the ischial cut first, the latter avoiding additional bleeding from the pubic osteotomy. For the ischial osteotomy, the bone is accessed by making an anteroposterior tunnel between the medial capsule and the iliopsoas tendon anteriorly and between the medial capsule and the obturator externus muscle posteriorly. While the ischial osteotomy is an incomplete separation, the pubic osteotomy is a complete separation. It sections the superior pubic ramus medial to the iliopectineal eminence, in a somewhat oblique fashion. The third and fourth cuts are made in the iliac bone in such a way as to keep the posterior column intact. By connecting the posterior iliac and ischial cuts as the last osteotomy step, the acetabulum is freed and repositioned as needed. The aim of our cadaver dissection is primarily to describe part of the rectus-sparing approach and to test this modification for eventual disadvantages over the classic approach. The remaining steps of the procedure correspond to the approach as described earlier1,4, appreciating that several modifications of the procedure are in use. Nonsurgical treatment may be an alternative in borderline dysplasia; however, it needs to be reconsidered and eventually changed to surgical treatment when symptoms persist or come back. Other current techniques for surgical treatment of adolescent and adult hip dysplasia include triple and rotational or spherical osteotomies5-7. The Bernese PAO is performed through a single incision. All cuts are performed from the inner side of the pelvis, avoiding interference with the vascularity of the acetabular and periacetabular bone, which mainly comes from the outside of the pelvis8. The procedure needs minimal hardware for fixation, and partial weight-bearing can be allowed. The PAO provides a wide range of acetabular reorientation options. Wide capsulotomy and intra-articular procedures are possible, as well as additional femoral corrections. Childbirth via natural delivery is possible even after bilateral PAO9. Nerve injuries can be guarded against with careful surgical execution of the osteotomies4.

Comparison of the modified Smith-Petersen (S-P) and ilioinguinal (I-I) approaches for periacetabular osteotomy in adult developmental dysplasia of the hip: a retrospective study

BackgroundAdult developmental dysplasia of the hip is an untreated congenital hip dysplasia that results in adult hip pain. One of the usual and effective methods for the treatment of this condition is periacetabular osteotomy. However, which approach is better between the modified S-P and the I-I approaches is still unclear and controversial.Method and materialsWe retrospectively assessed our experience with the modified S-P and the I-I approaches by inquiring and evaluating intraoperative blood loss, postoperative radiographic material, postoperative function of the hip, and related complications from July 2014 to January 2019.ResultsA total of 61 patients with adult developmental dysplasia of the hip were enrolled, and 33 patients were divided into a modified S-P group and 28 patients were divided into I-I group. The operation time and blood loss of group I-I were higher than that of group modified S-P. Other clinical and radiographic indexes showed no statistical significance between group the modified S-P and I-I groups.ConclusionThere is no significant difference in the improvement of the function of the hip at the post-operation stage, but group I-I may require more operation time and blood loss at the intra-operation stage.

Early open reduction of dislocated hips using a modified Smith-Petersen approach in arthrogyposis multiplex congenita

BackgroundArthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a rare syndrome with multiple joint contractures. Within the medical community, there is controversy surrounding AMC in terms of the ideal surgical approach and age for performing a reduction of dislocated hips. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of early open reduction of infant hip dislocation with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita following a modified Smith-Petersen approach that preserves the rectus femoris.MethodsFrom 2010 to 2017, we performed this procedure on 28 dislocated hips in 20 infants under 12 months of age with AMC. The clinical and radiology data were reviewed retrospectively. The mean age at surgery was 6.9 ± 5.1 months, with a mean follow-up of 42.4 ± 41.1 months.ResultsAfter open reduction, the average hip acetabular index (AI), the international hip dysplasia institute classification (IHDI), and the hip range of motion significantly improved (all P < 0.001). After the surgery, 16 patients were community walkers, and four patients were home walkers. Three hips in two patients required secondary revision surgery for residual acetabular dysplasia with combined pelvic osteotomy and femoral osteotomy. Seven of the hips that had been operated on showed signs of avascular necrosis (AVN). Among them, four were degree II, two were degree III, and one was degree IV. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that greater age (in months) heightened the risk for secondary revision surgery (P = 0.032).ConclusionsThe modified Smith-Petersen approach preserving the rectus femoris is an encouraging and safe option for treating hip dislocation in young AMC patients (before 12 months). If surgery takes place at less than 12 months of age for patients with AMC, this earlier open reduction for hip dislocation may reduce the chances of secondary revision surgery.Level of evidenceIV, retrospective non-randomized study.

Trochanteric Flip (Ganz) Anterior Hip Dislocation for Fixation of Pipkin Fracture-Dislocations.

The procedure is performed with use of a conventional Kocher-Langenbeck exposure with the patient in the lateral position. The trochanteric flip is performed, allowing exposure of the anterior capsule, which is incised to dislocate the head anteriorly. Fracture fixation is performed with use of mini-fragment screws followed by relocation of the head, closure of the capsulotomy, and fixation of the osteotomy. Fixation of femoral-head fractures can also be performed with use of alternate surgical approaches. Anterior-based surgical approaches like the Hueter approach or the Smith-Petersen approach are preferred with the goal of preserving the posterior extraosseous blood supply to the femoral head. The posterior Kocher-Langenbeck approach can also be utilized because there is no clear evidence suggesting that a properly performed posterior approach affects the blood supply of the femoral head. Surgical hip dislocation is 1 of the preferred techniques for operative treatment of femoral-head fractures and is a versatile approach that provides circumferential exposure of the femoral head and acetabulum through an anterior dislocation. A compromised blood supply to the femoral head is much less likely with use of this approach compared with posterior-based surgical approaches. Compared with anterior-based surgical approaches, which are often restrictive, surgical dislocation is extensile and provides adequate exposure to treat associated injuries to the acetabulum and the labrum of the hip. Outcomes following surgical dislocation for femoral-head fractures are reportedly good to excellent in >80% patients. Urgent reduction of the hip joint followed by anatomical reduction of the fracture and stable fixation of the fracture and osteotomy leads to predictably good results. Notable complications include heterotopic ossification, which has been reported in up to 60% patients, as well as osteonecrosis of the femoral head (often related to the initial injury rather than the approach) and degenerative arthritis of the hip joint. The Gibson interval may be utilized to preserve the gluteus maximus.Identify all of the posterior structures starting proximally from the posterior border of the gluteus medius, and continuing to the piriformis, triceps coxae, quadratus femoris, and the vastus lateralis.Aim for a thickness of 1 to 1.5 cm when performing the osteotomy; an osteotomy that is either too thick or too thin can negatively affect outcomes. The osteotomy should begin just anterior to the posterior fibers of the gluteus medius to ensure that the osteotomy is anterior to the piriformis tendon. It should exit distally to the vastus lateralis origin.Carefully elevate the posterior margin of the gluteus minimis from the capsule to avoid the tethering effect during anterior translation of the osteotomized fragment.Capsular tears during the initial dislocation are common and should be incorporated into the anterior capsulotomy.Repair of large posterosuperior labral tears may improve outcomes.Fixation of the fracture can be performed with mini-fragment screws or headless screws. Non-fixable small fragments can be excised.The osteotomy should be reduced and fixed in a stable manner to prevent trochanteric nonunion and preserve abductor function.

Complications and outcome after periacetabular osteotomy - influence of surgical approach.

Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) was introduced by Ganz as a novel surgical technique for hip dysplasia with a congruent hip to reorient the acetabulum in skeletally mature patients. The PAO through a modified Smith-Petersen (Iliofemoral) approach, has been subject to many modifications in order to avoid complications and to minimise risks for failure. The aim of this review was to report on the complication rates, functional and radiological outcomes in relation to surgical approaches. A search of NICE healthcare database advanced search, was conducted from the year of inception to May 2018. We included studies that reported complications of PAO. Data extracted from case series was analysed to detect the incidence of complications, relation to surgical approach and temporal trend of complications. 40 studies including 4070 hips with a mean age of 29 years and a mean follow-up of 52.8 month, were analysed. Outcome measures demonstrated good to excellent outcome in 82%. Higher rates of LFCN and sciatic nerve injuries were found to be associated with the ilioinguinal and the 2-incision approach. Minimally invasive (MIS) modified Smith-Petersen (MSP), minimally invasive trans-sartorial and trans-trochanteric approaches were not reported to be associated with any major wound complications. Radiological correction achieved with a mean improvement in acetabular inclination of 17.90 (range 4.5-40), anterior centre-edge correction 25.40 (range 10-51), lateral centre-edge correction 23.30 (range 15-44.6) and medial translation of 6 mm (range 3.2-10). The complication rates seem to be lower in this current review (7%) as compared to the previous review performed by Clohisy et al. (6-37%). The MIS trans-sartorial/MIS MSP and intertrochanteric approaches are associated with an even reduced complications rates. This review enables favouring the minimally invasive approaches with regard to reducing nerve injury and wound complications.

Anatomical variants of the rectus femoris motor innervation.

Adult periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) was originally performed through the classic Smith-Petersen approach for optimal operative visibility and acetabular fragment correction. Evolution towards an abductor-sparing technique significantly lowered the post-operative morbidity. The rectus-sparing approach represents a step further, but the innervation of the rectus femoris is theoretically more at risk. Although the topographic anatomy of the femoral nerve has been well described, it was never studied with specificity to surgical landmarks. The femoral nerve’s spatial relation with the anterior-inferior iliac spine (AIIS) and the amount of possible dissection in the rectus femoris and iliopsoas interval is uncertain. Seven formalin-preserved human cadaveric specimens without history of inguinal injury or surgery were dissected using the distal limb of an iliofemoral approach. The level of entry of motor innervation was measured and number of branches to the rectus femoris was noted. The average longitudinal distance from the AIIS to the first motor nerve to the rectus femoris was 8.6 ± 1.4 cm. The number of branches varied between 1 and 4 with the most common innervation pattern being composed of two segments. Dissection medial to the rectus femoris should not be carried out further than 7 cm distal to the AIIS and stretching of that interval during surgical exposure should be done cautiously. The clinical efficiency of the rectus-sparing approach should be studied further in order to confirm its advantage over the classic direct anterior approach. The study provides a better understanding of the localization and the anatomical variations of the structures encountered at the level of and below the AIIS. It also assesses the relative risk of denervation of the rectus femoris during PAO through the rectus-sparing approach. The authors recommend that the dissection medial to the rectus femoris should be carried out no further than 7 cm distal to the AIIS and stretching of that interval during surgical exposure should be done cautiously.

CORR Insights®: Does the Watson-Jones or Modified Smith-Petersen Approach Provide Superior Exposure for Femoral Neck Fracture Fixation?

CORR Insights®: Does the Watson-Jones or Modified Smith-Petersen Approach Provide Superior Exposure for Femoral Neck Fracture Fixation?

Does the Watson-Jones or Modified Smith-Petersen Approach Provide Superior Exposure for Femoral Neck Fracture Fixation?

A well-reduced femoral neck fracture is more likely to heal than a poorly reduced one, and increasing the quality of the surgical exposure makes it easier to achieve anatomic fracture reduction. Two open approaches are in common use for femoral neck fractures, the modified Smith-Petersen and Watson-Jones; however, to our knowledge, the quality of exposure of the femoral neck exposure provided by each approach has not been investigated. (1) What is the respective area of exposed femoral neck afforded by the Watson-Jones and modified Smith-Petersen approaches? (2) Is there a difference in the ability to visualize and/or palpate important anatomic landmarks provided by the Watson-Jones and modified Smith-Petersen approaches? Ten fresh-frozen human pelvi underwent both modified Smith-Petersen (utilizing the caudal extent of the standard Smith-Petersen interval distal to the anterosuperior iliac spine and parallel to the palpable interval between the tensor fascia lata and the sartorius) and Watson-Jones approaches. Dissections were performed by three fellowship-trained orthopaedic traumatologists with extensive experience in both approaches. Exposure (in cm) was quantified with calibrated digital photographs and specialized software. Modified Smith-Petersen approaches were analyzed before and after rectus femoris tenotomy. The ability to visualize and palpate seven clinically relevant anatomic structures (the labrum, femoral head, subcapital femoral neck, basicervical femoral neck, greater trochanter, lesser trochanter, and medial femoral neck) was also recorded. The quantified area of the exposed proximal femur was utilized to compare which approach afforded the largest field of view of the femoral neck and articular surface for assessment of femoral neck fracture and associated femoral head injury. The ability to visualize and palpate surrounding structures was assessed so that we could better understand which approach afforded the ability to assess structures that are relevant to femoral neck fracture reduction and fixation. After controlling for age, body mass index, height, and sex, we found the modified Smith-Petersen approach provided a mean of 2.36 cm (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-4.28 cm; p = 0.015) additional exposure without rectus femoris tenotomy (p = 0.015) and 3.33 cm (95% CI, 1.42-5.24 cm; p = 0.001) additional exposure with a tenotomy compared with the Watson-Jones approach. The labrum, femoral head, subcapital femoral neck, basicervical femoral neck, and greater trochanter were reliably visible and palpable in both approaches. The lesser trochanter was palpable in all of the modified Smith-Petersen and none of the Watson-Jones approaches (p < 0.001). All modified Smith-Petersen approaches (10 of 10) provided visualization and palpation of the medial femoral neck, whereas visualization of the medial femoral neck was only possible in one of 10 Watson-Jones approaches (p < 0.001) and palpation was possible in eight of 10 Watson-Jones versus all 10 modified Smith-Petersen approaches (p = 0.470). In the hands of surgeons experienced with both surgical approaches to the femoral neck, the modified Smith-Petersen approach, with or without rectus femoris tenotomy, provides superior exposure of the femoral neck and articular surface as well as visualization and palpation of clinically relevant proximal femoral anatomic landmarks compared with the Watson-Jones approach. Open reduction and internal fixation of a femoral neck fracture is typically performed in a young patient (< 60 years old) with the objective of obtaining anatomic reduction that would not be possible by closed manipulation, thus enhancing healing potential. In the hands of surgeons experienced in both approaches, the modified Smith-Petersen approach offers improved direct access for reduction and fixation. Higher quality reductions and fixation are expected to translate to improved healing potential and outcomes. Although our experimental results are promising, further clinical studies are needed to verify if this larger exposure area imparts increased quality of reduction, healing, and improved outcomes compared with other approaches. The learning curve for the exposure is unclear, but the approach has broad applications and is frequently used in other subspecialties such as for direct anterior THA and pediatric septic hip drainage. Surgeons treating femoral neck fractures with open reduction and fixation should familiarize themselves with the modified Smith-Petersen approach.

A Modified Extensile Anterior Approach to the Acetabulum for Severe Acetabular Defects.

A modified extensile Smith-Petersen approach was used to access the acetabulum and pelvis in cases with complex acetabular defects requiring extensive reconstructions. Between 2010 and 2014, a total of 49 hips (48 patients) with a variety of acetabular defects were reconstructed using highly porous hemispherical acetabular cups and different reconstruction methods. Preoperative diagnoses included isolated aseptic loosening of the acetabular component, aseptic loosening of both acetabular and femoral components, infection, and other. Five patients (5 hips) died prior to the 2-year follow-up, with death being unrelated to the index operation. Mean follow-up of the remaining 44 hips was 40 months. There were no intraoperative complications. Ten patients had postoperative complications; all occurred within the first 12 months postoperatively. Complications occurred in 30% and 70% of type 2 and type 3 defects, respectively. Half of the complications were treated nonoperatively. The all-cause reoperation rate was 10%. All implants were radiographically stable. The modified extensile anterior approach to the acetabulum and pelvis is safe and allows for excellent exposure and successful reconstruction of bony defects. The exposure is less successful in addressing instability due to abductor or soft tissue deficiencies, with a re-revision rate of 4% to a constrained liner for recurrent instability. Seventy percent of all complications and 83% of all dislocations occurred in the Paprosky type 3 defect group. To decrease complications with a complex acetabular defect and associated deficiency of the abductor mechanism and soft tissue constraints, a constrained liner or dual mobility socket should be considered to simultaneously address both bony defects and soft tissue deficiencies. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(2):e194-e201.].

Benign Aggressive Lesions of Femoral Head and Neck: Is Salvage Possible?

Background:Benign aggressive bone lesions of the femoral head and neck are mostly seen in young adults and warrant treatment for pain, impending fracture or established fracture, and disease clearance. It becomes challenging to treat them effectively while attempting salvage of the femoral head and yet achieving long term disease control with minimum complications. We describe our technique and experience in dealing with these lesions which can achieve the above-mentioned goals and can be easily replicated.Materials and Methods:We analyzed 15 cases of surgically treated, biopsy-proven benign, locally aggressive lesions affecting the femoral head and neck in skeletally mature individuals. All cases were treated with extended curettage through anterolateral modified Smith–Petersen approach along with tricortical iliac crest bone graft (combined with fibular graft in some cases) reconstruction with or without suitable internal fixation.Results:All, except one, patients were available for follow up. The age ranged from 18 to 43 years and the follow up ranged between 24 and 124 months (average 78 months). These included aneurysmal bone cysts (9), giant cell tumors (4), and fibrous dysplasia (2). The indication was pain (8), with impending (2) or established pathological neck femur fracture (5). In all cases, there was satisfactory healing of lesion and timely rehabilitation. Nonunion, avascular necrosis or local recurrences were not seen. The MSTS functional score was good or excellent in all (range 26–29, average 28).Conclusion:Benign aggressive lesions affecting femoral head and neck in young and middle-aged adults pose a treatment challenge. A sturdy, lasting reconstruct with acceptable functional outcome and minimal recurrence rate can be achieved by salvaging the femoral head and neck using curettage and reconstruction, obviating the need for replacement at such an early age.