Stable Arthrodesis Research Articles

Arthroscopic Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis in Post-Traumatic Indications

This manuscript aims to present the method of arthroscopic assisted subtalar arthrodesis and to evaluate the benefi ts of this surgery on our study population. In the period from 9/2007 to 1/2020, a total of 33 subtalar arthrodesis were performed in 31 patients aged 19-66 years (mean 48 years, median 50 years). The indication for arthrodesis was subtalar arthritis causing pain and gait disorders, or hindfoot deformities (most commonly after a calcaneus bone fracture). The arthroscopic assisted subtalar arthrodesis was performed with autologous tricortical bone block graft harvesting from the pelvis, supplemented by autologous cancellous bone graft. Stabilization was achieved by cannulated screws inserted in neutral ankle position. Patients in our retrospective study were followed up for a mean of 48 months (range, 24-130 months). The patients were evaluated preoperatively and at 2 years after surgery. The hindfoot angles and height (TCA - talocalcaneal angle, CIA - calcaneal inclination angle, TCH - talocalcaneal height) were evaluated on radiographs, bone union was assessed on radiographs and CT scans. The clinical assessment was performed using the ankle-hindfoot scale (AHS) of AOFAS (AOFAS score). The preoperative AOFAS score was 35-68 points (mean 52, median 54), the postoperative AOFAS score at 2 years after arthrodesis was 58-94 points (mean 82, median 82). Both the mean and median values of AOFAS score showed a signifi - cant progress from the poor result to the good and excellent result. After 2 years the TCA value decreased in 18 patients (56%) by no more than 3°. The CIA decrease observed in 21 patients (64%) was by 1° on average. The TCH decrease of 1-5 mm after 2 years since the surgery was seen in 16 patients. In 2 patients incomplete healing of arthrodesis was observed, manifested as a clinically asymptomatic non-union. No deep infection was reported. In agreement with the current literature, the arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis has been confi rmed to be a safe method for the management of consequences of hindfoot fractures, with minimum complications and leading to accelerated bone fusion. Differences can be found in the approach, position, use of cancellous bone graft and surgical techniques. In recent years, prone position, posterior approaches, use of cancellous bone graft, distraction and fi xation with 2-3 screws divergently inserted into the bone prevail. The degree of healing of the bone fusion is generally an important factor. In our study population, non-healing was recorded in 2 patients, namely in the form of a clinically silent non-union. Neurological or early complications and/or osteosynthesis material failure occurred in up to a maximum of 10% of cases. The conclusive results of minimally invasive arthrodesis based on the AOFAS score have been confi rmed by us as well as by most authors. Our study confi rmed that the arthroscopic assisted subtalar arthrodesis is a successful, reliable and safe minimally invasive method, with minimum complications, leading to stable arthrodesis. subtalar arthrodesis, subtalar arthroscopy.

Temporary arthrodesis through static spacer implantation in two-stage treatment of periprosthetic joint infections of the knee.

Treatment of chronic periprosthetic joint infection of the knee requires the removal of the implant and thorough debridement, with reimplantation in asecond stage surgery. Intramedullary spacers can be helpful during the interval between explantation and reimplantation and provide atemporary arthrodesis which fixes the knee in extension preserving leg length and administers local antibiotic therapy. Periprosthetic joint infection of the knee with large bony defects and severe infection of the native joint with advanced destruction/infiltration of the cartilage and bone and/or ligament insufficiency. Suspected antibiotic resistance of the microbiological pathogen to local antibiotic drugs, incompliant patient, and known allergy to bone cement or antibiotic. After implant removal, suitable metal rods are coated with antibiotic-loaded bone cement and inserted into the cleaned intramedullary canals of femur and tibia. Rods are joined at the joint line with aconnector and joint space is filled with more bone cement to achieve temporary and very stable arthrodesis. Partial weight-bearing and no flexion/extension while spacer is in place; second stage reimplantation as soon as infection is controlled. Complications related to the spacer were rare (5.3%). Reimplantation of an implant was possible in 95 of 113patients (84%), of those, 23 (20%) received an arthrodesis. Of the 95patients that were reimplanted, 14 showed signs of recurrent infection. Mean time to last follow-up was 15.6months post reimplantation. Mean knee pain was 2.9/10; overall function was good; 6patients had an extension lag; mean total range of motion was 88°.

Preconditions for the Successful Segmental Step-Wise Reconstruction of the Global Function of the Upper Extremity in Case of the Complete Brachial Plexus Injury (Case Report)

Background. The prognosis of recovery of the distal muscles (dM) of the upper extremity (UE) in complete brachial plexus injuries (cBPI) after any selective nerve transfer (NT) is poor. Free functioning muscle transfer (FFMT) is deprived of the disadvantages of NT. By combining NT and FFMT one can achieve recovery of the global functionality of UE in cBPI.
 Objective: to define theoretical and clinical preconditions for each stage (S) of the segmental reconstruction of UE in cBPI.
 Materials and Methods. 38 years old male patient 3 months after cBPI underwent NT (S1) of the phrenic to musculocutaneous nerve; branches of the spinal accessory nerve were transferred to axillary and suprascapular nerves. 36 months after S1 the patient underwent wrist (WA) and trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis (TMCA) (S2). 43 months after S1 the patient underwent FFMT of the gracilis muscle (S3). Clinical and neurological, electroneuromyographic (EMG), and X-ray examinations were carried out within the expected time to achieve the expected result after the corresponding stages of reconstruction. Results. 26 months after S1 m. biceps brachii and m. deltoideus recovered to M4; m. supra-infraspinatus ineffectively recovered to M3. A stable arthrodesis effect in WA and TMCA was achieved after 42 months in general. Poor clinical and EMG recovery of the gracilis muscle (S3) within the expected time led to indefinite postponement of S4, with clinical and EMG control every 3 months.
 Conclusions. Clinical signs of functional recovery cannot be a prerequisite for using a primary recipient nerve as a secondary donor nerve; the number of motor fibers in the donor nerve must be confirmed by objective data of morphometric and histochemical express methods; theoretical preconditions of the “sitting donor” technique appear to be the most promising in terms of recovery of dM of UE.

Efficacy analysis of anterior debridement and bone graft fusion in the treatment of sacroiliac joint tuberculous arthritis: a retrospective analysis of 17 patients

BackgroundSacroiliac joint tuberculous arthritis is a relatively rare site of tuberculosis infection, but it can lead to severe sacroiliac joint destruction and dysfunction. Since there are few studies on the surgical methods of sacroiliac joint tuberculosis (SJT), we adopted three different surgical methods based on different degrees of destruction of sacroiliac joint tuberculous arthritis. While revealing its clinical symptoms to improve the diagnostic accuracy, and to determine the safety and feasibility of this surgical approach in the treatment of sacroiliac joint tuberculous arthritis.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 17 patients with tuberculous arthritis of the sacroiliac joint treated by anterior debridement. All these patients underwent anterior debridement of tuberculosis with or without bone graft fusion. Mean postoperative follow-up was 17.2 months (12–25 months). The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was used to judge the general situation after surgery, and the fusion of sacroiliac joints was observed by X-ray films and CT scans. And VAS and ODI were used to score to observe postoperative functional recovery.ResultsAnterior approach debridement is an effective surgical approach for sacroiliac joint tuberculous arthritis. All patients achieved effective relief of lower back and hip pain. The pain was significantly relieved 3 months after the operation, and the pain basically disappeared 6 months after the operation. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was also significantly reduced after the operation, and it can basically return to the normal level 3 months after the operation. The VAS score and ODI index of the other 16 patients after surgery were significantly lower than those before surgery, except for 1 patient who died of severe type I respiratory failure and septic shock 3 months after surgery, The surviving patients were basically able to achieve stable fusion of the sacroiliac joint at 12 months postoperatively. None of the patients reported significant pain until the last follow-up visit.ConclusionsThe anterior approach is a very effective surgical method for the treatment of sacroiliac joint tuberculous arthritis, and it is safe and feasible. A clear operative field of view facilitates complete debridement and reduces recurrence, and its function recovers well with stable arthrodesis.

Radiographic Evaluation of Isolated Continuous Compression Staples for Midfoot and Chopart Arthrodesis

Category:Midfoot/Forefoot; HindfootIntroduction/Purpose:The use of continuous compression implants (nitinol staples) in orthopaedic surgery has increased secondary to advances in metal alloy engineering. Biomechanical studies provide useful data supporting the theoretical use of nitinol staples in the foot and ankle; however, clinical data is limited. There are several advantages of nitinol staples, including a lower profile when compared to traditional fixation methods. They are easy to apply and take up a smaller footprint than most plating techniques, thus decreasing surgical time and dissection. Additionally, continuous compression across the fusion site is maintained, as opposed to lag screw fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine the overall effectiveness, clinically and radiographically, of continuous compression implants (nitinol staples) to achieve stable arthrodesis in the midfoot and Chopart joints.Methods:A retrospective chart review was performed on 18 patients (37 joints) who underwent arthrodesis of the midfoot or Chopart joints utilizing isolated continuous compression implants between January 2017-December 2019. The primary outcome variable was radiographic evidence of arthrodesis on x-ray. X-rays were independently reviewed by three board-certified foot and ankle surgeons. All investigators were blinded towards the x-rays, and x-rays were randomized in terms of timing from surgery. Each investigator reviewed digital radiographs independently and recorded their radiographic finding responses. Joints were deemed fused if greater than 50% of the joint contained bridging bone radiographically. A partial fusion was defined as some bridging bone, but less than 50% of the joint involved, and nonunion was defined as no arthrodesis seen radiographically, broken hardware, or loss of reduction. Smokers and diabetics represented 22% and 11% of the patient population, respectively.Results:Radiographic union was seen in 88.8% of TMT joints (16/18) and 83.3% of midfoot joints overall (20/24). Nonunion rates were 11.2% (2/18) and 16.6% (4/24) respectively. Diabetes was associated for 50% (3/6) of nonunions. Mean time-to-fusion for TMT joints was 60 days. In Chopart joint fusions, nonunion rate was 46% (6/13), 2/6 (33%) were smokers. Overall, diabetes and smoking was associated with 40% (4/10) of all nonunion cases. TMT joint fusions had a significantly lower proportion of nonunion rates than hindfoot fusions (p=0.043). Radiographic Interobserver reliability was moderately strong between reviewers. Clinically, Chopart joint fusion patients had a significantly longer time course to weight bearing (p = 0.028). 8% (4/50) had broken hardware, all in nonunions, 75% (3/4) occurring in Chopart joints.Conclusion:Isolated nitinol staples are a viable option for midfoot arthrodesis, especially TMT joints, and offer multiple advantages when compared to traditional fixation methods. Staples are lower profile, eliminating hardware irritation and potential secondary surgeries, are technically less demanding, and time of application is decreased when compared to other methods. They offer the benefit of continuous compression of the fusion site, as well, and are rigid enough to maintain reduction. However, Chopart joints may require a more rigid fixation than CCI staples can provide, given the higher nonunion rate, and caution should be exercised in diabetics and smokers.

Preliminary results of surgical treatment of flexion-adduction contracture of the first ray of the hand in combination with dislocation in the metacarpophalangeal joint in patients with infantile cerebral palsy

Background. Surgical methods of treating flexionadduction contracture of the first ray of the hand in combination with dislocation in the metacarpophalangeal joint in patients with infantile cerebral palsy are divided into surgical interventions on soft tissues and bone surgeries aimed at stabilizing the metacarpophalangeal joint. We have developed a technique of temporary arthrodesis of the metacarpophalangeal joint in combination with the previously used operation to widen the first intercarpal space, combining the positive effects of both groups of operations: stability of arthrodesis with an installed metal structure that enable active movements in the joint in sufficient amplitude after its removal and early postoperative rehabilitation with a stabilized joint.
 Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a new method of surgical correction of flexionadduction contracture of the first ray of the hand in combination with metacarpophalangeal joint dislocation in the form of temporary arthrodesis of this joint and widening of the intermetacarpal space in patients with cerebral palsy.
 Materials and methods. The study analyzed treatment outcomes of patients (n = 11) who underwent temporary arthrodesis of the metacarpophalangeal joint with an extra-bone plate for a period of 1 year and expansion of the first intermetacarpal space. Comparative analysis of the results was carried out 6 months after the operation, 1 year after the operation, and after hardware removal. The amplitude of passive and active movements in the metacarpophalangeal joint was analyzed. The functionality of the upper limb was assessed according to the international classification system MACS 2002 and the block and box test.
 Results. At 1 year after surgery and removal of the fixation structure, the amplitude of both passive abduction (32.0) and extension (9.5) in the metacarpophalangeal joint increased, and the amplitude of the same movements (leads) increased by 25.5 in abduction and by 4.0 in extension when performed actively. The MACS indicator improved by 1 point. The average dynamics of the block and box test was seven additional cubes.
 Conclusion. The proposed technique for temporary extra-articular arthrodesis of the metacarpophalangeal joint does not affect the intra-articular structures, unlike intra-articular arthrodesis, and therefore has clear advantages over the latter. This surgical treatment method is effective in increasing the amplitude of active and passive movements of the first ray of the hand and reduces muscle imbalance, which ultimately improves the function of the upper limb as a whole.

Surgical treatment outcome of wrist flexion contracture in children with cerebral palsy through temporary extra-articular arthrodesis

Background. The surgical approaches adopted for the treatment of wrist flexion contracture can be categorized into soft tissue intervention (such as lengthening or transplantation of tendons) and bone operations that stabilize the wrist joint. We developed a technique for temporary arthrodesis of the wrist joint to combine the main advantages of both the approaches, that is, the stability of arthrodesis by the installed metal construction and the possibility of active movements in the wrist joint after removal of the structure.
 Aim. To compare the effectiveness of a new method of surgical treatment of wrist flexion contracture in children with cerebral palsy, such as temporary extra-articular arthrodesis and transplantation of the hand flexors to the extensors, according to Green.
 Materials and methods. We conducted a comparative analysis of the treatment outcomes between the following 2 groups of patients: group 1 (n = 13) patients underwent a tendon transplantation of m. flexor carpi ulnaris on m. extensor carpi radialis brevis/longus (Green operation), while group 2 (n = 13) patients underwent temporary arthrodesis of the wrist joint with a bone plate for a period of 1 year. The patients in group 2, after the removal of metal structures, underwent a 14-day course of rehabilitation before evaluation of their treatment outcomes. A comparative analysis of the treatment results between the groups 1 and 2 was performed 1 year after arthrodesis and plate removal and at 1 year after muscle transplantation. The range of active and passive movements in the wrist joint was analyzed throughout. In addition, the functionality of the upper limb was assessed with reference to the international classification system of MACS 2002 and the Block and Box test.
 Results. In the group 1 patients, an increase in the passive range of motion (+9.7) was noted. In both the groups, a significant increase was recorded in the amplitude of active movements (31.9 in group 1 and 45.7 in group 2). The upper limb functionality index MACS, on evaluating the condition of the arm as a whole, appeared to be almost identical in both the groups. In the group 1 patients, the average dynamics of the Block and Box test as a result of treatment was 8 additional cubes, while it was only 1.6 in the group 2 patients.
 Conclusion. The Green operation was less effective in comparison with the operation of temporary arthrodesis as a method of correcting the flexion contracture of the wrist joint. However, the functional performance of the Green operation was higher. The choice of the optimal surgical treatment technique can be determined as follows. In children with a high functional perspective, the Green operation is preferred. However, in children with doubtful functional prospects where the correction of severe contracture is the main aim, temporary arthrodesis may be preferable.

TL 18200 - Percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis for the treatment of hallux rigidus

Introduction: Arthrodesis is considered the gold standard treatment for the final stages of hallux rigidus, promoting long-term symptom improvement. Arthrodesis is traditionally performed as open surgery. However, in recent years, the prevalence of minimally invasive surgery has increased due to its decreased aggression to soft tissue, shorter surgical time and association with a more comfortable postoperative period with reduced pain intensity. The objective of the study is to describe the percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis technique with a single medial portal and to evaluate postoperative outcomes regarding union time, the presence of residual pain and the degree of satisfaction in a series of 22 patients. Methods: This is a series of 22 patients (23 feet) who underwent surgery between January 2017 and July 2018. The union time was assessed, and the patients reported their pre- and postoperative pain levels using the pain visual analog scale (VAS) and their degree of satisfaction. Surgical wound dehiscence, superficial and deep infection and need for orthopedic hardware removal were considered complications. Results: All patients underwent clinical evaluation. In 3 patients, union could not be assessed due to the lack of postoperative radiographs. Twenty patients were women, and 2 were men. Their mean age was 67.8 years. The mean time between the date of surgery and the evaluation was 51 weeks. The follow-up time ranged from 6 to 24 months, with a mean union time of 9 weeks. The union rate was 80%. Five cases showed no radiographic union, although the patients had stable and asymptomatic arthrodesis that required no revision. There were no cases of postoperative infection. In 3 patients, orthopedic hardware was removed. The mean preoperative pain intensity was 8.73, and the mean postoperative pain intensity was 1.26 (p<0.001). All patients were satisfied with the surgery. Conclusion: Percutaneous arthrodesis of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the hallux potentially provides outcomes similar to those of the conventional method reported in the literature and tends to produce a more comfortable postoperative period and better cosmetic results because it uses smaller incisions.

Primary Arthrodesis Compared with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Lisfranc Injuries with the First Tarsometatarsal Joint Dislocation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Category:Midfoot/Forefoot, TraumaIntroduction/Purpose:Prospective analyses of treatment for the first tarsometatarsal joint dislocation with Lisfranc injury. Comparison of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and primary arthrodesis was conducted for the injury.Methods:78 Lisfranc injuries with first tarsometatarsal joint dislocation underwent surgical intervention. They were 46 males and 32 females with mean age of 41.2 years. Two groups were randomized by ORIF group and primary arthrodesis group. 43 patients were performed by ORIF, while primary arthrodesis group including 35 cases. Outcome measures included radiographs, AOFAS scores, VAS and SF-36 scores. Complications and revision rate were analyzed also.Results:73 patients were followed up for 21 months. At 1.5 years postoperatively, the AOFAS score was 75 and 83 in ORIF group and arthrodesis group. The VAS score was 3.0 and 2.1 separately in two groups. The mean Physical Functioning sores of SF- 36 was 81.2 points and 84.1 points. The Bodily Pain score of SF-36 was 79.3 points and 85.2 points. Redislocation of first tarsometarsal joint were observed in 11 cases among ORIF group.31 patients in ORIF group had pain in midfoot, six of them had persistent pain with the development of deformity or osteoarthrosis. No redislocation and no hardware failure was identified in arthrodesis group.Conclusion:Primary stable arthrodesis of the first ray gives a better short and medium term outcome than open reduction and internal fixation for Lisfranc injury with the first ray dislocation. Possible complication and revision could be avoided by primary arthrodesis for dislocated first ray injuries.

Progression of Healing on Serial Radiographs Following First Ray Arthrodesis in the Foot Using a Biplanar Plating Technique Without Compression

A review of 195 first ray arthrodeses fixated with a twin-plate biplanar construct, without interfragmentary compression, is presented. This fixation construct was evaluated in a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) arthrodesis or the first tarsometatarsal joint (TMT) arthrodesis. Multiple radiographs were used to assess the progression of healing at the following postoperative time frames: 4 to 9 weeks, 10 to 12 weeks, >12 weeks, and the final follow-up. In total, 85 feet underwent first MTP arthrodesis, and 110 feet underwent first TMT arthrodesis. At the final radiographic follow-up, 97.44% of all cases had shown progressive osseous gap filling at the arthrodesis site, stable position of the bone segments, and intact hardware without loosening, 98.24% of the first MTP arthrodesis group and 96.82% of the first TMT arthrodesis group. Five (5.43%) feet had the presence of lucency at the fusion interface at the final follow-up, without positional change or hardware failure. Four (1.8%) feet had a failure of the hardware, loss of position, or frank gapping at the fusion site. Lucency decreased consistently over time in this series of patients (p < .00001). Progressive increase in callus density at the fusion site on serial radiographs was noted to be a consistent finding for both procedures and was the primary indicator of secondary bone healing at the noncompressed, relatively stable arthrodesis site. Our results confirm that biplanar plating construct without interfragmentary compression produces high fusion rates following the first MTP or TMT arthrodesis, with early weightbearing.

Primary Arthrodesis Compared with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Lisfranc Injuries with the First Tarsometatarsal Joint Dislocation

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: The first tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint is very crucial for midfoot stability. To address its importance, retrospective analyses of treatment for the first TMT joint dislocation with Lisfranc injury was performed in a multi-center manner. Comparison of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and primary arthrodesis was conducted for the injury. Methods: This multi-center study was involved ten clinical institutions in different area of China. .From January 2003 to June 2015, 126 Lisfranc injuries with first TMT joint dislocation underwent surgical intervention. Of this group, forty one (32.5%) feet were first TMT joint dislocation only. Eighty five feet were first TMT joint dislocation and fractures. They were 76 males (60.3%) and 50 females (39.7%) with a mean age of 45.5 (range, 20-87) years. The duration from injury to surgery is 11.7 (range, 4-26) days. Two groups were divided by surgery methods as open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) group and primary arthrodesis group. Ninety two patients were performed by ORIF, while primary arthrodesis group including 34 cases. Outcome measures included clinical examination, radiographs, AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores, visual analogue scale (VAS) and SF-36 scores. Complications and revision rate were analyzed as well. Results: 126 patients were followed up for 29.5 months. At 1.5 years postoperatively, the AOFAS score was 79 and 85 in ORIF group and arthrodesis group.The VAS score was 3.1 separately in two groups.The mean Physical Functioning sores of SF-36 was 80.3 points and 83.5• points. The Bodily Pain score of SF-36 was 76.1 points and 84.6• points.Redislocation of first tarsometarsal joint were observed in 16 cases among ORIF group.36 patients in ORIF group had pain in midfoot, eight of them had persistent pain with the development of deformity or osteoarthrosis.No redislocation and no hardware failure was identified in arthrodesis group Conclusion: Primary stable arthrodesis of the first ray gives a better short and medium term outcome than open reduction and internal fixation for Lisfranc injury with the first ray dislocation. Possible complication and revision could be avoided by primary arthrodesis for dislocated first ray injuries.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis correction by instrumented vertebral arthrodesis with autologous bone graft from local harvesting without bone substitute use: results with mean 3year follow-up.

Bone substitutes' advantage is enhancing arthrodesis biologic support without further autologous bone graft harvested from other skeleton sites, as from posterior iliac crests; however, in our experience, bone substitutes' integration is often incomplete. From 2012 to 2017, we operated 108 patients by posterior instrumented vertebral arthrodesis in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) correction, mean main curve 80° Cobb, and mean age 12years and 6months, with all pedicle screws instrumentation in main curve/curves area and hooks at upper tip of implant; bone graft has been harvested only at vertebral level, without bone substitutes or autologous graft from other patient sites or allogenic bone graft. We matched this group with 98 patients previously operated in which we used calcium triphosphate. At 3year mean follow-up, all patients in group treated with autologous bone graft only have complete and stable arthrodesis without loss of correction (mean curve 27° Cobb) or instrumentation failure. At 6year mean follow-up in the group treated with autologous bone graft augmented by calcium triphosphate, 96 patients have stable arthrodesis without loss of correction (mean curve 24°), 1 case has implant break, and 1 case has 8° Cobb loss of correction. Bone substitutes are a further cost in arthrodesis surgery and suboptimal integration leaves foreign bodies on vertebras. Our experience shows that all pedicle screw instrumentation and bracing after surgery obtain stable correction showing in time a solid arthrodesis with autologous bone only, harvested at local site, without bone substitutes or further bone graft.

Primary Arthrodesis Compared with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Lisfranc Injuries with the First Tarsometatarsal Joint Dislocation

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Retrospective analyses of treatment for the first tarsometatarsal joint dislocation with Lisfranc injury. Comparison of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and primary arthrodesis was conducted for the injury. Methods: This was a multi-center study, involving nine clinical institutions in different area of China. .From January 2003 to June 2015, 126 Lisfranc injuries with first tarsometatarsal joint dislocation underwent surgical intervention. Of this group, 41 (32.5%) feet were first tarsometarsal joint dislocation only. 85 feet were first tarsometarsal joint dislocation and fractures. They were 76 males (60.3%) and 50 females (39.7%) with a mean age of 45.5 (range, 20-87) years. The duration from injury to surgery is 11.7 (range, 4-26) days. Two groups were divided by surgery methods as open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) group and primary arthrodesis group. Ninety two patients were performed by ORIF, while primary arthrodesis group including 34 cases. Outcome measures included clinical examination, radiographs, AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores, visual analogue scale (VAS) and SF-36 scores. Complications and revision rate were analyzed as well. Results: 126 patients were followed up for average of 29.5 months．At 1.5 years, the mean AOFAS Midfoot score at latest follow-up was 79 points and 85 points separately in ORIF and arthrodesis group（P&lt;0.05）. The VAS score was 3.1and 2.2 separately（P&lt;0.05）.The BP score of SF-36 was 76.1 points and 84.6 points（P&lt;0.05). Five patients in the open-reduction group had loosen or broken hardware. Redislocation of first tarsometarsal joint were observed in 16 cases among ORIF group. 36patients in ORIF group had pain in midfoot, eight of them had persistent pain, and they were eventually revised with arthrodesis. Two patients had painful hardware and the symptom disappeared after removal of the hardware. No redislocation and no hardware failure was identified in arthrodesis group. Conclusion: Primary stable arthrodesis of the first ray gives a better short and medium term outcome than open reduction and internal fixation for Lisfranc injury with the first ray dislocation. Possible complication and revision could be avoided by primary arthrodesis for dislocated first ray injuries.

Radiological evaluation of ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov fixation compared to internal fixation

IntroductionWe asked whether the type of ankle joint arthrodesis stabilization will affect: (1) rate of union, (2) rate of adjacted-joint arthritis, (3) malalignment of the ankle joint. Material and methodsWe retrospectively radiological studied 62 patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov external fixator stabilization (group 1,n=29) or internal stabilization (group 2,n=33) from 2006 to 2015. Radiologic outcomes were mesure by: (1) rate of union, (2) rate of adjacent-joint arthritis, (3) malalignment of the ankle joint. The Levene’s test,Mann–Whitney U test and Students t-test were used to the statistical analyses. ResultsAnkle fusion was achieved in 100% of patients treated with external fixation and in 88% with internal stabilization. Desired frontal plane alignment was achieved in 100% of patients with external fixation and 76% with internal stabilization. Desired sagittal plane alignment was achieved in 100% of external fixation and 85% of internal stabilization. A total of 14 (48.3%) patients from group 1 showed a radiographic evidence of pre-existing adjacent-joint OA. The radiographic evidence of pre-existing adjacent-joint OA was also found in 27(81.8%) subjects from group 2. Alterations of adjacent joints were also found on postoperative radiograms of 19 (65.5%) patients subjected to Ilizarov fixation and in all 33 patients from group 2. DiscusionIlizarov fixation of ankle arthrodesis is associated with lower prevalence of adjacent-joint OA and ankle joint misalignment,and with higher fusion rates than after internal fixation.Although achieving a complex ankle fusion is generally challenging,radiological outcomes after fixation with the Ilizarov apparatus are better than after internal stabilization.

Subtalar arthrodesis stabilization with angulated screw configuration is superior to parallel SC

Subtalar arthrodesis stabilization with angulated screw configuration is superior to parallel SC

Ankle arthrodesis from lateral transfibular approach: analysis of treatment results of 23 feet treated by the modified Mann's technique.

The aim of the study was to analyze the results of treatment by ankle arthrodesis by modified Mann's technique. The study included 23 patients, and a total of 23 feet were treated. Stabilization of arthrodesis was performed by two screws going from the sinus tarsi to the talus and tibia. Lateral part of the fibula was fixed with one or two screws to the talus and tibia. No additional medial approach to the ankle was performed. In 16 feet, arthrodesis was done due to secondary posttraumatic osteoarthritis, in five due to paralytic drop foot and in two due to osteoarthritis of unknown etiology. In 18 patients, the purpose of arthrodesis was also to correct the malalignment. The average age at operation was 46 (range 19-74) years. The average follow-up was 32 (range 12-69) months. At follow-up, the average AOFAS score was 76 points and subjective scale result 7.9 points. The correct alignment was not achieved in three feet. In one foot, fusion was not achieved and the patient needed repeated operation. The study has confirmed the effectiveness of the technique.

Outcomes in Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Anchored Intersomatic Cage

Introduction The anchored cervical intersomatic cages made in PEEK is a new promising alternative to anterior cervical locking plates with autologous iliac bone graft for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. The advantage of such devices is the lack of profile and can provide the stability needed to achieve the arthrodesis. Objectives This study aims to evaluate the outcomes and fusion rates of the anchored intersomatic cage for achieving a stable arthrodesis and compare this result with established fixation methods. The hypothesis is that this device would be associated with low short-term complications and dysphagia, and could achieve a solid fusion and maintains the pain relief. Patients and Methods This was a comparative study in a single center, 50 patients were enrolled; 25 patients who underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with autologous bone graft and locking plate and 25 patients with cervical intersomatic cage with heterologous bone graft. The clinical features Neck and Pain Disability Index; radicular pain, neck pain, and patient satisfaction were evaluated with VAS; and dysphagia scores were recorded preoperative and postoperative. Radiographs evaluated the height of intervertebral disc, implant position, and cervical Cobb angle. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Results In all the patients, we found that a stable arthrodesis was achieved; the neck pain and radicular pain significantly reduces after surgery, without change after 1 year of follow-up. We do not have any chronic dysphagia and only one patient complained of minor dysphagia that improved in 2 weeks. Conclusions The cervical-anchored intersomatic cages are new surgical alternative with good functional outcomes, low-complication rates, and better postoperative patient comfort. We think that this is a preliminary assessment and prospective randomized trials are necessary to confirm this observation.

One-step reduction and fixation applying transposterior arch lateral mass screw of C1 combined with pedicle screw of C2 and rod system for pediatric acute atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation with injury of transverse ligament.

A retrospective case series. To describe a novel intraoperative reduction technique applying C1 transposterior arch lateral mass screw combined with C2 pedicle screw and rod system for pediatric acute atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation with injury of transverse ligament and evaluate outcomes of this technique. For atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation with disruption of transverse ligament or recurrent cases, initial posterior atlantoaxial fusion is a preference. It is an important prerequisite for successful surgery to achieve satisfactory reduction of atlantoaxial articulation after preoperative cranial traction. However, the placement of cranial tractor and persistent traction may be challenging due to a pediatric patient's noncompliance and unsuitable anatomic structure. Therefore, an intraoperative way to achieve reduction and to keep solid stability with only a single procedure is needed. The consecutive patients with atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation with injury of transverse ligament, including 4 males and 1 female, underwent intraoperative reduction and fixation applying C1 posterior arch lateral mass screw combined with C2 pedicle screw and rod system during a 2-year period. The surgical technique and procedure of treatment were intensively reviewed; the clinical outcomes were retrospectively investigated in the aspects of clinical symptoms and imaging appearance. Clinical follow-ups were obtained for an average of 29.4 (range, 24-30 mo) months. The clinical and radiological follow-up indicated a complete clinical relief and satisfactory reduction, stable arthrodesis of atlantoaxial articulation. No neural and vascular impairment related to this technique were observed. The primary outcome showed under sufficient preoperative imaging measurements, C1 transposterior arch lateral mass screw combined with C2 pedicle screw and rod system that obviated preoperative cranial traction provided reliable reduction and stability of atlantoaxial articulation for atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation with injury of transverse ligament. 4.

Anterior ankle arthrodesis

Ankle arthrodesis is a common procedure that resolves many conditions of the foot and ankle; however, complications following this procedure are often reported and vary depending on the fixation technique. Various techniques have been described in the attempt to achieve ankle arthrodesis and there is much debate as to the efficiency of each one. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of anterior plating in ankle arthrodesis using customised and Synthes TomoFix plates. We present the outcomes of 28 ankle arthrodeses between 2005 and 2012, specifically examining rate of union, patient-reported outcomes scores, and complications. All 28 patients achieved radiographic union at an average of 36 wk; the majority of patients (92.86%) at or before 16 wk, the exceptions being two patients with Charcot joints who were noted to have bony union at a three year review. Patient-reported outcomes scores significantly increased (P < 0.05). Complications included two delayed unions as previously mentioned, infection, and extended postoperative pain. With multiple points for fixation and coaxial screw entry points, the contoured customised plate offers added compression and provides a rigid fixation for arthrodesis stabilization.

Surgical Technique: Tibia Cortical Strut Autograft Interposition Arthrodesis After Distal Radius Resection

Distal radius reconstruction after en bloc tumor resection remains a surgical challenge. Although several surgical techniques, either reconstructing the wrist or achieving a stable arthrodesis, have been described, it is unclear to what degree these restore function. We describe an updated technique making use of a tibia cortical strut autograft (TCSA) to perform a functional arthrodesis from the remaining radius to the first carpal row. This, in theory, could lead to less donor site morbidity while resulting in a stable but functional and pain-free arthrodesis of the wrist. Between 1987 and 2010 we reconstructed the wrists of 17 patients using a TCSA arthrodesis (six primary and three revisions), seven with an osteoarticular allograft, three using an ulnar translocation, and one with a fibula autograft. Median age at diagnosis was 24 years (range, 9-58 years) and minimum followup was 2.7 years (median, 13.8 years; range, 2.7-24.5 years). Patients were evaluated using radiographs and clinical examination. We used Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), and SF-36 questionnaires to assess function and quality of life. All TCSA reconstructions fused; one patient had a second surgery to expedite union with the carpal row. After osteoarticular allograft, five patients were revised (three to a TCSA) for nonunion, fracture, or joint collapse. ROM and grip strength were comparable in both AO and TCSA, all above 60% of the contralateral side. Median MSTS and DASH scores were 73% and 6, respectively, and did not differ between the groups. The SF-36 scores showed less pain after TCSA; otherwise, all patients presented with comparable function. TCSA wrist arthrodesis resulted in a functional and painless wrist reconstruction with a relatively low complication and donor site morbidity rate and comparable functional results as other techniques. Level III, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.