Traumatic Instability Research Articles

Traumatic Anterior Instability: Treatment Options for Initial Instability

Because of the lack of bony restraints and minimal articular contact, the glenohumeral joint can attain significant range of motion; however, this results in the propensity for instability. The most generic form of instability, traumatic anterior instability, reliably produces a series of pathoanatomic findings. While reliable, these findings contribute to the complexities of caring for patients after an initial instability event. Numerous studies have examined this issue and determined that careful consideration of patient factors can guide successful treatment, whether it be surgical or nonsurgical, after initial instability. Such forms of treatment have shown to provide a good functional outcome and decreases morbidity. To be able to provide successful treatment requires a thorough understanding of the pathoanatomic of an instability event and the intricacies of the evaluation of a patient after an initial instability event.

Concurrent validity of handheld dynamometer measurements for scapular protraction strength

BackgroundHandheld dynamometers (HHD) provide quick and low-cost assessments of muscle strength and their use has been increasing in clinical practice. There is no available data related to the validity of HHD for this measurement. ObjectiveTo verify the concurrent validity of scapular protraction measurements using an HHD. MethodsIndividuals with traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability were allocated in Instability Group (n=20), healthy swimmers were allocated in Athletes Group (n=19) and healthy subjects were allocated in Sedentary Group (n=21). Concurrent validity was verified by the Pearson correlation test between HHD and isokinetic measurements. The agreement between instruments was verified by Bland–Altman plots, for each of the two HHD positions. ResultsA moderate correlation was observed between seated (r=0.59) and lying supine HHD (r=0.54) and isokinetic dynamometer measurements for the all groups. Separated group analysis exhibited a strong correlation between seated HHD and isokinetic dynamometer measurements in the Instability Group (r=0.80), Sedentary Group (r=0.79) and Athletes Group (r=0.76). The Bland–Altman plot showed greater agreement in the seated position than the lying supine position when comparing measurements with the HHD and isokinetic in both the general sample and separated groups. ConclusionThe HHD may be considered a valid tool for assessing scapular protraction muscle strength among healthy athletes, non-athletes and subjects with shoulder instability. We recommend to assess subjects in the seated position and to be aware that the HHD tends to overestimate the peak force, compared with the gold-standard isokinetic dynamometer.

Age-Related Changes of Elastic Fibers in Shoulder Capsule of Patients with Glenohumeral Instability: A Pilot Study.

Background Recurrent shoulder dislocations occur much more frequently in adolescents than in the older population but a clear explanation of this incidence does not exist. The aim of the present study was to define the age-related distribution of the elastic fibers (EFs) in the shoulder capsule's extracellular matrix as a factor influencing shoulder instability. Materials and Methods Biopsy specimens were obtained from the shoulder capsule of patients divided preoperatively into three groups: Group 1 consisted of 10 male patients undergoing surgery for unidirectional traumatic anterior instability (TUBS); Group 2 consisted of 10 male patients undergoing surgery for multidirectional instability (MDI); Group 3 represents the control, including 10 patients with no history of instability. In addition to the group as a whole, specific subgroups were analyzed separately on the basis of the age of subjects: > 22 or < to 22 years. All the samples were analyzed by histochemical (Weigert's resorcinol fuchsin and Verhoeff's iron hematoxylin), immunohistochemical (monoclonal antielastin antibody), and histomorphometric methods. Results Both the elastin density and the percentage of area covered by EFs were significantly higher in younger subjects (<22 years old). Furthermore, the elastin density and the percentage of area covered by EFs were significantly higher in specimens of group of patients affected by multidirectional shoulder instability in comparison to the other two groups. Conclusion Data of the present study confirmed the presence of an age-related distribution of EFs in the human shoulder capsule. The greater amount of EFs observed in younger subjects and in unstable shoulders could play an important role in predisposing the joint to first dislocation and recurrence.

Paper #12 - Shoulder joint proprioception for patients with traumatic shoulder instability compared to normal subjects

Paper #12 - Shoulder joint proprioception for patients with traumatic shoulder instability compared to normal subjects

Scapular muscles weakness in subjects with traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability

ObjectiveTo investigate possible alterations on scapular muscle strength in subjects with traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability. DesignCross-sectional study. Setting: Laboratory setting. Participants: Fifty-two subjects of both sexes: 26 healthy and 26 with traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability. Main outcome measuresSubjects performed maximal isometric and concentric isokinetic contractions of shoulder protraction and retraction in scapular and sagittal planes, at slow (12.2 cm/s) and fast (36.6 cm/s) speeds. ResultsSubjects with glenohumeral instability presented lower peak force of protraction and retraction during isometric and fast speed tests in the scapular plane; and of isometric protraction in the sagittal plane. ConclusionsPeople with traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability present muscle weakness of scapular protractors and retractors. Considering the importance of the scapulothoracic muscles for the dynamic stability of the glenohumeral joint, strengthening of these muscles is recommended for rehabilitation of traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability.

Treatment of Traumatic Elbow Instability With an Internal Joint Stabilizer

Current options for treating elbow instability include bony and/or ligamentous fixation with orthosis or cast immobilization, transarticular cross-pinning, temporary bridge plating, and hinged or rigid external fixation. Our purpose was to evaluate the recently developed internal joint stabilizer (IJS), which acts as an internal external fixator of the elbow. Our primary end point was to assess whether use of the device results in a stable and congruent reduction of the ulnohumeral and radiocapitellar joints in patients with acute or chronic elbow instability as a result of trauma. In our series, patients with elbow instability as a result of acute or chronic trauma were treated with an IJS. This retrospective study reviewed 20 patients who underwent placement of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved IJS for elbow instability. Serial physical examinations and radiographs were performed to verify stability. Patients were instructed that, if they are dissatisfied with their postoperative motion, a secondary contracture release operation will be offered to them. Patients were asked to complete outcome-scoring questionnaires including the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and hand (DASH) and Mayo Elbow Performance (MEP) score. Complications were monitored for all patients. Twenty patients who underwent placement of an IJS for persistent elbow instability were reviewed. Patients with a flexion-extension arc of 70° or less at 12 weeks were offered a staged arthroscopic contracture release. The average MEP score improved from 12.2 ± 12.4 to 82.5 ± 14.3 and the average DASH score improved from 85.3 ± 23.0 to 37.26 ± 29.3. The average postoperative flexion-extension arc at most recent follow-up was 124.3° ± 14.9°, with a median follow-up of 17 months (8 weeks-25 months). Use of an IJS allows for early, congruent, and stable ulnohumeral and radiocapitellar range of motion in instances of persistent elbow instability. Therapeutic IV.

Anatomic analysis of the whole articular capsule of the shoulder joint, with reference to the capsular attachment and thickness

BackgroundAlthough conventional Bankart repair has been the accepted procedure for traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability, the humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament or an elongation of the capsule remains challenging to decide the appropriate treatment. The anatomical knowledge regarding the whole capsule of glenohumeral joint is necessary to accurately treat for the capsular disorders. The aims of the current study were to investigate the anatomical features of capsular attachment and thickness in a whole capsule of glenohumeral joint.MethodsWe used 13 shoulders in the current study. In 9 shoulders, we macroscopically measured the attachment widths of the capsulolabrum complex on the scapular glenoid, and the attachment widths of the capsule on the humerus in reference to the scapular origin of the long head of triceps brachii, and the humeral insertion of the rotator cuff tendons. We additionally used 4 cadaveric shoulders, which were embalmed using Thiel’s method, for the analysis of the thickness in a whole capsule by using micro-CT.ResultsThe glenoidal attachment of the articular capsule appeared to have a consistent width except for the superior part of the origin of the long head of triceps brachii. On the humerus, the articular capsule was widely attached to areas without overlying rotator cuffs, with the widest width (17.3 ± 0.9 mm) attached to the axillary pouch. The inferior part of the capsule, which was consistently thicker than the superior part, continued to the superior part along the glenoid and humeral side edge.ConclusionsThe current study showed that the inferior part of the glenohumeral capsule had a wide humeral attachment from the inferior edge of the subscapularis insertion to the inferior edge of the teres minor insertion via the anatomical neck of the humerus, and the thickness of it was thicker than the superior part of the capsule.

Medial patellofemoral ligament repair restores stability in pediatric patients when compared to reconstruction

BackgroundPediatric patellar instability has a high recurrence rate with non-operative care, and medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction has known complications. MPFL repair offers an alternative method to restore patellar stability. This study's purpose was to assess the outcomes of MPFL repair in a pediatric cohort, and to compare these outcomes to a cohort of pediatric patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction. MethodsOne surgeon performed 16 MPFL repairs on pediatric patients for traumatic patellar instability, with an average follow-up of 1.5 years. Age, sex, skeletal maturity, trochlear dysplasia, additional procedures, final range of motion, and complications were recorded. A sub-cohort with >1 dislocation (10 patients) was compared to a historical group (22 patients) with >1 dislocation who underwent allograft MPFL reconstructions by the same surgeon. ResultsTen out of 16 (63%) patients had >1 dislocation event at time of presentation. Thirteen out of 16 (81%) patients had trochlear dysplasia. There were no complications and no recurrent instability in the repair group at last follow-up. Patients in the reconstruction group were older than the repair group (15.6 years vs. 13.0 years, p < 0.05), had lower Caton–Deschamps ratio (1.2 vs. 1.4, p < 0.05), and had lower percentage of additional procedures (59% vs. 100%, p < 0.05). There were three complications in the reconstruction group: two patients with recurrent instability and one patient with patella fracture requiring revision surgery. ConclusionsMPFL repair in pediatric patients resulted in a low risk of recurrent instability with rates comparable or better than that of allograft reconstruction.

Failure following arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic anteroinferior instability of the shoulder: is a glenoid labral articular disruption (GLAD) lesion a risk factor for recurrent instability?

Recurrent instability is a frequent complication following arthroscopic Bankart repair. The purpose of this study was to investigate risk factors for poor patient-reported clinical outcome scores and failure rates. Patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair at least 2 years earlier were included. Preoperative and postoperative Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons; and satisfaction scores were collected. The relationship of the following factors with outcomes and failure rates was assessed: (1) previous arthroscopic stabilization, (2) 3 or more dislocations prior to surgery, (3) glenoid labral articular disruption (GLAD) lesion, (4) concurrent superior labral anterior-to-posterior tear repair, and (5) concurrent biceps tenodesis. The study included 72 patients with a median age of 23 years (range, 14-49 years). Subsequent revision was required in 9 (12.5%); 1 additional patient (1.4%) had recurrent dislocation. Outcome data were available at a median follow-up of 3 years (range, 2-9 years). All scores significantly improved from preoperatively to postoperatively (P <.05); the mean patient satisfaction score was 9, with a median of 10 (range, 1-10). None of the analyzed factors were associated with worse postoperative outcome scores. GLAD lesions were significantly associated with a higher rate of failure (P = .007). No other analyzed factors had a significant association with failure rates (P > .05). Patients with arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic anteroinferior shoulder instability had excellent outcomes, even in the context of previous arthroscopic stabilization surgery, 3 or more dislocations prior to surgery, concurrent superior labral anterior-to-posterior tear repair, or concurrent biceps tenodesis. However, GLAD lesions were associated with higher rates of failure, and the presence of a GLAD lesion may herald the presence of changes in the articular version or other as-yet-undetermined factors that could predispose patients to failure.

Time to peak torque and acceleration time are altered in male patients following traumatic shoulder instability

Numerous authors have evaluated the strength of the rotator cuff muscles in patients with shoulder instability. However, only limited data are available with regard to neuromuscular control in patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability, in particular at 90° of abduction. This study was designed to assess muscle strength and neuromuscular control ability using time to peak torque and acceleration time in nonathletic patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability. Isokinetic muscle performance testing was performed in 20 male nonathletic anterior shoulder instability patients compared with 20 side-matched asymptomatic volunteers. Isokinetic muscle performance testing was performed at an angular velocity of 180°/s with 90° of shoulder abduction. Muscle strength and neuromuscular control (time to peak torque and acceleration time) of the internal rotators (IRs) and external rotators (ERs) were measured. There were no significant differences in muscle strength of the IRs and ERs between the 2 groups. The injured shoulder showed delayed neuromuscular control in both the IRs and ERs in the instability patients compared with the normal control subjects (time to peak torque, P = .023 for IRs and P = .020 for ERs; acceleration time, P = .035 for IRs and P = .021 for ERs). The neuromuscular control of both the IRs and ERs was decreased in male nonathletic patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability even though muscle strength was not altered. Therefore, clinicians and therapists should implement exercises that aim to restore neuromuscular control in the rehabilitation of nonathletic patients with anterior shoulder instability.

Patterns in Outcomes Reporting of Operatively Managed Pediatric Patellofemoral Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Traumatic patellofemoral dislocation is a common injury in pediatric patients, and surgical treatment is often recommended. Increasingly, it has been recognized that clinical studies need to report age-appropriate treatment outcomes. However, the variability and appropriateness of outcomes reporting in the youth patellar instability literature are unknown. Purpose: To analyze the patterns of outcomes reporting in studies published in high-impact orthopaedic journals after operative management of pediatric patellar instability. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Six high-impact orthopaedic journals were searched using PubMed and EMBASE to identify studies reporting outcomes of operative management of pediatric patellar instability. Studies containing adults were excluded. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were recorded from included articles. Descriptive statistics were calculated for overall instability recurrence rates, return-to-activity rates, and changes in Kujala and Tegner scores. Results: Of 545 identified articles, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies encompassed 213 patients and 230 knees (mean age, 13.2 years; range, 4.5-18.3 years). Seven of 8 studies reported patients’ physeal status, but only 4 studies limited their outcomes reporting to patients with open physes. Two studies reported postoperative radiographic measures, and 5 studies reported preoperative radiographic findings. Six studies reported patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Seven unique PROMs were reported. All but one study reported complication rates and types of complications. The mean postoperative change in Tegner scores was −0.07 (range, −0.6 to 1.0). Among studies examining medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with adequate data, the mean return-to-activity rate was 86% (range, 81%-92%), the instability recurrence rate was 3% ± 20%, and the mean improvement in Kujala scores postoperatively was 22.1 (range, 19.9-26). Conclusion: There is a need for more pediatric-specific outcomes studies regarding operatively managed traumatic patellofemoral instability. Of the outcomes reported, both radiographic outcomes and PROMs should be standardized. Among radiographic outcomes, there is a need for more studies that report tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distances and use Caton-Deschamps and/or Blackburne-Peel indices to assess patellar height. Among PROMs, there is a need for studies that use PROMs validated in pediatric populations, such as the International Knee Documentation Committee Pediatric Form or the Hospital for Special Surgery Pediatric Functional Activity Brief Scale.

Distal Femoral Valgus and Recurrent Traumatic Patellar Instability: Is an Isolated Varus Producing Distal Femoral Osteotomy a Treatment Option?

Genu valgum, a risk factor for recurrent patellofemoral instability, can be addressed with a varus producing distal femoral osteotomy (DFO). The purpose of this study is to report 3-year clinical and radiographic outcomes on a series of skeletally mature adolescents with traumatic patellofemoral instability and genu valgum who underwent a varus producing DFO. Consecutive patients (n=11) who underwent an isolated DFO for recurrent traumatic patellar instability over a 4-year study period (2009 to 2012) were reviewed. All patients were below 19 years of age, skeletally mature, had ≥2 patellar dislocations, genu valgum (≥ zone II mechanical axis) and failed nonoperative treatment. Exclusion criteria included less than three-year follow-up, congenital or habitual patellar instability, osteotomy indicated for pathology other than patellar instability, or biplanar osteotomies. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data were retrospectively analyzed. Recurrence of instability and outcome measures (Kujala and Tegner Activity Scale) were collected at final followed-up prospectively. Ten of 11 patients (average age, 16 y; range, 14 to 18 y; 4 male individuals: 7 female individuals) with an average follow-up of 4.25 years (range, 3.2 to 6.0 y) met inclusion criteria. The average body mass index (BMI) of all patients was 31.3 (range, 19.7 to 46.8) with 91% considered overweight (BMI>25) and 55% obese (BMI>30). The average preoperative lateral distal femoral angle was 75.4 degrees with an average correction of 10.4 degrees (range, 7 to 12 degrees) (P<0.001). Mean patellar height ratios were reduced; with Caton-Deschamps Index significantly reduced to 1.08 (range, 0.86 to 1.30) (P<0.005). The average postoperative Kujala score was 83.6 (range, 49 to 99) with 7 subjects (70%) reporting good to excellent function (Kujala > 80) and 8 (80%) having no further episodes of instability. The mean postoperative Tegner activity score was 5.5 (range, 3 to 7). A distal femoral varus producing osteotomy may change radiographic parameters associated with patellar instability and improve clinical outcomes by reducing symptomatic patellofemoral instability in this patient population. Level IV.

Modified Bristow-Latarjet procedure for treatment of recurrent traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation

ObjectiveRetrospective case–control study of authors experience in the modified Bristow-Latarjet procedure for treatment of recurrent traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation with glenoid bone injury. MethodsSample with 102 recurrent glenohumeral dislocation cases submitted to modified Bristow-Latarjet procedure. Indications included situations of recurrent traumatic anterior glenohumeral instability with more than two dislocation episodes and with glenoid bone attritional or fragmentary injuries, without possibility of reconstruction. Mean follow-up time was 5.33±2.74 years (minimum 1; range 1–13). ResultsThe mean Walch-Duplay Score at the last evaluation was 91.23±11.46 (range 15–100). The functional score of patients with glenoid bone loss greater than 20% did not show a significant difference in comparison with patients with glenoid bone loss lower than 20% (90 vs. 92, respectively). The functional score also did not show a significant difference between sports practice categories and between recreational and competitive practice, being excellent (greater than 90) in every category. There were no dislocation recurrences and the only complications were a case of persistent instability and a screw revision. Mild glenohumeral osteoarthrosis imaging signs were identified in 7.84% of the patients; however, their functional scores were not significantly different in comparison to other patients. ConclusionThe modified Bristow-Latarjet procedure is a very effective procedure with few complications in the medium-term, showing very satisfactory functional outcomes in the treatment of recurrent traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation associated with glenoid bone injury.

Classifications in Brief: Regan-Morrey Classification of Coronoid Fractures.

Classifications in Brief: Regan-Morrey Classification of Coronoid Fractures.

Cartilage Restoration: Microfracture and Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation.

The treatment of patellofemoral cartilage defects presents several distinct challenges when compared with cartilage restoration techniques used for other compartments of the knee due to the unique anatomy and distribution of forces. The etiologies of patellofemoral articular cartilage lesions include acute traumatic instability injuries, such as dislocation and subluxation, osteochondritis dissecans, and chronic degenerative changes. Regardless of the etiology, untreated patellofemoral cartilage lesions can contribute to activity-limiting anterior knee pain. The goal of patellofemoral cartilage restoration procedures is to impart symptomatic relief and improve quality of life by repairing the articular cartilage surface and any comorbid malalignment or maltracking.Microfracture and osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) are two cartilage restoration procedures to consider when treating full-thickness patellofemoral chondral defects. Considered by some experts to be the gold standard therapy, microfracture is one of the most common procedures used for cartilage restoration. The technique involves the perforation of the subchondral bone plate for the release of marrow elements, filling the defect with a fibrocartilage clot repair. Though less commonly used, OAT allows defect replacement with native hyaline cartilage via autologous transplantation from a non-weight bearing area. The purpose of this article is to discuss the indication, technical considerations, and outcomes of microfracture and OAT when used for treating chondral lesions of the patellofemoral joint.

Outcomes of the Latarjet Procedure Compared With Bankart Repair for Recurrent Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability.

Are clinical and patient-reported outcomes different between the Latarjet and Bankart repair stabilization procedures when performed for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability? Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane databases, American College of Physicians Journal Club, and Database of Abstracts of Review of Effectiveness were searched up to June 2015. The search terms used were Bankart AND Latarjet OR Bristow. Criteria used to include studies that (1) were written in English; (2) compared the outcomes of any Latarjet procedure (Bristow-Latarjet, coracoid transfer, or modified Bristow) with Bankart repair (anatomic); (3) reported a minimum of 1 outcome of recurrence, redislocation, revision, or patient-reported outcome measure; and (4) reported original data. Data presented in any format (text, table, figure) were extracted from all included studies. The quality of each study was assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist. Summary statistics were reported as relative risks and weighted mean differences. Fixed-effects (the assumed treatment effect was the same across studies) and random-effects (variations in treatment effect were assumed among studies) models were tested. Heterogeneity between trials was assessed using the χ2 statistic, and the amount (percentage) of variation across studies due to heterogeneity was calculated using the I 2 statistic. Forest plots were used to present pooled results. After the initial search, 245 articles were identified. After we applied the inclusion criteria, a total of 8 studies reporting on 795 patients (Latarjet = 379, Bankart = 416) were included in this review. Using the National Health and Medical Research Council's level of evidence, the authors scored 7 of the studies at level III and 1 study at level II. All Latarjet procedures were performed using an open technique, whereas the Bankart procedure was performed open in 6 studies and arthroscopically in 2 studies. The demographics of the patients (age, proportion of males to females, proportion with surgery on the dominant side, and proportion of revisions) were similar between the 2 surgical procedures. Four groups reported that patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure had fewer recurrences than patients in the Bankart repair group (11.6% versus 21.1%, respectively), irrespective of whether the Bankart was performed open or arthroscopically. Similarly, 4 groups observed that the Latarjet procedure resulted in fewer postsurgical redislocations (5.0%) than the Bankart (9.5%) procedure, irrespective of whether the repair was open or arthroscopic. The authors of 7 studies noted no differences between the 2 procedures in revision rates (Latarjet: 3.4%, Bankart: 4.5%), and 8 studies demonstrated no differences in complications requiring reoperation (Latarjet: 5.0%, Bankart: 3.1%). Investigators in 7 studies used the Rowe score to measure patient-reported satisfaction and function; patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure reported better Rowe scores postsurgically than patients who underwent the Bankart repair (scores: 79.0 and 85.4, respectively). Researchers in 4 studies reported a loss of external-rotation range of motion, which was less in the Latarjet (11.5°) compared with the Bankart (20.9°) procedure. Of the 5 groups that reported return to function, a trend suggested that a greater proportion of patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure returned to work, sport, and throwing activities compared with those who underwent the Bankart repair. The Latarjet procedure produced fewer recurrences, better patient-reported outcomes, and less restricted external-rotation motion than the Bankart repair.

Criteria to Screen for Traumatic Cervical Spine Instability: A Consensus of Chiropractic Radiologists

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to establish consensus on a radiographic definition for cervical instability for routine use in chiropractic patients who sustain trauma to the cervical spine. MethodWe conducted a modified Delphi study with a panel of chiropractic radiologists. Panelists were asked to rate potential screening criteria for traumatic cervical spine instability when assessing cervical spine radiographs. Items rated as important for inclusion by at least 60% of participants in round 1 were submitted for a second round of voting in round 2. Items rated for inclusion by at least 75% of the participants in round 2 were used to create the consensus-based list of screening criteria. Participants were asked to vote and reach agreement on the final screening criteria list in round 3. ResultsTwenty-nine chiropractic radiologists participated in round 1. After 3 rounds of survey, 85% of participants approved the final consensus-based list of criteria for traumatic cervical spine instability screening, including 6 clinical signs and symptoms and 5 radiographic criteria. Participants agreed that the presence of 1 or more of these clinical signs and symptoms and/or 1 or more of the 5 radiographic criteria on routine static radiographic studies suggests cervical instability. ConclusionThe consensus-based radiographic definition of traumatic cervical spine instability includes 6 clinical signs and symptoms and 5 radiographic criteria that doctors of chiropractic should apply to their patients who sustain trauma to the cervical spine.

Functional outcome of cervical spine locking plate fixation in traumatic quadriplegics

Introduction: The cervical spine column is extremely vulnerable to injury due to its specific facet joint articulation. The most serious complication quadriplegia occurs in almost 40to50% of cases. Surgery is indicated if signs of instability, significant dislocation or neurological deficit are present. Over the last 15 years, the anterior approach has become the gold standard. Aim of Study: To evaluate the functional, clinical and radiographic results of traumatic cervical spine instability which were treated surgically using Cervical Spine Locking Plate (CSLP) fixation and anterior interbody fusion with tricortical iliac crest bone graft.Materials and Methods: This is a prospective and retrospective study 23 Patients who attended the Orthopaedics casualty Medical College Kozhikode, with traumatic quadriplegia due to lower cervical spine injury who were treated with anterior cervical locking plate during a period of 2 years from June 2010 onwards were studied. The outcome of the treatment was compared in terms of relief of symptoms, neurological recovery, clinical and radiological stability and improvement of rehabilitation. The cases were followed up for 2 years from the beginning of the treatment.Analysis and Results: The following observations were made from this study. The youngest patient in the study was 16 and the oldest 65 years. The most common level of injury in this study was C5-C6 (11 patients), Only 9 patients were treated within 72 hours. Neurological recovery was evaluated by preoperative and postoperative FRANKEL and ASIA scores. All patients were densely quadriplegic before surgery, 6 patients had no change in neurology and expired in postoperative period. Excellent neurological recovery was seen in only minimal number of patients. In the postoperative period, for functional outcome measurement, patients were evaluated using modified ODOMS criteria. Out of all the patients, 13 had good fusion status. Conclusion: The ideal management of traumatic cervical spine instability in lower cervical spine injury is anterior stabilization with cervical spine locking plate. The surgery related complications are relatively very less, and the survived patients had significant improvement in their neurological and functional status All the patients had good radiological fusion and no complications in union.

Traumatic posterior hip instability and reconstruction with a femoral head allograft in a young man

Traumatic posterior hip instability and reconstruction with a femoral head allograft in a young man

Treatment of Traumatic Thoracal Instability with Pedicle Screw-Rod Fixation System in a Dog

Treatment of Traumatic Thoracal Instability with Pedicle Screw-Rod Fixation System in a Dog