Unstable Injuries Research Articles

The most responsive foot position for non-invasive detection of isolated unstable syndesmotic injuries – a 3D analysis

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to identify the most responsive foot position for detection of isolated unstable syndesmotic injury.MethodsFourteen paired human cadaveric lower legs were positioned in a pressure-controlled radiolucent frame and loaded under 700 N. Computed tomography scans were performed in neutral position, 15° internal / external rotation, and 20° dorsal / plantar flexion of the foot before and after cutting all syndesmotic ligaments. For each position, generated 3D models of the intact and injured distal tibiofibular joints were matched and analyzed by calculating three parameters: diastasis, anteroposterior displacement, and shortening of the fibula.ResultsTransection of syndesmotic ligaments resulted in significant posterior translation of the fibula (4.34°, SD 1.63°, p < 0.01) compared to uninjured state for external rotation, significant anterior translation (-2.08°, SD 1.65°, p < 0.01) for internal rotation, and significant posterior translation (1.32°, SD 1.16°, p = 0.01) for dorsiflexion. Furthermore, the syndesmotic injury led to significantly increased clear space (0.46 mm, SD 0.46 mm, p = 0.03) in external rotation of the foot.ConclusionExternal rotation of the foot under loading seems to be the most responsive position for detection of isolated syndesmotic instability. Under external rotational stress, anteroposterior instability and increased clear space resulting from a complete isolated unstable syndesmotic lesion were most evident.

Comparison of the MIPPO technique and the modified Stoppa approach in the treatment of unstable anterior pelvic ring injuries: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundAnterior pelvic ring injuries have gradually become common. Using a minimally invasive technique to treat this injury may be feasible if the reduction and stability can be effectively achieved. We describe a percutaneous technique, minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO), to fixate the anterior pelvis via establishing a subperiosteal tunnel between two limited incisions over the iliac crest(s) and pubic ramus in this research.MethodsA retrospective cohort study comparing the MIPPO technique (n = 60) versus the modified Stoppa approach (n = 53) for anterior pelvic ring injuries with posterior ring instability was performed from September 2016 to January 2023. The relative surgery variables, follow-up function evaluation, and complications were compared in two groups. The reduction quality of fracture was assessed according to the Matta criterion, and the functional score was evaluated using the Majeed score.ResultsAll patients completed follow-up, with an average interval of 39.90 ± 17.53 months (range 12–78). In the MIPPO technique group, the surgery interval and blood losses were lower compared to the modified Stoppa approach group (P<0.05). The mean procedure times and intraoperative blood losses were 69.56 ± 14.04 min/side (range 50–110) and 156.23 ± 49.75 mL/side (range 90–250) for unilateral anterior ring MIPPO fixation separately. All patients got a satisfactory reduction of the fracture. In the follow-up, earlier ambulation, shorter postoperative hospital stays, and lower complication rates were observed for patients using the MIPPO technique compared to the modified Stoppa approach (P<0.05). However, there is no statistical difference in these indicators including fracture union interval, full load time, the Majeed score, patient satisfaction level, and return to pre-injured work rate between the two groups.ConclusionThis clinical experience gives support for the use of the MIPPO technique to stabilize the anterior pelvis. This minimally invasive technique was an effective and safe surgery method and could obtain satisfactory function results, particularly fitting to part of patients with resistance using the modified Stoppa approach.

Unstable C2-3 Posterior Ligamentous Injury in a Pediatric Patient with Successful Nonoperative Treatment: A Case Report.

The authors present a case of a 6-year-old boy who was treated nonoperatively for an unstable C2-3 hyperflexion injury with posterior cervical ligamentous disruption 8 years ago. The patient was managed with cervical collar immobilization for 2.5 years with long-term follow-up demonstrating complete healing of posterior element disruption, normal sagittal vertebral alignment on dynamic imaging, and full return to activities of daily living and sports. Pediatric spine injuries up to the C2-3 level with posterior ligamentous disruption alone without neurological deficit may be successfully treated nonoperatively with careful long-term immobilization and close follow-up.

Improving surgical technical skills for emergency fixation of unstable pelvic ring fractures: an experimental study using a pelvic ring fracture simulator

BackgroundThe management of hemodynamically unstable pelvic ring injuries necessitates surgical intervention, often involving procedures such as external fixation and percutaneous screw placement. Given the infrequent performance of these procedures, regular training is imperative to ensure readiness for emergencies. Our pre- post simulation study aimed to adapt and validate a realistic simulation model for stabilizing unstable pelvic ring injuries, facilitating participants’ knowledge retention and procedural confidence enhancement.MethodsA standardized simulator of an unstable pelvic ring utilizing synthetic pelvic bones featuring complete disruption of the symphysis and sacroiliac joint was developed. Trauma surgeons of a level one academic hospital were invited to perform external fixation and emergency sacroiliac screw application under C-arm guidance. Prior to and following the simulation session, participants completed a subjective questionnaire assessing their confidence in emergency interventions on a 10-point Likert scale (10-LS). Objective parameters, such as intraoperative imaging quality, reduction accuracy, and the positioning of screws, wires, and external fixators, were also evaluated as secondary outcome measures.ResultsFifteen trauma surgeons (10 residents, 5 consultants) participated in the simulation over the course of one day. The mean total operation time was 20.34 ± 6.06 min, without significant differences between consultants and residents (p = 0.604). The confidence for emergency SI-Screw placement increased significantly after the simulator (10-LS: Before = 3.8 ± 3.08 vs. After = 5.67 ± 2.35; p = 0.002) as well as after external fixation (10-LS: Before = 3.93 ± 2.79 vs. After = 6.07 ± 2.52; p = 0.002). In addition, confidence in (intraoperative) pelvic imaging increased significantly (10-LS: Before = 4.60 ± 3.0 vs. After = 6.53 ± 2.39; p = 0.011). Overall, the model was rated as a realistic simulation of clinical practice (10-LS = 7.87 ± 1.13).ConclusionsOur unstable pelvis fracture model is a tool to practice emergency interventions such as external fixation and percutaneous techniques. Participants benefitted from this in terms of technical instrumentation as well as intraoperative imaging. Further studies are required to validate the objective benefits and improvements that participants undergo through frequent training.

Design innovation and rationale of the intramedullary implants for treating Intertrochanteric fractures: A review

Intertrochanteric fracture management require effective management strategies for early return to function and minimise complications. Intramedullary devices like proximal femoral nail have an biomechanical advantage, particularly in unstable intertrochanteric fractures. Such unstable injury patterns not only require precise reduction technique, but also right implant design to minimise the complications. Novel concepts of reduction like medial cortical support classification and antero-posterior reduction (Subtype classification system) refine the reduction strategies. Despite reporting of the reduction analysis, there has been continuing number of implant failures following proximal femoral nail implantation. Complications like ‘Z’ effect and reverse ‘Z’ effect are very well reported with the 2 screw Recon - Proximal femur nails. Analysis of failure and complications have constantly upgraded the designs of proximal femur nails. Design of the new generation intramedullary implants for treatment of intertrochanteric fractures like Gamma nail, PFNA-II (Proximal Femoral Nail Anterotation), Zimmer Natural Nail, Trigen Intertan nail and TFN – Advanced (Trochanteric Femoral Nail Advanced) are described in this review. While the new implant designs offer advancements, fundamental principles of reduction remains crucial for successful outcomes. Design rationale and instrumentation of each implant must be known at the time of application along with techniques of maintaining the reduction for a successful outcome.

Is patient-reported outcome after treatment of unstable pelvic ring injuries related to pelvic symmetry? A prospective study.

To determine the relation between pelvic symmetry, as measured by the cross-measurement technique, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in terms of functional status and health-related quality of life. In this prospective cohort study, X and Y measurements were taken according to the cross-measurement technique on AP radiographs of patients who were treated for an unstable pelvic ring injury in a level-1 trauma center. Patients completed PROMs at the time of admission (recalled pre-injury score) and one year following their injury, reporting their functional status with the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA-NL), specifically the lower extremity dysfunction (LED), problems with daily activities (PDA) and mental and emotional problems (MEP) subscales, and quality of life with EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D). Subgroup analyses were also performed. PROMs were used to analyze the relation between pelvic symmetry and patient-reported outcome, using Spearman's Rank correlation coefficients. A total of 130 patients (mean age 58 (SD18) years) with an unstable pelvic ring injury were included, of which 95 (73%) sustained type-B injuries and 35 (27%) type-C injuries. Sixty-three (49%) patients were treated operatively. The median pelvic symmetry ratio was 1.01 (IQR: 0.05). Weak or no correlations were found between the pelvic symmetry scores and the outcome measurements (Spearman's correlation coefficients: LED r = 0.09; PDA r = 0.11; MEP r=-0.02; and EQ-5D r=-0.08). Subgroup analyses revealed no correlations. No significant relation was found between pelvic symmetry, measured radiologically, and functional status and health-related quality of life, one year following an unstable pelvic ring injury.

Efficacy and outcomes of rescue screws in unstable pelvic ring injuries - A retrospective matched cohort study.

The emergency treatment of unstable pelvic ring injuries is still a challenge and requires surgical and anesthesiological resuscitation. Emergency fixation of the unstable pelvic ring with percutaneous sacroiliac (SI) screws, also known as "Rescue Screws", is an established treatment method. The aim of our study was to compare the outcome and complication rates of "Rescue Screws" with elective SI-screw fixations. A 1:1 ratio nearest-neighbor matched, retrospective cohort study of trauma patients with acute pelvic ring injuries at a level one trauma center was performed. Patients ≥ 15 years, treated with SI-screw fixation were included. pathologic fractures, missing consent and navigated procedures. The primary outcome parameters was defined as SI-screw revision operations. Patients were stratified according to treatment strategy (RS: Rescue Screws; EL: elective SI-screws). From 392 patients identified between 11/2014 and 08/2021, 186 met the inclusion criteria with 41 in the RS Group and 145 in the EL group. After matching, 41 patients were included in each group with similar baseline characteristics except persistent hemodynamic shock (RS: n = 22 (53.37%) vs. EL: n = 1 (4.3%), p < 0.001). Surgical characteristics were comparable in terms of instrumentation levels and insertion-sites. No significant differences were observed in the outcome parameters (revisions, reoperations, implant-associated complications, LOS and mortality) between both groups. Treatment of unstable pelvic ring fractures with Rescue Screws appears as a feasible treatment option for emergency stabilization. Rescue Screws are not associated with elevated revision rates and increased complications rates. This minimally invasive technique enables safe emergency stabilization of the posterior pelvic ring. Prospective or randomized clinical trials are required to directly compare Rescue Screws with other competing emergency stabilization techniques.

Comparison of clinical and radiographic outcomes of bilateral versus unilateral ramus fixation in straddle fractures with posterior pelvic ring injury.

Superior and inferior ramus fractures, termed straddle fractures, are high-energy fractures often accompanied by unstable pelvic ring injuries. However, consensus is lacking regarding indications for surgical treatment or fixation methods. We aimed to compare clinical and radiological outcomes of unilateral ramus fixation (URF) and bilateral ramus fixation (BRF) for straddle fractures with unilateral posterior pelvic ring injuries. We enrolled 118 patients (73 males, 45 females; mean age, 47 years) diagnosed with straddle fractures between March 2015 and December 2021 with > 1 year of follow-up. Patients were divided into URF (n = 60) and BRF (n = 58) groups based on the anterior pelvic ring fixation method. Preoperative factors including body mass index, diabetes, smoking, injury mechanism, injury severity score, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification system, Tile classification, and Young and Burgess classification were compared. Intraoperative blood loss, operation time, postoperative bone union rate, complications, and the need for additional surgeries were analyzed. There were no statistically significant preoperative differences between the two groups. However, the URF group showed a significantly lower mean operative time and blood transfusion requirement (63min and 2 units, respectively) than the BRF group (104min and 3 units, respectively) (both p < 0.001). Postoperatively, bone union was achieved in 57 (95.0%) and 56 (96.6%) patients in the URF and BRF groups, respectively. Complications occurred in 17 (28.3%) and 14 (24.1%) patients in the URF and BRF groups, respectively, with additional surgeries needed in 3 (5.0%) patients in the URF group and 2 (3.4%) patients in the BRF group. Unilateral anterior fixation can provide sufficient stability and clinical effectiveness in the surgical treatment of straddle fractures in areas with posterior pelvic ring injuries. Compared with bilateral anterior fixation, unilateral fixation significantly reduces operation time and blood loss, making it a viable fixation method for straddle fractures.

Functional outcomes in unstable complete subaxial cervical spinal injuries with respiratory paralysis and/or hemodynamic instability

IntroductionSubaxial cervical spine injuries (SCSI) can lead to disastrous consequences such as quadriplegia, with/without respiratory paralysis (RP) and hemodynamic instability (HDI). Till date, there is no literature available for reporting outcomes of SCSI patients specifically pertaining to those presenting with RP/HDI and ours is the first study to document the same. MethodsRetrospective 6-year study from a tertiary trauma centre database including patients >/= 18 years of operated SCSI. Only patients with ASIA A grade with admission RP/HDI and unstable injuries (fractures, subluxations) were included. Patients with ASIA grade B and above, patients with non-osseous injuries (such as disc herniation, central cord syndrome etc.) were excluded. Results24 cases were analysed. C5 and C6 levels were the commonest. Vertebral listhesis/subluxation was the predominant radiological finding. The mean age was 47.4 years (22–79 years) and all, except one were males. Fall from height and road traffic accident (RTA) were the most common mechanisms of injury. The most common surgery was anterior discectomy and fusion followed by corpectomy. The overall mortality rate was 22/24 (92)%. Cord edema and hemorrhage had significant association with survival. None of the grade A survivors with HDI/RP showed improvement. The mean FU duration was 18.5 months (range, 16.5–20.5 months). ConclusionsSubaxial ASIA A cervical spine injuries with pre-operative RP/HDI is an indicator for non-improvement. This is the first study documenting outcome in such patients. The mortality rate in these patients is very high and is an extremely poor prognostic factor for recovery. Hence, surgery in such patients need to be decided judiciously, especially in developing countries that has a significant financial impact on the family members.

Cervical Spine Injuries

Around a third of all cervical spine injuries occur in the upper cervical spine in the area between the occiput and the second cervical vertebra. The latter being the most common location of the injury with around 70%. But also atlas fractures, occipital condyle fractures, traumatic spondylolisthesis of C2, atypical fractures in the corpus area as well as atlantooccipital and atlantoaxial ligamentous lesions should be mentioned in connection with injuries in this area. In many cases, conservative therapy regimen is possible. In unstable or displaced injuries, however, surgical intervention is required, with various surgical procedures being used. The frequency, diagnostics, classification, and standard therapy of the individual entities are presented in detail in this continuing medical education article.

Imaging Outcomes of MRI After CT in Pediatric Spinal Trauma: A Single-center Experience.

Imaging has an essential role in the diagnostic workup of suspected pediatric spinal trauma. The most suitable imaging method is still being debated and needs to be considered regarding the patient, injury, and local resources. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is often performed after computed tomography (CT) in case of neurological symptoms or suspected ligamentous disruption. However, it is unclear if the MRI yields significant additional value after CT if the spinal cord injury is not suspected and if the MRI could be used as the sole imaging modality in an emergency department. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic value of emergency MRI after CT in suspected spinal trauma in children and adolescents. The imaging data and medical records of patients 17 years of age and younger with emergency spinal CT and MRI over 8 years were retrospectively reviewed. The primary study outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of the 2 imaging modalities in detecting surgically treated spinal injuries. The study population consisted of 100 patients. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated all 7 surgically treated injuries, although one of the injuries was initially missed with CT. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed more injuries, but none of the injuries visible on CT required surgical fixation. Magnetic resonance imaging was able to exclude unstable injuries in patients who had highly suspicious or unequivocal findings on CT. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography were both highly accurate in detecting unstable pediatric spinal injuries requiring surgical treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging seems not to reveal additional unstable injuries after adequately interpreted spinal CT. Level III-retrospective observational study.

Emergency treatment of pelvic ring injuries: state of the art.

High energy pelvic injuries sustain significant mortality rates, due to acute exsanguination and severe associated injuries. Managing the hemodynamically unstable trauma patient with a bleeding pelvic fracture still forms a major challenge in acute trauma care. Various approaches have been applied through the last decades. At present the concept of Damage Control Resuscitation (DCR) is universally accepted and applied in major trauma centers internationally. DCR combines hemostatic blood transfusions to restore blood volume and physiologic stability, reduced crystalloid fluid administration, permissive hypotension, and immediate hemorrhage control by operative or angiographic means. Different detailed algorithms and orders of hemostatic procedures exist, without clear consensus or guidelines, depending on local traditions and institutional setups. Fracture reduction and immediate stabilization with a binder constitute the basis for angiography and embolization (AE) or pelvic packing (PP) in the hemodynamically unstable patient. AE is time consuming and may not be available 24/7, whereas PP offers a quick and technically easy procedure well suited for the patient in extremis. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) has also been described as a valuable adjunct in hemostatic non-responders, but merely constitute a bridge to surgical or angiographic hemostasis and its definitive role in DCR is not yet clearly established. A swift algorithmic approach to the hemodynamically unstable pelvic injury patient is required to achieve optimum results. The present paper summarizes the available literature on the acute management of the bleeding pelvic trauma patient, with emphasis on initial assessment and damage control resuscitation including surgical and angiographic hemostatic procedures. Furthermore, initial treatment of open fractures and associated injuries to the nervous and genitourinary system is outlined.

Treatment of Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation Using Hook Plate: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis and Update of Current Literature

Abstract Background the hook plate metallic device showed early promise as an alternative implant to treat unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocation injuries. The hook plate can be used to provide an indirect reduction of a distal clavicle fracture. This indirect reduction technique is useful for comminuted fractures or fractures with very small distal fragments in which conventional reduction and fixation is difficult. Aim of the Work to evaluate the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation and radiographic outcomes. Materials and Methods Studies were considered eligible if they expressed treatment of acromioclavicular joint dislocation using the hook plate and described the patient's clinical and functional outcomes; intra-operative, post-operative complications, full-text articles were available, randomized controlled trials, including cluster RCTs, controlled (non-randomized) clinical trials or cluster trials, prospective and retrospective comparative cohort studies, and case-control or nested case-control studies. We will exclude cross-sectional studies, case series, case reports and literature not in English. All items that didn't match the above criteria were excluded. Results The total studies included 270 patients with average mean age 35.5 years and mean follow up 25.33 months. The Constant Murely score average 84 points (The CMS was developed for the evaluation of shoulder function with subjective and objective components) and the p value &amp;lt;.05 that means all patients had significant improvement. Full range of motion could be achieved in the patients. Patients with restrictions of range of motion mainly showed limitations in abduction and external rotation. These limitations are most probably caused by the post-operative immobilization, which is necessary after implantation of hook plates to ensure healing of the ligament structures and avoid damage of the acromion by the hook itself. Other studies also showed restrictions of range of motion for abduction and external rotation after hook plate implantation. Conclusion it has a good to excellent Constant Murely score (full range of motion) that enables quick return to activities. It is useful for (Rockwood III-VI). So good clinical results can be achieved with hook plate.

Clinical development of ileofemoral thrombosis caused by malposition of the ileosacral screw

Introduction Treatment of unstable injuries of the pelvic bones is one of the unsolved problems in modern traumatology. The instability of the injuries is determined by the nature of the destruction of the posterior semi-ring of the pelvis. The most used technique for osteosynthesis of sacral fractures for unstable pelvic injuries is ileosacral screw fixation.The purpose of the work was to demonstrate a clinical case of an iatrogenic complication: ileofemoral thrombosis caused by compression of the internal iliac vein due to malposition of the ileosacral screw.Materials and methods Medical records of a 34-year-old patient injured in a traffic accident (front seat passenger) were studied, who was referred from a district hospital on the fourth day after the injury diagnosed with a fracture of the transverse process of L2 vertebra on the left, closed fracture of the pubic and ischial bones on the left, fracture of the lateral mass of the sacrum on the right. Alcohol intoxication. Traumatic shock stage 1. Treatment results were monitored throughout the inpatient and outpatient treatment periods. Long-term follow-up was 6 months.Results Timely suspicion of the complication based on physical examination data with CT angiography that assisted to exclude internal bleeding and urgently carry out repeated surgical intervention to correct the implant malposition, reosteosynthesis of S1 body without loss of reduction, to achieve regression of the clinical picture of ileofemoral thrombosis, and also to mobilize the patient in the shortest possible time. During inpatient treatment, regression of the symptoms of the complication was achieved, the patient was fully activated, and was discharged for outpatient follow-ups.Discussion Variability in the anatomy of the sacrum and the characteristics of fractures hinder the navigation while inserting iliosacral screws, which in some cases result in malposition. Compression of the common iliac vein without damaging it causes difficulty in blood outflow and the development of a clinical picture of ileofemoral thrombosis in the early postoperative period.Conclusion This clinical case shows that X-ray images in standard views are not a reliable method for diagnosing sacral injuries and are not sufficient for preoperative planning. The use of standard C-arm did not provide sufficient intraoperative visualization to correctly assess the position of the iliosacral screw, especially in cases with sacral dysmorphia. The 3D volumetric image reconstruction significantly influenced the correct perception of the anatomical structure of the bony structures of the pelvis. Malposition of the screw and its exit to the anterior surface of the sacrum caused disruption of the iliac vein outflow and development of thrombosis in the early postoperative period.

Experience in early minimally invasive fixation of pubic symphysis disruption with a system of transpedicular screws in patients with combined pelvic trauma (pilot study)

Introduction Challenges of treating the injuries of pubic symphysis in patients with combined pelvic injury require developing new techniques for stable minimally invasive osteosynthesis in the acute period of trauma.Purpose of the work was to assess the application of low invasive fixation of the pubic symphysis with a system of transpedicular screws in the patients with combined unstable pelvic injuries in the acute period of the traumatic disease.Materials and methods The results of treatment of 12 patients with polytrauma with unstable pelvic injury with rupture of the pubic symphysis who were treated at Dzhanelidze Research Institute of Emergency Medicine, St. Petersburg, in the period from 2017 to 2023, were analyzed. All the patients underwent final minimally invasive fixation of the pubic symphysis with a system of transpedicular screws in the early period of the traumatic disease.Results The overall assessment of the results in 12 patients found no complications or technical errors during the installation of transpedicular screws. Control CT scans of the pelvis showed that osteosynthesis was stable in all patients, and the position of metal was correct in all. One patient from the study group died in the clinic from massive pulmonary embolism. The long-term results in 11 patients in the period from 6 months to 3 years after trauma were evaluated as excellent and good anatomical and functional results in 10 patients, one case had fair outcome.Discussion The use of bone plates to fix ruptures of the symphysis pubis leads to disruption of its physiological mobility, and the patient’s activity in the postoperative period can cause an implant fracture. Original dynamic plates and wire cerclage help avoid this complication; however, all these techniques involve significant surgical trauma and blood loss, as well as the risk of postoperative wound suppuration. Minimally invasive methods of fixation using cannulated screws, systems such as Endobutton, Tight Rope can reduce intraoperative trauma and the risk of complications (blood loss, suppuration); however, the procedure for their installation is quite complex and lengthy, and for greater stability, external fixation of the pelvic ring is often required. The proposed minimally invasive fixation of the pubic symphysis with a system of transpedicular screws avoids a lot of shortcomings and is sufficiently stable.Conclusion The method of minimally invasive fixation of the pubic symphysis with a system of transpedicular screws meets current requirements in the treatment of patients with polytrauma and unstable pelvic injury, and it may be successfully used in the acute period of trauma.

EVALUATING THE UTILITY OF PLAIN RADIOGRAPH AND COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY SCANNING IN IDENTIFYING CONCOMITANT FOOT FRACTURES IN PATIENTS WITH UNSTABLE LISFRANC INJURIES

BackgroundLisfranc fracture dislocations are uncommon injuries, which frequently require surgical intervention. Currently, there is varying evidence on the diagnostic utility of plain radiographs (XR) and CT in identifying Lisfranc injuries and concomitant fractures. Our aim was to identify the utility of XR as compared to CT, with the nul hypothesis that there was no difference in fracture identification.MethodsA retrospective assessment of patients who had sustained a Lisfranc injury between 2013 and 2022 across two trauma centres within the United Kingdom who underwent surgery. Pre-operative XR and CT images were reviewed independently by 2 reviewers to identify the presence of associated fractures.ResultsA total of 175 patients were included. Our assessment identified that XR images significantly under-diagnosed all metatarsal and midfoot fractures. The largest discrepancies between XR and CT in their rates of detection were in fractures of the cuboid (5.7% vs 28%, p&lt;0.001), medial cuneiform (20% vs 51%, p=0.008), lateral cuneiform (4% vs 36%, p=0.113), second metatarsal (57% vs 82%, p&lt;0.001), third metatarsal (37% vs 61%, p&lt;0.001) and fourth metatarsal (26% vs 43%, p&lt;0.001). As compared to CT, the sensitivity of XR was low. The lowest sensitivity for identification however was lateral foot injuries, specifically fractures of the lateral cuneiform (sensitivity 7.94%, specificity 97.3%), cuboid (sensitivity 18.37%, specificity 99.21%), fourth (sensitivity 46.7%, specificity 89.80%) and fifth metatarsal (sensitivity 45.00%, specificity 96.10%).ConclusionFrom our analysis, we can determine that XR significantly under-diagnoses associated injuries in patient sustaining an unstable Lisfranc injury, with lateral foot injuries being the worst identified. We advised the use of CT imaging in all cases for appropriate surgical planning.

Syndesmotic fixation in Weber B ankle fractures: A systematic review.

Weber Type B fractures often arise from external rotation with the foot supinated or pronated. Altered tibiofibular joint kinematics in Weber B fractures are responsible for syndesmotic damage seen in Weber B fractures. Weber B fractures are managed using open reduction and internal fixation if displaced. The syndesmosis is injured in up to 40% of cases resulting in an unstable injury with a syndesmotic diastasis. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the current literature on syndesmotic fixation in Weber B fractures, assess the outcomes and complications of syndesmotic fixation and assess the necessity of syndesmotic fixation in Weber B fractures. A search was carried out on the EMBASE, PubMed and CINAHL databases and eight studies assessing the outcomes of syndesmotic fixations versus no syndesmotic fixation with 292 Weber B ankle fractures were included in this systematic review. Results showed significant heterogeneity so a narrative review was conducted. Results of these studies showed that functional, radiological, and quality-of-life outcomes and incidences of post-traumatic osteoarthritis in patients with syndesmotic screws were similar to those of patients not managed with syndesmotic screws. Only one favoured syndesmotic fixation in all cases of diastasis. As such, syndesmotic fixation with screws may not be necessary in the management of Weber B fractures. Screws are also associated with breakage, loosening, local irritation and infections. Suture button devices and antiglide fixation techniques appear to be valid alternatives to syndesmotic screws. It was found that there was no need for routine hardware removal unless the hardware was causing significant side effects for the patient.

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES OF DORSAL BRIDGE PLATING FOR LISFRANC INJURIES WITH ROUTINE METALWORK RETENTION: A MAJOR TRAUMA CENTRE EXPERIENCE

BackgroundAnatomical reduction of unstable Lisfranc injuries is crucial. Evidence as to the best methods of surgical stabilization remains sparse, with small patient numbers a particular issue. Dorsal bridge plating offers rigid stability and joint preservation.The primary aim of this study was to assess the medium-term functional outcomes for patients treated with this technique at our centre. Additionally, we review for risk factors that influence outcomes.Methods85 patients who underwent open reduction and dorsal bridge plate fixation of unstable Lisfranc injuries between January 2014 and January 2019 were identified. Metalwork was not routinely removed. A retrospective review of case notes was conducted. The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire summary index (MOXFQ-Index) was the primary outcome measure, collected at final follow-up, with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot scale, complications, and all-cause re-operation rates were secondary outcome measures. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with poorer outcomes.ResultsMean follow-up 40.8 months (24–72). Mean MOXFQ-Index 27.0 (SD 7.1). Mean AOFAS score 72.6 (SD 11.6). 48/85 patients had injury patterns that included an intra-articular fracture and this was associated with poorer outcomes, with worse MOXFQ and AOFAS scores (both p &lt; 0.001). 18 patients (21%) required the removal of metalwork for either prominence or stiffness. Female patients were more likely to require metalwork removal (OR 3.89, 95% CI 1.27 to 12.0, p = 0.02). Eight patients (9%) required secondary arthrodesis.ConclusionsThis is the largest series of Lisfranc injuries treated with dorsal bridge plate fixation reported to date and the only to routinely retain metalwork. The technique is safe and effective. The presence of an intraarticular fracture is a poor prognostic indicator. Metalwork removal is more likely to be needed in female patients but routine removal may not be essential.

Management of type III acromioclavicular joint dislocation: A Delphi consensus survey by Shoulder & Elbow Society, India (SESI)

PurposeThe study aimed to report the results of the Delphi survey conducted by the Shoulder, Elbow Society India (SESI), to achieve consensus on ambiguous topics in managing type III acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. MethodsThis study was based on responses from the Shoulder Elbow Society India (SESI) panel of peer-selected twenty senior surgeons practicing shoulder orthopedics. They participated in two rounds of the survey to obtain consensus on several topics pertaining to the management of type III ACJ dislocations. Consensus was achieved when at least 70 % of the panel members selected at least a 4-point on a 5-point Likert scale. ResultsOur Delphi survey reached a consensus on seven topics of ambiguity. An anteroposterior and axillary view of the shoulder without any traction or weight in hand is sufficient in the setting of a suspected type III ACJ dislocation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not routinely indicated in type III ACJ dislocation. Either cross-arm adduction X-rays or clinical examination may be used to distinguish between ISAKOS (International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee surgery and Orthopaedics Sports medicine) IIIA and B classification of ACJ to identify stable and unstable injuries. Conservative treatment can be offered to patients who have stable injuries and who are not high-demand individuals in acute type III ACJ dislocations. In conservative management of type III ACJ dislocation, a two-week sling suffices. Jones strapping has no clear advantage over a shoulder sling. Coracoclavicular reconstruction with an autograft is an acceptable way to treat symptomatic, chronic grade III ACJ dislocation. ConclusionThe survey helped achieve consensus on several controversial issues related to type III ACJ dislocations. However, there remains ambiguity on the definition of chronicity of such dislocations, the necessity of bilateral Zanca views, and the duration of conservative trial before switching to a surgical line of management.

A 3-Ligament Syndesmotic Injury Is at Higher Risk for Malreduction Than a 2-Ligament Injury: A CT-Based Analysis.

Syndesmotic malreduction is common and has been associated to an impaired outcome. Various risk factors for DTFJ malreduction have been postulated. The aims of this study were to assess the DTFJ malreduction rate based on (1) the severity of the syndesmotic injury, (2) the anatomy of the tibial incisura, and (3) the fixation device used in patients treated with suture-button systems. This retrospective, radiographic study included all adult patients who were treated for an acute, unilateral, and unstable syndesmotic injury with a suture-button system and postoperative bilateral CT imaging. Included were isolated syndesmotic injuries and fracture cases. The number of syndesmotic ligaments injured, that is, 2-ligament (AiTFL+IOL) and 3-ligament (AiTFL+IOL+PiTFL), was rated for each patient. The quality of DTFJ reduction, as well as the anatomy of the tibial incisura, was rated based on the postoperative, bilateral CT images and the intraoperative DTFJ reduction was recalculated based on the drilling-tunnel deviation. The possible influence on the DTFJ malreduction rate was assessed. A total of 147 patients were included, and 94 and 53 patients had a 2- and 3-ligament syndesmotic injury, respectively. In addition, 113 patients were treated with a single-button system, 26 with a double suture-button system, and 8 with a hybrid fixation (suture-button + screw). Malreduction was significantly higher in 3-ligament compared with 2-ligament injuries, both intraoperatively (51% vs 27%; P = .003) and postoperatively (28% vs 11%; P = .006). The tibial anatomy had no significant influence on the malreduction rates. No significant differences were seen per the different fixation devices used independent of the number of ligaments injured. This study did not find an influence of the incisura's anatomy on the DTFJ malreduction rate. However, we did find that 3-ligament syndesmotic injuries carried a higher risk of intra- and postoperative malreduction compared with 2-ligament injuries.