Unstable Joint Research Articles

The "Chiang Mai Lean Forward" Radiographic View for Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries: A Cadaveric Study.

Background:Operative treatment is suggested for unstable type 3 acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries; however, there is no clear consensus regarding the definition of an unstable type 3 injury. We propose a new radiographic method, the “Chiang Mai lean forward” view, to verify horizontal displacement in an unstable AC joint injury.Hypothesis:A radiograph taken with the torso leaning forward would allow the detection of a higher proportion of AC joint injuries.Study Design:Descriptive laboratory study.Methods:A total of 20 shoulders from 10 fresh whole-body cadaveric specimens (mean age, 68.8 years) were tested at 3 different torso leaning angles (30°, 45°, and 60°) to determine the best position for projecting the x-ray beam. The shoulders were dissected sequentially starting with the AC ligament (stage 1), then additional sectioning of the partial coracoclavicular (CC) ligament with either the trapezoid ligament cut first (stage 2A) or the conoid ligament cut first (stage 2B), and finally complete sectioning of the CC ligament (stage 3). Radiography was performed after each stage to evaluate the degree of displacement of the anterior border of the acromion relative to the anterior border of the clavicle. Paired t tests were used to compare the degree of displacement at each stage to that of the shoulder before cutting.Results:Leaning at an angle of 30° provided better visualization of the AC joint in the “Chiang Mai lean forward” view. Compared with the intact condition, complete isolated cutting of the AC ligament produced 5.21 mm of horizontal displacement of the AC joint (P < .0001), complete tearing of the AC ligament and partial cutting of the CC ligament resulted in a displacement of <12 mm (7.91 mm at stage 2A [P = .0003] and 8.10 mm at stage 2B [P = .0013]), and complete tearing of both the AC and the CC ligaments resulted in a displacement of 26.37 mm (P < .0001).Conclusion:The “Chiang Mai lean forward” radiographic view is a potentially useful tool for determining the degree of the injury and the stability of the AC joint.

PEDIATRIC PELVIC FRACTURES: AREVIEW ARTICLE AND A CASE REPORT

Introduction:Pediatric pelvic fractures are most commonly associated with high energy fractures, mostly due to motor vehicle accidents. Children poorly tolerate any significant blood loss, so, any child presents with a pelvic fracture must be investigated for multi-organ injury, or possible life -threatening retroperitoneal hemorrhage, with an increased potential for death. Method: A literature search was conducted to included articles from 2001 till 2017on pediatric pelvic fracture, including stable and unstable fractures, acetabular, and sacroiliac joint injuries, and excluded adult population. Results: Conservative management is the main treatment in hemodynamically stable patients, with good anatomical reduction, however , in a hemodynamically unstable patients, external fixator is the gold standard as a temporary management.This, most often is followed by open or closed reduction with internal fixation by screws only or plates and screws, which is consistent with achieving early stability, better union rates and hence early return to normal daily activities.

The role of the posterior malleolus in the treatment of unstable upper ankle joint injuries - A biomechanical study

BackgroundThis biomechanical study aimed to test if the fixation of the posterior malleolus (PM) only with screws inserted from posterior to anterior (PA) restores stability comparable with the natural condition. The extent of stability was also compared with that of anterior to posterior (AP) screw osteosynthesis (OS) with an additional syndesmotic screw (SS). MethodsFirst, the stability of the upper ankle joint in seven pairs of intact lower legs were examined. Subsequently, half of the lower legs were treated with PA screw fixation of a PM fracture without SS and the other half with AP screw fixation with additional tricortical SS. ResultsPA OS without SS showed significantly more diastasis (p = 0.027). The AP OS with an SS revealed a diastasis that was comparable with the intact condition (p = 0.797). The use of SS led to significantly higher stability compared to OS without SS (p = 0.019). ConclusionsThe Fixation of the PM alone without an additional syndesmotic screw cannot achieve intact upper ankle stability. Fixation of a PM fracture with an SS helps in nearly achieving the natural condition.

Surgical treatments for acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

Introduction: Surgical treatment is usually recommended for acute, high-grade acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries. A wide variety of surgical techniques exist, and the literature does not strongly support one over the other. In this literature review, we describe and compare the results of different surgical treatments for the management of acute unstable ACJ dislocation and aim to guide surgeons on optimal treatment. Materials and methods: A literature review was performed by searching PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, and Embase databases. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Only studies with comparative data were included. The clinical and radiological outcomes of these studies were reviewed. Results: Seventeen studies were included in this literature review. We found no difference in outcomes between open and arthroscopic procedures. Coracoclavicular ligament (CCL) reconstruction techniques provide better results than the more rigid hook plate fixation. There is no evidence that biologic repair with tendon graft is superior to synthetic grafts. Furthermore, an autograft is not shown to be better than an allograft. Rigid fixation between the clavicle and coracoid and the non-anatomic Weaver-Dunn technique appears less popular in recent literature. The hook plate is associated with subacromial osteolysis, acromial erosion, and the morbidity of a secondary procedure. Discussion: There is a recent increase in publications on the reconstruction of the ACJ after injury, with new techniques focusing on the anatomic reconstruction of the CCLs aiming to restore both vertical and horizontal plane stability of the ACJ using synthetic/biological grafts. Despite the plethora of new techniques introduced, meaningful comparisons are difficult to draw due to the heterogeneity of the treatments used and the outcome measure used to assess the results.

Early loss of radiographic reduction after acute acromioclavicular joint reconstruction: Comparison of open Double Endobutton fixation vs. Nottingham Surgilig.

Surgical treatment is usually recommended for the acute unstable acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. Among the wide variety of different surgical techniques, the Double Endobutton and the Nottingham Surgilig technique are two of the most widely acceptable and well described techniques. The aim of this study was to offer a direct comparison of the above techniques in question, analysing the patients outcomes and assessing the risk of early loss of radiographic reduction. A total of 48 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Patients were categorised in two groups (Endobutton and Nottingham Surgilig group) and post operative assessment of the patients was performed using the Oxford Shoulder (OSS) and Constant Murley (CMS) scores. Patient demographics, hand dominance, ACJ classification and co-morbidities were included in the analysis and radiographic evaluation was conducted for both groups. Both techniques provide a good outcome in the management of unstable ACJ dislocations but the risk of early radiographic failure remains higher in the double Endobutton technique (26% vs. 17.39% for the Nottingham Surgilig group). Factors such as patients' demographics, hand dominance, co-morbidities and grade of ACJ separation do not seem to contribute to radiographic loss of reduction, whereas the incorrect positioning of the coracoid endobutton is a significant factor predisposing to early radiographic failure, P<0.001. The incidence of early loss of radiographic reduction still remains high in both groups. In order to reduce this common complication, accurate placement of the coracoid endobutton under fluoroscopic intra-operative control is strongly recommended.

The Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Program After Hybrid Osteosynthesis in Ankle Joint Unstable Injuries

Aim: To develop a rehabilitation protocol for patients with the unstable ankle joint injuries by doing comparative analysis between HSEF functional results and the traditional method. Materials and Methods: The study was performed on 61 patients with the unstable ankle trans- or supra-syndesmotic fractures. Patients were divided into two equal groups where I = main and II = control due to the age, distribution and disorders. 10 patients from the group I were operated using HSEF, the other 51 were selected for the traditional osteosynthesis (plate and positioning screw). For the monitoring of osteosynthesis quality was used The Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) scale. Nonparametric statistical analysis was completed using Statistica 13.0 computer software. Results: After application of HSEF method authors of this paper created original rehabilitation protocol. Limitations in the rehabilitation process (e.g., not weightbearing) on 42}3 day in the control group II caused a significant gap in the results of ankle joint functional recovery. On day56}3, the main group I overreached the control group II by 1.5 (p3&lt;0.001). With each FU 1-3 of the main group I, the total sum of points according to FADI (subscale of sports activity) steadily increased by 5, and with FU 3 on the 56}3 day, reached 16 points. Positive quantitative dynamics in scores were the characteristic of patients from both groups (advantage of the group I was insignificant (by 2 points) (p4&lt;0.001)), although none of them reached the normal (32 points) at the final term (FU 4). Conclusion:Provided results proved the effectiveness of the developed rehabilitation protocol. It enhanced patients recovery up to 1-2 weeks.

Management Dilemma of a Neuropathic Knee in a Known Case of Larsen Syndrome: A Case Report.

Larsen syndrome (LS) is a rare genetic disorder affecting mainly the connective tissues. It is characterized by characteristic facial anomalies, cervical kyphosis, cardiorespiratory disorders, and multiple joint dislocations. We present a case of a 15-year-old male with unstable neuropathic knee joint instability in a known case of LS. The paucity of literature on the management of this rare condition puts an orthopedician in dilemma regarding the optimal treatment. A 15-year-old male, known case of LS, presented to our outpatient department with pain and instability in the right knee for 2 years. Clinically, the patient was having syndromic facies. The diagnosis of LS was confirmed on gene mapping. The right knee was swollen with medial joint line tenderness and restricted flexion. The patient had coronal plane valgus instability. The hypertrophied synovium eroded the articular surface. The radiograph of knee was suggestive of neuropathic arthropathy in fragmentation stage. Orthopedician should be aware of such rare entity with its bony and soft-tissue manifestations. Neuropathic knee is not an absolute contraindication to total knee replacement, especially with advanced prosthesis. Primary arthrodesis to be considered in young adults with instability.

Age as a predictor of additional surgeries following initial closed reduction for children with developmental dysplasia of the hip: the 10-year experience of a national paediatric orthopaedic unit.

Dislocated and unstable hip joints which do not stabilize in an orthosis in the neonatal period require operative intervention to achieve a stable concentric joint. The aim of this study is to assess the requirement for further operative intervention in patients who have undergone successful closed reduction to treat developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). We identified all patients who had undergone closed reduction of an unstable hip joint at our institution within 10 years, with further identification of patients who underwent a second procedure. We used logistic regression to evaluate correlation between age at closed reduction and the probability of secondary procedures. A total of 694 patients (84.5% females) who underwent a closed reduction in the study period were identified. 235 were excluded (patients with underlying genetic conditions, neuromuscular disorders, syndromic disorders). 250 patients had closed reductions only. 209 patients (45.5%) had at least 1 secondary procedure after their initial closed reduction. In multivariable analysis, female gender (OR 0.310; 95% CI, 0.108-0.885; p = 0.029) and patients aged ⩽12 months at the time of first surgery (OR 0.055; 95% CI, 0.007-0.423; p = 0.005) independently predicted being less likely to require a second surgery for their DDH. In conclusion, we found that a significant proportion of children (45.5%) who underwent closed reduction of a dislocated hip required additional surgical intervention in early childhood. Our data show that those children who undergo later closed reduction of a dislocated hip in DDH after 12 months of age, and male infants, have a significantly higher incidence of additional surgical intervention.

Pedicle complex tissue flap transfer for reconstruction of duplicated thumbs with unequal size.

BACKGROUNDThumb polydactyly is one of the most common congenital hand deformities, and the Bilhaut-Cloquet procedure or a modified one is often used. However, controversy remains over the rare instances in which both thumbs are not of similar length or far apart in distance.AIMTo evaluate the clinical outcomes of pedicle complex tissue flap transfer in the treatment of duplicated thumbs with unequal size.METHODSFrom January 2014 to December 2020, 15 patients underwent duplicated thumb reconstruction by pedicle complex tissue flap transfer at our hand surgery center. The technique was used when it was necessary to combine different tissues from both severed and preserved thumbs that were not of similar length or far apart in distance. Subjective parents’ evaluations and functional outcomes (ALURRA and TATA criteria) were obtained. The alignment deviation, instability, range of motion (percent of opposite thumb) of the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints, and the aesthetic aspects, including circumference, length, nail size, and nail deformity, were used to assess the clinical outcomes.RESULTSThe average age of patients at the time of surgery was 13 mo, and the mean final follow-up occurred at 42 mo. An appropriate volume with a stable joint and good appearance was obtained in 14 reconstructed thumbs. An unstable interphalangeal joint occurred in one thumb. The flexion-extension arc at the metacarpophalangeal joint was good, while that at the interphalangeal joint was poor. Most of the parents were satisfied with the cosmetic and functional results of the reconstructed thumbs. The mean ALURRA score was 21.8 (range: 20-24), and the Tada score was 6.9 (range: 5-8). Compared with the non-operated side, the length of the operated thumb was approximately 95%, the girth was 89%, and the nail width was 82.9%. The mean ranges of motion were 62.1% of that of the unaffected thumb in the interphalangeal joint and 78.3% in the metacarpophalangeal joint.CONCLUSIONHarvesting a pedicle flap from a severed thumb is a safe and reliable procedure. Defects of the preserved thumb, such as the skin, nail, and bone, can be effectively restored using the complex tissue flap.

Midterm Functional Outcome of the Linked Semiconstrained Distal Radioulnar Joint Prosthesis.

Background A painful unstable distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) can seriously compromise hand and wrist function. The semiconstrained prosthesis was developed to restore DRUJ function. To date, most outcome reports are coauthored by the designer. Questions Does independent reporting confirm the promising results of the semiconstrained DRUJ prosthesis? Are complication and failure rates acceptable? Patients and Methods We evaluated patients with the semiconstrained DRUJ implant and a minimum follow-up of 2 years. We monitored patient satisfaction and function with functionality questionnaires and measured wrist range of motion, grip, and key pinch strength. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, linear and logistic regression. Results We included 41 patients with 42 implants. Mean follow-up was 46 months (range: 24-102 months). Eighty percent of wrist had undergone previous surgery. We found a mean pronation of 83 degrees (0-90 degrees), supination of 70 degrees (0-90 degrees), flexion of 42 degrees (0-90 degrees), extension of 49 degrees (0-90 degrees), ulnar deviation of 24 degrees (0-60 degrees), and radial deviation of 14 degrees (0-40 degrees). Grip and key pinch strength were 20.1 (1-50 kg) and 6 kg (1-12 kg), respectively. Average patient-rated wrist and hand evaluation score was 42.7 (0-95), disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score was 38 (0-88), and visual analog scale score was 3.6 (0-8). We found a 43% complication rate (mostly minor: ulnar or radial tendinopathy, temporary hypoesthesia) with 24% reoperation and 92% prosthesis survival rate. Conclusion The linked semiconstrained DRUJ prosthesis has its value in the surgical treatment of DRUJ failure. Currently, most implants are used in secondary surgery and multioperated wrists. More research is required to assess the value of the DRUJ prosthesis as a primary procedure. Level of evidence This is a level IV, therapeutic study.

The GoodHope Exercise and Rehabilitation (GEAR) Program for People With Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Generalized Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders.

Introduction: The Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Generalized Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (G-HSD) comprise a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders of abnormal synthesis and/or maturation of collagen and other matricellular proteins. EDS is commonly characterized by manifestations such as multi joint hypermobility that can lead to musculoskeletal pains, subluxations and dislocations, fragile skin, organ dysfunction, and chronic significant diffuse pain with fatigue, deconditioning eventuating to poor quality of life. Evidence suggests exercise and rehabilitation interventions may ameliorate symptoms of unstable joints, recurrent subluxations/dislocations, and chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain. To date, there have only been a few reports describing exercise and rehabilitation care strategies for people with EDS.Methods: In this manuscript, we describe the GoodHope Exercise and Rehabilitation (GEAR) program, its overarching principles, as well as the program development and delivery model. The GEAR program aims to decrease functional impairment, reduce pain, increase confidence in symptom self-management, and provide a community of support for people with EDS/G-HSD. To achieve these goals, we detail the model of care that includes exercise and rehabilitation therapy, education for self-management, and support accessing relevant community resources.Strengths and Limitations of the Study: GEAR represents a novel exercise and rehabilitation care model for people with G-HSD and various clinical EDS subtypes, beyond the commonly included hEDS subtype. Systematic collection of data via validated measurements is ongoing and will guide the refinement of GEAR and support the development of emerging exercise and rehabilitation programs for people with EDS.

Functional outcome study of anatomical coraco-clavicular and acromio-clavicular ligament reconstruction for chronic unstable acromio-clavicular joint dislocations: A prospective mid-term follow up study

The Acromioclavicular joint represents the link between the clavicle and scapula, which is responsible for synchronized dynamics of the shoulder girdle. Traumatic injuries to acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) are commonly sustained by contact-sports athletes in high impact collisions or falls. Rockwood classified these injuries into types I through VI. Type I to type III injuries are treated conservatively and type IV -VI injuries require surgical management. Injuries of grade III - V require reconstruction of AC and CC ligaments. We present a surgical technique involving harvesting of semintendinosus autograft from hamstrings and using it to anatomically reconstruct the conoid and trapezoid portions of the coraco-clavicular ligament and the superior acromio-clavicular ligament/capsule. This technique is beneficial because it provides both horizontal and vertical stability. The purpose of our study was to find out the functional outcome of the procedure performed in mid-term follow-up. In our study the result was good functional outcome at 5 year follow up and subsequent followups provided proper placement of clavicular and acromian tunnels at the time of surgery.

Treatment of Upper Cervical Spinal Cord Injury (Unstable C1-C2) by Direct Visualization and Nailing Technique and the Advantages of Early MRI.

Background The treatment of C1-C2 fractures mainly depends on fracture type and the stability of the atlantoaxial joint. Disruption of the C1-C2 combination is a big challenge, especially in avoiding vertebral artery, nerve, and vein sinus injury during the operation. Purpose This study aims to show the benefit of using the posterior approach and pedicle screw insertion by nailing technique and direct visualization to treat unstable C1-C2 and, moreover, to determine the advantages of performing early MRI in patients with limited neck movement after trauma. Method Between Jan 2017–Feb 2019, we present 21 trauma patients who suffered from C1, C2, or unstable atlantoaxial joint. X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance image (MRI) were performed preoperatively. All the patients underwent our surgical procedure (posterior approach and pedicle screw placement by direct visualization and nailing technique). Result The mean age was 41.1 years old, 8 females and 14 males. The average follow-up time was 2.6 years. Four patients were with C1 fracture, seven with C2 fracture, six with atlantoaxial dislocation, and four with C1 and C2 fractures. The time of MRI was between 12 hours and 48 hours; neck movement symptoms appeared between 2 days and 2 weeks. Conclusion The posterior approach to treat the C1 and C2 fractures or dislocation by direct visualization and nailing technique can reduce the risk of the vertebral artery, vein sinus, and nerve root injuries with significant improvement. It can show a better angle view while inserting the pedicle screws. An early MRI (12–48 hours) is essential even if no symptoms appear at the time of admission, and if it is normal, it is necessary to repeat it. The presence of skull bleeding can be associated with upper neck instability.

Neuropathic (Charcot) Arthropathy of the Knee.

Neuropathic arthropathy of the knee (Charcot knee) is a rare pathology defined by progressive destruction of bone and soft tissue in a patient with underlying peripheral neuropathy. Historically, Charcot knee was associated with neurosyphilis, but it has been increasingly described as a late stage of diabetes. The pathophysiology of the disease is not completely understood, but theories include repetitive microtrauma and an abnormal neurovascular response. Patients present with a warm, swollen, and unstable joint and have rapid bone resorption and characteristic findings on pathology. Nonsurgical options for pain and dysfunction include total contact casting and bracing treatment. Pharmacologic management includes diphosphonates, although this use is considered off-label. Surgical management historically included knee fusion. However, recent case series have suggested that newer prostheses allow for successful arthroplasty in this cohort, although complications are higher when compared with joint arthroplasty in patients with normal neurologic function.

Improving Metacarpophalangeal Joint Instability by Joint Implantation in Parallel From a Supernumerary Thumb in Severely Hypoplastic Duplicated Thumbs.

Here, we present 2 cases of a severely hypoplastic duplicated thumb classified as Wassel types 5 and 6 and discuss whole-joint implantation from a supernumerary thumb as an alternative to stabilize the hypoplastic metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. The aim of the surgical treatment of thumb polydactyly is to reconstruct a functional and aesthetically pleasing thumb. Hypoplasia of joint components and abnormal tendon alignment lead to unpleasing results with angular deformity of the reconstructed thumb. In 2 cases, the MCP joint of the dominant digit was hypoplastic and unstable in all directions. The main problem was underdevelopment of the affected MCP joint, and it was reasonable to attempt to stabilize the unstable joint by adding another redundant joint in parallel. Whole-joint implantation with a flap on a vascular pedicle is useful to repair both joint instability and soft tissue hypoplasia, as in case 1. The vascularized joint can maintain balanced growth potential. However, nonvascularized interphalangeal (IP) joint implantation is a simple solution for repairing MCP joint instability, as in case 2. These joints have no tendon insertions, so we believe they are acting as a splint supporting the hypoplastic joint for a long period. The transfer of composite tissues from the foot has been reported for reconstruction of finger and thumb hypoplasia. Duplicated thumb operation is usually recommended at 1 year old. Similarly, nonvascularized joint implantation in parallel may be a promising choice to overcome MCP joint instability and to maintain range of motion in hypoplastic cases with a duplicated thumb.In conclusion, joint implantation in parallel from a supernumerary thumb could prevent angular deformity and is an alternative to overcome MCP joint instability in cases of a severely hypoplastic duplicated thumb without any donor morbidity.

Treatment of a Chronic Elbow Dislocation With an Internal Fixator.

There are a variety of ways to treat chronic elbow dislocations, including repeat closed reduction and immobilization, transarticular pinning, temporary bridge plating, hinged or rigid external fixation, and internal fixator application. Although each have distinct advantages and disadvantages, avoiding recurrent instability is critical. The internal-fixator is a relatively new option to maintain a stable, concentric reduction and facilitate early range of motion. This article and accompanying video describe the surgical technique of using an internal joint stabilizer for treatment of a chronically unstable ulnohumeral joint.

A novel technique for proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations: the second toe middle phalanx osteochondral graft.

Many different surgical techniques have been used to treat unstable dorsal proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations. The authors have used the base of the middle phalanx of the second toe base as an alternative autograft to treat this type of injury. This retrospective study assessed the clinical outcomes of this procedure in 11 patients. Range of motion, grip strength, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and donor site morbidity were assessed at regular intervals postoperatively. Nine patients had acute injuries and two had chronic injuries. The mean range of motion in the proximal interphalangeal joint at final review was 65° for patients with acute injuries and 41° for patients with chronic injuries. Other outcomes were satisfactory and there were no complications.Level of evidence: IV.

Year-Long Use of Ankle-Foot Orthosis–Footwear Combination with Talar Flange Modification in an Adult Poststroke

ABSTRACT Introduction There are limited examples in the literature of detailed orthotic management related to triplanar control of the ankle-foot complex. The aim of this case report was to describe year-long use of an ankle-foot orthosis–footwear combination (AFO-FC) augmented with a talar flange that aimed to stabilize the subtalar joint during gait in an individual with poststroke hemiplegia who presented with both knee hyperextension and an unstable subtalar joint. Materials and Methods A 40-year-old woman 1-year poststroke with right hemiplegia presented with right equinovarus and knee hyperextension, with complaint of pain in the ankle and knee. Her right talocrural joint measured 15° plantarflexion with clinically significant inversion instability. Results A right solid AFO-FC, designed using published algorithms, was provided. In addition, a talar flange modification was incorporated to control subtalar inversion. During year-long use of the AFO-FC, the patient was able to return to community ambulation without pain. Successful orthotic intervention required that the device met not only biomechanical goals but also broader patient goals, which changed over time. Therapy with the device was also important for successful orthotic intervention. Conclusions This case illustrates use of a talar flange in an AFO-FC to provide triplanar control of the ankle-foot complex and improve gait in a person poststroke.

Surgical Treatment of Sacral Metastatic Tumors.

ObjectiveThis study intends to retrospectively analyze the data of patients with sacral metastases in our center, and analyze the treatment methods and therapeutic effects of sacral metastases.Methods73 patients with sacral metastases treated in our hospital from June 2013 to June 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 54 cases of neurological symptoms, 42 cases of sacroiliac joint instability, 24 cases of lower limb muscle weakness and 19 cases of abnormal urination and defecation. Four patients with tumors below S3 underwent complete tumor resection, 23 patients with tumors above S3 and without sacroiliac joint instability underwent tumor curettage and nerve root lysis, 34 patients with tumors above S3 and sacroiliac joint instability underwent tumor curettage, nerve root release and screw rod reconstruction. 12 patients with multiple metastases underwent percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and sacroplasty. VAS was used to evaluate the preoperative and postoperative pain scores, and the postoperative pain relief, neurological function, bowel function, wound healing and complications were evaluated.ResultsThere were no perioperative death, 8 cases of poor wound healing, 5 cases of nerve injury, postoperative sensory and motor loss of lower limbs. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in 7 cases. The patients were followed up for 6-25 months (mean 12 months). The VAS scores of patients with pain symptoms were 7 points before operation and 1.44 points after operation, In 19 patients with abnormal urination and defecation function, 12 patients recovered to normal 3-6 months after operation, 5 cases had no significant change compared with preoperative, and 2 cases had aggravated symptoms; 17 cases of patients with lower limb muscle strength were significantly recovered after operation, and the average muscle strength was increased by 2 grades; 30 cases of patients with unstable sacroiliac joint got internal fixation had significantly pain relief. Pain symptoms of 9 patients were significantly relieved after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation.Conclusionthe operation of sacral metastases mainly adopts a relatively conservative surgical method, which can effectively improve the quality of life of patients with sacral metastases by retaining the nerve function and relieving the pain of patients, combining with radiofrequency ablation, sacroplasty and targeted drugs.

An Update on Peroneal Nerve Entrapment and Neuropathy.

Peroneal neuropathy is the most common compressive neuropathy of the lower extremity. It should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with foot drop, the pain of the lower extremity, or numbness of the lower extremity. Symptoms of peroneal neuropathy may occur due to compression of the common peroneal nerve (CPN), superficial peroneal nerve (SPN), or deep peroneal nerve (DPN), each with different clinical presentations. The CPN is most commonly compressed by the bony prominence of the fibula, the SPN most commonly entrapped as it exits the lateral compartment of the leg, and the DPN as it crosses underneath the extensor retinaculum. Accurate and timely diagnosis of any peroneal neuropathy is important to avoid progression of nerve injury and permanent nerve damage. The diagnosis is often made with physical exam findings of decreased strength, altered sensation, and gait abnormalities. Motor nerve conduction studies, electromyography studies, and diagnostic nerve blocks can also assist in diagnosis and prognosis. First-line treatments include removing anything that may be causing external compression, providing stability to unstable joints, and reducing inflammation. Although many peroneal nerve entrapments will resolve with observation and activity modification, surgical treatment is often required when entrapment is refractory to these conservative management strategies. Recently, additional options including microsurgical decompression and percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation have been reported; however, large studies reporting outcomes are lacking.