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Objective: Research on the link between inflammatory indicators and markers of bone metabolism is currently lacking, especially the interaction between Procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), the β-C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (β-CTX), and the fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR). This study intends to fill that knowledge gap by investigating the possible link between inflammatory indicators and bone metabolism. Methods: This observational study included 718 individuals diagnosed with osteoporotic fractures from Kunshan Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University between January 2017 and July 2022. After accounting for several confounders, the independent connection between FAR levels and β-CTX and P1NP was investigated via Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE). On top of that, we used a generalized additive model (GAM) to find any non-linear correlations, and a two-piecewise linear regression model to find the threshold effects in the smoothing curves that came out of it. To ensure the aforementioned result was stable, a subgroup analysis was carried out. Results: The results showed a positive linear correlation between FAR and β-CTX [β = 1.077, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.24 to 1.92, P = 0.012]. The study's findings demonstrated that FAR and P1NP fit curves in an inverted U-shaped pattern, and an inflection point K = 0.0685 for FAR was detected. P1NP showed a positive correlation with FAR below the inflection point (β = 306.10, 95% CI: 47.37 to 564.83, P = 0.021), and a negative correlation with FAR beyond the inflection point (β = -117.57, 95% CI: -231.34 to -3.80, P = 0.043). The subgroup analysis revealed that women had a more significant association between FAR and β-CTX in women than in men. Conclusions: The results provide useful insights into the potential association between FAR and markers of bone metabolism. The study may provide a novel clinical implication by introducing FAR as a potential reference indicator for assessing bone health, offering a cost-effective and conveniently obtainable biomarker to monitor inflammation to improve bone metabolism in the treatment of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many studies have indicated that abnormal bone mineral density (BMD) is related to abnormal liver and kidney function, but the effect of serum albumin level on abnormal BMD and osteoporotic fracture is still controversial. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the effects of serum albumin levels on abnormal BMD and osteoporotic fractures. Methods: The study included 538 patients through the electronic medical records of inpatients and outpatients stored at Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. A multivariate logistic regression model was employed to test the relationship between serum albumin levels and abnormal BMD, and the effect of serum albumin levels on osteoporotic fractures was verified through the U test. Correlation between age, sex, kidney stones, coronary heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, fatty liver disease, haemoglobin (HB), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), platelets (PLT), platelet distribution width (PDW), lymphocytes (LYMP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), uric acid (UA), total bilirubin (TBIL), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and abnormal BMD were analysed by logistic regression modelling after excluding confounding factors. Results: The ALB level in osteoporotic patients was 41.70 (36.40–45.00) g/L, which was significantly lower than those in the normal BMD and reduced BMD groups. The odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) between the osteoporosis and normal BMD groups was 0.445 (0.394–0.502); the OR (95% CI) between the osteoporosis and reduced BMD groups was 0.395 (0.341–0.459). In the subgroup analysis by whether or not a fracture was present, the OR (95% CI) was 0.073 (0.045–0.119). Conclusions: ALB is a protective factor against osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures, suggesting that it may have the potential to predict osteoporosis onset and fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bisphosphonate (BP) can treat osteoporosis and prevent osteoporotic fractures in clinical. However, the effect of BP on microstructure and mechanical properties of cortical and trabecular bone has been taken little attention, separately. Methods: In this study, BP was used to intervene in ovariectomized female SD rats. The femoral micro-CT images were used to measure the structural parameters and reconstruct the 3D models in volume of interest. The structural parameters of cortical and trabecular bone were measured, and the mechanical properties were predicted using micro-finite element analysis. Results: There was almost no significant difference in the morphological structure parameters and mechanical properties of cortical bone between normal, ovariectomized (sham-OVX) and BP intervention groups. However, BP could significantly improve bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and trabecular separation (Tb.SP) in inter-femoral condyles (IT) (sham-OVX vs. BP, p < 0.001), and had no significant effect on BV/TV in medial and lateral femoral condyles (MT, LT). Similarly, BPs could significantly affect the effective modulus in IT (sham-OVX vs. BP, p < 0.001), and had no significant difference in MT and LT. In addition, the structural parameters and effective modulus showed a good linear correlation. Conclusion: In a short time, the effects of BP intervention and osteoporosis on cortical bone were not obvious. The effects of BP on trabecular bone in non-main weight-bearing area (IT) were valuable, while for osteoporosis, the main weight-bearing area (MT, LT) may improve the structural quality and mechanical strength of trabecular bone through exercise compensation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the biomechanical effects of percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with cement pedicle plasty (PVCPP) on the unstable osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) through finite element (FE) analysis. The study compares the biomechanical stability of finite element models between percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with cement pedicle plasty. Methods: Two patients with unstable OVFs underwent computed tomography (CT) examination at the thoracolumbar vertebral body levels, respectively. The CT images were reconstructed into three-dimensional finite element models to simulate stress conditions across six dimensions and to evaluate the vertebral von Mises stress before and after bone cement reinforcement. Results: The study found that stress distribution differed between groups mainly at the pedicle base. In the surgical vertebral bodies, the maximum stress in the PVP group decreased during flexion and left bending, while it increased in other states. In the PVCPP group, all maximum stresses decreased. In the inferior vertebral bodies, the maximum stress in the PVP group generally increased, while it decreased in the PVCPP group. In the superior vertebral bodies, postoperatively, the maximum stress in the PVP group generally increased, while it almost remained unchanged in the PVCPP group. PVP group had higher cement stress and displacement. Conclusion: PVCPP is an effective treatment method for patients with unstable OVFs. It can quickly relieve pain and enhance the stability of the three columns, thereby reducing the risk of some complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have implicated rheumatoid arthritis as an independent risk factor for bone density loss. However, whether there is a causal relationship between rheumatic diseases and bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures is still controversial. We employed a bidirectional Mendelian analysis to explore the causal relationship between rheumatic diseases and BMD or fractures. Methods: The rheumatic diseases instrumental variables (IVs) were obtained from a large Genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis dataset of European descent. Analyses were performed for the three rheumatic diseases: ankylosing spondylitis (AS) (n = 22,647 cases, 99,962 single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs]), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (n = 58,284 cases, 13,108,512 SNPs), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (n = 14,267 cases, 7,071,163 SNPs). Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were carried out by using R language TwoSampleMR version 0.5.7. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median methods were used to analyze the causal relationship between rheumatic diseases and BMD or fracture. Results: The MR results revealed that there was absence of evidence for causal effect of AS on BMD or fracture. However, there is a positive causal relationship of RA with fracture of femur (95% CI = 1.0001 to 1.077, p = 0.046), and RA and fracture of forearm (95% CI = 1.015 to 1.064, p = 0.001). SLE had positive causal links for fracture of forearm (95% CI = 1.004 to 1.051, p = 0.020). Additionally, increasing in heel bone mineral density (Heel-BMD) and total bone mineral density (Total-BMD) can lead to a reduced risk of AS without heterogeneity or pleiotropic effects. The results were stable and reliable. There was absence of evidence for causal effect of fracture on RA (95% CI = 0.929 to 1.106, p = 0.759), and fracture on SLE (95% CI = 0.793 to 1.589, p = 0.516). Conclusions: RA and SLE are risk factors for fractures. On the other hand, BMD increasing can reduce risk of AS. Our results indicate that rheumatic diseases may lead to an increased risk of fractures, while increased BMD may lead to a reduced risk of rheumatic diseases. These findings provide insight into the risk of BMD and AS, identifying a potential predictor of AS risk as a reduction in BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Osteoporosis (OS) is a systemic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and bone microstructure damage. This study. Methods: According to the T value, 88 elderly fracture patients were grouped as the control group (without OS, 43 cases) and observation group (with T value <-2.5, which could be diagnosed as OS, 45 cases). The content of boney containing protein (BGP), total type 1 collagen amino terminal extender peptide (TPINP), β-Crosslaps (β-CTX), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and insulin-like growth factors-1 (IGF-1) was compared. Multivariate logistic regression was adopted to analyze the correlation between biochemical indexes and the occurrence of senile OS fracture and the related risk factors. The diagnostic value in the elderly was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: The levels of BGP, TPINP, β-CTX, PTH and IGF-1 were elevated, and the level of IGF-1 was decreased in the observation group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The elevated content of BGP, TPINP, β-CTX and PTH, and the decreased expression of IGF-1 were influencing factors for OS fractures in the elderly (P < 0.05). The sensitivity and specificity to predict the occurrence of OS fractures in the elderly were 91.70% and 90.50%, respectively. The AUC of combined detection was 0.976 (95% CI: 0.952-1.000), which was memorably higher than single indicator detection (P < 0.05). Among 45 patients, 32 cases had good prognosis and 13 had poor prognosis. In comparison with the good prognosis group, the content of BGP, TPINP, β-CTX and PTH were sensibly higher, the level of IGF-1 was prominently lower, and the proportion of fracture history was much higher in poor prognosis group (P < 0.05). Fracture history, BGP, TPINP, β-CTX, PTH and IGF-1 were independent risk factors for poor prognosis of elderly OS fractures (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Bone metabolism factors were associated with poor prognosis of OS in the elderly. The combined detection had higher diagnostic value in calculating the risk of OS fracture in the elderly than single indicator detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior studies have suggested a potential relationship between osteoporosis and sarcopenia, both of which can present symptoms of compromised mobility. Additionally, fractures among the elderly are often considered a common outcome of both conditions. There is a strong correlation between fractures in the elderly population, decreased muscle mass, weakened muscle strength, heightened risk of falls, and diminished bone density. This study aimed to pinpoint crucial diagnostic candidate genes for osteoporosis patients with concomitant sarcopenia. Methods: Two osteoporosis datasets and one sarcopenia dataset were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Differential expression genes (DEGs) and module genes were identified using Limma and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), followed by functional enrichment analysis, construction of protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks, and application of a machine learning algorithm (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression) to determine candidate hub genes for diagnosing osteoporosis combined with sarcopenia. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and column line plots were generated. Results: The merged osteoporosis dataset comprised 2067 DEGs, with 424 module genes filtered in sarcopenia. The intersection of DEGs between osteoporosis and sarcopenia module genes consisted of 60 genes, primarily enriched in viral infection. Through construction of the PPI network, 30 node genes were filtered, and after machine learning, 7 candidate hub genes were selected for column line plot construction and diagnostic value assessment. Both the column line plots and all 7 candidate hub genes exhibited high diagnostic value (area under the curve ranging from 1.00 to 0.93). Conclusion: We identified 7 candidate hub genes (PDP1, ALS2CL, VLDLR, PLEKHA6, PPP1CB, MOSPD2, METTL9) and constructed column line plots for osteoporosis combined with sarcopenia. This study provides reference for potential peripheral blood diagnostic candidate genes for sarcopenia in osteoporosis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although it is generally believed that the femoral neck fracture is related to the femoral neck geometric parameters (FNGPs), the association between the risk of osteoporotic fracture of the femoral neck and FNGPs in native Chinese women is still unclear. Methods: A total of 374 female patients (mean age 70.2 ± 9.32 years) with osteoporotic fracture of the femoral neck, and 374 non-fracture control groups were completely matched with the case group according to the age ratio of 1:1. Using DXA bone densitometer to measured eight FNGPs: the outer diameter (OD), cross-sectional area (CSA), cortical thickness (CT), endocortical diameter (ED), buckling ratio (BR), section modulus (SM), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), and compressive strength index (CSI) at the narrowest point of the femoral neck. Results: Compared with the control group, the average values of OD (2.9%), ED (4.5%), and BR (26.1%) in the patient group significantly increased (p = 0.015 to < 0.001), while CSA (‒15.3%), CT (‒18.2%), SM (‒10.3%), CSMI (‒6.4%), and CSI (‒10.8%) significantly decreased (all p < 0.001). The prevalence of osteoporosis in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip was, respectively, 82%, 81%, and 65% in fracture patients. Cox proportional hazard model analysis showed that in the age adjusted model, the fracture hazard ratio (HR) of CSA, CT, BR, SM, and CSI significantly increased (HRs = 1.60‒8.33; 95% CI = 1.08‒16.6; all p < 0.001). In the model adjusted for age and femoral neck BMD, HRs of CT (HRs = 3.90‒8.03; 95% CI = 2.45‒15.1; all p < 0.001) and BR (HRs = 1.62‒2.60; 95% CI = 1.20‒5.44; all p < 0.001) were still significantly increased. Conclusion: These results suggest that the majority of osteoporotic fractures of the femoral neck of native Chinese women occur in patients with osteoporosis. CT thinning or BR increase of FNGPs may be independent predictors of fragility fracture of femoral neck in native Chinese women unrelated to BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metacarpal shaft fracture is a common type of hand fracture. Numerous studies have explored fixing transverse fractures in the midshaft of the metacarpal bone. However, this section of the metacarpal bone is often susceptible to high-energy injury, resulting in comminuted fracture or bone loss. In such cases, wedge-shaped bone defects can develop in the metacarpal shaft, increasing the difficulty of performing fracture fixation. Notably, the research on this type of fracture fixation is limited. This study compared the abilities of four fixation methods to fix metacarpal shaft fractures with wedge-shaped bone defects. Methods: In total, 28 artificial metacarpal bones were used. To create wedge-shaped bone defects, an electric saw was used to create metacarpal shaft fractures at the midshaft of each bone. The artificial metacarpal bones were then divided into four groups for fixation. The bones in the first group were fixed with a dorsal locked plate (DP group), those in the second group were fixed with a volar locked plate (VP group), and those in the third group were fixed by combining dorsal and volar locked plates (DP + VP group), and those in the fourth group were fixed with two K-wires (2 K group). Cantilever bending tests were conducted using a material testing machine to measure yielding force and stiffness. The four groups' fixation capabilities were then assessed through analysis of variance and Tukey's test. Results: The DP + VP group (164.1±44.0 N) achieved a significantly higher yielding force relative to the 2 K group (50.7 ± 8.9 N); the DP group (13.6 ± 3.0 N) and VP group (12.3 ± 1.0 N) did not differ significantly in terms of yielding force, with both achieving lower yielding forces relative to the DP + VP group and 2 K group. The DP + VP group (19.8±6.3 N/mm) achieved the highest level of stiffness, and the other three groups did not differ significantly in terms of stiffness (2 K group, 5.4 ± 1.1 N/mm; DP group, 4.0 ± 0.9 N/mm; VP group, 3.9 ± 1.9 N/mm). Conclusions: The fixation method involving the combined use of dorsal and volar locked plates (DP + VP group) resulted in optimal outcomes with respect to fixing metacarpal shaft fractures with volar wedge bone defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiculopathy of the lower limb after acute osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) in the lower lumbar spine is uncommon in geriatric patients. Moreover, surgical intervention is generally recommended in patients who are irresponsive to conservative treatment. Determining an optimum surgical strategy is challenging considering the poor general condition of this population. Thus, herein, we established an algorithm for surgically managing this clinical scenario, hoping to provide a reference for making a surgical decision. Methods: We retrospectively studied patients who suffered from new-onset radiculopathy of the lower limb after acute single-level OVFs in the lower lumbar spine and eventually underwent surgical intervention at our department. Information on the demographics, bone quality, AO spine classification of the vertebral fracture, pre-existing degenerative changes, including foraminal stenosis and lumbar disc herniation, and surgical intervention type was collected. Additionally, clinical outcomes, including preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back and leg pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI), and MacNab criterion for response to surgery, were evaluated. Results: From September 2019 to December 2021, a total of 22 patients with a mean age of 68.59 ± 9.74 years were analyzed. The most involved vertebra was L5 (54.5%), followed by L4 (27.3%) and L3 (18.2%). Among the 22 patients, 15 (68.2%) were diagnosed with the A1 type fracture of AO classification, and among them, 11 (73.3%) were characterized by the collapse of the inferior end plate (IEP). Three patients (13.6%) suffered from A2-type fractures, whereas four patients (18.2%) suffered from A3-type fractures. Pre-existing degenerative changes were observed in 12 patients (54.5%) of the patients. A total of 16 patients (72.7%) were treated by percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). Additionally, three patients underwent posterior instrumentation and fusion, two patients underwent a secondary endoscopic foraminoplasty, and one patient underwent a secondary radiofrequency ablation. The mean follow-up period was 17.42 ± 9.62 months. The mean VAS scores for leg and back pain and ODI decreased significantly after the surgery (P < 0.05). The total satisfaction rate at the last follow-up was 90.9% per the Macnab criterion. Conclusion: Patients with OVFs in the IEP are predisposed to suffer from radiculopathy of the lower limb. PKP alone or in combination with other minimally invasive surgical strategies is safe and effective in treating stable fractures. Additionally, aggressive surgical intervention should be considered in patients with unstable fractures or severe foraminal encroachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoporotic fractures are a growing problem in an aging society. The association between body mass index (BMI) and osteoporotic fractures varies by fracture site and ethnicity. Limited knowledge exists regarding this association in native Chinese, particularly utilizing local databases as reference sources. Objective: To investigate the association between BMI and osteoporotic fractures at different sites in Chinese women. Methods: Three thousand ninety-eight female patients with radiographic fractures and 3098 age- and sex-matched healthy controls without fractures were included in the study. Both of them underwent assessment using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), with BMD measurements calculated using our own BMD reference database. Participants were classified into underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI < 24.0 kg/m2), overweight (24 ≤ BMI < 28 kg/m2) and obese (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2) according to the Chinese BMI classification standard. Results: There were 2296 (74.1%) vertebral fractures, 374 (12.1%) femoral neck fractures, and 428 (13.8%) other types of fractures in the case group. Bone mineral density (BMD) was almost lower in the fracture groups compared to the control groups (p = 0.048 to < 0.001). Compared with normal weight, underweight had a protective effect on total [odds ratio (OR) = 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.49 –0.75; P< 0.001], and lumbar fractures (OR = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.41 – 0.67; P < 0.001), while obesity was associated with an increased risk for total (OR = 2.26; 95% CI, 1.85 – 2.76; P < 0.001), lumbar (OR = 2.17; 95% CI, 1.72 – 2.73; P < 0.001), and femoral neck fractures (OR = 4.08; 95% CI, 2.18 – 7.63; P < 0.001). Non-linear associations were observed between BMI and fractures: A J-curve for total, lumbar, and femoral neck fractures, and no statistical change for other types of fractures. Underweight was found to be a risk factor for other types of fracturess after adjusting for BMD (OR = 2.29; 95% CI, 1.09 – 4.80; P < 0.001). Osteoporosis and osteopenia were identified as risk factors for almost all sites of fracture when compared to normal bone mass. Conclusions: Underweight has a protective effect on total and lumbar spine fractures in Chinese women, while obesity poses a risk factor for total, lumbar, and femoral neck fractures. The effect of BMI on fractures may be mainly mediated by BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Previous studies have shown that DNA methyltransferase 3b (Dnmt3b) is the only Dnmt responsive to fracture repair and Dnmt3b ablation in Prx1-positive stem cells and chondrocyte cells both delayed fracture repair. Our study aims to explore the influence of Dnmt3b ablation in Gli1-positive stem cells in fracture healing mice and the underlying mechanism. Methods: We generated Gli1-CreERT2; Dnmt3bflox/flox (Dnmt3bGli1ER) mice to operated tibia fracture. Fracture callus tissues of Dnmt3bGli1ER mice and control mice were collected and analyzed by X-ray, micro-CT, biomechanical testing, histopathology and TUNEL assay. Results: The cartilaginous callus significantly decrease in ablation of Dnmt3b in Gli1-positive stem cells during fracture repair. The chondrogenic and osteogenic indicators (Sox9 and Runx2) in the fracture healing tissues in Dnmt3bGli1ER mice much less than control mice. Dnmt3bGli1ER mice led to delayed bone callus remodeling and decreased biomechanical properties of the newly formed bone during fracture repair. Both the expressions of Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 were upregulated in Dnmt3bGli1ER mice as well as the expressions of BCL-2. Conclusions: Our study provides an evidence that Dnmt3b ablation Gli1-positive stem cells can affect fracture healing and lead to poor fracture healing by regulating apoptosis to decrease chondrocyte hypertrophic maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoporosis involves changes to bones that makes them prone to fracture. The most common osteoporotic fracture is vertebral, in which one or more spinal vertebrae collapse. People with vertebral fracture are at high risk of further fractures, however around two-thirds remain undiagnosed. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends bone protection therapies to reduce this risk. This study aimed to co-produce a range of knowledge sharing resources, for healthcare professionals in primary care and patients, to improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment. Methods: This study comprised three stages: 1. In-depth interviews with primary care healthcare professionals (n = 21) and patients with vertebral fractures (n = 24) to identify barriers and facilitators to diagnosis and treatment. 2. A taxonomy of barriers and facilitators to diagnosis were presented to three stakeholder groups (n = 18), who suggested ways of identifying, diagnosing and treating vertebral fractures. Fourteen recommendations were identified using the nominal group technique. 3. Two workshops were held with stakeholders to co-produce and refine the prototype knowledge sharing resources (n = 12). Results: Stage 1: Factors included lack of patient information about symptoms and risk factors, prioritisation of other conditions and use of self-management. Healthcare professionals felt vertebral fractures were harder to identify in lower risk groups and mistook them for other conditions. Difficulties in communication between primary and secondary care meant that patients were not always informed of their diagnosis, or did not start treatment promptly. Stage 2: 14 recommendations to improve management of vertebral fractures were identified, including for primary care healthcare professionals (n = 9) and patients (n = 5). Stage 3: The need for allied health professionals in primary care to be informed about vertebral fractures was highlighted, along with ensuring that resources appealed to under-represented groups. Prototype resources were developed. Changes included help-seeking guidance and clear explanations of medical language. Conclusions: The study used robust qualitative methods to co-produce knowledge sharing resources to improve diagnosis. A co-production approach enabled a focus on areas stakeholders thought to be beneficial to timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment. Dissemination of these resources to a range of stakeholders provides potential for substantial reach and spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To Investigate the value of 3D printed guide-assisted percutaneous management of minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures(Herbert's B2) with delayed diagnosis or presentation. Methods: From October 2018 to February 2022, 10 patients with established delayed diagnoses and presentation of minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures were treated with 3D printed guides assisted with percutaneous internal fixation without bone grafting. This technique was based on the patient's preoperative CT and imported into the software. Based on Boolean subtraction, the most centralized screw placement position was identified and a customized guide was produced. Intraoperative percutaneous insertion of the guide wire was assisted by the custom guide. Results: All 10 patients were successful in one attempt. The fractures healed at a mean of 7.7 weeks postoperatively (range 6–10 weeks). At a mean follow-up of 7.7 months (6–13 months), patients had excellent recovery of wrist function with minimal pain reduction. There were no major postoperative complications and the patients all returned to their previous activities before the injury. Conclusions: Percutaneous internal fixation based on 3D printed guides is a safe and effective technique for delayed diagnosis or presentation of patients with minimally displaced fractures of the scaphoid waist. This method allows for easy insertion of screws and avoids multiple attempts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insurance reimbursement provisions in South Korea limit osteoporosis medication availability for patients with T-scores exceeding − 2.5. This study aimed to evaluate the financial impact and fracture prevention of continuous denosumab therapy until a T-score>-2.0 (Dmab-C strategy), versus discontinuation of denosumab after reaching T-score>-2.5 (Dmab-D strategy) in osteoporosis patients. Methods: A cost-consequence analysis from a Korean healthcare system perspective was performed using a newly developed Markov model. The incidence of vertebral and non-vertebral fracture, fracture-related deaths, drug costs, and fracture-treatment costs were estimated and compared between Dmab-C and Dmab-D strategy over a lifetime in eligible patients aged 55 years. Results: Base-case analysis revealed that Dmab-C prevented 32.21 vertebral fracture (VF) and 12.43 non-VF events per 100 patients over a lifetime, while reducing 1.29 fracture-related deaths. Lifetime direct healthcare cost saving per patient was KRW 1,354,655 if Dmab-C replaces Dmab-D. When productivity losses were considered, Dmab-C saved KRW 29,025,949 per patient compared to Dmab-D. The additional treatment costs of Dmab-C could be offset by the higher subsequent treatment costs and fracture treatment costs of Dmab-D. The sensitivity analysis showed consistent patterns with results of the base-case analysis. Conclusion: Continuous treatment using denosumab until osteoporosis patients achieve and maintain a T-score of -2.0 would provide greater clinical and economic benefits in terms of fracture prevention and reduced mortality risks compared to outcomes from discontinuing treatment at a T-score of -2.5 or above. This new treatment strategy would effectively lower the risk of fractures and fracture-related mortality, ultimately leading to lower medical expenses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The therapeutic efficacy of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) in elderly patients with hypertension and at risk of fractures has been in the limelight because of accumulating evidence that localized RAS activation in bone tissue leads to osteoclastic bone resorption, resulting in osteoporosis. This study set out to investigate the association between RASi use and fracture incidence in a large cohort. Methods: We employed a nested case–control design to investigate the association between RASi use and newly developed fractures. A case was defined as a patient newly diagnosed with a fracture between January 2004 and December 2015. We selected 1,049 cases and controls using 1:1 propensity score matching. Conditional logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate the association between RASi exposure and fracture incidence. Results: Overall, RASi usage was significantly associated with lower odds for fracture incidence (ever-users vs never-users: OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.59–0.91). We found that ARB-only users experienced fewer fractures than RASi-never users (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.49–0.86), whereas ACEi-only users or ARB/ACEi-ever users did not. In subgroup analysis, RASi-ever users without cerebrovascular disease, those with a BMI exceeding 23, and statin exposure had significantly lower ORs. Conclusions: The present study established a significant association between RASi use and reduced fracture incidence, thus highlighting the potential clinical utility of RASi use as a preventive strategy in elderly patients at risk for osteoporotic fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Large bone defects require complex treatment, multidisciplinary resources, and expert input, with surgical procedures ranging from reconstruction and salvage to amputation. The aim of this study was to provide the results of a case series of open comminuted intra-articular distal femoral fractures with significant bone loss that were managed by early fixation using anatomical plates and a modified Masquelet technique with the addition of surgical propylene mesh. Methods: This retrospective study included all patients referred to our institution with OTA/AO C3 distal femur open fractures and meta-diaphyseal large bone loss between April 2019 and February 2021. We treated the fractures with irrigation and debridement, acute primary screw and plate fixation in the second look operation, and Masquelet method using shell-shaped antibiotic beads supplemented by propylene surgical mesh to keep the cements in place. The second step of the procedure was conducted six to eight weeks later with bone grafting and mesh augmentation to contain bone grafts. Surprisingly, hard callus formation was observed in all patients at the time of the second stage of Masquelet procedure. Results: All five patients' articular and meta-diaphyseal fractures with bone loss healed without major complications. The average union time was 159 days. The mean knee range of motion was 5–95 degrees. The average Lower Extremity Functional Score (LEFS) was 49 out of 80. Conclusions: Combination of early plate fixation and the modified Masquelet technique with polypropylene mesh is an effective method for managing large bone defects in open intra-articular distal femoral fractures with bone loss, resulting in shorter union time possibly associated with the callus formation process. This technique may also be applicable to the management of other similar fractures specially in low-income and developing areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have examined the relationship between perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) and length of hospital stay (LOS) in patients with osteoporotic fractures. This research aims to study the association between PBT and LOS. Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study from the Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China, involving 2357 osteoporotic fractures (OPF) patients who received surgical treatment during hospitalization from January 2017 and March 2022. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the relationship between PBT and LOS. In the analysis, PBT volume was the dependent variable, whereas LOS was the independent variable. Simultaneously, age, gender, body mass index, hemoglobin, primary diagnosis, American Society of Anesthesiologists, creatinine (Cr), anesthesia, surgical method, and Charlson comorbidity index were included as covariates. The generalized additive model was then used to study nonlinear associations. Two piecewise linear regression exemplary evaluated the inception results for smoothing the curve. Results: Our results proved that PBT was positively correlated with LOS in the fully adjusted model (β, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.37; P < 0.0001). Furthermore, a "U-shape" nonlinear relationship existed between PBT and LOS. When the concentration of PBT was between 0 and 1.5 units, it was manifested as a negative correlation between PBT and LOS. However, there was a positive association between PBT and LOS when PBT levels exceeded 1.5 units. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that PBT and LOS in the OPF population were independent with a nonlinear relationship. These results suggest that PBT may be protective for patients with long LOS. If these findings are confirmed, the LOS in OPF patients can be regulated through appropriate perioperative blood transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Hamate fractures are rare fractures of the wrist and there is still no consensus on the optimal treatment for these fractures, especially hook of hamate fractures. Herein, the authors present a case study of a series of patients who were treated with closed reduction and minimally invasive percutaneous fixation under robot navigation. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed 14 patients who had nondisplaced or minimally displaced hamate fractures on computerized tomography images and were treated using the treatment in our centre from November 1, 2019, to October 31, 2022. At the final follow-up, the flexion-extension and radial-ulnar range of motion of the wrist were measured, and the grip strength and pinch strength were measured. The pain of the wrist was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS). The Mayo wrist score reflected the recovery of the wrist. Results: The mean total operative duration was 40.1 min. All the fractures showed union at a mean of 3.0 months. At a mean follow-up of 23.3 months (range 6–36 months), the mean VAS score was 0.7, the average Mayo wrist score was 95, and the mean pinch strength and grip strength were 11.3 and 38.7 kg, respectively. The flexion-extension arc was 138.3°, the mean radial and ulnar deviation arc was 63.8°, and the mean pronation-supination arc was 172.3°. And the time of return to the original occupation was mean 4 months (3~6 months). There were no complications, such as infection or nerve paralysis. Conclusions: This study suggests that nondisplaced or minimally displaced hamate hook fractures can be successfully treated by closed reduction and internal fixation with a headless compression screw with the assistance of robot navigation, and the small fragment of fracture can be accurately fixed with minimal iatrogenic injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ramifications of osteoporotic fractures and their subsequent complications are becoming progressively detrimental for the elderly population. This study evaluates the clinical ramifications of postoperative bone cement distribution in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) who underwent both bilateral and unilateral Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP). Objective: The research aims to discern the influence of bone cement distribution on the clinical outcomes of both bilateral and unilateral Percutaneous Vertebroplasty. The overarching intention is to foster efficacious preventive and therapeutic strategies to mitigate postoperative vertebral fractures and thereby enhance surgical outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive evaluation was undertaken on 139 patients who received either bilateral or unilateral PVP in our institution between January 2018 and March 2022. These patients were systematically classified into three distinct groups: unilateral PVP (n = 87), bilateral PVP with a connected modality (n = 29), and bilateral PVP with a disconnected modality (n = 23). Several operational metrics were juxtaposed across these cohorts, encapsulating operative duration, aggregate hospital expenses, bone cement administration metrics, VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) scores, ODI (Oswestry Disability Index) scores relative to lumbar discomfort, postoperative vertebral height restitution rates, and the status of the traumatized and adjacent vertebral bodies. Preliminary findings indicated that the VAS scores for the January and December cohorts were considerably reduced compared to the unilateral PVP group (P = 0.015, 0.032). Furthermore, the recurrence of fractures in the affected and adjacent vertebral structures was more pronounced in the unilateral PVP cohort compared to the bilateral PVP cohorts. The duration of the procedure (P = 0.000) and the overall hospitalization expenses for the unilateral PVP group were markedly lesser than for both the connected and disconnected bilateral PVP groups, a difference that was statistically significant (P = 0.015, P = 0.024, respectively). Nevertheless, other parameters, such as the volume of cement infused, incidence of cement spillage, ODI scores for lumbar discomfort, post-surgical vertebral height restitution rate, localized vertebral kyphosis, and the alignment of cement and endplate, did not exhibit significant statistical deviations (P > 0.05). Conclusion: In juxtaposition with unilateral PVP, the employment of bilateral PVP exhibits enhanced long-term prognostic outcomes for patients afflicted with vertebral compression fractures. Notably, bilateral PVP significantly curtails the prevalence of subsequent vertebral injuries. Conversely, the unilateral PVP cohort is distinguished by its abbreviated operational duration, minimal invasiveness, and reduced overall hospitalization expenditures, conferring it with substantial clinical applicability and merit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is a common disease that leads to a reduction in bone density and increases the risk of fractures. Stable surgical treatment is particularly important for these fractures. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of bone density in the area of ​​the proximal ulna on the failure of the fixation technique of K-wires in tension band wiring (TBW). We provided 10 ulna specimens with TBW and biomechanically examined the pull-out strength of bi- and tricortical K-wires. Bone density measurement was performed using qCT. In the paired t-test, the tricortical group showed a significantly higher pull-out strength in relation to bone density than the bicortical group (p = 0.001). Furthermore, the Pearson correlation showed a high influence of bone density on pull-out strength in the tricortical group (r = 0.544), but without significance (p = 0.100). Our work shows that bone density has a direct effect on the pull-out strength of K-wires in TBW. TBW should therefore be used as osteosynthesis technique, especially in young patients with non-osteoporotic bones. In the case of osteoporotic fractures, alternative procedures should be preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study was conducted aimed at comparing the curative effect of external fixation combined with Kirschner wire fixation versus hollow screw fixation in the treatment of first metacarpal bone base fracture. Methods: The current retrospective study included a total of 80 patients diagnosed with first metacarpal bone base fracture who were admitted in Wuxi 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University between October 2017 and October 2020. The patients enrolled were equally divided into the combined group (40 cases, receiving external fixation combined with Kirschner wire fixation), and the control group (40 cases, receiving hollow screw fixation). Perioperative indices were collected and compared between the two groups. Pain scores before operation and three months, six months, and one year after operation were compared. Additionally, we compared the finger function in the last follow-up visit (the follow-up period was 1 year) and rate of complications. Results: Operation time, amount of bleeding, length of incision, length of hospital stay, and fracture healing time did not differ between the two groups (all P > 0.05). Pain score was comparable between the two groups before operation (P = 0.704). Despite lower results showing at 3, 6, and 12 months after operation in both groups, the pain score did not significantly differ in any time point between the two groups (all P > 0.05). Additionally, no significant differences were observed in finger function and rate of complications at the last follow-up between the two groups (both P > 0.05). Conclusion: External fixation combined with Kirschner wire fixation and hollow screw fixation exhibited similar curative effect in treating first metacarpal bone base fracture, indicating both surgery methods may be considered as the preferred approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate (1) whether fracture pattern and age are associated with local bone quality (LBQ), and (2) whether a scoring system based on these variables is able to predict LBQ in proximal humerus fractures (PHF). Materials and methods: A retrospective study was performed of all acute PHF at a Level 2 trauma center with plain radiographs and CT between June 2009 and March 2022. Local bone quality was measured by using the deltoid tuberosity index (DTI). In addition to age and gender, fracture morphology was categorized using the following classification systems: Neer, Resch, AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA), and Hertel/LEGO. Additionally, coronal head alignment was calculated by measuring the head-shaft angle. Results: Only the Resch classification system revealed a significant relationship between fracture type and bone quality, as there was a significant association between coronal head alignment and DTI (p = 0.001). Valgus head alignment was observed significantly more frequent in patients with low bone quality (p = 0.002). Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed a significant relative risk ratio for age (RRR = 0.97, [95% CI, 0.94-1], p = 0.039) and a non-significant trend for DTI (RRR = 1.26, [95% CI, 0.96–1.64], p = 0.092) for occurrence of anatomic relative to valgus head alignment. Using a DTI cut-off value of 1.3 instead of 1.4, age and also varus head alignment were identified as significant predictors of LBQ (OR = 1.12, [95% CI, 1.1–1.15], p < 0.001; OR = 0.54, [95% CI, 0.3–0.96], p = 0.037). A scoring system called the LBQ-PHF score (local bone quality in proximal humerus fractures), developed based on these two variables was able to predict LBQ with a sensitivity of 79.2% and a specificity of 86.7%. Conclusion: Age and coronal humeral head alignment are independent predictors of LBQ in PHF. A simple scoring system developed based on these variables is able to assess BQ with solid predictive characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) and bone mineral density (BMD) in American non-diabetic adults. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 1114 non-diabetic adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycle (2013–2014). The associations between METS-IR and BMD of total femur and spine were assessed by the multiple linear regression and verified the non-linear relationship with a smooth curve fit and threshold effect model. Furthermore, we evaluated the relationship between METS-IR, FRAX score, and history of bone fractures. Results: We found that BMD of the total femur and spine increased by 0.005 g/cm3 and 0.005 g/cm3, respectively, for a one-unit increase of METS-IR in all participants. This positive association was more pronounced among higher METS-IR participants, and there was a non-linear relationship, which was more significant when the MTTS-IRfemur was < 41.62 or the METS-IRspine was < 41.39 (βfemur = 0.008, βspine = 0.011, all P < 0.05). We also found that METS-IR was positively correlated with both FRAX scores in all female participants. However, METS-IR was positively correlated only with the 10-year hip fracture risk score in male participants with fractures. No significant association between METS-IR and a history of bone fractures. Conclusions: In American non-diabetic adults, there is a correlation between elevated levels of METS-IR within the lower range and increased BMD as well as decreased risk of fractures, suggesting that METS-IR holds promise as a novel biomarker for guiding osteoporosis (OP) prevention. However, it is important to carefully balance the potential benefits and risks of METS-IR in OP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgroud: The influencing factors of osteoporosis are complex, the incidence of osteoporosis is higher in middle-aged and elderly women, and osteoporotic fractures (OF) can seriously affect quality of life. Currently, the correlation analysis between gastrointestinal diseases and OF focuses more on diseases such as gastric cancer and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study analyzed the risk factors for osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures in 1567 postmenopausal women in Fuzhou, China. The purpose is to explore the potential influence of gastrointestinal diseases on the occurrence of OF. Methods: According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 1567 subjects were included in the analysis of OP risk factors, including 647 in the OP group and 920 in the NOP group. A total of 616 subjects were included in the analysis of correlation between OF and gastrointestinal diseases, including 132 in OF group and 484 in NF group. Statistical analysis shows that age (OR = 1.062, 95% CI = 1.045–1.080), height (OR = 0.089, 95% CI = 0.009–0.857), weight (OR = 0.981,95% CI = 0.967–0.995) and nature of work (P = 0.010) are the main risk factors for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women in southeast China, and gastrointestinal diseases (OR = 1.583, 95% CI = 1.070–2.343) and height (OR = 0.003, 95% CI = 0.000-0.104) are the main risk factors of OF. Conclusions: The main factors affecting the occurrence of OP in postmenopausal women in southeast China are individual characteristic. Gastrointestinal diseases that do not directly affect BMD increase the risk of OF in osteoporotic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distal humerus fractures commonly occur in adults with low bone mineral density causing major technical challenges for orthopedic surgeons. Persian fixation method was introduced as a novel technique to stabilize small fragments in comminuted distal humerus fractures using a set of K-wires and a reconstruction plate. The present study aims to measure this technique's stiffness and stability of this technique and analyze the effect of influential parameters with numerical simulation and biomechanical testing on a cadaveric specimen. Validation of the finite element (FE) model was conducted based on results of experiments. The results indicated that Delta configuration mainly led to a higher stiffness in the case of axial loading and anterior bending compared to L configuration. Analyzing the influential factors of this technique suggests that changes in diameter and number of K-wires have a similarly significant effect on the construct stiffness while the height of plate had a slight influence. Also, the diameter of wires was the most effective parameter for implant failure, particularly in the 3-pin construct, which caused a reduction in failure risk by about 60%. The results revealed that the Persian fixation method would achieve suitable stability compared to the dual-plating technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Masquelet's induced membrane (IM) has osteogenesis activity, but IM spontaneous osteogenesis (SO) has not been described previously. Objectives: To report on varying degrees of IMSO and analyze its possible causes. Methods: Twelve eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats with 10 mm right femoral bone defects who received the first stage of IM technique (IMT) were used to observe the SO. In addition, clinical data from patients with bone defects who received the first stage of IMT with an interval of > 2 months post-operatively and exhibited SO between January 2012 and June 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The SO was divided into four grades according to the amount and characteristics of the new bone formation. Results: At twelve weeks, grade II SO was observed in all rats, and more new bone was formed in the IM near the bone end forming an uneven margin. Histology revealed bone and cartilage foci in the new bone. Four of the 98 patients treated with the first stage of IMT exhibited IMSO, including one female and three males with a median age of 40.5 years (range 29–52 years). The bone defects were caused by severe fractures and infection in two cases and by infection or tumor in one case each. Partial or segmental defects occurred in two cases. The time interval between inserting a cement spacer and diagnosis of SO ranged from six months to nine years. Two cases were grade I, and one case each of grades III and IV. Conclusion: Varying degrees of SO confirm the existence of the IMSO phenomenon. Bioactive bone tissue or local inflammation and a long time interval are the primary reasons underlying enhancement of the osteogenic activity of IM and leading to SO, which tends to take place as endochondral osteogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is known that standardized incidence rates of hip fracture vary among older people in Spain. So far, the results published on the validation of the FRAX® tool in Spain have suggested that the major osteoporotic fractures (MOFs) risk in our country is underestimated. These studies have practically been based on Spanish cohorts evaluated in Catalonia, a higher hip fracture rate area. The purpose of this study is to analyse the ability of the FRAX® in a Spanish mid-fracture rate population. Methods: Study design: Retrospective cohort study. Measures: MOFs: hip, humerus, wrist, spine fractures. Risk of fracture assessed by calculating odds ratios (ORs). Predictive capacity of FRAX® according to the osteoporotic fractures observed between 2009 and 2018 (ObsFr) to predicted by FRAX® without densitometry in 2009 (PredFr) ratio. Results: 285 participants (156 women, 54.7%) with a mean ± SD of 61.5 ± 14 years. Twenty-four people sustained 27 fractures (15 MOFs). Significant ORs were observed for an age ≥ 65 (2.92; 95% CI, 1.07–7.96), female sex (3.18; 95% CI, 1.24–8.16), rheumatoid arthritis (0.62; 95% CI, 2.03–55.55), proton pump (2.71; 95% CI, 1.20–6.09) and serotonin reuptake (2.51; 95% CI, 1.02–6.16) inhibitors. The ObsFr/PredFr ratio in women were 1.12 (95% CI, 0.95–1.29) for MOFs and 0.47 (95% CI, 0-0.94) for hip fractures. Men had a ratio of 0.57 (95% CI, 0.01–1.14) for MOF, no hip fractures were observed. The ratios for the overall group were 1.29 (95% CI, 1.12–1.48) for MOFs and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.22–1.17) for hip fractures. Conclusions: FRAX® accurately predicted MOFs in women population with a hip fracture incidence rate close to the national mean compared to previous studies conducted in higher incidence regions in Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The estimated prevalence of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is 10–12% and in this study 12.4%. Different knee and hip injuries have been identified as risk factors for PTOA, but there is no consensus regarding the most painful and disabling injuries. Identifying these injuries might help in the prevention of PTOA. Additionally, patients with PTOA have a higher risk for complications after arthroplasty than patients with primary OA, perhaps due to differences in the profile and comorbidity that might help to explain the difference. This work aims 1) to identify the most common past injuries associated with the most painful and disabling PTOA cases in non-athlete patients and 2) to compare the comorbidities and characteristics between PTOA and primary OA. Methods: Retrospective hospital-based cohort study with 1290 participants with joint complaints or who received arthroplasty. Medical records included demographic information, diagnosis, medication, smoking, alcohol history and comorbidities. Data from January 2012 orthopaedic consults till December 2019 was reviewed and had the type and date of injury, pain score by the numerical rating scale and walking disability. Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals are presented. Results: There were 641 cases with primary OA (65% females) and 104 with PTOA (61% males). Patients with PTOA were 7.5 years younger (P < 0.001), reported more alcohol consumption (P = 0.01) and had higher odds of osteoporotic fractures (OP) and psychosis than patients with primary OA (OR = 2.0, CI = 1.06–3.78 and OR = 2.90, CI = -0.91–9.18, respectively). Knee fractures were most common in males and hip fractures in females (31% and 37.5%, respectively, P < 0.005). The PTOA-associated injuries with the highest pain and disability scores were meniscal injuries and hip fractures. Besides, in the group with primary OA, there were more diabetes, hypertension and hypothyroidism cases than in PTOA. However, after adjustment, differences were only significant for diabetes (ORadj = 1.78, CI = 1.0–3.2). Conclusions: Past meniscal injuries and hip fractures were the most relevant PTOA-associated injuries regarding pain and walking disability. This, together with differences in their profile when compared with primary OA, might help to decide the orthopaedic management of these injuries to prevent complications such as PTOA and recurrence, with appropriate preoperative planning, surgery choice and comorbidity treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of the Korean Hip Fracture Registry (KHFR) Study is to establish a nationwide, hospital-based prospective cohort study of adults with hip fracture to explore the incidence and risk factors of second osteoporotic fractures for a Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) model. Methods: The KHFR, a prospective multicenter longitudinal study, was launched in 2014. Sixteen centers recruited participants who were treated for hip fracture. The inclusion criteria were patients, who were treated for proximal femur fracture due to low-energy trauma and aged 50 or more at the time of injury. Until 2018, 5,841 patients were enrolled in this study. Follow-up surveys were conducted annually to determine occurrence of second osteoporotic fracture, and 4,803 participants completed at least one follow-up survey. Discussion: KHFR is a unique resource of individual level on osteoporotic hip fracture with radiological, medical, and laboratory information including DXA (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry), bone turnover marker, body composition, and hand grip strength for future analyses for FLS model. Modifiable factors for mortality after hip surgery is planned to be identified with nutritional assessment and multi-disciplinary interventions from hospitalization to follow-ups. The proportions of femoral neck, intertrochanteric, and subtrochanteric fractures were 517 (42.0%), 730 (53.6%), and 60 (4.4%), respectively, from 2014 to 2016, which was similar in other studies. Radiologic definition of atypical subtrochanteric fracture was adopted and 17 (1.2%) fractures among 1,361 proximal femoral fractures were identified. Internal fixation showed higher reoperation rate compared to arthroplasty in unstable intertrochanteric fractures (6.1% vs. 2.4%, p = 0.046) with no significant difference in mortality. The KHFR plans to identify outcomes and risk factors associated with second fracture by conducting a 10-year cohort study, with a follow-up every year, using 5,841 baseline participants. Trial registration: Present study was registered on Internet-based Clinical Research and Trial management system (iCReaT) as multicenter prospective observational cohort study (Project number: C160022, Date of registration: 22th, Apr, 2016). Key messages: The KHFR study, which is a representative of the Korean hip fracture patients, showed that basic epidemiologic information of hip fracture including atypical hip fracture in Korea. Perioperative nutritional assessment and management by multi-disciplinary interventions could decrease malnutrition and mortality risk. Internal fixation in unstable intertrochanteric fracture was associated with higher reoperation rate, comparing with bipolar hemiarthroplasty, while mortality after surgery was not significantly differ according to the type of surgery. Prospective cohort and representative registry should be established to develop effective secondary prevention program such as Fracture Liaison Service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased incidence of fragility fractures of the proximal humerus has been reported. Proximal humerus Hounsfield unit (HU) measurements based on computed tomography (CT) scans of the shoulder can be used to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD). It is unknown whether HU values can predict the risk of proximal humerus osteoporotic fracture and /or fracture patterns. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to identify whether the HU value is associated with proximal humeral osteoporotic fracture risk, and whether or not it has an impact on the complexity of the fracture. Methods: We identified 60 + years old patients' CT scans between 2019 and 2021 according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or lack of a fracture in the proximal humerus, meanwhile, patients with fractures were stratified into simple and comminuted fractures based on the Neer classification. HU values were calculated within the proximal humerus and compared between groups using the Student t-test, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the ability of HU values to predict fracture. Results: A total of 138 patients with proximal humerus fracture (PHF) including 62 simple PHFs and 76 complex PHFs and 138 non-fracture patients were enrolled in the study. The HU values decreased as age increased among all patients. Both male and female patients with PHF had significantly lower HU values compared with non-fracture patients, the area under the curve (AUC) of the ROC curve for males and females was 0.8 and 0.723 respectively. Nevertheless, no significant differences were found between simple and complex fractures of the proximal humerus in the HU values. Conclusion: Decreasing HU values on CT may be an early warning sign of fracture potential, however, it was not a predictive factor for comminuted fracture of the proximal humerus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease involving the sacroiliac joint and axial spine. AS may render the ankylosed spine prone to trauma and cause an increased frequency of associated epidural hematomas in spine fractures. Herein, we report a rare case of L5 chance fracture and epidural hematoma in a 27-year-old female patient with AS. She was treated surgically but without bone fusion or decompressive laminectomy due to the neurologically intact status despite significant neural compression by the spinal epidural hematoma (SEH). We believe that conservative treatment with close observation of neurological status may be effective in SEH presenting with mild neurological symptoms despite significant neural compression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a great debate on the routine use of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for midshaft clavicle fractures, and one concern is the adverse events after ORIF, such as implant removal after bone union. In this retrospective study, we assessed the incidence, risk factors, management and outcomes of refracture after plate removal of midshaft clavicle fractures after bone union. Materials and methods: Three hundred fifty-two patients diagnosed with acute midshaft clavicle fractures who had complete medical records from primary fractures to refracture were recruited. Details of imaging materials and clinical characteristics were carefully reviewed and analysed. Results: The incidence rate of refracture was 6.5% (23/352), and the average interval from implant removal to refracture was 25.6 days. Multivariate analysis showed that the risk factors were Robinson type-2B2 and fair/poor reduction. Females were 2.4 times more likely to have refracture, although it was not significant in multivariate analysis (p = 0.134). Postmenopausal females with a short interval (≤ 12 months) from primary surgery to implant removal had a significant risk for refracture. Tobacco use and alcohol use during bone healing were potential risk factors for male patients, although they were not significant in multivariate analysis. Ten patients received reoperation with or without bone graft, and they had a higher rate of bone union than 13 patients who refused reoperation. Conclusion: The incidence of refracture following implant removal after bone union is underestimated, and severe comminute fractures and unsatisfactory reduction during primary surgery are risk factors. Implant removal for postmenopausal female patients is not recommended due to a high rate of refracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was performed to investigate the clinical efficacy of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for vertebral compression fractures with different bone mineral densities (BMD). Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 232 patients with single-segment vertebral compression fractures who underwent PKP. Patients were divided into the normal BMD, osteopenia, and osteoporosis groups according to their average lumbar BMD before surgery. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to compare differences in pain relief before and after surgery in each group. Corrections of the wedge angle and kyphotic angle before and after surgery were observed using anteroposterior and lateral radiographs and compared among the groups, as was the incidence of bone cement leakage. Results: Patients were followed up for 6–12 months, with an average follow-up time of 9.12 ± 1.68 months. The VAS score, wedge angle, and kyphotic angle of the three groups of patients decreased significantly at the end of the follow-up (P < 0.05). The changes in VAS score and wedge angle correction in the osteoporosis group were significantly larger than those in the normal BMD and osteopenia groups (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences among the three groups in terms of kyphotic angle correction or bone cement leakage rates (P > 0.05). Conclusions: PKP has a positive effect on vertebral compression fractures with different BMD, and is especially suitable for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delayed bone healing and nonunions represent a great challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. In addition to traditional surgical approaches, increasing attention is being given to the use of systemic anabolic therapy with Teriparatide, whose efficacy in preventing osteoporotic fractures is widely validated and whose application as a promoter of bone healing has been described but it is still debated. The aim of the study was to evaluate bone healing in a series of patients with delayed unions or nonunions treated with Teriparatide in conjunction with eventual appropriate surgical procedure. Methods: Twenty patients with an unconsolidated fracture that were treated at our Institutions from 2011 to 2020 with Teriparatide were retrospectively included into the study. The pharmacological anabolic support was used off-label with a planned duration of 6 months; radiographic healing was evaluated at 1-, 3- and 6-months follow-up outpatient visits over plain radiographs. Also, eventual side-effects were registered. Results: Radiographic signs indicative of favorable evolution of the bone callus were observed as early as at 1 month of therapy in 15% of cases; at 3 months, healing progression was appreciated in 80% of cases and complete healing in 10%; at 6 months, 85% of delayed and nonunions had healed. In all patients, the anabolic therapy was well tolerated. Conclusions: In accordance to Literature, this study suggests that Teriparatide plays a potentially important role in the treatment of some forms of delayed unions or nou-nions, even in the presence of failure of hardware. The results suggest a greater effect of the drug when associated with a condition in which the bone is in an active phase of callogenesis, or with a "revitalizing" treatment which represents a local (mechanical and/or biological) stimulus to the healing process. Despite the small sample size and the variety of cases, the efficacy of Teriparatide in treating delayed unions or nonunions emerged, highlighting how this anabolic therapy can represent a useful pharmacological support in the treatment of such a pathology. Although the results obtained are encouraging, further studies, particularly prospective and randomized, are needed to confirm the efficacy of the drug, and define a specific treatment algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that the distal forearm dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan might be a better method for screening bone mineral density (BMD) and the risk of a distal forearm fracture, compared with a central DEXA scan. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a distal forearm DEXA scan for predicting the occurrence of a distal radius fracture (DRF) in elderly females who were not initially diagnosed with osteoporosis after a central DEXA scan. Methods: Among the female patients who visited our institutes and who were over 50 years old and underwent DEXA scans at 3 sites (lumbar spine, proximal femur, and distal forearm), 228 patients with DRF (group 1) and 228 propensity score-matched patients without fractures (group 2) were included in this study. The patients' general characteristics, BMD, and T-scores were compared. The odds ratios (OR) of each measurement and correlation ratio among BMD values of the different sites were evaluated. Results: The distal forearm T-score of the elderly females with DRF (group 1) was significantly lower than that of the control group (group 2) (p < 0.001 for the one-third radius and ultradistal radius measurements). BMD measured during the distal forearm DEXA scan was a better predictor of DRF risk than BMD measured during the central DEXA (OR = 2.33; p = 0.031 for the one-third radius, and OR = 3.98; p < 0.001 for the ultradistal radius). The distal one-third radius BMD was correlated with hip BMD, rather than lumbar BMD (p < 0.05 in each group). Conclusion: Performing a distal forearm DEXA scan in addition to a central DEXA scan appears to be clinically significant for detecting the low BMD in the distal radius, which is associated with osteoporotic DRF in elderly females. Level of evidence: III; case-control study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thoracolumbar fascia injury (FI) is rarely discussed in osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) patients in previous literature and it is usually neglected and treated as an unmeaning phenomenon. We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the thoracolumbar fascia injury and further discuss its clinical significance in the treatment of kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) patients. Methods: Based on the presence or absence of FI, 223 OVF patients were divided into two groups. The demographics of patients with and without FI were compared. The visual analogue scale and Oswestry disability index scores were compared preoperatively and after PKP treatment between these groups. Results: Thoracolumbar fascia injuries were observed in 27.8% of patients. Most FI showed a multi-level distribution pattern which involved a mean of 3.3 levels. Location of fractures, severity of fractures and severity of trauma were significantly different between patients with and without FI. In further comparison, severity of trauma was significantly different between patients with severe and non-severe FI. In patients with FI, VAS and ODI scores of 3 days and 1 month after PKP treatment were significantly worse compared to those without FI. It showed the same trend in VAS and ODI scores in patients with severe FI when compared to those patients with non-severe FI. Conclusions: FI is not rare in OVF patients and presents multiple levels of involvement. The more serious trauma suffered, the more severe thoracolumbar fascia injury presented. The presence of FI which was related to residual acute back pain significantly affected the effectiveness of PKP in treating OVFs. Trial registration: retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cushing's syndrome is known as an important cause of secondary osteoporosis, characterized by reduction of bone mineral density and potential occurrence of fragility fractures before diagnosis in young population. Therefore, for young patients with fragility fractures, especially in young women, more attention should be paid on glucocorticoid excess caused by Cushing's syndrome, due to relatively higher rate of misdiagnosis, distinct pathological characteristics and different treatment strategies compared with violent fractures and primary osteoporosis related fractures. Case presentation: We presented an unusual case of a 26-year-old woman with multiple vertebral compression fractures and pelvis fractures, subsequently diagnosed as Cushing's syndrome. On admission, the radiographic results showed fresh second lumbar vertebra fracture, and old fourth lumbar vertebra and pelvic fractures. The dual energy X-ray absorptiometry of lumbar spine revealed marked osteoporosis, and her plasm cortisol was extremely high. Then, Cushing's syndrome, caused by left adrenal adenoma, was diagnosed by further endocrinological and radiographic examinations. After receiving left adrenalectomy, her plasma ACTH and cortisol values returned to normal level. In term of OVCF, we adopted conservative treatments, including pain management, brace treatment, and anti-osteoporosis measures. Three months after discharge, the patient's low back pain was in complete remission without new onset of pain, and returned to normal life and work. Furthermore, we reviewed the literatures on advancements in the treatment of OVCF caused by Cushing's syndrome, and based on our experiences, proposed some additional perspectives to guide treatment. Conclusion: In term of OVCF secondary to Cushing's syndrome without neurological damage, we prefer systematic conservative treatments, including pain management, brace treatment, and anti-osteoporosis measures, to surgical treatment. Among them, anti-osteoporosis treatment has the highest priority because of the reversibility of osteoporosis caused by Cushing's syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are reports of increasing incidence of forearm shaft fractures in children. Their treatment has been preferably nonoperative but surgical fixation has gained popularity due to elastic stable intramedullary nailing. We aimed to study whether the incidence of pediatric both-bone forearm shaft fractures and their operative care have changed since year 2000. Trampoline injuries, in particular, and their treatment, re-displacement and short-term outcomes were the secondary outcomes of the study. Methods: A population-based study in the geographic catchment area of Oulu University Hospital district in 20-years of time period (2000 – 2019) was performed. Altogether 481 diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures in children (< 16 years) were included. Age- and sex-related incidence rates were determined, by using the official numbers of the population-in-risk by Statistics Finland. Trampoline jumping and other types of injury were reviewed, as well as particulars of treatment and outcomes. Results: The incidence of diaphyseal both-bone forearm fractures increased from 9.4/100 000 in 2000–2001 to 41.7/100 000 in 2018–2019 (P < 0.001). Surgical treatment increased respectively (from 8.8/100 000 in 2000–2001 to 35.3/100 000 in 2018–2019, P < 0.0001). Trampoline injuries explained one in three (29%) of all fractures; they increased from 0% in 2000–2001 to 36.6% in 2018–2019 (P < 0.001). During the last four years of the study (2016–2019), most trampoline-related injuries occurred among girls (61.2%), compared to boys (38.8%) (P = 0.031). Trampoline-related injuries comprised 46.9% of all fractures in girls, compared to 26.0% among boys (Diff. 20.8%, 4.7% to 36.1%, P = 0.009). The mean age of the patients elevated from 6.4 years (2000–2001) to 8.6 years (2018–2019) (P = 0.015). Boys predominated (69.6%) in 2000–2009 but during the last ten years, there was no statistical difference in distribution between the genders (males 54.6%, P = 0.11). Conclusions: During the twenty-year's of study period, the incidence of pediatric diaphyseal forearm fractures increased fivefold. Trampolining was the most usual single reason for the fractures. More attention should be focused to increase the safety of trampoline jumping, in particular among the girls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prognosis of conservative treatment for fragility fracture of the pelvis (FFP) in the older patients remains poor. Percutaneous pelvic screw placement (PPSP), which aids in the treatment of FFP, can be challenging to perform using fluoroscopy alone because of the proximity of blood vessels and neuroforamina. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the accuracy and clinical outcomes of PPSP using real-time 3D fluoroscopic navigation for FFP in the hybrid operating room.Methods: This study included 41 patients with FFP who underwent PPSP in a hybrid operating room between April 2016 and December 2020. Intraoperative C-arm cone-beam CT was performed under general anesthesia. Guidewire trajectory was planned using a needle guidance system. The guidewire was inserted along the overlaid trajectory using 3D fluoroscopic navigation, and a 6.5 mm cannulated cancellous screw (CCS) was placed. The clinical outcomes and accuracy of the screw placement were then investigated.Results: A total of 121 screws were placed. The mean operative time was 84 ± 38.7 minutes, and the mean blood loss was 7.6 ± 3.8 g. The mean time to wheelchair transfer was 2 days postoperatively. Pain was relieved in 35 patients. Gait ability from preoperative and latest follow-up after surgery was maintained in 30 (73%) patients. All 41 patients achieved bone union. Of the 121 screws, 119 were grade 0 with no misplacement; only 2 patients had grade 1 perforations.Conclusion: PPSP using real-time 3D fluoroscopic navigation in a hybrid operating room was accurate and useful for early mobilization and pain relief among older patients with FFP with an already-installed needle biopsy application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoporosis is a complex multifactorial disease characterized by reduced bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue linked to an increase of fracture risk. Fragility fractures occur in osteoporotic subjects due to low-energy trauma. Osteoporotic patients are a challenge regarding the correct surgical planning, as it can include fixation augmentation techniques to reach a more stable anchorage of the implant, possibly lowering re-intervention rate and in-hospital stay.Methods: The PubMed database and the Google Scholar search engine were used to identify articles on all augmentation techniques and their association with fragility fractures until January 2022. In total, we selected 40 articles that included studies focusing on humerus, hip, spine, and tibia.Results: Literature review showed a quantity of materials that can be used for reconstruction of bone defects in fragility fractures in different anatomic locations, with good results over the stability and strength of the implant anchorage, when compared to non-augmented fractures.Conclusion: Nowadays there are no recommendations and no consensus about the use of augmentation techniques in osteoporotic fractures. Our literature review points at implementing the use of bone augmentation techniques with a specific indication for elderly patients with comminuted fractures and poor bone quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clavicle fractures account for approximately 5% of all fractures in adults and 75% of clavicle fractures occur in the midshaft. Shortening greater than two centimeters is an indicative of surgical treatment. Radiographic exams are often used to diagnose and evaluate clavicle fractures but computed tomography (CT) scan is currently considered the best method to assess these deformities and shortening.Goal: 1- To investigate whether different methods of performing the radiographic exam interfere on the measurement of the fractured clavicle length. 2- Compare the clavicle length measurements obtained by the different radiographic exam methods with the CT scan measurements, used as a reference.Materials and Methods: Twenty-five patients with acute (< 3 weeks) midshaft clavicle fracture were evaluated. Patients underwent six radiographic images: PA Thorax (standing and lying), AP Thorax (standing and lying) and at 10° cephalic tilt (standing and lying), and the computed tomography was used as reference.Results: The mean length (cm) obtained were: 14,930 on CT scan, 14,860 on PA Thorax Standing, 14,955 on PA Thorax Lying, 14,896 on AP Thorax Standing, 14,960 AP Thorax Lying, 15,098 on 10° cephalic tilt Standing and 15,001 on 10° cephalic tilt Lying, (p > 0,05).Conclusion: 1- There is no significant statistical difference in the clavicle fracture length measurement among the variety of radiographic exam performances. 2- The method that comes closest to computed tomography results is the PA thorax incidence, with the patient in the lying position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic pain may affect and interfere in children's everyday life and can be present in children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). However, the knowledge is still sparse to what extent pain is present, how pain interfere in children's everyday life and affect their self-perceived health status. The purpose of the study was therefore to explore presence of chronic pain, pain interference in daily life, and self-perceived health status in children with OI.Methods: Children with OI, aged 6-18 years, were recruited consecutively to this cross-sectional study. Participants answered a standardised interview including five pre-structured questions, and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), the Pain Interference Index, and a questionnaire concerning self-perceived health status the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pediatric-25 Profile v1.1 (PROMIS-25).Results: Twenty-eight children (median: 11 years, IQR 6) with OI type I, III, or IV participated. Pain was present in 27 of 28 children and interfered in their everyday life regardless of OI-type, sex, and age. The median NPRS for average pain intensity was 4 (IQR 2), the median for pain frequency was 2-3 times/week, and the median frequency of school absence due to pain was 2-3 times per month. The most common pain locations were back and feet. Pain in the feet was more frequently reported in children with type I (p = 0.032), and pain in the hip was more often reported in children ≥13 years (p = 0.011). The children were asked what they thought to be the cause of pain and the most frequent response was "walking long distances". Self-perceived health status for mobility was lower than the general population, and lowest for children with type III (p = 0.016). Pain interference was associated with children's self-perceived health status (rs = 0.84, p < 0.001).Conclusion: Almost all children experienced pain, which interfered in children's everyday lives, affected participation in various activities and was associated with reduced self-perceived health status. If children avoid physical activities because of pain, it might cause a vicious circle of inactivity, which further decreases bone density and increase the risk of fractures. The results emphasize the importance to offer adequate pain reducing interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To date, no study has compared the surgical outcomes between posterior wall acetabular fractures with and without associated femoral head fractures. Therefore, we evaluated whether an associated femoral head fracture increases the incidence of fracture sequelae, including post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), following osteosynthesis for posterior wall acetabular fractures.Methods: This retrospective clinical study enrolled 183 patients who underwent osteosynthesis for posterior wall acetabular fractures between 2009 and 2019 at a level-1 trauma center. The incidence of PTOA, ONFH, and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) was reviewed.Results: The incidence of PTOA, ONFH, and conversion to THA following osteosynthesis were 20.2%, 15.9%, and 17.5%, respectively. The average time for conversion to THA was 18.76 ± 20.15 months (range, 1-82). The results for the comparison of patients with associated femoral head fractures and isolated posterior wall acetabular fractures were insignificant (PTOA: 27.3% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.13; ONFH: 18.2% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.58; conversion to THA: 20.4% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.52). Upon evaluating other variables, only marginal impaction negatively affected ONFH incidence (odds ratio: 2.90).Conclusions: Our methods failed to demonstrate a significant difference in the rate of PTOA, ONFH, or conversion to THA in posterior wall acetabular fractures with and without an associated femoral head fracture. Beyond femoral head fractures, the marginal impaction of the acetabulum could have led to early sequelae.Level Of Evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Demographic change entails an increasing incidence of fragility fractures. Dual-energy CT (DECT) with virtual non-calcium (VNCa) reconstructions has been introduced as a promising diagnostic method for evaluating bone microarchitecture and marrow simultaneously. This study aims to define the most accurate cut-off value in Hounsfield units (HU) for discriminating the presence and absence of bone marrow edema (BME) in sacral fragility fractures.Methods: Forty-six patients (40 women, 6 men; 79.7 ± 9.2 years) with suspected fragility fractures of the sacrum underwent both DECT (90 kVp / 150 kVp with tin prefiltration) and MRI. Nine regions-of-interest were placed in each sacrum on DECT-VNCa images. The resulting 414 HU measurements were stratified into "edema" (n = 80) and "no edema" groups (n = 334) based on reference BME detection in T2-weighted MRI sequences. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated to determine the desired cut-off value and an associated conspicuity range for edema detection.Results: The mean density within the "edema" group of measurements (+ 3.1 ± 8.3 HU) was substantially higher compared to the "no edema" group (-51.7 ± 21.8 HU; p < 0.010). Analysis in DECT-VNCa images suggested a cut-off value of -12.9 HU that enabled sensitivity and specificity of 100% for BME detection compared to MRI. A range of HU values between -14.0 and + 20.0 is considered indicative of BME in the sacrum.Conclusions: Quantitative analysis of DECT-VNCa with a cut-off of -12.9 HU allows for excellent diagnostic accuracy in the assessment of sacral fragility fractures with associated BME. A diagnostic "one-stop-shop" approach without additional MRI is feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anterior femoral notching (AFN) is a severe complication of total knee replacement (TKR), which in a percentage of patients may lead to fractures after surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the stress distribution in patients with AFN and the safety depth of AFN during the gait cycle.Methods: We performed a finite element (FE) analysis to analyse the mechanics around the femur during the gait cycle in patients with AFN. An adult volunteer was selected as the basis of the model. The TKR models were established in the 3D reconstruction software to simulate the AFN model during the TKR process, and the 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm AFN models were established, after which the prosthesis was assembled. Three key points of the gait cycle (0°, 22°, and 48°) were selected for the analysis.Results: The stress on each osteotomy surface was stable in the 0° phase. In the 22° phase, the maximum equivalent stress at 3 mm was observed. In the 48° phase, with the increase in notch depth, each osteotomy surface showed an overall increasing trend, the stress range was more extended, and the stress was more concentrated. Moreover, the maximum equivalent force value (158.3 MPa) exceeded the yield strength (115.1 MPa) of the femur when the depth of the notch was ≥ 3 mm.Conclusions: During the gait cycle, if there is an anterior femoral cortical notch ≥ 3 mm, the stress will be significantly increased, especially at 22° and 48°. The maximum equivalent stress exceeded the femoral yield strength and may increase the risk of periprosthetic fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complex acetabular fractures involving the anterior and posterior columns are an intractable clinical challenge. The study investigated the safety and efficacy of oblique-ilioischial plate technique for acetabular fractures involving low posterior column.Methods: A retrospective analysis of 18 patients operated with the oblique-ilioischial plate technique by the modified Stoppa approach (or combined with iliac fossa approach) between August 2016 and July 2021 for low posterior column acetabular fractures was conducted. The anterior column was fixed with a reconstructed plate from the iliac wing along the iliopectineal line to the pubis. The low posterior column was fixed with the novel oblique-ilioischial plate running from the ilium to the ischial ramus. Operative time, intraoperative blood loss, reduction quality, and postoperative hip function were recorded.Results: Out of the 18 patients, 10 were male and 8 were female. The mean age was 48.6±10.2 years (range: 45-62 years); The mean interval from injury to operation was 7.2±1.4 days (range: 5-19 days); The mean operative time was 2.1±0.3 h (range: 1.0-3.2 hours); The mean intraoperative blood loss was 300±58.4 mL (range: 200-500 mL). Postoperative reduction (Matta's criteria) was deemed as excellent (n = 9), good (n = 4), and fair (n = 5). At the final follow-up, the hip function (modified Merle d'Aubigne-Postel scale) was deemed as excellent (n = 11), good (n = 3), and fair (n = 4). The mean union time was 4.5±1.8 months (range: 3-6 months). No implant failure, infection, heterotopic ossification, or neurovascular injury were reported.Conclusion: The oblique-ilioischial plate technique via anterior approach for acetabular fractures involving low posterior column offers reliable fixation, limited invasion, little intraoperative bleeding, and fewer complications. However, larger multicenter control studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) and vertebral fractures at the lumbar spine lead to an overestimation of bone mineral density (BMD). Recently, a new approach for osteoporosis diagnosis, defined as radiofrequency echographic multi-spectrometry (REMS), represents an innovative diagnostic tool that seems to be able to investigate bone quality and provide an estimation of fracture risk independent of BMD. The aim of this paper was to evaluate whether the use of REMS technology can favor the diagnosis of osteoporosis in subjects with an apparent increase in BMD.Methods: In a cohort of 159 postmenopausal (66.2 ± 11.6 yrs) women with overestimated BMD by DXA at the lumbar spine, we performed an echographic scan with the REMS technique.Results: The mean values of BMD at different skeletal sites obtained by the DXA and REMS techniques showed that the BMD T-scores by REMS were significantly lower than those obtained by the DXA technique both at the lumbar spine (p < 0.01) and at all femoral subregions (p < 0.05). In OA subjects, the percentage of women classified as "osteoporotic" on the basis of BMD by REMS was markedly higher with respect to those classified by DXA (35.1% vs 9.3%, respectively). Similarly, the REMS allows a greater number of fractured patients to be classified as osteoporotic than DXA (58.7% vs 23.3%, respectively).Conclusions: REMS technology by the analysis of native raw unfiltered ultrasound signals appears to be able to overcome the most common artifacts, such as OA and vertebral fracture of the lumbar spine, which affect the value of BMD by DXA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: An inferior pole fracture of the patella requires surgical treatment to restore the knee extension mechanism of the knee joint. Different from other types of patellar fractures, inferior pole fractures are usually comminuted, and other traditional fixation methods, such as tension band wiring, may not meet the fixation needs. We propose fixing inferior pole fractures of the patella with a custom-made anchor-like plate combined with cerclage and report the surgical outcomes.Material and Methods: This is a retrospective clinical study. From June 2018 to August 2020, 21 patients with inferior patella fracture treated at Hong Hui Hospital Affiliated to Xi'an Jiaotong University received a custom-made anchor-like plate combined with cerclage. Complications of the surgical fixation methods and final knee function were used as the main outcome measures.Results: All fractures achieved good union, and the union time ranged from 8 to 12 weeks. No patients had serious complications, such as internal fixation failure or infection. The average duration of surgery of patients was 75.05 7.26 min, and the intraoperative blood loss was 60.099.49 ml. At the last follow-up, the range of motion of the knee was 120°-140°, with an average of 131.436.92°, the Bostman score was 27-30, and the Lysholm score ranged from 82 to 95. All patients showed good knee function one year after the operation.Conclusion: We used a modified T-shaped plate combined with cerclage technology to fix inferior fractures pole of the patella, providing reliable fixation, allowing early functional exercise of the knee joint, and providing patients with good knee joint function after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The surgical treatment of complex acetabular fractures is one of the most challenging procedures for orthopedic surgeons. The Pararectus approach, as a reasonable alternative to the existing surgical procedures, was performed for the treatment of acetabular fractures involving the anterior column. This study aimed to evaluate outcome using the Pararectus approach for acetabular fractures involving anterior columns.Methods: Thirty-seven with displaced acetabular fractures involving anterior columns were treated between July 2016 and October 2019 using the Pararectus approach. The functional outcomes (using the Merle d Aubigné and Postel scoring system, WOMAC and modified Harris scoring), the quality of surgical reduction (using the Matta criteria), and postoperative complications were assessed during approximately 26 months follow-up period.Results: Thirty-seven patients (mean age 53 years, range: 30-71; 28 male) underwent surgery. Mean intraoperative blood loss was 840 ml (rang: 400-2000 ml) and mean operating time was 210 min (rang: 140-500 min). The modified Merle d Aubigné score was excellent and good in 27 cases (73%), fair in 6 cases (16%), and poor in 3 cases (11%). The mean score was 88.5 (range:77-96) for the modified Harris Hip scores, and 22 (range:7-35) for the WOMAC scores after operation. Postoperative functional outcomes were significantly improved compared with preoperative outcomes (P < 0.0001). The quality of reduction was anatomical in 21 cases (57%), satisfactory in 9 cases (24%), and unsatisfactory in 7 cases (19%). At follow-up, four patients developed a DVT, and heterotopic bone formation was observed in one patient. The hip osteoarthritis was not observed.Conclusion: The Pararectus approach achieved good functional outcomes and anatomical reduction in the treatment of acetabular fractures involving anterior column with minimal access morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]