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European journal of trauma and emergency surgery 48(2), 827-831 (2022). doi:10.1007/s00068-021-01829-3 special issue: "Focus on Geriatric Proximal Femur Fractures", Published by Springer Medizin, Heidelberg

Trauma hemorrhage (TH) and subsequent sepsis are well known to frequently result in severe organ damage. Although macrophage-activating lipopeptide-2 (MALP-2) has been described to exert beneficial effects on organ damage, and further clinical course after both isolated trauma and sepsis, little is known about the impact of MALP-2 in a clinically realistic two-hit scenario of TH and subsequent sepsis. As the liver represents a key organ for the posttraumatic immune response and development of complications, the effects of MALP-2 on the posttraumatic hepatic immunologic response and tissue damage were investigated in a murine “two-hit” model. In C57BL/6 mice, blood pressure-controlled (35 ± 5 mm Hg) TH was induced. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was performed 48 h after TH. Mice were divided into two control groups (control 1, TH and laparotomy without CLP; control 2, TH and CLP) and three experimental groups (TH + CLP) treated with MALP-2 at different timepoints (ETH, end of TH; ECLP, end of CLP; 6CLP, 6 h after CLP). The observation time lasted for 168 h after induction of TH. Kupffer cells (KC) were isolated and cultured, and MPO activity was analyzed. Cell culture supernatants were taken for cytokine analysis (TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, GM-CSF, IL-10). Histological analysis was performed using the Hepatic Injury Severity Scoring (HISS). Statistical evaluation was carried out using SPSS (version 24.0.0; IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). MPO activity of control 1 group was lowest compared with all the other groups (p

Scientific reports 11(1), 15172 (2021). doi:10.1038/s41598-021-94675-7, Published by Macmillan Publishers Limited, part of Springer Nature, [London]

European journal of trauma and emergency surgery 48(3), 1769-1778 (2022). doi:10.1007/s00068-020-01599-4 special issue: "Focus on Biomarkers, Confounders and New Therapeutic Approaches in Trauma", Published by Springer Medizin, Heidelberg

Pulmonary complications after severe trauma and sepsis remain to be the main cause for adverse outcome. MALP-2 has been described to exert beneficial effects on organ damage and the further course after isolated trauma and sepsis. However, the impact of MALP-2 on a clinically realistic two-hit scenario of trauma and subsequent sepsis remains unknown. We, therefore, investigated if the systemic inflammatory response and pulmonary immune response and damage are beneficially modulated by MALP-2 in a murine two-hit model. Blood pressure-controlled trauma-hemorrhage (TH) and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) were induced in C57/BL6 mice. Mice were divided into 2 control groups (control 1: TH without CLP; control 2: TH and CLP) and 3 experimental groups treated with MALP-2 at different time points (ETH, end of TH; ECLP, end of CLP; and 6CLP 6 h after CLP). Survival rates were assessed over the observation period of 168 h after the induction of TH. Concentrations of plasma inflammatory cytokines and chemokines (TNF-α, IL-6, MIP-1α, IFN-γ, and IL-10) were assessed, and bacterial clearance of the lungs was determined. Furthermore, pulmonary MPO activity assay to evaluate the infiltration of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) and histological evaluation were performed. Survival rates were evaluated. Compared with control group 1, the level of TNF-α in the ECLP group showed a significant increase (ECLP, 2.27 pg./ml ± 1.39 vs. control 1: 0.16 pg./ml ± 0.11, p = 0.021). In contrast, levels of IFN-γ were significantly reduced in groups ETH and 6CLP compared with control group 1 (control 1: 8.92 pg./ml ± 4.38 vs. ETH: 1.77 pg./ml ± 4.34, p = 0.026 resp. vs. 6CLP: 1.83 pg./ml ± 4.49, p = 0.014). While systemic concentrations of inflammatory mediators were not affected by MALP-2 treatment, the lung tissue presented with significant alterations. Reduced MPO activity was lowest in group ECLP (ECLP 11,196.77 ± 547.81 vs. ETH 12,773.94 ± 1011.76; p = 0.023 resp. vs. 6CLP 13,155.19 ± 423.99, p = 0.016) in experimental groups. Also, histological damage after MALP-2 application was lowest in ECLP animals (ECLP 0.50 ± 0.08 vs. ETH 0.71 ± 0.05, p = 0.034 resp. vs. 6CLP 0.64 ± 0.08, p = 0.021). Furthermore, MALP-2 treatment was associated with a trend towards improved survival in the ECLP group (ECLP 83.3% vs. ETH 66.7 and 6CLP 58.3%, p > 0.05). Based on our results, MALP-2 might have beneficial effects on the clinical course after hemorrhage and sepsis by reducing pulmonary damage and PMN infiltration. This might also affect survival. According to our data, MALP-2 should be given at the earliest possible time point after the onset of sepsis. However, the optimal dosage and confirmation of our results in larger cohorts need to be the focus of further research.

The aim of this prospective randomised trial was to assess the impact of the team-based learning approach on basic musculoskeletal ultrasound skills in comparison to both peer-assisted and conventional teaching and to examine the influence of gender and learning style on learning outcomes. In this prospective randomised trial, we randomly assigned 88 students to 3 groups: team-based learning (n = 19), peer-assisted learning (n = 36) and conventional teaching (n = 33). Pre-existing knowledge was assessed using a multiple-choice (MC) exam. Student performance after completing the course was measured using an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and a second MC exam. Students were asked to complete Kolb’s Learning Style Inventory and to evaluate the course. There was a significant gain in theoretical knowledge for all students (p

European journal of trauma and emergency surgery 48(3), 1913-1918 (2022). doi:10.1007/s00068-021-01832-8 special issue: "Focus on Biomarkers, Confounders and New Therapeutic Approaches in Trauma", Published by Springer Medizin, Heidelberg

Schwere Extremitatenverletzungen und deren Behandlung stellen fur jedes Notfallteam eine grose Herausforderung dar. Fur die Evaluation und die Einteilung von Extremitatenverletzungen sind bereits eine Vielzahl von Klassifikationssystemen publiziert worden. Die praklinische Traumaversorgung stellt hierbei besondere Anforderungen an das eingesetzte Klassifikationssystem. Es sollte valide, schnell zu erheben und auch in der klinischen Routine der Trauma-Teams etabliert sein. Der Beitrag ist ein Ubersichtsartikel zu Management und Klassifikation schwerer Extremitatenverletzungen. Im internationalen Konsens und auch bei Einschluss eines Patienten in das TraumaRegister DGU® gilt eine Einzelverletzungsschwere nach der Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) ≥3 Punkte als eine schwere Verletzung. Fur den praklinischen Einsatz stellen die Klassifikationen der Weichteilverletzung nach Tscherne und Oestern sowie nach Gustilo und Anderson verlassliche Klassifikationssysteme dar. Sie sind gut etabliert, einfach zu erheben und erleichtern so die Befundkommunikation im Schockraum. Begleitende Gefasverletzungen lassen sich durch die 6 „P“ nach Pratt evaluieren. Scores fur die Bewertung des Amputationsrisikos wie der Mangled Extremity Severity Score (MESS) zeigen keine hohe Spezifitat und Sensitivitat hinsichtlich der Notwendigkeit einer Amputation, sodass ihr Einsatz als alleiniges Entscheidungskriterium nicht generell empfohlen werden kann.

Background In the stabilization of femoral fractures in mono- and polytrauma, clinical practice has shown better care through intramedullary nailing. However, the reason why this is the case is not fully understood. In addition to concomitant injuries, the immunological aspect is increasingly coming to the fore. Neutrophil granulocytes (PMNL), in particular next to other immunological cell types, seem to be associated with the fracture healing processes. For this reason, the early phase after fracture (up to 72 h after trauma) near the fracture zone in muscle tissue was investigated in a pig model. Material and methods A mono- and polytrauma pig model (sole femur fracture or blunt thoracic trauma, hemorrhagic shock, liver laceration, and femur fracture) was used to demonstrate the immunological situation through muscle biopsies and their analysis by histology and qRT-PCR during a 72 h follow-up phase. Two stabilization methods were used (intramedullary nail vs. external fixator) and compared with a nontraumatized sham group. Results Monotrauma shows higher PMNL numbers in muscle tissue compared with polytrauma (15.52 ± 5.39 mono vs. 8.23 ± 3.36 poly; p = 0.013), regardless of the treatment strategy. In contrast, polytrauma shows a longer lasting invasion of PMNL (24 h vs. 72 h). At 24 h in the case of monotrauma, the fracture treated with external fixation shows more PMNL than the fracture treated with intramedullary nailing (p = 0.026). This difference cannot be determined in polytrauma probably caused by a generalized immune response. Both monotrauma and polytrauma show a delayed PMNL increase in the muscle tissue of the uninjured side. The use of intramedullary nailing in monotrauma resulted in a significant increase in IL-6 (2 h after trauma) and IL-8 (24 and 48 h after trauma) transcription. Conclusion The reduction of PMNL invasion into the nearby muscle tissue of a monotrauma femur fracture stabilized by intramedullary nailing supports the advantages found in everyday clinical practice and therefore underlines the usage of nailing. For the polytrauma situation, the fixation seems to play a minor role, possibly due to a generalized immune reaction.

Severe trauma remains a leading cause of death, especially in the younger population [...]

The morbidity and mortality of severely injured patients are commonly affected by multiple factors. Especially, severe chest trauma has been shown to be a significant factor in considering outcome. Contemporaneously, weight-associated endocrinological, haematological, and metabolic deviations from the norm seem to have an impact on the posttraumatic course. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the influence of body weight on severely injured patients by emphasizing chest trauma. A total of 338 severely injured patients were included. Multivariate regression analyses were performed on patients with severe chest trauma (AIS &ge, 3) and patients with minor chest trauma (AIS &lt, 3). The influence of body weight on in-hospital mortality was evaluated. Of all the patients, 70.4% were male, the median age was 52 years (IQR 36&ndash, 68), the overall Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 24 points (IQR 17&ndash, 29), and a median BMI of 25.1 points (IQR 23&ndash, 28) was determined. In general, chest trauma was associated with prolonged ventilation, prolonged ICU treatment, and increased mortality. For overweight patients with severe chest trauma, an independent survival benefit was found (OR 0.158, p = 0.037). Overweight seems to have an impact on the mortality of severely injured patients with combined chest trauma. Potentially, a nutritive advantage or still-unknown immunological aspects in these patients affecting the intensive treatment course could be argued.

European journal of trauma and emergency surgery 48(1), 367-372 (2022). doi:10.1007/s00068-020-01523-w special issue: "Focus on Emergency General Surgery", Published by Springer Medizin, Heidelberg

Introduction: Ligament injuries around the knee joint and knee dislocations are rare but potentially complex injuries associated with high-energy trauma. Concomitant neurovascular injuries further affect their long-term clinical outcomes. In contrast to isolated ligamentous knee injuries, epidemiologic data and knowledge on predicting knee injuries in severely injured patients is still limited. Methods: The TraumaRegister DGU&reg, (TR-DGU) was queried (01/2009&ndash, 12/2016). Inclusion criteria for selection from the database: maximum abbreviated injury severity &ge, 3 points (MAIS 3+). Participating countries: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The two main groups included a &ldquo, control&rdquo, and a &ldquo, knee injury&rdquo, group. The injury severity score (ISS) and new ISS (NISS) were used for injury severity classification, and the abbreviated injury scale (AIS) was used to classify the severity of the knee injury. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate various risk factors for knee injuries. Results: The study cohort included 139,462 severely injured trauma patients. We identified 4411 individuals (3.2%) with a ligament injury around the knee joint (&ldquo, group) and 1153 patients with a knee dislocation (0.8%). The risk for associated injuries of the peroneal nerve and popliteal artery were significantly increased in dislocated knees when compared to controls (peroneal nerve from 0.4% to 6.7%, popliteal artery from 0.3% to 6.9%, respectively). Among the predictors for knee injuries were specific mechanisms of injury: e.g., pedestrian struck (Odds ratio [OR] 3.2, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.69&ndash, 3.74 p &le, 0.001), motorcycle (OR 3.0, 95% CI: 2.58&ndash, 3.48, p &le, 0.001), and motor vehicle accidents (OR 2.2, 95% CI: 1.86&ndash, 2.51, p &le, 0.001) and associated skeletal injuries, e.g., patella (OR 2.3, 95% CI: 1.99&ndash, 2.62, p &le, 0.001), tibia (OR 1.9, 95% CI: 1.75&ndash, 2.05, p &le, 0.001), and femur (OR 1.8, 95% CI: 1.64&ndash, 1.89, p &le, 0.001), but neither male sex nor general injury severity (ISS). Conclusion: Ligament injuries and knee dislocations are associated with high-risk mechanisms and concomitant skeletal injuries of the lower extremity, but are not predicted by general injury severity or sex. Despite comparable ISS, knee injuries prolong the hospital length of stay. Delayed or missed diagnosis of knee injuries can be prevented by comprehensive clinical evaluation after fracture fixation and a high index of suspicion is advised, especially in the presence of the above mentioned risk factors.

Shock : injury, inflammation, and sepsis, laboratory and clinical approaches 54(6), 761-773 (2020). doi:10.1097/SHK.0000000000001536, Published by Biomedical Press, Augusta, Ga.

Background Dorsal approaches to the hindfoot are frequently used. Furthermore, the vascular supply is discussed as a possible cause for ruptures and degeneration of the Achilles tendon. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microperfusion of three possible posterior approaches to the hindfoot and different areas of the Achilles tendon. Methods In 111 subjects, a laser Doppler/white light spectroscopy was used to measure microperfusion in terms of blood flow (Flow) and capillary venous oxygen saturation (SO2) in the hindfoot and Achilles tendon. Measurements were performed at two measurement points (MP, proximal and distal) of three dorsal approaches (medial, lateral and central) and inside the Achilles tendon. Results Microperfusion differed partially between the surgical approaches. The medial and the lateral approaches were significantly superior to the central approach with regard to Flow in both MP (p

European journal of medical research 23(1), 26 (2018). doi:10.1186/s40001-018-0323-z, Published by BioMed Central, London

Polytraumatised patients with haemorrhagic shock are prone to develop systemic complications, such as SIRS (systemic inflammatory response syndrome), ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) and MOF (multiple organ failure). The pathomechanism of severe complications following trauma is multifactorial, and it is believed that microcirculatory dysfunction plays an important role. The aim of this study was to determine the changes in the microcirculation in musculature over time during shock and subsequent resuscitation in a porcine model of haemorrhagic shock and polytrauma. Twelve pigs (German Landrace) underwent femur fracture, liver laceration, blunt chest trauma, and haemorrhagic shock under standard anaesthesia and intensive care monitoring. Microcirculation data were measured from the vastus lateralis muscle using a combined white light spectrometry and laser spectroscopy system every 15 min during the shock and resuscitation period, and at 24, 48, and 72 h. Oxygen delivery and oxygen consumption were calculated and compared to baseline. The relative haemoglobin, local oxygen consumption, and saturation values in the microcirculation were observed significantly lower during shock, however, no changes in the microcirculatory blood flow and microcirculatory oxygen delivery were observed. After resuscitation, the microcirculatory blood flow and relative haemoglobin increased and remained elevated during the whole observation period (72 h). In this study, we observed changes in microcirculation during the trauma and shock phases. Furthermore, we also measured persistent dysfunction of the microcirculation over the observation period of 3 days after resuscitation and haemorrhagic shock. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1377-1382, 2018.

In previous studies, interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been shown to have a high predictive value for the development of complications and mortality after trauma; however, there is some uncertainty around these results. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the value of early IL-6 levels (within the first 24 h after trauma) for predicting post-traumatic complications [acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis, multiple organ failure (MOF), and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS)] and mortality. A systemic literature review (from January 01, 1990, to June 03, 2017) of English-language articles was carried out using Pubmed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and Web of Science. The search terms used were IL-6 (IL6, IL-6, interleukin 6, or interleukin-6); trauma (trauma*, polytrauma*, multitrauma*, injury, or injury severity score); complications (complication*, ARDS, SIRS, sepsis, MOF, or MODS); and mortality (survival, death). Eleven publications (775 patients) out of 1812 fulfilled the criteria. Fixed-effective models were used for data analysis. Statistical heterogeneity was estimated by a Chi-squared Q test and I 2 statistics, and publication bias was assessed with Egger’s test. Results showed that the concentrations of IL-6 within the first 24 h after trauma were significantly higher in the group of patients who had complications or who died [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.399; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.217, 0.580; I 2 = 0.0%; P(heterogeneity) = 0.489]. Subgroup results showed a significant correlation for mortality [SMD = 0.610; 95% CI 0.322, 0.898; I 2 = 0.0%; P(heterogeneity) = 0.708] and MOF/MODS [SMD = 0.334; 95% CI 0.028, 0.639; I 2 = 0.0%; P(heterogeneity) = 0.512] with IL-6, but not for sepsis [SMD = 0.194; 95% CI − 0.095, 0.484; I 2 = 0.0%; P(heterogeneity) = 0.512]. Significance was also found in both ISS ≥ 9 [SMD = 0.461, 95% CI 0.131, 0.791, I 2 = 5.6%, P(heterogeneity) = 0.365] and ISS ≥ 16 [SMD = 0.372, 95% CI 0.155, 0.588, I 2 = 1.5%, P(heterogeneity) = 0.413]. In conclusion, this meta-analysis showed that serum concentration of IL-6 within the first 24 h after trauma could be useful for the prediction of post-traumatic complications, particularly MOF/MODS and mortality.

OBJECTIVE: We hypothesize that the majority of polytraumatised patients are unable to maintain their preinjury level of sporting activity, and that musculoskeletal injuries are a major contributing factor. We assessed the impact of such injuries on sporting prowess, with a focus on isolating, particularly debilitating musculoskeletal trauma. METHODS: We conducted a cohort study of 637 patients at a level 1 trauma centre, to assess the long-term outcome of severe trauma on return to sporting activities (RTS). Data collated on the multiply injured patient included preinjury physical activity, standardized outcome scores (SF-12, GOS, HASPOC), and clinical follow-up of at least 10 years duration. The return to preinjury sports participation was defined as a primary outcome parameter. Regression analyses were performed to identify specific injuries interfering with the RTS. STUDY DESIGN: Prognostic study; Level of evidence, II. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 17 ± 5 years. We included 465 patients, including 207 athletic and 258 nonathletic individuals. Mean age at the time of injury was 26 ± 11.5 years and injury severity was comparable between the 2 cohorts. The deleterious effects on quality of life and the total duration of the rehabilitation process were also similar in athletes and nonathletes. Athletes were more likely to be unable to return to preinjury activities, or to return to a lower level of sporting prowess posttrauma. We identified knee injuries as the type of musculoskeletal trauma most likely to be career ending for the athlete (odds ratio 3.4, 95% confidence interval, 1.4-8.3; P = 0.008). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate an enforced shift from high-impact and team sports to low-impact activities after multiple trauma. Injuries of the lower extremities, especially around the knee joint, seem to have the highest lifechanging potential, preventing individuals from returning to their previous sporting activities.

To reduce mechanical complications after osteosynthesis of femoral neck fractures, improved fixation techniques have been developed including blade or screw–anchor devices. This biomechanical study compares different fixation systems used for treatment of unstable femoral neck fractures with evaluation of failure mode, load to failure, stiffness, femoral head rotation, femoral neck shortening and femoral head migration. Standardized Pauwels type 3 fractures (AO/OTA 31-B2) with comminution were created in 18 biomechanical sawbones using a custom-made sawguide. Fractures were stabilized using either SHS-Screw, SHS-Blade or Rotationally Stable Screw-Anchor (RoSA). Femurs were positioned in 25 degrees adduction and ten degrees posterior flexion and were cyclically loaded with an axial sinusoidal loading pattern of 0.5 Hz, starting with 300 N, with an increase by 300 N every 2000 cycles until bone–implant failure occurred. Mean failure load for the Screw-Anchor fixation (RoSA) was 5100 N (IQR 750 N), 3900 N (IQR 75 N) for SHS-Blade and 3000 N (IQR 675 N; p = 0.002) for SHS-Screw. For SHS-Screw and SHS-Blade we observed fracture displacement with consecutive fracture collapse as the main reason for failure, whereas RoSA mainly showed a cut-out under high loadings. Mean stiffness at 1800 N was 826 (IQR 431) N/mm for SHS-Screw, 1328 (IQR 441) N/mm for SHS-Blade and 1953 (IQR 617) N/mm for RoSA (p = 0.003). With a load of 1800 N (SHS-Screw 12° vs. SHS-Blade 7° vs. RoSA 2°; p = 0.003) and with 2700 N (24° vs. 15° vs. 3°; p = 0.002) the RoSA implants demonstrated a higher rotational stability and had the lowest femoral neck shortening (p = 0.002), compared with the SHS groups. At the 2700 N load point, RoSA systems showed a lower axial (p = 0.019) and cranial (p = 0.031) femoral head migration compared to the SHS-Screw. In our study, the new Screw-Anchor fixation (RoSA) was superior to the comparable SHS implants regarding rotational stability and femoral neck shortening. Failure load, stiffness, femoral head migration, and resistance to fracture displacement were in RoSA implants higher than in SHS-Screws, but without significance in comparison to SHS-Blades.

Background and hypothesis The aim of this study was to address the inconsistency regarding the operative treatment of Rockwood type III acromioclavicular joint separation. We compared results after single- and double TightRope® reduction with results after acromioclavicular transfixation via K-wires only and additional ligament augmentation in acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations graded Rockwood type III, and hypothesized that the TightRope® technique leads to better clinical and radiological results. Materials and methods We conducted a retrospective clinical cohort study and included 42 consecutive patients (mean age 43 years [24–66]) diagnosed and operatively treated between 2004 and 2012 (mean follow-up was 54.6 months [15–118]). Specific shoulder scores as well as scores reflecting the patients’ overall mental and physical health status were used. Radiological evaluation was also performed. Results The SF12 test revealed comparability between all subgroups. Specific shoulder tests and a visual analogue scale demonstrated comparable results. Radiographic measurements showed a significant reduction in the AC distance and CC distance after surgery in all subgroups. The early complication rate was 9.5% for all patients, while late complications occurred in 14.3% of all cases. Conclusions Compared to the established methods, the operative TightRope® procedures represent a safe alternative in Rockwood III injuries. All investigated techniques predominantly led to good and excellent clinical results in acute Rockwood type III AC joint instabilities. Avoidance of material removal and shorter hospital stays appear to speak in favour for the TightRope® technique. Level of evidence IV.

Purpose Wound healing complications are a major concern after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in patients with calcaneal fractures. Microcirculation is known to play a key role in bone and soft tissue healing. The present study aimed to characterize and contrast the dynamics of changes in microcirculation comparing two different surgical procedures: A) ORIF and B) a minimally invasive approach (MIA). Methods Blood flow (BF[AU]), oxygen saturation (sO2[%]) and relative amount of haemoglobin (rHb[AU]) were measured at two depths (2mm and 8mm) non-invasively by spectrophotometry (Micro-Lightguide O2C®, LEA Medizintechnik, Giessen, Germany) before surgery and every 24h after surgery for a duration of six days. A linear mixed model (LMM) was used to analyse longitudinal data and repeated measurements. Results Nineteen patients (44 years, range 21.9–71.0 years) were enrolled in the study. Surgical treatment consisted of ORIF (n=15) and MIA (n=9). The postoperative BF and sO2 at the 2mm and 8mm depths were higher in the ORIF group (BF: p Conclusions The spectrophotometry results were in line with the generally accepted phases of soft tissue wound healing. Postsurgical changes in microcirculation are predominantly independent of surgical techniques and may be primarily determined by wound and fracture healing. Future studies should focus on the potential of spectrophotometry to monitor wound healing after surgery. Moreover, studies with longer observation periods are needed in order to examine the changes in microcirculation during all wound-healing phases.

(1) Background: Data on the effects of helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) transport and treatment on the survival of severely injured pediatric patients in high-level trauma centers remain unclear. (2) Methods: A national dataset from the TraumaRegister DGU® was used to retrospectively compare the mortality rates among severely injured pediatric patients (1–15 years) who were transported by HEMS to those transported by ground emergency medical service (GEMS) and treated at trauma centers of different treatment levels (levels I–III). (3) Results: In total, 2755 pediatric trauma patients (age: 9.0 ± 4.8 years) were included in this study over five years. Transportation by HEMS resulted in a significant survival benefit compared to GEMS (odds ratio (OR) 0.489, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.282–0.850). Pediatric trauma patients treated in level II or III trauma centers showed 34% and fourfold higher in-hospital mortality risk than those in level I trauma centers (level II: OR 1.34, 95% CI: 0.70–2.56, level III: OR 4.63, 95% CI: 1.33–16.09). (4) Conclusions: In our national pediatric trauma cohort, both HEMS transportation and treatment in level I trauma centers were independent factors of improved survival in pediatric trauma patients.

Das neuentwickelte extramedullare Rotationsstabile Schraubanker-System (RoSA) ist einzigartig, indem es bei instabilen pertrochantaren Femurfrakturen die Vorteile von Schraube und Klinge kombiniert. Mittels winkelstabiler Abstutzplatte (TAP) wird nach Kompressionserzeugung unter Nutzung von Antiteleskopierschrauben das Nachsintern im Frakturbereich limitiert und die Stabilitat erhoht. Ziel dieser prospektiven Kohortenstudie war die Evaluation des RoSA/TAP hinsichtlich der mechanischen Komplikationsrate und postoperativer Sinterungsvorgange. Es wurden 80 instabile trochantare Frakturen unter Verwendung des Rotationsstabilen Schraubankers (Konigsee Implantate GmbH, Allendorf, Deutschland) mit additiver anatomisch geformter winkelstabiler Trochanterabstutzplatte (TAP) versorgt. Je nach Instabilitatsgrad wurden, nach intraoperativer Erzeugung eines innigen Knochenkontaktes, durch das Kopfteil der Abstutzplatte zusatzlich Antiteleskopierschrauben (AT-Schrauben, variabel winkelstabil, n = 1–4) konvergierend zum Krafttrager bis in das Huftkopfzentrum eingebracht. Die postoperative Gleitstrecke des Schraubankers wurde radiologisch gemessen und die knocherne Heilung 6–10 Wochen und 6–10 Monate postoperativ beurteilt. Die Gleitstrecke des Schraubankers in der Gleithulsenplatte lag beim Follow-up bei den 61 (76 %) Patienten nach 6–10 Monaten bei 2mm. Insgesamt wurden 6 (8 %) ungeplante und 3 (4 %) geplant praventive Revisionseingriffe durchgefuhrt. Wahrend 1/3 (4 %) der Re-Operationen aufgrund operationstechnischer Fehler in der Primar-OP erfolgten, wurden 2/3 der Eingriffe (8 %) aufgrund von knochernen Heilungsverzogerungen (3× Pseudarthrose, 3× geplante Dynamisierungen) durchgefuhrt. Die Krankenhausmortalitat betrug 3 % (n = 2). Diese erste klinische Evaluationsstudie des Rotationsstabilen Schraubankers (RoSA/TAP) verifiziert dieses extramedullare Implantat bei instabilen trochantaren Frakturen als klinisch vielversprechend. Die Rigiditat des Konstruktes stellt den Operateur vor Herausforderungen, kann aber bei Revisionsoperationen von Nutzen sein.

External fixation within the damage control concept in unstable multiple trauma patients is widely accepted. Literature about its usage in the pediatric trauma population, however, is rare. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the factors associated with the application of external fixation in the severely injured child. Patients with severe trauma aged 0–54 years documented in the TraumaRegister DGU® were included in this study. Demographic data, pattern of injury, injury severity, use of the damage control orthopedics (DCO) or early total care (ETC) concept, duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care stay, and total hospital stay as well as the occurrence of complications and mortality were evaluated. Statistical evaluation was performed using SPSS (Version 21.0.0) using Chi square tests and linear regression models. While injury severity was comparable between children and adults, type of accident and injury patterns showed significant differences, Overall, the majority of surgical fracture stabilization in AISExtremity ≥ 3 injuries followed the DCO concept in adults (60.3%) and the ETC protocol in children (49.4%). Conservative treatment was chosen for only 11.6% of all children and 9.6% of all adults. An increasing injury severity, AISExtremity ≥ 3 and AISExtremity ≥ 3 in ≥ 2 body regions, and a more advanced age were found to be independent factors in the use of the DCO concept in children. Use of external fixation increases with age and plays a minor role in the very young trauma population. However, this does not produce a difference in outcome between children and adults.

INTRODUCTION: Mechanical ventilation is known to activate oxidative stress and proteolytic pathways in the diaphragm. Trauma by inducing inflammation and activating proteolytic pathways may potentiate the effects of mechanical ventilation on the diaphragm. In a blunt chest trauma with concomitant injuries we tested the hypothesis that trauma via inflammation further activates the proteolytic pathways and worsens atrophy in the diaphragm. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Piglets were separated into two groups and underwent 72 h of mechanical ventilation. One group received a polytrauma (PT) by unilateral femur fracture, blunt chest trauma with lung contusion, laparotomy with standardized liver incision, and a predefined hemorrhagic shock. The second mechanically ventilated group (MV) did not receive any trauma. A non-ventilated group (Con) served as control.Diaphragmatic fiber dimensions, Western Blot analyses of proteolytic pathways, and lipid peroxidation and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels of cytokines and nuclear factor kappa b subunit p65 were measured. RESULTS: Active Caspase-3 was significantly increased in MV (P = 0.019), and in PT (P = 0.02) compared with Con. Nuclear factor kappa b subunit p65, was upregulated in PT (P = 0.010) compared with Con. IL-6 mRNA increased significantly in PT compared with Con (P = 0.0024) but did not differ between Con and MV. CONCLUSION: Trauma and mechanical ventilation induced proteolysis and atrophy in the diaphragm, but only polytrauma induced an inflammatory response in the diaphragm. The additional traumatic inflammatory stimulus did not increase the levels of the prementioned variables. These data underline that inflammation is not a major contributor to ventilator-induced diaphragmatic dysfunction. TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER: AZ 84-02.04.2014.A265 (Landesamt für Natur-, Umwelt- und Verbraucherschutz, LANUV NRW, Germany). ispartof: SHOCK vol:52 issue:4 pages:443-448 ispartof: location:United States status: published

Severely injured patients experience substantial immunological stress upon traumatic insult. Next to the direct local tissue injury also other organs, which are not directly injured such as liver and lung, are frequently affected by a so-called remote organ damage (ROD) after trauma. Thus, we studied the inflammatory response of lung and liver either after isolated femur fracture as example for ROD, or after multiple trauma in a porcine polytrauma model. Twenty-four male pigs (Sus scrofa) underwent either isolated standardized femoral fracture (monotrauma, MT, n = 12) or polytrauma (PT, n = 12). PT consisted of a femur fracture, lung contusion, liver laceration, hemorrhagic shock, subsequent resuscitation and surgical fracture fixation. Six animals served as controls (sham). After 72 h inflammatory changes were determined by analyses of the interleukin (IL)-6 gene expression and tissue infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN, myeloperoxidase staining). ROD in MT, and lung as well as liver damage in PT were assessed histologically by hematoxylin–eosin staining. Expression of phosphorylated p65 NF-κB was evaluated by immunohistology. IL-6 increased in lungs and liver in both groups MT and PT, respectively, compared to sham. Similarly, PMN infiltration of the lungs and liver increased significantly after both MT and PT compared to sham. Histological evaluation demonstrated tissue damage notably in lungs after MT, while tissue damage after PT was found in both lung and liver after PT. p65 NF-κB tended to an increase upon MT, and was significantly enhanced after PT in both tissues. Our data indicate that remote organ damage after MT notably in lungs was associated with an enhanced inflammatory response. Severe polytrauma substantially intensifies this response and organ damage in the underlying model.

Blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) is considered to be a rare entity in patients with high-energy trauma and is a potentially preventable cause of secondary brain damage. If it occurs, it may be fatal or associated with poor outcomes related to devastating complications. We hypothesized that analyses of epidemiology and concomitant injuries may predict the development of BCVI and associated complications. The TraumaRegister DGU® (TR-DGU), a prospectively maintained database, was used for retrospective data analysis (01/2009–12/2015). Inclusion criteria: adult trauma patients (≥16 years) with severe injuries (ISS ≥ 16 points) with and without BCVI. Subgroups: carotid artery injury (CAI) and vertebral artery injury (VAI). The degree of vascular injury was classified according to the Abbreviated Injury Scale values. Demographic, injury, therapy and outcome characteristic data (length of stay, stroke, multiple organ failure and mortality) were collected and analyzed for each patient with SPSS statistics (Version 23, IBM Inc., Armonk, NY). Out of 76,480 individuals, a total of 786 patients with BCVI (1%) were identified. The 435 CAI patients included 263 dissections, 78 pseudoaneurysms and 94 bilateral injuries. The 383 VAI patients presented with 198 dissections, 43 pseudoaneurysms, 122 thrombotic occlusions and 20 bilateral injuries. The risk for stroke was excessive in BCVI patients versus controls (11.5 vs. 1.1%, p

Background Acute quadriceps tendon tears are infrequent injuries requiring surgical treatment. Improved stability after surgical repair may allow for earlier weight-bearing and range of motion. Therefore, a new implant was tested and compared with the "gold standard", using transosseous sutures. Methods Quadriceps tendon tears were constructed using a cadaveric model of 12 fresh matched-pair specimens (aged 61–97; mean age: 82years). The biomechanical testing compared non-absorbable suture anchors (Polyvinylidene fluoride) versus transosseous absorbable sutures (Polydioxanon). Following anatomic reconstruction, the repaired specimens were loaded until they failed (testing machine: Hounsfield H10KM, Redhill, United Kingdom; maximum force: 1000N; load speed: 25mm/min; maximum test length: 150mm; pre-load: 5N). Values for load until tear displacement, maximum load until complete failure of the construct (pullout or breakage of the sutures or anchors) and stiffness of the reconstruction were recorded. Results The stiffness found in the Polyvinylidene fluoride reconstruction (mean 9.83N/mm) (standard deviation (SD) 7.75) showed a significant increase compared to the Polydioxanon reconstruction (mean 6.66N/mm (SD 3.32); P =0.045). Transosseous fixation showed comparable results to the suture anchor system. There was no significant difference found in the maximum load to tear displacement (PVDF: 290.88N (SD 106.01) vs. PDS: 266.75N (SD 82.61); P =0.358). Conclusions Using the Polyvinylidene fluoride thread showed comparable results to the established method in reconstruction of ruptured quadriceps tendon. Stiffness of the Polyvinylidene fluoride thread reconstruction was even greater than Polydioxanon thread. Clinical relevance Improved stiffness may facilitate healing and is suggested as clinical relevance in reconstruction.

Background The clavicle limits the upper thoracic cage and connects the body and upper extremities. The clavicle is easy to examine and is visible on standard emergency room radiographs. We hypothesized that clavicular fracture in polytrauma patients would indicate the presence of further injuries of the upper extremities, head, neck, and thorax. Methods A population-based trauma registry was used. All patients were documented between 2002 and 2013. Inclusion criteria were age ≥16 y and injury severity score (ISS) ≥16. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of a clavicular fracture (group C+ and group C−). Scoring was based on the abbreviated injury scale, ISS, and new injury severity score. Trauma mechanisms, demographics, and the posttraumatic clinical course were compared. Results In total, 4790 patients with clavicular fracture (C+) and 41,775 without (C−) were included; the mean ISS was 30 ± 11 (C+) versus 28 ± 12 (C−). Patients with clavicular fracture had a longer stay on the intensive care unit with 12 ± 14 versus 10 ± 13 d. Injuries to the thoracic wall, severe lung injuries as well as injuries to the cervical spine were significantly increased in C+ patients. Thoracic injuries as well as injuries of the shoulder girdle and/or arm showed an increased abbreviated injury scale in the C+ group. Conclusions A clinically relevant coincidence of clavicular fractures with injuries of the chest and upper extremity was found. As clavicular fractures can be diagnosed easily, it might also help to reduce the incidence of missed injuries of the chest and upper extremity. Therefore, special attention should be paid on thoracic as well as upper extremity injures during the second and tertiary surveys in case of clavicular fractures.

The aim of this study was to compare the demographics, injury patterns, and outcomes following major trauma between Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and sledding winter sports.An international population-based prospective trauma database (TraumaRegister DGUA total of 243 winter sport athletes with major trauma were identified (1993-2012), and subjects were divided into Alpine skiers (n = 174), snowboarders (n = 29), and sledders (n = 40). Athletes were predominantly male and presented hypothermic at emergency room arrival, despite a large proportion of air rescue (77 %). Alpine skiing was associated with higher injury severity (ISS 20.8 ± 14.0, p = 0.010) when compared with snowboarding (ISS 18.7 ± 14.0) and sledding (ISS 13.8 ± 9.5). Snowboarding was associated with the highest pre-hospital intubation rate (40.9 %, p = 0.007), despite comparable GCS values and prevalence of loss of consciousness at scene. The injury patterns were different between the three groups. Skiing was associated with head (47.1 %), chest (40.2 %, p = 0.047), and spinal injuries (40.9 %, p = 0.022). Snowboarding was associated with the highest percentage of upper extremity trauma. Sledders had the highest prevalence of facial and lower extremity trauma.Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and sledding result in different injury patterns and affect various age groups. Our data suggest an increased risk for chest and spinal injuries in Alpine skiers. Due to high-energy injury mechanisms, all three winter sports involve a risk of severe multiple trauma. While all athlete groups required a high rate of emergency surgery procedures, the observed in-hospital mortality from winter sports remains low.

Orthopaedic trauma is an increasingly common problem in geriatric patients. As demands of daily life and recreational activities are increasing in these patients, surgeons need to be able to manage geriatric fractures to achieve good functional results. Reduced bone quality in the elderly presents a considerable challenge and may preclude the use of established surgical stabilisation techniques that are performed in younger trauma patients. Furthermore, pre-existing medical conditions and considerable comorbidities in the elderly could complicate standard surgical procedures that younger patients would be offered. In this respect, application of external fixators represents a validated, minimally-invasive treatment opportunity. This review article summarises the use of external fixation in geriatric trauma patients for wrist fractures, proximal femoral fractures, pelvic fractures, and ankle fractures. Modern modifications, like pin coating with hydroxyapatite, and aspects of pin care will be discussed.

External fixation has become an important tool in orthopedic surgery. Technology has improved the design and material as well as the construct of the fixator. As most patients are converted from external fixation to definite stabilization during later clinical course, prevention of complications such as infection is of high importance. Based on the current literature, principles of temporary external fixation were summarized. We focused on minimizing the risk of infection and introduce a standardized algorithm how to proceed when converting from external to internal fixation, which also was examined for effectiveness.

In view of demographic changes over the past few decades, the average age of trauma patients is progressively increasing. We therefore aimed to summarize the specific characteristics of geriatric trauma and to identify potential fields for further research to improve the care of elderly trauma patients. Review of the literature. Due to the diverse risk factors (e.g., pre-existing conditions, limited physiological reserve), geriatric patients are prone to developing severe complications, even after less severe trauma. Yet, age is not considered as the only predictor of worse outcomes, and it should not be considered the only criterion for limiting care in those patients. It is crucial that age-specific treatment guidelines are developed to optimize the outcomes for senior trauma patients. Based on the current literature, these guidelines should emphasize the importance of field triage directly to a trauma center, along with the activation of the trauma team. Furthermore, early intensive monitoring, aggressive resuscitation, and time of surgical intervention are of upmost importance to reduce mortality. The impact of several factors [age, premedical conditions (PMC), decreased physiological reserves, and impaired immune function] on the post-traumatic course of elderly trauma patients needs to be clarified in future experimental and clinical studies for the early identification of geriatric high-risk patients and for the development of age-adapted therapeutic strategies.

The participation in extreme and contact sports has grown internationally, despite the significant risk for major and multiple injuries. We conducted this multicenter study to evaluate sport-specific injury patterns and mechanisms, to characterize individuals at risk and to identify possible approaches for prevention. We compared demographic data, severity and patterns of injuries; and the pre- and in-hospital management from an international population-based prospective trauma database (TraumaRegister DGU®). The registry was screened for sport-related injuries, and only patients with major injuries [Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 9 points] related to extreme or contact sports activities were included (January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2012). Parameters were compared for different types of sports activities: (1) Airborne sports, (2) Climbing, (3) Skateboarding/Skating, (4) Contact sports. The following countries participated: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Slovenia, Belgium, Luxembourg, and The Netherlands. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS (Version 22, IBM Inc., Armonk, New York). A total of 278 athletes were identified within the study period and classified into four groups: Airborne sports (n = 105) were associated with the highest injury severity (ISS 22.4 ± 14.6), followed by climbing (n = 35, ISS 16.5 ± 12), skating (n = 67, ISS 15.2 ± 10.3) and contact sports (n = 71, ISS 10.4 ± 9.2). Especially high falls resulted in a significant rate of spinal injuries in airborne activities (68.6%, p

Lung contusion is the most common lung injury following blunt chest trauma which, in turn, is associated with high mortality rates (Gavelli et al 2002 Eur. Radiol. 12 1273-94). Lung contusion is characterized by hemorrhage and edema with consecutively reduced compliance. Objective and Approach: In this study, unilateral lung contusion and other traumata were induced in 12 pigs by using a bolt gun machine. To investigate the pathophysiological consequences of lung contusion, information on clinical parameters was collected and monitored regularly while animals were additionally monitored with electrical impedance tomography (EIT) before trauma, and at 4, 24, 48 and 72 h after polytrauma. Main results Statistical analyses showed significant differences between the measurement time points in terms of lung compliance ([Formula: see text]) and in global EIT parameters, such as absolute global impedance (aGlobImp) ([Formula: see text]), tidal impedance variation (TIV) ([Formula: see text]) and the center of ventilation (CoV) ([Formula: see text]). Additionally, distinct analyses for the left (non-injured) and right (injured) lung were also performed. In this context, during the progress of lung contusion, significant changes were found for the injured lung in TIV ([Formula: see text]), global inhomogeneity ([Formula: see text]), regional ventilation delay ([Formula: see text]), CoV ([Formula: see text]) and in regions of non-ventilation (rNoVent) ([Formula: see text]). Furthermore, TIV and rNoVent were capable to differentiate the injured and the contralateral healthy lung at 4 and 24 h after injury (TIV: [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]; rNoVent: [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]). TIV reached a sensitivity of 82% (specificity of 100%) at 4 h and sensitivity of 82% (specificity of 82%) at 24 h after injury, in detecting lung contusion specific consequences. Significance The results indicate that EIT might be a valuable tool to detect and to monitor lung injuries including lung contusion. Most probably, EIT-derived indices could also be used to adapt ventilator settings to optimize individual lung protection.

Identifying trauma patients that need emergent blood product transfusion is crucial. The Trauma Induced Coagulopathy Clinical Score (TICCS) is an easy-to-measure score developed to meet this medical need. We hypothesized that TICCS would assist in identifying patients that need a transfusion in a large cohort of severe trauma patients from the TraumaRegister DGUA total of 33,385 severe trauma patients were extracted from the TR-DGU for retrospective analysis. The TICCS was adapted for the registry structure. Blood transfusion was defined as the use of at least one unit of red blood cells (RBC) during acute hospital treatment.With an area under the receiving operating curve (AUC) of 0.700 (95% CI: 0.691-0.709), the TICCS appeared to be moderately discriminant for determining the need for RBC transfusion in the trauma population of the TR-DGU. A TICCS cut-off value of ≥12 yielded the best trade-off between true positives and false positives. The corresponding positive predictive value and negative predictive values were 48.4% and 89.1%, respectively.This retrospective study confirms that the TICCS is a useful and simple score for discriminating between trauma patients with and without the need for emergent blood product transfusion.

Das Trauma stellt bei Kindern eine der haufigsten Todesursachen dar. Neben einem vom Erwachsenen abweichenden Verletzungsmuster entwickeln Kinder im stationaren Therapieverlauf zudem seltener eine Dysfunktion multipler Organsysteme („multiple organ dysfunction syndrome“, MODS). Des Weiteren tritt das kindliche MODS im Vergleich zum erwachsenen Patienten im posttraumatischen Therapieverlauf fruhzeitiger auf. Biomarker zur fruhzeitigen Identifizierung von Risikopatienten fur posttraumatische Komplikationen sind von hoher klinischer Relevanz. Trotz der Bedeutung des kindlichen Traumas finden sich in der Literatur allerdings nur eine begrenzte Anzahl klinischer Studien, die die Bedeutung verschiedener Biomarker beim Kind charakterisiert haben. In der vorliegenden Arbeit soll anhand von klinischen Studien hierzu der aktuelle Kenntnisstand zusammengefasst werden.

Rupture of the upper ankle joint ligaments is a common injury. Therapy in patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a challenge due to the autosomal-dominant collagenopathy. Therapeutic recommendations and long term results in treatment of patients with EDS are rare. Therefore uncertainty exists. We present a case of clinical and radiologic long term results after ligament rupture of the upper ankle joint in a patient with EDS. A literature review tries to reveal current therapeutic strategies in patients with EDS.

Introduction. Bilateral posterior dislocation of the shoulder is a rare injury, accounted for about 2–5% of all shoulder dislocations. Main courses are electrical shock, epilepsy or extreme trauma with uncontrolled muscle forces. We report about a case of bilateral posterior shoulder dislocation without additional fractures but with a concomitant acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Case presentation. A 46-year-old Caucasian motorcyclist presented to our facility after a fall on slippery ground. He claimed pain in both shoulders with limited range of motion. The initial X-rays were inconclusive, clinical examination showed typical findings of a Rockwood injury with an additional limited external rotation so that a posterior shoulder dislocation was suspected. The CT scan confirmed the clinical suspicion. A closed reduction was performed followed by immobilization in a shoulder abduction pillow for 4 weeks and continuous physiotherapy. Upon follow up normal function with full range of motion was observed. Conclusion. A bilateral posterior shoulder dislocation can be caused by trauma and results in a limited range of motion with often additional injuries. Due to the unusually presentation the risk of missing the injury is increased. Therefore it is most important to consider this rare diagnosis and in case of clinical suspicion perform a careful algorithm of diagnostic.

Summary Background Operative treatment of higher degree acromioclavicular joint luxation is common. A new option is made available by the tight rope technique. It claims to provide adequate outcome with the use of a minimally invasive technique. First clinical studies justified its medical use, but the equivalence to established surgical methods remains unclear. We therefore analyzed radiographic data from patients that were treated with the tight rope system (TR) and compared them to those treated with K-wires (KW) fixation. Material/Methods Retrospective study with inclusion criteria: surgery for acromioclavicular joint luxation between 2004 and 2011, classified as Rockwood type III, no concomitant injury, first event injury. We compared pre- and post-operative X-rays with those taken at the end of treatment. Clinical data from follow-ups and radiographic data were evaluated. The main outcome variable was the remaining distance between the acromion and clavicle (ACD), as well as the coracoid process and clavicle (CCD). Results 27 patients (TR: n=16; KW: n=11) with comparable demographics and injury severity were included. Surgery reduced ACD (TR: p=0.002; KW: p

Background and Aims:Treatment of scapular neck fractures remains controversial. Advantages of surgical treatments, such as anatomical restoration of fracture displacement, are counterbalanced by approach morbidity. We conducted a meta-analysis of 463 scapular neck fractures and compared clinical, functional, and radiographical outcomes in operatively and nonoperatively treated scapular neck fractures.Material and Methods:A literature search was conducted, including the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Manuscripts were included if they reported a precise description of treatment, complications, functional outcomes, and/or radiographic evaluation. Data about day-to-day activities, level of pain-freeness, range of motion, functional grading, and radiographical assessment were pooled and compared using fixed effects models.Results and Conclusions:A total of 22 manuscripts were relevant, including 1 prospective cohort study and 21 retrospective studies. The studies showed a high heterogeneity in the result assessment. Most patients had concomitant injuries. In total, 234 out of the 463 fractures were treated operatively. Pain-freeness and radiographic outcome measurements were significantly better in the operatively treated group, whereas range of motion was significantly improved in the nonoperative treated patients. Complication rate for surgical treatment was about 10%. From the achievable data, there was no bias detected when comparing the two treatment groups. However, those data could not be analyzed for all included studies. For the same reason, the role of additional surgical treatment for concomitant injuries to the shoulder girdle could not be cleared completely. Caution should be exercised, and individual injury patterns have to be taken into consideration when considering the best treatment options.

Patient safety in surgery 10, 24 (2016). doi:10.1186/s13037-016-0109-6, Published by BioMed Central, London

BMC medical education 16(1), 284 (2016). doi:10.1186/s12909-016-0804-0, Published by BioMed Central, London

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PLoS ONE 11(1), e0146897 (2016). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0146897, Published by PLoS, Lawrence, Kan.

Scientific reports 6, 37277 (2016). doi:10.1038/srep37277, Published by Macmillan Publishers Limited, part of Springer Nature, [London]

Open reduction in displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures entails a high rate of wound healing deficits and infections as well as an uncertain outcome, which leads to remaining ambiguity in treatment preferences. Between January and July 2011, we emailed 575 German chairpersons of trauma and/or orthopaedic departments, asking them to complete a 31–question web-based survey regarding three broad domains: fracture classification, surgical treatment algorithms and risk factors for wound healing deficits. The response rate was 47 %. With an incidence of 77 %, open reduction via an extended lateral approach and plate fixation was the main treatment option for displaced intra-articular fractures of the joint-depression-type (Sanders II or III). Percutaneous techniques were only preferred in individual cases, with mainly precarious wound situations (59 %) as well as in patients with a reduced general health condition (ASA 3 and 4; 41 %). The re-operation rate due to infections and wound healing deficits after an extended lateral approach was reported with a percentage of 0-5 % by 88 % of the respondents. Participants stated that especially a poor microcirculation of the foot, disregard of soft tissue conserving techniques, overall condition of the patient, smoking, long time-to-surgery and operation time are the main reasons for wound healing deficits. Given the extended lateral approach as the preferred treatment option, we found minimally invasive techniques and primary arthrodesis of the lower ankle joint play a minor role in treating intra-articular calcaneal fractures in Germany. Ninety percent of our respondents stated less than 5 % of patients required re-operations due to infections and wound healing deficits. Level of Evidence Level V, expert opinion.