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Introduction. Proximal humerus fractures, resulting from direct or indirect trauma, pose a significant clinical challenge. The choice of surgical intervention is influenced by various factors including patient age, comorbidities, bone quality, activity level, fracture characteristics, and the surgeon’s expertise. This study aims to assess the frequency and nature of complications arising from the surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures. Material and Methods. In this retrospective analysis, 51 patients were included, with 22 males and 29 females. Two surgical techniques were employed: osteosynthesis using locking plates in 27 patients (average age 54.6 years) and intramedullary nailing in 24 patients (average age 58.4 years). The assessment of outcomes was conducted using the Constant Shoulder Score, and statistical analysis was performed using the Student’s T-test. Results. Complications were observed in 12 patients (23.5%), comprising 7 males and 5 females. In the locking plate group, where 8 complications occurred, the mean Constant score was 77.44, while the intramedullary nail group, with 4 complications noted, had a mean Constant score of 70.25. No statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of complications based on gender or the type of surgical technique used. Conclusion. The study found a higher incidence of complications in male patients and those treated with locking plates, though these differences were not statistically significant. These findings emphasize the need for personalized surgical planning and highlight the complexity of managing proximal humerus fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveTo compare the clinical efficacy and application value of a novel operative approach of anterograde elastic intramedullary needling versus traditional Kirschmann wiring for junction fractures of radius trunk and metaphyseal in children. MethodsRetrospective analysis was performed for 50 children with fractures at junction of distal radial diaphysis and metaphysis from January 2019 to January 2022.They were assigned into two groups of anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture (n=17) and Kirschmann acupuncture (n=33) according to different surgical approaches.The relevant clinical data included gender, age, concurrent distal ulnar fracture, operative duration, fracture angulation and alignment status at Week 2 post-operation.Duration of external fixation, wrist motion, good/excellent rate of wrist function, good/excellent rate of elbow function and complications were recorded at Month 3 post-operation. ResultsOperative duration was longer in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture group than that in Kirschner's needle group[(81.8±38.4) vs.(59.4±26.1) min]and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The mean contraction of fractures was higher in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture group than that in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture Kirschner's needle group (92% vs.88%) and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The removal time of external plaster fixation was shorter in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture group than that in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture Kirschner's needle group[(31.5±5.1) vs.(39.0±9.2) day]and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The wrist range of motion was higher in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture group than that in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture Kirschner's needle anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture groupt Month 3 post-operation and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The recovery rate of wrist joint was higher in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture group than that in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture Kirschner's needle group (94.12% vs.66.67%) and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The good/excellent recovery rate of elbow joint was lower in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture group than that in anterograde elastic intramedullary acupuncture Kirschner's needle group (82.35% vs.87.88%) and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). ConclusionCompared with traditional Kirscher wiring, anterograde elastic intramedullary needling can effectively shorten the time of postoperative removal of plaster external fixation and facilitate the postoperative recovery of wrist joint activity.It is ideal for children with distal radial diaphyseal junction fractures and worth wider clinical promotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction: Metacarpal fractures are common and can be treated surgically using Kirschner wires (K-wires) or intramedullary fixation with compression screws (IMCS). Objectives: Analyze the postsurgical results from treating the metacarpal extra-articular fractures through the retrograde Kirschner wire technique, and compare it with the intramedullary compression screw fixation. Methods: Retrospective and quantitative studies were to analyze patients’ medical records, and a postsurgical evaluation questionnaire was given to the patients, who were divided into K-wire and IMCS. Results: The period of immobilization with a splint took six weeks for the K-wire group and four weeks for the IMCS group. The average time for consolidation took, respectively, fifty-seven days and forty-seven days. The first group could restart their activities twenty-two days after the other, and the average force value of the treated hand, when compared with its contralateral, was 93.9% and 95.4%, respectively. Between the operated hand and its contralateral, there was a difference of 16° in the total measures of the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joint's range of movement among the K-wire group and 5° among the IMCS group. Conclusion: The patients who participated in this study showed excellent results after surgery, and both treatments were proven to be safe and reliable. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

Objective To explore the causes and outcomes of delayed fracture union after elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) for pediatric long bone fractures of extremities to minimize the occurrence of this complication and provide clinical rationales for managing delayed fracture union. Methods From July 2015 to April 2020, clinical data were retrospectively reviewed for 233 children with long bone fractures of extremities after ESIN.Nine cases of delayed fracture union were found during follow-ups.Age, injury mechanism, fracture site, surgical approach, post-discharge management and subsequent rehabilitation were recorded.For various causes of delayed fracture union, the corresponding treatment was offered. Results Two cases of delayed fracture union of double fracture of radius and ulna healed after prolonged plaster fixation and immobilization.Two cases of delayed tibial fracture union received proper weight bearing under brace protection.One case of delayed fracture union of femoral fracture healed after external fixation of hip with heriform plaster and removal of elastic intramedullary nail.One case of delayed fracture union of tibia (n=1), humerus (n=1) and femur (n=1) healed after anti-infection and immobilization of affected limb.One case of delayed tibial union underwent autologous bone grafting and plaster fixation. Conclusion Treatments of delayed bone union vary for different and different types of fractures.In this cohort, strengthened fixation, greater stress stimulation at broken end, anti-infection, bone graft reconstruction and other means have been adopted for attaining bone union.Removing the influencing factors of delayed healing and re-stabilizing fracture end are vital for successful treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the clinical efficacy of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) for long spiral tibial shaft fractures in school-age children. Methods From October 2014 to October 2019, retrospective analysis of tibial shaft fractures was conducted for 7-12-year-old school-age children using elastic intramedullary nails.According to fracture type, they were divided into two groups of long spiral fracture (n=37) and horizontal/short oblique fracture (n=76). Basic profiles, intraoperative findings, hospitalization length, treatment outcomes and postoperative complications of two groups were compared. Results No significant inter-group differences existed in gender, age, sideness, injury cause, fracture site, fibula fracture or not, operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, hospitalization length or medical expenditure (P>0.05). No significant inter-group difference existed in Flynn efficacy evaluation of ESIN (P>0.05). There was no significant inter-group difference in fracture healing time, complete weight bearing time or intramedullary nail removal time (P>0.05). Complication rate was 2.70% in long spiral fracture group and 3.94% in transverse/short oblique fracture group.There was no statistically significant inter-group difference (P>0.05). Conclusion ESIN has an excellent therapeutic efficacy for school-age children with long spiral tibial shaft fractures.With minimal invasiveness, there is a low risk of postoperative complications.It is worthy of widespread clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluate the stability provided by two flexible intramedullary nails (FINs) in a simulation of fractures at the proximal levels in pediatric femur models. Methods Two FINs were inserted in 18 synthetic models of pediatric femurs. Fractures were simulated at one of three levels, and the models were divided into the following groups (n=6): diaphysis (control), subtrochanteric and trochanteric. Flex-compression tests were performed with force up to 85 N. Relative stiffness and the average deformation was obtained. Torsion tests were performed by rotating the proximal fragment until 20°, to obtain the average torque. Results At flex-compression, the set’s average relative stiffness and average deformations were: 54.360x103 N/m and 1.645 mm in the control group, respectively. In the subtrochanteric group, the relative stiffness was 31.415x103 N/m (-42.2%) and the deformation was 2.424 mm (+47.3%) (p

• Elbow to thumb + 3.5 cm can be used to predict nail length for greater trochanteric entry. • Elbow to thumb + 1.4 can be used to predict nail length for piriform fossa entry. • Surgeons can be confident that the appropriate nail will be selected from a range of three, including that predicted by the "rule of thumb" and one increment to either side. Intramedullary femoral nails are measured intraoperatively using fluoroscopy. This study aims to investigate whether distance from the olecranon to fingertips can be used to estimate nail length preoperatively by evaluating agreement of the two measurements. Such preoperative measurements may provide a likely range of nails needed for theatre and serve as an adjunct to intraoperative measurements. In 70 patients, long leg radiographs were used to make linear measurements from the piriformis fossa and greater trochanter to the distal physeal scar of the femur. These were compared to measurements from the olecranon to the tip of each digit and Bland-Altman agreement analysis was performed. Train and Trial groups were formed to develop models for estimation and to then test their accuracy. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a fixed bias, indicative of average difference between measurements, of 1.4 cm when comparing the elbow-thumb length to maximum femoral nail length for piriformis fossa entry and 3.5 cm using greater trochanter entry, informing the "rule of thumb". Elbow-thumb length plus 1.4 cm or 3.5 cm predicts nail length to a range of ± one nail increment. The rule can be used to preoperatively predict a range of three nails from which there is a 94–97% likelihood the appropriate intramedullary nail would be selected. The "rule of thumb" may serve as a simple to use tool for preoperative planning and a technical check to assess the "reasonableness" of intraoperative measurements before implantation of the device. It has the potential to reduce operating time and nail wastage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-induced osteoporosis, myasthenia, and disequilibrium are important risk factors for hip fracture, and decreased respiratory function after hip fracture surgery can decelerate recovery of activities of daily living (ADL) in elderly patients., Case Presentation: A 90-year-old male patient underwent an open reduction and intramedullary pinning surgery for right femoral intertrochanteric fracture. After surgery, he remained confined to bed with pain and swelling in the right lower extremity. Due to his history of COPD, he had a postoperative pulmonary infection and respiratory insufficiency., Intervention: This patient received routine rehabilitation after surgery. However, severe respiratory symptoms prevented him from completing the rehabilitation procedure. Therefore, comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation including airway clearance techniques, inspiratory resistance training, aerobic training, respiratory muscle training, and intermittent low-flow oxygen inhalation was carried out to enhance the recovery process., Outcomes: After 4 weeks of treatment, the patient improved from continuous oxygen inhalation to being able to complete bed resistance training without supplemental oxygen. After 8 weeks, ADL reached independence, while lower limb muscle strength, pulmonary function parameters, fatigue index, and cough efficiency were improved as compared to test values obtained before treatment., Conclusion: Compared with the 6-month recovery time reported in the literature for patients with hip fractures to achieve independence with basic ADLs, the recovery time of this patient was shortened to 2 months with the application of comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation. It is feasible to carry out pulmonary rehabilitation for elderly patients after fracture surgery, but prospective clinical trials are needed to verify its efficacy.

An 80-year-old fit and active gentleman presented with left hip pain and a new central scotoma in his right eye after falling from an electric bicycle. He was able to mobilise independently and presented to ophthalmic services where cotton wool spots were found in both eyes and a presumptive diagnosis of Purtscher's retinopathy (PuR) was made. The patient was referred to the emergency department for assessment of a potential fracture. The subcapital femoral neck fracture was subtle on X-ray and only detected the following day with radiological and orthopaedic review. Two screws were placed to stabilise the fracture with a good outcome for his hip and for his vision. PuR can be seen following trauma to the head, neck or chest, following long bone fracture and in renal failure or pancreatitis. Our case highlights how the non-specific finding of cotton wool spots becomes a highly specific diagnosis in the context of trauma and should lead to careful evaluation for fractures., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2024. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Introduction: Femoral shaft nonunion negatively affects patient quality of life. Although multiple risk factors have been identified for femoral shaft nonunion after intramedullary nail (IMN) fixation, there is no quantitative model for predicting nonunion., Study Description: The study is a retrospective cohort study of patients with femoral shaft fractures treated at two level one trauma centers who were followed to fracture union or nonunion. Patient, injury, and surgical characteristics were analyzed to create a quantitative model for nonunion risk after intramedullary nailing., Methods: Eight hundred one patients aged 18 years and older with femoral shaft fractures treated with reamed, locked IMNs were identified. Risk factors including demographics, comorbidities, surgical variables, and injury-related characteristics were evaluated. Multivariate analysis was conducted, and several variables were included in a scoring system to predict nonunion risk., Results: The overall nonunion rate was 7.62% (61/801). Multivariate analysis showed significant association among pulmonary injury (odds ratio [OR] = 2.19, P = 0.022), open fracture (OR=2.36, P = 0.02), current smoking (OR=3.05, P < 0.001), postoperative infection (OR=12.1, P = 0.007), AO/OTA fracture pattern type A or B (OR=0.43, P = 0.014), and percent cortical contact obtained intraoperatively ≥25% (OR=0.41, P = 0.021) and nonunion. The scoring system created to quantitatively stratify nonunion risk showed that a score of 3 or more yielded an OR of 6.38 for nonunion (c-statistic = 0.693, P < 0.0001)., Conclusions: Femoral shaft nonunion risk is quantifiable based on several independent injury, patient, and surgical factors. This scoring system is an additional tool for clinical decision making when caring for patients with femoral shaft fractures treated with IMNs., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.)

The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the impact of tourniquet use during intramedullary tibial nailing on clinical outcomes at a regional Level I Trauma Center. One hundred ninety-four patients with intramedullary tibial fixation over a 5-year period at a single institution were studied following Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. Patients were stratified into 81 polytrauma patients and 113 patients with isolated tibial shaft injuries. Patients were then stratified within these two groups according to whether or not a tourniquet was used intraoperatively (including during reaming). Postoperative narcotic use, length of stay, operating room (OR) time, tourniquet time, estimated blood loss, units of blood utilized, infection rate, and age were the outcome variables. No significant differences were found for any outcome measure (p ≥ 0.05), including age, narcotic use, OR time, postoperative inpatient days, estimated blood loss, and units of blood used between tourniquet and nontourniquet patients. Statistically significant differences were found between isolated and nonisolated fracture patients for postanesthesia care unit (PACU) morphine dose equivalents (MDEs), with isolated tibia fracture patients requiring more MDEs (13.80 vs. 9.92 units; p = 0.025). Nonisolated tibia patients had more inpatient days (14.88 vs. 3.16 days; p = 0.001), greater estimated blood loss (252.44 vs. 128.07 mL; p = 0.001), and more units of blood (5.07 vs. 2.29 units; p = 0.017). Thermal necrosis of the tibia was not seen in any patient within any group. Tourniquet use did not significantly affect clinical outcomes. This provides surgeons with updated data on the impact of tourniquet use on clinical outcomes given the modernization of techniques for tibial intramedullary nailing. There were statistically significant differences between isolated tibia fractures and polytrauma patients for postoperative length of stay, estimated blood loss, and units of blood; however, this was unrelated to tourniquet use and would be expected for polytraumatic patients who commonly have a longer postoperative recovery. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 33(3):181-183, 2024).

Case: A 48-year-old man presented to a Level 1 trauma center after a motor vehicle crash with a right irreducible posterior hip dislocation and ipsilateral fractures of the femoral head and segmental femur shaft. This injury was managed with open reduction and internal fixation and antegrade intramedullary nailing., Conclusion: This is the first report of a combined irreducible femoral head fracture-dislocation and a segmental femur fracture, a rare injury that requires a stepwise approach to operative management of each injury. Surgeons must recognize the clinical and radiographic findings associated with irreducible hip dislocations in the setting of ipsilateral fractures to the femoral head and shaft., Competing Interests: Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJSCC/C390)., (Copyright © 2024 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

Background: We examined the treatment outcomes following intramedullary nailing in patients with metastatic femoral tumors, excluding those from hematological malignancies., Methods: We retrospectively evaluated treatment outcomes following intramedullary nailing between patients who underwent preventative surgery compared with those who had surgery following pathological fracture. Patients who underwent preventative surgery (Mirels' score ≥8) were allocated to the impending fracture group (n = 11) and those who underwent surgery after pathological fracture were allocated to the completed fracture group (n = 20)., Results: Duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the impending fracture group than in the completed fracture group. Median blood loss was significantly less, and the median duration of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the impending fracture group than in the completed fracture group. Among patients who died following surgery, the median postoperative survival duration was significantly longer in the impending fracture group than in the completed fracture group. Significantly more patients regained walking function in the impending fracture group than in the completed fracture group. Regarding complications, infection occurred in one patient in the completed fracture group. No implant damage was observed in either group., Conclusions: Patients with metastatic femoral tumors who underwent intramedullary nailing in the impending fracture group had better postoperative survival and gait function, less blood loss, and shorter durations of surgery and hospital stay than those in the completed fracture group. These findings indicate the importance of early diagnosis and treatment and value of treatment prior to fracture occurrence., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 The Japanese Orthopaedic Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Arterial injury caused by heterotopic ossification (HO) following fractures is rarely reported, yet it can have catastrophic consequences. This case report presents a unique instance of femoral artery injury and hematoma organization, occurring a decade after intramedullary nail fixation for a femoral shaft fracture complicated by HO., Case Presentation: A 56-year-old male presented with right femoral artery injury and organized hematoma, a decade after suffering bilateral femoral shaft fractures with mild head injury in a traffic accident. He had received intramedullary nailing for the right femoral shaft fracture and plate fixation for the left side in a local hospital. Physical examination revealed two firm, palpable masses with clear boundaries, limited mobility, and no tenderness. Peripheral arterial pulses were intact. Radiography demonstrated satisfactory fracture healing, while a continuous high-density shadow was evident along the inner and posterior aspect of the right thigh. Computed tomography angiography identified a large mixed-density mass (16.8 × 14.8 × 20.7 cm) on the right thigh's medial side, featuring central calcification and multiple internal calcifications. The right deep femoral artery coursed within this mass, with a smaller lesion noted on the posterior thigh. Surgical consultation with a vascular surgeon led to planned intervention. The smaller mass was completely excised, but the larger one partially, as it encased the femoral artery. The inability to remove all HO was due to excessive bleeding. Postoperatively, the patient experienced no complications, and one-year follow-up revealed a favorable recovery with restoration of full right lower limb mobility., Conclusion: This case underscores the potential gravity of vascular injury associated with heterotopic ossification. Surgeons should remain vigilant regarding the risk of vascular injury during HO excision., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of suprasyndesmotic ankle fracture fixation with a minimally invasive technique. Methods: Retrospective study of 11 patients with suprasyndesmotic fractures of the lateral malleolus who underwent surgery between 2016 and 2018. Retrospective analysis of medical records considered the following: radiographic assessments (preoperative, immediate postoperative, six weeks postoperative), clinical evaluation, and strength scale and movement test results. Results: Of the 18 patients qualified for inclusion, 7 failed to appear at the follow-up appointment and were excluded. The patients’ age varied from 20 to 53 years, and 72.7% were male. The trauma mechanisms included torsion (46% of the cases), automobile accidents (36.4%) and direct trauma (17.6%). The mean time between trauma and definitive surgery was 3.27 days. The mean talocrural angle in the preoperative period was 83.13º, ranging from 80.63º in the immediate postoperative period to 81.27º at 6 months postoperatively. Approximately 90% of the patients did not lose strength. Regarding the range of motion, the mean dorsiflexion and plantar flexion 6 months postoperatively were 10.72º and 34.4º, respectively. Conclusion: The minimally invasive technique had excellent technical results in patients treated surgically for ankle fractures and required smaller incisions than conventional surgery. Osteolysis or fatigue of the osteosynthesis material is a possibility with this technique, which generally occurred between three and four months postoperatively. Level of Evidence IV; Therapeutic Studies; Case series.

Objective: To investigate the position of the anterior fracture line in AO/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) type A2 unstable intertrochanteric fractures and its impact on the incidence of anterior cortical reduction loss after cephalomedullary nail fixation., Methods: A clinical data of 95 patients with intertrochanteric fractures who met the selection criteria between April 2020 and February 2023 was retrospectively analyzed. All patients were treated with cephalomedullary nail fixation, and the intra- and post-operative imaging data were complete. Among them, there were 37 males and 58 females. The age ranged from 61 to 97 years, with an average of 79.6 years. The time from injury to operation ranged from 7 hours to 11 days, with an average of 2.8 days. According to the 2018-AO/OTA classification standard, there were 39 cases of type 31-A2.2 and 56 cases of type 31-A2.3. Intraoperative fluoroscopy was used to record the number of patients with satisfactory fracture alignment. The preoperative CT data were imported into Mimics17.0 software to simulate the fracture reduction and measure the distance between the anterior fracture line and the intertrochanteric line bony ridge. The fractures were classified as transcapsular fractures, extra-capsular fractures, and intra-capsular fractures according to the distance. CT three-dimensional reconstruction was performed within 2 weeks after operation to observe the number of patients with anterior cortical reduction loss. The postoperative anterior cortical reduction loss incidence in patients with satisfactory fracture alignment, and the relationship between postoperative anterior cortical reduction loss and the position of the anterior fracture line were observed., Results: There were 52 cases (54.7%) of transcapsular fractures, 24 cases (25.3%) of extra-capsular fractures, and 19 cases (20.0%) of intra-capsular fractures. Among them, 41 of the 52 transcapsular fractures had satisfactory fracture alignment, and 4 (9.8%) of them experienced anterior cortical reduction loss after operation; 19 of the 24 extra-capsular fractures had satisfactory fracture alignment, and no anterior cortical reduction loss occurred; 16 of the 19 intra-capsular fractures had satisfactory fracture alignment, and 7 (43.8%) of them experienced anterior cortical reduction loss after operation. There was a significant difference in the incidence of anterior cortical reduction loss between groups ( χ 2 =8.538， P =0.003). All patients were followed up 3-26 months (mean, 9 months). Among them, 91 cases had fracture healing, and 4 cases had nonunion., Conclusion: In AO/OTA type A2 unstable intertrochanteric fractures, where the anterior fracture line is located within the joint capsule, there is a high risk of anterior cortical reduction loss after operation.

Objective: To explore the effectiveness of irreducible intertrochanteric femoral fracture in the elderly by treating with folding top technique and right-angle pliers prying and pulling under G-arm X-ray fluoroscopy., Methods: The clinical data of 74 elderly patients with irreducible intertrochanteric femoral fracture admitted between February 2016 and December 2022 and met the selection criteria were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 38 cases were treated with folding top technique combined with right-angle pliers prying and pulling under G-arm X-ray fluoroscopy and intramedullary nailing fixation (study group), and 36 cases were treated with limited open reduction combined with other reduction methods and intramedullary nailing fixation (control group). There was no significant difference in baseline data between the two groups, such as age, gender, cause of injury, affected side and classification of fractures, complicated medical diseases, and time from injury to operation ( P >0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, fracture reduction time, fracture healing time, and complications of the two groups were recorded and compared. The quality of fracture reduction was evaluated by Baumgaertner et al. and Chang et al. fracture reduction standards., Results: Patients in both groups were followed up 10-14 months, with an average of 12 months. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss in the study group were significantly less than those in the control group ( P <0.05), there was no significant difference in hospital stay between the two groups ( P >0.05). At 2 days after operation, according to the fracture reduction standards of Baumgaertner et al. and CHANG Shimin et al. , the quality of fracture reduction in the study group was better than that in the control group, and the fracture reduction time in the study group was shorter than that in the control group, with significant differences ( P <0.05). After operation, the fractures of the two groups all healed, and there was no significant difference in healing time between the two groups ( P >0.05). During the follow-up, there was no complication such as incision infection, internal fixation failure, deep venous thrombosis of lower limbs, intramedullary nail breakage, spiral blade cutting, or hip varus in the two groups, except for 2 cases of coxa vara in the control group., Conclusion: For the irreducible intertrochanteric femoral fracture, using folding top technique combined with right-angle pliers prying and pulling under G-arm X-ray fluoroscopy can obviously shorten the operation time, reduce the intraoperative blood loss, and improve the quality of fracture reduction.

Objective  To evaluate the stability of osteotomies created in the subtrochanteric and trochanteric regions in a pediatric femur model fixed by flexible intramedullary rods. Method  Tomographic sections were obtained from a pediatric femur model with two elastic titanium rods and converted to a three-dimensional model. This model created a mesh with tetrahedral elements according to the finite element method. Three virtual models were obtained, and osteotomies were performed in different regions: mediodiaphyseal, subtrochanteric, and trochanteric. A vertical load of 85N was applied to the top of the femoral head, obtaining the displacements, the maximum and minimum main stress, and the equivalent Von Mises stress on the implant. Results  With the applied load, displacements were observed at the osteotomy site of 0.04 mm in the diaphyseal group, 0.5 mm in the subtrochanteric group, and 0.06 mm in the trochanteric group. The maximum stress in the diaphyseal, subtrochanteric, and trochanteric groups was 10.4 Pa, 7.52 Pa, and 26.4 Pa, respectively. That is around 40% higher in the trochanteric group in regards to the diaphyseal (control). The minimum stress of the bone was located in the inner cortical of the femur. The equivalent Von Mises stress on the implants occurred at osteotomy, with a maximum value of 27.6 Pa in the trochanteric group. Conclusion  In both trochanteric and subtrochanteric osteotomies, fixation stability was often lower than in the diaphyseal model, suggesting that flexible intramedullary nails are not suitable implants for proximal femoral fixations., Competing Interests: Conflito de Interesses Os autores declaram não haver conflito de interesses., (The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, permitting copying and reproduction so long as the original work is given appropriate credit ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ).)

Purpose: Freehand distal interlocking of intramedullary nails remains a challenging task. Recently, a new training device for digitally enhanced hands-on surgical training (DEHST) was introduced, potentially improving surgical skills needed for distal interlocking., Aim: To evaluate whether training with DEHST enhances the performance of novices (first-year residents without surgical experience in freehand distal nail interlocking)., Methods: Twenty novices were randomly assigned to two groups and performed distal interlocking of a tibia nail in mock operation under operation-room-like conditions. Participants in Group 1 were trained with DEHST (five distal interlocking attempts, 1 h of training), while those in Group 2 did not receive training. Time, number of X-rays shots, hole roundness in the X-rays projection and hit rates were compared between the groups., Results: Time to complete the task [414.7 s (range 290-615)] and X-rays exposure [17.8 µGcm 2 (range 9.8-26.4)] were significantly lower in Group 1 compared to Group 2 [623.4 s (range 339-1215), p = 0.041 and 32.6 µGcm 2 (range 16.1-55.3), p = 0.003]. Hole projections were significantly rounder in Group 1 [95.0% (range 91.1-98.0) vs. 80.8% (range 70.1-88.9), p < 0.001]. In Group 1, 90% of the participants achieved successful completion of the task in contrast to a 60% success rate in Group 2. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.121)., Conclusions: In a mock-operational setting, training with DEHST significantly enhanced the performance of novices without surgical experience in distal interlocking of intramedullary nails and hence carries potential to improve safety and efficacy of this important and demanding surgical task to steepen the learning curve without endangering patients., Level of Evidence: II., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Introduction: Hand fractures are associated with significant morbidity. Current management standards often result in prolonged immobilization, stiffness, and delayed return to functional use. Intramedullary (IM) compression screws offer minimal soft tissue disruption and early postoperative active motion. In this study, we describe our outcomes after intraosseous fracture fixation using IM cannulated headless screws for a multitude of fracture patterns., Methods: This study is a retrospective review of patients who underwent IM screw placement for fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures by a single surgeon from 2017 to 2022. Data were collected to include patient demographics, fracture details, postoperative complications, and follow-up. Time to range of motion and return to unrestricted motion was recorded., Results: There were 69 patients with 92 fractures (n = 54 metacarpal, n = 38 phalanx). The median patient age was 45 years (range, 18-89 years) with 75.4% males. Majority presented with a single fracture (n = 50, 72.5%), and 38 patients (55.1%) had open fractures. Small finger was the most affected digit (n = 35, 37.6%). The median time to allow range of motion from surgery was 8.7 days (interquartile range, 0-32) with 32 days (interquartile range, 10-62) for unrestricted use of the hand. Thirty-five patients (50.7%) were allowed controlled motion from the first postoperative day. One patient had loss of reduction requiring reintervention for hardware removal, and 1 patient had superficial skin infection managed with oral antibiotics., Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the IM screw provides reliable fixation for a wide variety of fracture patterns with a low complication rate and offers early return to functional use., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest and sources of funding: none declared., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) nailing in the setting of acute ankle trauma has become increasingly popular. No consensus exists as to whether formal joint preparation is necessary, although there is some concern that residual motion at unprepared joints may lead to implant loosening and/or breakage. The objective of this study was to quantify the proportion of tibiotalar and subtalar articular surface destruction that occurs during reaming for TTC nail fixation., Methods: Twelve cadaver lower extremities were procured. The specimens were pinned into neutral ankle and hindfoot alignment. A guidewire was inserted under fluoroscopy, followed by a 12-mm opening reamer. The specimens were then dissected, exposing the tibial plafond, talar dome, posterior facet of the talus, and posterior facet of the calcaneus. Images of each joint were obtained, and ImageJ software was used to calculate the total joint surface area and the area of articular destruction., Results: The mean proportion of articular cartilage destruction was 9.3%, 10.3%, 8.9%, and 10.3% for the tibial plafond, talar dome, posterior facets of the talus, and posterior facets of the calcaneus, respectively. No joint destruction was observed in the middle facets of the subtalar joint., Conclusions: Reaming for TTC nail placement violates approximately 10% of each articular surface of the tibiotalar and subtalar joints. Retention of 90% of the articular surface may allow for residual motion at the joints and therefore potentially substantial stress on the implant. Formal joint preparation for the purposes of achieving fusion during TTC nail placement may be beneficial to prevent implant loosening or breakage., Competing Interests: Each author certified that he or she has no commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no disclosures or conflicts of interest.

Objective: To review the research progress of the weak state of the lateral wall in intertrochanteric fracture, in order to provide clinical references., Methods: The relevant research literature on the lateral wall of intertrochanteric fracture at home and abroad in recent years was summarized and analyzed in terms of morphology, fracture line in coronal plane, and bone density., Results: Assessment of weak state of the lateral wall is particularly important in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures. Lateral wall thickness is the main way to assess the weak state of the lateral wall, but there are still problems. Many scholars at home and abroad have studied various aspects such as width, height, and length of the anterior cortex, but there is a lack of a comprehensive assessment method. Coronal fractures affect lateral wall morphology and are difficult to detect on X-ray films, requiring vigilance on the part of the clinician. Further research is needed to clarify the correlation between bone density and the weak state of the lateral wall. The femur lesser trochanter fractures interacts with the latertal wall, and the lesser trochanter fracture exacerbates the weak state. The soft tissue around the lateral wall also affects the weak state, so attention must be paid to protecting the soft tissues during operation., Conclusion: There are more methods for assessing the weak state of the lateral wall, but none of them has formed a unified standard. Most of the current studies assess the weak state from a single perspective and lack a comprehensive assessment of all aspects affecting the lateral wall. Fewer studies have been conducted to assess the residual lateral wall function after a partial fracture of the lateral wall, and further research is needed.

Objective: To summarize the new research progress in distal interlocking screws of cephalomedullary nails for the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures., Methods: Relevant domestic and foreign literature was extensively reviewed to summarize the static/dynamic types of distal interlocking screw holes, biomechanical studies, clinical studies and application principles, effects on toggling in the cavity, and related complications of distal interlocking screws., Results: The mode of the distal interlocking screw holes can be divided into static and dynamic. Distal interlocking screws play the role of anti-rotation, maintaining femur length, resisting compression stress, increasing torque stiffness, resisting varus stress, etc . The number of the screws directly affects the toggling of the main nail in the cavity. At present, regardless of whether long or short nails are used, distal interlocking screws are routinely inserted in clinical practice. However, using distal interlocking screws can significantly increase the duration of anesthesia and operation, increase fluoroscopy exposure time, surgical blood loss, and incision length. There is a trend of trying not to use distal interlocking screws in recent years. No significant difference is found in some studies between the effectiveness of dynamic and static interlocking for AO/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) 31-A1/2 fractures. At present, the selection of the number and mode of distal interlocking screws is still controversial. When inserting distal interlocking screws, orthopedists should endeavor to minimize the occurrence of complications concerning miss shot, vascular injuries, local stress stimulation, and peri-implant fractures., Conclusion: Distal interlocking screws are mainly used to prevent rotation. For stable fractures with intact lateral walls, long cephalomedullary nails can be used without distal interlocking screws. For any type of intertrochanteric fractures, distal interlocking screws are required when using short cephalomedullary nails for fixation. Different interlocking modes, the number of interlocking screws, and the application prospects of absorbable interlocking screws may be future research directions.

Competing Interests: Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest form is provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJS/H799).

Objective: Intramedullary nails are commonly used for the purposes of internal fixation in the repair of tubular bone fractures, allowing for optimal fixation while minimizing intraoperative bleeding, surgical incision size, and associated stress. These nails are thus often utilized to repair hip and peripheral fractures, femur fractures, tibial fractures, humerus fractures, and clavicle fractures. Recent life expectancy increases, rising economic standards, and technological innovations have led to the application of a wider range of materials and techniques in the context of orthopedic device production, further expanding the clinical indications for intramedullary nailing. Despite the growing importance of this technique, there is currently a lack of any bibliometric or visual analyses that provide a robust overview of recent progress in the intramedullary nailing research space. Accordingly, this study was developed to succinctly and comprehensively summarize the current research status and major hotspots in this field through a bibliometric review of major relevant scientific articles focused on intramedullary nailing published in recent years., Materials and Methods: For this analysis, the top 100 most-cited articles focused on intramedullary nails published between 2018 and 2022 were identified through a search of the Web of Science Core Collection database. Countries, institutions, journals, and other specific parameters associated with these articles were then analyzed using tools including CiteSpace, VOS-viewer, Origin, and SCImago Graphica in an effort to more clearly define the latest trends in the intramedullary nail-related research space., Results: The top 3 most-cited articles related to intramedullary nailing over the past five years were "Antibacterial and immunogenic behavior of silver coatings on additively manufactured porous titanium", "Diaphyseal long bone nonunions - types, etiology, economics, and treatment recommendations", and "Epidemiology, treatment, and mortality of trochanteric and subtrochanteric hip fractures: data from the Swedish fracture register", all of which were published in 2018, respectively exhibiting 93, 83, and 81 citations. Of the 100 most-cited intramedullary nailing-related articles, 38, 20, and 12 were respectively published by researchers from the USA, China, and the UK, while research groups from Italy and Spain each published 7 articles. Four of this field's most highly cited articles were published by individuals affiliated with the US-based University of California System and the University System of Ohio. Of the 15 journals that published the largest number of these top 100 articles, the "Injury International Journal of The Care of The Injured" and the "Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma" published 9 manuscripts each, which was more than any other journal, while the "Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery" and the "Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics" published 7 each. In total, 73 highly cited articles focused on utilizing intramedullary nailing in orthopedic applications. Rozbruch SR from the USA published 3 high-quality articles in this research space, while the Chinese researchers Chang Shi Min, Du Shou Chao, Hou Zhi Yong, and Hu Sun Jun exhibited a total linkage strength of 21 in global interaction analyses. The most common keywords associated with intramedullary nail-related research identified in these analyses included "Hip fracture", "Nonunion", "Limb lengthening", "Proximal humeral fractures", "Additive manufacturing", "Induced membrane", and "Endoprosthetic replacement". Promising areas of potential future research focus may include "Limb reconstruction", "Pediatric deformity", and "Congenital femoral deficiency"., Conclusions: This analysis revealed that the highest volume of high-impact research output focused on intramedullary nailing over the past 5 years has been produced by the USA, followed by China and the UK. The most influential journals in this research space were Injury International Journal of The Care of The Injured and the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, while the institutions associated with the most highly cited articles were the University of California System and the University System of Ohio. Intramedullary nailing is commonly utilized to treat intertrochanteric fractures and other tubular bone fractures. In the future, the application of augmented and virtual reality technologies may help shorten the learning curve for orthopedic surgeons and trauma surgeons who are learning intramedullary nailing-related techniques, and the combination of intramedullary nailing with antibacterial drugs, metal alloys, 3D navigation, and sensor devices may help improve patient outcomes.

Competing Interests: The author certifies that there are no funding or commercial associations (consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article related to the author or any immediate family members. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research® editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request.

The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes between percutaneous K-wire reduction cast immobilization (PKRC) and percutaneous K-wire reduction elastic intramedullary nailing combined with cast immobilization (PKRNC) for the treatment of radial neck fractures in children. This was a retrospective analysis of 62 radial neck fractures in children treated with PKRC or PKRNC. Thirty-one children were treated with percutaneous K-wire reduction, K-wire removal after reduction, and cast immobilization while 31 radial neck fractures in controls were managed using PKRNC. There were no significant differences between PKRC and PKRNC with regard to preoperative angulation ( P  = 0.556). The operation time in the PKRC group was significantly shorter than that of the PKRNC group ( P  = 0.023). There was no significant difference in the displacement angle when compared between the two groups on the first day and 1 month after surgery ( P  = 0.617, 0.72). The Mayo elbow performance score of the elbow joint function did not differ significantly between the two groups ( P  = 0.587). Although the hospital stay was not significantly different between groups (4.81 ± 1.07 vs. 4.16 ± 1.59 days; P  = 0.067), the PKRNC group required a second hospitalization to remove the elastic intramedullary nail 3 months after the operation. PKRC and PKRNC both achieved satisfactory outcomes for radial neck fractures in children. The operation time in the PKRC group was significantly lower than in the PKRNC group. PKRC does not require reoperation to remove internal fixation. Therefore, PKRC is recommended for radial neck fractures in children., (Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background: Intramedullary nailing (IMN) is considered the gold-standard treatment for femoral shaft fractures. The post operative fracture gap is commonly recognized as a risk factor for nonunion. However, no evaluation standard for measuring the fracture gap size has yet been established. In addition, the clinical implications of the fracture gap size have also not been determined so far. This study aims to clarify how we should evaluate fracture gaps when assessing simple femoral shaft fractures with radiographs and to determine the acceptable cut-off value of the fracture gap size in simple femoral shaft fractures., Method: A retrospective observational study with a consecutive cohort was conducted at the trauma center of a university hospital. We investigated the fracture gap using postoperative radiography and the postoperative bone union of transverse and short oblique femoral shaft fractures fixed by IMN. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to obtain the fracture gap's mean, minimum, and maximum cut-off values. Fisher's exact test was used at the cut-off value of the most accurate parameter., Results: In the four nonunions among the 30 cases, the analysis using ROC curves revealed that the maximum value had the highest accuracy among the maximum, minimum, and mean values of fracture-gap size. The cut-off value was determined to be 4.14 mm with high accuracy. Fisher's exact test showed that the incidence of nonunion was higher in the group with a maximum fracture gap of 4.14 mm or greater (risk ratio = not applicable, risk difference = 0.57, P = 0.001)., Conclusion: In simple transverse and short oblique femoral shaft fractures fixed with IMN, the fracture gap on radiographs should be evaluated by the maximum gap in the AP and lateral views. The remaining maximum fracture gap of ≥4.14 mm would be a risk factor for nonunion., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 The Japanese Orthopaedic Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The objective of the study was to evaluate the long-term strength and gait outcomes after intramedullary nailing of isolated tibial diaphyseal fractures. This retrospective cohort study was conducted at an academic Level I trauma center. Fifteen participants with isolated tibial diaphyseal fractures (OTA/AO 42) at least 2 years postoperative from intramedullary nailing (IMN) provided informed consent. The average age was 40 ± 14 (range, 24-69); there were nine men and six women. Knee flexion-extension strength data were collected. Temporal-spatial, kinematic, and kinetic gait parameters were measured and compared to historic control data. Participants completed the SF-36 and shortened musculoskeletal function assessment questionnaires. The mean length of follow-up between surgery and gait analysis was 6 ± 2 years. The fractured limb demonstrated deficits in quadriceps strength between 9.8% and 23.4% compared to the unaffected limb. Temporal-spatial parameters revealed slower walking speed, shorter stride length, decreased cadence, and shorter single-limb support time in the fractured limb. Altered kinematic and kinetic findings included a knee extension shift during stance, with an increased knee flexor moment demand and decreased total knee power during loading and midstance. These findings represent deficits in concentric and eccentric knee extensor activity. Additionally, the fractured limb demonstrated decreased ankle dorsiflexion during stance and diminished ankle push-off power. Long-term outcomes after IMN of tibial diaphyseal fractures demonstrate decreased quadriceps strength and altered gait parameters that may have implications to the high incidence of knee and ankle pain in the fractured limb., (© 2023 Orthopaedic Research Society.)

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine whether there have been changes in the numbers and complexity of femoral fragility fractures presenting to our department over a period of 10 years., Methods: Patients >60 years presenting with femoral fragility fractures to our institution in 2018-2019 (397 fractures) were compared with respect to demographic data, incidence rates, fracture classification and surgical management with a historical cohort from 2009-2010 (335 fractures). Pathological and high velocity fractures were excluded., Results: The gender proportion and average age (83.1 vs. 82.7 years) was unchanged. The number of femoral fractures increased by 19% but the overall incidence in people >60 years fell by 6% ( p   =  0.41). The proportion of unstable trochanteric fractures (31A2 and A3) increased from 22% to 55% ( p   <  0.001). The proportion of displaced intracapsular fractures increased from 53% to 72% ( p   <  0.001). The incidence of stable trochanteric fractures fell from 12.4 to 7.3/10,000 patients>60 years ( p  = 0.0006) while the incidence of unstable trochanteric fractures (31A2 and 31A3) increased from 3.5 to 8.9/10,000 patients >60 years ( p  < 0.0001). The proportion of trochanteric fractures treated with an intramedullary (IM) nail increased from 9% to 35% ( p  = 0.0001). The number of shaft and distal femoral fractures increased by 41% although the incidence did not change significantly. Periprosthetic fractures comprised 70% of femoral shaft fractures in both cohorts., Conclusions: The increasing number and complexity of femoral fragility fractures, especially unstable trochanteric fractures and periprosthetic fractures, is likely to have an impact on implant use, theatre time and cost., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: To report our experience with intramedullary fixation and osteosynthesis of the tibia with suprapatellar approach and semiextended positioning. Methods: This study retrospectively assessed 6 patients with tibial fracture treated with suprapatellar intramedullary nail fixation and osteosynthesis from September 2015 to September 2018. Results: There was acceptable bone fixation. Mean healing time was 6 months (range: 4-10 months). Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale, and the knee was divided into 9 quadrants to help locate the specific site of pain; all participants reported that pain was located at distal quadrants. Knee function was completely restored. Conclusion: Suprapatellar approach with the knee in the semiextended position is a good surgical technique for extra-articular proximal tibial fractures or those associated with soft tissue involvement at the conventional infrapatellar entry site. Thus, this analysis led us to believe that the technique should also be applicable to middle diaphyseal fractures or fractures in general, regardless of their location. Level of Evidence IV, Therapeutic Studies; Case Series.

Objective: The purpose of the study was to evaluate early clinical and radiological results with a novel minimally invasive surgery (MIS) technique for Lapidus arthrodesis using intramedullary nail. Methods: Retrospective review of patients with hallux valgus surgery during an 18-month period. Patients with a procedure other than MIS Lapidus nail fixation were excluded. We describe surgical technique with a percutaneous joint preparation and fixation with an intramedullary nail through a MIS approach. Demographic variables, early complications and radiographic parameters were measured. Results: Ten feet in 8 patients with severe HV underwent a Lapidus procedure performed with a minimal invasive technique using intramedullary nail for fixation. No soft tissue complications and 1 patient required screw removal after bone healing. Mean HVA decreased from 31,4 degrees (range 17 to 47) SD (±9,3) to 10,3 degrees (range, -8,8 to 31,5) SD (±8,4), mean IMA decreased from 17,91 degrees (range, -17 to 20) SD (±0,9) to 5,46 degrees (range, –7,3 to 15.3) SD (±2,9) and mean DMAA decreased from 20,36 (range, 10-40) SD (±8,4) to 7,67 (range, -5 to 30) SD (±8,0). Conclusion: Intramedullary nail for Lapidus arthrodesis with minimally invasive technique showed satisfactory radiographic correction and minimal complications, but further follow up is needed to analyze clinical-radiographic results. Level of Evidence IV; Therapeutic Study; Case Series.