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Purpose:  Surgical management for long head of the biceps (LHB) tendinopathy with either biceps tenotomy or tenodesis is a reliable, but debated treatment option. The aim of this prospective, randomized, single-blinded study is to evaluate differences in pain relief and subjective outcomes between biceps tenotomy versus tenodesis for LHB tendinopathy., Methods:  Subjects were randomized and blinded to biceps tenotomy versus arthroscopic tenodesis intra-operatively. Outcomes evaluated included subjective patient outcome scores, pain, and cosmetic deformity. Subjective outcomes scores and pain were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA, controlling for concomitant rotator cuff repair. Binary outcomes were compared using Chi-square tests., Results:  Thirty-four subjects (31 male, 3 female) with a median age of 56 (range 30-77) were enrolled. Twenty subjects were randomized to tenotomy and 14 to tenodesis. Fifty-six percent had concomitant rotator cuff repairs. The mean VAS pain score at 3 months was lower with tenotomy versus tenodesis. 2-year follow-up demonstrated no statistically significant differences for VAS, ASES, or SANE. 15/20 (75%) subjects with biceps tenotomy reported no pain medication use at the 2-week postoperative visit versus 5/14 (33%) for biceps tenodesis. Popeye deformity was found in 5/20 (25%) of tenotomy subjects versus 1/14 (7%) in tenodesis subjects., Conclusion: Outcomes appear similar between biceps tenotomy versus tenodesis; however, the tenotomy group demonstrated greater incidence of cosmetic deformity but an earlier improvement in postoperative pain., Level of Evidence: Treatment Studies, Level II.

Background: Flexor tendon repairs using conventional suture require knots that enlarge the cross-sectional area at the repair site. This enlargement increases the force of finger flexion and jeopardizes the integrity of a nascent tendon repair during rehabilitation. The authors hypothesized that a knotless flexor tendon repair using bidirectional barbed suture has similar strength and with reduced cross-sectional area compared with traditional techniques., Methods: Sixty-six fresh porcine flexor digitorum profundus tendons were divided randomly into three groups. Tendons were transected and repaired with one of the following techniques: two-strand Kessler technique, four-strand Savage technique, or four-strand knotless technique. The cross-sectional area of each tendon was calculated at the repair site before and after repair. All tendons underwent mechanical testing to assess the 2-mm-gap formation force and ultimate strength., Results: The 2-mm-gap formation force and ultimate strength of the Savage and knotless technique groups were not significantly different; however, both were significantly greater than those of the Kessler repair group (p<0.05). The repair-site cross-sectional area of tendons repaired with the knotless technique was significantly smaller than that of tendons repaired with the Kessler or Savage technique (p<0.01). Tendons repaired with the knotless technique also had a significantly smaller change in repair-site cross-sectional area (p<0.01)., Conclusions: The authors demonstrate that knotless flexor tendon repair with barbed suture has equivalent strength and reduced repair-site cross-sectional area compared with traditional techniques. The smaller tendon profile may decrease gliding resistance, thus reducing the risk for postsurgical tendon rupture during rehabilitation.

Purpose: Malunion of the palmar lunate facet fragment of distal radius fractures is associated with both early functional impairment and late degenerative changes. The goal of this study was to describe the clinical and radiographic outcomes after corrective osteotomy for isolated malunion of the palmar lunate facet., Methods: Between 1995 and 2000, a retrospective review identified 13 patients with an average age of 44 years who had undergone corrective intra-articular osteotomy for isolated malunion of the palmar lunate facet. The average interval from the initial injury to the osteotomy was 5.4 months. Final evaluation was performed at 1 year. We performed statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed rank test., Results: Wrist extension improved from an average of 53° to 84° (p = .002), flexion from 46° to 61° (p < .002), supination from 38° to 87° (p = .002), and pronation from 79° to 87° (p < .001). Grip strength improved from 30% to 73% of the contralateral side (p < .002). Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores improved from an average of 50.7 to 9.7 (p < .002). Palmar tilt improved from an average of 23° to 11° (p < .002). Radial inclination improved from an average of 29° to 22° (p < .002), ulnar variance decreased from +3.9 to -0.9 mm (p = .004), and intra-articular gap decreased from 3.6 to 0.9 mm (p < .002). All patients had excellent or good results according to both the Gartland and Werley and the Fernandez scoring systems., Conclusions: Early intra-articular osteotomy significantly improved wrist range of motion, grip strength, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores, and radiographic parameters. Patients reported mostly positive outcomes., Type of Study/level of Evidence: Therapeutic IV., (Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Musculotendinous variations around the medial epicondyle can contribute to subluxation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. This article reviews the presenting symptoms, operative findings, and results of surgery for subluxation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. A retrospective evaluation was performed of 200 elbows managed operatively for medial elbow pathology over a 17-year period between 1990 and 2007. The patient charts were reviewed for chief complaint, radiographic studies, operative reports, and postoperative examination data. Seventeen patients (18 elbows) were treated for a subluxating ulnar nerve. Three patients were women and 14 were men, with a mean age of 27.6 years. Medial elbow pain was the chief complaint in all 17 patients. Seventeen elbows also demonstrated paresthesias in an ulnar nerve distribution. All patients were treated with anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve, and 11 patients (61%) were found to have a muscular anomaly. At a mean follow-up of 17 months, the mean visual analog scale for pain improved from 6.0 to 2.0. There was no functional impairment reported for any patient at final follow-up. Of the 200 elbows surgically treated for medial elbow pathology, 17 patients (8.5%) demonstrated a subluxating ulnar nerve. These patients tend to be young and present with a primary complaint of medial elbow pain. In addition, a subluxating ulnar nerve is often associated with muscular anomalies, which must be addressed concurrently., (Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.)

Purpose: To investigate the effects of inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) on the recovery of motor function in the rat sciatic nerve after ischemia and reperfusion injury., Methods: A 10-mm segment of the sciatic nerve from 169 rats had 2 hours of ischemia followed by up to 42 days of reperfusion. The animals were divided into 2 groups that received either iNOS inhibitor 1400W or the same volume of sterile water subcutaneously. A walking track test was used to evaluate the motor functional recovery during reperfusion. Statistical analysis was performed for the measurements of the sciatic functional index (SFI) by using 2-way analysis of variance; 1-way analysis of variance was used for the post hoc analysis of specific values at each time point of the SFI measurement., Results: 1400W-treated rats had earlier motor functional recovery than controls, with a significantly improved SFI between days 11 and 28. Histology showed less axonal degeneration and earlier regeneration of nerve fibers in the 1400W group than in the controls. Inducible NOS messenger RNA and protein were up-regulated during the first 3 days of reperfusion but there was a down-regulation of neuronal NOS and up-regulation of endothelial NOS in control animals. 1400W treatment attenuated the increase of iNOS but had no effect on neuronal NOS and endothelial NOS., Conclusions: Our results indicate that early inhibition of iNOS appears to be critical for reducing or preventing ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Medial and lateral snapping (dislocation) of the distal triceps over the epicondyle during elbow flexion has been reported but is frequently misdiagnosed and is not well understood. In this study a mathematical model was designed to simulate the effect that bony abnormalities at the distal humerus and soft tissue variations of the distal triceps have on the line of pull of the triceps. The predictions were then tested on prefabricated and fabricated plastic elbow models, as well as 8 cadaveric elbows. When the bony alignment was altered, varus angulation had the greatest effect: 30 degrees varus malalignment of the distal humerus displaced the centroid of the triceps vector medially by approximately 2.0 cm. Valgus malalignment had a lesser effect: 30 degrees valgus displaced it laterally by 1.5 cm. Negligible effects on the triceps line of pull were seen with internal or external malrotation and with flexion or extension malalignment. Of the soft tissue alterations, displacement of the triceps insertion had a greater effect than movement of the triceps origin. The triceps vector was displaced by approximately 70% of the amount of translation of the triceps insertion. The relationship between the triceps line of pull and the bony alignment is represented by the triceps (T) angle. Our use of the T angle to understand snapping triceps is analogous to the use of the quadriceps (Q) angle for patellar subluxation/dislocation. Treatment should aim to restore normal triceps biomechanics with soft tissue or bony procedures.

We performed a structural investigation of several fixation devices for radial head and neck fixation. Fourteen pairs of fresh-frozen human elbows were used to simulate unstable radial neck fractures fixed with each of the following plates: 2.0-mm T-plate, 2.0-mm blade plate, 2.7-mm T-plate, and 2.7-mm T-plate modified with a fixed-angle blade. The plate constructs were axially loaded in compression with a materials testing machine, and stiffness was calculated from a load-deformation curve. Through use of paired comparisons, the average stiffness of the modified 2.7-mm plate was found to be significantly greater than that of either 2.0-mm plate, whereas a trend was observed for increased stiffness of the modified 2.7-mm T-plate in comparison with the standard 2.7-mm T-plate. The results indicate that two important variables affecting construct stiffness are plate thickness and incorporation of a fixed-angle blade. Given these findings, the addition of a fixed blade to the 2.7-mm plate may improve the stability of fixation of comminuted radial neck fractures.

Object: Failed surgical treatment for ulnar neuropathy or neuritis due to dislocation of the ulnar nerve presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The authors of this paper will establish unrecognized dislocation (snapping) of the medial portion of the triceps as a preventable cause of failed ulnar nerve transposition., Methods: Fifteen patients had persistent, painful snapping at the medial elbow after ulnar nerve transposition, which had been performed for documented ulnar nerve dislocation with or without ulnar neuropathy. The snapping was caused by a previously unrecognized dislocation of the medial portion of triceps over the medial epicondyle. Seven of the 15 patients also had persistent ulnar nerve symptoms. The correct diagnosis of snapping triceps was delayed for an average of 22 months after the initial ulnar nerve transposition. An additional surgical procedure was performed in nine of the 15 cases and, in part, consisted of lateral transposition or excision of the offending snapping medial portion of the triceps. Of the four patients in this group who had persistent neurological symptoms, submuscular transposition was performed in the two with more severe symptoms and treatment of the triceps alone was performed in the two with milder neurological symptoms. Excellent results were achieved in all surgically treated patients. Six patients declined additional surgery and experienced persistent snapping and/or ulnar nerve symptoms., Conclusions: Failure to recognize that dislocation of both the medial portion of the triceps and the ulnar nerve can exist concurrently may result in persistent snapping, elbow pain, and even ulnar nerve symptoms after a technically successful ulnar nerve transposition.

Macrodystrophia lipomatosa (MDL) is a rare disease typically causing localized gigantism and is often associated with a fibrolipomatous hamartoma (FH) of the median or plantar nerve. A previously unreported case of MDL with associated FH of the median nerve is presented.

We describe two patients who had episodic elbow snapping and ulnar nerve dysesthesias only after weightlifting. These symptoms would disappear soon afterward. The episodic nature of their complaints and findings led to misdiagnosis. We documented by repeated clinical examinations and magnetic resonance imaging that the presence of these symptoms correlated directly with the finding of intermittent, activity-related snapping of the medial triceps. In both patients, the symptoms disappeared when the medial portion of the triceps migrated medially but did not dislocate over the medial epicondyle with elbow flexion. Thus, a minor change in the configuration of the medial portion of the triceps (fluid accumulation) in the same individual at different times can cause intermittent dislocation of the medial triceps. Previous papers dealing with patients with snapping of the medial triceps describe symptoms exacerbated by athletic activities, but the constant finding of snapping on sequential examinations.

Five patients with cubitus varus deformities from malunited childhood fractures had dislocation (snapping) of both the medial portion of the triceps and the ulnar nerve over the medial epicondyle. In addition to snapping, these patients had medial elbow pain or ulnar nerve symptoms. Cubitus varus shifts the line of pull of the triceps more medial, which can cause anteromedial displacement of the medial portion of the triceps during elbow flexion. The ulnar nerve is concomitantly pushed or pulled anteromedially by the triceps, and ulnar neuropathy may result from friction neuritis or from dynamic compression by the triceps against the epicondyle. Recognition of both the dislocating ulnar nerve and the snapping medial triceps is crucial in the successful treatment of this pathologic finding. In symptomatic individuals, we recommend either corrective valgus osteotomy of the distal humerus or partial excision or lateral transposition of the snapping medial triceps, or a combination of both. Alternatively, medial epicondylectomy can also eliminate the snapping. Transposition of the ulnar nerve can be performed for ulnar nerve symptoms and/or ulnar nerve instability. Using this approach, correction of the snapping and/or ulnar nerve symptoms was achieved in all cases.

We describe a patient with a preexisting posttraumatic brachial plexopathy who had a complete high median nerve palsy due to rupture of the pectoralis major to biceps transfer near its distal insertion at the elbow region.

We present a patient with translocation (snapping) of a portion of the triceps over the lateral epicondyle with elbow flexion. This condition is in many ways analogous to its counterpart at the medial aspect of the elbow, snapping of the medial head of the triceps, a clinical entity that is being increasingly recognized.

We describe seventeen patients (twenty-two limbs) who had snapping (dislocation) of both the ulnar nerve and the medial head of the triceps over the medial epicondyle. Two patients (two limbs) were seen because of painless snapping, four patients (five limbs) had snapping and pain in the medial aspect of the elbow, three patients (three limbs) had symptoms related to the ulnar nerve only, and six patients (seven limbs) had snapping and symptoms related to the ulnar nerve. In addition, snapping was identified incidentally on routine screening in five asymptomatic limbs in four patients, one of whom was seen because of snapping and symptoms related to the ulnar nerve on the contralateral side. The diagnosis was confirmed with magnetic resonance imaging or computerized tomography, or both, in all but the first three patients, in whom the operative findings were confirmatory. Only six patients (seven limbs) were sufficiently symptomatic to be managed operatively. Of these six patients, five (six limbs) who had symptoms related to the ulnar nerve had lateral transposition or excision of the dislocating medial head of the triceps in addition to decompression and transposition of the ulnar nerve. Two of these patients had had persistent symptoms immediately after a previous transfer of the ulnar nerve performed at another institution for symptoms related to, and well documented dislocation of, the ulnar nerve; we performed the index procedure to correct the postoperative snapping, which was the result of an unrecognized dislocation of the medial head of the triceps in one patient and the result of an accessory triceps tendon in the other. One patient who had pain in the medial part of the elbow, snapping (without symptoms related to the ulnar nerve), and cubitus varus had a valgus osteotomy of the distal aspect of the humerus that corrected the line of pull of the triceps and relieved the snapping. All of the patients who were managed operatively had an excellent result (no snapping, no symptoms related to the ulnar nerve, and a full range of motion), at an average of 4.5 years postoperatively. Non-operative treatment provided control of symptoms related to the ulnar nerve in four limbs and control of pain from the snapping in four limbs. Snapping on the medial side of the elbow, even if it is associated with symptoms related to the ulnar nerve, is not necessarily caused by dislocation of the ulnar nerve alone. Patients who have a transposition of the ulnar nerve, especially those who have dislocation of the ulnar nerve, should be examined intraoperatively with the elbow in flexion and extension so that the surgeon can be certain that the medial head of the triceps does not snap over the medial epicondyle. Failure to recognize concurrent dislocation of the ulnar nerve and the medial head of the triceps can result in persistent, symptomatic snapping after an otherwise successful transposition of the ulnar nerve.

Variations in the medial triceps in conjunction with bilateral ulnar neuropathy have been identified in three generations of one family also possessing the phenotype of Waardenburg syndrome (a rare autosomal-dominant disorder with clinical features including cochlear deafness, dystopia canthorum, and pigmentation problems). To our knowledge, no other inherited condition with triceps anomalies has been reported. Study of this family provided insight into the relationship between dislocating medial triceps and ulnar neuropathy and demonstrated that a broad spectrum of clinical presentations exists-from being completely asymptomatic to producing symptomatic snapping and ulnar neuropathy.

Although uncommon, infection of prostheses with Mycobacterium tuberculosis can be managed successfully if it is diagnosed early and treated correctly. A case of M. tuberculosis infection of a prosthetic knee first diagnosed 4.5 years after initial arthroplasty is described. This case and a review of the literature led to the conclusion that there are two distinct patterns of M. tuberculosis infection following joint implant surgery in patients without a history of tuberculosis. (1) Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection may be an unexpected finding at the time of arthroplasty. These patients generally have favorable outcomes using standard antituberculous chemotherapy, without implant removal. (2) Late-onset M. tuberculosis joint infection may be identified in patients with painful, clinically infected, or malfunctioning prostheses. In these cases, medical treatment alone is usually unsuccessful; prosthesis removal is often required. With recent increases in the incidence of tuberculosis in the United States and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis, periprosthetic tuberculous infection is likely to become more common.

Fourteen patients with traumatic hip dislocation had serial magnetic resonance imaging and routine radiographic studies from the time of injury through 24 months after injury. One experienced radiologist interpreted all images prospectively for abnormalities suggesting osteonecrosis of the femoral head and posttraumatic arthritis. Eight hips demonstrated abnormal marrow signals on T1 and T2 weighted images within 6 weeks of injury. These changes progressed in 3 hips, and osteonecrosis was confirmed subsequently by plain radiography. The abnormal marrow signals in the remaining 5 hips proved to be transient, resolving on magnetic resonance images within 3 months in 4 of the 5 patients. Magnetic resonance imaging can be used with confidence for the early detection of osteonecrosis of the femoral head after traumatic hip dislocation or fracture-dislocation. The presence of acetabular or femoral shaft hardware did not preclude magnetic resonance imaging assessment of these patients when coronal, sagittal, and axial images were obtained. Magnetic resonance imaging was not reliable for assessing marrow changes within the first week after injury, nor was it helpful in predicting which patients were at risk for posttraumatic arthritis to develop. An algorithm is proposed for using magnetic resonance imaging in the early diagnosis of osteonecrosis of the femoral head after traumatic hip dislocation.

The rates of survival of the amputated part and the functional outcomes were studied retrospectively after seventy-three replantations and eighty-nine revascularizations in the upper extremity in 120 children. All operations were performed between January 1974 and December 1988 after partial and complete amputations at various levels. The ages of the patients ranged from three days to sixteen years. The average duration of follow-up was thirty-six months (range, fourteen months to seven years) for the patients who had had a replantation and thirty months (range, fourteen months to eight years) for the patients who had had a revascularization. The rate of survival of the amputated part was significantly higher (p < 0.0002) after revascularization (seventy-eight parts [88 per cent]) than after replantation (forty-six parts [63 per cent]). There was no association, for either group, between survival and the preoperative duration of ischemia, the level of the injury, the digit that had been injured, the number of arteries that had been repaired, or the use of venous grafts. The rate of survival after replantation of completely amputated parts was 72 per cent (twenty-eight of thirty-nine parts) when the amputation had resulted from a laceration injury and 53 per cent (eighteen of thirty-four parts) when the amputation had resulted from a crush or an avulsion injury. The rate of survival after revascularization of incompletely amputated parts was 100 per cent (all forty-five parts) when the injury had been the result of a laceration and 75 per cent (thirty-three of forty-four parts) when it had been the result of a crush or an avulsion. We did not find any relationship between the age of the patient and the rate of survival of the amputated part after revascularization; however, there was a significantly higher rate of survival (p , 0.02) after replantation in children who were less than nine years old (77 per cent [twenty-four of thirty-one parts]) compared with the rate in those who were nine to sixteen years old (52 per cent [twenty-two of forty-two parts]). The viability of the digit was in jeopardy after twenty-nine (40 per cent) of the seventy-three replantations and nineteen (21 per cent) of the eighty-nine revascularizations. Immediate reoperation resulted in the salvage of only two of the twenty-one replanted parts and six of the twelve revascularized parts that had a reoperation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of immobilization and mobilization on the functional and biomechanical recovery of injured Achilles tendons. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated randomly into four groups: (a) sham operation, (b) division only (surgical transection of the Achilles tendon without immobilization), (c) "dummy" external fixation (division of the Achilles tendon and application of Kirschner wires), and (d) rigid external fixation (division of the Achilles tendon and immobilization with Kirschner wires connected by two triangular frames). All procedures were performed on the right lower limb; the left, uninjured, lower limb served as an internal control. Kirschner wires and external fixators were removed on day 12. Functional performance was determined from measurements of hind pawprints of rats walking preoperatively and on postoperative days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15. On day 15, the animals were killed and biomechanical evaluations were performed on both the injured and the uninjured Achilles tendon constructs. No functional or mechanical deficits were observed in the sham-operation group. Animals subjected to division of the Achilles tendon had an initial functional deficit that returned to near normal by day 15. The application of Kirschner wires was associated with an impairment of the functional performance of the rat as well as of the mechanical properties of the tendon-bone constructs. Immobilization by connection of the Kirschner wires to an external frame had an additional, highly significant (p < 0.001) detrimental effect on the functional and mechanical recovery of Achilles tendon-calcaneal complexes.

Thirty cases of glenohumeral pyarthrosis are reported. Systemic immune compromise and local tissue abnormalities were each present in 74% of the adult patients. Both were present in 52%. Most adult patients were debilitated by chronic diseases. Diagnosis was frequently delayed due to mild symptoms and minimal, nonspecific laboratory findings. Poor results correlated with treatment delay. Shoulder pyarthrosis occurred ipsilateral to forearm arteriovenous dialysis fistulas in four patients. Postoperative shoulder pyarthroses were eradicated only in patients with clinically intact immune systems. Three patients (10%) with intact rotator cuffs had unsuspected associated subacromial bursa abscesses. Evaluation of suspected glenohumeral pyarthrosis should include evaluation of the subacromial bursa.

Controversy exists regarding the treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures. The aim of this study was to determine whether surgical repair of the rat Achilles tendon offered any biomechanical, functional, or morphological advantage over no repair. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into four groups: (1) sham operated (skin incision only), (2) no repair (complete division of the Achilles tendon and plantaris tendon without repair), (3) internal splint (plantaris left intact), and (4) Achilles repair (with a modified Kessler-type suture). Functional performance was determined from the measurements of hindpaw prints utilizing the Achilles Functional Index. On day 15, the animals were killed, and biochemical and histological evaluations were performed on both the injured and uninjured Achilles tendon constructs. All groups subjected to Achilles tendon division had a significant initial functional impairment that gradually improved so that by day 15 there were no functional or failure load impairments in any group. The injured tendons in all three groups subjected to Achilles tendon division had a 13-fold increase in the cross-sectional area and were less stiff and more deformable than uninjured and sham-operated tendons on day 15 (P < .001). The magnitude of the biomechanical and morphological changes at postoperative day 15 and the initial impairment and rate of functional recovery were similar for no repair, internal splint, and Achilles repair groups. In summary, this study demonstrates that surgical repair of the Achilles tendon in the rat does not offer any advantage over nonoperative management.

In this retrospective analysis, we present our experience with two groups of patients who had long bone defects secondary to trauma or tumor resection and who were treated with a free vascularized fibular graft for skeletal reconstruction. Both groups were comparable in number and average age of patients, length of bone defect, and mean follow-up (average 3 years both groups). The number of surgical procedures prior to microvascular grafting was significantly higher for the traumatic defects. Primary bone union in a mean period of 6 months occurred at a higher rate in the tumor patients; the trauma patients had a significantly higher nonunion rate, which required multiple additional surgical procedures. The latter did not, significantly, improve the rate of success in the trauma group. Residual limb shortening was present in one-half of the patients with traumatic defects. On the basis of this review, it appears that the scarred and relatively avascular soft tissues surrounding the long bone defects secondary to trauma affect the course and the final outcome of the microvascular fibular grafting. A similar procedure applied for limb salvaging after tumor resection is better.

The scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone. The fracture pattern and its relationship to the blood supply have significant implications regarding treatment and prognosis. Prompt recognition and treatment are fundamental to successful management.

Technical aspects of importance in replantation proximal to the wrist are somewhat different from those involved with digital replantation. Re-establishing blood flow rapidly by insertion of an arterial shunt, meticulous debridement, stable internal fixation of fractures, fasciotomy, and re-examination of the tissue 48 to 72 hours after replantation are discussed. Indications and contraindications for replantation in addition to maximizing use of "spare parts" are illustrated.

The literature regarding the management of spontaneous rupture of the Achilles tendon is controversial and confusing. The relative infrequency of the condition in any one center prohibits the completion of well-designed clinical studies. Many of the disputes could be addressed and innovations tested if an appropriate animal model were available. We present a method for evaluating Achilles tendon function from measurements of the prints, preserved in bromphenol-blue-impregnated photocopying paper, of the hindfeet of walking rats. The stimulus for this study was derived from de Medinaceli's method for assessing the functional condition of rat sciatic nerves (de Medinaceli L, Freed WJ, Wyatt RJ: An index of the functional condition of rat sciatic nerve based on measurements made from walking tracks. Exp Neurol 77:634-643, 1982). Four variables were measured from these walking tracks, and comparisons between the damaged (experimental) and intact (normal) side were converted to proportional deficits. The relative contribution of each parameter to the overall deficit was determined by multiple linear regression analysis, and the variables were weighted accordingly to obtain an "Achilles Functional Index" (AFI). A sham operation produced no functional deficit, whereas animals subjected to a 0.5-cm midsubstance Achilles tendon defect demonstrated a markedly impaired AFI. Animals with repaired transected Achilles tendons also demonstrated a significant, but less severely impaired AFI. The functional deficit in this repair group returned to control values by postoperative day 15, whereas animals with a defect remained impaired at day 15. Furthermore, an excellent correlation was found between the functional recovery and biomechanical properties (ultimate failure load) of the healing tendon (r = 0.94; p less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Snakebite is relatively common in North Carolina. The Copperhead is the most common offender, though we have representatives of all three genera of the Pit Viper family in addition to the Coral Snake. Pit Vipers are identified by the characteristic triangular head, elliptical eyes, well-developed fangs, and with the Rattlesnakes, a tail rattle. The Coral Snake is identified by its characteristic color pattern with red bands adjacent to yellow bands. Treatment is initiated by the safe identification of the snake, taking care to avoid a second bite. A lymphatic constriction band is applied above the bite and an Extractor, if available, is applied within three minutes. The extremity is splinted and the victim evacuated to the nearest trauma center as soon as possible.

Between 1976 and 1986, 38 consecutive acute isolated flexor pollicis longus lacerations were repaired. This study excluded all replanted or mutilated digits and all lacerations with associated fracture. Average follow-up was 26 months. Tendon rehabilitation was standardized. Range of motion and pinch strength were measured postoperatively. Seventy-four percent (28/38) of the flexor pollicis longus injuries occurred in zone II. Neurovascular injury occurred in 82% of the lacerations, and this correlated with the zone of tendon injury. In 21% of the patients (8/38) both digital nerves and arteries were transected. Postoperative thumb interphalangeal motion averaged 35 degrees and key pinch strength was 81% that of the uninjured thumb. One rupture occurred in a child. Laceration of the flexor pollicis longus is likely to involve damage to neurovascular structures, and repair may be necessary. Direct end-to-end repairs within the pulley system do at least as well as delayed tendon reconstruction and do not require additional procedures.

Pseudarthrosis after failed tibiotalar arthrodesis was successfully treated surgically in nine of 11 patients between 1980 and 1987. The indication for the initial attempted arthrodesis was traumatic arthrosis in seven patients, traumatic arthrosis with osteonecrosis of the talus in two patients, degenerative arthrosis in one patient with cavovarus foot (Charcot-Marie-Tooth), and myelodysplasia with progressive valgus deformity of the foot and ankle in one. The surgical technique planned for revision arthrodesis provided firm coaptation of tibia to talus with internal fixation that maintained the foot at right angles to the tibia with the forefoot in neutral position. Seven feet in 11 patients were treated using a transfibular approach that allowed excision of fibrous tissue and sclerotic bone, decortication of the media malleolus, fixation of the tibia to the talus with cancellous screws, and onlay/inlay fibular graft. Of the remaining four patients, one was treated with medial compression plate, a second was treated using an anteromedial cortical graft, a third was treated by a combination of sliding anteromedial corticocancellous graft and tibiotalar compression screw, and a fourth was treated with tibiotalar compression screw. Clinical and roentgenographic union occurred in nine of 11 patients. One patient developed a painless, fibrous union and one patient with persistent pseudarthrosis had myelodysplasia and severe valgus deformity and required amputation. Adequate exposure was possible through the transfibular approach to provide cancellous bone opposition, to excise the pseudarthrosis membrane and sclerotic bone, and to remove necrotic segments of the talus. In addition, supplemental bone graft, internal fixation, and postoperative cast immobilization were also helpful in obtaining union.

The authors have replanted 162 parts in 120 children over the past 15 years. The youngest patient, undergoing successful replantation, was aged 7 months, 3 weeks. Unlike an adult, any child suffering a traumatic amputation should be considered for a possible replantation. Replantation should consist of minimal bone shortening to preserve epiphyseal plates, with repair of all severed structures. Longitudinal K-wires usually provide adequate fixation. Our survival rate for complete replantation in children under the age of 16 years is 77%. Long-term study showed that continued skeletal growth occurred and the digit attained 81% of normal longitudinal length at maturity. Recovery of sensibility in the replanted digit is nearly as good as for isolated digital nerve repair. Patient and parent satisfaction is high when replantation is successful, with uniform approval of the extensive effort required.

Stretch injuries of the infraclavicular brachial plexus have a much better prognosis for spontaneous recovery than do their supraclavicular counterparts. We present three patients with stretch injuries of the infraclavicular brachial plexus who had spontaneous restoration of function in all muscles except the deltoid. Decreased shoulder abduction was a serious handicap to these individuals. At surgical exploration, each patient had an isolated, complete axillary nerve disruption at the quadrilateral space. Deltoid muscle function was restored in all three patients by repair of the axillary nerve with sural nerve grafts across the quadrilateral space.

The use of screw-fixation acetabular components in total hip arthroplasty could increase the incidence of vascular injury because of the increased use of drills and screws placed into the acetabulum in close proximity to major vessels. Analysis of two illustrative case studies, anatomic specimen cross sections, and computed tomographic scans demonstrate which vessels are at risk of injury should the inner cortex of the pelvis be penetrated. The iliac vessels are at risk of injury when penetration of the inner cortex of the pelvis occurs in the anterosuperior region of the acetabulum. The obturator vessels are at risk when penetration occurs in the anteroinferior quadrant of the acetabulum. The vessels can be within 0.5 cm of the inner cortex of the pelvis and tend to become closer with advancing age. Damage to the intrapelvic vessels may cause profound blood loss and hypotension when screw-fixation acetabular components are used. Rapid identification and immediate surgical repair of vessel lacerations are essential in the treatment of this complication.

A hypermobile hyperextension or hyperflexion deformity of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint associated with thumb-in-palm deformity in 90 patients affected by cerebral palsy was treated by arthrodesis with or without soft-tissue procedures. Twenty-two of these patients were adults with closed physes, and 68 were children or adolescents with open growth plates. The MCP joint fusion was usually accompanied by intrinsic muscle lengthening and/or extrinsic tendon transfer, but occasionally it was the only procedure performed to diminish the thumb-in-palm position. Even in four-year-olds, joint fusion was a predictable procedure to establish stability of that joint without disturbing longitudinal or circumferential growth. Measurable function was improved to a mild or moderate degree in 44 of the 50 children who were followed to maturity. Eighteen of the 68 children were unavailable for follow-up evaluation. Six of the 50 followed patients showed no functional improvement, although arthrodesis of the MCP joint occurred in four of the six. The other two patients were operated on when they were 12 years of age and developed a fibrous union that was painless and stable when they were adults. Even those patients who had no functional improvement did have improved appearance and easier control of the affected hand when it was manipulated by the opposite hand. The children were followed to maturity with age-matched cerebral palsy control patients. There was no significant disturbance in growth of those thumbs that had MCP joint fusion when the physes were open.

One hundred eleven patients who sustained isolated, complete thumb amputation between 1971 and 1985 were reviewed to assess results of replantation and to compare these with results of amputation revision. Routine postoperative evaluation was performed in 69 successful replant patients and in 42 with revision. Twenty-five of the replant group and 18 of the revision group returned for additional testing that consisted of interview and physical examination, test of activities of daily living, Jebsen test of hand function, and both static and dynamic testing on the BTE work simulator. Ninety percent of replantations were between the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint and the proximal third of the distal phalanx. Shortening averaged 11 mm, and range of motion was 42% +/- 28% that of the uninjured thumb. One-half of the patients could touch the MP of their ring finger, and one-fourth could touch the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Twenty-one percent had 7 mm or less two-point discrimination, and 38% had between 8 and 20 mm. Eighty percent of both groups were able to perform activities of daily living at 80% of their uninjured side. Grip strength was approximately 84% of that of the uninjured hand in each group. Lateral pinch averaged 68% +/- 26% of that of the normal side in the replant group and 91% + 9% in the amputation group. Work simulator assessment of lateral and three-point pinch was better in the revision group. Scores on Jebsen testing were slightly better for those with replanted thumbs, but in general neither replant nor revision patients functioned as well as did Jebsen's normals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Luxatio erecta, or inferior glenohumeral dislocation, is a rare shoulder dislocation usually caused by a hyperabduction injury to the arm. We have reviewed the literature consisting of 80 cases of luxatio erecta and also discuss six additional cases that we have treated. The literature shows that either a fracture of the greater tuberosity or a rotator cuff tear was associated with this injury in 80% of patients; 60% of the patients reviewed sustained some degree of neurologic compromise, most commonly to the axillary nerve. These injuries usually resolved; the time for recovery varied from 2 weeks to 1 year. Only 3.3% of the cases demonstrated significant vascular compromise, but this is the highest incidence for any shoulder dislocation. Doppler studies of the affected arm or observation of the patient overnight are recommended because of the potentially disastrous complications of vascular insufficiency. If there is any indication of a vascular problem, immediate arteriogram is indicated. Although usually fairly easily reduced by overhead traction, the lesion is so rare that few physicians are familiar with the technique of reduction. Fluoroscopy was used in our most recent cases and was helpful in obtaining a complete and safe reduction.

Limb salvage was successful in 25 patients treated for severe grade III upper extremity injuries. In a retrospective review of 20 men and five women, follow-up time averaged 26 months. These high-energy injuries were characterized by massive soft-tissue injury, highly comminuted fractures, and significant neurovascular injury. Farm, industrial, and vehicular accidents accounted for 80% of the cases. Over 50% of the patients had concomitant systemic and/or other significant extremity injuries. Initial treatment consisted of irrigation and debridement and fracture stabilization using external and/or internal fixation. An average of four additional surgical procedures was required to provide soft-tissue coverage and maximum possible functional recovery. Forty-eight percent of the extremities underwent free vascularized or pedicular flaps for coverage or reconstruction. At final follow-up observation, 12% of the extremities rated excellent, 20% rated good, 52% fair, and 16% were poor. Experience gained in managing these severe upper extremity fractures supports the following observations. (a) Grade III open fractures of the upper extremities are frequently associated with significant neural, vascular, and musculotendon injuries. (b) External fixation plays an important role in the stabilization of grossly contaminated fractures. (c) Residual functional disability is common, and most patients do not return to their previous occupation. (d) Staged reconstruction directed toward maximum functional return may take several years.

Despite technical advances, the ability to restore motor function following a brachial plexus avulsion is limited. Twenty patients who suffered the loss of elbow flexion following a brachial plexus avulsion injury underwent a neurotization procedure in an attempt to restore that lost function. Of 16 patients who underwent intercostal to musculocutaneous nerve anastomosis, seven obtained good elbow flexion. Four patients who no longer had a viable biceps brachialis muscle underwent an anastomosis between transposed intercostal nerves and a free vascularized gracilis muscle grafted to the position of the biceps. Two of these patients obtained good elbow flexion. Although synkinesis between the biceps brachialis and the inspiratory muscles can be demonstrated during coughing and deep inspiration, the patients learn to flex their reinnervated biceps brachialis muscle and maintain flexion independent of respiration.

The management of tibial nonunions with small and large bony defects is discussed. Factors that prevent union and techniques for eliminating or minimizing these factors are presented.

Nineteen thumb and finger reconstructions were performed using the wraparound procedure; there were five early arterial failures. Thirteen of the 14 successful digital reconstructions were reviewed at an average of 26 months after surgery. There were complications related to the upper limb in seven patients, several of whom had more than one problem; these included radial skin breakdown (2), malrotation (2), and infection (2). One patient underwent late deletion for chronic infection following corrective osteotomy. Time until toe donor site healing averaged 2 months. We considered that cosmesis and function were good. Pinch grip averaged 48% of normal; sensibility returned in all patients--four regained protective sensation and the others attained two-point discrimination (average 9 mm). The wraparound procedure provides a cosmetically and functionally excellent method of thumb reconstruction for amputation distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint.

Physicians involved in the evaluation and initial treatment of patients with severe hand injuries should be familiar with the indicators for, the contraindications to, and expectations following replantation, including preoperative preservation of the amputated part. This article covers these topics and discusses experiences with various types of replantations.

Forty-two complete, single digit amputations at the level of the distal interphalangeal joint or distal phalanx are reviewed. Viability was 81%. Operative time averaged 4.6 hours. Average age of patients was 28 years and 90% were male. Forty-eight percent of the amputations involved the thumb; 79% were at the distal interphalangeal joint and 21% were more distal. One artery was repaired in 64% of replantations, two or three veins were repaired in 61%, and veins grafts were used in 19% of cases. Sixty-nine percent of the crush-avulsion injuries succeeded compared with 89% of lacerations. Two-point discrimination averaged 10 mm and proximal interphalangeal motion averaged 91 degrees. Patients returned to work an average of 2.5 months after replantation and none required additional procedures. The average total cost of treatment was $7500.00. Compared with conventional procedures, disadvantages of replantation at or distal to the distal interphalangeal joint are that it does require microsurgical training, initial operating time is longer, and it is more expensive. Advantages are that it is a one-stage procedure that gives good distal soft tissue coverage, adequate sensibility without painful neuroma, good metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joint motion; it preserves the nail, maintains digit length, is cosmetically pleasing, and the patient is satisfied.

Twenty-seven patients with acute injuries to the radial or ulnar arteries had arterial repairs using microvascular techniques. No patient had an ischemic hand secondary to his arterial injury. The overall patency rate for all repaired vessels was 56%. For sharp, clean lacerations, the success rate for repairs was 55%. Repairs of acute, sharp lacerations yielded no better results than delayed reconstructions. The average distal end arterial stump pressure for patent arteries was 66% of mean, while for thrombosed vessels it was 76% of mean; this was not a statistically significant difference (p = 0.9). There was no statistical correlation between forearm arterial patency, age, sex, vessel injured, mechanism of injury, time of repair, or clinically measured distal arterial stump pressure. At the present time, it does not appear to be possible to predict arterial patency by measuring arterial stump pressure at the time of definitive repair.

A rabbit model modified from the one originally used by Osterman was used to test the effectiveness of interposition materials in the prevention of epiphyseal-metaphyseal bone bridge formation. Although fat was a moderately effective interposition material, cartilage was more effective in preventing growth retardation and angular deformity of the involved distal femur. None of the interposition materials, however, allowed for completely normal growth. It is theorized that the effectiveness of cartilage may be enhanced by the presence of a factor contained therein which inhibits bone formation.