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Andréa Senay,1,2 Milanne Trottier,3 Josée Delisle,2,4 Andreea Banica,2,4 Benoit Benoit,2,4 G Yves Laflamme,2,4 Michel Malo,2,4 Hai Nguyen,4 Pierre Ranger,2,4 Julio C Fernandes2–4 1Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; 2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; 3Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; 4Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hôpital Jean-Talon, Montréal, QC, Canada Background: Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is a recommended anticoagulant for thromboprophylaxis after major orthopedic surgery. Dabigatran etexilate is an oral anticoagulant recognized as noninferior to LMWH. We aimed to assess the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) after discharge in patients who underwent joint replacement, using a hospital registry. Patients and methods: Patients who underwent total knee and hip arthroplasty between September 2011 and March 2015 were selected. Subcutaneous enoxaparin (30 mg twice daily) was given during hospitalization. At discharge, patients received either enoxaparin 30 mg twice daily/40 mg once daily or dabigatran 220 mg/150 mg once daily. Patients were seen or called at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery. Outcomes were the number of VTEs, including deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and the number of major/minor bleeding events after discharge. Results: After discharge, 1468 patients were prescribed enoxaparin and 904 dabigatran (1396 total knee arthroplasty and 976 total hip arthroplasty patients). Mean age was 66±10 years, and 60% were female. The cumulative incidence of VTEs during the 12-week follow-up was 0.7%. One patient sustained a VTE during the switch window. Seven patients sustained a pulmonary embolism (0.3%). There was no statistical difference between the total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty groups. The incidence of major and minor bleeding events during follow-up was 0.3% and 30.3%, respectively. These events had a higher incidence in the dabigatran group compared to the enoxaparin group after discharge (p more...

In acetabular revisions, polyethylene (PE) liners are often cemented into metal shells on top of acetabular screw heads. This study investigates the possibility of using this technique to obtain "fixed-angle" acetabular screws -- a concept that has not yet been reported in the literature. Two groups of screws (n=8) were inserted into Trabecular Metal revision shells (Zimmer), into which PE liners were then cemented. Screws in Group 1, inserted in the shell's pre-fabricated holes, were countersunk, whereas screws in Group 2 were inserted in custom-drilled holes that make their heads protrude into, and interdigitate with, the overlying cement mantle. Perpendicular loading was then applied to the screw shafts both statically to failure and cyclically. A greater stiffness was observed for the protruding screws upon static loading; and while the countersunk screws all failed at the screw-cement junction (53.44 ± 8.33 N), the protruding screws all failed at the screw shaft (1049.79 ± 32.12 N) -- a 20-fold difference (p < 0.05). Under cyclic loading, only the protruding screw head specimen did not fail, undergoing an overall displacement within the limits of osseointegration. These results support the hypothesis that the protrusion of an acetabular screw head into an overlying cement mantle significantly increases its angular stability. Provided other variables are favorable, this "locking effect" may increase the initial stability of the whole implant, thus improving the ultimate success of complex acetabular revisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Restoration and maintenance of the plateau surface are the key points in the treatment of tibial plateau fractures. Any deformity of the articular surface jeopardizes the future of the knee by causing osteoarthritis and axis deviation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of Trabecular Metal (porous tantalum metal) on stability and strength of fracture repair in the central depression tibial plateau fracture.~Background~Background~Six matched pairs of fresh frozen human cadaveric tibias were fractured and randomly assigned to be treated with either the standard of treatment (impacted cancellous bone graft stabilized by two 4.5 mm screws under the comminuted articular surface) or the experimental method (the same screws supporting a 2 cm diameter Trabecular Metal (TM) disc placed under the comminuted articular surface). Each tibia was tested on a MTS machine simulating immediate postoperative load transmission with 500 Newton for 10,000 cycles and then loaded to failure to determine the ultimate strength of the construct.~Method~Methods~The trabecular metal construct showed 40% less caudad displacement of the articular surface (1, 32 +/- 0.1 mm vs. 0, 80 +/- 0.1 mm) in cyclic loading (p < 0.05). Its mechanical failure occurred at a mean of 3275 N compared to 2650 N for the standard of care construct (p < 0, 05).~Results~Results~The current study shows the biomechanical superiority of the trabecular metal construct compared to the current standard of treatment with regards to both its resistance to caudad displacement of the articular surface in cyclic loading and its strength at load to failure.~Conclusion~Conclusions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Background: Greater trochanteric pain (GTP) after total hip replacement is a common cause of residual lateral hip pain, regardless of the approach used. The goal of our study was to evaluate GTP after a direct anterior approach (DAA) compared to a posterior approach (PA) as well as the clinical outcomes of both approaches and answer the following: 1) What is the incidence of trochanteric pain after primary THA with two different surgical approaches? 2) What is the functional outcome of patients with GTP? 3) What proportion of patients with GTP resort to peritrochanteric injections?, Hypothesis: Our hypothesis is that GTP is present with both approaches but satisfaction is lower with the PA., Patients and Methods: A secondary analysis of a previously published clinical trial with 55 total hip arthroplasty patients randomized in one of two surgical approaches: 27 patients underwent the anterior modified Hueter approach, while the other group of 28 patients were operated using the posterior approach. Study outcomes were Modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS), satisfaction score, pain when lying on the affected side, and requiring an injection. Hip offset, femur lateralization and leg lengthening were measured before and after surgery., Results: Forty-five patients were available for complete follow-up at a mean of 62 months (range: 48-74). The incidence of GTP was higher in the posterior approach [PA: 6/21 (29%) vs DAA 4/24 (17%)) (p=0.3). Patients operated through a PA experienced more pain [5/21 (24%) of patients; VAS=mean 5.3] when lying on their operated side, compared to DAA patients [2/24 (8%) of patients; VAS=mean 2) (p=0.2)]. However, MHHS, patient satisfaction with surgery, radiological assessment for hip offset, femur lateralization or leg lengthening, and injections required were similar for both approaches. Overall, satisfaction and functional outcome with surgery was significantly lower in GTP patients, regardless of the approach., Conclusions: GTP impacts patient satisfaction and functional outcome in total hip arthroplasty patients. PA patients reported more trochanteric pain than DAA patients, which affected their clinical outcome., Level of Evidence: III., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.) more...

Objectives: Intra-articular screw cut-out is a common complication after proximal humerus fracture (PHF) fixation using a locking plate. This study investigates novel technical factors associated with mechanical failures and complications in PHF fixation., Design: A retrospective radiological study., Setting: Level 1 trauma center., Patients/participants: Clinical and radiological data from consecutive PHF patients treated between January 2007 and December 2013 were reviewed., Intervention: Open reduction and internal fixation with the Synthes Philos locking plate., Main Outcome Measurements: Postoperative radiographs were assessed for quality of initial reduction, humeral head offset, screw length, number and position, restoration of medial calcar support or the presence of calcar screws, and intra-articular screw perforations. Using SliceOMatic software, we validated a method to accurately identify screws of 45 mm or longer on AP radiographs. Follow-up radiographs were reviewed for complications., Results: Among 110 patients included [mean age 60 years, 78 women (71%), follow-up 2.5 years] and the following factors were associated with a worse outcome. (1) Screws >45 mm in proximal rows [Odds Ratio (OR) = 5.3 for screw cut-out); (2) lateral translation of the humeral diaphysis over 6 mm (OR = 2.7 for loss of reduction); (3) lack in medial support by bone contact (OR = 4.9 for screw cut-out); (4) varus reduction increased the risk of complications (OR = 4.3)., Conclusion: The importance of reduction and calcar support in PHF fixation is critical. This study highlights some technical factors to which the surgeon must pay attention: avoid varus reduction, maximize medial support, avoid screws longer than 45 mm in the proximal rows, and restore the humeral offset within 6 mm or less., Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence., Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence., Competing Interests: D. M. Rouleau is a consultant for Bioventus and Wright Medical. G.-Y. Laflamme and S. Leduc are consultants for Stryker. The institution (HSCM) has received departmental funding for educational and research purposes from: Arthrex, Conmed, Depuy, Linvatec, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Synthes, Tornier, Wright, and Zimmer-Biomet. The remaining authors report no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: This study aimed to compare the functional and clinical outcomes between the deltoid split (DS) approach and the classic deltopectoral (DP) approach for locking plate fixation of proximal humerus fractures (PHF) in a prospective randomized multicenter study., Methods: From 2007 to 2015, all patients with a PHF Neer II/III were invited to participate. Exclusion criteria were pre-existing pathology to the limb, patient refusing or too ill to undergo surgery, patient needing another type of treatment (nail, arthroplasty), and axillary nerve impairment. After consent, patients were randomized to one of the 2 treatments using the dark envelope method. Functional outcome was evaluated by validated questionnaires (12-Item Short Form Health Survey: version 2, Quick-DASH) with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Complications were noted., Results: A total of 85 patients (44 DS, 41 DP) were randomized (mean age of 62). Groups were equivalent in terms of age, gender, body mass index, severity of fracture, and preinjury scores. The mean follow-up was 26 months. All clinical outcome measures were in favor of the deltopectoral approach. Specifically, the Q-DASH and SF-12v2 were better in the DP group (12 vs. 26, P = .003 and 56 vs. 51, P = .049, respectively). There were more complications in DS patients, but they did not reach statistical significance., Conclusions: The primary hypothesis on the superiority of the deltoid split incision was rebutted. On the basis of our study, the DP approach seems to offer better function compared with the DS approach for fixation of Neer 2 and 3 PHF fractures fixed with a locking plate., (Copyright © 2020 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Objectives: Radiologic criteria for syndesmosis instability evaluation remain controversial and direct visualization (DV) of the distal tibiofibular articulation is an alternative diagnostic method worthy of further investigation. We speculate that DV is a more accurate way to evaluate syndesmosis instability than fluoroscopy. The purpose of this study is to determine whether syndesmosis instability can accurately be recognized through DV and if this new intraoperative diagnostic method is more sensitive than fluoroscopy in detecting syndesmosis instability., Methods: Ten cadaveric ankles were tested using a sequential iatrogenic syndesmosis injury model. Specimens were tested incrementally with the lateral stress test (LST) and the external rotation stress test (ERT). The resulting instability was measured directly and fluoroscopically with a true mortise view by using medial clear space (MCS) and tibiofibular clear space (TFCS)., Results: DV detected a 2-ligaments injury at a mean diastasis of 3.02 mm ( P  = 0.0077) and 3.19 mm ( P  = 0.0077) with the LST and ERT, respectively. Fluoroscopically, TFCS showed a significant diastasis only with a complete syndesmosis rupture while MCS did not show any significant differences., Conclusions: DV of the syndesmosis in a cadaver injury model appears to be more sensitive than fluoroscopy in identifying injury, especially incomplete syndesmotic disruption., Competing Interests: Sponsorships or competing interests that may be relevant to content are disclosed at the end of this article.6Dominique M Rouleau is a consultant for Bioventus and Wright. Stéphane Leduc is a consultant for Stryker. The institution (Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal) of all of the authors has received funding for research and educational purposes from: Arthrex, Conmed, Depuy, Linvatec, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Synthes, Tornier, Wright, Zimmer., (Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association.) more...

Background: The ideal approach for a total hip arthroplasty (THA) would be kind to soft tissues, have the lowest complication rates and be easily reproducible. Although there have been several attempts to find the best approach for THA in the last decade, a definitive answer has not been found. We performed a prospective study to compare the direct anterior and posterior approaches for THA in terms of hospital length of stay, functional outcome, pain, implant position, complications and surgical time., Methods: A prospective, randomized, multicentre clinical study was conducted between February 2011 and July 2013, with an average follow-up of 55 months. Patients undergoing the direct anterior or posterior approach for THA were enrolled. Hospital length of stay, surgical time and complications were documented. The Harris Hip Score and visual analogue scale were used to monitor functional outcome and pain until 5 years postoperatively. Radiologic analysis was used to assess implant position., Results: Fifty-five patients (28 undergoing the direct anterior approach, 27 undergoing the posterior approach) were enrolled in this study. Length of stay, functional outcome, pain, implant position and complications were similar for the 2 approaches. There was a trend toward a better functional outcome for patients who underwent the direct anterior approach in the first 3 months postoperatively, with a peak at 4 weeks (Harris Hip Score 76.7 v. 68.7; p = 0.08). Average surgical time for the direct anterior approach was significantly longer (69.9 v. 45.7 min; p = 0.002)., Conclusion: The direct anterior approach for THA appears to be a safe and effective option. However, there is no significant difference in hospital length of stay or postoperative recovery between the 2 approaches., Clinical Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, no. NCT03673514. more...

Objective: Primary motor (M1) cortical excitability alterations are involved in the development and maintenance of chronic pain. Less is known about M1-cortical excitability implications in the acute phase of an orthopedic trauma. This study aims to assess acute M1-cortical excitability in patients with an isolated upper limb fracture (IULF) in relation to pain intensity., Methods: Eighty-four (56 IULF patients <14 days post-trauma and 28 healthy controls). IULF patients were divided into two subgroups according to pain intensity (mild versus moderate to severe pain). A single transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) session was performed over M1 to compare groups on resting motor threshold (rMT), short-intracortical inhibition (SICI), intracortical facilitation (ICF), and long-interval cortical inhibition (LICI)., Results: Reduced SICI and ICF were found in IULF patients with moderate to severe pain, whereas mild pain was not associated with M1 alterations. Age, sex, and time since the accident had no influence on TMS measures., Discussion: These findings show altered M1 in the context of acute moderate to severe pain, suggesting early signs of altered GABAergic inhibitory and glutamatergic facilitatory activities., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. more...

Purpose: To define the localization of the entry point of the lateral ascending branch of the anterior circumflex humeral artery (LACHA) for better surgical management and prevention of injury to this important vessel. The hypothesis is that the insertion point of the artery will be constant in subjects., Methods: A retrospective study of 27 tomographic images was conducted to generate a three-dimensional (3D) model and localize the entry point of the LACHA. Using a coordinate system consisting of three axes: the proximal-distal axis (PDA), the anterior-posterior axis (APA) and the medial-lateral axis (MLA), the position of a foramen located in the superior portion of the bicipital groove and representing the entry point of LACHA was measured on each reconstructed model., Results: On average, the foramen was located 10.0 mm distal along the PDA from the most proximal point of the greater tuberosity (GT). Along the MLA and with respect to the most medial portion of the GT, the foramen was located 3.4 mm medially, on average. No significant differences between men and women or between sides for foramen position measurements were found., Conclusion: Unnecessary procedures to the proximal biceps, aiming to prevent chronic pain, should be avoided in fracture fixation as they would affect a significant source of blood supply to the humeral head. These findings could help surgeons protect the only vascular supply they can during the fixation of proximal humeral fractures, when using the anterior or antero-lateral approaches. more...

Femoral neck stress fractures (FNSFs) can be treated conservatively or surgically, depending on initial displacement and patient condition. Surgical treatment options include internal fixation, with or without valgus osteotomy or hip arthroplasty, either hemi or total. The latter is mainly considered when initial treatment fails. A review of the literature shows that total hip arthroplasty (THA) is only considered as primary treatment in displaced fractures (type 3) in low-demand patients. We present a case of successive bilateral FNSF in a young active patient, where a THA was performed on one side, after failed internal fixation, and where it was chosen as primary treatment on the other side after failed conservative treatment., Competing Interests: Kevin Moerenhout was supported by the Edouard-Samson Scholarship Fund, Canada; the Fonds de bourse Swiss Orthopaedics, Switzerland; and Fonds de Perfectionnement du CHUV (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois), Switzerland. Georgios Gkagkalis was supported by the Edouard-Samson Scholarship Fund, Canada; the Fond de bourses Swiss Orthopaedics, Switzerland; and the Fondation Profectus, Switzerland. G.-Yves Laflamme is a consultant for Stryker, and the institution (HSCM) has received funding for research and educational purposes from Arthrex, CONMED, Depuy, Linvatec, Medacta, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Synthes, Tornier, Wright, and Zimmer Biomet. Dominique M. Rouleau is a consultant for Bioventus and Wright Medical. The institution (HSCM) has received funding for research and educational purposes from Arthrex, CONMED, Depuy, Linvatec, Medacta, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Synthes, Tornier, Wright, and Zimmer Biomet. Stéphane Leduc is a consultant for Stryker, and the institution (HSCM) has received funding for research and educational purposes from Arthrex, CONMED, Depuy, Linvatec, Medacta, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Synthes, Tornier, Wright, and Zimmer Biomet. Benoit Benoit is a consultant for Medacta, Stryker, and Bioventus. The institution (HSCM) has received funding for research and educational purposes from Arthrex, CONMED, Depuy, Linvatec, Medacta, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Synthes, Tornier, Wright, and Zimmer Biomet., (Copyright © 2019 Kevin Moerenhout et al.) more...

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate which factors will affect range of motion (ROM) and function in partial radial head fractures. The hypothesis is that conservative treatment yields better outcomes., Materials and Methods: This retrospective comparative cohort study included 43 adult volunteers with partial radial head fracture, a minimum 1-year follow up, separated into a surgical and non-surgical group. Risk factors were: associated injury, heterotopic ossification, worker's compensation, and proximal radio ulnar joint (PRUJ) implication. Outcomes included radiographic ROM measurement, demographic data, and quality of life questionnaires (PREE, Q-DASH, MEPS)., Results: Mean follow up was 3.5 years (1-7 years). Thirty patients (70%) had associated injuries with decreased elbow extension (-11°, p=0.004) and total ROM (-14°, p=0.002) compared to the other group. Heterotopic ossification was associated with decreased elbow flexion (-9.00°, p=0.001) and fractures involved the PRUJ in 88% of patients. Only worker's compensation was associated with worse scores. There was no difference in terms of function and outcome between patients treated non-surgically or surgically., Discussion: We found that associated injuries, worker's compensation and the presence of heterotopic ossification were the only factors correlated with a worse prognosis in this cohort of patients. Given these results, the authors reiterate the importance of being vigilant to associated injuries., Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective study., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.) more...

Objective 1) To assess the feasibility of research methods to test a self-management intervention aimed at preventing acute to chronic pain transition in patients with major lower extremity trauma (iPACT-E-Trauma) and 2) to evaluate its potential effects at three and six months postinjury. Design A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with two parallel groups. Setting A supraregional level 1 trauma center. Methods Fifty-six adult patients were randomized. Participants received the intervention or an educational pamphlet. Several parameters were evaluated to determine the feasibility of the research methods. The potential efficacy of iPACT-E-Trauma was evaluated with measures of pain intensity and pain interference with activities. Results More than 80% of eligible patients agreed to participate, and an attrition rate of ≤18% was found. Less than 40% of screened patients were eligible, and obtaining baseline data took 48 hours postadmission on average. Mean scores of mild pain intensity and pain interference with daily activities (<4/10) on average were obtained in both groups at three and six months postinjury. Between 20% and 30% of participants reported moderate to high mean scores (≥4/10) on these outcomes at the two follow-up time measures. The experimental group perceived greater considerable improvement in pain (60% in the experimental group vs 46% in the control group) at three months postinjury. Low mean scores of pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale score < 30) and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores ≤ 10) were obtained through the end of the study. Conclusions Some challenges that need to be addressed in a future RCT include the small proportion of screened patients who were eligible and the selection of appropriate tools to measure the development of chronic pain. Studies will need to be conducted with patients presenting more serious injuries and psychological vulnerability or using a stepped screening approach., (© 2019 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.) more...

Objectives: We hypothesize that a single syndesmotic view, capturing both sagittal and coronal tibiofibular displacement, will be more sensitive than a mortise view to detect syndesmotic instability., Methods: Ten fresh frozen human lower limbs were used to test the new syndesmotic view with simulated syndesmosis injury. The anteroinferior tibiofibular ligament, interosseous membrane, and posteroinferior tibiofibular ligament were sectioned sequentially. At each stage, the syndesmosis was tested using the external rotation stress (ERS) test and lateral stress test (LST). For each stress condition, a true mortise view and the new syndesmotic view were performed. Medial clear space and tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) were measured on a mortise view, and TFCS was measured on a syndesmotic view (TFCS-s). Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare measurements., Results: Syndesmotic view enabled instability detection with a 2-ligament dissection at a mean increase in TFCS-s of 2.37 mm (P = 0.021) and 1.98 mm (P = 0.011), using the ERS and LST, respectively. TFCS on the mortise view was significantly different only with a complete injury. Medial clear space did not vary significantly with injury increments. Sensitivity was 66% and 61% using ERS and LST, respectively, for the TFCS-s, compared with 27% and 33%, respectively, for the TFCS. Specificity was similar for TFCS and TFCS-s., Conclusions: This study was able to demonstrate that the syndesmotic view is more sensitive than the mortise view in detecting syndesmotic instability in a cadaveric model. It is particularly helpful to uncover instability secondary to an incomplete syndesmosis injury requiring fixation. more...

Background:: In this cadaveric study, a new "torque test" (TT) stressing the fibula posterolaterally under direct visualization was compared with the classical external rotation stress test (ERT) and lateral stress test (LST)., Methods:: The anteroinferior tibiofibular ligament (AiTFL), the interosseous membrane (IOM), and the posteroinferior tibiofibular ligament (PiTFL) were sectioned sequentially on 10 fresh-frozen human ankles. At each stage of dissection, instability was assessed using the LST, ERT, and TT under direct visualization. Anatomical tibiofibular diastasis measurements were taken directly on cadavers and compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test., Results:: All 3 tests showed statistically significant motion in the syndesmosis when at least 2 ligaments were sectioned. The mean increase across diastasis with a 2-ligament section was 3.0 mm ( P = .005), 3.2 mm ( P = .005), and 4.8 mm ( P = .005) for the LST, ERT, and TT, respectively. The largest mean increase in diastasis was obtained with a complete injury using the TT and was 6.2 mm ( P = .008). With the TT, a 3.5-mm tibiofibular diastasis was 90% sensitive and 100% specific when 2 or more syndesmotic ligaments were sectioned., Conclusion:: The TT was a more sensitive and specific tool for detecting syndesmosis instability than classic LST and ERT., Clinical Relevance:: Stressing the fibula in a posterolateral direction created a larger distal tibiofibular diastasis, which would be easier to detect in the intraoperative setting. The TT was more sensitive and specific to detecting a 2-ligament syndesmotic injury than the classic test and required less force to perform. more...

Background: Partial radial head fractures (PRHF) can involve the proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ) or be restricted to the 'safe zone' (SZ) during forearm rotation. The objective of the present study was to develop an assessment method for PRUJ involvement in radial head fractures using axial computed tomography (CT) scans., Methods: The area of the radial head in contact with the PRUJ zone was identified, and defined on 18 cadaveric elbows CT scans; the quantitative relationship between PRUJ zone and radial tuberosity was established. Then, four evaluators validated it on PRHF CT scan axial views, classifying the fractures as involving the PRUJ or not., Results: Using the radial tuberosity as the 0° of a 360° circle, the SZ was within 108° to 212° clockwise for a right elbow and counter clockwise for the left elbow. Fifty-five consecutive (30 men, 25 women, mean age of 49 years) partial radial head fracture CT scans were classified: four in the SZ only, three in the PRUJ zone and 48 in both the PRUJ and SZ. The kappa for the inter- and intra-observer agreement was 0.517 and 0.881, respectively., Conclusions: Ninety-three percent of partial radial head fractures will involve the PRUJ and the geometric model developed allows their classification, potentially helping surgeons decide on optimal treatment., Level of Evidence: Retrospective basic science study. Level III: anatomic study, imaging. more...

The study design of a multidisciplinary Fracture Liaison Service (2-year follow-up) aiming to optimize fragility fracture management in an outpatient setting is presented. Patient characteristics, investigation, and treatment initiation data at baseline were recorded. Results corroborate the care gap in osteoporosis management, reinforcing the need for secondary fracture prevention programs., Purpose: This paper describes the study design, implementation, and baseline characteristics of a multidisciplinary Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) in Quebec (Canada)., Methods: A FLS was implemented as a prospective cohort study. After identification, fracture risk was assessed and patients were started on treatment or referred, according to guidelines and risk assessment. Thereafter, patients were systematically followed over 2 years. Clinical data (fractures, bone density, blood testing (bone turnover markers), quality of life, physical disability) as well as administrative data (pharmacological, health services, hospitalization) was collected. Baseline descriptive data was analyzed and presented., Results: Of 542 recruited participants, 532 underwent baseline assessment (85.7% female, mean age 63.4 years). Overall, 29.7% of participants either withdrew from the study or were lost to follow-up. Almost 27% were referred to a specialist, while > 70% received anti-osteoporosis medication prescriptions through the FLS at baseline. Mean femoral T-score was - 1.6 ± 1.0 and vertebral T-score was - 1.7 ± 1.4. Nearly 19% of subjects reported being under anti-osteoporosis medication at the time of incident fracture. Thirty-three percent of participants reported a prior fracture history, of which 29.7% reported being given anti-osteoporosis therapy. Most fracture sites were to the wrist and ankle, while < 19% were hip/femur or vertebral fractures., Conclusions: These results highlight the important care gap in fragility fracture management and reinforce the need for secondary fracture prevention programs. This prospective study will allow the evaluation of key performance indicators for outpatient clinic-based FLS, such as medication usage, by combining prospective clinical and administrative data. more...

Purpose: Transition from acute to chronic pain often occurs after major lower extremity trauma. Chronic pain has been found to negatively affect daily functioning, including the capacity to work and quality of life. Empirical data and an acceptability assessment were used to develop a self-management intervention aimed at preventing acute to chronic pain transition after major lower extremity trauma (i.e., iPACT-E-Trauma)., Methods: Evidence from previous studies on preventive self-management interventions, combined with a biopsychosocial conceptual framework and clinical knowledge, helped define the key features of the preliminary version. Then a mixed-methods design was used to assess the acceptability of iPACT-E-Trauma by clinicians and patients., Results: The key features of the preliminary version of iPACT-E-Trauma were assessed as acceptable to very acceptable by clinicians and patients. After clinician assessment, intervention activities were simplified and session duration was reduced. Patient acceptability assessment of iPACT-E-Trauma led to the tailoring of key intervention features, based on determinants such as pain intensity and the implementation of self-management behaviors between intervention sessions. Web-based sessions were also developed to facilitate iPACT-E-Trauma delivery., Conclusion: This study outlines the process involved in the development of an intervention to prevent chronic pain in patients with lower extremity trauma. Relevant information is provided to nurses and interdisciplinary teams on a self-management intervention to prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain in the trauma population., (Crown Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Introduction: Quadriceps tendon ruptures (QTR) frequently occur in patients with end-stage renal failure, while triceps brachii tendon ruptures (TTR) are less common. This is the first properly documented report of a simultaneous ipsilateral traumatic rupture of both of these tendons., Case Report: A 50-year-old patient, on hemodialysis for end-stage renal failure, fell on his right side. He presented with sudden right knee and elbow pain, with functional impairment of both joints. X-rays showed avulsion-like osseous lesions on the olecranon and patella with a low-riding patella. Ultrasound confirmed complete quadriceps and triceps avulsion ruptures. Both lesions were treated surgically. Fixation was performed with anchors using the Krackow suture technique for both tendons. Postoperative clinical and radiological results were satisfactory, and follow-up was uneventful. The patient regained his preinjury functional level with a complete range of motion of both his knee and elbow., Discussion: Isolated QTR and TTR are frequent lesions in chronic renal failure patients treated with hemodialysis. Simultaneous ipsilateral rupture of both tendons however is extremely rare and should therefore not be overlooked. Surgical treatment is recommended for complete ruptures. more...

Background: A transition from acute to chronic pain frequently occurs after major lower extremity trauma. While the risk factors for developing chronic pain in this population have been extensively studied, research findings on interventions aiming to prevent chronic pain in the trauma context are scarce. Therefore, we developed a hybrid, Web-based and in-person, self-management intervention to prevent acute to chronic pain transition after major lower extremity trauma (iPACT-E-Trauma)., Objective: This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of iPACT-E-Trauma., Methods: Using a descriptive design, the intervention was initiated at a supra-regional level-1 trauma center. Twenty-eight patients ≥18 years old with major lower extremity trauma, presenting with moderate to high pain intensity 24 hours post-injury were recruited. Feasibility assessment was two-fold: 1) whether the intervention components could be provided as planned to ≥80% of participants and 2) whether ≥80% of participants could complete the intervention. The rates for both these variables were calculated. The E-Health Acceptability Questionnaire and the Treatment Acceptability and Preference Questionnaire were used to assess acceptability. Mean scores were computed to determine the intervention's acceptability., Results: More than 80% of participants received the session components relevant to their condition. However, the Web pages for session 2, on the analgesics prescribed, were accessed by 71% of participants. Most sessions were delivered according to the established timeline for ≥80% of participants. Session 3 and in-person coaching meetings had to be provider earlier for ≥35% of participants. Session duration was 30 minutes or less on average, as initially planned. More than 80% of participants attended sessions and <20% did not apply self-management behaviors relevant to their condition, with the exception of deep breathing relaxation exercises which was not applied by 40% of them. Web and in-person sessions were assessed as very acceptable (mean scores ≥3 on a 0 to 4 descriptive scale) across nearly all acceptability attributes., Conclusions: Findings showed that the iPACT-E-Trauma intervention is feasible and was perceived as highly acceptable by participants. Further tailoring iPACT-E-Trauma to patient needs, providing more training time for relaxation techniques, and modifying the Web platform to improve its convenience could enhance the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention., Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 91987302; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN91987302 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6ynibjPHa)., (©Mélanie Bérubé, Céline Gélinas, Nancy Feeley, Géraldine Martorella, José Côté, G Yves Laflamme, Dominique M Rouleau, Manon Choinière. Originally published in JMIR Formative Research (http://formative.jmir.org), 30.04.2018.) more...

Background  Functional outcomes of distal radius fractures vary widely regardless of treatment methods. Purpose  This study aims to verify whether preexisting carpal and carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis (OA) will negatively impact wrist functional outcome in patients with distal radius fractures. Patients and Methods  A retrospective case-control study was done using a prospective trauma database. Patients were matched 1:1 in two groups based on the presence of wrist or carpal arthritis (OA). The groups were matched for sex, follow-up, and treatment type. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 1 year and functional outcomes were assessed using validated scores. Results  A total of 61 patients were included. Mean age was 63 years (range: 20-85) and average follow-up was 26 months. There were 31 patients in the OA+ group and 30 in the OA- group. Forty-one patients were treated surgically and 20 nonoperatively. None of the patients in the OA- developed OA during follow-up. Both groups were comparable for sex, residual deformity, and follow-up. There was no significant difference for the visual analog scale, Short Form-12, Quick Disability Arm Shoulder Hand, and Patient-rated Wrist Evaluation, or for radiographic outcomes. Conclusion  Preexisting OA in the wrist or CMC does not seem to impact outcomes of distal radius fractures, regardless of treatment, age, or sex. Although this is a negative study, the results are important to help counsel patients with distal radius fractures. Further work must be done to identify other potential causes for negative outcomes. Level of Evidence  Level III, prognostic study. more...

Background: Acute pain frequently transitions to chronic pain after major lower extremity trauma (ET). Several modifiable psychological risk and protective factors have been found to contribute to, or prevent, chronic pain development. Some empirical evidence has shown that interventions, including cognitive and behavioral strategies that promote pain self-management, could prevent chronic pain. However, the efficacy of such interventions has never been demonstrated in ET patients. We have designed a self-management intervention to prevent acute to chronic pain transition after major lower extremity trauma (iPACT-E-Trauma)., Objective: This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the feasibility and research methods of the intervention, as well as the potential effects of iPACT-E-Trauma, on pain intensity and pain interference with daily activities., Methods: A 2-arm single-blind pilot RCT will be conducted. Participants will receive the iPACT-E-Trauma intervention (experimental group) or an educational pamphlet (control group) combined with usual care. Data will be collected at baseline, during iPACT-E-Trauma delivery, as well as at 3 and 6 months post-injury. Primary outcomes are pain intensity and pain interference with daily living activities at 6 months post-injury. Secondary outcomes are pain self-efficacy, pain acceptance, pain catastrophizing, pain-related fear, anxiety and depression symptoms, health care service utilization, and return to work., Results: Fifty-three patients were recruited at the time of manuscript preparation. Comprehensive data analyses will be initiated in July 2017. Study results are expected to be available in 2018., Conclusions: Chronic pain is an important problem after major lower ET. However, no preventive intervention has yet been successfully proven in these patients. This study will focus on developing a feasible intervention to prevent acute to chronic pain transition in the context of ET. Findings will allow for the refinement of iPACT-E-Trauma and methodological parameters in prevision of a full-scale multi-site RCT., Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 91987302; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN91987302 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6rR8G2vMs)., (©Mélanie Bérubé, Céline Gélinas, Géraldine Martorella, José Côté, Nancy Feeley, George-Yves Laflamme, Dominique Rouleau, Manon Choinière. Originally published in JMIR Research Protocols (http://www.researchprotocols.org), 26.06.2017.) more...

Background: Blood loss is a major concern in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) along with postoperative knee function. The present study explores the impact of tourniquet (T) and closed-suction drains (D) on these parameters in TKA., Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 111 patients admitted for TKA. Subjects were divided into three groups: 36 in group T+D+, 42 in T-D+ and 33 in T-D- (where T+: prolonged tourniquet use, T-: cementation-only tourniquet, D+: closed-suction drain use, and D-: no drain)., Results: No statistically significant differences were observed among the three groups(T+D+, T-D+ and T-D-) for total blood loss, hemoglobin levels over the first six postoperative weeks and blood transfusion rate. Intraoperative bleeding was significantly reduced in T+ subjects compared to T- subjects (100±88mL vs. 279±235mL respectively, P<0.001), yet length of surgery was unaffected. Hidden blood loss was lower in D+ subjects compared to D- subjects (1161±554mL vs. 1667±554mL respectively, P<0.001), but was offset by the blood loss in the drains. Early postoperative range of motion (ROM) was superior in group T-D- compared to group T+D+. Nevertheless, postoperative week 6 ROM was similar between the 3 groups as was patient-reported postoperative pain. A patient with a drain represents 35min of extra nursing time and a total cost of $31.87 CAD., Conclusions: Whole-course tourniquet and closed-suction drain use in TKA do not yield beneficial results while increasing costs. Their use is therefore deemed unnecessary., Level of Evidence: III (case control prospective study)., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: The hypothesis of this study is that a sprain or tear of 1 or more of the 3 syndesmotic ligaments will result in a significant change in the osseous anatomy relationship when comparing injured to uninjured syndesmosis. Our secondary objective was to determine whether injuries to the syndesmosis as diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could be found using static imaging., Methods: This is a descriptive radiological study of ankle MRI reports over a 12-year period, from 2 different institutions, and divided in two groups: normal and injured syndesmotic ligaments. A series of 6 lengths and 2 angles were measured on MRI axial views that describe the rotation, lateral, and anteroposterior translational relation between the distal tibia and fibula. Parameters from injured and uninjured ankles were compared using Student's t-test., Results: Fifty uninjured syndesmosis were compared to 64 injured syndesmoses. The majority of syndesmosis injuries concerned either an anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament sprain or tear. There was a significant difference in the anatomic position of the tibia and the fibula between injured and uninjured syndesmosis., Conclusions: The anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament is the most commonly injured ligament in the syndesmosis in sports injury and results in subtle variations in the syndesmotic anatomy, which plain radiographs cannot assess. Because of the previously validated computed tomography scan measurement, this study demonstrates a potential to identify syndesmotic injury on other more accessible imaging modalities, such as computed tomography scan, by using a well-defined measurement system., Levels of Evidence: Diagnostic, Level III : Retrospective, Radiologic Study. more...

Background: Despite the common occurrence of syndesmotic injuries in ankle trauma, the distal tibiofibular relationship remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical impact of ankle sagittal positioning on the tibiofibular relationship in intact ankles by using a validated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based measurement system., Methods: In this radiologic study, 34 healthy volunteers underwent a series of ankle MRIs with the ankle stabilized in 3 positions: neutral position (NP), dorsiflexion (DF), and plantarflexion (PF). Using a previously validated measurement system, 6 fixed translational measurements and 2 fixed angles were recorded on each MRI and compared using paired t tests., Results: When comparing PF to DF, the anterior distance between the tibial incisura and the fibula varied from 2.5 mm to 3.9 mm ( P < .001), respectively. The middle distance between the tibial incisura and the fibula varied from 1.5 mm to 2.6 mm ( P < .001). Fibular angle varied from 8.7 degrees to 7.8 degrees of internal rotation ( P = .046), respectively. When comparing NP to DF, only the anterior distance was found to be significantly different, varying 0.4 mm ( P < .002)., Conclusions: Ankle dorsiflexion leads to an increase in external rotation and lateral translation of the fibula. These changes could be measured on MRI using a validated measurement system. Ankle motion did have an impact on the distal tibiofibular relationship and should be considered in studies pertaining to syndesmosis imaging., Clinical Relevance: This is the first in vivo study demonstrating the impact of sagittal ankle position on the distal tibiofibular relationship in an uninjured ankle. Our findings also support the practice of placing the ankle in dorsiflexion when fixing a disrupted syndesmosis., Level of Evidence: Level III, comparative study. more...

Background: The objective is to explore the effects of concomitant mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) on return to work (RTW), among patients suffering from an isolated limb fracture. This follow-up study included a total of 170 working age subjects with an isolated limb fracture, and was conducted in a phone interview approximately 1-year post trauma. 41 had experienced an mTBI and 129 did not., Methods: Data were obtained through a phone interview conducted on average 20.7 months (SD = 9.6 months) post-accident. The main outcome measure was the number of days taken to RTW after the injury. Demographic information was also gathered during the phone interview. Workers' compensation status was obtained through the hospitals' orthopaedic clinic data., Results: The mTBI group took on average 329.7 days (SD = 298.0) to RTW after the injury, as opposed to 150.3 days (SD = 171.3) for the control group (p < 0.001). After excluding patients who received workers' compensation, the mTBI group still missed significantly more days of work (M = 299.4 days; SD = 333.0) than the control group (M = 105.2 days; SD = 121.6) (p < 0.0001)., Conclusion: This study shows that mTBI increases work disability by preventing working-age individuals from rapidly returning to work. more...

We analysed the impact of a standardized order set empowering staff nurses to independently manage a Fracture Liaison Service over a 9-month period. Nurses identified between 30 and 70 % of non-hip fragility fractures to the unit in charge of management over time. The latter managed 58 % of referred patients., Introduction: The main goal of this study was to evaluate the impact of a standardized order set empowering nurses to independently manage a fracture liaison service (FLS)., Methods: Since November 2014, an order set allowed nurses of a Montreal hospital, Quebec, Canada to entirely manage an FLS on their own. Nurses followed an 6-h training program on-site. Emergency department (ED) and orthopaedic outpatient clinic (OC) nurses identified non-hip fragility fractures. Medical day treatment unit (MDTU) nurses were in charge of the management (investigation and treatment initiation). The list of patients, 50 years and older, with a fracture were retrieved for the period of November 2014 to July 2015. Performance was assessed with the rate of identification over time and the rate of management of non-hip fragility fractures., Results: Over the 9-month period, 346 patients of ≥50 years old were seen for a fracture, of which 190 met fragility criteria (excluding hip fractures). A sinusoid pattern of rates of identification between 30-70 % was observed over time. An average proportion of 58.1 % of fracture patients were managed by MDTU nurses., Conclusions: A standardized order set legally allowing nurses to manage an FLS led to identification rates varying from 30-70 % and a management rate close to 60 % for referred patients over a 9-month period, which largely exceeds that of standard care. Identification was mostly compromised by difficulty integrating the order set into routine practice. Enforcement of the hospital policy on fragility fractures could help yield efficiency of identification of osteoporosis-related fractures by the staff., Competing Interests: Compliance with ethical standards All procedures performed in this study involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the Hôpital Sacré-Coeur de Montréal and Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal ethic research committees and with the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards. Conflicts of interest Dr. Julio C Fernandes, Ms. Andréa Senay, Ms. Josée Delisle, Dr. Mario Giroux, Dr. G Yves Laflamme, Dr. Stephane Leduc, Dr. Michel Malo, Dr. Hai Nguyen, Dr. Pierre Ranger report grants from Eli Lilly during the conduct of this study. Ms. Josée Delisle also reports support for personal fees from Amgen Canada and Eli Lilly outside of the conducted work. Dr. G Yves Laflamme reports research grants from Zimmer, Stryker and DePuy Synthes, and support as a consultant from Stryker outside of the conducted work. Dr. Stephane Leduc reports research grants from Stryker, DePuy Synthes, Smith & Nephew and Zimmer, and support as a consultant from Stryker outside of the conducted work. Dr. Pierre Ranger reports grants from Johnson & Johnson, support as a consultant from Smith & Nephew, Corin, Bioventus, Sanofi Canada, and support for development of educational presentations by Horizon Pharma outside of the conducted work. Dr. Julio C Fernandes reports unrestricted educational grants from Amgen, Novartis, Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim and grants from Baxter outside of the conducted work. more...

Purpose: The Proximal Ulna Dorsal Angulation (PUDA) is part of the proximal ulna's normal anatomy. The importance of restoring ulnar anatomy characteristics precisely after olecranon fracture is not known, however, failure to recreate the PUDA after surgery may result in poorer functional outcomes. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of minimal proximal ulna malunion on elbow ROM and function at least one year after olecranon ORIF., Method: A retrospective comparative cohort study took place in three level-1 trauma centers. Forty-nine adult volunteers who underwent ORIF for olecranon fracture were included. Patients were separated into two groups according to PUDA malreduction-defined as more than 5° of difference between the fractured and the contralateral elbow., Outcome Measurements: Radiographic ROM measurement, demographic data and quality of life questionnaires were recorded (PREE, MEPS, Q-DASH, SF12, VAS)., Results: The mean follow up was 3 years and 9 months (1-7 years). There was no difference in terms of outcome, quality of reduction or range of motion between patients treated with plate or tension band. The mean PUDA on the fracture side was different from the normal side (2.20 vs 4.90, p<0.001). Fourteen patients (29%) had PUDA malunion. Those patients had decreased elbow flexion (-7°, p=0.011), extension (-11.2°, p=0.013) and total ROM (-18.6°, p=0.006) as opposed to the control group. Both groups had comparable quality of life questionnaire scores. Alcohol consumption was the only risk factor associated with worse scores., Conclusion: Incidence of olecranon malunion-as defined by PUDA measurement - was 29% and it was associated with decreased elbow range of motion. Alcohol consumption was correlated with a worse prognosis in our series of patients. Tension band and plate fixation can maintain a good reduction in terms of PUDA and the choice of fixation method does not influence outcome., Level of Evidence: III Therapeutic study., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: This is a retrospective prognostic study on soft tissue injury following isolated greater tuberosity (GT) fractures of the proximal humerus with respect to the relationship between rotator cuff tears and GT displacement., Methods: Forty-three patients with isolated GT fractures were recruited and evaluated with a standardized interview and physical examination, quality of life and shoulder function questionnaires (Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, SF-12 Version 2, Constant, Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, Visual Analogue Scale), standard shoulder radiographs and an ultrasound. The main outcome measurements were: incidence of rotator cuff tears and atrophy, biceps pathology and sub-acromial impingement; superior displacement of the GT fragment; and questionnaire scores., Results: Mean age was 57 years (31 years to 90 years) with a follow-up of 2.4 years (0.8 years to 6.8 years). In total, 16% had a full rotator cuff tear and 57% showed subacromial impingement on ultrasound. Full rotator cuff tears and supraspinatus fatty atrophy significantly correlated with decreased function and abduction strength. Significant atrophy (>50%) of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus, without a rotator cuff tear, was correlated with the worst function in the presence of a residual displacement of the greater tuberosity at the last-follow-up (7 mm)., Conclusions: Residual displacement, full rotator cuff tear and muscle atrophy are associated with the worst outcomes. Soft tissue imaging could benefit patients with an unfavourable outcome after a GT fracture to treat soft tissue injury. more...

Objectives: This study compares the incidence rate of mild traumatic brain injury (mild TBI) detected at follow-up visits (retrospective diagnosis) in patients suffering from an isolated limb trauma, with the incidence rate held by the hospital records (prospective diagnosis) of the sampled cohort. This study also seeks to determine which types of fractures present with the highest incidence of mild TBI., Patients and Methods: Retrospective assessment of mild TBI among orthopaedic monotrauma patients, randomly selected for participation in an Orthopaedic clinic of a Level I Trauma Hospital. Patients in the remission phase of a limb fracture were recruited between August 2014 and May 2015. No intervention was done (observational study)., Main Outcome Measurements: Standardized semi-structured interviews were conducted with all patients to retrospectively assess for mild TBI at the time of the fracture. Emergency room related medical records of all patients were carefully analyzed to determine whether a prospective mild TBI diagnosis was made following the accident., Results: A total of 251 patients were recruited (54% females, Mean age=49). Study interview revealed a 23.5% incidence rate of mild TBI compared to an incidence rate of 8.8% for prospective diagnosis (χ(2)=78.47; p<0.0001). Patients suffering from an upper limb monotrauma (29.6%; n=42/142) are significantly more at risk of sustaining a mild TBI compared to lower limb fractures (15.6%; n=17/109) (χ(2)=6.70; p=0.010). More specifically, patients with a proximal upper limb injury were significantly more at risk of sustaining concomitant mild TBI (40.6%; 26/64) compared to distal upper limb fractures (20.25%; 16/79) (χ(2)=7.07; p=0.008)., Conclusions: Results suggest an important concomitance of mild TBI among orthopaedic trauma patients, the majority of which go undetected during acute care. Patients treated for an upper limb fracture are particularly at risk of sustaining concomitant mild TBI., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...

Aim: To evaluate the effect of different elbow and forearm positions on radiocapitellar alignment., Methods: Fifty-one healthy volunteers were recruited and bilateral elbow radiographs were taken to form a radiologic database. Lateral elbow radiographs were taken with the elbow in five different positions: Maximal extension and forearm in neutral, maximal flexion and forearm in neutral, elbow at 90° and forearm in neutral, elbow at 90° and forearm in supination and elbow at 90° and forearm in pronation. A goniometer was used to verify the accuracy of the elbow's position for the radiographs at a 90° angle. The radiocapitellar ratio (RCR) measurements were then taken on the collected radiographs using the SliceOmatic software. An orthopedic resident performed the radiographic measurements on the 102 elbows, for a total of 510 lateral elbow radiographic measures. ANOVA paired t-tests and Pearson coefficients were used to assess the differences and correlations between the RCR in each position., Results: Mean RCR values were -2% ± 7% (maximal extension), -5% ± 9% (maximal flexion), and for elbow at 90° and forearm in neutral -2% ± 5%, supination 1% ± 6% and pronation 1% ± 5%. ANOVA analyses demonstrated significant differences between the RCR in different elbow and forearm positions. Paired t-tests confirmed significant differences between the RCR at maximal flexion and flexion at 90°, and maximal extension and flexion. The Pearson coefficient showed significant correlations between the RCR with the elbow at 90° - maximal flexion; the forearm in neutral-supination; the forearm in neutral-pronation., Conclusion: Overall, 95% of the RCR values are included in the normal range (obtained at 90° of flexion) and a value outside this range, in any position, should raise suspicion for instability. more...

Greater tuberosity fractures of the humerus can be successfully treated nonsurgically in most patients. However, as little as 3 to 5 mm of superior greater tuberosity displacement may adversely affect rotator cuff biomechanics and lead to subacromial impingement in patients who are active. In these cases, surgical treatment is recommended. Multiple surgical techniques include open and arthroscopic options tailored to fracture morphology, and strategies for repair include the use of suture anchors, transosseous sutures, tension bands, and plates/screws. Three classification systems are commonly used to describe greater tuberosity fractures: the AO, Neer, and morphologic classifications. Several hypotheses have been discussed for the mechanism of greater tuberosity fractures and the deforming forces of the rotator cuff, and the use of advanced imaging is being explored. more...

Objectives: Treatment of greater tuberosity (GT) fractures occurring during anterior shoulder dislocation generally consists of initial closed reduction of the shoulder. Undisplaced fractures are treated conservatively, whereas displaced fractures generally undergo surgical management. Our hypothesis is that many well-reduced GT fractures will migrate. The primary goal of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of GT fractures associated with shoulder dislocation to optimize their management., Design: Retrospective review with prospective outcomes., Setting: Tertiary Level 1 trauma center., Patients: A total of 55 patients with anterior shoulder dislocation and GT fractures were identified. A matched cohort of isolated GT fractures was also identified., Intervention: Closed reduction versus open reduction with or without fixation., Outcome Measurements: Radiographs were evaluated for initial displacement, reduction, Hill-Sachs lesion, and subsequent displacement. Patients were evaluated using the Constant and quick DASH scores at a minimum of 1 year of follow-up., Results: A majority of patients received initial closed reduction, with acceptable reduction of the tuberosity in 85%. With closed reduction, migration of the GT was seen in 9 cases (16%). In younger patients (<70 years), the failure rate increased to 26%. Displacement of the GT was 5.6 times more likely with dislocation than without. Patients with migration were only operated on in 33% of cases, mostly because of late presentation., Conclusions: Treatment of GT fractures occurring with anterior shoulder dislocation is complex. Although outcomes with nonoperative treatment are generally acceptable, a significant proportion of these patients will have tuberosity migration, which may impact function., Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. more...

Periprosthetic hip fractures around acetabular components are rare with little information available to guide surgical management of these complex injuries. A retrospective review of intraoperative isolated acetabular periprosthetic fractures from three tertiary surgical units was done. A total of 32 patients were identified with 9 initially missed. Acetabular components were stable (type 1) in 11 patients with no failures; unstable (type 2) in 12 patients and treated with supplemental fixation. Non-union and displacement were correlated with absent posterior column plating. Missed fractures (type 3) had the highest reoperation rate. Anterior patterns all healed, whereas fractures with posterior column instability had a 67% failure rate. Periprosthetic acetabular fracture can heal successfully with posterior column stability. Plating is mandatory for large posterior wall fragments to achieve osteointegration., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...

Introduction: The optimal treatment for avulsion-type greater tuberosity fractures is yet to be determined. Three fixation methods are tested: tension band with #2 wire suture (TB), double-row suture bridge with anchors (DR), and simple transosseous fixation with braided tape (BT)., Materials and Methods: Twenty-four porcine proximal humeri were randomised into three groups: TB, DR and BT. A standardised greater tuberosity (GT) osteotomy was performed at 90° to the humeral diaphysis axis. A mechanical testing machine was used to simulate supraspinatus contraction. The force required to produce 3mm and 5mm displacement, as well as complete failure was measured with an axial load cell. Also, three cycles of shoulder flexion/extension with 25 N of supraspinatus contraction were performed. Maximum GT fragment translation and rotation amplitude during one cycle were measured., Results: During supraspinatus contraction, DR and BT groups (p < 0.05) were superior to TB group for both displacements. The BT technique had the strongest maximal load to failure (BT = 466 N; DR = 386 N; TB = 320 N). For the flexion/extension, DR and BT groups had less displacement and rotation than TB group (anterio-posterior displacement: BT = 2.0mm, DR = 1.9 mm, TB = 5.8 mm; anterio-posterior angular displacement: BT = 1.4°, DR = 1.0°, TB = 4.8°). No significant difference was observed between DR and BT groups, except for the medio-lateral rotation favouring the DR group., Conclusion: In conclusion, BT and DR are good fixation methods to treat displaced avulsion-type greater tuberosity fractures. They have similar mechanical properties, and are stronger and more stable that the TB construct. Potential advantages of the BT over the DR may be a lower cost and easier surgery., Level of Evidence: Basic science study (LEVEL II)., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: This paper aims to determine the strongest fixation method for split type greater tuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus by testing and comparing three fixation methods: a tension band with No. 2 wire suture, a double-row suture bridge with suture anchors, and a manually contoured calcaneal locking plate., Methods: Each method was tested on eight porcine humeri. A osteotomy of the greater tuberosity was performed 50° to the humeral shaft and then fixed according to one of three methods. The humeri were then placed in a testing apparatus and tension was applied along the supraspinatus tendon using a thermoelectric cooling clamp. The load required to produce 3mm and 5mm of displacement, as well as complete failure, was recorded using an axial load cell., Findings: The average load required to produce 3mm and 5mm of displacement was 658N and 1112N for the locking plate, 199N and 247N for the double row, and 75N and 105N for the tension band. The difference between the three groups was significant (P<0.01). The average load to failure of the locking plate (810N) was significantly stronger than double row (456N) and tension band (279N) (P<0.05). The stiffness of the locking plate (404N/mm) was significantly greater than double row (71N/mm) and tension band (33N/mm) (P<0.01)., Interpretation: Locking plate fixation provides the strongest and stiffest biomechanical fixation for split type greater tuberosity fractures., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...

Background: Greater trochanter fractures or osteotomies fixed with lateral plates still present high rates of complications. Unblocked greater trochanter anterior movement during hip extension might be a possible cause of failure. This study aimed to determine, under stair climbing conditions, the biomechanical behaviour of a greater trochanter fragment and the impact of an anterior locking plate on its migration., Methods: Eighteen femurs paired from nine fresh frozen cadaveric specimens were tested on a quasi-dynamic stair climbing cycling test bench. Left and right sides with greater trochanter fractures were randomly fixed either with an antero-lateral locking plate or with a lateral locking plate. Migrations, defined as the remaining movements of the unloaded greater trochanter fragment, were measured for all 18 femurs., Findings: During hip extension, multi-directional greater trochanter fragment movements occurred and showed a back-and-forth anterior rotation. The lateral locking plate failed due to greater trochanter fragment rotation around the superior axis and anterior translation. The antero-lateral locking plate significantly reduced greater trochanter anterior migration (-0.9 mm ± 1.6) compared to the lateral locking plate (9.6 mm ± 9.5)., Interpretation: Hip extension provides a plausible explanation for the high rate of post-operative failures of greater trochanter fixations. An antero-lateral locking plate represents an efficient surgical alternative counteracting the multi-directional greater trochanter movements occurring during hip extension., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...

Introduction: Residual displacement of greater tuberosity (GT) fractures has been shown to negatively affect shoulder function. However, accurate measurement of GT displacement remains a problem with errors up to 13 mm on plain radiography (XR). A new GT ratio for measuring fracture displacement on XR is described, validated, and correlated with computed tomography (CT) and surgical decision making., Methods: A retrospective review of shoulder radiographs was performed from 2007 to 2010 to identify all cases of isolated GT fractures with both XR and CT. The GT ratio was performed on all XR and correlated with superior GT displacement measured on CT. The GT ratio was then tested for accuracy of surgical decision using 5-mm superior displacement on CT as the cutoff. Finally, the inter- and intraobserver reliabilities of the GT ratio were calculated and compared with the Neer and Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classifications., Results: Forty cases of acute GT fractures with XR and CT were identified. The GT ratio correlated very well with superior displacement on CT (Pearson correlation = 0.852, P < 0.01) and accurately classified GT fractures as "surgical" (n = 9, 23%) or "nonsurgical" (n = 31, 77%). GT ratios ≤0.00 were nonsurgical, ≥0.50 were surgical, and 0.00-0.50 warranted further imaging (P < 0.01). The GT ratio performed as well as or better than the AO and Neer classifications for inter- and intraobserver reliabilities., Conclusions: The GT ratio described in this study correlates very well with CT for superior GT fracture displacement. It involves significantly less radiation and accurately classifies GT fractures as nonsurgical (ratio < 0.00), surgical (ratio > 0.50), or as benefiting from further imaging (0.00-0.50). It performs as well or better than the Neer or AO classification., Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. more...

Objectives: Understanding the anatomy of proximal ulna is important when treating complex injuries, since nonanatomic reconstruction may lead to malunion, arthrosis, and instability. The proximal ulna has a sagittal bow, termed the proximal ulna dorsal angulation (PUDA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the magnitude of angular malalignment at the PUDA that would lead to radial head subluxation., Methods: This biomechanical study was conducted on 6 fresh frozen upper extremities with an elbow movement simulator. An osteotomy was performed at the PUDA and stabilized with internal fixation at 5 angles. Lateral elbow fluoroscopic images were taken in 4 elbow and 3 forearm positions, with the annular ligament intact and then released. The displacement of the radial head was quantified with the radiocapitellar ratio measurement., Results: A significant interaction exists between elbow positions, angles of malalignment, and annular ligament integrity (P < 0.001). The greatest magnitudes of radial head subluxation were with annular ligament tear, ranging from -4% to 88% (P < 0.001). Significant differences were found between the different internal fixation angles (P = 0.002) and elbow positions (P < 0.001). Anterior subluxation increased as malalignment was fixed into extension and with progressive elbow flexion. Posterior subluxation increased as malalignment advanced into flexion and decreased with elbow flexion., Conclusions: Proximal ulna malalignment combined with an annular ligament tear affect the biomechanics of the elbow and can lead to radial head subluxation. This study demonstrates the importance of an anatomic reconstruction, specifically recreation of each individual's unique PUDA. Thus, in the setting of a comminuted proximal ulna fracture with associated annular ligament insufficiency, radiographs of the contralateral elbow may assist with the restoration of the normal anatomy to limit radial head instability. more...

In this study, we describe a morphological classification for greater tuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus. We divided these fractures into three types: avulsion, split and depression. We retrospectively reviewed all shoulder radiographs showing isolated greater tuberosity fractures in a Level I trauma centre between July 2007 and July 2012. We identified 199 cases where records and radiographs were reviewed and included 79 men and 120 women with a mean age of 58 years (23 to 96). The morphological classification was applied to the first 139 cases by three reviewers on two occasions using the Kappa statistic and compared with the AO and Neer classifications. The inter- and intra-observer reliability of the morphological classification was 0.73 to 0.77 and 0.69 to 0.86, respectively. This was superior to the Neer (0.31 to 0.35/0.54 to 0.63) and AO (0.30 to 0.32/0.59 to 0.65) classifications. The distribution of avulsion, split and depression type fractures was 39%, 41%, and 20%, respectively. This classification of greater tuberosity fractures is more reliable than the Neer or AO classifications. These distinct fracture morphologies are likely to have implications in terms of pathophysiology and surgical technique. more...

The treatment of acetabular fractures in the elderly patients remains challenging. The "Gull Sign," which was recently described, was 100% predictive of failure of reduction and/or fixation. However, we believe that adequate reduction can be achieved and lead to good functional outcomes. Our technique differs from classic methods because it uses an anterior intrapelvic approach (the modified Stoppa) to obtain direct reduction of the impacted fragments. Access to the impacted superomedial dome is achieved by mobilizing the quadrilateral fragment, thus allowing direct visualization of the impacted articular surface. After reduction, definitive fixation is obtained with 3.5-mm cortical screws positioned in the subchondral bone directly over the Gull fragment. Our technique was performed in 9 patients, with a mean follow-up of 2.8 years. The quality of reduction was within 3 mm in 7 patients (78%). The overall conversion rate to total hip arthroplasty was 33%. All patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty either had initial malreduction or suffered an early loss of reduction. Other complications included 1 case of heterotopic ossification (Brooker type II) and 1 case of deep vein thrombosis. There were no infections. The average Harris Hip Score was 81. Good reduction of superior medial dome impaction can be obtained and maintained in the well-selected geriatric patient. We believe that, appropriately used, this direct reduction technique can be an important adjunct to surgeons dealing with this troublesome fracture. more...

Objectives: Clinical evidence suggests that the use of Y-shaped locking plates with anterior and lateral locking screws provide improved primary fixation stability over the use of straight locking plates in the treatment of greater trochanter (GT) fractures. However, it remains unclear how the use of cable cerclages, in replacement or addition to the locking screws, would impact the primary fixation stability., Methods: Nine surgical fixations were tested on a dynamic test bench through 27 sawbones experiments. These fixations on the GT and bone shaft (BS) included locking screws alone, cable cerclages alone, or 7 combinations of both. Migrations, defined as the remaining movements of the unloaded GT fragment, were measured for all 9 fixations submitted to dynamic stair climbing cycling after an experimental plan., Results: Under dynamic stair climbing conditions: (1) Y-shaped locking plates fixed by locking screws alone (vs cable cerclages alone) significantly reduced GT migrations, (2) adding cable cerclages to screws provided no significant reduction of migrations, and (3) cable cerclages alone can be used on the BS but is not recommended on the GT., Conclusions: Y-shaped locking plates with anterior and lateral locking screws improved primary stability of GT fractures over fixation with cable cerclages. Cable cerclages provided acceptable primary stability when screw fixations were unachievable but on the BS only. more...

Objectives: Anatomic reduction of the fibula with regard to the tibia is the goal when treating syndesmotic injuries. No objective method exists to describe the distal tibiofibular relationship. The primary and secondary objectives of this study was to describe and validate radiologic measurements of the syndesmosis and to establish a set of normal values, respectively., Methods: A set of 6 measurements and 2 angles were defined on axial computed tomography scans. These measures describe distal tibiofibular anatomy in rotation, lateral translation, and anteroposterior position. A series of 100 ankle computed tomography scans were measured by 2 evaluators. Interobserver reliability was assessed on a subset of 30 scans by 3 different evaluators. Measurements were repeated 6 weeks later by 2 evaluators for intraobserver reliability. All correlations were evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficients., Results: Good correlations for nearly all measurements were found, with intraclass correlation coefficients over 0.5. The lateral translation was the most reliable measure with a mean value of 2.8 mm. The mean ratio of anterior tibiofibular distance to posterior tibiofibular distance was 0.54. Proximal to tibial plafond, the fibula is internally rotated 8.7 degrees and at the talar dome level it is in 6.9 degrees of external rotation., Conclusions: Several studies have shown that the reduction of the syndesmosis is essential to restore normal ankle mechanics and prevent secondary degenerative changes. The evaluation criteria developed in this study can give the surgeon a guideline for evaluating syndesmosis anatomy with reliable parameters. Concerning the normal range of motion, our radiologic measurements of 100 normal ankles showed that a significant amount of variability exists in the uninjured distal tibiofibular relationship. more...

Cerclage cables, frequently used in the management of fractures and osteotomies, are associated with a high failure rate and significant loosening during surgery. This study compared the capacity to maintain tension of different types of orthopaedic cable systems. Multifilament Cobalt-Chrome (CoCr) cables with four different crimp/clamp devices (DePuy, Stryker, Zimmer and Smith&Nephew) and one non-metallic Nylon (Ny) cable from Kinamed were instrumented with a load cell to measure tension during insertion. Significant tension loss was observed with crimping for all cables (P<0.05). Removing the tensioner led to an additional unexpected tension loss (CoCr-DePuy: 18%, CoCr-Stryker: 29%, CoCr-Smith&Nephew: 33%, Ny: 46%, and CoCr-Zimmer: 52%). The simple CoCr (DePuy) cable system outperformed the more sophisticated locking devices due to its significantly better ability to prevent tension loss., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...