Search

Copyright of Operative Orthopädie und Traumatologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Operative Orthopädie und Traumatologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The operative treatment of high-grade talar neck fractures remains challenging, despite numerous previous reports. Our goal was to determine long-term outcomes and to establish a plan for management of postoperative complications (especially, avascular necrosis [AVN] of talar body) after high-grade talar neck fractures. We hypothesized that not every case with AVN of talar body require secondary surgical interventions. We retrospectively reviewed the radiographic and clinical findings of 14 patients who underwent operative treatment for high-grade talar neck fractures (modified Hawkins type III and IV) between January 2000 and December 2017. The minimum follow-up duration for inclusion was 3 years. Using radiographs during follow-up, we assessed the development of AVN of the talar body, malunion, nonunion, and posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Information about the secondary operations and their outcomes were also investigated using visual analogue scale (VAS) and American orthopaedic foot and ankle society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale at the final follow-up. In 10 of 14 patients (71.4 %), talar body AVN developed during follow-up. However, secondary operation was required in only 30.0 % (3 of 10 patients). In the remaining 7 patients who did not undergo secondary operation, the symptoms were tolerable with a maximum of 89 months follow-up; although the talar body presented sclerotic changes, but without talar dome collapse. The rates of malunion and post-traumatic subtalar osteoarthritis were 21.4 % and 14.3 %, respectively. No patients presented with fracture site nonunion. After a mean of 55.86 ± 14.45 months (range, 37–89) follow-up, the final mean VAS and AOFAS scores were 3.07 ± 0.73 (range, 2–4) and 80.43 ± 3.11 (range, 75–85), respectively. We recommend leaving talar body AVN untouched, unless the patient's symptoms become intolerable. In our clinical practice, postoperative AVN could be stably maintained without talar dome collapse for more than 7 years, although the sclerotic change persisted. Despite the small number of patients, our clinical experience may benefit patients with high-grade talar neck fractures and surgeons who treat such rare, serious, and challenging foot injuries. Level IV, Case series [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Avascular necrosis (AVN) and posttraumatic arthritis (PTA) are common complications following both conservative treatment and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of proximal humerus fractures (PHFs). Despite the frequent utilization of ORIF, information regarding these leading causes of failure is limited. This review includes a discussion of incidence, risk factors, and evaluation of AVN and PTA following PHF. The mechanisms of treatment options and associated outcomes are also reviewed. Recent Findings: Recent best available evidence demonstrates significant rates of AVN and PTA following ORIF of PHF. This is particularly true of complex fracture patterns. A thorough workup is required in the setting of failure caused by AVN and PTA. This includes a careful patient history, clinical exam, plain film radiographs, and CT scans. EMG and/or aspiration may also be indicated. Special consideration is given to the examination of the deltoid muscle, neurovascular status, rotator cuff function, and the possibility of infection. Biological supplementation, anatomic total shoulder replacement (aTSA), and fusion are rarely employed in the treatment of AVN and/or PTA. Due to satisfactory patient outcomes, reverse total shoulder replacement (rTSA) has increased in popularity for the elderly population, while hemiarthroplasty (HA) may be appropriate for some young, active patients. Summary: With careful patient selection and meticulous surgical technique, AVN and PTA can be mitigated. Careful indications for ORIF may decrease the frequency of these complications. For most patients, rTSA is the optimal treatment option. Given the frequent utilization of ORIF and the higher than acceptable complication and failure rates, AVN and PTA warrant our attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past research has reported that the common causes of ankle arthritis include trauma, congenital deformity, and degeneration. Among them, fracture-induced post-traumatic arthritis is most common. For patients with ankle fractures, an anatomical reduction is performed through surgical treatment. However, insufficient reduction or malunion of the fracture site may change the alignment of the ankle joint, resulting in valgus or varus deformities. Currently, most operative options for valgus arthritis aim to either restore joint alignment and/or reduce the uneven load on the cartilage. In this report, we would like to share our clinical experience of a patient with posttraumatic valgus ankle arthritis caused by severely comminuted fracture and dislocation. A satisfactory outcome could be obtained with combined fibular lengthening osteotomy and medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alteration of sagittal alignment during fracture fixation directly impacts ankle motion in dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Previously research measured the anterior distal tibia angle (ADTA) in a normal healthy population. The null hypothesis for this study is that ADTA is restored to normal range following unstable pilon fractures. The aim of this study is to identify the range of the ADTA in distal tibia fractures after surgical fixation, compared to a previously published normal population. A retrospective review of operative distal tibia fractures (AO/OTA classification 43A and 43C – 43B were excluded due to lower likelihood of fracture changing the ADTA) was performed. ADTA on lateral radiograph was measured as the angle relative to the tibia shaft. 100 patients with post-operative radiographs that met inclusion criteria were analyzed. The average ADTA was 6.9° (⌠=4.62°) with a maximum slope of 19.2° (i.e. anterior orientation) and a minimum of -3.3° (i.e. posterior orientation). The uninjured population had an average ADTA of 6.0° (range -2.0°-14°, ⌠=3.0°). This analysis shows the average distal tibia sagittal alignment in the post-surgical group is similar to a normal, uninjured population. Large alterations in ADTA would directly impact the ankle in the plane of motion (i.e. negative ADTA would decrease ankle dorsiflexion). Considering ADTA as an objective intra-operative parameter optimizes sagittal plane alignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The hindfoot fusion nail has become a popular implant for tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodeses given its rigidity, ease of insertion, and potential for less invasive surgical approaches. The purpose of this study was to evaluate fusion and complication rates following the use of a straight, retrograde intramedullary nail for TTC arthrodeses, and the influence of diabetes and smoking on these results. Methods: A review of patient cases performed by a single surgeon at a single institution was performed. Variables included age, comorbidities, smoking history, BMI, hemoglobin A1c, preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale pain scores, assessment of healing, and complications. Relative and absolute risk were assessed for smoking, diabetes, fusion, and surgical complications through risk ratios. Cox proportional hazards survival analyses were performed to assess the effects of smoking and diabetes on fusion rates and complications. Linear regressions were performed to investigate the effects of smoking and diabetes on patient-reported pain levels. Results: Of 103 patients, there were 37 cigarette smokers and 30 diabetic patients. Eighty-three patients achieved union of all involved joints and 19 patients achieved union of 1 or 2 joints. Smokers demonstrated a 1.46 (risk ratio) (95% CI 1.03-2.07) times greater risk of nonunion but were not at an increased risk of experiencing surgical complications (0.86, 95% CI 0.56-1.33). Diabetic patients did not demonstrate an increased risk of nonunion (0.86, 95% CI 0.56-1.33) or complications (1.18, 95% CI 0.76-1.83). Conclusion: Because of increased nonunion risk, patients undergoing elective tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis should be counseled increased nonunion risks associated with smoking. In this series, we did not find a relationship between diabetes and complications or nonunion. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Operative Orthopädie und Traumatologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article highlights patient, radiographic, and surgical risk factors for the development of posttraumatic arthritis after acetabular fractures. Surgical treatment options including acute and staged total hip arthroplasty as well as outcomes after arthroplasty for fracture management are addressed., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Despite appropriate care, a subset of patients with ankle fractures has persistent pain. This condition may be associated with intra-articular pathology, which is present up to 65% of the time. Purpose: To quantify how much of the talus is visible through an open approach to a standard supination external rotation bimalleolar ankle fracture as a percentage of the entire weightbearing surface of the talus. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: Standard ankle approaches to lateral and medial malleolar fractures were performed in 4 cadaveric ankles from 2 cadavers. Osteotomies were made to simulate a supination external rotation bimalleolar ankle fracture based on the Lauge-Hansen classification. The visible segments of talar cartilage were removed. The tali were then exhumed, and the entire weightbearing superior portion of the talus was assessed and compared with the amount of cartilage removed by an open approach. The mean of the data points as well as the 95% confidence interval were calculated. Results: Four ankle specimens from 2 cadavers were used for these measurements. The mean surface area of the talus was 14.0 cm2 (95% CI, 13.3-14.7 cm2), while the mean area visible via an open approach was 2.1 cm2 (95% CI, 0.5-3.6 cm2). The mean proportion of the talus visualized via an open approach was 14.8% (95% CI, 3.6-26.1%). Conclusion: These findings indicate that the true area of weightbearing talar surface visible during an open exposure may be less than what many surgeons postulate. Clinical Relevance: Only a small fracture of the talus is visible via an open approach to the talus during fracture fixation. This could warrant arthroscopic evaluation of these injuries to evaluate and treat osteocondral lesions resulting from ankle fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supination-adduction (SAD) type II ankle fractures can have medial tibial plafond and talar body impaction. Factors associated with the development of posttraumatic arthritis can be intrinsic to the injury pattern or mitigated by the surgeon. We hypothesize that plafond malreducton and talar body impaction is associated with early posttraumatic arthrosis. Methods: A retrospective cohort of skeletally mature patients with SAD ankle fractures at 2 level 1 academic trauma centers who underwent operative fixation were identified. Patients with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were included. The presence of articular impaction identified on CT scan was recorded and the quality of reduction on final intraoperative radiographs was assessed. The primary outcome was radiographic ankle arthrosis (Kellgren-Lawrence 3 or 4), and postoperative complications were documented. Results: A total of 175 SAD ankle fractures were identified during a 10-year period; 79 patients with 1-year follow-up met inclusion criteria. The majority of injuries resulted from a high-energy mechanism. Articular impaction was present in 73% of injuries, and 23% of all patients had radiographic arthrosis (Kellgren-Lawrence 3 or 4) at final follow-up. Articular malreduction, defined by either a gap or step >2 mm, was significantly associated with development of arthrosis. Early treatment failure, infection, and nonunion was rare in this series. Conclusion: Malreduction of articular impaction in SAD ankle fractures is associated with early posttraumatic arthrosis. Recognition and anatomic restoration with stable fixation of articular impaction appears to mitigate risk of posttraumatic arthrosis. Investigations correlating postoperative and long-term radiographic findings to patient-reported outcomes after operative treatment of SAD ankle fractures are warranted. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inflammatory response to joint injury, specifically intra‐articular fracture, has been implicated in posttraumatic arthritis development. However, the role of T cells in regulating the development of posttraumatic arthritis is unclear. We hypothesized that the absence of T cells would lead to less severe posttraumatic arthritis following intra‐articular fracture. T cell‐deficient, athymic nude, and wild‐type C57BL/6NJ mice were assessed at 8 weeks following closed articular fracture. Joints were assessed using histologic scores of arthritis, synovitis, and bone morphology via micro computed tomography. Cells were profiled in whole blood via flow cytometry, and plasma and synovial fluid derived cytokines were quantified by multiplex analysis. Compared to C57BL/6NJ mice, nude mice had significantly greater histologic evidence of arthritis and synovitis. Whole blood immune cell profiling revealed a lower percentage of dendritic cells but increased natural killer (NK) cells in nude mice. Concurrently, nude mice had significantly higher levels of NK cells in synovial tissue. Concentrations of plasma interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor α, and synovial fluid IL‐12, IL‐17, and IL‐6 in both knees were greater in nude mice. Outcomes of this study suggest that T cells may play a protective regulatory role against the development of posttraumatic arthritis. Clinical significance: Lack of functional T cells exacerbated the development of posttraumatic arthritis following intra‐articular fracture suggesting that critical regulators of the immune responses, contained within the T cell population, are required for protection. Future research identifying the specific T cell subsets responsible for modulating disease immunopathogenesis will lead to new therapeutic targets to mitigate posttraumatic arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Failed femoral neck fracture (FNF) fixation with in situ pinning presents a surgical challenge. Osteoporotic bone, retained hardware, and a typically elderly population magnify the risks of surgery. Here, outcomes of conversion total hip arthroplasty (THA) using two separate incisions in these high-risk patients were examined. Materials and Methods: Medical records for 42 patients with a prior history of FNF fixation who underwent conversion THA with hardware removal between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Surgery was performed by a single surgeon at a single institution. All patients underwent hardware removal followed by direct anterior approach (DAA) THA using two separate incisions. Clinical outcomes, radiographic findings, and perioperative morbidity and mortality are reported. Results: Clinically, there were no postoperative dislocations, periprosthetic fractures, or infections at follow-up. After a mean follow-up of 4 years, the mean hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score, junior (HOOS, Jr) was 91. Radiographically, the mean postoperative cup abduction was 44 degrees and the mean cup anteversion was 21 degrees with an improvement in preoperative leg length discrepancy. Perioperative complications included one case of immediate foot drop and two readmissions for medical issues. One patient died one month after conversion THA. Conclusion: Salvage of failed FNF treatment may be managed with conversion THA and DAA with a separate incision for hardware removal. Preservation of posterior soft tissues using a DAA and intraoperative fluoroscopy may mitigate well-known complications related to fracture and dislocation. While favorable clinical outcomes are possible, salvage surgery is still not without substantial surgical and medical risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Evaluation of the internal biomechanics of the foot-and-ankle complex is challenging for the prescription of orthosis particularly for midfoot arthritis patients in which the joint condition is crucial. Methods: Using computational modeling and design optimization techniques, the objective of this study was to compare the biomechanical functions among different combinations of design factors using computer simulation. A finite element foot model was reconstructed from a midfoot arthritis patient. Orthotic designs with 3 levels for each of the 3 design factors (arch height, lateral wedge angle, and insole stiffness) contributed to 9 configurations using a fractional factorial design were tested. Results: An increase in peak plantar stress of the midfoot was facilitated by a medium arch height and wedge angle, and stiffest insole material, notwithstanding the combination neither reduced the peak plantar stress of other foot regions nor was consistent with the combination that minimized the stress of the articular cartilage. Conclusions: Insole with high arch (H = 30 mm), low stiffness (E = 1.0 MPa), and medium wedge angle (A = 5°) could minimize the stress of the cartilage at the arthritic joint (primary outcome) and could be beneficial to the patients. Also, insole stiffness predominantly influenced cartilage stress. However, secondary outcomes including the stress of the navicular and medial cuneiform and the regional plantar stress did not produce the same solution. Future studies can consider a patient-specific loading profile to further the investigation on the stabilizing effect and the attenuation of load transfer induced by the insole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature has previously criticized lateral column arthrodesis, stating this procedure should be avoided to preserve biomechanical function. For patients with recurrent pain secondary to posttraumatic degenerative joint disease (PT-DJD) or dysfunction secondary to Charcot tarsometatarsal collapse, however, this procedure could provide a positive alternative to conservative measures. In our study, 37 patients underwent fourth and/or fifth metatarsal to cuboid arthrodesis, either in isolation or in combination with other tarsometatarsal arthrodeses, with an average follow-up of 27.7 ± 28.5 months. Of the 37 patients, 4 (10.8%) had purely isolated lateral column arthrodesis procedures, and 33 (89.2%) had additional fusions. Twenty patients (54.0%) were in the Charcot neuroarthropathy cohort and 17 (45.9%) in PT-DJD. Radiographs were reviewed to confirm osseous union and measure the lateral column position in both sagittal and transverse planes, using radiographic angles to measure angular correction in the transverse and sagittal planes. Postoperative patient satisfaction outcome measures were obtained via written survey, and 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS) was scored pre- and postoperatively. There was a statistically significant reduction in pain postoperatively (p <.001) and an 89% patient satisfaction rate. The incidence of revision for osseous nonunion was 10.8%. Our study shows that lateral column arthrodesis, either in isolation or combination, provides significant pain relief, high patient satisfaction, and a low incidence of revision per previous literature. This challenges past evidence-based medicine regarding lateral column fusions. The surgical procedures completed in this study suggest reproducible results with a low revision rates and high patient satisfaction for lateral column arthrodesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a challenging option for the treatment of posttraumatic arthritis due to acetabular fractures.Methods: The study aimed to determine the short- and mid-term clinical and radiographic results of THA following acetabular fracture. The fracture pattern, the extent of injury and the initial fracture treatment were considered to evaluate the influence of these factors on the clinical-radiographic outcome.Results: 67 patients who received THA for the treatment of posttraumatic osteoarthritis after acetabular fracture between January 2007 and December 2012 were analyzed consecutively. The group consisted of 13 female (19%) and 54 male (81%) patients with a mean age of 59 (25-87) years at the time of THA. The time between acetabular injury and arthroplasty was 107 (1-504) months on average. The all-cause 8-year survival rate was 0.87% (0.76-0.93) and there were 8 revisions, half of them were due to aseptic loosening of the cup. The Harris Hip Score achieved was 75.7 ± 21.3 (26.9-100) points. Prior to THA, heterotopic ossifications were detected in 28% and after THA implantation in 42%.Conclusion: The decrease of the interval between injury and arthroplasty was associated with increasing patient age (p = 0.001) and surgical treatment of the acetabular fracture (p = 0.04). Complex fracture patterns were accompanied by acetabular bone defects more often than simple patterns (p = 0.03). Overall, arthroplasty due to posttraumatic osteoarthritis after acetabular fracture resulted in decreased overall survival rates and poorer clinical outcome as compared to primary arthroplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Posttraumatic arthritis of tibiotalar joints after AO/OTA type C3 pilon fractures, especially in young patients with a significant osteochondral defect in the tibial plafond joint surface, is a challenging situation. We report a joint-preserving technique using autologous osteochondral graft in combination with ankle distraction and supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT), if necessary, to improve its outcome. Methods: Seventeen patients with an average age of 32.1 years with Takakura grade 1 to 3A posttraumatic arthritis of the tibiotalar joint after AO/OTA type C3 pilon fractures received osteochondral autograft transplantation, ankle distraction, and SMOT, when supramalleolar malalignment was present, between February 2010 and November 2015. The visual analog scale (VAS), Short-Form 36 (SF-36) score, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and ankle range of motion were used for outcome analysis. Radiographic assessment of any SMOT and the apparent joint space was performed. Fourteen patients were followed for an average of 18 months. Results: The VAS, SF-36, and AOFAS scores as well as the ankle range of motion all improved significantly at the last follow-up after the surgery (P <.01). No deep surgical site infection, donor site complication, nonunion, osteochondral block loosening, or resorption was noted. No secondary arthrodesis was needed at the end of follow-up. Conclusion: Autologous osteochondral graft transplantation in combination with ankle distraction and SMOT was a promising joint-preserving technique for early posttraumatic arthritis of tibiotalar joint after severe pilon fractures in young patients. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is common teaching that treatment of index finger alone is a relative contraindication for arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ). However, limited data exist reporting the digit-specific complication of PIPJ arthroplasty for the treatment of osteoarthritis or posttraumatic arthritis. The purpose of this article is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to assess whether the 3 ulnar digits may bear a similar instability and complication profile. Methods: Systematic searches of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane computerized literature databases were performed for PIPJ arthroplasty specifying by digit. We reviewed both descriptive and quantitative data to: (1) report aggregate instability and instability-related complications after non-index digit PIPJ arthroplasty; and (2) perform statistical testing to assess relative rates by digit and compared with index digits. Results: Computerized search generated 385 original articles. Five studies reporting digit-specific instability-related outcomes of silicone, pyrocarbon, or metal surface arthroplasty on 177 digits were included in the review. Meta-analysis demonstrated a 29% instability rate for long digits (n = 65), 6% for ring digits (n = 53), and 6% for small digits (n = 17), compared with 33% for index digits (n = 42). There was no difference in the overall deformity, instability, and complication rates of long versus index fingers (P =.65). Conclusions: Instability-related deformity and complication rates of long finger PIPJ arthroplasty may not be different from that of the index finger. Treatment of the long finger may be a relative contraindication to PIPJ arthroplasty. Future biomechanical and clinical studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fractures of the acetabulum are challenging and very difficult to treat, and even after fixation, they can lead to posttraumatic arthritis. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been the most common surgery performed for the complications of posttraumatic arthritis in this group of patients. Aim: In this article, it is aimed to assess the functional results and complications of the conversion to THA for posttraumatic arthritis after acetabular fracture. Patients and methods: Forty-nine patients were followed up for a mean of 3.7 years (range 2–5 years). The complications included four cases of sciatic nerve palsy, all of which had injury during the first operation. Two cases underwent two-stage surgery because of infection which was demonstrated by a high level of erythrocyte sedimentation rate/C-reactive protein and according to frozen section samples, which were sent intraoperatively with >10 neutrophil/high-power field; one case was then managed by a one-stage protocol for infection after THA was infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In 1 case, we used the Girdlestone operation for severe infections and uncontrolled diabetes; in 2 cases, we used cages; and in 47 cases, we used uncemented cups. Results: The mean of modified Hip Harris Score improved from 47 (31–66) before the conversion to 89 (79–95) at the final follow-up. The pain component of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities also increased from an average of 15 (7–20) to 4 (0–11) at the final follow-up. No dislocation, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary thromboembolism, new nerve injury, and heterotopic ossification occurred. Conclusion: The conversion to THA after posttraumatic arthritis in acetabular fracture can lead to reasonable pain relief and functional improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Outcomes of non-osteoporotic patients who sustained a distal radius fracture (DRF) have not gained much attention in recent literature. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of posttraumatic arthritis (PA), to analyze associations of radiological measurements, clinician-reported and patient-reported outcomes (CROs and PROs) with PA and gain insight into employment changes after DRF in non-osteoporotic patients.Methods: Non-osteoporotic patients following a DRF were selected. Radiographs of both wrists were obtained at follow-up and the degree of PA was determined. Radiological measurements consisted of grading of PA, ulnar variance, radial length, radial inclination, dorsal tilt, distal radio-ulnar joint width, scapholunate dissociation, step-off and gap. Active range of motion and grip strength measurements were performed and all patients filled in four questionnaires to assess pain, upper extremity functioning, and health status (Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand; Patient Reported Wrist Evaluation; Michigan Hand Questionnaire; Short Form-36).Results: Seventy-three patients (32 women, 41 men) with a mean age of 33.5 (SD 9.2) years were included. Prevalence of PA was 32% at a median follow-up of 62.0 months. Patients with PA had statistically significant longer radial length (1.1 mm, 95% CI - 2.1; - 0.0, p = 0.045). Patients with PA had a statistically significant diminished flexion/extension arc of motion (12.0°, p = 0.008) and ulnar/radial deviation arc of motion (6.3°, p = 0.018). When corrected for dominance, all grip strength measurements were not statistically significantly different between patients with and without PA. Statistically significant poorer PROs in patients with PA were the MHQ subscales general functioning (65 versus 75, p = 0.018), esthetics (94 versus 100, p = 0.037), satisfaction (75 versus 92, p = 0.042) and total score of the MHQ (83 versus 91, p = 0.044), as well as the SF-36 subscale physical functioning (95 versus 100, p = 0.028). In regression analyses the DASH, PRWE function and PRWE total were statistically significantly associated with flexion/extension arc of motion. Seven patients (10%) changed or left their occupation because of the DRF.Conclusion: Non-osteoporotic patients had a considerably high prevalence of PA following DRFs, despite a relatively short follow-up time. Patients with longer radial length more often had PA. Irrespective of AO/OTA fracture type, patients with PA had diminished range of motion, but no altered grip strength measurements. Non-osteoporotic patients following DRFs perceived diminished general functioning and dissatisfaction, which was impacted by the diminished active range of motion. Pain or impaired general health status was not reported. The PRO MHQ might be a valuable evaluation tool in this patient group. Change of occupation following DRFs should receive attention in further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subtalar arthrodesis is a common salvage operation for posttraumatic subtalar arthritis. This study aimed to identify factors associated with functional outcomes and quality of life after subtalar fusion for posttraumatic subtalar arthritis after calcaneal fracture. Methods: This is a retrospective study with follow-up by questionnaire in two level 1 trauma centers. Patients who underwent subtalar arthrodesis for posttraumatic arthritis after a calcaneal fracture between 2001 and 2016 were identified and contacted for completion of a survey consisting of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Maryland Foot Score (MFS), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement System Physical Function (PROMIS PF, Short Form 10a) questionnaire, EuroQol 5-dimensional (EQ-5D) questionnaire, and EuroQol visual analog scale (EQ-VAS). Exclusion criteria were initial subtalar arthrodesis at an outside facility, primary arthrodesis for fracture, initial arthrodesis earlier than 2001, amputation of the fused foot or leg, younger than 18 years at time of fusion, and inability to communicate in English. A total of 159 patients met our inclusion criteria. Eighty-four patients completed the questionnaires, resulting in a response rate of 59%. Results: Median FAAM score was 79 (interquartile range [IQR], 48-90), median MFS was 74 (IQR, 56-86), and median PROMIS PF was 45 (IQR, 38-51). Quality of life was significantly lower when compared to a reference population (P = .001). Smoking was independently associated with worse outcomes. Complications after fusion (such as nonunion, implant failure, and infectious complications), high-energy trauma, and ipsilateral injury were also predictors for poorer outcomes. Conclusion: Acceptable functional outcomes and quality of life were observed after subtalar fusion. Smoking, complications after subtalar fusion, high-energy trauma, and presence of ipsilateral injuries were independently associated with worse functionality and quality of life. Level of Evidence: Prognostic level III, comparative series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Posttraumatic arthritis (PTA) may develop years after acetabular fracture, hindering joint function and causing significant chronic musculoskeletal pain. Given the delayed onset of PTA, few studies have assessed outcomes of delayed total hip arthroplasty (THA) in acetabular fracture patients. This study systematically reviewed the literature for outcomes of THA in patients with PTA and prior acetabular fracture.Methods: Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane library were searched for articles containing the keywords "acetabular", "fracture", "arthroplasty", and "post traumatic arthritis" published between 1995 and August 2017. Studies with less than 10 patients, less than 2 years of follow-up, conference abstracts, and non-English language articles were excluded. Data on patient demographics, surgical characteristics, and outcomes of delayed THA, including implant survival, complications, need for revision, and functional scores, was collected from eligible studies.Results: With 1830 studies were screened and data from 10 studies with 448 patients were included in this review. The median patient age on date of THA was 51.5 years, ranging from 19 to 90 years. The median time from fracture to THA was 37 months, with a range of 27-74 months. Mean follow-up times ranged from 4 to 20 years. The mean Harris hip scores (HHS) improved from 41.5 pre-operatively, to 87.6 post-operatively. The most prevalent postoperative complications were heterotopic ossification (28%-63%), implant loosening (1%-24%), and infection (0%-16%). The minimum 5-year survival of implants ranged from 70% to 100%. Revision rates ranged from 2% to 32%.Conclusion: Despite the difficulties associated with performing THA in patients with PTA from previous acetabular fracture (including soft tissue scarring, existing hardware, and acetabular bone loss) and the relatively high complication rates, THA in patients with PTA following prior acetabular fracture leads to significant improvement in pain and function at 10-year follow-up. Further high quality randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm the outcomes after delayed THA in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Española de Cirugía Ortopédica y Traumatologia (English Edition) is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: The objective of this systematic review was to analyze (1) prevalence of radiological posttraumatic arthritis (PA), (2) associations of PA with outcome measures and (3) predictors of PA following distal radius fractures in non-osteoporotic patients.Materials and Methods: Nineteen studies were included (10 open source data).Results: In total, 733 patients were described with a weighted mean age of 37 years (range 25-54) at the time of the injury. Follow-up ranged from 13 months to 38 years. Overall prevalence of PA was 50% and 37% in the open source data. Radial deviation was significantly worse in patients with PA (N = 49, mean 14°, SD 6° versus N = 55, mean 17°, SD 6°, p = 0.037). No analysis could be performed regarding patient reported outcome measures, because of limited data. Articular incongruence was a significant predictor for PA.Conclusions: A high prevalence of PA was found in non-osteoporotic patients following a distal radius fracture. PA following a distal radial fracture was associated with a limited radial deviation and flexion, but not with grip strength. Articular incongruence predicted PA. Patient reported outcome measures should be investigated more thoroughly to be able to understand the value of using these instruments in interpreting outcome in follow-up of non-osteoporotic patients following a distal radius fracture.Level Of Evidence: Level of evidence 3 (Phillips et al. Levels of Evidence-Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, 1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The demographic development and the increase of accidental trauma of the knee during recreational activities in young people are reflected in the continuously increasing number of implantations of knee endoprostheses due to secondary posttraumatic arthritis of the knee. Material and methods: This article describes the principal problems that can occur during endoprosthetic knee replacement in patients after trauma and their solutions. The fundamental aspects of operative techniques and choice of suitable implants are presented and prognostic factors are discussed. Results and discussion: The choice of a suitable implant and especially the use of constrained, semiconstrained or unconstrained implants is dependent on existing ligamentous damage, bony defects and structural alignment due to deformities. Selection of the surgical approach has to be considered to minimize the risk of soft tissue necrosis. Simultaneous local or vascularized flap surgery is sometimes necessary. Additional surgical steps due to residual damage to the extensor mechanism of the knee as well as malalignment of the lower leg have to be planned preoperatively. Conclusion: Endoprosthetic reconstruction of the knee joint due to posttraumatic arthritis is challenging. Apart from the wide range of implants, ranging from unicompartmental arthroplasty to modular tumor prosthetic systems, additional surgical steps, such as osteotomy and reconstruction of the extensor mechanism including interdisciplinary flap surgery have to be taken into account. The results of functional outcome and implant survival are basically dependent on the preoperative status but are generally poorer in comparison to arthroplasty of primary osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Subtalar arthrodesis is a common salvage operation for posttraumatic subtalar arthritis, a condition frequently seen in patients who suffered major trauma. Functional outcomes in trauma patients may be influenced by concomitant injuries and the severity of the initial trauma. The aim of this study was to evaluate quality of life and functional outcomes of subtalar arthrodesis for posttraumatic arthritis in patients with severe or complex foot injuries.Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective single center study with prospective follow-up. Patients who underwent subtalar arthrodesis for posttraumatic arthritis between 2000 and 2016 were included and invited to complete a Maryland Foot Score (MFS), a EuroQol five-dimensional (EQ-5D™) and Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS™) questionnaire, and four additional questions.Results: Forty patients were included in the study, functional outcome scores were available for 30 patients (response rate 75%). Additional surgery of the fused foot was performed in 29 patients and 15 suffered multiple lower extremity injuries. Six patients were polytraumatized. Ninety percent of all patients would recommend the procedure to others, walking abilities improved in 69% and less pain was experienced in 76%. Median MFS score was 61 (IQR 53-72). Quality of life was significantly lower when compared to a reference population (p<0.001).Conclusion: Satisfaction was high, as 90% of all patients would recommend subtalar fusion to others, even though the relatively poor outcome measures would suggest differently. Existing functional outcomes measures were influenced by concomitant injuries and additional procedures. This demands development of instruments suitable for severely injured patients with multiple or complex injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Compare outcomes of acute versus delayed total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) following distal humerus fractures (DHF)., Methods: This retrospective study included 39 patients who underwent primary TEA with semiconstrained implants for DHF, either within 4 weeks of their injury or after failing initial open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or nonsurgical management, between June 1, 2003 and February 1, 2018 with minimum 1-year follow-up. Our outcome measures included Quick DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score, complications, reoperations, and range of motion (ROM). Demographics, clinical variables, and outcomes were compared using the Student's t -test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Fisher's exact test as appropriate. Kaplan-Meier curves for mortality, implant survivorship, and reoperation were created., Results: Our patients were categorized into acute TEA (n = 22), ORIF to TEA (n = 10), and nonsurgical to TEA (n = 7) treatment groups. Additional analysis was performed comparing acute to delayed TEA, which combined data from failed ORIF and nonsurgical cohorts. The median follow-up, average age, and median Charlson comorbility index were similar between groups. The most common fracture pattern was AO13C. At median follow-up of 5.8 years, Quick DASH differed between cohorts: mean of 31 (SD 19) in acute TEA and 52 (SD 27) in delayed TEA, which further subdivided to 44.2 (SD 25) in failed ORIF and 76 (SD 23) in failed nonsurgical management. Poorer Quick DASH scores at final follow-up were associated with delayed TEA, initial nonsurgical management, and depression. Surgical complications were associated with delayed TEA. Higher Charlson comorbidity index was associated with death. No variables were associated significantly with ROM, revision, or reoperation., Conclusion: Comminuted DHFs are difficult to treat in the elderly with high rates of complication and poor function after surgery. Our study suggests TEA performed acutely result in satisfactory outcomes and should be a consideration for patients at high risk of failing ORIF or nonsurgical management., Type of Study/level of Evidence: Therapeutic, III., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Background: The goal of this study was to compare results with arthroscopic posterior subtalar arthrodesis between patients treated for adult-acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) due to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and patients with posttraumatic subtalar arthritis. Methods: Retrospective case series of 61 consecutive patients (group 1: posttraumatic arthritis, n = 37; group 2: AAFD, n = 24) averaging 49 years of age (range, 21-72 years) undergoing posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis via 1 or 2 percutaneous 6.5- to 7.3-mm screws, with a mean follow-up of 57.5 months (range, 24-105 months). Fusion was defined as the appearance of bony trabeculae across the subtalar joint on standard x-rays, along with clinical signs of union. Results: Patients with posttraumatic arthritis (group 1) were more predominantly male and younger than patients treated for AAFD (group 2). Overall, we achieved a 95.1% radiologic union rate after an average of 11.7 weeks. Complications appeared in 14.8% of patients. Union rate and complications did not differ significantly between groups. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores improved significantly for both patient groups, although patients with AAFD showed significantly larger improvement and higher postoperative AOFAS scores, even after adjusting for age and sex (mean improvement in AOFAS scores: 27.0 ± 9.1 points for the posttraumatic arthritis group vs 34.9 ± 7.4 points for the AAFD group; P < .001). Conclusions: Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis was a safe and reliable technique, with consistent improvement in AOFAS scores throughout different patient subgroups, as well as comparable time to union and complication rates. Improvements were larger for patients treated for AAFD, even after adjusting for age and sex. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]