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Historically musculoskeletal injury has substantially affected United States (US) service members. Lumbosacral spine injuries are among the most common sites of injury for service members across all US military branches and usually presents with pain in the lower back and extremities. The aim of this study is to identify and describe the 50 most-cited articles relevant to military medicine on the subject of the spine. In April 2020 Web of Science was used to search the key words: spinal cord injury, spine, thoracic spine, lumbar spine, cervical spine, sacrum, sacral, cervical fusion, lumbar fusion, sacral fracture, combat, back pain, neck pain, and military. Articles published from 1900 to 2020 were evaluated for relevance to military spine orthopaedics and ranked based on citation number. The 50 most-cited articles were characterized based on country of origin, journal of publication, affiliated institution, topic, military branch, and conflict. 1900 articles met search criteria. The 50 most-cited articles were cited 24 to 119 times and published between 1993 and 2017. 30 articles (60%) originated in the United States. Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine accounted for the most frequent (n = 10) destination journal followed by Spine (n = 8). 37 institutions contributed to the top 50 most-cited articles. The most common article type was clinically focused retrospective analysis 36% (n = 18), clinically focused cohort study 10% (n = 5), and clinically focused cohort questionnaire, cross-sectional analysis, and randomized study 8% each (n = 4). 90% of articles were non-surgical (n = 45). The US Army had the greatest number of associated articles. Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom were the most-cited conflicts. The 50 most-cited articles relevant to military spine orthopaedics are predominantly clinically focused, arising from the US, and published in Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine , Spine , and The Spine Journal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sacral fatigue fractures are a rare injury but should be considered as a differential diagnosis for low back and buttock pain in young adults. Collective reports are limited, most of which have focused on long-distance runners. Purpose: To investigate the characteristics of sacral fatigue fractures in adolescents. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We analyzed patient background characteristics, physical examination and imaging findings, and treatment courses of those diagnosed with sacral fatigue fractures using magnetic resonance imaging. Results: Among 34 patients with sacral fatigue fractures, 15 and 19 were male and female patients, respectively, with an age range of 11 to 19 years (mean age, 15.0 years). Almost all patients were athletes, and 29 patients performed their sport ≥5 times a week. Long-distance runners were the most commonly affected, comprising 7 patients, and participants in other common sports such as baseball (6 patients), basketball (4 patients), and soccer (3 patients) were also affected. Physical examination revealed tension sign (Lasègue test) on the affected side in 6 patients and tight hamstrings in 24 patients. Imaging findings included 18 patients with right-side involvement, 12 with left-side involvement, and 4 with involvement on both sides. In 11 patients, spina bifida occulta was observed at S1 and 8 patients had a history of lumbar spondylolysis with 4 patients having concurrent sacral fatigue fractures. Physical therapy was performed concurrently with the cessation of exercise, and return to exercise was permitted if the pain had been relieved after 1 month. All patients returned to sports at a median of 48 days (range, 20-226 days) after symptom onset. However, 2 patients experienced recurrence (1 patient on the ipsilateral side and 1 patient on the contralateral side). Conclusion: Sacral stress fractures are not limited to long-distance runners in this population and can manifest as lower back pain or buttock pain in athletes participating in a variety of sports. Although the course of treatment was generally good, the possibility of recurrence must always be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the level of agreement between the SEM 200 and Provisio® subepidermal moisture sacral delta measurements, which may indicate increased pressure injury risk, in healthy adults during 120 min of prolonged 60° head of bed elevation. This position, which requires the elevation of the patient's upper body at a 60° angle above the horizontal plane for an extended period, is used by clinicians to prevent or manage a patient's medical or surgical conditions. Design: This prospective exploratory study recruited 20 healthy adults during October 2021 and collected sacral subepidermal moisture delta measurements using the SEM 200 and Provisio® devices. Methods: Delta measurements were taken at 20‐min intervals over 120 min resulting in seven data collection timepoints. Descriptive statistics and a Bland Altman plot analysis were conducted. Results: A total of 280 sacral subepidermal moisture delta measurements were gathered or 140 per device. There were good levels of agreement between the two devices at baseline (T0) [mean 0.025; SD 0.137] and following 60‐ (T3) [mean 0.025; SD 0.111], 80‐ (T4) [mean −0.01; SD 0.177] and 100 min (T5) [mean 0.01; SD 0.129] of prolonged 60° head of bed elevation. Head of bed elevations can increase a patient's risk of sacral pressure injuries. In some countries, nurses have access to the SEM 200 and/or the Provisio® device, so our findings may increase nurses' confidence in the interchangeability of the device measurements, although further research is needed to confirm this. The SEM 200 and Provisio® subepidermal moisture scanners show promise in gathering similar objective pressure injury risk data which could prompt clinicians to implement prevention strategies. Impact: Current pressure injury risk assessment is largely subjective in nature. This quantitative study on healthy human sacral tissue found a good level of agreement in the SEM 200 and Provisio® subepidermal moisture scanners, which may increase nurses' confidence in the interchangeability of the devices in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: As reduced tissue vascularity is one of the mechanisms that prevent skin ulcers from healing, treatments that can improve local circulation could accelerate their clinical resolution. Given that kinesio-taping (KT) can improve tissue blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, we aimed to determine whether applying KT close to stage IV pressure ulcers (PUs) could improve their healing. Method: Older patients with stage IV sacral PUs, and impaired mobility and functional dependency who were consecutively admitted in a six-month period to the Home Care service of Galliera Hospital (Genoa, Italy) were screened for participation in this pilot clinical trial. Patients' PUs were divided into two treatment areas—in the experimental intervention, KT was applied close to a portion of the PU, while the contralateral portion of the same lesion was treated according to the standard protocol ('control'). The surface reduction of both portions was measured every four days, for a total of five examinations (timepoints (T2–T6) after the baseline evaluation (T1). Results: A total of 12 patients (male=5, female=7; mean age 78.83±8.94 years) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. At all timepoints (T2–T6), the mean percentage reduction was significantly greater in KT-treated areas than in control areas: T2=20.66% versus 6.17%, respectively; p<0.001; T3=37.33% versus 17.31%, respectively; p<0.001; T4=57.01% versus 30.06%, respectively; p<0.001; T5=69.04% versus 40.55%, respectively; p<0.001; and T6=80.34% versus 51.91%, respectively; p<0.001. Furthermore, from T3 onwards, a significantly higher number of KT-treated areas than control areas had halved in size, the maximum difference being recorded at T5 (10 versus two, respectively; p=0.002). Conclusion: From the findings of this pilot study, KT would seem to be an effective, rapid, low-cost therapy for advanced sacral PUs in older patients with impaired mobility and functional dependency. Declaration of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of local oxygen therapy combined with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) on the healing of stage IV pressure ulcers sacrococcygeal. In this prospective study, we included a total of 98 patients with stage IV sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers in our hospital between February 2021 and June 2022. The patients enrolled were randomly and equally divided into two groups: the study group (undergoing local oxygen therapy combined with VSD treatment) and the control group (receiving conventional treatment). The wound healing time and hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Additionally, the wound area, tissue type, wound exudation and pain intensity were assessed before treatment, 10, 20, 30 and 40 days after treatment. The incidence of complications was also calculated. The study group demonstrated significantly shorter wound healing time and hospital stays compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Before treatment, there were no significant differences in terms of wound area, tissue type and wound exudation between the two groups (p > 0.05); after 10, 20, 30 and 40 days of treatment, however, evidently smaller wound areas, improved tissue types and reduced wound exudation were observed in the study group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the study group exhibited increased microvascular count compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Before treatment, there was no significant difference in pain intensity between the two groups (p > 0.05), whereas markedly lower pain intensity was seen in the study group than in the control group after 10, 20, 30 and 40 days of treatment (p < 0.05). The incidence of complications did not significantly differ between the two groups after 40 days of treatment (p > 0.05). Local oxygen therapy combined with VSD was found to effectively accelerate the healing process of stage IV sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers, leading to shorter hospital stays and improved patient prognosis. This combined therapy shows promise for widespread application in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Head of bed elevation is used to manage some medical and surgical conditions however this may increase a patient's risk of sacral pressure injuries. Novel point‐of‐care technologies that measure subepidermal moisture can identify changes in localised subepidermal oedema and potential pressure injury risk. This prospective exploratory study investigated variations in sacral subepidermal oedema in healthy adults during 120‐min of 60° head of bed elevation. Sacral subepidermal oedema was measured at 20‐min intervals using the Provisio® subepidermal moisture scanner. Descriptive analysis, one‐way repeated measures analysis of variance and an independent t‐test were conducted. Slightly more male volunteers (n = 11; 55%) were recruited and the sample mean age was 39.3 years (SD 14.7) with an average body mass index of 25.8 (SD 4.3). Little variation in the mean sacral subepidermal moisture of healthy adults was observed. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean sacral subepidermal moisture measurements between males and females (Mean difference 0.18; 95% confidence intervals: 0.02 to 0.35; P =.03). Healthy adults can tolerate prolonged 60° head of bed elevation without developing increased subepidermal sacral oedema. This warrants further investigation in other populations, in various positions and over different time periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Pelvic fragility fractures have steadily risen over the past decades. The primary treatment goal is the fastest possible mobilisation. If conservative therapy fails, surgical fixation is a promising approach. This study compares the outcome of bisegmental transsacral stabilisation (BTS) and spinopelvic fixation (SP) as minimally invasive techniques for bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum (BFFS). Methods: We performed a prospective, non-randomised, case-controlled study. Patients were included if they remained bedridden due to pain despite conservative treatment. Group assignment depended on sacral anatomy and fracture type. The outcome was estimated by blood loss calculation, cut-seam time, fluoroscopy time, complications, duration of stay at the intensive/intermediate care unit (ICU/IMC), and total inpatient stay. The mobility level at discharge was recorded. Results: Seventy-three patients were included (SP: 49, BTS: 24). There was no difference in blood loss (BTS: 461 ± 628 mL, SP: 509 ± 354 mL). BTS showed a significantly lower cut-seam time (72 ± 23 min) than SP (94 ± 27 min). Fluoroscopy time did not differ (BTS: 111 ± 61 s vs. 103 ± 45 s). Thirteen percent of BTS and 16% of SP patients required ICU/IMC stay (BTS: 0.6 ± 1.8 days, SP: 0.5 ± 1.5 days) during inpatient stay (BTS: 9 ± 4 days, SP: 8 ± 3 days). Fourteen patients suffered from urinary tract infections (BTS: 8%; SP: 25%). In-patient mortality was low (BTS: 4.2%, SP: 4.1%). At discharge, the BTS group was almost back to the initial mobility level. In SP patients, mobility was significantly lower than before complaints (p = 0.004). Conclusion: Both methods allow early mobilization of BFFS patients. Blood loss can be kept low. Hence, transfusion requirement is correspondingly low. The IMC/ICU and the total inpatient stay are lower than reported in the literature. Both BTS and SP can be recommended as safe and low-complication methods for use in BFFS patients. BTS is superior to SP with respect to surgery duration and level of mobility at discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sacral stress fractures are a rare cause of low back pain in athletes. Given the low incidence of these fractures, there is a scarcity of data on symptomatology, risk factors, and clinical outcomes., Hypothesis: Patients diagnosed with sacral stress fractures would be athletes presenting with low back pain., Study Design: Case series of 13 patients with sacral stress fractures., Level of Evidence: Level 4., Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of medical records to identify patients diagnosed with sacral stress fractures at a single academic institution. Fractures were diagnosed on noncontrast T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging scans and categorized using the Bakker classification system. Subjects were administered an electronic survey that asked about (1) the onset, time course, and location of pain and other symptoms; (2) time to treatment and treatment modalities pursued; (3) sports performance and time to return to sport; and (4) risk factors for stress fractures., Results: Of 18 eligible patients, 13 (72.2%) completed the survey with mean follow-up of 49.6 months (range, 1-144 months). Mean age was 28.0 years (range, 18-52 years); 9 patients (69.2%) were female, of whom 7 (77.8%) were premenopausal. The most common fracture type was Bakker type B (8 patients; 61.5%). Most patients presented with acute lumbosacral back pain in the setting of running/jogging activities. All patients underwent nonoperative treatment for an average of 3.8 months (range, 0-8 months) and three-quarters reported pain resolution at last follow-up. Rate of return to sport was 83.3%, but most patients reported ongoing deficits in running performance., Conclusion: Sacral stress fractures commonly present as acute lumbosacral back pain provoked by running sports. While the pain associated with these fractures prevents most athletes from participating in sports, nonoperative management appears to be an effective treatment modality with a high rate of return to sport., Competing Interests: The authors report no potential conflicts of interest in the development and publication of this article.

The surgical reconstruction of sacral soft tissue defects is challenging, and complications are frequent. We report a successful two-stage three-dimensional microsurgical soft tissue reconstruction of a wide and deep sacral defect anastomosing a free combined ALT/TFL/rectus femoris flap to an ipsilateral vena saphena magna arteriovenous loop which was applied primarily. This case shows that complex microsurgical procedures can be promising in this demanding patient population if the indication is correct and the operative/perioperative strategy is clear., Competing Interests: Die Autorinnen/Autoren geben an, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Background: Sacral fractures can cause lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to damage to the cauda equina. While several studies have reported on sacral fractures due to high-energy trauma, those due to fragility fractures have only been reported in case reports and their clinical differences are not well known. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of LUTS caused by fragility sacral fractures and propose a novel treatment strategy., Methods: This study is retrospective, uncontrolled, clinical case series. The inclusion criteria were sole sacral fractures due to low-energy trauma and appearance of LUTS after injury. Patients with additional spinal fractures or combined abdominal or pelvic organ injuries that could cause LUTS were excluded. Improvement in LUTS, period from onset to improvement, and imaging findings were recorded., Results: Eight patients met the inclusion criteria (4 surgical and 4 conservative treatment cases). Six patients showed improvement in LUTS. In surgical cases, the mean period from onset of LUTS to surgery and from onset of LUTS to improvement was 14.5 and 21.5 days, respectively. Intraoperative rupture or laceration of the dural sac was not observed. In 2 conservatively improved cases, the period from onset to improvement of LUTS was 14 and 17 days., Conclusions: LUTS can improve even with conservative treatment and should be utilized as the primary choice. LUTS caused by severe sacral canal deformity and stenosis can be reversible, and the decision to perform surgical treatment is still timely if LUTS do not improve with conservative treatment for several weeks., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Lateral compression type II pelvic ring injuries can be treated with fixation through open or percutaneous approaches depending on the injury pattern and available osseous fixation pathways. The start site of iliosacral screws to stabilize these injuries should be on the unstable posterior iliac fragment; however, our understanding of start sites for iliosacral screws has not been developed. The purpose of this study is to provide an analysis of iliosacral screw start sites on the posterior ilium to help guide treatment of pelvic ring injuries., Methods: One-hundred and seventeen consecutive patients at an academic level I trauma center with pelvic ring injuries who underwent surgical treatment with iliosacral screws were included in the final analysis. The start sites of iliosacral screws with confirmed intraosseous placement on a postoperative computed tomography were mapped on the posterior ilium and analyzed according to the sacral segment and type of iliosacral screw., Results: One-hundred and seventeen patients were included in the final analysis. Of the total of 272 iliosacral screw insertion sites analyzed, 145 (53%) were sacroiliac-style screws and 127 (47%) were transsacral screws. The insertion sites for sacroiliac-style screws and transsacral screws at different sacral segment levels can vary but have predictable regions on the posterior ilium relative to reliable osseous landmarks., Conclusions: Iliosacral screws start sites on the posterior ilium have reliable regions that can be used to plan posterior fixation of pelvic ring injuries., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: Previous reports on the treatment of sacral and ischial pressure injuries have not provided clear algorithms for surgical therapies. The objective of this study was to establish a reconstruction algorithm to guide the selection of an ideal free-style perforator flap that can be tailored to the defect in question., Methods: We used 23 perforator flaps to reconstruct 14 sacral and 8 ischial defects in 22 patients over 5 years. A reconstruction algorithm system was developed based on the anatomical features of the perforator vessels (diameter, D; pulsatility [++∼+++], P) and their position in the skin island (DPD) (ie, D+P+DPD). A perforator-based propeller flap was applied as the first-line choice; if this plan was not feasible, we applied an altered V-Y advancement model or another second-choice technique., Results: All flaps survived, and only 1 patient experienced partial wound dehiscence, which healed by secondary intention. After an average follow-up period of 11.2 months, no patient experienced recurrence or infection., Conclusions: Free-style perforator flap selection is determined by pressure injury and the desired advantage of a specific approach. The use of free-style perforator-based propeller flaps allows a surgeon to transfer healthy tissue into the defect, shifts the suture line away from the bony prominence, and preserves additional future donor sites. In cases where unexpected variations are encountered, the V-Y advancement model or another technique can be used. The simplified surgical algorithm (D+P+DPD) can provide versatility and reliability, achieve a durable, natural esthetic outcome, and minimize injuries to future donor sites., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background : Penetrating injuries to sacrum are rare; only a few reports have been published in literature. We hereby report the first case of low velocity penetrating trauma leading to coccygeal fracture dislocation and exsanguination, without any major abdominal/vascular injury. Case Report : The patient underwent wound packing bedside and hemostatic resuscitation. Wound packing was successful in achieving hemostasis. He stabilized after 1.5 L of fluids, massive hemorrhage protocol institution (12-unit blood components), and vasopressor support. The presentation is unique and not reported in literature published so far. Conclusion : This report is a pertinent example of lifesaving potential of effective wound packing, which is often under-utilized. Possibility of associated neurological injury and residual foreign bodies is there in such cases. They should be duly assessed after stabilizing life-threatening injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pressure injuries in intensive care patients are a safety issue. Specialized foam sacral prophylactic dressings prevent pressure injuries with several products available for clinicians to choose from., Objectives: Assess the feasibility of conducting a multisite trial to test the effectiveness of two dressings versus usual care in preventing sacral pressure injuries in intensive care patients., Methods: Using a three-arm pilot randomized trial design, adult intensive care unit patients at risk for pressure injuries were randomly allocated to the Mepilex® Sacrum dressing, the Allevyn™ Life Sacrum dressing or the control group. Daily pressure injury data were collected including a de-identified sacral photograph, which the blinded outcome assessor used to determine the study end point: a new sacral pressure injury. Pre-determined feasibility criteria were measured in terms of eligibility, recruitment, retention, intervention fidelity and missing data., Results: From May-September 2021, we screened 602 intensive care unit adult patients for eligibility with 93 % (n = 558) excluded. Forty-four (7 %) were eligible, and all were recruited and randomized (100 %). After receipt of the intervention two participants withdrew from the study. Our final sample of 42 participants were randomly allocated to the Mepilex® (n = 12), Allevyn™ (n = 14) or control (n = 16) group. The interventions were delivered as intended and there were 11 (6 %) cases of missing outcome data. Five participants (12 %) developed a sacral pressure injury, four of whom received a sacral dressing., Conclusions: A larger trial is feasible with minor refinement to the length of stay eligibility criterion., Implications for Practice: Prophylactic sacral dressings are recommended for pressure injury prevention. Determining the feasibility of a larger trial to test the effectiveness of two dressings versus usual care in preventing sacral pressure injuries in intensive care patients can provide evidence to aid clinicians, policy makers and managers make value-based care decisions., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Professor Fiona Coyer holds an educational consultancy with Molnlycke Pty Ltd., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Objective: There are limited studies in the literature reporting clinical outcomes of malignant sacrum tumors due to their rarity. The aim of this study was to evaluate mid-term clinical outcomes of malignant sacrum lesions surgically treated by a single surgeon. Materials and Methods: Patients who were surgically treated with the diagnosis of sacrum tumor were retrospectively analyzed. Patients who underwent surgical resection of malignant sacrum tumors were included. Exclusion criteria were incomplete medical records and follow-ups. Patients' demographics, type of the tumor, histopathological diagnosis, presence of neurologic deficit, type of approach, type of resection, presence of lumbopelvic fixation, postoperative complications, and recurrence rates were noted from our medical records. Results: A total of 15 patients (7 females, 8 males) with a mean age of 43.3 years participated in the study. The most common histopathological diagnosis of the malignant sacrum tumor was chordoma that was seen in 10 of 15 patients (67%). Soft-tissue tumors (leiomyosarcoma and malignant mesenchymal tumor) were seen in 2 patients (13%), metastatic tumors (renal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma) in 2 patients (13%), and primary osteogenic tumor (chondrosarcoma) in 1 patient (7%). Perioperative and postoperative complications were encountered in 7 of 15 patients (47%). Conclusion: Chordoma was the most encountered malignant tumor of the sacrum according to our findings. Recurrence of the malignant sacrum tumor was so common that half of our patients had a history of previous treatment. It was remarkable that perioperative and postoperative complications were also common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lumbar-iliac fixation (LIF) is a common treatment for Tile C1.3 pelvic fractures, but different techniques, including L4-L5/L5 unilateral LIF (L4-L5/L5 ULIF), bilateral LIF (BLIF), and L4-L5/L5 triangular osteosynthesis (L4-L5/L5 TOS), still lack biomechanical evaluation. The sacral slope (SS) is key to the vertical shear of the sacrum but has not been investigated for its biomechanical role in lumbar-iliac fixation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the biomechanical effects of different LIF and SS on Tile C1.3 pelvic fracture under two-legged standing load in human cadavers., Methods: Eight male fresh-frozen human lumbar-pelvic specimens were used in this study. Compressive force of 500 N was applied to the L4 vertebrae in the two-legged standing position of the pelvis. The Tile C1.3 pelvic fracture was prepared, and the posterior pelvic ring was fixed with L5 ULIF, L4-L5 ULIF, L5 TOS, L4-L5 TOS, and L4-L5 BLIF, respectively. Displacement and rotation of the anterior S1 foramen at 30° and 40° sacral slope (SS) were analyzed., Results: The displacement of L4-L5/L5 TOS in the left-right and vertical direction, total displacement, and rotation in lateral bending decreased significantly, which is more pronounced at 40° SS. The difference in stability between L4-L5 and L5 ULIF was not significant. BLIF significantly limited left-right displacement. The ULIF vertical displacement at 40° SS was significantly higher than that at 30° SS., Conclusions: This study developed an in vitro two-legged standing pelvic model and demonstrated that TOS enhanced pelvic stability in the coronal plane and cephalad-caudal direction, and BLIF enhanced stability in the left-right direction. L4-L5 ULIF did not further improve the immediate stability, whereas TOS is required to increase the vertical stability at greater SS., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Unstable traumas of the spinopelvic junction, which include displaced U-shaped sacral fractures (Roy-Camille type 2 and type 3) and Tile C vertical shear pelvic ring disruptions, occur in severe traumas patients following high speed traffic accident or fall from a height. These unstable traumas of the spinopelvic junction jeopardize one's ability to stand and to walk by disrupting the biomechanical arches of the pelvis, and may also cause cauda equina syndrome. Historically, such patients were treated with bed rest and could suffer a life-long burden of orthopedic and neurological disability. Since Schildhauer pioneer work back in 2003, triangular spinopelvic fixation, whether it is performed in a percutaneous fashion or by open reduction and internal fixation, allows to realign bone fragments of the spinopelvic junction and to resume walking within three weeks. Nevertheless, such procedure remains highly technical and it not encountered very often, even for spine surgeons working in high-volume level 1 trauma centers. Hence, this visual technical note aims to provide a few tips to guide less experience surgeons to complete this procedure safely., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: posterior pedicle screw fixation is common method, one of the most severe complications is iatrogenic vascular damage, no report investigated association of different introversion angles (INTAs) and length of pedicle screw. The aims were to investigate the optimal introversion angle and length of pedicle screw for improving the safety of the operation, and to analyze the differences of vascular damage types at L1-S1., Methods: Lumbar CT imaging data from110 patients were analyzed by DICOM software, and all parameters were measured by new Cartesian coordinate system, INTAs (L1-L5:5°,10°,15°,S1: 0°, 5°,10°,15°), D O-AVC (the distance between the origin (O) with anterior vertebral cortex (AVC)), D AVC-PGVs (the distance between AVC and the prevertebral great vessels (PGVs)), D O-PGVs (the distance between the O and PGVs). At different INTAs, D AVC-PGVs were divided into four grades: Grade III: D AVC-PGVs ≤ 3 mm, Grade II: 3 mm < D AVC-PGVs ≤ 5 mm, Grade I: D AVC-PGVs > 5 mm, and N: the not touching PGVs., Results: The optimal INTA was 5° at L1-L3, the left was 5° and the right was 15° at L4, and screw length was less than 50 mm at L1-L4. At L5, the left optimal INTA was 5° and the right was 10°, and screw length was less than 45 mm. The optimal INTA was 15° at S1, and screw length was less than 50 mm. However, screw length was less than 40 mm when the INTA was 0° or 5° at S1., Conclusions: At L5-S1, the risk of vascular injury is the highest. INTA and length of the pedicle screw in lumbar operation are closely related. 3 mm interval of screw length may be more preferable to reduce vascular damage., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Fragility fractures without significant trauma of the pelvic ring in older patients have an increasing incidence due to demographic change. Influencing factors other than osteoporotic bone quality that lead to an insufficiency fracture are not yet known. However, it is suspected that the pelvic tilt (PT) has an effect on the development of such an insufficiency fracture. This study explores the influence of the PTs in patients with insufficiency fractures of the posterior pelvic ring., Materials and Methods: A total of 49 geriatric patients with fragility fractures of the pelvic ring were treated at a university hospital level-1 trauma center during a period between February and December 2023, and their fractures were classified according to the FFP classification of Rommens and Hofmann. Complete sets of computer tomography (CT) and radiological images were available to determine the PT angle of the patients., Results: 34 FFP type 2 and 15 FFP type 3 classified patients were included in the study. Significant difference was seen in the pelvic tilt (PT) angle between the patient group with insufficiency fractures (n= 49; mean age: 78.02 ± 11.80) and the control group with lumbago patients (n= 53; mean age: 69.23 ± 11.23). The PT was significantly higher in the patients with insufficiency fractures (25.74° ± 4.76; p ⁎⁎⁎⁎ ≤ 0.0001)., Conclusions: The study demonstrates a significant extension of the PT angle of individuals with insufficiency fractures when compared to those with lumbago. The result suggests a potential association between pelvic tilt and fracture susceptibility., Trial Registration: A retrospective study about the influence of sagittal balance of the spine on insufficiency fractures of the posterior pelvic ring measured by the "pelvic tilt angle", DRKS00032120. Registered 20th June 2023 - Prospectively registered. Trial registration number DRKS00032120., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no financial and non-financial conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Background: Sacral fractures are rare and either associated with high-energy trauma or osteoporosis in most cases. A search of the current literature on sacral fractures and cerebrospinal fluid fistula identified only few cases. Pathological fractures are uncommon and exceedingly rare in case of Tarlov cysts. Sacral fractures can be missed in oligosymptomatic patients. However, severe complications may emerge as shown by this case report., Methods: We present the case of a pathological sacral fracture at the level S2/3 following a low-impact trauma, associated with a Tarlov cyst, which was complicated by an anterior CSF fistula and intraventricular fat emboli., Results: The patient was treated conservatively with strict bedrest and a CT-guided blood patch. Postponed mobilization was successful with decreasing orthostatic symptoms. Follow-up MRI and CT imaging showed a complete resolution of the ventral CSF fistula and ossification of the fracture. The intraventricular fat did not resolve, however, there was no radiological sign of hydrocephalus with excellent clinical outcome at 6-months follow-up., Conclusion: Although exceedingly rare, sacral Tarlov cysts may be associated with pathological fractures of the sacrum. Relevant complications can emerge and need to be properly addressed.

To compare the biomechanical properties of several anterior pelvic ring external fixators with two new configurations in the treatment of Tile C pelvic fractures, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the new configurations and provide a reference for their clinical application. A finite element model of a Tile C pelvic ring injury (unilateral longitudinal sacral fracture and ipsilateral pubic fracture) was constructed. The pelvis was fixed with iliac crest external fixator (IC), anterior inferior iliac spine external fixator (AIIS), combination of IC and AIIS, combination of anterior superior iliac spine external fixator (ASIS) and AIIS, and S1 sacroiliac screw in 5 types of models. The stability indices of the anterior and posterior pelvic rings under vertical longitudinal load, left-right compression load and anterior-posterior shear load were quantified and compared. In the simulated bipedal standing position, the results of the vertical displacement of the midpoint on the upper surface of the sacrum are consistent with the displacement of the posterior rotation angle, and the order from largest to smallest is IC, AIIS, ASIS + AIIS, IC + AIIS and S1 screw. The longitudinal displacement of IC is greater than that of the other models. The displacements of ASIS + AIIS and IC + AIIS are similar and the latter is smaller. In the simulated semi-recumbent position, the vertical displacement and posterior rotation angle displacement of the midpoint on the upper surface of the sacrum are also consistent, ranking from large to small: IC, AIIS, ASIS + AIIS, IC + AIIS and S1 screw. Under the simulated left-right compression load state, the lateral displacements of the highest point of the lateral sacral fracture end are consistent with the highest point of the lateral pubic fracture end, and the order from large to small is S1 screw, IC, AIIS, ASIS + AIIS and IC + AIIS, among which the displacements of S1 screw and IC are larger, and the displacements of ASIS + AIIS and IC + AIIS are similar and smaller than those of other models. The displacements of IC + AIIS are smaller than those of ASIS + AIIS. Under the simulated anterior-posterior shear load condition, the posterior displacements of the highest point of the lateral sacral fracture end and the highest point of the lateral pubic fracture end are also consistent, ranking from large to small: IC, AIIS, ASIS + AIIS, IC + AIIS and S1 screw. Among them, the displacements of IC and AIIS are larger. The displacements of ASIS + AIIS and IC + AIIS are similar and the latter are smaller. For the unstable pelvic injury represented by Tile C pelvic fracture, the biomechanical various stabilities of the combination of IC and AIIS are superior to those of the external fixators of conventional configurations. The biomechanical stabilities of the combination of ASIS and AIIS are also better than those of the external fixators of conventional configurations, and slightly worse than those of the combination of IC and AIIS. Compared with sacroiliac screw and conventional external fixators, the lateral stabilities of IC + AIIS and ASIS + AIIS are particularly prominent., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: From transiliac Harrington rods to minimally invasive (MIS) percutaneous 3D-navigated transsacral-transiliac screw (TTS) fixation, concepts of fixation methods in pelvic injuries with spinopelvic dissociation (SPD) are steadily redefined. This narrative review examines the literature of recent years regarding surgical treatment options and trends in SPD, outlining risks and benefits of each treatment option and addressing biomechanical aspects of sacral injuries and common classification systems., Materials and Methods: A literature search on the search across relevant online databases was conducted. As a scale for quality assessment, the SANRA-scoring system was taken into account., Results: Sacral Isler type 1 injuries of the LPJ in U- and H-type fractures are frequently treated with stand-alone TTS. Fractures with higher instability (Isler types 2 and 3) require unilateral or bilateral LPF, subject to side involvement, as a buttressing construct, or triangular fixation as additional compression and neutralization, determined by fracture radiation. A more comprehensive classification from which to derive stabilization options is provided by the 2023 301SPD classification. MIS techniques are on the rise and offer shorter OR time, less blood loss, fewer infections, and fewer wound complications. It is advisable to implement MIS techniques as much as possible, as long as decompression is not required and closed fracture reduction succeeds satisfactorily., Conclusion: SPD is characteristic of severe injuries, mostly in polytraumatized patients. The complication rates are decreasing due to the increasing adaptation of MIS techniques., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objectives: To evaluate variables associated with loss of fixation of retrograde rami screws in the treatment of stress-positive minimally displaced lateral compression type 1 (LC1) injuries., Design: Retrospective comparative study., Setting: Level 1 trauma center., Patient Selection Criteria: Stress-positive minimally displaced (<1 cm) LC1 pelvic ring injuries treated with retrograde rami screws., Outcome Measures and Comparisons: Loss of fixation, defined as >5 mm of pelvic fracture displacement based on the radiographic tear-drop distance or >5 mm of implant displacement on follow-up radiographs; revision surgery for loss of fixation., Results: Thirty-eight patients with 40 retrograde rami screws were analyzed. Median patient age was 64 years (interquartile range 42.5-73.3 years), 71.1% (n = 27/38) were female, and 52.6% (n = 20/38) of injuries were secondary to low-energy mechanisms. Loss of fixation occurred in 17.5% (n = 7/40) of screws with 10% (n = 4/40) requiring revision surgery. On univariate analysis, patients who had a loss of fixation were more likely to have greater dynamic displacement on stress radiographs (22.0 vs. 15.2 mm; median difference 5.6 mm, confidence interval [CI] -19.2 to 10.3; P = 0.04), unicortical rami screws (71.4% vs. 9.1%; proportional difference 62.3%, CI 8.8%-22.6%; P = 0.001), and partially threaded rami screws (71.4% vs. 21.2%; proportional difference 50.2%, CI 10.0%-77.6%; P = 0.01). The remaining variables had no observed association ( P ≥ 0.05) with loss of fixation, including age, sex, body mass index, energy of injury mechanism, tobacco use, American Society of Anesthesiologist score, sacral fracture type, distal rami fractures, rami comminution, number of sacral screws, fully threaded sacral screws, transsacral screws, or rami screw diameter. On multivariate analysis, only unicortical rami screws ( P = 0.01) remained associated with loss of fixation., Conclusions: Retrograde rami screws had a high rate of loss of fixation in minimally displaced LC1 pelvic ring injuries, and this was associated with unicortical screws. These screws should be avoided when possible., Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence., Competing Interests: None of the authors have financial conflicts of interest relevant to the content of this study., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Sacral insufficiency fracture (SIF) is a commonly underdiagnosed etiology of back pain, especially in the geriatric and osteoporotic population. In this clinical study, we present our experience of 185 patients who were diagnosed with SIF and managed either with conservative or surgical treatment with a minimum 5-year follow-up., Materials and Method: Patients who were diagnosed with SIF, managed either conservatively or surgically, and had a minimum 5-year follow-up medical record were included in this study. CT scans and MR imaging including coronal STIR sequence were obtained from all. Bone densitometry (DEXA) was performed to detect accompanying osteopenia or osteoporosis. Patients were treated either conservatively or surgically. VAS and ODI scores were evaluated prior to the treatment and 1st day, 10th day, 3rd month, and 1st year postoperatively., Results: The mean age of 185 patients was 69.2 and the mean follow-up period was 7.23 years (range: 5-11 years). 46 (24.9%) patients had a previous spinal or spinopelvic surgery and spinal instrumentation was implemented in 22(11.89%) of them. The time interval between the fusion surgery and the diagnosis of SIF was approximately 9.48 weeks. The fracture line could be detected with the MRI in 164 patients and with the CT in 177 patients. The fracture was bilateral in 120 (64.8%) patients. 102 patients were treated conservatively, and 83 received sacroplasty. VAS and ODI scores showed better improvement in pain and functionality in the surgical management group than in the conservative management group., Conclusion: SIF should be considered in the differential diagnosis of back and pelvic pain, especially in elderly and osteoporotic patients. MRI with coronal STIR imaging should be a standard protocol for patients with a risk of SIF. Our results show that sacroplasty provides better and faster pain relief and recovery than conservative management., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: To compare the biomechanical stability of transsacral-transiliac screw fixation and lumbopelvic fixation for "H"- and "U"-type sacrum fractures with traumatic spondylopelvic dissociation. Methods: Finite element models of "H"- and "U"-type sacrum fractures with traumatic spondylopelvic dissociation were created in this study. The models mimicked the standing position of a human. Fixation with transsacral-transiliac screw fixation, lumbopelvic fixation, and bilateral triangular fixation were simulated. Biomechanical tests of instability were performed, and the fracture gap displacement, anteflexion, rotation, and stress distribution after fixation were assessed. Results: For H-type fractures, the three kinds of fixation ranked by stability were bilateral triangular fixation > lumbopelvic fixation > transsacral-transiliac screw fixation in the vertical and anteflexion directions, bilateral triangular fixation > transsacral-transiliac S1 and S2 screw fixation > lumbopelvic fixation in rotation. The largest displacements in the vertical, anteflexion, and rotational directions were 0.57234 mm, 0.37923 mm, and 0.13076 mm, respectively. For U-type fractures, these kinds of fixation ranked by stability were bilateral triangular fixation > lumbopelvic fixation > transsacral-transiliac S1 and S2 screw fixation > transsacral-transiliac S1 screw fixation in the vertical, anteflexion, and rotational directions. The largest displacements in the vertical, anteflexion, and rotational directions were 0.38296 mm, 0.33976 mm, and 0.05064 mm, respectively. Conclusion: All these kinds of fixation met the mechanical criteria for clinical applications. The biomechanical analysis showed better bilateral balance with transsacral-transiliac screw fixation. The maximal displacement for these types of fixation was less than 1 mm. Percutaneous transsacral-transiliac screw fixation can be considered the best option among these kinds of fracture fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The larval form of the Echinococcus granulosus causes cystic echinococcosis. The liver and the lungs are the most commonly affected organs. Echinococcosis can also be present in other organs although it is rare. We reported a case with sacral bone, cardiac, lung and liver involvement. Clinical and radiological findings of this unique case were discussed. At the Thoracic Computed On the thoracic computed tomography (CT) scan of a 16-year-old female patient was seen multiple parenchymal and subpleural nodular lesions and a cystic mass in the right ventricular cavity. Echocardiographic examination of the patient also observed on CT. Most cases of cardiac cystic echinococcosis were occurred on adult patients, while only 20 cases were in children. For the 20 reported cases in children, there were 9 cases of cardiac echinococcosis involving left ventricle. Because of the possible complications in the presence of cardiac hydatid cyst, treatment should be surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The pathogenetic mechanism, progression, and instability in geriatric bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum (BFFSs) remain poorly understood. This study investigated the hypothesis of sequential BFFS progression by analysing X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) datasets. Methods: Imaging data from 78 cases were retrospectively analysed. Fractures were categorized using the CT-based Fragility Fractures of the Pelvis classification. MRI datasets were analysed to detect relevant fracture location information. The longitudinal sacral fracture was graded as stage 1 (bone oedema) on MRI, stage 2 (recent fracture), stage 3 (healing fracture), or stage 4 (non-union) on CT. Ligamentous avulsions at the L5 transverse process and iliac crest were also captured. Results: Contralateral sacral lesions were only recognized by initial bone oedema on MRI in 17/78 (22%) cases. There were 22 cases without and 56 cases with an interconnecting transverse fracture component (TFC) [between S1/S2 (n = 39) or between S2/S3 (n = 17)]. With 30/78 patients showing bilateral fracture lines at different stages (1/2: n = 13, 2/3: n = 13, 1/3: n = 4) and 38 at similar stages, Wilcoxon tests showed a significant stage difference (p < 0.001). Forty cases had a coexistent L5 transverse process avulsion, consistent with a failing iliolumbar ligament. Analysis of variance revealed significant increases in ligamentous avulsions with higher fracture stages (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our results support the hypothesis of stagewise BFFS progression starting with unilateral sacral disruption followed by a contralateral lesion. Loss of sacral alar support leads to a TFC. Subsequent bone disruption causes iliolumbar ligament avulsion. MRI is recommended to detect bone oedema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: When needed operative treatment of sacral fractures is mostly performed with percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation. The advantage of navigation in insertion of pedicle screws already could be shown by former investigations. The aim of this investigation was now to analyze which influence iliosacral screw placement guided by navigation has on duration of surgery, radiation exposure and accuracy of screw placement compared to the technique guided by fluoroscopy., Methods: 68 Consecutive patients with sacral fractures who have been treated by iliosacral screws were inclouded. Overall, 85 screws have been implanted in these patients. Beside of demographic data the duration of surgery, duration of radiation, dose of radiation and accuracy of screw placement were analyzed., Results: When iliosacral screw placement was guided by navigation instead of fluoroscopy the dose of radiation per inserted screw (155.0 cGy*cm 2 vs. 469.4 cGy*cm 2 p < 0.0001) as well as the duration of radiation use (84.8 s vs. 147.5 s p < 0.0001) were significantly lower. The use of navigation lead to a significant reduction of duration of surgery (39.0 min vs. 60.1 min p < 0.01). The placement of the screws showed a significantly higher accuracy when performed by navigation (0 misplaced screws vs 6 misplaced screws-p < 0.0001)., Conclusion: Based on these results minimal invasive iliosacral screw placement guided by navigation seems to be a safe procedure, which leads to a reduced exposure to radiation for the patient and the surgeon, a reduced duration of surgery as well as a higher accuracy of screw placement., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Spinopelvic dissociation (SPD) is a severe injury characterized by a discontinuity between the spine and the bony pelvis consisting of a bilateral longitudinal sacral fracture, most of the times through sacral neuroforamen, and a horizontal fracture, usually through the S1 or S2 body. The introduction of the concept of triangular osteosynthesis has shown to be an advance in the stability of spinopelvic fixation (SPF). However, a controversy exists as to whether the spinal fixation should reach up to L4 and, if so, it should be combined with transiliac-transsacral screws (TTS)., Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare the biomechanical behavior in the laboratory of four different osteosynthesis constructs for SPD, including spinopelvic fixation of L5 versus L4 and L5; along with or without TTS in both cases., Material and Methods: By means of a formerly described method by the authors, an unstable standardized H-type sacral fracture in twenty synthetic replicas of a male pelvis articulated to the lumbar spine, L1 to sacrum, (Model: 1300, SawbonesTM; Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, WA, USA), instrumented with four different techniques, were mechanically tested. We made 4 different constructs in 5 specimen samples for each construct. Groups: Group 1. Instrumentation of the L5-Iliac bones with TTS. Group 2. Instrumentation of the L4-L5-Iliac bones with TTS. Group 3. Instrumentation of L5-Iliac bones without TTS. Group 4: Instrumentation of L4-L5-Iliac bones without TTS., Results and Conclusions: According to our results, it can be concluded that in SPD, better stability is obtained when proximal fixation is only up to L5, without including L4 (alternative hypothesis), the addition of transiliac-transsacral fixations is essential., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None of the authors have financial and personal relationships with other people or organizations that could inappropriately influence (bias) their work. This disclosure Includes employment, consultancies, stock ownership, honoraria, paid expert testimony, patent applications/registrations, and grants or other funding., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Study Design: Global cross-sectional survey., Objective: To establish a surgical algorithm for sacral fractures based on the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) Spine Sacral Injury Classification System., Summary of Background Data: Although the AO Spine Sacral Injury Classification has been validated across an international audience of surgeons, a consensus on a surgical algorithm for sacral fractures using the Sacral AO Spine Injury Score (Sacral AOSIS) has yet to be developed., Methods: A survey was sent to general orthopedic surgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, and neurosurgeons across the five AO spine regions of the world. Descriptions of controversial sacral injuries based on different fracture subtypes were given, and surgeons were asked whether the patient should undergo operative or nonoperative management. The results of the survey were used to create a surgical algorithm based on each subtype's sacral AOSIS., Results: An international agreement of 70% was decided on by the AO Spine Knowledge Forum Trauma experts to indicate a recommendation of initial operative intervention. Using this, sacral fracture subtypes of AOSIS 5 or greater were considered operative, while those with AOSIS 4 or less were generally nonoperative. For subtypes with an AOSIS of 3 or 4, if the sacral fracture was associated with an anterior pelvic ring injury (M3 case-specific modifier), intervention should be left to the surgeons' discretion., Conclusion: The AO Spine Sacral Injury Classification System offers a validated hierarchical system to approach sacral injuries. Through multispecialty and global surgeon input, a surgical algorithm was developed to determine appropriate operative indications for sacral trauma. Further validation is required, but this algorithm provides surgeons across the world with the basis for discussion and the development of standards of care and treatment., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Case: A 49-year-old woman presented with left leg radiculopathy and posterior pelvic pain. Subsequent evaluation demonstrated metastatic multiple myeloma with an impending left S1 sacral fracture. Immediate posterior pelvic ring stabilization was recommended to prevent fracture and disruption of her oncologic recovery. This was performed percutaneously with computer-assisted navigation using a novel cannulated screw design., Conclusion: The patient was treated with prophylactic percutaneous posterior pelvic ring fixation with a novel cannulated screw design that provided a durable construct for immediate weight-bearing. The fixation prevented a pathologic fracture and allowed immediate return to activity., Competing Interests: Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJSCC/C225)., (Copyright © 2024 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

Background: Operative management of minimally displaced lateral compression type-1 (LC1) pelvic ring injuries remains controversial. We aimed to assess the proportion of LC1 pelvic fractures that displaced following nonoperative management as a function of specific ring fracture patterns, and we quantified the magnitude of this displacement., Methods: A retrospective review of the billing registry of a level-I trauma center was performed. Two hundred and seventy-three patients with a high-energy LC1 pelvic ring fracture and <5 mm of sacral displacement were included. The fracture pattern was characterized with use of computed tomography (CT) scans and radiographs. Absolute and interval pelvic ring displacement were quantified with use of previously described methodology., Results: Thirty-five pelvic ring injuries (13%) were displaced. The rate of displacement was 31% (15 of 49) for LC1 injuries involving a complete sacral fracture and bilateral ramus fractures, 12% (7 of 58) for injuries involving a complete sacral fracture and a unilateral ramus fracture, and 10% (5 of 52) for injuries involving an incomplete sacral fracture and bilateral ramus fractures. In displaced injuries, the average interval displacement was 4.2 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8 to 6.8) and the final displacement was 9.9 mm ± 4.2 mm., Conclusions: Our study suggests that fracture characteristics can be used to predict the likelihood of displacement of LC1 fractures that are treated without surgery. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to describe the magnitude of displacement that may occur in association with LC1 pelvic ring injuries that are treated nonoperatively; however, further studies are needed to determine the clinical impact of this displacement., Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level IV . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence., Competing Interests: Disclosure: Research reported in this publication was partially supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number K24AR076445. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article ( http://links.lww.com/JBJS/H759 )., (Copyright © 2023 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

BACKGROUND Suicide attempts that involve jumping from a great height may not be fatal but can result in lumbosacral facture-dislocations. This retrospective study aimed to present the experience from a single center in Turkey of 21 patients with lumbosacral facture-dislocations, or suicidal jumper fractures, treated with lumbosacral fixation between 2015 and 2022. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 21 patients. The diagnosis was established through X-ray and computed tomography (CT) examinations. Neurological damage was assessed using the Gibbons score. Among the patients, 2 were classified as Roy-Camille type 1, 12 as Roy-Camille type 2, and 7 as Roy-Camille type 3. Morphologically, 8 patients had H-type fractures, 7 had T-type fractures, and 6 had U-type fractures. Bilateral spinopelvic fixation was performed. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Majeed score. RESULTS The average Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 31.6±12.2. The mean duration of surgery was 123.6±44.9 minutes. According to the Majeed score, excellent results were observed in 8 individuals (40%), good results in 5 individuals (25%), fair results in 5 individuals (25%), and poor results in 2 individuals (10%). Out of 18 patients with neurological deficits, 14 showed improvement after surgery, while 4 continued to experience deficits. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study highlight the importance of obtaining a clear history of the cause of lumbosacral facture-dislocation, as attempted suicide by jumping from a height can cause specific types of injury to the lumbar spine and sacrum that require rapid diagnosis and management to reduce the incidence of permanent paraplegia.

Purpose: To identify and define the incidence, risk factors, clinical characteristics, and treatment approaches to pelvic insufficiency fractures (PIFs) that develop as a consequence of pelvic radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies.Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review (PubMed and Embase indexed from January 1, 1980, to May 1, 2020) of studies describing PIFs that result from radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies. A random-effects model weighted by the inverse variance was used to calculate the pooled crude incidence, actuarial incidence, and proportion of symptomatic PIFs, and to evaluate the relationship between PIF incidence and various risk factors.Results: Thirty-eight studies describing PIFs following radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies were reviewed. A meta-analysis of 6488 patients (37 studies) identified the crude incidence of PIF as 9.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.8%-12.4%), and a meta-analysis of 2131 patients (9 studies) identified the 5-year actuarial incidence of PIF as 15.3% (95% CI 7.5%-25.0%). Factors that significantly correlated with increased risk of PIF development included evidence of osteoporosis (P < .001), postmenopausal state (P < .001), and history of diabetes mellitus (P = .005). Median time to PIF development ranged from 8 to 39 months after radiation therapy with the sacrum being the most frequent location for fracture development (60%). From 18 studies, 58.5% (95% CI 50.6%-66.2%) of PIFs were symptomatic, with pain as the most common presenting symptom of PIFs. Conservative management was used more than bone-directed therapies for treatment of PIFs (85% and 6% of patients, respectively).Conclusions: PIFs cause significant morbidity in gynecologic cancer patients after radiation therapy. In this systematic review, we discuss the incidence and risk factors associated with PIF development as it relates to the different detection methods, radiation techniques, doses, and gynecologic cancers treated. Additional studies are needed to further define prevention and treatment approaches for insufficiency fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several classification systems exist for sacral fractures; however, these systems are primarily descriptive, are not uniformly used, have not been validated, and have not been associated with a treatment algorithm or prognosis. The goal of the present study was to demonstrate the reliability of the AOSpine Sacral Classification System among a group of international spine and trauma surgeons.Methods: A total of 38 sacral fractures were reviewed independently by 18 surgeons selected from an expert panel of AOSpine and AOTrauma members. Each case was graded by each surgeon on 2 separate occasions, 4 weeks apart. Intrarater reproducibility and interrater agreement were analyzed with use of the kappa statistic (κ) for fracture severity (i.e., A, B, and C) and fracture subtype (e.g., A1, A2, and A3).Results: Seventeen reviewers were included in the final analysis, and a total of 1,292 assessments were performed (646 assessments performed twice). Overall intrarater reproducibility was excellent (κ = 0.83) for fracture severity and substantial (κ = 0.71) for all fracture subtypes. When comparing fracture severity, overall interrater agreement was substantial (κ = 0.75), with the highest agreement for type-A fractures (κ = 0.95) and the lowest for type-C fractures (κ = 0.70). Overall interrater agreement was moderate (κ = 0.58) when comparing fracture subtype, with the highest agreement seen for A2 subtypes (κ = 0.81) and the lowest for A1 subtypes (κ = 0.20).Conclusions: To our knowledge, the present study is the first to describe the reliability of the AOSpine Sacral Classification System among a worldwide group of expert spine and trauma surgeons, with substantial to excellent intrarater reproducibility and moderate to substantial interrater agreement for the majority of fracture subtypes. These results suggest that this classification system can be reliably applied to sacral injuries, providing an important step toward standardization of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyse the anatomical conditions of transverse sacroiliac screw (TSS) about the S1 and S2 segments in order to develop and validate a locked navigational template for TSS placement. Methods: A total of 22 patients with sacral fractures were involved in this study from May 2018 to February 2019. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgery procedure: locked template group and conventional group. The CT data of 90 normal sacra were analysed. The long axis, short axis and lengths of TSS, cancellous corridors were measured through 3D modelling. A patient-specific locked navigation template based on simulated screws was designed and 3D printed and then used to assist in TSS placement. The operative time and radiation times were recorded. The Matta criteria and grading score were evaluated. The entry point deviation of the actual screw placement relative to the simulated screw placement was measured, and whether the whole screw was in the cancellous corridor was ob'served. Results: S1 screws with a diameter of 7.3 mm could be inserted into 69 pelvises, and S2 screws could be inserted in all pelvises. The S1 cancellous corridor had a long axis of 25.44 ± 3.32 mm in males and 22.91 ± 2.46 mm in females, a short axis of 14.21 ± 2.19 mm in males and 12.15 ± 3.22 mm in females, a corridor length of 153.07 ± 11.99 mm in males and 151.11 ± 8.73 mm in females, and a proportional position of the optimal entry point in the long axis of the cancellous corridor of 35.96 ± 10.31% in males and 33.28 ± 7.2% in females. There were significant differences in the corridor long axis and corridor short axis between sexes (p < 0.05), and there were no significant differences in corridor length and proportional position of the optimal entry point in the long axis of the cancellous corridor between sexes (p > 0.05). The S2 cancellous corridor had a long axis of 17.58 ± 2.36 mm in males and 16 ± 2.64 mm in females, a short axis of 14.21 ± 2.19 mm in males and 13.14 ± 2.2 mm in females, a corridor length of 129.95 ± 0.89 mm in males and 136.5 ± 7.96 mm in females, and a proportional position of the optimal entry point in the long axis of the cancellous corridor of 46.77 ± 9.02% in males and 42.25 ± 11.95% in females. There were significant differences in the long axis, short axis and corridor length (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the proportional position of the optimal entry point in the long axis of the cancellous corridor (p > 0.05). A total of 20 transversal sacroiliac screws were successfully implanted into 10 patients with the assistance of locked navigation templates, and a total of 24 transversal sacroiliac screws were successfully implanted into 12 patients under C-arm fluoroscopy. There was a significant difference in surgical time (88 ± 14.76 min vs 102.5 ± 17.12 min, p = 0.048), radiation times (11.5 ± 1.78 vs 54.83 ± 6.59, p < 0.05) and screw grading between two groups (nineteen screws in grade 0, one screw in grade 1 and 0 screws in grade 2 vs fourteen screws in grade 0, 8 screws in grade 1 and 2 screws in grade 2, p = 0.005). All screw entry point deviations were shorter than the short axis of the cancellous corridor, and all screws were located completely within the cancellous corridor. Conclusion: Approximately 76% of males and females can accommodate screws with diameters of 7.3 mm in S1, and all persons can accommodate the same screw in S2. From the standard lateral perspective of the sacrum, the optimal entry point of the transverse screw is in the first 1/3 of the cancellous corridor for S1 and the centre of the cancellous corridor for S2. The patient-specific locked navigation template assisted in TSS placement with less operative time, less intraoperative fluoroscopy and higher safety of screw placement compared with traditional surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vacuum phenomenon (VP) in closed pelvic fracture is a rare disorder. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and clinical findings of VP in closed pelvic fracture.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 197 patients with closed pelvic fracture who presented to our institution from January 2012 to December 2018. Pelvic fractures were diagnosed by plain radiography and computed tomography (CT). First, we investigated the prevalence and clinical findings of VP in pelvic fractures. Second, we compared the clinical findings between pelvic fracture with and without VP. Finally, VP in pelvic fracture was evaluated clinically and radiologically.Results: VP in pelvic fractures was detected by CT in 9 (3.6%) of the 197 patients with pelvic fractures. Patients with VP had a significantly greater proportion of fracture progression than those without VP (42.9% vs. 11.3%, P = 0.02). Patients with VP had a greater proportion of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP), and a lesser proportion of bone union than those without VP, although the differences were not significant. In nine pelvic fractures with VP, all sacral fractures were classified as type 1 according to the Denis classification, and all pubic fractures were classified as type 1 according to the Nakatani classification. Two (22.2%) nonunion in nine pelvic fractures with VP occurred at the pubic fracture site alone.Conclusions: Orthopedic clinicians should be aware of the potential of CT for detecting VP in pelvic fractures, especially in the course of FFP progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate screw placement accuracy, safety, complications, and clinical outcomes including functional and pain score, in 32 patients treated with CT-guided pelvic ring fixation after high-energy trauma.Materials and Methods: Consecutive patients who were treated by CT-guided fixation of sacral or acetabular fractures after high-energy trauma were included. All procedures were performed under general anesthesia, with dual CT and fluoroscopic guidance, by interventional radiologists. Fractures were minimally displaced or reduced unstable posterior pelvic ring disruptions, with or without sacroiliac disjunction (Tile B or C) and minimally displaced acetabular fractures. The primary outcome evaluated was screw accuracy. Secondary outcomes included patient radiation exposure, duration of the procedure, complications, clinical functional score (Majeed score), and pain scale (VAS, visual analog scale) evaluation during a follow-up period from 4 to 30 months postoperatively.Results: Thirty-two patients were included (mean age 46) and 62 screws were inserted. Screw placement was correct in 90.3% of patients (95% of screws). Mean procedure duration was 67 min and mean patient radiation exposure was 965 mGy cm. Mean follow-up was 13 months and no complications were observed. The mean Majeed score at final follow-up was 84/100 and the mean VAS was 1.6/10.Conclusion: This technique is an effective and safe procedure in specific cases of pelvic ring and acetabulum fractures. It allows accurate screw placement in a minimally invasive manner, leading to effective management of poly-traumatized patients.Key Points: • CT-guided pelvic ring fixation, including sacroiliac and acetabular fractures, is an effective and safe procedure. • It allows accurate and minimally invasive screw placement, leading to effective management of poly-traumatized patients. • Multidisciplinary cooperation is essential to ensure efficiency and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The objective of this study is to report the institutions experiences with standardized 2D computer-navigated percutaneous iliosacral screw placement (CNS), as well as the conventional fluoroscopically assisted screw placement method (CF) over a period of 10 years. Patients and methods: A total of 604 patients with sacral fractures (OTA B and C) were treated at the institution. Cases with both, a preoperative and postoperative CT scan were included for further analysis. With this prerequisite, a total of 136 cases were included. The quality of screw positioning, length of operation and intraoperative radiation exposure were recorded and compared. Moreover, it was analyzed whether the presence of dysmorphic sacra influenced the precision of screw positioning. Results: Two hundred and thirty-two screws were implanted in 136 patients (100 navigated, 36 conventional). The duration of the average procedure was similar in the two groups [49.8 min (p = 0.7) conventional group (CF) vs. 48.0 min computer-navigated (CNS) group]. With computer navigation, radiation exposure was significantly reduced by almost half [128.3 vs. 65.2 s (p = 0.023)]. Screw placement was more accurate in the navigation group (79.03% CF vs. 86.47% CNS). The presence of dysmorphic sacral foramina or an increased alar slope increased the incidence of screw malpositioning. Conclusion: The conventional percutaneous method and a standardized 2D navigated method have similar rates of malpositioning. Dysmorphic upper sacral foramina and increased alar slope were identified as risk factors for screw malpositioning. Radiation exposure rates were reduced by half when using computer navigation. Therefore, computer navigation in iliosacral screw placement is recommended as method of choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pubic rami fractures are common fractures in a growing osteoporotic geriatric population. Concomitant posterior ring fractures (cPRF) are often found when properly looked for. The pain and consequent immobilization leaves this vulnerable patient group at risk for complications. Conservative therapy is usually sufficient, but with cPRF's surgery can be indicated. Although previous studies have pointed out that mortality rates are high, longer term morbidity outcomes are lacking. This study aims to further establish the longer term consequences of these fractures. Risk factors will be identified for complications, also addressing the possible differences between patients with or without a cPRF. Method: Retrospective analysis of patients aged over 65 years sustaining a pubic rami fracture in the North-West Hospital Group Alkmaar combined with a survey to establish risk factors for morbidity and mortality after 6 months' post trauma. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors. Results: 117 patients matched inclusion criteria with a median age of 83 and of which 86% was female. 23 cPRF's were identified. Significant deterioration in ambulation and independency was found. 34% was institutionalized at discharge. 49% lost their independent mobility status and 40% of the patients did not experience a full recovery. One-year mortality rate was 23%. Patients with a cPRF had a significant higher complication rate (44 vs 18% p = 0.02), but mortality and other morbidity outcomes did not statistically differ. The strongest predictor for 1-year mortality was complications during admission and a dependent ambulatory status (OR 5.2 and 4.1 respectively). Conclusion: Pubic fractures with or without involvement of the posterior pelvic ring in patients aged over 65 have a significant impact on mobility and independency. Mortality rates are similar to hip fracture patients. Careful evaluation of every patient's mobility status is necessary to identify patients at risk for complications and determine their future health care needs. Future studies are needed to achieve consensus on diagnostic and treatment protocols and identify ways to decrease the significant impact of this injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injuries of the posterior pelvic ring are predominantly associated with osteoporosis. Percutaneously placed screws transfixing the sacroiliac joint have become the gold standard for their treatment. However, screw cut-out, backing-out, and loosening are common complications. One promising option could be cerclage reinforcement of cannulated screw fixations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical feasibility of posterior pelvic ring injuries fixed with S1 and S2 transsacral screws augmented with cerclage. Twenty-four composite osteoporotic pelvises with posterior sacroiliac joint dislocation were stratified into four groups for S1-S2 transsacral fixation using either (1) fully threaded screws, (2) fully threaded screws with cable cerclage, (3) fully threaded screws with wire cerclage, or (4) partially threaded screws with wire cerclage. All specimens were biomechanically tested under progressively increasing cyclic loading until failure. Intersegmental movements were monitored by motion tracking. The transsacral partially threaded screw fixation with wire cerclage augmentation resulted in significantly less combined angular intersegmental movement in the transverse and coronal plane versus its fully threaded counterpart (p = 0.032), as well as in significantly less flexion versus all other fixations (p ≤ 0.029). Additional cerclage augmentation could be performed intraoperatively to improve the stability of posterior pelvic ring injuries treated with S1-S2 transsacral screw fixation. Further investigations should follow to consolidate the current results on real bones and possibly consider execution of a clinical study., (© 2023 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society.)

Introduction: Pelvic fractures were often associated with high-energy trauma in young patients, but data show a significant increase in osteoporotic pelvic fractures in old age due to the progressive demographic change. There is an ongoing discussion about the best fixation techniques, which are ranging from lumbopelvic fixation to sacral bars or long transiliac-transsacral (TITS) screws. This study analyzes TITS screw osteosynthesis and sacroiliac screw osteosynthesis (SI), according to biomechanical criteria of fracture stability in osteoporotic human pelvic cadavers ex vivo., Methods: Ten osteoporotic cadaveric pelvises were randomized into two groups of 5 pelvises each. An FFP-IIc fracture was initially placed unilaterally and subsequently surgically treated with a navigated SI screw or a TITS screw. The fractured side was loaded in a one-leg stance test setup until failure. Interfragmentary movements were assessed by means of optical motion tracking., Results: No significant difference in axial stiffness were found between the SI and the TITS screws (21.2 ± 4.9 N and 18.4 ± 4.1 N, p = 0.662). However, there was a significantly higher stability of the fracture treatment in the cohort with TITS-screws for gap angle, flexion, vertical movement and overall stability. The most significant difference in the cycle interval was between 6.000 and 10.000 for the gap angle (1.62 ± 0.25° versus 4.60 ± 0.65°, p = 0.0001), for flexion (4.15 ± 0.39 mm versus 7.60 ± 0.81 mm, p = 0.0016), interval 11.000-15.000 for vertical shear movement (7.34 ± 0.51 mm versus 13.99 ± 0.97 mm, p < 0.0001) and total displacement (8.28 ± 0.66 mm versus 15.53 ± 1.07 mm, p < 0.0001) for the TITS and the SI screws., Conclusions: The results of this biomechanical study suggest a clear trend towards greater fracture stability of the TITS screw with significantly reduced interfragmentary movement. The application of a TITS screw for the treatment of the osteoporotic pelvic ring fracture may be prioritized to ensure the best possible patient care., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Objective: To evaluate and compare the biomechanical efficacy of six iliosacral screw fixation techniques for treating unilateral AO Type B2 (Denis Type II) sacral fractures using literature-based and QCT-based bone material properties in finite element (FE) models., Methods: Two FE models of the intact pelvis were constructed: the literature-based model (LBM) with bone material properties taken from the literature, and the patient-specific model (PSM) with QCT-derived bone material properties. Unilateral transforaminal sacral fracture was modelled to assess different fixation techniques: iliosacral screw (ISS) at the first sacral vertebra (S1) (ISS1), ISS at the second sacral vertebra (S2) (ISS2), ISS at S1 and S2 (ISS12), transverse iliosacral screws (TISS) at S1 (TISS1), TISS at S2 (TISS2), and TISS at S1 and S2 (TISS12). A 600 N vertical load with both acetabula fixed was applied. Vertical stiffness (VS), relative interfragmentary displacement (RID), and the von Mises stress values in the screws and fracture interface were analysed., Results: The lowest and highest normalised VS was given by ISS1 and TISS12 techniques for LBM and PSM, with 137 % and 149 %, and 375 % and 472 %, respectively. In comparison with the LBM, the patient-specific bone modelling increased the maximum screw stress values by 19.3, 16.3, 27.8, 2.3, 24.4 and 7.8 % for ISS1, ISS2, ISS12, TISS1, TISS2 and TISS12, respectively. The maximum RID values were between 0.10 mm and 0.47 mm for all fixation techniques in both models. The maximum von Mises stress results on the fracture interface show a substantial difference between the two models, as PSM (mean ± SD of 15.76 ± 8.26 MPa) gave lower stress values for all fixation techniques than LBM (mean ± SD of 28.95 ± 6.91 MPa)., Conclusion: The differences in stress distribution underline the importance of considering locally defined bone material properties when investigating internal mechanical parameters. Based on the results, all techniques demonstrated clinically sufficient stability, with TISS12 being superior from a biomechanical standpoint. Both LBM and PSM models indicated a consistent trend in ranking the fixation techniques based on stability. However, long-term clinical trials are recommended to confirm the findings of the study., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Case: A U-type sacral fracture, or spinopelvic dissociation, resulting from chiropractic manipulation has not been described in the medical literature. This report presents the case of a 74-year-old male patient who sustained a U-type sacral fracture after drop-table chiropractic manipulation., Conclusion: Our case demonstrates that chiropractic manipulative therapy involving the commonly used drop-table can cause severe injury. The patient's course was complicated by a delay in diagnosis and a prolonged hospital stay. Orthopaedic surgeons should have a high degree of suspicion for spinopelvic dissociation in the setting of bilateral sacral fractures. One year after injury, with conservative management, the patient returned to baseline function with mild residual neuropathy., Competing Interests: Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJSCC/C251)., (Copyright © 2023 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

Introduction: Combat-related injuries from improvised explosive devices occur commonly to the lower extremity and spine. As the underbody blast impact loading traverses from the seat to pelvis to spine, energy transfer occurs through deformations of the combined pelvis-sacrum-lumbar spine complex, and the time factor plays a role in injury to any of these components. Previous studies have largely ignored the role of the time variable in injuries, injury mechanisms, and warfighter tolerance. The objective of this study is to relate the time or temporal factor using a multi-component, pelvis-sacrum-lumbar spinal column complex model., Materials and Methods: Intact pelvis-sacrum-spine specimens from pre-screened unembalmed human cadavers were prepared by fixing at the superior end of the lumbar spine, pelvis and abdominal contents were simulated, and a weight was added to the cranial end of the fixation to account for torso effective mass. Prepared specimens were placed on the platform of a custom vertical accelerator device and aligned in a seated soldier posture. An accelerometer was attached to the seat platen of the device to record the time duration to peak velocity. Radiographs and computed tomography images were used to document and associate injuries with time duration., Results: The mean age, stature, weight, body mass index, and bone density of 12 male specimens were as follows: 65 ± 11 years, 1.8 ± 0.01 m, 83 ± 13 kg, 27 ± 5.0 kg/m2, and 114 ± 21 mg/cc. They were equally divided into short, medium, and long time durations: 4.8 ± 0.5, 16.3 ± 7.3, and 34.5 ± 7.5 ms. Most severe injuries associated with the short time duration were to pelvis, although they were to spine for the long time duration., Conclusions: With adequate time for the underbody blast loading to traverse the pelvis-sacrum-spine complex, distal structures are spared while proximal/spine structures sustain severe/unstable injuries. The time factor may have implications in seat and/or seat structure design in future military vehicles to advance warfighter safety., (Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Military Surgeons of the United States 2023. This work is written by (a) US Government employee(s) and is in the public domain in the US.)