Background: It is well established that unstable fractures of the distal part of the radius may require operative treatment to restore alignment and that failure to restore alignment often leads to wrist and forearm dysfunction. There is ongoing debate in the literature whether or not there is a strict relationship between the quality of anatomical reconstruction and functional outcome. We hypothesize that there is no difference in objective- and subjective functional outcome between patients with AO type B versus more complex AO type C fractures. Methods: Ninety-four patients with an average age of 42 years (range, 20 to 78 years) at the time of injury were evaluated an average of 20 years (range, 8 to 32 years) after treatment of an intra-articular distal radius fracture. At long-term follow-up patients were evaluated using a physician-based evaluation instruments (modified Mayo wrist score; MMWS and an upper extremity-specific health status questionnaire (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; DASH) questionnaire. Objective and subjective functional outcome of patients with AO Type B and AO Type C fractures were compared. Results: An average of 20 years after injury (average age 62 years, range 35 to 90), all fractures healed without significant loss of alignment. There was no difference in physician based outcome measure according to the Mayo score between 17 patients with 18 AO type B fractures (average, 80,3 points; range 45 to 100) and 27 patients with 31 AO type C fractures (average, 75.9 points; range 10 to 95, p=0.42). Differences in subjective DASH scores were not statistically significant either (p = 0.47); average 13 points for Type B patients (range, 0 to 58 points) and an average of 16 points for Type C patients (range, 0 to 71 points). Groups were statistically comparable. No statistical differences were found in flexion extension arc (average 103 degrees, range 10 to 145 degrees), pronation supination arc (average 150 degrees, range 0 to 180 degrees) or radial ulnar deviation (average 52 degrees, range 0 to 85 degrees), as well as grip strength and osteoarthritis (all p> 0.05). Conclusions: Twenty years after injury 67% of patients have a satisfactory outcome according to physician-based MMWS categorical ratings. There is no difference in functional long term outcome between patient with more extensive intra-articular comminution (type C fractures) and AO type B fractures. This is consistent with previous long term outcome studies with similar methodology; when more complex injuries are not correlated with decreased long term functional outcome, other (subjective) factors are more important determinants of disability

Aims. Despite limited clinical scientific backing, an additional trochanteric stabilizing plate (TSP) has been advocated when treating unstable trochanteric fractures with a sliding hip screw (SHS). We aimed to explore whether the TSP would result in less post operative fracture motion, compared to SHS alone. Methods. Overall, 31 patients with AO/OTA 31-A2 trochanteric fractures were randomized to either a SHS alone or a SHS with an additional TSP. To compare postoperative fracture motion, radiostereometric analysis (RSA) was performed before and after weightbearing, and then at four, eight, 12, 26, and 52 weeks. With the “after weightbearing” images as baseline, we calculated translations and rotations, including shortening and medialization of the femoral shaft. Results. Similar migration profiles were observed in all directions during the course of healing. At one year, eight patients in the SHS group and 12 patients in the TSP group were available for analysis, finding a clinically non-relevant, and statistically non-significant, difference in total translation of 1 mm (95% confidence interval -4.7 to 2.9) in favour of the TSP group. In line with the migration data, no significant differences in clinical outcomes were found. Conclusion. The TSP did not influence the course of healing or postoperative fracture motion compared to SHS alone. Based on our results, routine use of the TSP in AO/OTA 31-A2 trochanteric fractures cannot be recommended. The TSP has been shown, in biomechanical studies, to increase stability in sliding hip screw constructs in both unstable and intermediate stable trochanteric fractures, but the clinical evidence is limited. This study showed no advantage of the TSP in unstable (AO 31-A2) fractures in elderly patients when fracture movement was evaluated with radiostereometric analysis. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(1):37–45

Ideberg-Goss type VI/AO F2(4) glenoid fossa fractures are a rare and complex injury. Although some advocate non-operative management, grossly displaced glenoid fossa fractures in the young patient may warrant fixation. Current approaches still describe difficulty with access of the entirety of the glenoid, particularly the postero-superior quadrant. We present 2 cases of Ideberg-Goss type VI/AO F2(4) glenoid fossa fractures treated with fixation through a novel “Deltoid Takedown” approach, which allows safe access to the whole glenoid with satisfactory clinical results at 5 and 7 years respectively

In absence of available quantitative measures, the assessment of fracture healing based on clinical examination and X-rays remains a subjective matter. Lacking reliable information on the state of healing, rehabilitation is hardly individualized and mostly follows non evidence-based protocols building on common guidelines and personal experience. Measurement of fracture stiffness has been demonstrated as a valid outcome measure for the maturity of the repair tissue but so far has not found its way to clinical application outside the research space. However, with the recent technological advancements and trends towards digital health care, this seems about to change with new generations of instrumented implants – often unfortunately termed “smart implants” – being developed as medical devices. The AO Fracture Monitor is a novel, active, implantable sensor system designed to provide an objective measure for the assessment of fracture healing progression (1). It consists of an implantable sensor that is attached to conventional locking plates and continuously measures implant load during physiological weight bearing. Data is recorded and processed in real-time on the implant, from where it is wirelessly transmitted to a cloud application via the patient's smartphone. Thus, the system allows for timely, remote and X-ray free provision of feedback upon the mechanical competence of the repair tissue to support therapeutic decision making and individualized aftercare. The device has been developed according to medical device standards and underwent extensive verification and validation, including an in-vivo study in an ovine tibial osteotomy model, that confirmed the device's capability to depict the course of fracture healing as well as its long-term technical performance. Currently a multi-center clinical investigation is underway to demonstrate clinical safety of the novel implant system. Rendering the progression of bone fracture healing assessable, the AO Fracture Monitor carries potential to enhance today's postoperative care of fracture patients

Introduction. To develop an international guideline (AOGO) about use of osteobiologics in Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) for treating degenerative spine conditions. Method. The guideline development process was guided by AO Spine Knowledge Forum Degenerative (KF Degen) and followed the Guideline International Network McMaster Guideline Development Checklist. The process involved 73 participants with expertise in degenerative spine diseases and surgery from 22 countries. Fifteen systematic reviews were conducted addressing respective key topics and evidence were collected. The methodologist compiled the evidence into GRADE Evidence-to-Decision frameworks. Guideline panel members judged the outcomes and other criteria and made the final recommendations through consensus. Result. Five conditional recommendations were created. A conditional recommendation is about the use of allograft, autograft or a cage with an osteobiologic in primary ACDF surgery. Other conditional recommendations are about use of osteobiologic for single or multi-level ACDF, and for hybrid construct surgery. It is suggested that surgeons use other osteobiologics rather than human bone morphogenetic protein-2 in common clinical situations. Surgeons are recommended to choose one graft over another or one osteobiologic over another primarily based on clinical situation, and the costs and availability of the materials. Conclusion. This AOGO guideline is the first to provide recommendations for the use of osteobiologics in ACDF. Despite the comprehensive searches for evidence, there were few studies completed with small sample sizes and primarily as case series with inherent risks of bias. Therefore high quality clinical evidence is demanded to improve the guideline

INTRODUCTION. Intramedullary nail fixation has been used for successful treatment of long bone fracture such as humerus, tibia and femur. We look at the experience of our trauma unit in treating long bone fracture using the AO approved Expert femoral/tibial nail and proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA). We look at the union and complication rates in patients treated with AO approved nailing system for pertrochanteric, femoral and tibial shaft fracture. METHODS. We carried out retrospective case notes review of patients that underwent femoral and tibial nailing during the period of study- October 2007 to August 2009. All patients were treated using the AO approved nailing system. We identified all trauma patients that underwent femoral and tibial nailing through the trauma register. Further information was then obtained by going through medical notes and reviewing all followed-up X-rays stored within the online radiology system. RESULTS. 149 patients, 85 male and 64 female were included into the study. 150 procedures were carried out during period of study as 1 patient underwent conversion of lateral entry femoral nail to PFNA due to refracture. Patients' age ranged from 14-96 with mean of 55. 140 patients had isolated long bone fracture (either femur or tibia) compared to 9 patients with multiple bone fractures. Our unit performed 64 Expert tibial nail, 36 PFNA, 31 Expert lateral entry femoral nail and 19 Expert retrograde femoral nail during period of study. 13 patients treated with intramedullary nail sustained open fracture, 9 of them were compound tibial fracture compared to 4 compound femoral fractures. All patients were followed-up between 2 to 24 months or until death. 9 out of 17 patients that died in this study had diagnosis of tumour. Complication rates were 17% for Expert tibial nail (1 patient with valgus deformity, peroneal nerve palsy and delayed union, 3 with delayed union, 4 with broken locking screw, 2 with wound infection and 1 with abscess over wound site), 4% for lateral/retrograde femoral nail (1 each for pulmonary embolism and broken locking screw) and 4% for PFNA (1 each for delayed union and deep vein thrombosis). The overall complication rates were 10% from this study. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSIONS. We conclude that the AO approved nailing system used for treating pertrochanteric, femoral and tibial fractures were effective with high union rate. The overall complication rates were 10% from this study. Complication rates for tibial nail were as high as 17% compared to 4% for femoral nail or PFNA. The complication rates for PFNA in our study were lower compared to 29% in PFN that was reported in one literature

AO Spine Guideline for Using Osteobiologics in Spine Degeneration project is an international collaborative initiative to identify and evaluate evidence on existing use of osteobiologics in spine degenerative diseases. It aims to formulate clinically relevant and internationally applicable guidelines ensuring evidence-based, safe and effective use of osteobiologics. The current focus is the use of osteobiologics in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgeries. The guideline development is planned in three phases. Phase 1- Evidence synthesis and Recommendation; Phase 2- Guideline with osteobiologics grading and Validation; Phase 3- Guideline dissemination and Development of a clinical decision support tool. The key questions formulating the guidelines for the use of osteobiologics will be addressed in a series of systematic reviews in Phase 1. The evidence synthesized by the systematic reviews will be assessed by Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology, including expert panel discussions to formulate a recommendation. In Phase 2, osteobiologics will be graded based on evidence and the grading will be integrated with the recommendation from Phase 1, and thus formulate a guideline. The guideline will be further validated by prospective clinical studies. In the third phase, dissemination of the proposed guideline and development of a decision support tool is planned. AO-GO aims to bridge an important gap between quality of evidence and use of osteobiologics in spine fusion surgeries. With a holistic approach the guideline aims to facilitate evidence-based, patient-oriented decision-making process in clinical practice, thus stimulating further evidence-based studies regarding osteobiologics usage in spine surgeries

Introduction: The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of the AO Universal Spine System (AO USS) with Harrington-Luque instrumentation for the treatment of King type II idiopathic scoliosis. Methods/Results: A retrospective analysis was performed on two groups of patients with King II adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The first group consisted of 40 consecutive patients treated with Harrington-Luque instrumentation between 1990 and 1993. The second group consisted of 25 consecutive patients treated with AO USS instrumentation between 1994 and 1996. The groups were well matched with respect to age, sex and curve severity. Inclusion criteria were patients over the age of 12 years with a King II curve pattern and a Cobb angle of greater than 40°. Half of the patients in each group underwent anterior release prior to posterior fusion. All patients were followed up six monthly for 18 months. The thoracic curve, lumbar curve, kyphosis and lordosis were measured using the Cobb method. The mean pre-operative thoracic and lumbar curves were 62° and 43.9° respectively in the Harrington group and 57.5° and 35.9° in the AO USS group. On average 11.4 levels were fused in the Harrington group compared to 10.9 levels in the AO USS group. The mean post-operative correction of the thoracic curve in the AO USS group of 64% was significantly greater than the 51% achieved in the Harrington group (p< 0.005). At 18 months there was a 7% loss of correction in the Harrington group and 9% in the AO USS group. The correction of lumbar curve of 41% in the Harrington group and 46% in the AO USS group at 18 months was not significantly different. In the sagittal plane the AO USS group had significantly better preservation of the lumbar lordosis but there was no difference in kyphosis correction. Blood loss was similar in both groups. Mean operative time of 132 minutes in the AO USS group was shorter than the mean time of 153 minutes in the Harrington group (p< 0.05). Two hooks in the Harrington group became dislodged and two in the AO group. There were no neurological complications in either group. All the patients in both groups achieved a solid fusion. Conclusion: AO USS is a safe and effective instrumentation system for the treatment of King type II adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Correction of the thoracic curve is superior to that achieved with Harrington-Luque instrumentation and operative time is shorter. AO USS enables better preservation of the lumbar lordosis than Harrington-Luque. There is no difference in blood loss, complication rate and fusion rates between the two techniques. It has become our instrumentation system of choice for this group of patients

Aim: To assess the functional and radiological outcome of AO wrist Arthrodesis using the AO wrist fusion plate. Method: An 8 year, independent, retrospective, radiological and functional review was performed using The DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire) and the Buck-Gramcko/Lohmann outcome scores. Results: Twenty-eight patients were reviewed. The two scoring systems correlated consistently in regards to the functional outcome. However, patients with systemic disease experienced problems completing the DASH questionnaire. Mono-articular arthritis was associated with an excellent/good outcome in 95% of cases. Results for patients with systemic disease were markedly worse. There was one case of plate breakage associated with a delayed union of the second MCP joint. There was a 100% union rate, no significant post-operative infections and no tendon ruptures. Conclusion: The short to mid term clinical outcomes for the AO wrist fusion plate are encouraging and its use can be recommended in a variety of wrist pathologies

For any fracture classification, a high level of intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reliability is desirable. We compare the consistency of the AO and Frykman classifications for distal radius fractures using digitised radiographs of 100 fractures by 15 orthopaedic surgeons and 5 radiologists using a Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS). The process was repeated 1 month later. Reproducibility moderate for both the AO and Frykman systems, reliability only fair for both the AO and Frykman systems. In each case reproducibilty using the Frykman system was slightly greater. The assessor’s level of experience and specialty was not seen to influence accuracy. The ability to electronically manipulate images does not appear to improve reliability compared to the use of traditional hard copies, and their sole use in describing these injuries is not recommended. These fractures are common, approximately one sixth of all fractures and the most commonly occurring fractures in adults. Their multitude of eponyms hint at the difficulty in formulating a comprehensive and useable system. The Frykman classification is most popular, but limited- does not quantify displacement, shortening or the extent of comminution. The more comprehensive AO system is limited in its complexity with 27 possible subdivisions. Computerised tomography shown to give only marginal improvement in consistency of classification. Radiographs of 100 fractures selected. Anteroposterior and lateral view for each. 15 orthopaedic surgeons and 5 radiologists recruited as assessors, including 5 specialist registrars. Each given a printed description of Frykman and AO classifications. Radiographs could be manipulated digitally. Intra and inter-observer reproducibility analysed. A comparison made comparing reproducibility between radiologists and surgeons, consultant orthopaedic surgeons and trainees. Statistical methods; analysis involves adjustment of observed proportion of agreement between observers by correction for the proportion of agreement that could have occurred by chance. Kappa coefficients compared using the Student t test incorporating standard errors of kappa for these groups. Median interobserver reliability was fair for both the AO (kappa = 0.31, range 0.2 to 0.38) and Frykman (kappa = 0.36, range 0.30 to 0.43) systems. Median intraobserver reproducibility was moderate for both the AO (kappa = 0.45, range 0.42 to 0.48) and Frykman (kappa = 0.55, range 0.51 to 0.57) systems. In each case the Frykman system was statistically (p< 0.01) more accurate. Level of experience, or specialty was not seen to influence accuracy (p< 0.01). Our results demonstrate that using them in isolation in determining treatment and comparing results following treatment cannot be recommended

Background. Current literature of definition, classification and outcomes of fractures of talar body remains controversial. Our primary purpose is to present an unusual combination of fractures of talar body with pantalar involvement / dislocation / extension as a basis for modification of Müller AO / OTA Classification. Methods. We include four consecutive patients, who sustained talar body fractures with pantalar subluxation/dislocation /extension. These unusual injury patterns lead us to reconsider Müller AO / OTA Classification in the light of another widely used talar fracture classification, Hawkins Classification of fractures of neck of talus and subsequent modification by Canale and Kelly. Results. Müller AO / OTA Classification comprises CI – Ankle joint involvement, C2 – Subtalar joint involvement, C3 – Ankle and subtalar joint involvement. We propose Modification of Müller AO / OTA. Classification. C1 – Absolutely undisplaced fracture; C2 – Ankle and Subtalar joint involvement: subluxation; C3 – Ankle and subtalar joint involvement: subluxation with comminution; C4 – Ankle, subtalar and talonavicular joint involvement. Conclusions. Our modification redefines Müller AO / OTA Classification, extends and fills the void in the classification by inclusion of C4, draws attention to stability of talonavicular joint and reflects increasing severity of injury in fractures of talar body

Background: Over many years our understanding of fracture patterns and management has evolved. One of the biggest steps was the adoption of the principles of fracture fixation as described by the Arbitsgemeinschaft fur Osteosynthesefragen (AO). The application of this philosophy has allowed us to optimise fracture management and improve outcome. In our unit we noted a number of complications resulting from suboptimal fracture fixations of ankles some of which required revision. It was decided to review fracture fixation of ankles in the unit to see whether the basic principles of fixation was being followed in our DGH. Aim: To evaluate whether the AO principles of fixation for ankle fractures are being followed in our local unit. Patients and Methods: 52 consecutive patients over a period of 1 year from August 2005 to August 2006 with bi malleolar and isolated medial malleolar ankle fractures, requiring surgery, had their case notes and pre operative x rays reviewed retrospectively looking at fracture patterns according to the AO and Weber classification. Post operative x rays where reviewed to see if the principles of facture fixation had been appropriately followed. Results: Of the 52 patients evaluated 26 were Weber type B fractures, 20 were type C and 6 were isolated medial malleolar fracture. Nine of the type B and three of type C (23% of the total number) underwent fixation not in accordance with AO principles. In every case the fibula fixation did not include a cortical lag screw. Discussion/Conclusions: Although none of the 12 described had to undergo revision, their management was far from optimum. By ensuring that operating surgeons have the appropriate training and experience in basic fracture fixation before being allowed to undertake such procedures, our unit hopes to show an improvement on these figures by the time this audit is repeated

Trochanteric femur fractures can be classified using the Jensen modification of the Evans’ classification or the AO/ASIF classification. This study compares the reproducibility of both classifications. Furthermore we evaluated the agreement on fracture stability, choice of osteosynthesis, fracture reduction and the accuracy of implant positioning. We used pre- and postoperative lateral and AP radiographs of 50 trochanteric femur fractures. The fractures were classified using both classifications with a three-month interval by five trauma surgeons and five residents. Inter-, and intra-observer variability was analysed using the multi-rater Fleiss’ kappa and the Cohen’ kappa tests. The AO/ASIF classification showed a kappa coefficient for the intra-observer agreement of 0.40 (SE 0.01). After leaving out classification-subgroups, AO/ASIF classification showed a coefficient of 0.68 (SE 0.02) and the Jensen classification a coefficient of 0.48 (SE 0.02). The kappa values of the intra-observer reliability of the AO/ASIF classification with and without subgroups were: 0.43 (SE 0.08) and 0.71 (SE 0.08) respectively. For the Jensen classification the kappa value was 0.56 (SE 0.09). Preoperative agreement on fracture stability and type of implant to be chosen showed kappa values of 0.39 (SE 0.05) and 0.65 (SE 0.04). Postoperative disagreement on the choice of implant was 15% (kappa 0.17, SE 0.08). Kappa values for postoperative fracture reduction and position of the implant were 0.29 (SE 0.09) and 0.22 (SE 0.05), respectively. Both the Jensen classification and the AO/ASIF classification showed poor reproducibility. However, without subgroups the AO/ASIF classification seemed more reliable. This study suggests that the definition of stability of trochanteric fractures remains controversial, which possibly complicates the choice of osteosynthesis. Refinement of the classifications or renewed definition of trochanteric fractures seems to be required

For any fracture classification, a high level of intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reliability is desirable. We compare the consistency of the AO and Neer classifications for proximal humerus fractures with an assessment of the digitised radiographs of 100 fractures by 10 orthopaedic surgeons and 5 radiologists using the General Electric Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS), allowing manipulation of the image. This process repeated 1 month later. Reproducibility and reliability moderate for both the AO and Neer systems. Reproducibility using the AO/ ASIF system was slightly greater. The assessor’s level of experience and specialty did affect accuracy. The ability to electronically manipulate images does not improve reliability and their sole use in describing these injuries and comparing similarly classified fractures from different centres is not recommended. Fractures of the proximal humerus are common. Most undisplaced or minimally displaced, and treated conservatively. Up to one fifth may benefit from surgery. As decisions regarding treatment are based on the fracture type, a radiological classification should be easy to use and have a high degree of reliability and reproducibility to serve as a useful discriminator, creating standards by which treatment can be recommended and outcomes compared. Radiographs of 100 fractures of the proximal humerus selected. A true anteroposterior, scapular lateral, and axillary radiograph taken for each fracture. 10 orthopaedic surgeons and 5 radiologists recruited as assessors, including 5 specialist registrars. Each given a printed description of both Neer and AO classifications, a goniometer and ruler. The assessment preceeded by short lecture. Radiographs could be manipulated digitally for size, contrast, brightness, orientation and the negative image displayed. We did not require assessors to determine subgroups for reasons of simplicity. Reproducibility and reliability analysed using Kappa statistical methods. Coefficients for agreement compared using the Student t test incorporating the standard errors of kappa for these groups. A comparison made between radiologists and surgeons, and then consultant orthopaedic surgeons and trainees. In each case the AO/ASIF system was statistically (p< 0.01) more accurate. Agreement was greater for less complex (one and two part, and type A) fractures. Level of experience produced a statistically (p< 0.01) significant difference in accuracy. Specialty did not. Our analysis comparing the Neer and AO systems uses the largest group of assessors reviewing the largest number of radiographs reported in the literature. We concur with others in concluding that using these systems in isolation in determining treatment and comparing results following treatment cannot be recommended

Introduction. To achieve tibiotalocalcaneal arthodesis, implants described range from external fixator, compression screws and anterior plate and the more recent retrograde calcaneal locked intramedullary nail. Our aim is to assess the outcome of the AO cannulated blade plate for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis. Patients and methods. Four tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodeses were performed in three patients. The operative technique involves lateral approach to the distal fibula that was osteotomised and used as bone graft. The articular cartilage of ankle and subtalar joint was removed using an osteotome and congruent surfaces achieved. AO cannulated blade plate was applied on the lateral aspect to achieve compression. The postoperative protocol included a plaster cast for three months, followed by mobilization out of plaster. Results and discussion. At the mean follow up of 10 months (range five to fourteen months) all patients were pain free on full weight bearing. The union was achieved at three months which was confirmed clinically and radiologically. There was no infection, wound breakdown, or loss of position at the ankle or subtalar joints. Mean preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle/hindfoot score was 21 and postoperative score 83. We conclude that the cannulated blade plate is an alternate technique for tibiotalocalcaneal arthodesis, with no moulding of the implant required to attain satisfactory alignment

Purpose: To evaluate the intra and inter-observer variation of the Schatzker and AO/OTA classifications in assessing tibial plateau fractures, using plain radiographs. Summary: Fifty tibial plateau fractures were classified independently by 6 observers as per the Schatzker and AO/OTA classifications, using antero-posterior and lateral plain radiographs. Assessment was done on two occasions 8 weeks apart. We found that both the Schatzker and AO/OTA classifications have a high intra-observer (kappa=0.57 and 0.53 respectively), and inter-observer (kappa=0.41 and 0.43 respectively) variation. Classification of tibial plateau fractures into unicondylar vs. bicondylar and pure splits vs. articular depression +/− split conferred improved inter and intra-observer variation. Conclusions: The high inter-observer variation found for the Schatzker and AO/OTA classifications must be taken into consideration when these are used as a guidance of treatment and when used in evaluating patients’ outcome. Simply classifying tibial plateau fractures into unicondylar vs. bicondylar and pure splits vs. articular depression +/− split may be more reliable

We present a retrospective clinical and radiological review to assess the use of the AO unreamed femoral nail and spiral blade in the treatment of subtrochanteric fractures. Treatment of the subtrochanteric fracture remains a challenge. A combination of high stress concentration, poor cortical bone quality and comminution leads to a high incidence of problems. The abovementioned implant has been recommended for use in such fractures. However, several authors have reported mechanical failure and spiral blade migration. We have used the unreamed femoral nail since 1996 in 65 femoral fractures, and of these 32 were subtrochanteric fractures. A retrospective clinical and radiological study was undertaken to assess the use of the implant. Clinical notes and radiographs were obtained for patients with subtrochanteric fractures treated with the AO unreamed femoral nail from November 1996 to November 1999. Fracture pattern was classified according to Seinsheimer. Assessments were made of callus formation and fracture healing. Any complication or implant failure was noted. Thirty-two patients required an unreamed femoral nail. There were 20 females and 12 males, with an average age of 75 years. There were 16 fractures due to a fall, 15 pathological fractures, and one due to a car accident. Classification was: Type I: 6; Type II: 13; Type III: 6; Type IV: 3; Type V: 1. Mean follow-up was five months (range 3 to 18). Eight deaths occurred within one month. There were two pain-free non-unions, one revision with bone graft for non-union, and one spiral blade back out. No breakage of implants occurred. We found that this implant provides stable fixation in these difficult fractures if adequate reduction is obtained. We have not experienced the implant failures reported in other series. We recommend the use of the implant, especially in those patients who are elderly or have pathological fractures

This study investigates the efficacy of the AO Pi-plate in the treatment of complex, unstable, intra-articular fractures of the distal radius. A retrospective study of 17 patients was carried out who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for dorsally displaced, intra-articular fractures of the distal radius using the AO Pi-plate. All patients were assessed clinically and radiologically post-operatively. The final functional outcome was assessed using the Gartland & Werley scoring system. The average follow-up period was 34.3 months. 94% (16 patients) of the fractures were classified as AO type C fractures. The wrist movement was restored to a near normal range in all cases. The mean grip strength was 67% of the uninjured hand. The functional outcome as measured by the Gartland & Werley scoring system showed excellent and good results in 88% of the patients. Radiographic assessment revealed an average articular step-off of 0mm post-operatively. The implant removal rate was 29% (5 patients) and the main reason for that was extensor tenosynovitis. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that although the functional outcome after using the Pi-plate for complex distal radius fractures is good, there is a significant incidence of extensor tenosynovitis. We recommend that the implant is best used for Type C fractures and be removed electively after fracture union

Introduction The results of open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures has been shown to be superior to closed management. We report our early experience with the AO locking calcaneal plate for these injuries in particular looking for wound complications. Methods Between December 2001 and March 2003 a total of 28 patients with 29 displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures were treated by two surgeons. The average delay from injury to time of surgery was 11 days. A standard “L” shape lateral approach was used with the patient in a lateral decubitus position. Reduction was temporarily held with K wires before the locking plate was applied, with the bending tools used for in-situ plate moulding. Wounds were closed over a drain using Allgower-Donati sutures after haemostasis. Stitches were removed at two weeks when the wounds had healed. Results Of the 29 fractures treated there was only two minor wound problems. In one patient this occurred after using the larger plate and consisted of slight necrosis at the inferior corner of the wound, which healed non-operatively. There have been two patients requiring removal of their plates between 10 and 15 months after surgery. They both complained of lateral pain, which may have been due to the plate being bulkier than other currently used plates. After removal both patients had immediate relief from their symptoms. The AO locking plate offers advantages over the standard plate. These include the option for locking screws as well as 2.7 mm and 3.5 mm screws, increased strength, and the ability to mould the plate in-situ using the bending irons in the screw holes. This in-situ moulding allows better contouring of the plate. On one occasion even this plate was too large and required trimming to fit the bone. We have not experienced an increase in wound problems due to bulkier plate. Conclusions Our early experience with the AO Locking plate has been positive, with minimal complications. We would recommend the use of this plate for fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures, and suggest the need for a smaller plate to be designed

Background. The optimal treatment for pilon fractures remains controversial. We have used early single-stage open reduction and internal fixation to treat these injuries and the purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of this strategy. Methods. A cohort of 95 patients with AO type C tibial pilon fractures underwent primary ORIF. Of these patients, 21 had open fractures. Sixty-eight fractures were sustained in falls, 21 in motor vehicle collision, 5 in crushes and one in an aircraft crash. The principal outcome measure was wound dehiscence or infection requiring surgery. Radiological and functional outcomes were assessed at a mean of five years using the SF36 and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score. Results. Primary ORIF was performed within 48 hours of admission in 98% cases. Reduction was anatomical in 90% cases. Six (6%) patients developed a wound infection or dehiscence that required surgical débridement, giving a wound complication rate of 4/21 (19%) for open fractures and 2/74 (2.7%) for closed fractures. Of the two closed fractures, one occurred in a patient with local scarring from previous trauma, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and chronic alcohol abuse, and the other in a patient with schizophrenia, diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. Radiographic follow-up revealed 74% patients had normal appearances or mild osteoarthritic degeneration only. Functional outcomes revealed a reduced level of general health and mild disability. Conclusions. Provided surgery is performed expeditiously by experienced orthopaedic trauma surgeons, AO type C pilon fractures can be stabilised safely and effectively by primary ORIF, with very low rates of wound complications, a high quality of reduction, and a good long term outcome. These results compare favourably with the published results for all other methods of treatment