Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the longer-term outcomes of operatively and nonoperatively managed patients treated with a removable brace (fixed-angle removable orthosis) or a plaster cast immobilization for an acute ankle fracture. Methods. This is a secondary analysis of a multicentre randomized controlled trial comparing adults with an acute ankle fracture, initially managed either by operative or nonoperative care. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either a cast immobilization or a fixed-angle removable orthosis (removable brace). Data were collected on baseline characteristics, ankle function, quality of life, and complications. The Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) was the primary outcome which was used to measure the participant’s ankle function. The primary endpoint was at 16 weeks, with longer-term follow-up at 24 weeks and two years. Results. Overall, 436 patients (65%) completed the final two-year follow-up. The mean difference in OMAS at two years was -0.3 points favouring the plaster cast (95% confidence interval -3.9 to 3.4), indicating no statistically significant difference between the interventions. There was no evidence of differences in patient quality of life (measured using the EuroQol five-dimension five-level questionnaire) or Disability Rating Index. Conclusion. This study demonstrated that patients treated with a removable brace had similar outcomes to those treated with a plaster cast in the first two years after injury. A removable brace is an effective alternative to traditional immobilization in a plaster cast for patients with an ankle fracture. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(4):382–388

Aims. Treatment of Weber B ankle fractures that are stable on weightbearing radiographs but unstable on concomitant stress tests (classified SER4a) is controversial. Recent studies indicate that these fractures should be treated nonoperatively, but no studies have compared alternative nonoperative options. This study aims to evaluate patient-reported outcomes and the safety of fracture treatment using functional orthosis versus cast immobilization. Methods. A total of 110 patients with Weber B/SER4a ankle fractures will be randomized (1:1 ratio) to receive six weeks of functional orthosis treatment or cast immobilization with a two-year follow-up. The primary outcome is patient-reported ankle function and symptoms measured by the Manchester-Oxford Foot and Ankle Questionnaire (MOxFQ); secondary outcomes include Olerud-Molander Ankle Score, radiological evaluation of ankle congruence in weightbearing and gravity stress tests, and rates of treatment-related adverse events. The Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research (approval number 277693) has granted ethical approval, and the study is funded by South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority (grant number 2023014). Discussion. Randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate alternative nonoperative treatment options for Weber B/SER4a ankle fractures, as current clinical guidelines are based on biomechanical reasoning. The findings will be shared through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(9):713–719

Aims. To investigate the risk factors for unsuccessful radial head reduction (RHR) in children with chronic Monteggia fractures (CMFs) treated surgically. Methods. A total of 209 children (mean age 6.84 years (SD 2.87)), who underwent surgical treatment for CMFs between March 2015 and March 2023 at six institutions, were retrospectively reviewed. Assessed risk factors included age, sex, laterality, dislocation direction and distance, preoperative proximal radial metaphysis width, time from injury to surgery, reduction method, annular ligament reconstruction, radiocapitellar joint fixation, ulnar osteotomy, site of ulnar osteotomy, preoperative and postoperative ulnar angulation, ulnar fixation method, progressive ulnar distraction, and postoperative cast immobilization. Independent-samples t-test, chi-squared test, and logistic regression analysis were used to identify the risk factors associated with unsuccessful RHR. Results. Redislocation occurred during surgery in 48 patients (23%), and during follow-up in 44 (21.1%). The mean follow-up of patients with successful RHR was 13.25 months (6 to 78). According to the univariable analysis, time from injury to surgery (p = 0.002) and preoperative dislocation distance (p = 0.042) were identified as potential risk factors for unsuccessful RHR. However, only time from injury to surgery (p = 0.007) was confirmed as a risk factor by logistic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and chi-squared test confirmed that a time from injury to surgery greater than 1.75 months increased the rate of unsuccessful RHR above the cutoff (p = 0.002). Conclusion. Time from injury to surgery is the primary independent risk factor for unsuccessful RHR in surgically treated children with CMFs, particularly in those with a time from injury to surgery of more than 1.75 months. No other factors were found to influence the incidence of unsuccessful RHR. Surgical reduction of paediatric CMFs should be performed within the first two months of injury whenever possible. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(7):581–591

Aims. The evidence demonstrating the superiority of early MRI has led to increased use of MRI in clinical pathways for acute wrist trauma. The aim of this study was to describe the radiological characteristics and the inter-observer reliability of a new MRI based classification system for scaphoid injuries in a consecutive series of patients. Methods. We identified 80 consecutive patients with acute scaphoid injuries at one centre who had presented within four weeks of injury. The radiographs and MRI scans were assessed by four observers, two radiologists, and two hand surgeons, using both pre-existing classifications and a new MRI based classification tool, the Oxford Scaphoid MRI Assessment Rating Tool (OxSMART). The OxSMART was used to categorize scaphoid injuries into three grades: contusion (grade 1); unicortical fracture (grade 2); and complete bicortical fracture (grade 3). Results. In total there were 13 grade 1 injuries, 11 grade 2 injuries, and 56 grade 3 injuries in the 80 consecutive patients. The inter-observer reliability of the OxSMART was substantial (Kappa = 0.711). The inter-observer reliability of detecting an obvious fracture was moderate for radiographs (Kappa = 0.436) and MRI (Kappa = 0.543). Only 52% (29 of 56) of the grade 3 injuries were detected on plain radiographs. There were two complications of delayed union, both of which occurred in patients with grade 3 injuries, who were promptly treated with cast immobilization. There were no complications in the patients with grade 1 and 2 injuries and the majority of these patients were treated with early mobilization as pain allowed. Conclusion. This MRI based classification tool, the OxSMART, is reliable and clinically useful in managing patients with acute scaphoid injuries. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(11):913–920

Aims. To determine the role of early MRI in the management of suspected scaphoid fractures. Methods. A total of 337 consecutive patients presenting to an emergency department (ED) following wrist trauma over a 12-month period were prospectively included in this service evaluation project. MRI was not required in 62 patients with clear diagnoses, and 17 patients were not managed as per pathway, leaving a total of 258 patients with normal scaphoid series radiographs who were then referred directly from ED for an acute wrist MRI scan. Patient demographics, clinical details, outcomes, and complications were recorded at a minimum of a year following injury. Results. The median time from injury to ED presentation was one day and the median number of positive clinical signs was two out of three (snuffbox tenderness, tubercle tenderness, pain on telescoping). Of 258 patients referred for acute MRI, 208 scans were performed as 50 patients either did not tolerate (five patients) or did not attend their scan (45 patients). MRI scans demonstrated scaphoid fracture (13%), fracture of another bone (22%), scaphoid contusion (6%), other contusion/ligamentous injury (20%), or solely degenerative pathology (10%). Only 29% of scans showed no abnormality. Almost 50% of those undergoing MRI (100 patients) were discharged by ED with advice, with only one re-presentation. Of the 27 undisplaced occult scaphoid fractures, despite prompt cast immobilization, two experienced delayed union which was successfully treated with surgery. Conclusion. The use of MRI direct from ED enables prompt diagnosis and the early discharge of a large proportion of patients with normal radiographs following wrist trauma. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(6):447–453

Our study seeks to determine whether characteristics of radiographs taken post-reduction of a forearm fracture can indicate future risk of refracture or loss of reduction. We hypothesize that reducing forearm fractures too precisely may be counterproductive and provide less benefit than reductions left slightly offset prior to cast immobilization. We conducted a retrospective review of 1079 pediatric patients treated for forearm fractures between January 2014 and September 2021 in a 327 bed regional medical center. Percent fracture displacement, location, orientation, comminution, fracture line visibility and angle of angulation were determined by AP and lateral radiographs. Percent fracture displacement was derived by: (Displacement of Bone Shafts / Diameter) x 100% = %Fracture Displacement. Patients treated with closed reduction were reduced from a mean displacement of 29.26±36.18% at an angulation of 22.67±16.57 degrees to 7.88±9.07% displacement and 3.89±6.68 degrees angulation post-reduction. Patients developing complications including a loss of reduction or refracture were found to have post-operative radiographs with a lower percent displacement (0.50±1.12) than those not developing complications (8.65±9.21)(p=0.0580). Post-reduction angulation (p=1.000), average reduction in angulation (p=1.000) and average reduction in displacement percent(p=0.2102) were not significantly associated with development of complications. Percent displacement of radial shafts was seen to be the most important metric to monitor in post-operative radiographs for patients undergoing closed reduction of a forearm fracture. We theorize a slight displacement provides greater surface area for osteoblastic expansion and callus formation leading to a decreased risk of refracture or loss of reduction. While our sample size precludes our ability to measure the ideal amount of post-reduction displacement for optimal healing, our results demonstrate that some degree of shaft displacement is required for optimal healing conditions

Aims. This study sought to estimate the clinical outcomes and describe the nationwide variation in practice, as part of the feasibility workup for a National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended randomized clinical trial to determine the optimal treatment of torus fractures of the distal radius in children. Methods. Prospective data collection on torus fractures presenting to our emergency department. Patient consent and study information, including a copy of the Wong-Baker Faces pain score, was issued at the first patient contact. An automated text message service recorded pain scores at days 0, 3, 7, 21, and 42 postinjury. A cross-sectional survey of current accident and emergency practice in the UK was also undertaken to gauge current practice following the publication of NICE guidance. Results. In all, 30 patients with a mean age of 8.9 years were enrolled over a six-week period. Of the 150 potential data points, data was captured in 146, making the data 97.3% complete. Pain scores were recorded at day 0 (mean 6.5 (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.7 to 7.3)), day 3 (4.4 (95% CI 3.5 to 5.2)), day 7 (3.0 (95% CI 2.3 to 3.6)), day 21 (1.2 (95% CI 0.7 to 1.7)) and day 42 (0.4 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.7)). Of the 100 units who participated in the nationwide survey, 38% were unaware of any local or national protocols regarding torus fractures, 41% treated torus fractures with cast immobilization, and over 60% of patients had follow-up arranged, both contradictory to national guidelines. Conclusion. We have demonstrated the severity, recovery trajectory, and variation in pain scores among children with torus fractures. We demonstrate excellent follow-up of patient outcomes using text messages. Despite national guidelines, there is significant variation in practice. This data directly informed the development of an ongoing nationwide randomized clinical trial – the FORearm Fracture Recovery in Children Evaluation (FORCE) study

Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are common injuries that represent 17% of all adult upper extremity fractures. Some fractures deemed appropriate for nonsurgical management following closed reduction and casting exhibit delayed secondary displacement (greater than two weeks from injury) and require late surgical intervention. This can lead to delayed rehabilitation and functional outcomes. This study aimed to determine which demographic and radiographic features can be used to predict delayed fracture displacement. This is a multicentre retrospective case-control study using radiographs extracted from our Analytics Data Integration, Measurement and Reporting (DIMR) database, using diagnostic and therapeutic codes. Skeletally mature patients aged 18 years of age or older with an isolated DRF treated with surgical intervention between two and four weeks from initial injury, with two or more follow-up visits prior to surgical intervention, were included. Exclusion criteria were patients with multiple injuries, surgical treatment with fewer than two clinical assessments prior to surgical treatment, or surgical treatment within two weeks of injury. The proportion of patients with delayed fracture displacement requiring surgical treatment will be reported as a percentage of all identified DRFs within the study period. A multivariable conditional logistic regression analysis was used to assess case-control comparisons, in order to determine the parameters that are mostly likely to predict delayed fracture displacement leading to surgical management. Intra- and inter-rater reliability for each radiographic parameter will also be calculated. A total of 84 age- and sex-matched pairs were identified (n=168) over a 5-year period, with 87% being female and a mean age of 48.9 (SD=14.5) years. Variables assessed in the model included pre-reduction and post-reduction radial height, radial inclination, radial tilt, volar cortical displacement, injury classification, intra-articular step or gap, ulnar variance, radiocarpal alignment, and cast index, as well as the difference between pre- and post-reduction parameters. Decreased pre-reduction radial inclination (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.54; Confidence Interval [CI] = 0.43 – 0.64) and increased pre-reduction volar cortical displacement (OR = 1.31; CI = 1.10 – 1.60) were significant predictors of delayed fracture displacement beyond a minimum of 2-week follow-up. Similarly, an increased difference between pre-reduction and immediate post reduction radial height (OR = 1.67; CI = 1.31 – 2.18) and ulnar variance (OR = 1.48; CI = 1.24 – 1.81) were also significant predictors of delayed fracture displacement. Cast immobilization is not without risks and delayed surgical treatment can result in a prolong recovery. Therefore, if reliable and reproducible radiographic parameters can be identified that predict delayed fracture displacement, this information will aid in earlier identification of patients with DRFs at risk of late displacement. This could lead to earlier, appropriate surgical management, rehabilitation, and return to work and function

Purpose: The treatment of extension type II pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures remains controversial. Some argue that closed reduction and cast immobilization is sufficient to treat these fractures, while others advocate closed reduction and pinning. The purpose of this radiographic outcomes study was to determine whether closed reduction and cast immobilization could successfully obtain and maintain appropriate position of extension type II supracondylar humerus fractures. Method: The radiographs of 1017 pediatric patients treated for supracondylar fractures between 1987 and 2007 were retrospectively reviewed. Pre-reduction, immediate post-reduction, and final radiographs of 155 extension type II fractures were measured in order to assess the position and alignment of the fracture fragments. Measurements included the anterior humeral line, humeral-capitellar angle, Baumann’s angle, the Gordon index, and the Griffet index. The latter two indices calculate the rotational instability of the fracture, which can be predictive of reduction loss. Patients were excluded if insufficient radiographs failed to allow complete assessment of the measurement parameters, or if open reduction was required. Results: The average age of the subjects was 5.3 years (range 1–13 years) and had a mean follow-up of 5.3 months. Analysis of the final radiographs demonstrated that in 80% of subjects, the anterior humeral line remained anterior to the mid third segment of the capitellum (radiographic extension deformity), the mean humeral-capitellar angle was 23.8° (range – 11°–50°), the mean Baumann’s angle was 79.4° (range 62°–97°), the mean Gordon index was 4.59%, and 44% of subjects had a Griffet index between 1–3 (potentially indicative of unstable reduction due to malrotation of the fragments, which can allow the development of a cubitus varus deformity). Conclusion: From this radiographic review, a significant proportion of fractures treated with closed reduction and cast immobilization failed to achieve anatomic position and alignment on final x-rays. However, the clinical significance of these results and the potential for long-term re-modeling of these fractures remains unknown

Aims. To determine the impact of COVID-19 on orthopaediatric admissions and fracture clinics within a regional integrated care system (ICS). Methods. A retrospective review was performed for all paediatric orthopaedic patients admitted across the region during the recent lockdown period (24 March 2020 to 10 May 2020) and the same period in 2019. Age, sex, mechanism, anatomical region, and treatment modality were compared, as were fracture clinic attendances within the receiving regional major trauma centre (MTC) between the two periods. Results. Paediatric trauma admissions across the region fell by 33% (197 vs 132) with a proportional increase to 59% (n = 78) of admissions to the MTC during lockdown compared with 28.4% in 2019 (N = 56). There was a reduction in manipulation under anaesthetic (p = 0.015) and the use of Kirschner wires (K-wires) (p = 0.040) between the two time periods. The median time to surgery remained one day in both (2019 IQR 0 to 2; 2020 IQR 1 to 1). Supracondylar fractures were the most common reason for fracture clinic attendance (17.3%, n = 19) with a proportional increase of 108.4% vs 2019 (2019 n = 20; 2020 n = 19) (p = 0.007). While upper limb injuries and falls from play apparatus, equipment, or height remained the most common indications for admission, there was a reduction in sports injuries (p < 0.001) but an increase in lacerations (p = 0.031). Fracture clinic management changed with 67% (n = 40) of follow-up appointments via telephone and 69% (n = 65) of patients requiring cast immobilization treated with a 3M Soft Cast, enabling self-removal. The safeguarding team saw a 22% reduction in referrals (2019: n = 41, 2020: n = 32). Conclusion. During this viral pandemic, the number of trauma cases decreased with a change in the mechanism of injury, median age of presentation, and an increase in referrals to the regional MTC. Adaptions in standard practice led to fewer MUA, and K-wire procedures being performed, more supracondylar fractures managed through clinic and an increase in the use of removable cast. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-7:424–430

Introduction. The incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with lower limb cast immobilization occurs in up to 20% of patients. This may result from altered calf pump function causing venous stasis. Our aim was to determine the effects of below knee cast on calf pump function. Method. Nine healthy participants were enrolled in this research and ethics approved prospective study. Four foot and ankle movements (toe dorsiflexion, toe plantar flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, ankle plantar flexion) and weight bearing were performed pre and post application of a below knee cast. Baseline and peak systolic velocity within the popliteal vein was measured during each movement. Participants with peripheral vascular disease, varicose veins, deep venous thrombosis or previous foot and ankle surgery were excluded. Results. The mean patient age was 34 years (range 28–58), the majority were female (n = 6). With cast in situ all movements resulted in a statistically significant increase in peak systolic velocity (p = <0.05). There was no significant difference in peak systolic velocity at the popliteal vein pre or post cast application. Discussion. This is the first study to examine the effect of a lower limb cast on calf muscle pump function. Despite cast immobilisation, toe and ankle flexion and extension movements significantly increase peak systolic velocity measured at the popliteal vein. Conclusion. Toe and ankle flexion and extension exercises significantly increase calf pump function in patients with below knee cast immobilization. We recommend that all patients treated in below knee cast immobilisation are advised to perform regular toe and ankle exercises to reduce venous stasis and risk of deep venous thromboembolism

Background: The treatment of congenital vertical talus has traditionally consisted of manipulation and application of casts followed by extensive soft-tissue releases. However, this treatment is often followed by severe stiffness of the foot and other complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new method of manipulation and cast immobilization, based on principles used by Dobbs et al in patients with idiopathic congenital vertical talus, but applied in teratologic congenital vertical talus. Methods: Five consecutive cases of teratologic congenital vertical talus deformity were prospectively followed at a minimum of nine months post treatment with serial casting and limited surgery consisting of percutaneous Achilles tenotomy, fractional lengthening of the anterior tibial tendon, and percutaneous pin fixation of the talonavicular joint. The principles of manipulation and application of the plaster casts were similar to those used by Ponseti to correct a clubfoot deformity, but the forces were applied in the opposite direction. Clinical and radiographic assessments were carried out at the initial, immediate postoperative and the latest follow-up. Results: Initial correction was obtained both clinically and radiographically in all five feet. A mean of eight casts was required for correction. At the final evaluation, the mean ankle dorsiflexion was 20° and the mean plantar flexion was 31°. Radiographically, dorsal subluxation of the navicular recurred in one patient, but was functionally insignificant as the patient was a non-ambulator and required treatment for seating purposes only. At the time of the latest follow-up, there was a significant improvement in all of the measured radiographic parameters compared with the pretreatment values. Conclusions: Serial manipulation and cast immobilization followed by talonavicular pin fixation and percutaneous tenotomy of the Achilles tendon provides excellent results, in terms of the clinical appearance of the foot, and deformity correction, in patients with teratologic congenital vertical talus

Introduction: Intraarticular fractures of distal radius are associated with high energy mechanisms, are severe and difficult to obtain a surgical reduction. The aim of our paper is to compare the clinical, radiographically and activity results in workers treated with surgical and conservative procedures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective study was organized in 43 heavy-labour workers (34 male and 9 female) with unstable fractures of distal radius, treated between 2003 and 2005. The minimal follow-up was of one year. The mean age were 40 years (22–65 years) and dominant limb was involved in 40% of the cases. To treatment groups were established. Group 1, conservative treated with indirect reduction and cast immobilization (n=20) and Group 2 surgically treated with indirect reduction and percutaneous fixation with K-wires and cast immobilization (n=24). Pain, mobility and radiograhs were evaluated and also strength (isokinetics), functionality (DASH score) and, finally, the return to work at 3, 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: Fracture healing was obtained at 7 weeks but the time to return to work were 14 weeks after surgery. Pain score, at 12 months, were 2,3 points for conservative treatment and 2,9 points for the surgically group. The flexion – extension mobility loss, in relation to the contralateral wrist, was lesser in the conservative group at 3 and 6 month but similar (11°) at 12 months in both groups. Radiographs corrections were anatomically in 38% of the cases of group 1 and in 80% of group 2. Functional and strength results were similar in both groups. All the patients return to the same work activity. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous fixation of unstable intraarticular distal radius fracture is comparable to the conservative treatment but the percentage of anatomical reductions was higher. It would be of importance in the evolution of the patients

Introduction: Mac Farland fracture is a joint fracture of the ankle in children, which involves the medial malleolus (Salter-Harris type III or IV) and is frequently associated with a fracture of the distal fibula. These injuries have a major risk of resulting in a medial epiphysiodesis bridge which, in turn, can lead to a varus deformity. As of today, recommended treatment for displacements wider than 2mm is open reduction with screw fixation. The aim of this study is to evaluate functional and radiological results of a new less invasive surgical procedure. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a case series of patients who suffered from a Mac Farland fracture and underwent percutaneous screw fixation with arthrographic control. Data collected for each child included age at diagnosis, gender, mechanism and side of injury, radiological Salter-Harris classification of medial and lateral malleolus fracture, size of the fracture line gap before and after treatment, and duration of cast immobilization. Results are given according to the classification by Gleizes (2000), based on clinical and radiological criteria: good, fair, and poor. Results: There were twelve patients, five girls and seven boys, with a mean age of twelve years and six months (range: 10–15). Average follow-up was eighteen months (range: 9–57). Medial malleolus fracture was Salter-Harris type III in seven patients and type IV in five. The mean preoperative fracture line gap was 2.7mm (range: 2–4). All the patients underwent closed reduction and ankle arthrography to check for anatomical reposition. The fracture was then percutaneously fixed with two screws in nine patients and one screw in three. Duration of cast immobilization after surgery was forty-five days in average. At the time of last follow-up the functional and radiological results were good for all the patients according to Gleizes’ classification. Conclusion: Closed reduction combined to ankle arthrography followed by percutaneous osteosynthesis is, in our opinion, an interesting less invasive surgical alternative to classic open reduction and internal fixation for displaced Mac Farland fractures

Introduction: Talus fractures are rare, but because of its peculiar anatomy the complications rate is high. Its arterial vascularisation can be compromised by trauma in displaced fractures or by the surgical approaches. Material and methods: Between 2001 and 2005, 30 patients with talus fractures were surgically treated in the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Bucharest University Hospital. Sex ratio was 3 men/27 men. 27 fractures were closed. The mean age was 37 years (extremes: 17 – 54 years). Fractures were classified according to Hawkins classification: type I – 9 cases, type II – 13 cases, type III – 8 cases. All patients underwent clinical and radiological examinations at 3, 6 and 12 months and every year after this interval. Results: Hawkins type I fractures were treated by cast immobilization without weight bearing for 6 to 8 weeks. Orthopedic reduction was performed in emergency in order to avoid vascular and cutaneous complications. Hawkins type II and III fractures were surgically treated. Anterior or transmaleolar internal surgical approaches were used. After reduction, osteosynthesis with 2 or 3 compression screws was performed. Avascular necrosis of talus was observed in 6 cases (5 type III fractures, 1 type II case). Cutaneous complications were observed more frequently in type II and III fractures and in the neglected ones. Sepsis occurred in one case. 80% of cases with avascular necrosis developed osteoarthritic changes. Radiological union was observed in average at 6 months. Conclusions: The prognosis of fracture-dislocation of talus is reserved, because of the high rate of avascular necrosis and osteoarthritis. The most important factors associated with good results are short time interval between trauma and surgical treatment and a perfect reduction. The surgical approach must avoid extensive devascularization of talus neck. Prolonged cast immobilization and long time avoidance of weight bearing favourably influenced fracture union. The most important complication is avascular necrosis

Background: Extra-articular fractures of the distal radius in children are most often treated with closed reduction and cast immobilization. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate long term (> 12 years follow-up) objective and subjective outcomes in a consecutive series of pediatric patients treated with closed reduction with standardized outcome instruments. We hypothesized that children treated with closed reduction and cast immobilization have little or no objective functional impairment in later life and therefore subjective factors are the strongest determinants of outcome. Methods: Twenty-seven patients with an average age at time of injury of 9 years (range, five to sixteen years) were evaluated at an average of twenty-one years (range, twelve to twenty seven years) after injury (patients aged 21 to 39) after closed reduction of an extra-articular distal radius fracture. Patients were evaluated using 2 physician-based evaluation instruments (modified Mayo wrist score; MMWS, and the Sarmiento modification of the Gartland and Werley score; MGWS) and an upper extremity-specific health status questionnaire (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; DASH) questionnaire. Radiographic measurements were also made. Multivariable analysis of variance and multiple linear regression modelling were used to identify the degree to which various factors affect variability in the scores derived with these measures. Results: All fractures had healed without significant loss of alignment. Final functional results according to the MGWS were rated as excellent or good in all patients. The average MMWS score was 90 points, and the median DASH score was 0 points. Twenty patients (74%) considered themselves pain free. Bivariate analysis revealed pain -as rated according to scales used in the MMWS- and age at time of injury to be correlated with DASH scores, with pain as the only independent predictor of patient-based outcome in multivariable analysis. This explains almost three quarters of the variability in DASH scores. Pain, range of motion, and radiographic measurement of radial length correlated with the physician based scoring system MMWS;. Conclusions: Twenty-one years after injury 96% of patients have a satisfactory outcome according to physician-based MMWS categorical ratings and patient-based DASH scores. It is remarkable that pain explained 74% of the variation in DASH scores. Perhaps when there is very little impairment, subjective factors are more important determinants of disability

The problem: A few operative procedures were used for radiolunate fusion for stabilization of the rheumatoid wrist. Because of minor stability of these fixations, cast immobilization of the wrist is necessary for several weeks, which may lead to a limited wrist motion through the scar of the joint capsule. Non-union and loosening of the osteosynthesis material were described for all of these procedures. Method: a three dimensional bended mini-titanium-T-plate (produced by Martin/Germany) with an additional oblique screw withstands the forces acting on the fixed lunate, as there are palmar flexion, dorsal extension, radial and ulnar abduction, rotation along the longitudinal axis, palmar and ulnar shift. The high primary stability results from a three point fixation of the lunate an the form of the plate. Because of this very stable fixation, early exercise of the wrist is allowed from the third day after operation. After reduction of the soft tissue swelling the palmar cast is replaced by a ready-made wrist splint, which can be removed by the patient for exercise of the wrist three times a day. Results: 20 radiolunate fusions have been performed by this new technique since the year 2000. Bone healing was achieved in all. Cast immobilization after surgery was reduced from a period of 3 to 8 weeks for the first 9 wrists to the period of soft tissue swelling (6 to 10 days) for the 11 wrists operated at least. Through early exercise of extension and flexion of the wrist, the average range of wrist extension and flexion rose from 60 degrees in the first group to 70 degrees in the latter. Conclusion: The radiolunate fusion with a three dimensional bended minititanium-T-plate and an oblique screw neutralizes the forces on the lunate. Because of this, early exercise of the wrist is possible to minimize limitation of the wrist motion through the shrinking scar of the joint capsule. Furthermore the light wrist splint is very comfortable to the patient, because it gives low stress on the other joints and can be removed easily for exercise and skin care

Introduction: Management of acute rupture of the Achilles tendon is controversial. Conservative treatment has a higher re-rupture rate while surgery has complications like infection and wound breakdown. We devised a protocol in our hospital to decide between the surgical or non-surgical options. At our institution, a well-documented and structured program of non-operative or opeartive management of Achilles tendon rupture with use of either casts or operation has been devised based on Ultrasound findings of the ‘Gap/distance between the two ends of the Tear’. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of Re-rupture in those treated by cast immobilization where the ends were approximating at ultrasound examination at our institution. METHODS: This study Prospectively assessed the results in 50 consecutive patients with a complete rupture of the Achilles tendon who had been treated with our regimen depending on the findings of the ultrasound examination, between 2003 and 2006. All ruptured Tendoachilles had ultrasound done in Full Equinus position to assess whether the ends are approximating or not. If ends were approximating they were treated in an equinus cast. Patients were evaluated on the basis of the subjective results and functional outcome measure, along with validated visual analogue scores. Re-rupture rates were measured at 06 months after injury. There were 35 Male and 13 females. This was followed by a final questionnaire to assess their return to pre-injury activities. Two patients were lost to follow-up as they moved out of the area. RESULTS: All the 48 re-ruptures available for analysis had their ultrasound done on initial presentation. 25 were treated non-operatively and 23 underwent surgery. The overall complication rate for Non Operative was minimal, with NO re-rupture or documented deep vein thromboses. In operative group there were 2 re-ruptures, 5 postoperative infection and discharge. CONCLUSION: The results of our non-operative treatment were better overall than published results of non operative & operative repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture. In this study the ends are approximating, confirmed on ultrasound before being assigned to Cast Immobilization. SIGNIFICANCE: The previous studies have not assigned patients into operative or non-operative groups based on whether the ends are approximating in full equines position. By assigning only those in whom the ends are approximating, to cast immobilization, re-rupture rates are less, thus resulting in better and stronger healing of TAs’ and avoiding risks of surgery

Purpose: To modify the technique of Sofield to minimize avascularity and to maximize stability. Introduction: Sofield and Millar described a technique for the correction of severe long bone deformity in osteogenesis imperfecta which involved removing the diaphysis from the limb and cutting it into several segments. These segments were then threaded on a rod without regard to their original position in the bone, their end to end orientation, or their rotation. The patient was then immobilized in a plaster cast. In order to avoid the extreme bone atrophy seen in some patients, sometimes called ‘disappearing bone disease’, and to provide sufficient stability to obviate cast immobilization we have modified Sofield’s technique. Surgical principles: Our technique follows the following guidelines: 1. Make as few osteotomies as possible; 2. Avoid, if possible, completely stripping any segment of bone; 3. In severely angulated bones which cannot be made straight without shortening, the part of the bone excised should include the area of maximum deformity; 4. In order to maximize angular stability make the cuts as far from the ends of the bone as possible; and 5. In order to achieve rotational stability make the cuts 45 degrees oblique. Material and methods: We reviewed 46 bones of 23 patients aged 1 to 20 years at the time of the study. There were 23 tibiae and 23 femora. We measured the angular deformity of the mechanical axis of the distal femur and the proximal and distal tibia. Six patients had only one bone corrected, 9 had two, 4 had 3, and 2 patients had corrections of both tibiae and both femora. We counted the number of cuts on the post-operative x-ray. Achieving shortening by removal of a piece was counted as one cut since it did not produce an additional segment. We noted whether or not a post-operative cast was used. Results: In no case, not even in the most severe deformities, were more than two cuts required. There was no difference in the tendency of the femur and tibia to require more than one cut. We observed no instances of ‘disappearing bone disease’. A few bones were so fragile that they tended to crumble during surgery and in these patients cast immobilization was employed. Conclusions: Viability of bone is enhanced by minimizing the number of osteotomies and periosteal stripping. Oblique osteotomies provide sufficient rotational stability that post-operative immobilization is unnecessary

Patellar fractures account for approximately 1% of all fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation is recommended to restore extensor continuity and articular congruity. However, complications such as nonunion and symptomatic hardware, still exist. Furthermore, there is a risk of re-fracturing of the healed bone during the removal of the implants. Magnesium (Mg), a biodegradable metal, has elastic moduli and compressive yield strength that are comparable to those of natural bone. Our previous study showed that released Mg ions enhanced fracture healing. However, Mg-based implants degrade rapidly after implantation and lead to insufficient mechanical strength to support the fracture. Microarc oxidation (MAO) is a metal surface coating that reduces corrosion. We hypothesized that Mg pins, with or without MAO, would enhance fracture healing radiologically, mechanically, and histologically, while MAO would decrease degradation of Mg pins. Patellar fracture was performed on forty-eight 18-week-old female New Zealand White rabbits according to established protocol. Briefly, the patella is osteotomized transversely and a tunnel (1.1mm) was drilled longitudinally through the two bone fragments. A pin (1 mm, stainless steel, Mg, or MAO-Mg) was inserted into the tunnel. The reduced construct was stabilized with a figure-of-eight band wire (⊘ 0.6 mm stainless steel wire). Cast immobilization was applied for 6 weeks. The rabbits were euthanized at week 8 and 12 post-operation. Microarchitecture and mechanical properties of the repaired patella were analyzed with microCT and tensile testing respectively. Histological sections of the repaired patella were stained. To evaluate the effect of the MAO treatment on degradation rate of Mg pin, the volume of the Mg pins in the patella was measured with microCT. At week 8, both Mg and Mg-MAO showed higher ratio of bone volume to tissue volume (BV/TV) than the control while there was no significant different between Mg and Mg-MAO. At week 12, Control, Mg, and Mg-MAO groups showed enlarged patella when compared to the normal patella. Tissue volume (TV) and bone volume (BV) of the patella in Mg and Mg-MAO were larger than those in the Control group. However, the Control had higher ratio of bone volume to tissue volume (BV/TV), TV density, and BV density than Mg and Mg-MAO. Tensile testing showed that the mechanical properties of the repaired patella (failure load, stiffness, ultimate strength, and energy-to-failure) of Mg and Mg-MAO were higher than that of the control at both week 8 and week 12. Histological analysis showed that there was significant new bone formation in the Mg and Mg-MAO group compared with the Control group at week 8 and 12. The degradation rate of the MAO-coated Mg pins was significantly slower than those without MAO at week 8 but no significant difference was detected at week 12. Mechanical, microarchitectural, and histological assessments showed that Mg pins, with or without MAO, enhanced fracture healing of the repaired patella compared to the Control. MAO treatment enhanced the corrosion resistance of the Mg pins at the early time point