Aims. The rationale for exacting restoration of skeletal anatomy after unstable ankle fracture is to improve outcomes by reducing complications from malunion; however, current definitions of malunion lack confirmatory clinical evidence. Methods. Radiological (absolute radiological measurements aided by computer software) and clinical (clinical interpretation of radiographs) definitions of malunion were compared within the Ankle Injury Management (AIM) trial cohort, including people aged ≥ 60 years with an unstable ankle fracture. Linear regressions were used to explore the relationship between radiological malunion (RM) at six months and changes in function at three years. Function was assessed with the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), with a minimal clinically important difference set as six points, as per the AIM trial. Piecewise linear models were used to investigate new radiological thresholds which better explain symptom impact on ankle function. Results. Previously described measures of RM and surgeon opinion of clinically significant malunion (CSM) were shown to be related but with important differences. CSM was more strongly related to outcome (-13.9 points on the OMAS; 95% confidence interval (CI) -21.9 to -5.4) than RM (-5.5 points; 95% CI -9.8 to -1.2). Existing malunion thresholds for talar tilt and tibiofibular clear space were shown to be slightly conservative; new thresholds which better explain function were identified (talar tilt > 2.4°; tibiofibular clear space > 6 mm). Based on this new definition the presence of RM had an impact on function, which was statistically significant, but the clinical significance was uncertain (-9.1 points; 95% CI -13.8 to -4.4). In subsequent analysis, RM of a posterior malleolar fracture was shown to have a statistically significant impact on OMAS change scores, but the clinical significance was uncertain (-11.6 points; 95% CI -21.9 to -0.6). Conclusion. These results provide clinical evidence which supports the previously accepted definitions. Further research to investigate more conservative clinical thresholds for malunion is indicated. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(10):841–849

To determine the biomechanical effect of increasing scaphoid malunion and scaphoid non-union on carpal kinematics during dynamic wrist motion using an active wrist motion simulator. Seven cadaveric upper extremities underwent active wrist flexion and extension in a custom motion wrist simulator with scaphoid kinematics being captured with respect to the distal radius. A three-stage protocol of progressive simulated malunion severity was performed (intact, 10° malunion, 20° malunion) with data analyzed from 45° wrist flexion to 45° wrist extension. Scaphoid malunions were modelled by creating successive volar wedge osteotomies and fixating the resultant scaphoid fragments with 0.062 Kirshner wires. At the completion of malunion motion trials, a scaphoid non-union trial was carried out by removing surgical fixation to observe motion differences from the malunion trials. Motion of the scaphoid, lunate, capitate, and trapezium-trapezoid was recorded and analyzed using active optical trackers. Increasing scaphoid malunion severity did not significantly affect scaphoid or trapezium-trapezoid motion (p>0.05); however, it did significantly alter lunate motion (p<0.001). Increasing malunion severity resulted in progressive lunate extension across wrist motion (Intact – Mal 10: mean dif. = 7.1° ± 1.6, p<0.05; Intact – Mal 20: mean dif. = 10.2° ± 2.0, p<0.05;) although this change was not as great as the difference seen during non-union trials (native – non-union: mean dif. = 13.8° ± 3.7, p<0.05). In this in-vitro model, increasing scaphoid malunion severity was associated with progressive extension of the lunate in all wrist positions. The clinical significance of this motion change is yet to be elucidated, but this model serves as a basis for understanding the kinematic consequences of scaphoid malunion deformities

Background. Many approaches to management of medial malleolar fractures are described in the literature however, their morphology is under investigated. The aim of this study was to analyse the morphology of medial malleolar fractures to identify any association with medial malleolar fracture non-union or malunion. Methods. Patients who had undergone surgical fixation of their MMF were identified from 2012 to 2022, using electronic patient records in a single centre. Analysis of their preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative radiographs was performed to determine their morphology and prevalence of non-union and malunion. Lauge-Hansen classification was used to characterise ankle fracture morphology and Herscovici classification to characterise MMF morphology. Results. A total of 650 patients were identified across a 10-year period which could be included in the study. The overall non-union rate for our cohort was 18.77% (122/650). The overall malunion rate was 6.92% (45/650). There was no significant difference in union rates across the Herscovici classification groups. Herscovici type A fractures were significantly more frequently malreduced at time of surgery as compared to other fracture types (p=.003). Medial wall blowout combined with Hercovici type B fractures showed a significant increase in malunion rate. There is a higher rate of bone union in patients who have been anatomically reduced. Conclusion. The morphology of medial malleolar fractures does have an impact of the radiological outcome following surgical management. Medial wall blowout fractures were most prevalent in adduction-type injuries; however, it should not be ruled out in rotational injuries with medial wall blowouts combined with and Herscovici type B fractures showing a significant increase in malunions. Herscovici type A fractures had significantly higher malreductions however the clinical implications of mal reducing small avulsions is unknown

Introduction and Objective. Malunion after trauma can lead to coronal plane malalignment in the lower limb. The mechanical hypothesis suggests that this alters the load distribution in the knee joint and that that this increased load may predispose to compartmental arthritis. This is generally accepted in the orthopaedic community and serves as the basis guiding deformity correction after malunion as well as congenital or insidious onset malalignment. Much of the literature surrounding the contribution of lower limb alignment to arthritis comes from cohort studies of incident osteoarthritis. There has been a causation dilemma perpetuated in a number of studies - suggesting malalignment does not contribute to, but is instead a consequence of, compartmental arthritis. In this investigation the relationship between compartmental (medial or lateral) arthritis and coronal plane malalignment (varus or valgus) in patients with post traumatic unilateral limb deformity was examined. This represents a specific niche cohort of patients in which worsened compartmental knee arthritis after extra-articular injury must rationally be attributed to malalignment. Materials and Methods. The picture archiving system was searched to identify all 1160 long leg x ray films available at a major metropolitan trauma center over a 12-year period. Images were screened for inclusion and exclusion criteria, namely patients >10 years after traumatic long bone fracture without contralateral injury or arthroplasty to give 39 cases. Alignment was measured according to established surgical standards on long leg films by 3 independent reviewers, and arthritis scores Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) and Kellegren-Lawrence (KL) were recorded independently for each compartment of both knees. Malalignment was defined conservatively as mechanical axis deviation outside of 0–20 mm medial from centre of the knee, to give 27 patients. Comparison of mean compartmental arthritis score was performed for patients with varus and valgus malalignment, using Analysis of Variance and linear regression. Results. In knees with varus malalignment there was a greater mean arthritis score in the medial compartment compared to the contralateral knee, with OARSI scores 5.69 vs 3.86 (0.32, 3.35 95% CI; p<0.05) and KL 2.92 vs 1.92 (0.38, 1.62; p<0.005). There was a similar trend in valgus knees for the lateral compartment OARSI 2.98 vs 1.84 (CI −0.16, 2.42; p=0.1) and KL 1.76 vs 1.31 (CI −0.12, 1.01; p=0.17), but the evidence was not conclusive. OARSI arthritis score was significantly associated with absolute MAD (0.7/10mm MAD, p<0.0005) and Time (0.6/decade, p=0.01) in a linear regression model. Conclusions. Malalignment in the coronal plane is correlated with worsened arthritis scores in the medial compartment for varus deformity and may similarly result in worsened lateral compartment arthritis in valgus knees. These findings support the mechanical hypothesis that arthritis may be related to altered stress distribution at the knee, larger studies may provide further conclusive evidence

Arthrodesis of both the ankle and the hindfoot has been discussed in the literature since the early part of the last century. Techniques have been modified substantially since these early discussions, though complications remain a frustrating element in patient management. Early procedures relied on molded plaster casts to hold fixation in corrected positions. Successful outcomes were hampered by loss of reduction in these casts and subsequent malunions. In addition, motion within these casts lead to a high rate of nonunion between the opposed bony surfaces. The era of internal fixation allowed compression across arthrodesis sites, enhancing union but creating a host of technical errors leading to unsatisfying results. Malunion is also seen in post-traumatic situations. In particular, non-operative management of calcaneus fracture (or other hindfoot fractures) leads to not only arthritis of the involved joint surfaces, but malunion complicating successful fusion. Fusion in-situ leads to a high level of patient dissatisfaction, leading surgeons to challenging deformity correction while trying to achieve successful arthrodesis in compromised joints. This lecture will focus on two types of malunion, one iatrogenic, one acquired. Revision triple arthrodesis (iatrogenic) can range from simple to challenging. A variety of studies document patient dissatisfaction following correction via this technique, ranging from Graves and Mann (1993) where the highest dissatisfaction rate was in highest in valgus malunion, to Sangeorzan and Hansen (1993), who found a 9% failure rate, most with varus malunion. The precarious balance required to create a plantigrade foot via triple arthrodesis with pre-existing deformity leaves even the most skilled surgeon challenged. As such, this component of the lecture will focus on recognition and correction of malunion based on a structured algorithmic approach we first presented in 1997. This algorithm is based on recognition of the apex of the deformity, and creating osteotomies to achieve balance. We reviewed 28 patients who returned for follow-up examination who received treatment through this algorithm and found a statistically significant improvement in pre- and postoperative AOFAS ankle/hindfoot score, from an average of 31 points preoperatively to 59 postoperatively (p<0.01). All patients united, and all stated they would undergo the revision procedure again. Comparisons of pre- and postoperative shoe wear modification demonstrated a statistically significant improvement (p=0.01). Preoperatively, 20 patients required restrictive devices such as ankle foot orthoses and orthopaedic shoes. Postoperatively, only 1 patient required such a restrictive device. In fact, 17 patients required no modifications to their shoe wear at all. The second component to this lecture will assess acquired hindfoot deformity, from malunion created by calcaneus fractures. A 2005 JBJS study by Brauer, et.al. found operative management resulted in a lower rate of subtalar arthrodesis with a shorter time off work compared to non-operative management. Removing the expense of time off work still netted a $2800 savings for operative management over non-operative management. Sanders echoed these thoughts in a JBJS 2006 paper, suggesting patients with displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures may benefit from acute operative treatment given the difficulty encountered in restoring the calcaneal height and the talo-calcaneal relationship in symptomatic calcaneal fracture malunion. Thus, with these challenges in mind, the goal of this component of the lecture is to introduce methods to achieve balance and union with calcaneus fracture malunion. Vertically oriented multiplanar calcaneal osteotomy may assist the surgeon in avoiding the higher non-union rate associated with bone-block arthrodesis procedures. In this vein, the challenges associated with bone block subtalar arthrodesis will be explored

Background. Scaphoid fracture malunion with flexion and shortening results in the ‘humpback deformity’. This is thought to be associated with poor clinical results when assessed with the lateral intra-scaphoid angle and the Green and O'Brien wrist evaluation scale. This method of deformity measurement is now considered unreliable and the functional score has not been validated in the setting of scaphoid fractures. Aims & objectives. To assess the outcome of scaphoid malunion at one year using the height to length ratio, a reliable measure of deformity, and the Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM), a functional assessment validated specifically for scaphoid fracture outcome. Material & methods. Forty-two consecutive patients with a united scaphoid fracture were prospectively evaluated one year following injury. All had been treated in a below elbow colles plaster for up to 12 weeks. Fracture union was confirmed at 12-18 weeks post-injury with longitudinal CT scans. Scaphoid malunion was quantified with the height to length ratio measured on CT images by two observers. A blind clinical assessment was made and all patients completed the PEM questionnaire. The group consisted of 38 males and 4 females with a mean age of 31 years at the time of injury. Results. 23 out of 42 patients were judged to have scaphoid malunion. Grip strength, range of motion and PEM scores were not significantly different between the malunited fractures and those fractures that united without deformity (Grip Strength: 95% vs. 100% of the normal side; ROM: 98% vs. 99% and PEM: 7% vs. 10% respectively, p>0.066). Conclusions. We found scaphoid fractures that had united with a humpback deformity resulted in a 5% reduction in hand grip strength, but no significant reduction in range of motion or functional impairment using the validated PEM

Purpose: The purpose was to investigate the relationship between distal radius fracture malunion and arm-related disability. Methods: This prospective population-based cohort study included 143 patients above 18 years with acute distal radius fracture treated at one emergency hospital with either closed reduction and cast (55 patients) or with closed reduction and external and/or percutaneous pin fixation (88 patients). The patients were evaluated with the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire at baseline (inquiring about disabilities before fracture) and at 6, 12 and 24 months after the fracture. The 12-month follow-up also included the SF-12 health status questionnaire as well as clinical and radiographic examination. The patients were classified according to the degree of malunion (defined as dorsal tilt > 10 degrees or ulnar variance > 0 mm) into three groups; no malunion, malunion involving either dorsal tilt or ulnar variance, and malunion involving both dorsal tilt and ulnar variance. A Cox regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between the 1-year DASH score (≥ 15 or < 15) and malunion adjusting for age, sex, fracture AO type, and treatment method and the relative risk (RR) of obtaining the higher DASH score was calculated. The number needed to harm (NNH) associated with malunion was calculated. Results: The mean DASH score at 1 year after fracture was about 10 points worse with each degree of increased malunion. The degree of malunion also correlated with SF-12 score, grip strength and supination. The regression analysis showed significantly higher disability with each degree of malunion compared to no malunion; for malunion involving either dorsal tilt or ulnar variance the RR was 2.4 (95% CI 1.0–5.7; p=0.038), and for malunion involving both dorsal tilt and ulnar variance the RR was 3.2 (95% CI 1.4–7.5; p=0.007). The NNH was 2.5 (95% CI 1.8–5.4). Conclusion: Malunion after distal radius fracture was associated with higher arm-related disability

Purpose of the study: The slightest alteration of the antebrachial anatomic configuration, which constitutes a complex and precise biomechanical system, yields a limitation in pronosupination. Unlike the metaphysical region, little is known about rotational malunion involving the radial shaft. Kasten et all demonstrated in 30 cases that a rotational malunion of the radial shaft leads to significant loss in the pronosupination arc. If the proximal and distal radioulnar joints are intact, the interosseous membrane (IOM) probably plays an important role in this limitation. Material and methods: The purpose of our study was to evaluate the impact of releasing the IOM on the pro-nosupination arc in an experimental model with a rotational malunion of the radial shaft inducing pronation. Results: The study involved eight cadaver forearms free of all muscle structures and devoid of prior trauma. After stabilizing the elbow at 90°, the upper limb was fixed on a metal frame used as the reference to measure pronosupination. For each specimen, motion was measured initially, after osteotomy of the radius shaft to induce pronation then associated with longitudinal section of the IOM. A midshaft transverse osteotomy induced 78±7 pronation on average and was fixed with a DCP. Discussion: The mean pronosupination arc was initially 175 in our population (81 pronation, 94 supination). After the creating the rotational malunion, this arc decreased significantly to 126 (SD. p> 0.05) (99 pronation, 27 supination). Release of the IOM increased this arc significantly from 27 to 153 (SD, p> 0.05) (105 pronation, 48supination). Conclusion: Our study confirms the impact of rotational malunion on the pronosupination arc and shows the positive effect of releasing the IOM. Suppression of the IOM leads to a simpler biomechanics for the antebrachial system, allowing greater mobility of the bone one over the other. There are several clinical applications of this observation for the correction of shaft malunion of the antebrachial bones, but also certain corrective osteotomies for malpositions in the neurological patient

Malunion following displaced fractures of clavicle most commonly occurs with shortening and anterior rotation of the distal fragment. This results in scapular malalignment, which has been documented clinically as scapular winging. However, to our knowledge, this scapular malalignment has never been quantified radiographically. The purpose of our study was to quantify the radiographic parameters in patients with symptomatic midshaft clavicle malunions demonstrating scapular winging. Fourteen patients with symptomatic midshaft clavicle malunions demonstrating scapular winging of the affected shoulder were identified. Each patient underwent CT scanning of both clavicles and scapulae. A standardised CT protocol was used for each patient. Multiple measurements were used to document the clavicle malunion and scapular malalignment including clavicular length, the distance from the tip of the scapula to the chest wall and to the nearest adjacent spinous process, and the relative height of each scapula on the chest wall. Statistical analysis using the Student t-test was performed. The mean time from fracture was twenty-nine months. There were eleven males and three females with a mean age of 33.1 years. The mean clavicular shortening was 17mm (P> 0.001). The mean anterior-rotation through the malunion was nine degrees, and showed a trend toward significance (P=0.1). The distal fragment was anteriorly translated 13.5mm (P> 0.001) relative to the opposite normal shoulder. The scapula was displaced laterally 10.3mm (P> 0.001) from the nearest spinous process, superiorly 16.3mm and 12.2mm (P> 0.001) off the chest wall on average compared to the opposite normal shoulder. Patients with symptomatic clavicle malunions often complain of periscapular pain, and winging of the scapula has been noted in such individuals. Ours is the first study to document and quantify scapular malalignment in this clinical setting. Since most shoulder musculature is scapular based, identification and quantification of scapular malalignment may have important ramifications in decision-making regarding treatment of clavicle fractures and malunions

We evaluated the efficacy of using the expandable nail for treating non-union and malunion of the tibial and femoral shafts. Records of 20 patients were retrospectively reviewed: 12 had femoral non-union, 7 had tibial non-union, and one had tibial malunion. The bones underwent reaming and the largest possible nail sizes were inserted during reoperation. The mean age of the patients was 35 years (26-49) in the tibia group and 53 years (23-85) in the femur group. The fractures were defined according to AO/OTA classification and divided between open and closed. The initial treatment was 6 interlocking intramedullary nails and 2 external fixation in the tibia group, and 6 interlocking intramedullary nails, 3 plates and screws and 2 proximal femoral nails in the femoral group. The respective intervals between the original trauma and re-operation were 12 months and 15 months and the respective operation times were 59 minutes (35-70) and 68 minutes (20-120). All fractures healed satisfactorily without the need for an additional procedure. Healing time was 26 weeks (6-52) and 14 weeks (6-26) in the tibia and femur group, respectively. Limb shortenings of 10cm and 4cm were recorded in one patient each in the tibia group and of 3cm in one patient in the femur group. Using the expandable nail system permitted us to ream the bone and expand the nail to its maximal diameter, i.e. up to 16mm in the tibia and 19mm in the femur. We believe that using a bigger nail diameter contributes to better stabilisation of the fracture and promotes better and faster bone healing. Based on our experience, we recommend the use of the expandable nail system to treat tibia and femur shaft non-unions and malunions

Introduction Malunion of radial head fractures can lead to pain, stiffness and early development of osteoarthritis. While the operative management of acute displaced radial head fractures is well described there is only one published case study of treatment of radial head mal-union by an osteotomy. Methods Four patients aged between 22 to 51 years with a displaced intra-articular radial head fracture were initially treated non-operatively in this series. They subsequently developed a malunion resulting in loss of motion and pain. Each of these cases were treated with an intra-articular osteotomy and internal fixation within two to six months of their injury. The procedure was performed via a Kochers approach, preserving the lateral ligament complex. An osteotomy was then performed through the site of malunion, with the depressed fragment being elevated, grafted and internally fixed using two compression screws to re-establish the original anatomy. In some cases a capsular release was also performed. They were followed-up for a period of six to 12 months to assess for union, range of motion and pain. Results All patients reported a marked improvement in elbow movement with significantly reduced pain and better function. On average there was an increase of 40° of elbow flexion and 50° of forearm rotation. There was clinical and radiographic evidence of union in all cases. All four patients were satisfied with the result and were able to resume their pre-injury employment. Conclusions Malunion of the radial head can be treated successfully by a radial head osteotomy and grafting technique as described in this paper. Each of these cases was performed within six months of the injury before arthritic change of the radiocapitellar joint was irreversible

We evaluated the efficacy of using the expandable nail for treating non-union and malunion of the tibial and femoral shafts. Records of 20 patients were retrospectively reviewed: 12 had femoral non-union, 7 had tibial non-union, and one had tibial malunion. The bones underwent reaming and the largest possible nail sizes were inserted during reoperation. The mean age of the patients was 35 years (26–49) and in the tibia group and 53 years (23–85) in the femur group. The fractures were defined according to AO/OTA classification and divided between open and closed. The initial treatment was 6 interlocking intramedullary nails and 2 external fixation in the tibia group, and 6 interlocking intramedullary nails, 3 plates and screws and 2 proximal femoral nails in the femoral group. The respective intervals between the original trauma and re-operation were 12 months and 15 months and the respective operation times were 59 minutes (35–70) and 68 minutes (20–120). All fractures healed satisfactorily without the need of an additional procedure. Healing time was 26 weeks (6– 52) and 14 weeks (6–26) in the tibia and femur group, respectively. Limb shortenings of 10 cm and 4 cm were recorded in one patient each in the tibia group and of 3 cm in one patient in the femur group. Using the expandable nail system permitted us to ream the bone and expand the nail to its maximal diameter, i.e., up to 16 mm in the tibia and 19 mm in the femur. We believe that using a bigger nail diameter contributes to better stabilization of the fracture and promotes better and faster bone healing. Based on our experience, we recommend the use of the expandable nail system to treat tibia and femur shaft non-unions and malunions

Aims

The aims of this study were to describe the epidemiology of metacarpal shaft fractures (MSFs), assess variation in treatment and complications following standard care, document hospital resource use, and explore factors associated with treatment modality.

Purpose: Femoral and tibial shaft malunion may predispose to knee osteoarthritis but may also pose a problem for knee reconstruction; malposition of total knee prostheses being a known cause of early failure. Limb realignment may prove to be beneficial prior to proceeding with arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome and effect of shaft osteotomy prior to total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Method: A search of the trauma database between 1987 and 2006 was conducted. Twenty-two osteotomies were performed on 21 patients with femoral or tibial shaft malunion who had been considered for TKA. Mean age at osteotomy was 54 years and mean follow-up 86 months. Time intervals between surgical procedures and Knee Society scores were calculated. Patients were surveyed regarding pain relief and functional improvement. Results: Femoral osteotomy improved mean Knee Society knee scores from 47 to 76 and function scores from 34 to 61. Tibial osteotomy improved knee scores from 53 to 82 and function scores from 28 to 50. Four osteotomies were complicated by nonunion and required further intervention. Osteotomy subjectively improved pain and function for a mean of 56 months. Femoral and tibial shaft osteotomy delayed TKA in 45% (10 cases) for a mean period of just over 6.5 years (89 and 73 months for femoral and tibial osteotomy respectively). Pre and post Knee society scores were: Femur: knee 56 to 88, function 41 to 72; Tibia: knee 65 to 85, function 25 to 57. One TKA was revised after 11 months due to valgus malalignment and was complicated by a wound infection. There were no other infections or wound complications. The procedure additionally relieved pain and improved function in the remaining 12 joints, not yet requiring arthroplasty. Conclusion: Femoral and tibial shaft osteotomy may delay and possibly avoid TKA, relieve pain and improve function in patients who present with malunion and end-stage knee arthritis. The complication rate and clinical results of TKA following shaft osteotomy appear to be similar to primary TKA. This treatment strategy should be considered in younger patients with post traumatic osteoarthritis where significant femoral or tibial deformity is present

Introduction: We present our results from a series of patients with symptomatic distal radial malunions. Between January 2005 and October 2008, 15 patients (11 female: 4 male) underwent corrective osteotomy using fixed-angle plates and either structural iliac crest or inlay hydroxyapa-tite (HA) graft. 2 patients had correction for palmar, and the remainder for dorsal, angulation. The mean age was 48 years. The mean time from injury to corrective osteotomy was 12 months (range 3–40 months). Methods: Radiological parameters included ulna variance, radial inclination, palmar angulation and time to union following osteotomy. Clinical outcomes included wrist RoM, grip strength, VAS for pain and DASH score (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) preoperatively and 3 months post-operatively. Results: The mean change in radiographic parameters were 2mm increase in ulnar variance, 9° increase in radial inclination (14° – 23°) and 23° increase in palmar angulation (−26° – 3°). The only statistically significant change in RoM was an increase in supination from 55° preoperatively to 73° postoperatively. DASH scores improved from a mean 51 pre-op to 15 post-op, statistically and clinically significant. The mean improvement in grip strength was 8kg, and the VAS for pain improved from 5 preoperatively to 1 postoperatively. We found a positive correlation between age and time to union/graft incorporation (R2 = 0.47). The mean time to graft incorporation was 16 weeks. All of the patients treated with iliac crest structural graft progressed to union. Only 2 of the 4 patients treated with HA graft achieved incorporation, while the other 2 have required revision surgery. Conclusion: Our results therefore show a significant improvement in both radiological and clinical outcome measures following corrective surgery. We had inferior results with the HA graft, and have subsequently abandoned its use. These results support the use of corrective osteotomy following distal radial malunion

Introduction: The concept of osteoperiosteal decortication for the treatment of fracture non-union and mal-union was introduced by Judet in the early 1960’s. Over 1000 cases have been treated with a union rate of 80 – 90%. Methods: A review of the clinical notes and plain radiographs was carried out on 21 patients who underwent osteoperiostal decortication between 2002 and 2004. There were 11 male and 9 female patients with 14 femoral, 5 tibial and 2 humeral fractures. 18 patients had non unions and 3 patients malunions. The mean time from fracture to surgery was 8.2 months for the non-unions (range 6 to 16 months) and patients had previously had a mean of 1.8 procedures (range 0 to 4) prior to the index decortication procedure. Results: 19 patients progressed to union (90%). 9 patients had complications (43%). There were 6 failures of fixation requiring revision surgery and 4 deep infections (2 of which proceeded to amputation). In 4 patients supplementation of the decortication with bone graft or BMP was performed. Discussion: This series represents the learning curve of the senior surgeon using this technique. In the treatment of complex non-unions or malunions, the use of osteoperiosteal decortication can achieve a union rate of 90%. However there are high complication rates although the complications are usually salvageable. In this series the infection rate in the distal tibial was noted to be especially high with 3 out of the 4 infective complications being in the tibial fractures

Introduction Distal radius fractures are the most common in the upper extremities and usually comminuted and unstable. The following techniques are usually used in treating these fractures: osteosynthesis with plates and screws (ORIF), Ilizarov device and the AO- external fixator, K – wires. The main aim of the report is to study the results of surgical treatment of distal radius nonunion, malunion, and pseudarthrosis in cases when different techniques of fixation were used. Material and methods. In 1998–2001 a clinical study of 48 patients (33 males and 15 females) with distal radius injury was conducted in orthopedics department. The mean age of the patients was 42 years (15–69). 28 patients had the injury of their right hand and 20 - of their left hand. 19 patients had distal radius non-union, 15 – malunion, and 14 – pseudarthrosis. The average time from injury to the surgical treatment was 5 months. The mean follow-up was 27,2 Months (12–36). The AO techniques (ORIF with titanium and stainless steel implants) were used in Group I (36 patients). Conventional techniques and fixators were used in 13 patients of Group II: home produced plates and screws, Ilizarov device, external fixator, K- wires. The indications for surgical treatment nonunion were: A3 type, B1 – B3 type, C1 – C3 type, accompanied by more than two criteria of instability. In 10 patients with extraar-ticular fractures we used osteosynthesis with dorsal or palmar T-plates (3.5 mm). Mini-«T» - and «Pi»-Plates (2,7 mm) were used in four patients who had comminuted fractures with tiny distal fragments (‘bursting’ mechanism).The Ilizarov device and K-wires were used in five patients. Radius reduction without rotational and angular deformity was considered to be an indication for shortening osteotomy of the ulna. Internal fixation with a 3.5 mm LC-DCP plate was used in six patients of Group I, and K- wires were used in two patients of Group II. The deformity of the radius required corrective osteotomy with a 3.5 mm T-plate fixation in five patients of Group I, in two patients of Group II we used home produced plates, screws, and bone autoplasty with a spongy graft from the iliac crest (14); in one patient a «Bio-oss» graft was used. In 7 patients we used Ilizarov device and K-wires. Results. Pain relief was achieved in 87% of the reexamined patients from the Group I and in 72% - from the Group II. Bone fragments united in 31 patients of Group I (86%) and in 9 patients (75%). In one case a plate broke resulting in the relapse of pseudarthrosis. Application of the AO fixators allowed early mobilization, which helped to avoid post immobility contractures. Grasping power restoration in Group I was 76% (grip strength) and 82% (pinch strength) of the uninjured side. In Group II grip strength was 55% and pinch strength − 69% of the uninjured side. In Group II there was consolidation in two cases of nonunity, Sudeck’s syndrome developed in two patients. Contractures and progressive arthrosis in the wrist were also observed. Recovery of Group I patients was 2.5 times quicker than in Group II and the functional results were much better in Group I throughout the whole course of treatment. Conclusion. In comparison with conventional fixators, AO-plates (ORIF) help to perform anatomically accurate and stable osteosynthesis, which, in its turn, helps to promote early mobilization, to reduce the complications. All this leads to a fall in the disability rate and invalidity of patients

To determine the effectiveness of six-axis analysis deformity correction using the Taylor Spatial Frame for the treatment of post-traumatic tibial malunions and non-unions, the study design was a retrospectively reviewed, consecutive series. Mean duration of follow-up: 3.2 years (range 2–4.2 years). All patients had been referred to a tertiary referral centre for deformity correction. Eighteen patients were included in the study (11 mal-unions and 7 nonunions). All deformities were post-traumatic in nature. The mean number of operations prior to the application of the spatial frame was 2.6 (range 1–6 operations). All patients completed the study. Six-axis analysis deformity correction using the Taylor Spatial Frame (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN) was used for correction of post-traumatic tibial malunion or nonunion. Nine patients had bone grafting at the time of frame application. One patient with a tibial plafond fracture simultaneously had deformity correction and an ankle fusion for a mobile atrophic nonunion. Two patients had infected tibial nonunions that were treated with multiple debridements, antibiotic beads, and bone grafting at the time of spatial frame application. A rotational gastrocnemius flap was used to cover a proximal third tibial defect in one patient. The average length of time the spatial frame was worn, time to healing, was 18.5 weeks (range 12–32 weeks). The main outcome measurements involved assessment of deformity correction in six axes, knee and ankle range of motion, incidence of infection, and return to preinjury activities. Results: Seventeen of the 18 patients treated with the Taylor Spatial Frame, with adjunctive bone graft as necessary, achieved union and significant correction of their deformities in six axes, i.e. coronal angulation and translation, sagittal angulation and translation, rotation, and shortening. Fifteen of the 18 patients returned to their pre-injury activities at last follow-up. Conclusion: Six-axis analysis deformity correction using the Taylor Spatial Frame is an effective technique in treating post-traumatic malunions and nonunions of the tibia, with several advantages over previously used devices

Introduction and Aims: Rotational malalignment following fracture of the distal radius results in subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint, alteration of the normal contact area of the ulnar head in the sigmoid notch of the radius, arthrosis, pain, limited pronation and supination and dysfunction. This paper describes the technique for restoration of appropriate rotation, as well as length and angulation following malunion. Method: Eleven cases of derotational osteotomy of the distal radius with low-profile plate fixation have been performed for correction of rotational malalignment with restoration of appropriate articular tilt, length and alignment. In eight cases, the articular surface of the distal ulna was found to be too degenerated to salvage the distal radioulnar joint and resection of the distal ulna with soft tissue reconstruction was performed. Results: Healing of the osteotomy of the distal radius was achieved in all 11 patients. None of the patients undergoing distal resection demonstrated instability of the distal radioulnar joint but one demonstrated distal radioulnar impingement. One patient with a preserved ulnar head demonstrated ulnocarpal abutment and required late secondary ulna head resection. Pre-operative pronation/supination arc was 40 degrees and postoperative arc was 130 degrees. In eight of the 11, pain was rated as zero on a 10-point scale, while the other three ranged between two and five on the same scale. At a two-year follow-up, grip strength measured 80% of the contralateral side while total range of motion measured 76% of the contralateral side. All 11 patients were functional at daily household activities, five out of seven previously working patients were back to work, and all patients felt that their post-operative status was a significant improvement over their pre-operative status. Conclusion: Rotatory malpositioning following distal radius fracture provides significant disability. Derotational osteotomy can be effective in restoring pronation and supination, diminishing pain and increasing function. Late treatment may also require resection of the distal ulnar articular surface due to post-traumatic arthrosis. Soft tissue stabilisation at the time of osteotomy provides stability of the distal radioulnar joint in the majority of cases

Purpose: Achieving accurate imaging in talus neck fracture management is important. Patient outcome relies on the ability to achieve and maintain anatomic reduction. The ability to visualize the reduction postoperatively using plain radiographs or computed tomography (CT) is limited. The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of radiostereometric analysis (RSA) to detect changes in talus fracture fragment alignment using an in-vitro model. This will be compared to the use of plain radiographs and CT. Methods: Eight cadaveric human lower extremities were used as talus fracture models. Each talus was removed from the specimen and an osteotomy was created. RSA beads were inserted into the fragments. Anatomical reduction was achieved with two 3.5 mm cortical screws. A set of plain radiographs and RSA films was obtained. The fragments were displaced in a combined varus and supination direction. The degree of displacement was measured with a Vernier caliper and the rotation measured with a protractor. The imaging sequence was repeated in addition to obtaining CT scans with three dimension reconstruction. The RSA measurements were interpreted in a blinded fashion by an experienced researcher. Two independent blinded observers measured the displacement and rotation with plain films and CT. The results from each radiographic measurements were compared using ANOVA method to the experimental values. Results: The average difference between the RSA measurements and the experimental measurements was 5.9mm while the difference between CT scan measurements and experimental values was 2.4mm (p=0.003). The average difference in rotation was not statistically significant between the three groups. Conclusions: CT scan provides the most accurate assessment of talar neck malunion. Unfortunately, RSA is not a viable imaging technique for assessing talar neck displacement. Funding: Other Education Grant. Funding Parties: Lawson Health Research Institute