Introduction. A significant burden of disease exists with respect to critical sized bone defects; outcomes are unpredictable and often poor. There is no absolute agreement on what constitutes a “critically-sized” bone defect however it is widely considered as one that would not heal spontaneously despite surgical stabilisation, thus requiring re-operation. The aetiology of such defects is varied. High-energy trauma with soft tissue loss and periosteal stripping, bone infection and tumour resection all require extensive debridement and the critical-sized defects generated require careful consideration and strategic management. Current management practice of these defects lacks consensus. Existing literature tells us that tibial defects 25mm or great have a poor natural history; however, there is no universally agreed management strategy and there remains a significant evidence gap. Drawing its origins from musculoskeletal oncology, the Capanna technique describes a hybrid mode of reconstruction. Mass allograft is combined with a vascularised fibula autograft, allowing the patient to benefit from the favourable characteristics of two popular reconstruction techniques. Allograft confers initial mechanical stability with autograft contributing osteogenic, inductive and conductive capacity to encourage union. Secondarily its inherent vascularity affords the construct the ability to withstand deleterious effects of stressors such as infection that may threaten union. The strengths of this hybrid construct we believe can be used within the context of critical-sized bone defects within tibial trauma to the same success as seen within tumour reconstruction. Methodology. Utilising the Capanna technique in trauma requires modification to the original procedure. In tumour surgery pre-operative cross-sectional imaging is a pre-requisite. This allows surgeons to assess margins, plan resections and order allograft to match the defect. In trauma this is not possible. We therefore propose a two-stage approach to address critical-sized tibial defects in open fractures. After initial debridement, external fixation and soft tissue management via a combined orthoplastics approach, CT imaging is performed to assess the defect geometry, with a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) spacer placed at index procedure to maintain soft tissue tension, alignment and deliver local antibiotics. Once comfortable that no further debridement is required and the risk of infection is appropriate then 3D printing technology can be used to mill custom jigs. Appropriate tibial allograft is ordered based on CT measurements. A pedicled fibula graft is raised through a lateral approach. The peroneal vessels are mobilised to the tibioperoneal trunk and passed medially into the bone void. The cadaveric bone is prepared using the custom jig on the back table and posterolateral troughs made to allow insertion of the fibula, permitting some hypertrophic expansion. A separate medial incision allows attachment of the custom jig to host tibia allowing for reciprocal cuts to match the allograft. The fibula is implanted into the allograft, ensuring nil tension on the pedicle and, after docking the graft, the hybrid construct is secured with multi-planar locking plates to provide rotational stability. The medial window allows plate placement safely away from the vascular pedicle. Results. We present a 50-year-old healthy male with a Gustilo & Anderson 3B proximal tibial fracture, open posteromedially with associated shear fragment, treated using the Capanna technique. Presenting following a fall climbing additional injuries included a closed ipsilateral calcaneal and medial malleolar fracture, both treated operatively. Our patient underwent reconstruction of his tibia with the above staged technique. Two debridements were carried out due to a 48-hour delay in presentation due to remote geographical location of recovery. Debridements were carried out in accordance with BOAST guidelines; a spanning knee external fixator applied and a small area of skin loss on the proximal medial calf reconstructed with a split thickness skin graft. A revision cement spacer was inserted into the metaphyseal defect measuring 84mm. At definitive surgery the external fixator was removed and graft fixation was extended to include the intra-articular fragments. No intra-operative complications were encountered during surgeries. The patient returned to theatre on day 13 with a medial sided haematoma. 20ml of haemoserous fluid was evacuated, a DAIR procedure performed and antibiotic-loaded bioceramics applied locally. Samples grew Staphylococcus aureus and antibiotic treatment was rationalised to Co-Trimoxazole 960mg BD and Rifampicin 450mg BD. The patient has completed a six-week course of Rifampicin and continues on suppressive Co-Trimoxazole monotherapy until planned metalwork removal. There is no evidence of ongoing active infection and radiological evidence of early union. The patient is independently walking four miles to the gym daily and we believe, thus far, despite accepted complications, we have demonstrated a relative early success. Conclusions. A variety of techniques exist for the management of critical-sized bone defects within the tibia. All of these come with a variety of drawbacks and limitations. Whilst acceptance of a limb length discrepancy is one option, intercalary defects of greater than 5 to 7cm typically require reconstruction. In patients in whom fine wire fixators and distraction osteogenesis are deemed inappropriate, or are unwilling to tolerate the frequent re-operations and potential donor site morbidity of the Masqualet technique, the Capanna technique offers a novel solution. Through using tibial allograft to address the size mismatch between vascularised fibula and tibia, the possible complication of fatigue fracture of an isolated fibula autograft is potentially avoidable in patients who have high functional demands. The Capanna technique has demonstrated satisfactory results within tumour reconstruction. Papers report that by combining the structural strength of allograft with the osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties of a vascularised autograft that limb salvage rates of greater than 80% and union rates of greater than 90% are achievable. If these results can indeed be replicated in the management of critical-sized bone defects in tibial trauma we potentially have a treatment strategy that can excel over the more widely practiced current techniques

Alpine ski sports changed rapidly in the last decade. Complex fractures of the proximal tibia, typically seen in high energy trauma, has been seen more frequently and more often related to alpine skiing.

The aim of our study was to identify reasons for proximal tibia fracture in alpine skiing and observe the outcome.

All patients with proximal tibia fractures related to alpine skiing, which were treated in our two trauma centers were included. The patients received a questionnaire at the emergency department, dealing with accident details and the skiing habits. The fractures were classified according to the AO fracture classification scheme. The follow up was performed at least one year after trauma with the Lysholm, the Tegner activity, as well as the WOMAC VAS Score.

Between 2007 and 2010 a total of 188 patients with proximal tibia fractures caused by alpine skiing were treated. 43 patients had a type A, 96 patients a type B and 49 a type C injury. The incidence was increasing over the period continuously. The main trauma mechanism was an accident without a third party involvement with an increased rotational and axial compression impact. All outcome scores were related to fracture severity with significant worse results for the type C fractures.

In conclusion, proximal tibia fractures are an increasing and serious injury during alpine skiing. Further technical progress in skiing material should focus on these knee injuries in future.

Introduction. Being challenging, multifragmentary proximal tibial fractures in patients with severe soft tissue injuries and/or short stature can be treated using externalized locked plating. A recent finite element study, investigating the fixation stability of plated unstable tibial fractures with 2-mm, 22-mm and 32-mm plate elevation under partial and full weight-bearing, reported that from a virtual biomechanical point of view, externalized plating seems to provide appropriate relative stability for secondary bone healing under partial weight-bearing during the early postoperative phase. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of using a LISS plate as a definitive external fixator for the treatment of multifragmentary proximal tibial fractures. Methods. Following appropriate indirect reduction, externalized locked plating was performed and followed up in 12 patients with multifragmentary proximal tibial fractures with simple intraarticular involvement and injured soft tissue envelope. Results. Among all patients, the average follow up period was 22 months (range14–48 months), revealing uneventful healing in all of them. Time to fracture union was 21.8 weeks on average (range 16–28weeks). The mean HSS knee score was 87 (range 72–98) at 4 weeks postoperatively and 97 (range 88–100) at the final follow up. The average AOFAS score was 92 (range 84–100) at 4 weeks postoperatively and 98 (range 94–100) at the final follow up. Conclusions. Externalized locked plating seems to be a successful surgical alternative treatment in selected cases with unstable proximal tibial fractures and severe soft tissue injury, following appropriate indirect fracture reduction

Abstract. Objective. To compare the clinical and radiological outcome between less invasive stabilization system (LISS, Synthes, Paoli, PA.) and open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) for the treatment of extraarticular proximal tibia fractures through the lateral approach. Background. Proximal tibial fractures present a difficult treatment challenge with historically high complication rates. ORIF has been in vogue for long time with good outcome. But these are associated with problems especially overlying skin conditions, delayed recovery and rehabilitation with limited functional outcome. LISS is an emerging procedure for the treatment of proximal tibial fractures. It preserves soft tissue and the periosteal circulation, which promotes fracture healing. Patients and methods. Thirty patients with closed proximal tibial fractures were included in this study. They were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group I (n=15) patients were treated by LISS and group II (n=15) by ORIF. Major characteristics of the two groups were similar in terms of age, sex, mode of injury, fracture location, and associated injuries. All patients were followed up at least 6 months. Results. In each group, 12 patients were united, 2 patients were non- united and one patient showed delayed union. The mean operative time in LISS patients was 79.3 min, while in ORIF patients; it was 122 min. All patients of LISS group were exposed to radiation, while only 40% of ORIF group were exposed. The mean time of union of LISS patients was 10.87weeks. While in ORIF patients, the mean time of union was 21.13 weeks. There was no significant difference between both groups regarding the postoperative complications. Functional outcome was satisfactory in both groups. Conclusion. LISS achieves comparable results with ORIF in extraarticular fractures of the proximal tibia. Although LISS potentially has the radiation hazard, it reduces the perioperative complications with a shortened operation time and minimal soft tissue dissection. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Intramedullary nailed high proximal tibial fractures rely on the proximal screw-bone interface to provide stability, which can be insufficient in low-density bones. This study investigated the biomechanics of proximal screw cement augmentation in intramedullary nailing of high proximal tibial fractures. Mechanical stability in flexion/extension, varus/valgus and torsion was tested on six pairs of cadaveric proximal tibiae, with/without cement augmentation. Cement augmentation significantly increased construct stability in torsion and demonstrated a trend towards improved varus/valgus stabilization. Surprisingly, cement augmentation significantly decreased stability in flexion/extension, suggesting the potential benefits of cement augmentation may be limited in intramedullary nailed high proximal tibial fractures. This study assessed the biomechanical effects of augmenting proximal screws with cement in intramedullary nailing of high proximal third tibial fractures. While increased biomechanical stability was seen in torsion and varus/valgus, the reduction in stability in flexion/extension suggests that there may be limited benefit in cement augmentation in the nailing of high proximal tibia fractures. High proximal tibial fractures fixed with intramedullary nailing rely primarily on proximal screw fixation to provide stability. Cement augmentation of the proximal screws may provide needed increased construct stability in low-density tibiae. Cement augmentation provided a significant increase in construct stability in torsion (37.5% ± 8.0%, p< 0.05), with a trend toward increased stability in varus/valgus (25.5% ± 36.2%, p=0.08). Conversely, stability in flex-ion/extension was significantly decreased with the use of cement (25.9% ± 13.0%, p< 0.05). Reamed intramedullary nails (Zimmer, MDN) were implanted into six pairs of elderly cadaveric fresh-frozen proximal tibiae and secured using four proximal screws (two transverse, two oblique, 4.5mm diameter). Bone cement was injected into the screw holes just prior to screw insertion to augment the bone-screw interface in one tibia from each pair. Specimen stability was tested in flexion/extension and varus/valgus loading to 12Nm and in torsion to 7Nm. Displacement data was generated and analyzed using a repeated measures design. We hypothesized that intramedullary nail-bone construct stability would be increased with cement augmentation, particularly in low-density specimens. While construct stability was improved in torsion and varus/valgus, surprisingly stability consistently decreased in flexion/extension

We report the experience of a Grade 1 Trauma Centre in treating distal femoral and tibial fractures with the Less Invasive Stabilisation System (LISS). Medium term outcomes are presented with a discussion of clinical indications. We conducted retrospective study of patients presenting to St James University Hospital with distal femoral and proximal tibial fractures. Case notes were reviewed for demographics, mode and severity of injury, clinical time to union and complications. AO fracture classification and radiological time to union were assessed. 24 patients (10 males, 14 females) underwent LISS fixation. Average age was 69.7 years (range 31–95 years). Mean injury severity score was 14 (Range 9–36). Overall, there were five patients with isolated proximal tibial fractures, seventeen with isolated femoral fractures and two with fractures of both the distal femur and proximal tibia. Two of the distal femoral fractures were open (Gustillo type IIb). According to the AO classification, the distal femoral fractures were sub-divided into 4 Type 33A fractures, 5 Type 33B fractures, 6 Type 33C fractures, 2 Type 32B fractures and 2 Type 32C fractures. The proximal tibial fractures comprised 3 Type 41-A2, 2 Type 41-C1 and 2 Type 41-C2 fractures. HSS scores for the 24 acute cases were 8 excellent, 8 good, 6 fair and 2 poor results. Average HSS score was 78.8 points. Time to union was determined clinically and radiologically. Bony union was achieved in 23 cases (95.8%). Mean time to radiological union was 3.9 months (range 2–5 months), and clinical union at a mean of 4.46 months (range 3–6 months). We illustrate that the LISS is a useful technique for treating distal femoral and proximal tibial fractures which are often a complex management problem in the elderly population. With increasing incidence of fragility fractures we suggest that this may be an underused treatment option

Introduction. Proximal tibial fractures frequently present in combination with other injuries which also have to be treated surgically. Recent publications do not consider isolated proximal tibial fracture (mono-injury) and combined injuries which include tibial fractures as two seperate medical entities. We therefore asessed the influence of additional injuries on treatment and outcome of the proximal tibial fractures. Methods. We admitted 84 patients which were consecutively treated in our department from 01.01.2007 to 31.12.2009. Only C1 to C3 fractures (x-ray, ct-scan), according to AO classification with subsequent open reduction and internal plate osteosynthesis were included. Additionally we looked for additional injuries cause by the accident, numbers of operations and strategie of operative treatement, traumaspecific vs. postsurgical complications and inpatient days. At the follow-up investigations one year post surgery, Lysholm- and WOMAC-Score as well as Tegner-Activity-Index were used. Results. The study includes 84 patients with 85 proximal tibia-C-fractures. Four fractures were classified as C1, 15 as C2 and 66 as C3. In 57 cases there was an isolated tibial fracture (I), 27 patients had combined injuries (C). The average age was 51,2 (I) and 55,4 (C), the gender ratio 36m/21f (I) versus 15m/12f (C). In 39 cases people had a recreational accident, 27 persons were involved in traffic accidents, 11 persons suffered from occupational injuries and 7 people got injured in their domestic environment. The average number of surgery the patients underwent was 2,32 (I) against 2,34 (C). Osteosynthesis was performed in 46% (I) vs. 50% (C) in one operation, subse-quently the other patients needed further surgical treatement. Autogen or allogen bonegrafts respectively artificial bone was used in 49,1% (I) vs. 42,8% (C). Traumaspecific problems such as compartment-syndrome or vessel-/nerve-injury occured in 31,6% (I) vs 25% (C), postsurgical complications appeared in 28% (I) vs 33,3% (C). The hospitalisation was 24 (I) vs 45 (C) days. Until the end of 2009, 54% of the patients could be included in our follow up, the average follow up was 15 months. The Lysholm-Score was 66,61 (I) vs 56,75 (C), the Tegner-Activity-Index was 4 (I) vs 1,41 (C), the WOMAC A was 90,2 (I) vs 68,6 (C), the WOMAC B was 77,6 (I) vs 65 (C) and the WOMAC C was 88,2 (I) vs. 72,9 (C). Conclusion. Concerning AO-Classification, complication rates and treatment data, both groups seem to be almost indentical in this study. In comparison to this we found a difference in the knee-joint-scores one year after trauma. Our figures show, that additional injuries do have a considerable influence in pain, stability and activity level of the knee/patient one year after trauma

Epidemiological data about tibial plateau and associated intra-articular proximal tibial fractures provides clinicians with an understanding of the range, variety, and patterns of injury. There are relatively few studies examining this injury group as a whole. We prospectively recorded all tibial plateau and intra-articular proximal tibial fractures occurring in our regional population of 545,000 adults (aged 15 years or older) in 2007–2008. We then compared our results with previous research from our institution in 2000. There were 173 fractures around the knee, 65 of these involved the tibial plateau. Median age was 59 years (IQR, 36.5–77.5 yrs). Tibial plateau fractures were more common in women (58.5%vs 41.5%). The median age of men was 37 years (IQr, 29–52 yrs) compared to women, 73 years (IQR, 57–82 yrs). Tibial plateau fractures accounted for 0.9% overall and 2.5% of lower limb fractures. Incidence was 1.2/10,000/yr (95% CI, 0.9–1.5). We have prospectively identified and described the epidemiological characteristics of tibial plateau fractures in adults from our region. We have identified a change to the epidemiology of these fractures over a relatively short time frame as the patients at risk age

Aims: In the present study we evaluated short-term outcome of complex proximal tibial fractures treated with hybrid external þxation. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of 33 tibiae in 31 patients treated with hybrid external þxation; 9 (27.2%) AO type A metaphyseal and 24 (72.8%) type C bicondylar intraarticular proximal tibial fractures. Majority of the fractures (58.1%) were due to high-energy trauma and open fractures constituted 18.2% of all fractures. Percutaneous pinning combined with indirect reduction techniques was used in 14 (42.4%) cases. Mini-open clamp reduction and screw þxation was applied in 12 (36.4%) operations. Open reduction, reconstruction of articular surface, bone-grafting and screw þxation combined with the hybrid frame was used in 7 (21.2%) patients. Results: Uneventful consolidation without complications occurred in 13 (39.4%) patients. The mean time to bony fusion was 18 ± 6.6 weeks. However, in 21.2% of the patients the fracture had not consolidated by 24 weeks. There were 5 (20.8%) primary re-operations due to malreduction of a type C fracture. In addition 3 (33.3%) type A metaphyseal fractures were re-operated upon due to non-union by 24 weeks. Two (6.1%) fractures united in axial malalignment and required an osteotomy. Conclusions: Our þndings suggest that due to high rate of unsatisfactory reductions, hybrid external þxation may not be the method-of-choice in þxation of displaced intra-articular proximal tibial fractures. It may be indicated in þxation of high energy metaphyseal fractures, but includes a signiþcant risk of delayed consolidation

Introduction. We report a case which total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was able to be performed on schedule for the patient with occult fracture of proximal tibia which seemed to have occurred three months prior to the surgery, and has healed in short period of time by the use of Teriparatide. Case report. The patient is 84-year-old female, having right knee pain for past 7 years. Her knee pain increased by passive extension maneuver that was done by a bonesetter 3 months prior to the surgery. On her initial visit, the X-ray finding was severe medial osteoarthritis, and femorotibial angle (FTA) in the upright film was 197°, but there was no other disorder including fracture. Since the bone mineral density (BMD) of affected femoral neck was 62%YAM, and affected lateral femoral condyle as well as lateral tibial condyle seemed very porotic, we started using daily 20μg Teriparatide injection from 3 months prior to the surgery. Proximal tibial fracture was presented in the X-ray taken on the day before surgery, but since adequate bone union has already been formed, surgery was performed on schedule. Tibial implant with long stem was used for just to be certain. Thanks to the Teriparatide, the condition of cancellous bone in cut surface was excellent, and reaming of the tibia through fracture area felt very solid. Discussion. Proximal tibial fracture that occurred just before TKA is very rare. The fracture in this case was probably due to the maneuver done by the bonesetter. Teriparatide is indicated when osteoporosis is severe and the patient is at risk for fracture. We also indicate Teriparatide for the patients whose femoral neck BMD is very low and severe valgus knee or varus knee is present. Unloaded side of femoral or tibial condyle is usually very porotic in such a case. In our case, the fracture was so called fragility fracture which was found incidentally the day before surgery, but TKA could be done on schedule since adequate callus has been formed by the use of Teriparatide which started 3 months prior to the surgery

Introduction: The Less Invasive Stabilisation System (L.I.S.S.) is a new internal fixator for the treatment of complex distal femoral and proximal tibial fractures. Traditional treatment of these injuries is associated with recognised complications and fixation failure. The LISS is designed to preserve periosteal perfusion and to facilitate a minimally invasive application. Self drilling unicortical screws provide angular stability with the implant giving it a mechanical and biological advantage over conventional fixation methods. Aim: To evaluate clinical & radiological results of our experience with the LISS in the stabilisation of distal femoral and proximal tibial fractures. Method: Twenty two patients (12 male & 10 female), mean age 60.7 years (range 12–95 years) were treated in our institution over a 29 month period. Nine patients treated with proximal tibial fractures included 4 tibial plateau fractures (AO 41-B, 41-C) and 5 metaphyseal fractures (AO 41-A). Thirteen distal femoral fractures (AO-33) were treated of which 3 were periprosthetic. There were 15 low energy and 7 high energy fractures. Three open fractures of which two required soft tissue cover. Nineteen primary procedures performed following acute fractures and 3 revisions. Quality of life score was measured with SF12. Results: Follow up rate of 91% (20/22; one died and the other left the country). Union was seen in 90% (18/20) of cases. Mean time to union was17 weeks (range 12–26) for low energy fractures and 27 weeks (range 13–52) for high energy fractures. Complications included: 2 delayed union, 2 late infections, 1 implant failure and 1 varus malunion. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the LISS system is a useful implant for the treatment of complex fractures of the distal femur and proximal tibia, especially when bone quality is poor

Objectives. Proximal tibial fracture is one of the most common postoperative complications of unilateral knee arthroplasty (UKA). The objective of the present study is to investigate the risk factors of these fractures, occurred after UKA in our facility. Method. We performed 314 UKAs between May 2006 and December 2013. All cases were done using Oxford UKA. Proximal tibial fractures were observed in 5 cases. 4 cases were female and 1 case was male, and the age at the operation ranged from 73 to 90. All cases were osteoarthritis. 4 cases were diagnosed as stress fracture with minimum displacement, and 1 case was fracture with displacement. We investigated the risk factors of the tibial fracture among those 5 cases. Low bone mineral density(BMD), the presence of medial tibial cortex pinhole, excessive vertical cut, and adjacence of keel and posterior tibia cortex were estimated as risk factors. Results. The loss in BMD was seen in all cases. Medial tibial cortex pinhole was recognized in 2 cases. Excessive vertical cut was recognized in 3 cases. Adjacence of keel and posterior tibia bone cortex was recognized in 3 cases, and the distance between keel and posterior tibia bone cortex was less than 3mm in all of these 3 cases. 4 cases those diagnosed as stress fractures, healed spontaneously with conservative treatment, but the case with displaced fragment needed ORIF. Discussion. Loss in BMD was seen in all cases as predicted, and this is one of the highest risk factors in UKA patient. Preoperative PTH use is recommended when low BMD was seen. Other risk factors are, medial tibial cortex pinhole, excessive vertical cut, and adjacence of keel and posterior tibial cortex. These risk factors are preventable if some cares are taken during the operation. Medial inclination of the tibial plateau should be checked preoperatively to avoid excessive vertical cut. If the distance between keel and posterior tibial cortex is less than 3mm at the preoperative planning, we should consider converting the implant. Furthermore, it is important to pay attention to intraoperative procedures. We should not use heavy hammer and avoid excessive varus force during cementing. For the prevention of tibial fractures after UKA, both strict preoperative planning and prevention of intraoperative errors are important

Proximal tibial fractures often are caused from trauma with high energy forces with associated soft tissue lesions. The authors report their experience with 45 cases of proximal tibial fractures treated with less invasive system plates (LISS) with good clinical and radiographic results after 5 years follow-up. There is evidence of good stabilisation of the fractures with this conservative soft tissue method combined with early rehabilitation

Introduction: This study examines the proximal tibial metaphyseal fractures in children and specifically the valgus deformity and leg overgrowth of the tibia. Methods: We examined 27 children with proximal tibial metaphyseal fractures. Among them, 11 presented with greenstick fractures, 6 with complete, 5 with hairline, 3 with torus and 2 with stress fractures. The mean age was 7 years old (1–14). The average follow up period was 9.5 years. Fifteen children were below the age of 7 while 12 were between 8–14 years old. Twenty five patients were treated conservatively and 2 surgically. Results: Valgus deformity occurred during the follow up period in 73% of the children aged below 7 y.o. and 17% of the older children. The higher values of valgus deformity ranged between 8–18 degrees and were observed at 10–18 months post-traumatically, especially in younger ages and after inadequate reductions. At the time of the final follow up examination, satisfactory spontaneous correction of the deformity, inversely proportional to age was observed in all cases. The degree of final valgus deformity ranged between 1–9 degrees. Overgrowth of the affected extremity was observed in 74% of the cases and ranged between 0, 4 and 1, 5 cm. Tibial overgrowth is not dependent to skeletal age. None of torus and stress fractures developed valgus deformity or longitudinal overgrowth. Compartment syndrome occurred in one case. Conclusion: A high tendency to valgus deformity, especially in younger ages, was observed in proximal tibial metaphyseal fractures, even among undisplaced or surgically treated ones. Approximately two years post-traumatically, the beginning of a progressive spontaneous satisfactory correction of the deformity – inversely proportional to age – was noticed. It is worth mentioning that valgus deformity up to 10 degrees and tibial overgrowth up to 1, 5 cm cause no functional or cosmetic problems. The above observations prevent us from unnecessary surgical correction. Conservative treatment is preferred for the proximal tibial metaphyseal fractures. Operative treatment is indicated after inadequate reduction, especially in older children and after open fractures

Background. To establish relative fixation strengths of a single lateral locking plate, a double locking plate, and a tibial nail in treatment of proximal tibial extra-articular fractures. Methods. Three groups of composite tibial synthetic bones consisting of 5 specimens per group were included; lateral plating (LP) using a LCP-PLT (locking compression plate-proximal lateral tibia), double plating (DP) using a LCP-PLT and a LCP-MPT (locking compression plate-medial proximal tibia), and intramedullary nailing (IN) using an ETN (expert tibial nail). To simulate a comminuted fracture model, a gap osteotomy measuring 1 cm was cut 8 cm below the joint. For each tibia, a minimal preload of 100N was applied before loading to failure. A vertical load was applied at 25mm/min until tibia failure. Results. For axial loading, fixation strength of DP (14387.3N, SD=1852.1) was 17.5% greater than that of LP (12249.3N, SD=1371.6), and 60% less than that of IN (22879.6N, SD=1578.8) (p<0.001). For ultimate displacement in axial loading, similar results were observed for LP (5.74mm, SD=1.01) and DP (4.45mm, SD=0.96), with a larger displacement for IN (5.84mm, SD=0.99). Conclusion. In biomechanical testing of a comminuted proximal tibial fracture model, DP proved stronger than LP in terms of ultimate strength. IN proved strongest; however, DP may be an acceptable alternative for minimally invasive osteosynthesis, which may be technically difficult to fix using a nail

Introduction: Proximal tibial fractures continue to be problematic for orthopaedic surgeons. Continued problems in their managment include infection, soft tissue problems, failure of fixation and joint stiffness. Combining the concept of “biological plating” and locked internal fixators, the LISS (Less Invasive Stabilization System) has been developed. Material and methods: The Lis-system is an extramedullary internal fixator that proposes the advantage of indirect reduction and percutaneous, submuscular implant placement. The Lis-system is indicated for fractures of the proximal tibia that involve both the medial and lateral columns. They include AO/OTA Type A2, A3, C1, C2, C3 and type B in selected cases. For the reduction, we put the lower limb in the calcaneal-traction. For intra-articular fractures the prime objective is to achieve anatomic reconstruction of the joint. This study is a prospective evluation of the Lis-System for the treatment of high-energy tibial plateau and proximal tibial fractures treated between October 2002 and Febrary 2004. Twenty-five patient (18 male and 7 female) were treated. The fracture were classified according to the AO classification. The follow-up period between 3 months and 16 months (mean 8.9 months). Results: The fractures treated were 10 intrarticular (AO 41C or 41B) and 15 metaphyseal (AO 41 A); two of these fractures presented with open soft tissue damage. The average age of the patients was 43 years. There were five cases of polytraumatized and four patinetsa with multiple fractures. The mean range of motion was 2 degree (R= 0–13) to 110 degree (R= 80–150). The mean time to full weight-bearing was 16.2 weeks (R= 10–19). There where no non-union. In one case, there was a valgus malunion of about 5 degree, in 2 case a valgus malunion of less of 5 degree and anyone of more of 5 degree. The tecnique of osteosyntesis with the LISS allows a minimally invasive approach, minimizing additional trauma to the soft tissue. There were no cases of varus malunion, of failure or of loss of reduction. One patient developed superficial infection that we treat with antibiotics terapy. No syndrome compartiment were see. Conclusion: In conclusion with the new methods of percutaneus plate osteosyntesis we see decreased soft tissue complication and the time of healing. The Less Invasive Stabilizzation System in our opinion is the goal standard for multisegmentary or comminnuted fractures of the proximal tibia with distal long extensions in patients with politrauma. The early clinical result optain in our experiance indicate that the Less invasive Stabilizzation System combine efficent bone stabilization with the advantage of minimally invasive operative technique

Abstract. A number of postoperative complications of navigated total knee arthroplasty have been discussed in the literature, including tracker pin site infection and fracture. In this paper we discuss the low postoperative complication rate in a series of 3100 navigated total knee arthroplasties and the overall complication rate in a systematic analysis of the literature. Methods. 3100 consecutive patients with navigated total knee arthroplasties from 2001 to 2016 were retrospectively evaluated for complications specific to navigation. We discuss the two cases of postoperative fracture through tracker pin sites that we experienced and compare this systematically to the literature. Results. Postoperatively, our 3100 patient cohort experienced a total of two fractures through pin sites for an incidence of 0.065%. One was a distal femoral fracture which was treated surgically, and the other was a proximal tibial fracture treated nonoperatively. Due to our incorporation of the tracker sites within our operative incision, there were no identifiable pin site infections which others have noted. Our 0.065% fracture rate compares favorably with the 0.16% rate of fracture published in the literature. We had no separate pin site infections in comparison to the 0.47% incidence of separate pin site infection reported by those who use seperate percutaneous incisions for tracker placement. Conclusion. There is an extremely low risk of perioperative complications due to the instrumentation used in navigated total knee arthroplasty when utilizing the Stryker Navigation System and 4.0 mm anchoring pins placed within the surgical incision. Our experience has demonstrated that careful placement of the bicortical anchoring pin is important

31 cases of high-energy proximal tibial fractures were retrospectively analysed. The series included 22 cases of Schatzker VI and 9 cases of proximal tibial extraarticular fractures. There were 7 females and 24 males, with average age being 45years(26–94). There were 12 open fractures ( 1 Gustilo grade1, 10 grade 3b and one 3c); while 19 cases had Tcherne’s grade 2–3 injury. 4 patients developed compartment syndromes requiring fasciotomy. All fractures were treated with preliminary ligamentotaxis using a unilateral external fixator. In addition, Open fractures underwent radical debridement with the one case of 3c requiring vascular reconstruction. CT scan was then done to assess the joint incongruity ,anatomy of the fracture, and to aid in decision making. The fractures were then fixed using percutaneous techniques and a circular external fixator. Minimal open reduction was resorted to in cases with significant joint depression. In all, 26 cases were managed using percutaneous techniques alone while 5 required minimal open reduction and screw fixation. Bone grafting was done in 6 cases and 11 required a plastics procedure for soft tissue reconstruction. The results were assessed using the radiological Rasmussen’s criteria and the clinically using he IKSS knee score. At a mean follow-up of 31mths, the mean time to metaphyseal union was 18weeks (6–25weeks);. 28 patients had good to excellent clinical scores, while 3 had a fair result. The radiologic assessment graded 12 cases as excellent and 19 as good. Complications included 2 cases with flap edge necrosis, 2 with severe pin tract sepsis, 1 with proximal DVT and one case with septic arthritis. We conclude that the above treatment protocol yields promising results, preserving good knee function without prejudicing future need for arthroplasty

31 cases of high-energy proximal tibial fractures were retrospectively analysed. The series included 22 cases of Schatzker VI and 9 cases of proximal tibial extraarticular fractures There were 7 females and 24 males, with average age being 45 years (26–94). There were 12 open fractures (1 Gustilo grade1, 10 grade 3b and one 3c); while 19 cases had Tcherne’s grade 2–3 injury. 4 patients developed compartment syndromes requiring fasciotomy. All fractures were treated with preliminary ligamentotaxis using a unilateral external fixator. In addition, open fractures underwent radical debridement with the one case of 3c requiring vascular reconstruction. CT scan was then done to assess the joint incongruity, anatomy of the fracture, and to aid in decision making. The fractures were then fixed using percutaneous technique and a circular external fixator. Minimal open reduction was resorted to in cases with significant joint depression. In all, 26 cases were managed using percutaneous techniques alone while 5 require minimal open reduction and screw fixation. Bone grafting was done in 6 cases and 11 required a plastics procedure for soft tissue reconstruction. The results were assessed using the radiological Rasmussen’s criteria and the clinically using the IKSS knee score. At a mean follow-up of 31mths, the mean time to metaphyseal union was 18 weeks (6–25 weeks); 28 patients had good to excellent clinical scores, while 3 had a fair result. The radiologic assessment graded 12 cases as excellent and 19 as good. Complications included 2 cases with flap edge necrosis, 2 with severe pin tract sepsis, 1 with proximal DVT and one case with septic arthritis. We conclude that the above treatment protocol yields promising results, preserving good knee function without prejudicing future need for arthroplasty

Aims

Musculoskeletal infection is a devastating complication in both trauma and elective orthopaedic surgeries that can result in significant morbidity. Aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and complications of local antibiotic impregnated dissolvable synthetic calcium sulphate beads (Stimulan Rapid Cure) in the hands of different surgeons from multiple centres in surgically managed bone and joint infections.