Treatment of comminuted intraarticular calcaneal fractures remains controversial and challenging. Anatomic reduction with stable fixation has demonstrated better outcomes than nonoperative treatment of displaced intraarticular fractures involving the posterior facet and anterior calcaneocuboid joint (CCJ) articulating surface of the calcaneus. The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical performance of three different methods for fixation of comminuted intraarticular calcaneal fractures. Comminuted calcaneal fractures, including Sanders III-AB fracture of the posterior facet and Kinner II-B fracture of the CCJ articulating calcaneal surface, were simulated in 18 fresh-frozen human cadaveric lower legs by means of osteotomies. The ankle joint, medial soft tissues and midtarsal bones along with the ligaments were preserved. The specimens were randomized according to their bone mineral density to 3 groups for fixation with either (1) 2.7 mm variable-angle locking anterolateral calcaneal plate in combination with one 4.5 mm and one 6.5 mm cannulated screw (Group 1), (2) 2.7 mm variable-angle locking lateral calcaneal plate (Group 2), or (3) interlocking calcaneal nail with 3.5 mm screws in combination with 3 separate 4.0 mm cannulated screws (Group 3). All specimens were biomechanically tested until failure under axial loading with the foot in simulated midstance position. Each test commenced with an initial quasi-static compression ramp from 50 N to 200 N, followed by progressively increasing cyclic loading at 2Hz. Starting from 200 N, the peak load of each cycle increased at a rate of 0.2 N/cycle. Interfragmentary movements were captured by means of optical motion tracking. In addition, mediolateral X-rays were taken every 250 cycles with a triggered C-arm. Varus deformation between the tuber calcanei and lateral calcaneal fragments, plantar gapping between the anterior process and tuber fragments, displacement at the plantar aspect of the CCJ articular calcaneal surface, and Böhler angle were evaluated. Varus deformation of 10° was reached at significantly lower number of cycles in Group 2 compared to Group 1 and Group 3 (P ≤ 0.017). Both cycles to 10° plantar gapping and 2 mm displacement at the CCJ articular calcaneal surface revealed no significant differences between the groups (P ≥ 0.773). Böhler angle after 5000 cycles (1200 N peak load) had significantly bigger decrease in Group 2 compared to both other groups (P ≤ 0.020). From biomechanical perspective, treatment of comminuted intraarticular calcaneal fractures using variable-angle locked plate with additional longitudinal screws or interlocked nail in combination with separate transversal screws seems to provide superior stability as opposed to variable-angle locked plating only

Displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures are debilitating injuries with significant socioeconomic and psychological effects primarily affecting patients in active age between 30 and 50 years. Recently, minimally and less invasive screw fixation techniques have become popular as alternative to locked plating. The aim of this study was to analyze biomechanically in direct comparison the primary stability of 3 different cannulated screw configurations for fixation of Sanders type II-B intraarticular calcaneal fractures. Fifteen fresh-frozen human cadaveric lower limbs were amputated mid-calf and through the Chopart joint. Following, soft tissues at the lateral foot side were removed, whereas the medial side and Achilles tendon were preserved. Reproducible Sanders type II-B intraarticular fracture patterns were created by means of osteotomies. The proximal tibia end and the anterior-inferior aspect of the calcaneus were then embedded in polymethylmethacrylate. Based on bone mineral density measurements, the specimens were randomized to 3 groups for fixation with 3 different screw configurations using two 6.5 mm and two 4.5 mm cannulated screws. In Group 1, two parallel longitudinal screws entered the tuber calcanei above the Achilles tendon insertion and proceeded to the anterior process, and two transverse screws fixed the posterior facet perpendicular to the fracture line. In Group 2, two parallel screws entered the tuber calcanei below the Achilles tendon insertion, aiming at the anterior process, and two transverse screws fixed the posterior facet. In Group 3, two screws were inserted along the bone axis, entering the tuber calcanei above the Achilles tendon insertion and proceeding to the central-inferior part of the anterior process. In addition, one transverse screw was inserted from lateral to medial for fixation of the posterior facet and one oblique screw – inserted from the posterior-plantar part of the tuber calcanei – supported the posterolateral part of the posterior facet. All specimens were tested in simulated midstance position under progressively increasing cyclic loading at 2 Hz. Starting from 200N, the peak load of each cycle increased at a rate of 0.1 N/cycle. Interfragmentary movements were captured by means of optical motion tracking and triggered mediolateral x-rays. Plantar movement, defined as displacement between the anterior process and the tuber calcanei at the most inferior side was biggest in Group 2 and increased significantly over test cycles in all groups (P = 0.001). Cycles to 2 mm plantar movement were significantly higher in both Group 1 (15847 ± 5250) and Group 3 (13323 ± 4363) compared to Group 2 (4875 ± 3480), P = 0.048. Medial gapping after 2500 cycles was significantly bigger in Group 2 versus Group 3, P = 0.024. No intraarticular displacement was observed in any group during testing. From biomechanical perspective, screw configuration implementing one oblique screw seems to provide sufficient hindfoot stability in Sanders Type II-B intraarticular calcaneal fractures under dynamic loading. Posterior facet support by means of buttress or superiorly inserted longitudinal screws results in less plantar movement between the tuber calcanei and anterior fragments. On the other hand, inferiorly inserted longitudinal screws seem to be associated with bigger interfragmentary movements

Background. Anatomical reduction of unstable Lisfranc injuries is crucial. Evidence as to the best methods of surgical stabilization remains sparse, with small patient numbers a particular issue. Dorsal bridge plating offers rigid stability and joint preservation. The primary aim of this study was to assess the medium-term functional outcomes for patients treated with this technique at our centre. Additionally, we review for risk factors that influence outcomes. Methods. 85 patients who underwent open reduction and dorsal bridge plate fixation of unstable Lisfranc injuries between January 2014 and January 2019 were identified. Metalwork was not routinely removed. A retrospective review of case notes was conducted. The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire summary index (MOXFQ-Index) was the primary outcome measure, collected at final follow-up, with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot scale, complications, and all-cause re-operation rates were secondary outcome measures. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with poorer outcomes. Results. Mean follow-up 40.8 months (24–72). Mean MOXFQ-Index 27.0 (SD 7.1). Mean AOFAS score 72.6 (SD 11.6). 48/85 patients had injury patterns that included an intra-articular fracture and this was associated with poorer outcomes, with worse MOXFQ and AOFAS scores (both p < 0.001). 18 patients (21%) required the removal of metalwork for either prominence or stiffness. Female patients were more likely to require metalwork removal (OR 3.89, 95% CI 1.27 to 12.0, p = 0.02). Eight patients (9%) required secondary arthrodesis. Conclusions. This is the largest series of Lisfranc injuries treated with dorsal bridge plate fixation reported to date and the only to routinely retain metalwork. The technique is safe and effective. The presence of an intraarticular fracture is a poor prognostic indicator. Metalwork removal is more likely to be needed in female patients but routine removal may not be essential

Introduction. Intraarticular calcaneal fractures often need open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plate osteosynthesis. The wound complication is one of the common problems encountered following this and affects the outcome adversely. Our study was done to assess how far postoperative slab/cast can avert wound complications. Methods. Out of 42 patients with unilateral intraarticular calcaneal fractures, 20 were offered postoperative slab/cast and this was continued for six weeks. The remaining 22 patients were not offered any plaster. All patients were followed-up for two years. Results. The incidence of wound dehiscence was 2 in the plaster group as well as 8 in the non-plaster group and this was statistically significant (p = 0.02). Also, significantly lower heel widening was reported in the plaster group (p = 0.03). Although, there was no significant difference in the patient-reported outcome (Maryland Foot Score) and the incidence of pain between the two groups, the occurrence of neurological deficit following surgery and the postoperative range of movements were comparable in these two groups. Conclusion. Thus, it may be concluded that postoperative plaster application for the initial six weeks could be a low-cost yet effective way to reduce wound complications following plate osteosynthesis in intraarticular calcaneal fractures

Materials & Methods: A retrospective study. 25 cases of fracture Calcaneum during April 2001–2004 were reviewed for their clinical outcome. Aim of the study: To assess the clinical and functional outcome of the Management of Intra and Extra articular Calcaneal fractures in district general hospital. Results: 22 male and 3 female. Intraarticular fractures 15 (60%)of which 10 were displaced and 5 undisplaced. Extraarticular were 10 (40%) of which displaced and undisplaced were 5 each. Fall from height was seen in 20 (80%)patients. Associated injuries was seen in 10(40%) patients of which 8(32%) of them had fracture spine. All the cases of intaarticular fractures had C.T. scan. 5 cases had MUA and pinning for the extraarticular fracture. 8(32%) displaced intraarticular fractures underwent ORIF. 2((8%) intraarticular displaced fractures were treated conservatively. The average follow-up one-year. The final outcome assessed clinical and radiologically. 2 cases of infection, 4 cases of stiffness, 2 cases of deformity seen.1 case had parasthesia. The final outcome all the fractures treated conservatively were good. Fractures underwent ORIF had better outcome and more complication rate as compared to conservative treatment. Conclusion: Commonest mode of injury is fall from height and associated injury incidence is usually high. Even the undisplaced intraarticular fractures of calcaneum do develop residual stiffness and difficulty in walking on uneven ground. Displaced fractures needs fixation for better results and facilitation for secondary operations. Wound infection, stiffness and deformity are known complications. In this small audit all three group did develop stiffness and we recommend a bigger, independent audit

Aims: In prospective study the author asked, what are the results of ORIF (open reduction, internal fixation) in displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus, and whether type of fracture and/or congruity in the sub-talar joint influence these results. Methods: Forty-three displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus (30 Type II, 10 Type III and 3 Type IV; Sanders) were operated through extensile lateral approach. After reduction of the subtalar joint and restoration of the calcaneus shape, the fracture was fixed with the calcaneal plate. Mostly, surgery was delayed (median: day 7). Motion was encouraged immediately, partial weight-bearing after 5–6 weeks, and full weight-bearing after 3–4 month. Following surgery subtalar joint was congruent in 33 (77%) and non-congruent (within 2mm) in ten fractures. Results: Thirtysix fractures were evaluated 12 to 61 months postinjury. Functional results were satisfactory in 31 fractures (86%) and not satisfactory in five. All fractures with unsatisfactory results were comminutive (Type III or IV). Four fractures with congruent subtalar joint had unsatisfactory, whereas eight of nine fractures with uncongruent joint had satisfactory result. Statistically, functional results of the comminuted fractures were significantly worse (p=0,002). However, functional results of fractures with non-congruent joint were comparable to the results of fractures with congruent joint. Conclusions: ORIF enables satisfactory results in majority of displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus. Comminution in the subtalar joint is a negative prognostic factor; furthermore, comminution is a negative prognostic factor irrespectless of the postreduction congruity in the subtalar joint, if step-off is less than 2mm

Intraarticular fractures of the distal humerus comprise 1% of all fractures in adults. Triceps reflecting and olecranon osteotomy approach provide adequate exposure in intraarticular fracture with its own advantage and disadvantages. Forty consecutive patients with fractures of the distal humerus were treated over a 36-month period. The patients were randomly allotted into two groups; group A consists of twenty patients with olecranon osteotomy and group B consists of twenty patients with triceps reflecting approach. In both the groups fracture was fixed using orthogonal or parallel plating techniques. Clinical outcome was assessed using the DASH SCORE, radiological union and complications was noted in both the group and compared. In group A the mean DASH score was 15.9 points. Three patients underwent a second procedure for hardware removal, 2 patients had non-union at osteotomy site, one patient had transient ulna nerve neuropraxia and one patient had superficial infection. In group B the mean DASH score was 14 points. There was no statistical significance between both groups regarding final outcome except complications were more in osteotomy approach. We conclude both approach is an effective procedure with an excellent or good functional outcome but osteotomy approach has more complications

Elevated fat pads on a paediatric elbow radiograph may represent an intraarticular fracture. If no obvious fracture is visible, the injury may be treated with a collar and cuff until discomfort resolves. In some centres these patients are discharged directly from A&E, easing the load on fracture clinics and reducing the number of visits required by the patient. A retrospective study was carried out to review patient journey for children referred to clinic with elevated fat pads only and to investigate whether such a protocol could be established locally. Notes for all children attending fracture clinic in May 2018 were reviewed. X-rays for patients with any elbow injury were then reviewed. Patients with raised fat pads only were included in the study. Outcome following clinic review was recorded. 818 patients (315 new referrals) attended 15 clinics. 31 were referred with raised fat pads only. Mean age was 7.7 years with mean time to clinic of 4 days. 74.2% required no further treatment and were discharged at first clinic appointment. 8 patients were kept in cast for another 1–2 weeks due to parental apprehension, patient apprehension or patient being uncomfortable without cast. None of our patients required surgical intervention or re-attended following discharge. This study showed that patients with raised fat pads only can be treated with collar and cuff, analgesia and discharged from A&E with an advice leaflet. This would reduce the number of patients unnecessarily attending clinics thereby reducing patient distress and enabling more efficient use of clinic appointments

Introduction and purpose: Calcaneal fractures account for approximately 2% of all fractures. The calcaneus is the ankle bone that is most frequently fractured. Historically, calcaneal fractures have had a poor prognosis, with sequelae of more or less tolerable pain, flat foot, and different degrees of disability, and can end up with a subsequent subtalar fusion. Most of these fractures occur in the workplace, in men between 40–50 years of age. They are caused by falls from significant heights, and are therefore associated with other fractures such as spinal fractures. A therapeutic guide is applied for the indication of surgery in intrathalamic calcaneal fractures. Materials and methods: Using Sanders’ classification based on diagnosis by CT that differentiates articular fractures from intrathalamic or extraarticular fractures, 47 patients underwent surgery with open reduction and internal fixation with an SPS plate, most of them by a lateral approach, between 1999 and 2006. The patients were all men with a mean age of 34.8 years with intraarticular calcaneal fracture types II and III according to the Sanders’ classification. Results: Intraarticular fractures with displacement accounted for 70.75% of all calcaneal fractures. Our working-age patients, treated surgically, were assessed according to management criteria, medical criteria, scientific criteria and patient-related criteria; total disability due to sequelae has decreased by 75%. Return to former working activities was achieved in 60% of cases. Results were good in 54%, fair in 22%, poor in 23% of cases; surgeon satisfaction was high in 70% of cases and patient satisfaction was excellent to good in 70% of cases. The complications seen were: suture dehiscence, superficial and deep infections and sural nerve dysesthesia. Conclusions: We used CT to diagnose intraarticular fractures and Sanders’ Classification to establish the indication for surgery. Since the establishment of a therapeutic guide for the indication of surgery using an open reduction and internal fixation technique, we have achieved 55% of good results, total disability has decreased by 75%, and we have achieved return to previous work in 60% of the patients. Morbidity due to sequelae has decreased; these sequelae were previously accepted as something to be expected from the moment of fracture with orthopedic treatment

Our purpose was to evaluate the use of indirect and closed reduction with Ilizarov external fixator in intraarticular calcaneal fractures. In a period of 3 years, 16 patients with 18 intraarticular fractures of calcaneus (eleven type III and seven type IV according to Sanders classification) were treated with the Ilizarov fixator. Twelve patients were male and four female. The average age was 42 years (range 25 – 63 years). Three fractures were open. Fractures were evaluated by preoperative radiographs and CT scans. Restoration of the calcaneal bone anatomy was obtained by closed means using minimally invasive reduction technique by Ilizarov fixator. Arthrodiatasis and ligamento-taxis, and closed reduction of the subtalar joint were performed in 14 cases. In 4 cases the depressed posterior calcaneal facet was elevated by small lateral incision and stabilized in frame by wires. Postoperatively, partial, early weight bearing was encouraged in all patients. The mean follow-up period was 1,5 years (range 1 – 3 years). The AOFAS Ankle – Hindfoot Score, and physical examination were used in functional evaluation. The average score was 79,8 (range 72 – 90). Six patients had limited degenerative radiological findings of osteoarthrosis about the subtalar joint and three of them had painful subtalar movement. One of the patients complained of heel pad pain. Nine (6.25%) grade II pin tract infections were detected from a total of 144 wires. No secondary reconstructive procedures, including osteotomies, subtalar fusions, or amputations, have been done. Indirect closed reduction of calcaneal bone anatomy and arthrodiatasis of subtalar joint with Ilizarov external fixator is a viable surgical alternative for intraarticular calcaneal fractures

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze the applicability and advantages of the intraoperative use of a mobile isocentric C-arm with 3-dimensional imaging (SIREMOBIL ISO-C-3D) in fixation of intraarticular fractures. Methods: Intraoperative CT-quality visualization was performed on a series of 72 closed-intraarticular fractures in 70 patients following fixation. Fracture distribution was; calcaneus (25), tibial plateau (17), tibial plafond (12), acetabulum (11), distal radius (3), ankle (3), femoral head (l). The mean patient age was 41. Intraoperative revision was performed based on the additional information Iso-C-3D provided beyond routine fluoroscopy used for fracture reduction and fixation. The primary outcome measure was revision rate after final Iso-C-3D data acquisition and prior to wound closure. Secondary objectives were to measure the additional time required for Iso-C-3D use and to determine the rate of further re-do surgeries. Results: Eight out of 70 (11%) fracture fixations were judged by the surgeon to require intraoperative revision following Iso-C-3D imaging. In 7 cases this was due to hardware misplacement and in 1 this was for intraarticular loose fragment. Prior to leaving the operating room, the surgeon was satisfied with fracture alignment in all the procedures. The mean additional operative time using Iso-C-3D was 7.5 minutes. No patient required re-do surgery. Conclusion: Intraoperative 3-dimensional visualization of intraarticular fractures enables the surgeon to identify inadvertent malreductions or implant malpositions which may be overlooked by routine C-arm fluoroscopy and hence eliminates the need for re-do procedures. Iso- C-3D adds little operative time and may preclude the need for preoperative and postoperative CT-scans in selected cases

Introduction: Metacarpal and phalangeal fractures are frequent (13% of the total number of fractures). It seems that the best treatment for the displaced fractures is fixation. Various methods have been used, such as plates and screws, wires, IM-nailing, external fixation. The main problems are adhesions of extensor tendons, scarring and stiffness of the joints. The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of internal fixation using Kirschner wires, applied open or closed, treating metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. MATERIALS AND Methods: Between 1998 and 2005 145 out of a total of 2848 (5.2%) metacarpal and phalangeal fractures underwent operative treatment. Fixation was achieved by placing extrarticularly two or more Kirschner wires. The wires were removed after 4 weeks and patients underwent physiotherapy for 2 to 4 weeks. The follow-up period was 3 – 15 mos (average 12 mos) and total range of movement and function of the injured hand was evaluated. Results: Bone union was evident in 3 to 5 weeks. Range of movement was approximately 90% of normal, except for cases of comminuted intraarticular fractures and also in 6 cases of elderly non-cooperative patients. One case of infection, complicating a metacarpal fracture and well responding to antibiotic treatment, was recorded. Three further infections resulted after neglected intraarticular fractures, all of which underwent arthrodesis. No rotational deformities were observed. There was no mechanical failure of the fixation in any case. Conclusion: The fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures using K-wires seems to be a useful method minimally invasive, stable and well tolerated by the patient, not interfering with the mobility of the joints. K-wires are easily removed and of low cost. The functional outcome of this method seems to be quite satisfactory

Aim: To compare 2 methods of osteosynthesis (pinning and plate and screws) in displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus. Material and method: Between 2001 and 2005, 82 displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus were surgically treated in our department. Fractures were classified according to Bohler’s classification: 18 Bohler type II and 64 Bohler type III fractures. Open reduction and reconstruction with osseous grafts (autologous grafts in 22 cases and heterologous grafts in 52 cases) were used in 74 cases. In 8 cases (all of Bohler II type) grafts weren’t used. Osteosynthesis with plate and screws was performed in 26 cases and with pins in 56. The 2 groups were similar in what concerns age, sex ratio, BMI, degree of comminution. The surgical procedure was delayed in both groups (average − 6 days). Pins were removed at 6 weeks and the plates at 12 months. Results: A number of clinical parameters (pain evolution, moment of partial and full weight bearing, achievement of clinical and radiological union, ankle and forefoot mobility, etc.) were similar in both groups. Skin complications were more frequent in the plate group even if similar lateral surgical approaches were used. Pain along peroneal tendons was much more frequent in the plate group. Conclusions: Even if theoretically osteosynthesis with plate and screws assures a better fixation, in practice it has similar clinical results with the pinning. The number of complications is higher after plate osteosynthesis. The pins can be extracted with local anesthesia, while plate extraction requires lumbar or general anesthesia and a full extent surgical procedure

There are many reports of treatment for intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus using different methods. Results are very difficult to compare. For this reason a prospective study was designed to compare the outcome of the same type of fracture treated with Stein-mann pinning or plate osteosynthesis. Between January 1995 and March 1999 31 patients with two-part intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus, type IIB according to the Sanders classification, were treated operatively with either transcalcaneal pinning (12 fractures) or with open reduction and internal plate and screw fixation using a lateral approach (19 fractures). After a mean follow-up of 26 months all patients were assessed. A comparison was made between the two modes of treatment. The global score averaged 78.3 ± 12.1; 79.3 ± 11.14 for the patients treated with plate and screw fixation, and 76.6 ± 13.2 for the patients who underwent pinning. Lateral X-rays showed no difference in anatomical reduction between both methods. A positive correlation was demonstrated between the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot score and Böhler’s angle. The restoration of the congruity of the posterior subtalar joint was assessed postoperatively by means of a CT scan. The angle between the undersurface of the talus and the lateral fragment of the two-part fracture was evaluated. No statistically significant difference was found between both groups. The authors conclude that there is no difference in functional outcome between both modes of treatment. Plate osteosynthesis has the advantage that the shape of the hindfoot and midfoot is restored, but the higher complication rate is a drawback

The operative therapy of intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus is nowadays established surgical standard. Aim is an accurate reduction with reconstruction of the Boehler’s angle, the length and the subtalar joint. 3D-fluoroscopy with the Siremobil Iso-C 3D? mobile C-arm radiography system is a valuable assistance for the accurate reconstruction of the anatomical structures. Remaining incongruities can be recognized and corrected intraoperatively. The achieved reduction can be safely fixed by the advantages of a locked implant In the period of 10/2002 until 10/2004 we operated 59 patients with intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus by means of anatomical reduction and locked plate (Calcaneus TiFix, Litos, Germany) under control of 3D-fluoroscopy. After routine CT diagnostics, fractures were classified according to Sanders: 18 fractures were type II, 33 fractures type III and 9 were classified type IV. Results: Surgical treatment of the fractures took place according on average after an interval of 8.5 days (7 to 11). A 3D-fluoroscopy was performed after reduction and temporary fixation of the fracture. There was no technical fault of the device. Median theatre time was 72 minutes (53–112 minutes) including 3-D-fluoroscopy. In 22 cases a remaining incongruity of > 1 mm could be seen on intraoperative 3-D-fluoroscopy. In these cases a reduction was performed again. The Boehler’s angle could be raised on average by 18° (11° to 22°), shortening of the hindfoot could be improved on average by 13 picture millimetres (9 to 17mm). Bone graft was not required in any case. At 6 months follow up, all patients had returned to work, or if unemployed, where judged fit to work by their GP. Three patients changed their position. 25 Patients were completely pain free at follow-up. In all cases the achieved reduction could be fixed by the implant until full weight bearing was reached. Conclusion: The use of 3D Fluoroscopy had a real impact in the treatment of calcaneal fractures. If this short term advantage influences the long term result has to be shown in further follow up

Introduction: Posttraumatic osteoarthritis of the ankle joint usually occurs secondary to an intraarticular fracture of the weight bearing ankle joint. The question whether also recurrent ankle sprain and /or chronic instability alone can cause this entity, is, however, still a question to debate. The aim of this retrospective study was, therefore, to analyse the history and findings of a consecutive series of patients that were treated for post-traumatic end-stage osteoarthrosis of the ankle. Methods: The complete database (including physical exam, standard radiographs, patient questionnaire and AOFAS hindfoot score) of all patients was analysed. Results: Out of 268 patients (females, 135 patients; males, 133) 221 (82.5%) had had a fracture (Fx) and 47 (17.5%) suffered from chronic ankle instability with recurrent sprains (but did not have a fracture). The latter group could be subdivided into 29 (10.8%) patients with recurrent sprains (RS) and 10 (6.7%) patients with only a single sprain (SS). The mean (range) delay between primary trauma and surgical treatment for endstage osteoarthritis was 21.1 (1–58) months for Fx, 37.07 (1–61) months for RS and 22.5 (5–48) months for SS. Conclusion: Obviously, not only fractures, but also severe sprains and /or chronic instability play an important role as a cause of end stage osteaorthrosis of the ankle joint. The obtained results suggest that a single severe sprain (dislocation) can cause similar articular damages to an intraarticular fracture, as the time to develop osteoarthrosis does not differ. This is in contrast to the current opinion that ankle sprain, in most instances, does not result in symptomatic articular degeneration

Patients and Methods: Between December 2005 until January 2008 34 distal humerus fractures in 33 patients were prospectively documented and treated using the angular-stable LCP distal humerus plate system from Synthes/Switzerland. Patient median age was 54 (min 14/ max 88). Fracture types were classified according to the AO classification. Extraarticular A fractures were documented in 3 (9%) cases, partial intra-articular fractures (type B) were seen in 4 (12%) patients. Complete intraarticular fractures were found in 27 (79%) cases. Three fractures were grade I° open, 6 fractures were grade II° open according to the Gustilo classification. In median after 10 months (min 8/ max 20) follow up was performed. Due to lost to follow up in one patient functional outcome was measured in 32 patients. Functional results were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performence Score (MEPS). Results: According to MEPS, predominantly excellent and good results were achieved. The intent of stable fracture fixation to allow early physical therapy was reached in 31 patients. Failure of osteosynthesis making operative revision necessary occurred in 3 patients (1x implant failure, 2x loss of reduction). Mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 91 points (min 88.5/ max 100). Mean range of motion for extension/flexion was 110° (min 80/ max 140) and 170° (min 125/max 180) for pronation/supination. Only one patient regained unrestricted extension, mean loss of extension was 21° (min 10/ max 40). Mean Flexion up to 131° was achieved (min 125/ max 140). Postoperative complications were seen in eight cases (implant breakage, delayed union, lost of reduction). Conclusion: Despite postoperative complications and revision surgery, functional results achieved using the angular-stable LCP distal Humerus system are good or excellent in the majority of patients. Through angular-stable and multidirectional screw options fixation of the distal fragment is sufficient and periostal blood supply could be protected. Especially in combination of intraarticular fractures and osteoporotic bone stock the use of the LCP distal Humerus plate system is suitable and permits early physical therapy, promising a benefit for the elbow function

These results support the use of an injectable, in situ hardening calcium phosphate paste to prevent the early loss of calcaneal height and maintain a more anatomic calcaneal reduction. The purpose of this prospective randomized controlled trial was to determine whether ORIF plus an injectable bioresorbable calcium phosphate paste (_-BSM) is superior or inferior to ORIF alone in the treatment of calcaneal bone voids encountered after operative treatment of displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus. Forty-four patients (forty-eight displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures necessitating operative fixation) presenting to a Level One trauma center were enrolled into the study and randomized 1:1 to receive ORIF and injection of _-BSM or ORIF alone. All patients had a standardized ORIF thru a lateral approach by a single surgeon (R.B.). The primary outcome measure was the maintenance of post- operative Bohler’s angle at six weeks, three months, and six months. Other outcome measures included the SF-36 and LEM (Lower Extremity Measure) Score at six months. Five patients with seven calcaneal fractures were lost to follow up leaving thirty-nine patients with forty-one calcaneal fractures (85%) for analysis. Twenty-one were randomized into the ORIF and _-BSM group and twenty into the ORIF alone group. There was no statistical difference between the two groups with regard to age, sex, mechanism of injury, initial Bohler’s angle, or type of fracture. There was no difference between the groups in the degree of collapse of Bohler’s angle at six weeks and three months when compared to initial post-operative values. However, at six months the mean collapse of the _-BSM and ORIF group was 5.6° and ORIF alone was 10.6°. This was statistically significant (p< 0.01). Funding: Industry supported: DePuy, a Johnson & Johnson Company. Analysis and data collection performed independently

Tibial plateau fractures are common intraarticular fractures. The principal long-term complication is post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) with the usual salvage procedure being total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Our aim was to define the incidence of PTOA requiring TKA following tibial plateau fractures and identify the risk factors. We looked at all tibial plateau fractures between 1995 and 2008. There were 888 tibial plateau fractures. 23% were Schatzker I, 25% II, 14% III, 22% IV, 8% V and 8% VI. To date 25 have undergone TKA (2.8%). The mean age of patients at time of fracture was 56 in the overall cohort and 65 in those requiring TKA; this was statistically significant (p=0.04). 4% of females with tibial plateau fractures required TKA in comparison to 2% of males. The Schatzker I fractures were the least likely to require TKA at 1% with the most likely requiring arthroplasty surgery being type III at 6%. Only 1% of the patients treated non-operatively later underwent TKA. The overall incidence of TKA after tibial plateau fractures was 3%. For displaced fractures requiring internal fixation this rose to 4%. Risk factors were increasing age, split depression fractures and female gender. Although tibial plateau fractures are commonly associated with degenerative radiographic changes, we concluded that the incidence of symptomatic OA severe enough to require TKA is low

The study looked at early outcomes of 55 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fracture with a single variable angle volar locking plate (Variax, Stryker), by a single surgeon (GS), between May 2007 and December 2008. A retrospective review of notes and radiographs was performed. Twenty-nine women and 26 men were included. The mean age was 52 years. Mean follow up time was 3 months. The dominant wrist was involved in 38 patients. The mechanism of injury was of low energy in 38 patients and of high energy in 17 patients. All patients had comminuted fractures and 52 patients had intraarticular fractures. Seven patients underwent intraoperative carpal tunnel decompression. At latest follow up, active wrist motion averaged 37° extension, 40° flexion, 70° pronation, and 56° supination. Grip strength averaged 64% and pinch grip 77% of the contralateral wrist. Postoperative complications included one flexor pollicis longus rupture, one malunion and three patients with loosening of screws. There was a higher rate of complications seen in patients with high energy injuries. These early results suggest that volar plating with a variable angle plate is an effective treatment option, especially for complex intraarticular distal radius fractures. A medium term outcomes study of a larger number of patients is planned