Aim. This retrospective study evaluated the outcome of treatment for unhealed fracture-related infections (FRI). Methods. We identified a consecutive, single-centre cohort of patients having treatment for an FRI Consensus confirmed FRI. All fractures were unhealed at the time of treatment. Patients were followed up for at least one year. Successful outcome was a healed fracture without recurrent infection. Lack of union, persistent infection and/or unplanned reoperation defined failure. Results. Demographics: 183 patients (184 FRIs) with mean age 52.1 years (range 17-96) were treated and followed up for a mean of 2.8 years (range 1-9.4). Mean duration of FRI was 1.1 years with 65 (35.5 %) presenting within 6 months of injury. 118 patients had established infected non-union. FRI was most frequent in the tibia (74), femur (48) and humerus (24). 171 patients were BACH Complex. 75.5% of FRIs were culture positive, with Staph. aureus being the most frequent organism. Polymicrobial infection and Gram negative cultures were common (25.5% and 33.6%). Treatment: 98.3% of surgeries were performed in one stage with just 3 planned 2-stage procedures (2 endoprosthetic replacements and 1 free fibular flap). No bone graft was used in any surgery and all wounds were closed at first operation. 48 cases (26%) required flap coverage (29 free flaps and 19 local flaps). Local antibiotics were used in 124 cases (67.4%) of primary surgeries. All patients had sampling, debridement, systemic antibiotics and wound closure. 40 (21.7%) had DAIR, 31 (16.8%) had new internal fixation and 105 (57.1%) had external fixation (including 79 Ilizarov fixators). Outcomes: After primary surgery, 84.6% of all patients were infection-free and 77.2% had united. After further surgery, 98.8% were infection-free and 98.1% had united. External fixation techniques achieved infection eradication in 89.1% compared to 71.7% with any internal fixation (p=0.005). Primary internal fixation achieved union in 81.7% compared to 74.3% with external fixation (p=0.27). Secondary surgery after external fixation was mainly docking site fixation. Conclusion. Unhealed FRIs present a difficult challenge for treatment. This large series demonstrated that single-stage treatment, without bone grafting, gave acceptable results with few reoperations. Primary external fixation gave more certainty of infection eradication but required more reoperations to secure union. However, this difference in reoperation was not statistically significant. We strongly advocate managing these patients with a multidisciplinary team which can treat all aspects of the condition

Aims

Though most humeral shaft fractures heal nonoperatively, up to one-third may lead to nonunion with inferior outcomes. The Radiographic Union Score for HUmeral Fractures (RUSHU) was created to identify high-risk patients for nonunion. Our study evaluated the RUSHU’s prognostic performance at six and 12 weeks in discriminating nonunion within a significantly larger cohort than before.

The October 2024 Wrist & Hand Roundup360 looks at: Circumferential casting versus plaster splinting in preventing redisplacement of distal radial fractures; Comparable outcomes for operative versus nonoperative treatment of scapholunate ligament injuries in distal radius fractures; Perceived pain during the reduction of Colles fracture without anaesthesia; Diagnostic delays and physician training are key to reducing scaphoid fracture nonunion; Necrotizing fasciitis originating in the hand: a systematic review and meta-analysis; Study design influences outcomes in distal radial fracture research; Long-term results of index finger pollicization for congenital thumb anomalies: a systematic review; Enhancing nerve injury diagnosis: the evolving role of imaging and electrodiagnostic tools.

Aims

Surgical approaches to cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) remain controversial. The purpose of the present study was to analyze and compare the long-term neurological recovery following anterior decompression with fusion (ADF) and posterior laminectomy and fusion with bone graft and internal fixation (PLF) based on > ten-year follow-up outcomes in a single centre.

Aims

Pneumatic tourniquets are often used during the surgical treatment of unstable traumatic ankle fractures. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of reoperation after open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures with and without the use of pneumatic tourniquets.

The August 2024 Wrist & Hand Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Methotrexate shows potential in reducing pain for hand osteoarthritis with synovitis; Circumferential casting versus plaster splinting in adult distal radius fractures: the CAST study findings; Surgery shows superior long-term success for Dupuytren contracture compared to needle fasciotomy and collagenase injection; Evolving trends in surgical management of wrist arthritis: a decade-long national analysis; Mid-term outcomes of three commonly used surgical reconstructions for scapholunate instability; SLAC and SNAC: what is the evidence for treatment?; Steroids for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis?; When is it safe to return to driving after distal radius fracture fixation? A prospective study.

Aims. It is not clear which type of casting provides the best initial treatment in adults with a distal radial fracture. Given that between 32% and 64% of adequately reduced fractures redisplace during immobilization in a cast, preventing redisplacement and a disabling malunion or secondary surgery is an aim of treatment. In this study, we investigated whether circumferential casting leads to fewer fracture redisplacements and better one-year outcomes compared to plaster splinting. Methods. In a pragmatic, open-label, multicentre, two-period cluster-randomized superiority trial, we compared these two types of casting. Recruitment took place in ten hospitals. Eligible patients aged ≥ 18 years with a displaced distal radial fracture, which was acceptably aligned after closed reduction, were included. The primary outcome measure was the rate of redisplacement within five weeks of immobilization. Secondary outcomes were the rate of complaints relating to the cast, clinical outcomes at three months, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (using the numerical rating scale (NRS), the abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), and Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) scores), and adverse events such as the development of compartment syndrome during one year of follow-up. We used multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression for the analysis of the primary outcome measure. Results. The study included 420 patients. There was no significant difference between the rate of redisplacement of the fracture between the groups: 47% (n = 88) for those treated with a plaster splint and 49% (n = 90) for those treated with a circumferential cast (odds ratio 1.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65 to 1.70); p = 0.854). Patients treated in a plaster splint reported significantly more pain than those treated with a circumferential cast, during the first week of treatment (estimated mean NRS 4.7 (95% CI 4.3 to 5.1) vs 4.1 (95% CI 3.7 to 4.4); p = 0.014). The rate of complaints relating to the cast, clinical outcomes and PROMs did not differ significantly between the groups (p > 0.05). Compartment syndrome did not occur. Conclusion. Circumferential casting did not result in a significantly different rate of redisplacement of the fracture compared with the use of a plaster splint. There were comparable outcomes in both groups. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(7):696–704

The June 2024 Foot & Ankle Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: First MTPJ fusion in young versus old patients; Minimally invasive calcaneum Zadek osteotomy and the effect of sequential burr passes; Comparison between Achilles tendon reinsertion and dorsal closing wedge calcaneal osteotomy for the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy; Revision ankle arthroplasty – is it worthwhile?; Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis or below-knee amputation – salvage or sacrifice?; Fusion or replacement for hallux rigidus?.

Aims

Isolated fractures of the ulnar diaphysis are uncommon, occurring at a rate of 0.02 to 0.04 per 1,000 cases. Despite their infrequency, these fractures commonly give rise to complications, such as nonunion, limited forearm pronation and supination, restricted elbow range of motion, radioulnar synostosis, and prolonged pain. Treatment options for this injury remain a topic of debate, with limited research available and no consensus on the optimal approach. Therefore, this trial aims to compare clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes of two treatment methods: open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) versus nonoperative treatment in patients with isolated ulnar diaphyseal fractures.

The April 2024 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Acute rehabilitation following traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation (ARTISAN): pragmatic, multicentre, randomized controlled trial; Prevalence and predisposing factors of neuropathic pain in patients with rotator cuff tears; Are two plates better than one? The clavicle fracture reimagined; A single cell atlas of frozen shoulder capsule identifies features associated with inflammatory fibrosis resolution; Complication rates and deprivation go hand in hand with total shoulder arthroplasty; Longitudinal instability injuries of the forearm; A better than “best-fit circle” method for glenoid bone loss assessment; 3D supraspinatus muscle volume and intramuscular fatty infiltration after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Aims

The study aimed to assess the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic debridement and partial excision in patients with traumatic central tears of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), and to identify prognostic factors associated with unfavourable clinical outcomes.

Aims

Our primary aim was to assess reoperation-free survival at one year after the index injury in patients aged ≥ 75 years treated with internal fixation (IF) or arthroplasty for undisplaced femoral neck fractures (uFNFs). Secondary outcomes were reoperations and mortality analyzed separately.

The February 2024 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup. 360. looks at: Hip impingement after in situ pinning causes decreased flexion and forced external rotation in flexion on 3D-CT; Triplane ankle fracture patterns in paediatric patients; Improved forearm rotation even after early conversion to below-elbow; Selective dorsal rhizotomy and cerebral palsy (CP) hip displacement; Abduction bracing following anterior open reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip does not improve residual dysplasia or reduce secondary surgery; 40% risk of later total hip arthroplasty for in situ slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) pinning; Does brace treatment following closed reduction of developmental dysplasia of the hip improve acetabular coverage?; Waterproof hip spica casts for paediatric femur fractures

Aims

The management of fractures of the medial epicondyle is one of the greatest controversies in paediatric fracture care, with uncertainty concerning the need for surgery. The British Society of Children’s Orthopaedic Surgery prioritized this as their most important research question in paediatric trauma. This is the protocol for a randomized controlled, multicentre, prospective superiority trial of operative fixation versus nonoperative treatment for displaced medial epicondyle fractures: the Surgery or Cast of the EpicoNdyle in Children’s Elbows (SCIENCE) trial.

Aims

Due to its indolent clinical behaviour, the treatment paradigm of atypical cartilaginous tumours (ACTs) in the long bones is slowly shifting from intralesional resection (curettage) and local adjuvants, towards active surveillance through wait-and-scan follow-up. In this retrospective cohort study performed in a tertiary referral centre, we studied the natural behaviour of ACT lesions by active surveillance with MRI. Clinical symptoms were not considered in the surveillance programme.

Aims

This study aims to determine the rate of and risk factors for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after operative management of tibial plateau fractures (TPFs) in older adults.

Introduction. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are one of the most common knee injuries amongst elite athletes and usually require an ACL reconstruction (ACLR) to enable return to sport. Secondary surgery can result in a longer rehabilitation period and often a. significant time away from sport which can have implications to the athlete including contract obligations and sponsorship. Advances in ACLR techniques and meniscal repair techniques as well as an awareness of meniscal root lesions, ramp lesions and lateral extraarticular procedures (LEAPs) during ACL surgery has improved outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rates of secondary surgery following the introduction of a systematic arthroscopic evaluation of the knee, improved meniscal repair techniques and the addition of a concomitant LEAP This systematic approach was introduced after October 2012 (10/2012). Methods. Professional athletes who underwent primary ACLR with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were identified from the (blinded for review). Those who had undergone major concomitant procedures such as multi-ligament reconstruction or osteotomy were excluded. Analysis of the database and review of medical records identified athletes who had underwent secondary surgery procedures. Results. A total of 342 athletes with a mean follow-up of 100.2 +/− 51.9 months (range, 24–215 months) were analysed. 130 athletes underwent surgery before 10/2012 and 212 athletes underwent surgery after 10/2012. Overall, 74 patients (21.6%) underwent secondary surgery. 39 patients (30.0% including 13.1% for graft rupture) before 10/2012 and 35 patients (16.5% including 6.6% for graft rupture) after 10/2012. A multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox model and demonstrated that athletes undergoing ACLR before10/2012 were at almost 2-fold risk of secondary surgery (hazard ratio (HR), 1.768(1.103;2.836), p=0.0256) when compared with those undergoing ACLR after 10/2012. (Figure 1). Conclusion. Professional athletes undergoing ACLR with a systematic arthroscopic evaluation with the use of advanced meniscal repair techniques and the combination with a LEAP result in a significantly lower rate of secondary surgery. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Introduction. It has been contentious whether an anatomic double-bundle technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR)is superior to that of a single-bundle technique. It has been hypothesized in the literature that the double-bundle technique could provide function closer to that of the anatomical knee joint. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term clinical outcomes after single-bundle ACLR versus double-bundle ACLR. We hypothesized that the double-bundle technique would not be superior to the single-bundle technique. Methods. A retrospective, non-randomized, matched-paired comparative study was performed. Patients undergoing primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, using either a double-bundle or single-bundle technique, between 2003 and 2008 were included and matched 1:1. Matching included age, sex, BMI, time from injury to surgery, side of injury and type of sport. Patients who underwent revision procedures, multiligament reconstruction or other ACLR techniques were excluded. Patients were subsequently followed up, noting occurrence of graft rupture and any other complications. Results. A total of 1377 ACLRs were performed during the study period. Seven hundred and fifty-six patients were excluded, leaving 396patients to be included in the matching (198 matched pairs). Mean follow-up time was 176.7 +/− 7.7 months (range, 166–211 months). Overall, 40 patients (10.1%) suffered from a graft rupture which consisted of 22 patients (11.1%) in the single-bundle group and 18patients (9.1%) in the double-bundle group. A multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox model and demonstrated that graft failure had no significant association with the surgical technique (hazard ratio (HR), 0.857(0.457;1.609), p=0.6313). (Figure 1) Five patients (2.5%) in the single-bundle group and 7 patients (3.5%) in the double-bundle group underwent secondary surgery for cyclops syndrome(p=0.5637). Three patients (1.5%) in the single-bundle group and 2 patients (1.0%) in the double-bundle group underwent arthrolysis(p=0.6547). Seven patients (3.5%) in the single-bundle group underwent secondary meniscectomy compared to 6 patients (3.0%) in the double-bundle group (p=0.7630). Conclusion. Double-bundle ACLR is not superior to single-bundle ACLR at long-term follow up. Therefore, orthopaedic surgeons do not need to use a double-bundle technique when performing ACL reconstruction. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Aims. Abduction bracing is commonly used to treat developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) following closed reduction and spica casting, with little evidence to support or refute this practice. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of abduction bracing after closed reduction in improving acetabular index (AI) and reducing secondary surgery for residual hip dysplasia. Methods. We performed a retrospective review of patients treated with closed reduction for DDH at a single tertiary referral centre. Demographic data were obtained including severity of dislocation based on the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) classification, age at reduction, and casting duration. Patients were prescribed no abduction bracing, part-time, or full-time wear post-reduction and casting. AI measurements were obtained immediately upon cast removal and from two- and four-year follow-up radiographs. Results. A total of 243 hips underwent closed reduction and 82% (199/243) were treated with abduction bracing. There was no difference between those treated with or without bracing with regard to sex, age at reduction, severity of dislocation, spica duration, or immediate post-casting AI (all p > 0.05). There was no difference in hips treated with or without abduction brace with regard to AI at two years post-reduction (32.4° (SD 5.3°) vs 30.9° (SD 4.6°), respectively; p = 0.099) or at four years post-reduction (26.4° (SD 5.2°) vs 25.4° (SD 5.1°), respectively; p = 0.231). Multivariate analysis revealed only IHDI grade predicted AI at two years post-reduction (p = 0.004). There was no difference in overall rate of secondary surgery for residual dysplasia between hips treated with or without bracing (32% vs 39%, respectively; p = 0.372). However, there was an increased risk of early secondary surgery (< two years post-reduction) in the non-braced group (11.4% vs 2.5%; p = 0.019). Conclusion. Abduction bracing following closed reduction for DDH treatment is not associated with decreased residual dysplasia at two or four years post-reduction but may reduce rates of early secondary surgery. A prospective study is indicated to provide more definitive recommendations. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(12):1327–1332