Introduction. Intervertebral disc degeneration has been associated with low back pain (LBP) which is a major cause of long-term disability worldwide. Observed mechanical and biological modifications have been related to decreased water content. Clinical traction protocols as part of LBP management have shown positive outcomes. However, the underlying mechanical and biological processes are still unknown. The study purpose was to evaluate the impact of unloading through traction on the mechanobiology of healthy bovine tail discs in culture. Method. We loaded bovine tail discs (n=3/group) 2h/day at 0.2Hz for 3 days, either in dynamic compression (-0.01MPa to -0.2MPa) or in dynamic traction (-0.01MPa to 0.024MPa). In between the dynamic loading sessions, we subjected the discs to static compression loading (-0.048MPa). We assessed biomechanical and biological parameters. Result. Over the 3 days of loading, disc height decreased upon dynamic compression loading but increased upon unloading. The neutral zone was restored for all samples at the end of the dynamic unloading. Upon dynamic compression, the stiffness increased over time while the hysteresis decreased. Upon dynamic unloading, sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) release in the medium was lower at the endpoint. In the outer annulus fibrosus (AFo), we saw a higher water/sGAG of at least 30%. In the nucleus pulposus, COL2 mRNA was expressed more highly upon dynamic unloading while MMP3, iNOS and TRPV4 expression levels were lower. In the AFo of the unloading group, COL2 expression was higher but COL1 was lower. Conclusion. The biomechanical and biological results consistently indicate that dynamic unloading of healthy bovine discs in culture facilitates water uptake and promotes an anti-catabolic response which reflects a function optimization of the disc. This work combines biomechanical and biological results and opens the door to evidence-based improvement of regenerative protocols for degenerated discs and conservative LBP management. This study is funded by AO Foundation and AO Spine

Introduction. With advances in artificial intelligence, the use of computer-aided detection and diagnosis in clinical imaging is gaining traction. Typically, very large datasets are required to train machine-learning models, potentially limiting use of this technology when only small datasets are available. This study investigated whether pretraining of fracture detection models on large, existing datasets could improve the performance of the model when locating and classifying wrist fractures in a small X-ray image dataset. This concept is termed “transfer learning”. Method. Firstly, three detection models, namely, the faster region-based convolutional neural network (faster R-CNN), you only look once version eight (YOLOv8), and RetinaNet, were pretrained using the large, freely available dataset, common objects in context (COCO) (330000 images). Secondly, these models were pretrained using an open-source wrist X-ray dataset called “Graz Paediatric Wrist Digital X-rays” (GRAZPEDWRI-DX) on a (1) fracture detection dataset (20327 images) and (2) fracture location and classification dataset (14390 images). An orthopaedic surgeon classified the small available dataset of 776 distal radius X-rays (Arbeidsgmeischaft für Osteosynthesefragen Foundation / Orthopaedic Trauma Association; AO/OTA), on which the models were tested. Result. Detection models without pre-training on the large datasets were the least precise when tested on the small distal radius dataset. The model with the best accuracy to detect and classify wrist fractures was the YOLOv8 model pretrained on the GRAZPEDWRI-DX fracture detection dataset (mean average precision at intersection over union of 50=59.7%). This model showed up to 33.6% improved detection precision compared to the same models with no pre-training. Conclusion. Optimisation of machine-learning models can be challenging when only relatively small datasets are available. The findings of this study support the potential of transfer learning from large datasets to improve model performance in smaller datasets. This is encouraging for wider application of machine-learning technology in medical imaging evaluation, including less common orthopaedic pathologies

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The incidence of limb fractures in patients living with HIV (PLWH) is increasing. However, due to their immunodeficiency status, the operation and rehabilitation of these patients present unique challenges. Currently, it is urgent to establish a standardized perioperative rehabilitation plan based on the concept of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). This study aimed to validate the effectiveness of ERAS in the perioperative period of PLWH with limb fractures.

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Lower limb fractures are common in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and represent a significant burden to the existing orthopaedic surgical infrastructure. In high income country (HIC) settings, internal fixation is the standard of care due to its superior outcomes. In LMICs, external fixation is often the surgical treatment of choice due to limited supplies, cost considerations, and its perceived lower complication rate. The aim of this systematic review protocol is identifying differences in rates of infection, nonunion, and malunion of extra-articular femoral and tibial shaft fractures in LMICs treated with either internal or external fixation.

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The evidence base within trauma and orthopaedics has traditionally favoured quantitative research methodologies. Qualitative research can provide unique insights which illuminate patient experiences and perceptions of care. Qualitative methods reveal the subjective narratives of patients that are not captured by quantitative data, providing a more comprehensive understanding of patient-centred care. The aim of this study is to quantify the level of qualitative research within the orthopaedic literature.

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This study aims to describe a new method that may be used as a supplement to evaluate humeral rotational alignment during intramedullary nail (IMN) insertion using the profile of the perpendicular peak of the greater tuberosity and its relation to the transepicondylar axis. We called this angle the greater tuberosity version angle (GTVA).

The October 2024 Trauma Roundup. 360. looks at: Early versus delayed weightbearing following operatively treated ankle fracture (WAX): a non-inferiority, multicentre, randomized controlled trial; The effect of early weightbearing and later weightbearing rehabilitation interventions on outcomes after ankle fracture surgery; Is intramedullary nailing of femoral diaphyseal fractures in the lateral decubitus position as safe and effective as on a traction table?; Periprosthetic fractures of the hip: Back to the Future, Groundhog Day, and horses for courses; Two big bones, one big decision: when to fix bilateral femur fractures; Comparison of ankle fracture fixation using intramedullary fibular nailing versus plate fixation; Unclassified acetabular fractures: do they really exist?

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The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) associated with instability of the shoulder ranges between 4% and 60%. Articular cartilage is, however, routinely assessed in these patients using radiographs or scans (2D or 3D), with little opportunity to record early signs of cartilage damage. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and localization of chondral lesions and synovial damage in patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery for instablility of the shoulder, in order to classify them and to identify risk factors for the development of glenohumeral OA.

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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.

Rotator cuff pathology is the main cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction in older adults. When a rotator cuff tear involves the subscapularis tendon, the symptoms are usually more severe and the prognosis after surgery must be guarded. Isolated subscapularis tears represent 18% of all rotator cuff tears and arthroscopic repair is a good alternative primary treatment. However, when the tendon is deemed irreparable, tendon transfers are the only option for younger or high-functioning patients. The aim of this review is to describe the indications, biomechanical principles, and outcomes which have been reported for tendon transfers, which are available for the treatment of irreparable subscapularis tears.

The best tendon to be transferred remains controversial. Pectoralis major transfer was described more than 30 years ago to treat patients with failed surgery for instability of the shoulder. It has subsequently been used extensively to manage irreparable subscapularis tendon tears in many clinical settings. Although pectoralis major reproduces the position and orientation of the subscapularis in the coronal plane, its position in the axial plane – anterior to the rib cage – is clearly different and does not allow it to function as an ideal transfer. Consistent relief of pain and moderate recovery of strength and function have been reported following the use of this transfer. In an attempt to improve on these results, latissimus dorsi tendon transfer was proposed as an alternative and the technique has evolved from an open to an arthroscopic procedure. Satisfactory relief of pain and improvements in functional shoulder scores have recently been reported following its use. Both pectoralis minor and upper trapezius transfers have also been used in these patients, but the outcomes that have been reported do not support their widespread use.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(9):970–977.

Aims. Paediatric triplane fractures and adult trimalleolar ankle fractures both arise from a supination external rotation injury. By relating the experience of adult to paediatric fractures, clarification has been sought on the sequence of injury, ligament involvement, and fracture pattern of triplane fractures. This study explores the similarities between triplane and trimalleolar fractures for each stage of the Lauge-Hansen classification, with the aim of aiding reduction and fixation techniques. Methods. Imaging data of 83 paediatric patients with triplane fractures and 100 adult patients with trimalleolar fractures were collected, and their fracture morphology was compared using fracture maps. Visual fracture maps were assessed, classified, and compared with each other, to establish the progression of injury according to the Lauge-Hansen classification. Results. Four stages of injury in triplane fractures, resembling the adult supination external rotation Lauge-Hansen stages, were observed. Stage I consists of rupture of the anterior syndesmosis or small avulsion of the anterolateral tibia in trimalleolar fractures, and the avulsion of a larger Tillaux fragment in triplanes. Stage II is defined as oblique fracturing of the fibula at the level of the syndesmosis, present in all trimalleolar fractures and in 30% (25/83) of triplane fractures. Stage III is the fracturing of the posterior malleolus. In trimalleolar fractures, the different Haraguchi types can be discerned. In triplane fractures, the delineation of the posterior fragment has a wave-like shape, which is part of the characteristic Y-pattern of triplane fractures, originating from the Tillaux fragment. Stage IV represents a fracture of the medial malleolus, which is highly variable in both the trimalleolar and triplane fractures. Conclusion. The paediatric triplane and adult trimalleolar fractures share common features according to the Lauge-Hansen classification. This highlights that the adolescent injury arises from a combination of ligament traction and a growth plate in the process of closing. With this knowledge, a specific sequence of reduction and optimal screw positions are recommended. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(9):1008–1014

The August 2024 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup. 360. looks at: Antibiotic prophylaxis and infection rates in paediatric supracondylar humerus fractures; Clinical consensus recommendations for the non-surgical treatment of children with Perthes’ disease in the UK; Health-related quality of life in idiopathic toe walkers: a multicentre prospective cross-sectional study; Children with spinal dysraphism: a systematic review of reported outcomes; No delay in age of crawling, standing, or walking with Pavlik harness treatment: a prospective cohort study; No value found with routine early postoperative radiographs after implant removal in paediatric patients; What do we know about the natural history of spastic hip dysplasia and pain in total-involvement cerebral palsy?; Evaluating the efficacy and safety of preoperative gallows traction for hip open reduction in infants

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The use of multimodal non-opioid analgesia in hip fractures, specifically acetaminophen combined with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), has been increasing. However, the effectiveness and safety of this approach remain unclear. This study aimed to compare postoperative outcomes among patients with hip fractures who preoperatively received either acetaminophen combined with NSAIDs, NSAIDs alone, or acetaminophen alone.

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Hip arthroscopy has gained prominence as a primary surgical intervention for symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). This study aimed to identify radiological features, and their combinations, that predict the outcome of hip arthroscopy for FAI.

Femoral shaft fractures are fairly common injuries in paediatric age group. The treatment protocols are clear in patients of age less than 4 years and greater than 6 years. The real dilemma lies in the age group of 4–6 years. The aim of this study is to find whether a conservative line should be followed, or a more aggressive surgical intervention can provide significantly better results in these injuries. This study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Bhubaneswar, India from January 2020 to March 2021. A total of 40 patients with femur shaft fractures were included and randomly divided in two treatment groups. Group A were treated with a TENS nail while group B were treated with skin traction followed by spica cast. They were regularly followed up with clinical and radiological examination to look out for signs of healing and any complications. TENS was removed at 4–9 months’ time in all Group A patients. Group A patients had a statistically significant less hospital stay, immobilisation period, time to full weight bearing and radiological union. Rotational malunions were significantly lower in Group A (p-value 0.0379) while there was no statistically significant difference in angular malunion in coronal and sagittal plane at final follow up. Complications unique to group A were skin necrosis and infection. We conclude that TENS is better modality for treatment of shaft of femur fractures in patients of 4–6 years age as they significantly reduce the hospital stay, immobilization period and rotational malalignment

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The primary aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of recruiting and retaining patients to a patient-blinded randomized controlled trial comparing corticosteroid injection (CSI) to autologous protein solution (APS) injection for the treatment of subacromial shoulder pain in a community care setting. The study focused on recruitment rates and retention of participants throughout, and collected data on the interventions’ safety and efficacy.

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Dual-mobility acetabular components (DMCs) have improved total hip arthroplasty (THA) stability in femoral neck fractures (FNFs). In osteoarthritis, the direct anterior approach (DAA) has been promoted for improving early functional results compared with the posterolateral approach (PLA). The aim of this study was to compare these two approaches in FNF using DMC-THA.

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Manual impaction, with a mallet and introducer, remains the standard method of installing cementless acetabular cups during total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aims to quantify the accuracy and precision of manual impaction strikes during the seating of an acetabular component. This understanding aims to help improve impaction surgical techniques and inform the development of future technologies.

The April 2024 Trauma Roundup. 360. looks at: The infra-acetabular screw in acetabular fracture surgery; Is skin traction helpful in patients with intertrochanteric hip fractures?; Reducing pain and improving function following hip fracture surgery; Are postoperative splints helpful following ankle fracture fixation?; Biomechanics of internal fixation in Hoffa fractures: a comparison of four different constructs; Dual-plate fixation of periprosthetic distal femur fractures; Do direct oral anticoagulants necessarily mean a delay to hip fracture surgery?; Plate or retrograde nail for low distal femur fractures?

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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.