Advertisement for orthosearch.org.uk
Results 1 - 100 of 158
Results per page:
The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 102-B, Issue 9 | Pages 1242 - 1247
3 Sep 2020
Hsu P Wu K Lee C Lin S Kuo KN Wang T

Aims. Guided growth has been used to treat coxa valga for cerebral palsy (CP) children. However, there has been no study on the optimal position of screw application. In this paper we have investigated the influence of screw position on the outcomes of guided growth. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed 61 hips in 32 CP children who underwent proximal femoral hemi epiphysiodesis between July 2012 and September 2017. The hips were divided into two groups according to the transphyseal position of the screw in the coronal plane: across medial quarter (Group 1) or middle quarter (Group 2) of the medial half of the physis. We compared pre- and postoperative radiographs in head-shaft angle (HSA), Reimer’s migration percentage (MP), acetabular index (AI), and femoral anteversion angle (FAVA), as well as incidences of the physis growing-off the screw within two years. Linear and Cox regression analysis were conducted to identify factors related to HSA correction and risk of the physis growing-off the screw. Results. A total of 37 hips in Group 1 and 24 hips in Group 2 were compared. Group 1 showed a more substantial decrease in the HSA (p = 0.003) and the MP (p = 0.032). Both groups had significant and similar improvements in the AI (p = 0.809) and the FAVA (p = 0.304). Group 1 presented a higher incidence of the physis growing-off the screw (p = 0.038). Results of the regression analysis indicated that the eccentricity of screw position correlated with HSA correction and increases the risk of the physis growing-off the screw. Conclusion. Guided growth is effective in improving coxa valga and excessive femoral anteversion in CP children. For younger children, despite compromised efficacy of varus correction, we recommend a more centered screw position, at least across the middle quarter of the medial physis, to avoid early revision. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1242–1247


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 440 - 441
1 Aug 2008
van Rhijn Lodewijk W Huitema G van Ooij A
Full Access

Study design: A retrospective evaluation of screw position after double rod anterior spinal fusion in idiopathic scoliosis using computerised tomography (CT). Objective: To evaluate screw position and complications related to screw position after double rod anterior instrumentation in idiopathic scoliosis. Summary of Background Data: Anterior instrumentation and fusion in idiopathic scoliosis is gaining widespread use. However, no studies have been published regarding the accuracy of screw placement and screw related complications in double rod and double screw anterior spinal fusion and instrumentation in idiopathic thoracolumbar scoliosis surgery. Methods: CT examinations were performed after anterior spinal fusion and instrumentation in 17 patients with idiopathic scoliosis. The vertebral rotation at each level was measured. At each instrumented level the position of the screw and the plate relative to the spinal canal, relative to the neural foramen and relative to the aorta was measured. Complications related to screw position were registered. Results: 189 screws in 17 patients were evaluated. The average age of the patients was 31 years (range 15–53 years). Fourteen patients had a left convex thoracolumbar curve and three patients a right convex thoracolumbar curve. The mean lumbar apical rotation preoperatively was 27°. Malposition occurred in 23% of the total number of screws. Three screws were in the spinal canal (1%). This resulted in pain in the right leg. However, electromyography showed no abnormalities. On three levels there was contact between the instrumentation and the aorta. No vascular complications did occur. 113 screws (ten patients) were placed under fluoroscopic guidance and 76 screws (seven patients) were placed without use of fluoroscopy. No complications related to screw position were observed in the group in which the screws were placed under fluoroscopic guidance. Conclusions: Adequate placement of two screws in the vertebra in idiopathic scoliosis is a technically demanding procedure, which results in frequent malposition, fortunately with a low risk of neurological and vascular complications


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 98 - 98
1 May 2011
Kuzyk P Zdero R Shah S Olsen M Higgins G Waddell J Schemitsch E
Full Access

Minimizing tip-apex distance has been shown to reduce clinical failure of sliding hip screws used to fix peritro-chanteric fractures. The purpose of this study was to determine if such a relationship exists for the position of the lag screw in the femoral head using a cephalomedullary device. Methods: Thirty intact synthetic femur specimens (Model #3406, Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, WA) were potted into cement blocks distally for testing on an Instron 8874 (Instron, Canton, MA). A long cephalomedullary nail (Long Gamma 3 Nail, Stryker, Mahwah, NJ) was inserted into each of the femurs. An unstable four-part fracture was created, anatomically reduced, and repaired using one of 5 lag screw placements in the femoral head:. Superior (N=6),. Inferior (N=6),. Anterior (N=6),. Posterior (N=6),. Central (N=6). Mechanical tests were repeated for axial, lateral and torsional stiffness. All specimens were radiographed in the anterioposterior and lateral planes and tip-apex (TAD) distance was calculated. A calcar referenced tip-apex distance (CalTAD) was also calculated. ANOVA was used to compare means of the five treatment groups. Linear regression analysis was used to compare axial, lateral and torsional stiffness (dependant variables) to both TAD and CalTAD (independent variables). Results: ANOVA testing proved that the mean axial (p< 0.01) and torsional stiffness (p< 0.01) between the 5 groups was significantly different, but lateral stiffness was not statistically different (p=0.494). Post hoc analysis showed that the inferior lag screw position provided significantly higher mean axial stiffness (568.14±66.9N/ mm) than superior (428.0±45.6N/mm; p< 0.01), anterior (443.2±45.4N/mm; p=0.02) and posterior (456.7±69.3N/ mm; p=0.04) lag screw positions. There was no significant difference in mean axial stiffness between inferior (568.14±66.9N/mm) and central (525.4±81.7N/mm) lag screw positions (p=0.77). Post hoc analysis revealed significantly less mean torsional stiffness for the superior lag screw position compared to other lag screw positions (p< 0.01 all 4 pairings). There were no significant correlations between TAD and axial (r=−0.33, p=0.08), lateral (r=−0.22, p=0.24) or torsional (r=0.08, p=0.69) stiffness. There were significant correlations between CalTAD and axial (r=−0.66, p< 0.01), lateral (r=−0.38, p=0.04) and torsional (r=−0.38, p=0.04) stiffness. Discussion: Our results suggest that placement of the lag screw inferiorly in the femoral head when using a cephalomedullary nail to treat an unstable peritrochanteric fracture results in the stiffest construct in axial and torsional biomechanical testing. A simple radiographic measurement, CalTAD, provides an intraoperative method of determining optimal cephalomedullary nail lag screw position to achieve greatest construct stiffness


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 573 - 573
1 Nov 2011
Kuzyk PR Zdero R Shah S Olsen M Waddell JP Schemitsch EH
Full Access

Purpose: Minimizing tip-apex distance (TAD) has been shown to reduce clinical failure of extramedullary sliding hip screws used to fix peritrochanteric fractures. There is debate regarding the optimal position of the lag screw in the femoral head when a cephalomedullary nail is used to treat a peritrochanteric fracture. Some authors suggest the TAD should be minimized as with an extramedullary sliding hip screw, while others suggest the lag screw should be placed inferior within the femoral head. The primary goal of this study was to determine which of 5 possible lag screw positions in the femoral head provides greatest mechanical stiffness and/or load-to-failure for an unstable peritrochanteric fracture treated with a cepha-clomedullary nail. The secondary goal was to determine if there is a linear correlation between implant-femur mechanical stiffness and/or load to failure (dependent variables) with a series of five radiographic measurements (independent variables) of distance from the lag screw tip to the femoral head apex. Method: Long Gamma 3 Nails (Stryker, Mahwah, NJ) were inserted into 30 left synthetic femurs (Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, WA). An unstable four-part fracture was created, anatomically reduced, and repaired using one of 5 lag screw placements in the femoral head:. superior (n=6),. inferior (n=6),. anterior (n=6),. posterior (n=6),. central (n=6). All specimens were radiographed in the anterioposterior and lateral planes, and radiographic measurements including TAD and a calcar referenced tip-apex distance (CalTAD) were calculated. All specimens were tested for axial, lateral, and torsional stiffness, and then loaded-to-failure in the axial position using an Instron 8874 (Canton, MA). ANOVA was used to compare means of the five treatment groups. Linear regression analysis was used to compare stiffness and load-to-failure (dependant variables) with radiographic measurements (independent variables). A post hoc power analysis was performed. Results: The inferior lag screw position had significantly greater mean axial stiffness than superior (p< 0.01), anterior (p=0.02) and posterior (p=0.04) positions. Analysis revealed significantly less mean torsional stiffness for the superior lag screw position compared to other lag screw positions (p< 0.01 all 4 pairings). No statistical differences were noted for lateral stiffness. Superior and central lag screw positions had significantly greater mean load-to-failure than anterior (p< 0.01 and p=0.02) and posterior (p< 0.01 and p=0.05) positions. There were significant negative linear correlations between stiffness tests with CalTAD, and load-to-failure with TAD. Power was greater than 95% for axial stiffness, torsional stiffness and load-to-failure tests. Conclusion: Position of the lag screw in the femoral head affects the biomechanical properties of the implant-femur construct. Central placement of the lag screw with minimization of TAD may provide the best combination of stiffness and load-to-failure


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_18 | Pages 3 - 3
1 Apr 2013
Bradford OJ Niematallah I Berstock JR Trezies A
Full Access

Intra-operative Tip-Apex Distance (TAD) estimation optimises dynamic hip screw (DHS) placement during hip fracture fixation, reducing risk of cut-out. Thread-width of a standard DHS screw measures approximately 12.5 millimetres. We assessed the effect of introducing screw thread-width as an intra-operative distance reference to surgeons. The null hypothesis was that there were no differences between hip fracture fixation before and after this intervention. Primary outcome measure was TAD. Secondary outcome measures included position of the screw in the femoral head, quality of reduction, cut-out and surgeon accuracy of estimating TAD. 150 intra-operative DHS radiographs were assessed before and after introducing screw thread-width distance reference to surgeons. Mean TAD reduced from 19.37mm in the control group to 16.49mm in the prospective group (p=<0.001). The number of DHS with a TAD > 25mm reduced from 14% to 6%. Screw position on lateral radiographs was significantly improved (p=0.004). There were no significant differences in screw position on antero-posterior radiographs, quality of reduction, or rate of cut-out. Significant improvement in accuracy (p=0.05) and precision (p=0.005) of TAD estimation was demonstrated. Awareness and use of screw-thread width improves estimation and positioning of a DHS screw in the femoral head during fixation of hip fractures


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 106-B, Issue 9 | Pages 1008 - 1014
1 Sep 2024
Prijs J Rawat J ten Duis K Assink N Harbers JS Doornberg JN Jadav B Jaarsma RL IJpma FFA

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


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 86-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 479 - 479
1 Apr 2004
Hayes D Watts M Tevelen G Crawford R
Full Access

Introduction Concentric interference screw placement has been proposed as having potentially better biological graft integration than eccentric interference screw placement during soft tissue ACL reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a wedge shaped concentric screw was at least equivalent to an eccentric screw in stiffness, yield load, ultimate load and mode of failure. Methods Seven matched pairs of human cadaveric tendon in porcine tibia with titanium wedge shaped screws were randomly allocated to either the eccentric or concentric groups. Bone tunnels were drilled 45° to the long axis of the tibia, akin to standard ACL reconstruction. Tendon diameter was matched to tunnel diameter and a screw one millimetre larger than tunnel diameter was inserted. An Instrom machine was used to pull in the line of the tendon. Tendons were inspected after construct disassembly. Results The concentric screw configuration showed significantly higher stiffness (p< 0.0085), yield load (p< 0.0135) and ultimate load (p< 0.0075). The mode of failure in the eccentric screw position was slippage at the screw tendon interface in all cases. In the concentric group 88% of cases had a breakage in the tendon and 13% of cases had slippage at the tendon bone interface. However, it was observed during construct disassembly that there was more macroscopic damage to the tendon substance in the concentric group. Failure was mostly by tendon breakage, which reflects the strongest fixation possible with the tendon being the weakest link in the system. Conclusions Concentric interference screw fixation of soft tissue graft offers superior fixation in single pullout mode when compared to eccentric interference screw fixation


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 91-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 236 - 236
1 May 2009
Foster MP Papp S Poitras P
Full Access

Biomechanical stability is important for fracture healing. With standard plate and screw constructs, longer plates with screws well spaced, near and far from the fracture site, are biomechanically superior. Newer locked plates have been shown to be superior to conventional plating for difficult fractures. The ideal screw configuration for fixation with locked plates has yet to be addressed. This study investigates the effects of screw position on construct stiffness as well as strain in both the plate and bone during fixation of a diaphyseal comminuted fracture using a locking plate with bicortical fixation. A composite cylinder (Sawbones) was machined to produce two models:. (a) comminuted model (4mm gap) and. (b) whole model (no gap) to simulate the remodelling phase. Five strain gauges were mounted to the bone models and one between the center holes of the locking plate. Four different configurations of screw number and position were evaluated using a twelve-hole locking plate (Smith & Nephew Perilock). Plate holes were numbered on each side of the gap from one to six. Screw configuration 654321, 621, 654 and 321 were tested in four-point bending on an MTS 858 Mini-Bionix. Force (N) and displacement (mm) as well as strain readings were recorded at 10 Hz. Plate strain in the gap model did not vary significantly for the different configurations. Construct stiffness of the 654 model (all screws far from gap) showed a 30% decrease in stiffness as compared to other screw configurations (p< 0.001). In the whole bone model, the maximal bone strain was outside the farthest screw from the center of the plate (stress shielding) and bone strain at the fracture site in 654 was significantly higher than in 621 (p< 0.001). Results showed that three screw fixation produced similar construct stiffness to a six screw construct when well spaced. Three screws placed far from the fracture gap (654) as compared to three screws evenly spaced (621) showed decreased stability in the comminuted model but resulted in increased bone strain at the fracture site in the whole bone model. All configurations produced similar plate strain


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 547 - 547
1 Oct 2010
Erhardt J Kuster M Stoffel K Yates P
Full Access

Introduction: Since the introduction of locked implants new possibilities in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures have evolved. Despite the success using locked plates recent publications report the cutting of screws through the humeral head in up to 30% of the cases. The distribution of the bone strength in the humeral head is not linear. Can polyaxial screw positioning in areas with higher bone strength reduce the “cutout” rate? Which effect has an inferomedial screw if the medial hinge is not restored?. Methods: 4 groups were formed from 31 fresh frozen proximal humeral cadavers. A polyaxial proximal humeral locking plate was used to perform the tests. A standardised unstable intraarticular fracture was created. Main Outcome measure was the load and cycle where at least one screw was cutting through the cartilage. Results: Polyaxial screw placement in areas of incresead bone strength compared to random screw placement had no effect on the cutout behaviour (p=0.7). Increased screw number (3 vs. 5) significantly increases the resistance against cutout (p< 0.04). An inferomedial screw significantly increases the resistance to develop a cutout compared to the control groups(p=0.03 and p< 0.05). Discussion: The placement of an inferomedial screw significantly increases the resistence to develop a cutout in proximal humeral fractures without a medial hinge independently of the total screw number. In addition we could also show that the number of screws in the humeral head has a significant effect on cutout resistance in a human cadaver setup


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 112 - 112
1 Mar 2017
Jang Y Yoo O Lee Y Lee M Elazab A Choi D
Full Access

Background

Open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) is an operation involving proper load re-distribution in the treatment for medial uni-compartmental arthritis of the knee joint. Therefore, stable fixation is mandatory for safe healing of this additive type of osteotomy to minimize the risk of non-union and loss of correction. For stability, screws provide optimal support and anchorage of the fixator in the condylar area without risking penetration of either the articulating surface. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the screw insertion angle and orientation with an anatomical plate that is post-contoured to the surface geometry of the proximal tibia after OWHTO.

Methods

From March 2012 to June 2014, 31 uni-planar and 38 bi-planar osteotomies were evaluated. Postoperative computed tomography data obtained after open wedge high tibial osteotomy using a locking plate were used for reconstruction of the 3 dimensional model with Mimics v.16.0 of the proximal tibia and locking plate. Measurement data were compared between 2 groups (gap lesser than or equal to 10 mm (Group 1) and gap greater than 10 mm(Group 2)). These data were also compared between the uniplanar (Group 3) and bi-planar (Group 4) osteotomy groups.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_3 | Pages 34 - 34
1 Jan 2016
Bell C Meere P Borukhov I Rathod P Walker P
Full Access

Soft tissue balancing in total knee replacement may well be the determining factor in raising the fair patient satisfaction. The development of intelligent implants allows quantification of reactive loads to applied pressures. This can be tested in dynamic mode such as heel push test at surgery, or in static mode such as when testing for varus/valgus (VV) laxity of the collateral ligaments of the knee. We postulate that a well-balanced knee will have comparable if not equal load distribution across compartments in dynamic loading. When tested for laxity, we anticipate an equal or comparable response to VV applied loads under physiologic load range of 10–50N. This study sought to analyze the relationship between the kinematic (joint motion) and kinetic (force) effects to VV testing in the 0–15 degrees range of flexion. One goal was to demonstrate that testing the knee in locked extension (Screw Home effect) is unreliable and should be abandoned in favor of the more reliable VV testing at 10–15 degrees of flexion.

This is a preliminary cadaveric study utilizing data from two hemibodies. The pelvis was fixed in a custom test rig with open or closed chain lower leg testing capability along a sliding rail with foot VV translational. Forces were applied at the malleoli with a wireless hand held dynamometer. Kinematic analysis of the hip-knee-ankle (HKA) tibiofemoral angle was derived from a commercial navigation system with mounted infrared trackers. Kinetic analysis was derived from a commercially available sensor imbedded in a tibial trial liner. Balance was optimized by conventional methods with the use of the sensor feedback until loads were roughly symmetrical and VV testing yielded symmetrical rise in opposite compartments. The VV testing was then performed with the knees locked at the femoral side in axial rotation and translational motion in any plane. Sagittal flexion was pre-set at 0, 10, and 15 degrees and progressive load was applied.

Results

From the graphs one can observe significant differences between VV testing at 0 degrees (locked Screw Home), 10 degrees, and 15 degrees of flexion. The shaded area corresponds to the common range of VV stress testing loading pressure, typically less than 35N. The HKA deviates from neutrality no sooner than by the middle of the physiologic test zone. By 35N, the magnitude of the effect is also much less than that observed at 10 and 15 degrees (unlocked from Screw Home). From the kinetic analysis one can also note the significant difference in the High-Low spread throughout the testing range of applied pressure.

If the surgeon tests in the low range of applied loads, he/she may not observe the kinematic joint opening effect. The kinetic effect seems more reliable as sensed loads are detectable earlier on. It is clear however that testing at 10–15 degrees offers a much better sensitivity to the VV laxity or stiffness as exemplified in the bottom portions of the figure. Therefore testing in locked Screw Home full extension may lead to underestimation of the true coronal laxity of the joint.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 12 - 12
2 May 2024
Selim A Al-Hadithy N Diab N Ahmed A Kader KA Hegazy M Abdelazeem H Barakat A
Full Access

Lag screw cut-out is a serious complication of dynamic hip screw fixation in trochanteric hip fractures. Lag screw position is recognised as a crucial factor influencing the occurrence of lag screw cut-out. We propose a modification of the Tip Apex Distance (TAD) and hypothesize that it could enhance the reliability of predicting lag screw cut-out in these injuries. A retrospective study of hip fracture cases was conducted from January 2018 to July 2022. A total of 109 patients were eligible for the final analysis. The modified TAD was measured in millimetres, based on the sum of the traditional TAD in the lateral view and the net value of two distances in the anteroposterior (AP) view. The first distance is from the lag screw tip to the opposite point on the femoral head along the lag screw axis, while the second distance is from that point to the femoral head apex. The first distance is a positive value, whereas the second distance is positive if the lag screw is superior and negative if it is inferior. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the reliability of various parameters for evaluating the lag screw position within the femoral head. Factors such as reduction quality, fracture pattern according to the AO/OTA classification, TAD, Calcar-Referenced TAD, Axis Blade Angle, Parker’s ratio in the AP view, Cleveland Zone 1, and modified TAD were statistically associated with lag screw cut-out. Among the tested parameters, the novel parameter exhibited 90.1% sensitivity and 90.9% specificity for predicting lag screw cut-out at a cut-off value of 25 mm, with a p-value < 0.001. The modified TAD demonstrated the highest reliability in predicting lag screw cut-out. A value of 25 mm may potentially reduce the risk of lag screw cut-out in trochanteric hip fractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 35 - 35
1 Dec 2022
Torkan L Bartlett K Nguyen K Bryant T Bicknell R Ploeg H
Full Access

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is commonly used to treat patients with rotator cuff tear arthropathy. Loosening of the glenoid component remains one of the principal modes of failure and is the main complication leading to revision. For optimal RSA implant osseointegration to occur, the micromotion between the baseplate and the bone must not exceed a threshold of 150 µm. Excess micromotion contributes to glenoid loosening. This study assessed the effects of various factors on glenoid baseplate micromotion for primary fixation of RSA. A half-fractional factorial experiment design (2k-1) was used to assess four factors: central element type (central peg or screw), central element cortical engagement according to length (13.5 or 23.5 mm), anterior-posterior (A-P) peripheral screw type (nonlocking or locking), and bone surrogate density (10 or 25 pounds per cubic foot [pcf]). This created eight unique conditions, each repeated five times for 40 total runs. Glenoid baseplates were implanted into high- or low-density Sawbones™ rigid polyurethane (PU) foam blocks and cyclically loaded at 60 degrees for 1000 cycles (500 N compressive force range) using a custom designed loading apparatus. Micromotion at the four peripheral screw positions was recorded using linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs). Maximum micromotion was quantified as the displacement range at the implant-PU interface, averaged over the last 10 cycles of loading. Baseplates with short central elements that lacked cortical bone engagement generated 373% greater maximum micromotion at all peripheral screw positions compared to those with long central elements (p < 0.001). Central peg fixation generated 360% greater maximum micromotion than central screw fixation (p < 0.001). No significant effects were observed when varying A-P peripheral screw type or bone surrogate density. There were significant interactions between central element length and type (p < 0.001). An interaction existed between central element type and level of cortical engagement. A central screw and a long central element that engaged cortical bone reduced RSA baseplate micromotion. These findings serve to inform surgical decision-making regarding baseplate fixation elements to minimize the risk of glenoid loosening and thus, the need for revision surgery


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 1, Issue 9 | Pages 594 - 604
24 Sep 2020
James HK Pattison GTR Griffin J Fisher JD Griffin DR

Aims. To develop a core outcome set of measurements from postoperative radiographs that can be used to assess technical skill in performing dynamic hip screw (DHS) and hemiarthroplasty, and to validate these against Van der Vleuten’s criteria for effective assessment. Methods. A Delphi exercise was undertaken at a regional major trauma centre to identify candidate measurement items. The feasibility of taking these measurements was tested by two of the authors (HKJ, GTRP). Validity and reliability were examined using the radiographs of operations performed by orthopaedic resident participants (n = 28) of a multicentre randomized controlled educational trial (ISRCTN20431944). Trainees were divided into novice and intermediate groups, defined as having performed < ten or ≥ ten cases each for DHS and hemiarthroplasty at baseline. The procedure-based assessment (PBA) global rating score was assumed as the gold standard assessment for the purposes of concurrent validity. Intra- and inter-rater reliability testing were performed on a random subset of 25 cases. Results. In total, 327 DHS and 248 hemiarthroplasty procedures were performed by 28 postgraduate year (PGY) 3 to 5 orthopaedic trainees during the 2014 to 2015 surgical training year at nine NHS hospitals in the West Midlands, UK. Overall, 109 PBAs were completed for DHS and 80 for hemiarthroplasty. Expert consensus identified four ‘final product analysis’ (FPA) radiological parameters of technical success for DHS: tip-apex distance (TAD); lag screw position in the femoral head; flushness of the plate against the lateral femoral cortex; and eight-cortex hold of the plate screws. Three parameters were identified for hemiarthroplasty: leg length discrepancy; femoral stem alignment; and femoral offset. Face validity, content validity, and feasibility were excellent. For all measurements, performance was better in the intermediate compared with the novice group, and this was statistically significant for TAD (p < 0.001) and femoral stem alignment (p = 0.023). Concurrent validity was poor when measured against global PBA score. This may be explained by the fact that they are measuring difference facets of competence. Intra-and inter-rater reliability were excellent for TAD, moderate for lag screw position (DHS), and moderate for leg length discrepancy (hemiarthroplasty). Use of a large multicentre dataset suggests good generalizability of the results to other settings. Assessment using FPA was time- and cost-effective compared with PBA. Conclusion. Final product analysis using post-implantation radiographs to measure technical skill in hip fracture surgery is feasible, valid, reliable, and cost-effective. It can complement traditional workplace-based assessment for measuring performance in the real-world operating room . It may have particular utility in competency-based training frameworks and for assessing skill transfer from the simulated to live operating theatre. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-9:594–604


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 110 - 110
11 Apr 2023
Lee K Lin J Lynch J Smith P
Full Access

Variations in pelvic anatomy are a major risk factor for misplaced percutaneous sacroiliac screws used to treat unstable posterior pelvic ring injuries. A better understanding of pelvic morphology improves preoperative planning and therefore minimises the risk of malpositioned screws, neurological or vascular injuries, failed fixation or malreduction. Hence a classification system which identifies the clinically important anatomical variations of the sacrum would improve communication among pelvic surgeons and inform treatment strategy. 300 Pelvic CT scans from skeletally mature trauma patients that did not have pre-existing posterior pelvic pathology were identified. Axial and coronal transosseous corridor widths at both S1 and S2 were recorded. Additionally, the S1 lateral mass angle were also calculated. Pelvises were classified based upon the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) height using the midpoint of the anterior cortex of L5 as a reference point. Four distinct types could be identified:. Type-A – SIJ height is above the midpoint of the anterior cortex of the L5 vertebra. Type-B – SIJ height is between the midpoint and the lowest point of the anterior cortex of the L5 vertebra. Type-C – SIJ height is below the lowest point of the anterior cortex of the L5 vertebra. Type-D – a subgroup for those with a lumbosacral transitional vertebra, in particular a sacralised L5. Differences in transosseous corridor widths and lateral mass angles between classification types were assessed using two-way ANOVAs. Type-B was the most common pelvic type followed by Type-A, Type-C, and Type-D. Significant differences in the axial and coronal corridors was observed for all pelvic types at each level. Lateral mass angles increased from Types-A to C, but were smaller in Type-D. This classification system offers a guide to surgeons navigating variable pelvic anatomy and understanding how it is associated with the differences in transosseous sacral corridors. It can assist surgeons’ preoperative planning of screw position, choice of fixation or the need for technological assistance


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_2 | Pages 107 - 107
2 Jan 2024
Pastor T Zderic I Berk T Souleiman F Vögelin E Beeres F Gueorguiev B Pastor T
Full Access

Recently, a new generation of superior clavicle plates was developed featuring the variable-angle locking technology for enhanced screw positioning and optimized plate-to-bone fit design. On the other hand, mini-fragment plates used in dual plating mode have demonstrated promising clinical results. However, these two bone-implant constructs have not been investigated biomechanically in a human cadaveric model. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to compare the biomechanical competence of single superior plating using the new generation plate versus dual plating with low-profile mini-fragment plates. Sixteen paired human cadaveric clavicles were assigned pairwise to two groups for instrumentation with either a 2.7 mm Variable Angle Locking Compression Plate placed superiorly (Group 1), or with one 2.5 mm anterior plate combined with one 2.0 mm superior matrix mandible plate (Group 2). An unstable clavicle shaft fracture AO/OTA15.2C was simulated by means of a 5 mm osteotomy gap. All specimens were cyclically tested to failure under craniocaudal cantilever bending, superimposed with bidirectional torsion around the shaft axis and monitored via motion tracking. Initial stiffness was significantly higher in Group 2 (9.28±4.40 N/mm) compared to Group 1 (3.68±1.08 N/mm), p=0.003. The amplitudes of interfragmentary motions in terms of craniocaudal and shear displacement, fracture gap opening and torsion were significantly bigger over the course of 12500 cycles in Group 1 compared to Group 2; p≤0.038. Cycles to 2 mm shear displacement were significantly lower in Group 1 (22792±4346) compared to Group 2 (27437±1877), p=0.047. From a biomechanical perspective, low-profile 2.5/2.0 dual plates demonstrated significantly higher initial stiffness, less interfragmentary movements, and higher resistance to failure compared to 2.7 single superior variable-angle locking plates and can therefore be considered as a useful alternative for diaphyseal clavicle fracture fixation especially in unstable fracture configurations


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 119 - 119
1 Nov 2021
Facchini A Troiano E Saviori M Meglio MD Ghezzi R Mondanelli N Giannotti S
Full Access

Introduction and Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether CT-based pre-operative planning, integrated with intra-operative navigation could improve glenoid baseplate fixation and positioning by increasing screw length, reducing number of screws required to obtain fixation and increasing the use of augmented baseplate to gain the desired positioning. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) successfully restores shoulder function in different conditions. Glenoid baseplate fixation and positioning seem to be the most important factors influencing RSA survival. When scapular anatomy is distorted (primitive or secondary), optimal baseplate positioning and secure screw purchase can be challenging. Materials and Methods. Twenty patients who underwent navigated RSA (oct 2018 and feb 2019) were compared retrospectively with twenty patients operated on with a conventional technique. All the procedures were performed by the same surgeon, using the same implant in cases of eccentric osteoarthritis or complete cuff tear. Exclusion criteria were: other diagnosis as proximal humeral fractures, post-traumatic OA previously treated operatively with hardware retention, revision shoulder arthroplasty. Results. The NAV procedure required mean 11 (range 7–16) minutes more to performed than the conventional procedure. Mean screw length was significantly longer in the navigation group (35.5+4.4 mm vs 29.9+3.6 mm; p . .001). Significant higher rate of optimal fixation using 2 screws only (17 vs 3 cases, p . .019) and higher rate of augmented baseplate usage (13 vs 4 cases, p . .009) was also present in the navigation group. Signficant difference there is all in function outcomes, DASH score is 15.7 vs 29.4 and constant scale 78.1 vs 69.8. Conclusions. The glenoid component positioning in RSA is crucial to prevent failure, loosening and biomechanical mismatch, coverage by the baseplate of the glenoid surface, version, inclination and offset are all essential for implant survival. This study showed how useful 3D CT-based planning helps in identifying the best position of the metaglena and the usefulness of receiving directly in the operation theater real-time feedback on the change in position. This study shows promising results, suggesting that improved baseplate and screw positioning and fixation is possible when computer-assisted implantation is used in RSA comparing to a conventional procedure


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_11 | Pages 354 - 354
1 Jul 2014
Eraly K Stoffelen D Van Geel N Demol J Debeer P
Full Access

Summary Statement. In this study, excellent positioning of custom-made glenoid components was achieved using patient-specific guides. Achieving the preoperatively planned orientation of the component improved significantly and more screws were located inside the scapular bone compared to implantations without such guide. Introduction. Today's techniques for total or reverse shoulder arthroplasty are limited when dealing with severe glenoid defects. The available procedures, for instance the use of bone allografts in combination with available standard implants, are technically difficult and tend to give uncertain outcomes (Hill et al. 2001; Elhassan et al. 2008; Sears et al. 2012). A durable fixation between bone and implant with optimal fit and implant positioning needs to be achieved. Custom-made defect-filling glenoid components are a new treatment option for severe glenoid defects. Despite that the patient-specific implants are uniquely designed to fit the patient's bone, it can be difficult to achieve the preoperatively planned position of the component, resulting in less optimal screw fixation. We hypothesised that the use of a patient-specific guide would improve implant and screw positioning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the added value of a newly developed patient-specific guide for implant and screw positioning, by comparing glenoid implantations with and without such guide. Patients & Methods. Large glenoid defects, representative for the defects encountered in clinical practice, were created in ten cadaveric shoulders. A CT scan of each cadaver was taken to evaluate the defects and to generate three-dimensional models of the scapular bones. Based on these models, custom glenoid components were designed. Furthermore, a newly developed custom guide was designed for five randomly selected shoulders. New CT scans were taken after implantation to generate 3D models of the bone and the implanted component and screws. This enabled to compare the experimentally achieved and preoperatively planned reconstruction. The location and orientation of the glenoid component and screw positioning were determined and differences with the optimal preoperative planning were calculated. Results. An excellent component positioning (difference in location: 1.4±0, 7mm; difference in orientation: 2, 5±1, 2°) was achieved when using the guide compared to implantations without guidance (respectively 1, 7±0, 5mm; 5, 1±2, 3°). The guide improved component orientation significantly (P<0.1). After using the guide, all screws were positioned inside the scapular bone whereas 25% of the screws placed without guidance were positioned outside the scapular bone. Discussion/Conclusion. In this study, excellent positioning of custom-made glenoid components was achieved using patient-specific guides. Achieving the preoperatively planned orientation of the component improved significantly and more screws were located inside the scapular bone compared to implantations without such guide


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 542 - 542
1 Aug 2008
Barlas KJ Ajmi QS Bagga TK Roberts JA Eltayeb M Howell FR
Full Access

Introduction:- We reviewed 69 patients with subcapital fracture neck of femur treated with two hole plate DHS and parallel de-rotation screw into the cranial part of the femoral head between January 2000 to January 2005. Methods:- Patients were selected for fixation by having Garden 1 to 4 fractures, being younger, more active and mobile. Reduction was classified as “good” when residual angulation in the lateral projection was less than 15 degrees, no varus angulation and good alignment in the calcar area. Screw position was considered “good” when there was less than 10 degrees deviation in the direction of screws, screw threads not bridging the fracture site, screw tips less than 5mm from subchondral bone and no signs of intra-articular penetration. The fracture was considered healed when bridging of trabecular bone was present. Patients were reviewed until they were pain free at rest or on walking and had radiological healing of fracture. Results:- 13 had Garden 3 & 4, 46 had Garden 1 & 2 and 10 had impacted fractures. Sixty eight patients had operation within 24 hours in the next available trauma list. Average age at operation was 70 years (range 21– 89) and hospitals stay 13 days (range 2–52). Good reduction was achieved in 61 patients, 54 of these had good screw position, 8 patients (11%) had combination of poor reduction and poor screw position; five of them had loss of fixation within 6 to 12 weeks postoperatively, one each had segmental collapse and avascular necrosis between 12 to 24 months of operation. Conclusion:- Their was no re-displacement, non-union, avascular necrosis or segmental collapse when fractures were well reduced and had good screw position. Two hole plate DHS and a parallel de-rotation screw has high rate of fracture union. We recommend its use for treatment of subcapital femoral neck fractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 91-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 486 - 486
1 Sep 2009
Kumar N Guo-Xin N Wong H
Full Access

Study Design: A radiographic study using disarticulated cadaver thoracic vertebrae. Objective: To determine the accuracy of orthogonal X-rays in detecting thoracic pedicle screw position by different groups of observers. Summary of Background Data: Pedicle screws are increasingly being used for internal fixation of the thoracic spine. Surgeons and radiologists are often required to make decisions on the pedicle screw position by plain antero-posterior (AP) and lateral radiographs. Materials and Methods: 23 disarticulated fresh adult thoracic vertebrae were used in this study. Pedicle screws were inserted completely within the pedicle; or deliberately violating the lateral or medial cortex of the pedicle. AP and lateral radiographs of each vertebrae were assessed by 2 spine surgeons, 2 spine trainees, and 2 musculoskeletal radiologists in a sequence of AP alone, and AP + lateral views. They were supposed to cataogorize the pedicular screw as ‘out laterally’/‘inside the pedicle’/‘out medially’ or ‘unsure’. Their assessments were compared to the actual position of the screws determined by the axial views. Results: For each screw position, trend was found towards slightly better accuracy with availability of AP & lateral views in combination. From either AP alone or AP + lateral views, significantly higher accuracy was found in detecting screws “out laterally” than “inside pedicle” (p< 0.01), or “out medially”(p< 0.05), respectively. Nearly 30% of screws that were deliberately placed through the medial pedicle wall were not correctly identified. In addition, surgeons have highest accuracy from either AP alone, or AP + lateral views, followed by the spine trainees and radiologists. Radiologists provided more “unsure” answers than surgeons or trainees. Conclusions: Screws that perforated the lateral cortex were the easiest, and those that were wholly within the pedicle were the most difficult to identify correctly. The use of plain radiographs to detect thoracic pedicle screws placed through the critical medial cortex is unreliable. The positions of thoracic pedicle screws appear to be more accurately detected by AP + lateral, however, the major contribution was from AP views. Surgeon experience continues to be vitally important in the safe placement of thoracic pedicle screws. Key points:. Screws that perforated the lateral cortex were the easiest, and those that were wholly within the pedicle were the most difficult to identify correctly. The use of plain radiographs to detect thoracic pedicle screws placed through the critical medial cortex is unreliable. AP + lateral views provides higher accuracy in determining the screw position, while, the major contribution comes from AP views. Surgeon experience, in the use of tactile skills and anatomical knowledge continue to be vitally important in the safe placement of thoracic pedicle screws


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 102-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 15 - 15
1 Aug 2020
Ehrlich J Bryant T Rainbow M Bicknell R
Full Access

The purpose of this study is to quantify the distribution of bone density in the scapulae of patients undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) to guide optimal screw placement. To achieve this aim, we compared bone density in regions around the glenoid that are targeted for screw placement, as well as bone density variations medial to lateral within the glenoid. Specimen included twelve scapula in 12 patients with a mean age of 74 years (standard deviation = 9.2 years). Each scapula underwent a computed tomography (CT) scan with a Lightspeed+ XCR 16-Slice CT scanner (General Electric, Milwaukee, USA). Three-dimensional (three-D) surface mesh models and masks of the scapulae containing three-D voxel locations along with the relative Hounsfield Units (HU) were created. Regions of interest (ROI) were selected based on their potential glenoid baseplate screw positioning in RSA surgery. These included the base of coracoid inferior and lateral to the suprascapular notch, an anterior and posterior portion of the scapular spine, and an anterosuperior and inferior portion of the lateral border. Five additional regions resembling a clock face, on the glenoid articular surface were then selected to analyze medial to lateral variations in bone density including twelve, three, six, and nine-o'clock positions as well as a central region. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) tests were used to examine statistical differences in bone density between each region of interest (p < 0 .05). For the regional evaluation, the coracoid lateral to the suprascapular notch was significantly less dense than the inferior portion of the lateral border (mean difference = 85.6 HU, p=0.03), anterosuperior portion of the lateral border (mean difference = 82.7 HU, p=0.04), posterior spine (mean difference = 97.6 HU, p=0.007), and anterior spine (mean difference = 99.3 HU, p=0.006). For the medial to lateral evaluation, preliminary findings indicate a “U” pattern with the densest regions of bone in the glenoid most medially and most laterally with a region of less dense bone in-between. The results from this study utilizing clinical patient CT scans, showed similar results to those found in our previous cadaveric study where the coracoid region was significantly less dense than regions around the lateral scapular border and scapular spine. We also have found for medial to lateral bone density, a “U” distribution with the densest regions of bone most medially and most laterally in the glenoid, with a region of less dense bone between most medial and most lateral. Clinical applications for our results include a carefully planned trajectory when placing screws in the scapula, potentially avoiding the base of coracoid. Additionally, surgeons may choose variable screw lengths depending on the region of bone and its variation of density medial to lateral, and that screws that pass beyond the most lateral (subchondral) bone, will only achieve further purchase if they enter the denser bone more medially. We suspect that if surgeons strategically aim screw placement for the regions of higher bone density, they may be able to decrease micromotion in baseplate fixation and increase the longevity of RSA


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_IX | Pages 71 - 71
1 Mar 2012
Hughes AW Dwyer AJ Govindaswamy R Lankester BJA
Full Access

The outcome following arthroscopic anterior cruciate (ACL) reconstruction is dependant on a combination of surgical and non-surgical factors. Technical error is the commonest cause for graft failure, with poor tunnel placement accounting for over 80% of those errors. A routine audit of femoral and tibial tunnel positions following single bundle hamstring arthroscopic ACL reconstruction identified apparent inconsistent positioning of the tibial tunnel in the sagittal plane. Intra-operative fluoroscopy was therefore introduced (when available) to verify tibial guide wire position prior to tunnel reaming. This paper reports a comparison of tibial interference screw position measured on post-operative radiographs with known tunnel position as shown on intra-operative fluoroscopic images in 20 patients undergoing routine primary ACL reconstruction between January and June 2009. Surgery took a mean of 5 minutes longer when intra-operative fluoroscopy was used. In 3/20 patients, fluoroscopy led to re-positioning of the tibial guide wire prior to tunnel reaming. The mean tibial tunnel position as indicated by the tunnel reamer was 41 +/− 2.7 % of the total plateau depth (range 37% to 47%). The mean position projected from the tibial screw on post operative radiographs was 46 +/− 9.2% (range 38% to 76%). A paired t-test showed a significant difference (p = 0.022) between true tunnel position and tibial screw position. 6/20 patients had post operative screw positions that were > 5% more posterior than the known position of the tibial tunnel. The position of the tunnel should be measured at its mid-point where this is evident. On most early radiographic images, the margins of the tunnel are not clear and therefore a line projected from the centre of the screw is used. This audit demonstrates the potential inaccuracy associated with this


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 11 - 11
1 Mar 2017
Mohar J Knez D Cirman R Trebse R Mihalic R Vrtovec T
Full Access

Summary. Optimum position of pedicle screws can be determined preoperatively by CT based planning. We conducted a comparative study in order to analyse manually determined pedicle screw plans and those that were obtained automatically by a computer software and found an agreement in plans between both methods, yet an increase in fastening strengths was observed for automatically obtained plans. Hypothesys. Automatic planning of pedicle screw positions and sizing is not inferior to manual planning. Design. Prospective comparative study. Introduction. Preoperative planning in spinal deformity surgery starts by a proper selection of implant anchors throughout the instrumented spine, where pedicle screws provide the optimum choice for bone fixation. In the case of severe spinal deformities, dysplastic pedicles can limit screw usage, and therefore studying the anatomy of vertebrae from preoperative images can aid in achieving the safest screw position through optimal fastening strength. The purpose of this study is to compare manually and automatically obtained preoperative pedicle screw plans. Materials and Methods. CT scans of 17 deformed thoracic spines were studied by two experienced spine deformity surgeons, who placed 316 pedicle screws in 3D using a software positioning tool by aiming for the safest trajectory that permitted the largest possible screw sizes. The resulting manually obtained screw sizes, trajectory angles, entry points and normalised fastening strengths were compared to those obtained automatically by a dedicated computer software that, basing on vertebral anatomy and bone density in 3D, determined optimal screw sizes and trajectories. Results. Statistically significant differences were observed between manually and automatically obtained plans for screw sizes (p < 0.05) and trajectory angles (p < 0.001). However, for automatically obtained plans, screws were not smaller in diameter (p < 0.05) or shorter in length (p < 0.001), while screw normalised fastening strengths were higher (p < 0.001). Conclusions. In comparison to manual planning, automatically obtained plans did not result in smaller screw diameters or shorter screw lengths, which is in agreement with the definition of the pull-out strength, but in different screw trajectory angles, which is reflected by higher normalised fastening strengths. Captions. Fig. 1. Visual comparison among automatically obtained (green colour) and manually defined pedicle screw placement plans by two experienced spine surgeons (red and blue colour) for three different patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, shown from top to bottom in a three-dimensional view, left sagittal, right sagittal and coronal view. Fig. 2. Histograms of differences between observers and (left column), between observer and automated method (middle column), and between observer and automated method (right column), shown from top to bottom for differences in pedicle screw pedicle screw diameter, sagittal inclination, and normalised fastening strength. For figures/tables, please contact authors directly.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 404 - 405
1 Sep 2005
Kulkarni A Hee-Kit W Chan Y
Full Access

Introduction Thoracic pedicle screws are increasingly being used for internal fixation. Surgeons and radiologists are often required to make decisions about the position of the screws in relation to the pedicle based on AP and lateral plain radiographs alone. We ventured to assess the value of orthogonal radiographs in determining the position of thoracic pedicle screws in 23 cadaveric thoracic vertebrae. Methods Disarticulated cadaveric thoracic vertebrae were used in this study. Pedicle screws were inserted in three positions: 1) within the pedicle, deliberately violating the 2) lateral cortex of the pedicle and 3) medial cortex of the pedicle. AP (antero-posterior) & lateral radiographs were obtained and presented to 6 readers (4 surgeons & 2 radiologists) in booklets consisting of AP views alone, lateral views alone and both AP & lateral views together in a sequential manner. The readers were asked to indicate the position of the screws and the results of the evaluation were compared to the actual position (axial views). Results On AP views alone, the accuracy in detecting screws placed out of the pedicle laterally and medially were 93% and 76% respectively, while the accuracy for screws placed inside the pedicle was 85% . On LATERAL views alone, the accuracy for the same screw positions were 69%, 58% and 64% respectively. When AP + LATERAL views were considered together, the accuracy for the same screw positions were 93%, 80% and 87% respectively. Comparing the three groups, it was observed that screw positions were read more accurately in AP + LATERAL views (87%) compared to AP views alone (85%), or LATERAL views alone (64%). The sensitivity of correctly identifying screws placement is highest in AP + LATERAL (90%) views with a specificity of 94%. The specificity of detecting screws placed inside the pedicle is highest in AP (94%). The positive predictive value (PPV) of radiographs in general (AP +LATERAL) in detecting screws placed inside the pedicle, out of the pedicle laterally and medially were 73%, 92% and 86% respectively. The negative predictive value (NPV) of radiographs in general for the same screw locations were 90%, 96% and 76% respectively. On AP and AP + LATERAL views respectively, 25% and 23% of screws placed inside the pedicle were read as medially ‘out’. 10% of screws placed medially ‘out’ were read as ‘in’ on both AP and AP + LATERAL views. Inter-observer difference was substantial. In general, surgeons appeared to have consistently higher accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV values compared to radiologists and fellows in determining screw position. Discussion The positions of the screws appear to be most accurately detected when both AP and lateral x-rays are provided compared to AP or lateral alone. Screws that perforated the lateral cortex were the easiest and those that were medially out were the most difficult to identify. Screws passed inside the pedicle may create an unnecessary apprehension that they may be medial and screws passed medially may give a false sense of security that the screw is inside the pedicle. Radiographs are just one component in ensuring accurate pedicle screw placement and surgeon’s experience, in the use of tactile skills and anatomical knowledge continue to be vitally important in the safe placement of thoracic pedicle screws


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 102-B, Issue SUPP_1 | Pages 40 - 40
1 Feb 2020
Tarallo L Porcellini G Giorgini A Pellegrini A Catani F
Full Access

Introduction. Total shoulder replacement is a successful treatment for gleno-humeral osteoarthritis. However, components loosening and painful prostheses, related to components wrong positioning, are still a problem for those patients who underwent this kind of surgery. CT-based intraoperative navigation system is a suitable option to improve accuracy and precision of the implants as previously described in literature for others district. Method. Eleven reverse shoulder prostheses were performed at Modena Polyclinic from October 2018 to April 2019 using GPS CT-based intraoperative navigation system (Exactech, Gainsville, Florida). In the preoperative planning, Walch classification was used to assess glenoid type. The choice of inclination of the glenoid component, the screw length, as well as the inclination of the reamer was study and recorded using specific software using the CT scan of shoulder of each patient (Fig.1, Fig.2). Intraoperative and perioperative complications were recorded. Three patients were male, eight were female. Mean age was 72 years old (range 58=84). Three glenoid were type B2, six cases were B1, two case were type C1. Results. In all cases treated by reverse shoulder prostheses we had obtain good functional results at preliminary follow up. Eight degree posterior augment was used in seven case. Planned version was 0° in eight case, an anti-version of 3° was planned in the other three cases. Final reaming was as preoperatively planned in all cases except one. Mean surgical time was 71 minutes (range 51–82). One case of coracoid rupture has been reported. In all cases the system worked in proper manner without failures, no case of infection was reported. Discussion. It is well known as the more accurate placement of the glenoid led to enhanced long-term survivorship of the implant and decrease complication rates in RSTA. Our first experience with GPS navigation system has been satisfied. Good components’ positioning has been reached in all cases, without deviation from the preoperative planning. Pre-operative preparation using software has been always respected except in one case in which we decided to ream 1mm less to avoid excessive bone loss. In 3 case we decide to increase glenoid anti-version to allow a good cage containment in the scapula. No failure of the system has been recorded, with a little increase in the surgical time respect to traditional surgeries performed in our institute. The first case performed reported coracoid fracture, probably due to lack of experience in coracoid tracker positioning. It is very important to set the surgical theatre and the position of the patient in order to make the coracoid tracker visible for the computer. Screw positioning and length is decisively improved with GPS system compared with traditional implant. The most important advantage is to avoid the malposition of the glenoid component, solving problems like loosening or restriction in shoulder range of motion. We believe that a final cross check between preoperative planning and final control of the prostheses implanted, should be used in the future, but by now the GPS navigation system is a useful way to improve our surgery, especially in difficult cases. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 64 - 64
1 Mar 2008
Sahajpal V Fisher C Dvorak M
Full Access

A prospective cohort outcome evaluation of unstable thoracic spine fractures treated with posterior pedicle screw fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of placement and safety of pedicle screws in open reduction of unstable thoracic spine fractures. The surgeries were performed by one of five fellowship trained spinal surgeons. CT scans were formed on twenty-three patients totaling two hundred screws using 3mm cuts. Three independent reviewers assessed and categorized the screw position as within the pedicle or as a violation of the pedicle wall. 98% of the screws were accurate and we recommend the use of pedicle screws in thoracic fractures . A prospective cohort outcome evaluation of unstable thoracic spine fractures treated with posterior pedicle screw fixation. This study is to determine the accuracy of placement, safety of pedicle screws in open reduction of unstable thoracic spine fracture. Surgery was performed by one of five fellowship trained spine surgeons. CT scans were performed on twenty-three patients using 3mm cuts in both sagittal and transverse planes. Pedicle screw position was assessed by three independent reviewers. Screw position was categorized as within the wall of the pedicle or in violation of the wall. Further sub-classification of pedicle wall violation reviewed the direction and distance of perforation. Independent perioperative and postoperative surveillance for complications was done. Twenty-three unstable thoracic spine fractures treated with two hundred posterior pedicle screws were analyzed. The pedicle screws spanned from T1-T12 with the majority of screws in the mid-thoracic region. Of the two hundred thoracic pedicle screws placed, 70% were fully contained within the pedicle wall. The remaining screws were deemed “out” with cortical perforation (30%). Of these, 20% were lateral perforations, 5% were medial perforations and 5% were anterolateral perforations. No superior, inferior, or anteromedial perforations were found. There was no regional area variation in incidence of perforations. 10% of all perforations were directly related to pedicle diameter to screw diameter mismatch. There were no adverse neurological, vascular, or visceral injuries detected intraoperatively or postoperatively. Surgical management of unstable thoracic spine fractures with posterior pedicle screw fixation is safe. 98% of screws had satisfactory accuracy. Although very minor misplacement of pedicle screws occurred, there were no complications and we recommend the use of pedicle screws in thoracic fractures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_29 | Pages 53 - 53
1 Aug 2013
Mulder M Boeyens M Honiball R
Full Access

Purpose of study:. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty is effective in the management of symptomatic arthritic shoulders with a non-reconstructable rotator cuff. Optimal orientation and initial fixation of the glenoid component is correlated with improved outcomes. This may be difficult to achieve with distorted glenoid morphology. The authors present a previously undescribed system for accurate, consistent and reliable screw placement for fixation of the glenoid component with the desired version during reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Description of methods:. The pre-operative CT scan images are used to construct a scapula model (Medical Image Processing software, CustomMed Orthopaedics)allowing the surgeon to determine the optimal position for screw placement based on available bone stock. A custom drill guide is made from polyamide, which is sterilized in an autoclave and fitted to the glenoid intra-operatively prior to reaming. The system minimizes the likelihood of malposition of glenoid components and is compatible with all arthroplasty systems. Summary of results:. The technique has been performed on 5 patients after informed consent. Post-operative CT images demonstrate intended component version and screw position in all cases. Patients are being recruited for a multicenter prospective trial. Conclusion:. The authors present a new technique for achieving optimal screw position in fixation of glenoid components. A prospective trial is underway which aims to prove through post-operative imaging that intended glenoid version and screw placement was achieved and show improved long term results


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_15 | Pages 13 - 13
1 Oct 2014
Ohlin A Abul-Kasim K
Full Access

During the last decade or more, the anchors used for instrumentation in scoliosis surgery are predominantly transpedicular screws, according to Suk. The long term radiographical feature of screw fixation after scoliosis surgery is not previously studied. A consecutive series of 81 cases with AIS operated on with an all screw construct has been studied by means of low dose CT postoperatively and at 2 years postoperatively. There were 67 females and 14 males, with a mean age of 18.3 ± 3 years. In 26 / 81 (32 %) there were signs of loosing of one or more screws, at a maximum 3 screws. We observed loosened screws in the upper thoracic region in 16 cases, in the thoracolumbar 6 and in lumbar area in 4. Mean pre-op Cobb angle was 56 in cases of loosening and 53 of intact screw fixation (n.s.), the correction rate was 69% in loosened vs 70% among intact screws (n.s.). In males there were signs of loosening in 8/14 (57%) and in females 18/67 (27%). Among cases with loosening, 14% had suboptimal screw positioning postoperatively, in intact cases it was observed in 11% (n.s.). In the whole group there were signs of suboptimal screw positioning 12%. Clinically, 1 case had a loosened L4 screw replaced; and at all 21/26 had no complaints and 5/26 reported minor pain or discomfort. 1/26 had a minor proximal junctional kyphosis about 10°, in 3/26 there was a pull-out of some few mms. With plain radiography loosening could be observed in 11/26 cases; 5 were in the lumbar region. In a consecutive series of 81 adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis who had underwent scoliosis surgery according to Suk, one third showed, 2 years after the intervention, some minor screw loosening, assessed by low dose CT. One patient had one lumbar screw replaced and only 5 patients reported minor discomfort. Males were more prone to develop screw loosening


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 54 - 54
1 May 2021
Debuka E Wilson G Philpott M Thorpe P Narayan B
Full Access

Introduction. IM (Intra Medullary) nail fixation is the standard treatment for diaphyseal femur fractures and also for certain types of proximal and distal femur fractures. Despite the advances in the tribology for the same, cases of failed IM nail fixation continue to be encountered routinely in clinical practice. Common causes are poor alignment or reduction, insufficient fixation and eventual implant fatigue and failure. This study was devised to study such patients presenting to our practice and develop a predictive model for eventual failure. Materials and Methods. 57 patients who presented with failure of IM nail fixation (± infection) between Jan 2011 – Jun 2020 were included in the study and hospital records and imaging reviewed. Those fixed with any other kinds of metalwork were excluded. Classification for failure of IM nails – Type 1: Failure with loss of contact of lag screw threads in the head due to backing out and then rotational instability, Type 2A: Failure of the nail at the nail and lag screw junction, Type 2B: Failure of the screws at the nail lag screw junction, Type 3: Loosening at the distal locking sites with or without infection. X-rays reviewed and causes/site of failure noted. Results. Total patients - 57. Demography - Average age - 58.9 years, 22 Males and 35 females. Eleven patients were noted to have an infection at the fracture site that needed oral or IV antibiotics.16 patients - at least 1 cerclage wire for fracture reduction and fixation + IM Nail. Subtrochanteric fractures (42/57) were the most common to fail. In those fractures with postero-medial comminution, locking of the lag screw in position thus preventing backout can prevent failure. In type 2 failures, preventing varus fixation by early open reduction and temporary fixation with plates and screws can achieve improved results. Those with type 3 failures with periosteal reaction should be considered to be infected until proven otherwise. Conclusions. This classification for failure of IM nails in the femur can be used as a predictive model for failures and allow early recognition and intervention to tackle them


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 105-B, Issue 5 | Pages 543 - 550
1 May 2023
Abel F Avrumova F Goldman SN Abjornson C Lebl DR

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of pedicle screw placement, as well as intraoperative factors, radiation exposure, and complication rates in adult patients with degenerative disorders of the thoracic and lumbar spines who have undergone robotic-navigated spinal surgery using a contemporary system.

Methods

The authors reviewed the prospectively collected data on 196 adult patients who had pedicle screws implanted with robot-navigated assistance (RNA) using the Mazor X Stealth system between June 2019 and March 2022. Pedicle screws were implanted by one experienced spinal surgeon after completion of a learning period. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was determined using intraoperative 3D fluoroscopy.


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 5, Issue 1 | Pages 46 - 52
19 Jan 2024
Assink N ten Duis K de Vries JPM Witjes MJH Kraeima J Doornberg JN IJpma FFA

Aims

Proper preoperative planning benefits fracture reduction, fixation, and stability in tibial plateau fracture surgery. We developed and clinically implemented a novel workflow for 3D surgical planning including patient-specific drilling guides in tibial plateau fracture surgery.

Methods

A prospective feasibility study was performed in which consecutive tibial plateau fracture patients were treated with 3D surgical planning, including patient-specific drilling guides applied to standard off-the-shelf plates. A postoperative CT scan was obtained to assess whether the screw directions, screw lengths, and plate position were performed according the preoperative planning. Quality of the fracture reduction was assessed by measuring residual intra-articular incongruence (maximum gap and step-off) and compared to a historical matched control group.


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 4, Issue 5 | Pages 329 - 337
8 May 2023
Khan AQ Chowdhry M Sherwani MKA McPherson EJ

Aims

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is considered the preferred treatment for displaced proximal femoral neck fractures. However, in many countries this option is economically unviable. To improve outcomes in financially disadvantaged populations, we studied the technique of concomitant valgus hip osteotomy and operative fixation (VOOF). This prospective serial study compares two treatment groups: VOOF versus operative fixation alone with cannulated compression screws (CCSs).

Methods

In the first series, 98 hip fixation procedures were performed using CCS. After fluoroscopic reduction of the fracture, three CCSs were placed. In the second series, 105 VOOF procedures were performed using a closing wedge intertrochanteric osteotomy with a compression lag screw and lateral femoral plate. The alignment goal was to create a modified Pauwel’s fracture angle of 30°. After fluoroscopic reduction of fracture, lag screw was placed to achieve the calculated correction angle, followed by inter-trochanteric osteotomy and placement of barrel plate. Patients were followed for a minimum of two years.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XI | Pages 7 - 7
1 Apr 2012
Mullen M Pillai A Fogg Q Kumar CS
Full Access

The extended lateral approach offers a safe surgical approach in the fixation of calcaneal fractures. Lateral plating of the calcaneum could put structures on the medial side at risk. The aim was to identify structures at risk on the medial side of the calcaneum from wires, drills or screws passed from lateral to medial. Ten embalmed cadaveric feet were dissected. A standard extended lateral approach was performed. The DePuy perimeter plate was first applied and 2mm K-wires were drilled through each of the holes. The medial side was now examined to determine the structures at risk through each hole. The process was repeated with the Stryker plate. The calcaneum was divided into 6 zones, by two vertical lines, from the margins of the posterior facet and a transverse line along the axis of the bone through the highest point of the peroneal tubercle. The DePuy and the Stryker plates have 12 screw positions, 5 of which are common. With both systems, screw positions in zone 1 risk injury to the medial plantar nerve and zone 3 the lateral plantar nerve. A screw through zone 2 compromises the medial plantar in both. Screws through zone 4 risk the lateral plantar nerve with the DePuy plate. Screws through zone 5 of the DePuy plate risk the medial calcaneal nerve. Zone 5 of the Stryker plate and Zone 6 of both are safe. There is significant risk to medial structures from laterally placed wires, drills or screws. Subtalar screws have the highest risk and have to be carefully measured and placed. The Stryker plating system is relatively safer than the DePuy perimeter plate with three safe zones out of six


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_4 | Pages 19 - 19
1 Mar 2021
Mischler D Schader JF Windolf M Varga P
Full Access

To date, the fixation of proximal humeral fractures with angular stable locking plates is still insufficient with mechanical failure rates of 18% to 35%. The PHILOS plate (DePuy Synthes, Switzerland) is one of the most used implants. However, this plate has not been demonstrated to be optimal; the closely symmetric plate design and the largely heterogeneous bone mineral density (BMD) distribution of the humeral head suggest that the primary implant stability may be improved by optimizing the screw orientations. Finite element (FE) analysis allows testing of various implant configurations repeatedly to find the optimal design. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether computational optimization of the orientation of the PHILOS plate locking screws using a validated FE methodology can improve the predicted primary implant stability. The FE models of nineteen low-density (humeral head BMD range: 73.5 – 139.5 mg/cm3) left proximal humeri of 10 male and 9 female elderly donors (mean ± SD age: 83 ± 8.8 years) were created from high-resolution peripheral computer tomography images (XtremeCT, Scanco Medical, Switzerland), using a previously developed and validated computational osteosynthesis framework. To simulate an unstable mal-reduced 3-part fracture (AO/OTA 11-B3.2), the samples were virtually osteotomized and fixed with the PHILOS plate, using six proximal screws (rows A, B and E) according to the surgical guide. Three physiological loading modes with forces taken from musculoskeletal models (AnyBody, AnyBody Technology A/S, Denmark) were applied. The FE analyses were performed with Abaqus/Standard (Simulia, USA). The average principal compressive strain was evaluated in cylindrical bone regions around the screw tips; since this parameter was shown to be correlated with the experimental number of cycles to screw cut-out failure (R2 = 0.90). In a parametric analysis, the orientation of each of the six proximal screws was varied by steps of 5 in a 5×5 grid, while keeping the screw head positions constant. Unfeasible configurations were discarded. 5280 simulations were performed by repeating the procedure for each sample and loading case. The best screw configuration was defined as the one achieving the largest overall reduction in peri-screw bone strain in comparison with the PHILOS plate. With the final optimized configuration, the angle of each screw could be improved, exhibiting significantly smaller average bone strain around the screw tips (range of reduction: 0.4% – 38.3%, mean ± SD: 18.49% ± 9.56%). The used simulation approach may help to improve the fixation of complex proximal humerus fractures, especially for the target populations of patients at high risk of failure


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 5, Issue 6 | Pages 457 - 463
2 Jun 2024
Coviello M Abate A Maccagnano G Ippolito F Nappi V Abbaticchio AM Caiaffa E Caiaffa V

Aims

Proximal femur fractures treatment can involve anterograde nailing with a single or double cephalic screw. An undesirable failure for this fixation is screw cut-out. In a single-screw nail, a tip-apex distance (TAD) greater than 25 mm has been associated with an increased risk of cut-out. The aim of the study was to examine the role of TAD as a risk factor in a cephalic double-screw nail.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 112 patients treated for intertrochanteric femur fracture with a double proximal screw nail (Endovis BA2; EBA2) from January to September 2021. The analyzed variables were age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, fracture type, side, time of surgery, quality of reduction, pre-existing therapy with bisphosphonate for osteoporosis, screw placement in two different views, and TAD. The last follow-up was at 12 months. Logistic regression was used to study the potential factors of screw cut-out, and receiver operating characteristic curve to identify the threshold value.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_20 | Pages 15 - 15
1 Dec 2017
Alk A Martin T Kozak J
Full Access

In orthopaedic spine surgery pedicle screw systems are used for stabilisation of the spine after injuries or disorders. With an percutaneous operation method surgeons are faced with huge challenges compared to an open surgery, but it's less traumatic and the patient benefits with a faster rehabilitation and less traumatic injuries. The screw positions and the required rod dimensions for the stabilising connection between the screws are hard to define without an open view on the operating field. Because of these facts a new smart device based system for rod shape determination was invented. Therefore, an application was developed, which integrates a localiser module to get the position data of the pedicle screws, with help of rigid bodies placed on top of the pedicle screws down-tubes. An algorithm was developed to choose the best fitting rod to connect the pedicle screws with help of calculating the rod length and the rod radius. The system was tested in a test scenario where four pedicle screws were drilled into a wooden plate. The positions of the screws were adjusted to fit a curved and a straight rod. In the test scenario the application chose always the rod correctly


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 4, Issue 8 | Pages 602 - 611
21 Aug 2023
James HK Pattison GTR Griffin J Fisher JD Griffin DR

Aims

To evaluate if, for orthopaedic trainees, additional cadaveric simulation training or standard training alone yields superior radiological and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation or hemiarthroplasty for hip fracture.

Methods

This was a preliminary, pragmatic, multicentre, parallel group randomized controlled trial in nine secondary and tertiary NHS hospitals in England. Researchers were blinded to group allocation. Overall, 40 trainees in the West Midlands were eligible: 33 agreed to take part and were randomized, five withdrew after randomization, 13 were allocated cadaveric training, and 15 were allocated standard training. The intervention was an additional two-day cadaveric simulation course. The control group received standard on-the-job training. Primary outcome was implant position on the postoperative radiograph: tip-apex distance (mm) (DHS) and leg length discrepancy (mm) (hemiarthroplasty). Secondary clinical outcomes were procedure time, length of hospital stay, acute postoperative complication rate, and 12-month mortality. Procedure-specific secondary outcomes were intraoperative radiation dose (for DHS) and postoperative blood transfusion requirement (hemiarthroplasty).


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 262 - 262
1 Sep 2005
Lenehan B Murphy B McHugh P Curtin W
Full Access

Over the past four decades, internal fixation has continued to gain popularity as a method for treating fractures because of significant improvements in both implant design and materials. This biomechanical study compares the compressive forces generated by a conventional 4.5 AO/ASIF cortical screw lag screw with a differential pitch cortical compression screw in a simulated fracture model using whole bone composite femur. The differential pitch screw investigated in this study generates 82% of the compression generated by a conventional 4.5mm AO/ASIF cortical screw. Proving compression in diaphyseal fractures is achievable using a differential pitch screw. Sufficient compression is generated to allow osteosynthesis using a plate to be preformed independent of the lag screw positioning. It is thus advantageous over the traditional compromise that arises when exposure to the fracture site is limited, of either incorporating the lag screw into the plate of choosing a non-optimal plate or screw position. It is proposed as an adjunct to the internal fixation of long bone fractures and not a single fixation device


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 104-B, Issue 10 | Pages 1110 - 1117
12 Oct 2022
Wessling M Gebert C Hakenes T Dudda M Hardes J Frieler S Jeys LM Hanusrichter Y

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine the implant accuracy of custom-made partial pelvis replacements (PPRs) in revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA). Custom-made implants offer an option to achieve a reconstruction in cases with severe acetabular bone loss. By analyzing implant deviation in CT and radiograph imaging and correlating early clinical complications, we aimed to optimize the usage of custom-made implants.

Methods

A consecutive series of 45 (2014 to 2019) PPRs for Paprosky III defects at rTHA were analyzed comparing the preoperative planning CT scans used to manufacture the implants with postoperative CT scans and radiographs. The anteversion (AV), inclination (IC), deviation from the preoperatively planned implant position, and deviation of the centre of rotation (COR) were explored. Early postoperative complications were recorded, and factors for malpositioning were sought. The mean follow-up was 30 months (SD 19; 6 to 74), with four patients lost to follow-up.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 523 - 523
1 Aug 2008
Jamil W Allami M Al Maiyah M Varghese B Giannoudis PV
Full Access

Purpose of study: A single dynamic hip screw is the recommended method of fixation for slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE). Current practice favours placement of the screw in the centre of the femoral head on both anteroposterior and lateral planes. This study investigated screw placement in the femoral head for SUFE and the prevalence of AVN, chondrolysis, late slippage, and time to physeal closure. Method: Clinical notes and radiographs of 38 consecutive patients (61 hips), who underwent single screw fixation for SUFE, were evaluated retrospectively with a minimum follow up of 24 months (24–56). Two way ANOVA and post hoc tests were performed to analyse the correlation between the different variables and the outcome, at a 5% significance level. Results: There were 16 acute slips, 18 chronic slips and 10 acute on chronic slips. 17 slips were treated prophylactically. Mild slip was noted in 39 hips, moderate in 4 and severe in 1 hip. A central-central position was only achieved in 50% of cases. No significant difference between the time to physeal closure and the screw position was found. No late slippage, AVN or chondrolysis occurred in this series. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that positions of the screw, other than in the centre of the femoral head, provide adequate stability. There is no correlation between screw position and the time to physeal closure, the risk of avascular necrosis or chondrolysis. We recommend that positions other than the “optimal central-central position” be accepted if not initially achieved, especially for mild SUFE. The potential hazards from several attempts to achieve the optimum position outweigh the benefits


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 250 - 250
1 May 2006
Jesudason E Jeyem M
Full Access

Introduction Intertrochanteric fractures are common and represent a major source of morbidity and mortality. As with all orthopaedic implants a DHS can fail. One of the most important predictors of failure has been shown to be the Tip-Apex Distance (TAD). An audit was carried to assess the following:. What was our rate of cut out and implant failure?. Where we achieving an acceptable screw position and TAD?. Was there any difference between TAD and grade of surgeon?. Methods An audit of the case notes and x-rays of 54 consecutive patients with hip fractures, treated with DHS, within a twelve-month period were reviewed. Demographic data, grade of surgeon, fracture stability, DHS position, mortality and implant failure were assessed. Findings Our rate of failure was 2 out of 54 patients, 3.7%. Both of the patients that failed had a TAD of greater than 20mm, and none of the patients with a TAD below 20mm required further surgery. There was no statistical correlation between TAD and grade of operating surgeon. Recommendations It is paramount importance to ensure that the basic principles of DHS position are well taught to surgical trainees in order to reduce the risk of failure. Following DHS fixation, patients should be followed up for a minimum of 3 months until evidence of radiographic union is evident. DHS failure rates and screw positions should be constantly audited to ensure that failure rates are minimised


Bone & Joint 360
Vol. 12, Issue 1 | Pages 33 - 35
1 Feb 2023

The February 2023 Spine Roundup360 looks at: S2AI screws: At what cost?; Just how good is spinal deformity surgery?; Is 80 years of age too late in the day for spine surgery?; Factors affecting the accuracy of pedicle screw placement in robot-assisted surgery; Factors causing delay in discharge in patients eligible for ambulatory lumbar fusion surgery; Anterior cervical discectomy or fusion and selective laminoplasty for cervical spondylotic myelopathy; Surgery for cervical radiculopathy: what is the complication burden?; Hypercholesterolemia and neck pain; Return to work after surgery for cervical radiculopathy: a nationwide registry-based observational study.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 100-B, Issue SUPP_3 | Pages 80 - 80
1 Apr 2018
Sugand K van Duren B Wescott R Carrington R Hart A
Full Access

Background. Hip fractures cause significant morbidity and mortality, affecting 70,000 people in the UK each year. The dynamic hip screw (DHS) is used for the osteosynthesis of extracapsular neck of femur fractures, a procedure that requires complex psychomotor skills to achieve optimal lag screw positioning. The tip-apex distance (TAD) is a measure of the position of the lag screw from the apex of the femoral head, and is the most comprehensive predictor of cut-out (failure of the DHS construct). To develop these skills, trainees need exposure to the procedure, however with the European Working Time Directive, this is becoming harder to achieve. Simulation can be used as an adjunct to theatre learning, however it is limited. FluoroSim is a digital fluoroscopy simulator that can be used in conjunction with workshop bones to simulate the first step of the DHS procedure (guide-wire insertion) using image guidance. This study assessed the construct validity of FluoroSim. The null hypothesis stated that there would be no difference in the objective metrics recorded from FluoroSim between users with different exposure to the DHS procedure. Methods. This multicentre study recruited twenty-six orthopaedic doctors. They were categorised into three groups based on the number of DHS procedures they had completed as the primary surgeon (novice <10, intermediate 10≤x<40 and experienced ≥40). Twenty-six participants completed a single DHS guide-wire attempt into a workshop bone using FluoroSim. The TAD, procedural time, number of radiographs, number of guide-wire retires and cut-out rate (COR) were recorded for each attempt. Results. A significant construct effect was seen for TAD and COR between novice and other users (p < 0.05). The intermediate and experienced users were not significantly different for these metrics. For all other metrics, experienced users had the highest score, contrary to expectation. Conclusion. FluoroSim was able to separate novice users from other cohorts for the two clinically significant outcome metrics. We can therefore partially reject the null hypothesis as construct validity was present for TAD and COR. We have demonstrated that FluoroSim has the potential to be a useful adjunct when learning the psychomotor skills needed for the DHS procedure away from theatre


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 3, Issue 11 | Pages 859 - 866
4 Nov 2022
Diesel CV Guimarães MR Menegotto SM Pereira AH Pereira AA Bertolucci LH Freitas EC Galia CR

Aims

Our objective was describing an algorithm to identify and prevent vascular injury in patients with intrapelvic components.

Methods

Patients were defined as at risk to vascular injuries when components or cement migrated 5 mm or more beyond the ilioischial line in any of the pelvic incidences (anteroposterior and Judet view). In those patients, a serial investigation was initiated by a CT angiography, followed by a vascular surgeon evaluation. The investigation proceeded if necessary. The main goal was to assure a safe tissue plane between the hardware and the vessels.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_20 | Pages 46 - 46
1 Dec 2017
Esfandiari H Anglin C Street J Guy P Hodgson A
Full Access

Pedicle screw fixation is a technically demanding procedure with potential difficulties and reoperation rates are currently on the order of 11%. The most common intraoperative practice for position assessment of pedicle screws is biplanar fluoroscopic imaging that is limited to two- dimensions and is associated to low accuracies. We have previously introduced a full-dimensional position assessment framework based on registering intraoperative X-rays to preoperative volumetric images with sufficient accuracies. However, the framework requires a semi-manual process of pedicle screw segmentation and the intraoperative X-rays have to be taken from defined positions in space in order to avoid pedicle screws' head occlusion. This motivated us to develop advancements to the system to achieve higher levels of automation in the hope of higher clinical feasibility. In this study, we developed an automatic segmentation and X-ray adequacy assessment protocol. An artificial neural network was trained on a dataset that included a number of digitally reconstructed radiographs representing pedicle screw projections from different points of view. This model was able to segment the projection of any pedicle screw given an X-ray as its input with accuracy of 93% of the pixels. Once the pedicle screw was segmented, a number of descriptive geometric features were extracted from the isolated blob. These segmented images were manually labels as ‘adequate’ or ‘not adequate’ depending on the visibility of the screw axis. The extracted features along with their corresponding labels were used to train a decision tree model that could classify each X-ray based on its adequacy with accuracies on the order of 95%. In conclusion, we presented here a robust, fast and automated pedicle screw segmentation process, combined with an accurate and automatic algorithm for classifying views of pedicle screws as adequate or not. These tools represent a useful step towards full automation of our pedicle screw positioning assessment system


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 85-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 114 - 115
1 Feb 2003
Molloy S Nandi D David K Casey ATH
Full Access

Pedicle screws allow for biomechanically secure fixation of the spine. However if they are misplaced they may effect the strength of the fixation, damage nerve roots or compromise the spinal cord. For these reasons image guidance systems have been developed to help with the accuracy of screw placement. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement outside the lumbar spine is not well published. To determine the accuracy of pedicle screw placement using CT scanning post operatively. Cortex perforations were graded in 2mm steps. Prospective observational study. Plain x-rays are inaccurate for determining screw placement and therefore high definition CT scanning was used. The screw positioning on the post-operative CT scans was independently determined by a research registrar who was not present at the time of surgery. Screw position and clinical sequelae of any malposition. Thirty patients (13 F:17 M) with segmental instability. Twelve were for metastatic disease, seven for trauma, seven for spondylolisthesis, three for atlanto-axial instability and one for a vertebral haemangioma. All patients were operated on by the senior author. One hundred and seventy six pedicle screws were inserted in the thirty patients over the 20 month study period. Six screws violated the lateral cortex of the pedicle but none perforated the medial cortex. There were no adverse neurological sequelae. The findings from this study will serve as a good comparison with future studies on pedicle screw placement, which may claim to improve accuracy and safety by the use of image guidance systems, electrical impedance or malleable endoscopes


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 37 - 37
1 Mar 2008
Rampersaud Y Pik J Salonen D
Full Access

Using post-operative CT analysis the clinical accuracy of computer-assisted fluoroscopy for the placement of thoracic (n=69) and lumbosacral (n=271) pedicle screws was assessed. All screws were placed using the Fluoro-Nav™ system (Medtronic Sofamor Danek, Memphis, TN, USA). Screw position was completely intrapedicular in 86.5%. There were no clinically significant screw misplacements. Pedicle breaches with a potential for neurological injury (> 2 mm; medial) was 0.6%. The overall pedicle screw misplacement rate in this study is less than or comparable to reported misplacement rates using other techniques. The use of computer-assisted fluoroscopy may improve the safety of pedicle screw placement. The purpose of this prospective study is to evaluate the clinical accuracy of computer-assisted fluoroscopy for the placement of thoracic (T) and lumbosacral (LS) pedicle screws. The overall thoracic and lumbar pedicle screw misplacement rate in this study is less than or comparable to reported misplacement rates using other techniques. The use of computer-assisted fluoroscopy may improve the safety of pedicle screw placement. Postoperative computed tomographs (CT) of three hundred and forty pedicle screws were independently reviewed. All screws were placed using the Fluoro-Nav™ system (Medtronic Sofamor Danek, Memphis, TN, USA). The relative position of the screw to the pedicle was assessed and graded as follows – A- completely in; B – < 2mm breach; C – 2–4mm breach; D – > 4–6mm breach. If an osseous breach occurred, the direction of the breach was further classified. Overall screw position was graded A in 86.5% (294/340) of screws (91.1 % (24/271) -lumbosacral and 68.1.0% (47/69)-thoracic). Forty-six pedicle breaches occurred (24 medial; 22 lateral). Thirty-five percent (16/46) of breaches were unavoidable secondary to a pedicle screw that was larger than the size of pedicle (thoracic-13). Pedicle breaches were Grade B in 11.8%, Grade C in 1.5% and Grade D in 0.3% of screws. There were no clinically significant screw misplacements. Pedicle breaches with a potential for neurological (> 2 mm; medial) or vascular injury was 0.6% and 0% respectively. FluoroNav™ appears to be a safe and practical adjunct for the placement of thoracic and lumbosacral pedicle screws. Funding: Medtronic-Sofamor Danek – research support


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 104-B, Issue 7 | Pages 902 - 908
1 Jul 2022
Hsu P Lee C Lin S Kuo KN Wu K Wang T

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of guided growth and varus osteotomy in treating Kalamchi type II avascular necrosis (AVN) after open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed patients undergoing guided growth or varus osteotomy for Kalamchi type II AVN between September 2009 and January 2019. All children who had undergone open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for DDH with a minimum two-year follow-up were enrolled in the study. Demographic and radiological data, which included the head-shaft angle (HSA), neck-shaft angle (NSA), articulotrochanteric distance (ATD), Sharp angle (SA), and lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA) at baseline, two years, and at the extended follow-up, were compared. Revision rates were evaluated. Clinical outcomes using the Harris Hip Score were assessed two years postoperatively.


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 5, Issue 5 | Pages 385 - 393
13 May 2024
Jamshidi K Toloue Ghamari B Ammar W Mirzaei A

Aims

Ilium is the most common site of pelvic Ewing’s sarcoma (ES). Resection of the ilium and iliosacral joint causes pelvic disruption. However, the outcomes of resection and reconstruction are not well described. In this study, we report patients’ outcomes after resection of the ilium and iliosacral ES and reconstruction with a tibial strut allograft.

Methods

Medical files of 43 patients with ilium and iliosacral ES who underwent surgical resection and reconstruction with a tibial strut allograft between January 2010 and October 2021 were reviewed. The lesions were classified into four resection zones: I1, I2, I3, and I4, based on the extent of resection. Functional outcomes, oncological outcomes, and surgical complications for each resection zone were of interest. Functional outcomes were assessed using a Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS).


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 84-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages - 44
1 Mar 2002
Martinez T Blendea S Hubesson C Tonetti J Eid A Plaweski S Merloz P
Full Access

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to compare the precision and reliability of screw fixation using two different guiding systems. The first system was based on computed tomography (CT) imaging and the second on digitalized fluoroscopic imaging. Material and methods: Between 1998 and 2000, 88 patients underwent spinal fixation for diverse disease states (idiopathic scoliosis in 43, and fracture, spondylolisthesis or instability in 45). Pedicular screws (n = 223) were inserted in levels T4 to S1. The passive CT navigation system was used for 73 patients (177 pedicular screws) and the fluoroscopic navigation system for 15 (46 pedicular screws). An independent observer identified the position of the pedicular screws on the postoperative CT. Results: Among the 73 patients who underwent a CT-guided procedure (177 pedicular screws) the rate of incorrect screw position was 6.2% (11/117) with = 2 mm penetration of the cortical. Among the 15 patients who underwent a fluoroscopy-guided procedure (46 pedicular screws), the rate of incorrect screw position was 17% (8/46) again with = 2 mm penetration of the cortical. For scoliosis patients, the rate of erroneous screw insertion was 6% for CT navigation and 28% for fluoroscopic navigation. For fractures and degenerative instability, the rates were 6% and 11% respectively. Discussion: The passive nature of the two navigation systems used do not induce any peroperative constraint on the surgeon. With the CT system, landmarks have to be collected peroperatively on the posterior arch of the operated vertebra, a step that is not needed for the fluoroscopic system. The two techniques appear to be reliable for insertion of pedicular screws. We did not have any neurological disorders in this series. It can be recalled that the conventional method produces a 15 to 40% rate of erroneous insertion. The CT system provides better results for all types of diseases; the improvement is about 6%. Conclusion: With CT-navigation, a large portion of the per-operative radiographs are no longer necessary. Operative time is slightly longer than for the classical procedure due to the collection of the 3D information, particularly important for scoliosis. With the fluoroscopy system, no special preoperative imaging is required. Two or three peroperative radiographs are sufficient, limiting irradiation during insertion of the pedicular screws. The fluoroscopic system does not however provide 3D images


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 39 - 39
1 Apr 2017
Hozack W
Full Access

Traditional risk factors for post-operative neuropathy include learning curve of surgical approach, DDH, and significant leg lengthening (>1 inch). Despite these risk factors, the most common scenario of a neuropathy is in a routine THA, by an experienced surgeon, for osteoarthritis, with no leg lengthening. Post-operative hematoma can lead to nerve compression, albeit rarely. The usual clinical presentation is of an acute event, with a previously intact nerve, sometime within the first days of surgery. Once diagnosed, immediate surgical decompression should be performed. Sciatic neuropathy is the most common, regardless of surgical approach, but the posterior approach poses the highest risk. Routine gluteus maximus tendon release may help to reduce the risk. When seen in the PACU, our approach is to immediately perform CT imaging to evaluate nerve integrity or to check on acetabular screw position. If no underlying cause is identified, the patient will be managed conservatively with foot orthotics and monitored for recovery. Femoral nerve palsy (FNP) can result in significant initial disability. Fortunately most patients recover function (although it can take over 18 months). In the early post-operative period it is often diagnosed after a patient complains of the leg giving away while attempting to walk. A knee brace will assist the patient with mobilization while the nerve recovers. The highest incidence of FNP is described for the direct lateral approach. Superior gluteal nerve (SGN) palsy is related to the direct lateral approach and may be avoided if the gluteus medius split is made within the safe zone (<5 centimeters from the tip of the greater trochanter). While early post-operative limp is common after the direct lateral approach, the true reported incidence of SGN palsy is low. Few studies showed that the persistent positive Trendelenburg test and limp is not exclusively related to the SGN damage and therefore the clinical effect of the SGN damage remains controversial. Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve can be affected during the direct anterior hip approach. One study suggests the presence of peri-incisional numbness in over 80% of patients. This is akin to numbness seen lateral to the incision after TKA. The incidence of meralgia paresthetica is extremely low (<1%)


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 527 - 527
1 Nov 2011
Soubeyrand M Mahjoub S Vincent-Mansour C Gagey O Molina V Biau D Court C Michel J Ciritsis B
Full Access

Purpose of the study: Percutaneous screw fixation is widely used for the treatment of non-displaced fresh fractures of the carpal scaphoid. This screw fixation can be achieved either via a volar approach (retrograde insertion) or via a dorsal approach (antegrade insertion). The purpose of our study was to define the best approach as a function of the orientation of the fracture line (types B1 or B2 in the Herbert classification). Material and methods: We used 12 upper limbs. For each wrist we obtained three scanner images: in maximal flexion, in the neutral position, and in maximal extension. For each scanner image, the parasagittal slice corresponding to the ideal plane for screw position was identified by digital reconstruction. On each slice, the type B1 and B2 fractures were modellised, as was the displacement of the corresponding screws introduced via the volar incision (S1) or the dorsal incision (S2). Each virtual screw was positioned as perpendicular as possible to the fracture line. For each slice corresponding to a given wrist position, we measured the angles between the fracture line (B1, B2) and the screws (S1, S2), giving four angles V1 (S1-B1), V2 (S1-B1), D1 (S2-B1), D2 (S2-B2). Thus the angle closest to 90° was considered the most satisfactory. Results: For B2 fractures, the position of the virtual screw perpendicular to the fracture line was possible via both the volar and the dorsal incision. For B1 fractures, it was impossible to position the screw perpendicular to the fracture line, but the dorsal approach with the wrist in maximal flexion gave the best position. Conclusion: For B2 fractures, the dorsal and volar approach allow optimal screw insertion so the choice of the incision depends on the surgeon’s experience. For B1 fractures, we recommend the dorsal approach


Bone & Joint 360
Vol. 11, Issue 2 | Pages 27 - 30
1 Apr 2022


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 97-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 114 - 114
1 Nov 2015
Penenberg B
Full Access

Acetabular component orientation can directly influence dislocation rates, polyethylene wear, and revision rates. Precise placement has been found to occur in only 38–47% after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The recent introduction of digital radiography (DR) has enabled a paradigm shift in intra-operative imaging technology. Rather than deal with the cumbersome process of chemical image processing we can now acquire a high quality digital image in a matter of seconds. The functionality approaches that of fluoroscopy, or even a C-arm, however, a digital system can operate with lower radiation, higher resolution, and perhaps most importantly a larger field of view. These features make it very suitable for use during surgery. The purpose of this presentation is to illustrate the current intra-operative technique and share the overwhelmingly positive experience gathered over the past five years. Traditional THA employs use of post-operative radiography for “outcome assessment.” This unfortunately does not allow the surgeon to evaluate the relevant parameters and make necessary adjustments without returning to the operating room. Digital imaging, however, permits intra-operative guidance and “outcome control.” It provides an immediate and complete preview of what the post-operative film will show. There is now an opportunity to optimise component orientation, sizing, apposition, screw position, limb length, and offset, before leaving the operating room. This can be done with minimal intrusion on normal workflow, adding only a few minutes of operating time


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 10 - 10
1 Feb 2016
Tian W Liu Y Fan M Han X
Full Access

Background. The Robotic Spinal Surgery System (RSSS) is a robot system designed for pedicle screw insertion containing image based navigation system, trajectory planning system and force state recognition system. The special force state recognition system can guarantee the safety during the operation. The RSSS is helpful in pedicle screw insertion surgery and it will be applied in clinic in the near future. In this study, we evaluated the accuracy and safety of RSSS in an animal experiment. Methods. Computer tomography (CT) scan data for two anesthetised experimental sheep was acquired using the C-arm and transferred to RSSS for pre-surgery screw trajectory planning. With the assist of RSSS, we inserted 8 and 4 screws into two sheep respectively. Operation time and blood loss during the surgery were recorded, and CT scan was repeated after surgery. Real screw position and trajectory acquired by the post-surgery CT scan and ideal trajectory planned by RSSS were compared to evaluate the accuracy and safety of RSSS. The result is shown as mean±SD. Results. We planted totally 12 screws into two sheep. The operation time for each sheep is 140min and 110min, and the blood loss is 100ml and 80 ml respectively. Compared with planned trajectory, the average deviation of the entry points in lateral and axial view are 1.07±0.56mm and 1.25±0.42mm and the mean screw deviation angles in later and axial view are 1.78±0.98°and 2.52±1.03°respectively. The RSSS successfully recognised the force stages and guaranteed the safety during the drilling process. There is no penetration in all 12 pedicles, and all the screws fell into group A according to the Gertzbein-Robbins classification. Conclusion. This animal study demonstrated the accuracy and safety of the RSSS, which also supported the potential application in clinic


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 86-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 225 - 225
1 Mar 2004
Fischer J Waseem M Barnes K
Full Access

Aims: This study reports a retrospective review of notes and x-rays of 45 patients who underwent fixation of inter- and subtrochanteric fractures of the femur with the Intramedullary Hip Screw. Methods: 45 consecutive patients who underwent IMHS fixation between 1998 and 2001. Diagnoses: 24 intertrochanteric- and 15 subtrochanteric fractures, 2 prophylactic nailings for metastases, 4 reoperations for previously failed DHS/DCS. Data collected from patient notes included the intra-operative use of skeletal- vs. ski-boot traction, intra- and postoperative complications. X-ray review included classification of the fractures, grading of osteoporosis, measurement of neck-shaft angle, screw position in the femoral head, and distance from the screw to the nearest cortex. Results: The rate of intraoperative complications was 8,8%, post-operative complications occurred in 13,3% of the patients. The mortality rate within the first 3 months was 15,5%. Re-operations were necessary in 4,4% of the patients. The sliding screw was positioned in the middle sector of the femoral head in the coronal plane in 17 patients and in the sagittal plane in 14. Superior position occurred in 18 cases, inferior in 4, anterior in 4 and posterior in 16 patients. Conclusions: The main complication in our series was screw cut-out from the femoral head. This occurred in 4 patients, 2 of whom were previously failed DHS/DCS fixations. There was no single factor predicting implant failure. The results for primary fixations are comparable to most reported series in the literature and show that the outome is dictated by the original fracture pattern. There is a high failure rate if the implant is used for revision procedures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_15 | Pages 14 - 14
1 Oct 2014
Pilling R Ahmed E
Full Access

The purpose of this study is to investigate what effect cross links have on scoliosis constructs and whether cross links may be used instead of pedicle screws at the apex of the deformity. The rotational stiffness of six different construct designs was investigated on scoliotic sawbone models with zero, one or two cross links. In three of the constructs the screws at the apex were removed. Testing was performed to an average torque of 3Nm and ration was detected using electromagnetic motion tracking system. The stiffness in axial rotation of all constructs increased with the number of cross links, however the difference was not statistically significant. In constructs with apical screws the stiffness increased by 3.01% and 12.9% for one and two cross links respectively. In constructs without apical screws the increase was 1.64% and 14.3% for one and two cross links respectively. The total stiffness of the construct increased with the addition of apical screws by 20%, 21.7% and 18.8% for zero, one and two cross links respectively. This increase was statistically significant using a paired t-test (p= 0.01142). On the basis of these results we conclude that the use of cross links in scoliosis correction surgery is not necessary. Pedicle screws positioned at the apex of the scoliosis curve statistically increase the stiffness in axial rotation and are therefore necessary to promote an environment suitable for bony fusion


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 5 - 5
1 May 2016
Goto K So K Kuroda Y Okuzu Y Matsuda S
Full Access

Background. Composite screws of uncalcined and unsintered hydroxyapatite (HA) particles and poly-l-lactide (PLLA) were developed as completely absorbable bone fixation devices. So far the durability of HA-PLLA composite screws is unclear when used for the fixation of acetabular bone graft in total hip arthroplasty under full-weight conditions. We have used this type of screw for the fixation of acetabular bone graft in cemented or reverse-hybrid total hip arthroplasty since 2003. Hence, we conducted a follow-up study to assess the safety and efficacy of these screws when used for cemented socket fixation. Methods. During 2003–2009, HA-PLLA composite screws were used for fixation of acetabular bone graft in cemented or reverse-hybrid primary THA in 106 patients (114 cases). All the THAs were performed through direct lateral approaches, and postoperative gait exercise with full weight bearing usually started two days after surgery. One patient died of an unrelated disease and seven patients were lost to follow-up within 5 years. Finally, 98 patients (106 cases) were followed up for over 5 years and were reviewed retrospectively (follow-up rate, 93%). Radiographic loosening of the acetabular component was assessed according to the criteria of Hodgkinson et al., and the radiolucent line around the socket was evaluated in all zones, as described by DeLee and Charnley. Results. The patient population comprised 10 men and 88 women with a mean age of 60.3 years (range, 41–81 years) at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up period was 7.6 years (range, 5–11 years). The original diagnosis for primary THA was secondary osteoarthritis in 97 cases and high hip dislocation in nine cases. No patient in this series required revision surgery, and no radiographical loosening occurred during the follow-up period. Grafted bone union was confirmed in all cases, and no apparent osteolysis around the cemented socket or composite screws was detected. Configurations of the HA-PLLA composite screws appeared obscure on radiographs at 5 years after surgery, and only osteosclerotic traces remained in the screw positions at the final follow-up. This finding was consistent in this series. The screw heads sometimes appeared to be broken with absorption within 3 years of surgery, and the remnants were identified in situ at the final follow up. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses with socket revision surgery for any reason, socket loosening, and appearance of a radiolucent line >1 mm in any zone as the endpoints yielded survival rates of 100%, 100%, and 86.8% at 5 years, and 100%, 100%, and 85.8% at 10 years, respectively. Conclusion. This absorbable screw seems to have no negative effects on the mid-term clinical results of cemented socket fixation


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_18 | Pages 17 - 17
1 Dec 2014
Lakkol S Boddu K Buckle C Kavarthapu V Li P
Full Access

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the failure rate among different fixation devices for undisplaced fracture neck of femur. All 52 patients with Garden I and II hip fractures who underwent surgery in a teaching hospital in London from January 2007 to June 2012 were included. Electronic patient records were accessed to collect the patient data. There were 52% females and the mean age of patients was 70 years. Thirty patients had cannulated screws, 18 – dynamic hip screw (DHS) with de-rotation screw and 4 had DHS alone. Initial results showed that 36% patients had re-operation. 7(77%) had total hip replacement and 1(11%) had metal work removal. The reason for revision was failure of fixation in 8 (88%) and avascular necrosis in 1 (11%). There was significantly higher failure rate in the DHS with derotation screw group (50%) compared to the cannulated screw group (35%) and the DHS alone group (0%). Average time to planned revision was 11.1 months. Traditionally undisplaced intra capsular hip fractures are treated by in-situ fixation using different devices. Biomechanically DHS with de-rotation screw achieves better rotational and axial stability compared to other fixation devices. However, our study showed a higher failure rate in this group. Inability to achieve a perfectly parallel screw position seems to be a significant factor responsible for high failure. Higher failure rates with fixation may boost the role of replacement arthroplasty as one off surgical treatment in elderly patients


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 553 - 553
1 Oct 2010
Mcgrath A Iain S Katevu K Torrie A
Full Access

Hip fracture is a common serious injury in the elderly. Between 1982 and 1998 the number of hip fractures reported annually in Scotland in patients over 55 years rose from 4,000 to 5,700. The optimum method of treatment for the various fracture types remains in contention. We compare outcome measures between displaced, intracapsular fractures in patients over 70 years fixed with cannulated screws and sliding hip screw with side plate. Between 1998 and 2005 a total of 30,482 patients were reviewed by the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA). Of these 15,823(53.3% of the total) had sustained intracapsular fractures. 13,587 of these occurred in patients aged 70 or over. Of these 2,428 had undisplaced and 11,159 displaced fractures. Chi test statistical analysis compare outcome measures in this group of displaced intracapsular fractures with respect to aspects of early failure. 534(3.9%) of patients were treated conservatively. 509 (4.7%) fractures were fixed using cannulated screws and 499 (4.6%) using a sliding hip screw. Readmission within 120 days for any cause occurred in 62 patients(14.1%) treated with cannulated screw fixation and in 63 patients(15.7%) for those treated with a sliding hip screw(P=0.509). Of these 36 patients(8.2%) in the former and 23 patients(5.7%) in the latter group were readmitted for complications related to hip fracture(P=0.033). Mortality within this period included 69 patients(13.5%) in the CS and 98(19.6%) in the SHS group. In terms of re-operation within 120 days of the original admission, 53 patients(10.6%) receiving cannulated screws compared to 24 patients(4.8%) treated with a sliding hip screw requiring further surgery(P=0.0006). The fracture was seen to displace in 12(22.6%) patients originally treated with cannulated screws compared to 6 patients(25%) treated with sliding hip screw(P=0.156). More significantly the fixation device was seen to have migrated in 24(45.3%) of the cannulated screw as compared to 7(29.2%) patients in the sliding hip screw group(P=0.002). Periprosthetic fractures were recorded in 4(7.5%) of the former and 3(12.5%) in the latter group(P=0.708). Wound infection was higher in the SHS group(2 patients) as compared to the screw fixation group(1 patient)(P=0.565). Statistical analysis demonstrates a dramatic difference exists between these 2 fixation types in terms of re-operation within 120 days of the original admission for which published literature has previously only recorded biomechanical, in vitro comparisons. Data regarding specific implant factors such as number of screws, position, configuration, starting point, thread length and use of washers in cannulated screws, and position, tapping, supplementary screw and compression screw in sliding hip screws was not recorded and may be considered to bias our results


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_12 | Pages 106 - 106
1 Jul 2014
Penenberg B
Full Access

The recent introduction of digital radiography has enabled a paradigm shift in intra-operative imaging technology. Rather than deal with the cumbersome process of chemical image processing we can now acquire a high quality digital image in a matter of seconds. The functionality approaches that of fluoroscopy, or even a C-arm, however, a digital system can operate with lower radiation, higher resolution, and perhaps most importantly a larger field of view. These features and the greater ability for post-acquisition, digital image enhancement make it very suitable for use during surgery. The purpose of this presentation is to illustrate the intra-operative technique and share the overwhelmingly positive experience gathered over the past few years. The current paradigm in total hip arthroplasty (THA) employs use of post-operative radiography for “outcome assessment.” This unfortunately does not allow the surgeon to evaluate the relevant parameters and make necessary adjustments without returning to the operating room. The new paradigm, however, permits intra-operative guidance and “outcome control.” We now have an opportunity to add a “trial radiograph” to our practice of performing a trial reduction. This provides an immediate and complete preview of what the post-operative film will show. There is now an opportunity, during the course of any hip arthroplasty, to optimise component orientation, sizing, apposition, screw position, limb length, and offset, before leaving the operating room. This can be done with minimal intrusion on normal workflow, adding only a few minutes of operating time


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_5 | Pages 14 - 14
1 Feb 2016
Lang Z Tian W Liu Y Liu B Yuan Q
Full Access

Minimally invasive (MIS) screw fixation for Hangman's fracture can decrease iatrogenic soft-tissue injury compared with conventional open approach, but increase the risk of instrumentation-related complications due to lack of anatomical landmarks. With the advantages, the intra-operative three-dimensional fluoroscopy-based navigation (ITFN) system seems to be an inherent partner for MIS techniques. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of MIS techniques incorporating with ITFN for treating Hangman's fracture. 20 patients with Hangman's fracture underwent C2-C3 pedicle screw fixation using ITFN. 6 patients used MIS technique, with the other 14 patients using conventional open technique. Preoperative visual analogue score (VAS) was 5.7±1.4 in CAOS-MIS group and 5.5±0.9 in CAOS-open group. Operative time, blood loss and postoperative neurovascular complications were recorded. The accuracy of screw positions was studied by postoperative CT scan. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months and the fusion status was ascertained by dynamic radiographs. The average operative time was 134.2±8.0 min in CAOS-MIS group and 139.3±25.8 min in CAOS-open group, and there was no significant difference between the two (p&gt;0.01). The blood loss was 66.7±25.8 ml in CAOS-MIS group and 250.0±141.4 ml in CAOS-open group. Statistical difference existed with CAOS-MIS group significant less than CAOS-open group (p&lt;0.01). A total of 80 screws were inserted. No screw-related neurovascular injury was observed. Post-operative CT scan revealed 83.3% (20/24) screws of grade 1 and 16.7% screws of grade 2 (4/24) in CAOS-MIS group, meanwhile 89.3% screws of grade 1 (50/56) and 10.7% screws of grade 2 (6/56) in CAOS-open group. There was no grade 3 screw detected. Fisher's exact test showed there was no statistical difference between these two groups (p&gt;0.01). There was no statistical difference in pre-operative VAS between these two groups (p&gt;0.01). Compared with the CAOS-open group (1.7±0.6), neck pain VAS at 6-month follow-up in CAOS-MIS group (0.3±0.5) was significantly lower (p&lt;0.01). Solid fusion was demonstrated in all the cases by dynamic radiographs. So it is feasible and safe for percutaneous minimally invasive C2-C3 pedicle screw fixation for Hangman's fracture using intra-operative three-dimensional fluoroscopy-based navigation, which can also decrease the incidence of post-operative neck pain


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 357 - 358
1 May 2010
McGrath A Johnstone A
Full Access

Hip fracture is a common serious injury in the elderly. Between 1982 and 1998 the number of hip fractures reported annually in Scotland in patients over 55 years rose from 4,000 to 5,700. The optimum method of treatment for the various fracture types remains in contention. The purpose of this study was to compare outcome measures between displaced, intracapsular fractures in patients over 70 years fixed with cannulated screws and sliding hip screw with side plate. Between 1998 and 2005 a total of 30,482 patients were reviewed by the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit (SHFA). Of these 15,823(53.3% of the total) had sustained intracapsular fractures. 13,587 of these occurred in patients aged 70 or over. Of these 2,428 had undisplaced and 11,159 displaced fractures. We performed a Chi test statistical analysis comparing outcome measures in this group of displaced intracapsular fractures with respect to aspects of early failure. 534(3.9%) of patients were treated conservatively. 509 (4.7%) fractures were fixed using cannulated screws and 499 (4.6%) using a sliding hip screw. Readmission within 120 days for any cause occurred in 62 patients(14.1%) treated with cannulated screw fixation and in 63 patients(15.7%) for those treated with a sliding hip screw(P=0.509). Of these 36 patients(8.2%) in the former and 23 patients(5.7%) in the latter group were readmitted for complications related to hip fracture(P=0.033). Mortality within this period included 69 patients(13.5%) in the CS and 98(19.6%) in the SHS group. In terms of re-operation within 120 days of the original admission, 53 patients(10.6%) receiving cannulated screws compared to 24 patients(4.8%) treated with a sliding hip screw requiring further surgery(P=0.0006). The fracture was seen to displace in 12(22.6%) patients originally treated with cannulated screws compared to 6 patients(25%) treated with sliding hip screw(P=0.156). More significantly the fixation device was seen to have migrated in 24(45.3%) of the cannulated screw as compared to 7(29.2%) patients in the sliding hip screw group(P=0.002). Periprosthetic fractures were recorded in 4(7.5%) of the former and 3(12.5%) in the latter group(P=0.708). Wound infection was higher in the SHS group(2 patients) as compared to the screw fixation group(1 patient)(P=0.565). Statistical analysis demonstrates a dramatic difference exists between these 2 fixation types in terms of re-operation within 120 days of the original admission for which published literature has previously only recorded biomechanical, in vitro comparisons. Data regarding specific implant factors such as number of screws, position, configuration, starting point, thread length and use of washers in cannulated screws, and position, tapping, supplementary screw and compression screw in sliding hip screws was not recorded and may be considered to bias our results


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 2 | Pages 102 - 111
1 Feb 2022
Jung C Cha Y Yoon HS Park CH Yoo J Kim J Jeon Y

Aims

In this study, we aimed to explore surgical variations in the Femoral Neck System (FNS) used for stable fixation of Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures.

Methods

Finite element models were established with surgical variations in the distance between the implant tip and subchondral bone, the gap between the plate and lateral femoral cortex, and inferior implant positioning. The models were subjected to physiological load.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_16 | Pages 47 - 47
1 Oct 2014
Ruatti S Merloz P Moreau-Gaudry A Chipon E Dubois C Tonetti J Milaire M Kerschbaumer G
Full Access

In recent years internal fixation of the spine by using posterior approach with minimally invasive and percutaneous technique were increasingly used in trauma. The percutaneous surgery lose information and navigation is supposed to provide better data because the lost information is found again. We hypothesise that a percutaneous minimal invasive dorsal procedure by using 3D intra-operative imaging for vertebral fractures allows short operating times with correct screw positioning and does not increase radiation exposure. 59 patients were included in this prospective, monocentric and randomised study. 29 patients (108 implants) were operated on by using conventional surgical procedure (CP) and 30 patients (72 implants) were operated on by using a 3D fluoroscopy-based navigation system (3D fluo). In the two groups, a percutaneous approach was performed for transpedicular vertebroplasty or percutaneous pedicle screws insertion. In the two groups surgery was done from T4 level to L5 levels. Patients (54 years old on average) suffered trauma fractures, fragility fractures or degenerative instabilities. Evaluation of screw placement was done by using post-operative CT with two independent radiologists that used Youkilis criteria. Operative and radiation running time were also evaluated. With percutaneous surgery, the 3D fluo technique was less accurate with 13.88% of misplaced pedicle screws (10/72) compared with 11.11% (12/108) observed with CP. The radiation running time for each vertebra level (two screws) reached on average 0.56 mSv with 3D fluo group compared to 1.57 mSv with the CP group. The time required for instrumentation (one vertebra, two screws) with 3D fluo was 19.75 minutes compared with CP group 9.19 minutes. The results were statistically significant in terms of radiation dose and operative running time (p < 0.05), but not in terms of accuracy (p= 0.24). With percutaneous procedures, 3D fluoroscopy-based navigation (3D fluo) system has no superiority in terms of operative running time and to a lesser degree in terms of accuracy, as compared to 2D conventional procedure (CP), but the benefit in terms of radiation dose is important. Other advantages of the 3D fluo system are twofold: up-to-date image data of patient anatomy and immediate availability to assess the anatomical position of the implanted screws


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXVIII | Pages 45 - 45
1 Jun 2012
Russell D Behbahani M Alakandy L
Full Access

Pedicle screw fixation is an effective and reliable method for achieving stabilization in lumbar degenerative disease. The procedure carries a risk of violating the spinal and neural canal which can lead to nerve injury. This audit examines the accuracy of screw placement using intra-operative image guidance. Retrospective audit of patients undergoing lumbar pedicle screw fixation using image guidance systems over an 18-month period. Case records were reviewed to identify complications related to screw placement and post-operative CT scans reviewed to study the accuracy of screw position. Of the 98 pedicle screws placed in 25 patients, pedicle violation occurred in 4 screw placements (4.1%). Medial or inferior breach of the pedicle cortex was seen in 2 screws (2%). Nerve root injury as a consequence of this violation was seen in one patient resulting in irreversible partial nerve root dysfunction. Mean set up time for the guidance system was 42 minutes. The mean operative time was 192 minutes. Violation of either the medial or inferior pedicle cortex during placement of fixation screws is a rare, but potentially serious complication bearing lasting consequences. Image-guided placement can be helpful and possibly improve accuracy; particularly in patients with distorted spinal anatomy


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXXI | Pages 19 - 19
1 Jul 2012
Ohlin A
Full Access

Pedicle screws as the principal anchors of instrumentation in correction of scoliosis as described by Suk 15 years ago have now gained a wide acceptance among deformity surgeons. Pedicles in the concavity of the major as well as compensatory curves are often dysplastic making screw placement occasionally problematic. In cases of dural ectasia with dystrophic pedicles, the transpedicular screw anchorage is sometimes impossible. In 2009 Gardner et al. presented a case of NF-1 with a troublesome cervico-thoracic kyphosis where they created distal anchors by means of laminar screw fixation. In the presentation of this case, the idea is further developed. Case. A 14 year old girl without any obvious syndromic feature underwent surgery for a 70 degree thoracic scoliosis. A preoperatively MRI showed a dural ectasia. A preoperative low dose–CT revealed dystrophic pedicles from Th4 to L4, making transpedicular screw placement problematical. The operation was performed with the aid of an O-arm. At all levels from Th2 – L2 laminar screw fixation was used. Postoperatively, low-dose CT showed excellent screw positioning with the exceptiuon of one proximal screw which compromised a foramem but, without any symptoms. The postoperative course was quite uneventful and the patient was discharged at day 5days postoperatively. The correction rate was 70%. Conclusion. In cases of scoliosis with severe dystrophic pedicles, the use of laminar screws is a good alternative to problematic transpedicular screw placement


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_28 | Pages 57 - 57
1 Aug 2013
Wang J Hu L Zhao C Su Y Wang T Wang M
Full Access

Objectives. Percutaneous iliosacral screw placement is a standard, stabilization technique for pelvic fractures. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a novel biplanar robot navigation aiming system for percutaneous iliosacral screw placement in a human cadaver model. Methods. A novel biplanar robot navigation aiming system was used in 16 intact human cadaveric pelvises for percutaneous iliosacral screw insertion. The number of successful screw placements and mean time for this insertion and intra-operative fluoroscopy per screw-pair were recorded respectively to evaluate the procedure. The accuracy of the aiming process was evaluated by computed tomography. Results. Sixteen intact human cadaveric pelvises were treated with percutaneous bilateral iliosacral S1 screw placement (32 cannulated screws, diameter-7.3mm, Synthes, Switzerland). All screws were placed under fluoroscopy-guided control using the biplanar robot navigation aiming system (TINAV, GD2000, China). There was no failed targeting for screw-pair placements. Computed tomography revealed high accuracy of the insertion process. 32 iliosacral screws were inserted (mean operation time per screw-pair 56 ± 3 minutes, mean fluoroscopy time per screw-pair 11.7 ± 9 seconds). In post-operative CT-scans the screw position was assessed and graded as follows: I. secure positioning, completely inserted in the cancellous bone (86%); II. secure positioning, but contacting cortical bone structures (9%); III. malplaced positioning, penetrating the cortical bone (5%). Conclusion. This cadaver study indicated that an aiming device–based biplanar robot navigation system is highly reliable and accurate. The promising results suggest that it has the advantages of high positioning accuracy, decreased radiation exposure, operational stability and safety. It can be used not only for the percutaneous iliosacral screw placement but also for other orthopedic surgeries that require precise positioning


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_15 | Pages 369 - 369
1 Mar 2013
Zhao X Chosa E Totoribe K Yamako G
Full Access

Total hip arthroplasty for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) remains a difficult and challenging problem. How to reconstruct acetabular deficiencies has become increasingly important. One of the major causes inducing loosening of acetabular reinforcement ring with hook (Ganz ring) is insufficient initial stability. In this study, three-dimensional finite element models of the pelvis with different degrees of bone defect and acetabular components were developed to investigate the effects of the number of screws, screw insert position (Fig. 1), and bone graf quality on the initial stability under the peak load during normal walking. The size of pelvic bone defect, the number of screws and the position of screws were varied, according to clinical experience, to assess the change of initial stability of the Ganz ring. The Ganz ring was placed in the true acetabulum and the acetabular cup was cemented into the Ganz ring with 45 degrees abduction and 15 degrees of screws. The Insert position, nodes on the sacroiliac joint and the pubic symphysis were fixed in all degrees of freedom as the boundary condition. The peak load during normal walking condition was applied to the center of the femoral head (Fig. 2). According to the Crowe classification, as the degree of acetabular dysplasia was increased, the relative micromotion between the Ganz ring and pelvis was also increased. The peak micromotion increased as the stiffness of bone graft decreased. Increasing the numbers of screws, the relative micromotion tended to be reduced and varied the screw insertion position that affects the relative micromotion in the Ganz ring-pelvic interface (Fig. 3). This study showed that increasing the number of inserted screws can reduce the relative micromotion. Both the insert position and graft bone property affect the stability of the Ganz ring while the insert position has a greater impact. The current study is designed to lay the foundation for a biomechanical rationale that will support the choice of treatment


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXXVII | Pages 344 - 344
1 Sep 2012
Torres A Fairen M Mazon A Asensio A Meroño A Blanco A Ballester J
Full Access

Between July 2000 and December 2002, 263 consecutive patients across 5 surgical centers underwent to a revision surgery of a failed acetabular component in which TM acetabular components were used. There were 150 women and 113 men with a mean age of 69.5 years. The indication for acetabular revision was aseptic loosening in 186 cases (70.7%). Clinical evaluations were performed using the Harris hip score, the WOMAC and UCLA activity scale. Implant and screw position, polyethylene wear, radiolucent lines, gaps, and osteolysis were assessed. Preoperatively, acetabular bone deficiency was categorized using the classification of Paprosky et al. Statistical analysis was performed using nonparametric correlations. Standard life table was constructed, and the survival rate was calculated by means of Kaplan-Meier method. The overall mean follow-up was 73.6 months (range, 60–84 months), and no patient was lost to follow-up. The preoperative HHS rating improved from a mean of 43.6 ± 11.4 before revision, to a mean of 82.1 ± 10.7. None of the patients was re-revised for loosening. The cumulative prosthesis survival was 99.2% at 5 years. There was no correlation found between the various degrees of acetabular bony defect and the magnitude of clinical results (independent of pre-revision Paprosky grade). The use of component augments allowed us to minimize the volume of morsellized allograft used for defect repair. TM acetabular component demonstrates promising midterm results similar to those reported by other authors


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 85-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 193 - 193
1 Mar 2003
Mohammad S Shah R Saifuddin A Taylor B
Full Access

Aim: To test the null hypothesis that plain X-rays can provide the same assessment of sacral screw placement as CT. Introduction: Engaging the anterior cortex of the sacrum provides additional strength to fixation and is a goal of surgery. The sacrum with its unique anatomy makes it a difficult bone to assess screw placement radiologically. This study examines the positioning of sacral screws as seen on X-rays and compares the result with spiral CT “gold standard”. Materials and methods: Inclusion criteria: Sacral fixation using Diapason (Stryker) Titanium pedicle screws by one surgeon. Spiral CT, plain AP and lateral X-rays of the sacrum. Exclusion criteria: X-rays with more than three level fixation. There were 66 patients (132 S1 screws). Surgical technique engaged the anterior cortex to enhance fixation. Two independent observers (a musculoskeletal radiologist and spinal fellow) who were blinded to outcome, reported findings in forms with constrained fields. Assessment of plain X-ray and CT was at separate times not less than three weeks apart. Variables noted: Screw position in pedicle, screw tip position, and angle of screw (sagittal on axial CT scans). AP X-ray was divided, for each screw, into nine zones based on the first sacral foramina. The position of the screw tip in the zones was noted. The lateral X-ray was divided into three zones to note the tip of the screw in relation to the cortex. The extent of screw protrusion was measured. X-ray technique: Supine AP centred on fusion and lateral X-ray standing, X-ray source 200 cm from the film. CT: Images acquired on Picker PQ 6000 spiral CT with collimated thickness of 3 mm, pitch 1.25 and reconstructive index of 1.Para-sagittal and coronal reconstructions. Spiral CT was used to note the position of the screw within the pedicle and the relation of the screw tip to the anterior cortex. For screws within the pelvis any structure in close proximity was noted. Results: On CT 10% of the screws had breached the pedicle compared with 2% on the plain X-rays. Anterior cortical perforation had been achieved in 48 out of 132 screws on CT. The sensitivity of the plain X-rays to perforation was 40% with a specificity of 92%. There was an average under estimation of the extent of screw perforation by 4.4 mm (95% confidence ±1 mm). There was a correlation between the position of the screw tip on the AP X-ray and the sensitivity of the lateral X-ray to detect a perforation. The sensitivity ranged from 52% for zone 1 to 15% in zone 8. 15/31 perforations were missed in zone 1, compared with 11/13 in zone 8. For screws penetrating 5 mm or more, in zone 8, 9 out of 10 were missed on lateral X-rays. Eighty-five screws were placed at an angle of less than or equal to 25° to the sagittal; this included 28 out of 34 screws placed in zone 8. The inter-observer variance of screw angle measurement was 1.1° and intra-observer difference 1.7°. Overall 95% confidence of a single measurement was ±3.3°. Conclusion: Plain X-rays and CT do not provide the same assessment of sacral screw placement. This is particularly true for sagitally placed screws with screw tips in zones 7–8


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_X | Pages 67 - 67
1 Apr 2012
Kabir S Casey A
Full Access

To describe a modification of the existing technique for C2 translaminar screw fixation that can be used for salvage in difficult cases. Bilateral crossing C2 laminar screws have recently become popular as an alternative technique for C2 fixation. This technique is particularly useful in patients with anomalous anatomy, as a salvage technique where other modes of fixation have failed or as a primary procedure. However, reported disadvantages of this technique include breach of the dorsal lamina and spinal canal, early hardware failure and difficulty in bone graft placement due to the position of the polyaxial screw heads. To address some of these issues, a modified technique is described. In this technique, the upper part of the spinous process of C2 is removed and the entry point of the screw is in the base of this removed spinous process. From October 2008 to March 2009, 6 patients underwent insertion of unilateral translaminar screws using our technique. The indications were: basilar invagination(three cases), C1/C2 fracture (two cases), tumour (one case). Age varied from 22 to 81 years (mean 48 years). All patients had post-operative x-ray and CT scan to assess position of the screws. Mean follow-up was 6 months. The screw position was satisfactory in all patients. There were no intraoperative or early postoperative complications. Our modification enables placement of bone graft on the C2 lamina and is also less likely to cause inadvertent cortical breach. Because of these advantages, it is especially suitable for patients with advanced rheumatoid arthritis with destruction of the lateral masses of C2 or as part of a hybrid construct in patients with unilateral high riding vertebral artery. This technique is not suitable for bilateral translaminar screw placement


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XL | Pages 47 - 47
1 Sep 2012
Delport H Mulier M
Full Access

Introduction. As population grows older, and patients receive primary joint replacements at younger age, more and more patients receive a total hip prosthesis nowadays. Ten-year failure rates of revision hip replacements are estimated at 25.6%. The acetabular component is involved in over 58% of those failures. From the second revision on, the pelvic bone stock is significantly reduced and any standard device proves inadequate in the long term [Villanueva et al. 2008]. To deal with these challenges, a custom approach could prove valuable [Deboer et al. 2007]. Materials and methods. A new and innovative CT-based methodology allows creating a biomechanically justified and defect-filling personalized implant for acetabular revision surgery [Figure 1]. Bone defects are filled with patient-specific porous structures, while thin porous layers at the implant-bone interface facilitate long-term fixation. Pre-operative planning of screw positions and lengths according to patient-specific bone quality allow for optimal fixation and accurate transfer to surgery using jigs. Implant cup orientation is anatomically analyzed for required inclination and anteversion angles. The implant is patient-specifically analyzed for mechanical integrity and interaction with the bone based upon fully individualized muscle modeling and finite element simulation. Results. Ten clinical severe pelvic bone defects, classified Parosky IIIb, have benefited from this methodology so far. Implant outline, thickness, fixation and cup orientation was adapted to the anatomical situation. Stress shielding of the bone was eliminated by taking into account personalized muscle anatomy, bone quality and patient weight while evaluating the design performance. All implants were applied smoothly intra-operatively because of personalized case documentation provided and jig technology for accurate pre-drilling of screw holes. Postoperative imaging showed excellent results. Short term follow-up indicates good outcome for the patients treated, restoring mobility and functionality, and showing solid anchorage to the bone. Conclusion. Complex acetabular bone defects can be treated adequately and efficiently, using a personalized solution which addresses both patient's and surgeon's needs


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXXVII | Pages 386 - 386
1 Sep 2012
Josten C Jarvers J Riesner H Franck A Glasmacher S Schmidt C
Full Access

Purpose. In stabilisations of atlantoaxial instabilities it holds risks to injure the A. vertebralis as well as neurological structures. Furthermore the posterior approach of the upper part of the cervical spine requires a huge and traumatic preparation of the soft tissue. However the anterior transarticular C1-2 fusion (ATF) is less traumatic and offers almost the same strengh of the stabilisation. Methods. Since the 01/2007 22 multimorbid patients with atlanto-axial instabilities of different entities were treated via the ATF, were regular examined radiologicaly (x-ray/CT) and the procedure critically judged. Results. C1-2 fusions were performed in 22 patients (17f, 5m, Ø 81,67 years). Main symptoms was pain radiating in the upper cervical spine and the occiput, 2 Patients complaining radiating pain with paraesthesia. The average operation-time took 64,5 min. Leftside the screws of Ø 39,5mm (32–44mm), rightside of 36mm (32–44mm) were inserted in addiction to the point of access and the angle of insertion (mediolateral angle Ø 32,0°, ventrodorsal Ø17,6°). No introperative complications occured, one revision had to be done because of p.o. bleeding, one because of screw dislocation. Postoperative x-ray and CT control of the upper cervical spine showed 30/44 screws in 22 patients in correct position. 8 (18,2%) screws were too long, 3 (6,8%) screws were placed too anterior and 3 (6,8%) too medial. 8 additional positionated dens-screws were in correct position. After a clear learning curve both screws of the 6th patient were positoinated correct. Two aspects are important for success: Correct entry point and right insertion of the angle in the coronar and sagittal view. A low intraoperative blood loss, a non traumatic access as well as an immediate pain decrease have to be valued positively for this procedure. Conclusions. The gentle procedure of the ATF requires-despite of the huge experience in anterior surgery of dens fractures - a learning curve, because of the more proximate insertion point, the flat insertion angle and the closeness of the A. vertebralis. If these aspects are going to be noticed, failed screw positioning and excessive length as well as injuries of the A. vertebralis can be avoided


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 420 - 420
1 Oct 2006
Dallari D Girolami M Mignani G Pignatti G Stagni C Vaccarisi D
Full Access

From January 2003 to December 2004, 160 consecutive intertrochanteric hip fractures has been treated at the Orthopaedic Rizzoli Institute by a new short intra-medullary rod, which can be distally locked, combined with two sliding screws that insert into the femoral neck and head. The rod is an undersized, titan one. It can be inserted percutaneously. Fractures were classified pre-operatively according to stability and post-operatively according to the type of operative reduction. The failure rate and post-operative stability were then compared according to the type of fracture and to the quality of operative reduction. Results indicate that the pre-operative fracture classification is a significant determinant of post-operative stability. The type of operative reduction was not as significant a determinant of post-operative stability, but an anatomical reduction gives better clinical results. Overall results shows that stable fractures has always healed and only minor complications has been observed. Unstable fractures has a percentage of drawbacks of 1.5% (3 in 160 pts) due to a wrong screw positioning ( 2 proximal and 1 distal ). Three patients died in the early post-operative period due to cardiac failure. No intraoperative fracture, no displacement of the fracture site and no “cut out” were observed


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 419 - 420
1 Oct 2006
Sciarretta F Zavattini P
Full Access

Introduction: Based on good results obtained with the hip screw and gamma nail and on newer biomechanical studies, we started treating intertrochanteric fractures with other intramedullary devices: the PFN (Proximal Femoral Nail) and Supernail. Material and methods: From January 2003 to January 2005 we have treated 100 intertrochanteric fractures, 50 with PFN nail and 50 with Supernail. Fracture type distribution and patient’s age were similar in both groups. Discussion: To evaluate differences in results we have studied various parameters: blood loss, surgical time and healing process. Results: We haven’t encountered intra-op complications, nor post-op fractures or fixation devices failure. We, although, had two cases of screw cut-out, one for each implant. About 85% of patients reported good-excellent result. Conclusions: Both nails have brought to reduction of surgical time, blood loss and intra and post-op complications. Best results are achieved following cautious surgical technique: correct nail’s introduction entry, minimal or no proximal reaming, gentle introduction of the nail and particular attention to proximal screw positioning and length


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 80 - 81
1 Jan 2011
Gokaraju K Parratt MTR Spiegelberg BGI Miles J Cannon SR Briggs TWR Blunn GW
Full Access

Introduction: Following resection of tumours in the distal femur, reconstruction with joint-sparing prostheses have shown good short-term functional outcomes. There is however limited literature on the affect of knee-sparing prostheses on function of the femoral physes in skeletally immature children. Method: We discuss two patients, a male (11yrs) and female (10yrs) who had joint-sparing distal femoral prostheses inserted for treatment of Ewing’s sarcoma. The knee joint, along with the distal growth plate, was preserved and fixed to the distal end of the prosthesis using unicortical screws positioned distal to the physis. In the female, these screws were removed 6 months post-op due to prominence of the screws under the skin. In both patients, we assessed radiographs from immediately post-surgery and the most recent follow-up (20 and 28 months respectively). In each set, for the operated limb, we measured the height and width of the distal femoral epiphysis, the total length of the femur and the length of the proximal femoral bone segment from the femoral head to the proximal bone-prosthesis interface. In addition, post-operative assessments of leg lengths, bilaterally, were documented. Results: In both patients, distal femoral epiphyseal height and width in the operated leg showed no significant change following endoprosthetic replacement. In the female, growth did not resume even after removal of the epiphyseal screws. In both patients, lengths of the femur and the proximal bone segment increased significantly following surgery. The patients demonstrated no clinical leg length discrepancy at the most recent follow-up. Discussion: This study suggests that the function of the distal femoral growth plate ceases following insertion of joint-sparing distal femoral endoprostheses, probably due to trans-physeal fixation. This does not appear to resume following early removal of distal screws. The proximal growth plate, however, continues to function adequately enough to maintain symmetry in overall leg length


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXVII | Pages 7 - 7
1 Jun 2012
Elsebaie H Noordeen H Akbarnia B Gadelhak A
Full Access

Introduction. The change of position of the distal pedicle screws with growing rods in relation to vertebral bodies was described as pedicle screws migration. Pedicle screws are subjected to serial distractive forces pushing them down with every distraction; additionally there is continuous growth of the vertebral bodies during the treatment period. These two factors can affect the change of position of the pedicle screws in relation to the vertebrae during the use of growing rods. To our knowledge, this finding has never been studied, confirmed, or quantified. Methods. This is a retrospective review of the radiographs and operative notes of 23 consecutive cases of early-onset scoliosis treated with single growing rods. Age at index surgery ranged from 4 years 2 months to 8 years 9 months, and the number of distractions was four to 11 per patient. Measurements were done on post-index and latest follow-up true lateral radiographs. With optimum initial position of the screws in the pedicle, we calculated the distance between the upper end plate and the pedicle screw (distance superior to the screw [SS]) and the distance between the screw and lower-end plate (distance inferior to the screw [IS]). We expressed this ratio as a percentage: SS/IS x 100%. Any increase in this percentage with time denoted a more caudal position; however, a change in the percentage of less than 10% was regarded as insignificant. Results. Seven cases were excluded because of inadequate radiographs for measurements. Within the distal construct, measurements of the upper pedicle screw showed that six cases had a change of less than 10% and were regarded as insignificant. Ten cases had changes of more than 10%, five had changes between 10% and 50%, three between 50% and 100%, and two more than 100%. We identified two types of migration: the first within the pedicle with pedicle elongation, and the second through and distal to the pedicle. None of the patients had adverse clinical consequences related to this change. Conclusions. Change of screw position with time is a frequent occurrence in the distal pedicle screws with single growing rods. Two different types were identified. With growing rods some degree of distal pedicle screw migration in this paediatric age group may not be regarded as a complication of treatment


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 86-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 336 - 336
1 Mar 2004
Rubel IF Seligson D
Full Access

Aims: The objectives of this study are to determine the feasibility of the endoscopic þxation of the anterior pelvis. Material and Methods: Twenty adult cadavers were studied. A þve hole plate was introduced and þxed by balloon and C02 dilatation of the space of Retzius. After plating, the cadavers were dissected to analyze plate and screw position, and presence of damage on the surrounding tissues related to the procedure. Results: Plate and screws were seen to be in good position in all cases. No damage to vital structures was identiþed. Case Report: 33 y/o male sustained an open book external rotation AO/OTA type 61-B3.1 pelvic fracture. EFAP was performed successfully. Postoperative x rays showed good reduction and implants position. Discussion and conclusion: Open approaches to the anterior pelvis are not free of complications. Endoscopy allows clear visualization of the space of Retzius and it is a valuable aid for pelvis fracture þxation. Extraperitoneal endoscopy of the anterior pelvis is a safe and commonly performed surgical procedure. This paper shows that plate and screws þxation of the symphysis pubis can also be performed using this minimally invasive approach


The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery British Volume
Vol. 79-B, Issue 6 | Pages 969 - 971
1 Nov 1997
Baumgaertner MR Solberg BD

We compared the results of the surgical treatment of trochanteric hip fractures before and after surgeons had been introduced to the tip-apex distance (TAD) as a method of evaluating screw position. There were 198 fractures evaluated retrospectively and 118 after instruction. The TAD is the sum of the distance from the tip of the screw to the apex of the femoral head on antero-posterior and lateral views. This decreased from a mean of 25 mm in the control group to 20 mm in the study group (p = 0.0001). The number of mechanical failures by cut-out of the screw from the head decreased from 16 (8%) in the control group at a mean of 13 months to none in the study group at a mean of eight months (p = 0.0015). There were significantly fewer poor reductions in the study group. Our study confirms the importance of good surgical technique in the treatment of trochanteric fractures and supports the concept of the TAD as a clinically useful way of describing the position of the screw


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 317 - 317
1 May 2006
Jones DG Draffin J Vane A Craig R McMahon S
Full Access

The aim was to compare the initial pull out strengths of various interference screw devices used for tibial fixation of hamstring grafts and the effect of concentric or eccentric screw position. Quadrupled tendon grafts were harvested from freshly killed sheep. The grafts were then prepared and fixed in the distal femur using various devices (Intrafix, RCI screw, Wedge screw +/− transfix pin, screw and post) in both concentric and eccentric positions. A single load to failure test was then performed. The highest pull out strength was with the Intrafix device inserted concentrically (mean 941N). This was significantly higher than the wedge screw inserted concentrically (737N) (p=0.015). This in turn had significantly greater initial pull out strength than the wedge eccentric with post or pin (p=0.03) and the RCI screw (464N) (p=0.00036). In this sheep model the Intrafix device inserted concentrically had a significantly greater initial pull-out strength than the other interference screws tested. Concentric positioning of an interference screw gave significantly greater initial pullout strength of a quadruple hamstring graft than eccentric positioning. Addition of a cross pin or post made no difference to initial pullout strength


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 453 - 453
1 Jul 2010
Gokaraju K Miles J Cannon S Briggs T Blunn G
Full Access

Following resection of tumours in the distal femur, reconstruction with joint-sparing prostheses have shown good short-term functional outcomes. There is however limited literature on the affect of knee-sparing prostheses on function of the distal femoral physis in children of bone growing age. We discuss two patients, a male (11yrs) and female (10yrs) who had joint-sparing distal femoral prostheses inserted for treatment of Ewing’s sarcoma. The knee joint, along with the distal growth plate, was preserved and fixed to the distal end of the prosthesis using uni-cortical screws positioned distal to the physis. In the female, these screws were removed 6 months postop due to prominence of the screws under the skin. In both patients, we assessed radiographs from immediately post[surgery and the most recent follow-up (20 and 28 months respectively). In each set, for the operated limb, we measured the height and width of the distal femoral epiphysis, the total length of the femur and the length of the proximal femoral bone segment from the femoral head to the proximal bone-prosthesis interface. In addition, postoperative assessments of leg lengths, bilaterally, were documented. In both patients, distal femoral epiphyseal height and width in the operated leg showed no significant change following endoprosthetic replacement. In the female, growth did not resume even after removal of the epiphyseal screws. In both patients, lengths of the femur and the proximal bone segment increased significantly following surgery. The patients demonstrated no clinical leg length discrepancy at the most recent follow-up. This study suggests that the function of the distal femoral growth plate ceases following insertion of joint-sparing distal femoral endoprostheses, probably due to trans-physeal fixation. This does not appear to resume following early removal of distal screws. The proximal growth plate, however, continues to function adequately enough to maintain symmetry in overall leg length


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXVII | Pages 4 - 4
1 Jun 2012
Elsebaie H Noordeen H Akbarnia B Gadelhak A
Full Access

Introduction. There is an unresolved controversy in the published work about the effect of screws crossing the neuro-central cartilage (NCC) on spinal canal dimension in very young children and in animals. Anterior vertebral body screws with fusion can invade and damage the NCC, especially at the site of screw insertion; however, this finding has never been studied. Methods. This study is a retrospective, clinical and radiological analysis of seven consecutive children aged 1–2 years treated with anterior vertebral instrumentation and fusion by downsized rod screw systems. The mean age at time of surgery was 2 years 4 months (range 1 year 9 months to 2 years 10 months). The average follow-up period was 3 years 3 months (2 years 6 months to 4 years 5 months). 16 screws inserted anteriorely were evaluated by a follow-up CT scan. Spinal canals were divided with known anatomical landmarks into right and left hemicanals. The relation of the anterior screws to the NCC and the spinal canal dimension were studied. All clinical and radiological complications were recorded. Results. Only 11 screws were suitable for measurement. There was a difference of 10–20% between the surface areas of the two hemicanals in six levels in which the screw heads were passing through or encroaching on the NCC; the canal was smaller ipsilateral to the affected NCC. The hemicanals were almost symmetrical in five levels in which the screw heads were away from the NCC, except in one in which it was touching the NCC. For the 16 screws evaluated there were no recorded complications apart from one screw breaching the adjacent end plate. Conclusions. Anterior vertebral body screws with fusion can encroach on the NCC when inserted in very young children, which seems to decrease the ipsilateral canal dimension between 10% and 20%. Apart from this finding, anterior instrumentation is safe when used in very young children aged 1–2 years. Canal asymmetry had no clinical effect in childhood; however, long-term follow-up of these children is needed to measure its clinical significance. Change of screw position with time is a frequent occurrence in the distal pedicle screws with single growing rods. There are two different types identified. With growing rods some degree of distal pedicle screw migration in this paediatric age group may not be regarded as a complication of treatment


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 178 - 178
1 Apr 2005
Costaglioli M Castangia D Mura PP
Full Access

Spinal fusion still is considered to be the most appropriate treatment for lumbar spinal disease not responding to conservative measures. Various forms of lumbar instability require surgical stabilisation. As an alternative to fusion, mobile, dynamic stabilisation restricting segmental motion would be advantageous under certain conditions, allowing greater physiological function and reducing the inherent disadvantages of rigid instrumentation and fusion. The “Dynamic Neutralization System for thèeSpine” is a pedicle screw system for mobile stabilisation, consisting of titanium alloy screws connected by an elastic synthetic compound, controlling motion in any plane (non-fusion system). Clinical success after solid fusion is unpredictable because it does not necessarily prevent painful loading across the disc, and it may also interfere with maintenance of sagittal balance in various postures. This system reduces movement both in flexion and extension and appears to be better. These study results compare well with those obtained by conventional procedures; in addition to which, mobile stabilisation is less invasive than fusion. Long-term screw fixation is dependent on correct screw dimensions and proper screw positioning. The natural course of polysegmental disease in some cases necessitates further surgery as the disease progresses. Dynamic neutralisation proved to be a safe and effective alternative in the treatment of unstable lumbar conditions


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 84-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 83 - 83
1 Mar 2002
Dunn R Fazal M Edgar M
Full Access

Aiming to evaluate the efficacy and safety of instrumentation using only segmental pedicle screw fixation, we undertook a prospective study of 17 patients with idiopathic scoliosis who underwent corrective surgery in 1998 and 1999. A total of 170 pedicle screws was inserted, 119 in the thoracic spine and 51 in the lumbar, extending from T2 to L5. The Cobb angle was measured on an erect anteroposterior radiograph postoperatively and at 6 and 12-month follow-up. Pedicle screw placement was assessed on the radiographs, and where there was concern about screw position, CT scan was performed. Of the 170 pedicle screws, three were malpositioned lateral to the pedicle and one medial to the pedicle. One pedicle fractured during screw insertion, and three screws partially pulled out on the convex side of the curve at T3 to T5. At six months the mean Cobb angle correction was 53.6%. There were no neurological complications. Two cases required subsequent trimming of rods. We believe fixation using only segmental pedicle screws is a safe method of correcting idiopathic scholastic deformities, but retain some reservations about the pull-out strength of the uppermost screws in the thoracic spine


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 185 - 185
1 May 2011
Piltz S Rubenbauer B Pieske O Reiser M Hoffmann R
Full Access

Introduction: Percutaneous iliosacral screws are commonly used for the fixation of the posterior pelvis. The procedure is technically demanding because of the limitations of radiological visualisation of the relevant landmarks. There have been several reports of misplaced screws and other complications, occasionally with serious consequences. To achieve a secure surgical procedure we routinely use a CT-guided technique for percutaneous pelvic screw fixation since 2004. Methods: Between September 2004 and January 2009, 39 patients were treated using CT-guided screw fixation. Under general anaesthesia patients were placed on a vacuum mattress in a stable lateral position within the CT gantry (Siemens SOMATOM definition; i-Fluoro: 20mAs; Hand CARE mode). The scanner bed was on a calibrated track so the same images could be used and repeated throughout the procedure. Gantry and patient were draped under sterile conditions. The laser sights of the CT indicated the cutaneous site which corresponded to the underlying osseous level (first or second sacral pedicle). At this the CT scan trajectory in the CT-fluoro mode indicated the extrapolated position of the guide-wire. A 3.2mm guide-wire was inserted using battery-powered equipment or hammer blows. When the guide-wire was in a correct position a self-drilling cannulated lag screw was placed (6.5mm DePuy). Two screws were inserted in sacral fractures, one screw in sacroiliac ligament ruptures. Results: 19 of 39 patients were polytraumatized. In 10 cases there were both side injures. Overall 71 screws were placed. Median time for the procedure was 36 minutes in unilateral lesions and 48 min in bilateral lesions. There were no cases of infection, non-union or neurological deficit. Postoperative CT revealed correct screw positions in all cases. Screw removal was done routinely in the patients younger than sixty years to resolve the blocked sacroiliac joint. Conclusions: CT-guided is a safe and feasible treatment option in patient with instable pelvic ring lesions. A close collaboration between interventional radiologist and surgeon is essential. Compared to other procedures g.e. internal plate fixation or fluoroscopic guided procedures CT-guided screw insertion seems to be more secure and could strongly be advocated


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 202 - 202
1 Apr 2005
Sciarretta FV Zavattini P
Full Access

After previous experience with hip screws and gamma nails, based on recent biomechanical studies, we started treating femoral neck fractures with PFN nail. The proximal femural nail is made of titanium, has two lengths, and a distal flexible component of various diameters with which the femoral neck area can be stabilised with an 11.5-mm cephalic screw and an anti-rotation 6.5-mm screw, both of variable lengths. From January 2002 to January 2004, 80 of 100 trochanteric fractures were treated with PFN nail. Most fractures were of the 31.A2 and 31.A3 AO type. Mean surgery time was 40 min. Patients began ROM exercises on the first post-operative day and assisted weight-bearing on the fourth and were controlled at 1, 2, and 6 months and then yearly. No important intra-operative complications and no post-operative fractures have been encountered. However, we do report one case of screw cut-out. About 80% of results were good-excellent. We can state that the use of PFN nail is of particular value since its unique technical features seem to reduce post-operative complications and surgical stresses, due to less invasiveness, intra-operative complications, and, due to the enhanced stability granted by additional cephalic screws and reduced size and increased flexibility of the distal part of the nail. Finally, we emphasise some surgical tips for best results: respect of correct nail introduction point, minimal proximal reaming, gentle introduction of the nail and particular attention to cephalic screw position and length


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 91-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 36 - 36
1 Mar 2009
Torrens C Gonzalez G Corrales M Cebamanos J Caceres E
Full Access

Introduction: Concern remains in loosening of glenoid component reversed prostheses. This study is to analyze glenoid location of stem and 4 screws of glenoid component. Material and method: 34 reversed prostheses included. Mean age 74,10, 33 females/1 male. Preoperative CT study : glenoid version; measure of anterior-posterior osteophytes. Postoperative CT study: central stem location and superior, inferior, anterior, posterior screws location. Study of influence of glenoid version and presence of osteophytes in location of glenoid implant. Results: 27 retroverted glenoids (mean 6,5°); 7 ante-verted (mean 5,3°). 17 cases with anterior osteophyte and 12 of posterior. In 52% the central stem was centered inside glenoid, 33% anterior end was outside glenoid and 14% the posterior end. When central stem was anteriorly outside 85% presented retroverted glenoid (mean 8,33°). When the central stem was posteriorly outside 66% presented anteverted glenoid (mean 9,5°). Inferior screw was fully in place in 38%, ¾ part inside in 19%, 2/4 part in 23%, ¼ part in 19%. Superior screw was fully in place in 47%, ¾ part inside in 23%, 2/4 part in 19%, ¼ part in 9%. Anterior screw was fully in place in 66%, ¾ part in 23% and 2/4 part in 9%. Posterior screw was fully in place in 38%, ¾ part in 42%, 2/4 part in 14%, ¼ part in 4%. The correct positioning of superior screw correlates with less coverture of inferior screw. Anterior and posterior osteophytes did not correlated with stem nor screw positioning. Conclusions: Positoning of central stem correlates with glenoid version. Anteriorly extruded stems correlate with higher retroverted glenoids and posteriorly extruded stems correlate with higher anteversion. Positioning the inferior screw fully inside the lateral border of the scapula correlates with lower bony coverture of superior screw


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXV | Pages 40 - 40
1 Jun 2012
Delport H Mulier M Gelaude F Clijmans T
Full Access

The number of joint revision surgeries is rising, and the complexity of the cases is increasing. In 58% of the revision cases, the acetabular component has to be revised. For these indications, literature decision schemes [Paprosky 2005] point at custom pre-shaped implants. Any standard device would prove either unfeasible during surgery or inadequate in the short term. Studies show that custom-made triflanged implants can be a durable solution with good clinical results. However, the number of cases reported is few confirming that the device is not in widespread use. Case Report. A patient, female 50 yrs old, diagnosed having a pseudotumor after Resurfacing Arthroplasty for osteo-arthritis of the left hip joint. The revision also failed after 1 y and she developed a pelvic discontinuity. X-ray and Ct scans were taken and sent to a specialized implant manufacturer [Mobelife, Leuven, Belgium]. The novel process of patient-specific implant design comprises three highly automated steps. In the first step, advanced 3D image processing presented the bony structures and implant components. Analysis showed that anterior column was missing, while the posterior column was degraded and fractured. The acetabular defect was diagnosed being Paprosky 3B. The former acetabular component migrated in posterolateral direction resulting in luxation of the joint. The reconstruction proposal showed the missing bone stock and anatomical joint location. In the second step, a triflanged custom acetabular metal backing implant was proposed. The bone defect (35ml) is filled with a patient-specific porous structure which is rigidly connected to a solid patient-specific plate. The proposed implant shape is determined taking into account surgical window and surrounding soft tissues. Cup orientation is anatomically analyzed for inclination and anteversion. A cemented liner fixation was preferred (Biomet Advantage 48mm). Screw positions and lengths are pre-operatively planned depending on bone quality, and transferred into surgery using jig guiding technology (Materialise NV, Leuven, Belgium). In the third step, the implant design was evaluated in a fully patient-specific manner in dedicated engineering (FEA) software. Using the novel automated CT-based methodology, patient-specific bone quality and thickness, as well as individualised muscle attachments and muscle and joint forces were included in the evaluation. Implants and jig were produced with Additive Manufacturing techniques under ISO 13485 certification, using respectively Selective Laser Melting (SLM) techniques [Kruth 2005] in medical grade Ti6Al4V material, and the Selective Laser Sintering technique using medical grade epoxy monomer. The parts were cleaned ultrasonically, and quality control was performed by optical scanning [Atos2 scanning device, GOM Intl. AG, Wilden, Switzerland]. Sterilization is performed in the hospital. CONCLUSION. A unique combination of advanced 3D planning, patient-specific designed and evaluated implants and drill guides is presented. This paper illustrates, by means of a clinical case, the novel tools and devices that are able to turn reconstruction of complex acetabular deficiencies into a reliable procedure


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 86-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 492 - 492
1 Apr 2004
Morrey C Chesser T Ward A
Full Access

Introduction We report on the clinical and radiological outcomes and complications associated with percutaneous ilio-sacral screw fixation of the pelvis. Methods Patients were located on the plevic data base held at Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, UK. Patient charts were reviewed and their clinical outcomes had been determined using a visual analogue (VAS) pain score. All patients had pre and post-operative x-rays and CT scans. These were used to determine fracture type and subsequent post-operative reduction. All complications and subsequent surgery required was noted. Results One hundred and seven patients with 76 disruptions of the sacro-iliac joint and 62 sacral fractures treated with percutaneous ilio-sacral screws were reviewed. Average follow-up was 2.5 years (range 6 months to 8 years). Half of the patients had a VAS score of zero post-operatively, 30% had scores of one to five and 20% had scores of greater than five. The majority of these patients had a coexisting neurological lesion. Seventy-one percent had an anatomical reduction (within 5 mm), 18% had displacements of between five and 10 mm and 11% had displacements of greater than 10 mm. There were five infections, four sacral nonunions, four failures of fixation and one case of a transient L5 nerve plasy following inadvertent screw positioning. Conclusions Percutaneous ilio-sacral screw fixation of the pelvis allows safe, reliable and accurate reduction. Poor clinical results are often attributable to coexisting neurological lesions


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 338 - 338
1 May 2006
Ilsar I Weil Y Mosheiff R Peyser A Liebergall M
Full Access

Introduction: Fluoroscopy-based navigation systems enables surgeons to place implants with a simultaneous multi-planar monitoring. Percutaneous fixation of femoral neck fractures is an example of the growing usage of these systems in orthopedic trauma surgery. Growing evidence suggests that the accuracy of screw placement might affect the fracture outcome. Methods: Between 2/2001 and 8/2005, 80 patients underwent internal fixation of femoral neck fractures using computerized navigation system. Three cannulated screws were implanted in an inverted triangle formation. The average patient’s age was 62±20 years (range 11–88), and 12 patients were under the age of 40 years. 53 patients were female, 27 male. 68 patients sustained the fracture due to a simple fall, 4 fell from high ground, 3-bicycle injuries, 2 due to motor vehicle accidents, and 3 patients suffered from insufficiency fractures with no trauma. The data includes results for both undisplaced fractures and fully displaced fractures which underwent closed reduction. Results: The average length of hospital stay was 6.3±4 days (range 1–19). The average operating room time was 82±22 minutes (range 30–135), this including the preparation of the patient and instrumentation. Complications included one case of infection which necessitated long term antibiotic treatment, four patients requiring hip arthroplasty due to avascular necrosis of the femoral head, and one patient who underwent hip arthroplasty due to osteoarthritis. The total failure rate is 6%. Conclusions: Computerized navigation for the internal fixation of subcapital femoral neck fractures allows improved screw positioning, which may reduce fracture complications, and provides reduced radiation to both the surgeon and the patient


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 166 - 166
1 Mar 2006
Kahn R Mayahi R Gurusamy K Parker M
Full Access

Introduction and aim There are different methods of internal fixation of intracapsular fractures of the hip of which three AO screws is one of the more popular. There have been no evidence-based publications describing the optimal position for screws. The aim was to establish the relationship between screw position and angle, and subsequent failure of union. Method Using computer software we studied the position of AO screws in 395 consecutive patients inserted between 1989 and 2003. Follow-up was prospective and for a minimum of 100 days. The diagnosis of non-union was made clinically and confirmed radiographically. Results The mean age of our population was 73.9 years (range 22–96). Eighty-six (21.8%) were male. Three hundred and twenty seven (82.8%) came from their own home. The mean time between fall and surgery was 37.0 hours and between admission and surgery 20.9 hours. The mean length of radiographic follow-up for those fractures that did not develop non-union was 454 days (range 94–1898). Of the 395 patients 242 (61%) fractures united and 153 (39%) fractures suffered non-union. Radiographic analysis suggests that the position of the screws on the AP view (superior, middle, inferior or spread) did not alter the outcome significantly. However three factors were related to lower risk of non-union on the lateral view: the closer the middle screw to the center of the head (p< 0.04), the more anterior the anterior screw (p< 0.008), and the greater the ‘spread’ between the anterior and posterior screws (p< 0.005). Conclusions We conclude that to reduce the risk of non-union with screw fixation of intracapsular fractures of the hip, in the lateral view the middle screw must be positioned as close to the centre of the femoral head as possible, and the anterior and posterior screws achieve maximal spread


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 137 - 138
1 May 2011
Leonard M Uthmann A Glynn A Dolan M
Full Access

Introduction: Failed surgical treatment of hip fractures typically leads to profound functional disability and pain for the individual, technical challenges for the surgical team, and an increase in the financial burden on society. This study had three purposes:. to determine the reason/s for failure of internal fixation. to record difficulties / complications encountered in converting to a salvage arthroplasty and. to compare the outcome of patients who underwent salvage arthroplasty (Group 1) with a matched group of patients who had a primary hip arthroplasty for degenerative disease (Group 2). Methods: Between 1999 and 2005 41 patients (30 women and 11 men) with a mean age of 70 were treated at our institution with a total hip arthroplasty for failed dynamic hip screw fixation of a fracture of the proximal femur. The radiographs and medical charts of all patients were obtained following institutional approval. The quality of the reduction of the fracture achieved was assessed on the basis of displacement and alignment. Screw position was also assessed. Each patient who had undergone salvage arthroplasty (Group 1) was matched with a patient who had undergone total hip arthroplasty for degenerative disease in our unit (Group 2). Patients were matched for age, sex, implant and time since insertion of the implant. All surviving patients form both groups were followed up for a minimum of two years (mean 5 years). Three main outcome measures were compared between the two groups; surgical complications, the Oxford hip score, and radiographic analysis of the femoral component for signs of loosening. Results: Failure to achieve a good reduction and optimal screw placement was evident in 80% of cases of failed fixation. A high incidence of complications was recorded in the perioperative period during conversion to a salvage arthroplasty. Functional outcome was statistically inferior in Group1, this group also had a much higher incidence of complications. Radiographs at 2 years post operatively showed evidence of femoral stem loosening in 16% of the salvage group compared with 3% in the primary hip arthroplasty group. Conclusion: When undertaking surgical stabilisation of proximal femoral fractures one should make every effort to achieve the best reduction and most accurate fixation possible. Factors such as osteoporosis, compliance with post-operative mobilisation and delay in fracture fixation are to some extent ‘out of the surgeon’s hands’. Conversion to arthroplasty is technically challenging, and is associated with higher complication rate and poorer outcome than primary hip arthroplasty. We recorded a high incidence of femoral stem loosening in patients who had undergone conversion to hip arthroplasty for failed fixation and would recommend more frequent clinical and radiographic follow up of these patients


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 196 - 196
1 May 2011
Jarvers J Blattert T Katscher S Siekmann H Josten C
Full Access

Introduction: In recent years, navigated surgical procedures in spinal surgery have been established due to an increasing demand for precision. Especially 3D-C-arms connected with navigation systems are being used more often and can be utilized intraoperatively for planning as well as controlling of screw positions. This study analyses our experiences with 3D-based navigation in the posterior cervical and high thoracic spine. Methods: A 3D-C-Arm (Vision Vario 3D, Ziehm) was connected with a navigation system (Vector vision, Brainlab) and since 10/2007 used for the placement of overall 350 Screws at 51 Patients. Of those 9 Patients had to undergo operations in the posterior cervical spine, of 53 screws Judet- (n=8), Massa lateralis- (n=27) and pedicle-screws (n=18) were placed. Indications for instrumentation were traumatic fractures (n=3), spon-dylodiscitis (n=1), multiple metastases with high-grade instability (n=4), and degenerative rheumatic stenosis of the spinal canal (n=1). Concerning the high thoracic spine (T1–10) 42 interventions were made with the method, 297 pedicle- screws were implanted. Indications in this area were traumatic fractures (n=24), metastases (n=14) and spondylodiscites (n=4). Results: Scan-time intraoperatively took 60 seconds on average, data-transfer to the navigation-system another 10 seconds. Application-time including anti-collision-check needs approx. 6 minutes [5;18]. In total 260/350 (74%) screws could be inserted assisted with navigation, 194/350 (55%) were controlled intraop-eratively. Regarding the cervical spine in 44/53 (89 %) of the screws the navigation procedure was uneventful. Positioning of 37/53 (70%) of the screws was checked immediately postoperatively. In the upper thoracic spine 216/297 (73%) could be placed with navigation, 157/297 (53%) were controlled intraoperatively. Occasionally, scan-setup was problematic, in addition, we experienced technical problems. Correct placement was seen for each screw, thus correlating well with the intraoperative findings. Conclusions: The application of the combination of intraoperative 3D-imaging and navigation for posterior instrumentation of the cervical and the upper thoracic spine is technically feasible and reliable in clinical use. User- and software-dependant sources of error could be solved during the first course of the series. Image-quality at the cervical spine is depending on individual bone density, and possible metal artifacts. With undisturbed visibility of the vertebral body, the reliability of 3D-based navigation at the cervical spine is comparable to that of CT-based procedures. Additionally, it has the advantage of skipping preoperative acquisition of data as well as the matching-process. Furthermore, exposure to radiation is reduced due to the possibility of sparing pre- and postoperative CT


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 194 - 195
1 May 2011
Josten C Jarvers J Riesner H Siekmann H Blattert T
Full Access

Purpose: The posterior transarticuar screw fixation C1-2 (Magerl) is a demanding procedure to treat atlanto-axial instabilities. In spite of a high primary instability it holds risks to injure the A. vertebralis as well as neurological structures. Furthermore the posterior approach of the upper part of the cervical spine requires a huge and traumatic preparation of the soft tissue. However the anterior transarticular C1-2 fusion is less traumativc and offers approximately the same strengh of the stabilisation. Methods: Since the beginning of 2007 17 multimorbid patients with atlanto-axial instabilities of different entities were treated via the anterior transarticular fusion, were regular examined radioogicaly (x-ray/CT) and the procedure critically judged. Results: C1-2 fusions were performed in 17 patients (13f, 4m, average 81,6 years (68.95)). The main symptoms was pain radiating in the upper cervical spine and the occiput, 2 Patients complaining radiating pain with paraesthesia in both upper extremities, whereas the neurology was predoinant inconspicious. The average operation-time took 64,5 min. On the left side the screws of Ø 39,5mm (32–44mm), on the right side of 36mm (32–44mm) were inserted in addiction to the point of access and the angle of insertion (mediolateral angle Ø 32,0°, ventrodorsal Ø17,6°). There were no intraoperative complications concerning the ceratin procedure, postoperative one revision had to be done because of p.o. bleeding, another because of screw dislocation with clinical relevance 21 days after the first operation. The postoperative x-ray and CT control of the upper cervical spine showed 21/34 screws in 17 patients in correct position (61,7%), 7 (20,6%) screws were too long, 6 (17,7%) screws were placed too anterior and too medial compared to the oppinion of literature. position in the literature. 3 additional positionated dens-screws were in correct position. After a clear learning curve both screws of the 6th patient were positoinated correct. In this connection it could be shown, that two aspects are important for success: A correct entry point as well as the right insertion of the angle of the screws in the coronar and sagittal view. A low intraoperative blood loss, a non traumatic access as well as an immediate postoperative pain decrease have to be valued positively for this procedure. Conclusions: The gentle procedure of the anterior transarticular C1-2 fusion requires-despite of the huge experience in anterior surgery of dens fractures – a learning curve, because of the more proximate insertion point, the flat insertion angle and the closeness of the A. vertebralis. If these aspects are going to be noticed, failed screw positioning and excessive length as well as injuries of the A. vertebralis can be avoided


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XLIV | Pages 20 - 20
1 Oct 2012
Ferrari V Parchi P Condino S Carbone M Baluganti A Ferrari M Mosca F Lisanti M
Full Access

Pedicle screws fixation to stabilise lumbar spinal fusion is the gold standard for posterior stabilisation. Pedicle screws are today positioned in free hand or under fluoroscopic guidance with an error from 20% up to 40–50%, which can determine the inefficacy of treatment or severe damages to close neurologic structures. Surgical navigation drastically increases screws placement accuracy. However its clinical application is limited due to cost reasons and troubles related to the presence of a localiser in the OR and the need to perform a registration procedure before surgery. An alternative image guided approach is the use of patient specific templates similar to the ones used for dental implants or knee prosthesis. Until now, the proposed solutions allow to guide the drill, and in some cases, as templates fit completely around vertebra, they require the complete removal of soft tissues on a large portion of the spine, so increasing intervention invasiveness. To reduce the soft tissue demolition, some authors proposed a fitting based on small “V shape” contact points, but these solutions can determine instability of the template and the reacting of wrong stable positions. In our solution, after spine CT acquisition, each vertebra is segmented using a modified version of ITK-SNAP software, on which the surgeon plans screws positioning and finally the template is designed around the chosen trajectories, using a tool which allows to insert cylinders (full or empty) in the segmented images. Each template, printed in ABS, contains two hollow cylinders, to guide the screws, and multiple contact points on the bone surface, for template stabilisation. We made an in-vitro evaluation on synthetic spine models (by Sawbones) to study different template designs. During this first step an ongoing redesign allowed to obtain an optimal template stability and an easy template positioning to minimise the intervention invasiveness. A first contact point, which fits on the sides of the spinous process, is used to simplify template alignment. The other 4 contact points, which consists of cylinders (diameter 5 mm), fit exactly on spine surface in correspondence to the vertebra's lamina and articular processes to stabilise the template in an unique position. Templates can be used to guide not only the drill, but also Kirschner wires, to guide cannulated screws. After the Kirschner wires insertion the template can be dismounted for its removal (the direction of the kirschner wires are not parallel). After the definitive template design an ex-vivo animal test on 2 porcine specimens has been conducted to evaluate template performance in presence of soft-tissue in place. The specimens have been scanned with CT, we realised a total of 14 templates and we performed the insertion of 28 Kirschner wires. We evaluated that after the soft tissue dissection and the bone exposure, the template can be easily positioned in the right unique position, with no additional tissue removal compared to the traditional approach, requiring just removal of the soft tissue under the small contact points using an electric cutter. The surgeon evaluated (and corrected) some wrong stable template positions when not all the contact points were in contact with the bone surface. The post-op evaluation was made with a CT scan that showed 1 cortical pedicle violation (3.5%) (grade II according to the FU classification)


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 272 - 272
1 Jul 2008
LIVERNEAUX P BEUSTES-STÉFANELLI M
Full Access

Purpose of the study: Percutaneous osteosynthesis of scaphoid fractures remains a difficult technique which requires a long learning curve. Complications remain a problem, even in experienced hands of specialized surgeons. The purpose of this work was to study the potential contribution of fluoroscopic navigation for precutaneous screwing of the carpal scaphoid. Material and methods: Right and left arm anatomic specimens from ten subjects were sectioned at the elbow level. Both wrists from each subject were prepared and each of the scaphoids was fixed by percutaneous screwing using regular fluoroscopic guidance for one and the other with fluoroscopic navigation. The regular fluoro-scopic guidance technique was used for the first wrist, selected randomly. Fluoroscopic navigation was used for the other side to achieve strict fixation of the wrist in the ideal screwing position using a stable radiotranspar-ent and flexible device. Using a calibraton grid displayed on the fluoroscope screen the system software corrected for distortions of the fluoroscope image. Reflecting patches on the surgical instruments were recognized by the 3D optical localization system. This enabled a real time screen display of instrument movement. Resolution was sufficient to align the screw with the scaphoid axis and calculate the length of the screw. The resolution of the reformated digital images enabled real time screen display of instrument movement at a resolution which enabled pin insertion in the scaphoid axis. The length of the perforated screw inserted percutaneously over the pin was measured on the screen. Results and discussion: Unlike the regular screwing method and excepting the image acquisition time which can be achieved without exposing the operator, exposure time to radiation was zero with fluoroscopic navigation. The duration of the operation was longer with navigation because the instruments had to be calibrated and because a learning curve is required. The quality of the screw fixation assessed on plain x-rays, computed tomography, and photographs of the entire scaphoid then sectional along the major axis after removal was similar between the two methods. Conclusion: In conclusion, fluoroscopic navigation is a reliable technique which protects both the operator and the patient from radiation exposure. The technique remains to be standardized to shorten the learning curve, improve the navigation software, and develop a calibrated instrumentation before it can be used in routine clinical practice


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 292 - 292
1 Jul 2008
BENSAFI H GIORDANO G LAFFOSSE J DAO C PAUMIER F JONES D TRICOIRE J MARTINEL V CHIRON P PUGET J
Full Access

Purpose of the study: Percutaneous compressive plating (PCCP) enables minimally invasive surgery using closed focus technique. We report a prospective consecutive series of 67 fractures (December 2003 – February 2005) followed to bone healing. Material and methods: Mean patient age was 83 years (range 37–95) with 83% females in a frail population (ASA 3, 4). Two-thirds of the patients had unstable fractures (AO classification) which were reduced on an orthopedic table under fluoroscope. Two minimal incisions were used to insert the material without opening the fracture and without postoperative drainage. Blood loss was noted. Verticalization and weight bearing were encouraged early depending on the patient’s status but were never limited for mechanical reasons. Patients were reviewed at 2, 4 and 6 months. Results: Anatomic reduction was achieved in 84% of hips, with screw position considered excellent for 45, good for 14, and poor for 6. There were no intraoperative complications. The material was left in place. The hemoglobin level fell 2.2 g on average. Mean operative time was 35 minutes and the duration of radiation exposure 60 seconds. Mean hospital stay was 13 days. General complications were: urinary tract infections (n=10), phlebitis (n=2), talar sores (n=5). Gliding occurred in three cases (4%) with telescopic displacement measuring less than 10 mm in ten cases. There were two varus alignments with no functional impact. There were four deaths within the first three weeks. All fractures healed within three months. Discussion and conclusion: PCCP has its drawbacks (mechanical, stabilization) as do all osteosynthesis methods used for trochanteric fractures. The technique is reliable and reproducible and is indicated for all trochanteric fractures excepting the subtrochanteric form. PCCP has the advantage of a closed procedure with a minimal incision and limited blood loss for a short operative time. An advantage for this population of elderly frail subjects (ASA 3, 4). PCCP enables immediate treatment with a low rate of material disassembly compared with other techniques


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 319 - 320
1 Sep 2005
Reilly C Mulpuri K
Full Access

Introduction and Aims: The aim of this paper is to review C1-C2 facet screw use in paediatric patients and to demonstrate that the technique plays an important role in patients with underlying anatomic abnormalities, which are common in children with cervical instability. Method: A chart review was conducted of all patients managed with C1-C2 facet screws from January 1, 1996 until July 30, 2003 present in the case database. All radiographs were obtained and reviewed. Post-operative and follow-up films were assessed for acceptable screw position and evidence of fusion. Results: C1-C2 facet screws were utilised in nine patients at British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital. The youngest patient treated was five years of age with a mean age for the group of 12. The group consisted of three Down syndrome patients and six with Os Odontoidium, two of which failed previous C1-C2 fusion. Two patients presented with an acute spinal cord injury. Pre-operative CT or MR imaging was used in all patients. Screw placement was unacceptable in one case. Post-operative Halo immobilisation was used in seven patients. Post-operative complications included one wound infection and four halo pin infections requiring treatment. No patients have required surgery at a mean follow-up of four years. C1-C2 facet screws are an important adjunct in a paediatric spine practice. This technique has a great advantage in Down syndrome patients who have a high rate of pseudoarthosis because of: ligamentous laxity, non-compliance with immobilisation and a high incidence of congenital deformities such as os odontoidium and incomplete posterior arch of C1. Conclusion: C1-C2 facet screws can be safely used in young children. The screws allow for fixation in the absence of an intact posterior arch. The technique has a great advantage in Down syndrome patients who have a high rate of pseudoarthosis due to congenital deformities, ligamentous laxity and non-compliance with immobilisation


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 70 - 70
1 Mar 2006
Subramanian K Puranik G Ali M Sahni V
Full Access

Introduction: Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) fixation is one of the most common orthopaedic surgical procedures. Tip Apex Distance (TAD) is a well recognised method of evaluating the screw position of the DHS. We studied the adequacy of fixation of DHS by assessing TAD and type of reduction. Materials and Methods: We selected a random cohort of 102 patients who had DHS fixation and had the requisite clinico-radiologic data. TAD is defined as sum of the distance, in millimeteres, from the tip of the lag screw to the apex of femoral head, as measured on AP radiograph and Lateral radiograph, after correction has been made for radiological magnification. Tip apex distance of 25 mm or less is considered as good, 26–30mm as acceptable, 31–35mm as poor and more than 35mm as unacceptable. Quality of reduction was assessed as per Sernbo. Good, if alignment was normal on AP and maximum 20 degrees angulation on lateral radiograph and less than 4mm of displacment of any fragment. To be labelled acceptable, a reduction had to meed the criteria of a good reduction with respect to either alignement or displacement, but not both. A poor reduction met neither. Results: Mean TAD in our series was 24mm. (9.84 – 37.6). Our of this 58.82% were 25mm or less indicating good, 25.49% of them were 26–30mm indicating acceptable, 8.82% were 30–35mm indicating poor and 6.8% were more than 35mm indicating unacceptable. 39.21% patients had good reduction. 43.13% had acceptable reduction and 17.64% had poor reduction. Conclusion: This study shows that only 58.82% of all patients having DHS fixation had good placement of the fixation device and only 39.21% had a good reduction. We conclude that complacency must not set in on DHS fixation and that we must endeavour for good reduction and placement in as many cases as possible