Aims. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the rates of union for vascularized versus non-vascularized grafting techniques in the operative management of scaphoid nonunion. Secondary aims were to determine the effect of the fixation techniques used, the source of grafting, as well as the influence of fracture location (proximal pole) and avascular necrosis (AVN). Methods. A search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase was performed in June 2021 using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses statement and registered using the PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews. The primary outcome was union rate. Results. There were 78 studies that met the inclusion criteria with a total of 7,671 patients (87.8% male, 12.2% female). The mean age was 27.9 years (SD 3.8) and the mean follow-up was 30.9 months (SD 25.9). The mean union rate was 88.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) 85.0 to 92.5) for non-vascularized grafts versus 87.5% (95% CI 82.8 to 92.2) for vascularized grafts (p = 0.685). Pooled analysis of trial data alone found a mean union rate of 82.4% (95% CI 66.9% to 97.9%) for non-vascularized grafts and 89.4% (95% CI 84.1% to 94.7%) for vascularized grafts (p = 0.780). No significant difference was observed in union rates between any of the fixation techniques used in the studies (p = 0.502). Distal radius and iliac crest graft source had comparable mean union rates (86.9% (95% CI 83.1 to 90.7) vs 87.6% (95% CI 82.2 to 92.9); p = 0.841). Studies that excluded patients with both proximal pole fractures and AVN (n = 14) had a mean union rate of 96.5% (95% CI 94.2 to 98.9) that was significantly greater than the mean union rate of 86.8% (95% CI 83.2 to 90.4) observed in the remaining studies (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Current evidence suggests vascularized bone grafting does not yield significantly superior results to non-vascularized grafting in scaphoid nonunion management. However, potential selection bias lessens the certainty of these findings. The fixation type or source of the graft used was not found to influence union rates either. Sufficiently designed and powered prospective randomized controlled trials in this area are needed. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(5):549–558

Aims. Our objective was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis, to establish whether differences arise in clinical outcomes between autologous and synthetic bone grafts in the operative management of tibial plateau fractures. Methods. A structured search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the online archives of Bone & Joint Publishing, and CENTRAL databases from inception until 28 July 2021 was performed. Randomized, controlled, clinical trials that compared autologous and synthetic bone grafts in tibial plateau fractures were included. Preclinical studies, clinical studies in paediatric patients, pathological fractures, fracture nonunion, or chondral defects were excluded. Outcome data were assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 (ROB2) framework and synthesized in random-effect meta-analysis. The Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidance was followed throughout. Results. Six studies involving 353 fractures were identified from 3,078 records. Following ROB2 assessment, five studies (representing 338 fractures) were appropriate for meta-analysis. Primary outcomes showed non-significant reductions in articular depression at immediate postoperative (mean difference -0.45 mm, p = 0.25, 95%confidence interval (CI) -1.21 to 0.31, I. 2. = 0%) and long-term (> six months, standard mean difference -0.56, p = 0.09, 95% CI -1.20 to 0.08, I. 2. = 73%) follow-up in synthetic bone grafts. Secondary outcomes included mechanical alignment, limb functionality, and defect site pain at long-term follow-up, perioperative blood loss, duration of surgery, occurrence of surgical site infections, and secondary surgery. Mean blood loss was lower (90.08 ml, p < 0.001, 95% CI 41.49 to 138.67) and surgery was shorter (16.17 minutes, p = 0.04, 95% CI 0.39 to 31.94) in synthetic treatment groups. All other secondary measures were statistically comparable. Conclusion. All studies reported similar methodologies and patient populations; however, imprecision may have arisen through performance variation. These findings supersede previous literature and indicate that, despite perceived biological advantages, autologous bone grafting does not demonstrate superiority to synthetic grafts. When selecting a void filler, surgeons should consider patient comorbidity, environmental and societal factors in provision, and perioperative and postoperative care provision. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(3):218–228

Aims. The purpose of this study was to assess the success rate and functional outcomes of bone grafting for periprosthetic bone cysts following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Additionally, we evaluated the rate of graft incorporation and identified associated predisposing factors using CT scan. Methods. We reviewed a total of 37 ankles (34 patients) that had undergone bone grafting for periprosthetic bone cysts. A CT scan was performed one year after bone grafting to check the status of graft incorporation. For accurate analysis of cyst volumes and their postoperative changes, 3D-reconstructed CT scan processed with 3D software was used. For functional outcomes, variables such as the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale score and the visual analogue scale for pain were measured. Results. Out of 37 ankles, graft incorporation was successful in 30 cases. Among the remaining seven cases, four (10.8%) exhibited cyst re-progression, so secondary bone grafting was needed. After secondary bone grafting, no further progression has been noted, resulting in an overall 91.9% success rate (34 of 37) at a mean follow-up period of 47.5 months (24 to 120). The remaining three cases (8.1%) showed implant loosening, so tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis was performed. Functional outcomes were also improved after bone grafting in all variables at the latest follow-up (p < 0.05). The mean incorporation rate of the grafts according to the location of the cysts was 84.8% (55.2% to 96.1%) at the medial malleolus, 65.1% (27.6% to 97.1%) at the tibia, and 81.2% (42.8% to 98.7%) at the talus. Smoking was identified as a significant predisposing factor adversely affecting graft incorporation (p = 0.001). Conclusion. Bone grafting for periprosthetic bone cysts following primary TAA is a reliable procedure with a satisfactory success rate and functional outcomes. Regular follow-up, including CT scan, is important for the detection of cyst re-progression to prevent implant loosening after bone grafting. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(5):475–481

Aims. This study aims to report the outcomes in the treatment of unstable proximal third scaphoid nonunions with arthroscopic curettage, non-vascularized bone grafting, and percutaneous fixation. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of 20 patients. All cases were delayed presentations (n = 15) or failed nonoperatively managed scaphoid fractures (n = 5). Surgery was performed at a mean duration of 27 months (7 to 120) following injury with arthroscopic debridement and arthroscopic iliac crest autograft. Fracture fixation was performed percutaneously with Kirschner (K)-wires in 12 wrists, a headless screw in six, and a combination of a headless screw and single K-wire in two. Clinical outcomes were assessed using grip strength, patient-reported outcome measures, and wrist range of motion (ROM) measurements. Results. Intraoperatively, established avascular necrosis of the proximal fragment was identified in ten scaphoids. All fractures united within 16 weeks, confirmed by CT. At a mean follow-up of 31 months (12 to 64), there were significant improvements in the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation, Mayo Wrist Score, abbreviated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, wrist ROM, grip strength, and the patients’ subjective pain score. No peri- or postoperative complications were encountered. Conclusion. Our data indicate that arthroscopic bone grafting and fixation with cancellous autograft is a viable method in the treatment of proximal third scaphoid nonunions, regardless of the vascularity of the proximal fragment. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(8):946–952

4 years of follow-up study on 27 patients who had biological reverse total shoulder replacement 12 patients who had Bio-RSA by using Tonier Aequalis reversed implants with bone graft extracted from the head of humerus before humeral shaft was prepared. The average age of this group of patients is 77. The average pre-operative shoulder abduction on the affected side is 52 degrees and forward flexion of 90 degrees. Indication for surgery in all those cases are due to cuff tear. The average post-operative abduction is 90 degrees and forward flexion of 97 degrees. The average follow-up period is 9 months with a range from 4 to 18 months. Two patients from this group failed to make an improvement in the range of their shoulder movements post-operatively. 15 underwent Bio-RSA by using Delta XTEND reverse shoulder system without bone graft. The average age of this group of patients is 73. The average pre-operative shoulder abduction is 35 degrees and forward flexion of 37 degrees. Indication for surgery again in most of the cases is due to cuff tear, except one case was due to proximal humeral fracture. The average post-operative abduction is 96 degrees and forward flexion of 101 degrees. The average follow-up period is 19 months with a range of 4–42 months. Only one patient failed to make an improvement post-operatively. This is the patient who had Bio-RSA due to a proximal humeral fracture. 6 patients out of this group also had previous resurfacing which has failed in comparison to the bone graft group which none had previous resurfacing surgery. Conclusion. Overall, the average post-operative range of movements in both groups is not very significant different. Bio-RSA without bone graft seems to make a larger improvement when compared with per-operative range of motion. Howver, whether a much longer follow-up period and younger patients have an impact on the outcome is debatable

Aims. Rates of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) continue to grow. Glenoid bone loss and deformity remains a technical challenge to the surgeon and may reduce improvements in patients’ outcomes. However, there is no consensus as to the optimal surgical technique to best reconstruct these patients’ anatomy. This review aims to compare the outcomes of glenoid bone grafting versus augmented glenoid prostheses in the management of glenoid bone loss in primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Methods. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated study-level data in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. We performed searches of Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), and PubMed from their dates of inception to January 2022. From included studies, we analyzed data for preoperative and postoperative range of motion (ROM), patient-reported functional outcomes, and complication rates. Results. A total of 13 studies (919 shoulders) were included in the analysis. The mean age of patients at initial evaluation was 72.2 years (42 to 87), with a mean follow-up time of 40.7 months (24 to 120). Nine studies with 292 rTSAs evaluated the use of bone graft and five studies with 627 rTSAs evaluated the use of augmented glenoid baseplates. One study was analyzed in both groups. Both techniques demonstrated improvement in patient-reported outcome measures and ROM assessment, with augmented prostheses outperforming bone grafting on improvements in the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score. There was a higher complication rate (8.9% vs 3.5%; p < 0.001) and revision rate among the bone grafting group compared with the patients who were treated with augmented prostheses (2.4% vs 0.6%; p = 0.022). Conclusion. This review provides strong evidence that both bone graft and augmented glenoid baseplate techniques to address glenoid bone loss give excellent ROM and functional outcomes in primary rTSA. The use of augmented base plates may confer fewer complications and revisions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(12):1334–1342

Aims. Large acetabular bone defects encountered in revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) are challenging to restore. Metal constructs for structural support are combined with bone graft materials for restoration. Autograft is restricted due to limited volume, and allogenic grafts have downsides including cost, availability, and operative processing. Bone graft substitutes (BGS) are an attractive alternative if they can demonstrate positive remodelling. One potential product is a biphasic injectable mixture (Cerament) that combines a fast-resorbing material (calcium sulphate) with the highly osteoconductive material hydroxyapatite. This study reviews the application of this biomaterial in large acetabular defects. Methods. We performed a retrospective review at a single institution of patients undergoing revision THA by a single surgeon. We identified 49 consecutive patients with large acetabular defects where the biphasic BGS was applied, with no other products added to the BGS. After placement of metallic acetabular implants, the BGS was injected into the remaining bone defects surrounding the new implants. Patients were followed and monitored for functional outcome scores, implant fixation, radiological graft site remodelling, and revision failures. Results. Mean follow-up was 39.5 months (36 to 71), with a significant improvement in post-revision function compared to preoperative function. Graft site remodelling was rated radiologically as moderate in 31 hips (63%) and strong in 12 hips (24%). There were no cases of complete graft site dissolution. No acetabular loosening was identified. None of the patients developed clinically significant heterotopic ossification. There were twelve reoperations: six patients developed post-revision infections, three experienced dislocations, two sustained periprosthetic femur fractures, and one subject had femoral component aseptic loosening. Conclusion. Our series reports bone defect restoration with the sole use of a biphasic injectable BGS in the periacetabular region. We did not observe significant graft dissolution. We emphasize that successful graft site remodelling requires meticulous recipient site preparation. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(12):991–997

Objective. To determine differences in fracture stability and functional outcome between synthetic bone graft and allograft/autograft with internal fixation of tibia plateau metaphyseal defects. Patient & Methods. Between 2007- 2008, 84 consecutive cases of internal fixation of tibia plateaux were identified from our theater logbook. 29 patients required additional autologous, allogenic bone graft, or synthetic bone graft substitute to ensure fracture stability. 5 patients were excluded due to lost to follow up leaving a cohort of 24 patients. Hydroxyapatite calcium carbonate synthetic bone graft was utilised in 14 patients (6 male and 8 female). Allograft/autograft were utilised in the remaining 10 patients (6 male and 4 female). All 24 patients had closed fractures, classified using the AO and Schatzker classification. Roentograms at presentation, post-operatively and regular follow-up till 12 months were analysed for maintenance of reduction, early and late subsidence of the articular surface. Functional outcomes such as knee range of movement and WOMAC Knee scores were compared between groups. Results. There was no significant statistical difference between groups for post-operative joint reduction, long term subsidence, and WOMAC scores. The degree of subsidence was not related to age or fracture severity. Maintenance of knee flexion was found to be better in the allograft/autograft group (p=0.015) when compared between groups. Multivariate analysis compared graft type, fracture severity, postoperative reduction, subsidence rate, range of movement and WOMAC score. The only finding was a statistical significant (p=0.025) association with the graft type and range of movement. Conclusion. Allograft/autograft may allow better recovery of long-term flexion, possibly due to reduced inflammatory response compared with synthetic bone graft. However, all other parameters such as maintenance of joint reduction and subjective outcome measures were comparable with the use of hydroxyapatite calcium carbonate bone graft. This study shows that synthetic bone graft is a suitable option in fixation of unstable tibia plateau fractures, avoiding risk of viral disease transmission with allograft and donor site morbidity associated with autograft

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to analyse the efficacy and complications associated with the use of Calcium Sulphate synthetic bone graft in a paediatric population. There are no published articles on the use in children. Materials & Methods. A retrospective review was undertaken of the notes, microbiology, and X-Rays of 17 cases (in 15 patients) of calcium sulphate use in paediatric patients. As well as patient demographic data, data collected included indication, use of additional agents (antibiotics), return to theatre, and wound complications. Major complications were also assessed for. Results. There were 17 cases, in 15 patients, in our case series where calcium sulphate synthetic bone graft was used. The average patient age was 12.0 years (range 5 years – 17 years). Indications for use included likely infection (12), possible infection (3), and 2 elective finger cases (enchondroma and osteotomy). The humerus was the most common target site (5), followed by the femur (4), tibia (3), calcaneum (2), finger (2) and metatarsal (1) also included. There were positive intra-operative microbiology samples for eleven cases (Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis). Antibiotics were used in all cases except the elective finger surgery, and choice ranged between vancomycin, gentamicin, or a combination of both. Two patients required return to theatre for management of ongoing deep infection, although one case was later deemed to be non-infective osteomyelitis. Seven patients had undergone debridements prior to the definitive one with calcium sulphate (5 without Calcium Sulphate, 2 with Calcium Sulphate). Three patients experienced wound issues in the form of discharge/leakage, all were managed with dressings and did not require return to theatre. Conclusions. Calcium Sulphate synthetic bone graft, with addition of antibiotics, is an efficacious treatment in the paediatric population and is not associated with any major complications. Wound discharge should be observed for, and patients/parents warned about this, but only as per the adult population

Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and characteristics of instrumentation failure (IF) after total en bloc spondylectomy (TES), and to analyze risk factors for IF. Methods. The medical records from 136 patients (65 male, 71 female) with a mean age of 52.7 years (14 to 80) who underwent TES were retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up period was 101 months (36 to 232). Analyzed factors included incidence of IF, age, sex, BMI, history of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, tumour histology (primary or metastasis; benign or malignant), surgical approach (posterior or combined), tumour location (thoracic or lumbar; junctional or non-junctional), number of resected vertebrae (single or multilevel), anterior resection line (disc-to-disc or intravertebra), type of bone graft (autograft or frozen autograft), cage subsidence (CS), and local alignment (LA). A survival analysis of the instrumentation was performed, and relationships between IF and other factors were investigated using the Cox regression model. Results. A total of 44 patients (32.4%) developed IF at a median of 31 months (interquartile range 23 to 74) following TES. Most IFs were rod fractures preceded by a mean CS of 6.1 mm (2 to 18) and LA kyphotic enhancement of 10.8° (-1 to 36). IF-free survival rates were 75.8% at five years and 56.9% at ten years. The interval from TES to IF peaked at two to three years postoperatively and continued to occur over a period of time thereafter; the early IF-developing group had greater CS at one month postoperatively (CS1M) and more lumbar TES. CS1M ≥ 3 mm and sole use of frozen autografts were identified as independent risk factors for IF. Conclusion. IF is a common complication following TES. We have demonstrated that robust spinal reconstruction preventing CS, and high-quality bone grafting are necessary for successful reconstruction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(2):172–179

The continual cycle of bone formation and resorption is carried out by osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts under the direction of the bone-signaling pathway. In certain situations the host cycle of bone repair is insufficient and requires the assistance of bone grafts and their substitutes. The fundamental properties of a bone graft are osteoconduction, osteoinduction, osteogenesis, and structural support. Options for bone grafting include autogenous and allograft bone and the various isolated or combined substitutes of calcium sulphate, calcium phosphate, tricalcium phosphate, and coralline hydroxyapatite. Not all bone grafts will have the same properties. As a result, understanding the requirements of the clinical situation and specific properties of the various types of bone grafts is necessary to identify the ideal graft. We present a review of the bone repair process and properties of bone grafts and their substitutes to help guide the clinician in the decision making process. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):6–9

Problems associated with allograft are well known. The addition of hydroxyapatite (HA) to allograft has various mechanical advantages, especially within revision arthroplasty. The mixing of bone and HA results in mechanical properties different from the individual parts. However, at present the changes in material properties the mix have not been fully investigated and the optimum mixing ratio not characterized. A compressive uniaxial chamber was used to investigate the change in mechanical properties occurring with the addition of HA in varying proportions to morcellised bone graft (MBG). Materials and methods. MBG was prepared using femoral heads donated from patients undergoing total hip replacement surgery using a bone mill in a standard manner. Non porous HA (npHA) was prepared using a precipitation method of Calcium Carbonate and Orthophosphoric acid. The porous HA, (pHA) is a 60% macroporosity HA commercially prepared. Chamber. The uniaxial compression chamber was a 30mm diameter, steel chamber. Holes were drilled to allow fluid drainage. Loads were applied using a 10 kN load cell. Specimens were prepared in the volumetric proportions pure HA, pure MBG, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2 ratio of MBG to HA. The samples were subjected to compressive forces of incrementally increasing loads of up to 2 KN for 60 cycles. The sample was then allowed to creep under a stress of 2 kN. MBG was also tested up to forces of 7 kN. The mechanical parameters that were examined were the stiffness of the sample at the 60th cycle, (Ec60), and creep. Statistical analysis. The different bone: HA mixes were compared by Mann Whitney U tests. The parameters analysed were the Ec60 and creep for the different mixes. All samples were also compared to MBG compacted with higher forces. Results. Apparent stiffness. The Ec60 of the MBG increased with increasing axial stress. The Ec60 of the different proportions of MBG and both npHA and pHA lay between the values of the MBG and HA individually and were significantly different from one another (p<0.05). MBG:npHA were significantly stiffer than the comparative mixes of MBG:pHA. (p<0.05). Creep rate. With increasing axial stress the creep rate for pure MBG decreased up to a precycling stress of 4 MPa. Subsequent increases in stress had no significant effect. Pure npHA and all of the mixes of MBG:npHA demonstrated significantly less creep than the comparable mixes of MBG:pHA (p=0.01). Applicability of results. The increase in apparent stiffness associated with an increase in the volume fraction of HA is accompanied by a concomitant decrease in the creep rate. Comparison of the mechanical response of the MBG at the high precycling stresses (4 - 7 MPa) to the mechanical response of the MBG:HA mixes at 3 MPa demonstrated an overlap in the mechanical response of the pure MBG at high stress and both the MBG:npHA and MBG: pHA mixes. Conclusions. Greater proportions of HA in the mix led to improvement in the mechanical response without the need for increased force of impaction. These improvements can be quantified by using a uniaxial compression test. The results raise the interesting possibility of tailoring bone graft mixtures to specific patient requirements dependent upon their weight and the quality of their bone stock

Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) with a characteristic needle-shaped submicron surface topography (MagnetOs) has attracted much attention due to its unique bone-forming ability which is essential for repairing critical-size bone defects such as those found in the posterolateral spine. Previous in vitro and ex-vivo data performed by van Dijk LA and Yuan H demonstrated that these specific surface characteristics drive a favorable response from the innate immune system. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the in vivo performance of three commercially-available synthetic bone grafts, (1) i-FACTOR Putty. ®. , (2) OssDsign. ®. Catalyst Putty and (3) FIBERGRAFT. ®. BG Matrix, with that of a novel synthetic bone graft in a clinically-relevant instrumented sheep posterolateral lumbar spine fusion (PLF) model. The novel synthetic bone graft comprised of BCP granules with a needle-shaped submicron surface topography (MagnetOs) embedded in a highly porous and fibrillar collagen matrix (MagnetOs Flex Matrix). Four synthetic bone grafts were implanted as standalone in an instrumented sheep PLF model for 12 weeks (n=3 bilateral levels per group; levels L2/3 & L4/5), after which spinal fusion was determined by manual palpation, radiograph and µCT imaging (based on the Lenke scale), range-of-motion mechanical testing, and histological and histomorphological evaluation. Radiographic fusion assessment determined bilateral robust bone bridging (Lenke scale A) in 3/3 levels for MagnetOs Flex Matrix compared to 1/3 for all other groups. For µCT, bilateral fusion (Lenke scale A) was found in 2/3 levels for MagnetOs Flex Matrix, compared to 0/3 for i-FACTOR Putty. ®. , 1/3 for OssDsign. ®. Catalyst Putty and 0/3 for FIBERGRAFT. ®. BG Matrix. Fusion assessment for MagnetOs Flex Matrix was further substantiated by histology which revealed significant graft resorption complemented by abundant bone tissue and continuous bony bridging between vertebral transverse processes resulting in bilateral spinal fusion in 3/3 implants. These results show that MagnetOs Flex Matrix achieved better fusion rates compared to three commercially-available synthetic bone grafts when used as a standalone in a clinically-relevant instrumented sheep PLF model

Aims. The aim of the present study was to assess the outcomes of the induced membrane technique (IMT) for the management of infected segmental bone defects, and to analyze predictive factors associated with unfavourable outcomes. Methods. Between May 2012 and December 2020, 203 patients with infected segmental bone defects treated with the IMT were enrolled. The digital medical records of these patients were retrospectively analyzed. Factors associated with unfavourable outcomes were identified through logistic regression analysis. Results. Among the 203 enrolled patients, infection recurred in 27 patients (13.3%) after bone grafting. The union rate was 75.9% (154 patients) after second-stage surgery without additional procedures, and final union was achieved in 173 patients (85.2%) after second-stage surgery with or without additional procedures. The mean healing time was 9.3 months (3 to 37). Multivariate logistic regression analysis of 203 patients showed that the number (≥ two) of debridements (first stage) was an independent risk factor for infection recurrence and nonunion. Larger defect sizes were associated with higher odds of nonunion. After excluding 27 patients with infection recurrence, multivariate analysis of the remaining 176 patients suggested that intramedullary nail plus plate internal fixation, smoking, and an allograft-to-autograft ratio exceeding 1:3 adversely affected healing time. Conclusion. The IMT is an effective method to achieve infection eradication and union in the management of infected segmental bone defects. Our study identified several risk factors associated with unfavourable outcomes. Some of these factors are modifiable, and the risk of adverse outcomes can be reduced by adopting targeted interventions or strategies. Surgeons can fully inform patients with non-modifiable risk factors preoperatively, and may even use other methods for bone defect reconstruction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(6):613–622

Aims. The epiphyseal approach to a chondroblastoma of the intercondylar notch of a child’s distal femur does not provide adequate exposure, thereby necessitating the removal of a substantial amount of unaffected bone to expose the lesion. In this study, we compared the functional outcomes, local recurrence, and surgical complications of treating a chondroblastoma of the distal femoral epiphysis by either an intercondylar or an epiphyseal approach. Methods. A total of 30 children with a chondroblastoma of the distal femur who had been treated by intraregional curettage and bone grafting were retrospectively reviewed. An intercondylar approach was used in 16 patients (group A) and an epiphyseal approach in 14 (group B). Limb function was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scoring system and Sailhan’s functional criteria. Results. At final follow-up, the mean MSTS score was 29.1 (SD 0.9) in group A and 26.7 (SD 1.5) in group B (p = 0.006). According to Sailhan’s criteria, the knee function was good and fair in 14 (87.5%) and two (12.5%) patients of group A, and eight (57.1%) and six (42.9%) patients of group B, respectively (p = 0.062). The lesion had recurred in one patient (6.2%) in group A and four patients (28.6%) in group B. Limb shortening > 1 cm was recorded in one patient (6.2%) from group A and six patients (42.8%) from group B. Joint degeneration was noted in one patient from group A and three patients from group B. Conclusion. An intercondylar approach to a chondroblastoma of the middle two-quarters of the distal femoral epiphysis results in better outcomes than a medial or lateral epiphyseal approach: specifically, better limb function, a lower rate of recurrence, and a lower rate of physeal damage and joint degeneration. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(2):195–202

Aims. Glenoid bone loss is a significant problem in the management of shoulder instability. The threshold at which the bone loss is considered “critical” requiring bony reconstruction has steadily dropped and is now approximately 15%. This necessitates accurate measurement in order that the correct operation is performed. CT scanning is the most commonly used modality and there are a number of techniques described to measure the bone loss however few have been validated. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of the most commonly used techniques for measuring glenoid bone loss on CT. Methods. Anatomically accurate models with known glenoid diameter and degree of bone loss were used to determine the mathematical and statistical accuracy of six of the most commonly described techniques (relative diameter, linear ipsilateral circle of best fit (COBF), linear contralateral COBF, Pico, Sugaya, and circle line methods). The models were prepared at 13.8%, 17.6%, and 22.9% bone loss. Sequential CT scans were taken and randomized. Blinded reviewers made repeated measurements using the different techniques with a threshold for theoretical bone grafting set at 15%. Results. At 13.8%, only the Pico technique measured under the threshold. At 17.6% and 22.9% bone loss all techniques measured above the threshold. The Pico technique was 97.1% accurate, but had a high false-negative rate and poor sensitivity underestimating the need for grafting. The Sugaya technique had 100% specificity but 25% of the measurements were incorrectly above the threshold. A contralateral COBF underestimates the area by 16% and the diameter by 5 to 7%. Conclusion. No one method stands out as being truly accurate and clinicians need to be aware of the limitations of their chosen technique. They are not interchangeable, and caution must be used when reading the literature as comparisons are not reliable. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(7):478–489

Aims. Bone stock restoration of acetabular bone defects using impaction bone grafting (IBG) in total hip arthroplasty may facilitate future re-revision in the event of failure of the reconstruction. We hypothesized that the acetabular bone defect during re-revision surgery after IBG was smaller than during the previous revision surgery. The clinical and radiological results of re-revisions with repeated use of IBG were also analyzed. Methods. In a series of 382 acetabular revisions using IBG and a cemented component, 45 hips (45 patients) that had failed due to aseptic loosening were re-revised between 1992 and 2016. Acetabular bone defects graded according to Paprosky during the first and the re-revision surgery were compared. Clinical and radiological findings were analyzed over time. Survival analysis was performed using a competing risk analysis. Results. Intraoperative bone defect during the initial revision included 19 Paprosky type IIIA and 29 Paprosky type IIIB hips; at re-revision, seven hips were Paprosky type II, 27 type IIIA and 11 were type IIIB (p = 0.020). The mean preoperative Harris Hip Score was 45.4 (SD 6.4), becoming 80.7 (SD 12.7) at the final follow-up. In all, 12 hips showed radiological migration of the acetabular component, and three required further revision surgery. The nine-year cumulative failure incidence (nine patients at risk) of the acetabular component for further revision surgery was 9.6% (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.9 to 21.0) for any cause, and 7.5% (95% CI 1.9 to 18.5) for aseptic loosening. Hips with a greater hip height had a higher risk for radiological migration (odds ratio 1.09, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.17; p = 0.008). Conclusion. Bone stock restoration can be obtained using IBG in revision hip surgery. This technique is also useful in re-revision surgery; however, a better surgical technique including a closer distance to hip rotation centre could decrease the risk of radiological migration of the acetabular component. A longer follow-up is required to assess potential fixation deterioration. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(3):492–499

Aims. The aim of this study is to report the long-term outcomes of instrumented femoral revisions with impaction allograft bone grafting (IBG) using the X-change femoral revision system at 30 years after introduction of the technique. Methods. We updated the outcomes of our previous study, based on 208 consecutive revisions using IBG and the X-change femoral revision system in combination with a cemented polished stem, performed in our tertiary care institute between 1991 and 2007. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were used to determine the survival rate of the revisions with endpoint revision for any reason and aseptic loosening. Secondary outcomes were radiological loosening and patient-reported outcome measures. Results. Mean age at revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) was 64.9 years (30 to 86). The most prevalent diagnosis for the femoral revision was aseptic loosening. At review in May 2021, 81 patients (85 hips) were still alive and 118 patients (120 hips; 58%) had died. Three patients (3 hips; 1%) were lost to follow-up at 11, 15, and 16 years after surgery, respectively. Data of all deceased and lost patients were included until final follow-up. The mean follow-up was 13.4 years (0 to 28). During the follow-up, 22 re-revisions were performed. The most common reason for re-revision was infection (n = 12; 54%). The survival with endpoint re-revision for any reason was 86% (95% confidence interval (CI) 79 to 91) at 20 years and 74% (95% CI 43 to 89) at 25 years after surgery. The survival for endpoint re-revision for aseptic loosening was 97% (95% CI 91 to 99) after both 20 and 25 years. Conclusion. We conclude that femoral IBG is a valuable technique that can reconstitute femoral bone loss in the long term. After 25 years of follow-up, few re-revisions for aseptic loosening were required. Also, the overall revision rate is very acceptable at a long follow-up. This technique is especially attractive for younger patients facing femoral revisions with extensive bone loss. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(9):1039–1046

Aims. To evaluate whether low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) accelerates bone healing at osteotomy sites and promotes functional recovery after open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO). Methods. Overall, 90 patients who underwent OWHTO without bone grafting were enrolled in this nonrandomized retrospective study, and 45 patients treated with LIPUS were compared with 45 patients without LIPUS treatment in terms of bone healing and functional recovery postoperatively. Clinical evaluations, including the pain visual analogue scale (VAS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, were performed preoperatively as well as six weeks and three, six, and 12 months postoperatively. The progression rate of gap filling was evaluated using anteroposterior radiographs at six weeks and three, six, and 12 months postoperatively. Results. The pain VAS and JOA scores significantly improved after OWHTO in both groups. Although the LIPUS group had better pain scores at six weeks and three months postoperatively, there were no significant differences in JOA score between the groups. The lateral hinge united at six weeks postoperatively in 34 (75.6%) knees in the control group and in 33 (73.3%) knees in the LIPUS group. The progression rates of gap filling in the LIPUS group were 8.0%, 15.0%, 27.2%, and 46.0% at six weeks and three, six, and 12 months postoperatively, respectively, whereas in the control group at the same time points they were 7.7%, 15.2%, 26.3%, and 44.0%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the progression rate of gap filling between the groups. Conclusion. The present study demonstrated that LIPUS did not promote bone healing and functional recovery after OWHTO with a locking plate. The routine use of LIPUS after OWHTO was not recommended from the results of our study. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(11):885–893

Aims. The underlying natural history of suspected scaphoid fractures (SSFs) is unclear and assumed poor. There is an urgent requirement to develop the literature around SSFs to quantify the actual prevalence of intervention following SSF. Defining the risk of intervention following SSF may influence the need for widespread surveillance and screening of SSF injuries, and could influence medicolegal actions around missed scaphoid fractures. Methods. Data on SSF were retrospectively gathered from virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) across a large Scottish Health Board over a four-year period, from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021. The Bluespier Electronic Patient Record System identified any surgical procedure being undertaken in relation to a scaphoid injury over the same time period. Isolating patients who underwent surgical intervention for SSF was performed by cross-referencing the unique patient Community Health Index number for patients who underwent these scaphoid procedures with those seen at VFCs for SSF over this four-year period. Results. In total, 1,739 patients were identified as having had a SSF. Five patients (0.28%) underwent early open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). One patient (0.06%) developed a nonunion and underwent ORIF with bone grafting. All six patients undergoing surgery were male (p = 0.005). The overall rate of intervention following a SSF was 0.35%. The early intervention rate in those undergoing primary MRI was one (0.36%), compared with three in those without (0.27%) (p > 0.576). Conclusion. Surgical intervention was rare following a SSF and was not required in females. A primary MRI policy did not appear to be associated with any change in primary or secondary intervention. These data are the first and largest in recent literature to quantify the prevalence of surgical intervention following a SSF, and may be used to guide surveillance and screening pathways as well as define medicolegal risk involved in missing a true fracture in SSFs. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(4):312–316

Aims. The Vantage Total Ankle System is a fourth-generation low-profile fixed-bearing implant that has been available since 2016. We aimed to describe our early experience with this implant. Methods. This is a single-centre retrospective review of patients who underwent primary total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) with a Vantage implant between November 2017 and February 2020, with a minimum of two years’ follow-up. Four surgeons contributed patients. The primary outcome was reoperation and revision rate of the Vantage implant at two years. Secondary outcomes included radiological alignment, peri-implant complications, and pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcomes. Results. There were 168 patients (171 ankles) included with a mean follow-up of 2.81 years (2 to 4.6) and mean age of 63.0 years (SD 9.4). Of the ten ankles with implant failure (5.8%), six had loosening of the tibial component. In the remaining four failed implants, one was due to periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), one was due to loosening of the talar component, and two were due to loosening of both the tibial and talar components. Seven patients underwent reoperation: irrigation and debridement for superficial infection (n = 4); bone grafting for cysts (n = 2); and open reduction internal fixation (n = 1). Asymptomatic peri-implant lucency/subsidence occurred in 20.1% of ankles, with the majority involving the tibial component (n = 25). There were statistically significant improvements in PROMs in all domains. Conclusion. Short-term results of this implant demonstrate early survival comparable to the reported survivorship of similar low-profile, non-stemmed implants. Radiological lucency occurred more commonly at the tibial component, and revisions occurred primarily due to loosening of the tibial component. Further research is needed to evaluate longer-term survivorship. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(10):1099–1107

Bone defects require implantable graft substitutes, especially porous and biodegradable biomaterial for tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to fabricate and assess a 3D-printed biodegradable hydroxyapatite/calcium carbonate scaffold for bone regeneration. Materials and methods:. A 3D-printed biodegradable biomaterial containing calcium phosphate and aragonite (calcium carbonate) was fabricated using a Bioplotter. The physicochemical properties of the material were characterised. The materials were assessed in vitro for cytotoxicity and ostegenic potential and in vivo in rat intercondylar Φ3mm bone defect model for 3 months and Φ5mm of mini pig femoral bone defects for 6 months. The results showed that the materials contained hydroxyapatite and calcium carbonate, with the compression strength of 2.49± 0.2 MPa, pore size of 300.00 ± 41mm, and porosity of 40.±3%. The hydroxyapatite/aragonite was not cytotoxic and it promoted osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord matrix mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. After implantation, the bone defects were healed in the treatment group whereas the defect of controlled group with gelatin sponge implantation remained non-union. hydroxyapatite/aragonite fully integrated with host bone tissue and bridged the defects in 2 months, and significant biodegradation was followed by host new bone formation. After implantation into Φ5mm femoral defects in mini pigs hydroxyapatite/aragonite were completed degraded in 6 months and fully replaced by host bone formation, which matched the healing and degradation of porcine allogenic bone graft. In conclusion, hydroxyapatite/aragonite is a suitable new scaffold for bone regeneration. The calcium carbonate in the materials may have played an important role in osteogenesis and material biodegradation

Cervical and lumbar spine fusion procedures are increasing every year. Nonetheless, these procedures are associated with high infection rates, resulting in additional cost burden. The conundrum of achieving efficient spinal fusions with minimum complications requires an ideal bone graft with osteoconductive, osteoinductive, osteogenic and structural characteristics. Synthetic bone graft substitutes with or without autograft, allograft or synthetic bone substitutes have been commonly used for fusion procedures. We carried out a meta-analysis of comparative studies and prospective case series (n = 29) with cervical and lumbar fusion procedures using synthetic bone graft substitutes, autograft or allograft and other biologics. Synthetic bone graft substitutes analysed included HA (Hydroxyapatite), β-TPC (Tri Calcium Phosphate), β-TSC (Tri Calcium Sulfate), PMMA (Polymethylmetacrylate), Surgibone, BOP (Biocompatible Osteoconductive Polymer). The analysis revealed suboptimal evidence for the efficacy and safety of synthetic products used in spinal fusion procedures. Further studies are needed to determine beneficial effects of synthetic substitutes. However, the infection rate could be highly decreased with surface and composition modification of widely used polyether ether ketone (PEEK) implants. Laser modification of surface characteristics and collagen fleeces with micro and nano pore structures can prove to be excellent surface for increased osteoblasts cell proliferation and vitality

Post-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a major complication of femoral neck fractures that require numerous solutions. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) incorporated autologous granular bones graft for the treatment of pre-collapse stages (ARCO stage II-III) of post-traumatic ONFH. A total of 46 patients were eligible and enrolled into the study. 24 patients were treated with core decompression and PRP incorporated autologous granular bones graft (treatment group: 9 females and 15 males, age range, 16–39 years), and 22 patients with core decompression and autologous granular bones graft (control group: 6 females and 16 males, age range, 18–42 years. During a minimum duration of follow-up of 36 months, multiple imaging techniques including X-ray and computed tomography (CT) scanning were used to evaluate the radiological results, and Harris hip score (HHS) and the visual analogue scale (VAS) were chosen to assess the clinical results. Both treatment group and control group had a significant improved HHS (P < 0.001). The minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for HHS was reached in 91.7% of treatment group and 68.2% of control group (P = 0.0449). HHS in treatment group was significantly higher than control group at the last follow-up (P = 0.0254). VAS score was significantly declined in treatment group when compared with control group (P = 0.0125). Successful clinical results were achieved in 21 of 24 patients (87.5%) in treatment group compared with 13 of 22 patients (59.1%) in control group (P = 0.0284). Successful radiological results were achieved in 19 of 24 patients (79.2%) in treatment group compared with 11 of 22 patients (50%) in control group (P = 0.0380). The survival rates using requirement for further hip surgery as an endpoint were higher in treatment group in comparison to control group (P = 0.0260). The PRP incorporated autologous granular bones graft is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of pre-collapse stages (ARCO stage II-III) of post-traumatic ONFH

Abstract. Background. Scaphoid non-union can result in pain, altered wrist kinematics leading to a Scaphoid Non-union Advance Collapse, ultimately to symptomatic radio-carpal arthritis. Open techniques have their limitations. We describe the rationale, surgical technique and outcomes of our series of arthroscopic bone-grafting (ABG) and fixation of scaphoid non-union. Methods. We performed a prospective single-surgeon series of 22 consecutive patients with clinico-radiologically established scaphoid non-union between March 2015 and April 2019. Data was collected from Electronic Patient Records, Patient Archived Computer system (PACS) and hand therapy assessments. We collected demographic data including age, hand-dominance, occupation and mechanism of injury. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (Quick DASH), Mayo wrist score, Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and grip-strength measurements were collected preoperatively and at follow-up appointments. Results. There was an improvement in all outcome measures when comparing preoperative and postoperative results. The Quick DASH score improved by a mean of 24 points, Mayo wrist and PRWE scores improved by 15.1 and 29.7 points, respectively. Grip-strength analysis also improved by 6.1 kgf (Right) and 3.3kgf (Left). Follow-up computerised tomography scans revealed union in 18/22 patients with 2 patients lost to follow-up. One patient required revision ABG procedure to achieve union. Conclusion. Arthroscopic bone grafting and fixation of scaphoid non-union allows a minimally invasive method of managing these injuries. It has advantages of minimal morbidity and accurate articular reduction resulting in less postoperative stiffness and increased functional outcomes. It is an effective alternative to conventional open treatment of established scaphoid non-union

Nonunion of the tibia associated with bone loss, previous infection, obliteration of the intramedullary canal or located in the distal metaphysis poses a challenge to the surgeon and significant morbidity to patients. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 24 patients who were treated by central bone grafting and compared them to those of 20 who were treated with a traditional posterolateral graft. Central bone grafting entails a lateral approach, anterior to the fibula and interosseous membrane which is used to create a central space filled with cancellous iliac crest autograft. Upon consolidation, a tibiofibular synostosis is formed that is strong enough for weight-bearing. This procedure has advantages over other methods of treatment for selected nonunions. Of the 24 patients with central bone grafting, 23 went on to radiographic and clinical union without further intervention. All healed within a mean of 20 weeks (10 to 48). No further bone grafts were required, and few complications were encountered. These results were comparable to those of the 20 patients who underwent posterolateral bone grafting who united at a mean of 31.3 weeks (16 to 60) but one of whom required below-knee amputation for intractable sepsis. Central bone grafting is a safe and effective treatment for difficult nonunions of the tibia

Purpose. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and radiological result of the usage of chip bone graft in non-contained type bone defect in primary or revision total knee arthroplasty patients. Subjects and Methods. We investigated 32 patients who had underwent primary or revision total knee arthroplasty from March, 2014 to February, 2017 in our hospital, who had non-contained type of defect. The mean age was 73.1 years. 5 of them were males, while 27 of them were females. 7 of them were primary total knee arthroplasty patients, while 25 of them were revision patients. 8 of them had chip bone graft used both in the femur and tibia. 9 of them had chip bone graft used only in the tibia. The other 15 had chip bone graft used only in the femur. Wire-mesh was used in the 9 patients who had chip bone graft used only in the medial side of the tibia. We used KOOS (Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score), HSS (Hospital for Special Surgery knee service rating system) and WOMAC scores to assess the clinical result, before the surgery and at the last follow-up. In addition, we had follow-up x-rays and 3D CT done for the patients to check the mean bone union period. In addition, overall radiologic imaging studies were used for complications such as loosening, osteolysis and lesions with radiolucency. Result. The Mean follow-up period was 2.7 years (range; 2.1 to 5). The Mean preoperative KOOS was 102.8 (range; 47 to 132), while it became 31.8 postoperatively (range; 20 to 45). The mean HSS was 13.1 (range; 6 to 35), while it became 35.9 postoperatively (range; 24 to 64). The mean WOMAC was 82.9 (range; 62 to 92), while it became 22.5 postoperatively (range; 13 to 30). According to follow-up x-ray and CT, the mean bone union period was 10.6 months (range: 10 to 13). In follow-up 3D CT of all cases, we could check cortical healing and new bone formation, seen as medium to high-attenuating conglomerate. The graft-host junction showed trabecular ingrowth, while the medullary canal showed fibrous ingrowth. Radiologically, there was no complication such as loosening, osteolysis, migration and radiolucent lines around the stems or cement mantles. In addition, there was no complication such as infection. Conclusion. Chip bone graft is not a commonly used method for bone defect in total knee arthroplasty. According to the result of the usage of chip bone graft in primary or revision total knee arthroplasty with non-contained type of bone defect, it showed favorable result for the subject patients. Therefore, we can consider it as one of the effective methods to manage non-contained bone defect in knee arthroplasty. Keywords. Revision TKA, chip bone graft, wire-mesh, non-contained bone defect. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Aims. Femoral impaction bone grafting was first developed in 1987 using morselised cancellous bone graft impacted into the femoral canal in combination with a cemented, tapered, polished stem. We describe the evolution of this technique and instrumentation since that time. . Patients and Methods. Between 1987 and 2005, 705 revision total hip arthroplasties (56 bilateral) were performed with femoral impaction grafting using a cemented femoral stem. All surviving patients were prospectively followed for a mean of 14.7 years (9.8 to 28.3) with no loss to follow-up. By the time of the final review, 404 patients had died. Results. There were 76 further revisions (10.8%) involving the stem; seven for aseptic loosening, 23 for periprosthetic fracture, 24 for infection, one for malposition, one for fracture of the stem and 19 cement-in-cement exchanges of the stem during acetabular revision. The 20-year survival rate for the entire series was 98.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 97.8 to 99.8) with aseptic loosening as the endpoint, and 87.7% (95% CI 82.8 to 92.6) for revision for any reason. Survival improved with the evolution of the technique, although this was not statistically significant due to the overall low rate of further revision. Conclusion. This is the largest series of revision total hip arthroplasties with femoral impaction grafting, and the results support the continued use of this technique. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1611–19

Our aim was to evaluate the results of triple arthrodesis, performed without the use of supplementary bone graft. We carried out a retrospective review of 100 consecutive triple arthrodeses. All the operations had been performed by the senior author (TSS) using a standard technique. Only local bone graft from the excised joint surfaces had been used, thereby avoiding complications at the donor site. The mean age of the patients at surgery was 58 years (18 to 84). The mean time to union was 5.1 months (3 to 17). There were 75 good, 20 fair and five poor results. There were four cases of nonunion. Our study has shown that comparable rates of union are achieved without the need for supplementary bone graft from the iliac crest or other donor site

Aim. Bone and implant-associated infections caused by microorganisms that grow in biofilm are difficult to treat because of persistence and recurrence. Systemic administration of antibiotics is often inefficient because the poor vascularization of the site of infection. This issue has led to the development of biomaterials capable to locally deliver high doses of therapeutic agents to the injured bone with minimal systemic effects. In this context, calcium sulphate/hydroxyapatite (CS/HA) bone graft substitutes are widely used being safe, osteoconductive and resorbable biomaterials that can be easily enriched with consistent amounts of antibiotics. In this in vitro study, the capability of the eluted antibiotics to select the tested bacterial strains for antibiotic resistance was evaluated to confirm the safe use of the product. Method. S. aureus, S. epidermidis and P. aeruginosa isolated in our Institute from bone and joint infection with different resistance phenotypes were used. 6 × 2.5 mm CS/HA discs were generated by pouring the antibiotic loaded formulations in a mold and were used as a modified disk diffusion test. The resistance selection was evaluated by subculturing cells growing on the edge of the zone of inhibition (ZOI) for seven days. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of gentamicin and vancomycin were determined by broth microdilution method before and after the selection of resistance assay. In addition, MICs were assessed after seven day passage on antibiotic free agar plates to evaluate if eventual decrease of antibiotic susceptibility was stable or only transient. Results. Commonly, no adaptation in presence of both CS/HA formulations was observed by analysing ZOI on agar medium. The kinetic of decrease of the ZOI was similar between the strains, with the exception of gentamicin resistant staphylococci in presence of gentamicin loaded CS/HA, which was faster with respect to the susceptible strains. Conclusions. The present study shows that elution of gentamicin and vancomycin from CS/HA bone graft substitutes did not induce a decrease in susceptibility to these antibiotics in an in vitro setting, suggesting the safe use of the product

Introduction. Acetabular reconstruction of a total hip arthroplasty (THA) for a case with severe bone loss is most challenging for surgeon. Relatively high rate of failure after the reconstruction surgery have been reported. We have used Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement devices with morsellised or bulk bone allografts for these cases. The purpose of this study was to examine the midterm results of revision THA using Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement devices. Patients and methods. We retrospectively reviewed 20 hips of revision THA (20 patients) between February 2002 and August 2010. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 67.4 years (range 45–78). All of the cases were female. The mean duration of follow-up was 6.5 years (range 2.1–10.4). The reasons of revision surgeries were aseptic loosening in 10 hips, migration of bipolar hemiarthroplasty in 8 hips, and rheumatoid arthritis in 2 hips. We classified acetabular bone defects according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) classification; we found two cases of Type II and eighteen cases of Type III. In terms of bone graft, we performed both bulk and morsellised bone grafts in 6 hips and morsellised bone grafts only in 14 hips. We assessed cup alignment using postoperative computed tomography (CT) and The post-operative and final follow-up radiographs were compared to assess migration of the implant. We measured the following three parameters: the angle of inclination of the acetabular device (Fig. 1); the horizontal migration (Fig. 2a); and vertical migration (Fig. 2b). Substantial migration was defined as a change in the angle of inclination of more than 3 degrees or migration of more than 3 mm. The pre- and postoperative hip functions were evaluated using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) hip score. Results. The mean cup inclination and anteversion were 38.4 degrees and 10.6 degrees, respectively. The mean change in the angle was 1.9 degrees in inclination of the device. The average horizontal migration was 1.0 mm, and the vertical migration was 2.0 mm. Only one hip showed substantial migration with breakage of the device. This failure case represented a large amount of posterior pelvic tilt in standing position postoperatively. The mean JOA hip score was increased from 46.7 to 74.8. Discussion. Poor outcome using Kerboull-type reinforcement plate with morsellised bone graft only has been demonstrated by many reports. In these literatures, bulk bone graft was recommended particularly in the case of large bone defect such as larger than half of the rounded plate of the device or more than 2 cm of thickness. In our case series, acetabular reconstruction using a Kerboull- type acetabular reinforcement device and bone graft gives satisfactory mid-term results even with morsellized bone graft only. One possible interpretation is that most of our cases had relatively small bone defect according to the staging of severity of the superior segmental bone loss made by Kawanabe et al. We suggest that the progressive posterior pelvic tilt should be considered to be a risk of poor outcome of the acetabular reconstruction using this device. To view tables/figures, please contact authors directly

We reviewed 59 bone graft substitutes marketed by 17 companies currently available for implantation in the United Kingdom, with the aim of assessing the peer-reviewed literature to facilitate informed decision-making regarding their use in clinical practice. After critical analysis of the literature, only 22 products (37%) had any clinical data. Norian SRS (Synthes), Vitoss (Orthovita), Cortoss (Orthovita) and Alpha-BSM (Etex) had Level I evidence. We question the need for so many different products, especially with limited published clinical evidence for their efficacy, and conclude that there is a considerable need for further prospective randomised trials to facilitate informed decision-making with regard to the use of current and future bone graft substitutes in clinical practice. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:583–97

We evaluated the maturation of grafted bone in cases of successful fusion after a one- or two-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) using interbody carbon cages. We carried out a five-year prospective longitudinal radiological evaluation of patients using plain radiographs and CT scans. One year after surgery, 117 patients with an early successful fusion were selected for inclusion in the study. Radiological evaluation of interbody bone fusion was graded on a 4-point scale. The mean grades of all radiological and CT assessments increased in the five years after surgery, and differences compared to the previous time interval were statistically significant for three or four years after surgery. Because the grafted bone continues to mature for three years after surgery, the success of a fusion should not be assessed until at least three years have elapsed. There were no significant differences in the longitudinal patterns of grafted bone maturity between iliac bone and local bone. However, iliac bone grafting may remodel faster than local bone

Lateralization of the reverse arthroplasty may be desirable to more effectively tension the remaining rotator cuff, decrease scapular notching, improve the cosmetic appearance of the shoulder, and improve stability as well as the arc of motion prior to impingement. There are two primary options to lateralise a reverse shoulder arthroplasty: bone graft with a long post (BIO-RSA) vs. using metal. The two metal options generally include a thicker glenosphere or a thicker glenoid baseplate. Potential benefits of a BIO-RSA include lateralization of the glenoid center of rotation but without placing the center of rotation lateral to the prosthetic-bone interface. By maintaining the position of the center of rotation, the shear forces at the prosthesis-bone interface are lessened and are converted to compressive forces which will minimise glenoid failure. Edwards et al. performed a prospective study on a bony increased offset reverse arthroplasty. Among the 18 shoulders in the BIO-RSA group, the incidence of notching was 78% compared to controls 70%. The graft completely incorporated in 12 (67%), partially incorporated in 4 (22%), and failed to incorporate in 2 (11%). Frankle et al. reported on the minimum 5-year follow-up of reverse arthroplasty with a central compression screw and a lateralised glenoid component. The survivorship was 94% at 5 years. There were seven (9%) cases of scapular notching and no patient had glenoid baseplate loosening or baseplate failure. The authors noted that the patients maintained their improved function and radiographic results at a minimum of five years. In summary, lateralisation of the glenosphere is an attractive option to improve the outcome of reverse arthroplasty. Benefits of lateralisation with metal rather than bone graft include elimination of concern over bone graft healing or resorption. In addition, the procedure has the potential to be more precise with the exact offset amount known pre-operatively as well as improved efficiency of the procedure. Preparing the graft takes additional OR time and there is variable quality of the bone graft

Objectives. Our principle is to bring the socket back to the true acetabulum position. A large structural bone graft is required for severe subluxation. We obtained good long-term results with structural bone grafts. It is necessary to evaluate the bone graft 3 dimensionally, not 2 dimensionally. M and M. We evaluated our 305 primary THAs operated from April 2010 to Mar 2014. Structural bone grafts were utilized on the acetabulum in 39 cases (12.8%). We measured the CE angle on post-operative plain coronal x-rays. 3D-CT evaluation was carried out on the cases with CE angles of 0 degrees or less. We checked the position of the graft and see how much surface area the graft occupies of the total area that receives the load. Result. Mean CE angle on the post-op plain coronal x-rays was −1.5°. 15 cases (38.5%) had 0 degree or less CE angles on the post-op plain coronal x-rays. 11 cases (−15°≤CE<0°), and 4 cases (−30°≤CE<−15°). Mean CE angle was +3.7° on coronal CT of the apex of the socket. Graft position on the acetabulum on 3D-CT was anterosuperior in 13 cases and posterosuperior in 2 cases, wile none showed wide positioning from anterosuperior to posterior. Conclusion. The contact surface area between the graft and the socket is not necessarily large 3 dimensionally, even if the CE angle is 0 degrees in the plain coronal X-rays. Depending on the graft position, sufficient support is considered to be obtained, even though a large size graft is used

Pseudoarthrosis after spinal fusion is an important complication leading to revision spine surgeries. Iliac Crest Bone Graft is considered the gold standard, but with limited availability and associated co-morbidities, spine surgeons often utilize alternative bone grafts. Determine the non-inferiority of a novel submicron-sized needle-shaped surface biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP<µm) as compared to autograft in instrumented posterolateral spinal fusion. Adult patients indicated for instrumented posterolateral spinal fusion of one to six levels from T10-S2 were enrolled at five participating centers. After instrumentation and preparation of the bone bed, the randomized allocation side of the graft type was disclosed. One side was grafted with 10cc of autograft per level containing a minimum of 50% iliac crest bone. The other side was grafted with 10cc of BCP<µm granules standalone (without autograft or bone marrow aspirate). In total, 71 levels were treated. Prospective follow-up included adverse events, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and a fine-cut Computerized Tomography (CT) at one year. Fusion was systematically scored as fused or not fused per level per side by two spine surgeons blinded for the procedure. The first fifty patients enrolled are included in this analysis (mean age: 57 years; 60% female and 40% male). The diagnoses included deformity (56%), structural instability (28%), and instability from decompression (20%). The fusion rate determined by CT for BCP<μm was 76.1%, which compared favorably to the autograft fusion rate of 43.7%. Statistical analysis through binomial modeling showed that the odds of fusion of BCP<μm was 2.54 times higher than that of autograft. 14% of patients experienced a procedure or possible device-related severe adverse event and there were four reoperations. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score decreased from a mean of 46.0 (±15.0) to a mean of 31.7 (±16.9), and 52.4% of patients improved with at least 15-point decrease. This data, aiming to determine non-inferiority of standalone BCP<μm as compared to autograft for posterior spinal fusions, is promising. Ongoing studies to increase the power of the statistics with more patients are forthcoming

We report the use of a free vascularised iliac bone graft in the treatment of 21 patients (19 men and 2 women) with an avascular nonunion of the scaphoid in which conventional bone grafting had previously failed. The mean age of the patients was 32 years (23 to 46) and the dominant wrist was affected in 14. The mean interval from fracture to the vascularised bone grafting was 39 months (9 to 62). Pre-operative MRI showed no contrast enhancement in the proximal fragment in any patient. Fracture union was assessed radiologically or with CT scans if the radiological appearances were inconclusive. At a mean follow-up of 5.6 years (2 to 11) union was obtained in 16 patients. The remaining five patients with a persistent nonunion continued to experience pain, reduced grip strength and limited range of wrist movement. In the successfully treated patients the grip strength and range of movement did not recover to match the uninjured side. Prevention of progressive carpal collapse, the absence of donor site morbidity, good subjective results and pain relief, justifies this procedure in the treatment of recalcitrant nonunion of the scaphoid

Arthrodesis of the spine is the preferred surgical treatment for a number of pathological disorders. This process is dependent on three primary components: osteogenic cells with osteoblastic potential, osteoinductive growth factors and an osteoconductive scaffold that facilitates bone formation and vascular ingrowth. Several systemic and local factors are known to affect the rate of spinal fusion. Autogenous bone graft remains the gold standard graft material for spinal fusion. It is the only graft material that supplies the three primary components necessary for a solid fusion. Unfortunately autogenous bone is only available in limited quantities and the procurement of autograft is associated with significant donor site morbidity. A number of different bone graft materials have been developed as alternatives to autograft. These materials may be classified into two major groups, bone graft extenders used to augment autograft, or bone graft substitutes. Several different bone graft materials have been developed including allograft, osteoconductive matrices, demineralised bone matrices, bone marrow aspiration, autologous platelet concentration, growth factors and gene therapy. Allograft is currently the most widely used substitute for autogenous bone. Because any osteogenic cells are eradicated during the tissue processes, allograft is primary osteoinductive with minimal osteoinductive potential. Processing may affects the structural and biological characteristics of a graft. The incorporation of allograft occurs by a process similar to that observed with autograft but more slowly and is less complete. Osteoconductive scaffolds do not contain any osteogenic cells or osteoinductive factors and are used as a composite graft as a carrier for either osteogenic cells or osteoinductive growth factors. They are biocompatible and do not illicit a response. There is also no inherent risk of infection and availability is unlimited. These materials are brittle with poor mechanical properties and need to be protected from excessive biomechanical forces until fully incorporated. A number of osteoconductive scaffolds have been developed including ceramics, calcium sulfate, mineralized collagen, bioactive glasses, and porous metals. Dematerialized bone matrices (DMPs) are osteoinductive with variable osteoconductive properties. DMPs consist of Type I collagen and non-collagenous proteins including multiple signaling proteins. The osteoinductive activity of DMPs is due to a small fraction of bone morphogenic proteins. There is significant variability in the osteoinductive potentials and clinical efficacy of DBMs. DBMs are most effective when combined with autograft or bone marrow aspirate. Bone marrow aspiration provides osteogenetic cells and osteoinductive growth factors but must be combined with an osteoconductive carrier to form a composite graft. It is associated with minimal morbidity compared to the use of autograft and is easily obtained. Unfractionated bone marrow contains only moderate osteogenic potential. Selective retention technology can increase the number of osteogenic cells then combined with an osteoconductive carrier such as a collagen sponge or DBM. Activated platelets release multiple factors that may enhance bone formation by promoting chemotaxis, cellular proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. Platelets do not release BMPs so this autologous platelet concentrate is not inductive. Concentrated platelet rich plasma gel is combined with an osteoconductive scaffold or osteogenic cells to form a composite graft for implantation. The capacity for fusion by this technique may be inferior to autologous graft. Bone morphogenetic proteins are low molecular weight proteins related to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily. They bind receptors on the surface of osteoprogenitor stem cells and activate intracellular signal transduction cascades resulting in the osteoblastic differentiation of pluripotential stem cells. Recombinant BMPs are typically combined with an osteoconductive carrier to form a composite graft. Recombinant BMPs have been used successfully in spinal fusions and may be superior to autograft. Gene therapy involves the transfer of specific DNA sequence into target cells that express the protein of interest. Gene therapy may provide a more potent osteoinductive signal than recombinant growth factors because the sustained local release of osteogentic proteins may be more physiologic than the administration of a single large dose of recombinant factors. There are potential safety concerns and economic issues. Autogenous bone remains the gold standard of graft material; however composite grafts consisting of multiple materials may prove to be efficacious for stimulating a spinal fusion

Reverse TSA initially followed Grammont's dictum that the center of rotation (COR) must be in the bone (“medial” COR). Others have argued for a more lateral COR, which can be a challenge if glenoid bone stock has been medially eroded. When bone loss must be made up, and/or the COR lateralised, the options include use of bone graft or use of metal. Metal constructs produce a cantilever-loading situation, with substantial bending moments applied to the bone-implant junction. Use of bone graft allows remodeling with living bone, so that ultimately the forces are applied to the bone-implant junction in a more compressive pattern. The author's preference is to have at least 30% of the circumference of the baseplate contact living bone while the rest may be made up with bone graft which can remodel. It is important to have a deep keel penetrate the cortex medially

Introduction. Today, Uganda has the second highest rate of road accidents in Africa and the world after Ethiopia. According to the World Health Organization's Global Status Report on Road Safety 2013, Uganda is named among countries with alarmingly high road accident rates. If such trend of traffic accidents continues to increase, the health losses from traffic injuries may be ranked as the second to HIV/AIDS by 2020. These road traffic accidents often result in terrible open injuries. Open fractures are complex injuries of bone and soft tissue. They are orthopedic emergencies due to risk of infection secondary to contamination and compromised soft tissues and sometimes vascular supply and associated healing problems. Any wound occurring on the same limb should be suspected as result of open fracture until proven otherwise. The principles of management of open fracture are initial evaluation and exclusion of life threatening injuries, prevention of infection, healing of fracture and restoration of function to injured extremity. Because of the poor hygienic circumstances and the high rate of cross-infection due to the crowded patient-wards, the risk of getting a post-operative infection is relatively high. Osteoset-T® (Wright Medical) is a medical grade calcium sulfate bone graft substitute which is enhanced for use in infected sites by incorporating 4% tobramycin sulfate. The tobramycin is released locally, allowing therapeutic antibiotic levels at the graft site, while maintaining low systemic antibiotic levels. This local treatment of infection allows new bone formation in the defect site, while decreasing potential systemic effects. Purpose/aim. Prevention and treatment of postoperative osteomyelitis by introducing alcoholic hand-sanitizers and the use of wound debridement and implantation of a medicated bone graft substitute. Materials and Methods. We treated some existing osteomyelitis cases and some open fractures with the medicated bone graft substitutes, at Kilembe Mines Hospital, Uganda. A proper debridement with sequestrectomy when needed was performed after which the pellets were implanted and the wound was closed. A preoperative X-ray was taken as well as clinical pictures. Post-operative x-rays were obtained at 6 weeks post-operative and 6 months post-operative when possible. The case presented in this abstract is a 25year old nurse with a bilateral open tibia fracture due to a motorcycle accident. A proper debridement and plate and screw osteosynthesis was performed after which the pellets were implanted underneath the plate. After surgery systemic antibiotics were given and the wound-dressings were changed when dirty. Results. The case presented is currently 6 months post-operatively and is able to walk without support. The fracture is fully consolidated and the wounds are healed without any sign of infection. Conclusion. Even though the clinical follow-up is not easy in this developing country setting, we were able to evaluate some patients postoperatively. By introducing better hand hygiene (by use of alcoholic hand sanitizers) and medicated bone graft substitutes, we hope to be able to prevent osteomyelitis after open fractures and also to treat chronic osteomyelitis cases. More people are being treated at the moment and a case-control study will be started soon

We developed a method of applying vibration to the impaction bone grafting process and assessed its effect on the mechanical properties of the impacted graft. Washed morsellised bovine femoral heads were impacted into shear test rings. A range of frequencies of vibration was tested, as measured using an accelerometer housed in a vibration chamber. Each shear test was repeated at four different normal loads to generate stress-strain curves. The Mohr-Coulomb failure envelope from which shear strength and interlocking values are derived was plotted for each test. The experiments were repeated with the addition of blood in order to replicate a saturated environment. Graft impacted with the addition of vibration at all frequencies showed improved shear strength when compared with impaction without vibration, with 60 Hz giving the largest effect. Under saturated conditions the addition of vibration was detrimental to the shear strength of the aggregate. The civil-engineering principles of particulate settlement and interlocking also apply to impaction bone grafting. Although previous studies have shown that vibration may be beneficial in impaction bone grafting on the femoral side, our study suggests that the same is not true in acetabular revision

Background: The reconstructive surgery of the upper limb is able to avoid an amputation and a severe functional impairment. Nevertheless the therapeutic challenge is difficult because of the diversity of the injuries and the complex function of the upper limb. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the results of vascularised fibular bone graft in the immediate and secondary post traumatic reconstructive surgery of the upper limb. Material and method: Between 1985 and 2006, 16 vascularised fibular bone grafts were performed for 15 post traumatic reconstructions of the upper limb. In this study there were 7 females and 8 males, with an average age of 42 years (20–79). The fibular bone grafting was performed in 9 cases in the immediate post traumatic reconstructive surgery. In 7 cases the fibular bone graft was performed after a first failed surgery, as salvage reconstructive surgery. The transfer was composed of bone and skin in 2 cases, of bone and muscle in 6 cases and of only bone in 8 cases. Results: The percentage of bone union was 80%. Eight fibular bone graft healed spontaneously, 2 after a additional iliac crest bone grafting. The average duration of bone healing was 6,5 months, from 4 to 12 months. The functional result was good for 10 patients allowing them to go back to their initial activities. Discussion: In severe bone and soft tissues destruction of the upper limb, a complete reconstruction in one operative session may be performed in order to reduce the time of bone healing and rehabilitation. The micro-vascularized fibular bone grafting may be an excellent therapeutic option. The other techniques as amputation or conventional bone grafting techniques are usually proposed when the vital status of the patient is not compatible with a to extended surgery. The fibular bone grafting appeared as a very reliable technique with a small morbidity on the donor site. Malunions are frequently described in the literature. It might be partially due to the difficulty in having a stable internal fixation. It has to be as less aggressive a possible on the fibular bone graft vascularisation but has also to offer a good stability. The internal fixation used in these cases was not perfectly adapted for this bifocal fixation of the fibular bone graft on the upper limb. A better device should be developed, with an endomedullary fixation and an axial compression effect. Conclusion: We recommend this technique in severe trauma cases of the upper limb as salvage procedure at an early stage when is compatible with the initial general status of the patient

The aim of our study is to investigate the natural history of scaphoid non-union. Factors affecting the outcome of scaphoid fracture non-union surgery were assessed using data collected retrospectively from 785 cases treated at 18 centres throughout the UK. All cases had undergone this surgery before October 2014, ensuring a minimum period of 2 years between surgery and data collection from the medical records. Smoking status significantly influenced the union rate of 94 proximal pole (non-smokers = 71%, smokers = 44%, p < 0.05) but not waist (non-smokers = 73% non-unions. Type of bone graft did not affect the union rate of the 282 waist nonunions (iliac crest = 69%; non-vascular distal radius = 75% and vascularised distal radius = 70%: P=0.35), but did influence the union rate of the 98 proximal pole nonunions (iliac crest = 58%; non-vascular distal radius = 58% and vascularised distal radius = 82%: P=0.004). Time interval between fracture and non-union surgery did not affect the union rate of 121 proximal pole nonunions (3–6 months = 56%; 6–12 months = 76%; 1–2 years = 69%; 2+years = 54%: P=0.5), but did influence the union rate of 303 nonunions of the waist (3–6 months = 80%; 6–12 months = 82%; 1–2 years = 65%; 2+years = 55%: P=0.02). Non-unions of the proximal pole appear to be influenced by smoking status and bone graft type, whereas non-unions of the scaphoid are influenced by the time to non-union surgery

Clinical experience of impaction bone grafting for revision knee arthroplasty is limited, with initial stability of the tibial tray emerging as a major concern. The length of the stem and its diameter have been altered to improve stability. Our aim was to investigate the effect of the type of stem, support of the rim and graft impaction on early stability of the tray. We developed a system for impaction grafting of trays which we used with morsellised bone in artificial tibiae. Trays with short, long thick or long thin stems were implanted, with or without support of the rim. They were cyclically loaded while measuring relative movement. Long-stemmed trays migrated 4.5 times less than short-stemmed trays, regardless of diameter. Those with support migrated 2.8 times less than those without. The migration of short-stemmed trays correlated inversely with the density of the impacted groups. That of impaction-grafted tibial trays was in the range reported for uncemented primary trays. Movements of short-stemmed trays without cortical support were largest and sensitive to the degree of compaction of the graft. If support of the rim was sufficient or a long stem was used, impacted morsellised bone graft achieved adequate initial stability

Ununited fractures of the scaphoid with extensive bone resorption are usually treated by bone grafting and internal fixation, using either an open or a minimally invasive technique. We studied the feasibility of percutaneous fixation without bone grafting in a consecutive series of 27 patients with established nonunion of an undisplaced fracture of the scaphoid and extensive local resorption of bone. They were treated by a single surgeon with rigid fixation alone, using a headless cannulated screw inserted through a volar percutaneous technique. Clinical examination, standard radiographs and CT confirmed that the fracture had united in all patients at a mean of 11.6 weeks (8 to 16), and that their functional scores had improved. We concluded that extensive resorption at the fracture site is not an absolute indication for bone grafting, and that percutaneous fixation alone will eventually produce healing of ununited undisplaced fractures of the scaphoid regardless of the size of the gap

Impaction allograft is an established method of securing initial stability of an implant in arthroplasty. Subsequent bone integration can be prolonged, and the volume of allograft may not be maintained. Intermittent administration of parathyroid hormone has an anabolic effect on bone and may therefore improve integration of an implant. Using a canine implant model we tested the hypothesis that administration of parathyroid hormone may improve osseointegration of implants surrounded by bone graft. In 20 dogs a cylindrical porous-coated titanium alloy implant was inserted into normal cancellous bone in the proximal humerus and surrounded by a circumferential gap of 2.5 mm. Morsellised allograft was impacted around the implant. Half of the animals were given daily injections of human parathyroid hormone (1–34) 5 μg/kg for four weeks and half received control injections. The two groups were compared by mechanical testing and histomorphometry. We observed a significant increase in new bone formation within the bone graft in the parathyroid hormone group. There were no significant differences in the volume of allograft, bone-implant contact or in the mechanical parameters. These findings suggest that parathyroid hormone improves new bone formation in impacted morsellised allograft around an implant and retains the graft volume without significant resorption. Fixation of the implant was neither improved nor compromised at the final follow-up of four weeks

Scaphoid fractures accounts for approximately 15% of all fractures of hand and wrist. Proximal pole fractures represent 10–20% of scaphoid fractures. Non –operative treatment shows high incidence of non-union and avascular necrosis. Surgical intervention with bone graft is associated with better outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiological and functional outcome of management of proximal pole scaphoid non-union with internal fixation and bone grafting. We included 35 patients with proximal pole scaphoid non-union (2008–2015). All patients underwent antegrade headless compression screw fixation and bone grafting at King's College Hospital, London (except one, who was fixed with Kirschner wire). 33 patients had bone graft from distal radius and two from iliac crest. Postoperatively patients were treated in plaster for 6–8 weeks, followed by splinting for 4–6 weeks and hand physiotherapy. All the patients were analysed at the final follow-up using DASH score and x-rays. Mean age of the patients was 28 years (20–61) in 32 men and 3 women. We lost three patients (9%) to follow up. At a mean follow up of 16 weeks (12–18) twenty three patients (66%) achieved radiological union. All patients but three (91%) achieved good functional outcome at mean follow up of 14 weeks (10–16). A good functional outcome can be achieved with surgical fixation and bone graft in proximal pole scaphoid fractures non-union. Pre-operative fragmentation of proximal pole dictates type of fixation (screw or k wire or no fixation). There was no difference in outcome whether graft was harvested from distal radius or iliac crest

Introduction. The natural history of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is not cleanly understood, but most of them progresse to the joint destruction and requires total hip replacement arthroplasty. There are several head preserving procedure, but no single therapeutic method proved to be effective in preventing progression of the disease. The possibility has been raised that implantation of bone marrow containing osteogenic precursors may be effective in the treatment of this disease. However, there are no long-term follow-up results of cell therapy for ONFH. AS far as we know, there are no reports about bone graft and cell therapy for ONFH. Therefore, we performed a prospective clinical and radiological evaluation on ONFH treated with core decompression combined with autoiliac bone graft and an implantation of autologous bone marrow cells as a therapeutic method of ONFH. Materials and Methods. Sixty-one hips in 52 patients with ONFH were included in this study. The average follow-up of the patients was 68 (60∼88) months. The necrotic lesions were classified according to their size and location, and we compared the results. Results. At the last follow-up, the rate of excellent or good results was 80% (12/15 hips) in the small lesion group, 65% (17/26 hips) in the medium size group, and 28% (6/20 hips) in the large size group. The procedures were a clinical success in 4 of 5 hips(80%) with stage I, 23 of 35 hips (65.7%) with Stage II and 7 hips of 18 hips(38.9%) with stage III and 1 of 3 hips(33.3%) with stage IV. Among the 20 cases with large sized necrotic lesions, 17 cases were laterally located and this group showed the worst outcome with 13 hips (76.5%) having bad or failed clinical results. Conclusions. The outcome of cancellous bone grafting combined with implantation of autologous bone marrow cells differed depending on the size and location of the lesion. The patients who have a large sized lesion or medium sized lateral located lesion would not be considered as a good candidate for head preserving procedure. However for the medium sized lesions, this procedure showed a competent clinical result against other head preserving procedures

Introduction: Impaction bone grafting is a very useful technique in the armament of a revision hip surgeon. Traditionally fresh frozen allograft has been used for this technique. However there are concerns about the transmission of viral proteins and prions through this form of allograft.As a result irradiated bone graft has been favoured in some centres. There is no long term series describing the results of impaction bone grafting using irradiated bone. Method: We describe a series of 58 cases of acetabular revision surgery done at the Avon Orthopaedic Centre between 1995 and 2001 and followed up over a period of 48–90 months. The preoperative bone defect was graded by the Paprosky classification. There were 10cases of type 1,15 type 2a, 5 type 2b, 7 type 2c, 14 type 3a and 7 type 3c.50 cases were operated by the two senior surgeons and 8 were senior trainees.All uncontained defects were first contained by using a mesh or cages. The bone graft used was freeze-dried femoral head allograft, which was milled and used without defatting. The cases were followed up clinically and radiologically.Case notes were reviewed to gain information about the primary prosthesis, and operative details as well as the cause of the revision. All the cases were the first revisions. The radiological picture was evaluated for signs of incorporation, remodelling, loosening and migration of the cemented acetabular component. Clinical evaluation was from the last clinic visit and included the presence of pain, mobility status, range of movement and patient satisfaction. Revision was the end point of the study. Results: There were no cases which underwent loosening and all the cups were stable.1 case had recurrent dislocation and was revised.26 (44.8%) cases showed changes of incorporation, and 4 cases (6%)showed changes of remodelling.23 cases (39.6%) underwent femoral impaction grafting as well. Clinically the results were satisfactory with absence of pain in 38 cases (65%). Trochanteric pain was present in 3 cases. Conclusion: The results suggested that the results of impaction bone grafting on the acetabular side using irradiated bone graft are comparable to those with fresh frozen allograft and significantly better than those on the femoral side. This could be attributed to the compressive forces acting across the acetabular side as against the predominantly shear forces acting on the femur. The low percentage of remodelling remains a concern and warrants further studies