The clinical diagnosis of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability remains challenging. The current diagnostic gold standard is a dynamic computerized topography (CT) scan. This investigation compares the affected and normal wrists in multiple static positions of forearm rotation.. However, its accuracy has been questioned, as the wrist is unloaded and not placed under stress. This may fail to capture DRUJ instability that does not result in static malalignment between the ulnar head and sigmoid notch. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to evaluate the effectiveness of both dynamic and stress CT scans in detecting DRUJ instability. A customized DRUJ arthrometer was designed that allows for both static positioning, as well as dorsal and volar loading at the DRUJ in various degrees of forearm rotation. Ten fresh frozen cadavers were prepared and mounted in the apparatus. CT scans were performed both in the unloaded condition (dynamic CT) and with each arm subjected to a standardized 50N volar and dorsal force (stress CT) in neutral and maximum pronation/ supination. The TFCC (triangular fibrocartilage complex)was then sectioned peripherally to simulate DRUJ instability and the methodology was repeated. CT scans were then evaluated for displacement using the radioulnar ratio method. When calculating the radioulnar ratio for intact wrists using the dynamic CT technique, values were 0.50, 0.64, 0.34 for neutral, pronation and supination, respectively. When the TFCC was sectioned and protocol repeated, the values for the simulated unstable wrist for dynamic CT were 0.54, 0.62, 0.34 for neutral, pronation and supination, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the intact and sectioned states for any position of forearm rotation using dynamic CT. Usingstress CT, mean radioulnar ratios for the intact specimens were calculated to be 0.44, 0.36 and 0.31 for neutral, pronation and supination, respectively. After sectioning the TFCC, the radioulnar ratios increased to 0.61, 0.39 and 0.46 for neutral, pronation and supination. There was a statistically significant difference between intact and simulated-unstable wrists in supination (p = 0.002) and in neutral (p=0.003). The radioulnar ratio values used to measure DRUJ translation for dynamic CT scans were unable to detect a statistically significant difference between stable and simulated unstable wrists. This was true for all positions of forearm rotation. However, when a standard load was placed across the DRUJ, statically significant changes in the radioulnar ratio were seen in neutral and supination between stable and simulated unstable wrists. This discrepancy challenges the current gold standard of dynamic CT in its ability to accurately diagnosis DRUJ instability. It also introduces stress CT as a possible solution for diagnosing DRUJ instability from peripheral TFCC lesions

The emergence of patient specific instrumentation has seen an expansion from simple radiographs to plan total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with modern systems using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging scans. Concerns have emerged regarding accuracy of these non-weight bearing modalities to assess true mechanical axis. The aim of our study was to compare coronal alignment on full length standing AP imaging generated by the EOS acquisition system with the CT coronal scout image. Eligible patients underwent unilateral or bilateral primary TKA for osteoarthritis under the care of investigating surgeon between 2017 and 2022, with both EOS X-Ray Imaging Acquisition System and CT scans performed preoperatively. Coronal mechanical alignment was measured on the supine coronal scout CT scan and the standing HKA EOS. Pre-operative lower limb coronal alignment was assessed on 96 knees prior to TKA on the supine coronal scout CT scan and the standing HKA EOS. There were 56 males (56%), and 44 right knees (44%). The mean age was 68 years (range 53-90). The mean coronal alignment was 4.7 degrees (SD 5.3) on CT scan and 4.6 degrees (SD 6.2) on EOS (p=0.70). There was a strong positive correlation of coronal alignment on CT scan and EOS (pearson. 0.927, p=0.001). The mean difference between EOS and CT scan was 0.9 degrees (SD 2.4). Less than 3 degrees variation between measures was observed in 87% of knees. On linear regression for every 1° varus increase in CT HKA alignment, the EOS HKA alignment increased by 0.93° in varus orientation. The model explained 86% of the variability. CT demonstrates excellent reliability for assessing coronal lower limb alignment compared to EOS in osteoarthritic knees. This supports the routine use of CT to plan TKA without further weight bearing imaging in routine cases

Introduction:. 25% of patients with an unknown primary tumour present to the orthopaedic surgeon with skeletal metastases. The onus is on the orthopaedic surgeon to establish the diagnosis, not only to decrease the patient's anxiety but also because the median survival increases from 6–9 months to 23 months when the primary is identified and allows for specific cancer treatment. The diagnostic work up of an unknown primary includes a multitude of special investigations. Since PET/CT has high sensitivity and specificity for detecting the primary tumours, we asked the question: Can you diagnose the unknown primary in patients with skeletal metastases with a PET/CT?. Method:. We included all PET/CT scans done in our institution between 2010 and 2013 for patients with malignancies known to metastasize to bone (melanoma, breast, lung, head and neck, GIT, other) and all scans done in patients with unknown primaries. After reviewing 686 PET/CT scans, 492 showed metastatic disease, with 78 of these having either spinal or skeletal metastases. Results:. Of these 78 patients, 68 primaries could be detected on the PET/CT scan. Thus the PET/CT detected the primary in 87% of cases. This number could possibly be higher as some were melanoma and breast cancer patients who had already undergone surgical resection. The most common primary detected was lung, followed by a group of other and unknown primaries which included cervical, kidney and thyroid carcinoma. Conclusion:. PET/CT scan is a good modality to use when looking for a primary malignancy in patients who present to the orthopaedic surgeon with bone metastases. We postulate that this might be a possible first line investigation when looking for the primary

Patient specific instrumentation (PSI) for elective knee replacements in arthritic knees with severe deformities and in revision scenarios is becoming increasingly popular due to the advantage of restoring the limb axes, improved theatre efficiency and outcomes. Currently available systems use CT scan or MRI for pre-operative templating for design considerations with varied accuracy for sizing of implants. We prospectively evaluated 200 knees in 188 patients with arthritic knees with deformities requiring serial clinical assessment, radiographs and CT scans for PSI templating for TruMatch knee system (DepuySynthes, Leeds, UK). The common indications included severe arthritic deformities, previous limb fractures and in obese limbs with difficult clinical assessment. Surgical procedure was performed on standard lines with the customised cutting blocks. The ‘lead up’ time between the implant request and the operating date was 5 weeks on an average. We compared the pre op CT images and the best fit post-operative x- rays. The sizing accuracy for femur and tibia was 98.93 % and 95.75% respectively. All blocks fitted the femur and tibia. There were no bail outs, no cutting block breakage, 1 patient had residual deformity of 20 degrees, and 1 patient had late infection. The length of hospital stay, economic viability in terms of theatre turnover, less operating time, cost of sterilisation in comparison to conventional knee replacement surgery with other factors being unchanged was also assessed. The projected savings was substantial along with improved geometrical restoration of the knee anatomy. We recommend the use of PSI based on CT scan templating in difficult arthritic knees

In February 2004, our institute began to perform routine cervical CT scans in addition to head CT examinations on patients with blunt head trauma who had received high energy injuries. We present the findings of 108 patients who underwent a routine cervical CT within the last year and the usefulness of routine cervical CT examinations is discussed. The present report is, to our knowledge, the only prospective study to examine the utility of routine cervical CT examinations. Among the patients admitted to the emergency room of our institute after receiving high energy injuries, 108 patients had blunt head trauma and underwent a routine cervical CT examination in addition to the head CT examination specified by our original protocol for cervical clearance. The mechanism of injury and the presence of cervical bone lesions were noted in each case. 76 males and 32 females ranging in age from 13 to 77 years (average, 41.0 years) were included in the study. Among these 108 cases, cervical fractures or subluxation were visible in 5 cases on plain films. Although no fractures were seen on the plain films taken in the remaining 103 cases, the additional cervical CT examinations demonstrated 14 cervical fractures in 13 (12.6%) of these cases. For patients with blunt head trauma, a cervical CT examination is not usually performed if no evidence of a cervical fracture is found on plain films and no neurological deficits are present. Nevertheless, the present findings suggest that many cervical fractures may have been missed on plain films in the past, and the routine inclusion of a cervical CT examination in addition to a head CT examination might be appropriate in the evaluation of patients with blunt head trauma who have been involved in a high energy injury

Introduction

Primary mechanical fixation and secondary biologic fixation determine the fixation of an uncemented femoral component. An optimized adequacy between the implant design and the proximal femur morphology allows to secure primary fixation.

The femoral antetorsion has to be considered in order to reproduce the center of rotation.

A so-called «corrected coronal plane » including the center of the femoral head has therefore been defined. The goal of this study was to evaluate the proximal metaphysal volume and to design a straight femoral component adapted to this corrected coronal plane.

Aim

To demonstrate the use of indium-111 white-cell labelled SPECT CT (In111-WC-SPECT-CT) in bone infection.

Neuromuscular scoliosis patients face rates of major complications of up to 49%. Along with pre-operative risk reduction strategies (including nutritional and bone health optimization), intra-operative strategies to decrease blood loss and decrease surgical time may help mitigate these risks. A major contributor to blood loss and surgical time is the insertion of instrumentation which is challenging in neuromuscular patient given their abnormal vertebral and pelvic anatomy. Standard pre-operative radiographs provide minimal information regarding pedicle diameter, length, blocks to pedicle entry (e.g. iliac crest overhang), or iliac crest orientation. To minimize blood loss and surgical time, we developed an “ultra-low dose” CT protocol without sedation for neuromuscular patients. Our prospective quality improvement study aimed to determine: if ultra-low dose CT without sedation was feasible given the movement disorders in this population; what the radiation exposure was compared to standard pre-operative imaging; whether the images allowed accurate assessment of the anatomy and intra-operative navigation given the ultra-low dose and potential movement during the scan. Fifteen non-ambulatory surgical patients with neuromuscular scoliosis received the standard spine XR and an ultra-low dose CT scan. Charts were reviewed for etiology of neuromuscular scoliosis and medical co-morbidities. The CT protocol was a high-speed, high-pitch, tube-current modulated acquisition at a fixed tube voltage. Adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction was applied to soft-tissue and bone kernels to mitigate noise. Radiation dose was quantified using reported dose indices (computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP)) and effective dose (E), calculated through Monte-Carlo simulation. Statistical analysis was completed using a paired student's T-test (α = 0.05). CT image quality was assessed for its use in preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation using 7D Surgical System Spine Module (7D Surgical, Toronto, Canada). Eight males and seven females were included in the study. Their average age (14±2 years old), preoperative Cobb angle (95±21 degrees), and kyphosis (60±18 degrees) were recorded. One patient was unable to undergo the ultra-low dose CT protocol without sedation due to a co-diagnosis of severe autism. The average XR radiation dose was 0.5±0.3 mSv. Variability in radiographic dose was due to a wide range in patient size, positioning (supine, sitting), number of views, imaging technique and body habitus. Associated CT radiation metrics were CTDIvol = 0.46±0.14 mGy, DLP = 26.2±8.1 mGy.cm and E = 0.6±0.2 mSv. CT radiation variability was due to body habitus and arm orientation. The radiation dose differences between radiographic and CT imaging were not statistically significant. All CT scans had adequate quality for preoperative assessment of pedicle diameter and orientation, obstacles impeding pedicle entry, S2-Alar screw orientation, and intra-operative navigation. “Ultra-low dose” CT scans without sedation were feasible in paediatric patients with neuromuscular scoliosis. The effective dose was similar between the standard preoperative spinal XR and “ultra-low dose” CT scans. The “ultra-low dose” CT scan allowed accurate assessment of the anatomy, aided in pre-operative planning, and allowed intra-operative navigation despite the movement disorders in this patient population

Neuromuscular scoliosis patients face rates of major complications of up to 49%. Along with pre-operative risk reduction strategies (including nutritional and bone health optimization), intra-operative strategies to decrease blood loss and decrease surgical time may help mitigate these risks. A major contributor to blood loss and surgical time is the insertion of instrumentation which is challenging in neuromuscular patient given their abnormal vertebral and pelvic anatomy. Standard pre-operative radiographs provide minimal information regarding pedicle diameter, length, blocks to pedicle entry (e.g. iliac crest overhang), or iliac crest orientation. To minimize blood loss and surgical time, we developed an “ultra-low dose” CT protocol without sedation for neuromuscular patients. Our prospective quality improvement study aimed to determine:. if ultra-low dose CT without sedation was feasible given the movement disorders in this population;. what the radiation exposure was compared to standard pre-operative imaging;. whether the images allowed accurate assessment of the anatomy and intra-operative navigation given the ultra-low dose and potential movement during the scan. Fifteen non-ambulatory surgical patients with neuromuscular scoliosis received the standard spine XR and an ultra-low dose CT scan. Charts were reviewed for etiology of neuromuscular scoliosis and medical co-morbidities. The CT protocol was a high-speed, high-pitch, tube-current modulated acquisition at a fixed tube voltage. Adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction was applied to soft-tissue and bone kernels to mitigate noise. Radiation dose was quantified using reported dose indices (computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP)) and effective dose (E), calculated through Monte-Carlo simulation. Statistical analysis was completed using a paired student's T-test (α= 0.05). CT image quality was assessed for its use in preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation using 7D Surgical System Spine Module (7D Surgical, Toronto, Canada). Eight males and seven females were included in the study. Their average age (14±2 years old), preoperative Cobb angle (95±21 degrees), and kyphosis (60±18 degrees) were recorded. One patient was unable to undergo the ultra-low dose CT protocol without sedation due to a co-diagnosis of severe autism. The average XR radiation dose was 0.5±0.3 mSv. Variability in radiographic dose was due to a wide range in patient size, positioning (supine, sitting), number of views, imaging technique and body habitus. Associated CT radiation metrics were CTDIvol = 0.46±0.14 mGy, DLP = 26.2±8.1 mGy.cm and E = 0.6±0.2 mSv. CT radiation variability was due to body habitus and arm orientation. The radiation dose differences between radiographic and CT imaging were not statistically significant. All CT scans had adequate quality for preoperative assessment of pedicle diameter and orientation, obstacles impeding pedicle entry, S2-Alar screw orientation, and intra-operative navigation. “Ultra-low dose” CT scans without sedation were feasible in paediatric patients with neuromuscular scoliosis. The effective dose was similar between the standard preoperative spinal XR and “ultra-low dose” CT scans. The “ultra-low dose” CT scan allowed accurate assessment of the anatomy, aided in pre-operative planning, and allowed intra-operative navigation despite the movement disorders in this patient population

Dislocation is one of the most common complications in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and is primarily driven by bony or prosthetic impingement. The aim of this study was two-fold. First, to develop a simulation that incorporates the functional position of the femur and pelvis and instantaneously determines range of motion (ROM) limits. Second, to assess the number of patients for whom their functional bony alignment escalates impingement risk. 468 patients underwent a preoperative THA planning protocol that included functional x-rays and a lower limb CT scan. The CT scan was segmented and landmarked, and the x-rays were measured for pelvic tilt, femoral rotation, and preoperative leg length discrepancy (LLD). All patients received 3D templating with the same implant combination (Depuy; Corail/Pinnacle). Implants were positioned according to standardised criteria. Each patient was simulated in a novel ROM simulation that instantaneously calculates bony and prosthetic impingement limits in functional movements. Simulated motions included flexion and standing-external rotation (ER). Each patient's ROM was simulated with their bones oriented in both functional and neutral positions. 13% patients suffered a ROM impingement for functional but not neutral extension-ER. As a result, 48% patients who failed the functional-ER simulation would not be detected without consideration of the functional bony alignment. 16% patients suffered a ROM impingement for functional but not neutral flexion. As a result, 65% patients who failed the flexion simulation would not be detected without consideration of the functional bony alignment. We have developed a ROM simulation for use with preoperative planning for THA surgery that can solve bony and prosthetic impingement limits instantaneously. The advantage of our ROM simulation over previous simulations is instantaneous impingement detection, not requiring implant geometries to be analysed prior to use, and addressing the functional position of both the femur and pelvis

Introduction. The most challenging aspect in rotational deformity correction is translating the pre-operative plan to an accurate intra-operative correction. Landmarks away from the osteotomy site are typically employed at pre-operative planning and this can render inadequate correction. Our proposed technique of pre-operative planning using CT scan and leg length radiographs can translate to accurate intra-operative correction. Materials and Methods. A circle was superimposed at osteotomy site with its centre serving as the centre of correction of rotation. Medio-lateral distance at osteotomy site measured and used as diameter of the circle. Circumference of the circle was calculated by multiplying diameter with Pi and used in the below formula to obtain accurate de-rotation distance;. Derotation distance = (Circumference/360) × correction value for desired ante-version. The exact site of osteotomy was measured in theatre under C-arm and exposed. Derotation distance was marked on the surface of bone as point A and point B with a flexible ruler. Osteotomy performed with saw and derotation was done till point A and point B were co-linear. Derotation distance obtained using this technique is specific for the site of chosen osteotomy and implies a specific degree of correction for every millimeter derotated. Distal femur was the chosen site of osteotomy if there was associated patellar instability and proximal femur if there was no patellar instability. Results. We have used the above technique to successfully correct rotational malalignment of femur and tibia in three patients thus far. The foot progression angle improved in all patients following surgery. One patient had post-operative CT scan of the hips which showed accurate reduction of ante-version. Conclusions. Our new technique of rotational deformity correction is simple and reproducible using commonly available tools as CT scan and leg length radiographs. This technique effectively translates the pre-operative plan to accurate intra-operative correction of rotational deformity

Introduction. Osteogenesis imperfect (OI) is a geno- and phenotypically heterogeneous group of congenital collagen disorders characterized by fragility and microfractures resulting in long bone deformities. OI can lead to progressive femoral coxa vara from bone and muscular imbalance and continuous microfracture about the proximal femur. If left untreated, patients develop Trendelenburg gait, leg length discrepancy, further stress fracture and acute fracture at the apex of the deformity, impingement and hip joint degeneration. In the OI patient, femoral coxa vara cannot be treated in isolation and consideration must be given to protecting the whole bone with the primary goal of verticalization and improved biomechanical stability to allow early loading, safe standing, re-orientation of the physis and avoidance of untreated sequelae. Implant constructs should therefore be designed to accommodate and protect the whole bone. The normal paediatric femoral neck shaft angle (FNSA) ranges from 135 to 145 degrees. In OI the progressive pathomechanical changes result in FNSA of significantly less than 120 degrees and decreased Hilgenreiner epiphyseal angles (HEA). Proximal femoral valgus osteotomy is considered the standard surgical treatment for coxa vara and multiple surgical techniques have been described, each with their associated complications. In this paper we present the novel technique of controlling femoral version and coronal alignment using a tubular plate and long bone protection with the use of teleoscoping rods. Methodology. After the decision to operate had been made, a CT scan of the femur was performed. A 1:1 scale 3D printed model (AXIAL3D, Belfast, UK) was made from the CT scan to allow for accurate implant templating and osteotomy planning. In all cases a subtrochanteric osteotomy was performed and fixed using a pre-bent 3.5 mm 1/3 tubular plate. The plate was bent to allow one end to be inserted into the proximal femur to act as a blade. A channel into the femoral neck was opened using a flat osteotome. The plate was then tapped into the femoral neck to the predetermined position. The final position needed to allow one of the plate holes to accommodate the growing rod. This had to be determined pre operatively using the 3D printed model and the implants. The femoral canal was reamed, and the growing rod was placed in the femur, passing through the hole in the plate to create a construct that could effectively protect both the femoral neck and the full length of the shaft. The distal part of the plate was then fixed to the shaft using eccentric screws around the nail to complete the construct. Results. Three children ages 5,8 and 13 underwent the procedure. Five coxa vara femurs have undergone this technique with follow-up out to 62 months (41–85 months) from surgery. Improvements in the femoral neck shaft angle (FNSA) were av. 18. o. (10–38. o. ) with pre-op coxa vara FNSA av. 99. o. (range 87–114. o. ) and final FNSA 117. o. (105–125. o. ). Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle was improved by av. 29. o. (2–58. o. ). However only one hip was restored to <25. o. In the initial technique employed for 3 hips, the plates were left short in the neck to avoid damaging the physis. This resulted in 2 of 3 hips fracturing through the femoral neck above the plate at approximately 1 year. There were revisions of the 3 hips to longer plates to prevent intra-capsular stress riser. All osteotomies united and both intracapsular fractures healed. No further fractures have occurred within the protected femurs and no other repeat operations have been required. Conclusions. Surgical correction of the OI coxa vara hip is complex. Bone mineral density, multiplanar deformity, a desire to maintain physeal growth and protection of the whole bone all play a role in the surgeon's decision making process. Following modifications, this technique demonstrates a novel method in planning and control of multiplanar proximal femoral deformity, resulting in restoration of the FNSA to a more appropriate anatomical alignment, preventing long bone fracture and improved femoral verticalization in the medium term follow-up

Reduced cervical spine canal AP diameter is linked to the development of spinal cord injury and myelopathy. This is of particular interest to clinicians in New Zealand, given a unique socio-ethnic make-up and prevalent participation in collision sport. Our study builds upon previous unpublished evidence, by analysing normal cervical spine CT scans to explore morphological differences in the sub-axial cervical spine canal, between New Zealand European, Māori and Paciāca individuals. 670 sub-axial cervical vertebrae (C3-C7) were analysed radiographically using high resolution CT trauma scans, showing no acute pathology with respect to the cervical spine. All measurements were made uPlising mulP-planar reconstruction software to obtain slices parallel to the superior endplate at each vertebral level. Maximal canal diameter was measured in the AP and transverse planes. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). We included 250 Maori, 250 NZ European and 170 Paciāca vertebrae (455 male, 215 female). Statistically and clinically signiācant differences were found in sagittal canal diameter between all ethnicities, at all spinal levels. NZ European vertebrae demonstrated the largest AP diameter and Paciāca the smallest, at all levels. Transverse canal diameter showed no signiācant difference between ethnicities, however the raatio of AP:transverse diameter was signiācantly different at all spinal levels except C3. Subjective morphological differences in the shape of the vertebral canal were noted, with Māori and Paciāca patients tending towards a flatter, curved canal shape. A previous study of 166 patients (Coldham, G. et al. 2006) found cervical canal AP diameter to be narrower in Māori and Paciāca patients than in NZ Europeans. Our study, evaluating the normal population, conārms these differences are likely reflecPve of genuine variation between these ethniciPes. Future research is required to critically evaluate the morphologic differences noted during this study

Aim. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare but often devastating complication of chronic osteomyelitis. Optimum diagnosis and management are not well established. This paper aimed to develop a definitive, evidence-based approach to its diagnosis and management. Method. A systematic review of relevant published studies available in English from 1999-present was conducted. Strict inclusion criteria ensured that the diagnoses of osteomyelitis and SCC were explicit and valid. Additional cases from our institution were included using the same eligibility criteria. Data regarding patient demographics, osteomyelitis diagnosis, SCC diagnosis and its management and patient outcomes were collected. Statistical significance was assessed by Fisher's exact test. Results. Nineteen publications involving 98 patients plus eight patients managed locally were included. Eighty percent of patients were male, diagnosed with SCC at an average age of 59 years old (24–82 years), 31 years after their osteomyelitis diagnosis (3–67 years). Multiple bones were affected: tibia or fibula (59%), femur (17%), pelvis and sacrum (8%), bones of the foot and ankle (8%) and upper limbs (6%). Malignant transformation was associated predominantly with sinus (82%), ulceration (61%) and discharge (41%). SCC was diagnosed by biopsy (77%) or incidentally (23%) following definitive management for osteomyelitis. Twenty-two percent of patients had a staging CT scan. Seventy-six percent of patients underwent amputation, 16% underwent limb-sparing wide local excision and the remaining patients were palliated. Incidental diagnosis of SCC was associated with poorer outcomes in terms of death or disease recurrence (one year, p=0.052, five years p=0.021, Fisher's exact test) as was metastatic disease at SCC diagnosis (one year, p=0.006, five years, p=0.032, Fisher's exact test) and pelvic or sacral disease (one year p<0.001, five years p=0.002, Fisher's exact test). All patients who were not actively treated died within one year of SCC diagnosis. Data was suggestive that more patients who underwent amputation (versus wide local excision) were disease free at one and five years, but this was not statistically significant (one year, p=0.058, five years, p= 0.152, Fisher's exact test). Conclusions. SCC should be suspected in all cases of chronic osteomyelitis with skin changes, particularly where changes exceed 3 years duration and involve the pelvis. Multiple biopsies for histology should be taken in all suspected cases, as well as routinely during surgical excision of osteomyelitis when chronic skin changes are present. Once SCC is identified, staging CT scan should be performed to guide management. Amputation, where possible, should be considered

Malreduction of the syndesmosis is a poor prognosticator following ankle fracture and has been documented in as many as 52% of patients following fracture fixation. The current standard for assessment of reduction of the syndesmosis is bilateral computed tomography (CT) scan of the ankle. Multiple radiographic parameters are utilized to define malreduction, however, there has been limited investigation into the accuracy of these measurements to differentiate malreduction from inherent anatomical asymmetry. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of positive malreduction standards within the syndesmosis of native, uninjured ankles. Bilateral lower extremity CT scans including ankles were screened. Studies were excluded if the patient was skeletally immature, had pathology below the knee or if they had congenital neuromuscular syndromes. The resulting cohort consisted of 207 patients. The indication for bilateral CT scan was femoral acetabular impingement in 110 patients (53%), rotation assessment following arthroplasty in 32 patients (15%), rotation assessment following femoral fracture in 30 patients (14%), rotational assessment for patellar instability in 30 patients (14%) and five miscellaneous indications (2%). Fifty patients were reviewed by three observers independently and to determine inter-observer reliability. A single observer repeated the measurements within the same cohort four weeks later to evaluate intra-observer reliability. Three observers then measured the anterior syndesmotic distance, posterior syndesmotic distance, central syndesmotic distance, fibular rotation and sagittal fibular translation at 1cm from the distal tibial articular surface. Overall side to side variability between the left and right ankle were assessed. Previously studied malreduction standards were evaluated. These included: anterior to posterior syndesmotic distance > 2mm, central syndesmotic difference > 1.5mm, average syndesmotic distance > 2mm, fibular rotational difference > 10o and sagittal translational difference > 2mm. The inter- and intra-observer reliability was good to excellent for anterior, posterior and central syndesmotic distance, and fibular rotation measurements. Sagittal fibular translation had an ICC of 0.583, and thus was only of fair reliability. Side to side comparison revealed statistically significant difference in only anterior syndesmotic difference (p=0.038). A difference of anterior to posterior syndesmotic distance of greater than 2mm was observed in 43 patients (20.2%). Thirty eight patients (17.8%) had a central syndesmotic difference of greater than 1.5mm. A fibular rotational difference of greater than 10o was observed in 49 patients (23%). The average difference between the anterior and posterior syndesmosis was greater than 2mm in 17 patients (8.2%). Nine patients (4.2%) had sagittal translation of greater than 2mm. Eighty one patients (39%) demonstrated at least one parameter beyond previously set standards for malreduction. Only one parameters was anomalous in 54 patients (26%), 18 patients (8%) had two positive parameters, while eight patients (4%) had three. One patient was asymmetrical in all measured parameters. In this study there was no statistically significant asymmetry between ankles. However, 39% of native syndesmoses would be classified as malreduced on CT scan using previously studied malreduction limits. Current radiographic parameters are not sufficient to differentiate mild inherent anatomical asymmetry from malreduction of the syndesmosis

Introduction. Diagnosis of chronic osteomyelitis (COM) is based mainly on the correlation between history, clinical picture, lab analysis, bacteriological, pathological, and imaging studies. Bone biopsy for culture and sensitivity is the gold standard for the correct identification of the causative organism. The present prospective study aims to evaluate the accuracy of FDG PET-CT in the diagnosis of COM in comparison to the bacteriological, pathological findings. Materials and Methods. 18 patients (16 males/two females) underwent FDG-PET/CT scanning for clinically or radiologically suspected COM of the lower extremity. Fourteen patients had septic non-union, three patients with aseptic non-union, and one with chronic diffuse sclerosing OM of Garre. Seven patients had implants at site of examination at the time of the scan. Diagnosis of COM was confirmed by deep surgical cultures and pathological analysis (index debridement done by s single surgeon in one centre) following PET/CT scanning. FDG-PET uptake was measured by SUV max (the highest uptake of the radioisotope in the infection area). These findings were correlated to the microbiological and histopathological results. Results. Infection was clinically evident at a mean of 15 weeks (range, 2 to 60 weeks) after the date of injury. Patients had a mean of 2.3 (range 0 – 7) operations, before index debridement. The mean SUV max on the affected side was (9.55 ± 5.22), While mean SUV max on the contralateral healthy side was (1.82 ± 0.98). The pattern of FDG-uptake was diffuse in nine (50%), localised in seven (38.9%), and intramedullary in two (11.1%) patients respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, PPV and NPV of PET SUV max were 100%, 66.7%, 94.44%, 93.75% and 100% respectively in the diagnosis of COM at a cut-off value of (4.46). The present study included 15 true positive, two true negative and one false-positive PET/CT results. Conclusions. 18F-FDG PET/CT is a highly sensitive and specific method for the evaluation of chronic osteomyelitis in patients with or without trauma. PET/CT provides anatomical localisation and characterisation of the infected area and has a crucial role in preoperative planning

In patients with shoulder arthritis, the ability to accurately determine glenoid morphological alterations affects the outcomes of shoulder arthroplasty surgery significantly. This study was conducted to determine whether there is a correlation between scapular and glenoid morphometric components. Existence of such a correlation may help surgeons accurately estimate glenoid bone loss during pre-operative planning. The dimensions and geometric relationships of the scapula, scapula apophysis and glenoid were assessed using CT scan images of 37 South African and 40 Chinese cadavers. Various anatomical landmarks were marked on the 77 scapulae and a custom script was developed to perform the measurements. Intra-cohort correlation and inter-cohort differences were statistically analysed using IBM SPSS v28. The condition for statistical significance was p<0.05. The glenoid width and height were found to be significantly (p<0.05) correlated with superior glenoid to acromion tip distance, scapula height, acromion tip to acromion angle distance, acromion width, scapula width, and coracoid width, in both the cohorts. While anterior glenoid to coracoid tip distance was found to be significantly correlated to glenoid height and width in the South African cohort, it was only significantly correlated to glenoid height in the Chinese cohort. Significant (p<0.05) inter-cohort differences were observed for coracoid height, coracoid width, glenoid width, scapula width, superior glenoid to acromion tip distance, and anterior glenoid to coracoid tip distance. This study found correlations between the scapula apophyseal and glenoid measurements in the population groups studied. These morphometric correlations can be used to estimate the quantity of bone loss in shoulder arthroplasty patients

Introduction. Derotation osteotomies are commonly performed in paediatric orthopaedic and limb reconstruction practice. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the use of a digital inclinometer significantly improves the accuracy in attaining the desired correction. Materials & Methods. We designed an electronic survey regarding derotation femoral osteotomy (DFO) including methods of intra-operative angular correction assessment and acceptable margins of error for correction. This was distributed to 28 paediatric orthopaedic surgeons in our region. A DFO model was created, using an anatomic sawbone with foam covering. 8 orthopaedic surgeons each performed two 30-degree DFOs, one using K-wires and visual estimation (VE), and the other using a Digital Inclinometer (DI). Two radiologists reported pre and post procedure rotational profile CT scans to assess the achieved rotational correction. Results. There was a 68% response rate to the survey. The most popular methods of estimating intra-operative correction were reported to be K-wires and rotation marks on bone. The majority of respondents reported that a 6–10 degree margin of error was acceptable for a 30-degree derotation. This was therefore set as the upper limit for acceptable error margin in the simulation study. The mean error in rotation in the VE group of simulated DFO was 19.7 degrees, with error>5 degrees and error>10 degrees in 7 (88%) and 6 (75%) cases respectively. Mean error in DI group was 3.1 degrees, with error>5 degrees in 1 case (13%). Conclusions. Our results show that the compared to conventional techniques, the use of an inclinometer significantly improves the accuracy of femoral de-rotation and significantly reduces the incidence of unacceptable errors in correction. We would suggest that digital inclinometers be used to assess intra-operative correction during derotation osteotomies

Conventional fracture courses utilise prefabricated sawbones that are not realistic or patient specific. The aim of this study is to determine the feasibility of creating 3D fracture models and utilising them in fracture courses to teach surgical technique. We selected an AO type 2R3C2 fracture that underwent open reduction internal fixation. De-identified CT scan images were converted to a stereolithography (STL) format. This was then processed using Computer Aided Design (CAD) to create a virtual 3D model. The model was 3D printed using a combination of standard thermoplastic polymer (STP) and a porous filler to create a realistic cortical and cancellous bone. A case-based sawbone workshop was organised for residents, unaccredited registrars, and orthopaedic trainees comparing the fracture model with a prefabricated T-split distal radius fracture. Pre-operative images aided discussion of fixation, and post-operative x-rays allowed comparison between the participants fixation. Participants were provided with identical reduction tools. We created a questionnaire for participants to rate their satisfaction and experience using a Likert scale. The 3D printed fracture model aided understanding and appreciation of the fracture pattern and key fragments amongst residents and unaccredited trainees. Real case-based models provided a superior learning experience and environment to aid teaching. The generic sawbone provided easier drilling and inserting of screws. Preliminary results show that the cost of 3D printing can be comparable to generic sawbones. It is feasible to create a fracture model with a real bone feel. Further research and development is required to determine the optimum material to use for a more realistic feel. The use of 3D printed fracture models is feasible and provides an alternative to generic sawbone fracture models in providing surgical training to residents

We test the clinical validity and financial implications of the proposed Choosing Wisely statement: “Using ultrasound as a screening test for shoulder instability is inappropriate in people under 30 years of age, unless there is clinical suspicion of a rotator cuff tear.”. A retrospective chart review from a specialist shoulder surgeon's practice over a two-year period recorded 124 patients under the age of 30 referred with shoulder instability. Of these, forty-one had already had ultrasound scans performed prior to specialist review. The scan results and patient files were reviewed to determine the reported findings on the scans and whether these findings were clinically relevant to diagnosis and decision-making. Comparison was made with subsequent MRI scan results. The data, obtained from the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), recorded the number of cases and costs incurred for ultrasound scans of the shoulder in patients under 30 years old over a 10-year period. There were no cases where the ultrasound scan was considered useful in decision-making. No patient had a full thickness rotator cuff tear. Thirty-nine of the 41 patients subsequently had MRI scans. The cost to the ACC for funding ultrasound scans in patients under 30 has increased over the last decade and exceeded one million dollars in the 2020/2021 financial year. In addition, patients pay a surcharge for this test. The proposed Choosing Wisely statement is valid. This evidence supports that ultrasound is an unnecessary investigation for patients with shoulder instability unless there is clinical suspicion of a rotator cuff tear. Ultrasound also incurs costs to the insurer (ACC) and the patient. We recommend x-rays and, if further imaging is indicated, High Tech Imaging with MRI and sometimes CT scans in these patients