Aims. There is a lack of long-term data for minimally invasive acromioclavicular (AC) joint repair. Furthermore, it is not clear if good early clinical results can be maintained over time. The purpose of this study was to report long-term results of minimally invasive AC joint reconstruction (MINAR) and compare it to corresponding short-term data. Methods. We assessed patients with a follow-up of at least five years after minimally invasive flip-button repair for high-grade AC joint dislocation. The clinical outcome was evaluated using the Constant score and a questionnaire. Ultrasound determined the coracoclavicular (CC) distance. Results of the current follow-up were compared to the short-term results of the same cohort. Results. A total of 50 patients (three females, 47 males) were successfully followed up for a minimum of five years. The mean follow-up was 7.7 years (63 months to 132 months). The overall Constant score was 94.4 points (54 to 100) versus 97.7 points (83 to 100) for the contralateral side showing a significant difference for the operated shoulder (p = 0.013) The mean difference in the CC distance between the operated and the contralateral shoulder was 3.7 mm (0.2 to 7.8; p = 0.010). In total, 16% (n = 8) of patients showed recurrent instability. All these cases were performed within the first 16 months after introduction of this technique. A total of 84% (n = 42) of the patients were able to return to their previous occupations and sport activities. Comparison of short-term and long-term results revealed no significant difference for the Constant Score (p = 0.348) and the CC distance (p = 0.974). Conclusion. The clinical outcome of MINAR is good to excellent after long-term follow-up and no significant differences were found compared to short-term results. We therefore suggest this is a reliable technique for surgical treatment of high-grade AC joint dislocation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):918–924

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To compare the cost-effectiveness of high-dose, dual-antibiotic cement versus single-antibiotic cement for the treatment of displaced intracapsular hip fractures in older adults.

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Ankle fracture fixation is commonly performed by junior trainees. Simulation training using cadavers may shorten the learning curve and result in a technically superior surgical performance.

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The purpose was to compare operative treatment with a volar plate and nonoperative treatment of displaced distal radius fractures in patients aged 65 years and over in a cost-effectiveness analysis.

Aims. In order to determine whether and for whom serial radiological evaluation is necessary in one-part proximal humerus fractures, we set out to describe the clinical history and predictors of secondary displacement in patients sustaining these injuries. Patients and Methods. Between January 2014 and April 2016, all patients with an isolated, nonoperatively treated one-part proximal humerus fracture were prospectively followed up. Clinical and radiological evaluation took place at less than two, six, 12, and 52 weeks. Fracture configuration, bone quality, and comminution were determined on the initial radiographs. Fracture healing, secondary displacement, and treatment changes were recorded during follow-up. Results. In 100 patients (59 female, 41 male; mean age 57 years), 91 of the fractures (91%) remained stable. In five of nine patients (55%) with secondary displacement, surgery was recommended. Comminution, present in 23 patients (23%), was identified as a predictor of secondary displacement (p < 0.001). Patients’ age, sex, fracture configuration, and bone quality were not associated with secondary displacement (p ≥ 0.438). Nonoperative treatment resulted in a mean absolute Constant score (CS) of 80 (49 to 98), relative CS of 101% (63% to 138%), median subjective shoulder value of 95% (interquartile range (IQR) 90% to 100%), and median EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire score of 0.89 (IQR 0.80 to 1.00) with bone union in all cases at one-year follow-up. Conclusion. Radiological re-evaluation was only necessary in patients presenting with comminution and may be redundant for 77% of patients with one-part proximal humerus fractures. Nonoperative treatment of one-part proximal humerus fractures remains the mainstay of treatment with a low rate of secondary surgery, a high union rate, and good clinical results. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1307–1312

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The incidence of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) continues to increase. However, there are currently few long-term studies on the complications of AFFs and factors affecting them. Therefore, we attempted to investigate the outcomes, complications, and risk factors for complication through mid-term follow-up of more than three years.

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of locking plate fixation, with and without an associated fibular strut allograft, for the treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures in elderly osteoporotic patients. Patients and Methods. We undertook a retrospective comparison of two methods of fixation, using a locking plate without an associated fibular strut allograft (LP group) and with a fibular allograft (FA group) for the treatment of these fractures. The outcome was assessed for 52 patients in the LP group and 45 in the FA group, with a mean age of 74.3 years (52 to 89), at a mean follow-up of 14.2 months (12 to 19). The clinical results were evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain, the Constant score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the range of movement. Radiological results were evaluated using the neck-shaft angle (NSA) and humeral head height (HHH). Results. The mean forward elevation in the LP and FA groups was 125.3° (. sd. 21.4) and 148.9° (. sd. 19.8), respectively (p = 0.042), while other clinical factors showed no statistically significant differences between the groups. The changes in NSA and HHH immediately after the operation and at final follow-up were significantly better in the FA group than in the LP group (p = 0.015 and p = 0.021, respectively). Conclusion. For comminuted proximal humeral fractures in osteoporotic patients, locking plate fixation with a fibular strut allograft shows satisfactory short-term results with respect to humeral head support and maintenance of reduction, and may reduce the incidence of complications associated with fixation using a locking plate alone. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:260–265

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This study reviews the past 30 years of research from the Canadian Orthopedic Trauma Society (COTS), to identify predictive factors that delay or accelerate the course of randomized controlled trials in orthopaedic trauma.

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No randomized comparative study has compared the extensile lateral approach (ELA) and sinus tarsi approach (STA) for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures. This randomized comparative study was conducted to confirm whether the STA was prone to fewer wound complications than the ELA.

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To compare operative and nonoperative treatment for displaced distal radius fractures in patients aged over 65 years.

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To compare the cost-utility of standard dressing with incisional negative-pressure wound therapy (iNPWT) in adults with closed surgical wounds associated with major trauma to the lower limbs.

Introduction. Numerous types of graft can be used for revision of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The goal of our studies was to analyze mid term outcomes of revision of anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions conducted by means of ipsilateral bone -patellar tendon -bone (B-PT-B) transplant. Materials and methods. We conducted a retrospective study on a consecutive series of 44 patients. All patients were operated on by the same senior surgeon in our institution between 2003 and 2009. All patients had undergone a first ACL reconstruction with B-PT-B transplant. They all had ACL revision under arthroscopic assistance and by means of ipsilateral B-PT-B transplant after a minimum of 18 months after primary surgery. At time of ACL revision, the mean patients age was 28 years (range, 17–49 years). The average postoperative follow up after revision was 55 months (range, 12–88 months). We had no patient lost to follow up. All patients were evaluated by an independent observer using IKDC scoring system and KT 2000. Results. The postoperative IKDC score averaged 78.2 (range, 41,4–97,7). 10 patients (22.7%) had their knee graded A, 25 patients (56.8%) grade B, 8 patients (18.2%) grade C and one patient (2.3%) grade D. The post operative maxi manual differential KT 2000 averaged 1,52 mm (range, −1mm/12mm). The identified aetiologies for poor clinical outcomes were menisectomy in the first ACL reconstruction (p<0.01) and articular cartilage lesions (ICRS grade III and IV) found during ACL revision. In most cases, return to sport activities was achieved but not at the same level. We had no specific complication after second harvesting of the patellar tendon. Discussion. The type of graft used in revision of ACL reconstructions is a controversy. In the literature, many studies reported the results of revision of ACL reconstructions but with poor methodology and few data for every type of graft. In our study, we found clinical results comparable to those classically reported in the literature. Clinical evaluation showed good control of the laxity and no specific patellar tendon complication. Conclusion. The clinical results of revision of ACL reconstructions is lower than in primary surgery. We did not noticed specific patellar tendon complication after second harvesting of BPTB transplant. The revision of ACL reconstruction with ipsilateral BPTB transplant showed good clinical results and good control of the anteroposterior laxity

The previous bioabsorbable plates have had several issues with regard to clinical usage for fractures. The aims of this study were to demonstrate the clinical results of novel bioabsorbable plates made of hydroxyapatite/poly-L-lactide and titanium plates for metacarpal fractures and to compare mechanical properties of them in a fracture model. The subjects were 33 metacarpal diaphyseal fractures of 27 consecutive patients treated with bioabsorbable plates. The mean age was 35.8 (17–78), 22 male and 5 female was included. The mean follow up period was 7.4months (2–14). All cases achieved bone union, and there were no complication especially for aseptic swelling etc. Furthermore, we compared the mechanical properties of bioabsorbable and titanium plates. There were no significant differences in 6 month postoperative clinical results including total range of active motion and % of the contralateral grip strength between patients receiving bioabsorbable and titanium plates. The bending strength and stiffness of one-third tubular bioabsorbable plate constructs were comparable with those of titanium plates for 1.5mm screws, and those of semi-tubular bioabsorbable plates were comparable with those of titanium plates for 2.0mm screws. The torsional strength of semi-tubular bioabsorbable plates was significantly greater than that of titanium plates for 2.0mm screws

Introduction. Between 2002–2009 we operatively treated 193 acetabular fracture. Among these 44 both-columns fractures according to the classification of Letournel and Judet have been reviewed in order to evaluate the results. These fractures are rare, difficult to treat and often have poor clinical results. Patients and Methods. 44 cases of ORIF of displaced both columns fractures have been studied at a mean 37 months follow-up (range, 13 to 76 months) after the injury. 40 hips were operated with the ilioinguinal approach alone, 1 with Kocker Langenbeck and Smith petersen combined. The 3 remaining hips were operated with a double Kocher-Langenbeck and ilioinguinal approach. Every case was evalueted on X-rays according to Matta criteria and clinically with the Harris hip score and the WOMAC score. Results. The mean Harris hip score has been 85,8% (range 30%–100%) while the mean WOMAC score has been 88,3 points (range 39,1–100). The main complications were 4 early post-traumatic arthritis operated by hip replacement. One patient instead developed a gastric carcinoma. Discussion. The rate of anatomical reduction decreased with the complexity of the fracture, the age, and the interval between the injury and the reduction. The clinical result was adversely affected by associated injuries of the femoral head, an older age of the patient. It was positively affected by an anatomical reduction and postoperative congruity between the femoral head and the acetabular roof. Conclusions. These findings indicate that in many patients who have a complex acetabular fracture the hip joint can be preserved and post-traumatic osteoarthritis can be avoided if an anatomical reduction is achieved. Both column acetabular fractures can be reduced with a combined surgical approaches or with ilioinguinal alone. We used the ilioinguinal approach alone in 91% of cases reaching good results, even comparing Letournel and Matta's results. Surgeon experience and a long learning curve can help in decision making and in obtaining an anatomical reduction with a low rate of post-operative complications

Introduction. Several clinical and radiological studies have confirmed the benefits of using Volar Locking Plates (VLPs) to treat unstable distal radius fractures. The “theoretical” advantage of VLPs compared to standard plate fixation is that VLPs, through their design, intrinsically provide angular stability for most fracture configurations including comminuted fractures and, quite possibly, osteoporotic fractures. However few studies have compared the clinical results of patients of different ages who have been treated using VLPs. Aim. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of VLP fixation of displaced distal radius in younger (<59 yrs) and older (>60yrs) patients. Patients & Methods. We reviewed 78 consecutive patients who had undergone ORIF of their displaced distal radial fractures using a VLP. All patients were reviewed at predetermined time points by an independent observer and the findings at 6 months are presented. In addition to documenting the standard demographics for each patient and classifying the fractures using the OTA/AO system, wrist function was assessed using Range of Movement (ROM), Grip strength (GS), the Modified Gartland & Werley score (MGWS), the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), the Quick DASH scores, and overall scores of wrist Pain and Function using Visual Analogue Scores (VAS). Results. 43 patients were under 60 years of age and 35 patients were 60 years or over. The proportion of extra-articular to intra-articular fractures were similar for both age groups. There was little difference in terms of patient perception of Pain and Function, or ROM, MGWS (7.2 versus 6.9), PRWE (24 versus 23.6) and quick DASH scores (17.3 versus 19.1) between the two groups at 6 months. The younger group did have significantly better grip strength, but when compared as a percentage of the uninjured wrist, the results were also similar (83% vs 80%). Conclusions. VLPs are a suitable option for fixing distal radial fractures in older patients (>60yrs) and the clinical results appear to be just as good as they are in younger patients

Introduction. Undisplaced femoral neck fractures have been given little attention in the literature. By using data from the Norwegian Hip Fracture Register, this study investigates risk for reoperation and the clinical results, including pain, patient satisfaction, and quality of life, after undisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients. Material and Methods. Data on 4,468 patients over 70 years of age with undisplaced femoral neck fractures operated with internal fixation (IF) were compared to 10,289 patients with displaced femoral neck fractures treated with IF (n = 3,389) or bipolar hemiarthroplasty (n = 6,900). The evaluation was based on number of reported reoperations and patients' assessment (visual analogue scales concerning pain (0–100) and patient satisfaction (0–100), and quality of life (EQ-5D)) four and twelve months postoperatively. The patients were followed for 0–1 year. The Cox multiple regression model was used to construct adjusted survival curves. Subanalyses were performed on undisplaced femoral neck fractures to investigate different risk factors for reoperation. Results. The survival rate of implants after one year was 89% after screw fixation for undisplaced fractures, 79% after screw fixation for displaced fractures, and 97% after hemiarthroplasty for displaced fractures (Kaplan Meier). Adjusted for age, sex, ASA-classification, and cognitive function the displaced fractures operated with internal fixation had higher risk of reoperation compared to the undisplaced fractures operated with internal fixation (RR 1.92, 95% CI: 1.69–2.17; p<0.001). The displaced fractures operated with hemiarthroplasty had a lower risk of reoperation compared to the undisplaced fractures (RR 0.32, 95%CI: 0.27–0.38; p<0.001). Patients treated with IF for undisplaced fractures were more satisfied, had less pain, and higher quality of life compared to patients treated with IF after displaced fractures (p<0.05). The patients treated with bipolar hemiarthroplasty for displaced fractures had, however, the least pain, were most satisfied, and reported the highest quality of life. Discussion and Conclusion. The clinical outcome after undisplaced femoral neck fractures treated with screw fixation was better than the results of screw fixation for displaced fractures, but poorer than the clinical results for patients with displaced femoral neck fractures operated with a bipolar hemiarthroplasty. However, the differences in clinical outcome were smaller than what is considered to be of clinical importance. One year postoperatively screw osteosynthesis of undisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients still seems to be a good alternative

Introduction. The treatment of trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures remains controversial, and new implants are constantly being developed trying to improve outcome and minimize the number of complications in these fractures. In Norway the Sliding Hip Screw(SHS), with or without a Trochanteric Stabilizing Plate (TSP), is still the most commonly used implant, but worldwide nailing of these fractures is increasing. This trend, however, has not been supported by documentation of better clinical results compared to the SHS in well designed studies. Therefore, in the present study we compared the recently launched Trigen Intertan nail (Smith and Nephew) with the SHS in the treatment of trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. Patients and Methods. In a prospective, randomized multicenter study with 697 patients, we compared the Trigen Intertan nail with the SHS regarding postoperative pain, functional mobility, complications, and reoperation rates. Patients older than 60 years with trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures were included in 5 hospitals. At day 5, and 3 and 12 months postoperatively, pain was measured using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the Timed Up and Go-test (TUG-test) was performed to evaluate functional mobility. Complications and reoperations were recorded at discharge, and after 3 and 12 months. Results. 328 patients were evaluated at day 5 postoperatively. At mobilization patients treated with the nail had less pain compared to the SHS (VAS 47 vs. 53, p=0.02). Still, a difference of 6 points may not be of clinical significance. There was no difference in pain at rest or in early functional mobility. The length of postoperative hospital stay was also similar for the two groups (8.5 and 8.4 days respectively). At 3 (457 patients) and 12 months (374 patients) there was no difference in pain or TUG-test performance. At discharge, and after 3 and 12 months the overall reoperation rate for the groups was similar, and there was no difference regarding general complications. The results were comparable for the two groups, regardless of fracture classification (stable or unstable fractures). However, postoperative femoral fractures still seems to be an issue even with modern nails. 5 postoperative femoral fractures were encountered in the Intertan group, whereas 1 occurred in the SHS-group. Conclusion. Overall, there was no major difference in the results for the Intertan nail and the SHS in our study. Both methods provided predictable and good results in the treatment of trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. We found however less pain at mobilization for patients operated with a nail at day 5 postoperatively compared to the SHS. No difference in pain or function was evident at any later follow up. There was no difference in reoperation rates between the groups, but more postoperative ipsilateral femoral fractures occurred in the Intertan group. The clinical results in this study do not support the trend towards more nailing of trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures

A minimally-invasive procedure using percutaneous reduction and external fixation can be carried out for Sanders’ type II, III and IV fractures of the os calcis. We have treated 54 consecutive closed displaced fractures of the calcaneum involving the articular surface in 52 patients with the Orthofix Calcaneal Mini-Fixator. Patients were followed up for a mean of 49 months (27 to 94) and assessed clinically with the Maryland Foot Score and radiologically with radiographs and CT scans, evaluated according to the Score Analysis of Verona. The clinical results at follow-up were excellent or good in 49 cases (90.7%), fair in two (3.7%) and poor in three (5.6%). The mean pre-operative Böhler’s angle was 6.98° (5.95° to 19.86°), whereas after surgery the mean value was 21.94° (12.58° to 31.30°) (p < 0.01). Excellent results on CT scanning were demonstrated in 24 cases (44.4%), good in 25 (46.3%), fair in three (5.6%) and poor in two (3.7%). Transient local osteoporosis was observed in ten patients (18.5%), superficial pin track infection in three (5.6%), and three patients (5.6%) showed thalamic displacement following unadvised early weight-bearing. The clinical results appear to be comparable with those obtainable with open reduction and internal fixation, with the advantages of reduced risk using a minimally-invasive technique

Ganz peri-acetabular osteotomy is commonly used to treat symptomatic hip dysplasia. It aims to increase the load bearing contact area of the hip to reduce the risk of subsequent osteoarthritis. In this study we assess the radiographic and clinical results of the procedure since its introduction to our unit. All patients undergoing Ganz osteotomies at our unit were followed up prospectively. Data collected included patient demographics and pre- and post-operative functional scores (Harris and Non-arthritic hip scores). In addition, acetabular correction was evaluated on pre-and post-operative radiographs (using Centre-Edge angle and Tonnis angle). Complications were also noted. Overall 50 procedures were performed between 2007 and 2013 with median follow-up of 3 years (1–7 years). The majority of patients (90%) were female. Average age at time of surgery was 32 years (17–39). There were significant improvements in pre- and post-operative median functional scores (Modified Harris Hip Score = 52 versus 63, p=0.001), Non-arthritic Hip Score = 49 versus 60, p=0.01). Median Centre Edge Angle improved from 15 degrees pre-operatively (range = 8–19 degrees) to 29 degrees post-operatively (22–36 degrees), p=0.02. Similarly, pre-operative Tonnis angle improved from 19 degrees (16–38) to 7 degrees (2–14), p=0.01. Four patients developed post-operative complications: 1 superficial wound infection, 1deep infection requiring hip washout and antibiotic treatment and 2 patients subsequently requiring total hip replacements. We have shown that the Ganz peri-acetabular osteotomy can be effective for the treatment of painful hip dysplasia improving both functional and radiographic outcomes. However, patient selection is a key factor

Aims. Dual SC Screw (DSCS) is a novel fixation device for the femoral neck fracture. DSCS is comprised of screw and barrel allowing sliding of the screw and preventing protrusion of the screw end. Two types of the barrels are available, threaded barrel (TB) and plate barrel (PB). Ordinarily, both barrels are implanted. Concept of the design is that the PB contributes stability to the screw against the varus force of the femoral head while the additional screw with TB prevents rotational deformity. The aim of this study was to represent clinical results after DSCS operation in patients with femoral neck fracture. Method. Fifty-one patients with femoral neck fractures treated using DSCS and at least 3 months follow up are included and their clinical was evaluated. Result. Most fractures healed uneventfully. Cut out was occurred in two patients, perforation of the femoral head in one, femoral head necrosis in two, subtrochanteric fracture in one and 1backout of screw in one. The cases except that are excellent postoperative results. Discussion and Conclusion. Most complication was associated with some technical problems and all but one patients without that showed excellent results even for displaced fracture. Furthermore, secondary subtrochanteric fracture was rare compared other devices. The plate augmentation for screw fixation contributes to these excellent results