There is no agreement as to the superiority or specific indications for cast treatment, percutaneous pinning or open fracture fixation for Bennett's fractures of the thumb metacarpal. We undertook this study to compare the outcomes of treatment for patients treated for Bennett's fracture in the medium term. We reviewed 33 patients treated in our unit for a bennett's fracture to the thumb metacarpal with closed reduction and casting. Each patient was matched with a patient treated surgically. Patients were matched for sex, age, Gedda grade of injury and hand dominance. Patients were reviewed at a minimum of 5-years and 66-patients were reviewed in total. Patients were examined clinically and also asked to complete a DASH questionnaire score and the brief Michigan hand questionnaire. Follow up plain radiographs were taken of the thumb and these were reviewed and graded for degenerative change using the Eaton-Littler score. Sixty-six patients were included in the study, with 33 in the surgical and non-surgical cohorts respectively. The average age was 39 years old. In each cohort, 12/33 were female, 19/33 were right-handed with 25% of individuals injuring their dominant hand. In each coort there were 16 Grade 1 fractures, 4 Grade 2 and 13 Grade 3 fractures. There was no difference between the surgically treated and cast-treatment cohorts of patients when radiographic arthritis, pinch grip, the brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire and pain were assessed at final review. The surgical cohort had significantly lower DASH scores at final follow-up. There was no significant difference in the normalised bMHQ scores. Our study was unable to demonstrate superiority of either operative or non-operative fracture stabilization. Patients in the surgical cohort reported superior satisfaction and DASH scores but did not demonstrate any superiority in any other objectively measured domain

Introduction. Antegrade K wiring of the fifth metacarpal for treatment of displaced metacarpal neck fractures is a well recognized surgical procedure. However it is not without complication and injury to the dorsal cutaneous branch of the ulnar nerve has been reported in up to 15% of cases. Methods. We performed a cadaver study to determine the proximity of this nerve to the K wire insertion point at the base of the fifth metacarpal. K wires were percutaneously inserted under image intensification in sixteen cadaver hands and advanced into the head of the metacarpal. Wires were then cut and bent outside the skin. This was then followed by meticulous dissection of the ulnar nerve from proximal to distal. A number of measurements were taken to identify the distance from the insertion point of the K wire to each branch of this nerve. Results. The distance from the insertion point at the base of the fifth metacarpal to the dorsal component of the nerve averaged 5.6 mm (range 1mm–12mm) and from the volar component was 6 mm (range 1mm–10mm). The heel of the wire was touching the nerve in five cases. Conclusion. Our findings highlight the importance of making a small incision and bluntly dissecting to bone at the base of the fifth metacarpal to protect the nerve. In addition, use of a tissue protector is vital when drilling the 2mm hole at the base of the fifth metacarpal. We have confirmed that the dorsal cutaneous branch of the ulnar nerve is vulnerable during insertion of an antegrade intramedullary K wire for treatment of neck of fifth metacarpal fractures

Background. Isolated fractures of the distal fourth or fifth metacarpal bones, known as boxer's fractures (BF), are the most common type of metacarpal fracture. Boxer's fractures received their name from one of their most common causes — punching an object with a closed fist. This injury has been described as “a tolerable fracture in an intolerable patient” (1) It occurs commonly during fistfights or from punching a hard object such as a wall. Greer and William demonstrated that it is usually an intentional injury and these patients were at increased risk for recurrent injury (2). Further work suggested that patients with such injuries had higher features of antisocial, self-defeating personality disorders, self harm and impulsive behaviour, compared with control groups (3). It has been suggested that all patients presenting with such an injury should have psychiatric assessment. The majority of studies in the literature have concentrated on adults and little has been reported on children and adolescents who present with such fractures. This study aims to assess aggression scores in young patients discharged with metacarpal fractures due to punching using a validated questionnaire and this abstract presents the interim analysis. Methodology. Following ethical permissions patients between 11 and 18 years of age, discharged with a metacarpal fracture caused by punching diagnosis codes S622, S623 or S624 and willing to complete an anonymous quetionnairre were included. All patients recieved an information sheet and for young people under 16 parental permission was sought. The Bus and Warren validated questionnaire was completed by post, in person or over the telephone. The questionnaire included subscales of physical aggression and anger scales as well as overall aggression scoring and patients were asked to complete all sections. Results. Twenty one patients who had metacarpal fractures due to punching have. completed the study to date. All were males aged between the age of 11 and 18. The physical aggression scores ranged from 13-39 with a mean of 27.5, median 31 and mode 33. Fifteen patients demonstrated high aggression scores. Six patients demonstrated average scores. Anger scores ranged from 7-31. Median 18.5, mode 13, median 20. Thirteen patients had high anger scores compared with their peers. Eight patients were within the average range. Overall aggression scores ranged from 66-133 with a mean of 100 and median of 100. Eleven patients demonstrated high scores and 5 were in the high average range. Discussion/Conclusions. The initial interim results of this study show that over half the patients had higher overall aggression levels than the normal population. The physical aggression subscale focussed on the use of physical force and 71% had high physical aggression levels. High scores in this subscale indicate a lack of ability to control urges toward physical aggression and this is often seen in children with attention deficit disorder. Anger scores may indicate a number of conduct disorders or abusive situations and in this study 62% had raised anger scores. This may be relevant in assessing children with punch injuries as they may benefit from assessment by the CAMS team for investigation and management of their anger and aggression issues which in turn may reduce recurrence of the injuries

Introduction. Rolando type base of thumb metacarpal fractures are potentially debilitating injuries, which can be difficult to manage because of their inherent instability. Malunion is associated with stiffness, pain and weakness of pinch grip. We aimed to assess the outcome of a simple technique for the treatment of this fracture using the principle of ligamentotaxis, with a static, 2-pin external fixator spanning the trapeziometacarpal joint. We present the results and functional outcomes of this technique. Methods. A consecutive series of 8 patients (7 males, 1 female) with Rolando type intra-articular fractures of the base of the first metacarpal was retrospectively reviewed. All cases were performed by the senior author using a static, 2-pin Mini-Hoffman external fixator. Case notes and radiographs were reviewed, and patients' functional outcome assessed using the Quick Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick DASH) scoring system. Mean age of the group was 32.8 years (range 18.1-52.3 years). Mean follow-up was 2.7 years (range 3.5 months to 6.0 years). Results. The mean delay between injury and surgery was 6.6 days (range 1-11). The mean time to frame removal was 28 days (range 15-41). There were 3 cases of superficial pin site infection all of which were treated satisfactorily with oral antibiotic therapy. Follow-up radiographs did not demonstrate any significant joint incongruity or malunion in any case. The mean Quick DASH score was 8 (range 0-23). Mean scores for the work and sport components were 10 (range 0-25) and 3 (range 0-6) respectively. Conclusion. The results of this study demonstrate that this simple method reliably gives excellent hand and thumb function with minimal impact upon work, sport or recreational activities. We recommend the use of spanning trapeziometacarpal external fixation for intra-articular fractures of the base of the first metacarpal

We completed a retrospective case study of 66 consecutive isolated closed 5. th. metacarpal neck fractures that presented to our Hospital between September 2009 and March 2010. Their management was established by referring to outpatient letters and A&E notes. The aim of the study was to establish if it would be more efficient and cost effective for these patients to be managed in A&E review clinic without compromising patient care. Of these 66 patients, 56 were males and the mean age was 26 years (12–88 years). Four fractures were not followed up at our Trust, six did not attend their outpatient appointment, one did not require follow up. Of the remaining 55, reviewed at a fracture clinic, all but two were managed conservatively, with 47% requiring one outpatient appointment only. The cost of a new patient Orthopaedic outpatient appointment is £180 with subsequent follow up appointments costing £80 per visit, in contrast to an A&E review clinic appointment at a cost of £60. In view of the small percentage in need of surgical intervention: we highlight the possibility for these patients to be managed solely in the A&E department with a management plan made at the A&E review clinic with an option to refer patients if necessary, and the provision of management guidelines and care quality assurance measures. This, we believe, would maintain care quality for these patients, improve efficiency of fracture clinics and decrease cost. We calculate that even if only all the patients that required one follow up appointment could have been managed by A&E alone then the saving to the local health commissioning body over a six month period from within our trust alone, would have been £3000, which across all trusts providing acute trauma services within the NHS would amount to a substantial saving nationwide

Abstract. Aim. This study aims to Inter and intra observer reliability compare, use of a standard goniometer (SG) to measure intermetacarpal angle (degrees) vs use of a new technique of using a digital vernier calliper (DVC) (mm) to measure the distance between the first and second metacarpal head. Method. Maximal active abduction and extension of both thumbs was measured in 20 healthy volunteers on two occasions at least one week apart by two assessors. Results. The inter and intra-observer agreement was higher & the variance of the data was lower using the DVC with the new technique than the SG for both thumb abduction and extension. Additionally, the correlation between measurement of extension and abduction was higher using the DVC than the SG. Conclusion. Whilst both tools provide acceptable intra and inter-observer agreement, the new technique using a DVC is consistently better and more reliable than a SG in measuring thumb abduction and extension. The study also supports our hypothesis that the thumb rotates around the second metacarpal head with a consistent radius

Thumb carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) arthritis is a common and debilitating condition. The mainstay of surgical management is Trapeziectomy. Concerns about possible functional implications of collapse of the metacarpal into the arthroplasty space as well as the potential for scaphometacarpal led to the development of techniques to try and prevent this. The purpose of this study was to investigate if there were any significant differences in the long-term outcomes of patients who participated in a randomized trial of trapeziectomy alone compared with trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI). Sixty-five patients participated in our original trial, the 1 year findings of which were published in 2007. These patients were invited for a follow-up visit at a mean of 17 years (range 15–20) postoperatively. Twenty-eight patients attended, who had 34 operations, 14 trapeziectomy alone and 20 with LRTI. Patients were asked to complete a visual analogue scale (VAS) for satisfaction with the outcome of their procedure, rated on a scale from 0 (most dissatisfied) to 100 (most satisfied). They also completed the short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (QuickDASH) at their appointment. They underwent a functional assessment with a hand therapist and had a radiograph of the thumb. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of satisfaction with surgery or functional outcomes, with most measurements showing minimal or no differences in means between the two groups. There was no difference in the space between the metacarpal and scaphoid on radiograph. Radial abduction was the only parameter that was significantly greater in the patients with simple trapeziectomy (median 79°) compared with trapeziectomy with LRTI (median 71°) (p = 0.04). Even at 17 years there is no significant benefit of LRTI over trapeziectomy alone for thumb carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis

The second wave of COVID-19 infections in 2021 resulting from the delta strain had a significantly larger impact on the state of New South Wales, Australia and with it the government implemented harsher restrictions. This retrospective cohort study aims to explore how the increased restrictions affected hand trauma presentations and their treatment. Retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent hand surgery from the period of June 23 – August 31 in 2020 and 2021 at a level one trauma centre in Western Sydney. During the second-wave lockdown there was an 18.9% decrease in all hand trauma presentations. Despite widespread restrictions placed on the manufacturing, wholesale, retail and construction industries, there was an insignificant difference in work injuries. Stay-at-home orders and reduced availability of professional tradespersons likely contributed to an increase in DIY injuries. Significant reductions in metacarpal and phalangeal fractures coincided with significantly curtailed sporting seasons. The findings from this study can assist in predicting the case-mix of hand trauma presentations and resource allocation in the setting of future waves of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases

Trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI) with the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon is one of the most common procedures for the treatment of thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis. An alternative method involves trapeziectomy alone (TA). The trapeziectomy with LRTI procedure was developed to theoretically improve biomechanical strength and hand function when compared to TA, which leaves an anatomical void proximal to the first metacarpal. The LRTI procedure takes longer to perform and includes an autologous tendon graft. The goal of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of trapeziectomy with or without LRTI at a minimum follow-up of 1 year. A total of 43 adult patients who had underwent a total of 58 (TA=36, LRTI=22) surgical procedures for CMC arthritis participated in the study. This single surgeon retrospective cohort study sampled patients who underwent CMC arthroplasty with either TA or LRTI techniques between 2008 and 2020 with a minimum time of 1 year post-operatively. The patients were evaluated subjectively (The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire) and objectively (hand/thumb strength, pre/post-operative hand radiographs). Both the TA and LRTI procedures provided good pain relief, motion, strength, and stability without any severe complications. There was no statistically significant difference in hand or thumb strength between the two groups. Radiography showed that compared to the preoperative status, the trapezial space decreased similarly between the two groups. There was no difference in size of collapse between TA and LRTI post-operatively. The TA procedure had similar outcomes to LRTI and has the advantages of shorter surgical time, less incision length, and lower surgical complexity. TA provided equivalent trapezial space to LRTI after the operation. Future study should investigate these two procedures in a head-to-head comparison rather than longitudinally where both surgeon experience and time since procedure at follow-up may have impacted results

Aim. There are no definitive criteria for the definition of osteomyelitis in the hand and wrist and published case series are small. It remains a relatively uncommon, but difficult to treat problem. We present a series of 30 cases from 2016 to 2021 from a tertiary referral centre. We propose that the principles of thorough surgical debridement, dead space management, skeletal stabilisation and culture driven antibiotic therapy are the key to management of osteomyelitis in the hand and wrist. In addition, we show how these basic principles can be used for both functional and aesthetic impact for the wrist and digits with illustrated cases. Methods. We conducted a retrospective chart review over a 6 year period and recorded the site of the infection, the soft tissue and bony management, whether antibiotic eluting bone filler was used, the isolated bacterial species, the number of surgical procedures undertaken to treat the infection and the success rate for clearing the infection. Results. 17/30 cases had pre-existing metalwork in-situ. There were 19 phalangeal/metacarpal infections and 11 carpal infections. 24 patients had native joint involvement. A drug eluting bone void filler was used in 23/30 cases in order to manage the dead space. In 7/30 cases had polymicrobial organisms isolated, 15/30 had only one organism cultured. The most common organism cultured was Staphylococcus aureus. Complete resolution of osteomyelitis or joint infection was achieved in 29/30 cases with follow up ranging from six months to six years. 2/30 cases required thorough debridement of the distal phalanx; bone void filler provided an aesthetically optimal result to improve fingertip contour whilst managing the dead space. Conclusion. Osteomyelitis of the hand and wrist is optimally managed with thorough surgical debridement, dead space management with a drug eluting bone void filler, skeletal stabilisation and culture directed antibiotic therapy. In addition, the bone void filler provides pulp support and improves the aesthetic contour of fingertips in which distal phalangeal osteomyelitis was successfully treated

Introduction. The trapezio-metacarpal joint (TMCJ) is subject to constant multiplanar forces and is stabilised by the bony anatomy and ligamentous structures. Ligament reconstruction can correct the hypermobility and potentially prevent osteoarthritis. Eaton and Littler proposed a surgical technique to reconstruct the volar ligamentous support of this joint. In our cadaveric biomechanical study, we aimed to evaluate the resultant effect of this technique on the mobility of the thumb metacarpal. Materials and method. Seventeen cadaveric hands were prepared and placed on a custom-made jig. Movements at the trapeziometacarpal joint were created using weights. Static digital photographs were taken with intact anterior oblique (AOL) and ulnar collateral ligaments(UCL) and compared with those taken after sectioning these ligaments and following Eaton-Littler reconstructive technique. The photographic records were analyzed using Scion. Image™. Paired T-test was used to establish statistical significance with a p<0.05. Results. AOL and UCL stabilised the TMCJ in extension. Division of these ligaments produced a significant degree of subluxation of the metacarpal at this joint with the thumb in a neutral position. Reconstruction of the ligamentous supports, using the Eaton-Littler technique, reduced the degree of extension. Conclusion. The primary stabilising ligament of the TMCJ is a subject of debate. Our study objectively evaluates the effect of reconstruction of AOL and UCL on various movements at the TMCJ comparing with sectioned and unsectioned specimens. It confirms the role AOL and UCL in resisting extension and utility of the Eaton-Littler procedure in decreasing hyperextension at this joint. This may have clinical utility in traumatic injury and degenerative laxity, by reducing pain and potentially slowing or even preventing the progression of osteoarthritis

Background. The trapeziometacorpal joint (TMJ) of the thumb is a common site of primary osteoarthritis. Pain, crepitis and instability secondary to subluxation are common symptoms associated with TMJ arthritis. Conservative therapy help to control symptoms however with time, many patients progress with pain, deformity and functional limitation. The goals of operative intervention are to restore stability and strength, decrease pain and to provide a functional range of motion. Francobal-prosthesis may fulfil these criterions. Technique. We implanted the prosthesis through a dorso-radial straight longitudinal or slightly curved skin incision. A dorsal capsulotomy is performed and at this step adduction deformity should be addressed. An osteotomy of the proximal surface of the first metacarpal is made perpendicular to the long axis of the medullary cavity followed by reaming of the medullary cavity and then a trial fit. This is followed by preparation of the trapezium including removing any osteophytes, drilling of a cavity. Dental burs may be used at this step to deepen the cavity. The process of cementation started by cementation of the cup with its opening neutral to the joint surface, and if there is any muscle tension, bone is removed from the metacarpal before the metacarpal component is cemented. Reduction is achieved by snapping. The capsule and wound are closed and the thumb is immobilised in an adduction splint for ten days. Results. Results showed marked improvement of pain in many patients with high rate of satisfaction. No restriction of movement or instability was observed. In some cases, loosening of the shaft was noticed. However, this does not affect the overall function. Discussion. De La Caffini`re-prosthesis presents one of the operative options in the management of trapeziometacorpal joint (TMJ). Arthritis, however, this operation is recommended only in selective cases where skaphoid-trapezium-trapezoid (STT) joints are not involved

Introduction. An understanding of anatomic variability can help guide the surgeon on intervention strategies. Well-functioning thumb metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPJ) are essential for carrying out typical daily activities. However, current options for arthroplasty are limited. This is further hindered by the lack of a precise understanding of the geometric variation present in the population. In this paper, we offer new insight into the major modes of geometric variation in the thumb MCP using Statistical Shape Modelling. Methods. Ten participants free from hand or wrist disease or injury were recruited for CT imaging (Ethics Ref:14/LO/1059). 1. Participants were sex matched with mean age 31yrs (range 27–37yrs). Metacarpal (MC1) and proximal phalanx (PP1) bone surfaces were identified in the CT volumes using a greyscale threshold, and meshed. The ten MC1 and ten PP1 segmented bones were aligned by estimating their principal axes using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and registration was performed to enable statistical comparison of the position of each mesh vertex. PCA was then used again, to reduce the dimensionality of the data by identifying the main ‘modes’ of independent size and shape variation (principal components, PCs) present in the population. Once the PCs were identified, the variation described by each PC was explored by inspecting the shape change at two standard deviations either side of the mean bone shape. Results. For the ten MC1s, over 80% of the variation was described by the first two PCs (Table 1). Figure 1 shows the effect of the variation in PC1. The majority of geometric variation of the ten PP1s was also described by the first two PCs, with PC1 describing 78.9%. Figure 2 shows the effect of this component on the mean bone geometry. Both the distal articulating surface (head) of the MC1 and the proximal articulating surface (base) of the PP1 vary in overall size. However, the MC1 head also varies in shape (curvature), whereas the PP1 base does not appear to undergo noticeable variation in shape. In this study population, smaller MC1 was observed to correlate with a flatter head, whereas the PP1 head shape did not vary with size. Discussion. The flatter MC1 head (smaller height-radius ratio) may have implications for MCPJ instability, and possibly for osteoarthritic degeneration. A recent study predicted similar trends for the first CMC joint. 2. Previous investigation also observed correlation between MC1 head curvature and MCPJ RoM. 3. , which may explain clinical observations of differing thumb movement strategies. This study used a convenience sample and cannot describe a full population's variability, though the high variance captured by only two PCs suggests adequate external validity amongst similar populations. Further confidence would be gained from studying the joint (i.e. single PCA containing both bones), and wider populations. Significance. These data: provide more precise description of anatomic variation; may offer insights into thumb movement strategies and MCPJ osteoarthritic degeneration. 4. ; and support implant design for individuals whose anatomy can bear an anatomic reconstruction. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

The scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) joint is one of the key link joints between the proximal and the distal carpal rows. We assessed the relationship between the scaphotrapezium (STm) andscaphotrapezoid (STd) joints using computerised tomographyand hypothesised the ratio of STm is =/< STd joint due to which, the possibility of failure of trapeziectomy due to metacarpal collapse is insignificant. We reviewed CT scans of wrist joints of 113 eligible patientsfrom our wrist database between 2009 and 2014 for our study. 31 patients were randomised for interobserver correlation. Reformatted multi-planar sequences were analysed. The ratio of theSTm: STdin sagittal and coronal measurementswas evaluated. Interobserver variations were assessed using the Pearson coefficient. The sex distribution included 68 males and 29 females, 49 left and 64 right wrists. The STm area was larger in 86 (76%) as compared to STd in 27(24%). Average trapezium to trapezoid ratio was 1:1.5. Ratio of area of trapezium: trapezoid joint is 0.30. The anatomic ratio of the STm in the coronal and sagittal planesis 0.3 and that of the STd joint is 0.2. Ratio of the STm: STd in the coronal plane is 0.29. Pearson's coefficient > 0.8. A small subset of patients undergoing trapeziectomy alonefor stage II- IV carpometacarpal arthritis of the thumb are at risk of impingement of the first metacarpal due to collapse. Our assessment of the anatomical relationship of the STT joint with CT scan proves that although the area the STm joint is generally larger than the STd joint, there is no significant correlation on the whole

Trapeziometacarpal arthritis is a common condition, causing symptoms in up to ten percent of women and one percent of men¹. LRTI is the most commonly used surgical technique for this condition however, long-term studies have shown persistent weakness of pinch strength² after surgery. The Ascension® PyroDisk is a pyrocarbon disk shaped implant designed to articulate against the trapezium and metacarpal, preserving the height of the articulation. The objective of this study was to determine whether treatment with a pyrocarbon implant resulted in comparable pain relief and range of motion, whilst providing superior gains in pinch strength when compared to LRTI. This is a prospective randomized control trial comparing pyrocarbon implant to LRTI. Surgeries were accomplished by a single surgeon in a standardized fashion. Patients were evaluated at six weeks, three, six and 12 months following surgery. Data on pain (VAS), function (Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE)), mobility and strength (grip, key and lateral pinch) were obtained as well as radiographic assessment of the height of the arthroplasty space. A total of 80 patients had surgery between July 2008 and November 2016. Forty patients were allocated to the PyroDisk group and 40 to the LRTI group. Seventy-four patients (92,5%) completed the one year follow-up. Mean age was slightly older in the PyroDisk group (64 vs 60,8 y.o., p=0,03). Surgical and tourniquet times were longer in the PyroDisk group. There was no difference between the groups in strength, pain or functional outcome at one year. However, VAS was significantly higher in the PyroDisk group at three and six months (4,5 vs 2,4, p < 0,001, 2,6 vs 1,7, p=0,02) and PRWE was also significantly better at three months in the LRTI group (53,7 vs 71,2, p=0,02). The overall complication rate was three times higher in the PyroDisk group (10% vs 30%). Treatment of trapeziometacarpal arthritis with PyroDisk does not provide superior functional gains when compared to LRTI. On the contrary, it seems to result in more pain in the first few months following surgery. This difference in pain is not seen at 1 year after surgery. This may suggest that there is a period of adaptation to the Pyrodisk after its insertion. We also found a higher risk of complications with the use of the PyroDisk

Introduction. The first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint is the second most common joint of the hand affected by degenerative osteoarthritis (OA). 1. Laxity of ligamentous stabilizers that attach the first metacarpal bone (MC1) and the trapezium bone (TZ), notably the volar anterior oblique ligament (AOL), has been associated with cartilage wear, joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and dorsal-radial CMC subluxation. 2. In addition, the proximal-volar end of the MC1 has a bony prominence known as the palmar lip (PL) that adds conformity to this double-saddle joint, and is thought to be a supplemental dorsal stabilizer. Currently, no study has looked at the changes to the 3D shape and relative positions of these structures with OA. Methods. CT scans of patients with clinically diagnosed CMC OA (n=11, mean age 73 [60–97], 8 females) and CT scans of ‘normal’ patients with no documented history of CMC OA (n=11, mean age 37 [20–51], 6 females) were obtained with the hand in a prone position. 3D reconstructions of the MC1 and TZ bones were created, and each assigned a coordinate system. 3. The long axis of the MC1 and the proximal-distal axis of the TZ were established, and the location where they intersected the CMC articular surface was defined as their articular center points, X and O, respectively (Figure 1). Using the TZ as a fixed reference, we calculated the relative position of X in the dorsal-ventral and radial-ulnar directions. A two sample t-test was performed to compare the normal and OA groups. In addition, the distal position of the PL relative to X was recorded. Results. The dorsal position of the MC1 relative to the TZ was significantly greater (p=0.002) in the OA group compared with the normal group, with mean dorsal positions of 7.1 and 3.2mm, respectively (Figure 2). The distal position of the PL relative to X was also significantly greater (p=0.001) in the OA group when compared with the normal group, with mean positions of 5.8 and 1.9mm, respectively (Figure 3). Discussion. Dorsal migration of the MC1 in the OA group would suggest a compromised AOL, known to be elongated or absent intraoperatively. Without a sufficient AOL, the PL was positioned more distally in the OA group, as the load on the PL during extension activities could possibly exceed cartilage strength resulting in subchondral bone remodeling and further joint degeneration. We did not observe radial migration of the MC1 bone possibly due to the presence of bony osteophytes that can reduce abduction-adduction function in OA patients. 4. The relationship discovered between OA and changes to bone morphology and relative bone positions of the CMC joint may provide further insight into the natural progression of this disease

Wrist motion is achieved primarily via rotation at the radiocarpal and midcarpal joints. The contribution of each carpal bone to total range of motion has been previously investigated, although there is no consensus regarding the influence of each structure to global wrist motion. The objective of this comprehensive in-vitro biomechanical study was to determine the kinematics of the capitate, scaphoid and lunate during unconstrained simulated wrist flexion-extension. In addition, this study examined the effect of motion direction (i.e. flexion or extension) on the kinematics and contribution of the carpal bones. Seven fresh frozen cadaveric upper limb specimens (age: 67±18 yrs) were amputated mid-humerus, and the wrist flexors/extensors were exposed and sutured at their musculotendinous junctions. Each specimen was mounted on a wrist motion simulator in neutral forearm rotation with the elbow at 90° flexion. Passive flexion and extension motion of the wrist was simulated by moving a K-wire, inserted into the third metacarpal, through the flexion/extension motion arc at a speed of ∼5 mm/sec under muscle tone loads of 10N. Carpal kinematics were captured using optical tracking of bone fixated markers. Kinematic data was analysed from ±35° flexion/extension. Scaphoid and lunate motion differed between wrist flexion and extension, but correlated linearly (R‸2=0.99,0.97) with capitate motion. In wrist extension, the scaphoid (p=0.03) and lunate (p=0.01) extended 83±19% & 37±18% respectively relative to the capitate. In wrist flexion, the scaphoid (p=1.0) and lunate (p=0.01) flexed 95±20% and 70±12% respectively relative to the capitate. The ratio of carpal rotation to global wrist rotation decreased as the wrist moved from flexion to extension. The lunate rotates on average 46±25% less than the capitate and 35±31% less than the scaphoid during global wrist motion (p=0.01). The scaphoid rotates on average 11±19% less than the capitate during wrist flexion and extension (p=0.07). There was no difference in the contribution of carpal bone motion to global wrist motion during flexion (p=0.26) or extension (p=0.78). The capitate, lunate and scaphoid move synergistically throughout planar motions of the wrist. Our study found that both the scaphoid and lunate contributed at a greater degree during wrist flexion compared to extension, suggesting that the radiocarpal joint plays a more critical role in wrist flexion. Our results agree with previous studies demonstrating that the scaphoid and lunate do not contribute equally to wrist motion and do not function as a single unit during planar wrist motion. The large magnitude of differential rotation observed between the scaphoid and lunate may be responsible for the high incidence of scapholunate ligament injuries relative to other intercarpal ligaments. An understanding of normal carpal kinematics may assist in developing more durable wrist arthroplasty designs

Wrist motion is achieved primarily via rotation at the radiocarpal and midcarpal joints. The contribution of each carpal bone to total range of motion has been previously investigated, although there is no consensus regarding the influence of each structure to global wrist motion. The objective of this comprehensive in-vitro biomechanical study was to determine the kinematics of the capitate, scaphoid and lunate during unconstrained simulated wrist flexion-extension. In addition, this study examined the effect of motion direction (i.e. flexion or extension) on the kinematics and contribution of the carpal bones. Seven fresh frozen cadaveric upper limb specimens (age: 67±18 yrs) were amputated mid-humerus, and the wrist flexors/extensors were exposed and sutured at their musculotendinous junctions. Each specimen was mounted on a wrist motion simulator in neutral forearm rotation with the elbow at 90° flexion. Passive flexion and extension motion of the wrist was simulated by moving a K-wire, inserted into the third metacarpal, through the flexion/extension motion arc at a speed of ∼5 mm/sec under muscle tone loads of 10N. Carpal kinematics were captured using optical tracking of bone fixated markers. Kinematic data was analysed from ±35° flexion/extension. Scaphoid and lunate motion differed between wrist flexion and extension, but correlated linearly (R^2=0.99,0.97) with capitate motion. In wrist extension, the scaphoid (p=0.03) and lunate (p=0.01) extended 83±19% & 37±18% respectively relative to the capitate. In wrist flexion, the scaphoid (p=1.0) and lunate (p=0.01) flexed 95±20% and 70±12% respectively relative to the capitate. The ratio of carpal rotation to global wrist rotation decreased as the wrist moved from flexion to extension. The lunate rotates on average 46±25% less than the capitate and 35±31% less than the scaphoid during global wrist motion (p=0.01). The scaphoid rotates on average 11±19% less than the capitate during wrist flexion and extension (p=0.07). There was no difference in the contribution of carpal bone motion to global wrist motion during flexion (p=0.26) or extension (p=0.78). The capitate, lunate and scaphoid move synergistically throughout planar motions of the wrist. Our study found that both the scaphoid and lunate contributed at a greater degree during wrist flexion compared to extension, suggesting that the radiocarpal joint plays a more critical role in wrist flexion. Our results agree with previous studies demonstrating that the scaphoid and lunate do not contribute equally to wrist motion and do not function as a single unit during planar wrist motion. The large magnitude of differential rotation observed between the scaphoid and lunate may be responsible for the high incidence of scapholunate ligament injuries relative to other intercarpal ligaments. An understanding of normal carpal kinematics may assist in developing more durable wrist arthroplasty designs

Alcohol remains a significant cause of disease in the UK population. Yet the effect of alcohol on fractures remains conflicting. We present a prospective analysis of self-reported alcohol consumption and the epidemiology of fractures sustained. 1950 patients over 13 years of age were prospectively interviewed after sustaining a fracture with basic epidemiological data, fracture data and average alcohol consumption recorded. 1621 (83%) of interviewees provided information on alcohol consumption. 10% admitted to drinking in excess of Scottish Health guidelines. 18.1% of males drunk to excess, compared to 4.7% of females (p<0.001). The five most frequent fractures were distal radius (20%), metacarpals (12%), ankle fractures (12%), neck of femur (10%), phallanges (10%). 48% of fractures were falls from standing height. Excess drinkers were more likely to sustain an AO grade C fractures than safe drinkers (18.1% compared to 11.2%, p<0.05). Excess drinkers sustained more open fractures than safe drinkers (5% compared to 1%, p<0.001). Excess drinkers were on average 5.66 years younger than safe drinkers at the time of injury (44.57 years compared to 50.23 years, p<0.05). People reporting alcohol excess who have sustained a fracture are more likely to be younger and suffer more severe fractures than those drinking within current guidelines. Opportune targetting of patients consuming excess alcohol should be targetted at problem drinkers sustaining a fracture

Background. In suspected scaphoid fracture the initial scaphoid series plain radiographs are 84-94% sensitive for scaphoid fractures. Patients are immobilised awaiting diagnosis. Unnecessary lengthy immobilisation leads to lost productivity and may leave the wrist stiff. Early accurate diagnosis would improve patient management. Although Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has come to be regarded as the gold standard in identifying occult scaphoid injury, recent evidence suggests Computer Tomography (CT) to be more accurate in identifying scaphoid cortical fracture. Additionally CT and USS are frequently a more available resource than MRI. We hypothesised that 16 slice CT is superior to high spatial resolution Ultrasonography (USS) in the diagnosis of radiograph negative suspected cortical scaphoid fracture and that a 5 point clinical examination will help to identify patients most likely to have sustained a fracture within this group. Methods. 100 patients with two negative scaphoid series and at least two out of five established clinical signs of scaphoid injury (anatomical snuffbox tenderness (AST), scaphoid tubercle tenderness (STT), effusion, pain on circumduction and pain on axial loading) were prospectively investigated with CT and USS. MRI was arranged for patient with persistent symptoms but negative CT/USS. Results. CT demonstrated 8 scaphoid fractures. 17 other fractures (1st metacarpal, trapezium, trapezoid, distal radius, hook of hammate and triquetral) were also found. USS diagnosed 2/8 scaphoid fractures, raised suspicion in 5/8 and completely missed 1/8. Combining AST, STT with pain on circumduction improved accuracy (sensitivity 87.5% and Specificity 36%). No further fractures were identified on MRI. Conclusions. - CT remains superior to USS for the exclusion of cortical scaphoid fracture. There remains a role for USS if resources are limited. - Combining signs of ASB and tubercle tenderness with pain on circumduction assists in the identification of a ‘fracture likely’ subgroup