Dual plate constructs have become an increasingly common fixation technique for midshaft clavicle fractures and typically involve the use of mini-fragment plates. The goal of this technique is to reduce plate prominence and implant irritation, as these are common reasons for revision surgery. However, limited biomechanical data exist for these lower-profile constructs. The study aim was to compare dual mini-fragment orthogonal plating to traditional small-fragment clavicle plates for biomechanical non-inferiority and to determine if an optimal plate configuration could be identified, using a cadaveric model. Twenty-four cadaveric clavicles were randomized to one of six groups (n=4 per group), stratified by CT-based bone mineral content (BMC). The six different plating configurations compared were: pre-contoured superior or anterior fixation using a single 3.5-mm LC-DC plate, and four different dual-plating constructs utilizing 2.4-mm and 2.7-mm reconstruction or LC-DC plates. The clavicles were plated and then osteotomized to create an inferior butterfly fracture, which was then fixed with a single interfragmentary screw (OTA 15.2B). Axial, torsional, and bending (anterior and superior surface loading) stiffness were determined for each construct through non-destructive cyclic testing, using an MTS 858 Bionix materials testing system. This was followed by a load-to-failure test in three-point superior-surface bending. Kruskal-Wallace H and Mann-Whitney U were used to test for statistical significance. There were no significant differences in BMC (median 7.9 g, range 4.2-13.8 g) for the six groups (p=1.000). For axial stiffness, the two dual-plate constructs with a superior 2.4-mm and anterior 2.7-mm plate (either reconstruction or LC-DC) were significantly stiffer than the other four constructs (p=0.021). For both superior and anterior bending, the superior 2.4-mm and anterior 2.7-mm plate constructs were significantly stiffer when compared to the 3.5-mm superior plate (p=0.043). In addition, a 3.5-mm plate placed anterior was a stiffer construct than a superior 3.5-mm plate (p=0.043). No significant differences were found in torsional stiffness or load-to-failure between the different constructs. Dual plating using mini-fragment plates is biomechanically superior for fixation of midshaft clavicle fractures when compared to a single superior 3.5-mm plate and has similar biomechanical properties to a 3.5-mm plate placed anteriorly. With the exception of axial stiffness, no significant differences were found when different dual plating constructs were compared to each other. However, placing a 2.4-mm plate superiorly in combination with a 2.7-mm plate anteriorly might be the optimal construct, given the biomechanical superiority over the 3.5-mm plate placed superior

The ITS volar radial plate (Implant Technology Systems, Graz/Austria) is a fixation device that allows for the distal locking screws to be fixed at variable angles (70°-110°). This occurs by the different material properties, with the screws (titanium alloy) cutting a thread through the plate holes (titanium). We present our experience with the ITS plate. We retrospectively studied 26 patients who underwent ITS plate fixation for unstable multifragmentary distal radial fractures (AO types A3, B2, B3, C2, C3). The surgery was performed either by a consultant orthopaedic hand surgeon or senior registrar. A volar approach was used every time and 10 cases required synthetic bone grafting. Post-operatively they were immobilised for an average of 2.5 weeks. The 26 patients had a mean age of 58 and the dominant side was affected in 46% of cases. 5 cases were open fractures and 10 cases followed failed manipulation under general anaesthesia. The average interval between injury and surgery was 7 days. Union was achieved in all cases. No implant infections, failure or tendon rupture/irritation occurred. There were two fractures which loss reduction, of which one required revision surgery. There was one case of CRPS. The six month average DASH score was 27.5. We consider the ITS plate a technically easy plate to use and a reliable implant at early follow-up. We value the versatility of its variable angle screw fixation ability for complex intra-articular distal radial fractures

A finite element study was carried out to compare the performance of a three-hole locking plate with angled screws to the ‘gold-standard’ four-hole hip plate. Two cases of the three-hole hip plate were examined; (a) three screws and (b) two screws (most proximal and most distal). A 3D model of the proximal femur was constructed from CT scans. A 3D CAD model of the four-hole hip plate was also created. The three-hole hip plate was then created from the four-hole implant in a way that it was possible to switch between all three models by activating/deactivating sections and/or switching material properties. A single common finite element model was generated, and a static analysis of each model variation was then performed in two steps using ABAQUS/standard. In the first, screws were pre-tensioned up to 150N. In the second, loads corresponding to stair climbing were applied. Forces in the screws, permitted to change in the second step, were examined and compared. Maximum principal stresses in the bone were also examined, with a focus on the stresses in the bone at the end of the plate in each model. The highest tensile force was in the proximal screw of the three-hole plate with three screws, followed by the most distal screw in the standard four-hole plate. This suggests that the risk of screw pull-out is highest at the proximal screw of the three-hole hip plate with three screws. A comparison of the forces in the distal screws for all cases shows that the highest tensile force was in the four-hole plate, followed by the three-hole plate with two screws. The lowest was the three-hole plate with three screws, which was in compression at full load. The maximum tensile stresses in the bone at the end of the plate were greatest for the standard four-hole hip plate, followed by the three-hole plate with two screws and then the three-hole plate with three screws. This indicates that the risk of bone fracture at the end of the plate is lowest for the three-hole hip plate with three screws. The risk of bone fracture is significantly lower for the three-hole hip plate, with either two or three screws, compared to the ‘gold-standard’ four-hole hip plate. This is partially offset by a small increase in the risk of screw pull out (in the proximal rather than the distal screw)

The purpose of this study is to determine the re-operation rate following plate fixation of the olecranon with contoured anatomic plates. Plate fixation of the olecranon allows for management of different fracture patterns as well as osteotomies with anatomic reduction and stable fixation for early elbow mobilization. However, olecranon hardware prominence can be troublesome. Our hypothesis was with the newer generation of low profile contoured anatomic plates, the rate of hardware removal should be lower compared to previously described literature. Retrospective review for patients treated with operative fixation of the olecranon between 2010 and 2015 in the Edmonton zone was identified using population level administrative data. Radiographic screening of these patients was then carried out to identify those who received plate fixation. Fracture patterns were also characterized. Chart reviews followed to determine the indications for re-operation and other post-operative complications. Main outcome measures were re-operation rate and their indications, including hardware prominence. During the screening process, 600 surgically treated olecranon patients were identified and 321 patients were found to have plate fixation of the olecranon. Chart review determined 90 patients had re-operations demonstrating a 28% re-operation rate. Re-operation due to hardware prominence was found to be 15.6%. Other indications included hardware failure (5.3%), infection (2.8%), or contracture (2.8%). Compared to patients that did not require re-operation, the re-operation group had a higher incidence of Type III olecranon fractures (17.4% vs 8.4%, p = 0.036) and Monteggia pattern injuries (13.5% vs 4.9%, p = 0.008). Recent heteregenous data suggests the hardware removal rate related to implant prominence is between 17–54%. Compared to the literature, this study demonstrated a lower rate at 15.6% with contoured anatomic plating. Also, those with more complex fracture patterns were more likely to require re-operation

Introduction. Distal femur fracture fixation in elderly presents significant challenges due to osteoporosis and associated comorbidities. There has been an evolution in the management of these fractures with a description of various surgical techniques and fixation methods; however, currently, there is no consensus on the standard of care. Non-union rates of up to 19% and mortality rates of up to 26 % at one year have been reported in the literature. Delay in surgery and delay in mobilisation post-operatively have been identified as two main factors for high rate of mortality. As biomechanical studies have proved better stability with dual plating or nail-plate combination, a trend has been shifting for past few years towards rigid fixation to allow early mobilisation. Our study aims to compare outcomes of distal femur fractures managed with either single plate (SP), dual plating (DP) or nail-plate construct (NP). Methods. A retrospective review of patients aged above 65 years with distal femur fractures (both native and peri-prosthetic) who underwent surgical management between June 2020 and May 2023 was conducted. Patients were divided into three groups based on mode of fixation - single plate or dual plating or nail-plate construct. AO/OTA classification was used for non-periprosthetic, and Unified classification system (UCS) was used for periprosthetic fractures. Data on patient demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical details, postoperative complications, re-operation rate, radiological outcomes and mortality rate were evaluated. Primary objective was to compare re-operation rate and mortality rate between 3 groups at 30 days, 6 months and at 1 year. Results. A cohort of 32 patients with distal femur fractures were included in this study. 91% were females and mean age was 80.97 (range 68–97). 18 (53%) were non-periprosthetic fracture and 14 (47%) were periprosthetic fractures.18 patients underwent single plate fixation (AO/OTA 33A – 8, 33B/C – 2, UCS V3B – 5, V3C – 3),10 patients had dual plate fixation (AO/OTA 33A – 1, 33B/C – 4, UCS V3B – 3, V3C – 2) and 4 patients underwent nail-plate combination fixation (AO/OTA 33A – 4). 70.5% patients had surgery within 36 hours of admission and 90% within 48 hours. Analysis showed no re-operation at 30 days, 6 months in all 3 groups. At 1 year one patient had re-operation in dual-plating periprosthetic group (Distal femur replacement done for failed fixation). Three patients (16%) in single plate group had re-operation at 2 years (2 for peri-implant fracture and 1 for infection). None of the patients treated with Nail-plate combination had re-operation. Mortality rate at 30 days was 0% in among all the 3 groups. At 6 months, it was 16% in single plate group and 0% in DP and NP groups at 6 months and at 1 year mortality rate was 27% in SP group, 10% in DP and 0% in NP group. Combined mortality rate was 0% at 30 days, 9% at 6 months and 18.7% at one year. Conclusion. Our analysis provides insights into fixation methods of distal femur fractures in elderly patients. We conclude that a lower re-operation rate and mortality rate can be achieved with early surgery and rigid fixation with either dual plating or nail-plate construct to allow early mobilisation. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings and guide the selection of optimal surgical strategies for these challenging fractures

Percutaneous plating of the distal tibia via a limited incision is an accepted technique of osteosynthesis for extra-articular and simple intra-articular distal tibia fractures. In this study we identify structures are risk during this approach. Method. Thirteen unpaired adult lower limbs were used for this study. Thirteen, 16-hole synthes®LCP anterolateral distal tibial plates were percutaneously inserted according to the manufacturer instructions and confirmed by xray. Dissection was performed around the plate to examine the relation of nerves and soft tissue. Results. The neurovascular bundle was under the plate in one case. Over the horizontal limb of the plate, typically the superficial peroneal nerve had a variable course over all four screw holes. The anterior tibial artery coursed over hole number 3 and the Extensor hallucis longistendon was positioned over hole 3 or 4. The Anterior tibialis tendon skirted hole 4 in 12 cases. Over the vertical limb of the plate, the neurovascular bundle coursed over holes, 5 to 7, the superficial peroneal nerve over holes 5 to 7. Discussion. Meticulous attention is required when placing an anterolateral distal tibia plate using a MIPO technique. We recommend a larger initial incision to avoid entanglement of the superficial peroneal nerve under the plate. Over the anterior aspect of the tibia, an open technique with adequate neurovascular structure and tendon protection is necessary due to the variability of structure coursing over the plate. A bridging technique for placement of proximal locking screw should be made through a mini open incision and this is safe to do so proximally over holes 12 to 16. Caution is advised during placement of screws percutaneously from holes 1 to 12 however the neurovascular bundle courses commonly over holes 5 to 7. These landmarks also apply to the use of shorter anterolateral distal tibial plates

The choice of whether to perform antegrade intramedullary nailing (IMN) or plate fixation (PF) poses a conundrum for the surgeon who must strike the balance between anatomical restoration while reducing elbow and shoulder functional impairment. Most humeral middle third shaft fractures are amenable to conservative management given the considerable acceptable deformity and anatomical compensation by patients. This study is concerned with the patient reported outcomes regarding shoulder and elbow function for IMN and PF respectively. A prospective cohort study following up all the cases treated surgically for middle third humeral fractures from 2016 to 2022 at a single centre. Telephonically an analogue pain score, an American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score for shoulder function and the Oxford Elbow score (OES) for elbow function were obtained. One hundred and three patients met the inclusion criteria. Twenty four patients participated in the study, fifteen had IMN (62.5%) and nine had PF (37.5%.). The shoulder function outcomes showed no statistical difference with an average ASES score of sixty-six for the IMN group and sixty-nine for the PF group. Women and employed individuals expressed greater functional impairment. Hand dominance has no impact on the scores of elbow and shoulder function post operatively. The impairment of abduction score post antegrade nailing was higher in the antegrade nailing group than the plated group. The OES demonstrated greater variance in elbow function in the PF group with the IMN group expressing greater elbow disfunction. This study confirms that treatment of middle third humerus shaft fractures by plate fixation is marginally superior to antegrade intramedullary nailing in preserving elbow function and abduction ability

Operative management of clavicle fractures is increasingly common. In the context of explaining the risks and benefits of surgery, understanding the impact of incisional numbness as it relates to the patient experience is key to shared decision making. This study aims to determine the prevalence, extent, and recovery of sensory changes associated with supraclavicular nerve injury after open reduction and plate internal fixation of middle or lateral clavicle shaft fractures. Eighty-six patients were identified retrospectively and completed a patient experience survey assessing sensory symptoms, perceived post-operative function, and satisfaction. Correlations between demographic factors and outcomes, as well as subgroup analyses were completed to identify factors impacting patient satisfaction. Ninety percent of patients experienced sensory changes post-operatively. Numbness was the most common symptom (64%) and complete resolution occurred in 32% of patients over an average of 19 months. Patients who experienced burning were less satisfied overall with the outcome of their surgery whereas those who were informed of the risk of sensory changes pre-operatively were more satisfied overall. Post-operative sensory disturbance is common. While most patients improve, some symptoms persist in the majority of patients without significant negative effects on satisfaction. Patients should always be advised of the risk of persistent sensory alterations around the surgical site to increase the likelihood of their satisfaction post-operatively

Purpose. To promote rapid bone healing, an adequate stable fixation implant with a percutaneous reduction instrument should be used for Vancouver type B1 or C fractures. The objective of this study was to describe radiographic and clinical outcomes of patients with periprosthetic fracture (PPF) around a stable femoral stem, treated with a distal femoral locking plate alone or with a cerclage cable. Materials and Methods. A total of 21 patients with PPF amenable to either a reverse distal femoral locking plate (LCP DF. ®. ) alone or with a cerclage cable, with a mean age of 75.7 years, were included. In these patients, 10 fractures were treated with a reverse LCP DF. ®. alone and were classified as group I, and 11 additionally received a cerclage cable and were classified as group II.[Fig.1]. Results. Group I was not inferior to group II, as reflected by HHS evaluations. Additionally, group II had a significantly longer operation time (P = 0.019) than group I and included one patient with nonunion at the final 24-month follow-up visit after the initial fracture reduction.[Fig. 2]. Conclusion. Use of reverse LCP DF. ®. alone appears to provide advantages in the biological healing process compared with the use of reverse LCP DF. ®. with a cerclage cable. When comparing the stability of the fractures in both groups, there was no statistically significant difference, which might be attributed to the stable fixed-angle implant. For figures/tables, please contact authors directly.

Distal radius fractures are the most common upper extremity injury, and are increasingly being treated surgically with pre-contoured volar-locking plates. These plates are favored for their low-profile template while allowing for rigid anatomic fixation of distal radius fractures. The geometry of the distal radius is extremely complex, and little evidence within the medical literature suggests that current implant designs are anatomically accurate. The main objective of this study is to determine if anatomic alignment of the distal radii corresponds accurately with modern volar-locking plate designs. Additionally, this study will examine sex-linked differences in morphology of the distal radius. Segmented CT models of ten female cadaver (mean age, 88.7 ± 4.57 years, range, 82 – 97) arms, and ten male cadaver (mean age, 86 ± 3.59 years, range, 81 – 91) arms were created. Micro CT models were obtained for the DePuy Synthes 2.4mm Extra-articular (EA) Volar Distal Radius Plate (4-hole and 5-hole head), and 2.4mm LCP Volar Column (VC) Distal Radius Plate (8-hole and 9-hole head). Plates were placed onto the distal radii models in a 3D visualization software by a fellowship-trained orthopaedic hand surgeon. The percent contact, volar cortical angle (VCA), border and overlap of the watershed line (WSL) were measured. Both sexes showed an increase in the average VCA measure from medial to lateral columns which was statistically significant. Female VCA ranged from 28 – 36 degrees, and 38 – 45 degrees for males. WSL overlap ranged from 0 – 34.7629% for all specimens without any statistical significance. The average border distance for females was 2.58571 mm, compared to 3.52411 mm for males, with EA plates having a larger border than VC plates. The border distances had statistically significant differences between the plate types, and was approaching significance between sexes. Lastly, a maximum percent contact of 21.966 % was observed in specimen F4 at a 0.3 mm threshold. No statistical significance between plate or sex populations was observed. This study investigated the incoherency between the volar cortical angle of the distal radius, and the pre-contoured angle of volar locking plates. It was hypothesized that if the VCA measures between plate and bone were unequal then there would be an increase in watershed line overlap, and decrease in percent contact between the surfaces. Our results agreed with literature, indicating that the VCA of bone was larger than that of the EA and VC pre-contoured plates examined in this study. With distal radius fracture incidences and prevalence on the rise for elderly female patients, it is a necessity that volar locking plates be re-designed to factor in anatomical features of individual patients with a particular focus on sex differences. New designs should focus on providing smaller head sizes that are more accurately tailored to the natural contours of the volar distal radius. It is recommended that future studies incorporate expertise from multiple surgeons to diversify and further understand plate placement strategies

Introduction. Offset femoral broach handles have become more common as the anterior approach in total hip arthroplasty has increased in popularity. The difference in access to the femur compared to a posterior approach necessitates anterior and, in some cases, lateral offsets incorporated into the design of the broach handle to avoid interference with the patient's body and to ensure accessibility of the strike plate. Using a straight broach handle with a primary stem, impaction force is typically directed along the axis of the femoral broach. However, the addition of one or more offsets to facilitate an anterior approach results in force transmission in the transverse plane, which is unnecessary for eating the femoral broach. The direction of forces transmitted to the broach via strike plate impaction can introduce a large moment. A negative consequence of this moment is the amplification of stresses/strains at the bone/broach interface, which increases the likelihood of femoral fracture during impaction. It was proposed that optimizing the angle of the strike plate could minimize the moment to reduce the unintended stresses/strains at the bone/broach interface. Objectives. The objective was to minimize the stresses/strains imparted to the proximal aspect of the bone femur when broaching with a given dual offset broach handle design. Methods. Trigonometric calculations were used to optimize the strike plate angle for a given dual offset broach handle design. The point of intersection of the stem axis and transverse plane that intersects the medial calcar of the smallest size broach was assumed to be the ideal location of zero moment, given that intraoperative fractures related to this issue tend to occur in the proximal region of the femur. The strike plate was angled anteriorly and laterally such that the impaction force vector is directed at this point of intersection, thus negating the moment at this point. A prototype broach handle body was fabricated to accept different strike plates. Of the two strike plates tested, one strike plate was made such that the impaction surface followed the optimized angle, while the other simulated the strike plate angle of a previous, non-optimized design. Each broach handle configuration was connected to an identical broach and implanted into one of two identical Sawbones® femoral models. Equal loads were placed on the strike plates of each handle perpendicular to the strike plate angles. Digital image correlation was used to compare the resultant strains in both samples. Results. Testing demonstrated a 30% reduction in maximum strain on the proximal aspect of the bone using the broach handle with the optimized strike plate. Conclusions. While the optimal strike plate angle is dependent on the individual broach handle design, this method of optimization can be applied to the design of any offset broach handle. Optimization of offset broach handle strike plate angles could reduce the incidence of intraoperative femoral fractures when broaching by reducing the stresses/strains on the proximal aspect of the femur

Ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) is a procedure performed to alleviate ulnar sided wrist pain caused by ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS) and/or triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury. Presently, non-union rates for ulnar shortening osteotomy is quoted to be 0–18% in the literature. However, there is a dearth of literature on the effect of site of osteotomy and plate placement on the rate of complications like a delayed union, symptomatic hardware and need for second surgery for hardware removal. In this study, we performed a multi-centered institutional review of ulnar shortening osteotomies performed, focusing on plate placement (volar vs. dorsal) and osteotomy site (distal vs. proximal) and determining if it plays a role in reducing complications. This study was a multi-centered retrospective chart review. All radiographs and charts for patients that have received USO for UIS or TFCC injury between 2013 and 2017 from hand and wrist fellowship-trained surgeons in Calgary, Alberta and Winnipeg, Manitoba were examined. Basic patient demographics including age, sex, past medical history, and smoking history were recorded. Postoperative complications such as delayed union, non-union, infection, chronic regional pain syndrome, hardware irritation requiring removal were evaluated with a two-year follow-up period. Osteotomy sites were analyzed based on the location in relation to the entire length of the ulna on forearm radiographs. Surgical techniques including volar vs. dorsal plating, oblique vs. transverse osteotomy cuts, and plate type were documented. Continuous variables of interest were summarized as mean or medians with standard deviation or inter-quartile range as appropriate. Differences in baseline characteristics were determined by t-test or one-way ANOVA for continuous variables and chi-square or Fischer exact test for dichotomous variables. All analyses were conducted using SPSS V24.0 (Chicago, IL, USA). All statistical tests were considered significant if p < 0.05. Between 2013–2017 there were 117 ulnar shortening osteotomies performed. The average age of patients was 46.2 ± 16.2, with 62.4% being female. The mean pre-operative ulnar variance was +3.89 ± 2.17 mm and post-operative ulnar variance was −1.90 ± 1.80 mm. 84.6% of the plates were placed on the volar aspect of the ulna and 14.5% were placed on the dorsal aspect. An oblique osteotomy was made 99.1% of the time. In measuring osteotomy placement, the average placement was made in the distal 1/3 of the ulna. Overall, there was a 40% complication rate. Hardware irritation requiring removal encompassed 23%, non-union 14%, and wound infection covered 0.8%. When comparing dorsal vs volar plating, there was no statistically significant difference for non-union or hardware removal. Similarly, in evaluating osteotomy level, there was no statistical difference between proximal vs distal osteotomy for non-union and hardware removal. In this multi-centered retrospective review of ulnar shortening osteotomies, we found that there was an overall complication rate of 40%. There was no statistically significant difference in complication rates between dorsal vs volar plate placement or proximal vs distal osteotomy sites. Further studies examining other potential risk factors in lowering the complication rate would be beneficial

Distal radius fractures (DRF) are the most common fracture type in all age groups combined. Unstable DRF may be surgically managed with volar or dorsal plate fixation. Dorsal plating has traditionally been associated with decreased range of motion (ROM). However, this assumption has not been recently assessed to determine whether functional ROM is achievable (approximately 54o of flexion and 60o of extension) with recent advances in lower profile dorsal plate design. The aim of this study was therefore to compare ROM and patient reported outcome measures between volar and dorsal plating methods for DRF. A meta-analysis was performed to directly compare ROM and DASH scores between dorsal and volar plate fixation for DRF. Separate literature searches for each plating method were performed using MedLine and EMBase on January 28, 2018. Exclusion criteria consisted of non-English articles, basic science articles, animal/cadaver studies, case studies/series, combined operative approaches, papers published more than 20 years ago and paediatric studies. Only articles with at least one year patient follow-up and a) ROM and AO distal radius fracture classification, or b) DASH scores were included. Raw data was extracted from all articles that met inclusion criteria to compile a comprehensive dataset for analysis. Descriptive statistics with z-score comparison for AO classification or a two-tailed independent samples t-test for ROM and DASH scores for dorsal versus volar plating were performed. Significance was defined as p < 0 .05. After rigorous screening, 6 dorsal plating and 43 volar plating articles met inclusion criteria for ROM/AO classification versus 6 dorsal plating and 44 volar plating articles for DASH scores. The weighted means of flexion (dorsal 54.9o, SD 9.3, n=257, volar 61.3o, SD 11.5, n=1906) and extension (dorsal 60.0o, SD 12, n=257, volar 62.8o, SD 11.4, n=1906) were statistically significantly different (both p < 0 .001) between the two plating methods. The volar plating group had a significantly higher proportion of AO type C fractures (dorsal 0.5, n =169, volar 0.6, n=1246, p < 0 .001). The weighted means of reported DASH scores were not significantly different between dorsal (14.01, SD 14.8) versus volar (13.6, SD 12.8) plating (p=0.54). Though mean wrist flexion and extension were statistically different between the dorsal versus volar plating methods, the difference between group means was less than 5o, which is unlikely to be clinically significant. Additionally, we did not find a significant difference in DASH scores between the two plating methods. Taken together, these findings imply that the statistical difference in ROM outcomes are likely not clinically significant and should therefore not dictate choice of plating method for fixation of DRF

Distal radius fractures (DRF) are the most common fracture type in all age groups combined. Unstable DRF may be surgically managed with volar or dorsal plate fixation. Dorsal plating has traditionally been associated with decreased range of motion (ROM). However, this assumption has not been recently assessed to determine whether functional ROM is achievable (approximately 54 degrees of flexion and 60 degrees of extension) with recent advances in lower profile dorsal plate design. The aim of this study was therefore to compare ROM and patient reported outcome measures between volar and dorsal plating methods for DRF. A meta-analysis was performed to directly compare ROM and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores between dorsal and volar plate fixation for DRF. Separate literature searches for each plating method were performed using MedLine and EMBase on January 28, 2018. Exclusion criteria consisted of non-English articles, basic science articles, animal/cadaver studies, case studies/series, combined operative approaches, papers published more than 20 years ago and paediatric studies. Only articles with at least one year patient follow-up and a) ROM and AO-OTA distal radius fracture classification, or b) DASH scores were included. Raw data was extracted from all articles that met inclusion criteria to compile a comprehensive dataset for analysis. Descriptive statistics with z-score comparison for AO-OTA classification or a two-tailed independent samples t-tests for ROM and DASH scores for dorsal versus volar plating were performed. Significance was defined as p < 0 .05. After rigorous screening, six dorsal plating and 43 volar plating articles met inclusion criteria for ROM/AO-OTA classification versus six dorsal plating and 44 volar plating articles for DASH scores. The weighted means of flexion (dorsal 54.9 degrees, SD 9.3, n=257, volar 61.3 degrees, SD 11.5, n=1906) and extension (dorsal 60 degrees, SD 12, n=257, volar 62.8 degrees, SD 11.4, n=1906) were significantly different (both p < 0 .001) between the two plating methods. The volar plating group had a significantly higher proportion of type C fractures (dorsal 0.5, n =169, volar 0.6, n=1246, p < 0 .001). The weighted means of reported DASH scores were not significantly different between dorsal (14, SD 14.8) versus volar (13.6, SD 12.8) plating (p=0.54). Though mean wrist flexion and extension were statistically different between the dorsal versus volar plating methods, the difference between group means was less than 5-degrees, which is unlikely to be clinically significant. Additionally, there was no significant difference in DASH scores between the two plating methods. Taken together, these findings imply that the statistical difference in ROM outcomes are likely not clinically significant and should therefore not dictate choice of plating method for fixation of DRF

Background. Stress fractures at tracker after computer navigated total knee replacement are rare. Periprosthetic fracture after Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO) of stress fracture through femoral tracker is unique in orthopaedic literature. We are reporting this unique presentation of periprosthetic fractures after MIPO for stress fracture involving femoral pin site track in computer assisted total knee arthroplasty, treated by reconstruction nail (PFNA). Methods. A 75-year old female, who had computer navigated right total knee replacement, was admitted 6 weeks later with increasing pain over distal thigh for 3 weeks without trauma. Prior to onset of pain, she achieved a range of movements of 0–105 degrees. Perioperative radiographs did not suggest obvious osteoporosis, pre-existent benign or malignant lesion, or fracture. Radiographs demonstrated transverse fracture of distal third of femur through pin site track. We fixed the fracture with 11-hole combihole locking plate by MIPO technique. Eight weeks later, she was readmitted with periprosthetic fracture through screw hole at the tip of MIPO Plate and treated by Reconstruction Nail (PFNA), removal of locking screws and refixation of intermediate segment with unicortical locking screws. Then she was protected with plaster cylinder for 4 weeks and hinged brace for 2 months. Results. Retrograde nail for navigation pin site stress fracture entails intraarticular approach with attendant risks including scatches to prosthesis and joint infection. So we opted to fix by MIPO technique. Periprosthetic fracture at the top of MIPO merits fixation with antegrade nail in conjunction with conversion of screws in the proximal part of the plate to unicortical locking screws. Overlap of at least 3cms offers biomechanical superiority. She made an uneventful recovery and was started on osteoporosis treatment, pending DEXA scan. Conclusion. Reconstruction Nail (PFNA), refixation of intermediate segment with unicortical locking screws constitutes a logical management option for the unique periprosthetic fracture after MIPO of stress fracture involving femoral pin site track in computer assisted total knee replacement

Ten patients, who were unsuitable for limb lengthening over an intramedullary nail, underwent lengthening with a submuscular locking plate. Their mean age at operation was 18.5 years (11 to 40). After fixing a locking plate submuscularly on the proximal segment, an external fixator was applied to lengthen the bone after corticotomy. Lengthening was at 1 mm/day and on reaching the target length, three or four screws were placed in the plate in the distal segment and the external fixator was removed. All patients achieved the pre-operative target length at a mean of 4.0 cm (3.2 to 5.5). The mean duration of external fixation was 61.6 days (45 to 113) and the mean external fixation index was 15.1 days/cm (13.2 to 20.5), which was less than one-third of the mean healing index (48 days/cm (41.3 to 55). There were only minor complications. Lengthening with a submuscular locking plate can successfully permit early removal of the fixator with fewer complications and is a useful alternative in children or when nailing is difficult

Distal radius fracture is one of the most common fractures in older women (∼70,000 cases annually in Canada). Treatment of this fracture has been shifting toward surgery (mainly volar locking plate (VLP) technology), which significantly enhances surgeon's ability to maintain correction. However, current surgical outcomes are far from perfect. There is a need for an implant which maintains the corrected position (reduction), minimizes soft tissue disruption, and is technically easy to perform. A novel internal, composite-based implant was designed to achieve these ends. It is unclear, however, whether this novel implant offers similar fracture fixation as the VLP. As such, the objective of this research was to evaluate the fracture stability (assessed by calculating change in fracture length) of the novel implant and VLP under cyclic fatigue loading. Specimens: Seven radius specimens derived from older female cadavers (mean = 82.3 years, SD = 11.3 years) were used for the experiment. Preparation: A standardized dorsal wedge was removed from the cortex. The distance from the proximal and distal transverse osteotomies was 10 mm and was positioned 20 mm proximal to the tip of the radial styloid. The osteotomy removed all load-bearing capabilities of bone, equivalent to a worst-case-scenario for DRF fixation. Simulated Loading: The proximal end of the radii was potted (fixed) and positioned in a material testing system. To mimic natural loading conditions, hands were cycled between −30°/30° flexion/extension, at 0.5 Hz, for 2000 cycles, while tension load was applied to the tendons (25-N constant force per tendon, 100-N in total). Mechanical testing outcomes: A position tracking sensor used to measure change in fracture length. This change, as a function of number of cycles, was used to assess implant resistance to fatigue loading. Statistical Analysis: A paired student t-test was used to compare the change in fracture length. Level of significance was determined as 5% (p < 0.05). Changes in fracture fracture-length for both the novel implant and plate is shown in Table 1. The paired t-test indicated significant differences between the two groups in terms of change in fracture length (p = 0.026). The outcome of the novel implant ranged from very stable (change in fracture-length = 0.01 mm) to highly un-stable (2.88 mm). We believe the reason for this variance, at least in part, originates from the surgical procedures. Presumably, given that one very strong stabilization (0.01 mm) and one acceptable stabilization (0.37 mm) was obtained, future research directed towards surgical procedures may improve fracture stability. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

In this study, we attempt to explore the differences between anatomical and non-anatomical tibial baseplates in terms of rotation and coverage. To achieve this, we divided 80 dry bones into groups, and examined them using anatomical and non-anatomical baseplates. The results of the study showed that anatomical baseplates provided better coverage and also yielded better results according to the rotational assessment. Surgeons make rotational mistakes by non-anatomic base plates, when trying to achieve best coverage. Anatomic base plates warrant better coverage according to non-anatomic base plates when both are placed at the same rotational axis. It is more possible to adjust size and rotation correctly with the anatomic tibial components

Background. Implants based on the polyetheretherketon (PEEK) polymer have been developed in the last decade as an alternative to conventional metallic devices. PEEK devices may provide several advantages over the use of conventional orthopedic materials, including the lack of metal allergies, radiolucency, low artifacts on magnetic resonance imaging scans and the possibility of tailoring mechanical properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical results at mean 24-month follow-up using a new plate made of carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketon (CFR-PEEK) for the treatment of distal radius fractures. Materials and methods. We performed a prospective study including all patients who were treated for unstable distal radius fracture with a CFR-PEEK volar fixed angle plate. We included 70 consecutive fractures of AO types B and C that remained displaced after an initial attempt at reduction. The fractures were classified according to the AO classification: 35 fractures were type C1, 13 were type C2, 6 were type C3, 5 were type B1 and 11 were type B2. Results. All fractures healed, and radiographic union was observed at an average of 6 weeks. The final Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 5.2 points. The average grip strength, expressed as a percentage of the contralateral limb, was 94 %. Three cases of hardware breakage were reported. Two cases were due to intraoperative plate rupture caused by the attempt to achieve the reduction of the fracture in 1 case and while inserting a distal screw in the other case. In the last case hardware breakage was caused by a fall on the injuried arm 1 week after surgery. No cases of loss of the surgically achieved fracture reduction were documented. Hardware removal was performed in 3 cases, for the occurrence of extensor tenosynovitis in 2 patients and tenosynovitis of flexor pollicis longus in 1 case. Conclusion. The major advantage of CFR-PEEK plate is its radiolucency. This characteristic allows direct visualization of osseous callus formation, allowing monitoring of the healing of the fracture, thereby improving clinical assessment and accuracy. Therefore, specific indications for this new radiolucent plate can be represented by fractures with significant metaphyseal comminution and in cases of nascent malunion where a distal radius osteotomy with bone grafting is usually performed to correct the wrong angle. At early follow-up this device showed good clinical results and allowed maintenance of reduction in complex, AO fractures. The occurrence of tendon complications related to this implant was similar to that reported in literature for the other new-generation plates. However, attention should be payed when stressing the plate to achieve the desired fracture reduction to avoid hardware failure

Introduction. Kinematically or anatomically aligned total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been reported to provide improved clinical outcomes by replicating patient's original joint line [1][2]. It has been known that tibial (joint line) varus varies among patients, and the tibial varus would increase over progression of arthritis and bone remodeling. For those patients with significant deformity, the current tibial varus may significantly differ from its pre-diseased state. In this exploratory study, geometry and alignment of the tibial growth plate were measured with respect to tibial anatomical landmarks in order to better understand modes of tibial deformity and seek possible application in reconstructing pre-diseased joint alignment. Methods. CT scans of sixteen healthy Japanese knees (M6:F10, Age 31.9±13.9 years) were studied. Three-dimensional reconstruction models were created using Mimics 17 (Materialise, Leuven, Belgium). First, a mid-sagittal tibial reference plane, for comparing the varus/valgus orientation of the tibial plateau to that of the growth plate, was defined by the medial margin of the tibial tuberosity, origin of the PCL and center of the foot joint. The tibial plateau (or joint line plane) was determined from three points; dwell point of femur (aligned in extension) on lateral tibial articular surface, and two points at anterior and posterior rim of medial tibial articular surface sampled in the sagittal view and coinciding with dwell point of femur on medial tibia. Then, a three-dimensional model of the tibial growth plate was extracted using the Livewire function and mask editing tools in Mimics. To determine 3D orientation of the growth plate (GP), the vertical mass moment of inertia axis was calculated for the 3D model. The inertia axes were also determined for medial and lateral half of the GP (Figure 1). Results. Tibial plateau (TP) had 2.39±1.72 degrees of varus in coronal view and 11.12±3.90 degrees of posterior inclination in sagittal view. The shape of the GP is noticeably different between medial and lateral. The medial half tends to incline posteriorly towards medial, while the lateral half is twisted anteriorly. In coronal view, GP axis was in 1.27±1.49 degrees valgus to midsagittal plane. Normal axis of the TP was in varus to the GP axis by 3.66±1.79 degrees. The GP medial half was in 5.81±2.49 degrees valgus and 1.63±2.59 degrees anteriorly inclined with respect to the TP. The GP lateral half was in 11.65±2.07 degrees varus and 18.66±4.44 degrees anteriorly inclined relative to the TP. Discussion. The preliminary results from 16 healthy knees suggested that the tibial growth plate is aligned to midsagittal plane and tibial plateau in varus/valgus orientations with relatively small variations. More study samples will be required to validate usefulness of this method in surgical planning. Distinctive shape difference for medial and lateral half of the growth plate was also observed. Future study should also include diseased knees with various levels of deformities