Aims. 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. Methods. We undertook a preliminary, pragmatic, single-blinded, multicentre, randomized controlled trial of cadaveric simulation versus standard training. Primary outcome was fracture reduction on postoperative radiographs. Results. Overall, 139 ankle fractures were fixed by 28 postgraduate year three to five trainee surgeons (mean age 29.4 years; 71% males) during ten months' follow-up. Under the intention-to-treat principle, a technically superior fixation was performed by the cadaveric-trained group compared to the standard-trained group, as measured on the first postoperative radiograph against predefined acceptability thresholds. The cadaveric-trained group used a lower intraoperative dose of radiation than the standard-trained group (mean difference 0.011 Gym. 2. , 95% confidence interval 0.003 to 0.019; p = 0.009). There was no difference in procedure time. Conclusion. Trainees randomized to cadaveric training performed better ankle fracture fixations and irradiated patients less during surgery compared to standard-trained trainees. This effect, which was previously unknown, is likely to be a consequence of the intervention. Further study is required. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(8):594–601

Aims. To evaluate if, for orthopaedic trainees, additional cadaveric simulation training or standard training alone yields superior radiological and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation or hemiarthroplasty for hip fracture. Methods. This was a preliminary, pragmatic, multicentre, parallel group randomized controlled trial in nine secondary and tertiary NHS hospitals in England. Researchers were blinded to group allocation. Overall, 40 trainees in the West Midlands were eligible: 33 agreed to take part and were randomized, five withdrew after randomization, 13 were allocated cadaveric training, and 15 were allocated standard training. The intervention was an additional two-day cadaveric simulation course. The control group received standard on-the-job training. Primary outcome was implant position on the postoperative radiograph: tip-apex distance (mm) (DHS) and leg length discrepancy (mm) (hemiarthroplasty). Secondary clinical outcomes were procedure time, length of hospital stay, acute postoperative complication rate, and 12-month mortality. Procedure-specific secondary outcomes were intraoperative radiation dose (for DHS) and postoperative blood transfusion requirement (hemiarthroplasty). Results. Eight female (29%) and 20 male trainees (71%), mean age 29.4 years, performed 317 DHS operations and 243 hemiarthroplasties during ten months of follow-up. Primary analysis was a random effect model with surgeon-level fixed effects of patient condition, patient age, and surgeon experience, with a random intercept for surgeon. Under the intention-to-treat principle, for hemiarthroplasty there was better implant position in favour of cadaveric training, measured by leg length discrepancy ≤ 10 mm (odds ratio (OR) 4.08 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17 to 14.22); p = 0.027). There were significantly fewer postoperative blood transfusions required in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty by cadaveric-trained compared to standard-trained surgeons (OR 6.00 (95% CI 1.83 to 19.69); p = 0.003). For DHS, there was no significant between-group difference in implant position as measured by tip-apex distance ≤ 25 mm (OR 6.47 (95% CI 0.97 to 43.05); p = 0.053). No between-group differences were observed for any secondary clinical outcomes. Conclusion. Trainees randomized to additional cadaveric training performed hip fracture fixation with better implant positioning and fewer postoperative blood transfusions in hemiarthroplasty. This effect, which was previously unknown, may be a consequence of the intervention. Further study is required. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(8):602–611

We hypothesised that an independent Notch Trial is essential on the same lines as other Component Trials-Femoral, Tibial and Patellar - in posterior stabilised total knee arthroplasty. Therefore we evolved Notch Trial to visually ascertain the adequacy of intercondylar resection and eliminate the possibility of femoral intercondylar fractures. We undertook a retrospective study to evaluate Notch Trial by the frequency of the need to remove osteophytes or file uneven surfaces in intercondylar resection by using the detachable box part of the trial femoral component, assess occurrence of distal femoral intercondylar fractures and demonstrate Notch Trial in posterior stabilised total knee replacement. We studied 206 patients, 113 females and 93 males, who underwent consecutive primary posterior stabilised total knee replacements applying Notch Trial between 2000 and 2008 in a District General Hospital under our team. Outcome Measurements were 1) frequency of the need to remove osteophytes or file uneven surfaces in intercondylar resection and 2) occurrence of distal femoral intercondylar fractures intraoperatively or on postoperative radiographs. We had to remove the osteophytes and file the cut surfaces in 183 (88.88%) of patients after Notch Trial. We had no distal femoral intercondylar fractures intraoperatively or on postoperative radiographs. Notch Trial allows the surgeon to directly visualise and ascertain the adequacy and precise fit of femoral notch cut with cam part of femoral component to ensure a press fit femoral component in condylar posterior cruciate substituting total knee replacement. Notch Trial prior to Femoral Component Trial effectively pre-empts intraoperative distal femoral intercondylar fractures. We recommend that Notch Trial should become part of the protocol for cruciate substituting total knee replacement and implants of all companies should have the option of a detachable box component for Notch Trial

Introduction. An accurate and reproducible tibial tunnel placement without danger for the posterior neurovascular structures is a crucial condition for successful arthroscopic reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). This step is commonly performed under fluoroscopic control. Hypothesis: Performing the tibial tunnel under exclusive arthroscopic control leads to accurate tunnel placement according to recommendations in the literature. Materials and Methods. Between February 2007 and December 2009, 108 arthroscopic single bundle PCL reconstructions in tibial tunnel technique were performed. The routine postoperative radiographs were screened according to defined quality criterions: 1. Overlap of the medial third of the fibular head by the tibial metaphysis on a-p views 2. Overlap of the dorsal femoral condyles within a range of 4 mm on lateral views 3. X-ray beam parallel to tibial plateau in both views. The radiographs of 48 patients (48 knees) were enrolled in the study. 10 patients had simultaneous ACL reconstruction and 7 had PCL revision surgery. The tibial tunnel was placed under direct arthroscopic control through a posteromedial portal using a standard tibial aming device. Key anatomical landmarks were the exposed tibial insertion of the PCL and the posterior horn of the medial meniscus. During digital analysis of the postoperative radiographes, the centre of the posterior tibial outlet was determined. On the a-p view, the horizontal distance of this point to the medial tibial spine was measured. The distance to the medial border of the tibial plateau was related to its total width. On the lateral view the vertical tunnel position was measured perpendicularly to a tangent of the medial tibial plateau. Results. The mean mediolateral tunnel position was 49,3 ± 4,6%, 6,7 ± 3,6 mm lateral to the medial tibial spine. On the lateral view the tunnel centre was 10,1 ± 4,5 mm distal to the bony surface of the medial tibial plateau. Neurovascular damage was observed in none of our patients. Conclusion. The results of this radiological study confirm that exclusive arthroscopic control for tibial tunnel placement in PCL reconstruction yields reproducible and accurate results according to the literature. Our technique avoids radiation, facilitates the operation room setting and enables the surgeon to visualize the key landmarks for tibial tunnel placement

Introduction. Modern cementless press fit stems rely on early fixation and stability for osteointegration and longterm success with early migration increasing the risk of failure. The Ein Bild Roentegen Analyse Femoral Component Analysis (EBRA-FCA) methods allow accurate measurement of femoral stem subsidence without the need for Tantalum markers. The degree of subsidence of femoral stems in the first two years has been shown to be highly predictive of failure when using the cut off value of 1.5 mm. We aimed to measure the early migration pattern of a titanium alloy, tapered, plasma and hydroxyapatite coated femoral stem and any factors associated with subsidence. Methods. Between January 2005-June 2007, 387 Accolade cementless femoral stems (Stryker, Allendale NJ) were implanted at our institution. Seventy-seven had a minimum of two years post operative follow up and a complete set of pre and postoperative radiographs for analysis. Our group inlcuded 45 females with a mean age of 71.4 years, and 32 males with a mean age of 68.5 years. The primary diagnosis was degenerative osteoarthritis in 71 patients, avascular necrosis in two, and post fracture in four patients. The average BMI was 27.1. We measured the canal index to assess bone quality and the canal calcar index to assess the proximal femoral morphology. Immediate postoperative radiographs were assessed for canal fill of the prosthesis and implantation varus/valgus angles. The EBRA-FCA software was used to obtain migration curves for each stem. Results. The mean follow up was 29.3months (24–48). The mean canal index was 0.55 (0.36–0.68) with a mean canal calcar index of 0.54 (0.39–0.79). The average canal fill index at the midpoint of the stem was <0.8 in 37 stems and >80 in 40 stems. The average subsidence at 24 months was 2 mm and this had risen to 2.4 mm by 36 months postoperatively. When analysed using a Kaplan Meier curve using 1.5 mm as an end point we found a survivorship of 63.4% (52.3–74.5) at 24 months and this had worsened to 41.6% (26.6–56.5) by 36 months. Multivariate and univariate regression analysis of measured variables did not reveal any significant hazard for any factor other than the larger stem sizes doing worse. Discussion. Although several cementless tapered stem designs have had an excellent track record, our migration analysis of the Accolade stem is somewhat concerning. Thirty three percent of stems had reached the 1.5 mm subsidence point by two years. This is of concern as work has previously shown this to predict failure of stems with aseptic loosening at ten years with an accuracy of 79%. If these stems go on to fail at the predicted rate this would represent an unacceptably high level of failure. Our data raises serious concerns about the overall clinical performance of this stem design due to poor initial stability and integration

Aims

Several previously identified patient-, injury-, and treatment-related factors are associated with the development of nonunion in distal femur fractures. However, the predictive value of these factors is not well defined. We aimed to assess the predictive ability of previously identified risk factors in the development of nonunion leading to secondary surgery in distal femur fractures.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the safety and clinical outcome of patients with a femoral shaft fracture and a previous complex post-traumatic femoral malunion who were treated with a clamshell osteotomy and fixation with an intramedullary nail (IMN).

Aims

Posterior column plating through the single anterior approach reduces the morbidity in acetabular fractures that require stabilization of both the columns. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of posterior column plating through the anterior intrapelvic approach (AIP) in the management of acetabular fractures.

Aims

Despite limited clinical scientific backing, an additional trochanteric stabilizing plate (TSP) has been advocated when treating unstable trochanteric fractures with a sliding hip screw (SHS). We aimed to explore whether the TSP would result in less post operative fracture motion, compared to SHS alone.

Aims

Proximal femur fractures treatment can involve anterograde nailing with a single or double cephalic screw. An undesirable failure for this fixation is screw cut-out. In a single-screw nail, a tip-apex distance (TAD) greater than 25 mm has been associated with an increased risk of cut-out. The aim of the study was to examine the role of TAD as a risk factor in a cephalic double-screw nail.

Aims

The aims of this study were to identify means to quantify coronal plane displacement associated with distal radius fractures (DRFs), and to understand their relationship to radial inclination (RI).

Aims

Despite multiple trials and case series on hip hemiarthroplasty designs, guidance is still lacking on which implant to use. One particularly deficient area is long-term outcomes. We present over 1,000 consecutive cemented Thompson’s hemiarthroplasties over a ten-year period, recording all accessible patient and implant outcomes.

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) can adversely affect functional outcome and patient satisfaction after total hip arthroplasty. We describe a novel intraoperative technique for femoral component insertion. We aimed to determine if this technique resulted in the desired femoral placement, as templated, and if this was associated with a reduced LLD. A series of fifty consecutive primary total hip replacements were studied. Preoperative digital templating was performed on standardised PA radiographs of the hips by the senior surgeon. The preoperative LLD was calculated and the distance from the superior tip of the greater trochanter to the predicted shoulder of the stem was calculated (GT-S). Intraoperatively, this length was marked on the rasp handle and the stem inserted to the predetermined level by the surgeon. This level corresponded to the tip of the greater trochanter and formed a continuous line to the mark on the rasp handle. Three independent blinded observers measured the GT-S on the postoperative radiographs. We assessed the relationship between the senior author's GT-S (preoperative) and the observers' GT-S (postoperative) using a Person correlation. The observers also measured the preoperative and postoperative LLD, and the inter-observer variability was calculated as the intra-class correlation coefficient. There was a strong correlation of preoperative and postoperative GT-S (R=0.87), suggesting that the stem was inserted as planned. The mean preoperative and postoperative LLD were −4.3 mm (−21.4–4) and −0.9 mm (−9.8–8.6), respectively (p<0.001). This technique consistently minimised LLD in this series. This technique is quick, non-invasive and does not require supplementary equipment

Aims

Postoperative malalignment of the femur is one of the main complications in distal femur fractures. Few papers have investigated the impact of intraoperative malalignment on postoperative function and bone healing outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate how intraoperative fracture malalignment affects postoperative bone healing and functional outcomes.

Introduction. An important factor in the internal fixation of pertrochanteric fractures is the ability to maintain postoperative reduction. Excessive postoperative sliding of the lag screw or blade may result in reduction loss. We retrospectively analyzed the relationship between postoperative reduction and sliding. Methodology. From Oct. 2009 to Sept. 2011, we treated pertrochanteric fractures using J-PFNA (Synthes) and InterTAN (Smith & Nephew) in 91 cases and 82 cases, respectively. We used postoperative radiographs to classify its reduction. Fractures were classified for its interfragmentary contact using the calcar femorale as a reference on the A-P plane while using the anterior cortex as a reference on the M-L plane. Results. PFNA cases showed greater postoperative sliding than InterTAN cases. Both demonstrated greater sliding when the proximal fragment was positioned inside the medullary canal on the M-L plane than when positioned outside or anatomically. Conclusion. Although the InterTAN can maintain greater initial stability necessary for early weight-bearing, both implants demonstrate the loss of interfragmentary contact when the proximal fragment is positioned inside the medullary canal on the M-L plane resulting in greater risk of reduction loss. In order to maintain postoperative reduction, either anatomical reduction or reducing the proximal fragment outside the medullary canal is advised; no matter what type of internal fixation implants are used

Introduction. Reverse shoulder replacement is a surgical option for cuff tear arthropathy. However scapular notching is a concern. Newer designs of glenospheres are available to reduce scapular notching. Eccentric glenosphere with a lowered centre of rotation have been shown to improve range of adduction in vitro. We hypothesize that the eccentric glenosphere improve clinical outcomes and reduce scapular notching. Method. This is an ongoing randomized controlled double blind prospective clinical trial. Patients 70 years or older at North Shore hospital who have a diagnosis of cuff tear arthropathy and require surgery were consented for this study. Patients were allocated a concentric or eccentric 36 mm glenosphere intraoperatively, using a computer generated randomization contained in a sealed envelope. The surgical technique and post operative rehabilitation were standardized. Patients were followed up by a research nurse and postoperative radiographs were also taken at regular intervals. Clinical assessment include a visual analogue pain score, subjective shoulder rating, American Shoulder and Elbow Society Score, and Oxford shoulder score. Complications were checked for and radiographs were assessed for scapular notching. Results. There were 23 patients in the concentric and 24 patients in the eccentric glenosphere group. Average age and duration of follow up were comparable. There was no statistical significant difference but there was a trend towards better functional outcome and better range of motion in the eccentric glenosphere group. There was no scapular notching in the eccentric and three cases of scapular notching in the concentric glenosphere group. Conclusions. Reverse shoulder replacement significantly improve pain, function and range of motion in patients with cuff tear arthropathy. Eccentric glenosphere prevents scapular notching in the SMR reverse prosthesis

Introduction. Direct lateral approaches to the hip require detachment and repair of the anterior part of the gluteus medius and minimus tendon attachments. Limping may occur postoperatively due to nerve injury or failure of muscle re-attachment. The aim of this study was to assess the integrity of abductor muscle repairs using a braided wire suture marker. Methods. Total hip arthroplasties were inserted using a modified Freeman approach. After repair of the abductor tendons using a 1 PDS suture with interlocking Kessler stitches, a 3–0 braided wire suture marker was stitched into the lower end of the flap. The suture was easily visible on postoperative radiographs and its movement could be measured. Patients were assessed using radiographs and Oxford hip scores collected prospectively. Results. 56 joint replacements were performed in 51 patients with no major surgical complications. Mean age was 65 yr and 80% (n=41) were female. It proved possible to reproducibly classify repairs based on radiographic measurements as: no wire movement (43%); repair stretched, moving cephalad a short distance (46%); repair detached, moving cephalad a significant distance (11%). Risk of failure of the repair had no relationship with age, preoperative Oxford hip score, or postoperative Oxford hip score. The mean Oxford hip score drop in the no movement group was 36%, the stretched group 37%, and the detached group 33%. These differences were not significant. Discussion/Conclusion. The wire marker proved to be a revealing method of auditing abductor repair following hip arthroplasty. No difference was demonstrated in outcome in relation to wire movement, therefore this study did not show any advantage from a careful repair technique. Due to the small number of failed repairs there may be a type II error. This method may also be useful in assessing the integrity of other large tendon repairs, such as quadriceps tendons splits in total knee replacements

Purpose. In stabilisations of atlantoaxial instabilities it holds risks to injure the A. vertebralis as well as neurological structures. Furthermore the posterior approach of the upper part of the cervical spine requires a huge and traumatic preparation of the soft tissue. However the anterior transarticular C1-2 fusion (ATF) is less traumatic and offers almost the same strengh of the stabilisation. Methods. Since the 01/2007 22 multimorbid patients with atlanto-axial instabilities of different entities were treated via the ATF, were regular examined radiologicaly (x-ray/CT) and the procedure critically judged. Results. C1-2 fusions were performed in 22 patients (17f, 5m, Ø 81,67 years). Main symptoms was pain radiating in the upper cervical spine and the occiput, 2 Patients complaining radiating pain with paraesthesia. The average operation-time took 64,5 min. Leftside the screws of Ø 39,5mm (32–44mm), rightside of 36mm (32–44mm) were inserted in addiction to the point of access and the angle of insertion (mediolateral angle Ø 32,0°, ventrodorsal Ø17,6°). No introperative complications occured, one revision had to be done because of p.o. bleeding, one because of screw dislocation. Postoperative x-ray and CT control of the upper cervical spine showed 30/44 screws in 22 patients in correct position. 8 (18,2%) screws were too long, 3 (6,8%) screws were placed too anterior and 3 (6,8%) too medial. 8 additional positionated dens-screws were in correct position. After a clear learning curve both screws of the 6th patient were positoinated correct. Two aspects are important for success: Correct entry point and right insertion of the angle in the coronar and sagittal view. A low intraoperative blood loss, a non traumatic access as well as an immediate pain decrease have to be valued positively for this procedure. Conclusions. The gentle procedure of the ATF requires-despite of the huge experience in anterior surgery of dens fractures - a learning curve, because of the more proximate insertion point, the flat insertion angle and the closeness of the A. vertebralis. If these aspects are going to be noticed, failed screw positioning and excessive length as well as injuries of the A. vertebralis can be avoided

INTRODUCTION. Short femoral nail is the most popular instrumentation for femoral trochanteric fractures. PFNA is in widely use and good results are reported. In these papers, fracture classification and evaluation of surgical results were based on plain X-ray. However, some cases of delayed union, non-union, and blade cut out showed no critical problems in immediate postoperative X-ray. Cause of these complications was not able to solve in X-ray analysis. CT scan provides more information about fracture pattern and position of nail and blade. CT analysis is likely to solve the cause of these complications. MATERIALS & METHODS. 20 cases of 36 femoral trochanteric fractures treated with PFNA-II were evaluated by CT scan (pre and post surgery). Four males and 16 females, and average age at surgery was 80.5 (65–100). Eleven cases were A1 fracture and 9 cases were A2 fracture in AO classification. Nail insertion hole was made by custom made Hollow Reamer. Fracture classification with 3D-CT (Nakano's classification), position of nail insertion hole (relationship between neck or head), and postoperative evaluation with 3D-CT insertion part of nail and blade were investigated. RESULTS. Nakano classified femoral trochanteric fracture into 7 types in 3D-CT. Two subtype in 2 part fracture, 4 subtype in 3 part fracture and 4part fracture. Seven cases were two part fracture, 11 were three part, and 2 were four part in our series. Five cases of 11 in 3 part fracture was considered unstable type. Nail insertion hole of six cases was made posteriory to the connecting line between neck center and head center. Fracture line of greater trochnater in lateral wall opened in 4 cases because of nail insertion. DISCUSSION. Femoral trochanteric fracture was classified by Evans classification or AO classification. However, it is very difficult to classify the fracture by plain X-P. Classification with 3D-CT is very usefull to distinguish which the fracture is stable or unstable. CT analysis will solve the postoperative complications in stable type in X-P classification

Introduction. The usefulness of minimal invasive hip replacement is frequently discussed but there is a lack of data on the effect of the surgical approach on early results. We wanted to study the effect of the surgical approach on the peri- and early postoperative outcome. Material/Methods. In a prospective case control study 315 elective hip replacements were performed between January 2008 and March 2010. Until March 2009 a lateral transgluteal approach (STD) was used, then the approach was changed to a minimal invasive anterior approach (MIS). All operations were performed in the same routine setting not affected by the approach. Duration of operation, complications and bloodloss were assessed. 1 week postoperatively, independent mobility, stairs, central analgetics were analysed and length of stay was recorded. At 6 and 12 weeks, pain and patients satisfaction (VAS) and the Harris Hip Score were assessed. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were compared for component position and orientation (EBRA). Results. 6 patients (hips) refused participation, 4 were excluded for other reasons. 174 (57%) hips belonged to STD and 131 (43%) to MIS. There were no demographic differences between both groups. Operation time was longer for MIS (109 vs. 123 min, p=.001). At 1 week, MIS patients were more mobile (rising up from bed, p=.009; stairs, p=.015) and time of hospitalisation became shorter (p=.001). At 6 weeks, MIS patients had less pain at motion (p=.013), less limb (p=.001), a higher HHS (p=.007) and were more satisfied (p=.046). The differences remained unchanged after 12 weeks. There was no difference in implant positioning between the groups. Inclination was higher in group MIS [39° (SD 6°) vs. 38° (SD 7°), p=.030], anteversion was lower [21° (SD 8°) vs. 24° (SD 8°), p=.010]. Conclusion. The introduction of the MIS anterior approach was safe. Early rehabilitation was facilitated and clinical results were better. Radiographical results were not impaired by the new approach. We see no disadvantage of the MIS anterior approach. Adaptions in the clinical setup might further facilitate rehabilitation