The regionalisation of major trauma in the UK has significantly improved outcomes for patients with severe, lower limb injuries. Chronic pain after complex lower limb injuries is well documented, but seems to remain a problem despite better clinical and radiological outcomes. We hypothesised that pain was mediated through the saphenous nerve, especially as most tibial injuries affected the soft tissues medially. As a proof of concept, we undertook adductor canal blocks to understand pain aetiology. Patients with chronic pain following complex lower limb trauma or congenital deformity correction have been selected and underwent an adductor canal block by one of our trauma anaesthetist that specialises in this procedure. Their outcomes were recorded in their clinical records and patients were contacted by phone to document their experiences.Introduction
Materials & Methods
To identify the difference in infection rates in ankle fracture surgery in Laminar and Non Laminar flow theatres. The infection rates in ankle fracture surgery range between 1–8%. The risk factors include diabetes, alcoholism, smoking, open fractures, osteoporotic fractures in the elderly, and high BMI. Laminar flow has been shown to reduce infections in Arthroplasty surgeries. Therefore, it has become mandatory to use in those procedures. However, it's not the same with ankle fracture surgery.Abstract
Aim
Background
Cerament, a bioresorbable hydroxyapatite and calcium sulfate cement, is known to be used as a bone-graft substitute in traumatic bone defect cases. However, its use in open fractures has not previously been studied. Retrospective, single-centre review of cases between November 2016 and February 2021. Open fractures were categorised according to the Orthopaedic Trauma Society classification (OTS). Cases were assessed for union, time to union, and associated post-operative complications.Introduction
Materials and Methods
Stryde® lengthening nail has been recently withdrawn because of concerns about osteolysis and other bone lesions that have been observed early after implantation. The present study analyses the incidence and features of these bone lesions in our patients. This is a retrospective review of a series of patients from two centres specializing in limb reconstruction. Inclusion criteria was a history of surgery with Stryde® lengthening nail with more than one year follow-up available. All postoperative x-rays were and clinical notes were reviewed.Introduction
Materials and Methods
The primary aim of this quality improvement project was to assess compliance with BOAST 4 guidelines for the delivery of antibiotic prophylaxis in patients presenting to a major trauma centre with open limb fracture and evaluate the impact of implemented changes on attainment of these guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess adherence to local guidelines for the type of antibiotic prescribed. A multi-cycle audit and quality improvement project was carried out for all patients presenting to Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust (BSUH) with open limb fractures from 1st September 2018 to 31st January 2019, and 1st November 2019 to 31st March 2020. Patients were identified through retrospective screening of electronic operation records (Bluespier) by authors, and paper records were subsequently reviewed for data pertaining to antibiotic prescriptions. Following the initial audit cycle, targeted teaching was carried out for orthopaedic trainees, new posters were placed in key clinical areas to highlight local guidelines, and alterations to the trauma clerking proforma were implemented, to include BOAST 4 guidelines.Aim
Method
Distal femoral fracture fixation has historically been associated with high rates of reoperation because of mal-union, non-union and implant failure. We hypothesised that recent advances in distal femoral locking plate design and material along with an improved understanding of biomechanical principles would improve outcome. In a 5-year retrospective study utilising electronic patient records and serial radiographs (including recall by letter where there was no radiological evidence of union) we identified a series of 129 distal femoral fractures treated with modern locking plates in 123 patients. The majority were female (80%), elderly (mean 73 years) and infirm (72/123 ASA 3 or more). A consultant performed the operation in 67% of cases. 49% were followed to radiological union, while 25% died within the follow up period. Reoperation rate for implant failure was 4%, with all failures occurring early (within 5 months). Our follow up correlates with the infirm elderly population concerned. Our cohort shares many similarities with hip fracture patients and we propose that this group should receive equal surgical priority and optimum management also be rewarded by enhanced tariffs. Modern locking plates used in combination with the correct biomechanical principles are performing well in our centre.
