The measurement of radial head translation about the capitellum (in percent): the radio-capitellum ratio (RCR) has proven to have excellent inter- and intra-observer reliabilities when measuring the RCR on a lateral radiological view of elbows at 90° of flexion and in the neutral position of the forearm. However, in the clinical setting, radiographs may be taken with the elbow in different positions. However, the purpose was to validate the RCR measurement method on elbows in different positions in flexion-extension and in different positions of the forearm in pronation-supination. Fifty-one healthy volunteers were recruited to evaluate the RCR in different elbow positions. Lateral elbow radiographs were taken with the elbow in different magnitude of ROM: maximal extension, maximal flexion, elbow at 90° and forearm in neutral, elbow at 90° and forearm in supination and elbow at 90° and forearm in pronation. The measurements of the RCR were done using the software SliceOmatic. ANOVA and paired T-test were used to assess the difference of the RCR depending on the position of the elbow and of the forearm. Pearson coefficients were calculated to obtain the correlation between the RCR in each different position.Purpose
Method
Radial head implant over-lengthening, a common cause of capitellar wear and clinical failure, is difficult to diagnose using radiographs of the injured elbow. The purpose of this study was to determine if a novel measurement technique based on contralateral elbow radiographs, termed the RACER method, could be used to accurately estimate the magnitude of radial head implant over-lengthening. Part I of this study examined the side-to-side consistency of radiographic landmarks used in the measurement technique. Part II of this study validated the technique using simulated radial head implant over-lengthening in a cadaveric model. Part I: A side-to-side comparison of elbow joint dimensions was performed in 50 patients (100 radiographs). Part II: Radial head prostheses of varying lengths (0,+2mm,+4mm,+6mm,+8mm) were implanted in 4 paired cadaveric specimens (8 elbows). Radiographs were obtained and measurements were performed by 2 examiners blinded to implant size to determine if contralateral radiographs could diagnose and provide a valid estimate of the magnitude of implant over-lengthening. Intra and inter-rater reliability was determined.Purpose
Method
The ideal timing for a Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) remains a highly controversial topic in the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures in the elderly with damage to the articular surface of the acetabulum or femoral head. Acute THA offers early rehabilitation but a high incidence of heterotopic ossification has been reported. Its incidence and consequences on the patient's function are not clear. The goal of this study is to compare the incidence of heterotopic ossification following acute THA of acetabular fractures compared to delayed THA, and to evaluate its functional effects on the patient. In this retrospective consecutive case series of acetabular fractures; 20 patients were treated with acute THA and 20 patients were treated with delayed THA after failed conservative or surgical treatment. The incidence of heterotopic ossification (using Brooker's classification) was obtained and functional outcomes were evaluated using SF-12, WOMAC, Harris Hip Score surveys.Purpose
Method
