Aims. The aims of this study, using a porcine model of multiple trauma, were to investigate the expression of microRNAs at the fracture site, in the fracture haematoma (fxH) and in the fractured bone, compared with a remote unfractured long bone, to characterize the patterns of expression of circulating microRNAs in plasma, and identify and validate messenger RNA (mRNA) targets of the microRNAs. Methods. Two multiple trauma treatment strategies were compared: early total care (ETC) and damage control orthopaedics (DCO). For this study, fxH, fractured bone, unfractured control bone, plasma, lung, and liver samples were harvested. MicroRNAs were analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction arrays, and the identified mRNA targets were validated in vivo in the bone, fxH, lung, and liver tissue. Results. MicroRNA expression was associated with the trauma treatment strategy and differed depending on the type of sample. In the ETC group, a more advanced fracture healing response, as reflected by the expression of osteogenic microRNAs, was seen compared with the DCO group. DCO treatment resulted in a more balanced immune response in the systemic circulation as represented by significant upregulations of several anti-inflammatory microRNAs. The in vivo validation of the abundance of putative mRNA targets reflected the levels of microRNAs which were identified. Conclusion. Local and systemic microRNA patterns of expression were identified, specific for the treatment strategy in multiple trauma, which corresponded with the expression of mRNA at the fracture site and in target organs. These findings match clinical observations and offer insights into the cellular
Aims. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with limitations in function, measured by patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), six to nine months after a proximal humeral fracture, from a range of demographic, injury, psychological, and social variables measured within a week and two to four weeks after injury. Patients and Methods. We enrolled 177 adult patients who sustained an isolated proximal humeral fracture into the study and invited them to complete PROMs at their initial outpatient visit within one week of injury, between two and four weeks, and between six to nine months after injury. There were 128 women and 49 men; the mean age was 66 years (. sd. 16; 18 to 95). In all, 173 patients completed the final assessment. Bivariate analysis was performed followed by multivariable regression analysis accounting for multicollinearity using partial R. 2. , correlation matrices, and variable inflation factor. Results. Many variables within a week of injury and between two and four weeks after injury correlated with six- to nine-month PROMs in bivariate analysis. Kinesiophobia measured within a week of injury (Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia-11: partial R. 2. = 0.14; p = 0.000) and self-efficacy measured between two and four weeks (Pain Self-efficacy Questionnaire-2: partial R. 2. = 0.266; p < 0.001) were the strongest predictors of limitations (measured by Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Upper Extremity Physical Function Computer Adaptive Test (PROMIS UE)) at six to nine months in multivariable analysis. Similar findings were observed with other types of PROM. Regression models accounted for a substantial amount of variance in all PROMs at both timepoints (e.g. 66% of the overall variance within one week, and 70% within two to four weeks for PROMIS UE at six to nine months). . Conclusion. Recovery from a proximal humeral fracture appears to be enhanced by overcoming fears of movement or reinjury within a week after injury and greater self-efficacy (developing resilience and more effective coping strategies) within a month. Such factors are modifiable using enhanced
Aims. Patient engagement in adaptive health behaviours and interactions with their healthcare ecosystem can be measured using self-reported instruments, such as the Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13) and the Effective Consumer Scale (ECS-17). Few studies have investigated the influence of patient engagement on limitations (patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs)) and patient-reported experience measures (PREMs). First, we assessed whether patient engagement (PAM-13, ECS-17) within two to four weeks of an upper limb fracture was associated with limitations (the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH), and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Upper Extremity Physical Function computer adaptive test (PROMIS UE PF) scores) measured six to nine months after fracture, accounting for demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors. Secondly, we assessed the association between patient engagement and experience (numerical rating scale for satisfaction with care (NRS-C) and satisfaction with services (NRS-S) six to nine months after fracture. Methods. A total of 744 adults with an isolated fracture of the proximal humerus, elbow, or distal radius completed PROMs. Due to multicollinearity of patient engagement and psychosocial variables, we generated a single variable combining measures of engagement and psychosocial factors using factor analysis. We then performed multivariable analysis with p < 0.10 on bivariate analysis. Results. Patient engagement and psychosocial factors combined to form a single factor (factor 1) accounting for 20% (QuickDASH, semi-partial R. 2. = 0.20) and 14% (PROMIS UE PF, semi-partial R. 2. = 0.14) of the variation in limitations six to nine months after fracture. Factor 1 also accounted for 17% (NRS-C, semi-partial R. 2. = 0.17) of variation in satisfaction with care, and 21% (NRS-S, semi-partial R. 2. = 0.21) of variation in satisfaction with services. Demographic factors (age, sex, work status) and measures of greater pathophysiology (type of fracture, high-energy injury, post-surgical complications), accounted for much less variation. Conclusion. Patients who actively manage their health and demonstrate effective emotional and social functioning share a common underlying trait. They have fewer limitations and greater satisfaction with care during recovery from upper limb fractures. Future efforts should focus on evaluating initiatives that optimize patient engagement, such as patient education, coaching, and a
Patient decision aids have previously demonstrated an improvement in the quality of the informed consent process. This study assessed the effectiveness of detailed written patient information, compared to standard verbal consent, in improving postoperative recall in adult orthopaedic trauma patients. This randomized controlled feasibility trial was conducted at two teaching hospitals within the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District. Adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) pending orthopaedic trauma surgery between March 2021 and September 2021 were recruited and randomized to detailed or standard methods of informed consent using a random sequence concealed in sealed, opaque envelopes. The detailed group received procedure-specific written information in addition to the standard verbal consent. The primary outcome was total recall, using a seven-point interview-administered recall questionnaire at 72 hours postoperatively. Points were awarded if the participant correctly recalled details of potential complications (maximum three points), implants used (maximum three points), and postoperative instructions (maximum one point). Secondary outcomes included the anxiety subscale of the Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS-A) and visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain collected at 24 hours preoperatively and 72 hours postoperatively. Additionally, the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (PSQ-18) measured satisfaction at 72 hours postoperatively.Aims
Methods
Occult (clinical) injuries represent 15% of all scaphoid fractures, posing significant challenges to the clinician. MRI has been suggested as the gold standard for diagnosis, but remains expensive, time-consuming, and is in high demand. Conventional management with immobilization and serial radiography typically results in multiple follow-up attendances to clinic, radiation exposure, and delays return to work. Suboptimal management can result in significant disability and, frequently, litigation. We present a service evaluation report following the introduction of a quality-improvement themed, streamlined, clinical scaphoid pathway. Patients are offered a removable wrist splint with verbal and written instructions to remove it two weeks following injury, for self-assessment. The persistence of pain is the patient’s guide to ‘opt-in’ and to self-refer for a follow-up appointment with a senior emergency physician. On confirmation of ongoing signs of clinical scaphoid injury, an urgent outpatient ‘fast’-wrist protocol MRI scan is ordered, with instructions to maintain wrist immobilization. Patients with positive scan results are referred for specialist orthopaedic assessment via a virtual fracture clinic.Aims
Methods
Tobacco, in addition to being one of the greatest public health threats facing our world, is believed to have deleterious effects on bone metabolism and especially on bone healing. It has been described in the literature that patients who smoke are approximately twice as likely to develop a nonunion following a non-specific bone fracture. For clavicle fractures, this risk is unclear, as is the impact that such a complication might have on the initial management of these fractures. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed for conservatively treated displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (via Cochrane Library) were searched from inception to 12 May 2022, with supplementary searches in Open Grey, ClinicalTrials.gov, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, and Google Scholar. The searches were performed without limits for publication date or languages.Aims
Methods
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. A retrospective study was conducted on 112 patients treated for intertrochanteric femur fracture with a double proximal screw nail (Endovis BA2; EBA2) from January to September 2021. The analyzed variables were age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, fracture type, side, time of surgery, quality of reduction, pre-existing therapy with bisphosphonate for osteoporosis, screw placement in two different views, and TAD. The last follow-up was at 12 months. Logistic regression was used to study the potential factors of screw cut-out, and receiver operating characteristic curve to identify the threshold value.Aims
Methods
Though most humeral shaft fractures heal nonoperatively, up to one-third may lead to nonunion with inferior outcomes. The Radiographic Union Score for HUmeral Fractures (RUSHU) was created to identify high-risk patients for nonunion. Our study evaluated the RUSHU’s prognostic performance at six and 12 weeks in discriminating nonunion within a significantly larger cohort than before. Our study included 226 nonoperatively treated humeral shaft fractures. We evaluated the interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility of RUSHU scoring using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Additionally, we determined the optimal cut-off thresholds for predicting nonunion using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) method.Aims
Methods
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. 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.Aims
Methods
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. 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).Aims
Methods
The Open-Fracture Patient Evaluation Nationwide (OPEN) study was performed to provide clarity in open fracture management previously skewed by small, specialist centre studies and large, unfocused registry investigations. We report the current management metrics of open fractures across the UK. Patients admitted to hospital with an open fracture (excluding phalanges or isolated hand injuries) between 1 June 2021 and 30 September 2021 were included. Institutional information governance approval was obtained at the lead site and all data entered using Research Electronic Data Capture software. All domains of the British Orthopaedic Association Standard for Open Fracture Management were recorded.Aims
Method
The primary aim was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of routine operative fixation for all patients with humeral shaft fractures. The secondary aim was to estimate the health economic implications of using a Radiographic Union Score for HUmeral fractures (RUSHU) of < 8 to facilitate selective fixation for patients at risk of nonunion. From 2008 to 2017, 215 patients (mean age 57 yrs (17 to 18), 61% female (n = 130/215)) with a nonoperatively managed humeral diaphyseal fracture were retrospectively identified. Union was achieved in 77% (n = 165/215) after initial nonoperative management, with 23% (n = 50/215) uniting after surgery for nonunion. The EuroQol five-dimension three-level health index (EQ-5D-3L) was obtained via postal survey. Multiple regression was used to determine the independent influence of patient, injury, and management factors upon the EQ-5D-3L. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of < £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained was considered cost-effective.Aims
Methods
The primary aim of this study was to determine the rates of return to work (RTW) and sport (RTS) following a humeral shaft fracture. The secondary aim was to identify factors independently associated with failure to RTW or RTS. From 2008 to 2017, all patients with a humeral diaphyseal fracture were retrospectively identified. Patient demographics and injury characteristics were recorded. Details of pre-injury employment, sporting participation, and levels of return post-injury were obtained via postal questionnaire. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity Scale was used to quantify physical activity among active patients. Regression was used to determine factors independently associated with failure to RTW or RTS.Aims
Methods
The modified Radiological Union Scale for Tibia (mRUST) fractures score was developed in order to assess progress to union and define a numerical assessment of fracture healing of metadiaphyseal fractures. This score has been shown to be valuable in predicting radiological union; however, there is no information on the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of this index for various cut-off scores. The aim of this study is to evaluate sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and cut-off points of the mRUST score for the diagnosis of metadiaphyseal fractures healing. A cohort of 146 distal femur fractures were retrospectively identified at our institution. After excluding AO/OTA type B fractures, nonunions, follow-up less than 12 weeks, and patients aged less than 16 years, 104 sets of radiographs were included for analysis. Anteroposterior and lateral femur radiographs at six weeks, 12 weeks, 24 weeks, and final follow-up were separately scored by three surgeons using the mRUST score. The sensitivity and specificity of mean mRUST score were calculated using clinical and further radiological findings as a gold standard for ultimate fracture healing. A receiver operating characteristic curve was also performed to determine the cut-off points at each time point.Aims
Methods
This study reviews the past 30 years of research from the Canadian Orthopedic Trauma Society (COTS), to identify predictive factors that delay or accelerate the course of randomized controlled trials in orthopaedic trauma. We conducted a methodological review of all papers published through the Canadian Orthopaedic Trauma Society or its affiliates. Data abstracted included: year of publication; journal of publication; study type; number of study sites; sample size; and achievement of sample size goals. Information about the study timelines was also collected, including: the date of study proposal to COTS; date recruitment began; date recruitment ended; and date of publication.Aims
Methods
This study evaluated variation in the surgical treatment of stable (A1) and unstable (A2) trochanteric hip fractures among an international group of orthopaedic surgeons, and determined the influence of patient, fracture, and surgeon characteristics on choice of implant (intramedullary nailing (IMN) versus sliding hip screw (SHS)). A total of 128 orthopaedic surgeons in the Science of Variation Group evaluated radiographs of 30 patients with Type A1 and A2 trochanteric hip fractures and indicated their preferred treatment: IMN or SHS. The management of Type A3 (reverse obliquity) trochanteric fractures was not evaluated. Agreement between surgeons was calculated using multirater kappa. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess whether patient, fracture, and surgeon characteristics were independently associated with choice of implant.Aims
Methods
Virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) are advocated by recent British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma and Orthopaedics (BOASTs) to efficiently manage injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary aim of this national study is to assess the impact of these standards on patient satisfaction and clinical outcome amid the pandemic. The secondary aims are to determine the impact of the pandemic on the demographic details of injuries presenting to the VFC, and to compare outcomes and satisfaction when the BOAST guidelines were first introduced with a subsequent period when local practice would be familiar with these guidelines. This is a national cross-sectional cohort study comprising centres with VFC services across the UK. All consecutive adult patients assessed in VFC in a two-week period pre-lockdown (6 May 2019 to 19 May 2019) and in the same two-week period at the peak of the first lockdown (4 May 2020 to 17 May 2020), and a randomly selected sample during the ‘second wave’ (October 2020) will be eligible for the study. Data comprising local VFC practice, patient and injury characteristics, unplanned re-attendances, and complications will be collected by local investigators for all time periods. A telephone questionnaire will be used to determine patient satisfaction and patient-reported outcomes for patients who were discharged following VFC assessment without face-to-face consultation.Aims
Methods
No randomized comparative study has compared the extensile lateral approach (ELA) and sinus tarsi approach (STA) for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures. This randomized comparative study was conducted to confirm whether the STA was prone to fewer wound complications than the ELA. Between August 2013 and August 2018, 64 patients with Sanders type 2 calcaneus fractures were randomly assigned to receive surgical treatment by the ELA (32 patients) and STA (32 patients). The primary outcome was development of wound complications. The secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, pain scored of a visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, 36-item Short Form health survey, operative duration, subtalar joint range of motion (ROM), Böhler’s angle and calcaneal width, and posterior facet reduction.Aims
Methods
Patients who sustain neck of femur fractures are at high risk of malnutrition. Our intention was to assess to what extent malnutrition was associated with worse patient outcomes. A total of 1,199 patients with femoral neck fractures presented to a large UK teaching hospital over a three-year period. All patients had nutritional assessments performed using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). Malnutrition risk was compared to mortality, length of hospital stay, and discharge destination using logistic regression. Adjustments were made for covariates to identify whether malnutrition risk independently affected these outcomes.Aims
Methods
The aim of this study was to determine the current incidence and epidemiology of humeral diaphyseal fractures. The secondary aim was to explore variation in patient and injury characteristics by fracture location within the humeral diaphysis. Over ten years (2008 to 2017), all adult patients (aged ≥ 16 years) sustaining an acute fracture of the humeral diaphysis managed at the study centre were retrospectively identified from a trauma database. Patient age, sex, medical/social background, injury mechanism, fracture classification, and associated injuries were recorded and analyzed.Aims
Methods
The primary aim of the survey was to map the current provision of simulation training within UK and Republic of Ireland (RoI) trauma and orthopaedic (T&O) specialist training programmes to inform future design of a simulation based-curriculum. The secondary aims were to characterize; the types of simulation offered to trainees by stage of training, the sources of funding for simulation, the barriers to providing simulation in training, and to measure current research activity assessing the educational impact of simulation. The development of the survey was a collaborative effort between the authors and the British Orthopaedic Association Simulation Group. The survey items were embedded in the Performance and Opportunity Dashboard, which annually audits quality in training across several domains on behalf of the Speciality Advisory Committee (SAC). The survey was sent via email to the 30 training programme directors in March 2019. Data were retrieved and analyzed at the Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, UK.Aims
Methods
The primary aim of this study was to develop a reliable, effective radiological score to assess the healing of humeral shaft fractures, the Radiographic Union Score for HUmeral fractures (RUSHU). The secondary aim was to assess whether the six-week RUSHU was predictive of nonunion at six months after the injury. Initially, 20 patients with radiographs six weeks following a humeral shaft fracture were selected at random from a trauma database and scored by three observers, based on the Radiographic Union Scale for Tibial fractures system. After refinement of the RUSHU criteria, a second group of 60 patients with radiographs six weeks after injury, 40 with fractures that united and 20 with fractures that developed nonunion, were scored by two blinded observers.Aims
Patients and Methods
This study explores data quality in operation type and fracture classification recorded as part of a large research study and a national audit with an independent review. At 17 centres, an expert surgeon reviewed a randomly selected subset of cases from their centre with regard to fracture classification using the AO system and type of operation performed. Agreement for these variables was then compared with the data collected during conduct of the World Hip Trauma Evaluation (WHiTE) cohort study. Both types of surgery and fracture classification were collapsed to identify the level of detail of reporting that achieved meaningful agreement. In the National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD), the types of operation and fracture classification were explored to identify the proportion of “highly improbable” combinations.Aims
Patients and Methods
The primary aim of this study was to determine if delayed clavicular fixation results in a greater risk of operative complications and revision surgery. A retrospective case series was undertaken of all displaced clavicular fractures that underwent plate fixation over a ten-year period (2007 to 2017). Patient demographics, time to surgery, complications, and mode of failure were collected. Logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors contributing towards operative complications. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine if a potential ‘safe window’ exists from injury to delayed surgery. Propensity score matching was used to construct a case control study for comparison of risk.Aims
Patients and Methods
Little is known about the effect of haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation
on fracture healing. This study used a rabbit model with a femoral
osteotomy and fixation to examine this relationship. A total of 18 male New Zealand white rabbits underwent femoral
osteotomy with intramedullary fixation with ‘shock’ (n = 9) and
control (n = 9) groups. Shock was induced in the study group by
removal of 35% of the total blood volume 45 minutes before resuscitation
with blood and crystalloid. Fracture healing was monitored for eight weeks
using serum markers of healing and radiographs.Aims
Materials and Methods
We reviewed all patients who sustained a fracture of the hip
and were treated in Northern Ireland over a period of 15 years to
identify trends in incidence, the demographics of the patients,
the rates of mortality, the configuration of the fracture and the
choice of implant. Since 01 January 2001 data about every fracture of the hip sustained
in an adult have been collected centrally in Northern Ireland. All
adults with such a fracture between 2000 and 2015 were included
in the study. Temporal changes in their demographics, the mode of
treatment, and outcomes including mortality were analysed.Aims
Patients and Methods
To evaluate the outcomes of cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA)
following a fracture of the acetabulum, with evaluation of risk
factors and comparison with a patient group with no history of fracture. Between 1992 and 2016, 49 patients (33 male) with mean age of
57 years (25 to 87) underwent cemented THA at a mean of 6.5 years
(0.1 to 25) following acetabular fracture. A total of 38 had undergone
surgical fixation and 11 had been treated non-operatively; 13 patients
died at a mean of 10.2 years after THA (0.6 to 19). Patients were
assessed pre-operatively, at one year and at final follow-up (mean
9.1 years, 0.5 to 23) using the Oxford Hip Score (OHS). Implant
survivorship was assessed. An age and gender-matched cohort of THAs
performed for non-traumatic osteoarthritis (OA) or avascular necrosis
(AVN) (n = 98) were used to compare complications and patient-reported outcome
measures (PROMs).Aims
Patients and Methods
Fractures of the distal femur can be challenging to manage and
are on the increase in the elderly osteoporotic population. Management
with casting or bracing can unacceptably limit a patient’s ability
to bear weight, but historically, operative fixation has been associated
with a high rate of re-operation. In this study, we describe the outcomes
of fixation using modern implants within a strategy of early return
to function. All patients treated at our centre with lateral distal femoral
locking plates (LDFLP) between 2009 and 2014 were identified. Fracture
classification and operative information including weight-bearing
status, rates of union, re-operation, failure of implants and mortality
rate, were recorded.Aims
Patients and Methods
The aim of this prospective randomised controlled trial was to
compare non-operative and operative management for acute isolated
displaced fractures of the olecranon in patients aged ≥ 75 years. Patients were randomised to either non-operative management or
operative management with either tension-band wiring or fixation
with a plate. They were reviewed at six weeks, three and six months
and one year after the injury. The primary outcome measure was the
Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at one year.Aims
Patients and Methods
Fracture clinics are often characterised by the referral of large
numbers of unselected patients with minor injuries not requiring
investigation or intervention, long waiting times and recurrent
unnecessary reviews. Our experience had been of an unsustainable
system and we implemented a ‘Trauma Triage Clinic’ (TTC) in order
to rationalise and regulate access to our fracture service. The
British Orthopaedic Association’s guidelines have required a prospective evaluation
of this change of practice, and we report our experience and results. We review the management of all 12 069 patients referred to our
service in the calendar year 2014, with a minimum of one year follow-up
during the calendar year 2015. Aims
Patients and Methods
We present an audit comparing our level I major trauma centre’s
data for a cohort of patients with hip fractures in the National
Hip Fracture Database (NHFD) with locally held data on these patients. A total of 2036 records for episodes between July 2009 and June
2014 were reviewed. Aims
Patients and Methods
Although infrequent, a fracture of the cuboid can lead to significant
disruption of the integrity of the midfoot and its function. The
purpose of this study was to classify the pattern of fractures of
the cuboid, relate them to the mechanism of injury and suggest methods
of managing them. We performed a retrospective review of patients with radiologically
reported cuboid fractures. Fractures were grouped according to commonly
occurring patterns of injury. A total of 192 fractures in 188 patients
were included. They were classified into five patterns of injury.Aims
Patients and Methods
Accurate characterisation of fractures is essential in fracture management trials. However, this is often hampered by poor inter-observer agreement. This article describes the practicalities of defining the fracture population, based on the Neer classification, within a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial in which surgical treatment was compared with non-surgical treatment in adults with displaced fractures of the proximal humerus involving the surgical neck. The trial manual illustrated the Neer classification of proximal humeral fractures. However, in addition to surgical neck displacement, surgeons assessing patient eligibility reported on whether either or both of the tuberosities were involved. Anonymised electronic versions of baseline radiographs were sought for all 250 trial participants. A protocol, data collection tool and training presentation were developed and tested in a pilot study. These were then used in a formal assessment and classification of the trial fractures by two independent senior orthopaedic shoulder trauma surgeons.Objectives
Methods
The monitoring of fracture healing is a complex process. Typically, successive radiographs are performed and an emerging calcification of the fracture area is evaluated. The aim of this study was to investigate whether different bone healing patterns can be distinguished using a telemetric instrumented femoral internal plate fixator. An electronic telemetric system was developed to assess bone healing mechanically. The system consists of a telemetry module which is applied to an internal locking plate fixator, an external reader device, a sensor for measuring externally applied load and a laptop computer with processing software. By correlation between externally applied load and load measured in the implant, the elasticity of the osteosynthesis is calculated. The elasticity decreases with ongoing consolidation of a fracture or nonunion and is an appropriate parameter for the course of bone healing. At our centre, clinical application has been performed in 56 patients suffering nonunion or fracture of the femur.Objectives
Materials and Methods
The treatment of late presenting fractures of the lateral humeral
condyle in children remains controversial. We report on the outcome for 16 children who presented with a
fracture of the lateral humeral epicondyle at a mean of 7.4 weeks
(3 to 15.6) after injury and were treated surgically.Aims
Methods
The best method of managing a fracture of the
distal humerus in a frail low-demand patient with osteoporotic bone remains
controversial. Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) has been recommended
for patients in whom open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
is not possible. Conservative methods of treatment, including the
‘bag of bones’ technique (acceptance of displacement of the bony
fragments and early mobilisation), are now rarely considered as
they are believed to give a poor functional result. We reviewed 40 elderly and low-demand patients (aged 50 to 93
years, 72% women) with a fracture of the distal humerus who had
been treated conservatively at our hospital between March 2008 and
December 2013, and assessed their short- and medium-term functional
outcome. In the short-term, the mean Broberg and Morrey score improved
from 42 points (poor; 23 to 80) at six weeks after injury to 67
points (fair; 40 to 88) by three months. In the medium-term, surviving patients (n = 20) had a mean Oxford
elbow score of 30 points (7 to 48) at four years and a mean Disabilities
of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score of 38 points (0 to 75): 95%
reported a functional range of elbow flexion. The cumulative rate
of fracture union at one year was 53%. The mortality at five years approached
40%. Conservative management of a fracture of the distal humerus in
a low-demand patient only gives a modest functional result, but
avoids the substantial surgical risks associated with primary ORIF
or TEA. Cite this article:
Epidemiological studies enhance clinical practice
in a number of ways. However, there are many methodological difficulties
that need to be addressed in designing a study aimed at the collection
and analysis of data concerning fractures and other injuries. Most
can be managed and errors minimised if careful attention is given
to the design and implementation of the research. Cite this article:
In this study, we describe a morphological classification
for greater tuberosity fractures of the proximal humerus. We divided
these fractures into three types: avulsion, split and depression.
We retrospectively reviewed all shoulder radiographs showing isolated
greater tuberosity fractures in a Level I trauma centre between
July 2007 and July 2012. We identified 199 cases where records and
radiographs were reviewed and included 79 men and 120 women with
a mean age of 58 years (23 to 96). The morphological classification
was applied to the first 139 cases by three reviewers on two occasions
using the Kappa statistic and compared with the AO and Neer classifications.
The inter- and intra-observer reliability of the morphological classification
was 0.73 to 0.77 and 0.69 to 0.86, respectively. This was superior
to the Neer (0.31 to 0.35/0.54 to 0.63) and AO (0.30 to 0.32/0.59
to 0.65) classifications. The distribution of avulsion, split and
depression type fractures was 39%, 41%, and 20%, respectively. This
classification of greater tuberosity fractures is more reliable
than the Neer or AO classifications. These distinct fracture morphologies
are likely to have implications in terms of pathophysiology and
surgical technique. Cite this article:
Exsanguination is the second most common cause
of death in patients who suffer severe trauma. The management of
haemodynamically unstable high-energy pelvic injuries remains controversial,
as there are no universally accepted guidelines to direct surgeons
on the ideal use of pelvic packing or early angio-embolisation.
Additionally, the optimal resuscitation strategy, which prevents
or halts the progression of the trauma-induced coagulopathy, remains
unknown. Although early and aggressive use of blood products in
these patients appears to improve survival, over-enthusiastic resuscitative
measures may not be the safest strategy. This paper provides an overview of the classification of pelvic
injuries and the current evidence on best-practice management of
high-energy pelvic fractures, including resuscitation, transfusion
of blood components, monitoring of coagulopathy, and procedural
interventions including pre-peritoneal pelvic packing, external
fixation and angiographic embolisation. Cite this article:
Fractures of the proximal femur are one of the
greatest challenges facing the medical community, constituting a
heavy socioeconomic burden worldwide. The National Hip Fracture
Audit currently provides a framework for service evaluation. This
evaluation is based upon the assessment of process rather than assessment
of patient-centred outcome and therefore it fails to provide meaningful
data regarding the clinical effectiveness of treatments. This study
aims to capture data from the cohort of patients who present with
a fracture of the proximal femur at a single United Kingdom Major
Trauma Centre. Patient-centred outcomes will be recorded and provide
a baseline cohort within which to test the clinical effectiveness
of experimental interventions.
There is no absolute method of evaluating healing
of a fracture of the tibial shaft. In this study we sought to validate a
new clinical method based on the systematic observation of gait,
first by assessing the degree of agreement between three independent
observers regarding the gait score for a given patient, and secondly
by determining how such a score might predict healing of a fracture. We used a method of evaluating gait to assess 33 patients (29
men and four women, with a mean age of 29 years (15 to 62)) who
had sustained an isolated fracture of the tibial shaft and had been
treated with a locked intramedullary nail. There were 15 closed
and 18 open fractures (three Gustilo and Anderson grade I, seven
grade II, seven grade IIIA and one grade IIIB). Assessment was carried
out three and six months post-operatively using videos taken with
a digital camera. Gait was graded on a scale ranging from 1 (extreme
difficulty) to 4 (normal gait). Bivariate analysis included analysis
of variance to determine whether the gait score statistically correlated
with previously validated and standardised scores of clinical status
and radiological evidence of union. An association was found between the pattern of gait and all
the other variables. Improvement in gait was associated with the
absence of pain on weight-bearing, reduced tenderness over the fracture,
a higher Radiographic Union Scale in Tibial Fractures score, and
improved functional status, measured using the Brazilian version
of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire (all
p <
0.001). Although further study is needed, the analysis of
gait in this way may prove to be a useful clinical tool.
We compared the outcome of closed intramedullary nailing with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis using a percutaneous locked compression plate in patients with a distal metaphyseal fracture in a prospective study. A total of 85 patients were randomised to operative stabilisation either by a closed intramedullary nail (44) or by minimally invasive osteosynthesis with a compression plate (41). Pre-operative variables included the patients’ age and the side and pattern of the fracture. Peri-operative variables were the operating time and the radiation time. Postoperative variables were wound problems, the time to union of the fracture, the functional American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle surgery score and removal of hardware. We found no significant difference in the pre-operative variables or in the time to union in the two groups. However, the mean radiation time and operating time were significantly longer in the locked compression plate group (3.0 We conclude that both closed intramedullary nailing and a percutaneous locked compression plate can be used safely to treat Orthopaedic Trauma Association type-43A distal metaphyseal fractures of the tibia. However, closed intramedullary nailing has the advantage of a shorter operating and radiation time and easier removal of the implant. We therefore prefer closed intramedullary nailing for patients with these fractures.
We describe our early operative experience with a new pelvic reduction frame and the standard of reduction of fractures of the pelvic ring which we achieved in the first 35 consecutive patients, with 34 acute fractures and one nonunion. The pre-operative and immediate post-operative radiographs were measured, using two methods, to find the maximum radiological displacement of the fracture and the quality of the reduction according to the criteria of Tornetta and Matta. There were 19 vertical shear fractures and 16 compression injuries. The mean age of the patients was 33.5 years (10 to 59) and mean delay to surgery was 4.6 days (0 to 16) in the 34 acute injuries. The mean operative time in isolated procedures was 103.4 minutes ( The frame was shown to be effective, allowing the surgeon to obtain a satisfactory reduction and fixation of acute displaced disruptions of the pelvic ring.
Our aim was to assess the reproducibility and the reliability of the Weber classification system for fractures of the ankle based on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs. Five observers with varying clinical experience reviewed 50 sets of blinded radiographs. The same observers reviewed the same radiographs again after an interval of four weeks. Inter- and intra-observer agreement was assessed based on the proportion of agreement and the values of the kappa coefficient. For inter-observer agreement, the mean kappa value was 0.61 (0.59 to 0.63) and the proportion of agreement was 78% (76% to 79%) and for intra-observer agreement the mean kappa value was 0.74 (0.39 to 0.86) with an 85% (60% to 93%) observed agreement. These results show that the Weber classification of fractures of the ankle based on two radiological views has substantial inter-observer reliability and intra-observer reproducibility.
We undertook a trial on 60 patients with AO 31A2 fractures of the hip who were randomised after stabilisation of the fracture into two equal groups, one of which received post-operative treatment using a non-invasive interactive neurostimulation device and the other with a sham device. All other aspects of their rehabilitation were the same. The treatment was continued for ten days after operation. Outcome measurements included the use of a visual analogue scale for pain, the brief pain inventory and Ketorolac for post-operative control of pain, and an overall assessment of outcome by the surgeon. There were significantly better results for the patients receiving treatment by active electrical stimulation (repeated measures analysis of variance, p <
0.001). The findings of this pilot trial justify a larger study to determine if these results are more generally applicable.
Limited access surgery is thought to reduce post-operative morbidity and provide faster recovery of function. The percutaneous compression plate (PCCP) is a recently introduced device for the fixation of intertrochanteric fractures with minimal exposure. It has several potential mechanical advantages over the conventional compression hip screw (CHS). Our aim in this prospective, randomised, controlled study was to compare the outcome of patients operated on using these two devices. We randomised 104 patients with intertrochanteric fractures (AO/OTA 31.A1–A2) to surgical treatment with either the PCCP or CHS and followed them for one year postoperatively. The mean operating blood loss was 161.0 ml (8 to 450) in the PCCP group and 374.0 ml (11 to 980) in the CHS group (Student’s The PCCP device was associated with reduced intra-operative blood loss, less postoperative pain and a reduced incidence of collapse of the fracture.
