We undertook a prospective MRI study to measure the retroversion of the humeral
We reviewed 15 patients, nine girls and six boys, with chronic anterior dislocation of the radial head which was treated by ulnar osteotomy, external fixation and open reconstruction of the elbow joint but without repair of the annular ligament. Their mean age was 9.5 years (5 to 15) and the mean interval between the injury and reconstruction was 22 months (2 months to 7 years). All radial heads remained reduced at a mean follow-up of 20 months (6 months to 5 years). Normal ranges of movement for flexion, extension, pronation and supination were unchanged in 96.1% (49/51) and worse in 3.9% (2/51). Limited ranges of movement were improved in 77.8% (7/9), unchanged in 11% (1/9) and further decreased in 11% (1/9).There were two superficial pin-track infections and two cases of delayed union but with no serious complications. Reconstruction of the radiocapitellar joint is easier using external fixation since accurate correction of the ulna can be determined empirically and active functional exercises started immediately. Only patients with a radial head of normal shape were selected for treatment by this method.
Aims. The Uppföljningsprogram för cerebral pares (CPUP) Hip Score distinguishes between children with cerebral palsy (CP) at different levels of risk for displacement of the hip. The score was constructed using data from Swedish children with CP, but has not been confirmed in any other population. The aim of this study was to determine the calibration and discriminatory accuracy of this score in children with CP in Scotland. Methods. This was a total population-based study of children registered with the Cerebral Palsy Integrated Pathway Scotland. Displacement of the hip was defined as a migration percentage (MP) of > 40%. Inclusion criteria were children in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III to V. The calibration slope was estimated and Kaplan-Meier curves produced for five strata of CPUP scores to compare the observed with the predicted risk of displacement of the hip at five years. For discriminatory accuracy, the time-dependent area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was estimated. In order to analyze differences in the performance of the score between cohorts, score weights, and subsequently the AUC, were re-estimated using the variables of the original score: the child’s age at the first examination, GMFCS level,
Multiple secondary surgical procedures of the shoulder, such as soft-tissue releases, tendon transfers, and osteotomies, are described in brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) patients. The long-term functional outcomes of these procedures described in the literature are inconclusive. We aimed to analyze the literature looking for a consensus on treatment options. A systematic literature search in healthcare databases (PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library, CINAHL, and Web of Science) was performed from January 2000 to July 2020, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The quality of the included studies was assessed with the Cochrane ROBINS-I risk of bias tool. Relevant trials studying BPBP with at least five years of follow-up and describing functional outcome were included.Aims
Methods
The aim of this study was to explore clinicians’ experience of a paediatric randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing surgical reduction with non-surgical casting for displaced distal radius fractures. Overall, 22 staff from 15 hospitals who participated in the RCT took part in an interview. Interviews were informed by phenomenology and analyzed using thematic analysis.Aims
Methods
Fixation techniques used in the treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) that allow continued growth of the femoral neck, rather than inducing epiphyseal fusion in situ, have the advantage of allowing remodelling of the deformity. The aims of this study were threefold: to assess whether the Free-Gliding (FG) SCFE screw prevents further slip; to establish whether, in practice, it enables lengthening and gliding; and to determine whether the age of the patient influences the extent of glide. All patients with SCFE who underwent fixation using FG SCFE screws after its introduction at our institution, with minimum three years’ follow-up, were reviewed retrospectively as part of ongoing governance. All pre- and postoperative radiographs were evaluated. The demographics of the patients, the grade of slip, the extent of lengthening of the barrel of the screw and the restoration of Klein’s line were recorded. Subanalysis was performed according to sex and age.Aims
Methods
Paediatric fractures are highly prevalent and are most often treated with plaster. The application and removal of plaster is often an anxiety-inducing experience for children. Decreasing the anxiety level may improve the patients’ satisfaction and the quality of healthcare. Virtual reality (VR) has proven to effectively distract children and reduce their anxiety in other clinical settings, and it seems to have a similar effect during plaster treatment. This study aims to further investigate the effect of VR on the anxiety level of children with fractures who undergo plaster removal or replacement in the plaster room. A randomized controlled trial was conducted. A total of 255 patients were included, aged five to 17 years, who needed plaster treatment for a fracture of the upper or lower limb. Randomization was stratified for age (five to 11 and 12 to 17 years). The intervention group was distracted with VR goggles and headphones during the plaster treatment, whereas the control group received standard care. As the primary outcome, the post-procedural level of anxiety was measured with the Child Fear Scale (CFS). Secondary outcomes included the children’s anxiety reduction (difference between CFS after and CFS before plaster procedure), numerical rating scale (NRS) pain, NRS satisfaction of the children and accompanying parents/guardians, and the children’s heart rates during the procedure. An independent-samples Aims
Methods
The Ponseti method is the gold standard treatment for congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), with the British Consensus Statement providing a benchmark for standard of care. Meeting these standards and providing expert care while maintaining geographical accessibility can pose a service delivery challenge. A novel ‘Hub and Spoke’ Shared Care model was initiated to deliver Ponseti treatment for CTEV, while addressing standard of care and resource allocation. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility and outcomes of the corrective phase of Ponseti service delivery using this model. Patients with idiopathic CTEV were seen in their local hospitals (‘Spokes’) for initial diagnosis and casting, followed by referral to the tertiary hospital (‘Hub’) for tenotomy. Non-idiopathic CTEV was managed solely by the Hub. Primary and secondary outcomes were achieving primary correction, and complication rates resulting in early transfer to the Hub, respectively. Consecutive data were prospectively collected and compared between patients allocated to Hub or Spokes. Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, or chi-squared tests were used for analysis (alpha-priori = 0.05, two-tailed significance).Aims
Methods
To examine the long-term outcome of arthrodesis of the hip undertaken in a paediatric population in treating painful arthritis of the hip. In our patient population, most of whom live rurally in hilly terrain and have limited healthcare access and resources, hip arthrodesis has been an important surgical option for the monoarticular painful hip in a child. A follow-up investigation was undertaken on a cohort of 28 children previously reported at a mean of 4.8 years. The present study looked at 26 patients who had an arthrodesis of the hip as a child at a mean follow-up of 20 years (15 to 29).Aims
Methods
The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiology and treatment of Perthes’ disease of the hip. This was an anonymized comprehensive cohort study of Perthes’ disease, with a nested consented cohort. A total of 143 of 144 hospitals treating children’s hip disease in the UK participated over an 18-month period. Cases were cross-checked using a secondary independent reporting network of trainee surgeons to minimize those missing. Clinician-reported outcomes were collected until two years. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected for a subset of participants.Aims
Methods
Aims. Although atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (AARF) is a common cause
of torticollis in children, the diagnosis may be delayed. The condition
is characterised by a lack of rotation at the atlantoaxial joint
which becomes fixed in a rotated and subluxed position. The management of
children with a delayed presentation of this condition is controversial.
This is a retrospective study of a group of such children. Patients and Methods. Children who were admitted to two institutions between 1988 and
2014 with a diagnosis of AARF were included. We identified 12 children
(four boys, eight girls), with a mean age of 7.3 years (1.5 to 13.4),
in whom the duration of symptoms on presentation was at least four weeks
(four to 39). All were treated with halo traction followed by a
period of cervical immobilisation in a halo vest or a Minerva jacket.
We describe a simple modification to the halo traction that allows
the child to move their
The aim of this study was to gain an agreement on the management of idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) up to walking age in order to provide a benchmark for practitioners and guide consistent, high-quality care for children with CTEV. The consensus process followed an established Delphi approach with a predetermined degree of agreement. The process included the following steps: establishing a steering group; steering group meetings, generating statements, and checking them against the literature; a two-round Delphi survey; and final consensus meeting. The steering group members and Delphi survey participants were all British Society of Children’s Orthopaedic Surgery (BSCOS) members. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis of the Delphi survey results. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation checklist was followed for reporting of the results.Aims
Methods
Slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) has well documented biochemical and mechanical risk factors. Femoral and acetabular morphologies seem to be equally important. Acetabular retroversion has a low prevalence in asymptomatic adults. Hips with dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and Perthes’ disease, however, have higher rates, ranging from 18% to 48%. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of acetabular retroversion in patients presenting with SUFE using both validated radiological signs and tomographical measurements. A retrospective review of all SUFE surgical cases presenting to the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia, from 2012 to 2019 were evaluated. Preoperative plain radiographs were assessed for slip angle, validated radiological signs of retroversion, and standardized postoperative CT scans were used to assess cranial and mid-acetabular version.Aims
Methods
To identify the minimum set of outcomes that should be collected in clinical practice and reported in research related to the care of children with idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV). A list of outcome measurement tools (OMTs) was obtained from the literature through a systematic review. Further outcomes were collected from patients and families through a questionnaire and interview process. The combined list, as well as the appropriate follow-up timepoint, was rated for importance in a two-round Delphi process that included an international group of orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, nurse practitioners, patients, and families. Outcomes that reached no consensus during the Delphi process were further discussed and scored for inclusion/exclusion in a final consensus meeting involving international stakeholder representatives of practitioners, families, and patient charities.Aims
Methods
The aim of this study is to develop a core set of outcome domains that should be considered and reported in all future trials of childhood limb fractures. A four-phase study was conducted to agree a set of core outcome domains. Identification of candidate outcome domains were identified through systematic review of trials, and outcome domains relevant to families were identified through semi-structured interviews with 20 families (parent-child pairing or group). Outcome domains were prioritized using an international three-round Delphi survey with 205 panellists and then condensed into a core outcome set through a consensus workshop with 30 stakeholders.Aims
Methods
Perthes’ disease (PD) often results in femoral head deformity and leg length discrepancy (LLD). Our objective was to analyze femoral morphology in PD patients at skeletal maturity to assess where the LLD originates, and evaluate the effect of contralateral epiphysiodesis for length equalization on proximal and subtrochanteric femoral lengths. All patients treated for PD in our institution between January 2013 and June 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients with unilateral PD, LLD of ≥ 5 mm, and long-leg standing radiographs at skeletal maturity were included. Total leg length, femoral and tibial length, articulotrochanteric distance (ATD), and subtrochanteric femoral length were compared between PD side and the unaffected side. Furthermore, we compared leg length measurements between patients who did and who did not have a contralateral epiphysiodesis.Aims
Methods
Temporary epiphysiodesis (ED) is commonly applied in children and adolescents to treat leg length discrepancies (LLDs) and tall stature. Traditional Blount staples or modern two-hole plates are used in clinical practice. However, they require accurate planning, precise surgical techniques, and attentive follow-up to achieve the desired outcome without complications. This study reports the results of ED using a novel rigid staple (RigidTack) incorporating safety, as well as technical and procedural success according to the idea, development, evaluation, assessment, long-term (IDEAL) study framework. A cohort of 56 patients, including 45 unilateral EDs for LLD and 11 bilateral EDs for tall stature, were prospectively analyzed. ED was performed with 222 rigid staples with a mean follow-up of 24.4 months (8 to 49). Patients with a predicted LLD of ≥ 2 cm at skeletal maturity were included. Mean age at surgery was 12.1 years (8 to 14). Correction and complication rates including implant-associated problems, and secondary deformities as well as perioperative parameters, were recorded (IDEAL stage 2a). These results were compared to historical cohorts treated for correction of LLD with two-hole plates or Blount staples.Aims
Methods
There were 47 patients with congenital muscular torticollis who underwent operative release. After a mean follow-up of 74 months (60 to 90), they were divided into two groups, one aged one to four years (group 1) and the other aged five to 16 years (group 2). The outcomes were assessed by evaluating the following parameters: deficits of lateral flexion and rotation, craniofacial asymmetry, surgical scarring, residual contracture, subjective evaluation and degree of
The most important complication of treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head, which can result in proximal femoral growth disturbances leading to pain, dysfunction, and eventually to early onset osteoarthritis. In this study, we aimed to identify morphological variants in hip joint development that are predictive of a poor outcome. We retrospectively reviewed all patients who developed AVN after DDH treatment, either by closed and/or open reduction, at a single institution between 1984 and 2007 with a minimal follow-up of eight years. Standard pelvis radiographs obtained at ages one, two, three, five, and eight years, and at latest follow-up were retrieved. The Bucholz-Ogden classification was used to determine the type of AVN on all radiographs. Poor outcome was defined by Severin classification grade 3 or above on the latest follow-up radiographs and/or the need for secondary surgery. With statistical shape modelling, we identified the different shape variants of the hip at each age. Logistic regression analysis was used to associate the different modes or shape variants with poor outcome.Aims
Methods
Hip displacement, common in patients with cerebral palsy (CP), causes pain and hinders adequate care. Hip reconstructive surgery (HRS) is performed to treat hip displacement; however, only a few studies have quantitatively assessed femoral head sphericity after HRS. The aim of this study was to quantitatively assess improvement in hip sphericity after HRS in patients with CP. We retrospectively analyzed hip radiographs of patients who had undergone HRS because of CP-associated hip displacement. The pre- and postoperative migration percentage (MP), femoral neck-shaft angle (NSA), and sphericity, as determined by the Mose hip ratio (MHR), age at surgery, Gross Motor Function Classification System level, surgical history including Dega pelvic osteotomy, and triradiate cartilage status were studied. Regression analyses using linear mixed model were performed to identify factors affecting hip sphericity improvement.Aims
Methods
The aims of this study is to report the clinical and radiological outcomes after pre-, central-, and postaxial polydactyly resection in children from a tertiary referral centre. All children who underwent resection of a supernumerary toe between 2001 and 2013 were prospectively enrolled and invited for a single re-assessment. Clinical parameters and several dedicated outcome scores (visual analogue scale (VAS), Paediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI), Activities Scale for Kids (ASK), and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS)) were obtained, as were radiographs of the operated and non-operated feet along with pedobarographs.Aims
Methods
Aims. The aims of this study were to describe the course of non-operatively
managed, bilateral Perthes’ disease, and to determine specific prognostic
factors for the radiographic and clinical outcome. . Patients and Methods. We identified 40 children with a mean age of 5.9 years (1.8 to
13.5), who were managed non-operatively for bilateral Perthes’ disease
from our prospective, multicentre study of this condition, which
included all children in Norway who were diagnosed with Perthes’
disease in the five-year period between 1996 and 2000. All children
were followed up for five years. . The hips were classified according to the Catterall classification.
A modified three-group Stulberg classification was used as an outcome
measure, with a spherical femoral head being defined as a good outcome,
an oval
The treatment of tibial aplasia is controversial. Amputation represents the gold standard with good functional results, but is frequently refused by the families. In these patients, treatment with reconstructive limb salvage can be considered. Due to the complexity of the deformity, this remains challenging and should be staged. The present study evaluated the role of femoro-pedal distraction using a circular external fixator in reconstructive treatment of tibial aplasia. The purpose of femoro-pedal distraction is to realign the limb and achieve soft tissue lengthening to allow subsequent reconstructive surgery. This was a retrospective study involving ten patients (12 limbs) with tibial aplasia, who underwent staged reconstruction. During the first operation a circular hexapod external fixator was applied and femoro-pedal distraction was undertaken over several months. Subsequent surgery included reconstruction of the knee joint and alignment of the foot.Aims
Methods
The study was undertaken to compare the efficacy of Woodcast splints and plaster-of-Paris casts in maintaining correction following sequential manipulation of idiopathic clubfeet. In this randomized prospective trial, 23 idiopathic clubfeet were immobilized with plaster-of-Paris casts and 23 clubfeet were immobilized with a splint made of Woodcast that encircled only two-thirds the circumference of the limb. The number of casts or splints needed to obtain full correction, the frequency of cast or splint-related complications, and the time taken for application and removal of the casts and splints were compared.Aims
Methods
Guided growth has been used to treat coxa valga for cerebral palsy (CP) children. However, there has been no study on the optimal position of screw application. In this paper we have investigated the influence of screw position on the outcomes of guided growth. We retrospectively analyzed 61 hips in 32 CP children who underwent proximal femoral hemi epiphysiodesis between July 2012 and September 2017. The hips were divided into two groups according to the transphyseal position of the screw in the coronal plane: across medial quarter (Group 1) or middle quarter (Group 2) of the medial half of the physis. We compared pre- and postoperative radiographs in head-shaft angle (HSA), Reimer’s migration percentage (MP), acetabular index (AI), and femoral anteversion angle (FAVA), as well as incidences of the physis growing-off the screw within two years. Linear and Cox regression analysis were conducted to identify factors related to HSA correction and risk of the physis growing-off the screw.Aims
Methods
Perthes’ disease is a condition leading to necrosis of the femoral head. It is most common in children aged four to nine years, affecting around one per 1,200 children in the UK. Management typically includes non-surgical treatment options, such as physiotherapy with/without surgical intervention. However, there is significant variation in care with no consensus on the most effective treatment option. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of non-surgical interventions for the treatment of Perthes’ disease. Comparative studies (experimental or observational) of any non-surgical intervention compared directly with any alternative intervention (surgical, non-surgical or no intervention) were identified from: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), EMcare, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED), and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). Data were extracted on interventions compared and methodological quality. For post-intervention primary outcome of radiological scores (Stulberg and/or Mose), event rates for poor scores were calculated with significance values. Secondary outcomes included functional measures, such as range of movement, and patient-reported outcomes such as health-related quality of life.Aims
Methods
The medial rotation contracture caused by weak external rotation secondary to obstetric brachial plexus injury leads to deformation of the bones of the shoulder. Scapular hypoplasia, elevation and rotation deformity are accompanied by progressive dislocation of the humeral
To describe and analyze the mid-term functional outcomes of a large series of patients who underwent the Hoffer procedure for brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP). All patients who underwent the Hoffer procedure with minimum two-year follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Active shoulder range of movement (ROM), aggregate modified Mallet classification scores, Hospital for Sick Children Active Movement Scale (AMS) scores, and/or Toronto Test Scores were used to assess functional outcomes. Subgroup analysis based on age and level of injury was performed. Risk factors for subsequent humeral derotational osteotomy and other complications were also assessed. A total of 107 patients, average age 3.9 years (1.6 to 13) and 59% female, were included in the study with mean 68 months (24 to 194) follow-up.Aims
Methods
Two consecutive cases of chronic dislocation of the
We studied in vivo the talonavicular alignment of club foot in infants using MRI. We examined 26 patients (36 feet) with congenital club foot. The mean age at examination was 9.0 months (4 to 12). All analyses used MRI of the earliest cartilaginous development of the tarsal bones in the transverse plane, rather than the ossific nucleus. The difference in the mean talar neck angle (44.0 ± 8.1°) in club foot was statistically significant (p <
0.001) when compared with that of the normal foot (30.8 ± 5.5°). The difference between the mean angles in the group treated by operation (47.9 ± 6.7°) and those treated conservatively (40.1 ± 7.5°) was also statistically significant. The anatomical relationship between the
A nationwide study of Perthes’ disease in Norway was undertaken over a five-year period from January 1996. There were 425 patients registered, which represents a mean annual incidence of 9.2 per 100 000 in subjects under 15 years of age, and an occurrence rate of 1:714 for the country as a whole. There were marked regional variations. The lowest incidence was found in the northern region (5.4 per 100 000 per year) and the highest in the central and western regions (10.8 and 11.3 per 100 000 per year, respectively). There was a trend towards a higher incidence in urban (9.5 per 100 000 per year) compared with rural areas (8.9 per 100 000 per year). The mean age at onset was 5.8 years (1.3 to 15.2) and the male:female ratio was 3.3:1. We compared 402 patients with a matched control group of non-affected children (n = 1 025 952) from the Norwegian Medical Birth Registry and analysed maternal data (age at delivery, parity, duration of pregnancy), birth length and weight, birth presentation,
Delayed diagnosis is a well-known complication of a Monteggia
fracture-dislocation. If left untreated, the dislocated radial head
later becomes symptomatic. The purposes of this study were firstly,
to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of open reduction
of the radial head and secondly, to identify the factors that may
affect the outcome of this procedure. This retrospective study evaluated 30 children with a chronic
Monteggia lesion. There were 18 boys and 12 girls with a mean age
of 7.4 years (4 to 13) at the time of open reduction. The mean interval
to surgery, after the initial fracture, was 23.4 months (6 to 120).
Clinical grading used a Kim modified elbow score: radiological outcome
was recorded. The effect of the patient’s age, gender, duration
from initial injury, Bado classification, and annular ligament reconstruction
were analyzed. The mean follow-up was 42.2 months (15 to 20).Aims
Materials and Methods
Ultrasound (US) was used to determine the congruity of the shoulder in 22 children with a deformity of the shoulder secondary to chronic obstetric brachial plexus palsy. There were 11 boys and 11 girls with a mean age of 4.75 years (0.83 to 13.92). The shoulder was scanned in the axial plane using a posterior approach with the arm internally rotated. The humeral
We reviewed eight children (ten shoulders) who had suffered neonatal sepsis, after a mean follow-up of 14 years (11 to 15). The delay between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis was one day in five patients, two days in three and seven days in one. All ten shoulders were treated by aspiration, followed by arthrotomy in two. At follow-up, five of the ten shoulders had a full range of movement and the others had minimal restriction of external rotation. Shortening of 10 cm was present in one patient, while two with bilateral involvement had disproportionally short humeri. Early diagnosis and treatment favour the outcome in septic arthritis of the shoulder. With late diagnosis, deformation of the humeral
We performed a prospective study using MRI in 16 consecutive infants with a mean age of 5.2 months (2.7 to 8.7) who had shown inadequate recovery from an obstetric lesion of the brachial plexus in the first three months of life, in order to identify early secondary deformities of the shoulder. Shoulders were analysed according to a standardised MRI protocol. Measurements were made of the appearance of the glenoid, glenoid version and the position of the humeral
In order to determine the incidence of avascular necrosis after osteotomy of the talar neck, we re-evaluated 11 patients (16 feet) with idiopathic club foot who had undergone this procedure at a mean age of eight years (5 to 13) to correct a residual adduction deformity. All had been initially treated conservatively and operatively. The mean follow-up was 39 years (36 to 41). Surgery consisted of a closing-wedge osteotomy of the talar neck combined, in 14 feet, with lengthening of the first cuneiform and a Steindler procedure. At follow-up eight feet were free from pain, three had occasional mild pain and five were regularly painful after routine activities. Two patients were unlimited in their activity, six occasionally limited after strenuous and three regularly limited after strenuous activity. Using the Ponseti score, the feet were rated as good in four, fair in three and poor in nine. In seven feet avascular necrosis with collapse and flattening of the talar dome had occurred. In all of these feet the children were younger than ten years of age at the time of surgery. In three feet, avascular necrosis of the talar
Guided growth using eight-plates is commonly used for correction
of angular limb deformities in growing children. The principle is
of tethering at the physeal periphery while enabling growth in the
rest of the physis. The method is also applied for epiphysiodesis
to correct limb-length discrepancy (LLD). Concerns have been raised
regarding the potential of this method to create an epiphyseal deformity.
However, this has not been investigated. The purpose of this study
was to detect and quantify the occurrence of deformities in the
proximal tibial epiphysis following treatment with eight-plates. A retrospective study was performed including 42 children at
a mean age of 10.8 years (3.7 to 15.7) undergoing eight-plate insertion
in the proximal tibia for correction of coronal plane deformities
or LLD between 2007 and 2015. A total of 64 plates were inserted;
48 plates (34 patients) were inserted to correct angular deformities
and 16 plates (8 patients) for LLD. Medical records, Picture Archive
and Communication System images, and conventional radiographs were
reviewed. Measurements included interscrew angle, lateral and medial
plateau slope angles measured between the plateau surface and the
line between the ends of the physis, and tibial plateau roof angle defined
as 180° minus the sum of both plateau angles. Measurements were
compared between radiographs performed adjacent to surgery and those
at latest follow-up, and between operated and non-operated plateaus. Statistical
analysis was performed using BMDP Statistical Software.Aims
Patients and Methods
Preserving growth following limb-salvage surgery of the upper
limb in children remains a challenge. Vascularized autografts may
provide rapid biological incorporation with the potential for growth
and longevity. In this study, we aimed to describe the outcomes
following proximal humeral reconstruction with a vascularized fibular
epiphyseal transfer in children with a primary sarcoma of bone.
We also aimed to quantify the hypertrophy of the graft and the annual
growth, and to determine the functional outcomes of the neoglenofibular
joint. We retrospectively analyzed 11 patients who underwent this procedure
for a primary bone tumour of the proximal humerus between 2004 and
2015. Six had Ewing’s sarcoma and five had osteosarcoma. Their mean
age at the time of surgery was five years (two to eight). The mean
follow-up was 5.2 years (1 to 12.2).Aims
Patients and Methods
To assess the long-term effect of distal trochanteric transfer
(DTT) on the clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients with
Legg-Calvé-Perthes’ disease (LCPD) following a varus derotational
osteotomy (VDRO). For this single centre cross-sectional retrospective study we
analysed the data of 22 patients (24 hips) with LCPD who had greater
trochanteric overgrowth (GTO), following a VDRO performed in our
institution between 1959 and 1983. GTO was defined as an articular
trochanteric distance (ATD) of <
5 mm. We compared the radiographic
and clinical outcomes of patients who underwent DTT for GTO (ten
patients, ten hips) with those who did not (12 patients, 14 hips).
Age at presentation was 6.9 years (4 to 10) and 8.0 years (3.2 to
12) respectively. Symptoms associated with the hip and general quality
of life were assessed using the Harris hip score (HHS) and the Short Form
(SF)-36 questionnaires.Aims
Patients and Methods
This study analysed the clinical and radiological outcome of
anatomical reduction of a moderate or severe stable slipped capital
femoral epiphysis (SCFE) treated by subcapital osteotomy (a modified
Dunn osteotomy) through the surgical approach described by Ganz. We prospectively studied 31 patients (32 hips; 16 females and
five males; mean age 14.3 years) with SCFE. On the Southwick classification,
ten were of moderate severity (head-shaft angle >
30° to 60°) and
22 were severe (head-shaft angle >
60°). Each underwent open reduction
and internal fixation using an intracapsular osteotomy through the
physeal growth plate after safe surgical hip dislocation. Unlike
the conventional procedure, 25 hips did not need an osteotomy of
the apophysis of the great trochanter and were managed using an
extended retinacular posterior flap. Aims
Patients and Methods
Our aim was to assess the effectiveness of a protocol involving
a standardised closed reduction for the treatment of children with
developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in maintaining reduction
and to report the mid-term results. A total of 133 hips in 120 children aged less than two years
who underwent closed reduction, with a minimum follow-up of five
years or until subsequent surgery, were included in the study. The
protocol defines the criteria for an acceptable reduction and the
indications for a concomitant soft-tissue release. All children
were immobilised in a short- leg cast for three months. Arthrograms
were undertaken at the time of closed reduction and six weeks later. Follow-up
radiographs were taken at six months and one, two and five years
later and at the latest follow-up. The Tönnis grade, acetabular
index, Severin grade and signs of osteonecrosis were recorded.Aims
Methods
The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between
Salter’s criteria and Kalamchi’s classification of avascular necrosis
in patients treated for developmental dysphasia of the hip (DDH). The study involved a retrospective analysis of 123 patients (123
hips) with DDH treated by operative and non-operative reduction
before the age of two years, with a minimum follow-up of ten years.
Salter’s criteria (S1 to S4) were determined from radiographs obtained
at one to two years post-reduction, whilst the Kalamchi grade was determined
from radiographs obtained at ten or more years of age. Early post-reduction
radiographs were also used to evaluate the centre-head distance
discrepancy (CHDD) and the occurrence of a dome-shaped deformity
of the proximal femoral metaphysis (D-shaped metaphysis). The prognosis was described as good (Kalamchi grade K0 or KI),
fair (Kalamchi grade KII) or poor (Kalamchi grade KIII or KIV) for
analysis and correlation with the early Salter criteria, CHDD and
D-shaped metaphysis.Aims
Patients and Methods
This pilot study aimed to evaluate prospectively the use of inlet
radiographs of the hip as an alternative method of the assessment
of reduction after the surgical treatment of developmental dysplasia
of the hip (DDH). The children in this study underwent surgery between January
2013 and January 2015. All had inlet radiographs and CT scans post-operatively.
Data were analysed by determining inter-observer reliability and
intra-observer reproducibility, using the kappa value (K). Differences
were settled by discussion between the two observers until a consensus
was reached. The sensitivity and specificity of the radiographic
and CT results were compared. A total of 26 radiographs were obtained
from 23 children, with a mean age of 2.38 years (one to five).Aims
Patients and Methods
There is increasing evidence that flexible flatfoot (FF) can
lead to symptoms and impairment in health-related quality of life.
As such we undertook an observational study investigating the aetiology
of this condition, to help inform management. The hypothesis was
that as well as increased body mass index (BMI) and increased flexibility of
the lower limb, an absent anterior subtalar articulation would be
associated with a flatter foot posture. A total of 84 children aged between eight and 15 years old were
prospectively recruited. The BMI for each child was calculated,
flexibility was assessed using the lower limb assessment scale (LLAS)
and foot posture was quantified using the arch height index (AHI).
Each child underwent a sagittal T1-weighted MRI scan of at least
one foot. Aims
Patients and Methods
Slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) is the
most common hip disorder to affect adolescents. Controversy exists over
the optimal treatment of severe slips, with a continuing debate
between Between 2001 and 2011, 57 patients (35 male, 22 female) with
a mean age of 13.1 years (9.6 to 20.3, SD 2.3) were referred to
our tertiary referral institution with a severe slip. The affected
limb was rested in slings and springs before corrective surgery
which was performed via an anterior Smith-Petersen approach. Radiographic
analysis confirmed an improvement in mean head–shaft slip angle
from 53.8o (standard deviation ( This is a technically demanding operation with variable outcomes
reported in the literature. We have demonstrated good results in
our tertiary centre. Cite this article:
The aims of this study were to report functional
outcomes of salvage procedures for patients with cerebral palsy (CP)
who have chronic dislocation of the hip using validated scoring
systems, and to compare the results of three surgical techniques. We reviewed 37 patients retrospectively. The mean age at the
time of surgery was 12.2 years (8 to 22) and the mean follow-up
was 56 months (24 to 114). Patients were divided into three groups:
14 who underwent proximal femoral resection arthroplasty (PFRA group
1), ten who underwent subtrochanteric valgus osteotomy (SVO group 2),
and 13 who underwent subtrochanteric valgus osteotomy with resection
of the femoral head (SVO with FHR group 3). All patients were evaluated
using the Caregiver Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with
Disabilities (CPCHILD) and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory
(PedsQL). Significant improvements occurred in most CPCHILD and PedsQL
subsection scores following surgery in all patients, without significant
differences between the groups. There were 12 post-operative complications.
Less severe complications were seen in group 1 than in groups 2
and 3. Salvage surgery appears to provide pain relief in patients with
CP who have painful chronic dislocation of the hip. The three salvage
procedures produced similar results, however, we recommend the use
of PFRA as the complications are less severe. Take home message: Salvage surgery can be of benefit to patients
with CP with chronic painful hip dislocation, but should be limited
to selected patients considering complications. Cite this article:
We wished to examine the effectiveness of tibial lengthening
using a two ring Ilizarov frame in skeletally immature patients.
This is a potentially biomechanically unstable construct which risks
the loss of axial control. We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 24 boys and
26 girls, with a mean age of 8.6 years (4 to 14), who underwent
52 tibial lengthening procedures with a mean follow-up of 4.3 years
(4.0 to 16.9). Tibial alignment was measured before and after treatment
using joint orientation lines from the knee and a calculation of
the oblique plane axis.Aims
Patients and Methods
This retrospective study was designed to evaluate
the outcomes of re-dislocation of the radial head after corrective osteotomy
for chronic dislocation. A total of 12 children with a mean age
of 11 years (5 to 16), with further dislocation of the radial head
after corrective osteotomy of the forearm, were followed for a mean
of five years (2 to 10). Re-operations were performed for radial
head re-dislocation in six children, while the other six did not
undergo re-operation (‘non-re-operation group’). The active range
of movement (ROM) of their elbows was evaluated before and after
the first operation, and at the most recent follow-up. In the re-operation group, there were significant decreases in
extension, pronation, and supination when comparing the ROM following
the corrective osteotomy and following
re-operation (p <
0.05). The children who had not undergone re-operation achieved a better
ROM than those who had undergone re-operation. There was a significant difference in mean pronation (76° Cite this article:
Hip displacement, defined in this study as a
migration percentage (MP) of more than 40%, is a common, debilitating complication
of cerebral palsy (CP). In this prospective study we analysed the
risk of developing hip displacement within five years of the first
pelvic radiograph. All children with CP in southern and western Sweden are invited
to register in the hip surveillance programme CPUP. Inclusion criteria
for the two groups in this study were children from the CPUP database
born between 1994 and 2009 with Gross Motor Function Classification
System (GMFCS) III to V. Group 1 included children who developed
hip displacement, group 2 included children who did not develop
hip displacement over a minimum follow-up of five years. A total
of 145 children were included with a mean age at their initial pelvic
radiograph of 3.5 years (0.6 to 9.7). The odds ratio for hip displacement was calculated for GMFCS-level,
age and initial MP and head-shaft angle. A risk score was constructed
with these variables using multiple logistic regression analysis.
The predictive ability of the risk score was evaluated using the
area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC). All variables had a significant effect on the risk of a MP >
40%. The discriminatory accuracy of the CPUP hip score is high (AUC
= 0.87), indicating a high ability to differentiate between high-
and low-risk individuals for hip displacement. The CPUP hip score
may be useful in deciding on further follow-up and treatment in
children with CP. Cite this article:
We investigated the incidence and risk factors
for the development of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in
the course of treatment of children with cerebral palsy (CP) and
dislocation of the hip. All underwent open reduction, proximal femoral
and Dega pelvic osteotomy. The inclusion criteria were: a predominantly
spastic form of CP, dislocation of the hip (migration percentage,
MP >
80%), Gross Motor Function Classification System, (GMFCS) grade
IV to V, a primary surgical procedure and follow-up of >
one year. There were 81 consecutive children (40 girls and 41 boys) in
the study. Their mean age was nine years (3.5 to 13.8) and mean
follow-up was 5.5 years (1.6 to 15.1). Radiological evaluation included
measurement of the MP, the acetabular index (AI), the epiphyseal
shaft angle (ESA) and the pelvic femoral angle (PFA). The presence
and grade of AVN were assessed radiologically according to the Kruczynski
classification. Signs of AVN (grades I to V) were seen in 79 hips (68.7%). A
total of 23 hips (18%) were classified between grades III and V. Although open reduction of the hip combined with femoral and
Dega osteotomy is an effective form of treatment for children with
CP and dislocation of the hip, there were signs of avascular necrosis
in about two-thirds of the children. There was a strong correlation
between post-operative pain and the severity of the grade of AVN. Cite this article: