Introduction

Femoral-shortening osteotomy for the treatment of leg length discrepancy is demanding technique. Many surgical technique and orthopaedic devises have been suggested to perform this procedure. Herein, we describe modified femoral shortening osteotomy over a nail, using a percutaneous multiple drill-hole osteotomy technique

Materials and Methods

We operated on six patients with LLD. Mean femoral shortening was 4.2 cm. Osteotomy was performed using a multiple drill-hole technique, and bone was stabilized using an intramedullary nail. Post-operative clinical and radiological data were reported.

Introduction

Fibrous dysplasia is a pathological condition, where normal medullary bone is replaced by fibrous tissue and small, woven specules of bone. Fibrous dysplasia can occur in epiphysis, metaphysis or diaphysis. Occationally, biopsy is necessary to establish the diagnosis. We present a review of operative treatment using the Ilizarov technique. The management of tibial fibrous dysplasia in children are curettage or subperiosteal resection to extra periosteal wide resection followed by bone transport.

Materials and Methods

A total of 18 patients were treated between 2010 – 2020; 12 patients came with pain and 6 with pain and deformity. All patients were treated by Ilizarov technique. Age ranges from 4–14 years. 12 patients by enbloc excision and bone transportation and 6 patients were treated by osteotomy at the true apex of the deformity by introducing the k/wires in the medullary cavity with stable fixation by Ilizarov device. The longest duration for bone transport was 16 weeks (14–20 weeks) for application, after deformity correction was 20 weeks. We have never used any kind of bone grafts.

Introduction

Infected big gap non-union of femur and tibia are difficult to treatment because of infection, bone loss, shortening, poor sift tissue over and deformity. Step by step management and definitive treatment by Ilizarov fixator was achieved in our cases.

Materials and Methods

A long defect which is more than 10cm in femur and tibia because of infection and gap, tumor resection, traumatic loss, which is very difficult to treat by conventional method and that's why we treated that type defect by Tibialization of fibula with Ilizarov technique.

Management of infected big gap non-union of the femur include debridement and bone transport by Ilizarov technique by using Ilizarov fixator we can correct deformities, regenerate new bone without bone grafting, correct LLD and patient can weight bear during the course of treatment.

We retrospectively reviewed records of 246 consecutive patients who underwent distraction osteogenesis using Ilizarov compression-distraction device for infected big gap INU of femur and tibia from 2000 to 2020.

Introduction

Lower limb open fractures are severe injuries, with a joint orthoplastic approach for management recommended by BOAST. An initial audit highlighted a discrepancy in time to definitive wound coverage between the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH), which at the time was not an orthoplastic centre, and the Glasgow Royal Infirmary (GRI) which was. Our aim was to perform a secondary audit to identify if the introduction of an orthoplastic service at the QEUH led to a reduction in time to definitive wound coverage.

Materials and Methods

Forty-six patients with open lower limb fractures treated at the QEUH in 2019 following introduction of the orthoplastic service were identified. Management including time to antibiotics and wound coverage, and rates of complication were compared with previous audit data.

Introduction

Pain after trauma has received relatively little research attention compared with surgical techniques and functional outcomes, but is important to patients. We aimed to describe nerve dysfunction and pain characteristics using tibial fractures as a model. We hypothesized that early nerve dysfunction was associated with neuropathic and chronic pain.

Materials and Methods

Adult patients with isolated open or closed tibial diaphyseal fractures were prospectively observed for 1-year in 5 Major Trauma Centres. Nerve dysfunction was assessed using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, acute pain with the visual numerical rating scale (VNRS), neuropathic pain with the doleur neuropathique-4 score and quality of life (QOL) using the EQ-5D score.

Introduction

Angular deformity in the lower extremities can result in pain, gait disturbance, deformity and joint degeneration. Guided growth modulation uses the tension band principle with the goal of treatment being to normalise the mechanical axis. To assess the success of this procedure we reviewed our results in an attempt to identify patients who may not benefit from this simple and elegant procedure.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed the surgical records and imaging in our tertiary children's hospital to identify all patients who had guided growth surgery since 2007. We noted the patient demographics, diagnosis, peri-operative experience and outcome. All patients were followed until skeletal maturity or until metalwork was removed.

Introduction

Osseointegration is a potential treatment option for transfemoral amputees experiencing socket related problems. Till this date, there is little data assessing the feasibility and advantages of osseointegration in individuals with transtibial amputations.

Materials and Methods

We prospectively followed 91 patients undergoing transtibial osseointegration from 2014–2018 who either 1) reported pain or mobility dissatisfaction with socket prosthesis; 2) had an intact limb with incapacitating pain, complex deformity, or profound distal weakness or 3) were recent amputees preferring osseointegration. Adverse events were monitored including infection, periprosthetic fracture, implant breakage, aseptic loosening, revision surgery/additional amputation and death. Functional outcomes were measured using the Questionnaire of persons with a Trans-femoral amputation (Q-TFA) and mobility was assessed using Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and Time Up and Go (TUG).

Introduction

Osseointegration has been established as a promising approach for the reconstruction of amputated limbs, particularly for amputees suffering from traditional socket prosthesis (TSP). While Osseointegration was originally developed with a screw fixation design, several Osseointegration devices adopting a modern press-fit design have also been introduced. In this study, medium-term outcomes for patients with the two most common press-fit osseointegration implant used worldwide are analysed.

Materials and Methods

This is a cross-sectional analysis containing a cohort of Osseointegration patients treated in several centres worldwide. We analyzed a total of 93 patients with an average follow-up time of 6.52 years. Functional, Mobility and patient reported outcomes were collected pre-operatively and during follow-up. All postoperative adverse events (infection, revision surgery, fractures, and implant failures) were also analyzed.

Introduction

Advantages of osseointegration have been reported to include improved functional mobility, better osseoperception, improved comfort, reduced pain, better biomechanical alignment and gait, which all lead to a less restricted lifestyle and significantly improved quality of life. A major concern of the Osseointegrated approach lies in the risk of infections occurring from the permanent transcutaneous opening often referred to as the stoma.

Materials and Methods

Detailed analysis has been performed on all osseointegration surgeries performed by the Osseointegration Group of Australia and it's affiliates since 2010. All events leading to a re-admission and subsequent re-operation have been identified through hospital operation records and pooled together for meta-analysis. Events identified include: revision of implants, periprosthetic fracture fixation, surgical debridement due to infections, neurectomies and soft- tissue refashioning.

Introduction

“Bioexpandable” prostheses after resection of malignant bone tumors in children to lengthen the bone using the method of callus distraction may offer new perspectives and better long-term results.

Materials and Methods

The bioexpandable prosthesis is equipped with an encapsulated electromotor which enables the device to perform distraction in an osteotomy gap with about 1mm/day. The new bone is improving the ratio from bone to prosthesis and therewith the potential stability of the final stem. The device is indicated, when limb length discrepancy is getting more than 3 cm or at maturity and can be used in a minimal invasive way for femur lengthening.

Introduction

Fully implantable distraction nails are frequently used for lengthening of the lower leg. What are the indications for humerus lengthening and which results can be expected?

Materials and Methods

The humerus as the best healing bone in the human body is suitable for lengthening with a nail as well but the indications are rare in comparison with the lower legs. Especially when driving a car or when working on a tablet length discrepancy of the arms of more than 4–5cm may cause severe hardening of the cervical muscles and induce chronical pain in the upper spine.

Introduction

Fully implantable systems are used commonly only after maturity. What are indications to use fully implantable systems at the femur even in children?

Materials and Methods

Implantable lengthening nails (FITBONE) were used retrograde at the femur in minimal invasive technique to correct a limb length discrepancy of >6 cm. In 5 cases a relevant deformity was corrected in the same surgery. In all cases a final step of lengthening was planned at the femur and at the tibia with fully implantable devices at maturity.

Introduction

Acquired chronic radial head (RH) dislocations present a significant surgical challenge. Co-existing deformity, length discrepancy and RH dysplasia, in multiply operated patients often preclude acute correction. This study reports the clinical and radiological outcomes in children, treated with circular frames for gradual RH reduction.

Materials and Methods

Patient cohort from a prospective database was reviewed to identity all circular frames for RH dislocations between 2000–2021. Patient demographics, clinical range and radiographic parameters were recorded.

Introduction

Deformations of forearm with different degree of expression and functional restrictions of upper limb in children with hereditary multiple exostosis are formed in almost 80% of the cases. The question of indications for the selection and conduct of surgical procedure remains controversial, existing treatment methods and post-operative recovery methods for children need to be improved.

Materials and Methods

The long-term outcomes of surgical treatment of 112 patients diagnosed with “Hereditary Multiple Exostosis” (HME) aged from 2 till 17 years old were researched. Evaluation of surgical treatment results was carried out in accordance with complaints, functional condition of the forearm, radiographs (taking into account reference lines and angles). Depending on the variant of deformation, the following surgical operations were performed: resection of bone-cartilage exostoses (in 20.5%); correction of forearm deformation with external fixator (in 79.5). In 14 cases, for a more accurate correction of deformity a hexapod frame was used.

Introduction

Traditionally, limb reconstruction physiotherapy consisted of face to face group rehabilitation. During the COVID-19 pandemic OP physiotherapy service provision was significantly reduced and delivery methods limited due to staff redeployment, service prioritisation and restriction of footfall within the hospital. A virtual exercise group for acute limb reconstruction patients was set up to maintain contact and clinical support.

Materials and Methods

A small single centre study was performed over two 4 week periods capturing the experience of 35 patients. A patient reported questionnaire was used and revised post-pandemic to gather quantitative and qualitative data about the patients experience of the Limb Reconstruction Physiotherapy Service at each point in time. The qualitative data was analysed using an inductive thematic analysis.

Introduction

Despite all modern advances the indications and possibilities of treatment in Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD) are still controversial. In the past 15 years we started using arthrodiastasis of the hip creating negative pressure over the avascular femoral head in some selected cases of LCPD in the active phasis of the disease. Now we present our experience with distraction in LCPD using the original Ilizarov circular frame for the hip.

Materials and Methods

From 2015 to 2021, eight patients with LCPD were submoitted to hip distraction; all male ranging from six to 12 years (avg 8.2 years). All patients with bad prognosis, in Catterall Groups III and IV. All patients in the active phasis of the disease. Our follow-up is ranging from two to six years, with an average of 3.4 years.

Introduction

Amputation or disarticulation is a reliable option for management of severe foot deformities and limb-length discrepancies, the surgical restoration of which are unpredictable or unfavourable. Of the various surgeries involving foot ablation, Syme's amputation is preferred for congenital deformities as it provides a growing, weight bearing stump with proprioception and cushioning.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed data of all children who underwent Syme's amputation over the past 13 years at our institution. Surgical technique followed the same principles for Syme's but varied with surgeons.

Introduction

Distal femoral and proximal tibial osteotomies are effective procedures to treat degenerative disease of the knee joint. Previously described techniques advocate the use of bone graft to promote healing at the osteotomy site. In this present study a novel technique which utilises the osteogenic potential of the cambial periosteal layer to promote healing “from the outside in” is described.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of a consecutive single-surgeon series of 23 open wedge osteotomies around the knee was performed. The median age of the patients was 37 years (range 17–51 years). The aetiology of the deformities included primary genu valgum (8/23), fracture malunion (4/23), multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (4/23), genu varum (2/23), hypophosphataemic rickets (1/23), primary osteoarthritis (1/23), inflammatory arthropathy (1/23), post-polio syndrome (1/23), and pseudoachondroplasia (1/23).

Introduction

Hip dysplasia is the most common congenital deformity of the musculoskeletal system. This is a pathology that brings the hip joint from subluxation to dislocation.

Frequency of hip dysplasia − 16 children per 1000 newborns.

Materials and Methods

Diagnostic methods of research are X-ray inspection which is necessarily carried out at internal rotation (rotation) of an extremity as lateral rotation of a hip on the radiograph always increases an angle of a valgus deviation of a neck. Surgical treatment is performed in the subclavian area of the femur. An external fixation device is applied and a corrective corticotomy is performed, and valgus deformity and anteversion are eliminated. The duration of treatment is 2.5–3 months.

Introduction

The effect of lower extremity lengthening on physeal growth is still controversial. We aim to compare data of the patients who had bilateral simultaneous femur and tibia lengthening with the patients who underwent the lengthening surgery separately for the femur and tibia at the end of completed skeletal maturation in terms of the effect of physeal growth.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-six patients were included who operated in our clinic between 1995 and 2015 for limb lengthening. Fourteen patients with bilateral lengthening of the femur and tibia at the same time were named as simultaneous lengthening (SL). Twelve patients with bilateral lengthening of the femur and then bilateral tibia lengthening seperately were named consecutively lengthening (CL). All patients were followed until completion of growth. The physeal arrest was measured using predicted length (investigated with the multiplier method), the total amount of lengthening and final length.

Introduction

The use of the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) in the management of tibial fractures and deformity correction is well established in the literature, however the majority of published papers are small in patient number. The aim of the project was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients with tibial fractures treated with a TSF.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of patient records and radiographs was performed to obtain patient data, information on injury sustained, the operative technique used, frame construct, time duration in frame, union rates and complications of treatment.

Introduction

This study aims to evaluate the effect of using different types of fixator on the quality of callus and complications during distraction osteogenesis in patients with achondroplasia.

Materials and Methods

Forty-nine achondroplasia patients with a minimum follow-up of 36 months who underwent limb lengthening between 2005 and 2017 with external fixator only were included. Thirty-three of the patients underwent lengthening using classical Ilizarov frame, while spatial frame used for sixteen. Regenerate quality is evaluated according to the Li classification on the X-ray taken one month after the end of the distraction. Complications were noted in the follow-up period.

Introduction

Stryde® lengthening nail has been recently withdrawn because of concerns about osteolysis and other bone lesions that have been observed early after implantation. The present study analyses the incidence and features of these bone lesions in our patients.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective review of a series of patients from two centres specializing in limb reconstruction. Inclusion criteria was a history of surgery with Stryde® lengthening nail with more than one year follow-up available.

All postoperative x-rays were and clinical notes were reviewed.

Introduction

Orthopaedic rehabilitation of adolescences and young adults with high dislocation of the femur is rather challenging. The role of palliative salvage procedures is controversial enough in the cohort of patients.

Materials and Methods

Treatment outcomes of 10 patients with congenital hip dislocation were analyzed. Mean age at intervention was 17,8 years (15–22). The grade of dislocation were assessed according to Eftekhar: type C − 2, type D − 8. The mean baseline shortening was 4.7±0.36 cm. All subjects underwent PSO with the Ilizarov method. Another osteotomy for lengthening and realignment was produced at the boundary of the upper and middle third of the femur. The mean time in the Ilizarov frame was 5.3 months

Introduction

To evaluate the results of correction of knee deformities based on deformity analysis in Achondroplasia, the commonest skeletal dysplasia as some have concomitant ligamentous deformities

Materials and Methods

Retrospective study from a prospective database (2007–2020) of achondroplasts who underwent growth modulation. Analysis of medical records with objective measurement of mechanical axis radiographs was done (Traumacad). Satisfactory alignment was defined as neutral to slightly varus (0–15 mm MAD) so that the MCL/LCL laxity is not revealed.

Introduction

Temporary spanning fixation aims to provide bony stability whilst allowing access and resuscitation of traumatised soft-tissues. Conventional monolateral fixators are prone to half-pin morbidity in feet, variation in construct stability and limited weight-bearing potential. This study compares traditional delta-frame fixators to a circular trauma frame; a virtual tibial ring block spanned onto a fine-wire foot ring fixation.

Materials and Methods

The two cohorts were compared for demographics and fracture patterns. The quality of initial reduction and the maintenance of reduction until definitive surgery was assessed by two authors and categorised into four domains. Secondary measures included fixator costs, time to definitive surgery and complications.

Introduction

We undertook a qualitative study to explore what is important to people with lower limb conditions requiring reconstruction (LLR) and how it impacted their quality of life (QOL), in order to develop a conceptual framework for a new patient reported outcome measure (PROM). This builds on a previous qualitative evidence synthesis of existing research to develop a preliminary conceptual framework as part of the Patient Reported Outcomes for Lower Limb Reconstruction (PROLLIT) study.

Materials and Methods

Patients (n=32) and Orthopaedic staff (n=23) were interviewed (November 2020-June 2021) from three centres in England using one-to-one, semi-structured interviews. Patient interviews focused on experiences during and after LLR, including impact on QOL. Staff interviews explored important outcomes and goals for patients and how the LLR impacted QOL. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.

Introduction

Routine radiographs in the follow-up of circular frames is commonplace, however the effect on clinical decision making is unclear. Previous work locally has suggested that >95% of radiographs, particularly at early time points, do not affect clinical management. This study was conducted to assess the impact of a transition to early remote follow-up on circular frame patients with limited radiographic assessment.

Materials and Methods

Patients were identified from a prospective limb reconstruction database. Data were collected including the number of clinic appointments, type of clinic appointment, number of radiographs performed, and impact this had on clinical management. This was compared to our previous cohort of 85 patients undergoing standard follow-up.

Introduction

Lower limb amputation is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Reflecting the predominance of vascular or diabetic disease as a cause for lower limb amputation, much of the available literature excludes lower limb amputation secondary to trauma in the reporting of complication rates. This paucity in the literature represents a research gap in describing the incidence of complications in lower limb amputation due to trauma, which we aim to address.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of all traumatic lower limb amputations secondary to trauma from a regional multidisciplinary amputee service at Queen Mary's Hospital. Electronic patient records and paper notes were consulted for evidence of re-operation, infection (superficial or deep), phantom limb pain and neuroma. 222 patients were screened and 108 included in the data analysis.

Introduction

Cosmetic lengthening is currently growing, raising Ethical concerns. In cosmetic lengthening, the psychological benefit vs process and risks is not quantified in publications. We designed a prospective longitudinal study for evaluating quantitatively the psychological PROMs of patients with cosmetic lengthening and value its interest.

Materials and Methods

Forty five cosmetic patients were operated on with the G-Nail with full weight-bearing, and sports: M/F 34/11, age 29.3±11.5 year-old, Gain 79 mm (range 86–187). All undertook preoperative preparation, psychological tests, post-operating training (lengthening period, twice daily) and a specific psychological program. No patient presented sequels.

Questionnaires were provided before and 40.0 month after surgery (scale 0–10) with: Psychological suffering, Happiness in Life (HiL), Quality of Live (QoL), Self-Esteem, Self-Image, Self-Confidence, Professional, Family, Friends and Sexual Relations, Sexual Attraction. Average, SD of changes and T-Test (unequal variances) were computed.

Introduction

Computer hexapod assisted orthopaedic surgery (CHAOS) has previously been shown to provide a predictable and safe method for correcting multiplanar femoral deformity. We report the outcomes of tibial deformity correction using CHAOS, as well as a new cohort of femoral CHAOS procedures.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of medical records and radiographs for patients who underwent CHAOS for lower limb deformity at our tertiary centre between 2012–2020.

Introduction

Non-union is debilitating, costly and affects 2–8% of intramedullary fixed fractures. Clinical data suggest that percutaneous interfragmentary screws offer a less invasive alternative to exchange nailing. This study aimed to assess their efficiency with biomechanical analyses.

Materials and Methods

A tibia was prepared for finite element analysis by creating a fracture of AO classification 42A2b, prior to reaming and insertion of an intramedullary nail. A callus was modelled as granulation tissue and gait loads were applied. The model was validated against published data and with sensitivity studies. The effects of weightbearing, fracture gap and angle, percutaneous screws and exchange nailing were compared through quantification of interfragmentary motion and strain, with the latter used to gauge healing performance via mechano-regulation theory.

Introduction

There is a drive to reduce length of stay in children undergoing limb reconstruction but a reduction in community physiotherapy input and a consequent pressure to ensure children are as independent as possible prior to discharge. This study aims to look at time taken and potential factors effecting the achievement of pre-set mobility goals and length of stay in this population

Materials and Methods

Between June 2018 and November 2021 data was collated for patients who underwent limb reconstruction at Great Ormond Street hospital. 77 patients were reviewed. Data collected included type and location of lengthening device and length of stay. A modified version of the Goal Attainment Score (GAS) was used and included 3 goals which the child needed to achieve within 7 days post-operatively.

Introduction

Metabolic bone disease encompasses disorders of bone mineralization, abnormal matrix formation or deposition and alteration in osteoblastic and osteoclastic activity. In the paediatric cohort, patients with metabolic bone disease present with pain, fractures and deformities. The aim was to evaluate the use of lateral entry rigid intramedullary nailing in lower limbs in children and adolescents.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review was performed for an 11-year period. Lower limb rigid intramedullary nailing was performed in 27 patients with a total of 63 segments (57 femora, 6 tibiae). Majority of patients had underlying diagnoses of osteogenesis imperfecta or fibrous dysplasia (including McCune Albright disease). Mean age at surgery was 14 years. Indications for surgery included acute fractures, prophylactic stabilisation, previous nonunion and malunion, deformity correction and lengthening via distraction osteogenesis.

Introduction

We demonstrate the preliminary results with a novel technique to solve large bone defects using two lengthening nails, working together and aligned in a custom made device. An illustrative case that successfully produced 17 cm bone in 3.5 months, is presented.

Materials and Methods

A 28 year old healthy male presented with a slowly growing mass in the left femur. No general symptoms were reported, no weight loss, no previous illness. Histopathology, CT and MRI scans revealed a malignant diaphyseal bone tumor.

A three-stage trifocal bone transport was projected and conducted based on a 3D model test.

Introduction

We present the first 12 consecutive patients, undergoing elective paediatric limb reconstruction with an external fixator, for the 12-month period October 2020-October 2021. This is a single surgeon series for a newly appointed Consultant with limited previous experience. Arrangements were made for mentoring by a senior surgeon recently retired from the NHS but still active in private practice.

Materials and Methods

The average age of patients was 10.5years at the time of frame application (5—15 years). Four frames in three patients were for Blount's; two for sequelae of NF1; two for posteromedial tibial bow with shortening, two for fibula hemimelia; one congenital short femur, one for sequelae of neonatal sepsis and one for bone loss following tumour resection.

Introduction

Fibula contributes to weight bearing and serves as a lateral buttress to the talus. Fibular shortening leads to ankle valgus, distal tibial epiphyseal wedging and ankle instability. Trauma, infection and skeletal dyplasias are the common causes of fibular shortening in children. Aim was to review this cohort who underwent fibular lengthening and ankle reconstruction

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review from a prospective database of clinical and radiographic data of all children who underwent fibular lengthening for correction of ankle valgus. Distraction osteogenesis with external fixator was performed for all cases.

Introduction

Fracture related infections (FRI) following intramedullary nailing for tibial shaft fractures remain challenging to treat with associated high patient morbidity and healthcare costs. Recently, antibiotic-coated nails have been introduced as a strategy to reduce implant related infection rates in high-risk patients. We present the largest single-centre case series on ETN PROtect® outcomes reporting on fracture union, infection rates and treatment complications.

Materials and Methods

56 adult patients underwent surgery with ETN PROtect® between 01/09/17 and 31/12/20. Indications consisted of acute open fractures and complex revision cases (FRI, non-union surgery and re-fracture) with a mean of 3 prior surgical interventions. 51 patients had an open fracture as their index injury. We report on patient characteristics and outcomes including radiological/clinical union and deep infection. The one-year minimum follow-up rate was 87.5%.

Introduction

Motorised intramedullary lengthening nails are considered more expensive than external fixators for limb lengthening. This research aims to compare the cost of femoral lengthening in children using the PRECICE magnetic lengthening nail with external fixation

Materials and Methods

Patients: Retrospective analysis of 50 children who underwent femoral lengthening. One group included patients who were treated with PRECICE lengthening nails, the other group included patients who had lengthening with external fixation. Each group included 25 patients aged between 11–17 years. The patients in both groups were matched for age. Cost analysis was performed following micro-costing and analysis of the used resources during the different phases of the treatments.

Introduction

The purpose of this research is to compare the quality of life in children during gradual deformity correction using external fixators with intramedullary lengthening nails.

Materials and Methods

Prospective analysis of children during lower limb lengthening. Group A included children who had external fixation, patients in group B had lengthening nails. Patients in each group were followed up during their limb reconstruction. CHU-9D and EQ-5DY instruments were used to measure quality of life at fixed intervals. The first assessment was during the distraction phase (1 month postop.), the second was during the early consolidation phase (3 months postop.) and the final one was late consolidation phase (6–9 months depends on the frame time)

Introduction

The Patient's Dream is not to stay in hospital even overnight, including in limb lengthening. We developed the ‘Hyper Fast Track Protocol’ (HFTP) in 2015 to fasten recovery and shorten hospital stay.

Materials and Methods

The protocol included surgical stab incisions, use of weight bearing lengthening nails (G-Nail), intramedullary saw, a specific anaesthesia care (blood hypo-pressure, tranexamic acid, low hydration), absence of early anticoagulants, systematic vascular US controls, but early motion (hip and knee Ext/Fle, leg raise, horizontal ‘scissors’), walking, stairs, bike, clicking (maneuvers to lengthen), early discharge, along with other patient's parameters. Timing and exercises reps were registered. Protocols improved over time. Means ± SD are computed.

Introduction

Hip arthrodiastasis for paediatric hip conditions such as Perthes disease is growing in popularity. Intended merits include halting the collapse of the femoral head and maintaining sphericity by minimising the joint reaction force. This can also be applied to protecting hip reconstruction following treatment of hip dysplasia. Our aim was to assess functional outcomes and complications in a cohort of paediatric patients.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective single-surgeon cohort study was performed in a University teaching hospital from 2018–2021. Follow-up was performed via telephone interview and review of patient records. Complications, time in frame and functional scores using the WOMAC hip score were recorded.

Introduction

Numerous fixation modalities can be used for various indications, including deformity correction, trauma, infection, and non-union. The Modular Rail System (MRS) is a well-tolerated apparatus that is a viable option for patients who do not want a circular frame or for whom internal fixation is not appropriate due to poor soft tissues/co-morbidities. This case series evaluates the outcomes of the use of the MRS in our centre.

Materials and Methods

Cases were identified from a prospectively gathered database. Data were collected including indication for treatment, frame duration, complications and treatment outcome. Eighteen eligible cases were identified (mean age 26, range 8–71). The MRS was sited in the femur in 14 cases, the tibia in three and the fibula in one. In nine cases, a circular frame was sited on the tibia below a femoral MRS. Frames were removed at an average of 20 weeks (range 7–31).

Introduction

We assessed the role of four different High Tibial osteotomies (HTOs) for medial compartment osteoarthritis of knee (MCOA): Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy (MOWHTO), Focal Dome Osteotomy with Ilizarov Fixator (FDO-I), intra-articular, Tibial Condylar Valgus Osteotomy with plating (TCVO-P) and intra-articular plus extra-articular osteotomy with Ilizarov(TCVO-I); in correcting three deformity categories: primary coronal plane varus measured by Mechanical Axis deviation (MAD), secondary intra-articular deformities measured by Condylar Plateau Angle (CPA) and Joint Line Convergence Angle (JLCA), and tertiary sagittal, rotational and axial plane deformities in choosing them.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively studied HTOs in 141 knees (126 patients). There were 58, 40, 26, and 17 knees respectively in MOWHTO, FDO-I, TCVO-P and TCVO-I. We measured preoperative (bo) And postoperative (po) deformity parameters.

Introduction

Congenital posteromedial bowing of tibia (CPMBT) is characterized by a decreasing deformity and an increasing limb shortening. Our series compares the duration and complications of lengthening in younger vs older children.

Materials and Methods

We studied 28 tibial lengthenings in 23 patients, divided into two equal groups of 14 segments: group-A ≤5 years (preschool) and Group-B >5 years. We measured preoperative (bo) and postoperative (po) sagittal, coronal, and oblique plane deformities, limb length discrepancy (LLD), amount of lengthening (AmtL), percentage lengthening (%L), external fixator duration (EFD) and external fixator index (EFI). Complications were graded by Lascombes’ criteria, results by ASAMI Bone score.

Introduction

Diaphyseal tibial fractures account for approximately 1.9% of adult fractures. Several studies demonstrate a high proportion of diaphyseal tibial fractures have ipsilateral occult posterior malleolus fractures, this ranges from 22–92.3%.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust between 1/1/2013 and 9/11/2020. The inclusion criteria were patients over 16, with a diaphyseal tibial fracture and who underwent a CT. The articular fracture extension was categorised into either posterior malleolar (PM) or other fracture

Introduction

Diaphyseal tibial fractures account for approximately 1.9% of adult fractures. Studies have demonstrated a high proportion have ipsilateral occult posterior malleolus fractures. We hypothesize that this rotational element will be highlighted using the Mason & Molloy Classification.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust between 1/1/2013 and 9/11/2020. The inclusion criteria were patients over 16, with a diaphyseal tibial fracture, who underwent a CT. The Mason and Molloy posterior malleolus fracture classification system was used.

Introduction

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a common sequalae of limb reconstruction procedures. The subsequent biomechanical compensation can be directly linked to degenerative arthritis, lower back pain, scoliosis and functional impairment. It becomes particularly problematic when >2cm, established as a clinical standard. This two-arm experimental study assesses how reliable an iPhone application is in the measurement of LLD at different distances in control and LLD patients.

Materials and Methods

42 participants were included in the study, divided evenly into 21 control and 21 LLD patients. A standardised measurement technique was used to obtain TMM and iPhone application measurements, taken at a distance of 0.25m, 0.50m and 0.75m.

Introduction

The accuracy of hexapod circular external fixator deformity correction is contingent on the precision of radiographic analysis during the planning stage. The aim of this study was to compare the SMART TSF (Smith and Nephew, Memphis, Tennessee) in-suite radiographic analysis methods with the traditional manual deformity analysis methods in terms of accuracy of correction.

Materials and Methods

Sawbones models were used to simulate two commonly encountered clinical scenarios. Traditional manual radiographic analysis and digital SMART TSF analysis methods were used to correct the simulated deformities.

Introduction

Cerament, a bioresorbable hydroxyapatite and calcium sulfate cement, is known to be used as a bone-graft substitute in traumatic bone defect cases. However, its use in open fractures has not previously been studied.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective, single-centre review of cases between November 2016 and February 2021. Open fractures were categorised according to the Orthopaedic Trauma Society classification (OTS). Cases were assessed for union, time to union, and associated post-operative complications.