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View my account settingsThe neurogenic clubfoot is composed of several deformities – such as cavus and equinus, hind foot varus, supination and adduction of the forefoot – which develop due to the neurological disease leading to muscle imbalance. Whereas over-activity and spasticity occur after damage of the central nervous system, flaccid paralysis is the result of damage of the spinal motor neuron or the nerve itself. Local overload at the lateral border of the foot, poor stability and small supporting area may interfere with function and hence require treatment of the deformity. The primary aim is a functioning foot. Treatment options are conservative means or surgical procedures.
Insoles are applied to correct the foot position: a lateral support forces the foot into valgus and pronation being effective only when loaded and worn in reinforced shoes. They can also be used to distribute pressure in case of local overload and sores. An individually manufactured foot orthosis provides more stability. If the forces are still overly big, the lever arm of an ankle foot orthosis is required.
Surgical procedures may be carried out in addition to or instead of conservative means. Skeletal surgery should not be performed early because the neurological disease persists despite the local correction and increases the risk for recurrences. Stiffening of the foot needs to be avoided in order to preserve function. Stiffness due to cavus is reduced by a Steindler release of the plantar fascia. Equinus should not be overstressed. If necessary, it is corrected by heel cord lengthening resulting in a persistent loss of force, or by aponeurotomy maintaining force but being less efficient to gain length. To balance supination, split or complete transfer corrects the pull of hyperactive anterior or posterior tibial muscles. Lacking skeletal deformation is a prerequisite for these soft tissue procedures. Thus their presence requires bony correction alone or in addition to soft tissue surgery. The varus of the os calcis is best corrected by an original or modified Dwyer valgus osteotomy. Cavus, supination and adduction deformity can all be corrected at the midfoot. These procedures preserve mobility and hence function of the foot. Severely contracted feet, however, may need corrective fusions. Nevertheless, stiffness is badly tolerated. An alternative is application of an external fixater of the Ilizarov type to correct the skeletal deformity and followed by an additional corrective osteotomy.
Botulinum toxin A paralysing a muscle for three months can be used to switch off overactive anterior or posterior tibial muscles in order to delay surgery or to prevent pull out after transfer. Application of casts to stretch overly short muscles can help to keep the deformity under control, but they need to be followed by splints in order to avoid early recurrence.
We present the treatment protocol of congenital clubfoot in different age groups that has been widely used in Bulovka Orthopedic Clinic since 1984. Conservative treatment begins immediately after delivery and corrects all presented deformities on the principle of subtalar derotation of the calcaneus. The correction is applied and an above-knee cast is changed every 48 hours. After five corrections and changes of casts, the casting and correction is then repeated weekly. After achieving reduction of deformities, the cast is changed at intervals of two to three weeks. Cast immobilisation should be continued for two to three months for postural clubfoot, and six to seven months for congenital clubfoot. After retention in the cast, a polypropylene above-knee splint is applied up to the age of two to three years. In addition, passive stretching exercise and stimulation of the lateral part of the foot should be provided in order to achieve muscle balance between the evertors and invertors.
Surgical treatment: When conservative treatment is unsatisfactory, the goal of operative treatment is to reduce all deformities in a one-step procedure. Posterior capsulotomy at the age of three to six months is indicated when the forefoot has been corrected by conservative treatment but the hindfoot remains fixed in the equinus and mild varus, or at the age of six to 12 months for residual hindfoot equinus.
Complete subtalar release according to McKay is required at the age of over six months to three years. Post-operative treatment is the same as for the abovementioned conservative treatment.
Treatment between the age of three and seven: The choice of surgical procedure must be individual according to the deformity, but surgical correction of severe deformity principally includes extensive subtalar release, and lateral column shortening by cuboid enucleation.
Treatment between the age of seven and ten: Individual procedures (Ilizarov method; Dwyer osteotomy of the calcaneus, or osteotomy of the mid-tarsal bones) are chosen to treat deformities. These procedures are usually combined with soft tissue release, but not with complete subtalar release.
Treatment after the age of ten (skeletal maturity of the foot): The same methods as in the previous group are used. When severe or unsatisfactory results after previous surgical treatment are obvious, a triple subtalar arthrodesis is the appropriate salvage method of correction.
Treatment of residual deformities: For treatment of dynamic deformities due to muscle imbalance after the age of four, a temporary lateral transfer of the whole tendon of the anterior tibial muscle is performed. For the same age group, forefoot adduction and supination are corrected with a ball and socket osteotomy of the base of metatarsals I-V.
This therapeutic concept was applied to 397 operated feet. 60% of the cases were primary surgical corrections, and 40% were repeated surgical corrections. 95% of primary surgical procedures and 75% of secondary surgical procedures were classified as satisfactory, indicating that the foot was sufficiently mobile, with plantigrade weight bearing.
Diaphyseal fractures can be divided into three groups comprising the basic types of fractures: fractures of both bones (radius and ulna), fracture dislocations, i.e., fractures of one of the bones accompanied by dislocation of the head of the other bone in the respective radioulnar joint, the Galeazzi fracture or the Monteggia fracture, and isolated fractures of one of the two bones – the radius or the ulna.
Photographs are decisive for diagnosis of the anteroposterior and lateral projections. Each must simultaneously visualize the elbow and wrist joints in order not to neglect potential injuries located there.
The basic aim is full restoration of the function of the forearm with emphasis on supination-pronation movement. This requires anatomical union particularly in regard to the ulna, which has a critical importance for the function of the forearm. In fracture dislocations, it is also necessary to restore stability in the respective radioulnar joint.
For the above-mentioned reasons, almost all diaphyseal fractures (except for non-dislocated or minimally dislocated fractures of the ulna) are indicated for surgery. Our procedure depends on the condition of the fracture and the general condition of the patient.
Plate fixation represents the gold standard for closed fractures – open fractures of Degrees I and II and some Degree III fractures classified according to Tscherne. More extensive defects of soft tissues require cooperation with a plastic surgeon.
The standard implants are dynamic compression plates (3, 5 DCP) with holes for 3.5 mm cortical screws. The surgical approach to the ulna is relatively simple. In fractures of the proximal half of the radius, we prefer the Henry approach in fractures of the proximal half of the radius because, unlike the Thompson approach, it allows safe dissection up to the radial head without damaging the deep branch of the radial nerve. The main principle is a 3 + 3 fixation, meaning that the plate must be fixed to each of the two main fragments, minimally by three screws. An exception can be made in the vicinity of the joint when the fragment is too short to accommodate three screws.
The choice of treatment for open fractures is conditioned by the care of bone and soft tissue. Grade I open fractures can be treated as closed fractures, according to the centre’s protocol. In Grade II open fractures skin wounds must be left open, and the suture should be delayed for at least a week. Most authors perform fixation by means of intramedullary nails.
In our opinion, external fixation is the best choice in these cases. The skin cannot be closed in Grade III open fractures, and the basic point of treatment is adequate surgical debridement. The fixation must be done by external fixation. To achieve the treatment in an emergency situation, the device to be used must be quick and simple like a monolateral device that can be changed into a more complex one, such as an Ilizarov.
The Ilizarov technique uses distractional osteogenesis that can fill bone and soft tissue loss without further bone or soft tissue grafting.
Following these general guidelines, each district has its own particular approach to treating open fractures. Internal fixation by DCP plates is always indicated for forearm fractures. For a humerus fracture, simple direct shortening and external fixation can fill bone loss. Patients with fractures of the femur usually have multiple injuries. The problem is to provide a quick fixation in order to allow for easier intensive care. External fixation is the most indicated technique.
A “hands-on” composite gives a similar functional result as a custom-made prosthesis and has a much better function than alternative techniques. Less expensive and more flexible than custom-made prostheses, it can be used even when no part of the iliac wing remains. The use of cement permits the adjunction of antibiotics needed for these complicated cases.
After peri-acetabular resection for bone sarcoma, a reconstructive procedure is necessary to stabilize the hip, avoid limb discrepancy, and permit full weight bearing. This procedure needs to be easy to perform because resection of the area is time and blood consuming. This leads to the use of a “hands-on” composite prosthesis.
Our reconstructive procedure uses a titanium cup with a long screw that is fixed in the remaining bone (sacrum or spine). When the cup is firmly fixed to the bone, the gap between the cup and bone is filled with cement loaded with antibiotics, and the polyethylene component is cemented on the innominate prosthesis. The femoral component of a usual hip total prosthesis is then implanted.
Since 1990 we have used this reconstructive procedure in 50 patients, 27 with bone sarcomas involving the acetabulum (11 chondrosarcomas, 9 Ewing’s sarcomas and 7 other sarcomas) and 23 for metastatic disease. Thirty of these patients were already metastatic when operated. The average duration of the reconstructive procedure was 45 minutes. Walking started from the fourth to tenth day after operation, but full weight bearing was usually authorised after six weeks.
Postoperative complications were frequent. Seven deep infections occurred, four required ablation of the prosthesis, and one would benefit from a saddle prosthesis. 33% of the patients had postoperative dislocation of the hip prosthesis and 13 patients had to be reoperated. Only two loosenings have been observed – one after deep infection and one after local recurrence in the sacral bone. Oncologic results: With a mean follow-up of five years, 28 patients died of disease and one from an unrelated disease. Four others with disease are still living. Seven local recurrences were observed (four in chondrosarcomas with a contaminated resection). The difficulty in obtaining wide margins explains the high rate of local recurrence (14 %). For patients with localised disease, the five-year overall survival rate is 75% and the five-year disease-free survival rate is 60%.
According to the Society for Musculoskeletal Oncology criteria, orthopaedic results were excellent in 7 patients, good in 30, fair in 6, and bad in 6. The mean functional score of 46 patients who still have their prostheses is 83% with usually no pain, excellent acceptance, length discrepancy of less than 1 cm, average flexion of 100 degrees, and unlimited walking without support.
We conclude that the rapidity and flexibility of this procedure are the positive aspects of this reconstructive technique. However, perfect positioning of the prosthesis remains difficult in a very large peri-acetabular resection. A computed guide is of great help to specify safe margins and prosthesis positioning. Longer follow-up is needed to ensure that the rate of late loosening will not be too high.
Nowadays 80% of patients with bone sarcomas can benefit from limb salvage. Their disease-free life expectancy is not jeopardised by conservative surgery as long as safe margins are obtained. For this reason, the oncological result relies on the accuracy of pre-operative and per-operative surgical measurements. Pre-operative evaluation of tumours is now quite accurate with digital margins (computed tomography, MNR, digital angiography). However, surgeons are still using centimeters or conventional radiographs with their own technical limitations for per-operative evaluation. A more accurate technique is needed.
The system is composed of three components: 1) a color, graphic computer workstation with software to calculate and present the location of the surgical instrument on a three-dimensional, reconstructed bone image, 2) a complete set of hand-held instruments containing infrared emitters, 3) an infrared receiver linked to the work station. This measuring system enables determination of the position and incidence of a surgical instrument in real time during surgery, with an accuracy of less than one mm.
The system requires four steps: 1) recording data with C.T., N.M.R. or angiography, 2) creating a three-dimensional image displayed on the computer screen for preoperative simulation of a virtual operation, 3) recording the very important anatomical points of the patient and optimal incidences of the surgical instruments, 4) preoperative location of surgical instruments and control of their location on bone.
This system is very useful for resection of bone tumours when the conventional location is uncertain (innonimate bone, rib), when very sharp accuracy is needed to preserve the growth plate of the distal femur in young children, and to avoid medullary damage in a spinal tumour.
The frameless stereotactic device is also very accurate in the reconstructive phase of limb salvage. After an internal hemipelvectomy, the device permits localisation of the acetabular prosthesis in the precise location before resection.
In our practice, the accuracy of the video guiding system is always within two mm as compared to conventional measurements usually between one or two cm for long bones and three to five cm for innominate bone.
The use of a video guidance system is very beneficial for limb salvage surgery for pelvic bone tumours.
In the most severe clubfeet, especially in relapse, traditional operations are not helpful any longer. In these cases the Ilizarov method (IM) can correct even the worst deformities by gradual correction. Up to the age of about eight years, traditional operations can be performed in most cases of relapsed clubfoot. A disadvantage of the traditional operation is the shortening of the foot if a wedge is resected. With the IM the patient need not be immobilised postoperatively for a long period, which is important especially for those children with neurological diseases. We report on our 18 years experience with the IM.
We have operated 99 clubfeet with the IM. The first 91 consecutive cases in 79 patients are included in this retrospective study. The mean age of our patients was 14.2 years. The mean follow-up was two years, five months. The etiology was 28 congenital, 51 neurological, five rheumatological and seven with posttraumatic clubfeet. The mean number of operations per patient before presenting to us was 1.6 (range 0 to 8). The mean healing time – the number of days from application of the external fixator until its removal – was 115 days. Using the classification of Dimeglio we found 12 type 3 feet and 79 type 4 feet (stiff-stiff).
In 37 feet we observed a superficial infection, in seven a deep infection, and an ostitis in one. At the end of a seven-year follow-up period, clinical, radiological and laboratory tests of the patient with ostitis showed no signs of infection. In the beginning we had some torn wires, but this was a problem that could be solved with increasing experience.
We classify the patients into three groups. Feet that have a normal or almost normal shape and permit weight bearing and walking without pain are rated as good. Radiologically the foot is well corrected. A residual deformity without skin damage or complaints is rated as fair. A relapse, overcorrection or severely restricted walking capacity is rated as bad.
In our study we found 52 good, 33 fair and 6 bad results. All feet with a preoperative infection due to long lasting skin breakdown and ostitis healed well during treatment with an external fixator.
The IM is a safe procedure even in the most severe cases and allows correction if traditional methods can no longer be used. The results show that many good and at least fair results can be achieved. Normal function cannot be expected in these severely deformed feet, but the aim is to allow weight bearing and walking even in severe cases. The IM is especially helpful in neurologically relapsed clubfeet. The IM is an efficient tool in the hands of an experienced orthopaedic paediatric surgeon.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the importance of the timing of surgery for disease-free survival (DFS). The increasing efficacy of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy in Ewing’s sarcoma modifies the prognostic factors. In a recent monocentric study the classical prognostic value of size and location of the primary disappeared (
Seventy-five patients with an average age of 19 years (range 4 to 40) years with Ewing’s sarcoma of bone fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this study: localised tumour at first screening (CT of lungs + bone scan) and location of the tumour in resectional bones (limb, scapula, innominate, rib, maxilla, skull). Metastatic patients and vertebral locations were excluded. The patients received multi-drug chemotherapy and were treated by surgery and radiotherapy in cases of bad responders and/or marginal surgery. The histologic response was evaluated according to Picci’s criteria (
After a mean follow-up of 54 months, 41 patients were in first complete remission. Patients operated before the tenth week had a higher chance (68%) of first complete remission than patients operated later (DFS: 43%). The difference is significant (p< 0.03). Further analysis shows that the difference is due to late local control, which causes a dismal prognosis for bad responders.
Local treatment must be performed early, especially when histologic response is incomplete or uncertain. Preoperative chemotherapy that is too long increases the risk of metastases in bad responders. These factors must be taken into account when analysing multicentre protocols.
Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis is a technically feasible surgical alternative to treat displaced diaphyseal fractures of the tibia. In recent years, this technique has evolved in response to the poor results following tibial fracture stabilization using the traditional open method of plate fixation. Devascularisation with periosteal stripping of bone fragments using open reduction and internal fixation to ensure adequate fracture visualisation led to a substantial percentage of complications including deep infection, delayed union or non union, and refractures after plate removal. Using the technique of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis, fracture management is achieved with closed reduction followed by stabilisation using a subcutaneous epiperiosteal LC-DC-plate.
Twenty-four patients with 25 tibial fractures were treated by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis at the Kantonsspital, Fribourg, Switzerland, between 1997 and 1999. These cases were retrospectively reviewed.
There were 11 male and 13 female patients with a mean age of 41 years (range 16 -64). Nineteen tibial diaphyseal fractures (7 type A, 11 type B, and 1 type C) and six tibial epiphyseal-metaphyseal fractures (4 type A, 1 type B, and 1 type C) were surgically treated. Three fractures were open (grade I). Twenty-four fractures were treated using a 4.5 mm titanium LC-DC-plate, and in one fracture a 4.5 mm stainless steel DC-plate was used for tibial fixation. Open reduction and internal fixation of the fibula was necessary in eleven fractures, nine of which were stabilized with a one-third tubular plate and two with a 3.5 mm LC-DC-plate. The postoperative regimen included partial weight bearing for eight weeks followed by progressive and protected weight bearing until fracture union was achieved. Fracture union was confirmed with radiographs obtained at six to eight weeks, twelve to sixteen weeks, and at final follow-up. The mean time to final follow-up was eighteen months.
All fractures had solidly united within four months postoperatively. Radiographically, healing was characterised by callus formation located on the lateral and posterior aspects of the tibial diaphysis, and was similar to that which is usually seen after stabilisation of tibial fractures using an intramedullary rod. Both ankle and knee range of motion were similar to the uninjured side by final follow-up. There were eight cases of residual valgus malalignment of less than five degrees, and were associated with distal third tibial diaphyseal fractures with concomitant fibula fractures which were not rigidly stabilised. Postoperative complications included two deep wound infections and one postoperative compartment syndrome.
Overall good results were obtained by using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of diaphyseal fractures of the tibia. Although this technique is more technically demanding than standard open reduction and internal fixation of tibial diaphyseal fractures, preservation of the soft tissue envelope and periosteal blood supply is beneficial for fracture healing. Surgical indications for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of the tibial diaphysis include a narrow tibial medullary canal as well as distal and proximal metaphyseal fractures not suitable for intramedullary rodding, and associated intra-articular tibial fractures. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis should be considered as a surgical alternative for the treatment of displaced diaphyseal fractures of the tibia.
Postdysplastic ischaemic necrosis of the proximal femoral epiphysis has its origin in the vascular crisis during conservative or operative treatment of DDH and in the majority of cases has an iatrogenic origin. The severity of the symptoms and functional disability is dependent on the anatomic changes of the proximal femur and the whole hip joint respectively, which were caused by previous conservative or operative treatment, including repeated surgery. The symptoms such as limping from leg length discrepancy and abductor insufficiency, pain and restricted ROM are less apparent in small children, but become more conspicuous with the approach of the end of growth. For the classification of the patterns of ischemic necrosis of the femoral head, the classification according to Bucholz and Ogden was used.
Four principal types of this deformity are recognised. There are three main problems which are to be solved by surgical treatment. 1. The acetabular dysplasia with a pelvic osteotomy 2. Improving the bio-mechanics by distalisation of the greater trochanter and by the lengthening of the femoral neck with or without valgisation 3. Lengthening of the shorter extremity.
The decision on the type of surgery to be performed depends on the age of the patient and the severity of the anatomic deformity, as well as the functional disability. A very useful method for treatment was found to be a double intertrochanteric osteotomy with a trochanteric advancement, and almost invariably in combination with a triple or Salter pelvic osteotomy. The lengthening osteotomy of the femoral neck follows the principles of Müller and Wagner. A similar technique was also proposed later by Morscher.
My own contribution has been to modify the operation by an oblique execution of the osteotomy, and a method of fixation of the greater trochanter by means of an angle plate – providing a lengthening of the limb by up to 3 cm. In the case of acetabular dysplasia, a pelvic osteotomy should be performed as a first procedure in order to obtain better stability of the hip joint. A femoral osteotomy can follow at a minimal interval of three months. If the femoral osteotomy is performed as a first step without enlargement of the actabulum, there is the risk of further deterioration of the covering of the femoral head, even in a dislocation. This philosophy of treatment of sequel of postdysplastic necrosis has been used since 1979.
Up to 1984, we operated on 48 hip joints in 46 patients, 39 girls and 7 boys aged 4 to 21, with a follow- up of at least 15 years. In 12 cases, 10 girls and 2 boys aged 4 to 8, a Salter and valgus osteotomy was performed. Thirty-four patients (29 girls and 5 boys) had a triple pelvic osteotomy, with 2 girls being operated bilaterally. In 22 hips, a lengthening osteotomy of the femoral neck was added as a second stage procedure. Five parameters were used for clinical evaluation: pain, limping, range of motion, Trendelenburg sign, and leg length discrepancy. For radiological assessment, we used an AP X-ray of the entire pelvis taken before and after osteotomy, and also during follow-up. CE angle, Sharp’s angle, ACM angle, and lateralisation were recorded. Hip score was measured on all hips, but we found that CE, Sharp and lateralisation were of greater value. In a group of 12 cases operated on up to the age of 8 by combining Salter and valgus osteotomy, a cementless THR was necessary for a young woman of 25. The remaining 11 patients are up to the present time without any major problems. In a group of 14 patients operated for sequel of postdysplastic necrosis Type II deformity (all with triple pelvic osteotomies and five in combination with femoral neck lengthening osteotomy), all have a normal quality of life, including having natural childbirths. From 22 Type III hip joints in 20 patients operated for sequel of postdysplastic necrosis, a cementless THR was implanted in three cases 14, 17 and 18 years after original surgery. Fourteen patients (15 hip joints − 67%) can be considered as good results without needing to have any therapy. Three patients (4 hips) suffer from degenerative arthritis and are candidates for THR.
Proximal femur fractures are usually low-energy injuries of elderly patients, but they can also occur after highenergy trauma in young adults and children. The proximal femur shows very special biomechanical (high load) and biological (blood supply) characteristics. These factors, the patient’s age, and the implant characteristics (weight bearing capacity and cut out risk) are determinants for the surgical management of proximal femur fractures.
There are two main fracture groups that require a different approach because of the difference in blood supply: 1) medial femoral neck fractures and 2) lateral femoral neck, trochanteric, and subtrochanteric fractures.
Medial femoral neck fractures occur in about 90% of dislocated adduction fractures. Because of the high risk of pseudarthrosis and head necrosis (~30 %) in older patients, a hip joint prosthesis should be used. A total hip prosthesis is used (mainly cementless) for patients in good biological condition; in elderly patients (> 80 Y.) a hemiarthroplasty is performed. Because prospective studies have not shown any benefit for bipolar hemiarthroplasty, we use a unipolar hemiarthroplasty.
In non-dislocated fractures of the elderly and in all medial femoral neck fractures in younger patients, a joint-preserving osteosynthesis is used. The most used therapy is three canulated screws. Because of implantrelated complications (dislocation, cut out) particularly in steep fracture lines, comminution zones, and noncompliant patients, a stabler fixation with an intramedullary device should be used. We prefer the gliding nail because of the rotation stability and minimal cut out risk of the I-beam profile femoral neck component.
Lateral femoral neck, trochanteric, and subtrochanteric fractures have a minimal risk of femoral head necrosis. Intramedullary locked nail systems such as the gliding nail and gamma nail have a much lower bending movement and therefore allow full weight bearing in all types of fractures. The gliding nail also gives rotation stability to the head and neck fragment in unstable fractures because of the I-beam-profile of the femoral neck component, and has an over 50% reduced cut out risk as compared to screw profiles.
Extramedullary implants like the DHS do not allow full weight bearing in unstable trochanteric fractures and are unsatisfactory in subtrochanteric fractures. They can be safely used only in stable fractures. Prostheses should not be used in primary management of trochanteric fractures because of the very low re-operation rate in modern intramedullary implants (< 4 %). The operation time, possible late complication, blood loss, and costs are higher for a hip prosthesis.
Clubfoot is medically defined as luxatio pedis sub talo. The process of dislocation mostly caused by muscular imbalance results in bony deformities and soft tissue contractures, which in the majority of cases – even after meticulous conservative treatment – have to be corrected by surgery. In children before school age, surgical corrections should always address the main pathology. To achieve normal alignment of the fore and hindfoot, a complete reduction of the talus within the acetabulum pedis has to be done by soft tissue release.
Analysing the pathomorphology, a clubfoot is characterised by equinus, varus, forefoot adduction, and horizontal subtalar medial rotation. Regarding bony deformation, the medial side of the talus is narrowed by the navicular, the medial malleolus, and the fibrocartilage between. Growth expansion is limited on the medial side and there is more growth expansion on the lateral convex side, leading to external rotation of its body (~ 10-25°) and internal inclination of the neck (~30-50°). The calcaneus is internally rotated 20-30°.
Regarding joint dislocation, there is a displacement of the navicular medially and plantarward towards the medial malleolus. The cuboid bone usually follows the position of the navicular and dislocates gradually to the medial side.
Soft tissue contractures are located medially (Lacinate Lig., M. Add. hallucis, Spring Lig., talo navicular Lig., Master knot of Henry) and posterior (lat. fibulo calc. Lig, post. capsule of the ankle joint). There is also a shortening of muscles e.g. short plantar flexors, M. tib. post., M. flex. hall. longus., M. flex. digit. comm., M. tib. ant.
The method of treatment depends on the severity of a clubfoot, the preoperatively achieved results of conservative treatment, and how extensive a subtalar release has to be performed. If the navicular can be reduced conservatively, a posterolateral surgical approach is indicated.
A transversal incision is performed starting laterally at the calcaneal cuboid joint and ending medially below the medial malleolus. A dorso lateral release of the subtalar joint, Tendo Achilles lengthening, and dorsal release of the ankle joint is performed.
At the age of three to six months, it is possible to correct subtalar malalignment to move the calcaneus away from the fib. Malleolus by external rotation in relation to the talus (Mini Cincinnati technique). If the talonavicular and the calcaneo-cuboid joint are dislocated, a complete subtalar release has to be done in order to reduce the talo-navicular, calcaneo-cuboid and talo-calcaneal joint. To avoid overcorrection, the talo calcaneal interosseous lig. should be kept intact whenever possible (Mc Kay-Simons procedure). This type of surgery should not be performed before the age of six months.
The subtalar release technique described by McKay was introduced in our hospital in 1983. Since then, 362 clubfeet have been treated by the above-mentioned techniques: 249 by the Mini Cincinnati (Group 1) and 113 by the McKay-Simons procedure (Group 2). Age at the time of surgery ranged from 2 to 12 months in Group 1 and 5 to 52 months in Group 2.
In Group 1, the results were excellent in 42%, and good (residual forefoot adduction) in 49%. A second surgical intervention had to be done in only 9%. Regarding shape and appearance of the foot in Group 2, results were excellent in 46%, good in 38% and insufficient in 16% (overcorrection 3%, relapse 13 %). Concerning functional outcome, the feet of Group 2 presented much more stiffness than those of Group 1, which was also found pre-operatively.
The treatment of clubfoot is still a matter of controversy because of different severity of deformity and different treatment philosophies.
According to our experience, the McKay-Simons procedure has proved to be ideal for simultaneous correction of various components of the deformity from one single approach. In particular, correction of subtalar horizontal rotational deformity in the subtalar joint can be easily performed.
Based on the survey, the danger of damaging nerves, blood vessels, tendons and joint cartilages can be kept to a minimum by using the Cincinnati approach. In the majority of cases, the foot appears normal, moves without pain, and is flexible enough to enable the child to walk on his toes or heels and to participate in sportactivities.
Limitation of mobility is nevertheless the main problem of all extensive soft tissue procedures in clubfoot surgery, and it is not known at this time if this will cause subtalar osteoarthritis in early adulthood.
Complete subtalar release develops less osteonecrosis, fewer changes in the navicular, and less cavus and adductus than the use of other surgical techniques.
Overcorrection and poor functional results were seen in patients less than six months old at the time of surgery. We recommend that a complete subtalar release be delayed until the child is aged 6 to 12 months. Treatment should ideally be completed by the time the child is ready to walk.
For better communication, treatment planning and evaluation of results, a generally accepted classification is needed for determining the different types of congenital hip disease (usually referred to as developmental dysplasia of the hip) in adults. We have proposed the use of the following classification: Dysplasia, Low Dislocation, and High Dislocation. Knowledge of the local anatomical abnormalities in these three types of the disease is mandatory.
Total hip arthroplasty in all three types (especially in high dislocation) is a demanding operation and should be decided when there is an absolute indication. The acetabular component must be placed at the site of the true acetabulum, mainly for mechanical reasons. After the reaming process, if the remaining osseous cavity cannot accommodate a small cementless cup with at least 80% coverage of the implant, the cotyloplasty technique is recommended. This technique involves medial advancement of the acetabular floor by the creation of a controlled comminuted fracture, autogenous bone grafting, and the implantation of a small acetabular component with cement, usually the offset-bore acetabular cup of Charnley.
In order to facilitate reduction of the components and to avoid neurovascular complications, the femur is shortened at the level of the femoral neck, along with release of the psoas tendon and the small external rotators.
We believe that this operative technique of total hip arthroplasty is effective for the treatment of difficult conditions of highly dislocated hips.
Appropriate clinical studies that address the efficacy and effectiveness of orthotic treatment in general are difficult to identify, particularly in postoperative treatment of congenital clubfeet. Clinical experience, however, seems to necessitate casting and splinting for a certain time after surgical correction to prevent relapses.
Although treatment recommendations range from three months to two years after surgery, duration and intensity of orthotic therapy may depend on the severity of the clubfoot deformity, underlying disorders and the surgeon’s experience.
Knee-ankle-foot orthoses with a knee flexion of 90 are most commonly prescribed after the removal of postoperative casts. They allow appropriate abduction of the foot, and daily stretching exercises that can be performed by the parents in combination with physical therapy. Most splints are made of polyethylene or polypropylene, and current designs include static or rigid ankle and forefeet.
Some authors also recommend significantly smaller orthoses that are used in metatarsus varus treatment: Denis-Browne bars and orthoses with locking or elastic swivel joints that allow the hindfoot and forefoot components to be adjusted in relation to each other. However, since they do not have a moulded heal, they tend to slip off and cannot prevent recurrence of the equinus. Their application is also restricted to pre-walking infants unless considered for use at night.
Outflare shoes (anti-varus shoes) also keep the forefoot in the “corrected position”. To obtain a necessary 3-point correction, however, certain construction principles are mandatory. The hindfoot must be kept in high heel cup and the first metatarsal is pushed laterally against the counter-pressure that is exerted on the cuboid by the most distal and lateral part of the heel cup.
After introduction of continuous passive motion (CPM) into the treatment of congenital clubfeet, some groups have published encouraging results. Although the advocates of this treatment state that the duration of plaster cast immobilisation can be shortened after surgery, further evaluation of outcome and cost-effectiveness of this approach is necessary.
The value of ultrasonography (US) was assessed for studying the position of the navicular and the cuboid in children with clubfeet (CF). In most studies on the management of CF, more than 50% of the patients have required surgical treatment for correcting foot deformities. In addition, repeat surgery is commonly needed for correction of residual foot deformities, especially persistent forefoot adduction usually due to medial displacement of the navicular and sometimes also the cuboid. These conditions have often been overlooked at the initial surgery.
The authors examined 50 CF and 100 normal feet by US in children during the first year of life. With the transducer, the position of the navicular was studied along the medial border of the foot, and the position of the cuboid along the lateral border of the foot.
The results indicated that 1) Severe medial displacement of the navicular towards the medial malleolus, which might not be possible to reveal by clinical examination, was commonly seen in children with CF and 2) severe medial displacement of the cuboid was seen considerably less frequently.
Ultrasonography, using the most recent type of equipment, is a helpful tool when deciding if the navicular and the cuboid need to be re-aligned by open reduction in children with CF during the first year of life.
Modern concepts in paediatric fracture respect individual, social and economic needs:
the patient’s demand for early mobility and capability to play the requirement to achieve an optimal end result (no posttraumatic deformity, full range of motion, no leg length discrepancy) with a minimum of total expenditure and costs: primary treatment should be the definitive treatment. Thus, redo-procedures, unnecessary irradiation, and long hospital stays are prevented. the spontaneous remodelling capacity should be anticipated for each specific fracture and be part of the treatment algorithm of fractures of the upper extremity. In the lower extremities a long lasting remodelling period leads to stimulation of the adjacent physis and thus to posttraumatic leg length differences.
The decision between conservative and operative treatment is based on the radiological assessment of fracture stability. Fractures with fragments in contact and at most with some angulation but no shortening may be termed stable. Conservative treatment on an outpatient basis is adequate: plaster immobilization and wedging of the plaster in case of a primary or secondary angulation. Fully displaced fractures or long oblique fractures with a strong tendency for shortening as well as comminuted fractures are unstable. Stable fixation with a child-adapted implant is required: closed reduction, minimal approach, satisfying scars, early full weight bearing, short hospital stay, and a minimal procedure for metal removal are achieved either by external fixation or elastic intramedullary nailing dependent on the fracture pattern and the surgeon’s preferences.
Humeral shaft fractures are the domain of non-operative treatment: immobilization e.g., with a U-plaster followed by functional bracing (Sarmiento) is efficient and more comfortable than a heavy hanging cast. Retrograde intramedullary nailing is indicated in open fractures, multiple injury patients, arterial injuries and compartment syndromes, or if conservative treatment does not lead to a satisfactory alignment. Concomittant radial nerve palsies: since natural history is excellent, observation instead of primary exploration is recommendable. Forearm: in case of complete fractures, closed reduction and plaster immobilisation is only justified if one of both bones is stable. If not, primary elastic intramedullary nailing prevents posttraumatic deformities and loss of function. Femur: Non-displaced fractures (less than 10° angulation in the sagital plane, no varus or valgus deformity, no malrotation) as well as displaced fractures in children younger than four years can be treated with a hip spica. In older children closed reduction followed by external fixation or elastic intramedullary nailing provides early stability and a quick return to play and school. Shortening and angulations with a subsequent high remodelling activity should be avoided in order to prevent femoral overgrowth. Lower leg: Most isolated tibial fractures (intact fibula) are managed conservatively in a long leg plaster. Radiological monitoring is recommended to detect secondary varus deformites which can be easily reduced by wedging of the plaster after 8 to 10 days. Fully displaced transverse tibia fractures and unstable fractures of the tibia and fibula – oblique fractures with shortening or fully displaced fractures – are either stabilised by external fixation or elastic intramedullary nailing.
Only someone with good common sense paired with a grain of fortune-telling might be able to foresee further improvements of THR implants adequately. After carefully reviewing the studies of the past, we have evolved our personal belief of what future improvements could look like. A new, improved stem should be made of titanium alloy, have a sandblasted surface structure with a tapered proximal fit stem design. Further advantages would be to allow a certain amount of bony restitution in the metaphyseal region and minimise the stress shielding effects on the femur. As an example of the often-difficult way from the idea on the drawing board to a commercially exploitable implant, we demonstrate the development of our newly designed “hollow-stem” prosthesis.
In an animal study a tapered cementless hollow-stem prosthesis was implanted in 10 foxhounds and subsequently analysed after 12 and 24 weeks. As a result, mineralisation occurred between the titanium stays of the prosthesis, as well as in the central hollow area as early as two to four weeks after implantation. After 12 weeks, density of cancellous bone between the titanium stays and in the hollow centre was considerably higher than on the contralateral untreated side. Load bearing within the centre of the stem was obvious due to the regular orientation of the trabecular bone.
After these positive results we began the conversion to a production line human stem prosthesis. With the help of a finite-element analysis, the stem was then modified in critical areas, resulting in an improved prototype which was subjected to a fatigue test according to ISO 7206-3 of 10.000.000 cycles without any damage. After careful deliberation with our ethics committee, we were finally able to commence with our pilot study consisting of the implantation of 20 hollow-stems and 20 Spotorno stems as a matched pairs study design.
The clinical and radiological evaluation after a minimum 12-month follow-up shows comparably good clinical results in both groups. Radiologically, some degree of subsidence was seen in three hollow stems compared to two Spotorno stems without being clinically relevant. The next step will be a larger randomized study using the hollow-stem as well as a solid stem of the same design. We will consider a more widespread utilisation of the hollow-stem only if this randomised study proves the hollow-stem to be superior.
The goal of clubfoot management, regardless of the method applied, is still to improve function and form as close as possible to normal values. Since the final outcome of any therapy will only become evident at the end of growth, long-term follow-up studies are necessary to evaluate the results and methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term results of corrective surgery for clubfoot deformity in a selected group of patients. Other congenital or acquired abnormalities like neuromuscular disease, arthrogryposis or others were excluded in order to identify the factors associated with the success or failure of the treatment.
A retrospective clinical and radiological study of 64 patients with 104 treated feet with a follow-up of 8 to 35 years (mean: 19.2 years) is presented. All of the patients were operated on by Scheel′s technique. In this technique the Achilles tendon was lengthened and combined with a dorsal arthrolysis. In some cases medial structures such as the tibialis posterior, long-toe flexors tendon sheaths and the medial ligaments of the talonavicular joint were released. A calcaneal traction was applied for four weeks and a plaster cast for six weeks.
The patients were grouped according to the duration of follow-up (< 10, 10–20 and > 20 years) and the results were compared. Clinical evaluation followed the criteria according to the McKay Score, a score of 180 from which points for sequela (either morphologic or functional) are subtracted.
There was an inverse relationship between the functional rating score and the length of follow-up. Acceptable results decrease over time as the patient approaches skeletal maturity. In the group with a follow-up of > 20 years, only 5% were rated as good, 34% as satisfactory, 28% as poor and 33 % as failure.
Radiographic evaluation of the last group showed marked deformities of the talus and navicular bones, as well as advanced osteoarthritis. The degree of bone deformity of the talus (flat-top-talus) and navicular seems to depend on the degree of persistent residual joint subluxation after surgery and contribute to the development of secondary osteoarthritis of the ankle and subtalar joint over time. Considering the goal of treatment is to restore form and function, assessment and approach of all the components of the individual deformity is required.
A complete subtalar release to realign the calcaneus to an externally rotated position is followed by a reduction of the talonavicular joint. To achieve full reduction, release of the calcaneocuboid joint is necessary because it is linked with the talonavicular joint.
Preliminary results of 89 congenital clubfeet treated with a complete subtalar release with an average follow- up of five years show 12.4% excellent, 41.6% good and 39.3% satisfactory according to the McKay-Score. The results of this series underlines the importance of careful and complete derotation and anatomic realignment of the talocalcaneonavicular joint complex in order to have a lifelong functional foot with the least amount of deformity and disability. The results of any treatment for clubfoot deformity should be judged after skeletal maturity, making a follow-up of at least 20 years necessary.
Eighty-nine patients (8 males, 81 females) with an average age of 52 years had 119 high dislocations (Crowe IV, 30 bilateral and 59 unilateral). The patients underwent 118 total hip arthroplasties between 1970 and 1986 using original or modified Charnley prostheses. Only 39 patients had not had a previous operation. Pain in the hip associated with stiffness and limitation in activity was the main indication for surgery. Back or knee pain was the chief complaint of 11 patients. Pre-operatively and post-operatively, a thorough assessment of the patients was made including hips, pelvis lumbosacral spine, knee, leg length discrepancy and static body balance.
The operation was performed through a transtrochanteric approach. A small socket was always inserted and cemented into the true acetabulum augmented by an autogenous graft, and a straight femoral component implanted at the level of the lesser trochanter. Muscle releases and tenotomies were not performed. Twenty-nine patients (35 hips) had died or were lost to follow-up. Sixty patients were still alive at the last examination in 1996, and regularly seen with a mean follow-up of 16 years. The mean follow-up of the whole series was 12.8 years.
At the last examination, clinical results according to the d’Aubigne rating system were classified as excellent 59.3%, very good 15.2%, good 15.2%, fair 5.1%, and poor 5%. Only 10 patients had a persistent waddling gait and a positive Trendelenburg sign. The results were slightly less good when a major femoral angulation needed an alignment osteotomy.
One femoral and seven acetabular loosenings were revised. In addition, five hips were revised for severe polyethylene wear and osteolysis before definite loosening, and two hips for heterotopic ossifications. The rate of revision was 12.7%. At twenty years, the survival rate was 99% for the femoral component and 87% for the socket, cemented fixation as end point, whereas the cumulative survival rate of the prosthesis was 78%, revision as end point.
The leg shortening, mean 4.84 cm (range 3-8 cm), was accurately corrected 63 times and within 1 cm 42 times. The lengthening was an average of 3.80 cm (2 to 7 cm). Leg length discrepancy was, on the whole, reduced as much as possible (mean 2.6 cm pre-operatively, 0.4 cm post-operatively). Of the 18 pre-operative painful knees, 10 were greatly improved, but four of these needed an operation.
Lateral pelvic tilt was corrected in more than 50%, pelvic frontal asymmetry was substantially reduced, as well as lordosis and lateral curve of the lumbar spine. As a result, low back pain has been relieved in 40 patients, but two required a laminectomy for a lumbar canal stenosis.
Total hip arthroplasty on high riding hips may be a wonderful operation, but this operation is full of pitfalls, technically demanding, and may represent a serious risk of complication. A successful result depends on a complete pre-operative assessment of the patient, a perfectly performed surgical procedure, and a reasonable selection of its indications.
The longevity of the fixation of implants in a formerly dysplastic hip is compromised by several risk factors:
Young age. Severity of the dislocation. Previous surgery. Hip arthroplasty after a previous intertrochanteric osteotomy is technically more demanding but not necessarily associated with a higher rate of complications. Distortion of the acetabulum. Fixation of the socket in a dysplastic hip joint acetabulum (one of the main aims of a THR) is compromised both by using a small implant and an insufficient containment of the socket in the bony acetabulum. Small cups (small implant/bone contact area, thin polyethylene wall). Small cups are especially used in cases where the implant must be positioned higher up in the iliac bone. High hip center and lateral placement of the cup. A high hip center is not to be considered as a risk factor as long as there is no simultaneous lateralisation of the cup. Upward displacement of the center of rotation must be compensated for by changing muscle length and the arms of the abductors with a longer neck in order to preserve muscle power. The acetabular component, i.e., the center of rotation of the hip articulation should be positioned as medially as possible. Insufficient containment of the acetabular socket. As a rule, the positioning of the socket into the original acetabulum creates normal mechanics of the hip and provides the best bone stock for fixation of the cup, especially in complete dislocations. However, placement of the cup into the original acetabulum of a subluxated femoral head in an angle that is not too vertical leaves a supero-lateral void. Enlargement, i.e., reinforcement of the roof of the acetabulum with screws and bone cement has not proven to be adequate. Acetabuloplasty, i.e., grafting with an autologous cortico-cancellous graft taken from the resected femoral head or using an acetabular reinforcement ring (ARR) is indicated if 20 and more degrees of the weight-bearing surface of the cup would otherwise remain uncovered. Massive cortico-cancellous bone grafts. The use of bulky autologous or homologous cortico-cancellous grafts which would be loaded over 50% or more of the weight-bearing surface of the cup is not recommended. Excessive anteversion, narrow medullary cavity, and capsular contractures on the femoral side. The most typical deformity of the proximal end of the femur in hip dysplasia is an excessive anteversion angle of the neck of the femur. Anteversion angles of 45 degrees and more are corrected by a derotational osteotomy of the femur. To avoid overlength of the leg by positioning the cup into the original acetabulum, a subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy may be indicated.
Preoperative planning is mandatory. Procedure, choice of method, and availability of appropriate equipment and endoprosthetic implants must be ensured. Computerised tomography with 3-D reconstruction is recommended for more complex anatomical situations.
The treatment of fractures in children is essentially conservative because young bone heals rapidly and growth remodels many malunions. In addition, we do not have implants which respect the biomechanics of the growing bone. The techniques perfected for the adult skeleton have adverse effects in children and their disadvantages still outweigh their advantages.
Fixation which is too rigid encourages cortical union but inhibits the formation of periosteal callus which is of prime importance in the child. This approach evacuates the fracture haematoma, damages the periosteum, increases local devascularisation, and encourages infection and secondary hypertrophy. The rigidity of a plate also produces a rapid thinning of cortices in young bone, adding the risk of recurrent fractures.
However, conservative treatment does not always give perfect results. Some injuries are liable to sequellae which are not corrected by growth. Children with polytrauma, severe brain injuries, osteogenesis imperfecta, and neurological problems cannot always be treated orthopaedically and require surgery.
Stable intramedullary nailing (SIMP) seems to be particularly adaptable to growing bone. SIMP is carried out with two pre-bent pins that allow stabilisation of nearly all diaphyseal and metaphyseal fractures and also respects the healing process and the unique biomechanical properties of young bone. This technique presents many advantages and few disadvantages but it is not designed to supplant conservative treatment. The aim is primarily to treat fractures that cannot be treated conservatively without adding iatrogenic complications.
Pre-bent pins are placed in the medullary canal of the bone. Each pin gives a three- point fixation and the three points press on the bone. Two extremities of the pin press on metaphyseal cancellous bone, and the apex of the curve presses on the inner aspect of the cortex.
The principal feature of this osteosynthesis is its elasticity. If one deforms the pin, it resists by developing a force which opposes the deformation. This force returns the pin to it’s original form upon removal of the deforming force. Because the pinning is performed without opening the fracture site, the hematoma and the periosteum are preserved, which is essential for bone consolidation. The elasticity of the pinning allows slight movements in compression and distraction which are particularly favourable for consolidation.
A child is discharged from hospital after two days for fractures of the humerus, forearm or tibia and after five days for femoral shaft fractures. Cast immobilisation is not necessary. Function is recovered rapidly, with a minimal absence from school. If complications occur, they are infrequent and rarely severe.
The assortment of primary operative techniques starts with posterior release and ends with the most sophisticated ones such as complete subtalar release. The proper selection of one of them is a key to success and has to be done on the basis of clinical and radiographic parameters.
Posterior release: The indication for this procedure is determined by persistent equinus. On AP and lateral radiographs the normal talocalcaneal angle is visible AP greater than 20; lateral greater than 35 degrees). On the lateral radiograph in corrected equinus or standing, the angle between the calcaneus and tibia should be smaller than 80 degrees. A physical examination con- firms equinus position more precisely. Attention should be paid to the possibility of iatrogenic rocker bottom deformity. In such cases posterior release should be combined with dorsal release of the calcaneocuboid and talonavicular joint.
Posteromedial release: Clinical indications for this procedure are hindfoot equinus and varus and passively corrected medial spin measured with a bimalleolar angle less than 85 degrees. This angle should be checked during surgery when the posteromedial release is completed. If overcorrection is not achieved, the procedure has to be extended in sequence to lateral release or complete subtalar release. Radiographic indications are as follows: diminished talocalcaneal angle on AP (less than 20 degrees) and/or on lateral radiographs (less than 35 degrees), as well as partial overlap of the talus and calcaneus on AP radiographs.
Posteromedial-lateral, posterolateral-medial and partial subtalar release: Indications for these techniques are the same as for posteromedial release. The difference concerns the not corrigible medial spin. The decision about which technique should be used is made before surgery, but its conversion during surgery to another one is possible and depends on obstacles appearing during release. Intraoperative radiographs may help in making the decision.
Complete subtalar release: The clinical indication for this technique is primarily stiff varus and medial spin. The selection of this procedure may be the result of the primary decision or incomplete correction after less extensive procedures. To overcome the obstacles, the talocalcaneal interosseous ligament must be completely cut. Radiographic indications are the same as for posteromedial- lateral or partial subtalar release. Complete overlapping of the talus and calcaneus on AP radiograph inclines the surgeon to choose this method.
All techniques mentioned can be extended to the correction of forefoot adduction. A metatarsal first ray angle lower than 70 degrees is indicated for correction. For small children, the opening of the cuneonavicular and first cuneometatarsal joint with a slight transposition of the tibialis anterior is preferred. In older children, open wedge osteotomy of the medial cuneiform is done. For correction of calcaneocuboid displacement, no open reduction is performed even if a +2 displacement of the cuboid is seen on AP radiograph, because self-existent reduction occurred. However, closed stabilisation of this joint by K-wire is performed. A stable subtalar complex can be rotated as a block during partial or complete subtalar release.
For unstable fractures of the femoral shaft, the current interlocking nails are the most reliable fixation. However, these procedures require the use of an image amplifier for targeting the distal screws, and are expensive, ancillary instrumentation and an extensive stock of numerous nail sizes with various diameters, sides, and lengths is necessary.
We report a consecutive series of 60 unstable femoral fractures treated with the Endolock nail. This closed 11 mm diameter nail is introduced after little or no reaming. Distal fixation is achieved by means of a spur that unfolds from the nail and fixes into the posterior metaphysis. Radiological control during the procedure is recommended but not mandatory.
Fusion was achieved in all cases but three (5%). Two were aseptic in the same patient who presented two upper limb non-unions, and one with infection (little or no reaming was used in the nine open fractures). Eight moderate mal-unions were observed (angulation < 10°, external rotation < 20°, shortening < 20 mm) but did not require re-operation. All of these were the consequence of insufficient reduction of the fractures. No secondary displacement occurred between operation and fusion. No complications related to spur penetration or removal were observed.
The Endolock nail allows satisfactory interlocking without the mandatory use of an image amplifier, with little or no reaming, and at a low cost.
Acetabular dysplasia is the most common cause of secondary osteoarthritis of the hip joint resulting in many young adults requiring total hip replacement (THR). Although THR has a predictably good functional result, the longevity of prosthetic replacement in this young cohort of patients has been notably inconsistent. Therefore, there has been an increasing interest in better methods for treating acetabular dysplasia in young adults with the emphasis shifting from the femoral to the acetabular side during the last 10 years.
For reorientation of the acetabular fragment to improve coverage, various pelvic and periacetabular osteotomies have been proposed. Most necessitate more than one incision and change of patient position. The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) combines complete and incomplete osteotomies, as well as a controlled fracture requiring only one approach. This is beneficial for the vascular supply of the acetabular fragment and allows an additional anterior capsulotomy without restrictions.
The osteotomies of the PAO are close to the joint and therefore allow a pronounced acetabular reorientation similar to juxta-articular triple osteotomies. Moreover, anteversion and medialization/lateralization of the center of rotation can be corrected with only minimal changes of the pelvic geometry. This enables a normal delivery in young females. The partially remaining posterior column protects the sciatic nerve from iatrogenic damage. The polygonal shape of the osteotomy and avoidance of soft tissue stripping (abductors) are advantageous for the stabilization of the reoriented fragment, thus facilitating early mobilization and rehabilitation.
Seventy-five dysplastic hips with a minimal follow-up of 10 years after PAO were evaluated. There were good to excellent result in 73% of these patients. The mean lateral center edge angle increased from 6° to 34° and the mean anterior center edge angle improved from 4° to 28°. The post-osteotomy index angle was successfully reduced from an average of 26° to 6°. Lateralisation of the femoral head was reduced from an average 16° to 10° compared to 11° on the contralateral side. Femoral head cranialisation also normalized from 9° to 4° compared to 5° on the opposite hip. Poor results were correlated with older patients, pre-existing arthritis, labral pathology, and mal-correction. Treatment of labral lesions was performed only as a supplementary measure if the labrum was unstable and included either refixation or resection.
The PAO is a technically demanding procedure, and is unforgiving of seemingly minor imprecision. With the fact that 85% of our major complications occurred within the first fifty osteotomies, it is obvious that a learning curve exists for this procedure. It is imperative that surgeons undertaking this procedure do so with a full understanding of each stage and have the necessary patience, attention to detail and adequate cadaveric experience with the technique.
We examined a group of 26 patients (28 hip joints) with postdysplastic osteoarthritis who were operated in 1995 and 1996.
The Zweymüller Bicon prosthesis was used in all cases. Only patients with dysplasia Type B and C according to Eftekhar were included. By the method of Ranawat and Pagnana, the true acetabular region and the approximate femoral head centre were determined on preoperative and postoperative radiographs. The patients were controlled in 1999 with HHS. Antero-posterior radiographs of the pelvis and lateral radiographs of the acetabulum according to Zweymüller were made in all hips.
In most of the operated hip joints the true center of the rotation differed from the ideal centre, with the maximal difference being 18 mm cranially. Cranial placement of the cup occurred more frequently in Type C. No patient was reoperated, and as determined by radiographs, there were no indications of loosening in the acetabular and femoral components.
The Zweymüller Bicon total hip joint endoprosthesis is suitable in most cases of postdysplastic osteoarhritis of the hip. No special or individual implant was necessary in 1995 and 1996. Good primary stability and a good result was achieved in all cases. We consider this type of hip implant as especially useful in CDH osteoarthritis.
Patients with hip dysplasia that are to be managed with total hip replacement constitute a special group of arthroplasty candidates. Each patient will need to be treated according to his or her anatomical pattern. The important point to remember is that dysplasia in itself is not a contraindication to cementless hip replacement. However, there are certain points that need to be taken into account in the management of this special patient population.
The surgical technique must be appropriate; in particular, cup medialisation is an important feature. The implant system used should be modular so as to permit a large number of combinations, and it also should provide cups for hard bone and cups for soft (osteoporotic) bone, as well as anti-dislocation inserts. Such a system will also allow limb length to be corrected, usually without reference to the centre of rotation of the hip joint. The primary objective is the positioning of the cup in the native bone stock at a site that will ensure optimum primary stability. If an adjunctive shelf procedure is considered necessary, any buttressing done will have to be performed after the cup itself has been stably implanted.
In our centre between 1993 and 1995, 122 were patients with dysplastic hips. One hundred and eleven of these hips were clinically and radiologically followed-up by the author. Mean follow-up was 4.1 years (range 2.1 to 6.1 years). Typically, there were more women than men: 88 cups were implanted in female patients and 23 in male patients. The average age at surgery was 53 years. The youngest patient in the series was 19 years of age and the oldest was 77. Coxa vara osteochondritica (25 cases) was treated as a separate diagnostic and management group. In 17 cases previous acetabuloplasties had been done, usually a Chiari osteotomy. In terms of severity of the dysplasia, 67 hips were Grade I, 36 were Grade II, and eight were Grade III according to Randelli.
All patients were managed with our biconical threaded cup made of commercially pure titanium. In 91 cases the Standard version, designed for use in normal or in hard bone, was employed. The Porosis type of cup, with a 46% greater thread surface area, was chosen in 20 cases. Antidislocation inserts were used in two cases. Conical cups are inserted with prestress and do not therefore require additional fixation with screws or lugs. The most important instrument for the achievement of optimum implant positioning is the medialising reamer with an aggressive front-cutting action. The use of this instrument allows sufficient bony coverage to be obtained to allow fixation of the titanium cup in the host bone with a good primary stability.
The following standard radiographs were used in the analysis: (1) AP view of the operated hip and the contralateral hip; (2) AP and axial views of the operated femur; (3) monitor-controlled AP view of the cup. In 110 cases the position of the cup had not changed during the follow-up period and cranial migration was seen in one case. This case and an additional one were judged to be “at risk” since the patients were pain-free and the position of the implants had remained unchanged for the past two years. These two patients also had more than 2 mm Zone III lucencies. In both cases a superior (Zone I) sclerotic area was found to have developed postoperatively. This pattern differed from the one observed in patients with stable implants, in whom the extent of preoperative sclerosis was significantly reduced following arthroplasty. This regression of sclerosis around a stable implant suggests that the implantation of the titanium cup results in an improvement of the periacetabular stress pattern. In 84 cases there was evidence of increasing integration of the implant; in 22 cases no bony response could be detected, i.e., there was neither apposition of new bone nor loss of existing bone stock. In one case part of the rim of the titanium cup was found to have broken off superiorly. This patient has been recently revised with an exchange of the cup. At revision the cup was found to be so soundly osseointegrated to the extent that it could be removed only after being cut up with a diamond tool. None of the other patients have required revision to date, and none are scheduled for revision as a result of follow-up.
The clinical results of cemented hip arthroplasty in patients with DDH are excellent in terms of pain relief and implant longevity. The survivorship of the femoral stem in young patients less than 40 years of age is 97% at ten years and falls to 89% at 25 years. In comparison, survivorship of the acetabular component is 97% at ten years but falls to 58% at 25 years. The excellent survivorship of the femoral stem can be explained by a favourable canal flair index, competent cancellous bone, and secure fixation with acrylic cement. The inferior results of the acetabular component are explained by the distorted pelvic anatomy and lack of bone support for the acetabular component. We continue to recommend cemented hip arthroplasty in this cohort of patients. Our current practice is to use fourth generation cementing techniques and to employ autografting of the acetabulum to address some of the anatomical deficiencies of the original anatomy.
Classification systems for open fractures help the surgeon to follow guidelines for treatment, to predict the prognosis, and to allow comparison of results. The systems of Gustilo and Anderson and of Oestern and Tscherne are most widely used. Although both systems have undergone several revisions, the crucial factors have not changed. They deal with the size of the wound, level of contamination, extent of soft tissue injury, and comminution of bone.
In recent years additional classification systems have been created to classify severe open fractures (type III), mainly of the lower extremity. The Mangled Extremity Severity Score (MESS) became the most practicable score for establishing a dividing line between possible functional limb salvage and the need for primary amputation.
Management: The principle of surgical debridement of all necrotic tissues has to be followed. Nowadays, soft tissue coverage and restoration of lost bone can be achieved secondarily by different means. However, the method of primary skeletal stabilization has a high impact on the final outcome after open diaphyseal fractures.
Upper extremity: Most open fractures of the humerus and forearm can be stabilized sufficiently with plates. Because of the good soft tissue coverage of the humerus and proximal forearm and the good blood supply of this region, coverage of implants can usually be achieved in cases with vast soft tissue destruction and severe bone comminution. External fixation with the option of primary shortening and secondary bone transport is a good alternative in cases of humeral fracture. Indications for intramedullary nailing are limited to minor open fractures that do not require radial nerve exploration. At the distal forearm, the thin soft tissue layer and the necessity of two approaches often make coverage of plates impossible. External fixation is the method of choice in these cases.
Lower extremity: Femoral fractures are a domain for intramedullary nailing. The indications for nailing are restricted more by systemic factors rather than by the extent of soft tissue injury. The advantages of intramedullary nailing are based on the closed surgical procedure that leaves the actual fracture site untouched. Static interlocking ensures axial and rotational stability and warrants early functional treatment and weight-bearing mobilisation. External fixation is indicated as emergency treatment, and plating should be restricted to condylar and supracondylar fractures.
Tibial fractures leaving 7 cm intact bone proximally and 5 cm distally can be sufficiently stabilized by intramedullary locking nails. In cases of open fractures, small diameter nails can be inserted in the unreamed technique without deterioration of the endosteal vascular supply. This method has better reported results concerning time to union, axial alignment, joint function, and infection rates in comparison with the use of external fixation devices. However, external fixation is an adequate method, especially in cases with extreme proximal and distal fractures. If insufficient stabilization or delayed union with the use of unreamed nails or external fixators occurs, reamed nailing can be performed in a second step with good results. Plating should be restricted to tibial head and pylon fractures.
The cranial cup is now a standardised implant in acetabular revision surgery. In order to illustrate the positive results of a standardised implant in acetabular revision surgery in comparison to other possibilities of reconstruction, we analysed results of all data in our study group.
Aseptic loosening of implants often causes segmental and cavitary acetabular deficiency. Experiences gained in radical tumour surgery with reconstruction by custommade endoprostheses induced the development of the cranial cup for revision total hip arthroplasty. This new cementless revision cup has an oval shape and a special cranial flap, as well as an intramedullary rod if necessary.
This type of cranial cup has been used since 1993. From 9/97 to 1/99, we implanted 30 cranial cups in revision hip surgery and collected all data of these patients prospectively. Clinical and x-ray follow-up was documented on a regular basis.
Acetabular deficiency occurred twice in type 1, five times in type 2, twenty-two times in type 3 and once in type 4. The AAOS D’Antonio score was used. Cranial cups were implanted without cranial flap in 10 cases, with cranial flap in 20 cases and once using the intramedullary rod additionally. Only 28 patients were included in our last examination because one patient had died and one was bedridden because of a reason other than the hip. The Harris hip score increased from an average of 32 points preoperatively to 63 points postoperatively. Twenty-one patients are satisfied or very satisfied with their surgery. Radiograph examinations showed an average inclination angle of 42.5° in all cranial cups.
Up to now there have been complications in four patients who suffered luxations, but only one required a change of inlay. One intraoperative injury of the urinary bladder had to be revised later. Three implants showed a change of position in x-ray. One was the patient with the urinary bladder injury and possible septic loosening, the second was a patient with extreme osteoporosis, and the third was a patient who did not receive an intramedullary rod for a type 4 lesions. Currently, these three patients do not have any complaints.
We have always achieved primary stability. Morselised bone autografts or bone substitute materials were used to fill remaining defects. An intramedullary rod should be used in pelvis discontinuity and is obligatory to achieve the necessary stability. Developed from the experiences of custom-made tumour endoprostheses, the cranial cup with all possible variations is an appropriate intraoperative variable implant in revision acetabular surgery.
We report our clinical experience with the first 54 cases of long bone fractures treated with the Fixion IM Nail. This innovative nailing system eliminates the need for interlocking screws and reaming of the medullary canal when the nailing of a long bone fracture is needed, offers a minimally invasive procedure for intramedullary nailing, and significantly reduces fluoroscopy exposure. Biomechanically, the nail assumes the hourglass shape of the medullary canal by its abutment to the medullary walls. The formation of a supporting forces entity, that could be defined as “the bone-nail supporting forces system entity,” becomes practically an integral part of the medullary walls at the points of attachment.
In order to avoid using interlocking screws and reaming of the medullary canal when the nailing of a long bone fracture is required, the “FIXION IMN” system was proposed.
Since March 1999 we have implanted 54 Fixion Intramedullary Nails for traumatic and pathological fractures in 50 patients with a mean age of 52 years (18 to 85). Among these patients, 33 had humeral fractures, 13 had tibial fractures, and 8 had femoral fractures; the pathological fracture cases consisted of 4 humeral cases and 1 femoral case. The Fixion IM Nail system consists essentially of four longitudinal bars connected radially by four thin membranes. The nail is sealed proximally with a unidirectional valve. During insertion, the nail is connected to a driver handle which assists with insertion and serves as a conduit for the saline during the expansion process. Inflation of the nail is by means of a pump that connects to the driver handle. Once in position, the nail is expanded by inflation under controlled pressure with saline. The expansion causes abutment of the longitudinal bars to the inner surface of the canal along the entire length, resulting in fixation of the fracture. The procedure is monitored fluoroscopically and clinically to ensure accurate reduction of the fracture.
The surgeries were uneventful. Postoperative complications were not reported in any of the cases. The nail was inserted easily and good fixation was achieved. The patients made a complete recovery with early pain-free mobilisation and full range of motion.
The outcomes of the Berman-Gartland osteotomy in 26 feet (20 children) from 1995 to 1999 were evaluated. Average age at time of operation: 8 years, 3 months (range 37 to 194 months). Average age at follow-up: 2 years, 5 months (range 2 to 70 months).
The osteotomy is performed in tourniquet from three lengthwise incisions and fixed by Kirschner wires and plaster of Paris for six weeks. Only patients with idiopathic PEC were included in this study. Average age at time of primary operation was ten months. For analysis, the type and percentage of preceding operations were: pantalar release (40%), posterior release (12%), and tendo calcaneus elongation (8%). Eight feet (30%) were not primarily surgically treated. Indicated for metatarsal osteotomy were: footwear difficulty (92%), gait instability (65%), and muscle spasm (56%). Average adduction deformity of the forefoot was clinically assessed as 30 degrees (20 to 45 degrees). Forefoot rigidity was evaluated according to Black as grade II (14 feet) and grade III (12 feet).
Radiograph assessment was made by the use of T-I.MTT and C-V.MTT angle changes in the dorsoplantar weight-bearing view. We succeeded in correcting the average values of T-I.MTT angle from 28 degrees (range 20 to 43 degrees) preoperatively to 4 degrees (range 2 to 15 degrees) postoperatively, and C-V.MTT angle from 16 degrees (range 8 to 24 degrees) to 2 degrees (range -5 to 7 degrees). Isolated metatarsal varus deformity was found in 12 feet, in combination with talo-navicalar joint hypercorrection in nine feet, and in combination with residual talo-navicular joint subluxation in five feet.
Calcaneocuboid joint displacement was classified as grade I and II in 16 and 3 feet respectively. Preoperative residual displacement was not found in seven feet.
Complications were noted in three metatarsal nonunions (2% of 130 osteotomized metatarses), four pin migrations, one superficial infection, and one persistent forefoot swelling.
At final follow-up, clinical findings and outcomes were assessed as excellent in 16 feet (62%) and good in 10 feet (38%). We recorded no inferior result. An apparent relationship was not found between the type and timing of preceding operations and varus forefoot deformity persistence. In 19 feet (73%), residual grade I and grade II tibial subluxation of the cuboid bone was found.
The purpose of our study was to estimate the influence of previous fractures and operative procedures around the hip, the follow-up period from the arthroplasty, and effect of the age of patients at the time of surgery on the results of total hip replacement in patients with a history of fracture of the hip.
Forty-six patients were analysed after a mean follow-up of 6 years after arthroplasty. There were 34 females and 12 males. Mean age at the time of operation was 65 years (range 32 to 82). The reasons for arthroplasty were displaced subcapital femoral neck fracture in 23 patients (50%), failure of internal fixation for femoral neck fracture in nine patients (20%), and posttraumatic osteoarthritis of the hip in 14 patients (30%) that included six patients with a history of fracture of the acetabulum. Results were assessed with the Merle d’Aubigne Postel scale (evaluation of gait, range of motion, pain). Radiographic findings were classified according to the Moreland Grouen scale. Quality of life after arthroplasty and subjective assessment of patients was recorded.
Results were: 33 (71%) satisfactory, 14 (30%) excellent, and 19 (41%) good. Thirteen (29%) were classified as unsatisfactory: 9 (20%) fair and 4 (9%) poor. Patients with acute fracture or non-union of the femoral neck showed the best results: 11 excellent and 8 good. The poorest results were in the group of patients with osteoarthritis following acetabular fracture treated by total hip replacement: 3 were classified as fair and 3 as poor. Twelve cases of internal fixation of the femoral neck before arthroplasty had no influence on the final outcome. Although none of the patients returned to their previous occupation, subjective assessment showed 27 (59%) and 14 (30%) with excellent and good results, respectively. There was no significant relationship between age of patient and the final outcome of total hip arthroplasty.
Total hip arthroplasty following hip injury provided satisfactory long-term results. Previous history of internal fixation had no influence on final outcome. The poorest results were achieved in patients with a history of acetabular fracture. Patients’ subjective assessment was satisfactory in most cases despite radiological evidence of loosening of the prosthesis in a statistically insignificant number of patients.
The goal of the present study was to evaluate the results of a one-stage operation performed on dislocated hips in children with infantile cerebral palsy. Our data indicate that the one-stage operation is a quite useful method to treat hip dislocation in children with infantile cerebral palsy. Based on our experience we emphasize the use of an individual operation plan in every instance. In selected cases it seems to be justified to ignore an element of the method.
We used the radiological findings for evaluation by comparing the geometric parameters in the affected hips before and after surgery.
During the last ten years, 21 dislocated hips in 13 patients were operated on by the one-stage surgical technique used at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery of University Medical School of Pécs. The technique consists of the following steps: open reduction, iliopsoas tendon transfer, and femoral varus derotational osteotomy with shortening, modified Tönnis acetabuloplasty, and open adductor tenotomy. Spastic diplegia occurred in eight children and hemiplegia in five. During this period, eight girls and five boys were operated, with 12 procedures on the right hip and 9 on the left. Mean age was 11.4 years. The average age of the children at the time of operations was 6.5 years. In eight hips of five children, all elements of the surgery were carried out in one sitting; in six hips of four children the surgery was performed without acetabuloplasty. In nine hips of seven children there was no need for open reduction, and in six hips of five children we used deep frozen allograft to perform acetabuloplasty. A varus derotational femoral osteotomy with shortening was a part of the surgical approach in all cases.
We evaluated Hilgenreiner (H), Wieberg (CE) and collodiaphyseal (CCD) angle preoperatively and postoperatively. The average preoperative H angle decreased from 39.7 to 24 degrees postoperatively. The average preoperative CE angle increased from minus 18.6 to 31.9 degrees postoperatively. The minus means that all of the patients had dislocation in their hips. The average preoperative CCD angle decreased from 165.2 to 131.4 degrees postoperatively. The results were evaluated by the modified Severin classification based on age and anatomical changes of hips: 17 cases were evaluated as excellent, 2 as good, and 2 as acceptable.
We did not see any complications such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head, absolute revalgisation (compared to the opposite side), subluxation, re-dislocation, or disturbed development of the acetabulum.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the longterm results of 736 cases of operatively treated clubfeet, and to examine if there is any difference in the results between our patients and referred patients.
A follow-up examination was carried out in 736 cases of clubfeet operated on between 1966 and 1990. The average follow-up period was 14.7 years. Treatment was based on three pillars: well-organized care, conservative treatment and early operative treatment. In all of the reviewed cases, posteromedial soft tissue release was performed. Surgical intervention was indicated in cases of residual deformity after conservative treatment, cases of recurrent deformity, and cases of untreated clubfeet. Clinical evaluation contained the examination of residual deformities and the passive and active motions of the foot. In the radiological assessment, the anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle, the lateral talocalcaneal angle and the talometatarsal angle was measured.
In the clinical evaluations equinus deformity was found in 3.35%, varus in 7.23%, valgus in 8.55%, adducted forefoot in 30.8%, inflexion of the forefoot in 7.14%, and overcorrection to the vertical talus in 3.35%. Range of motion was normal in only 36% of the cases. Average anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle was 13.05 preoperatively and 22.13 postoperatively. Average lateral talocalcaneal angle was 10.78 preoperatively and 27.66 postoperatively. Average talometatarsal angle changed from 26 to 5.5 after the operation. The overall success rate of the operated cases was 65%.
After long-term follow-up, 65% of the cases were classified as successful. When comparing our patients with referred patients, there were considerable differences found in the rate of reoperation, age at the time of the first operation, and also in the results. These differences point out the importance of the early beginning of operative treatment, with regular follow-up and care.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the longterm results of 736 cases of operatively treated clubfeet, and to examine if there is any difference in the results between our patients and referred patients.
A follow-up examination was carried out in 736 cases of clubfeet operated on between 1966 and 1990. The average follow-up period was 14.7 years. Treatment was based on three pillars: well-organized care, conservative treatment and early operative treatment. In all of the reviewed cases, posteromedial soft tissue release was performed. Surgical intervention was indicated in cases of residual deformity after conservative treatment, cases of recurrent deformity, and cases of untreated clubfeet. Clinical evaluation contained the examination of residual deformities and the passive and active motions of the foot. In the radiological assessment, the anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle, the lateral talocalcaneal angle and the talometatarsal angle was measured.
In the clinical evaluations equinus deformity was found in 3.35%, varus in 7.23%, valgus in 8.55%, adducted forefoot in 30.8%, inflexion of the forefoot in 7.14%, and overcorrection to the vertical talus in 3.35%. Range of motion was normal in only 36% of the cases. Average anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle was 13.05 preoperatively and 22.13 postoperatively. Average lateral talocalcaneal angle was 10.78 preoperatively and 27.66 postoperatively. Average talometatarsal angle changed from 26 to 5.5 after the operation. The overall success rate of the operated cases was 65%.
After long-term follow-up, 65% of the cases were classified as successful. When comparing our patients with referred patients, there were considerable differences found in the rate of reoperation, age at the time of the first operation, and also in the results. These differences point out the importance of the early beginning of operative treatment, with regular follow-up and care.
This study was performed to evaluate whether derotation and/or translation are the correct mechanisms of bracing with the Chenau brace in treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Bracing in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is an accepted procedure. Variable types of braces with different correction principles are in use. The Boston and the Milwaukee brace correction mechanisms seem to be clear, but not for the Chenau brace which is said to be an inspiration/ derotation device.
Curves were measured according to Cobb and rotation of the apex vertebra was determined according to Perdriooe. Translation of the apex vertebra perpendicular to the centre sacral line was measured according to Mason and Carango. Measurements were performed on standing radiographs AP and were taken immediately before starting therapy, six months afterwards to ascertain initial correction, and at least one year after treatment. Compliance was judged as follows: regular and frequent control examinations, an obviously used brace, and visible skin signs. Two groups were formed (Group A: good compliance, n=33, Group B: bad compliance, n=22).
In Group A, continuous curve correction of 6° Cobb angle was evident. Patients in Group B showed a mean curve progression of 4° (t=test, p=0.003). After six months of therapy, both groups demonstrated signifi- cant apex translation (Group A: p=0.0001, Group B: p=0.0003). The difference between the groups was not significant, but no significant derotation of the apex vertebrae.
At follow-up patients with good compliance showed almost the same apex distance as before therapy, whereas deterioration was evident in Group B (p=0.01). The difference of p=0.04 between the two groups was significant. Apex rotation was significantly increased in both groups (Group A: p=0.02, Group B: p=0.03) and the difference between the two groups was not significant.
Curve correction in idiopathic scoliosis with the Chenau brace is a translation process and can be determined as a shift of the apex vertebra to the centre sacral line. Therefore, the Chenau brace is not a derotation device.
The aim of our study was to determine whether preoperative preparation by means of a video film could influence postoperative hip motion. The video shows a patient undergoing total hip replacement surgery covering the time period from admission to discharge, and keeping strictly to the patient’s perspective.
In 1958 Janis opened up the field of research on preoperative psychological states and postoperative recovery. Since then, numerous studies have been performed and a variety of variables were demonstrated to influence postoperative outcome. Our study takes into consideration the results of previous research and provides a new combination of methods for psychological preparation prior to surgery.
One hundred patients scheduled for elective total hip replacement surgery for osteoarthritis of the hip joint were randomly assigned to a control group (n=54) and a preparation group (n=46). The preparation group was shown the videotape on the evening before surgery. The video gives the pre-surgical patient the opportunity to identify with a patient who had successfully undergone surgery before. Physical examination, including motion analysis of the hip, was performed. Range of hip motion was documented in degrees with reference to neutral joint position.
Flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, and external/ internal rotation in 90° hip flexion were investigated. For range of motion analysis, sum scores were calculated.
Motion analysis revealed no preoperative difference between the groups. Three months after surgery, the increase of joint mobility (preoperative versus postoperative) in prepared patients was significantly better for internal rotation (32%, p=0.005), rotational range of motion (21%, p=0.03) and abduction (22%, p=0.04). Heterotopic ossifications were identified on plain AP radiographs and were judged according to the score of Brooker, et al. Incidence did not differ between groups. Twelve months postoperatively, the increase (preoperative versus follow-up) of rotational range of motion (24%, p=0.01) remained unchanged in prepared patients, whereas an increase of abduction could no longer be revealed. Flexion/extension and sagittal range of motion did not show any differences three and twelve months postoperatively.
Our videotape preparation led to an increase of motion after total hip replacement. Regarding rotational range of motion, this effect still remained twelve months after surgery.
This study examined the reliability of pre-operative templating of the femur in total hip replacement (THR), and the accuracy of the templates provided by leading arthroplasty manufacturers. Templates are provided by arthroplasty manufacturers to be used with pre-operative radiographs as an aid to selecting the appropriate size of prosthesis that will allow an optimal cement mantle in THR. These templates vary in magnification from 10-20% (Mode 15%).
A retrospective review of the pre- and post-operative AP pelvis radiographs of 50 randomly selected patients who underwent THR in 1998 was performed. The radiographs were taken using the uniform standard technique. The magnification of the post-op radiograph was calculated by measuring the femoral head size. This was compared to the magnification of the pre-op radiographs using the ratio of the inter-teardrop distance. The post-operative radiographs were templated using a 15% template and compared to the size of prosthesis inserted.
The mean radiograph magnification was 22.5% (range 10.7 to 32.6%), with the majority (74%) between 20–25%. The 15% template oversized the prosthesis in 68% of cases. A 10% template would have been inaccurate in 96% of our sample group.
In a standard AP pelvis radiograph, the only variable that affects magnification is the extent to which the patient’s soft tissues raise the bony structures away from the plate. This variation in magnification renders preoperative templating of the femur in THR unreliable. Accuracy could be improved by using templates with a magnification of 22.5%.
This report concerns an operative technique using inexpensive pre-polymerised cement discs as a means of addressing the bone loss from the posterior femoral condyles found during revision total knee replacement.
Bone lost from the posterior condyles in the loosened femoral component of a total knee replacement enlarges the flexion gap at revision. Downsizing the femoral component to fit the remaining bone requires a thicker tibial insert and a proximalised new femoral component to maintain balanced gaps in flexion and extension. Patella infera results from this proximalisation of the joint line and interferes with the extensor apparatus.
Some knee systems offer customised components with thickened posterior femoral condyles or provide the surgeon with the option of adding metal augments to the femoral component to manage the posterior femoral bone loss.
This technique has been applied to ten cases (follow- up ranging from 15 to 46 months) in which inexpensive pre-polymerised cement spacers were incorporated into the posterior femoral cement mass. This allowed the use of primary stemmed components with preservation of the original joint line position.
No case has resulted in loosening although two cases have required further revision due to recurrence of their original infection. At revision of these cases the cement discs remained firmly incorporated in the cement mass.
We conclude that this technique is reliable, inexpensive and could be applied to other prosthetic varieties.
The choice of treatment for open fractures is conditioned by the care of bone and soft tissue. Grade I open fractures can be treated as closed fractures, according to the centre’s protocol. In Grade II open fractures skin wounds must be left open, and the suture should be delayed for at least a week. Most authors perform fixation by means of intramedullary nails.
In our opinion, external fixation is the best choice in these cases. The skin cannot be closed in Grade III open fractures, and the basic point of treatment is adequate surgical debridement. The fixation must be done by external fixation. To achieve the treatment in an emergency situation, the device to be used must be quick and simple like a monolateral device that can be changed into a more complex one, such as an Ilizarov.
The Ilizarov technique uses distractional osteogenesis that can fill bone and soft tissue loss without further bone or soft tissue grafting.
Following these general guidelines, each district has its own particular approach to treating open fractures. Internal fixation by DCP plates is always indicated for forearm fractures. For a humerus fracture, simple direct shortening and external fixation can fill bone loss. Patients with fractures of the femur usually have multiple injuries. The problem is to provide a quick fixation in order to allow for easier intensive care. External fixation is the most indicated technique.
The aim of the study was to review the role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the spine in discitis in the toddler age group (one to three years).
Discitis presents differently in different age groups of children. It is most difficult to diagnose in the uncommunicative non-compliant toddler. The clinical features are often non-specific and laboratory and microbiological tests can be unhelpful. A highly sensitive test is required to aid in making the diagnosis. Although MR Imaging has been used in discitis for several years, we reviewed its actual effectiveness in this specific difficult age group.
At a mean of 21 months at follow-up (range 10 to 40), MR imaging of the disc was variable, with partial recovery after 15 months and complete recovery after 34 months. Routine follow-up MR imaging was not recommended.
We reviewed the role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in eleven consecutive cases, both at presentation and at a follow-up clinic.
MR imaging was diagnostic in all cases, reduced the diagnostic delay, and often avoided a disc biopsy. It demonstrated any paravertebral inflammatory collection, which helped in determining the duration of the oral therapy given after the initial intravenous antibiotics.
Objective scoring techniques for back pain are increasingly being used both in the pre-operative selection of patients and as a post-operative outcome measure. Our aim was to determine the strength of correlation between three main scoring techniques used to quantify the severity of the back or leg pain on presentation to a chronic back pain clinic.
The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), the Medical Outcomes Study 36 item Short Form Health Survey (SF36), and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were competed by 130 patients between July and December 1999. There were 65 males and 65 females with the mean age of 49 years. The patients were divided into three groups: with back pain only, sciatic leg pain only, and those with both. The correlation was analysed using the Pearson correlation test.
There was a good correlation between the Oswestry Disability Index and Visual Analogue Scale for patients with back pain (r=0.641, p< 0.001) and with sciatic leg pain (r=0.469, p< .001). The physical component of the SF36 strongly correlates with the VAS in back pain (r=0.364) and sciatic leg pain (r=1). However there is a poor correlation between the ODI and VAS and all other components of the SF36.
The purpose of our study was to compare the mechanical nature of nails with different cross-sections in order to optimise the elasticity-stability ratio. There is no doubt that elastic intramedullary osteosynthesis is a successful choice for treating femoral shaft fractures in children. However, misalignment is a potential problem connected with stability of the fixation.
The mechanics of two types of nails with the same type of surface, but with different kind of cross sections – a circle (Ender) and an ellipse – was examined using the “finite elements” method.
The standard configuration of the two nails was put under four kinds of deforming forces: bending in the frontal plane and the sagital plane, torsion, and axial compression. Strength coefficient and stiffness were calculated in each particular situation.
In respect to angular stability (frontal plane) and axial compression, the mechanical characteristics of the two types of nails are similar. The stability of the elliptical nail is higher in bending in the sagital plane and in torsion. The elliptical implant has better intramedullary cohesion because the large half-axis is perpendicular to the sagital plane.
Nails with an elliptical cross section provide the opportunity for redistribution of stiffness. As a result, better mechanical properties are achieved. The elliptical cross section assures better intramedullary cohesion.
The various surgical prosthetic solutions in coxarthrosis on a dysplastic basis were evaluated in a critical way.
In our institute more than 3,750 hip prostheses were implanted from 1994 to 1999, and 366 (9.76%) were used for dysplastic coxarthrosis. This high percentage can be explained by the particular geographical position of our institute that has patients coming from the Lombardia region area where CDH is endemic.
Our evaluations consider the highest number of possible parameters in order to realize which is the most modern and reliable surgical solution. Of course, each case is individual and our advantage is to have a prosthesis that is the most suitable for each patient.
The number and type of prostheses used were: 27 ABG, 35 CONUS, 25 CUSTOM MADE, 7 HN, 5 MALLORY, 35 OMNIFLEX, 3 PARHOFER PLASMAPORE, 4 PERSONALISED CUSTOM MADE, 3 RIPPEN, 18 RMHS, 45 SAMO PG, 130 ZWEYMULLER, 18 P507, 6 OMNIFIT, and 5 GYPSE.
From our unique perspective we can consider that in the last several years the use of a cemented prosthesis is progressively disappearing (less than 13%). The use of a cementless prosthesis in young patients (age range 20 to 65) preserves bone stock during implantation, placement and replacement when necessary. If the patient’s age and general conditions allow, we generally operate both dysplastic hips in one stage.
All cases were evaluated with DEXA, which provides qualitative and quantitative data about the periprosthetic bone stock. Various parameters were studied, including restoration of normal biomechanics, centre of rotation, equalisation of limb-length, the Trendelenburg sign, and nerve complications.
A “hands-on” composite gives a similar functional result as a custom-made prosthesis and has a much better function than alternative techniques. Less expensive and more flexible than custom-made prostheses, it can be used even when no part of the iliac wing remains. The use of cement permits the adjunction of antibiotics needed for these complicated cases.
After periacetabular resection for bone sarcoma, a reconstructive procedure is necessary to stabilize the hip, avoid limb discrepancy, and permit full weight bearing. This procedure needs to be easy to perform because resection of the area is time and blood consuming. This leads to the use of a “hands-on” composite prosthesis.
Our reconstructive procedure uses a titanium cup with a long screw that is fixed in the remaining bone (sacrum or spine). When the cup is firmly fixed to the bone, the gap between the cup and bone is filled with cement loaded with antibiotics, and the polyethylene component is cemented on the innominate prosthesis. The femoral component of a usual hip total prosthesis is then implanted.
Since 1990 we have used this reconstructive procedure in 50 patients, 27 with bone sarcomas involving the acetabulum (11 chondrosarcomas, 9 Ewing’s sarcomas and 7 other sarcomas) and 23 for metastatic disease. Thirty of these patients were already metastatic when operated. The average duration of the reconstructive procedure was 45 minutes. Walking started from the fourth to tenth day after operation, but full weight bearing was usually authorised after six weeks.
Postoperative complications were frequent. Seven deep infections occurred, four required ablation of the prosthesis, and one would benefit from a saddle prosthesis. 33% of the patients had postoperative dislocation of the hip prosthesis and 13 patients had to be reoperated. Only two loosenings have been observed – one after deep infection and one after local recurrence in the sacral bone. Oncologic results: With a mean follow-up of five years, 28 patients died of disease and one from an unrelated disease. Four others with disease are still living. Seven local recurrences were observed (four in chondrosarcomas with a contaminated resection). The difficulty in obtaining wide margins explains the high rate of local recurrence (14 %). For patients with localised disease, the five-year overall survival rate is 75% and the five-year disease-free survival rate is 60%.
According to the Society for Musculoskeletal Oncology criteria, orthopaedic results were excellent in 7 patients, good in 30, fair in 6, and bad in 6. The mean functional score of 46 patients who still have their prostheses is 83% with usually no pain, excellent acceptance, length discrepancy of less than 1 cm, average flexion of 100 degrees, and unlimited walking without support.
We conclude that the rapidity and flexibility of this procedure are the positive aspects of this reconstructive technique. However, perfect positioning of the prosthesis remains difficult in a very large periacetabular resection. A computed guide is of great help to specify safe margins and prosthesis positioning. Longer follow-up is needed to ensure that the rate of late loosening will not be too high.
We compared the clinical and radiological effects of the Salter and the Chiari pelvic osteotomy on congruent dysplastic adolescent hips with mild symptoms and free of degenerative changes.
The Salter innominate osteotomy has a significant role in the surgery of paediatric hips with significant elasticity of triradiate cartilage, while the Chiari procedure is reserved for incongruent dysplasia with mild or moderate arthrosis in adolescents or young adults. Neither of these operative procedures is an ideal indication for congruent dysplastic adolescent hips free of arthrosis. Hypothetically, the residual remodelling potentials of immature congruent dysplastic adolescent hips can be sufficient to overcome the disadvantages of the Salter and the Chiari osteotomy and give good, long-lasting results. The effects of these quite different procedures in two homologous groups were compared.
There were 30 hips treated with Chiari and 25 hips corrected by Salter osteotomy. All hips were congruently dysplastic according to the distance between the centres of the femoral head and the acetabulum (Klaue et al., classification). Groups were homologous considering mean age (14.5 years), follow-up period (8.5 years), presence of preoperative pain, Trendelenburg sign, and degenerative changes. Assessment for pain and Trendelenburg sign was made at follow-up. Radiological measurement was made of the central-edge angle of Wiberg (CE), acetabular angle of Sharp (AAS), and the femoral head coverage index of Heyman and Herndon (FHC). Progression of degenerative changes was analysed according to the criteria of Kellgren and Lawrence.
At follow-up in the Chiari group, presence of pain was reduced from 54% to 6.6%, and from 35% to 12% in the Salter group. The presence of Trendelenburg sign was reduced 3% in the Chiari group and remained the same in the Salter group. At control, mean values of radiological parameters were normal in both groups (Salter: CE-27.8°, AIS-36.8°, ING-82.8%; Chiari: CE-36.8°; AIS-39.7°; ING-90.8%). Individual analysis showed 16% of dysplastic hips in the Salter group, and none in the Chiari group. Only one hip (4%) had grade 1 arthrosis after Salter osteotomy. There were five grade 1 hips (17%) in the Chiari group and one (3%) grade 2 arthrotic hip.
At follow-up (mean 8.5 years) greater reduction of pain was found in the Chiari group than in the Salter group, but the presence of Trendelenburg sign remained almost unchanged in both groups. There was normalisation of the mean values of radiological parameters in both groups, but the Salter osteotomy was unable to correct dysplasia in 16% of the adolescent hips. Progression of degenerative changes was more rapid in the Chiari group.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the importance of the timing of surgery for disease-free survival (DFS). The increasing efficacy of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy in Ewing’s sarcoma modifies the prognostic factors. In a recent monocentric study the classical prognostic value of size and location of the primary disappeared (
Seventy-five patients with an average age of 19 years (range 4 to 40) years with Ewing’s sarcoma of bone fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this study: localised tumour at first screening (CT of lungs + bone scan) and location of the tumour in resectional bones (limb, scapula, innominate, rib, maxilla, skull). Metastatic patients and vertebral locations were excluded. The patients received multi-drug chemotherapy and were treated by surgery and radiotherapy in cases of bad responders and/or marginal surgery. The histologic response was evaluated according to Picci’s criteria (
After a mean follow-up of 54 months, 41 patients were in first complete remission. Patients operated before the tenth week had a higher chance (68%) of first complete remission than patients operated later (DFS: 43%). The difference is significant (p< 0.03). Further analysis shows that the difference is due to late local control, which causes a dismal prognosis for bad responders.
Local treatment must be performed early, especially when histologic response is incomplete or uncertain. Preoperative chemotherapy that is too long increases the risk of metastases in bad responders. These factors must be taken into account when analysing multicentre protocols.
Nowadays 80% of patients with bone sarcomas can benefit from limb salvage. Their disease-free life expectancy is not jeopardised by conservative surgery as long as safe margins are obtained. For this reason, the oncological result relies on the accuracy of pre-operative and per-operative surgical measurements. Pre-operative evaluation of tumours is now quite accurate with digital margins (computed tomography, MNR, digital angiography). However, surgeons are still using centimeters or conventional radiographs with their own technical limitations for per-operative evaluation. A more accurate technique is needed.
The system is composed of three components: 1) a color, graphic computer workstation with software to calculate and present the location of the surgical instrument on a three-dimensional, reconstructed bone image, 2) a complete set of hand-held instruments containing infrared emitters, 3) an infrared receiver linked to the work station. This measuring system enables determination of the position and incidence of a surgical instrument in real time during surgery, with an accuracy of less than one mm.
The system requires four steps: 1) recording data with C.T., N.M.R. or angiography, 2) creating a three-dimensional image displayed on the computer screen for preoperative simulation of a virtual operation, 3) recording the very important anatomical points of the patient and optimal incidences of the surgical instruments, 4) preoperative location of surgical instruments and control of their location on bone.
This system is very useful for resection of bone tumours when the conventional location is uncertain (innonimate bone, rib), when very sharp accuracy is needed to preserve the growth plate of the distal femur in young children, and to avoid medullary damage in a spinal tumour.
The frameless stereotactic device is also very accurate in the reconstructive phase of limb salvage. After an internal hemipelvectomy, the device permits localisation of the acetabular prosthesis in the precise location before resection.
In our practice, the accuracy of the video guiding system is always within two mm as compared to conventional measurements usually between one or two cm for long bones and three to five cm for innominate bone.
The use of a video guidance system is very beneficial for limb salvage surgery for pelvic bone tumours.
We clinically and radiologically reviewed 79 uncemented PFC acetabular components inserted by our unit during a seven-year period, June 1991 to June 1998. Of these, 50 (63.3%) were primary and 29 (26.7%) were revision arthroplasties. The mean follow-up was five years (60 months), with a range of 12 to 95 months. Sixteen (20%) were excluded from the study, leaving 63 (26.7%) for review. Three (4.7%) cases were deemed to have failed (at 63, 69, 79 months), all of which were primary arthroplasties. One of them was found to be loose at revision and the other two cups had 2 mm of periacetabular radiolucency in only one zone, but had no definite evidence of loosening.
The remaining 60 (95.3%) cases showed no radiological evidence of migration of any cups, and no hip had a radiolucent line in all three zones of the acetabulum. Clinical review gave a mean Harris hip score of 96.5. Fifty (79.4%) reported no pain from the hip. One case (1.6%) had undergone recent revision of the stem, at which time the cup was found to be stable. Three (4.7%) reported slight, occasional pain. Another three (4.7%) described mild pain that did not compromise their average activities and was relieved by simple analgesia. Two cases (3.2%) complained of moderate pain that placed some limitations on their activities and required regular analgesia, and one elderly patient who had an ankylosed contralateral hip and ipsilateral sciatic nerve palsy described marked pain (1.6%), and these were considered poor outcomes. In all of these cases the cups were clinically and radiologically stable.
In conclusion, 81% of outcomes were excellent, painfree THRs. A further 4.75% had good and 4.75% fair results. 4.75% had poor outcomes and 4.75% of cases failed. We conclude that the PFC cup merits continued use and follow-up, and together with other uncemented cup designs, may produce benefits in the form of quality and longevity of results in total hip arthroplasty.
The aim of the study was to determine the mid-term clinical result of the patient operated by Chiari pelvic osteotomy.
A mid-term evaluation of the Chiari pelvic osteotomy performed on 65 hips in 58 patients is presented. Indications were: 1) congenital hip dysplasia in cases where conservative or other surgical treatment had failed, 2) deformed, laterally uncovered femoral head due to Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, 3) age between 10–40 years, 4) no signs of advanced osteoarthritis.
Patients were classified according to pain, limp, Trendelenburg sign, range of motion, abductor muscle strength, and radiographic appearance (Wiberg and Idelberger angles). A mean follow-up of five years revealed relief of pain and an increase of hip motion in many cases. However, limping and a positive Trendelenburg sign frequently persisted. The radiographic appearance showed that the Wiberg angle had increased from the preoperative average of 6 degrees to 30 degrees postoperatively. The Idelberger angle decreased from the preoperative average of 72 degrees to an average of 60 degrees postoperatively.
The Chiari osteotomy is a technically exacting procedure which provides adequate femoral head coverage. This coverage facilitates pain relief and increased function. However, the results were less consistent in the cases of Perthes disease.
Considering the indications and contra-indications, the Chiari pelvic osteotomy has good clinical results in the reduction of painful standing and walking of young adult patients with DDH.
The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term results of a cementless conical threaded cup with elevated inlay-rim, without bone grafting in joint replacement of dysplastic compared to non-dysplastic hips, and concerning the survival rate and the rate of cup migration.
Most techniques of joint replacement of dysplastic hips contain bone grafting with more or less large-scale procedures. Without bone grafting, medialisation of the cup is often necessary. The conical threaded Link-V cup has the opportunity of stabilising the joint by using a polyethylene inlay with an elevated rim so that implantation in high angles of flexion and anteversion is possible. This is a technically easy procedure in dysplastic hips, but higher rates of loosening and cup migration are possible.
A cementless conical threaded cup (Link V) with elevated inlay-rim was followed in 36 dysplastic hips (DH) and 167 non-dysplastic osteoarthritic hips (OA) over a minimum follow-up of five years. Mean follow-up in DH-hips was 8.4 2.3 years and in OA-patients 8.6 3.2 years. Survival analysis was performed and cup migration was radiographically analysed using the method of Nunn et al.
The 10-year survival rate of the cup was 87% in DHhips compared to 92% in OA-hips. Luxation occurred in three OA-joints and none in DH-hips. Radiological cup migration was seen in 75% of DH-hips and in 70% of OA-joints. A change of the angle of flexion (mostly decrease) of more than two degrees was found in 50% of DH-hips and in 72% of OA-joints. There was vertical migration of more than 2 mm in 75% of DH-hips and in 70% of OA-hips, and a horizontal migration of more than 2 mm in 45% of DH-joints and in 40% of OA-hips. A radiolucent line of minimum 2 mm was seen in one case of each group.
Using a cementless threaded cup with elevated inlayrim is a practicable and technically easy procedure for treatment of destroyed dysplastic hips. Although cup migration is frequent in dysplastic and non-dysplastic hips, failure-rate is still acceptable but tends to be higher in dysplastic than in non-dysplastic hips.
The purpose of our study was to evaluate the necessity of blood transfusions in operations for neglected DDH. It is generally known that blood transfusion is necessary in neglected DDH operations. Because of transfusion complications, Erythropoetin and autologous blood donation are proposed for blood replacement. However, these two methods are expensive and not useful in children.
We evaluated Hb-Hct levels in 48 children (52hips) operated on from 1992 to 1997. Mean age was 5.7 years (range 1.5 to14). Open reduction and pelvic osteotomy was performed in 40 hips, and open reduction, femoral shortening, and pelvic osteotomy in 12 hips.
The authors performed all of the operations. We approached the surgical technique and haemostasis carefully by using a curved ostetom instead of a gigly saw and left the medial apophisis and periosteum intact until the roof surgery. Dissection of the posterior-superior part of the ischiadic notch was avoided, and without using a drain. Oral supplemental ferrum (5 mg/kg) was prescribed to all patients until the Hb value increased to 12mg/dl. There was close clinical status follow-up of the patients for ten days after surgery and Hb–Hct levels were recorded periodically.
In the open reduction and modified Salter osteotomy group there were 4/40 hips respectively (10%). In the combined surgery group (open reduction, femoral shortening, pelvic osteotomy) there were 16 hips (33%) that required transfusion. We preferred packed red blood cell transfusion for blood substitution. Transfusions were made within one to five days. Mean loss of Hb was 4.7g/dl. Up to 7g/dl Hb level was well-tolerated by the patients. Digitalisation was required for one patient. There were no mortalities or infections in our patients up to the time of follow-up.
The process requires experienced surgeons, a meticulous surgical technique, a shortened operation time by modification of the pelvic osteotomy, and without using a drain. This is one of the most effective and less expensive ways to perform an operation for neglected DDH with a minimal loss of blood.
A multicentre trial of four Level One trauma centres retrospectively analysed complications and odds for complications in complex open and closed tibial fractures stabilised by unreamed, small diameter nails.
467 tibial fractures were included in the study. There were 52 proximal fractures (11.1%), 219 mid-shaft fractures (46.9%), and 196 distal fractures (42%). Breakdown into different AO/OTA groups revealed 135 type A fractures (28.9%), 216 type B fractures (46.3%), and 116 type C fractures (24.8%). 265 were closed fractures (56.7%) and 202 were open fractures (48 Gustilo grade I (10.3%), 80 grade II (17.1%), and 74 grade III (15.9%).
Analysis revealed five (1.1%) deep infections (with a 5.4% rate of deep infections in Gustilo grade III open fractures), 43 delayed unions (9.2%), and twelve (2.6%) non-unions. Compartment syndromes occurred in 62 cases (13.3%), screw fatigue in 47 cases (10%), and fatigue failure of the tibial nail in three cases (0.6%). Fracture distraction of more than 3 mm should not be tolerated when stabilizing tibial fractures with unreamed, small diameter nails as this increases the odds to acquire delayed union by twelve times (p < 0.001), and the odds to acquire non union by four times (p = 0.057).
There was a significant increase of complications in the group of grade III open fractures (p < 0.001), AO/OTA type C fractures (p = 0.002), and to a lesser extent in distal fractures. However, the rate of severe complications resulting in major morbidity was low compared to other methods of stabilisation in these severe fractures.
The authors call attention to the fact that puncture wounds of the foot are often considered simple, but can have potentially serious complications and sequelae.
In the majority of the cases, osteomyelitis in children is a haematogenous infection and the microorganism involved is a gram-positive coccus. The role of the puncture wound in osteomyelitis has been overlooked in the past. We present our experience with six cases of osteomyelitis following deep puncture wounds of the foot.
We reviewed six cases (1990–1999) of pseudomonas osteomyelitis in children. At the time of the injuries, five cases were boys younger than the age of seven and one was 12 years old. The sites affected were: metatarsal (2), phalanx (2) and calcaneous (2). The cause of injury was tree splinter (2), fork (1), needle (2) and nail (1). At the time of injury, all of the wounds contained foreign matter that was not initially completely removed and osteomyelitis developed as a result. The time interval until definitive diagnosis ranged from 5 to 730 days.
There is a similar history in all of the cases. For two or three days following the injury, the symptoms showed improvement and the injured site became swollen, tender, and painful afterwards. Treatment in all cases was hospitalisation, debridement and parenteral antibiotics for 18 to 22 days. After hospitalisation, an oral antibiotic (ciprofloxacin) was taken in two cases for three months and in four cases for four months.
After treatment, mean follow-up was 60 months (range 8 to 98 months). We have had no sequelae, recurrences or early growth arrest, and we consider the results to be good in all of the cases.
Puncture wounds of the foot should not be considered as “simple” injuries. Proper initial treatment is critical for the prevention of subsequent and potentially serious complications.
The records of 82 patients (129 feet) with resistant clubfoot deformity treated surgically by means of different releases were retrospectively reviewed. There are many treatment regimes for clubfoot. Some authors recommend manipulation with minimal multi-stage surgery, whereas others recommend neonatal corrective surgery. However, objective comparison of different treatment programs is not easy because different criteria are used to evaluate the results.
Teratologic or neuromuscular clubfeet were not included in this revision. Between 1982 and 1998, 82 patients (27 girls, 55 boys) with 129 clubfeet underwent surgical treatment. All feet were initially treated with a serial long-leg cast for a minimum of four months. Mean age at the time of first surgery was 5.5 months (range 3.5 to 24). Minimum follow-up was two years.
Primary posterior release was performed on 105 feet. Subsequent medial release was performed on 16 feet, posteromedial release on three, and a subtalar (Cincinnati) release on three. Primary isolated posteromedial release was performed on 14 feet, and two of these required a subsequent subtalar (Cincinnati) release. Primary isolated medial release was performed on seven feet.
Primary isolated lateral release was performed on one foot and primary isolated subtalar (Cincinnati) release was performed on two feet. Subsequent derotative tibial osteotomy was performed in seven cases, wedge tarsectomy on four feet, triple arthrodesis on five, and calcaneocuboid fusion on one foot.
Residual varus was present in seven feet. Calcaneal gait caused by overlengthening of the Achilles tendon occurred in one foot, and residual equinus in two feet. Residual valgus heel was observed in three feet.
The surgeon must assess each foot and plan the surgery accordingly. A total release is not required for every foot.
In order to define the operative indications, we compared the post-operative complications, time of consolidation, incidence of compartment syndrome, and fat embolism in centro medullary nails made from two different metals.
This study includes approximately 234 centro medullary nails (TARGON System) used for treatment of diaphysal fractures of the leg or femur after a skiing injury. Steel nails were used before 1998 and titanium nails after 1998.
The time of consolidation was the same for steel nails and titanium reamed nails. We remain faithful to limited reaming which avoids destruction of bone, and cortical and exothermic damage, but enables easier insertion of the titanium nail for leg fractures and bone grafts
The incidence of compartment syndrome with use of a titanium nail is reduced threefold. Regarding femoral fracture, the insertion of the nail without wire is more complicated and the operative stage is extended by 25%. The time of consolidation is the same for titanium or steel nails, and there were no failures with either type.
However, we advise using titanium reamed nails for leg fractures and steel reamed nails for femoral fractures. If there is a suspicion of fat embolism, it is better to use femoral titanium nails.
The purpose of the study was to analyse the clinical and radiological results of cementless HAP-coated Mallory- Head hip replacement in dysplastic hips. The collective included 20 males and 30 females (64 hips), with a mean age of 52.6 (range 20–68) years at operation. We also included two patients (4 hips) with spondyloepiphy-seal dysplasia (dwarfism). All patients were operated by one surgeon (EvL) during the period 1991–1997. A majority had “champaign flute” type femur. A minority had a normal or “stove pipe” type femur (Dörr). Most patients had acetabular dysplasia classified as A or B (Eftekar); some were classified as C and one as D (after Schanz osteotomy). Previous operations included: derotating varous osteotomy (11), acetabular shelf plasty (9), Salter or Chiari pelvic osteotomy (4) and tenotomy of the hip adductors (2).
After a mean follow-up of 57 (range 32 to 97) months, a clinical and radiological analysis was performed by an independent investigator (TG). Postoperatively no or only mild pain was reported by 89% of all patients. The VAS for pain (0–10) was excellent: 1.70 (0–7). Limping was reported in 23% and 75% used no support when walking. The HHS increased from 42 to 90 points.
Complications were marginal and there were no infections. One patient developed habitual dislocation and a revision of the cup was perfomed. We saw two periprosthetic fractures of the femur: once during surgery (treated conservatively) and once after a fall (treated by plating). We saw one case of temporary ischiadical nerve palsy after leg lenghtening of 5 cm. There were two cases in which we had used 32mm heads, and PE-wear necessitated revision of the cup after seven and eight years follow-up, respectively.
Cortical hypertrophy indicating stress transfer was found in 28% and located mostly on the borders of Gruen-zones 2, 3 and 5, 6. This cortical hypertrophy (“ballooning”) started to appear after 0.5 to 1 year and did not disappear after a longer follow up. Endosteal spotwelds were infrequently seen (9%) and in 13% of all patients we saw some form of halo- or shelf-formation at the distal stem. The criteria of Enghs fixation scale are not signs of loosening in the Mallory-Head HAP-coated femoral prosthesis.
No radiolucent or radiodense lines were seen around the acetabular cup. In all cases but one (Schanz osteotomy) the anatomical centre of rotation could be restored.
We conclude that the cementless Mallory-Head HAPcoated femoral prosthesis has shown, up to present time, excellent clinical and radiological results in hip dysplasia.
Today more and more papers are published about the operative treatment of femoral fractures in children and even uncomplicated and isolated fractures are treated by using elastic nails, plates or an external fixator. Advantages are said to be a shorter stay in the hospital, easier handling by parents and nurses, less costs and better control of rotational disorders, and without complications from anaesthesia or an operation. We summarised our results in treating conservatively 50 femoral fractures in 49 children treated between 1992 and 1997.
The mean age was 6.2 years; male/female ratio was 30/19. We included five children with minor polytraumatisation (including one girl with a bilateral femoral fracture) and two children with complicated fractures (grade I). Children younger than three years of age were treated by Bryant-traction (18), and children older than three years were treated by Weber-traction (23). In both groups the callus was palpable after 2 to 3 weeks and a “one-legged” hipspica-plaster-cast was applied. Full weight bearing was permitted. Children needing surgery (major polytraumas, brain damage, etc.) were excluded. Seven cases had a fracture without dislocation and were treated by early casting. One boy was treated by Russell-traction.
An unacceptable dislocation of the fracture still existed in two cases after one week with Weber-traction. Peroperatively, interposition of the soft tissues appeared to be the reason. There were no problems of alignment and rotation, but differences in leg length or problems in consolidation were seen in the group treated with Bryant- traction. In the Weber-traction group, the girl with the bilateral femoral fracture developed a mild endorotation in the left leg, but we saw no further complications.
We think that these results in treating femoral fractures conservatively are satisfying and there is still a place for conservative treatment of femoral fractures in children. In our hospital we try to advance this type of conservative treatment by selecting cases that are appropriate for home traction, which is better for children and their parents and also less expensive for the Health Care System.
Nineteen periprosthetic fractures above 835 total knee arthroplasties (748 primary and 87 revision) in an eight-year period (1992–1999) were studied retrospectively. In six cases the fracture was situated in the proximal metaphysis of the tibia, 11 cases in the femur and two cases in the patella. Fourteen fractures were intraoperative (9 fractures during primary implantation and 5 fractures during revision arthroplasty). Some intraoperative fractures were not observed either by the surgeon or in postoperative radiograph control. There was trauma in three cases (1 tibia, 1 femur, 1 patella). Two cases were secondary to osteolysis (1 patella, 1 femoral condyle). Non-operative treatment was performed in eight fractures (traction and/or cast bracing). Operative treatment was performed in 11 fractures (3 plate osteosynthesis, 1 external fixation, 7 internal fixation with screws).
The results of this study show that the greater part of the fractures occur intraoperatively in relation to revision arthroplasty and technical mistakes during the osteotomy, the component test, and aggressive impaction. Undetected fractures occur in radiograph control because of low quality or insufficient view of the bone around the prosthesis.
From a cohort of 110 idiopathic clubfeet, 26 feet in 18 children requiring surgery for severe relapse have been studied. Surgery was comprised of a lateral column shortening procedure (Lichtblau) plus or minus a plantarmedial release. Surgery was staged to avoid wound complications.
Pre-operatively, feet were prospectively categorised into one of four grades according to a system reported by Dimeglio. Children were reviewed on two subsequent occasions. At review, feet were again graded. In addition, appearance and functional outcome was analysed and included an assessment of gait, activity and functional limitation.
Three children were lost to follow-up, leaving 22 feet in seven male and eight female patients available for review. The mean age at surgery was 43 months (23–82). The mean time from surgery to first and second reviews was 35 and 56 months, respectively.
There was a significant improvement in grading at first review compared to pre-operative grading (Wilcoxon signed ranks test). Although there remained a significant improvement in grading at second review compared to the preoperative grading, there was a significant reduction in the number of feet in which grading had improved when compared to first review.
There was no significant change in function between the two post-operative reviews (Chi-square tests), with the majority of children experiencing little functional limitation. There were no wound complications.
Relapse surgery, involving a lateral column shortening procedure for severe clubfoot, results in a significant initial improvement when assessed using a grading system. This improvement in grading subsequently decreases over time. However, the functional outcome in such cases remains favourable.
The authors reviewed a group of 24 patients (26 hips) who had been managed with open reduction through an anterolateral approach from 1981 to 1985. Eight patients with an inadequate clinical (6) or roentgenographic (2) follow-up were excluded from the study. The purpose was to evaluate 18-year results of nine hips operated in pre-walking age up to 12 months and nine hips operated later. All patients were operated by the senior doctor. The goals of management are concentric reduction and its maintenance in order to provide the optimum environment for development of the hip joint.
The average age of the children at the time of operation was seven months (range 3–10 months) in the first group and 32 months (range 15–60 months) in the second group. Open reduction was performed if a stable reduction could not be achieved with traction as demonstrated with arthrography.
Evaluation of the first group: marginal dislocation was found in one hip (11.1%) and in the rest of cases the head was highly dislocated. A simultaneous derotational femoral osteotomy was added in the course of four reductions (44.4%) and in three of these cases a subsequent Salter osteotomy was performed. Five hips (55.6%) were reduced without additional femoral osteotomy and in three of these cases, a subsequent combination of Salter and derotational varisation osteotomy was performed. Average age at the time of the subsequent operation was 31 months (range 19–44 months).
In the second group, only high dislocations were found and each procedure was accompanied with simultaneous and subsequent interventions. At the final follow-up of the first group, the clinical findings were evaluated as Severin class A in eight hips (88.9%) and class B in one hip (11.1%). Three hips (33.3%) were Severin roentgenographic class I, and six hips (66.7%) were class II. Six hips (66.7%) showed avascular necrosis classified as Ogden-Bucholz Type I (3) and Type II (3). No significant degenerative changes were found. In the second group, the results were worse – two patients had already had THAs implanted.
The results are excellent or good in children operated in the pre-walking age. The results in patients operated later are worse. We consider this method to be useful for the treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip.
We tested the hypothesis that it is possible to accelerate fracture healing by changing the mechanical environment used in current methods i.e., from initial rigidity or micromovement followed by dynamisation to initial macromovement followed by rigidity (micro-movement).
It is accepted that callus formation requires movement at the fracture site and this callus response is limited to the first few weeks after fracture. Logically, early macromovement at the fracture site would be beneficial for callus formation. Additional callus is not produced by further movement. Indeed, it may be counter-productive, just as continuing movement around two ends of a wooden stick bonded with glue will retard and even prevent “union”. We postulate that continuing movement at the fracture site after the callus response has ceased will also delay union. As a result, rigidity rather than dynamisation is required in the later stage of fracture healing.
After testing an animal model, we built an external fixator which allowed 5 mm of axial movement without “self-locking” and could be compressed at a later date in order to prevent further movement.
A trial containing 15 patients with unilateral tibial shaft fractures (closed or grade 1 open) was undertaken after permission was obtained from the Helsinki Ethical Committee.
So far, 13 patients have been entered into the trial. They have completed therapy and are at least one year post-fracture (12 months to 22 months). Age range is from 20 to 49. The group is composed of nine males and one female.
Under general anaesthetic, an external fixator was applied and the fracture reduced. The patients started ankle exercises (active and passive) the following day, with as much weight-bearing on the fractured leg as possible on the day after. The patients were seen every two weeks and AP and lateral radiographs were taken. The fracture was compressed two to six weeks later. The percentage of body weight that the patient was able to tolerate through the fractured limb was measured by using the scales of Meggit’s step test. The fixators were removed when there was radiographic union and the patient could take at least 80% of body weight through the fractured limb. Mean time duration up to removal of the fixator was 10.8 weeks (range 7 to 15.4 weeks).
We conclude that it is possible to increase the speed of bone healing by changing the mechanical environment to initial macromovement followed by elimination of movement.
Little is known about the risk of later development of osteoarthritis after operative clubfoot correction. There are only a few long-term reports of 30 years and more after operative correction with a standard technique.
Slight deformity after correction of an idiopathic clubfoot may be well tolerated by children and young adults. However, if these slight deformities become symptomatic with advancing age remains unsettled. To answer this question, a long-term follow-up of more than 30 years is needed. Functional and radiological correlation is poor in the adult foot with a slight under-corrected clubfoot deformity. A computer-assisted foot scan will provide the exact static and dynamic measurement of the pressure under each part of the foot at every moment of gait. This instrument allows better analysis of residual clubfoot.
Between 1962 and 1966 we operated 15 children with the standard operative technique of Phelps-Codivilla. In all cases there was a persistent deformity after continuous casting since birth. In two cases a heal cord lengthening procedure had been previously performed. Mean age at operation of the four girls and 11 boys was four (1 to 8) years. Six had unilateral involvement, whereas the remaining nine patients required bilateral surgery. In four cases there was a second medial release for relapse. A Steindler procedure was used in two cases and in two cases correction of clawtoes was necessary. Operative technique: Two separate incisions were made. One was longitudinal posterior that enabled lengthening of the heel cord, the tendon of the tibialis posterior and long flexors, as well as release of the posterior capsule. A second incision was made on the medial aspect of the foot in order to release the talonavicular and navicularcuneiform joints. The reduced navicular was fixed with a K-wire.
Twelve patients were examined clinically, radiologically and by functional testing after a mean follow-up of 33.5 (34 to 38) years. Eight patients had no pain and were not disturbed. There was a slight malreduction of the subtalar joint, but without any signs of joint degeneration. The foot pressure showed overpressure of the lateral forefoot. Four patients had pain and functional limitation. Their complaints had begun only two to four years earlier, and had been asymptomatic until then. All patients developed osteoarthritis of the subtalar joint, and their foot scans were abnormal.
Definitive assessment of the successful treatment of idiopathic clubfoot deformity is only possible with a long-term follow-up study. A slight undercorrection can be functionally well tolerated for a long period of time. The first occurrence of pain is still possible at the age of 35 years and older. A computer-assisted assessment of foot pressure by using a foot scan is a sensitive diagnostic tool.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of locked intramedullary nailing without reaming for the treatment of open tibial and femoral shaft fractures that has recently been widely used all over the world, and recently evaluated.
Seventy open femoral and tibial shaft fractures were treated by meticulous wound excision and early inter-locking nailing without reaming between 1996 and 1999 in our department. The average follow-up of the patients was 20.2 (12–36) months. Thirty-six were fractures of the tibia, and 34 of the femur. Ten (14.3%) were classified as Grade I., 32 (45.7%) as Grade II, and 28 (40%) as grade III according to Gustilo-Anderson. Most of the fractures were the result of high-energy trauma.
In patients fixed with locked intramedullary nails due to no immobilisation, rehabilitation began just after the operation. Hip, knee and ankle functions were regained rapidly. All fractures were united in an average of 17.1 (10.1–36.6) weeks. There were six (8.6%) delayed unions and four superficial infections (5.7%). One patient developed deep infection (1.4%) and required further surgical treatment. Locking screws broke in one tibia (1.4%) and two femurs (2.8%), but the breakage did not result in loss of reduction. Although there was no nail breakage observed, two (2.9%) had between eight and twelve degrees external rotation, four (8.5%) shortening of 1.1 to 2.5 cm., and three (4.3%) valgus seven to ten degrees. Of the seventy fractures, 52 (74.2%) were classified according to Folleras as excellent, 8 (11.4%) as good, 6 (8.5%) as fair and 4 (5.7%) as poor.
Early unreamed intramedullary interlocking nailing is a very effective and safe treatment method for open tibial and femoral shaft fractures.
Clubfoot (CF) is a congenital deformity of the foot with a multi-factorial etiology. The question of the best therapy is still open. The aim of our study was to compare the formerly used limited posteromedial release (PMR) with the recent extensive complete subtalar release (CSR).
From 1989 to 1997, 473 children were treated surgically. Our cohort contained 101 patients (129 affected feet) with CF confirmed by radiographs and physical findings. Forty-eight patients (59 feet) were operated with PMR, and 53 (70 feet) with the method of CSR after McKay. Both groups were comparable to Dimeglio’s classification concerning this type of deformity. All feet were operated on primarily with either no preceding therapy or with some conservative therapy. Average age at the time of surgery was 9.3 months.
The radiographic parameters (Kite’s angle, lateral TC angle, TC index, T-I.MTT angle, lateral tibiotalar angle) were evaluated according to Simons. The physical parameters (heel position, forefoot adduction, range of motion in the tibiotalar joint, range of motion in the subtalar joint, the process of taking off, the general shape of the foot, assessment of wearing shoes, and plantogram) were also evaluated. Assessment of the radiographs and the physical parameters showed substantially better results in the group with complete subtalar release.
A three-grade evaluation was used for assessment of the combined physical and radiographic assessment: good, fair, and poor. In the group with PMR, 54% were classified as good, 31% as fair and 15% as poor. In the CSR group, good results were achieved in 72%, fair in 17%, and poor in 11%.
The lower occurrence of re-operation in the group with subtalar release was apparent. With suitable timing, excellent results can be achieved with this operation. We conclude that extensive complete subtalar release is one of the best methods to correct this type of clubfoot. Subtalar release as described by McKay produces significantly better long-term statistical results than posteromedial release, in both clinical evaluation and radiograph assessment.
In the First Department of Orthopaedics of St. Anna University Hospital in Brno, Czech Republic, a total number of 9,393 total hip replacements (THR) were performed from 1964 to 2000. Since 1986, the cementless technique has been used primarily for young patients suffering from late DDH. Within the last ten years we have implanted 5,574 THRs, including 440 cementless systems and 2,122 hybrid THRs.
We focused on cases of patients with late DDH where dysplastic acetabulum was found and where the smallest available cementless CLS acetabular cup was implanted through the anterolateral approach.
We present five to seven years follow-up of 41 hips with dysplastic acetabulum that was evaluated by coxometry and where the expansion acetabular cup of diameter 46 mm was implanted together with different types of femoral stems.
After five to seven years no significant aseptic loosening has been found. None of the Harris grafts of the superior acetabulum used in 10 (24.4%) implantations have failed. We have had good medium-term results with this type of cementless acetabular cup. A few case reports from our earlier history include acetabular components under 40 mm in diameter, or intercalar shortening osteotomy of the proximal femur due to the high post-dysplastic dislocation of the hip combined with implantation of a THR.
The aim of this paper is to present a new solution in treating osteoarthritis after congenital dysplasia. In the First Orthopaedic Clinic in Prague, we have obtained, by using oval-shaped cups, excellent results in the treatment of acetabular deficiency occurring in THA loosening. These positive results have also encouraged us to use the implants in THA for secondary coxarthrosis.
In severe acetabular defects, an endoprothesis is very difficult to implant. A whole range of methods has been described for fixing the acetabular component. We prefer not to use cemented implants with middle-aged patients. Methods using bulk bone grafts are being scaled down. Cup implantation to the neoacetabulum is disadvantageous because forces inherent to the hip joint are considerably higher in the superior lateral position. Cotyloplasty and controlled fracture impair the medial wall with the enhanced risk of implant protrusion to the pelvis. The implementation of an oval cup eliminates the above-mentioned disadvantages.
During the period of 1994 to 1998, we applied the LOR cup in treating secondary coxarthrosis eight times in six women (mean age: 54 years). 83% had already been operated for congenital hip dislocation. The stage of the dysplasia was classified as Crowe II in two hip joints, Crowe III in four, and Crowe IV in two. An average of four screws were used for a 52x64 cup. Mean follow-up was 4.8 years.
The mean Harris hip score at follow-up was 92 points. There were no infections, luxations, implant migrations, or screw failures. The radiograph evaluations revealed just one case of a translucent line 1 mm wide in the b,c zone. Osteointegration was perfect with the other implants.
Using the oval-shaped cup does not usually require implementation of bulk bone grafts. Implant shape and the option of implementing an eccentric inlay enables preservation of the rotational centre, which is advantageous in terms of biomechanics. Implantation of the cup is easy and fast. Because of the good results, we suggest introducing the oval-shaped cup as a standard method of THA primo-implantation with patients who have acetabular dysplasia. The LOR cup was designed as a revision implant, but a disadvantage is the insufficient size scale and the 32 insert. For widespread application, it is therefore necessary to design a smaller size 28 inlay cup. We are currently developing our own acetabular component with a more suitable size scale and a plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite ceramic coating.
We designed a prospective randomised trial to compare traditional conservative management with reaming, closed intramedullary nailing. Our aims were to compare early functional and the rehabilitation period between and of the two groups.
The trial had strict criteria for entry: Group A) All patients were skeletally mature, Group B) All fractures were at least 50% displaced or angulated at least 10° in any direction, Group C) All patients had a displaced fracture of the tibial shaft more than 5 cm away from either knee or ankle and with no other significant injury, Group D) Only grade I compound fractures were admitted; grade II and III compound fractures were excluded.
Group A was treated by manipulation of the fracture and the application of a long-leg plaster cast. Group B had closed intramedullary nailing of the fracture, with either dynamic or static locking as indicated. A total of 79 patients entered the trial: 37 in Group A and 42 in Group B. The criteria for fracture union was pain-free, unaided walking. There were two cases of non-union in Group A and none in Group B.
Mean time to union was significantly shorter in Group B, as was the mean delay before return to work. There was significantly more angular deformity and shortening in Group A. Two patients in Group B had been nailed in significant external rotation (8 degrees). Movement at the knee, ankle and hindfoot was regained in the final control. Group B spent longer in hospital than group A. Group A had no cases of infection or wound problems. There was failure of conservative treatment in five of the 37 patients. These patients required late operation. Group B had one case of deep infection. In one case the distal locking screw was broken but no problem was encountered during follow-up. Autogenous bone grafting was performed in one case with non-union.
We have concluded that displaced fractures of the tibial shaft are better and more efficiently treated by closed intramedullary nailing. This method has an acceptable complication rate when compared with conservative treatment.
We designed a prospective randomised trial to compare traditional conservative management with reaming, closed intramedullary nailing. Our aims were to compare early functional and the rehabilitation period between and of the two groups.
The trial had strict criteria for entry: Group A) All patients were skeletally mature, Group B) All fractures were at least 50% displaced or angulated at least 10° in any direction, Group C) All patients had a displaced fracture of the tibial shaft more than 5 cm away from either knee or ankle and with no other significant injury, Group D) Only grade I compound fractures were admitted; grade II and III compound fractures were excluded.
Group A was treated by manipulation of the fracture and the application of a long-leg plaster cast. Group B had closed intramedullary nailing of the fracture, with either dynamic or static locking as indicated. A total of 79 patients entered the trial: 37 in Group A and 42 in Group B. The criteria for fracture union was pain-free, unaided walking. There were two cases of non-union in Group A and none in Group B.
Mean time to union was significantly shorter in Group B, as was the mean delay before return to work. There was significantly more angular deformity and shortening in Group A. Two patients in Group B had been nailed in significant external rotation (8 degrees). Movement at the knee, ankle and hindfoot was regained in the final control. Group B spent longer in hospital than group A. Group A had no cases of infection or wound problems. There was failure of conservative treatment in five of the 37 patients. These patients required late operation. Group B had one case of deep infection. In one case the distal locking screw was broken but no problem was encountered during follow-up. Autogenous bone grafting was performed in one case with non-union.
We have concluded that displaced fractures of the tibial shaft are better and more efficiently treated by closed intramedullary nailing. This method has an acceptable complication rate when compared with conservative treatment.
The capacity of the lumbar spine canal has direct relation to space-compromising conditions. Primary narrowing of the canal may produce no symptoms, but a slight reduction in capacity as a result of degenerative lesions, age, or disc bulging may result in symptomatic spinal canal stenosis. We studied the dimensions in the adult Greek population in order to find the variability factor in the capacity of the lumbar spinal canal.
The dimensions of the lumbar spinal canal were measured in 27 adult men and 42 adult women, all under the age of 50. MRI was used to measure four levels of the spine (L2 through L5). The AP and transverse diameters, as well as the cross section area, were measured at each level. Mean age (sd) of females was 34.8 (6.8) years. Mean age for males was 35.2 (7.3) and was comparable to women (P0.8). Mean age of a third group of 11 males over the age of 50 was 54.5 (2.6). All individuals included in the study were healthy and without any apparent degenerative changes in the lumbar spine or any symptoms related to it. Hotelling’s tests (Anderson, 1958), in terms of multivariate measurements of the spinal canal, were used to compare both genders and the two age levels. Tests for trends in the lumbar levels L2 through L5 were based on the exact binomial distribution for the number of cases exhibiting a complete trend from L2 to L5. The reported significance levels are adjusted for multiplicity of tests.
The relation of spinal width to lumbar levels is shown separately for the groups of males and females women under the age of 50 and for the group of males under over the age of 50. In all four lumbar levels, the group of men over 50 years old had a narrower spinal canal compared with men under 50 years old (2=0.005). This was particularly evident in levels L2 and L5 where the spinal canal for older men was narrower by factors of 15.5% and 13.1%, respectively. In the two gender groups of comparable age, spinal width was found to differ between men and women (2< 0.0001). In particular, the females had a wider spinal canal than males in levels L2, L3 and L4 and a narrower canal in level L5. Spinal width was found to exhibit a decreasing trend in lumbar levels L2 through L5. The evidence for this trend was strong for all three groups: females under the age of 50 (P< 0.0001), men under 50 (2< 0.005), and the older men (P< 0.0001). A similar trend was present for the anteroposterior diameter, as well as for the Transverse diameter. A numerical summary (mean, sd) of all spinal measurements is reported.
We believe this study to be an important one that provides useful information regarding the capacity of the lumbar spinal canal, thus helping the surgeon to properly evaluate the stenotic patient.
The purpose of this study was to compare intramedullary nailing and plate fixation in the operative treatment of acute humeral shaft fractures.
The operation time, amount of blood transfusion, time to union, complications, and functional outcome were compared. At the Traumatology Clinic, Medical Faculty Skopje from 1995 to June 1999, 46 patients with acute humeral shaft fractures were operatively treated. The patients were divided into two groups: Group A – 24 patients treated with open reduction and internal fixation with dynamic compression plate, and Group B – 22 patients treated with closed reduction and intramedullary nailing (most of them with the Marchetti-Vicenci intramedullary nail). All of the fractures were classified according AO classification. The follow-up period was 6 to 12 months.
Intramedullary nailing of acute humeral shaft fractures offered a less invasive surgical procedure with less complications than open reduction and internal fixation. The results showed that the intramedullary nailing surgical procedure had a shorter operating time and less blood transfusion. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding time to union. In Group A there was one patient with delayed union, two with deep infection and two with postoperative radial palsy. In Group B there were two patients with delayed union. Functional outcome for uncomplicated fractures was the same in both groups.
The aim of the work was to evaluate long-term results of posteromedial release in the treatment of congenital clubfoot. The posteromedial release – which includes capsuloligamentothomy of the tibiotalar and tibio-calcaneal joints from the posterior and medial aspects and “Z” lengthening of the Achilles and posterior tibial muscle tendons with Steindler procedure – has been the basic treatment of choice for many years in cases of congenital clubfoot in the Child Orthopaedic Clinic of the Pomeranian Medical Academy. In some cases transfer of the anterior tibial muscle tendon was also included in that procedure.
Between 1979 and 1990, a total of 135 children were treated with posteromadial release at the author’s institution. Thirty-five patients were excluded from the study because of incomplete medical documentation or because of a possible different origin of the deformity, i.e., subtle spastic cerebral palsy or arthrogryphosis, etc. The study group consisted of 100 patients with 135 clubfeet. At the final follow-up, 46 patients were evaluated with 61 clubfeet. Mean age at the time of surgery was 12.3 months (5–48). All patients had been treated conservatively at the author’s clinic before operative treatment started. Average age of the beginning of the manipulative treatment (followed by cast application in weekly intervals) was 4.3 weeks (1 to 48). Mean follow-up period was 15.7 years (range 20.4–10.1). The patients’ age at the last follow-up ranged from 11 to 21 years old.
The final evaluation based on the criteria of Magone, et. al., gave us the following results: Excellent: 17 feet (28%); Good: 17 feet (28%); Fair: 11 feet (18%); Poor: 16 feet (26%).
Posteromedial release with the Steindler procedure added gives us more than 50% excellent and good results when applied early and with proper pre- and post-operative conservative treatment.
Conservative management of talipes equinovarus has a good effect on adductus deformity of the forefoot, whereas equinus deformity cannot usually be treated well conservatively. However, adductus is the most common recurrent deformity after operations. The aim of the study was to use radiological analysis to explore the reasons that lead to recurrent adductus.
In 86.7% of the cases, either a correction was evaluated as radiologically inadequate but seemed to be good physically, or compensation for an operative over-correction resulted in recurrent adductus some years later. In spite of adequate correction from both a physical and radiological view, recurrent adductus developed in 13.3% of the cases. In our opinion, these recurrences were due to persistent muscle imbalance.
In our department, 458 children were operated on for clubfoot from 1982 to 1997. The patients involved in this study were those managed by medial and posterior soft tissue release after an ineffective six to nine month period of conservative treatment that was started when they were one to two weeks old. Children treated previously in another hospital were excluded from the study. We controlled 228 feet and 42 cases of recurrent adductus were found 2 to 16 years (mean 6.8) after the operations. The radiographs were examined at the end of ineffective conservative treatment, during the early postoperative days, and finally at the follow-up. The anteroposterior talocalcaneal (ATC) angle, the talometatarsal (TM) angle and the naviculometatarsal (NM) angle were measured in all of the radiographs. Based on the measured angles, three main groups of patients were formed.
Recurrent adductus in 24 feet (Group A) was caused by inadequate operative corrections, including inappropriate correction of either the hind foot (reduced ATC angle) or the forefoot (reduced NM angle), or both. Although the talocalcaneal and talometatarsal positions were normal in early postoperative radiographs, adductus developed again two to five years later in seven cases (Group B). In these cases, we think that persistent muscle imbalance was responsible for the recurrent deformity.
In 11 feet the ATC angles were in normal range or increased (Group C). These adductus deformities were caused by either an overcorrected talocalcaneal position resulting in compensatory metatarsal varus or medial subluxation of the talonavicular joint, which had been only partially compensated by the lateral deviation of the 1st ray.
In cases of severe postdysplastic coxarthosis, it seems to be impossible to recognize acetabular geometry and the real femoral position on a plain X-ray because the real diameters and angles can be disfigured when projected. Computed tomography (CT) provides important information to the surgeon about the concavity, shape and stereotomy of the acetabulum.
It is quite difficult to correctly evaluate severely changed hips. CT displays more precise acetabular diameters and angles than a plain radiograph. Because of the high density of bony tissue, the CT makes it easy to produce a three-dimensional display of the hip.
From September 1995 to December 1998, 224 patients (148 female, 76 male) underwent arthroplasty using a non-cemented prosthesis according to Zweymüller. A total of 236 hip joints were operated and classified as Crowe Group I (76 hips), Crowe Group II (149 hips), and Crowe Group III (11 hips). There were no Crowe Group IV hips.
A total of 96 patients were examined by 3D CT in preoperative planning. Based on CT results, four joints were not recommended for an operative solution.
CT protocol: scanner Elscint TWIN II, slice 2.5 mm, 120 kV, 285 mAs, matrix 3402,
No. of slices: 40–50, incremental dual acquisition. Postprocessing: axial images, multiplanar reconstructions, 3D SSD.
Acetabular stereometry: superoinferior diameter, anteroposterior diam., depth, bottom thickness, femoral neck anteversion angle and subtrochanteric marrow diameter.
A three-dimensional CT of the hip is a very effective tool for preoperative assessment.
In 1990, after many years of experience with 150 repairs, an arthroscopic transhumeral rotator cuff reconstruction technique was developed and used by the authors to treat all sizes of rotator cuff tears. This technique allowed the same type of repair to be performed as with the open procedure, thus providing the possibility to achieve the same success rate as an open repair with the advantages of minimally invasive surgery.
We reviewed a total of 307 arthroscopic rotator cuff repair procedures performed on 304 patients between December 1990 and March 1994. There were 150 cases with arthroscopic transhumeral fixation and 157 with tendon end-to-end. Of the 150 transhumeral repair cases studied, 18 cases were traumatic, 124 were Impingement III tears, and eight were defects after calcium removal. The tears were classified as 42 – small, 66 – medium, and 42 – large. Average age was 56 years.
An anterior acromioplasty and an arthroscopic tendon to bone repair using the bone cutting giant needle was performed in all of the cases. An AC joint plasty was done in 20 cases and a tendon transposition in five cases. Postoperatively, the patients started full passive motion a day after surgery and active motion six weeks later.
Of the 150 cases with arthroscopic transhumeral repair cases, it was possible to evaluate 132 patients having 133 procedures. Mean follow-up was five years. The results were evaluated according to the classification of Neer. There were 64% classified as excellent, 34% as satisfactory, and 2% as unsatisfactory. The UCLA average score improved from 15.8 preoperatively to 31.5 postoperatively. Full reconstruction was done in all cases except three.
Arthroscopic transhumeral reconstruction of rotator cuff tear reduces morbidity without having to perform open surgery. This procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting. After the learning curve, repairs are easier than the open method and have fewer complications.
We present our experience with HA-coated total hip prosthesis in a minimum follow-up of eight years.
From 1989 to 1991 we performed 92 THRs in 83 patients. The mean age was 62 years (range 32–75). The preoperative diagnosis was: O.A. 68, AVN 12, CDH 8, and post-traumatic arthropathy 4. Pre-operative mean was HHS 43.
A posterior approach was used. The ARC 2F Cup, an HA coated spherical cup with thread around the equator, was used. Initial stabilisation is achieved by screwing the cup into the acetabulum. If necessary, a secondary fixation is enhanced by one or two bone screws to the ilium. The Omnifit stem is HA-coated in the proximal third and gives good immediate metaphysical fixation and optimal filling of the metaphysis. Three doses of Cefuroxime for prophylaxis and low molecular weight heparine were used in all cases. All patients had non-weight-bearing on the second postoperative day, partial weight-bearing in six weeks and full weight-bearing in 12 weeks.
Four patients were lost to follow-up. Mean H.H.S. was 91 in the first six months, 93 in the first year, and 95 in the second and third year. In the fifth year 97.93% were symptom-free in the first six months and 97% from the third to the fifth post-operative year. 3.7% of the patients complained of mild or moderate activity related to hip pain.
No patients suffered marked or disabling pain. Four patients complained of thigh pain six and eight months post-operatively. There were no major complications except for two superficial and two symptomatic deep vein thromboses. All patients returned to their prior activities within four to six months post-operatively. Radiographic evaluation of acetabular components revealed bone condensation in all three Charnley zones. We had no component migration or screw breakage. Calcar resorption was detected on the femoral side in seven patients. During the first post-operative year, AP radiographs of eleven patients indicated cortical hypertrophy in zones 3 and 5. There was no subsidence of the femoral stem.
We believe our results are encouraging although the follow-up period is short. We have had no revisions and the functional results are quite good. All patients are asymptomatic and satisfied with the result.
In order to overcome high intra-observer and inter-observer reliability, there is a new classification system for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). The type C (King II) of this system describes pronounced lumbar curves in which the center sacral vertical line (CSVL) lies outside the lumbar apical vertebra on the concavity of the curve. It has been proposed that selective anterior thoracic fusion (ATF) is not possible in these cases because of insufficient spontaneous correction of the lumbar curve or postoperative lumbar progression. This retrospective study analyses the results of a group of patients who received selective ATF for type C curves. The purpose of the study was to analyze the ability of the new classification system to predict the outcome of anterior thoracic fusion in the combined AIS type Lenke C, and to define predictive parameters revealed in the study.
From 1989 to 1994, 407 patients underwent anterior fusion for scoliotic deformities of different etiologies. There were 174 patients with anterior thoracic fusion. Twenty-one patients (< 19 years old) had combined AIS with a Risser sign < 5 with the criteria of a Lenke type C curve. Fourteen patients had a minimum follow-up of two years. The parameter analysis included coronal and sagittal corrections. Horizontalisation of lumbar and thoracic endvertbrae and correction of both curves were measured on pre-op bending and Cotrel traction films.
Fourteen female patients with a mean age of 15.4 years were followed for an average time period of 3.3 years. Mean correction of the lumbar curve and the thoracic curve was 46.0% (±18.5) and 54.7% (±16.4) respectively. Patients with preoperative horizontalisation on Cotrel traction films of the lumbar endvertebra of less than 6° had an average correction of the lumbar curve of 60.1% (±8.1) and an average loss of correction of 3.6% (±14.6); those with more than 5° had 27.2% (±9.7) and 19.4%(±11.5) respectively. Horizontalisation of the thoracic endvertebra of less than 10° on preoperative Cotrel traction films had an average correction of the lumbar curve of 62.7% (±8.7) and −2.8% (±10.4) loss of correction; those with more than 9° had 44.6%(±13) and 12.8%(±13.6) respectively. Preoperative correction of more than 50% of the thoracic curve on Cotrel traction films had an average correction of the lumbar curve of 53.1% (±18.3); loss of lumbar correction was −1.9% (±8.9); less than 50% had 38.9% (±15.7) and 22 % (±10.7) respectively.
Patients with combined AIS and pronounced lumbar curves (type C) can be treated with selective anterior thoracic fusion. Horizontalisation of the thoracic and lumbar endvertebrae and correction of the thoracic curve on preoperative Cotrel traction films have an important predictive value for the unfused lumbar curve and are superior to bending films in this context.
The issue of preservation or sacrifice of the posterior cruciate ligament in total knee arthroplasty remains unresolved.
We report the results of 200 consecutive total knee arthroplasties performed at our hospital under the direction of the senior author. Pre-operatively, patients were randomly chosen to receive either a Kinemax (posterior cruciate retaining) or a Press-Fit-Condylar (posterior cruciate sacrificing) prosthesis. We implanted 97 Kinemax and 103 Press-Fit-Condylar prostheses which were prospectively followed-up by clinical and radiographic assessment. Review at mean follow-up of 2.7 years showed a satisfactory clinical result in both groups [Surace, et al., 1994].
We present the results of our further review, with maximum follow-up of over nine years (mean: 5.9 years). Revision of the implant has been performed in five knees (three Kinemax and two Press-Fit-Condylar). The polythene spacer had to be replaced in one patient with a Press-Fit-Condylar implant.
Patients were assessed with the Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Score and radiologically assessed with the Knee Society Roentgenographic Evaluation and Scoring System. Pre-operative demographics and disease states of the patients were similar, with an average Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Score of 63. At the latest assessment the average knee score was good (85). Remarkably, the mean knee score for the posterior cruciate sacrifice and the PCL groups remains similar (mean: 85). Radiographic evaluation demonstrated that the prosthetic components of both groups were in comparable alignment. The posterior cruciate ligament retained (Kinemax) patient group showed a mean 5.9 degrees of the valgus angle at the knee. The angle in the posterior cruciate ligament sacrifice (PFC implant) group was 6.2 degrees. Evaluation of the radiolucent depths below the femoral, tibial and any patella component showed a mean total depth of 1.5 mm (pcl retaining) and 1.7 mm (pcl sacrificing).
Our study presents a quantitative perspective of the results of total knee replacement with proven implant systems and performed in a general orthopaedic unit by both consultants and surgeons in training. The Kinemax (Howmedica) and Press-Fit-Condylar (DePuy Johnson and Johnson) implant systems have both previously demonstrated good results and continue to be available with little subsequent modification.
To our knowledge, there have been no other large prospectively randomised studies of posterior cruciate ligament preservation or sacrifice in total knee replacement.
We compared thirty-eight patients from three orthopaedic centres who had external fixation of the femur or the tibia. Patients were randomised to receive standard (tapered 5/6 millimeter) pins (Group A) or OsteoTite (hydroxyapatite coated tapered 5/6 mm) pins (Group B).
In Group A there were 18 patients who received 71 pins. Average age of the patients was 49±12 years. Three patients had external fixation in the femur and 15 in the tibia. External fixation was used in three types of treatment: fracture fixation (4), knee osteotomy (12), and bone-transport (2). Two different fixator frames were used: a unilateral fixator was mounted in 15 patients and a circular fixator in three patients. In Group B, 20 patients (average age: ± 48 years) received 86 pins. Four patients had external fixation in the femur and 16 in the tibia. External fixation was used in three types of treatments: fracture fixation in three patients, knee osteotomy in 13 patients, and bone-transport in four patients. Two different fixator frames were used: a unilateral fixator was mounted in 16 patients and a circular fixator in four patients.
No significant difference regarding sex, age, external fixation treatment type, external fixation frame, and length of treatment were observed between the two groups. Mean final pin insertion torque was 477 ± 214 Newton cm in Group A and 339 ± 184 in Group B (p< 0.01). Mean pin extraction torque was 205 ± 169 Newton cm in Group A and 532 ± 211 in Group B (p< 0.01). Pin extraction torque was significantly lower compared to the corresponding insertion torque in Group A (p< 0.01). Pin extraction torque was significantly higher compared to the corresponding insertion torque in Group B (p< 0.01). Pin tract infection rate was lower in Group B compared to Group A (p< 0.01).
This study shows that hydroxyapatite coating was clinically effective in the improvement of the bone pin interface strength of tapered pins. By using these pins, deterioration of the bone pin interface strength can be avoided and external fixation complications minimised.
The authors wished to determine if macrophage activation and the release of osteolytic cytokines in response to orthopaedic wear debris could be suppressed pharmacologically with the use of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agents.
The current long-term results of total joint arthroplasty are limited by mechanical wear of the implants with an associated immune mediated bone lysis with subsequent loosening and eventual failure. It has been demonstrated that the osteolysis seen in cases of aseptic loosening is mediated by the immune system both directly and indirectly by activated macrophages. Macrophages indirectly cause osteolysis through release of the osteoclast activating cytokines TNFα, IL-1 and PGE2. They also directly resorb bone in small amounts when activated by wear particles.
We utilised established cell culture models of both peripherally derived monocyte/macrophages and lymphocyte enriched co-cultures and examined the effects of polymethylmethacrylate particles alone on the cells in culture. The effect of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agents (dexamethasone, diclofenac and n-acetyl cysteine) in varying concentrations was then examined using ELISA of cytokine release and electron microscopy to examine ultra structural responses.
Cell viability was also measured in cultures over 24 hour periods (at 6, 12 and 24 hours) using Trypan blue exclusion and Coulter counter, while cell type and morphology were determined cytologically, including-naphthyl acetate esterase cytochemical identification and electron microscopy.
The use of N-acetyl cysteine was associated with very significant suppression of TNF, IL-1 and PGE2 in both macrophage and lymphocyte enriched co-culture with no effect on cell viability. While diclofenac was also associated with significant decreases in cytokine expression, it was associated with a decrease in cell viability that approached significance. Dexamethasone did not have a reliable effect on these cytokines. Ultra-structural electron microscopic examination of the cells also demonstrated signs of definite down-regulation of cytoplasmic and nuclear activation.
Novel anti-oxidant therapies and possibly other immune modulating drugs can eliminate the activation of macrophages in response to periprosthetic wear particles without any associated decrease in cell viability and thus may provide a means of reducing the incidence of loosening and failure of total joint arthroplasty.
The goal of the present study is to investigate if one of the two dorsal operative procedures (rod-rotation versus translation technique) leads to a better radiographic correction of idiopathic adolescent thoracic scoliosis after operative treatment.
The operative technique in scoliosis surgery introduced by Cotrel and Dubousset attempts to achieve an improvement of the sagittal profile and a derotation of the vertebrae, in addition to a correction of the main curvature of the scoliotic spine by rotation of the convex-side rod (rod-rotation). The technique of segmental correction was described by Luque. Correction of the scoliosis is performed after fixation of each vertebral body with wire cerclages, followed by segmental correction of the deformed spine. The Universal Spinal System was introduced and an operating technique was developed to take advantage of the principle of segmental correction of scoliosis (translation technique).
The radiographic outcomes in two groups comprising a total of 69 adolescent patients treated for idiopathic thoracic scoliosis with dorsal instrumentation by the use of a unified implantation system (Universal Spinal System) were compared retrospectively by an independent observer. In 30 patients an intraoperative correction of the scoliosis was performed by translation technique (translation group) and in 39 patients the correction was achieved by Cotrel-Dubousset instrumentation (rod-rotation group). The mean follow-up interval was 40 months with a minimum of 12 months. The preoperative radiographic measurements of the scoliotic spines showed no significant differences between the two groups.
In both patient groups, the thoracic primary curve, lumbar secondary curve, and apical rotation of the thoracic curve were improved by the operation. The thoracic primary curve was corrected from 50 6° to 24 7° (p< 0.01) in the translation group and from 54 11° to 22 11° (p< 0.01) in the rod-rotation group. The extent of the correction of the thoracic curve was significantly greater in the rod-rotation group than in the translation group (59% versus 52% correction; p< 0.01). Thoracic apical rotation was corrected from 21 ± 9° to 16 ± 10° (p< 0.01) in the rod-rotation group and from 19 ± 9° to 17 ± 7° (p< 0.05) in the translation group. Lumbar apical rotation and the sagittal profile were unchanged in both groups.
Based on the results of this study with a small number of patients, the ability of the translation technique to correct the thoracic major curvature seems to be less than that of the rod-rotation technique. No differences are to be expected in the correction of the lumbar minor curvature or of the rotation of the thoracic apex. Neither procedure is expected to influence the sagittal profile or lumbar rotation.
We wanted to solve the problem of acetabular dysplasia with a cementless total hip endoprothesis by using a smaller acetabular cup in order to fit the size of the dysplastic acetabulum without using any additional bone transplantation for superstructure of the acetabulum.
By using this type of acetabular reconstruction we can preliminarily conclude that the bone superstructure of the acetabulum can be avoided and that problems may occur if remodelation of the bone transplant has failed. Irregular biomechanical bending in the supraacetabular region can also be avoided.
Uncured developmental dysplasia of the hip joint (DDH) is a huge problem to solve in elderly patients. DDH can be expressed in several forms according to stage, i.e., in young and elderly patients we can find different consequences, from slight to moderate supraacetabular dysplasia combined with anterior dysplasia, valgus and anteversion of the proximal femur, to high hip luxation.
In efforts to find a better way to solve slight and moderate supraacetabular dysplasia (in some cases combined with high luxation), we have tried to use a smaller acetabular cup that will fit the dysplastic acetabulum, combined with a higher hip centre, dysplastic polyethylene, and a longer femoral neck to avoid leg length discrepancy and weakness of the gluteal musculature.
From January 1999 to January 2000 we performed the above-mentioned type of operation in 33 patients (25 females, 8 males) with dysplastic coxarthrosis of the hip. Age range was from 32 to 63 years. In all cases we performed the application of a Zimmer or Biomet smaller acetabular cementless cup after reaming the acetabulum near the internal lamina of the iliac bone. Good primary fixation of the acetabulum was achieved in all of the cases. Supraacetabular reconstruction was not used. In some cases where the dysplasia was very expressive, we left the acetabular cup uncovered for about 0.5 cm. In the postoperative period we advised the patient to load the operated leg over two crutches without full weight bearing for approximately six weeks. After that time period and according to clinical and radiographic findings, we prescribed walking with one crutch, and walking without crutches four months later.
The follow-up period is short but preliminary results of our study are satisfactory. There were no early postoperative complications. Incorporation of bone was good in the acetabular cups measured with radiographs and in some cases with Tc99m. In some cases where we left part of the cup uncovered, there was supraacetabular formation of new bone after six months.
Until recently, diaphyseal fractures in children aged 4–12 years were treated conservatively. Although Prof. Havránek recommended oblique bilateral skin traction in his monograph entitled Split Russell Traction, he is currently inclined to use skeletal traction through the proximal tibia (Goteborg traction). The author himself stresses that this therapy requires great expertise from the medical staff. In addition, patients are immobilised for several weeks in hospital.
The Pediatric Traumatology School in Nancy, France prepared a method of intramedullar elastic ostheosynthesis according to Métaizeau and Prévote.
After our experience with intramedullary fixation using Prévote’s nails in diaphyseal fractures of adults and diaphyseal forearm fractures, we also decided to use this ostheosynthesis in diaphyseal femoral fractures of children.
Our group includes four patients (2 boys, 2 girls) with a mean age of 4.2 years (range 4–11). Average time from injury to operation was eight hours.
The patient is in a supine position and given a general anaesthesia. After repositioning, two or more Prévot nails are inserted above the distal physis from the medial and lateral side towards the femoral diaphysis. The nails cross distally and proximally to the fracture line and are anchored in the intertrochanteric area. The operative procedure usually lasts approximately thirty minutes.
The patient is hospitalised from two to five days. The child walks with crutches after discharge, and trains the operated lower extremity. According to the parents, these children began to load the extremity spontaneously after two weeks. After four weeks we perform a radiographic check and permit full loading. The bars are removed in eight weeks in children up to the age of seven years, and 12 weeks in older children.
All of the children recovered without any problems. The schedule for follow-up is from nine to twelve months. The extremities do not appear to have a tendency to overgrow.
The method of mini-invasive osteosynthesis of diaphyseal femoral fractures in children aged from four to twelve years is a modern alternative to conservative treatment. It is more comfortable for the patients, avoids the skin complications of traction therapy, and significantly shortens the time of treatment. This method will also be particularly useful in treating polytraumatised patients.
The incidence of non-union in the long bones varies with each bone and with the methods of treating acute fractures. Several factors have been implicated as the cause of non-union, most of which are inherent in the nature of the fracture. High-velocity open fractures with skin or bone loss, distraction at the fracture site, and an inadequate external or internal fixation increase the incidence of non-union in fractures.
Weber and Cech classify non-unions as two types – hypervascular and avascular. Hypervascular non-unions can be treated by stable fixation of the fragments alone, whereas the avascular type requires decortication and bone grafting for healing. Reamed intramedulary nailing is an effective technique for management of the tibial shaft aseptic non-union for both types.
Twenty tibial non-unions were treated with a reamed intramedullary nail. The initial fracture management consisted of a cast in seven patients (35%), external fixation in four (20%), plate osteosynthesis in four (20%), and unreamed nailing in five (25%). The time from injury to nailing averaged 32 weeks. Patients were followed for an average of 16 months.
All non-unions united uneventfully and functional results were excellent. Contraindications are a history of prior acute infection or excessive shortening due to bone loss.
Reamed intramedullary nailing is an effective, relatively low-risk technique for the management of non-union of the tibia. The closed technique should be used when possible. When necessary, open alignment should be executed with minimal dissection. Osteotomy of the fibula is a necessary component of this technique and bone grafting is indicated in cases of avascular non-union.
The outcome of surgical treatment for congenital clubfoot depends, among other things, on obtaining correct repositioning of the tarsus in relation to the talus, i.e., peritarsal correction. This correction includes successfully repositioning the navicular, which is dislocated medially in relation to the head of the talus.
Evaluation of talonavicular repositioning is possible in older children when it is possible to observe the navicular bone on a radiograph. In radiographs of younger children between the ages of three and five, the navicular bone cannot be seen. USG examination may be helpful in the evaluation of talonavicular positioning, enabling better planning of the surgical procedure and its range.
In the Paediatric Orthopaedic Department of Medical Academy in Lublin from 1995 to 1999, 225 children (256 feet) were surgically treated. The peritarsal correction method (Turco) was used to manage 221 feet, and 31 feet by the subtalar release method according to Crawford by the incision of Cincinnati. Fifty-two feet were re-operated because of recurrent deformation.
USG examinations revealed incorrect positioning of the navicular bone. There was medial displacement in 24 feet (recurrent deformations), and wedge-shaped navicular bone in 18 feet and connected with dorsal displacement (overcorrection).
Medial displacements were observed in residual adductus deformation, whereas dorsal displacements were observed in feet with cavus or calcaneal deformity, which is connected with excessive lengthening of the calcaneal tendon (overcorrection).
USG examination in recurrent clubfoot enables the evaluation of talonavicular repositioning (not possible on radiographs) in younger children two to five years old, and is helpful to better plan the range of the operation.
The purpose of our study was to evaluate several specific methods of skeletal stabilisation and soft-tissue treatment of open fractures in the orthopaedic department in a district hospital.
After stabilisation of the patient and diagnosis of concomitant injuries, the basic initial evaluation of the fracture type, soft-tissue laceration, and neurovascular status is made. Deformities of the legs are realigned promptly. Sterile wound dressing and early intravenous administration of antibiotics are applied. Prophylaxis against tetanus is considered.
Radiograph diagnostics are made and the Tscherne, Gustilo and Anderson classifications of open fractures are used. All devitalised tissue is removed in the operating theatre. The following methods of bone stabilisation are used: immobilisation in a cast, external fixation, and intramedullary nailing. Repeated debridement of soft-tissue is carried out. Postoperatively, time duration for bone-healing and deep infections were analysed.
During the past five years, 159 patients with a tibial shaft fracture were treated. Twenty-six were open fractures Type I (8), Type II (9), Type IIIA (7), and Type IIIB (2). Methods of stabilisation were cast (5), external fixation (7) and intramedullary rod (14).
Deep infection in Type III fractures was reported in two cases and a non-union in one case. Bone grafting was performed in two cases. Nailing followed short-term use of an external fixator in three cases. No amputations were necessary. The average time (in months) for union was 5 (Type I), 5.8 (Type II), and 8 (Type III).
Our experience agrees with the principle that the method of choice is intramedullary nailing that may follow the short-term use of an external fixation. Open fractures of the tibial shaft represent a limb-threatening and potentially life-threatening emergency. Optimum treatment involves appropriate initial evaluation, the administration of antibiotics, urgent operative debridements, skeletal stabilisation, and early soft-tissue closure or flap-coverage.
The type of treatment depends on the individual characteristics of the fracture and the concomitant soft-tissue injury. Fractures with a higher degree of comminution and soft-tissue laceration have more complications.
We present the results of treatment of complicated comminutive fractures and fracture dislocations of the proximal humerus at the First Orthopedic Clinic of Prague in the last ten years. We also compare the results using two different methods of treatment: shoulder arthroplasty and non-anatomical shoulder reconstruction.
Treatment of complicated fractures of the proximal humerus is difficult. The results are not always good because the moving apparatus of the shoulder is often destroyed. The common method of treatment is shoulder arthroplasty with reconstruction of the rotator cuff. In our clinic we use (especially in young patients) the so-called non-anatomical reconstruction of the shoulder that enables us to save the humeral head. This reconstruction is suitable when three-fourths of the joint surface is preserved with the technical possibility of further fixation to the distal fragment.
From 1990 to 1999 we operated on 42 acute fractures not suitable for anatomical reconstruction or conservative treatment. Shoulder arthroplasty was performed in 22 patients and non-anatomical reconstruction in 20 patients. It was possible to maintain partial blood supply of the humeral head in seven patients. Evaluation of functional results was made by the method according to Constant and radiographs were also evaluated. In non-anatomical reconstruction we paid particular attention to the observation of the onset of necro-biotic rebuilding of the humeral head.
In the 22 patients who underwent shoulder arthroplasty, we recorded results of three excellent, fourteen good, four satisfactory and one unsatisfactory. In patients who had non-anatomical shoulder reconstruction, the results were four excellent, eleven good, four satisfactory and one unsatisfactory. Out of this group there were three excellent and four good results in patients with a partially saved blood supply to the humeral head. There are signs of necro-biotic changes of the humeral head in four patients, but its presence clearly has no direct effect on the final shoulder function.
There are significantly worse results from arthroplasty in trauma cases than in other diagnoses such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to our own method, non-anatomical reconstruction of the shoulder has comparable results. In addition, this procedure enables saving the humeral head. There is also the advantage of no problems that are associated with arthroplasty (infection, migration of components, etc.). We have achieved remarkably good results in non-anatomical reconstruction with partial saving of the blood supply of the humeral head. The development of necro-biotic rebuilding of the head has no direct influence on the functionality of the shoulder.
There are some special features involving replacement surgery of totally dislocated or severely dysplastic hips (Eftekhar Stage C and D). To achieve abduction strength strong enough to balance the pelvis and reliable fixation of the acetabular component, the cup must be seated near the anatomic level or even lower. Therefore, the femoral component in most cases is to be mounted below the intertrochanteric level in order to get the prosthesis reduced and the greater trochanter with intact attachment of the gluteus medius muscle distally advanced. At these levels the femoral diaphysis is straight and requires a straight stem. We started these techniques over 15 years ago with Lord’s madreporic prosthesis, but the stem – especially the calcar part – was too curved. A totally straight cementless, collared stem was designed with Biomet Inc. and has been used since 1988.
For this stem the femur was prepared with broaches, but it was far too easy to get a proximal split when rasping the cortical bone or inserting the stem. For this reason a new stem with a tapered, oval proximal part was designed in 1993. The femur is prepared with reamers and no broaches are needed. Because the stem is collarless, vertical/rotational stability is achieved by the oval wedge shape of the proximal stem, and not by the collar. Therefore, rotational instability and loosening of the stem are avoided.
We present the operative methods. The collarless stem has been used since 1993 in 58 hips of 43 patients. Mean age of the patients was 54 years (range: 21 to 71). Only six of the patients were men. The most common cause of hip deformity was DDH (47 hips). Five hips had congenital coxa vara, two cases had tuberculosis of the hip, and two patients had diastrophic dysplasia. There was one arthrogryphosis multiplex patient and one congenital proximal femoral deficiency. Schanz osteotomy had been performed in 11 of the DDH cases. Forty-four of the 47 DDH hips were high dislocations (Eftekhar C or D).
Complications: There were three dislocations, three late fractures of the greater trochanter fixed with a hookplate, two splits of the proximal diaphysis fixed with a cable, and one late fracture dislocation revised with a collared stem. Deep infection occurred in one case and removal of the prosthesis was necessary. In two cases the stem migrated 3 to 7 mm but stabilised spontaneously with osteointegration. In one case the stem migrated 15 mm. Fibrous union remained, but it is painless.
The final outcome was good in all other cases, but the patient with deep infection is waiting for a rearthroplasty, and the case with fibrous union is likely to be revised when it becomes symptomatic. Pain relief and the functional results including improvement of gait and abduction strength were generally good. Most of the patients were highly satisfied.
The authors provide an analysis of the results of surgery for clubfoot at the Vilnius University Children’s Hospital in Lithuania from 1979 to 1999.
We operated 565 clubfeet in 464 patients. Average age of the patients was 4.1 years. From 1979 to 1993, 172 feet were operated. Most patients had the so-called Zacepin procedure for clubfoot release that contains a multi-stage release of different clubfoot components, but without attention to bony alignment restoration. At that time most patients were operated from 1.5 to 4 years of age. In that group 45% of the patients had a recurrence of the deformity and an additional operation was necessary.
From 1993 to 1999, 393 clubfeet were operated. Mean age of the patients was 2.7 years (range 6 months to 7.4 years.). A more extensive release was introduced using the Cincinnati approach and restoration of normal talocalcaneal and talonavicular alignment following adequate soft tissue release. In this group 14% of the patients had a recurrence.
The main goal of the clubfoot surgery was an exact reposition and fixation of the talocalcaneal and talonavicular alignment with adequate soft tissue release. The Cincinnati approach was the most effective and safe for correcting all of the components of the deformity. The best results were found in the patients who were operated at the age of six to eight months. In order to get a better functional outcome, at three to four years of age a number of our operated patients required an additional procedure such as a split tibialis anterior tendon transfer, a lateral column shortening, or a medial column lengthening. An excessive reposition of the talus produces a strange and severe foot deformity that is difficult to manage.
The results of the Baumann procedure (intramuscular lengthening of the gastrocnemius and soleus in the proximal part of the muscle) for correction of fixed gastrosoleus contracture in diplegic children are presented.
Eleven ambulatory children with diplegic type of cerebral palsy (mean age: 10 years) were operated for correction of fixed gastrosoleus contracture by the Baumann procedure as part of a multi-level, single-session surgery for gait improvement. Evaluation included clinical examination and gait analysis. Mean follow-up after surgery was 2.7 years.
Clinical examination demonstrated significant improvements in active and passive ankle dorsal flexion with maintenance of ankle plantar flexor power. Ankle kinematics showed an increase in the dorsal flexion at initial contact, an average angle in single limb support, and maximum dorsal flexion in swing. Although there was an increase in dorsal flexion at the beginning of push-off, the total range of motion during push-off was not affected. Ankle movement demonstrated better loading in stance, manifested by significant improvement in maximum flexor movement in the second half of single stance. Post-operatively there was a change from abnormal generation of energy to normal energy absorption in mid-stance. Positive action during pushoff was significantly increased.
It is known that the growth of muscle occurs at its musculo-tendinous junction. Anatomic and simulation studies have demonstrated differences in the muscle fasicle length and pennation angles. With the Baumann procedure, an intramuscular lengthening gives the best chance for functional adaptation in the muscle. When needed, the soleus can also be lengthened. Multiple incisions permit stretching of the muscle fibres even in severe deformities.
We present a retrospective clinical and radiological review to assess the use of the AO unreamed femoral nail and spiral blade in the treatment of subtrochanteric fractures. Treatment of the subtrochanteric fracture remains a challenge. A combination of high stress concentration, poor cortical bone quality and comminution leads to a high incidence of problems. The abovementioned implant has been recommended for use in such fractures. However, several authors have reported mechanical failure and spiral blade migration. We have used the unreamed femoral nail since 1996 in 65 femoral fractures, and of these 32 were subtrochanteric fractures. A retrospective clinical and radiological study was undertaken to assess the use of the implant.
Clinical notes and radiographs were obtained for patients with subtrochanteric fractures treated with the AO unreamed femoral nail from November 1996 to November 1999. Fracture pattern was classified according to Seinsheimer. Assessments were made of callus formation and fracture healing. Any complication or implant failure was noted.
Thirty-two patients required an unreamed femoral nail. There were 20 females and 12 males, with an average age of 75 years. There were 16 fractures due to a fall, 15 pathological fractures, and one due to a car accident. Classification was: Type I: 6; Type II: 13; Type III: 6; Type IV: 3; Type V: 1. Mean follow-up was five months (range 3 to 18). Eight deaths occurred within one month. There were two pain-free non-unions, one revision with bone graft for non-union, and one spiral blade back out. No breakage of implants occurred.
We found that this implant provides stable fixation in these difficult fractures if adequate reduction is obtained. We have not experienced the implant failures reported in other series. We recommend the use of the implant, especially in those patients who are elderly or have pathological fractures.
We evaluated long-term follow-up clinically and radiologically of patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip operated between 1956 and 1971 with adductor tenotomy and open reduction of the hip.
Ninety-six patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip were operated between 1956 and 1971. Their ages were from 10 months to 44 months. Eighty-eight patients (88.5%) were girls and 11(11.5%) were boys. There were 58 unilateral cases and 38 bilateral cases for a total of 134 operated hips. The cases with bilateral involvement were operated simultaneously. For all patients, the surgical team used the same technique consisting of open reduction through a Smith Petersen incision together with an adductor tenotomy and lengthening or tenotomy of the Psoas muscle. Postoperative immobilization was a pelvic-toe cast for one month followed by two plaster casts with abduction rod for three to five months. Postoperative follow-up was from 15 years to 44 years, 4 months (mean: 24 years, 4 months).
The clinical outcome evaluated pain, range of motion, limp, muscle strength, and leg length discrepancy. Radiological evaluation included Mose index, acetabular head index, Wiberg’s CE angle, medial articular space, Sharp’s angle, acetabular index of the weight-bearing zone, acetabular depth, radial quotient in unilateral cases, width and shape of teardrop, collodiaphyseal angle, Shenton line, and degenerative changes of the hip.
The results of clinical evaluation were: Excellent – 60 (44.7%), Good – 35 (26.1%), Fair – 26 (19.4%), Poor – 13 (9.7%). Radiological results according to a modified Severin classification were: Class I – 60 (44.7%), Class II – 33 (24.6%), Class III – 31 (23.1%), Class IV – 9 (6.7%), Class V – 1 (0.7%), Class VI – 0 (0%).
Complications were: infections in six hips (4.4%), three (2.2%) being deep ones. Avascular necrosis according to Bucholz and Odgen occurred in 38 hips (28.3%). Four hips (3%) were Type I, 31 hips (23.1%) were Type II, three hips (2.2%) were Type III. Degenerative changes occurred in 29 hips (21.6%) of which seven hips (5.22%) were Grade I, 12 hips (8.95%) were Grade II, and 10 hips (7.46%) were Grade III.
Our conclusions were: 1.) Open reduction of developmental dysplasia of the hip is a valid method in late treatment or failure of orthopaedic treatment. 2.) Clinical results are better than radiological results. 3.) The rate of degeneratives changes increases with long-term follow-up. 4.) The best radiological results are achieved in patients who are younger than one and half year of age at the time of surgery. 5.) There was a significant rate (23.1%) of avascular necrosis Type II according to the Bucholz and Odgen classification, but this can only be realized with long-term follow-up.
This study presents an historical review of the treatment of talipes equino-varus during the last centuries. The aim of the study was to show how knowledge about the pathogenesis and the progress of new techniques in orthopaedic surgery (plaster of Paris, anaesthesiology, asepsis, antisepsis) have influenced the treatment of this disease during the centuries.
This investigation is based on a study of the library of the German Orthopaedic and Science Museum that has more than 3000 historical books and theses from the middle of the 19th century to the present time.
In the 18th and 19th century there were different theories about the pathogenesis of clubfoot. For example, Paré was of the opinion that secondary forces were responsible for the deformity. Camper and Wolff were convinced that intrauterine pressure on the extremities was the reason for pes equinovarus. Little, Stromeyer and Delpech believed that shortening of the muscles was the origin. The pathogenesis of the clubfoot is still obscure.
The concept of therapy with redression and retention during the first month has not changed since Hippocrates. However, the techniques of redression and retention have changed during the decades. Machines and rural instruments were used for redression until the end of the 19th century (Lorenz, Thomas). Retention was improved by the development of new splints (Arceo, Venel, Scarpa). The introduction of plaster of Paris (Mathysen) in the treatment of the clubfoot led to a further improvement of retention in early treatment.
A new era began with asepsis and anaesthesia. These techniques allowed progress in the operative therapy of the tendons. The open and subcutaneous tenotomy was developed by Delpech, Dieffenbach, and Stromeyer.
In spite of the operative possibilities, we conclude that conservative treatment still has a major role in the concept of treatment for equinovarus.
This contribution presents the analysis of a group of 14 patients with a serious form of meningomyelocele associated with equinovarosity of the foot. The severity of the condition depends on the neurosegmental level of the lesion as well as the seriousness of the essential malady.
The primary treatment of these patients is aimed at early surgical management of meningomyelocele. It is fundamental that the patient should undergo a thorough neurological examination in which the prognosis of the illness and the expected degree of immobility of the patient should be determined. If full immobility is expected, radical correction of the foot deformity should be deferred. If, at any age, a tendency to verticalise occurs, immediate correction of the foot deformity is required in order to prevent decubitus and provide for posture stability.
The treatment of paralytic clubfoot is above all adversely affected by skin hypaesthesia which tends to cause decubitus and aggravate healing of the wound after the surgery.
Our group consists of 14 patients who were operated for a serious form of lumbar meningomyelocele associated with L2-S2 areflexia soon after birth. The current mean age of the group is 14 years (range 6 to 20). Four patients aged from two to six years were operated. Serious complications of wound healing after surgery occurred in one patient. All four patients are able to walk with a stagger and clumsily with the help of crutches. The remaining ten patients have been left immobile without hope of stable standing.
The treatment of paralytic clubfoot demands intensive cooperation of neurologists and neurosurgeons. It is necessary to carefully think about all aspects of a patient’s prognosis before radical surgical treatment of the foot is considered.
The aim of this research was to elaborate indications for application of some methods of surgical treatment of DDH in teenagers.
There are some significant problems with surgical treatment of DDH in teenagers. The most serious one is that the results of routine reconstructive methods usually satisfy neither the patients nor the orthopaedists. In addition, in most of the cases it is too early for total hip arthroplasty.
From 1985 to 1996, we operated twenty teenagers with late stages of DDH. Group A was eight patients (12 to 14 years old) with marginal hip luxation (acetabulum angle was more than 40°). Group B was seven patients (10 to12 years old) with iliac hip dislocation (acetabulum angle was more than 50°) and Group C was five patients (11 to 14 years old) with iliac hip dislocation (plane acetabulum).
In Group A we performed our first two-stage method of surgical treatment. For the first stage we performed corrective transtrochanteric femur osteotomy (AO plate fixation) and partial acetabuloplasty, and corrected not more than half of the acetabulum angle deficiency. The second stage was performed four to six months later. We removed the femur AO plate and again performed a partial acetabuloplasty. A spherical acetabulum with normal angle and stable hip joint were the results of this method.
In Group B we performed our second two-stage method of surgical treatment. For the first stage we performed a corrective and shortening (2 to 3 cm) transtrochanteric femur osteotomy (AO plate fixation), open reduction of the hip and partial acetabuloplasty and corrected not more than half of acetabulum angle deficiency. The second stage was performed 4 to 6 months later and we removed the femur AO plate and performed a Salter osteotomy. A spherical acetabulum with normal angle and a stable hip joint were also the results of the application of this method.
In Group C we performed the well-known Ilizarov technique of femur reconstruction (modification of Schanz osteotomy with correction of femur shortening). Normalisation of gait and reduction of the Trendelenburg sign were the results of the application of this method.
The results of these methods were studied 3 to 10 years after the end of postoperative rehabilitation. Good results were obtained in 16 cases, satisfactory in four (one in Group A, two in Group B and one in Group C).
The study reviews 24 patients with 27 total hip arthroplasties in which an acetabular reinforcement ring with hook was used for primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) due to underlying hip dysplasia.
There were 19 female and 5 male patients with a mean age of 50.6 years (31 to 70) at the time of surgery. A bulk autograft for acetabular reconstruction was used in four cases with Crowe Type III and IV dysplasia. In eight cases cancellous bone alone was used to fill the gap between the reinforcement ring and the acetabulum. All patients had a polyethylene cup cemented into the ring and 22 cases had a straight Müller CDH stem cemented into the shaft.
Mean follow-up was 10.7 years (range: 8.1 to 12.7). No clinical or radiographic signs of loosening of the reinforcement ring were found in 24 (88.9 %) of the 27 THAs. Two revisions (7.4%) were performed for aseptic loosening and one acetabular component had radiographic signs of loosening. The Merle D`Aubigné score had increased from 7 to 15 points.
The acetabular reinforcement ring continues to have favourable results in this specific patient group and may also prevent graft resorption and cup migration.
The aim of this study was to compare the results of resection arthroplasty with two-stage re-implantation procedure performed for peri-prosthetic infection of the hip. Patients who have had a resection arthroplasty can expect to have less pain, but their functional recovery is inferior to that which can be obtained after a two-stage re-implantation. Resection arthroplasty is usually unacceptable as a definitive solution for relatively young and active patients.
Possible options for the operative treatment of a periprosthetic infection include debridement with retention of the prosthesis, immediate one-stage exchange arthroplasty, and excision arthroplasty – either as a definitive procedure or as the first of a two-stage reconstructive procedure. The choice of a particular treatment is influenced by a number of factors.
At the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery in Hradec Králové we performed resection arthoplasty of the hip in 67 patients between 1984 and 1998. Mean age was 67 years (range 44–91). We were able to follow-up 33 of these patients in 1999. At follow-up, replacement of the total hip prosthesis in two stages had been carried out in 10 of the 33 patients. In 23 patients (11 male, 12 female) the resection arthroplasty had been present for an average of five years. In the remaining ten patients (3 male, 7 female) a total hip reimplantation had been performed after an average of 17 months (range 3 to 63). Mean follow-up after reimplantation was four years. The Harris hip score was calculated for the individual patients during follow-up.
The Harris hip score was 66 in the re-implantation group compared to 57.5 in the patients with resection arthroplasty. Personal satisfaction and hip function were better after the two-stage re-implantation procedure.
The aim of this study is to compare the results of resection arthroplasty with two-stage re-implantation procedure performed for peri-prosthetic infection of the hip. Patients who have had a resection arthroplasty can expect to have less pain, but their functional recovery is inferior to that which can be obtained after a two-stage re-implantation. Resection arthroplasty is usually unacceptable as a definitive solution for relatively young and active patients.
Possible options for the operative treatment of a periprosthetic infection include debridement with retention of the prosthesis, immediate one-stage exchange arthroplasty, and excision arthroplasty – either as a definitive procedure or as the first of a two-stage reconstructive procedure. The choice of a particular treatment is influenced by a number of factors.
At the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery in Hradec Králové we performed resection arthoplasty of the hip in 67 patients between 1984 and 1998. Mean age was 67 years (range 44–91). We were able to follow-up 33 of these patients in 1999. At follow-up, replacement of the total hip prosthesis in two stages had been carried out in 10 of the 33 patients. In 23 patients (11male, 12 female) the resection arthroplasty had been present for an average of five years. In the remaining ten patients (3 male, 7 female) a total hip reimplantation had been performed after an average of 17 months (range 3 to 63). Mean follow-up after reimplantation was four years. The Harris hip score was calculated for the individual patients during follow-up.
The Harris hip score was 66 in the re-implantation group compared to 57.5 in the patients with resection arthroplasty. Personal satisfaction and hip function were better after the two-stage re-implantation procedure.
It has been shown that the bone, nerve, tendon, and muscle can generate new tissue when a leg is lengthened. In this study we have examined the muscles to see whether the proliferative response occurs uniformly along the fibres or whether it is a disproportionate occurrence, and also to see whether the muscles of animals of different age responded differently.
In five adult (more than 25 weeks) and five young (8 to 9 weeks) New Zealand White rabbits, a mid-diaphyseal tibial osteotomy was created and stabilised with an Orthofix (M-100) external fixator. After seven days, lengthening was carried out at a rate of 1.6 mm/day until a 20% increase in the tibial length had occurred. One hour prior to sacrifice, all of the animals were injected with bromodeoxyridine (BrdUrd, 40mg/kg).
Proliferative response of muscle tissue was assessed by measuring the positive staining index (PSI) of BrdUrd in a two-step indirect immunohistochemistry using the monoclonal antibody Bu20a. We accomplished this staining in transverse sections (between the proximal and middle third, and between the middle and distal third of the muscle belly) and in longitudinal sections along the proximal, middle and distal third of the myotendinous junction (MTJ) of the lengthened flexor digitorum longus muscle belly. The opposite limb was used as a control for each animal.
All of the muscles showed a proliferative response that was significantly higher on the experimental side. There was no difference between the PSI of the proximal transverse sections and the distal transverse sections. The young animals demonstrated significantly increased PSI in all sections compared with the adult animals (immature distal transverse section PSI: 4.91%; mature distal transverse section PSI: 1.67%). The PSI of the longitudinal sections of MTJ showed significantly higher values than in the muscle belly (PSI at the MTJ in adults: 5.23%; PSI at the MTJ in the young: 13.2 %). The PSI result was increased at the distal third of the MTJ in mature and immature rabbits (p0.05).
The muscles show a proliferative response to elongation forming new muscle tissue. The proliferative reaction to lengthening is far greater in the muscles of growing animals compared to adults. The myotendinous junction demonstrates much more intensive proliferative activity than the muscle belly. The distal third of the myotendinous junction shows the highest PSI results. The results of this study help to interpret the results of the animal model for clinical studies and also indicate an advantage in carrying out lengthening on young individuals.
The study reviews 24 patients with 27 total hip arthroplasties in which an acetabular reinforcement ring with hook was used for primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) due to underlying hip dysplasia.
There were 19 female and 5 male patients with a mean age of 50.6 years (31 to 70) at the time of surgery. A bulk autograft for acetabular reconstruction was used in four cases with Crowe Type III and IV dysplasia. In eight cases cancellous bone alone was used to fill the gap between the reinforcement ring and the acetabulum. All patients had a polyethylene cup cemented into the ring and 22 cases had a straight Müller CDH stem cemented into the shaft.
Mean follow-up was 10.7 years (range: 8.1 to 12.7). No clinical or radiographic signs of loosening of the reinforcement ring were found in 24 (88.9 %) of the 27 THAs. Two revisions (7.4%) were performed for aseptic loosening and one acetabular component had radiographic signs of loosening. The Merle D`Aubigné score had increased from 7 to 15 points.
The acetabular reinforcement ring continues to have favourable results in this specific patient group and may also prevent graft resorption and cup migration.
The purpose is to present our experiences with the conversion of external fixation to an intramedullary nail in the treatment of open fractures and fractures in polytraumatised patients. These are traumatological cases where primary use of an intramedullary nail is difficult or impossible.
References in the world literature to the two-stage treatment of the fractures of the tibial shaft are more than 2O years old and are considered as unsuccessful. However, later papers presented conversion as an advantageous procedure. A higher stability of the fracture and better comfort of the patient are acquired by the use of conversion.
From 1995 to 1999 in the Orthopedic Clinic Bulovka in Prague, Czech Republic, ten patients (8 male, 2 female) were treated by the method of conversion of external fixation to an intramedullary nail. The group of patients was composed of eight open fractures: one Gustillo-Anderson 1, two Gustillo-Anderson 2, three Gustillo-Anderson 3A, two Gustillo-Anderson 3B, one closed fracture Tscherne CIII, and one closed fracture Tscherne CII in a polytraumatised patient. Conversion was performed from 6 to 48 days after primary stabilisation by external fixation (mean 21.2 days). We currently use the UNI-fix clamp external fixator. Conversion by standard procedure is performed up to the 21st day to the 28th day after primary stabilisation. Injury of soft tissues and skin covering must be solved at the time of conversion.
Analysis of the results in the ten cases was made from three months to 4.5 years. All of the cases were subjectively classified as excellent or very good. There were no deep infections. In three cases there was prolonged secretion from the screw holes of the external fixator. For one patient, bone grafting into a fracture bone defect was necessary after six months. ROM of the knee and ankle joint was without reduction of function. When the period of follow-up was more than one year, all patients had perfect healing of the fractures.
This method gives very satisfactory therapeutic results with a minimum of complications, and covers the spectrum of the treatment of complicated fractures of the tibial shaft. However, the indications are very strict. If conversion is not able to be performed before the 21st to the 28th day after primary stabilisation, it is more advantageous to continue with treatment by external fixation because of the risk of deep infection. After the 28th day following primary stabilisation, conversion to an intramedullary nail is not indicated.
The purpose of the study was to perform an independent assessment of the results of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) on a selected group of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures from two centres.
It still remains controversial whether to manage intraarticular calcaneal fractures conservatively or operatively with few long-term results. The identification of patients who may benefit from the procedure is still undecided.
Fifty fractures in 46 patients with a defined significant displacement of an intra-articular fracture of the calcaneum underwent ORIF by one of the two senior authors. Mean age at operation was 46 years and mean follow-up was 44 months. 88% of the injuries were due to a fall from a height. 30% of the patients had contralateral foot/ankle injuries, and 20% of the patients developed a superficial wound infection. The infection rate was significantly higher in patients whose surgery was delayed more than 14 days.
All patients were independently reviewed after a minimum two-year follow-up. A clinical, radiographic and subjective assessment of the outcome was made. The results were correlated to the original fracture type. The mean Atkins score was 88 (out of 100). Bilateral injuries fared worse. Heel pain at follow-up correlated with a poor score. Atkins scores over 90 occurred in 77% of Saunders Type II, 50% in Type III, and 43% in Type IV fractures. 94% returned to work at a mean of 10 months post-injury. Three patients have undergone a subtalar arthrodesis – two for persistent pain and one for a significant malunion. One patient required a flap but there have been no cases of chronic osteomyelitis.
In patients with significantly displaced fractures, ORIF is a worthwhile procedure with 90% of patients satisfied and 94% returning to work. Gross articular comminution does not preclude a good/excellent result if hindfoot alignment is restored. ORIF after fourteen days should be avoided due to the high risk of infection.
The following report is focused on the principles and results of management of proximal femoral fractures in the Orthopaedics and Traumatology Department of Kladno Hospital. The observed file includes patients treated from 1998 to 1999.
Proximal femoral fracture is the most frequent diagnosis in traumatology hospitalisation. Correct management is very important from a medical point-of-view not only because of the frequency, but also with regard to economics.
We strive to operate on traumas indicated for operation as soon as possible, but we often treat them in the regular operation program the next day. For pertrochanteric fractures, the Dynamic Hip Screw is most often used. We use cervicocapital endoprostheses for cervical fractures of elderly patients, total endoprostheses for younger patients, and osteosyntheses for patients with the joint in good condition. Subtrochanteric fractures are treated by a reconstructional nail, or rarely by a Gamma nail because of its financial demands. As a preventive measure, patients are given antibiotics for 24 hours. Drains are extracted on the third postoperative day and patients are verticalized on crutches. The stitches are removed on the tenth to twelvth post-operative day and patients are transferred to out-patient treatment. It is worth mentioning that an attempt is made to stabilise subtrochanteric fractures by external fixation for a patient contraindicated for operation.
From 1998 to 1999, 283 patients (217 female, 66 male) with proximal femoral fracture were hospitalised. The types of fracture were: 137 cervical (11 were undislocated, wedged, and primarily indicated for conservative therapy), 104 pertrochanteric, and 31 subtrochanteric. There were also four false-joints, two periprosthetic fractures and three luxation of endoprostheses. We conservatively treated 11 patients with stable cervical fractures, with good results. There were 21 patients contraindicated for operation and only four of them are mobile. In the observed file there were seven deaths prior to operation, ten in the immediate postoperative period, and no mors in tabula.
There were 283 patients with proximal femoral fractures hospitalised in the studied period. From the total of 216 operations, 186 (86%) are independently mobile and satisfied with the result.
The purpose of the study was to perform an independent assessment of the results of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) on a selected group of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures from two centres.
It still remains controversial whether to manage intraarticular calcaneal fractures conservatively or operatively with few long-term results. The identification of patients who may benefit from the procedure is still undecided.
Fifty fractures in 46 patients with a defined significant displacement of an intra-articular fracture of the calcaneum underwent ORIF by one of the two senior authors. Mean age at operation was 46 years and mean follow-up was 44 months. 88% of the injuries were due to a fall from a height. 30% of the patients had contralateral foot/ankle injuries, and 20% of the patients developed a superficial wound infection. The infection rate was significantly higher in patients whose surgery was delayed more than 14 days.
All patients were independently reviewed after a minimum two-year follow-up. A clinical, radiographic and subjective assessment of the outcome was made. The results were correlated to the original fracture type. The mean Atkins score was 88 (out of 100). Bilateral injuries fared worse. Heel pain at follow-up correlated with a poor score. Atkins scores over 90 occurred in 77% of Saunders Type II, 50% in Type III, and 43% in Type IV fractures. 94% returned to work at a mean of 10 months post-injury. Three patients have undergone a subtalar arthrodesis – two for persistent pain and one for a significant malunion. One patient required a flap but there have been no cases of chronic osteomyelitis.
In patients with significantly displaced fractures, ORIF is a worthwhile procedure with 90% of patients satisfied and 94% returning to work. Gross articular comminution does not preclude a good/excellent result if hindfoot alignment is restored. ORIF after fourteen days should be avoided due to the high risk of infection.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate if there was a difference in the outcome of operative treatment for rotator cuff-tears in patients younger and older than the age of 60.
Thirty-eight patients (19 male, 19 female) underwent 40 procedures and were postoperatively evaluated 15 and 42 months after surgery. At the time of follow-up they had a physical examination that included the Constant score, radiograph in three planes and a questionnaire focused on the need for analgesics, nocturnal pain, and return to full activity (work and sports). Cuff tears were classified by the Harryman classification. Corresponding to the study design, patients were divided into two age groups: under the age of sixty years (51a, min. 44a, max. 58a, n=22) and patients sixty years of age and older (68,3a, min. 60a, max. 82a, n=16).
Active range of motion increased significantly in both age groups (p< 0.05) from 101° to 152° in abduction after the first 15 months after surgery and in anteversion from 117° to 155°. By the time of the second evaluation, abduction had decreased to 136° for abduction and 149° for anteversion. The results of functional assessment by the Constant score was 72 points after 16 months and after 42 months decreasing to 62 points in the group of patients under the age of 60, and from 71 to 66 points in the group of patients 60 years of age and older.
In both age groups there was a continuous increase in muscle force: from 4.35kp after 15 months to 4.5kp after 42 months in patients younger than 60, and from 2.24kp to 3.75kp in the older age group. Pain and the use of analgesic medication decreased significantly (p< 0.0001 and p=0.0003) in both age groups during the first 15 months after surgery and after 42 months had remained at the same low level. There was a correlation between extent of the cuff tear and results of functional assessment by the constant score. For patients with Harryman Type I cuff tears, mean score after 15 months was 78 points decreasing to a mean score of 65 points after 42 months. Harryman Type II cuff tears decreased from 74 to 70 points, with Type III cuff tears decreasing from 63 to 57 points.
Patients in the age group of 60 years and older had more similar benefits from operative treatment for rotator cuff-tears than the group under the age of 60. The best clinical result in both groups appeared during the first two years after surgery and decreased an average of 3.5 years postoperatively. The results of the Constant Score were influenced primarily by the size of the cuff tear.
The aim of this study was to evaluate how three different scoring systems (Constant, Reichelt, and UCLA scores) perform in individuals with normal shoulder function.
Scoring systems to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment around the shoulder are well established. A total of 201 individuals were enrolled in this study. They were divided in four age groups and divided by sex: Group 1: Under 50 years of age: 25 female, 21 male; Group II: From 50 to 59 years of age: 17 female, 21 male; Group III: From 60 to 69 years of age: 18 female, 12 male; Group IV: 70 years of age and older: 24 female, 15 male.
All underwent clinical examination, ultrasound examination for detection of cuff tears, and radiograph examination in three planes. In all cases the dominant arm was enrolled. Twelve patients were excluded from the study because ultrasound depicted cuff tear or radiograph showed more than mild osteoarthritis according to the criteria of Hawkins, et al. (1990).
The main factor influencing the over-all score was the age-dependent decrease of muscle force measured in forward arm flexion (max. 12.5kp). The score was also influenced by the limitation of internal rotation (Group I: 13%, Group II: 26%, Group III: 40%, Group IV: 41%). According to the Reichelt and UCLA scores, males in Groups I, II and III reached a 100% top score in the UCLA and Reichelt scoring systems. In Group IV composed of older male patients, 20% scored less that the top score because of loss in active motion and muscle force. Only females in Groups I and II scored maximum results. Females in Group III scored 11% and in Group IV composed of older female patients, 50% scored less than the top score because of loss in active motion and muscle force.
Due to the natural aging process, males and females in Group IV could not accomplish maximum scores. We recommend that the top scores for the oldest age group be adjusted in order to avoid drawing erroneous conclusions from the scores in this age group.
Eighty-one patients treated surgically for non-insertional Achilles’ tendinopathy between 1987 and 1999 by one surgeon were reviewed by a comprehensive postal questionnaire. Fifty-six patients (73 tendons) returned a questionnaire at an average of 58.7 months after surgery. The duration of preoperative symptoms averaged 24.6 months. In all cases, conservative treatment was first attempted but failed to alleviate symptoms. Twenty (35.7%) of these patients were involved in competitive or serious recreational sport. There were 34 men and 22 women with a mean age of 42.5 years (range: 23 to 66). All patients who had insertional tendinopathy or retrocalcaneal bursitis were excluded from this study. The surgical procedure consisted of excision of the paratenon circumferentially and early mobilisation. All patients had the same post operative treatment. There were 77.5% excellent, 6.4% good, 6.4% fair and 6.4% poor results. Eleven percent developed complications post operatively. We concluded that surgical decompression of the Achilles’ tendon is a very effective treatment for patients with non-insertional Achilles’ tendinopathy who have failed conservative treatment.
Previous studies have documented a variation in the occurrence of musculo-skeletal conditions affecting the hip and foot in the New Zealand Maori and Pacific Island races compared with the European race in New Zealand. Similar data regarding scoliosis are lacking. A manual and computerised review of outpatient records of Starship Hospital (1989–2000) and Middlemore Hospital (1997–2000) revealed 363 patients less than 20 years of age with a diagnosis of scoliosis. Major aetiological diagnoses included adolescent idiopathic (63), syringomyelia (12), myelomeningocele (16), cerebral palsy (55) and congenital (55). Significant racial variations were noted in the idiopathic, syringomyelia and neuro-muscular groups compared with New Zealand census predictions. Idiopathic scoliosis was uncommon in Maori (9%) and rare in Pacific Islanders (1%). Conversely, these groups accounted for 66% of all scolioses and over 50% of Maori and Pacific Islanders were found to have a syrinx. MRI is indicated in Maori and Pacific Islanders with apparent adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Maori accounted for 31% of patients with myelomeningocele and scoliosis. 40% of patients with cerebral palsy and scoliosis were Maori, reflecting the known inferior status of perinatal and other health parameters in this group of people.
Compare the proximal femoral geometry with published data from the American population. Compare the proximal femoral geometry with implant sizes currently being used in New Zealand.
Despite changes in operating theatre conditions, antibiotic usage etc., infection rates following total hip arthroplasty remain remarkably constant. The management of infections may be either as one or two stage procedures, the evidence supports a two stage procedure as being the more reliable. A system of management for a two-stage procedure is discussed. This allows early weight bearing and the second stage can be carried out at any time when the results of the appropriate blood tests and aspiration deem this appropriate.
The complications included eight patients with pillar pain; one transient superficial palmar branch numbness; one transient digital branch paraesthesia; one retained suture and two superficial wound infections.
Method: A cohort of 100 patients has been followed up prospectively on a biennial basis. They have been assessed using the Nottingham Knee Proforma of Tew & Waugh. An up-dated review was carried out of the cases for the preparation of this presentation.
Alive, knee functioning satisfactorily – 57 Dead, knee functioning satisfactorily – 21 Lost to follow up – 10 Significant symptoms, not revised – 2 Infection – 1 case not requiring revision Revised – 9 Due for revision – 1 Of the 32 patients over the age of 74 at the time of replacement none have required revision (18 still alive).
Reasons for revision:
6 developed degeneration in another compartment 2 had unexplained pain 1 developed loosening of the tibial component (19 components found to be well fixed to bone at revision) 1 developed significant wear and is due for revision
Mechanical function and failure of intervertebral discs. In a healthy disc, the nucleus pulposus acts like a pressurised fluid which is restrained by tensile stress within the annulus. With increasing age, the nucleus becomes more fibrous, and biochemical changes cause the whole disc to become less elastic, and more yellow in colour. Mechanically, the hydrostatic nucleus shrinks with age, and concentrations of compressive stress appear in the posterior annulus. Experiments on cadaveric spines have shown that healthy discs can prolapse when loaded severely or repetitively in bending and compression, and that internal disruption of the disc probably follows damage to the vertebral endplates. However, mechanical loading is not necessarily harmful to living discs: on the contrary, moderate repetitive loading may lead to disc hypertrophy rather than injury.
Since the discovery of the relationship between the occurrence of sciatica and the epidural presence of herniated disc material in 1934, the predominating theory regarding the pathophysiology of sciatica has been based on the assumption that the disc material mechanically affects the adjacent nervous structures which subsequently leads to sciatica. The treatment of choice thus became surgical removal of the herniated disc material. However, a number of observations have indicated that this “mechanical theory” may not fully explain the radiating pain of sciatica. For instance, mechanical deformation of peripheral nerves is seldom painful, and invasive intra spinal tumours most often induce neurological dysfunction and not pain.
Under the assumption that the nucleus pulposus, which is the part that is herniating in the case of disc herniation, would comprise some component that independently from the mechanical deformation would induce nerve injury, an experiment was performed in 1993 in a newly developed model in the pig. This study showed, for the first time, that autologous nucleus pulposus per se induced structural injury and a marked reduction in nerve conduction velocity, and this opened a new research field. Since then, a large number of experimental studies have been performed by independent research groups mainly in Sweden, USA and Japan, on the nucleus pulposus effects. It has thereby been seen that nucleus pulposus may induce structural and functional changes in nerve roots in the absence of mechanical deformation. Nucleus pulposus is also “inflammatogenic” and also initiates pain behaviour changes by sensitising the nerve tissue.
Based on these data the proinflammatory cytokine TNF (tumour necrosis factor) has been defined as one essential substance for inducing both the nerve root sensitisation and the nerve injury. Preliminary clinical trials have been started in Gothenburg for evaluating if selective inhibition of TNF may prove useful in establishing an alternative pharmacological treatment modality for sciatica.
We have used a sheep model of intervertebral disc degeneration to monitor the presence and organisation of nerves in the disc as degeneration progresses. This model has been used to study morphological and bio-chemical changes of the disc as it degenerates, in addition to associated alterations in end-plate vascularity and vertebral bone remodelling. One aspect of this model which has not been studied to date is how the innervation of the disc may change with the onset of degeneration. This is the object of the present study.
The growth of non-myelinated pain fibres in other settings is regulated by the cytokine Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). In this study, we have investigated the production and distribution of NGF, or more particularly its active isoform – NGF-β, and its receptors, in diseased intervertebral discs in order to establish whether this cytokine might be responsible for the observed nerve ingrowth in this situation.
In the ‘Back Home’ study, which was a randomised controlled trial of a patient information leaflet for people with acute low back pain (previously presented to this Society), recruitment of patients was problematic. A total of 28/97 GPs in the New Forest area agreed to recruit patients for the study, but in 22 weeks, only 8 patients emerged. Despite extending the catchment area of the study, and having 51 participating GPs, in 2_ years, only 64 patients were entered from 19 of these GPs. Therefore, we decided to investigate GPs’ perceptions of the reasons for such poor recruitment.
Forty GPs were sent a questionnaire and 24 responded (60%). They gave 47 unprompted reasons for poor recruitment of patients – the most popular being: pressure of work (n=12); difficulty remembering (n=10); feeling ‘over-researched’ (n=4); and few patients fitted the inclusion criteria (n=4). When GPs rated the 12 listed factors, the maximum score for each item = 96 (24x4). According to the GPs, the top 4 factors were: pressure of work (score=60); forgetting to include suitable patients (52); time-consuming process of entering patients (39); GPs are ‘over-researched’ (31).
Audit based on direct patient entry with a light pen interface was integrated into the process. Seventy percent of patients were referred complaining of mechanical back pain, and an Educational Rehabilitation Programme was provided within the clinic.
The time from GP referral to surgery for routine nerve root compression fell from 92 weeks to 24 weeks (of which 12 weeks was waiting time for scanning).
Detailed audit of scanning requests in 127 patients demonstrated confirmation of clinical diagnosis in 80 percent of whom half went on to surgery. Of the 20 percent with negative scans, a fifth were subsequently found to have trochanteric bursitis.
An audit of 94 patients revealed reduced analgesic consumption, increased return to work and reduced consultation rates at one year. Five patients were referred to other clinics for further consultation. The satisfaction of the clinic amongst general practitioners was 94 percent. Referrals to the clinic have risen from 403 in 1993 to 1511 in 1999, necessitating the appointment of three further nurse practitioners. Prospective review of 104 patients revealed 95 percent satisfaction rate of the clinic and 67 percent satisfaction rate with rehabilitation. Average low back outcome score increased from 29 to 35 (p< 0.001).
A training programme for nurse practitioners has been established and, to date, ten of the clinics have been inaugurated nation-wide using this model.