Cemented vertebra and adjacent vertebra refractured in a chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder patient: A case report

BACKGROUND Although percutaneous vertebral augmentation(PVA)is a commonly used procedure for treating vertebral compression fracture(VCF),the risk of vertebral refracture should be considered.Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder(CKD-MBD)is a systemic disease of mineral and bone metabolism.It is associated with an increased risk of fracture.Few studies have reported the use of PVA in patients with CKD-MBD.We herein report a rare case wherein the cemented vertebra and the adjacent vertebra refractured simultaneously in a CKD-MBD patient after PVA.CASE SUMMARY A 74-year-old man suffered from low back pain after taking a fall about 3 wk ago.According to physical examination,imaging and laboratory findings,diagnoses of T12 VCF,CKD-MBD,and chronic kidney disease stage 5 were established.He then received percutaneous vertebroplasty at T12 vertebra.Fourteen weeks later,he presented with T12 and L1 vertebral refractures caused by lumbar sprain.Once again,he was given PVA which was optimized for the refractured vertebrae.Although the short-term postoperative effect was satisfactory,he reported chronic low back pain again at the 3-month follow-up.CONCLUSION It is necessary that patients with CKD-MBD who have received PVA are aware of the adverse effects of CKD-MBD.It may increase the risk of vertebral refracture.Furthermore,the PVA surgical technique needs to be optimized according to the condition of the patient.The medium-and long-term effects of PVA remain uncertain in patients with CKD-MBD.

Clinical Effectiveness of the Plate Screw Internal Fixation Technique in the Treatment of Patients with Traumatic Fractures of Long Bones in the Lower Extremities

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of the plate screw internal fixation technique on the clinical outcomes of patients with traumatic fractures of long bones in the lower extremities. Methods: From January 2022 to December 2023, 70 patients with traumatic fractures of long bones in the lower extremities were admitted to the hospital and randomly divided into two groups: the control group and the observation group, each consisting of 35 cases. The control group underwent traditional closed interlocking intramedullary nailing, while the observation group received internal fixation with steel plates and screws. Relevant surgical indicators, treatment effectiveness, and postoperative complication rates were compared between the two groups. Results: The observation group exhibited significantly short surgical duration (80.65 ± 5.01 vs. 88.36 ± 5.26 minutes), fracture healing time (13.27 ± 0.32 vs. 15.52 ± 0.48 weeks), and hospitalization days (10.49 ± 1.13 vs. 16.57 ± 1.15 days) compared to the control group (P = 0.000). The effective treatment rate was significantly higher in the observation group (29/82.86%) than in the control group (21/60.00%), with a significant difference observed (χ2 = 4.480, P = 0.034). Additionally, the complication rate in the observation group (2/5.71%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (8/22.86%), with a correlated difference (χ2 = 4.200, P = 0.040). Conclusion: The plate screw internal fixation technique demonstrates significant clinical efficacy in treating traumatic fractures of long bones in the lower extremities. It improves the healing rate, reduces complications, and represents a safe and effective treatment strategy worthy of widespread use and application.

Outcomes of early versus late irrigation and debridement of pediatric open long bone fractures

BACKGROUND Open long bone fractures are a major concern for pediatric patients due to the risk of surgical site infection(SSI).Early studies have recommended irrigation and debridement of open fractures within 6 hours-8 hours for the prevention of SSI.According to the American College of Surgeons(ACS)Best Practice Guidelines,in 2015,irrigation and debridement should be done within 24 hours.AIM To identify whether early irrigation and debridement,within 8 hours,vs late,between 8 hours and 24 hours,for pediatric open long bone fractures impacts rate of SSI.METHODS Using retrospective data review from the National Trauma Data Bank,Trauma Quality Improvement Project(TQIP)of 2019.TQIP database is own by the ACS and it is the largest database for trauma quality program in the world.Propensity matching analysis was performed for the study.RESULTS There were 390 pediatric patients with open long bone fractures who were incl-uded in the study.After completing propensity score matching,we had 176 patients in each category,irrigation and debridement within 8 hours and irrigation and debridement between 8 hours and 24 hours.We found no significant differences between each group for the rate of deep SSI which was 0.6%for patients who received surgical irrigation and debridement within 8 hours and 1.1%for those who received it after 8 hours[adjusted odd ratio(AOR):0.5,95%CI:0.268-30.909,P>0.99].For the secondary outcomes studied,in terms of length of hospital stay,patients who received irrigation and debridement within 8 hours stayed for an average of 3.5 days,and those who received it after 8 hours stayed for an average of 3 days,with no significant difference found,and there were also no sig-nificant differences found between the discharge dispositions of the patients.CONCLUSION Our findings support the recommendation for managing open long bone fractures from the ACS:Complete surgical irrigation and debridement within 24 hours.

Effectiveness of out-fracture of the inferior turbinate with reduction nasal bone fracture

BACKGROUND The nasal bone,being the most protruding bone in the center of the facial bones,is particularly susceptible to damage.Nasal bone fractures can often result in secondary deformation and dysfunction of the nose,including septal fractures.Studies on functional or intra-nasal complications have been rarely reported after nasal bone fracture reduction.AIM To evaluate the severity of nasal obstruction and its improvement following nasal bone fracture reduction using inferior turbinoplasty.METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of data from 50 patients with symptomatic nasal obstruction between January to December 2010.All patients underwent preoperative Computed tomography evaluation,and symptom changes and nasal cavity volume were analyzed using a visual analog scale and acoustic rhinometry before and after surgery.Closed reduction and out-fracture of both inferior turbinates performed by the same surgeon.Treatment outcomes were assessed by comparing changes in the nasal airway volume measured using acoustic rhinometry before and after surgery.The minimal cross-sectional area(MCA)was also analyzed based on the Stranc classification.RESULTS Before reduction,the mean MCA for all cases was 0.59±0.06 cm^(2),which represented an 11%decrease compared to the average size of a Korean adult(0.65±0.03 cm^(2)).The MCA for frontal impact was 0.60±0.02 cm^(2) and for lateral impact,it was 0.58±0.03 cm^(2).After reduction via inferior turbinoplasty,the MCA improved to 0.64±0.04 cm^(2).CONCLUSION This study suggests that turbinoplasty is helpful in addressing nasal obstruction.Out-fracture of the inferior turbinate is an effective and durable technique that can be easily performed to enlarge the nasal airway with minimal morbidity.

Exclusive Fibula Osteosynthesis for Treating Open Fractures Gustillo I-III B of the Distal Half of the Leg Bones in a Resources-Limited Setting

Introduction: Management of open leg bones fractures is a challenging health issue for the surgeon, particularly true in resource-limited settings. In this study, we evaluate exclusive fibular osteosynthesis in the treatment of open fractures of the distal half of the leg bones as a therapeutic option in our context. Methods: This is a prospective, experimental, multicenter study of 30 open fractures of the distal half of the leg bones treated with exclusive fibula osteosynthesis, conducted in 3 hospitals in the DRC from January 1, 2013 to September 30, 2016. Results: The age range of 20 to 40 years grouped 22 (73.4%) patients, the sex ratio was 1:1 and the unemployed were the most involved with 16 (53.3%) cases. The Gustilo II, I, III B and III A types represented 40%, 33.3%, 20% and 6.7%, respectively. The fractures were located in the distal third in 12 (40%) cases, in the middle third in 11 (36.7%) cases, and in both malleoli in 7 cases (23.3%). Osteosynthesis of the fibula by screw plate was applied in 22 (73.3%) patients and pinning in 8 (26.7%). Satisfactory reduction of the tibial fracture site was achieved in 29 (96.7%) cases and 100% bone healing was achieved within an average of 10 weeks. Four (13.3%) loss of alignment, 1 (3.3%) infection, 1 (3.3%) skin necrosis and 2 (6.7%) ankle stiffness complicated our fractures. Conclusion: Exclusive osteosynthesis of the fibula as a common technique for fractures of the distal half of the leg bones allowed us to reduce, immobilize and consolidate the tibial fracture in the required time and to preserve the mobility of the ankle.

Metformin accelerates bone fracture healing by promoting type H vessel formation through inhibition of YAP1/TAZ expression

Due to increasing morbidity worldwide,fractures are becoming an emerging public health concern.This study aimed to investigate the effect of metformin on the healing of osteoporotic as well as normal fractures.Type H vessels have recently been identified as a bone-specific vascular subtype that supports osteogenesis.Here,we show that metformin accelerated fracture healing in both osteoporotic and normal mice.Moreover,metformin promoted angiogenesis in vitro under hypoxia as well as type H vessel formation throughout fracture healing.Mechanistically,metformin increased the expression of HIF-1α,an important positive regulator of type H vessel formation,by inhibiting the expression of YAP1/TAZ in calluses and hypoxia-cultured human microvascular endothelial cells(HMECs).The results of HIF-1αor YAP1/TAZ interference in hypoxia-cultured HMECs using si RNA further suggested that the enhancement of HIF-1αand its target genes by metformin is primarily through YAP1/TAZ inhibition.Finally,overexpression of YAP1/TAZ partially counteracted the effect of metformin in promoting type H vessel-induced angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling during fracture repair.In summary,our findings suggest that metformin has the potential to be a therapeutic agent for fractures by promoting type H vessel formation through YAP1/TAZ inhibition.

Fracture of Limbs Bones in a Rural and Post Conflict Health Zone

Background: Trauma is major public health problem in developing countries where they are associated with many factors, mainly such as lack of road safety, poverty and inadequate urban planning. We aim to highlight the epidemiology of the fractures limbs bones in a rural area where people live in a context of low economy, low education and insecurity. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, retrospective study involving all patients admitted for fracture in the surgical department of FOMULAC-KATANA General Reference Hospital from 1st January 2011 to 31st December 2014. The patients whose medical records were not completed were excluded. Results: Among 136 patients included in our study, 140 bones limbs were registered. Most of them (60.1%) were aged between 15 - 44 years and the average age is 30, 1 year. Male predominance is noticed (72.8%) with a male/female ratio of 2.7/1, and informal professionals are the most found in our patients (67.6%). The main circumstances of fracture occurrence are, respectively, road traffic accidents (57.4%), falls (22.3%) and firearms (10.3%). The leg bones (33.6%) and forearm bones (20%) are the most concerned bones. Open fractures are recorded in 40.7% of patients. The supporting treatment is mainly orthopedic (64.5%) but also surgical (35.5). The mortality rate is 3.6%. Conclusion: The fractures of the limbs bones in Katana General Reference Hospital mainly affect young male which is informal professional. The road traffic accidents are the first circumstance leading to fractures followed by falls. The leg bones are the most fractured body part and fractures are commonly opened.

A segmental defect adaptation of the mouse closed femur fracture model for the analysis of severely impaired bone healing

Objective: To better characterize nonunion endochondral bone healing and evaluate novel therapeutic approaches for critical size defect healing in clinically challenging bone repair, a segmental defect model of bone injury was adapted from the threepoint bending closed fracture technique in the murine femur.Methods: The mouse femur was surgically stabilized with an intramedullary threaded rod with plastic spacers and the defect adjusted to different sizes. Healing of the different defects was analyzed by radiology and histology to 8 weeks postsurgery. To determine whether this model was effective for evaluating the benefits of molecular therapy, BMP-2 was applied to the defect and healing then examined.Results: Intramedullary spacers were effective in maintaining the defect. Callus bone formation was initiated but was arrested at defect sizes of 2.5 mm and above, with no more progress in callus bone development evident to 8 weeks healing. Cartilage development in a critical size defect attenuated very early in healing without bone development, in contrast to the closed femur fracture healing, where callus cartilage was replaced by bone. BMP-2 therapy promoted osteogenesis of the resident cells of the defect, but there was no further callus development to indicate that healing to pre-surgery bone structure was successful.Conclusions: This segmental defect adaptation of the closed femur fracture model of murine bone repair severely impairs callus development and bone healing, reflecting a challenging bone injury. It is adjustable and can be compared to the closed fracture model to ascertain healing deficiencies and the efficacy of therapeutic approaches.

Locked Posterior Shoulder Dislocation with Impression Fracture Treated All Arthroscopically with the Use of an Allograft Bone Block: A Case Report

Background: Locked posterior shoulder dislocations are uncommon and possess many difficulties in diagnosis. They are often overlooked during the initial examination and delayed diagnosis adversely affects healing process. Apart from many open treatment options, there are reports of single attempts to treat such cases arthroscopically. Purpose: We present an original case of a posterior locked dislocation of the shoulder joint with a fracture of the lesser tuberosity followed by reverse Hill-Sachs fracture, treated in a novel fashion all-arthroscopically with the use of allogenic bone graft. Method: According to Constant Shoulder Score that tries to assess functional and subjective performance of the shoulder joint before the operation and after 12 months, we achieved a leap from 11 to 84. Results: The patient restored almost full range of motion and painless movement in activities of daily life as well as during sports. Conclusion: The use of an arthroscope reduces the invasiveness of the procedure, improves visualization of the joint and allows augmentation of the bone loss without performing an open approach. We believe that this is a promising method of treatment for selected cases of locked posterior shoulder dislocation.

Virtual Reconstruction of Long Bone Fracture in Car-to-pedestrian Collisions Using Multi-body System and Finite Element Method

Lower limb injures are frequently observed in passenger car traffic accidents.Previous studies of the injuries focus on long bone fractures by using either cadaver component tests or simulations of the long bone kinematics,which lack in-depth study on the fractures in stress analysis.This paper aims to investigate lower limb impact biomechanics in real-world car to pedestrian accidents and to predict fractures of long bones in term of stress parameter for femur,tibia,and fibula.For the above purposes,a 3D finite element(FE) model of human body lower limb(HBM-LL) is developed based on human anatomy.The model consists of the pelvis,femur,tibia,fibula,patella,foot bones,primary tendons,knee joint capsule,meniscus,and ligaments.The FE model is validated by comparing the results from a lateral impact between simulations and tests with cadaver lower limb specimens.Two real-world accidents are selected from an in-depth accident database with detailed information about the accident scene,car impact speed,damage to the car,and pedestrian injuries.Multi-body system(MBS) models are used to reconstruct the kinematics of the pedestrians in the two accidents and the impact conditions are calculated for initial impact velocity and orientations of the car and pedestrian during the collision.The FE model is used to perform injury reconstructions and predict the fractures by using physical parameters,such as von Mises stress of long bones.The calculated failure level of the long bones is correlated with the injury outcomes observed from the two accident cases.The reconstruction result shows that the HBM-LL FE model has acceptable biofidelity and can be applied to predict the risk of long bone fractures.This study provides an efficient methodology to investigate the long bone fracture suffered from vehicle traffic collisions.

Treatment of Thoracolumbar Vertebrate Fracture by Transpedicular Morselized Bone Grafting in Vertebrae for Spinal Fusion and Pedicle Screw Fixation

To enhance the fusion of graft bone in thoracolumbar vertebrae and minimize the postoperative loss of correction, short-segment pedicle screw fixation was reinforced with posterior moselizee bone grafting in vertebrae for spinal fusion in patients with thoracrolumbar vertebrate fractures. Seventy patients with thoracrolumbar vertebrate fractures were treated by short-segment pedicle screw fixation and were randomly divided into two groups. Fractures in group A （n=20） were rein-forced with posterior morselized bone grafting in vertebrae for spinal fusion, while patients group B （n=50） did not receive the morselized bone grafting for bone fusion. The two groups were compared in terms of kyphotic deformity, anterior vertebral height, instrument failure and neurological functions after the treatment. Frankel grading system was used for the evaluation of neurological evaluation and Denis scoring scale was employed for pain assessment. The results showed that the kyphosis correction was achieved in both group A and group B （group A： 6.4 degree; group B： 5.4 degree）/At the end of follow-up, kyphosis correction was maintained in group A but lost in group B （P=0.0001）. Postoperatively, greater anterior height was achieved in group A than in group B （P〈0.01）. During follow-up study, anterior vertebral height was maintained only in Group A （P〈0.001）. Both group A and group B showed good Denis pain scores （P1 and P2） but group A outdid group B in terms of control of severe and constant pain （P4 and P5）. By Frankel criteria, the changes in neurological functions in group A was better than those of group B （P〈0.001）. It is concluded that reinforcement of short-segment pedicle fixation with morselized bone grafting for the treatment of patients with thoracolumbar vertebrae fracture could achieve and maintain kyphosis correction, and it may also increase and maintain anterior vertebral height. Morselized bone grafting in vertebrae offers immediate spinal stability in patients with thoracolumbar vertebrate fractures, decreases the instrument failure and provides better postoperative pain control than without the morselized bone grafting.

Efficacy of fascia iliaca compartment nerve block as part of multimodal analgesia after surgery for femoral bone fracture

BACKGROUND: Fascia iliaca compartment nerve block(FICNB) has been an established technique for postoperative analgesia after surgery for femoral bone fracture. FICNB is technically easy, effective for postoperative pain control after operation for femoral bone fracture and decreases the complications induced by systemic analgesic drugs. The severity of postoperative pain is affected by genetics, cultural and social factors across the world. In this study we assessed the efficacy of fascia iliaca compartment nerve block when it is used as part of multimodal analgesia after surgery for femoral bone fracture.METHODS: An institution-based case control study was conducted from September, 2013 to May, 2014. All patients who had been operated on under spinal anesthesia for femoral bone fracture were included. The patients divided into a FICNB group(n=20) and a control group(n=20). The FICNB group was given 30 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine at the end of the operation. Postoperative pain was assessed within the f irst 24 hours, i.e. at 15 minutes, 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours and 24 hours using 100 mm visual analogue scale(VAS), total analgesic consumption, and the time for the f irst analgesic request.RESULTS: VAS pain scores were reduced within the f irst 24 hours after operation in the FICNB group compared wtih the control group. VAS scores at 2 hours were taken as median values(IQR) 0.00(0.00) vs.18.00(30.00), P=0.001; at 6 hours 0.00(0.00) vs. 34.00(20.75), P=0.000; at 24 hours 12.50(10.00) vs. 31.50(20.75), P=0.004; and at 12 hours(17.80±12.45) vs.(29.95±12.40), P=0.004, respectively. The total analgesic consumption of diclofenac at 12 and 24 hours was reduced in the FICNB group, and the time for the fi rst analgesic request was signifi cantly prolonged(417.50 vs. 139.25 minutes, P=0.000).CONCLUSIONS: A single injection for FICNB could lead to postoperative pain relief, reduction of total analgesic consumption and prolonged time for the fi rst analgesic request in the FICNB group after surgery for femoral bone fracture. We recommend FICNB for analgesia after surgery for femoral bone fracture and for patients with femoral bone fracture at the emergency department.

Vertebral Bone Drilling (Puncture) Attenuates the Intractable Pain Due to Vertebral Fractures without Collapse

Purpose: Osteoporotic vertebral fractures with no sign of vertebral collapse on initial radiographs, which is so-called occult vertebral fractures (VFs), exist. Occult VFs have a high rate of missed diagnosis, and the treatment of these fractures has rarely been discussed in the literature. We evaluated the effects of vertebral bone drilling for the pain due to occults VFs. Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients with painful osteoporotic occult VFs underwent the vertebral bone drilling. We evaluated the clinical outcome by comparing numerical rating scale (NRS) and activity of daily life (ADL) values between before and after the vertebral bone drilling. Comparisons were made by using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results: The mean baseline NRS and ADL score, and the mean NRS and ALD score after the bone drilling were 8.4 ± 0.8, 2.2 ± 0.6, 2.4 ± 1.0, 4.6 ± 0.5, respectively. Among the patients, we detected significant improvements in NRS pain score and ADL score after the drilling compared with baseline score (p < 0.0002). Conclusion: Vertebral bone drilling at the site of painful vertebral compression fractures alleviated the intractable pain due to osteoporotic occult VFs.

Optimal concentration of mesenchymal stem cells for fracture healing in a rat model with long bone fracture

BACKGROUND There is still no consensus on which concentration of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)to use for promoting fracture healing in a rat model of long bone fracture.AIM To assess the optimal concentration of MSCs for promoting fracture healing in a rat model.METHODS Wistar rats were divided into four groups according to MSC concentrations:Normal saline(C),2.5×10^(6)(L),5.0×10^(6)(M),and 10.0×10^(6)(H)groups.The MSCs were injected directly into the fracture site.The rats were sacrificed at 2 and 6 wk post-fracture.New bone formation[bone volume(BV)and percentage BV(PBV)]was evaluated using micro-computed tomography(CT).Histological analysis was performed to evaluate fracture healing score.The protein expression of factors related to MSC migration[stromal cell-derived factor 1(SDF-1),transforming growth factor-beta 1(TGF-β1)]and angiogenesis[vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)]was evaluated using western blot analysis.The expression of cytokines associated with osteogenesis[bone morphogenetic protein-2(BMP-2),TGF-β1 and VEGF]was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction.RESULTS Micro-CT showed that BV and PBV was significantly increased in groups M and H compared to that in group C at 6 wk post-fracture(P=0.040,P=0.009;P=0.004,P=0.001,respectively).Significantly more cartilaginous tissue and immature bone were formed in groups M and H than in group C at 2 and 6 wk post-fracture(P=0.018,P=0.010;P=0.032,P=0.050,respectively).At 2 wk post fracture,SDF-1,TGF-β1 and VEGF expression were significantly higher in groups M and H than in group L(P=0.031,P=0.014;P<0.001,P<0.001;P=0.025,P<0.001,respectively).BMP-2 and VEGF expression were significantly higher in groups M and H than in group C at 6 wk postfracture(P=0.037,P=0.038;P=0.021,P=0.010).Compared to group L,TGF-β1 expression was significantly higher in groups H(P=0.016).There were no significant differences in expression levels of chemokines related to MSC migration,angiogenesis and cytokines associated with osteogenesis between M and H groups at 2 and 6 wk post-fracture.CONCLUSION The administration of at least 5.0×10^(6)MSCs was optimal to promote fracture healing in a rat model of long bone fractures.

Combined Subtemporal-Supralabyrinthine Approach to Geniculate Ganglion for Management of Facial Paralysis in Temporal Bone Fracture

Objective To investigate the clinical outcomes of facial never decompression via a combined subtemporal-su- pralabyrinthine approach to geniculate ganglion for management of facial paralysis in temporal bone fracture. Methods Eighteen patients with unilateral facial paresis due to temporal bone fracture were treated between March 2003 and March 2011. Facial function was House-Braekmann（HB） grade m in 6 patients, HB grade V in 9 patients and HB grade VI in 3 patients. The preoperative mean air conduction threshold was 52 dB HL for the 15 cases with longitudinal temporal bone fracture and showed severe sensorineural heating loss in the 3 cases with transverse temporal bone fracture. Fracture lines were detected in 15 cases on temporal bone axial CT scans and ossicular disruption was determined in 11 cases by virtual CT endoscopy. The geniculate ganglion or the tympanic mastoid segment of the facial nerve showed an irregular morphology on curved planar reformation images of the facial nerve canal. After an intact canal wall mastoi- do-epitympanectomy, the ossicular chain recess was opened by drilling through the was disrupted, the incus was removed to damage was evaluated. If the ossicular chain was intact, the supralabyrinthine cells between the tegmen tympani and ossicular chain. If the ossicular chain access the supralabyrinthine recess. The geniculate ganglion and the distal labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve were exposed. After completing facial nerve decompression, the dislocated incus was replaced, or a fractured incus was reshaped to bridge the space between the malleus and the stapes. Results Pronounced ganglion geniculatum swelling was found in 15 cases of longitudinal temporal bone fracture, with greater petrosus nerves damage in 3 cases and bleeding in 5 cases. Disrupted ossicular chains were seen in 11 cases, including dislocated incus resulting in crushing of the horizontal portion of the facial nerve in 3 cases and fracture of the incus long process in 1 case. In 3 cases of transverse fractures, dehiscence on the promontory, semicircular canal or oval window was found. All cases had primary healing with no complication. At follow-ups ranging from 0.5 to 3 years （average 1.2 years）, facial nerve function recovered to HB grade I in 11 cases, 11 in 5 cases and m in 2 cases. Overall hearing recovery was 33 dB. Conclusion The clinical outcomes concerning facial nerve function and hearing recovery are satisfactory via a combined subtemporal-supralabyrinthine approach to the geniculate ganglion for facial nerve decompression in temporal bone fracture patients with facial paralysis.

HYBRID EXTERNAL FIXATOR FOR THE TREATMENT OF UNICAMERAL BONE CYSTS WITH PATHOLOGICAL FRACTURE IN THE PROXIMAL HUMERUS

Objective: Unicameral bone cyst is a nonneoplasticbone lesion characterized by its tenacity and risk ofrecurrence. Pathological fracture is common and is often the presenting symptom. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the results of hybrid external fixator for thetreatment of a unicameral bone cyst with a pathologicalfracture. Methods: Hybrid external fixator for thetreatment of a unicameral bone cyst was performed intwelve patients. These patients presented with a pathological fracture and were managed immediately with hybridexternal fixator, of whom four had been managedconservatively at other clinics before they were referred toour department. The cyst was located in the proximalhumerus in all patients. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 8.7 years, and the mean duration offollow-up was 32.6 months. Radiographic evaluation wasperformed according to the criteria of Capanna et al., andthe cyst was classified as completely healed, healed withresidual radiolucency (osteolysis), recurred, or having noresponse. Results: The healing period ranged from three to eight months. Eight cysts healed completely, and threehealed with residual radiolucent areas visible onradiographs. There was recurrence of one cyst that hadhealed with residual radiolucency. All of the cysts in thepresent study responded to treatment. A modulation ofhybrid external fixator was necessary in three patients, asthe bars had become too short after bone growth or the pins had been loose. No major complications were observed.Conclusion: Hybrid external fixator provides earlystability, which allows early mobilization and thus obviates the need for a plaster cast. This method of treatment alsoallows for an early return to normal activity.

Fracture risk assessment in children with benign bone lesions of long bones

BACKGROUND Fracture risk assessment in children with benign bone lesions of long bones remains poorly investigated.AIM To investigate the risk factors for pathological fracture in children with benign bone lesions and to propose a modified scoring system for quantitative analysis of the pathologic fracture risk.METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 96 pediatric patients with benign bone lesions.We compared radiographic and clinical features between 40 patients who had fractures through a benign bone lesion and 56 who had no fracture.Information including histological diagnosis,anatomical site,radiographic appearance,severity of pain,and lesion size was recorded for the patients.A modified scoring system was proposed to predict the risk of fracture.RESULTS The univariate comparisons showed a significant difference between the fracture and non-fracture groups in terms of lesion type,pain,lesion-to-bone width,and axial cortical involvement of the patients(P<0.05).Lesion type,pain,lesion-tobone width,and axial cortical involvement were independently correlated with an increased risk of fracture.The mean score of the fracture group was 7.89,whereas the mean score of the non-fracture group was 6.01.The optimum cut-off value of the score to predict pathological fracture was 7.The scoring system had a sensitivity of 70%and a specificity of 80%for detecting patients with fractures.The Youden index was 0.5,which was the maximum value.The area under the receiver operator characteristic was 0.814.CONCLUSION Lesion type,pain,lesion-to-bone width,and axial cortical involvement are risk factors for pathological fracture.The modified scoring system can provide evidence for clinical decision-making in children with benign bone lesions.A bone lesion with a total score>7 indicates a high risk of a pathologic fracture and is an indication for prophylactic internal fixation.

Periprosthetic joint infections in femoral neck fracture patients treated with hemiarthroplasty–should we use antibiotic-loaded bone cement?

BACKGROUND Hemiarthroplasty is the most common treatment in elderly patients with displaced intra-capsular femoral neck fracture(FNF).Prosthetic joint infection(PJI)is one of the most feared and frequent complications post-surgery because of the frail health status of these patients and the need for fast track surgery.Therefore,priorities should lie in effective preventive strategies to mitigate this burden.AIM To determine how much the implementation of the routine use of antibioticloaded bone cement(ALBC)as a relatively easy-to-apply amendment to the surgical practice reduces the infection rate in our hemiarthroplasty cohort.METHODS We retrospectively assessed all demographic,health status and treatment-related data of our FNF patients undergoing cemented hemiarthroplasty in the period from 2011 to 2017;241 patients were further analyzed after exclusion of patients with cancer-related sequelae and those who died before the end of the 1-year observation period.The PJI rate as diagnosed on basis of the Musculoskeletal Infection Society(MSIS)criteria 2011 was determined for each included patient and compared in function of the bone cement used for hip stem fixation.Patients were split into a group receiving a plain bone cement in the period from January 2011 to June 2013(non-ALBC group)and into a group receiving an ALBC in the period July 2013 to December 2017(ALBC group).Data analysis was performed with statistical software.We further calculated the cost-efficacy of the implementation of routine use of ALBC in the second group balancing the inhospital infection related treatment costs with the extra costs of use of ALBC.RESULTS In total 241 FNF patients who received cemented hemiarthroplasty in the period from January 2011 to January 2017 were eligible for inclusion in this retrospective study.There were 8 PJI cases identified in the ALBC group among n=94 patients,whereas 28 PJI cases were observed in the non-ALBC group among n=147 patients.The statistical analysis showed an infection risk reduction of 55.3%(in particular due to the avoidance of chronic delayed infections)in the ALBC group(95%CI:6.2%-78.7%;P=0.0025).The cost-evaluation analysis demonstrated a considerable cost saving of 3.500€per patient,related to the implementation of routine use of ALBC in this group.CONCLUSION Use of ALBC is a potent infection preventive factor in FNF patients receiving cemented hemiarthroplasties.It was further found to be highly cost-effective.

CT VIRTUAL ENDOSCOPY IN ASSESSING OSSICULAR CHAIN DISRUPTION CSUSED BY TEMPORAL BONE FRACTURE AND EAR TRAUMA

Objective To explore the value of computed tomography virtual endoscopy(VE) in assessing ossicular chain disruption in temporal bone fracture and ear trauma with intact tympanum. Methods High resolution spiral computerized tomography(CT) was completed in 35 cases of temporal bone fracture and 5 cases of tympanum trauma, all with intact or healed tympanum. Three-dimensional reconstruction was completed using a virtual endoscopy software. Audiological tests were conducted in all patients and evaluation of facial nerve injury in patients with facial paralysis. Patients with mild conductive deafness, ossicular chain subluxation on VE, and no facial paralysis were treated conservatively for 4-12 weeks with repeated hearing evaluation; those with facial paralysis underwent surgery if no recovery after 4- 8 weeks of conservative treatment. Patients with moderate to severe conductive hearing loss or mixed hearing loss, incus long process fracture or dislocation on VE and facial paralysis, underwent ossicular chain reconstruction and facial nerve decompression after conservative treatment for 4-8 weeks, or exploratory tympanotomy only if no facial paralysis. VE, audiological tests and facial nerve function tests were repeated in 3-6 months after surgery. Results Of the 6 cases with mild conductive hearing loss, ossicular chain subluxation and no facial paralysis, 3recovered to normal hearing spontaneously and 3 showed no significant improvement, after 4-12 weeks of conservative treatment. After conservative treatment for 4-8 weeks, 3 of the 12 cases with mild conductive deafness, ossicular chain dislocation on VE and facial paralysis recovered to normal hearing and HouseBrackmann(HB) grade I facial function from HB grade II,4 showed facial function recovery to HB grade I(n=2) or II(n=2) from HB grade III but no hearing recovery, and 5 gained no recovery and went on to receive exploratory tympanotomy and facial nerve decompression. The 11 cases with moderate to severe conductive deafness, incus long process fracture or dislocation on VE and facial paralysis all received ossicular chain reconstruction and facial nerve decompression after 4-8 weeks of conservative treatment. The 7 cases with moderate to severe conductive deafness, dislocated or fallen incus on VE but no facial paralysis received ossicular chain reconstruction after conservative treatment. The 4 cases with mixed hearing loss, dislocated or fallen incus on VE and no facial paralysis received ossicular chain repair via the intact canal wall epitympanum approach after conservative treatment. Pharmacological therapies continued postoperatively in these patients to treat sensorineural deafness. Although temporal bone CT scans displayed the fracture line and malleus/incus abnormalities, VE provided additional detailed information on dislocation of incudomalleal and incudostapedial joints, incus dislocation or fracture, separation between crus longum incudis and stapes, and incus shifting. These were all confirmed during surgery. VE results and surgery findings were 100% consistent in patients with ossicular chain disruption. Conclusion VE can provide reliable visual evidence for accurate assessment of traumatic ossicular chain disruption, timing of surgery and individualizing surgical strategies and postoperative follow-up.

Epidemiological and Clinical Pattern of Open Fractures of Long Bones of the Lower Limbs in the South-West Region of Cameroon: A 5-Year Review

Background: An open fracture is an injury in which the fracture site and/or hematoma communicates with the external environment. It is associated with significant morbidity and disability and is a challenge to the surgical team. The lower extremities are the most often exposed to traumatic injuries compared to other anatomical parts of the body. Patterns of open fractures differ with different mechanisms of injury and the segment of the long bone affected. The correct and timely management of open fractures is beneficial to the patients and leads to a more favorable outcome. This study aimed at describing the pattern of open fractures of long bones of the lower limb treated in 3 major hospitals of the south west region, Cameroon. Methodology: This was a hospital-based retrospective review of files of patients with open fractures of long bones of the lower limb managed at the surgical units of three secondary health facilities in the South-West region of Cameroon from the 1st of January 2015 to the 31st of December 2019. The socio-demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, treatment modalities, and outcomes were recorded. The data was stored and analyzed using Epi info version 7.0 and SPSS version 23.0 respectively. Results: A total of 195 files of patients aged 8 to 80 years were studied. The main age group affected was between 20 - 40 years. There were 147 (75.4%) males and 48 (24.6%) females giving a sex-ratio of 3.1:1. The most common cause was road traffic crashes 142 (72.8%). In 98 cases (50.3%), the left side was more involved. The tibia was the most common long bone affected in 75 (38.5%) cases. Comminuted fracture was the most common fracture pattern encountered in 126 cases (64.6%). A total of 76 (39%) fractures were graded Gustilo-Anderson IIIA. External fixator was used in 112 cases (57.1%) and internal fixator in 86 cases (42.9%). We recorded 127 (65.1%) cases of wound infection and 143 (73.3%) cases of limb shortening as the most common complications. Other complications include: 20 cases (17.1%) of mal-union, 27 cases (22.5%) of delayed union, 18 cases (15.1%) of non-union and 50 cases (38.5%) chronic osteomyelitis. We recorded a mortality of 2.1%. Gustilo IIIB and IIIC were associated to chronic osteomyelitis (P = 0.02). Conclusion: Open fractures of long bones of the lower limb affect the active age group of the population and road traffic crashes are the most common causes. It tends to affect the left side and the tibia being the most fractured long bone. A reasonable proportion of these fractures subsequently get infected. Comminuted fracture is the common fracture pattern.