Hemiarthroplasty for irreparable distal radius fractures in the elderly:A comprehensive review

BACKGROUND Elderly patients maintaining functional independence can now be candidates for primary wrist hemiarthroplasty to manage acute irreparable distal radius fractures(DRFs).However,further investigation with long-term follow-up is required to validate these initial findings.AIM To review the literature on the outcomes of distal radius hemiarthroplasty with available implants to assess its viability as a treatment option.METHODS A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted using electronic databases,including PubMed,Medline,and Scopus.The search terms employed were"distal radius fracture","hemiarthroplasty","wrist arthroplasty",and related terminology.The search was restricted to articles published in English from 1980 until June 2023.Inclusion criteria encompassed cases or case series of DRF treated with hemiarthroplasty,providing clinical or radiographic outcomes,and published in peer-reviewed journals.RESULTS A total of 2508 articles from PubMed and 883 from Scopus were identified initially.Following screening and removal of duplicates,13 articles met the inclusion criteria.These articles,predominantly clinical retrospective studies,provided insights into hemiarthroplasty outcomes,including functional improvements and complications.Hemiarthroplasty was a treatment option for complex DRF,particularly those cases with severe comminution,intraarticular involvement,or severe osteoporosis.Functional outcomes demonstrated improvements in pain relief,wrist mobility,and grip strength,with variability across studies.Complications included implant loosening,infection,nerve injury,and stiffness,with varying incidence rates influenced by surgical techniques and implant choice.Long-term outcomes were inadequately documented,warranting further research.CONCLUSION Hemiarthroplasty is a promising treatment for irreparable DRF in the elderly.Long-term outcomes and complications require further study.

Evaluation of Surgical Treatment of Distal Humeral Fractures in Adults

Introduction: Fractures of the distal end of the humerus are becoming increasingly frequent in young subjects because of the increase in road traffic accidents, and in elderly subjects because of osteoporosis related to aging populations. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective, monocentric study from January 2018 to December 2020 involving 14 patients who received and were treated surgically for distal humeral fractures and followed up. Results: We collected 14 patients, including 11 men (78.57%) and 3 women (21.43%), with a sex ratio of 3.7. The mean age was 36.41 years. The circumstances of onset were dominated by road traffic accidents, with 12 cases (85.71%). The dominant side was right-handed, with 11 cases (78.57%). Standard elbow radiography revealed 8 cases of type A fractures (57.14%), 4 cases of type B and 2 cases of type C fractures of the AO. We performed Lecestre plate osteosynthesis in 12 patients and external fixator in 2 others, using the trans-olecranial and transtricipital approaches. Elbow stiffness was the most frequent complication, with 6 cases (42.86%). After six months’ follow-up, our results were excellent and good in 78.57% of cases (MEPS). Conclusion: Surgical treatment with posterior approaches enabled us to achieve restitution of the articular surfaces, solid restraint and early mobilization of the elbow with satisfactory functional results.

Three dimensional finite element analysis of anatomic distal radius Nitinol memory connector treating distal radius fracture

Objective: To study the memory biomechanical character of anatomic distal radius Nitinol memory connector (DRMC) in treating distal radius fracture. Methods: Establishing three dimensional model and finite element analysis, we calculated the stress in and around the fracture faces when distal radius fracture was fixated with DRMC. Results: Axial holding stress produced by holding part of DRMC on distal radius was 14.66 MPa. The maximum stress of holding part was 40-70 MPa, the minimum stress was 3-7 MPa,and the stress of compression part was 20-40 MPa. Conclusion: The distribution of stress produced by DRMC around the fracture line is reasonable, and axial holding stress can help stabilize fracture during earlier period. The existence of longitudal compression and memory effect can transfer fixated disused section into developed section and enhance fracture healing.

Comparative study of intertrochanteric fracture fixation using proximal femoral nail with and without distal interlocking screws

BACKGROUND Intertrochanteric(IT)fracture is one of the most common fractures seen in an orthopaedic practice.Proximal femoral nailing(PFN)is a common modality of fixing IT femur fracture.We retrospectively studied whether a PFN with two proximal lag screws can be done without distal interlocking screws in the 31-A1 and 31-A2 fracture patterns according to the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association(AO/OTA)guidelines for IT femur fractures.AIM To compare the outcomes of IT fractures(AO/OTA 31-A1 and 31-A2)treated by PFN with and without distal interlocking screws.METHODS We carried out a retrospective study of 140 patients in a tertiary care centre who had AO/OTA type 31-A1 and 31-A2 IT fractures.We divided the patients into two groups,in which one of the groups received distal interlocking screws(group 1)and the other group did not(group 2).The subjects were followed up for a mean period of 14 mo and assessed for radiological union time,fracture site collapse,mechanical stability of implant,and complications associated with the PFN with distal interlocking and without distal interlocking.Then,the results were compared.RESULTS PFN without distal interlocking screws has several advantages and gives better results over PFN with distal interlocking screws in the AO/OTA 31-A2 fracture pattern.However,similar results were observed in both groups with the fracture pattern AO/OTA 31-A1.In patients with fracture pattern AO/OTA 31-A2 treated by PFN without distal interlocking screws,there were minimal proximal lockrelated complications and no risk of distal interlock-related complications.The operative time,IITV radiation time and time to radiological union were reduced.These patients also had better rotational alignment of the proximal femur,and the anatomy of the proximal femur was well maintained.It was also noted that in the cases where distal interlocking was performed,there was a gradual decrease in neck shaft angle,which led to varus collapse and failure of bone-implant construct in 21.40%.CONCLUSION In fracture pattern AO/OTA 31-A2,PFN without distal interlocking had better results and less complications than PFN with distal interlocking.

Management of distal humeral coronal shear fractures

Coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus are rare,complex fractures that can be technically challenging to manage. They usually result from a low-energy fall and direct compression of the distal humerus by the radial head in a hyper-extended or semi-flexed elbow or from spontaneous reduction of a posterolateral subluxation or dislocation. Due to the small number of soft tissue attachments at this site, almost all of these fractures are displaced. The incidence of distal humeral coronal shear fractures is higher among women because of the higher rate of osteoporosis in women and the difference in carrying angle between men and women. Distal humeral coronal shear fractures may occur in isolation, may be part of a complex elbow injury, or may be associated with injuries proximal or distal to the elbow. An associated lateral collateral ligament injury is seen in up to 40% and an associated radial head fracture is seen in up to 30% of these fractures. Given the complex nature of distal humeral coronal shear fractures, there is preference for operative management. Operative fixation leads to stable anatomic reduction, restores articular congruity, and allows initiation of early range-of-motion movements in the majority of cases. Several surgical exposure and fixation techniques are available to reconstruct the articular surface fol owing distal humeral coronal shear fractures. The lateral extensile approach and fixation with countersunk headless compression screws placed in an anterior-to-posterior fashion are commonly used. We have found a two-incision approach(direct anterior and lateral) that results in less soft tissue dissection and better outcomes than the lateral extensile approach in our experience. Stiffness, pain, articular incongruity, arthritis, and ulnohumeral instability may result if reduction is non-anatomic or if fixation fails.

Coronal shear fractures of distal humerus: Diagnostic and treatment protocols

Coronal shear fractures of distal humerus involving the capitellum and the trochlea are rare injuries with articular complexity, and are technically challenging for management. With better understanding of the anatomy and imaging advancements, the complex nature of these fractures is well appreciated now. These fractures involve metaphysealcomminution of lateral column and associated intraarticular injuries are common. Previously, closed reduction and excision were the accepted treatment but now preference is for open reduction and internal fixation with an aim to provide stable and congruent joint with early range of motion of joint. Various approaches including extensile lateral, anterolateral and posterior approaches have been described depending on the fracture pattern and complexity. Good to excellent outcome have been reported with internal fixations and poor results are noted in articular comminution with associated articular injuries. Various implants including headleass compression screws, minifragment screws, bioabsorbable implants and column plating are advocated for reconstruction of these complex fractures. Inspite of articular fragments being free of soft tissue attachments the rate of osteonecrosis and osteoarthritis is reported very less after internal fixation. This article summarizes the diagnostic and treatment strategies for these rare fractures and recommendations for management.

Management of chronic disruption of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis

Disruption of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis is frequently accompanied by rotational ankle fracture such as pronation-external rotation and rarely occurs without ankle fracture.In such injury,not only inadequately treated or misdiagnosed cases,but also correctly diagnosed cases can possibly result in a chronic pattern which is more troublesome to treat than an acute pattern.This paper reviews anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the distal tibiofibular joint,the mechanism of chronic disruption of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis,radiological and arthroscopic diagnosis,and surgical treatment.

Primary total elbow arthroplasty in complex fractures of the distal humerus

AIM:To evaluate short-to medium term outcome of total elbow arthroplasty(TEA)in complex fractures of the distal humerus.METHODS:A consecutive series of 24 complex distal humerus fractures operated with TEA in the period2006-2012 was evaluated with the Mayo Elbow Performance score(MEPS),plain radiographs,complications and overall satisfaction.The indications for surgery were 1:AO type B3 or C3 or Sheffield type 3 fracture and age above 65 or 2:fracture and severe rheumatoid arthritis.Mean follow-up time was 21 mo.RESULTS:Twenty patients were followed up.Four patients,of which 3 had died,were lost to follow up.According to the AO classification there were 17 C3,1B2 and 2 A2 fractures.Mean follow-up was 21 months(range 4-54).Mean MEPS was 94(range 65-100).Mean flexion was 114 degrees(range 80-140).According to MEPS there were 15 excellent,4 good and 1 fair result.Patient satisfaction:8 excellent,10 good,2 fair and 1poor.There were two revisions due to infection treated successfully with revision and three months of antibiotics.In two patients the locking split had loosened.One was referred to re-insertion and one chose yearly con-trols.Two patients had persistent dysaesthesia of their5th finger,but were able to discriminate between sharp and blunt.CONCLUSION:Our study suggests that TEA in complex fractures of the distal humerus in elderly patients can result in acceptable short-to medium term outcome.

External fixation is more suitable for intra-articular fractures of the distal radius in elderly patients

The purpose of this study was to compare the functional outcomes, psychological impact, and complication rates associated with external fixation and volar or dorsal plating in relation to the functional parameters following treatment of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius （IFDR） in patients older than 65 years. We hypothesized that using volar or dorsal plating would improve functional outcomes, but that it would be associated with more complications and equivalent functional outcomes when compared with the external fixation group. A total of 123 consecutive patients suffering from IFDR were recruited into the study. The patients were measured for clinical, radiological, and psychosocial functioning outcomes and were followed up after I week and 3, 6 and 12 months. After 3 months, the plating group had better pronation （P = 0.001）, supination, （P = 0.047） and extension （P = 0.043） scores. These differences were somewhat attenuated by 6 months and disappeared at I year. The plating group had a greater occurrence of wound infection （P = 0.043）, tendonitis, （P = 0.024） and additional surgery compared with the external fixation group. The only TNO-AZL Adult Quality of Life scores in the plating group that were lower than those in the external fixation group were in the ＂gross motor＂ category （walking upstairs, bending over, walking 500 yards; P = 0.023）. Internal fixation was more advantageous than external fixation in the early rehabilitation period; after I year the outcomes were similar. The plating group showed significantly higher levels of wound infection and tendonitis and had a greater need for additional surgeries.

Manual reduction with traditional small splints for distal radius fracture in older patients

Objective:To investigate the effect of manual reduction with traditional small splints fixation for distal radius fractures in older patients in the emergency department.Methods:Older patients(aged at least 60 years)with distal radius fractures were enrolled in this study.The patients were randomly divided into the treatment group and the control group.The treatment group was treated with manual reduction and small splints fixation.The control group was treated with manual reduction and resin plaster fixation.Before treatment,after reduction,and 3 months after treatment,the palmar tilt angle,ulnar deviation angle,and radial length were recorded.Before treatment and 3 months after treatment,the Cooney wrist joint scores were recorded.The time of fracture healing and related adverse events during the treatment were recorded.Results:Before treatment and after reduction,there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in palmar tilt angle,ulnar deviation angle,or radial length(P>0.05).Three months after treatment,the palmar tilt angle,ulnar deviation angle,and radial length of the treatment group were better than those of the control group(P<0.05).The Cooney wrist scores of the treatment group was significantly higher than that of the control group three months after the treatment(P<0.05).The time of fracture healing of the treatment group was shorter than that of the control group,but the difference was no statistically significant(P>0.05).Conclusions:Compared with resin plaster fixation,traditional small splints fixation for distal radius fractures in older patients have the advantages of less loss of fracture reduction and faster functional recovery.Besides,the method is simple and low cost thus,it needs to be promoted.

Managing extremely distal periprosthetic femoral supracondylar fractures of total knee replacements-a new PHILOS-ophy

We report two cases where a proximal humeral locking plate was used for the fixation of an extremely distal, type Ⅲ peri-prosthetic femoral fractures in relation to a total knee replacement(TKR). In each case there was concern regarding the fixation that could be achieved using the available anatomic distal femoral plates due to the size and bone quality of distal fragment. The design of the Proximal Humeral Internal Locking System(PHILOS) allows nine 3.5-mm locking screws to be placed over a small area in multiple directions. This allowed a greater number of fixation points to be achieved in the distal fragment. Clinical and radiological short-term follow-up(6-12 mo) has been satisfactory in both cases with no complications. We suggest the use of this implant for extremely distal femoral fractures arising in relation to the femoral component of a TKR.

Treatment of distal femur fractures in a regional Australian hospital

AIM:To review our outcomes and compare the results of the Less Invasive Stabilization System(LISS)to other implants for distal femur fracture management at a regional Australian hospital.METHODS:The LISS is a novel implant for the management of distal femur fractures.It is,however,technically demanding and treatment results have not yet been assessed outside tertiary centres.Twenty-seven patients with 28 distal femur fractures who had been managed surgically at the Mackay Base Hospital from January 2004 to December 2010 were retrospectively enrolled and assessed clinically and radiologically.Outcomes were union,pain,Lysholm score,knee range of motion,and complication rates.RESULTS:Twenty fractures were managed with the LISS and eight fractures were managed with alternative implants.Analysis of the surgical techniques re-vealed that 11 fractures managed with the LISS were performed according to the recommended principles(LISS-R)and 9 were not(LISS-N).Union occurred in67.9%of fractures overall:9/11(82%)in the LISS-R group vs 5/9(56%)in the LISS-N group and 5/8(62.5%)in the alternative implant group.There was no statistically significant difference between pain,Lysholm score,and complication rates between the groups.However,there was a trend towards the LISS-R group having superior outcomes which were clinically significant.There was a statistically significant greater range of median knee flexion in the LISS-R group with compared to the LISS-N group(P=0.0143)and compared with the alternative implant group(P=0.0454).CONCLUSION:The trends towards the benefits of the LISS procedure when correctly applied would suggest that not only should the LISS procedure be performed for distal femur fractures,but the correct principle of insertion is important in improving the patient’s outcome.

Reliability of the pronator quadratus fat pad sign to predict the severity of distal radius fractures

AIM To evaluate the reliability of pronator quadratus fat pad sign to detect distal radius fracture and to predict its severity.METHODS Retrospectively we identified 89 consecutive patients(41 female, mean age 49 ± 18 years) who had X-ray(CR) and computed tomography(CT) within 24 h following distal forearm trauma. Thickness of pronator quadratus fat pad complex(PQC) was measured using lateral views(CR) and sagittal reconstructions(CT). Pearson's test was used to determine the correlation of the PQC thickness in CR and CT. A positive pronator quadratus sign(PQS) was defined as a PQC > 8.0 mm(female) or > 9.0 mm(male). Frykman classification was utilized to assess the severity of fractures.RESULTS Forty-four/89 patients(49%) had a distal radius fracture(Frykman Ⅰ n = 3, Ⅱ n = 0, Ⅲ n = 10, Ⅳ n = 5, Ⅴ n = 2, Ⅵ n = 2, Ⅶ n = 9, Ⅷ n = 13). Mean thickness of the PQC thickness can reliably be measured on X-ray views and was 7.5 ± 2.8 mm in lateral views(CR), respectively 9.4 ± 3.0 mm in sagittal reconstructions(CT), resulting in a significant correlation coefficientof 0.795. A positive PQS at CR was present in 21/44 patients(48%) with distal radius fracture and in 2/45 patients(4%) without distal radius fracture, resulting in a specificity of 96% and a sensitivity of 48% for the detection of distal radius fractures. There was no correlation between thickness of the PQC and severity of distal radius fractures.CONCLUSION A positive PQS shows high specificity but low sensitivity for detection of distal radius fractures. The PQC thickness cannot predict the severity of distal radius fractures.

Hybrid External Fixation for Open Severe Comminuted Fractures of the Distal Femur

Background: The treatment of distal femoral open comminuted fractures is a major problem for orthopedic surgeon. The basic and important aim in treatment of these fractures is to assemble the condylar fragments and then fix the condyles to the femoral shaft by minimum handling of the bone and soft tissues. Objectives: To evaluate the treatment of distal femoral open comminuted fractures (type C2 and C3) with hybrid external fixator. Methods: Thirty-four patients with distal femur open comminuted fracture (type C2 and C3) were treated by hybrid external fixator between January 2005 and December 2008. All of the fractures were opened with extension to joint surface. 30 patients were male and 4 were female. Their average age was 30.5 years (17 to 72 years). Average follow up period was 36 months. 12 patients had isolated fracture and 22 patients had multiple fractures. The bony and functional results were evaluated by the association for the study and application of the method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) protocol and knee society score. Results: 29 out of 34 fractures (85%) had union without bone grafts. Average time of union was 6.1 months (4 - 19 ms). The average knee range of motion was 87.5 degrees (30 - 115 degrees). The bony results were excellent in 24 patients (70.5%), good in 6 (17.7%), fair in 2 (5.9%), and poor in 2 (5.9%), and the functional results were excellent in 10 (29.4%) patients, good in 14 (41.2%), fair in 6 (17.6%), and poor in 4 (11.8%), and the functional results were excellent in 10 (29.4%) patients, good in 14 (41.2%), fair in 6 (17.6%), and poor in 4 (11.8%) according to ASAMI protocol. According to the knee society score the functional results were excellent in 9 (26.44%) patients, good in 13 (38.26%), fair in 7 (20.6%), and poor in 5 (14.7%). Conclusion: Hybrid external fixator is an effective method for treatment of distal femoral open comminuted fractures (type C2 and C3) and may be considered as an alternative surgical methods in the management of these fractures.

Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon Rupture after Non-Displaced Extra-Articular Distal Radius Fracture: A Case Report

Background: Spontaneous tendon rupture of hand is not frequent. These ruptures can occur after a fracture. Aim: We report a case of spontaneous rupture of extensor pollicis longus tendon, and describe the treatment. Case presentation: We report the case of a 63-year-old woman who had extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture after non-displaced extra-articular distal radius fracture, treated by wrist circular cast immobilization. Extensor indicis proprius tendon transfer was performed, with an excellent functional result. Conclusion: Extensor pollicis longus tendon rupture can occur after non-displaced extra-articular distal radius fracture. Its treatment by tendon transfer helps to restore function of hand.

Biomechanical Comparison of Prototype of a Novel Intramedullary Injectable Bioresorbable Polymer-Bioresorbable Balloon Osteosynthesis and a Volar Locking Plate for Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures

Background: There is a large assortment of modalities for the surgical treatment/management of distal radius fractures (DRFs), where the most widely used is the fixed-angle volar plating (VLP) system, which, sometimes, is referred to as the “surgical modality of choice”. While outcomes with each modality are usually good to excellent, each has its share of shortcomings and complications. Thus, there is scope for improvements to existing modalities and/or introduction of new ones. Study Purpose: We introduce a novel modality, namely, the prototype of an intramedullary injectable bioresorbable polymer-bioresorbable balloon osteosynthesis (IPBO) system, and investigated its plausibility. Experimental Procedures: The biomechanical performance of a construct comprising a synthetic distal radius (fourth-generation Sawbones?) on which a simulated fracture was created (4-mm wide osteotomy positioned 25 mm from the most distal end of the radius) and fixated with a placement of the IPBO system (SIPBO Construct) was compared to that when the fixation was with an approved Ti-6Al-4V alloy VLP system (SVLP Construct), under a clinically-relevant compressive loading protocol. Performance involved determination of quantitative parameters of the construct (initial longitudinal stiffness (ICLS), final longitudinal stiffness (FCLS), and load-to-failure (Pf)) and observation and recording of features of the construct at the fracture point. We also determined the quantitative parameters for the intact synthetic distal radius (control). Results: For each of the quantitative parameters, the range of values for SIPBO Construct was within that for SVLP Construct, suggesting that the IPBO System is a plausible modality. Also, for SIPBO Construct, failure occurred within the polymer zone, whereas, for SVLP Construct, some failure features were fracture of the cortical wall and of the dorsal proximal fragments. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the IPBO system is plausible. As such, it merits further study;for example, determination of the influence of fracture gap fill ratio (defined as the proportion of the fracture gap that is filled by the expanding balloon as the polymer is injected into the balloon) on a large collection of quantitative biomechanical parameters.

Comparison of Patient Satisfaction between Brachial Plexus Block (Axillary Approach) and General Anesthesia for Surgical Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures: A Historical Cohort Study

Background: Distal radius fracture surgery is performed under general (GA) or regional anesthesia with brachial plexus block (NB). Whether anesthesia type affects patient outcomes is unclear. This study retrospectively compared patient satisfaction between GA and NB after surgery. Methods: This was a historical cohort study of 80 (34 GA and 46 NB) patients who underwent volar plate fixation of distal radius fractures. Propensity score analysis was used to generate a set of matched cases (NB) and controls (GA), yielding 14 matched patient-pairs. The simplified patient satisfaction scale was compared for primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were anesthesia and surgery duration, hospital stay length, adverse events, postoperative analgesic requirement, and wrist range of motion (ROM) 2 weeks and 3 months postoperatively. Results: After propensity score matching, patients in almost all cases in both groups were “Satisfied” (effect size: 0.1, p = 0.572), indicating little significant difference. Significant differences in adverse events and postoperative analgesic use observed before matching disappeared after matching. Anesthesia duration and hospital stay length were significantly shorter in the NB group (effect size: -1.27 and -0.77, p = 0.00074 and p = 0.0388, respectively), as was surgery duration (effect size: -0.84, p = 0.0122) after matching. Similar to before matching, wrist ROM significantly improved in the NB group (effect size: 1.11, p = 0.0279) in the early postoperative period, but the difference disappeared at 3 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Patient satisfaction between distal radius fracture surgery under GA and NB was similar. Nerve block could help shorten hospital stay length and surgery duration and improve postoperative functional recovery.

Locking plates for distal fibula fractures in young and elderly patients:A retrospective study

BACKGROUND Ankle fractures are common injuries in the young and elderly populations.To prevent post-traumatic arthritis,an anatomic reconstruction of the ankle structure is mandatory.Open reduction and internal fixation is the treatment of choice among orthopaedics.Conventional plates allow stability of the fracture if bone quality is present.Locking plates might offer an advantage for the treatment of lateral malleolar fracture in patients with comminution,severe instability,distal fractures,or osteoporotic bone.Our hospital introduced a new locking plate for fracture of the distal fibula.AIM To evaluate locking plates in terms of outcomes and complications in young and elderly patients.METHODS We retrospectively reviewed a total of 67 patients treated for displaced distal fibula fractures.Demographic data,number of comorbidities,use of inter fragmentary screw,complication,time of fracture healing,partial or full weight bearing,and reoperation were recorded for all patients.Clinical outcome was assessed by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society clinical scoring system.Radiographs were obtained at 4,8,12,16,20,and 24 wk until radiographic union was obtained.RESULTS All patients displayed complete bony union on radiographic assessment,and no patients developed any serious complications.We observed two superficial infections,one delayed wound healing,and two plate intolerances.Significant differences were observed between the two age groups in terms of radiographic healing(11.9 wk in younger patients vs 13.7 wk in older patients;P=0.011)and in the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score at 6 mo after surgery(88.2 in younger patients vs 86.0 in older patients;P=0.001)and at 12 mo after surgery(92.6 in younger patients vs 90.0 in older patients;P=0.000).CONCLUSION Locking plates provide a stable and rigid fixation in multifragmentary and comminuted fractures or in the presence of poor bone quality.

Distal clavicle fractures treated by anteroinferior plating with a single screw: Two case reports

BACKGROUND For the treatment of distal clavicle fractures,each treatment method has its own advantages and disadvantages,and there is no optimal surgical solution.CASE SUMMARY Based on this,we report 2 cases of distal clavicle fractures treated utilizing an anterior inferior plate with a single screw placed in the distal,in anticipation of providing a better surgical approach to distal clavicle fracture treatment.Two patients were admitted to the hospital after trauma with a diagnosis of distal clavicle fracture,and were admitted to the hospital for internal fixation of clavicle fracture by incision and reduction,with good postoperative functional recovery.CONCLUSION With solid postoperative fixation and satisfactory prognostic functional recovery,this technique has been shown to be simple,easy to perform and effective.

Pulmonary thromboembolism after distal ulna and radius fractures surgery: A case report and a literature review

BACKGROUND Pulmonary thromboembolism(PTE)is a serious postoperative complication that can occur after a fracture.Generally,PTE is caused by the falling off of lower extremity deep vein thrombosis(LEDVT)after lower limb fracture surgery.LEDVT and PTE after upper extremity fracture surgery are very rare.PTE is one of the most common clinical causes of sudden death.Venous thromboembolism includes PTE and DVT.We experienced one case of LEDVT and PTE after distal ulna and radius fracture surgery.The purpose of our report is to raise awareness for orthopedic surgeons that PTE can occur after distal ulna and radius fracture surgery,and patients with high risk factors should be considered for prevention and treatment of thrombosis in a timely manner.CASE SUMMARY We report a 51-year-old Chinese male who had severe fractures of the left distal ulna,radius and little finger after a motorcycle accident.The patient underwent external fixation,open reduction and internal fixation.On the third post-operative day,computed tomographic pulmonary angiography showed PTE.Doppler ultrasonography showed thrombus formation in the bilateral posterior tibial veins.After a period of anticoagulation therapy,on the 25th d after the PTE,computed tomographic pulmonary angiography showed that thrombus in both sides of the pulmonary artery disappeared.Furthermore,about 4 mo after the PTE,thrombosis in the deep veins of the lower limbs disappeared.About 1 year after the surgery,X-rays showed good fracture healing,and the function of the wrist joint recovered well.CONCLUSION Though rare,PTE can occur after distal ulna and radius fracture surgery and patients with high risk factors should be considered for prevention and treatment of thrombosis in a timely manner.