The study of effectiveness of PHILOS plate in the internal osteosynthesis of humeral head fractures.

Since 2006 23 patients with 24 humeral head fractures ere treated in our clinic. 10 of them were men (43,48%) and 13 women (56,52%). The average age was 50,4 years (range 16–89 years). Fractures of the surgical neck of humerus were 8 of these (33,33%), 12 were 3 parts fractures according to Neer classification (50%) and finally in 3 cases there was a 4 part fracture (16,66%). Shoulder of dominant upper limb was injured in most of the cases (68%).

19 patients (82,6%) were examined periodically in an average follow-up period of 19 months (range 13–26 months). All the fractures were healed. In 4 cases (16,66%) insufficient reduction was detected postoperatively. Constant score was calculated 12 months post-operatively up to 82,05 by mean (range 62–100). Differentiation was observed between the patients of age less than 60 years (12 patients with average constant score 91,25 with range from 78 until 100) and these of age of 60 years or more (7 patients with average constant score 71,43 with range from 62 until 81).

Internal osteosynthesis humeral head fractures with PHILOS plate is a reliable method of treatment not only for simple head fractures but also for them of 3 or even 4 parts, without complications and with very good functional results

Our purpose was to evaluate the use of indirect and closed reduction with Ilizarov external fixator in intraarticular calcaneal fractures.

In a period of 3 years, 16 patients with 18 intraarticular fractures of calcaneus (eleven type III and seven type IV according to Sanders classification) were treated with the Ilizarov fixator. Twelve patients were male and four female. The average age was 42 years (range 25 – 63 years). Three fractures were open. Fractures were evaluated by preoperative radiographs and CT scans. Restoration of the calcaneal bone anatomy was obtained by closed means using minimally invasive reduction technique by Ilizarov fixator. Arthrodiatasis and ligamento-taxis, and closed reduction of the subtalar joint were performed in 14 cases. In 4 cases the depressed posterior calcaneal facet was elevated by small lateral incision and stabilized in frame by wires. Postoperatively, partial, early weight bearing was encouraged in all patients.

The mean follow-up period was 1,5 years (range 1 – 3 years). The AOFAS Ankle – Hindfoot Score, and physical examination were used in functional evaluation. The average score was 79,8 (range 72 – 90). Six patients had limited degenerative radiological findings of osteoarthrosis about the subtalar joint and three of them had painful subtalar movement. One of the patients complained of heel pad pain. Nine (6.25%) grade II pin tract infections were detected from a total of 144 wires. No secondary reconstructive procedures, including osteotomies, subtalar fusions, or amputations, have been done.

Indirect closed reduction of calcaneal bone anatomy and arthrodiatasis of subtalar joint with Ilizarov external fixator is a viable surgical alternative for intraarticular calcaneal fractures

Aim: Our purpose was to evaluate the use of indirect and closed reduction with Ilizarov external fixator in intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Materials and Methods: In a period of 5 years (2004–2008), 26 patients with 29 intra-articular fractures of calcaneus (eighteen type III and eleven type IV according to Sanders classification) were treated with the Ilizarov fixator. Twenty-one patients were male and five female. The average age was 45 years (range 22 – 67 years). Five fractures were open. Fractures were evaluated by preoperative radiographs and CT scans. Restoration of the calcaneal bone anatomy was obtained by closed means using minimally invasive reduction technique by Ilizarov fixator. Arthrodiatasis and ligamentotaxis, and closed reduction of the subtalar joint were performed in 24 cases. In 5 cases the depressed posterior calcaneal facet was elevated by small lateral incision and stabilized in frame by wires. Postoperatively, partial, early weight bearing was encouraged in all patients.

Results: The mean follow-up period was 2,1 years (range 1 – 4 years). The AOFAS Ankle – Hindfoot Score, and physical examination were used in functional evaluation. The average score was 77,4 (range 70–90). Seven patients had limited degenerative radiological findings of osteoarthrosis about the subtalar joint and three of them had painful subtalar movement. Two of the patients complained of heel pad pain. Nine patients had grade II pin tract infections and were detected from a total of 258 wires. No secondary reconstructive procedures, including osteotomies, subtalar fusions, or amputations, have been done.

Conclusion: Indirect closed reduction of calcaneal bone anatomy and arthrodiatasis of subtalar joint with Ilizarov external fixator is a viable surgical alternative for intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Purpose: Little has been written about the size of bone defect that could be restored with one-stage lengthening over a reamed intramedullary nail. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical properties of the callus created at gaps of various sizes in sheep tibiae treated with reamed intramedullary nailing.

Material-Methods: Sixteen adult female sheep were divided into four main groups: a simple osteotomy group (group I) and three segmental defect groups (1, 2, and 3 cm gap; groups I to III). One intact left tibia from each group was also used as the non-osteotomized intact-control group (group V). In all cases the osteotomy was fixed with an interlocked Universal Humeral Nail after 7 mm reaming. The osteotomized site was closed in layers including the periosteum without additional bone grafting and the limb was protected with long soft cast for 5 weeks postoperatively. Healing of the osteotomies was evaluated after 16 weeks by biomechanical testing. The examined parameters were torsional stiffness, shear stress and angle of torsion at the time of fracture.

Results: Samples with a simple osteotomy or 1 cm gap were fractured distally to the callus zone, whereas samples with 2 and 3 cm gaps were fractured at the callus zone or at distal metaphysis. The regenerate bone obvious in the x-rays in the group of 1 cm and 2 cm gap had considerable mechanical properties. Torsional stiffness in these two groups was nearly similar and its value was about 60% of the stiffness of the simple osteotomy group. A gradually decreased stiffness was observed as the osteotomy gap increased. There was a decrease in maximum shear stress from simple osteotomy to osteotomy with a fracture gap of 3 cm. No significant differences were found among the angles of torsion at fracture for the various osteotomies or the intact bone. Our results showed that the group of 1 cm gap had the 65% of the shear stress at failure of the simple osteotomy group.

Conclusion: We believe that there is evidence indicating that intramedullary nailing would be a reasonable option when one-stage lengthening of a long bone of 1 or 2 cm is contemplated.

Aim of the study: The evaluation of denervation efficiency in the treatment of the arthritis of the base of the thumb.

Material and method. Between 2001– 2004, 15 patients were surgically treated for arthritis of the basis of the thumb. There were all females of an average age of 53 years. In all patients the procedure was done ambulatory under local anesthesia. After completing a protocol form, regarding pain motion and power of the thumb, an incision was made at the level of the wrist crease extended from the level of FCR to the level of the 2nd extensor compartment. Through this incision the articular branches which conform the studies of Wilhem and Fusche supply the 1st CMC joint were divided.

A supplementary incision for the first intermetacarpal space was made. The patients were free to return to their activities the third postoperative day and they were reviewed after 3, 6, 12, 24 months by an independent doctor. Their data were also recorded conform the protocol

Results: Twelve patients out of 15 had excellent improvement of their strength. Pinch and grip power was doubled. Mobility of the thumb according to Kapanji scale was improved in all cases. Pain was reduced in 65% average. The patients were satisfied from the operation. There was one patient with poor improvement and two patients who never shown up at the follow-up. As the last were at the beginning of our learning curve we think that could have a less satisfactory result.

Discussion: The method is simple with minimal impact to the patient activity or life. It gives good results in 65% –75% and leaves further operative procedures possible. Although there not enough data yet for this procedure and our number of cases is small with short follow-up we believe that it is a nice procedure, it satisfies both the patient and the surgeon regarding the overall improvement of mobility and pain.

Purpose: The retrospective evaluation of long-term results after reconstructive radial osteotomy for mal-united distal radius fractures.

Material-Method: Twenty-eight patients (21 male and 7 female, average aged 46 years) with 23 dorsal and 5 palmar angulated malunited distal radius fractures were operatively treated during 1994–2002 in our department. The main indications were pain and functional impairment. Dorsal or palmar approach was used in proportion to the site of angulation. The preoperative average radial inclination, radial length and volar or dorsal tilt were 13.5 degrees, 6.3 mm and 23.5 degrees respectively. An open wedge radial osteotomy followed by interposition of trapezoidal iliac crest bone graft and fixation with plate ands crews was performed in all patients four months at least after the initial surgery. An ulnar leveling procedure was considered necessary in 2 patients.

Results: All patients were available in the last follow up evaluation (mean 3.7 years). The functional result according to Mayo wrist score was rated as very good in 15 patients, good in 7 and poor in 6. The average improvement in radial inclination was 14 degrees, in radial length 6.5 mm and in volar or dorsal tilt 21 degrees. The complication rate was 22.7%, including 2 material failures, 1 extensor pollicis longus rupture, 1 nonunion and 3 recurrences of the deformity.

Conclusion: Surgical reconstruction for malunion is technically demanding and may not completely restore the anatomy. Patient satisfaction, however, in terms of increased function, decreased pain and decreased deformity is sufficient high to warrant reconstructive treatment.

We reviewed 13 patients with infected nonunion of the distal femur and bone loss, who had been treated by radical surgical debridement and the application of an Ilizarov external fixator. All had severely restricted movement of the knee and a mean of 3.1 previous operations. The mean length of the bony defect was 8.3 cm and no patient was able to bear weight.

The mean external fixation time was 309.8 days. According to Paley’s grading system, eight patients had an excellent clinical and radiological result and seven excellent and good functional results. Bony union, the ability to bear weight fully, and resolution of the infection were achieved in all the patients. The external fixation time was increased when the definitive treatment started six months or more after the initial trauma, the patient had been subjected to more than four previous operations and the initial operation had been open reduction and internal fixation.

Aims: Consideration of gravity of talar neck fractures and evaluation of their treatment results. Methods: From 1992 to 2001 were admitted to our department 26 patients, suffering from talar neck fractures. We were able to reexam 22 patients (17 males and 5 females), with mean age 34,14y. (16 to 64y.). Fourteen pt. (63,6%) were car accident victims. In the rest of them fracture occurred after fall from height more than 3m. There were 8 (36.3%) multi-injured patients. Preoperative diagnostic approach included simple x-rays and CT scan and Hawkins classiþcation was used. All patients underwent surgical treatment. Operative technique included open reduction and internal þxation using screws and/or K-Ws. Postoperatively patients were evaluated with radiological and clinical criteria according to Iowa Ankle Evaluation score. Results: Mean follow up was 58 months (from 12 months to 9 years). Results were excellent in 10 (45,4%), good in 6 (27.2%), fair in 4 (18.1%) and poor in 2 (11%) patients. Two cases developed avascular necrosis (1 type D and 1 type C) followed by body collapse and treated with ankle arthrodesis. Furthermore 1 patient underwent ankle and 6 patients subtalar arthrodesis because of arthritis caused from concomitant fractures. Conclusions: Treatment of talar neck fractures is a challenge because of high rate of complications, because of talusñ shape and vascular anatomy. Anatomic reduction and rigid internal þxation, in combination with immobilization and no weight bearing until restoration of talusñ architecture is achieved, are essential requirements for good result.

Aims: To evaluate the effectiveness of external fixation exchange by intramedullary nailing during consolidation phase following callus distraction phase. Methods: In 12 skeletally mature female sheep, equally divided in two groups (group A and group B), we performed tibial shaft osteotomy and 2cm gradual callus distraction using Ilizarov external fixator in a 0,5mm/12h rate. In group A, Ilizarov fixator was removed immediately after lengthening completion, and static unreamed intramedullary nail was inserted. In group B, Ilizarov device remained during consolidation phase. Formatted callus was studied, with radiographs, ultrasonograms, and triplex. All animals were sacrificed 70 days after osteotomy and bone specimens, were evaluated by DEXA and histopathologic examination. Results: In group A, all animals successfully tolerated intramedullary nailing and limb alignment was attained. All but one formatted mature callus and had started the remodeling phase retaining callus length, before being sacrificed. One animal had delayed callus maturation and 0,5cm loss of callus length, because of failed insertion of distal locking screw in the nail. In group B, all formatted mature callus too, but 2 had serious axis disorder, 3 persistent superficial pin-track infections and 1 deep infection in the same time. Conclusions: Replacement of Ilizarov device by static unreamed intramedullary nail during callus consolidation phase decreases the total duration of external fixation, limits joint stiffness, pin-track infections and axial deformities, and provides protection against refracture. Our results suggest that there is no considerable difference between callus maturation in the two groups.

Aims: Evaluation of postoperative infections in T.H.R. and T.K.R., after randomized prophylactic use of Fusidic acid, Vancomycin and Cefuroxime and assessment of their side effects. Methods: From December 2000 to September 2002, 182 patients (43 males and 139 females), were operated on T.H.R. and T.K.R. in Orthopaedic Department of University of Patras. Mean age was 65.8 years (range 33–90yrs.). The patients were categorized into three groups (A, B and C). In group A was administrated Fusidic acid 500mg and Cefuroxime 1.5gr preoperatively and 2 doses of Fusidic acid 500mg postoperatively. Group B received Vancomycin 1gr and Cefuroxime 1.5gr preoperatively and 2 doses of Vancomycin 1gr postoperatively. Group C received Cefuroxime 1.5gr preoperatively and 2 doses of Cefuroxime 750mg postoperatively. Blood tests were systematically performed preoperatively, and the þrst and þfth postoperative day. Mean follow up was 10,5 months (range 2–21 months). Results: One patient of group B developed deep wound infection. Superþcial infections developed 2 pt. (3.2%) of group A, 2 pt. (3.9%) of group B and 2 pt. (2.8%) of group C. Temperature over 38.3û C attributed to another infection site was observed in 6 pt. (9.8%) of group A, 3 pt. (5.8%) of group B and 5 pt. (7.1%) of group C, while temperature over 38.3û C with unknown origin was noted in 7,3,8 patients respectively. No side effect was recorded. Conclusions: The proper use of antibiotic prophylaxis according to pharmakoki-netic and pharmakodynamic properties combined with sterile surgical techniques prevents early deep wound infections in T.H.R. and T.K.R. The use of speciþc anti-staphylococcal agents is of no beneþt in antimicrobial prophylaxis for the above operations.

Purpose: The assessment of long term results and complications rate using the GN and PFN nailing systems for the treatment of peritrochanteric fractures of the femur.

Material-Methods: Between 1991–2002, 195 patients (102 male, 93 female, average age 61.2 years) with a peritrochanteric fracture of the femur (80 A2, 86 A3, 12 pathological, and 17 combined) underwent intra-medullary nailing with the GN (134 patients) or the PFN (61 patients) system. Mean follow up period was 6.5 years. Outcome analysis included time of healing, delayed union or nonunion, infection, hip function (Salvati & Wilson scale), technical complications (cut out, Z effect, malrotation) and mechanical failures (bending fatigue, loosening, breakage of the implant or screws and fracture below the tip of the nail). Intraoperative difficulties in the application of the nails or screws were registered as well.

Results: Solid union of the fracture was achieved in 171 cases (87.6 %). 25 patients died from reasons unrelated to the implant. The overall complication rate was 20.51 % (10 infections, 3 nonunions, 5 implant breakages, 11 cut-out of the neck screws, 5 Z effects and 6 distal screws failures. The Salvati and Wilson score was > 30 in 121 patients (71.1%).

Conclusions: Use of the GN and PFN systems yielded good results in our study. Technical or mechanical complications were mostly related to the operative technique and the type and preoperative reduction of the fracture, rather than these systems themselves. Z effect is a specific complication of PFN in cases with a fracture reduction in varus, especially when comminution of the medial cortex is present.

Aims: To evaluate the functional recovery of the complex tibial plateau fractures Schatzker type V and VI treated with hybrid ex. fix..

Methods: Twenty-eight patients with intra-articular fractures of the proximal tibia were treated with hybrid external fixation in a three years period (1998–2001).The mean age was 35 years (17–76). According to Schatzker classification, there were 11(39.3%) fractures type V and 17(60.7) type VI, whereas 5(17.8%) fractures were open. Complex injury was recorded in 15(53.5%) patients. Closed reduction and hybrid external fixation was achieved in 21 (75%) fractures. Additional limited internal fixation was performed in 9(32%) cases. Open reduction was necessary in 7(25%) patients. Mobilization of the injured articulation was started at the 3rd postoperative day.

Results: Mean follow up period was 18 months. All fractures but one united at an average of 13.5 weeks (range from 11 to 18 weeks). The results were assessed according to the criteria of Honkonen and Jarvinen. An overall 22(78%) excellent and good results was recorded at the final follow up. Complications included one axial deformity, one septic pseudarthrosis, one peronial palsy and five pin tract infections.

Conclusions: The use of hybrid external fixation in the comminuted tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker V,VI), insure good restraining and early union, avoid major soft tissue complications and allow early mobilization and functional recovery of the knee joint.

Purpose: The evaluation of blood supply of the humeral head in displaced 4-part “valgus impacted” fractures with digital angiographic image processing.

Material-Methods: 14 patients with acute 4-part valgus impacted fractures of the proximal humerus (9 women and 5 men, average age 43,6 years) were included in the study. The average impaction angle was 42.4o and the lateral displacement of the humeral head between 1–7 mm. Preoperative angiography of the proximal humerus was performed 6 to 12 hours after admission. Fixation of the fracture was achieved with in situ transosseous suturing fixation of the tuberosities to each other, to the metaphysis and to the articular part of the humeral head avoiding any reduction maneuvers and use of hard material. Postoperative angiography was performed 8 to 10 weeks after the operation.

Results: Digital angiographic image processing, using the segmentation technique, showed no statistical difference in the supply of the humeral head before and after the operation. The average blank number of small vessels and the overall area of blood supply (vessels/mm2) were about the same in 13 patients and no signs of avascular necrosis were seen 18–20 months after the operation. Partial avascular necrosis was seen in one case with 7 mm lateral displacement.

Conclusions: Although the small number of cases, in situ transosseous suturing fixation of the 4-part valgus impacted fractures seems to preserve the remaining blood supply of the humeral head. The incidence of avascular necrosis is higher in cases with severe lateral displacement.

We evaluate the effectiveness of external fixation exchange by intramedullary nailing during consolidation phase following callus distraction phase. In 12 skeletally mature female sheep, equally divided in two groups (group A and group B), we performed tibial shaft osteotomy and 2cm gradually callus distraction using Ilizarov external fixator in a 0.5mm/12h rate. In group A, immediately after lengthening completion, Ilizarov fixator was removed, and static unreamed intramedullary nail was inserted under fluoroscopic guidance. In group B (control group), Ilizarov frame remained (according to the usual technique) during consolidation phase. Callus maturity was studied in both groups, in specific time intervals, with plain x-rays, ultrasonograms, triplex and digital subscription angiograms. All animals were sacrificed 70 days after osteotomy and bone specimens including callus, were evaluated with MRI, DEXA and histopathologic examination.

In group A, all animals successfully tolerated intramedullary nailing, keeping limp alignment. All but one formatted a mature callus and kept callus length before being sacrificed. One sheep had a delayed formation of the callus and 0.5cm loss of callus length, because of failed insertion of distal locking screw in the nail. In group B, four of six formatted mature callus, two had axis disorder, three superficial pin-track infections and one deep infection in the same time.

We conclude that replacement of Ilizarov device by static unreamed intramedullary nail during callus consolidation phase decreases the total duration of external fixation, limits articular stiffness, pin-track infections and axial deformities, and provides protection against refracture. Our results suggest that there is no considerable difference between callus formations in the two groups.

Aims: Evaluation of postoperative infections in T.H.R. and T.K.R., after randomized prophylactic use of Fusidic acid, Vancomycin and Cefuroxime and assessment of their side effects.

Methods: From December 2000 to April 2002, 128 patients were operated on T.H.R. and T.K.R. in Orthopaedic Department of University of Patras (64 for T.H.R. and 47 for T.K.R.). Mean age was 66.5 years (range 45–90yrs.). The patients were categorized into three groups. In the first group was administrated Fusidic acid 500mg and Cefuroxime 1.5gr preoperatively and 2 doses of Fusidic acid 500mg postoperatively. The second group received Vancomycin 1gr and Cefuroxime 1.5gr preoperatively and 2 doses of Vancomycin 1gr postoperatively. The third group received Cefuroxime 1.5gr preoperatively and 2 doses of Cefuroxime 750mg postoperatively. Blood tests were systematically performed preoperatively, and the first and fifth postoperative day. Mean follow up was 8 months. Results: No deep wound infection was observed. Superficial infections developed 2 pt. (1.58%) of the first group, 2 pt. (1.58%) of the second group and 3 pt. (2.3%) of the third group. Temperature over 38.3° C attributed to another infection site was observed in 4 pt. of the first group, 2 pt. of the second group and 7 pt. of the third group, while temperature over 38.3° C with unknown origin was noted in 7,2,6 patients respectively. No side effect was recorded.

Conclusions: The proper use of antibiotic prophylaxis according to pharmakokinetic and pharmakodvnamic properties combined with sterile surgical techniques, prevents early deep wound infections in T.H.R. and T.K.R. The use of specific antistaphylococcal agents is of no benefit in antimicrobial prophylaxis for the above operations.

Aim of the study

End results analysis of operative treatment in transcaphoid perilunate dislocations.

Material and method

From 1/1/91 to 1/1/01 twenty transcaphoid perilunate dislocations were operative treated. Ligamentous lesions were repaired through a dorsal approach, either by directly suturing the ligaments (10cases), or by using mini Mitek anchors (8 cases). Simple approximation and stabilization with K-wires was performed in 2cases. Scaphoid fractures were treated by open reduction and internal osteosynthesis with Herbert screw (12 cases), cortical AO 2.0 screw (2cases) or K-wires (6 cases). The wrist remained immobilized in a slight flexed position with short arm plaster for 8 weeks. Physiotherapy was necessary for all patients to regain full range of motion. Clinical and radiological evaluation was possible for all patients. The end results were estimated according to Cooney’s evaluation system. Kinematics of the injured wrists was also tested by cineradiography in order to estimate the dynamic behaviour of the wrist. The Average follow-up time was 52 months (range 11–76).

Results

Twelve patients had excellent result, 4 good, 1 fair, and 3 poor. Fourteen out of 16 cases returned to their previous work. Additional operations were required in two patients: 1) four corner arthrodesis because of aseptic necrosis of the proximal pole of the scaphoid with arthritic changes, 2) Scaphoid reoperation because of non-union by Matti-Russe procedure. The later was found in cineradiography to present a painless rotational instability.

Conclusions

Transcaphoid perilunate dislocation has a very good response to early operative treatment. Dorsal ligament repair with mite mini anchors seems to be a reliable easy made method. Scaphoid fracture stabilization requires a stable compressive fixation. Herbert screw is ideal and can be safely placed from proximal to distal via the dorsal incision. Cineradiography is the best way to evaluate normal wrist kinematics.