Treatment of diaphyseal pathological fractures in children with monostotic fibrous dysplasia using cortical strut allografts and internal plating: A retrospective clinical study

Children with fibrous dysplasia (FD) chronically suffer from pain, pathological fractures, and limb deformities. The most effective methods for managing the associated pathological fractures remain controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical results of the treatment of diaphyseal pathological fractures in children with monostotic fibrous dysplasia (MFD) using cortical strut allografts and internal plating.We retrospectively analyzed outcomes in nine children (5 boys, 4 girls) with diaphyseal pathological fractures due to MFD, who were treated with cortical strut allografts and internal plating (6 femoral fractures and 3 humeral fractures) between July 2007 and November 2012. The median age of patients in our study was 10 years (range 6-14 years). The fracture healing time, pain, extremity function, refracture, graft resorption, and complications were recorded to evaluate treatment effects.The median time of follow-up was 69 months (range 60-75 months). All patients had good postoperative fracture healing with a median healing time of 14 weeks (range 12-16 weeks). None experienced refracture, graft resorption, nerve injury, or limitation of extremity function or other complications. The fixation remained stable in all patients, with no evidence of loosening screws after surgery.In pediatric patients, the described surgical approach is an effective and reliable treatment method for diaphyseal pathological fractures caused by MFD. Cortical strut allografts, which act as biological bone plates, can provide good mechanical support while increasing the rate of fracture union.

Do femoral fractures in adult patients with osteogenesis imperfecta imitate atypical femoral fractures? A case series

Atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) are low-energy femoral fractures with characteristic radiological features and a suspected relation to treatment with bisphosphonate (BP) or denosumab. In osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), BP is currently the drug of choice when medical treatment is indicated. Due to bone deformities, the radiologic appearance of femoral fractures may be different in patients with OI and patients with osteoporosis. We investigated the prevalence and appearance of femoral fractures in a cohort of adult patients with confirmed OI (55 patients, age range 19-69 years, 26 women (47%) and 35 patients (64%) had received BP treatment), who attended the outpatient clinic at Aarhus University Hospital. The fractures were evaluated according to major and minor AFF criteria. In our OI cohort, we found that eight out of 55 patients had suffered a femoral fracture in adult year: five women and three men, aged 25 to 54 years. One patient had OI type I, two had OI type III, four had OI type IV, and one had OI type V. All fractures were associated with no or minimal trauma. Four patients had fractures that fulfilled the criteria of AFFs. Two of the four patients had received long-term BP treatment prior to the fracture and three patients had severe deformities of the femur. Femoral fractures in OI imitate AFFs. This suggests that bone deformity, collagen deficiencies, and alterations in mineralization of bone may cause femoral fractures that imitate AFFs even in the absence of antiresorptive treatment. Bone deformities should be monitored as part of the management of adult patients with OI. Continuous dull or aching pain in the groin or thigh should lead to radiographic examination. The radiologic appearance of femoral fractures may be different in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) and patients with osteoporosis, thus imitate atypical femoral fractures (AFF). We found that bone deformity, collagen deficiencies, and alterations in bone mineralization may cause femoral fractures that imitate AFFs even in the absence of antiresorptive treatment.

[Study on the Effects of Sex and Age on Proximal Femoral Fractures in Two Culturally Diverse Countries]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The pilot study deals with the current situation in proximal femoral fractures in culturally diverse regions, namely in Afghanistan (AFG) and in the Czech Republic (CZ). The study aimed to find out whether there are any differences in proximal femoral fractures in dependence on the selected criteria between the two culturally diverse areas. The study used the data of patients who underwent surgery for proximal femoral fracture at the Department of Orthopaedics of the 1 s t Medical Faculty of the Charles University and the Military University Hospital and at the Military Base Hospital Kabul. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included patients aged 21 years or older who sustained a proximal femoral fracture in the period from October 2013 to February 2014. For the period concerned, the evaluation comprised 44 patients with a proximal femoral fracture from the Military Base Hospital Kabul, of whom 25 women and 19 men, and a total of 71 patients with a proximal femoral fracture from the Department of Orthopaedics of the 1st Medical Faculty of the Charles University and the Military University Hospital, of whom 43 women and 28 men. Based on the medical documentation, the following evaluation parameters were selected: age, sex, type of fracture. The data was processed using descriptive statistics, one-way and multifactorial analysis (ANOVA) and the POST-HOC test (Fisher LSD test, confidence interval = 95%) RESULTS The mean age of all the patients who suffered a fracture of proximal femur in AFG (58 years) was considerably lower (p < 0.001) than in patients in CZ (81 years). Similarly, a significant difference (p <0.001) was identified in the age of men and women treated for a proximal femoral fracture in both the countries. In AFG there was a statistically significant difference (p = 0.002) between the age of men and women, where women sustaining fractures were younger (54 years) compared to men (63 years). In CZ no significant age difference was reported (83 years vs 78 years). In AFG, the observed fractures occurred generally in their 6th and 7th decade, whereas in CZ only in their 9th decade. The incidence of proximal femoral fractures in Afghan women is the highest in their 5th and 6th decade. Pertrochanteric fractures and intracapsular fractures prevailed in both countries. The lowest age in both types of the fracture was reported in Afghan women (52 years in femoral neck fracture, p <0.001, 54 years in trochanteric fracture, p = 0.039). DISCUSSION Significant differences between the patients in AFG and CZ concern several factors. Afghanistan is a country with the lowest average life expectancy. In the Afghan population a major Vitamin D deficiency was confirmed. This is related to the conservative dress code, especially in women, when the Vitamin D synthesis is suppressed. That can cause the occurrence of osteoporosis in women at a considerably younger age than in the population in the Czech Republic, which is subsequently accompanied by an increased incidence of proximal femoral fractures. Similar results, however, were also obtained in men. One of the risk factors of osteoporosis development is also low physical activity throughout the lifetime. This risk factor is significant primarily in female population in the Muslim world. Afghanistan also faces serious malnutrition. All of that is reflected in low life expectancy in the given country, incidence of osteoporosis and injuries in this region. There is reasonable evidence that the mortality in a causal relationship with proximal femoral fracture is substantially higher in this region than in Western Europe. CONCLUSIONS The results of the pilot study showed that there are significant differences in age and frequency of fractures in dependence on sex and country. The obtained results can be considered valuable since there are virtually no scientific or professional studies on osteoporosis and fractures in the given area that would help physicians get ready for significant differences. These results may become a source of valuable information not only for medical practitioners coming to Afghanistan to help as volunteers in the framework of developmental assistance from all over the world, but also for physicians from Europe, with respect to the wave of migrants coming from this area. Key words: proximal femur, fracture, gender, age, Afghanistan, Czech Republic.

Atypical femoral fracture, case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Bisphosphonates have been the gold standard in the management of osteoporosis. Its antiresorptive effect has reduced the incidence of fractures due to bone fragility, as well as its impact on public health. We present the clinical case of a patient in prolonged treatment with bisphosphonates and atypical bilateral femur fracture.

CASE REPORT

A 65-year-old female who presented a fall from her own height, on treatment with risedronate for seven years, and a history of systemic arterial hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, both with medical treatment. Diagnosed with bilateral atypical femoral fracture, treated with closed reduction internal fixation (CRIF) with intramedullary nailing, application of calcium citrate and teriparatide.

DISCUSSION

Multiple studies indicate that the benefit of using bisphosphonates for osteoporosis is higher than the risk of presenting atypical fractures.

[Treatment of Periprosthetic Distal Femoral Fractures]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Periprosthetic distal femoral fractures (PDFF) constitute an unpleasant complication in patients with a total knee replacement (TKR). The incidence reported in literature is 0.3-2.5 %. The number of periprosthetic knee fractures has been increasing due to the ageing of population, a growing number of implants, a longer life expectancy of patients, a more intensive physical activity of patients, and osteoporosis. Most of these fractures are treated surgically, non-surgical treatment is reserved solely for patients unable to undergo a surgery for general health conditions. MATERIAL AND METHODS Our retrospective study evaluated the group of patients with PDFF who were treated at out department in the period 2007- 2016 and 2,975 primary TKR were performed. The total number of patients with PDFF was 56. The mean age of patients with PDFF was 77 years (56-94 years) and at the time of fracture the mean age was 71 years in men and 78 years in women. The average time from the TKR to periprosthetic fracture was 8.2 years (0-20 years). The fractures were assessed using the Su classification modified by Krbec. RESULTS A primary TKR was performed in 46 cases for gonarthrosis, in 6 cases for rheumatoid arthritis and in 4 cases for secondary, post-traumatic gonarthrosis. The average incidence of periprosthetic distal femoral fractures was 5-6 cases per year. Women represented 86 %, men 14 %. Su Type I fracture was diagnosed in 25 % of cases, Su Type II fractures in 71 %, and Su Type III fractures 4 %. 52 patients with PDFF were treated surgically, in 4 cases conservative treatment was opted for. The average treatment time of PDFF to healing by callus formation was 6.6 months (3-12 months). Mortality during the first 3 months after osteosynthesis of PDFF was 9 %. A failure of osteosynthesis of PDFF was reported in 4 cases. DISCUSSION Multiple classification systems were developed to assess these fractures. The most appropriate we consider the classification of Su et al. classifying the PDFF into 3 groups, namely based on the height of the fracture line relative to the femoral component. Osteosynthesis by retrograde femoral nail is indicated for periprosthetic fractures, with sufficient bone mass in distal femur, which allows stable distal fixation. The new generation of anatomically shaped angular stable implants gives us yet another option for osteosynthesis of PDFF. Many studies point at the advantages of these implants in osteoporotic bone as against the conventional plates. CONCLUSIONS The number of PDFF has been increasing. The main methods of internal osteosynthesis continue to be the angular stable plates and the retrograde femoral nail. Preoperative planning is important to determine the type and dimensions of the existing femoral component and to distinguish whether or not it has come loose. The choice of the implant may depend on the bone mass available for distal fixation. The retrograde femoral nail is usually the most suitable method of treatment for proximal PDFF (Su Type I). The angular stable plates can be used for PDFF originating at the femoral component (Su Type II and Type III). Very distal fractures classified as Su Type III with a loose femoral component require a revision surgery with a TKR with stems. The surgeon should be prepared for a revision surgery if the intraoperative finding is more complicated than anticipated based on the preoperative radiograph. Key words:total knee arthroplasty, periprosthetic fracture, osteosynthesis.

Fracture of a Titanium Non-Modular Femoral Stem After Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty A Case Report and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Femoral stem fracture is a rare and morbid complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). There currently exists a paucity of reports regarding cementless non-modular, titanium, femoral stem fractures.

METHODS

A case report and review of the literature for modular and non-modular stem fractures was conducted.

RESULTS

We report the first documented fatigue fracture in the Wagner Self-Locking (SL) Revision (Zimmer-Biomet, Warsaw, Indiana) System.

DISCUSSION

Proximal stress shielding can lead to poor bone support and contribute to excessive cantilever bending forces, even on non-modular, titanium, tapered stems. Body mass index, prosthetic diameter, and stem length are factors that need to be vetted in order to prevent this complication.

Secondary femur fracture following treatment with anterograde nailing: the state of the art

Cephalomedullary nailing (CMN) currently represents the best surgical technique for the treatment of intertrochanteric hip fractures. Although the success of CMN in terms of functional recovery and fracture healing, in clinical practice there are many complications. Later femur fracture following treatment of trochanteric fracture with CMN is not a very frequent complication but, when it occurs, its treatment is the most complex, because of the increase of peri-operative mortality. There are studies in literature, which have demonstrated that the incidence of this complication is about 0.5-3%. Diagnosis and classification are made with standard radiographs, using the AO classification and the modified Vancouver classification. In the actual literature, to determinate the predisposing factor to the secondary fractures, the authors focused their attention on patient-related and surgical related risk factors. The treatment is variable and it depends on the type and characteristics of fracture and device. Outcomes analyzed in literature were mortality and bone healing. The aim of this manuscript is to provide an overview of this topic and to describe the state of the art of the secondary fracture after surgical treatment with intramedullary nailing.

Treatment of pathologic fractures of the proximal femur

BACKGROUND

Metastatic lesions to the proximal femur occur frequently and require special consideration due to the high risk of pathologic fractures. Type of surgery might influence patient survival considering the growing concept of oligometastases. In fact, the use of modular tumor megaprosthesis is increasing in the last decades compared to intramedullary nailing. Aim of this study was to evaluate oncological and functional results of treatment in patients with pathologic or impending fracture of the proximal femur, with patient survival being the primary, complications the secondary, and functional results the tertiary endpoint.

METHODS

Between 2016 and 2017, 40 patients with pathologic fracture (29 cases) or impending fracture according to the Mirels score (11 cases) of the proximal femur, were treated in our Institute and prospectively collected. There were 29 females (72.5%) and 11 males (27.5%), with a mean age at diagnosis of the metastasis of 63.6 years (range 35 to 92 years). Patients were treated due to bone metastases (commonly develop from breast cancer) or hematologic malignancies. Considering number of lesions, 17 patients had less than three bone metastases. Surgical procedures included intramedullary nailing (7 patients), conventional endoprosthesis (4 patients) and modular endoprosthetic replacement (29 patients). Adjuvant treatments included chemotherapy (13 cases), radiation therapy (8 cases) or both (15 cases), and selective arterial embolization (6 pre-op). Oncological results were evaluated considering the survival of patients. Functional results were assessed as pain intensity in VAS score and MSTS score.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up of patients was 10.2 months (range 6-26.3 years). At the latest evaluation, 23 patients were alive with disease, 3 patients were alive without evidence of disease and 14 patients were dead with disease. There was a significant better survival in patients treated with PFR compared to IMN and EPR groups (p = 0.0080). No differences in term of survival were found comparing impending vs actual pathological fracture and oligo vs multiple metastases. After surgery, all patients experienced improvement in quality of life resulting from reduction in pain. Mean MSTS score was 22.4. The overall complications rate was 22.5%. The most frequent complication was dislocation followed by wound dehiscence and deep infections.

CONCLUSION

Modular tumour prosthesis for proximal femur replacement provides good functional outcome, relative low incidence of complications and higher life quality in the medium term. Oncologic results were influenced by type of surgery, biased by the correct indications for resection and nailing. Preoperative general health condition, life expectancy and ambulatory capacity may influence treatment strategy. With the numbers available, the patients with actual pathologic or impending fracture of the proximal femur treated with resection had a significantly higher survival, especially those with metastases from renal carcinoma or multiple myeloma.

Modification of the Unified Classification System for periprosthetic femoral fractures after hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The Unified Classification System (UCS) for Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PPFF) still has some limitations.

METHODS

We retrieved 18 previous classifications for PPFF based on systematic review of the literature, and also retrospectively analyzed 402 cases with PPFF. 46 cases (11.4%) were identified as beyond the classification scope of the original UCS.

RESULTS

We modified the UCS as follows: (1) add two new B2 subtypes: B2PALT/B2PAGT (i.e., the pseudo ALT/AGT: Fracture in trochanter region including a segment of the proximal medial/lateral femoral cortex); (2) add a new FS category to encompass stem fracture alone or accompanied by PPFF, with FSO designating this fracture with stem fracture alone, FS1 designating this fracture with the proximal portion of the fractured femoral prosthesis being stable, FS2 designating this fracture with the proximal portion of the fractured femoral prosthesis being loose and the surrounding bone quality being good, and FS3 designating this fracture with the proximal portion of the fractured femoral prosthesis being loose and the bone bed being of poor quality; and (3) delete Type F which does not apply to the femur. Thus, using our modification of the UCS, among the 46 cases, we found thirty-five B2PALT, two B2PAGT, three FSO, one FS1, two FS2 and three SF3.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to the original UCS, our modified version is more comprehensive. We believe it is useful to improve the judgment of the implant stability, and establish the therapeutic strategy for PPFF.

Incidence, risk factors, and fracture healing of atypical femoral fractures: a multicenter case-control study

The incidence of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) was 2.95% among 6644 hip and femoral fractures. Independent risk factors included the use of bisphosphonates (BPs), osteopenia or osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, increased femoral curvatures, and thicker femoral cortices. Patients with AFFs and BP treatment were more likely to have problematic healing than those with typical femoral fractures (TFFs) and no BP treatment.

INTRODUCTION

To determine the incidence and risk factors of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs), we performed a multicenter case-control study. We also investigated the effects of bisphosphonates (BPs) on AFF healing.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and radiographs of 6644 hip and femoral fractures of patients from eight tertiary referral hospitals. All the radiographs were reviewed to distinguish AFFs from TFFs. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors, and interaction analyses were used to investigate the effects of BPs on fracture healing.

RESULTS

The incidence of AFFs among 6644 hip and femoral fractures was 2.95% (90 subtrochanter and 106 femoral shaft fractures). All patients were females with a mean age of 72 years, and 75.5% were exposed to BPs for an average duration of 5.2 years (range, 1-17 years). The use of BPs was significantly associated with AFFs (p < 0.001, odds ratio = 25.65; 95% confidence interval = 10.74-61.28). Other independent risk factors for AFFs included osteopenia or osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, increased anterior and lateral femoral curvatures, and thicker lateral femoral cortex at the shaft level. Interaction analyses showed that patients with AFFs using BPs had a significantly higher risk of problematic fracture healing than those with TFFs and no BP treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of AFFs among 6644 hip and femoral fractures was 2.95%. Osteopenia or osteoporosis, use of BPs, rheumatoid arthritis, increased anterior and lateral femoral curvatures, and thicker lateral femoral cortex were independent risk factors for the development of AFFs. Patients with AFFs and BP treatment were more likely to have problematic fracture healing than those with TFFs and no BP treatment.

Limited field radiation therapy results in decreased bone fracture toughness in a murine model

Fragility fractures are a well-known complication following oncologic radiotherapy, and it is suspected that radiation-induced embrittlement of bone within the treatment field may contribute to fracture risk. To explore this phenomenon, a mouse model (BALB/cJ) of fractionated, limited field, bilateral hindlimb irradiation (4x5 Gy) was used. The effects of radiation on femoral (cortical) bone fracture toughness, morphology, and biochemistry-including advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-were quantified and compared to Sham group samples prior to irradiation and at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-irradiation. Additionally, alterations to bone fracture toughness mediated directly by radiation (independent of cellular mechanisms) were determined using devitalized mouse cadaver femurs. Finally, the contribution of AGEs to reduced fracture toughness was examined by artificially ribosylating mouse femurs ex vivo. These data demonstrate that in vivo irradiation results in an immediate (-42% at 0 weeks, p < 0.001) and sustained (-28% at 12 weeks, p < 0.001) decrease in fracture toughness with small changes in morphology (-5% in cortical area at 12 weeks), and minimal changes in bone composition (tissue mineral density, mineral:matrix ratio, and AGE content). Irradiation of devitalized femurs also reduced fracture toughness (-29%, p < 0.001), but to a lesser extent than was seen in vivo. While artificial ribosylation decreased fracture toughness with time, the extent of glycation needed to induce this effect exceeded the AGE accumulation that occurred in vivo. Overall, hindlimb irradiation induced a substantial and sustained decrease in bone fracture toughness. Approximately half of this decrease in fracture toughness is due to direct radiation damage, independent of cellular remodeling. Collagen glycation in vivo was not substantially altered, suggesting other matrix changes may contribute to post-radiotherapy bone embrittlement.

Individualized reconstruction for severe periprosthetic fractures around the tumor prosthesis of knee under assistance of 3D printing technology: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) around tumor prosthesis of knee are stubborn problems for surgeons, huge bone defect and inappropriate biomechanics of the revision implant design can be disaster for reconstruction. With the development of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, surgeons participate more in precise preoperative design and simulation for treatment of such fractures. In this study we explored an accurate and feasible way to restore normal anatomy and function of the knee joint with 3D printing technology.

CASE PRESENTATION

Rationale: This report explored an accurate and feasible way to treat PFF around tumor knee prosthesis in a 32 years old women with 3D printing technology, which restored normal anatomy and function of the knee joint. Patient concerns: Pain in left thigh lasted for 10 months after resection of left femoral chondroma and knee joint replacement four years ago. Diagnoses: periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) around tumor knee prosthesis.

INTERVENTIONS

CT images of the patient were collected and reconstructed. Parameters of bilateral femurs were virtually sliced and measured. Novel femoral stem and nail paths were specially designed by doctors according to these parameters. The prosthetic femoral stem components and navigator were customized by engineers according to the doctor's design. The residual femoral resin model, customized components and navigator were printed with Stereo Lithography Apparatus 3D printer. The shape-preconcerted allograft bone was selected as patch for the bone defect before operation with the printed bone model. All the steps were simulated preoperatively with the models printed, and then the operation was carried out.

OUTCOMES

The operation was successfully performed. The postoperative x-ray image, MSTS93 scores were examined and the function restoration sustained well in the follow-up period from 1 month to 27 months.

LESSONS

3D printing and medical interaction are key points in complex PFF cases.

CONCLUSION

As for PFF of the complex tumor of knee, preoperative design and simulation with 3D printing technology may provide more accurate and effective operative outcome than traditional methods, which might be considered as a method suitable for popularization in complex and severe cases.

A rare case of non-contact salter harris type 2 fracture of distal femur during a football match

Distal femoral physeal fractures in adolescents are often due to high velocity injuries. We present an unusual case of a non-contact distal femoral physeal fracture that occurred during a football match. A torsional force had been directed at the fracture site occurring at the growth plate causing a transverse fracture rather than a spiral fracture. It is important to be aware that such fractures can occur despite little or no evidence of contact. These type of injuries should also be treated as an emergency to reduce the risk of further complications.

Incidence and treatment of femur fractures in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta: an analysis of an expert clinic of 216 patients

PURPOSE

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is characterized by increased bone fragility and susceptibility for fractures. A few studies described and compared treatment modalities for femur fractures in children with OI. However, no cohort studies on adults with OI have been published. This study on adult OI patients aims to give insight into the incidence of femur fractures and non-unions and its best treatment options to avert non-union.

METHODS

In this retrospective, descriptive study of the OI expert clinic in The Netherlands, all medical charts of patients 16 years or older were analyzed for femur fracture incidence, non-union rate and treatment modality.

RESULTS

Of 216 OI patients, 34 patients suffered a femur fracture with 12 patients having more than 1 femur fracture. For all types of femur fractures, the incidence was 651 fractures per 100,000 person-years annually. In 49 total fractures, 10 fractures resulted in a non-union, mostly shaft fractures of type 4 OI patients. Surgically treated shaft fractures had the best outcomes for non-union.

CONCLUSIONS

OI adults were prone to developing femur fractures and non-unions. Especially type 4 OI adults, with conservatively treated shaft fractures, were at high risk for non-unions.

On the internal reaction forces, energy absorption, and fracture in the hip during simulated sideways fall impact

The majority of hip fractures have been reported to occur as a result of a fall with impact to the greater trochanter of the femur. Recently, we developed a novel cadaveric pendulum-based hip impact model and tested two cadaveric femur-pelvis constructs, embedded in a soft tissue surrogate. The outcome was a femoral neck fracture in a male specimen while a female specimen had no fracture. The aim of the present study was, first, to develop a methodology for constructing and assessing the accuracy of explicit Finite Element Models (FEMs) for simulation of sideways falls to the hip based on the experimental model. Second, to use the FEMs for quantifying the internal reaction forces and energy absorption in the hip during impact. Third, to assess the potential of the FEMs in terms of separating a femoral fracture endpoint from a non-fracture endpoint. Using a non-linear, strain rate dependent, and heterogeneous material mapping strategy for bone tissue in these models, we found the FEM-derived results to closely match the experimental test results in terms of impact forces and displacements of pelvic video markers up to the time of peak impact force with errors below 10%. We found the internal reaction forces in the femoral neck on the impact side to be approximately 35% lower than the impact force measured between soft tissue and ground for both specimens. In addition, we found the soft tissue to be the component that absorbed the largest part of the energy of the tissue types in the hip region. Finally, we found surface strain patterns derived from FEM results to match the fracture location and extent based on post testing x-rays of the specimens. This is the first study with quantitative data on the energy absorption in the pelvic region during a sideways fall.

Subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures in hypophosphatasia-not atypical at all

Risk for subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures is considered increased in patients with hypophosphatasia (HPP). Evaluating a large cohort of HPP patients, we could for the first time quantify the prevalcence and identify both morphometric features as well as predisposing factors for this complication of severe HPP.

INTRODUCTION

Subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures have been associated with both, long-term antiresorptive treatment and metabolic bone disorders, specifically Hypophosphatasia (HPP). Building on a cross-sectional evaluation of real-world data, this study reports risk factors, prevalence, treatment outcome and morphometric particularities for such fractures in HPP as compared to Atypical Femoral Fractures (AFF) in long-term antiresorptive treatment.

METHODS

For 15 out of 150 HPP patients identified with having experienced at least one such fracture, medical records were reviewed in detail, extracting medical history, genotype, lab assessments, bone mineral density (DXA), radiographic data on femoral geometry and clinical aspects of fracture etiology and healing.

RESULTS

Bilateral fractures were documented in 10 of these 15 patients, yielding a total of 25 fractures for evaluation. Disease-inherent risk factors included autosomal-recessive, childhood onset HPP, apparently low alkaline phosphatase (ALP) ≤ 20 U/l and substantially elevated pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP) > 3 times upper limit of normal as well as high lumbar spine BMD. Fracture morphology met definition criteria for AFF in 88% of cases. Femoral geometry revealed additional risk factors previously described for AFF, including decreased femoral neck-shaft angle and increased femoral offset. Extrinsic risk factors include Hypovitaminosis D (80%) and pre-treatment with bisphosphonates (46,7%) and Proton-Pump Inhibitors (40%).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased risk for subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures in HPP appears to result from both compromised bone metabolism as well as disease-associated bone deformities. In severe HPP, generous screening for such fractures seems advisable. Bisphosphonates and Hypovitaminosis D should be avoided. Healing is compromised and requires mindful consideration of both pharmacological and surgical options.

[Iatrogenic femoral head fracture during a closed reduction of posterior dislocation of hip. Case report]

The fracture dislocation of the hip is a rare lesion described up to 4 to 17% of the cases and usually secondary to automobile accidents. Generally of poor prognosis and with already well documented complications such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head, osteoarthritis and heterotopic ossification. The iatrogenic fracture of the neck or head of the proximal femur is a complication even more rare and is not documented its incidence in the world literature. Having as probable causes the irreducibility of a dislocation of hip, more than one attempt of closed reduction, inadequate technique and some problems with the anesthesia and relaxation of the patient. We present the case of a young patient attended in the first eight hours after his accident with an iatrogenic fracture of the femoral head with follow up to 18 months and emphasizing the importance of making an anatomic open reduction and stable fixation in order to get favorable results.

[Parathyroid carcinoma: diagnosis by a femur fracture]

BACKGROUND

Carcinoma of the parathyroid gland (PC) described by De Quervain since 1909, it represents the least common neoplasm, with an incidence of 1,25/10,000,000 peoples. It has been reported approximately 1,000 cases of CP in world literature. There are two series in Mexico, one of eight patients and other with four cases. Because CP is functionally active, its early clinical behavior is similar to that of parathyroid benign neoplasms.

CLINICAL CASE

A 66-year-old female with history of thighbone pain and spontaneous femoral fracture, osteolytic lesions, hypercalcemia, elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone detected; the scintigraphy showed a functioning tumor located in upper mediastinum. By hemithyroidectomy in block, the tumor was resected. Histopathological study reported parathyroid carcinoma.

DISCUSSION

PC is the least common neoplasia, in patients with parathyroid hormone levels greater than 1,000 pg/ml and hypercalcemia upper of 14 mg/dl this disease should be suspected.

[Traumatic Disruption of the Aortic Root and the Ascending Aorta with Multisystem Trauma;Report of a Case]

We report a case of traumatic disruption of the aortic root with multisystem trauma. A 45-year-old male was suffered from multiple injuries including subarachnoid hemorrhage, lung contusion, retroperitoneal hematoma and femoral bone fracture caused by a traffic accident. He had a history of 3 cardiac surgeries including repair of atrioventricular septal defect and mitral valve replacement using a mechanical valve. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed leakage of the contrast medium from the aortic root and a filling defect on the right coronary artery. Because of hemorrhagic complications, emergency operation was avoided. He was operated 2 days after the trauma. Laceration of the left-coronary sinus and the non-coronary sinus was observed. Bentall operation was performed and the right coronary artery( RCA) was bypassed with a saphenous vein graft. He was treated with open fixation of the right femur 14 days after the operation and was discharged 58 days after the 1st operation.

Load transfer and periprosthetic fractures after total hip arthoplasty: Comparison of periprosthetic fractures of femora implanted with cementless distal-load or proximal-load femoral components and measurement of the femoral strain at the time of implantation

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the causes and mechanisms underlying periprosthetic fractures around femoral components particularly in relation to the stem design. In an in vitro study 20 pairs of fresh cadaveric femora were loaded to fracture axially and transversally.

FINDINGS

When proximal femoral strain was measured at the time of impaction of cementless stems the load transfer was determined by the underlying anatomy rather than by the shape of the stem, so that the so-called "load transfer" properties - proximal or distal - ascribed to stem designs are a myth. The axial-load and the transverse-load model were then exposed to loads to failure (fracture) and showed a biphasic pattern throughout independent of the impact direction. In the second phase, the fracture phase proper, the bone behaved like a brittle solid. Failure occurred very rapidly within less than 5 milliseconds. The forces to failure were between 2 and 11 kN. Most of the fractures (82.5%) occurred above the stem tip.

INTERPRETATION

Note that the study was confined to early preosteointegration fractures. Neither the stem design nor the impact direction, i.e. on the knee or on the side of the hip, was related to the fracture morphology.

Fracture risk assessment in postmenopausal women with diabetes: comparison between DeFRA and FRAX tools

This study aimed to compare the performance of Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) with that of Derived FRAX (DeFRA) in estimating fracture risk in a cohort of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) postmenopausal women. One hundred nineteen T2DM postmenopausal women and 118 consecutive healthy postmenopausal women were enrolled. Fracture risk was assessed with FRAX (adjusted or non- for trabecular bone score, TBS) and DeFRA. Bone mineral density (BMD) and TBS were evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The outcome was the presence of vertebral/non-vertebral fragility fractures (FFs). T2DM women showed higher spinal BMD T-score (p < .05), but lower TBS (p < .05), than controls. Diabetic patients had higher prevalence of FFs compared to controls (p < .05), but no significant difference were found in the scores of any of the predictor tools. Differently, in the T2DM group, the scores of DeFRA, FRAX and adjusted-FRAX were significantly (p < .01 for all) higher in fractured compared with non-fractured women. DeFRA showed the best discriminative power among all fracture risk predictor tools (area under curves: DeFra: 0.89; adjusted FRAX: 0.80; non-adjusted FRAX: 0.73). In summary, all fracture risk assessment tools appeared to be effective in predicting bone fractures in T2DM postmenopausal women, with DeFRA showing a slightly better diagnostic accuracy.

Periprosthetic femoral fracture as cause of early revision after short stem hip arthroplasty-a multicentric analysis

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence and causes of early re-operation after hip replacement surgery using short bone-preserving stems in a large multicentre series. Specifically, we evaluated the clinical features of periprosthetic fractures occurring around short stems.

METHODS

A total of 897 patients (1089 hips) who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty or bipolar hemiarthroplasty from January 2011 to February 2015 using short bone-preserving femoral stems were recruited. Mean patient age was 57.4 years (range, 18-97 years), with a male ratio of 49.7% (541/1089). Re-operation for any reason within two years was used as an endpoint. The incidence and clinical characteristics of the periprosthetic femoral fractures were also recorded. Mean follow-up period was 5.1 years (range, 2-7.9 years).

RESULTS

Early re-operation for any reason was identified in 16 (1.5%) of 1089 hips. The main reason for re-operation was periprosthetic femoral fracture, which accounted for eight (50%) of the 16 re-operations. The overall incidence of periprosthetic femoral fracture at two years was 1.1% (12/1089). According to the Vancouver classification, two fractures were AG type and the other ten were B1 type. Advanced age, higher American Society of Anesthesiologist grade, femur morphology of Dorr type C, and the use of a calcar-loading stem increased the risk for periprosthetic femoral fracture.

CONCLUSION

Periprosthetic femoral fracture was the major reason for re-operation after hip replacement surgery using short bone-preserving stems accounting for 50% (8/16) of re-operations two years post-operatively, but did not seem to deteriorate survivorship of implanted prostheses.

Bone Remodeling of the Distal Femur After Uncemented Total Knee Arthroplasty-A 2-Year Prospective DXA Study

Loss of bone stock as a response to the bone trauma, immobilization, and stress shielding related to joint replacement surgery increases the risk of fracture of the distal femur after total knee arthroplasty. Previous studies of uncemented femoral components have reported very high levels of bone loss in the distal femur. This study investigates the adaptive bone remodeling of the distal femur after uncemented total knee arthroplasty. We performed a 2-year follow-up of 53 patients (mean age 61.5 [38-70] years, F/M = 27/26, body mass index 29.5) who because of osteoarthritis received an uncemented total knee arthroplasty. All patients received a NexGen CR-Flex Porous Femoral Component. Measurements of bone mineral density of the distal femur using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were performed postoperatively and after 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Bone mineral density (g/cm²) was measured in 3 regions of interest in the periprosthetic bone of the distal femur. Repeated measures analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test for bone mineral density changed over time (p < 0.05 were considered significant). In the distal femur, significant changes in bone mineral density were seen after 24 months of follow-up, and bone mineral density decreased by 23.6% in the anterior region behind the anterior flange of the prosthesis (p < 0.001), 10.1% in the posterior region (p < 0.001), and 5.5% in the most proximal region (p < 0.001). We found highly significant bone mineral change in the distal femur after uncemented total knee arthroplasty, most pronounced in the anterior region, where a decrease in bone mineral density of almost 25%, was seen. Taking the expected age-related decay in bone mineral density in this age group into consideration, the decrease was substantial and must be considered to predispose to periprosthetic fractures.

Clinical effect of locking compression plate via posterolateral approach in the treatment of distal femoral fractures: a new approach

BACKGROUND

Distal femur fractures are difficult to manage, and the selection of implant approach for internal fixation remains controversial. This study explores the clinical outcome of treating distal femoral fractures with a locking compression plate using a posteriolateral novel approach.

METHODS

Twenty patients with distal femoral fractures were included in our study, and all patients underwent fixation of the fracture using a locking compression plate through a posterolateral approach. The postoperative fracture healing time, complications, and functional recovery were observed and recorded. The joint function was categorized according to the Kolmert functional criteria.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for an average of 12 months, and all incisions healed by first intention. Among the all patients, 19 patients achieved fracture healing 3 to 4 months after surgery. The remaining 1 patient with distal femoral C3 comminuted fracture achieved partial fracture healing 15 months after surgery, and bone grafting was needed. All knees can reach the state of straightening, and the postoperative excellent rate was 90%. Among them, 8 patients had maximal flexion of more than 120°, 10 patients had flexion between 90° and 120°, and 2 other patients had flexion of 70° and 40°.

CONCLUSIONS

Fixation of the fracture using a locking compression plate through a posterolateral approach seemed to be an acceptable surgical option for treatment of distal femoral fractures.

Skeletal surveys in young, injured children: A systematic review

Skeletal surveys (SSs) have been identified as a key component of the evaluation for suspected abuse in young children, but variability in SS utilization has been reported. Thus, we aimed to describe the utilization patterns, yield, and risks of obtaining SS in young children through a systematic literature review. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE and CINAHL databases for articles published between 1990 and 2016 on SS. We calculated study-specific percentages of SS utilization and detection of occult fractures and examined the likelihoods that patient characteristics predict SS utilization and detection of occult fractures. Data from 32 articles represents 64,983 children <60months old. SS utilization was high (85%-100%) in studies of infants evaluated by a child protection team for suspected abuse and/or diagnosed with abuse except in one study of primarily non-pediatric hospitals. Greater variability in SS utilization was observed across studies that included all infants with specific injuries, such as femur fractures (0%-77%), significant head injury (51%-82%), and skull fractures (41%-86%). Minority children and children without private insurance were evaluated with SS more often than white children and children with private insurance despite lack of evidence to support this practice. Among children undergoing SS, occult fractures were frequently detected among infants with significant head injury (23%-34%) and long bone fractures (30%) but were less common in infants with skull fractures (1%-6%). These findings underscore the need for interventions to decrease disparities in SS utilization and standardize SS utilization in infants at high risk of having occult fractures.

Interprosthetic Fractures of the Femur

As the rate of hip and knee arthroplasty procedures increases, so will the rate of interprosthetic fractures. Several factors, including bone quality, bone quantity, and stability of the prosthetic components, play a role in determining the appropriate operative treatment. Patients with stable components should undergo reduction and internal fixation, while patients with loose components should undergo either revision arthroplasty, with or without additional fixation, or conversion to total femur replacement. Despite implant and technique advances, complications remain frequent. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(1):e1-e7.].

Pathological bone fractures in a patient with parathyroid carcinoma - A Case Report

Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare malignant neoplasm of the parathyroid glands which results in enlargement and excessive production of parathyroid hormone (PTH) responsible for pathologically raising calcium levels in the blood resulting in bone pain/fractures, renal stones and other signs of hypercalcaemia. A 37 year old woman presented with sudden, spontaneous bone pain and fracture of the right femoral shaft. This unusual presentation was explained by extremely high PTH levels and hypercalcaemia in the blood and a hard, solitary mass palpable in the neck. During surgical excision of this mass, finding of several adhesions, possible capsular invasion and lymph node enlargement led to a diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma. The neoplasm proliferates via adenoma-carcinoma sequence so early diagnosis and prompt surgical excision with post-operative care may provide palliation and keep recurrences in check. Pancreas and pituitary evaluation is also necessary as this presentation may be a part of Wermer (MEN-1) syndrome. .

Pathologic femoral fracture due to tenofovir-induced Fanconi syndrome in patient with chronic hepatitis B: A case report

RATIONALE

We report a case of a hepatitis B virus (HBV)-positive patient with preexisting bone disease who developed tenofovir-induced Fanconi syndrome and subsequently sustained pathologic fracture. To our best knowledge, this is the first report in the English literature about pathologic femoral fracture due to tenofovir-induced Fanconi syndrome in patient with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The present report describes detailed our experience with the diagnosis of pathologic femoral fracture due to tenofovir-induced Fanconi syndrome and treatment.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 45-year-old man visited our hospital with pain in the right thigh region and gait disturbance which had started 3 months ago and worsened 1 week before admission. The patient was diagnosed with CHB in 2004. He was on lamivudine medication for 2 years. Medication for the patient was subsequently changed to adefovir in 2009 and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in 2013. He was on TDF since 2013.

DIAGNOSIS

His hip joint magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hypointensity lesions and cortical bone destruction in fat-saturated MR image at the iliopsoas muscle attachment site of the lesser trochanter of both femur. On blood test showed 25-OH vitamin D level at 6.42 ng/mL (normal range, >20 ng/mL) and U-deoxypyridinoline level at 7.60 nM/mMcr (normal range, 2.30-5.40 nM mMcr). However, osteocalcin and parathyroid hormone levels were within normal range. Based on these findings, the present case was concluded as tenoforvir-induced Fanconi syndrome.

INTERVENTIONS

TDF treatment was discontinued. After cooperation with internal medicine department, in order to prevent further fractures of the right lesser trochanter, internal fixation was performed under spinal anesthesia using compression hip nails (APIS, TDM, Korea).

OUTCOMES

Positive outcome by medication and operation demonstrates that his phosphorus and serum calcium levels were maintained within normal range and pain in the right thigh region was improved from visual analogue pain score (VAS) 7 before surgery to VAS 2 after surgery.

LESSONS

Physicians need to regularly monitor bone metabolism in patients with take in tenofovir for early diagnosis before its progression to pathologic fractures.

Sideways fall-induced impact force and its effect on hip fracture risk: a review

Osteoporotic hip fracture, mostly induced in falls among the elderly, is a major health burden over the world. The impact force applied to the hip is an important factor in determining the risk of hip fracture. However, biomechanical researches have yielded conflicting conclusions about whether the fall-induced impact force can be accurately predicted by the available models. It also has been debated whether or not the effect of impact force has been considered appropriately in hip fracture risk assessment tools. This study aimed to provide a state-of-the-art review of the available methods for predicting the impact force, investigate their strengths/limitations, and suggest further improvements in modeling of human body falling.

METHODS

We divided the effective parameters on impact force to two categories: (1) the parameters that can be determined subject-specifically and (2) the parameters that may significantly vary from fall to fall for an individual and cannot be considered subject-specifically.

RESULTS

The parameters in the first category can be investigated in human body fall experiments. Video capture of real-life falls was reported as a valuable method to investigate the parameters in the second category that significantly affect the impact force and cannot be determined in human body fall experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis of the gathered data revealed that there is a need to develop modified biomechanical models for more accurate prediction of the impact force and appropriately adopt them in hip fracture risk assessment tools in order to achieve a better precision in identifying high-risk patients. Graphical abstract Impact force to the hip induced in sideways falls is affected by many parameters and may remarkably vary from subject to subject.

Similar outcomes of locking compression plating and retrograde intramedullary nailing for periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fractures following total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This meta-analysis was designed to compare clinical outcomes, including knee scale score and nonunion rate, of patients with periprosthetic supracondylar fractures of the distal femur after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) who were treated using locking compression plates and retrograde intramedullary nails.

METHODS

Studies were included in this meta-analysis if they compared clinical outcomes, including operation time, Knee Society Score (KSS), time to union, nonunion rate, and revision rate due to nonunion, in patients who underwent locking compression plate or retrograde intramedullary nail for periprosthetic distal femur fractures following TKA.

RESULTS

Eight studies were included in this meta-analysis. Mean operation time was 11 min shorter (95 % CI -9.56 to 31.33 min; n.s.) and KSS one point higher (95 % CI -8.88 to 11.10; n.s.) with retrograde intramedullary nail than with locking compression plate, but these differences were not statistically significant. The two groups were also similar in mean time to union (0.46 weeks 95 % CI -1.17 to 2.08 weeks; n.s.), the proportion of subjects with nonunion (OR 0.83, 95 % CI 0.26-2.60; n.s.) and the proportion that underwent revision surgery (OR 0.88, 95 % CI 0.32-2.40; n.s.).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcomes, including nonunion and revision rates, were similar in patients who underwent locking compression plate and retrograde intramedullary nail fixation for periprosthetic supracondylar femoral fracture following TKA. Orthopaedic surgeons must train to master both the retrograde intramedullary nail and locking compression plate techniques because both approaches can be considered for periprosthetic distal femur fracture after TKA as they have similar clinicoradiologic outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Fracture after radiation therapy for femoral metastasis: incidence, timing and clinical features

We analyzed 428 femoral metastases initially treated with radiotherapy between 2002 and 2011 to clarify the clinical details of post-irradiation fractures of femoral metastasis. Patients included 161 men and 167 women, with a mean age of 62 years. Fracture incidence, fracture site, fracture risk based on X-ray images before radiotherapy, and interval from completion of radiotherapy to fracture occurrence were assessed. In addition, 24 pathological specimens obtained during 27 surgeries for these fractures were examined. Fractures occurred in 7.7% of 428 femoral metastases (total 33: 28 actual fractures and five virtual fractures with progressive pain and bone destruction). The fracture rate was 7.8% in the proximal femur and 1.5% in the shaft (P = 0.001). Fractures occurred a median of 4.4 months after radiotherapy, with 39.4% occurring within 3 months and 63.6% within 6 months. Among femurs with high fracture risk according to Harrington's criteria or Mirels' score, the fracture rate was 13.9% and 11.8%, respectively. Viable tumor cells were detected in all five patients with painful virtual fracture, in 85.7% of femurs with actual fractures that occurred within 3 months, and in only 25.0% of actual fractures occurring after 3 months. Post-irradiation fractures of femoral metastasis most frequently occurred within 3 months after radiotherapy, and were more common in the peritrochanteric area than in the shaft. Radiological evidence of impending fracture did not correlate with a high fracture rate. Actual fractures occurring after more than 3 months were likely caused by post-irradiation fragility of the femur, without viable tumor cells.

Successful open reduction and internal fixation for displaced femoral fracture in a patient with osteopetrosis: Case report and lessons learned

RATIONALE

Osteopetrosis is a rare disease that predominantly occurs in descendants of inbreeding families. In the case of fractures happen in patients with osteopetrosis, the choice between operative or conservative treatment is still controversial. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a conventional treatment for fractures, and it possesses more applicability than conservative treatment. During this surgical treatment, ensure that bone union in the right way is pivotal to success and simultaneously prevents refracture and displacement after the operation. Herein, we present a case of femoral fracture of a patient with osteopetrosis via open reduction and internal fixation. To illustrate successful factors during the treatment process, we discuss experience combined with literature review following case report.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 67-year-old man who has diagnosed with osteopetrosis over 20 years ago suffered from pain in the left hip last for more than 1 month and he was incapable of walking recently. Before this incident, he had sustained 4 femoral fractures that treated insufficiently by open reduction surgery.

DIAGNOSIS

Physical, radiological, and biological examinations indicated a femoral subtrochanteric fracture that was overlapping displacement between fracture ends.

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

Treated with surgery by open reduction with internal fixation and osteotomy, the fracture united in 12 months, and he returned to walk with full weight bearing, during which no complication occurred.

LESSONS

Open reduction and internal fixation is also suitable for the patient with osteopetrosis, and they have similar union ability to the normal. To guarantee successful treatment, specific strategies of operation and rehabilitation program are necessary.

Right femoral pathological fracture caused by primary bone epithelioid angiosarcoma: Case report

RATIONALE

Epithelioid angiosarcoma (EAS) is an extremely rare malignant disease, which accounts no more than 1% of all soft tissue sarcomas. In this article, we would report a new case of EAS with multiple bone destruction and right femoral pathological fracture, which was an even rarer manifestation of EAS.

PATIENT CONCERNS

In this case, a 64-year-old man with right femoral fracture was reported. He had suffered from a progressive low back pain for about 8 months, and the imaging examinations prompted a multiple bone destruction in his vertebra and lower limbs. He then got a right femoral fracture without any obvious traumatic injury, and came to our hospital.

INTERVENTIONS

He underwent an operation of radical resection, bone cement filling and dynamic condylar screw internal fixation. During the operation, we found that the soft tissue around the fracture had a rotten fish change, which suggested a malignant disease.

DIAGNOSES

The postoperative pathological diagnosis reported an EAS, which is extremely rare and highly malignant.

OUTCOMES

The patient died in 83 days after the surgery, and the survival time from the symptoms started to the end was only 11 months, which showed a rapid progress and poor prognosis of EAS.

LESSONS

EAS is very hard to be diagnosed by clinical manifestation or radiological examinations. As in our case, pathological analysis is the final diagnosis. The images of the patient may offer some tips for the skeletal presentation of EAS, and do more help in future study of this disease.

Investigation and management of osteoporosis in aged trauma patients: a treatment algorithm adapted to the German guidelines for osteoporosis

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis-associated fractures are of increasing importance in trauma surgery. Systematic diagnostics and treatment of osteoporosis during a hospital stay, however, remain inadequate. Therefore, a specific algorithm for diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in trauma surgery patients was developed based on the DVO (German Osteology Society) guideline for osteoporosis from 2014.

METHODS

In a first step, the individuals' age and risk profile for osteoporosis is identified considering specific fractures indicating osteoporosis and risk factors assessed by a specific questionnaire. In addition, physical activity, risk of falls, dietary habits and the individuals' medication are considered. Basic osteoporosis laboratory tests, a bone densitometry by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and, if needed, X-rays of the spine are carried out to identify prevalent vertebral body fractures.

RESULTS

Based on the treatment algorithm adapted to the new guidelines for osteoporosis in the majority of proximal femoral fractures, treatment of osteoporosis could already be indicated without prior DXA. In case of preexisting glucocorticoid therapy, a history of previous fractures or other risk factors according to the risk questionnaire, the threshold of treatment has to be adjusted given the table of T-scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment algorithm for diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in in-patient trauma surgery patients can help identify high-risk patients systematically and efficiently. As a result, osteoporosis-associated fractures or failure of osteosynthesis could be reduced, yet a prospective validation of the algorithm has to be completed.

Small interprosthetic gaps do not increase femoral peri-prosthetic fracture risk. An in vitro biomechanical analysis

It has been hypothesized that the interprosthetic gap between ipsilateral hip and knee replacements acts as a stress riser affecting bone fracture behaviour. The aim of this study was to quantify femoral strength and fracture morphology for a wide range of interprosthetic gaps. Seven interprosthetic gaps (0-20cm) were created in artificial femora (N = 6-9/group). All specimens were loaded to failure following a compressive loading protocol. Fracture load and fracture morphology were recorded. Outcomes were compared to femora with a hip implant only (N = 6; reference group). Fracture load was highest for 0 cm gaps. All other interprosthetic gaps had fracture loads similar to that of the reference group. Fracture occurred most frequently with a medial butterfly fragment located at the tip of the hip stem.We conclude that small gaps do not act as stress risers. The specific fracture morphology may benefit from different treatment than peri-prosthetic hip fractures.

[Femur fracture in a patient with dog-leg deformity secondary to arthrogryposis. Description of a unique osteosynthesis method]

The concept of arthrogryposis encompasses several conditions that share the presence of multiple congenital contractures. The knee is frequently involved and is an important cause of morbidity in these patients. Flexion contractures of the knee are the most common ones and have a worse prognosis than extension contractures. Different approaches are available to treat flexion contractures of the knee. Distal femoral extension osteotomy effectively corrects fixed flexion, but may lead to residual deformity. This iatrogenic deformity disrupts the anterior convexity of the femoral shaft and leads to serious problems in the subsequent management of orthopedic conditions. This is a case report of a patient with arthrogryposis and a femur deformity who sustained a supracondylar fracture. Managing the fracture was challenging due to a disruption in the normal architecture of the femur. This is a description of the osteosynthesis approach used to treat the fracture and the patients pre-existing deformity.

Spontaneous fracture of the femur due to osteomyelitis caused by the Streptococcus anginosus group

A 57-year-old man was admitted because of pain in the right upper leg due to an osteolytic lesion of the femoral bone which was complicated by a spontaneous fracture. At first a malignancy was suspected. However, blood and bone cultures revealed the Streptococcus anginosus group. A diagnosis of acute osteomyelitis was made. In spite of extensive antibiotic and surgical treatment the patient developed severe septic shock with multiple organ failure and died. In the case of a pathological fracture, one should consider the broad differential diagnosis, including osteomyelitis, which should lead to a laboratory work-up and imaging studies. When bone biopsy for histological analysis is necessary, a microbiological culture to look for osteomyelitis should always be performed.

Risk Factors for Intraoperative Proximal Femoral Fracture During Primary Cementless THA

Intraoperative proximal femoral fracture, one of the most common complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA), occurs more often in cementless procedures and can affect rehabilitation, hospitalization time, and cost of treatment. The goal of this study was to identify risk factors for intraoperative proximal femoral fracture in THA to identify high-risk groups preoperatively and minimize the incidence of this complication. This nested case-control study included 904 primary cementless THA procedures (769 patients) performed between January 2009 and July 2015. Of this group, 24 fractures occurred, accounting for 2.65% of cases. Predisposing factors for intraoperative proximal femoral fracture from the medical records included patient sex, diagnosis of osteoarthritis, operated on hip (left or right), type of implant, alcohol consumption, operative approach, age, and body mass index. The Noble classification, Dorr classification, and Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Index score measured by picture archiving and communication systems were used to evaluate the anatomy and morphologic features of the proximal femur. A multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate potential risk factors for fracture during THA, including anterolateral (modified Hardinge) approach, use of the Corail (DePuy, Warsaw, Indiana) stem, Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Index score, age, and sex. A Corail stem, the anterolateral approach, advanced age, and a low Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Index score were associated with increased risk of fracture. All fractures were treated with cerclage wire techniques, and none has required revision to date. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(2):e281-e287.].

A case report of pycnodysostosis with atypical femur fracture diagnosed by next-generation sequencing of candidate genes

RATIONALE

Pycnodysostosis is a rare autosomal recessive skeletal dysplasia characterized by short stature, craniofacial dysmorphism, acro-osteolysis, osteosclerosis, and brittle bone with poor healing. Pycnodysostosis results from the deficient activity of cathepsin K, a lysosomal cysteine protease that is encoded by CTSK.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a Korean adult patient with pycnodysostosis and atypical femur fracture whose diagnosis was confirmed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of candidate genes. A 41-year-old female patient was presented with a left femur fracture after falling down. Underlying sclerotic bone disease was suspected as a radiographic skeletal survey showed thickened cortical bones, and the total body bone density was increased (T score was 5.3, and Z score was 4.9).

DIAGNOSES

We performed candidate gene sequencing of various sclerotic bone diseases for the differential molecular diagnosis of underlying sclerosing bone disease. Two heterozygous variants of CTSK were detected. One was a frameshift variant in exon 5, c.426delT (p.Phe142Leufs*19), which was previously reported, and the other was a novel missense variant in exon 6, c.755G>A (p.Ser252Asn). Sanger sequencing of CTSK confirmed the 2 heterozygous variants and thus the patient was diagnosed with pycnodysostosis.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient had emergency surgery for subtrochantic femoral fracture.

OUTCOMES

After 4 months of surgery, the patient had almost a full range of hip and knee movements and radiographs show the substantial bridging callus across the fracture.

LESSONS

Candidate gene sequencing could be a useful diagnostic tool for the genetically heterogeneous skeletal dysplasia group, especially in cases with a mild or atypical clinical phenotype.

Fracture risk in people with developmental disabilities: results of a large claims data analysis

Age- and sex-specific fracture rates of 18,000 people with developmental disabilities aged 0-69 years were compared to the general population. Age-standardized incidence of femoral fracture was 4.8- and 7.1-fold higher in women and men, respectively. Comparable fracture risks to the general population occurred 10-15 years earlier in females and 20-40 years earlier in males.

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies suggested that fracture risks in people with developmental disabilities (DD) may be higher than in people in the general population. However, there are no current sufficiently large studies to compare age- and sex-specific fracture rates of single fracture types.

METHODS

People with DD and incident fractures were identified by routine data of a health insurance company. Fractures in the general population were derived from the official fracture statistics. Age-specific and age-standardized fracture incidences were analyzed. To compare fracture risks in people with DD with that of the general population incidence ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

Between 2008 and 2010, 148 femoral fractures and 469 other fractures were observed in nearly 18,000 people with DD aged 0-69 years. The three most frequent fracture types leading to hospital admission were fractures of the femur, lower leg/ankle, and shoulder/arm. For femoral fractures, a particularly high risk was observed in children and adolescents with DD. In adults with DD, the risk of femoral fractures increased with increasing age. Even if the youngest age category was not considered, the age-standardized incidence was 4.8- and 7.1-fold higher in women and men, respectively. For all other fracture types, except fractures of forearm/hand and of pelvis, people with DD had also higher fracture incidences than the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

People with DD have a high fracture burden. Comparable risks of femoral fracture, for example, occurred about 10-15 years earlier in females and even 20-40 years earlier in males with DD than in the general population.

[FEMUR FRACTURES IN CHILDREN – CAUSES AND MECHANISMS OF INJURY]

Children are often exposed to injuries due to their hyperactivity. Femur fractures can however leave permanent consequences despite adequate treatment. The high prevalence and possible invalidity justify research in the field of prevention of this injury. But prevention is possible only by knowing the causes and circumstances of the fractures. The aim of this research is to analyze the circumstances and places of occurrence in femur fractures according to children age groups. This retrospective study includes 103 children up to the age of 18 years treated at the University Hospital Center of Medicine Zagreb, or at the Clinic for children diseases Zagreb in the period from 2012 to 2016. The study includes 35 (33 %) girls and 71 (67 %) boys, a total of 106 children with femur fractures. The average age was five years. The majority of the injured children, 52 children (55,2 %), belonged to the youngest age group from 0 to 4 years of age. Diaphysis fractures were the most common with 66 fractures (62 %), and the rarest were fractures of the distal metaphysis with 15 fractures (13 %). The fractures occurred at home in 41 cases (38 %), in the street in 38 cases (36 %), at recreation in 22 cases (21 5), and at school or kindergarten in 3 cases (3 %). The most common causes of femur fractures were falls in 38 cases (57,5 %), motor vehicle accidents in 35 cases (33 %), and crashes and blows in 10 cases (9,5 %). One third of the children with femur fractures had associated injuries, and four fifths of them were caused by motor vehicle accidents. The results of this study show that femur fractures are most frequent in the youngest age groups, and are generally a consequence of accidents at home (mostly falls), seldom in the streets or recreational places. Parents of preschool children should be educated about prevention of falling at their homes, and parents of school children should be educated about the dangers of fractures at recreational places and traffic.

Fractures in spina bifida from childhood to young adulthood

This study assessed the prevalence and types of fractures in spina bifida and examined risk factors for fracture. Fracture prevalence was highest in childhood and reduced in adolescence and young adulthood. The importance of maintaining mobility is highlighted by the increased risk of fracture in those who are non-ambulatory.

INTRODUCTION

The aims of this study are to study the prevalence and types of fractures according to age group in spina bifida and examine risk factors associated with fracture.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of 146 individuals with spina bifida aged 2 years or older who attended the paediatric or adult spina bifida multidisciplinary clinic at a single tertiary hospital.

RESULTS

Median age at which first fracture occurred was 7 years (interquartile range 4-13 years). Fracture rates in children (ages 2-10), adolescents (ages 11-18) and adults (age > 18) were 10.9/1000 (95 % confidence interval 5.9-18.3), 5.4/1000 (95 % CI 1.5-13.8) and 2.9/1000 (95 % CI 0.6-8.1) patient years respectively. Childhood fractures predominantly involved the distal femur and femoral shaft; these fractures were rarely seen in adulthood. Non-ambulatory status was associated with a 9.8 times higher risk of fracture compared with ambulatory patients (odds ratio 9.8, p = 0.016, 95 % CI 1.5-63.0). Relative risk of re-fracture was 3.1 (95 % CI 1.4-6.8). Urological intervention with intestinal segments was associated with renal calculi (p = 0.037) but neither was associated with fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of fracture is lower in adults compared with children with spina bifida. The predominant childhood fracture affects the distal femur, and immobility is the most significant risk factor for fracture. Clinical factors contributing to fracture risk need to be elucidated to enable selection of patients who require investigation and treatment of osteoporosis.

[Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures after Total Hip Replacement: Our Results and Treatment Complications]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The study consists of a retroactive evaluation of results of surgical treatment in patients with periprosthetic femoral fracture after total hip replacement and a comparison with results reported in the literature. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the period from 2003 to 2013, a total of 83 patients with periprosthetic femoral fracture after total hip replacement were treated at our clinic, namely 69 women and 14 men. The mean age in the cohort was 74 years (range 47-87). The Vancouver classification was used to grade the fractures. The cohort included 31 patients with type B1 fracture, 25 patients with type B2 fracture, 8 patients with type B3 fracture, and 19 patients with type C fracture. Altogether 80 patients underwent a surgery, 3 patients with non-displaced type B1 fracture were treated conservatively. The mechanism of injury was a simple fall in 75 % of primary endoprostheses and in 56% of revision endoprostheses. The average time to fracture was 7.6 years in primary implant and 3.6 years in revision endoprosthesis. In fractures with a well-fixed stem (type B1 and C) plate osteosynthesis was used. In case of a comminution zone, osteosynthesis was followed by spongioplasty. In patients with a loose stem (type B2 and B3), the fracture was treated with a revision uncemented stem. In two cases a combination of a revision stem and a massive corticocancellous bone graft was used. The evaluation was performed using the Harris Hip Score and the minimum follow-up from the surgery was 3 years. RESULTS In the group of patients with type B1 fracture, 28 patients were treated surgically. An excellent result was achieved in 22 patients (84%), in 4 patients (16%) the result was very good. The remaining 2 patients failed to meet the requirement of the minimum follow-up of 3 years. In the group of patients with type B2 fractures, composed of 25 patients, the femoral component was replaced with a revision uncemented stem with cerclage wires or titanium tapes or cables. Osseointegration of the stem was recorded in 24 patients, one female patient died 4 months after the surgery. An excellent result was achieved in 16 patients (64%), a very good result in 4 patients (16%). The remaining 5 patients (20%) failed to meet the minimum follow-up of 3 years. In 8 patients with type B3 trauma, the reimplant of a revision stem was supplemented by spongioplasty, in 2 cases by solid corticocancellous bone grafts with cerclage. In this group osseointegration occurred in all the cases within 6-9 months. The follow-up was affected by the older age of patients and 6 patients died during the follow-up period. The requirement of a follow-up longer than 3 years was met in 2 patients (25%) only and the result was considered very good. In the group of 19 patients with type C fracture, plate osteosynthesis was performed, which was in 12 cases complemented with spongioplasty. Healing occurred within 6 months in 13 patients (72%), within 9 months in 3 patients (17%) and in 2 patients (11%) reoperation was carried out due to fixation failure. One female patient died 16 days after the surgery. An excellent result was achieved in 15 patients (83%), in the remaining three patients the follow-up was shorter than three years due to their death. DISCUSSION Periprosthetic femoral fractures after total hip replacement is a rare but feared complication. Its incidence ranges from 0.1 to 4%. It occurs most frequently 7 to 8 years after the primary implant and 3 to 4 years after the revision of endoprosthesis implantation. The main risk factor is the loosening of stem of endoprosthesis. Another risk factor is osteoporosis. Age, sex and obesity do not constitute significant risk factors. Stem stability and presence of bone defects are the main criteria in favour of surgical treatment. If the stem remains well fixed, the osteosynthesis is opted for, whereas if the stem is loose, its replacement has to be performed. The management of bone defects is an integral part of femoral reconstruction and restoration of endoprosthesis stability. CONCLUSIONS Surgical treatment of periprosthetic fractures, thanks to the introduction of new implants for osteosynthesis and development of new stems for revision endoprostheses, helps achieve ever better results. Of major importance for choosing the treatment method is correct classification of fracture and stem stability. Poor bone quality is a common feature, therefore a perfect mechanical fixation is necessary. The long-term results are affected primarily by the patient s age. Key words: periprosthetic femoral fractures, surgical treatment, results, complications.

Trochanteric Femoral Fracture Around a Birmingham Hip Resurfacing Prosthesis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

CASE

A traumatic nondisplaced periprosthetic trochanteric fracture around a well-fixed and functioning Birmingham Hip Resurfacing prosthesis was managed with a reconstruction intramedullary nail. The surgical procedure provided excellent pain relief, and the patient was able to mobilize with crutches the day after surgery. Follow-up at 1 year confirmed excellent clinical and radiographic results.

CONCLUSION

In a patient with a previously well-functioning hip resurfacing prosthesis, internal fixation rather than revision hip arthroplasty can offer good clinical and radiographic outcomes. The use of a reconstruction intramedullary nail may be a good option for fixing a periprosthetic trochanteric fracture around a Birmingham Hip Resurfacing implant.

Radiographic Risk Factors For Interprosthetic Femur Fractures

PURPOSE

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are among the most common orthopaedic procedures performed in the United States annually. As the number of patients undergoing these procedures increases so too does the incidence of periprosthetic femur fractures. A number of these periprosthetic fractures occur between two ipsilateral implants, so-called interprosthetic fractures. Recent biomechanical data has challenged the importance of these interprosthetic distances, relating that cortical width and osteoporotic bone are more closely correlated with fracture than interprosthetic distance. The purpose of the current study is to further define the presence of osteoporosis, cortical width (CW) and medullary diameter (MD) as potential predictive factors for interprosthetic femur fractures.

METHODS

Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were used to identify a cohort of patients undergoing operative treatment for periprosthetic femur fractures. A review of the medical records identified 23 patients (5 male / 18 female) with a femur fracture between two intramedullary implants. CPT codes were also used to identify a second cohort of 25 patients (8 male / 17 female) having undergone ipsilateral THA and TKA. The intact femoral isthmus was identified radiographically and the MD and CW (mm) were measured. A ratio of MD to CW was also determined. Chart review was undertaken and any diagnosis of osteoporosis was recorded. An independent sample T-test was performed comparing the mean MD, CW, and the ratio of MD:CW for these groups. Significance was set at p.

Femoral Iatrogenic Subtrochanteric Fatigue Fracture Risk is not Increased by Placing Drill Holes Below the Level of the Lesser Trochanter

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic subtrochanteric fractures of the femur can occur postoperatively following placement of screws in the lateral femoral cortex. Drilling holes below the lesser trochanter is generally avoided to prevent fatigue failure; however, there is little biomechanical evidence to support this recommendation. We hypothesized that hole placement below the level of the lesser trochanter will not accelerate fatigue failure compared to holes at the level of the lesser trochanter.

METHODS

Twelve matched-pairs of male fresh-frozen cadaveric femurs were used for biomechanical testing. A single screw hole was drilled through the lateral femoral cortex either at the level of the lesser trochanter (proximal-hole group) or below the lesser trochanter (distal-hole group). Each femur was cycled to failure using a physiologically-relevant loading model. Paired t-test was used to evaluate for a difference in cycles to failure between groups.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference in cycles to failure between the groups with the hole drilled at or below the lesser trochanter.

CONCLUSIONS

The traditional recommendation to avoid drilling holes below the level of the lesser trochanter is based mainly on experience and case reports in the literature. The results of this study indicate that placing holes below the level of the lesser trochanter, in and of itself, may not pose any additional risk of fracture. Other important factors need to be considered, such as tapering of the lateral femoral cortex.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

There are often situations where the patient's anatomy and facture pattern is more conducive to placing a screw distal to the lesser trochanter. This study may allow surgeons greater flexibility in placing screws more distally in the lateral femoral cortex by demonstrating the safety of doing so, at least in the population studied.

Use of Locking Plate and Strut Onlay Allografts for Periprosthetic Fracture Around Well-Fixed Femoral Components

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine: validated clinical and radiographic outcomes of periprosthetic femoral fractures around stable hip implants treated with plate fixation and additional cortical strut onlay allografts without revision of the stem; radiographic signs of fracture healing; allograft-to-host bone union; resorption of cortical strut allograft; and frequency of complications.

METHODS

At our institute, 24 patients (25 hips) were identified with Vancouver type B1 fracture at the tip of the femoral stem and one patient (one hip) was identified with a Vancouver type C fracture of the femur. All these fractures were treated with combined use of locking plate fixation and cortical strut onlay allografts. There were 18 women and 7 men, with an average age of 63 years. Harris hip score and University of California, Los Angeles activity score were used to assess postoperative function. The average duration of follow-up was 3.7 years (range, 1-7 years).

RESULTS

Harris hip score at final review was 86 points (range, 65-95 points). University of California, Los Angele activity score averaged 5.8 ± 1.3 point (range, 3.5-10 points) at final follow-up. All but 2 patients returned to their preoperative functional level within 1 year. Twenty-three of 26 hips had fracture union following the first operation. Three hips were failed to obtain fixation because of insufficient length of plate and allograft. Cortical strut onlay allografts were incorporated in the host femur in all hips by one year. Minor resorption of allograft was noticed, but there was no failure of any of the cortical strut allografts.

CONCLUSION

The cortical strut onlay allografts facilitated the mechanical stability and the biological fracture healing in addition to plate fixation.