[Dorsolateral dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint: closed reduction and early active motion versus static splinting]

In this follow-up examination, the outcome of two conservative treatment regimens (immobilisation versus early active motion) were evaluated in 50 patients with dorsolateral dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint after a mean follow-up time of 7.9 years. The aim of this study was to prove whether early mobilisation results in better clinical outcome compared to prolonged immobilisation. In group A, 25 patients were treated by static splinting in a cast for four weeks. At follow-up, 21 patients were free of pain, three patients complained of pain following maximum loading and one patient experienced permanent pain. The mean range of motion was 89.4 degrees, the mean lack of extension was 12.7 degrees and the mean joint circumference was 3.4 mm thicker than the uninjured side. Pinch power was reduced to 78 % of the uninjured side. All joints were clinically stable. Degenerative arthritis was seen in five patients. In group B, 25 patients were treated by dorsal block splinting of the interphalangeal joint. The patients were allowed to extend their finger and to perform daily active exercises of the injured joint. At follow-up, eighteen patients were pain free, five experienced pain after maximum loading and two patients complained of permanent pain. The mean range of motion was 96.6 degrees, the mean limitation of extension was 5.3 degrees and the mean joint circumference was 4.1 mm thicker than on the uninjured side. Pinch power was reduced to 85 % of the uninjured side. All joints were clinically stable. Degenerative arthritis was seen in six patients. Early active motion following dorsolateral dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint leads to significantly superior results regarding the active range of motion and pinch power.

Impact on quality of life of adding cetuximab to irinotecan in patients who have failed prior oxaliplatin-based therapy: The EPIC trial

4003

Background: EPIC, a multinational phase III clinical trial examined the impact of cetuximab on survival in pretreated EGFR- expressing metastatic colorectal (MCRC) patients (pts). Pts were randomized to either cetuximab 400 mg/m2 followed by 250 mg/m2 weekly and irinotecan 350 mg/m2 q 3 weeks or irinotecan alone. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) with quality of life being one of the secondary endpoints. Methods: Health Related Quality of life (HRQoL) of pts in this trial was assessed through the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire, version 3.0. Pts completed the questionnaire pretreatment, every second cycle, and at first follow-up visit. HRQoL was compared between treatment arms using a Wei-Lachin test. Results: Baseline demographics were balanced between the arms. Cetuximab plus irinotecan (n=648) was superior to irinotecan alone (n=650) in progression-free survival (HR 0.69, p<.0001) and response rate (16.4 vs 4.2%, p<.0001). OS was comparable between the arms, but may have been influenced by subsequent therapy: 46% of subjects in the irinotecan alone arm received cetuximab, 89% of them in combination with irinotecan. Baseline HRQoL scores did not significantly differ between treatment arms for 11 of the 15 scales. For 4 scales (Social Functioning, Fatigue, Dyspnea, and Appetite Loss), there were statistically significant differences in baseline scores, in favor of the cetuximab plus irinotecan arm. Non- compliance rates (missing questionnaires) were similar between the arms. A statistically significant difference was noted for pts in the cetuximab plus irinotecan arm in HRQoL on 10 of the 15 scales as compared to patients in the irinotecan arm, with the scores of the cetuximab plus irinotecan arm consistently higher, as noted by the scales of Global Health Status (p=.047), pain (p< .0001), and nausea (p<.0001). Conclusions: In addition to statistically significant improvements in PFS and RR in patients receiving cetuximab plus irinotecan compared with irinotecan alone, HRQoL was better preserved on the combination arm with less deterioration in symptom scores (pain, nausea, insomnia), as well as global health status scores.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Distal radius fractures--aetiology, treatment and outcome]

INTRODUCTION

Distal radius fractures were investigated in a retrospective open multicenter cohort study to assess aetiology, fracture pattern and treatment modalities and their influence on subjective and objective outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Demographic data, fracture history, course of fracture healing, functional and radiological parameters and the DASH-questionnaire were collected from 18 Austrian hospitals and analysed statistically.

RESULTS

PATIENTS

n = 707, 465 (65.8 %) female, 242 (34.2 %) male. Mean age: 52 (19 - 86) years; age group 1 (19 - 39 years) 26 %, age group 2 (40 - 59 years) 41 %, age group 3 (60 years and elder) 33 %.

FOLLOW-UP

mean 5.8 (3.9 - 17) years;

HISTORY

fall 65.1 %, sports 17.4 %, traffic accidents 8.9 %, fall from great height 7.5 %; others 1.1 %. Most frequent fracture patterns according to AO: A2 (26.6 %), C2 (22.2 %), A3 (16.1 %), C1 (12.7 %); according to PE: I-2 (44.8 %), I-1 (40.0 %), III-2 (4.4 %), II-2B (4 %). There was no significant correlation between fracture pattern and age groups for both fracture classifications.

TREATMENT

57.9 % surgical, 42.1 % conservative. Radiological results: Depending on treatment, there were significant differences between the radial tilt and the palmar radial inclination, the dorsal and palmar ulnar variance and the width of the DRU-joint. DASH-questionnaire: Median 6.03 (90 - 0). There was a significant, minor positive correlation of bad results in the elderly and a minor positive correlation of bad results correlated to the palmar radial inclination as well as a minor negative correlation to the palmar DRUJ-value and the ulnar variance.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of distal radius fractures was increased in females and in patients with the age between 40 - 59 years. The most frequent cause to sustain a distal radius fracture was a simple fall. 85 % of the fractures were dislocated dorsally. The most frequent fracture type was the dorsal intraarticular. There was no specific fracture type observed to be typical for one of the age groups and surgical treatment was almost as frequent as conservative. Surgical treatment improved reconstruction of the radial tilt, palmar inclination and the DRU-joint. Subjective outcome was worse in elderly patients. The radiological changes in the DRU-joint correlated to minor DASH values.

[Sagittal wrist motion following dorsal radiocarpal fracture dislocations]

PURPOSE

Radiocarpal fracture dislocation is a rare, complex injury characterised by dislocation of the radiocarpal joint with avulsion of the dorsal or palmar cortical margin of the distal radius. To evaluate the sagittal motion at the radiocarpal and midcarpal levels following dorsal radiocarpal fracture dislocation (Moneim type I) nine cases were investigated clinically and radiologically.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

In a retrospective follow-up examination, eight patients could be included. The average follow-up was 4.1 years. One patient had a bilateral injury. The operative approach was bilateral in all cases. Restoration of the radial articular surface, filling metaphyseal defect zones with cancellous bone graft and internal fixation with a special T-plate were performed from dorsal. For refixation of the radiocarpal ligaments a small palmar approach was used. Standard anteroposterior and lateral radiographs, as well as lateral views in full extension and flexion were taken at follow-up. Clinical investigation included measurement of active range of motion, grip strength and pain evaluation using the VAS.

RESULTS

Radiological evaluation of the standard lateral view turned out a mean angle between scaphoid and lunatum of 55.6 degrees, capitatum and lunatum of -11.6 degrees and radius and capitatum of 10.5 degrees. In full flexion the following angles were measured: radius/lunatum 15.3 degrees, capitatum/lunatum 18 degrees and between radius and capitatum 30 degrees. In full extension the angles averaged: radius/lunatum -23.9 degrees, capitatum/lunatum -31 degrees and between radius and capitatum -55 degrees. According to the Knirk and Jupiter classification system, five patients presented arthritis stage 1, three arthritis stage 2 and one a stage 3 arthritis. Clinical evaluation showed a mean wrist motion of 55 degrees for extension, 35 degrees for flexion, 88 degrees for pronation, 70 degrees for supination and 25.5 degrees for the mean radial as well as the mean ulnar motion. The average Mayo Wrist Score was 76.1 points.

CONCLUSION

Operative treatment of dorsal radiocarpal fracture dislocation using a bilateral approach led to satisfying results in eight of nine cases with decreased but radiologically evaluated sagittal motion of the proximal row.

Reconstruction of the digital flexor pulley system: a retrospective comparison of two methods of treatment

The rare injury of closed rupture of the A2 and A3 flexor pulleys was treated using two non-encircling techniques of pulley reconstruction. Thirteen patients were treated with an extensor retinaculum graft (Group A). At a mean follow-up time of 48 months, the average PIP flexion was 97%, the power grip strength 96%, the pinch grip strength 100% and the thickening 94% of the uninjured side. Ten patients were treated with a free palmaris longus tendon grafts (Group B). At a mean follow-up time of 57 months, the average PIP flexion was 94%, the power grip strength 98%, the pinch grip strength 100% and the thickening 95% of the uninjured side. In both groups, finger extension was unrestricted. The Buck Gramcko score included 10 excellent, two good and one fair result in Group A and seven excellent, two good and one fair result in Group B. Both techniques proved beneficial. All climbers returned to their previous standard and all non-climbers regained full finger dexterity in their previous job.

Grenzen der palmaren winkelstabilen Plattenosteosynthese bei instabilen distalen Radiusfrakturen

PURPOSE

The use of locking plate systems in the treatment of distal radius fractures has increased during the last years. In the presented study our experience and results after palmar plating of dorsal dislocated distal radius fractures are analysed and presented. Besides the functional and radiological results, the potential surgical risks and the observed complications are discussed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over a mean 15-month period, 112 consecutive patients (24 men, 88 women) with an average age of 57 years who were treated for an unstable dorsal dislocated distal radius fracture using the palmar locking-plate system could be assessed. The functional results were compared with the uninjured contralateral side. The subjective pain level was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the subjective results were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Score. Radiographic assessment included palmar tilt, radial inclination, and ulnar variance. The objective and subjective functional results were evaluated using the modified Mayo-Wrist Score.

RESULTS

Functional results: extension slashed circle 53.1 degrees (84 % as compared with the uninjured side); flexion slashed circle 45.8 degrees (81 % as compared with the uninjured side); pronation slashed circle 78.7 degrees (95 % as compared with the uninjured side); supination 81.9 degrees (95 % as compared with the uninjured side); grip strength slashed circle 56 Kp (73 % as compared with the uninjured side). Radiological results: postoperative reduction/mean postoperative loss of reduction: radial inclination: slashed circle 20.4 degrees /slashed circle 0.2 degrees ; palmar tilt: slashed circle 0.2 degrees /slashed circle 3.1 degrees ; ulnar variance: 0.08 mm/slashed circle 0.42 mm. Pain values: slashed circle 2.7 points; DASH score: slashed circle 14.8 points; complications: breakage of plates 1 %, screw loosening 3 %, intraarticular screw position 2 %, delayed bone union 4 %, rupture M. extensor pollicis longus 2 %/M. flexor pollicis longus 3 %, peritendinitis extensor tendons 5 %, synovialitis flexor tendons 8 %, CTS 3 %, complex regional pain syndrome 6 %.

CONCLUSION

Favourable indications for palmar locking plate osteosynthesis are A2, A3, C1 and C2 fractures with big distal fracture fragments. In these cases, additional bone grafting is not needed. In very distal fractures, multidirectional plate-systems are advantageous. Multifragmental C3 fractures show a high complication rate. Additional bone grafting for the metaphyseal defect should be considered.

Langzeitergebnisse operativ versorgter distal intraartikulärer Speichenfrakturen

PURPOSE

To evaluate the sequelae of distal intraarticular radius fracture with regard to the development of arthritis and clinical symptoms.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

In a retrospective follow-up examination, 72 patients with a distal intraarticular radius fracture could be included for clinical and radiological investigation 9 years following the trauma. All fractures were treated by ORIF and cortico-cancellous bone grafting.

RESULTS

Radiological evaluation revealed 5.1 degrees palmar tilt, 19.1 degrees radial tilt and the ulnar variance amounted to -0.5 mm. The articular cavity depth in the sagittal plane measured with 4.6 mm, 1.2 mm more than the non-involved side. Articular step-off was noticed in 6 patients. According to the Knirk and Jupiter classification system, two patients healed without arthritis, 43 patients presented arthritis stage 1, and 27 stage 2. Evaluation of the data showed a significant correlation between arthritis and articular cavity depth. But arthritis had neither influence on the DASH, nor the pain level. On the other hand, arthritis led to decreased sagittal wrist motion.

CONCLUSION

ORIF of distal intraarticular radius fractures led to predictable results concerning restoration of length and form of the distal radius. Arthritis had a minor influence on the clinical end result.

Fixation of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures: making treatment cost effective. Prospective controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Nondisplaced scaphoid waist fractures treated with prolonged plaster immobilisation often lead in transient joint stiffness and to a delay in return to sport and work activity. The long time off work increases the work off compensation costs. Internal fixation of scaphoid fractures has resulted in a shorter time to union and to return to work and sports. This prospective study compares cast immobilisation with screw fixation and the direct cost with indirect cost of conservative and minimally invasive treatment of undisplaced scaphoid fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-seven patients with an acute nondisplaced waist fracture of the scaphoid were allocated into either cast immobilisation or internal screw fixation for this study. Cost data concerning the groups of nonoperated and operated patients were analysed. Range of wrist motion, grip strength, DASH-score, time to fracture union, return to work time and the needed physiotherapy at the final follow-up at 6 months were evaluated.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients were included in the group of screw fixation and 23 patients were included in the group of cast immobilisation. At final follow-up there was no significant difference in the range of motion of the wrist or in grip strength. The operatively treated group had a better mean DASH-score than the conservative group. Fracture union was seen in the screw fixation group at a mean of 43 days and in the cast immobilisation group at a mean of 74 days (P < 0.5). The average time of return to work was 8 days for patients who had an internal screw fixation, while those treated with a cast returned to work at a mean of 55 days (P < 0.5). In total the internal fixation of undisplaced scaphoid fractures is less expensive than conservative treatment.

CONCLUSION

Internal screw fixation of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures had a shorter time to bony union and the patients returned earlier to work compared with cast immobilisation. Although it is assumed that operative treatment is more expensive, in this study the cost was not found to be higher.

Correlation of health-related quality of life after surgery for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with two seizure outcome scales

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to correlate health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after surgery for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, as revealed by a postoperative screening tool, to different modalities of seizure outcome classification (Engel, International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE)).

METHOD

One hundred twenty-eight of one hundred forty consecutive patients returned a HRQOL questionnaire at a mean of 36 months after selective amygdalohippocampectomy. Patients answered in two ways: with an absolute estimation (values 1-4) and with a self-rated relative change (-1, 0, +1) after surgery.

RESULTS

Eighty patients were seizure- and aura-free (63.3% ILAE 1), 16 continued to have auras (12.5% ILAE 2), and 13 experienced 1-3 seizure days per year after surgery (10.2% ILAE 3). Ninety-two patients were classified seizure-free (71.9% Engel I), and 17 had two or fewer seizures per year (13.3% Engel II). Of 110 patients in ILAE 1-3, 100 (91%) stated good or even very good postoperative HRQOL, and 99 (90.0%) reported improvements in HRQOL. Only 9 of the remaining 18 (50%) reported good or very good HRQOL after surgery (P=0.01). Corresponding results were obtained with Engel classes I and II, suggesting a trend toward ILAE 1-3 and Engel I and II as overall satisfactory outcomes. A more detailed HRQOL assessment yielded lowest scores in the cognitive domain, and a significant correlation of self-rated changes in cognitive functioning with seizure control (P=0.01). Changes in physical capabilities and mood were significantly better with satisfactory seizure outcome (P=0.006 and P<0.001, respectively), whereas the social aspects were not significantly dependent on seizure outcome (P=0.06).

CONCLUSION

Correlation of HRQOL and seizure control suggested that ILAE 1-3 and Engel I and II most likely represent overall satisfactory outcome. Subdomain analyses revealed cognitive abilities as the most critical feature associated with seizure control, whereas social aspects remained mainly stable.

Cetuximab plus irinotecan for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC): Safety analysis of 800 patients in a randomized phase III trial (EPIC)

3556

Background: EPIC is a randomized phase III study comparing cetuximab plus irinotecan to irinotecan in second-line metastatic, EGFR-expressing mCRC patients (pts) (target N=1,300 pts). Following an independent Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) review of 400 pts., the pooled safety data was presented at ASCO 2005 (#3580). The DSMB has recently reviewed safety data on the first 800 patients. Methods: Patients with EGFR-expressing mCRC who had failed first-line oxaliplatin in combination with a fluoropyrimidine and an ECOG performance status ≤ 2 were randomized to either Arm A (cetuximab 400 mg/m2 followed by 250 mg/ m2 weekly and irinotecan 350 mg/ m2 q 3 weeks) or to Arm B (irinotecan 350 mg/ m2 q 3 weeks). A pooled safety analysis is presented. Results: Eight hundred patients were randomized from May 2003 to March 2005 in Europe, Australia, Asia, and the US: 309 women and 491 men, with a median age of 61 years (range 21–90) and ECOG performance status (PS) of: 0= 53%, 1= 42%, 2= 5%. Seventeen pts received no study therapy and are excluded from the analysis. A total of 3,629 chemotherapy cycles were administered to the 783 pts with a median of 4 cycles per pt (range 1–23). Four (0.5%) subjects experienced severe infusion reactions: 2 grade 3 and 2 grade 4, none were fatal. In this pooled analysis, 59 deaths occurred within 30 days of last study therapy: 45 disease-related, 5 study drug related, 6 due to other causes, and 3 with unknown etiology. A summary table of adverse events (AE’s) is included. Conclusions: The DSMB raised no concerns after reviewing the safety data from 800 pts. In this pooled analysis characteristic toxicities of cetuximab and irinotecan do not appear to be increased, incidences and severities are similar to the earlier safety report based on the initial 400 patients. The study is currently nearing completion of accrual.

[Table: see text]

[Table: see text]

[Therapy for static scapholunate instability -- reconstruction of the dorsal part of the scapholunate ligament with a periosteal flap of the iliac crest]

Recurrent instability is frequent following capsulodesis, tenodesis, or ligament reconstruction in static scapholunate instability. Therefore a periosteal flap of the iliac crest was designed to reconstruct the dorsal part of the SL ligament, which is known to be the biomechanically strongest portion and also the axis of rotation between the scaphoid and lunate. Biomechanical testing of ten fresh frozen dorsal SL ligaments and ten periosteal flaps of the iliac crest showed similar properties concerning failure force, failure displacement, failure stress, energy to failure and stiffness. Results of eight specimens in each group were available following successful testing. Failure force of the dorsal SL ligament was 171.8 N (SD 44.2), energy to failure amounted 269.1 N-mm (SD 98.9), failure stress was 10.3 N/mm (2) (SD 1.3), failure displacement 2.9 mm (SD 0.4), and stiffness 77.2 N/mm (SD 21.4). Testing of the periosteal flap gave the following values: failure force 144.3 N (SD 38.7), energy to failure 217.9 N-mm (SD 85.0), failure stress 9.9 N/mm (2) (SD 1.7), failure displacement 3.0 mm (SD 0.4) and stiffness 60.5 N/mm (SD 14.7). In addition to these test values, clinical and radiological data of eleven patients were available following reconstruction of the dorsal SL ligament with a periosteal flap of the iliac crest. The interval between trauma and surgery was 15 months, mean follow-up was 29 months. One patient was free of pain, whereas ten mentioned pain during or following strenuous work. Two patients were completely satisfied, nine complained about some restriction during special activities. Active range of motion amounted to 56 degrees extension, 46 degrees flexion, 17 degrees radial abduction, 30 degrees ulnar abduction. Grip strength was 38.5 kg, which was 79 % of the contralateral side. Radiological evaluation demonstrated a correction of the static instability in nine cases. In two patients recurrence of static instability was obvious. The prerequisite for success of the procedure is the easy reduction of the carpals. In cases of a fixed rotatory subluxation of the scaphoid, the technique cannot maintain the reduction.

Palmar locking plate for treatment of unstable dorsal dislocated distal radius fractures

INTRODUCTION

This study investigates the clinical and radiological results of open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal radial fractures using a palmar placed interlocking plate system with no substitutes for treatment of the dorsal metaphyseal fracture void.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nineteen patients with a mean age of 61 years (range 49-78 years) and a dorsally displaced distal radial fracture were treated using a palmar placed 2.4 mm interlocking plate system. All 17 women and 2 men were followed up according to the study protocol. Standardised radiographs in anteroposterior and lateral projection were performed before reduction and at 2, 6, 12 and 24 weeks after surgery. Radiological measurements included palmar tilt, radial inclination and radial shortening as defined by ulnar variance and intra-articular steps. Clinical assessment included active range of motion (ARM) of the wrist, pain according to a visual analogue scale (VAS), grip power, working ability, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand-Score (DASH Score) and Mayo Wrist Score.

RESULTS

At final follow-up after a minimum of 11 months, the palmar tilt was +1 degrees , radial inclination 19.8 degrees and ulnar variance 1.0 mm. Mean loss of palmar tilt measured 1.9 degrees , radial inclination 1.3 degrees and ulnar variance 0.4 mm. Mean wrist extension measured 58 degrees , wrist flexion 41 degrees , pronation 83 degrees and supination 84 degrees . The Mayo Wrist Score showed 21% excellent, 58% good, 16% fair and 5% poor results.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of unstable, dorsally dislocated, distal radius fractures AO types A3, C1 and C2, with a palmar placed 2.4 mm interlocking plate system and without additional treatment of the metaphyseal defects showed good radiological and functional results with minimal loss of reduction.

Antifungal effect of 5-aminolevulinic acid PDT in Trichophyton rubrum

In the present investigation, we have shown for the first time that the onychomycosis-inducing dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum was able to metabolize 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) in liquid culture medium. We have established and optimized the culture conditions and could show the typical PpIX-induced red fluorescence which was evaluated qualitatively by Wood's light examination and fluorescent microscopic analysis. The optimum concentration of ALA was in the range of 1-10 mmol l(-1). If used in higher concentrations, ALA leads to a significantly reduced growth rate and absence of PpIX formation due to highly acidic conditions. The first observation of red fluorescence was detected between 10 and 14 days poststimulation with ALA, increasing thereafter. Fluorescent microscopic examinations demonstrated that formation of PpIX was restricted to selected parts of the fungal mycelium. Repeated application of ALA in order to achieve the highest formation of PpIX in T. rubrum failed, probably due to the sustained low pH values. ALA treatment and irradiation of T. rubrum clearly demonstrated the growth-inhibiting effect of ALA PDT, either leading to reduced numbers of colonies or reduced diameters of single fungal colonies. Summarizing our results, ALA PDT might be a promising approach in the reduction of T. rubrum colonization in onychomycosis.

Bilateral hand transplantation: bone healing under immunosuppression with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisolone

PURPOSE

Little is known about bone healing after composite tissue transplantation that requires pharmacologic immunosuppression. Bone integration and callus development were assessed in bilateral hand transplantation.

METHODS

In this study the course of callus development and callus maturation were assessed by color Doppler sonography and radiography in a double hand transplant and compared with forearm replantation.

RESULTS

After hand transplantation, ingrowth of small vessels at the bone junction was observed at week 3, calcified callus became visible at month 4, and bone union was completed at month 11. A similar time course of bone integration was observed after replantation. Plating offered sufficient stability. A recipient periostal flap is thought to have improved blood supply and favored development and induction of callus.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone healing after hand transplantation under immunosuppression with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisolone is identical to that after forearm replantation.

Dorsolateral dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint: closed reduction and early active motion or static splinting; a retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

In a follow-up examination 50 patients who had sustained dorsal dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, the results of two conservative therapy regimens, either immobilisation or early motion, were investigated. The patients were assigned randomly. The inclusion criteria were: adult patients over the age of 18 with isolated, acute, closed dorsolateral dislocation of the PIP joint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In group A, 25 patients were treated by closed reduction and immobilisation with a short-arm cast including both interphalangeal joints for 4 weeks. In group B, 25 patients were treated by dorsal block splinting of the PIP joint following reduction. The finger was released in extension with daily active exercise of the PIP joint.

RESULTS

In group A, 9 patients showed a normal range of motion, whereas a limitation of extension of 10 deg and more was seen in 16 patients. All PIP joints were clinically stable, and 19 patients were satisfied. Two patients complained of a limitation of extension, 3 of limitation of extension and pain, and 1 of pain and swelling. In group B, only 2 of 25 patients showed a limitation of extension of 10 deg and more, whereas 23 patients showed a normal range of motion. Instability of one collateral ligament was seen in 2 cases. Palmar instability did not occur, and 18 patients were satisfied. One patient complained of instability, pain and lack of extension during hard work, 1 of pain in combination with instability, 2 of pain and 3 of swelling of the joint.

CONCLUSION

Early active motion after dorsolateral dislocation of the PIP joint produces significantly superior results regarding the active range of motion and pinch power than static splinting.

Method for large scale isolation, culture and cryopreservation of human monocytes suitable for chemotaxis, cellular adhesion assays, macrophage and dendritic cell differentiation

This paper presents an improved method of isolating, culturing and cryopreserving human monocytes in large quantity with high purity using standard laboratory centrifuges. Monocytes were isolated from 300 to 360 ml of heparinized human blood using a Double Density technique employing Ficoll Isopaque and 46% iso-osmotic Percoll. Yields of monocytes ranged from 75 to 205 million (from 300 to 360 ml of blood) with an average purity of 90.6%. The ability of fresh or frozen monocytes to adhere to endothelial cells in the presence of oxidized L-alpha-1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonosyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (oxPAPC) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) did not differ and no significant difference in response to the chemotactic stimulant N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (FMLP) was observed. We define a useful method for the culture and differentiation of fresh or frozen monocytes isolated by this method, into macrophages as judged by morphology, expression of the macrophage marker SRA-1 and induction of inflammatory genes TNF-alpha, IL-6 and COX-2. Also, fresh or frozen Double Density isolated cells can be successfully differentiated into dendritic cells in the presence of GM-CSF and IL-4 as judged by the expression of the hallmark surface proteins CD1a and DC-sign and the absence of CD14. This method also yields a pure population of lymphocytes.