Long-term outcomes of corrective osteotomy for the treatment of distal radius malunion

Corrective osteotomy is an established but challenging treatment for distal radius malunion. Short- and intermediate-term results have been previously published while long-term results have not. The long-term results of 22 patients treated with corrective osteotomy for symptomatic distal radius malunion are presented (range 6-24 years, mean 13 years). All patients completed the DASH questionnaire and the modified Gartland and Werley, and Green and O'Brien scores postoperatively. Wrist alignment was assessed through standard wrist radiographs. Average wrist flexion-extension was 72.5% of the contralateral limb. Grip strength averaged 71%. The DASH score averaged 16 points corresponding to mild perceived disability. Results were categorized as fair on both the Gartland and Werley score (average 9 points) and the modified Green and O'Brien score (average 67 points). Wrist alignment was maintained over time but 13 patients presented mild to moderate symptomatic wrist arthritis. The outcome presented may be a reflection of the use of stricter evaluation instruments or reflect the development of post-traumatic arthritis.

Operative management of distal radial fractures with 2.4-millimeter locking plates: a multicenter prospective case series. Surgical technique

BACKGROUND

In the past decade, there has been a trend toward open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal radial fractures. There are now more than thirty different implant designs specific for the fixation of distal radial fractures. A multicenter prospective study of a case series was conducted to determine the efficacy of the operative management of distal radial fractures stabilized with 2.4-mm locking plates.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty patients were entered into the study over a two-year period. The mean age of these patients was fifty-one years, and the cohort included eighty-eight women and sixty-two men. Eighty-six patients sustained a low-energy injury. Seventy-one percent of the fractures in the series were intra-articular and were Type C according to the Müller-AO Comprehensive Classification. The follow-up evaluations, which were conducted at six weeks, six months, one year, and two years, included assessments of pain, motion, grip strength, and standard radiographs. Gartland and Werley scores were recorded at six months and one and two years, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores were recorded at one and two years.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-five patients (83%) had a complete follow-up at six months; 121 (81%), at one year; and 117 (78%), at two years. Significant improvements in motion, grip strength, and patient satisfaction were observed between six months and one year, but further improvements were not seen at the two-year follow-up examination. The mean DASH score changed from a preinjury baseline of 2 points to 8 points at one year and 7 points at two years (p < 0.0001). The mean Gartland and Werley score improved significantly from 4 points at six months to 2 points at two years. Of the 102 intra-articular fractures examined in the immediate postoperative period, twenty had a step-off of <or=2 mm and seven had a step-off of >2 mm. Of the seventy-one intra-articular fractures seen at two years, sixty-one had no step-off, five had a step-off of <or=2 mm, and five had a step-off of >2 mm. Twenty-seven percent of the patients showed an increase of at least one grade in radiographic signs of arthritis at two years. There were twenty-eight complications, twenty of which were considered minor. Tendon inflammation occurred in nine patients. There were two tendon ruptures, one of which was due to a prominent dorsal screw tip placed through a volar plate and one of which was due to a prominent volar plate. Loss of reduction occurred in two patients, and screw loosening occurred in two patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Internal fixation of displaced distal radial fractures with implants featuring locking screw fixation can result in good-to-excellent outcomes with a limited number of complications.

A novel non-bridging external fixator construct versus volar angular stable plating for the fixation of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius--a biomechanical study

Non-bridging external fixation has recently been introduced as an alternative to volar angular stable plating for the fixation of unstable intra-articular distal radial fractures. The purpose of this study was to biomechanically compare a new non-bridging external fixator construct to volar angular stable plate fixation in a dorsally comminuted intra-articular fracture model of the distal radius.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five pairs of fresh frozen human cadaveric radii were randomly supplied with either a non-bridging external fixator or a stainless steel volar locking plate. A three-fragmental AO 23-C2.1 fracture was created by removing a 15 degrees dorsal wedge with remaining volar cortical contact and by an intra-articular osteotomy lateral to the lister-tubercle. Physiological load transfer via the wrist was simulated by means of a custom-made seesaw. For biomechanical testing, the bones were loaded in cyclic axial compression. Starting at 100N, the load was monotonically increased at 0.025 degrees N per cycle until failure of the construct. Motion of the lunate and scaphoid fragments with respect to the radial diaphysis was acquired by optical three-dimensional (3D) motion tracking. Plastic wedge deformation was determined after 2000, 4000 and 6000 cycles.

RESULTS

The amplitude of wedge motion at the beginning of the test as a measure for construct stiffness was significantly lower for the fixator group (P=0.003, power=0.99). Plastic wedge deformation after 2000, 4000 and 6000 cycles was found significantly lower for the external fixator (repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), P=0.009, power=0.86). Displacement of the intra-articular gap was found below 0.6mm (mean) for both groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The study revealed superior biomechanical properties of the proposed non-bridging external fixation compared to volar locked plating in an unstable intra-articular fracture model with volar cortical support. However, both fixation techniques seem to apply sufficient stabilisation to restore and retain anatomy after fracture of the most distal part of the radius and should be individually chosen according to distinct criteria.

Distal radius fractures--classification of treatment and indications for surgery

Distal radius fractures are common injuries. Multiple classification systems have highlighted the evolution of the understanding of distal radius fractures. Understanding the classifications of distal radius fractures is important in identifying the important aspects that affect their outcome. Surgical indications of distal radius fractures can be divided into the following categories: patient factors, fracture reduction, fracture stability, and the presence of associated injuries.

Radial head arthroplasty

In conclusion, radial head fractures with 3 or more fragments have a high incidence of complications when treated with ORIF including hardware failure, malunion, nonunion, and the need for re-operation. Radial head arthroplasty has demonstrated good success in the treatment of complex, comminuted radial head fractures which are not amenable to non-opeative treatment or ORIF. Success can be optimized by diligent surgical dissection, avoiding inadvertent nerve injury, placement of an appropriately sized implant, repair of associated injuries, and early protected motion.

The treatment of complex fractures and fracture-dislocations of the hand

Most fractures of the phalanges or metacarpals are amenable to closed treatment, with favorable outcomes. However, two groups of complex fractures are difficult to diagnose and treat. The first group includes unicondylar and bicondylar fractures, fracture-dislocations, and fracture-related instability of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Fracture-dislocations can be treated with splinting or surgical intervention. Microscrews and condylar plates have added considerably to the ability to securely fix small articular fractures and fracture-dislocations about the proximal interphalangeal joint. Some unstable fracture-dislocations are characterized by loss of the volar aspect of the articular surface of the base of the middle phalanx; they can be treated by using a sculpted osseous articular graft from the dorsal hamate. The second group includes displaced diaphyseal fractures associated with a soft-tissue injury, instability, or multiple fracturing. Articular fractures and fracture-dislocations at the base of the metacarpal also can be difficult to diagnose and treat.

Monteggia fractures in adults

Over the past fifty years, treatment outcomes of traumatic injuries in the upper limb have improved with the advent of better implants. However, the Monteggia fracture is often still associated with various complications, poor functional outcomes and a relatively high rate of revision surgeries. Rigid anatomic fixation of ulnar fracture is paramount. Open relocation of the radial head and soft tissue procedures are redundant. Monteggia fractures are challenging to treat. Critical analysis with respect to the high rate of complications and unsatisfactory functional outcomes is required. The type of fracture and associated injuries such as coronoid fracture and radial head fracture appear to influence the outcome in most cases. Negative prognostic factors such as prolonged immobilization, associated coronoid and radial head fractures must be minimized and treated appropriately. Prior to surgery the patient should be informed regarding the possible risk of residual functional limitations and the potential need for further revision surgeries.

Fixed-angle locking plating of displaced proximal humerus fractures

Proximal humerus fractures are common, especially among patients older than 60 years who have osteoporosis. Several techniques have been used within the past several decades to treat displaced proximal humerus fractures. Many different implants have been investigated and tested, all with inadequate results; debate continues as to the best method of fixation. Fixed-angle locking plates offer a relatively new treatment option for these complicated fractures, especially in patients with osteoporosis. The use of locking plates for treating comminuted proximal humerus fractures has biologic and biomechanical advantages over conventional fixation techniques. Complications including varus fracture collapse and screw penetration of the articular surface nonetheless remain problematic. Although the locking plate technique provides exceptional fixation stability, its use must be tailored to the individual patient, taking into account the extent of trauma, the fracture characteristics, and the patient's age and expectations; therefore, it must be carefully weighed against other forms of treatment. Prospective clinical trials and further study are necessary to generate data comparing locking plate fixation and alternative surgical treatments.

Reconstruction of posttraumatic disorders of the forearm

Forearm rotation is crucial for full upper extremity mobility. The two-bone unit with its proximal and distal radioulnar joints should be considered as a single bicondylar articulation. After a traumatic bony forearm injury, surgical treatment for complications, such as deformity, bone loss, or failed fracture healing is challenging because complete return of forearm rotation can be difficult to achieve. It is important to be aware of methods for assessing and managing posttraumatic forearm bony complications, including preoperative assessment and osteotomy techniques for malunited fractures. The vascularized fibular transplant also has been proven as an effective treatment method. Although nonunion of forearm fractures is uncommon, it can prove problematic; therefore, it is beneficial to review options for surgical management.

Sports-related wrist injuries in adults

Background:

Wrist injuries are common in sports. Those who are involved in the care of athletes should be familiar with hand and wrist anatomy, common wrist injuries, and clinical examination; they should also know how to recognize emergent problems.

Level of Evidence:

Level V, expert opinion.

Comparison of AO Type-B and Type-C volar shearing fractures of the distal part of the radius

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the volar articular margin of the distal part of the radius with volar radiocarpal subluxation (volar shearing, or Barton, fractures) can be accompanied by a fracture of the dorsal metaphyseal cortex. We tested the null hypothesis that there is no difference in wrist function or health status after open reduction and plate-and-screw fixation between volar shearing fractures with a dorsal cortical fracture (complete articular, AO Type C) and those without a dorsal cortical fracture (partial articular, AO Type B).

METHODS

In a multicenter cohort study, fifty-seven patients with a volar marginal shearing fracture of the distal part of the radius and volar radiocarpal subluxation were followed for at least one year following plate-and-screw fixation. Thirty-seven patients who also had a dorsal metaphyseal cortical fracture (Type-C fracture) were compared with twenty patients who had a partial articular (Type-B) fracture. The two cohorts were analyzed for differences in wrist and forearm motion, grip strength, pain, and the Gartland and Werley, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), and Short Form-36 (SF-36) scores at six, twelve, and twenty-four months postoperatively. Differences in mean values and their change over time were determined.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between patients with a Type-B fracture and those with a Type-C fracture with respect to motion, grip strength, or the Gartland and Werley or DASH score at any time point. At six months after the surgery, the patients with a Type-B volar shearing fracture reported a mean score for pain in motion of 0.5 point on a 10-point visual analogue scale compared with 2.2 points for patients with a Type-C fracture (difference in means, 1.7 points [95% confidence interval, 0.7 to 2.6 points]; p < 0.001), but no significant difference was seen at twelve or twenty-four months.

CONCLUSIONS

Volar shearing fractures are usually complete articular, Type-C injuries. Patients with a Type-C volar shearing fracture experience more pain during early recovery, but ultimately their outcome is comparable with that for patients with a Type-B (partial articular) volar shearing fracture.

Elbow position affects distal radioulnar joint kinematics

PURPOSE

Previous in vivo and in vitro studies of forearm supination-pronation suggest that distal radioulnar joint kinematics may be affected by elbow flexion. The primary hypotheses tested by this study were that, in vivo, ulnar variance changes with elbow flexion and forearm rotation, and the arc of forearm rotation changes in relationship to elbow flexion.

METHODS

Changes in radioulnar kinematics during forearm supination-pronation and elbow flexion (0 degrees to 90 degrees ) were studied in 5 uninjured subjects using computed tomography, dual-orthogonal fluoroscopy, and 3-dimensional modeling. Analysis of variance and post-hoc testing was performed.

RESULTS

Proximal translation of the radius was greatest with the elbow flexed to 90 degrees with the arm in midpronation. With the arm in midpronation, the translation of the radius was significantly greater at 0 degrees versus 45 degrees of elbow flexion (0.82 +/- 0.59 mm vs 0.65 +/- 0.80 mm, F: 4.49, post hoc: 0.055; p = .05) and significantly smaller at 45 degrees versus 90 degrees of elbow flexion (0.65 +/- 0.80 mm vs 0.97 +/- 0.35 mm, F: 4.49, post hoc: 0.048; p = .05). Proximal translation of the radius in midpronation was significantly greater than when the forearm was in a supinated position when the elbow was at 0 degrees or 90 degrees flexion (F: 14.90, post hoc: <0.01; p < .01, F: 19.11, post hoc: <0.01, p < .01). The arc of forearm rotation was significantly decreased at 0 degrees compared with 90 degrees of elbow flexion (129.3 degrees +/- 22.2 degrees vs 152.8 degrees +/- 14.4 degrees , F: 3.29, post hoc: 0.79; p = .09). The center of rotation shifted volarly and ulnarly with increasing elbow extension.

CONCLUSIONS

Elbow position affects the kinematics of the distal radioulnar joint. The kinematics of the distal radioulnar joint are primarily affected by forearm rotation and secondarily by elbow flexion. These findings have clinical relevance to our understanding of ulnar impaction, and how elbow position affects the proximal-distal translation of the radius. These findings have implications for the treatment of ulna impaction, radiographic evaluation of the distal ulna, and future biomechanical studies.

Magnetic resonance imaging signal abnormalities in enthesopathy of the extensor carpi radialis longus origin

PURPOSE

Some surgeons use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in patients with enthesopathy of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) origin (commonly referred to as lateral epicondylitis) to plan and justify surgical treatment. Overinterpretation of defects of the origin of the ECRB or associated abnormalities of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) could affect decision-making. We tested the hypothesis that patients with MRI signal abnormalities consistent with enthesopathy of the ECRB are equally likely to have findings consistent with an ECRB defect or LCL abnormality whether they are being evaluated as part of preoperative planning for lateral elbow pain or for an elbow condition that does not feature lateral elbow pain.

METHODS

For each of 24 consecutive patients with enthesopathy of the ECRB who had MRI for preoperative evaluation, we selected 2 age- and gender-matched controls from a list of patients who had an elbow MRI to evaluate other elbow problems. The origin of the ECRB and the LCL were specifically evaluated.

RESULTS

Patients diagnosed with enthesopathy of the ECRB were significantly more likely than control patients to have signal changes consistent with enthesopathy of the ECRB origin (24 of 24 vs 9 of 48; p < .001). The proportion of patients with a partial thickness defect of the ECRB origin (14 of 24 vs 4 of 9) was comparable between patients diagnosed with enthesopathy of the ECRB origin and controls. Signal changes in the LCL were comparable in patients diagnosed with enthesopathy of the ECRB origin and control patients (8 of 24 vs 2 of 9; p = .27), and no patient had clinical evidence of instability.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of MRI in the management of patients with enthesopathy of the ECRB origin merits further study.

The Darrach procedure for post-traumatic reconstruction

Over a 6-year-period, 15 women and 11 men with a mean age of 53 years (range, 24 to 80 years) had resection of the distal part of the ulna (Darrach's procedure) to address stiffness, instability, non-union, or substantial radioulnar length discrepancy after trauma. At an average follow-up of 21 months (range, 4 to 60 months), the improvement in total arc of forearm rotation averaged 87 degrees (range, 0 degrees to 160 degrees), from an average of 49 degrees to an average of 136 degrees (p < 0.001). The proportion of patients with occasional or continuous pain after the Darrach procedure (7 after vs. 16 prior ; p = 0.04) was significantly reduced. Only two patients had reoperation related to the residual ulna. In this study, the Darrach procedure improved forearm rotation and pain in patients with posttraumatic stiffness, instability, nonunion, or substantial radioulnar length discrepancy with a low complication and re-operation rate.

Effect of an unrepaired fracture of the ulnar styloid base on outcome after plate-and-screw fixation of a distal radial fracture

BACKGROUND

The impact of an unrepaired fracture of the ulnar styloid base on recovery after internal fixation of a fracture of the distal part of the radius is uncertain. We evaluated a series of patients with an internally fixed fracture of the distal part of the radius to test the hypothesis that there is no difference in wrist motion or function scores between those with an untreated fracture of the ulnar styloid base and those with no ulnar fracture.

METHODS

Two cohorts of seventy-six matched patients, one with a fracture of the ulnar styloid base and the other with no ulnar fracture, were retrospectively analyzed by examining data gathered in a prospective study of plate-and-screw fixation of distal radial fractures. Patients were matched for age, sex, AO fracture type, and injury mechanism. The two cohorts were analyzed for differences in motion, grip strength, pain, the Gartland and Werley score, the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) score, and the SF-36 (Short Form-36) score at six, twelve, and twenty-four months postoperatively. In a second analysis, sixty-four patients with <2 mm of displacement of a fracture of the ulnar styloid base were compared with forty-nine patients with greater displacement. Differences between cohorts and within cohorts over time were determined with use of regression analysis and the likelihood ratio test.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between patients with an unrepaired fracture of the ulnar styloid base and those with no ulnar fracture at any of the follow-up intervals. However, a trend was observed toward less grip strength at six months (71% [of that on the contralateral side] compared with 79%; mean difference, -8% [95% confidence interval=-15.3% to -0.6%]; p=0.03) and less flexion (54 degrees compared with 59 degrees ; mean difference, -5 degrees [95% confidence interval=-11.7 degrees to -0.8 degrees ]; p=0.02) and ulnar deviation (32 degrees compared with 36 degrees ; mean difference, -4 degrees [95% confidence interval=-7 degrees to -0.1 degrees ]; p=0.05) at twenty-four months after surgery in patients with an untreated fracture of the ulnar styloid base. There were no significant differences with regard to any tested outcome measure between the patients with >or=2 mm of displacement of an unrepaired fracture of the ulnar styloid base and those with less displacement.

CONCLUSIONS

An unrepaired fracture of the base of the ulnar styloid does not appear to influence function or outcome after treatment of a distal radial fracture with plate-and-screw fixation, even when the ulnar fracture was initially displaced >or=2 mm.

Fractures of the distal radius treated with cross-pin fixation and a nonbridging external fixator, the CPX system: a preliminary report

PURPOSE

To present the preliminary findings of distal radius fractures (DRF) treated with percutaneous cross-pin fixation and a nonbridging external fixator, the Cross-Pin Fixation (CPX) system.

METHODS

Thirty-five consecutive patients with 37 DRFs were selected from a series of 51 DRFs for closed reduction, percutaneous pinning, and external fixation with the CPX system. Outcome was determined by studying (1) radiological measurements of radial height, palmar tilt, radial inclination and ulnar variance (UV); (2) grip and pinch strength; (3) wrist active range of motion; and (4) patient outcome instruments-the Patient-Rated Wrist Hand Evaluation and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand.

RESULTS

We are reporting on 21 patients, 13 females and 8 males, mean age 54 years (range, 27 to 87 y) with AO type fractures A2, B2, B3, C1, C2, and C3. Follow-up was a minimum of 1 year (range, 12 to 36 months). Wrist rehabilitation began at a mean of 10 days (range, 4 to 16 d) after surgery. There was no loss of reduction. Final mean grip and lateral pinch strength recovered 86% and 94%, respectively, and active range of motion increased to a minimum of 89% of the noninjured side. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand showed change in functional status (minimal detectable change at 95% confidence level) at 4 and 12 weeks. The Patient-Rated Wrist Hand Evaluation results reported resumption of usual activities in the early postoperative period. One patient developed type I complex regional pain syndrome, which resolved, and one patient had residual transient mild superficial radial nerve sensitivity. There were no pin track infections, nonunions, or tendon injuries. All patients returned to their prior employment and activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The CPX system is a minimally invasive technique of closed reduction and internal fixation for displaced, reducible extra-articular and nondisplaced and displaced reducible intra-articular fractures of the distal radius, allowing rehabilitation of the wrist and resumption of usual activities while maintaining fracture reduction.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Fractures of the medial column of the distal humerus in adults

PURPOSE

Medial column fractures of the distal humerus are uncommon in adults. Among 26 patients identified in the English language literature, only 2 had articular fragmentation. We reviewed the experience of 2 trauma centers with isolated medial column fractures to evaluate our impression that these fractures often involve complex articular fragmentation.

METHODS

There were 10 men and 4 women with an average age of 61 years (range, 44-86 years). The incidence was 3% of all distal humerus fractures at one institution with a prospective fracture database. The mechanism of injury was a fall from standing height in most patients. There was one B2.1 fracture, 3 B2.2 fractures, 9 B2.3 (multifragmentary), and 1 C3.2 fracture. All patients were treated surgically; 7 were treated with an olecranon osteotomy. Eight patients had 1 or more postoperative complications and 5 patients underwent subsequent surgeries.

RESULTS

We observed 11 patients for an average of 8 years (range, 14 months to 21 years). The arc of ulnohumeral motion averaged 92 degrees, average flexion was 118 degrees, and average flexion contracture was 25 degrees. According to the Broberg and Morrey Functional Rating Index, the result was excellent in 4 patients, good in 6, and fair in 1. Six patients had arthrosis (3 grade 1 and 3 grade 2) according to the radiographic criteria of Broberg and Morrey.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeons should be aware that the relatively uncommon medial column adult distal humerus fracture usually features complex articular fragmentation, but that satisfactory results can be obtained after open reduction and internal fixation.

Treatment of forearm fractures

Fractures of the forearm represent common injuries. Understanding the anatomy and function of the radius, ulna, interosseous membrane, proximal and distal radioulnar joints is critical to appropriate management. Diagnosis can readily be made by examination and radiographs. Well established surgical approaches including the anterior Henry, dorsal Thompson, and ulnar approaches provide excellent access to both the radius and ulna. Multiple fracture patterns are recognized including isolated radius and ulna fractures, combined fractures, Galeazzi fractures, and Monteggia fractures. Surgical management regularly requires open reduction internal fixation with plates (DCP) and screws with vigilance being paid to stable reduction of the proximal and distal radioulnar joints. New directions in the management of forearm fractures include the use of intramedullary fixation and locking plate technology.

Operative management of distal radial fractures with 2.4-millimeter locking plates. A multicenter prospective case series

BACKGROUND

In the past decade, there has been a trend toward open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal radial fractures. There are now more than thirty different implant designs specific for the fixation of distal radial fractures. A multicenter prospective study of a case series was conducted to determine the efficacy of the operative management of distal radial fractures stabilized with 2.4-mm locking plates.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty patients were entered into the study over a two-year period. The mean age of these patients was fifty-one years, and the cohort included eighty-eight women and sixty-two men. Eighty-six patients sustained a low-energy injury. Seventy-one percent of the fractures in the series were intra-articular and were Type C according to the Müller-AO Comprehensive Classification. The follow-up evaluations, which were conducted at six weeks, six months, one year, and two years, included assessments of pain, motion, grip strength, and standard radiographs. Gartland and Werley scores were recorded at six months and one and two years, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores were recorded at one and two years.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-five patients (83%) had a complete follow-up at six months; 121 (81%), at one year; and 117 (78%), at two years. Significant improvements in motion, grip strength, and patient satisfaction were observed between six months and one year, but further improvements were not seen at the two-year follow-up examination. The mean DASH score changed from a preinjury baseline of 2 points to 8 points at one year and 7 points at two years (p < 0.0001). The mean Gartland and Werley score improved significantly from 4 points at six months to 2 points at two years. Of the 102 intra-articular fractures examined in the immediate postoperative period, twenty had a step-off of < or =2 mm and seven had a step-off of >2 mm. Of the seventy-one intra-articular fractures seen at two years, sixty-one had no step-off, five had a step-off of < or =2 mm, and five had a step-off of >2 mm. Twenty-seven percent of the patients showed an increase of at least one grade in radiographic signs of arthritis at two years. There were twenty-eight complications, twenty of which were considered minor. Tendon inflammation occurred in nine patients. There were two tendon ruptures, one of which was due to a prominent dorsal screw tip placed through a volar plate and one of which was due to a prominent volar plate. Loss of reduction occurred in two patients, and screw loosening occurred in two patients.

CONCLUSION

Internal fixation of displaced distal radial fractures with implants featuring locking screw fixation can result in good-to-excellent outcomes with a limited number of complications.

Evaluation of preoperative expectations and patient satisfaction after carpal tunnel release

PURPOSE

We tested the hypothesis that preoperative expectations affect postoperative satisfaction and arm-specific, self-reported health status after elective carpal tunnel release.

METHODS

Forty-nine patients having elective carpal tunnel release completed questionnaires evaluating self-rated upper extremity-specific disability using the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, expectations regarding surgery (Preop Expectations Score), personal importance of upper-extremity function, measures of general optimism, the Life Orientation Test (LOT), as well as health-specific optimism, and the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scale. Six months after surgery, patients completed a 10-point Likert scale to assess satisfaction, the DASH, and measures determining (1) fulfillment of expectations (Postop Met Expectations Score) and (2) relief of specific systems (Postop Help Score).

RESULTS

The DASH scores decreased significantly from an average of 37 points before surgery to an average of 15 points 6 months after carpal tunnel release (p<.001), and patients rated their satisfaction (mean +/- standard deviation) as 8 +/- 3. Preoperative expectations did not correlate with patient satisfaction or postoperative DASH scores. Multivariable analyses determined that patient satisfaction was best predicted by fulfillment of expectations (Postop Help Score alone, accounting for 41% of the variance in scores) and postoperative DASH scores were predicted by a combination of Postop Met Expectations Score and the LOT score (accounting for 31% of the variance in scores).

CONCLUSIONS

As measured in this study, the strongest predictor of satisfaction after carpal tunnel release was relief of symptoms, and the strongest predictors of postoperative disability were met expectations and optimism; however, the majority of the variance in postoperative satisfaction remains unexplained.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic III.

Injection of dexamethasone versus placebo for lateral elbow pain: a prospective, double-blind, randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

We tested the hypothesis that there is no difference in disability, pain, and grip strength 1 and 6 months after corticosteroid and lidocaine injection compared with lidocaine injection alone (placebo).

METHODS

Sixty-four patients were randomly assigned to dexamethasone (n = 31) or placebo (n = 33) injection. At enrollment, disability (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH] questionnaire), pain on a visual analog scale, grip strength, depression (the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale; CESD), and ineffective coping skills (the Pain Catastrophizing Scale; PCS) were comparable between treatment groups. At 1 and 6 months, DASH, pain, and grip strength measures were repeated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine predictors of disability. Analysis was by intention to treat.

RESULTS

One month after injection, DASH scores averaged 24 versus 27 points (dexamethasone vs placebo), pain 3.7 versus 4.3 cm, and grip strength 83% versus 87%. At 6 months, DASH scores averaged 18 versus 13 points, pain 2.4 versus 1.7 cm, and grip strength 98% versus 97%. CESD and PCS scores correlated with disability as measured by the DASH questionnaire. The best multivariate models included CESD at 1 month and PCS scores at 6 months and explained the majority of variability in DASH scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Corticosteroid injection did not affect the apparently self-limited course of lateral elbow pain. In secondary analyses in a subset of patients, perceived disability associated with lateral elbow pain correlated with depression and ineffective coping skills.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic I.