Treatment of comminuted intraarticular distal femur fractures with limited internal and external tensioned wire fixation

Arthroscopic fibroarthrolysis and mobilization under anesthesia is a simple, reproducible, and satisfactory method for the treatment of patients with severe post-traumatic arthrofibrosis of the knee

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the range of motion (ROM) of the knee in patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis after being treated with arthroscopic fibroarthrolysis (AFA) and manipulation under anesthesia (MUA).

METHODS

Case series of patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis who underwent AFL+MUA in a national referral center. The primary outcome to be assessed was ROM before and after surgery and then at 3-month intervals until a minimum follow-up of one year was completed.

RESULTS

51 patients were included. The main injuries preceding the stiffness were tibial plateau fracture (37.3%), distal femur fracture (27.5%), and femoral shaft fracture (15.7%). Forty-five patients had severe flexion deficits with a median preoperative flexion of 70°. Intraoperative flexion significantly improved to 110°. Significant loss of flexion was observed at 3 and 6 months, however, patients regained ROM in the 9 and 12-month follow-ups. At discharge, 80% of the patients achieved flexion of 90° or more. There were 4 intraoperative complications and 3 reinterventions were performed.

CONCLUSION

AFA+MUA can help patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis to recover ROM in most cases. However, this procedure is not without risks and complications, therefore, careful consideration should be given to its indication and execution.

Achieving torsional stability of distal femur fractures through a single approach using 90-90 construct

Distal femoral fractures (DFFs) are frequently characterised by significant comminution, osteoporosis, high implant failure, insufficient fixation because of a shortened distal part, non-union, malunion, and poor outcome. Our report presents two cases treated with dual plating in a 90-90 construct to achieve torsional stability. DFF fixation by dual plating in a 90-90 configuration proved to be a superior fixation similar to 90-90 plating for distal humerus fracture, since 90-90 plate fixation had significantly greater torque to failure load and has more resistance to torsional loading. Two cases of distal femur non-union with implant failure were treated utilising a double plating. These non-union cases exhibited radiological healing and knee range of motion at a mean follow-up of 6 months. This technique offers a modified way of treating these difficult non-union cases through a single incision, providing mechanical stability conducive to fracture healing.

Arthroscopic fibroarthrolysis and mobilization under anesthesia is a simple, reproducible, and satisfactory method for the treatment of patients with severe post-traumatic arthrofibrosis of the knee

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the range of motion (ROM) of the knee in patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis after being treated with arthroscopic fibroarthrolysis (AFA) and manipulation under anesthesia (MUA).

METHODS

Case series of patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis who underwent AFL+MUA in a national referral center. The primary outcome to be assessed was ROM before and after surgery and then at 3-month intervals until a minimum follow-up of one year was completed.

RESULTS

51 patients were included. The main injuries preceding the stiffness were tibial plateau fracture (37.3%), distal femur fracture (27.5%), and femoral shaft fracture (15.7%). Forty-five patients had severe flexion deficits with a median preoperative flexion of 70°. Intraoperative flexion significantly improved to 110°. Significant loss of flexion was observed at 3 and 6 months, however, patients regained ROM in the 9 and 12-month follow-ups. At discharge, 80% of the patients achieved flexion of 90° or more. There were 4 intraoperative complications and 3 reinterventions were performed.

CONCLUSION

AFA+MUA can help patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis to recover ROM in most cases. However, this procedure is not without risks and complications, therefore, careful consideration should be given to its indication and execution.

Treatment of open intraarticular distal femur fractures by Ilizarov fixator; an approach to improve the outcome with mid-term results

PURPOSE

Open comminuted intraarticular distal femur fracture represents a formidable challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon for the inherent fracture complexity, soft tissue damage, and contamination. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mid-term outcome results and safety of using the Ilizarov fixator to treat these fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 22 fractures treated by debridement with reduction and stabilization by Ilizarov external fixator. The mean age was 35 years. Gustilo grade of open fracture was III-A (19 cases), III-B (2 cases), and III-C (1 case). Six fractures were AO-OTA type 33C2, and 16 cases were type 33C3. Eight patients had associated injuries. Bone and functional results were evaluated by Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) criteria, and Neer knee score. The statistical analysis was done using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows.

RESULTS

Seven cases had autogenous bone grafting. The frame crossed the knee in 8 patients. The fixator was removed after a mean of 7 months with union in all cases, and without any malalignment >5°. Deep infection occurred in two cases. Quadriceps-plasty was needed for 3 cases. After a mean of 44 months, the last follow-up results showed full knee extension and a mean flexion of 107.59°. The ASAMI functional and bone results were good to excellent in all cases. Neer knee score averaged 86.59.

CONCLUSIONS

Ilizarov fixator was an effective treatment modality of open comminuted distal femur fractures with high union rate, adequate alignment and satisfactory functional outcomes.

Circular external fixation as definitive treatment for open or comminuted femoral fractures: Radiologic and functional outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Ring external fixation can be a definitive treatment of high energy femoral fractures. A retrospective analysis of outcomes is presented.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

23 patients with open or comminuted femoral fractures treated with circular external fixators were included. Mean age was 33 (range, 13-81) years. Lesions were classified according to AO/ASIF. 12 fractures were open. Mean follow up period has been 26.3, (range 20-144) months. The results were assessed according to the modified criteria of Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov. Knee functional results were assessed with Hospital for Special Surgery knee scoring system.

RESULTS

22 fractures united primarily, one showed nonunion. Knee stiffness developed in two patients. No patient had deep pin tract infection. Bone results were quoted as excellent, good, fair and poor in 19, 1, 1 and 2. The functional results were excellent, good, and fair in 16, 6, and 1, on the basis of ASAMI criteria. Mean HSS knee score has been 90.1 (range 60-100).

CONCLUSION

Circular external fixation can achieve reliable rates of union and good to excellent functional outcome in open or comminuted femoral fractures. A strict rehabilitation protocol was effective in preserving knee joint function.

Primary ilizarov external fixation in open grade III type C distal femur fractures: Our experience

INTRODUCTION

Open comminuted distal femur fractures are notorious for septic or aseptic non-union. The recommended fixed angle distal femur locking plate in such situations can lead to a septic non-union due to its extensive approach and further periosteal stripping. Supracondylar nails, though have a minimally invasive approach, are not suitable for type C2 and C3 (AO/ASIF) fractures. A monolateral fixator as damage control followed by plating may be recommended. But if wound healing is delayed it results in difficult articular reduction, poor alignment and a stiff knee. We therefore used ilizarov circular external fixators (ICEF) for such open fractures (type C1, C2 and C3) and analysed its radiological and functional outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

25 male patients, with a mean age of 31.04 ± 6.62 years (range, 22-44 years), with open grade III type C distal femoral fractures were treated with ICEF. There were 7 fractures of type C1and C3 each, 11 were of type C2. Articular reduction and compression was achieved with inter-fragmentary screws through minimal open technique by extending the open wound and then stabilising the fracture with ICEF. The main outcomes evaluated were union, range of motion, final shortening, Knee Society scoring and ASAMI scoring system for radiological and functional outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 19.12 ± 1.14 months. All fractures except two united at a mean period of 30 ± 3.02 weeks, without the need of bone grafts. The bony assessment (according to ASAMI score) was excellent in 8 cases (33.33%), good in 9 cases (37.5%) and fair in 5 cases (20.83%), while there were 2 poor clinical end results. The functional results were excellent in 6 cases (25%), good in 9 cases (37.5%) fair in 6 cases (25%) poor in 3 cases (12.5%). The complications included shortening, extension lag and pin tract infections.

CONCLUSION

With the encouraging results, the use of ICEF with minimal internal fixation in grade III open comminuted distal femur fractures as a primary definitive treatment is a valuable alternative.

Single-Incision Double-Plating Approach in the Management of Isolated, Closed Osteoporotic Distal Femoral Fractures

INTRODUCTION

Distal femoral fractures in elderly population had recorded an increase in incidence in the last 2 decades. Lateral distal femoral locking plating is considered one of the best options especially when dealing with comminuted fractures but varus collapse of the medial femoral condyle occurs frequently in patients with osteoporosis. Anatomical reduction of the fracture with stable rigid fixation using double-plating approach allows early mobilization of geriatric population and prevents varus collapse minimizing the comorbidities in such fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between September 2014 and January 2017, a prospective study on 23 patients with comminuted osteoporotic distal femoral fractures managed through the double-plating approach through a single parapatellar approach has been conducted. Only osteoporotic geriatric patients with isolated distal femoral fractures were included. Polytraumatized, open fractures, and fracture type 33-A1, 33-A2, and 33-B were excluded. The mean age was 69.6 years (61-80). All patients have been evaluated as regard duration of procedure, time to union, EQ-5D-5L score, the need of autologous bone grafts, range of knee motion, and presence of complications.

RESULTS

The average follow-up was 14.1 months. The majority of fractures were type 33-C2 (13 patients). Average procedure time was 148 minutes (117-193 minutes). Mean EQ-5D-5 L score was 83.8 (72-82). Average time to union was 9 months (3-12 months). Four (17.4%) cases needed autologous bone graft after 6 months. No loss of reduction in any of the cases was evident, although 6 (26%) cases had screw breakage or cutout in one of the plate fixation. Two (8.7%) patient developed superficial wound infection and 1 (4.3%) developed DVT.

DISCUSSION

This study aimed at evaluation of the success of double plating of distal femoral fractures in geriatric population. different fixation methods were studied for reduction and fixation of such a fracture such as external fixation, intramedullary nails and lateral plating. the quality of fracture reduction, functional and radiological outcomes, time to union, the need for bone grafting and complication are the main debatable issues.

CONCLUSION

Single-incision double-plating approach for distal femoral osteoporotic fractures is effective and provides stable construct without reduction loss allowing early rehabilitation. Delayed union and the need for bone graft are the major drawbacks for this technique.

[Current status and progress of clinical research on distal femoral fractures]

Objective

To investigate current status and latest progress of clinical research on distal femoral fractures.

Methods

The related literature was extensively reviewed to summarize the trend of the researches and their clinical application in the treatment of distal femoral fractures.

Results

Distal femoral fractures are likely to occur in young people who suffer from high-energy damage and the elderly with osteoporosis, which is always comminuted and unstable fractures, and often involved in the articular surface and combined with serious soft tissue injury. Therefore, the treatment faces many challenges. External fixation is now used as a temporary means of controlling injury. The vast majority of patients are feasible to internal fixation, including plates system and intramedullary nail system. Different internal fixator also has its own characteristics, such as double plates can strengthen the medial support of the femur, less invasive stabilization system protects the blood supply of fractures, distal cortial locking plate is theoretically more fit for the requirements of bone healing, retrograde intramedullary nail can resist varus and valgus.

Conclusion

The treatment of distal femoral fractures should be based on the type of fracture and the characteristics of internal fixators.

A new classification of TKA periprosthetic femur fractures considering the implant type

Background

The treatment aims of periprosthetic fractures (PPF) of the distal femur are a gentle stabilization, an early load-bearing capacity and a rapid postoperative mobilization of the affected patients. For the therapy planning of PPF a standardized classification is necessary which leads to a clear and safe therapy recommendation. Despite different established classifications, there is none that includes the types of prosthesis used in the assessment. For this purpose, the objective of this work is to create a new more extensive fracture and implant-related classification of periprosthetic fractures of the distal femur based on available classifications which allows distinct therapeutic recommendations.

Methods

In a retrospective analysis all patients who were treated in the University Hospital Leipzig from 2010 to 2016 due to a distal femur fracture with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were established. To create an implant-associated classification the cases were discussed in a panel of experienced orthopaedists and well-practiced traumatologists with a great knowledge in the field of endoprosthetics and fracture care. In this context, two experienced surgeons classified 55 consecutive fractures according to Su et al., Lewis and Rorabeck and by the new created classification. In this regard, the interobserver reliability was determined for two independent raters in terms of Cohen Kappa.

Results

On the basis of the most widely recognized classifications of Su et al. as well as Lewis and Rorabeck, we established an implant-dependent classification for PPF of the distal femur. In accordance with the two stated classifications four fracture types were created and defined. Moreover, the four most frequent prosthesis types were integrated. Finally, a new classification with 16 subtypes was generated based on four types of fracture and four types of prosthesis. Considering all cases the presented implant-associated classification (κ = 0.74) showed a considerably higher interobserver reliability compared to the other classifications of Su et al. (κ = 0.39) as well as Lewis and Rorabeck (κ = 0.31). Excluding the cases which were only assessable by the new classification, it still shows a higher interobserver reliability (κ = 0.70) than the other ones (κ = 0.63 or κ = 0.45).

Conclusions

The new classification system for PPF of the distal femur following TKA considers fracture location and implant type. It is easy to use, shows agood interobserver reliability and allows conclusions to be drawn on treatment recommendations. Moreover, further studies on the evaluation of the classification are necessary and planned.

Open Supracondylar-Intercondylar Fractures of the Femur Treatment With Taylor Spatial Frame

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the Taylor spatial frame (TSF) for primary and definitive fixation of open supracondylar-intracondylar femoral (SIF) fractures.

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS

Subset of 20 SIF open fractures treated with TSF extracted from a consecutive series of 80 SIF fractures treated between 2007 and 2013.

INTERVENTION

Eighteen (90%) fractures underwent definitive fixation with the TSF; 2 were treated primarily within 24 hours of injury. Mean time interval between primary treatment and secondary TSF was 5 days.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Clinical and radiological.

RESULTS

Complete union was obtained in 17 (85%) fractures without additional surgery at an average of 33 weeks. Three nonunions and 1 malunion occurred. No deep infection occurred. Results based on Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria: 37% excellent, and 63% good for bone outcomes; 5% excellent, 58% good, and 37% fair for functional outcomes. Neer knee scores were 21% excellent, 68% good, and 11% fair. The mechanical lateral distal femoral angle and anatomic posterior distal femoral angle values were within normal range in 80% and 90% of patients, respectively. Abnormal mechanical axis deviation was observed in 4 (20%) cases (2 had associated tibia fractures).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary and definitive fixation with the TSF are effective. Advantages include continuity of device until union, reduced risk of infection, early mobilization, restoration of primary defect caused by bone loss, easy and accurate application, convertibility and versatility, and improved union rate and range of motion for SIF open fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Complex AO type C3 distal femur fractures: Results after fixation with a lateral locked plate using modified swashbuckler approach

BACKGROUND

Complex AO type C3 fractures of the distal femur are challenging injuries, fraught with complications such as malunion and stiffness. We prospectively evaluated a consecutive series of patients with complex AO type C3 distal femur fractures to determine the clinicoradiological outcome after fixation with a single locked plate using modified swashbuckler approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

12 patients with C3 type distal femur fractures treated with a lateral locked plate, using a modified swashbuckler approach, were included in the study. The extraarticular component was managed either by compression plating or bridge plating (transarticular approach and retrograde plate osteosynthesis) depending on the fracture pattern. Primary bone grafting was not done in any case. The clinical outcome at 1 year was determined using the Knee Society Score (KSS). The presence of any secondary osteoarthritis in the knee joint was noted at final followup.

RESULTS

All fractures united at a mean of 14.3 ± 4.7 weeks (range 6-26 weeks). There were no significant complications such as nonunion, deep infection, and implant failure. One of the patients underwent secondary bone grafting at 3 months. The mean range of motion of the knee was 120° ± 14.8° (range 105°-150°). Seven patients had excellent, three patients had good and two patients had a fair outcome according to the KSS at 1 year. At a mean followup of 17.6 months, three patients showed radiological evidence of secondary osteoarthritis of the knee joint. However, only one of these patients was symptomatic.

CONCLUSION

The results of complex C3 type distal femur fractures, fixed with a single lateral locked plate using a modified swashbuckler approach, are encouraging, with a majority of patients achieving good to excellent outcome at 1 year.

Coronal Plane Small-Fragment Fixation in Supracondylar Intercondylar Femur Fractures

Supracondylar intercondylar distal femur fractures are devastating injuries that frequently have a concurrent coronal plane fracture, which mandates dedicated operative fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether small-fragment cortical lag screws oriented in the sagittal plane were sufficient to stabilize coronal plane fractures associated with supracondylar intercondylar distal femur fractures. The authors evaluated short-term radiographic outcomes in 56 coronal plane fractures in 44 knees (27 [61.4%] male, 17 [38.6%] female; mean age, 43 years [range, 19-97 years]) sustaining a supracondylar intercondylar distal femur fracture between January 2001 and November 2013. Coronal plane fractures were stabilized with sagittally oriented small-fragment cortical lag screws measuring 3.5 mm or smaller, and the supracondylar intercondylar component was stabilized with a lateral periarticular plate. Fracture displacement was defined as greater than 2 mm of gapping/translation of the coronal plane fragment on any radiographic view. Thirty-three (75.0%) knees had open injuries. Fifty-five (98.2%) of 56 coronal plane fractures went on to radiographic union with no displacement of the coronal fragment; one knee developed avascular necrosis and required arthrodesis. Fifteen (34.1%) of 44 knees required secondary procedures unrelated to the coronal plane fracture. The reduction of coronal plane fractures associated with supracondylar intercondylar distal femur fractures can be reliably maintained when stabilized with small-fragment cortical lag screws oriented in the sagittal plane.

Navigation system for robot-assisted intra-articular lower-limb fracture surgery

Purpose

In the surgical treatment for lower-leg intra-articular fractures, the fragments have to be positioned and aligned to reconstruct the fractured bone as precisely as possible, to allow the joint to function correctly again. Standard procedures use 2D radiographs to estimate the desired reduction position of bone fragments. However, optimal correction in a 3D space requires 3D imaging. This paper introduces a new navigation system that uses pre-operative planning based on 3D CT data and intra-operative 3D guidance to virtually reduce lower-limb intra-articular fractures. Physical reduction in the fractures is then performed by our robotic system based on the virtual reduction.

Methods

3D models of bone fragments are segmented from CT scan. Fragments are pre-operatively visualized on the screen and virtually manipulated by the surgeon through a dedicated GUI to achieve the virtual reduction in the fracture. Intra-operatively, the actual position of the bone fragments is provided by an optical tracker enabling real-time 3D guidance. The motion commands for the robot connected to the bone fragment are generated, and the fracture physically reduced based on the surgeon’s virtual reduction. To test the system, four femur models were fractured to obtain four different distal femur fracture types. Each one of them was subsequently reduced 20 times by a surgeon using our system.

Results

The navigation system allowed an orthopaedic surgeon to virtually reduce the fracture with a maximum residual positioning error of \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$0.95 \pm 0.3\,\hbox {mm}$$\end{document}0.95±0.3mm (translational) and \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$1.4^{\circ } \pm 0.5^{\circ }$$\end{document}1.4∘±0.5∘ (rotational). Correspondent physical reductions resulted in an accuracy of 1.03 ± 0.2 mm and \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$1.56^{\circ }\pm 0.1^{\circ }$$\end{document}1.56∘±0.1∘, when the robot reduced the fracture.

Conclusions

Experimental outcome demonstrates the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed navigation system, presenting a fracture reduction accuracy of about 1 mm and \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$1.5^{\circ }$$\end{document}1.5∘, and meeting the clinical requirements for distal femur fracture reduction procedures.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s11548-016-1418-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Manipulation Under Anesthesia: A Safe and Effective Treatment for Posttraumatic Arthrofibrosis of the Knee

OBJECTIVES

This study investigates the results of closed manipulations performed under anesthesia (MUA) to evaluate whether it is an effective means to treat posttraumatic knee arthrofibrosis.

DESIGN

Retrospective review.

SETTING

Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-two patients with a mean age of 40 underwent closed MUA for posttraumatic knee arthrofibrosis. Injuries included fractures of the femur, tibia, and patella as well as ligamentous injuries and traumatic arthrotomies. The mean time from treatment to manipulation was 90 days. Mean follow-up after manipulation was 7 months.

INTERVENTION

Closed knee MUA.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Improvement of knee range of motion (ROM) arc was the primary outcome. Patient demographics were correlated with manipulation success using a 2-sample t test. A delay in manipulation of 90 days or greater was also evaluated in this fashion with regard to its role in predicting the benefit of MUA.

RESULTS

The mean premanipulation ROM arc was 59 ± 25 degrees. The mean intraoperative arc of motion, achieved at the time of the manipulation was 123 ± 14 degrees. No complications occurred during the MUA procedure. At the most recent follow-up, the mean ROM arc was 110 ± 19 degrees. Tobacco use, associated injuries, elevated body mass index, open fracture, and advanced age did not impact manipulation efficacy. Additionally, manipulations performed 90 days or more after surgical treatment provided a benefit equaling those performed more acutely (P = 0.12).

DISCUSSION

MUA is a safe and effective method to increase knee ROM in the setting of posttraumatic arthrofibrosis. Improvement in ROM was noted in all patients. A 90-day window between fracture fixation and manipulation did not impact ROM at final follow-up and may prevent fracture displacement during the MUA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Low Complication Rates Associated With the Application of Lower Extremity Traction Pins

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the infection risks of temporary lower extremity traction pins and compare these rates to nationwide and institution-specific surgical site infection rates. Additionally, to qualitatively describe pin site infections and to analyze the impact of traction pins on infection risks at associated open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) surgical sites.

DESIGN

A retrospective case-control study.

SETTING

Level I Urban University Trauma Center.

PATIENTS

One hundred sixty-nine cases of traction pin application occurring in 157 unique patients extracted from a trauma patient database.

INTERVENTION

Bedside application of a traction pin in the femur or tibia.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Rates of 90-day and 1-year minor and major infections at pin insertion locations and at ORIF wounds associated with traction pins.

RESULTS

A single infection, a septic knee, was reported. There were no superficial infections or osteomyelitis cases observed. The 90-day and 1-year rates of infection were identical with a per pin infection rate of 0.6% [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.1%-3.4%], a minor infection rate of 0.0% (95% CI, 0.0%-2.3%), and a major infection rate of 0.6% (95% CI, 0.1%-3.4%). Observed rates were lower than, but statistically similar to, nationwide infection rates for open reduction procedures and similar to institution-specific infection rates for arthroplasty procedures. Infection rates at associated ORIF wounds were not increased in comparison with nationwide controls. Pin placement played a definitive role in the infection observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Temporary lower extremity traction pins have low infection rates and can be safely placed at the bedside. Careful pin placement and review of postinsertion radiographs is necessary to avoid iatrogenic infection.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

External fixation of distal femoral fractures in adults' multicentre retrospective study of 43 patients

BACKGROUND

A multicenter cohort of 43 adults with distal femoral fractures (DFFs) managed with external fixation was evaluated to determine the potential of this treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The patients were young adults (mean age: 39.6 years) with high-energy trauma; 12 had polytrauma and 41 multiple fractures. Most patients (38/43) had compound DFFs. Fracture types were A in 3 patients, B in 3 patients, and C in 37 patients. A tibio-femoral construct was required in 11 patients and a femoro-femoral construct in 32 patients.

RESULTS

The normal femoral axis was restored within 5° in the coronal plane in 34 (79%) patients and in the sagittal plane in 22 (51%) patients. Axis restoration within 5° in both planes was achieved in 19 (44.7%) patients. After femoro-femoral external fixation, mean malalignment was 4.2° in the coronal plane and 8.6° in the sagittal plane; corresponding values after tibio-femoral external fixation were 1.3° and 8.6°. In 23 patients (of whom 1 was lost to follow-up), external fixation was intended as the only and definitive treatment; among them, 1 required amputation after a failed revascularization procedure, 10 achieved fracture healing within a mean of 21.2 weeks, 6 required conversion to another technique, and 5 underwent non-conservative procedures (total knee arthroplasty in 3 and arthrodesis in 2). In the remaining 20 patients, conversion to internal fixation was intended initially and performed within a mean of 4.7 weeks; 1 of these patients required amputation for ischemia, 3 did not achieve fracture healing, 12 achieved primary fracture healing, and 4 achieved fracture healing after repeated grafting (n=3) or osteotomy (n=1). At last follow-up (at least 1 year), the mean International Knee Society (IKS) Function Score was 67.3 and an IKS Knee Score of 68.5. Range of active flexion was 85.75° overall, 62.3° in the group with intended definitive external fixation and 101° in the group with intended conversion to internal fixation. Healing without complications was achieved in 10 (43%) in the former group and 12 (60%) in the latter group.

CONCLUSION

Our data support provisional external fixation followed by early conversion to internal fixation in patients with extensively compounded DFFs; patients with multiple fractures requiring several surgical procedures; and polytrauma patients awaiting hemodynamic, respiratory, or neurological stabilization.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective study.

Comminuted distal femur closed fractures: a new application of the Ilizarov concept of compression-distraction

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of intra-articular distal femur fractures with severe metaphyseal comminution is challenging. It is important to choose a technique that provides secure fixation, minimum tissue handling, and early ambulation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the outcomes of application of Ilizarov concept as an early definitive treatment of comminuted distal femur closed fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 17 male patients (mean age 28.53±6.33 years) presented with comminuted distal femur fractures (with 10 type C2 and 7 type C3-2 fractures according to AO/ASIF system) were included in this prospective study. Initial fixation of the articular fragments was done by inter-fragmentary screws, percutaneously through a limited open approach, and stabilization was completed by Ilizarov fixator. The procedure included acute shortening, through the comminution, followed by gradual re-distraction to compensate the created shortening. Radiological and functional results were assessed according to ASAMI evaluation system.

RESULTS

The mean amount of intra-operative shortening was 3.68±0.53 cm. The mean external fixation index was 37.24±2.53 days/cm. The mean follow-up period was 18.18±1.91 months. All fractures united primarily in an average 137.65±4.12 days, with no evident angular deformity or limb-length discrepancy. None of the cases required a second major procedure or bone graft. The functional results were excellent in three cases, good in 12, and fair in two patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The Ilizarov concept of acute compression-distraction is a valuable alternative for the treatment of distal femur fractures with severe metaphyseal comminution.

[Retrograde nailing in a tibial fracture]

We describe a case of a severely comminuted type iiia open tibial fracture, with distal loss of bone stock (7 cm), total involvement of the tibial joint surface, and severe instability of the fibular-talar joint. The treatment performed consisted of thorough cleansing, placing a retrograde reamed calcaneal-talar-tibial nail with proximal and distal blockage, as well as a fibular-talar Kirschner nail. Primary closure of the skin was achieved. After 3 weeks, an autologous iliac crest bone graft was performed to fill the bone defect, and the endomedullary nail, which had protruded distally was reimpacted and dynamized distally. The bone defect was eventually consolidated after 16 weeks. Currently, the patient can walk without pain the tibial-astragal arthrodesis is consolidated.

Predictive factors for knee stiffness after periarticular fracture: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Knee stiffness is an important complication after periarticular fracture, but a systematic evaluation of risk factors for this complication and outcomes of treatment has not been undertaken, to our knowledge. The aims of this study were to evaluate risk factors for knee stiffness requiring manipulation after periarticular fracture and to document the clinical outcomes of the manipulation.

METHODS

This study was designed as a case-control study in which patients requiring manipulation under anesthesia after periarticular fracture were compared with those who did not require manipulation. Using billing data from a regional level-I trauma center, we identified twenty-four knees requiring manipulation for refractory stiffness over a six-year period. These were matched, on the basis of the AO/OTA classification, with forty-three control knees that did not develop stiffness requiring manipulation. Descriptive statistics were used for frequency and mean analysis.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed that extensor mechanism disruption (chi square = 0.05), fasciotomy (chi square = 0.020), wounds requiring ongoing management and precluding knee motion (p = 0.001), and the need for more than two surgical procedures to achieve definitive fracture fixation and soft-tissue coverage (p = 0.003) all placed patients at increased risk for knee stiffness requiring manipulation. The mean improvement in knee motion following all procedures targeting knee stiffness was 62°. Mean final flexion was significantly less in the case group (107°) compared with the control group (124°; p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically evaluate the risk factors for knee stiffness after periarticular fracture and document the outcomes of manipulation under anesthesia. It demonstrates that injury characteristics that delay or prevent postoperative knee motion place patients at increased risk for refractory knee stiffness. Although knee motion remains compromised, late surgery aimed at improving knee motion leads to improvements in flexion

Highly unstable complex C3-type distal femur fracture: can double plating via a modified Olerud extensile approach be a standby solution?

Background

Multiplanar complex C3-type unstable distal femoral fractures present many challenges in terms of approach and fixation. This prospective study investigates a possible solution to these problems through double plating with autogenous bone grafting via a modified Olerud extensile approach.

Materials and methods

Twelve patients with closed C3-type injuries were included; eight of them were male, and their mean age was 33.5 years (range 22–44 years). Mechanism of injury was road traffic accident (RTA) in nine patients and fall from height in the other three cases. Eight cases were operated during the first week and four cases during the second week after injury. Mean follow-up was 13.7 months (range 11–18 months).

Results

Mean radiological healing time was 18.3 weeks (range 12-28 weeks), and all cases had good radiological healing without recorded nonunion or malunion. Clinically, two cases (16.7 %) had excellent results, five cases (41.7 %) had good results, three cases (25 %) had fair results, and two cases (16.7 %) had poor results. No cases developed skin necrosis, deep infection, bone collapse, or implant failure. However, two cases (16.7 %) had limited knee flexion to 90° and required subsequent quadricepsplasty.

Conclusions

Use of this modified highly invasive approach facilitated anatomical reconstruction of C3-type complex distal femoral fractures with lower expected complication rate and acceptable clinical outcome, especially offering good reconstruction of the suprapatellar pouch area. It can be considered as a standby solution for managing these difficult injuries.

Retrograde nail for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis as a limb salvage procedure for open distal tibia and talus fractures with severe bone loss

The treatment of complex fractures of the distal tibia, ankle, and talus with soft tissue damage, bone loss, and nonreconstructable joints for which the optimal timing for reduction and fixation has been missed is challenging. In such cases primary arthrodesis might be a treatment option. We report a series of multi-injured patients with severe soft tissue damage and bone loss, who were treated with a retrograde tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis nail as a minimally invasive treatment option for limb salvage. After a median follow-up of 5.4 years, all patients returned to their former profession. The ankle and bone fusion was complete, with moderate functional results and quality of life. Calcaneotibial arthrodesis using a retrograde nail is a good treatment option for nonreconstructable fractures of the ankle joint with severe bone loss and poor soft tissue quality in selected patients with multiple injuries, in particular, those involving both lower extremities, as a salvage procedure.

Judet quadricepsplasty in the treatment of posttraumatic knee rigidity: long-term outcomes of 45 cases

BACKGROUND

Posttraumatic knee stiffness is a very debilitating condition. Judet's quadricepsplasty technique has been used for more than 50 years. However, few reports of quadricepsplasty results exist in the literature.

METHODS

We report the results of 45 cases of posttraumatic arthrofibrosis of the knee treated with Judet's quadricepsplasty. The results of the procedure were analyzed by measuring the degrees of flexion of the operated knees at different time points (before, immediately after, and late postoperatively).

RESULTS

The degree of flexion increased from 33.6 degrees (range, 5–80 degrees) preoperatively to 105 degrees (range, 45–160 degrees)immediately after surgery, followed by a slight fall in the range of motion (ROM) in the late postoperative period, which reached an average of 84.8 degrees. There was no significant correlation between knee strength and the patient's gender, but there was a slight trend of lower strength with age. Although Judet's quadricepsplasty technique dates from more than 50 years ago, it still provides good outcomes in the treatment of rigid knees of various etiologies. In general, all cases showed the same pattern of a small decrease in the ROM in the late postoperative period.

CONCLUSION

Judet's quadricepsplasty can increase the ROM of rigid knees. The ROM obtained with the surgery persists long term.

[Distal femoral fractures]

Fractures of the distal femur still represent injuries that are difficult to treat as they either affect younger patients after a high-energy trauma with soft tissue damage and osseous comminution or elderly people with impaired local vascularity and a poor bone stock. However, exactly these fractures profit from new, biological principles of treatment, which help to diminish additional surgical trauma by indirect fracture reduction and insertion of stabilizing implants via mini-incisions. Basically, these techniques are represented by retrograde intramedullary nails and submuscularilly inserted plates/internal fixateurs. While intramedullary nails are well suited to fix extramedullary and simple articular fractures (C1), plates can also be used to treat complex articular fractures. Nevertheless, any displaced articular fracture component must still be anatomically reduced by an open approach and fixed with absolute stability. Technical advances as well as demographic changes will continue to represent challenges in the treatment of these fractures.

Distal femoral fractures: current concepts

The diversity of surgical options for the management of distal femoral fractures reflects the challenges inherent in these injuries. These fractures are frequently comminuted and intra-articular, and they often involve osteoporotic bone, which makes it difficult to reduce and hold them while maintaining joint function and overall limb alignment. Surgery has become the standard of care for displaced fractures and for patients who must obtain rapid return of knee function. The goal of surgical management is to promote early knee motion while restoring the articular surface, maintaining limb length and alignment, and preserving the soft-tissue envelope with a durable fixation that allows functional recovery during bone healing. A variety of surgical exposures, techniques, and implants has been developed to meet these objectives, including intramedullary nailing, screw fixation, and periarticular locked plating, possibly augmented with bone fillers. Recognition of the indications and applications of the principles of modern implants and techniques is fundamental in achieving optimal outcomes.

Treatment of acute distal femur fractures

An emphasis on indirect reduction techniques to restore limb alignment has improved the rate of fracture healing and decreased infection rates, fixation failure, and the need for bone grafting.

Retrograde nailing versus fixed-angle blade plating for supracondylar femoral fractures: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A variety of devices have been used in the treatment of supracondylar femoral fractures. The condylar blade plate relies on the principles of open reduction, absolute stability and interfragmentary compression to achieve union. The technique of retrograde nailing uses indirect reduction of the metaphyseal fracture component, offering relative stability and a less invasive approach. Randomized comparison of these common methods of fixation has not been reported.

METHODS

Twenty-two patients with 23 supracondylar femur fractures were recruited from two regional trauma centres over a 26-month period and randomized to receive either a retrograde intramedullary nail fixation (IM group, 12 fractures) or a fixed-angle blade plate fixation (BP group, 11 fractures). The groups were followed for 12-36 months. The primary outcome measures were revision surgery and general health.

RESULTS

Three patients in the IM group required revision surgery for the removal of implant components. No reoperations occurred in the BP group. There was a trend towards greater pain in the IM group, although there was no statistically significant difference in the scores for any of the SF-36 domains.

CONCLUSION

Both distal femoral nailing and blade plating give good outcomes. There is a trend for patients undergoing retrograde nailing to complain of more pain and to require revision surgery for removal of implants.

The use of the Ilizarov method as a salvage procedure in infected nonunion of the distal femur with bone loss

We reviewed 13 patients with infected nonunion of the distal femur and bone loss, who had been treated by radical surgical debridement and the application of an Ilizarov external fixator. All had severely restricted movement of the knee and a mean of 3.1 previous operations. The mean length of the bony defect was 8.3 cm and no patient was able to bear weight. The mean external fixation time was 309.8 days. According to Paley's grading system, eight patients had an excellent clinical and radiological result and seven excellent and good functional results. Bony union, the ability to bear weight fully, and resolution of the infection were achieved in all the patients. The external fixation time was increased when the definitive treatment started six months or more after the initial trauma, the patient had been subjected to more than four previous operations and the initial operation had been open reduction and internal fixation.

Operative treatment of acute distal femur fractures: systematic review of 2 comparative studies and 45 case series (1989 to 2005)

BACKGROUND

The incidence of distal femur fractures is approximately 37 per 100,000 person-years. Typically, distal femur fractures are caused by a high-energy injury mechanism in young men or a low-energy mechanism in elderly women. Managing these fractures can be a challenging task. Most surgeons agree that distal femur fractures need to be treated operatively to achieve optimal patient outcomes. The articular fracture component is usually treated with open reduction and internal lag screw fixation or external tension wire fixation (Illizarov). However, there is no consensus on the type of implant for the fixation of the metaphyseal-diaphyseal fracture component.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to systematically summarize and compare the results of different fixation techniques (traditional compression plating, antegrade nailing, retrograde nailing, submuscular locked internal fixation, and external fixation) in the operative management of acute nonperiprosthetic distal femur fractures (AO/OTA type 33A and C) and the characteristics of the fractures for each treatment (articular/nonarticular and open/closed). Additionally an attempt was made to evaluate the impact of surgical experience on nonunion rate, fixation failure rate, deep infection rate, and secondary surgical procedure rate. In the context of this article compression plating relates to techniques/implants that require compression of the implant to the femoral shaft-it does not relate to interfragmentary compression.

Distal femoral fractures: a review of fixation methods

The treatment of distal femoral fractures has evolved; nevertheless, these fractures remain difficult to treat and carry an unpredictable prognosis. Over the years, many different strategies have been used with varying success. This review outlines the problems presented by distal femoral fractures and the results of current surgical techniques.

Role of Ilizarov external fixator in the management of proximal/distal metadiaphyseal pediatric femur fractures

Given the constraints of a short metaphyseal fragment and adjacent growth plates, there are limited options for operative fixation of metadiaphyseal fractures of the femur in children. This article outlines the surgical technique and reports early results of metadiaphyseal pediatric femur fractures treated with an Ilizarov external fixator by a single surgeon. Ten skeletally immature males with 5 proximal and 5 distal metadiaphyseal femur fractures underwent closed reduction and application of an Ilizarov external fixator. Time in the fixator averaged 138 (range, 104-180) days. At a mean follow-up of 26 months, there were no cases of loss of reduction, refracture, malalignment, leg length inequality, or loss of knee and hip mobility. Although superficial pin tract infections were common, no patient developed deep infection or required premature pin removal. One patient developed a transient foot drop after external fixation for a distal metadiaphyseal fracture, which recovered after revision of the pin construct. A low profile Ilizarov fixator can be effective in the management of certain metadiaphyseal pediatric femur fractures that may be difficult to manage by traditional methods.

Ilizarov ring fixation and fibular strut grafting for C3 distal femoral fractures

PURPOSE

To evaluate treatment outcome following surgical repair of C3 distal femoral fractures using autogenous fibular strut, cortico-cancellous bone grafting, and Ilizarov ring fixation.

METHODS

A total of 15 patients with type C3 fractures (supracondylar and intercondylar fractures, with multiplane articular injury) underwent surgical repair at St. John's Medical College Hospital between 1994 and 2001, using autogenous fibular strut, cortico-cancellous bone grafting, and Ilizarov ring fixation. 13 were seen for ongoing follow-up and assessment. Definitive surgery was undertaken at a mean of 3 weeks after admission. Postoperatively, weight-bearing and mobilisation exercise were begun in 2 to 4 weeks.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 47 months. Union was achieved in all 13 cases by an average time of 19 weeks. At the last follow-up, the mean range of knee motion was 77 degrees. Assessment of functional outcome (using Neer's scoring criteria) revealed 10 cases with good or satisfactory outcomes, and 3 cases with poor or unsatisfactory results.

CONCLUSION

Surgical repair with a fibular strut, cortico-cancellous bone graft and Ilizarov ring fixation appears a suitable treatment option for C3 distal femoral fractures.

Intra-articular fractures of the distal femur: a long-term follow-up study of surgically treated patients

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the long-term (5-25 years) functional and radiologic results of surgically treated intra-articular fractures of the distal femur.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-seven surgically treated consecutive patients with 67 intra-articular distal femoral fractures were included in this study. All fractures were classified according to the AO classification. There were 36 men and 31 women. The mean age at time of accident was 45 years (range 16-94 years). There were 38 patients with isolated fractures and 29 with multiple fractures. Median hospital stay was 23 days (range 12-330 days). A 1-year follow-up was done in all 67 patients. Thirty-two of these patients were also seen for an additional long-term follow-up visit. Functional results of these 32 patients were graded using the Neer and HSS knee scores. Radiologic results were graded using the Ahlbäck score. Statistical analysis was performed by means of the SPSS data analysis program.

RESULTS

At 1-year follow-up in 40 of 65 patients (62%), the fracture was fully healed, in 22 patients (34%) a fixation callus still existed, and 1 patient had a nonunion. In 2 patients, an arthrodesis was performed. The mean knee range of motion was 111 degrees (range 10-145 degrees). After a mean follow-up of 14 years (range 5-25 years), the mean knee range of motion was 118 degrees (range 10-145 degrees). The Neer score showed good to excellent results in 84% of the patients, and the HSS knee score showed good to excellent results in 75% of the patients. Patients with isolated fractures scored significantly better functionally (Neer/HSS 90 points) compared with those with multiple fractures. The Ahlbäck score showed a moderate to severe development of secondary osteoarthritis in 36% of all patients. Seventy-two percent of these patients still scored a good to excellent functional result. Seven patients (10%) had local complications in the form of a deep wound infection. Five of these patients were treated successfully, whereas 2 had a chronic infection that subsequently led to an arthrodesis.

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of monocondylar and bicondylar femoral fractures shows good long-term results after open reduction and internal fixation. Knee function increases through time, though the range of motion does not increase after 1 year. The presence of secondary osteoarthritis does not mean less favorable functional results in most patients.

External fixators in the treatment of fractures in children

New properties are being modified in the external fixator instrumentation that are leading to the more indicated use of this type of fixation especially in children's lower limb fractures. Dynamization, the ability to lengthen the limb and easy wound care are among the new properties of the monoplane external fixator, along with greater stability than older models. These new properties are now making the external fixator an indication rather than a choice in many cases. We have retrospectively studied 21 children with lower limb fractures treated by 28 external fixators. The results of this study show advantages such as lower infection rate, consolidation without the need of reoperation, easy physiotherapy, easy wound care and the ability to perform shortening and lengthening in the same set. Disadvantages are mostly complications that are due to the external fixation such as iatrogenic vascular lesions, pins tract infections and iatrogenic fractures.

Interfragmentary surface area as an index of comminution energy: proof of concept in a bone fracture surrogate

Fracture mechanics theory postulates a monotonic relationship between energy absorption and fracture surface generation. We hypothesized that this relationship was demonstrable to the point that, on a continuous scale, comminuted fractures created with disparate levels of energy delivery could be discriminated. Using a bone fracture surrogate in conjunction with digital image analysis of CT fracture data, we measured the surface area freed by controlled, discrete fracture simulations. Prior to these simulations, the reproducibility of the digital image analysis algorithm was validated with repeated measurements by two different operators. The parametric fracture series results showed a statistically significant difference in measured de novo surface area between four specimen groups, over a range of input energies from 1.4 x 10(10)-9.1 x 10(10)J/m(3) (or 12.5-80.2J/specimen). The results of this study provide confirmation that comminution severity can indeed be measured on a continuous scale, based on energy absorption (another clinically meaningful index).

Distal femur fractures with complex articular involvement: management by articular exposure and submuscular fixation

The A.O./O.T.A. C3 distal femur fracture is characterized by complex articular involvement and is often accompanied by a very short distal femur segment, small osteochondral fragments, and high-energy soft tissue disruption. Current fixation strategies do not provide for optimal visualization/reduction of the articular surface in conjunction with stable fixation of the distal femoral block. Malunion, loss of fixation, need for supplemental fixation, and need for bone grafting is common in the treatment of the C3 distal femur fracture. The transarticular percutaneous osteosynthesis technique, popularized by Krettek, et al, utilizes a lateral peripatellar approach for optimal articular visualization and submuscular fixation for minimal devitalization. In this article, its use is described, as well as reduction and fixation strategies for the articular surface.

Distal femoral fractures: current treatment, results and problems

The evolution of treatment for supracondylar femoral fractures has sequentially addressed the difficulties of alignment, articular reduction, stabilization and fracture union. Adequate surgical stabilization and early motion diminished stiffness, while newer indirect techniques in handling periarticular tissues have greatly improved union rates. Indirect methods of reduction require an understanding of anatomy and deformity to avoid malalignment. The problems we currently face are fixation in osteoporotic bone or small distal articular segments.