Shoe rim and shoe buckle pseudotumor of the ankle in elite and professional figure skaters and snowboarders: MR imaging findings

OBJECTIVE

To review MR imaging of figure skaters and snowboarders presenting with painful soft-tissue swelling of the lateral supramalleolar region with a clinical provisional diagnosis of soft-tissue tumor.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

MR imaging was prospectively reviewed by two sub-specialized musculoskeletal radiologists. The findings were correlated with a second clinical review and examination of the shoe wear. The patients were four female athletes undergoing heavy training regimes, ranging in age between 16 and 25 years. Two patients were elite figure skaters, and two were professional snowboarders. Three patients had unilateral masses with pain, and one patient presented with bilateral clinical findings.

RESULTS

MR imaging showed subcutaneous, focal soft-tissue masses of the supramalleolar region in five ankles at the same level above the ankle joint. MR imaging prompted a second clinical review and correlation with the shoe wear. The MR imaging findings correlated to the level of the shoe rim or shoe buckle in all patients, confirming the suspected MR imaging diagnosis of an impingement syndrome. All four sportswomen were training excessively, ignoring safety advice regarding training duration, timing of breaks, and shoe wear rotation.

CONCLUSION

Ice skaters and snowboarders may present with persistent and disabling pain. On MR imaging, this corresponds to a focal soft-tissue abnormality, which may be due to subcutaneous fat impingement between the fibula and the shoe rim or shoe buckle.

MR imaging of calcification of the lateral collateral ligament of the knee: a rare abnormality and a cause of lateral knee pain

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to describe the radiologic appearances of calcification of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) of the knee in four patients who presented with acute atraumatic lateral knee pain. This rare abnormality has not, to our knowledge, been previously shown on MR imaging.

CONCLUSION

Calcification of the LCL of the knee is a rare cause of lateral knee pain and is thought to reflect underlying hydroxyapatite deposition. On MR imaging, calcification of the LCL may be associated with an aggressive appearance that can be mistaken for other knee abnormalities.

Observations on retrieved glenoid components

To obtain more information on the pattern of damage of prosthetic glenoid components, we analyzed 7 retrieved glenoid components. The consecutive series included 2 standard polyethylene components and 5 highly crystalline polyethylene glenoids (Hylamer; DePuy Dupont Orthopaedics, Warsaw, IN) retrieved 3 to 12 years after implantation. At revision, 4 of 5 Hylamer components were fractured. Common wear patterns were i) deformation and crumbling of the rim, particularly at the inferior hemicircumference, probably caused by direct contact of the humerus with the prosthetic component; ii) roughening (abrasion and scratching) of the adjacent articulating surface; and iii) concentric and congruous wear centered posteriorly. Available glenoid components may cover an excessive sector of the head. This can result in mechanical restriction of glenohumeral motion and abutment of the humerus against the glenoid rim. Abutment may cause major shear forces and therefore cause glenoid loosening. The value of articular surface mismatch is questionable because retrieved glenoids were worn to a conforming joint.

Surgical landmarks to determine humeral head retrotorsion for hemiarthroplasty in fractures

Malrotation has been suggested as a cause of failure of hemiarthroplasty of the proximal humerus. Placing a shoulder prosthesis in relationship to the bicipital groove might reproduce individual anatomy more reliably than using a standardized retrotorsion. The purpose of this study was to determine criteria for accurate adjustment of retrotorsion even when the proximal bicipital groove is destroyed, as is the case in fractures. The distance of the humeral head equatorial plane to the center of the bicipital groove was measured by high-resolution computed tomography at 4 levels (proximal and distal with 2 intermediate levels). The distal distance was considered to correspond to available references in fracture cases. The mean proximal distance was 8.0 mm (10th percentile, 6.2 mm; 90th percentile, 9.8 mm), and the mean distal distance was 8.5 mm (10th percentile, 7.1 mm; 90th percentile, 9.9 mm). As to the clinical relevance, there was no statistically significant difference between distances. For practical purposes in fracture indications, it is adequate to adjust the retrotorsion of the prosthetic component to the distal bicipital groove.

Treatment of tibial plateau fractures with small fragment internal fixation: a preliminary report

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of small fragment implants for fractures of the proximal tibia.

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Seventeen patients with AO Classification Type B and C fractures of the proximal tibia. Two patients were lost to follow-up.

INTERVENTION

After atraumatic dissection and open reduction, fracture stabilization was accomplished with the use of the AO/ASIF small T-plate (3.5-millimeter system). In two patients a medial uniplanar external fixator was applied as additional fixation. In six patients a cancellous autograft was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

At an average follow-up of forty-two months (range, 24 to 75 months), all patients were evaluated radiographically and functionally. The incidence of local complications was specifically recorded.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, the radiographs showed 86.7 percent anatomic or near anatomic reduction with respect to the articular joint surface. In three separate patients condylar widening, condylar narrowing or varus deformity was evident. In one patient, a minimal secondary displacement of less than two millimeters was observed before bony healing. All fractures healed within twelve weeks. At the latest follow-up, there were 53.3 percent excellent, 33.3 percent good, and 13.3 percent fair results. There were no infection or soft tissue complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of small fragment implants combined with atraumatic soft tissue dissection potentially offers good results for the treatment of fractures of the proximal tibia. These initial results suggest that this technique may have the advantage of anatomic reduction while comparing favorably with less invasive methods regarding radiologic and functional outcome as well as incidence of complications.

The evolution of indirect reduction techniques for the treatment of fractures

During the last decade, classic AO/ASIF techniques for internal fixation shifted from direct reduction and rigid fixation to biologic internal fixation using indirect reduction techniques. Biologic internal fixation is characterized by the preservation of bone and soft tissue vascularity and relative rather than absolute mechanical stability. Reduction is achieved by using soft tissue traction while obtaining axial and rotational alignment and the correct length. Stabilization is performed when possible by compression plating for load sharing or by bridge plating in comminuted fractures. Advancements of these techniques and the development of newer implants that minimize vascular damage have contributed to the development of biologic internal fixation. By using indirect reduction, by using longer plates to improve the mechanical leverage, and by applying fewer screws to avoid unnecessary damage to the bone, fracture union rates were high. There also was a decreased need for supplemental bone grafting. All of these factors provided stable fixation and allowed early motion.

The medial malleolar network: a constant vascular base of the distally based saphenous neurocutaneous island flap

Based on 30 fresh cadaver dissections a detailed anatomic study of the medial malleolar network is presented with particular attention to the anastomoses between the latter and the vascular axis that follows the saphenous nerve. The medial malleolar network is formed by the anterior medial malleolar artery, branches from the medial tarsal arteries, the posterior medial malleolar artery and branches from the medial plantar artery. A distinct anterior medial malleolar artery and posterior medial malleolar artery could be identified in 80 and 20%, respectively, as well as constant additional small branches arising from the anterior tibial or posterior tibial artery. A constant anastomosis was found between the arcade formed by the medial tarsal arteries and the medial plantar a. in 60%, and the medial branch of the medial plantar artery in 40%, respectively. This anastomosis always gave rise to branches to the medial malleolar network. In the perimalleolar area and with regard to the great saphenous v. a larger anterior and a smaller posterior branch of the saphenous nerve was found in 100 and 90%, respectively. In all dissections, for both branches of the saphenous nerve two to four small, but distinct anastomoses between the medial malleolar network and the perineural vascular axis were identified. These constant anastomoses represent a new and reliable vascular base for the distally-based saphenous neurocutaneous island flap. Thus, the pivotal point of the flap can be chosen in the area of the medial malleolus without respecting the most distal septocutaneous anastomosis between the perineural vascular axis and the posterior tibial artery. Additionally, an illustrative clinical case is presented.

The connective-tissue envelope in revascularisation of patellar tendon grafts

Free patellar tendon grafts used for the intra-articular replacement of ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) lack perfusion at the time of implantation. The central core of the graft undergoes a process of ischaemic necrosis which may result in failure. Early reperfusion of the graft may diminish the extent of this process. We assessed the role of peritendinous connective tissue in the revascularisation of the patellar tendon graft from the day of implantation up to 24 days in a murine model using intravital microscopy. The peritendinous connective-tissue envelope of the graft was either completely removed, partially removed or not stripped before implantation into dorsal skinfold chambers of recipient mice. Initial revascularisation of the grafts with preserved peritendinous connective tissues began after two days. The process was delayed by five to six times in completely stripped patellar tendons (p < 0.05). Only grafts with preserved connective tissues showed high viability whereas those which were completely stripped appeared to be subvital. The presence of peritendinous connective tissues accelerates the revascularisation of free patellar tendon grafts.

The connective-tissue envelope in revascularisation of patellar tendon grafts

Free patellar tendon grafts used for the intra-articular replacement of ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) lack perfusion at the time of implantation. The central core of the graft undergoes a process of ischaemic necrosis which may result in failure. Early reperfusion of the graft may diminish the extent of this process.

We assessed the role of peritendinous connective tissue in the revascularisation of the patellar tendon graft from the day of implantation up to 24 days in a murine model using intravital microscopy. The peritendinous connective-tissue envelope of the graft was either completely removed, partially removed or not stripped before implantation into dorsal skinfold chambers of recipient mice.

Initial revascularisation of the grafts with preserved peritendinous connective tissues began after two days. The process was delayed by five to six times in completely stripped patellar tendons (p < 0.05). Only grafts with preserved connective tissues showed high viability whereas those which were completely stripped appeared to be subvital.

The presence of peritendinous connective tissues accelerates the revascularisation of free patellar tendon grafts.

On the timing of soft-tissue reconstruction for open fractures of the lower leg

The timing of soft-tissue reconstruction for severe open fractures of the lower leg is considered crucial to the later outcome, and yet pertinent publications are few. The purpose of this study was to add some based on evidence arguments for the choice of the most adequate timing in the management of these injuries. Twenty-nine consecutive open fractures of the tibia, including 24 grade 3B and 5 grade 3C fractures, were treated using a protocol of immediate debridement, early definitive skeletal stabilisation and early soft-tissue reconstruction. Fifteen lower legs were reconstructed after a mean delay of 4.4 days (range 1-9 days), while 14 lower legs were reconstructed immediately, i.e. as an emergency procedure on the day of admission. Both groups were comparable for sex, age, type of trauma, associated general injuries, type of fracture, associated arterial lesion, associated tendon rupture, type of soft-tissue reconstruction and duration of follow-up. All patients were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 47 months (range 15-89 months). In the delayed reconstruction group the time to full, unprotected weight-bearing (P = 0.0021), the time to definitive union (P = 0.0049), the number of reoperations (P = 0.0001) and the infection rate (P = 0.0374) were significantly higher. The data suggest that immediate reconstruction is, the general condition of the patient permitting, the timing of choice for soft-tissue coverage.

The reversed-flow medio-distal fasciocutaneous island thigh flap: anatomic basis and clinical applications

A new fasciocutaneous reversed-flow island flap of the thigh is presented which is independent of the presence of perfused blood vessels below the level of the knee joint-line. The pedicle, which is supplied by the proximal genicular anastomotic network, consists of the osteoarticular branch (OAB) and concomitant veins of the descending genicular artery. Based on cadaver dissections the OAB arose in 23/30 specimens (77%) together with the saphenous artery (SA). In 2/30 specimens (7%) the OAB originated directly from the superficial femoral artery and in 1/30 specimens (3%) the OAB was absent. The OAB gave off one to three cutaneous branches to the overlying skin in 26/30 specimens (87%). We were able to elevate a flap on the osteoarticular branch alone in 57%. Additional length could be added to the pedicle in 33% by including the most proximal part of the saphenous artery together with its first cutaneous branch. Thus, in 90% of the dissections a reversed-flow island flap could be raised which reached the proximal half of the leg, the knee and the most distal part of the thigh. We report our early clinical experience.

[Treatment concept in complex fractures of the head of the tibia]

Complex tibial condylar fractures are intraarticular fractures with associated lesions of capsule and ligaments, menisci, soft tissue envelope and neurovascular structures. They are in general produced by a high-energy trauma and are usually part of a polytraumatized patient. The frequency for the associated lesions are up 50% for the collateral ligaments, and up to 40% for the cruciate ligaments and the menisci, respectively. The paper presents the crucial steps of clinical and radiological assessment and outlines a concept of treatment, documented by two illustrative cases.

Transacromial approach to obtain fusion of unstable os acromiale

The purpose of this study was to identify possible causes for the low union rate for surgically stabilized os acromiale. Between February 1990 and November 1995, fusion of an os acromiale was attempted in 15 shoulders in 12 patients at our institution. All patients were men. The mean age was 54 years (range 37 to 63 years). All shoulders had an os mesoacromiale considered too large for simple resection. An associated lesion of the rotator cuff ranging from partial-to full-thickness tear was present in all patients. Eleven had an unfused acromial epiphysis in both shoulders. Two different surgical approaches were used. Seven shoulders were approached through an anterior deltoid-off approach, thus potentially devascularizing the os acromiale. Eight shoulders were approached transacromially, preserving the deltoid origin and hence the terminal branches of the thoracoacromial artery. The technique of internal fixation (tension band wiring) was the same for both groups. The mean follow-up was 44 months (range 13 to 72 months). Union, as demonstrated by axial radiographic views, occurred in 3 out of 7 cases with a devascularized os acromiale and in 7 out of 8 shoulders with a perfused os acromiale (P = .017), respectively. Patients with a united os acromiale had a significantly better functional outcome as measured by the Constant score (P = .0169). In conclusion, aiming at a stable fusion of a sizable and hypermobile os acromiale is probably desirable because it enhances the overall functional result. Obtaining consolidation was possible when the vascularity of the acromial epiphysis was respected.

Decortication and plate osteosynthesis for nonunion of the clavicle

Between 1968 and 1995, 37 patients with ununited fractures of the clavicle were treated by decortication and plate osteosynthesis. Thirty-two (86%) were failures of union of fractures of the middle third. Thirty-four (92%) patients had post-traumatic nonunion or delayed union. Sixteen (43%) patients had undergone primary operative treatment. Autogenous cancellous bone graft was used in 24 (65%) patients with atrophic nonunion. Nine tricortical, iliac crest, intercalary grafts were used for segmental bone loss equal to or greater than 15 mm. At the end of treatment, union had been achieved in 35 (95%) cases. At a mean follow-up of 8.6 years (range 13 months to 17 years), 32 (86%) patients had no symptoms and had a full range of motion of the shoulder. Decortication with plate osteosynthesis is a reliable, durable technique for the management of symptomatic, ununited fractures of the clavicle.

[Missed compartment syndrome after anterior cruciate ligament-plasty following continuous peridural anesthesia]

In this article we report a case of an early postoperative compartment syndrome of the anterior tibial compartment with complete sensomotoric palsy of the peroneal nerve after arthroscopic-assisted replacement of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee. The tourniquet pressure was 360 mm Hg and operation time was 1.75 h. After the operation the leg was bandaged to avoid swelling of the leg and as antithrombotic prophylaxis. Analgesic therapy was by continuous epidural bupivacaine infusion. Increasing pain of the lower leg was suppressed by additional analgesia. Due to persistent pain despite regular analgesia, the patient was sent to a main hospital on the 3rd postoperative day, where an extremely painful and swollen anterior tibial compartment with intracompartmental pressure of over 100 mm Hg was found. The compartment was released immediately. Despite the appearance of severe muscle damage, no extensive débridement was done. At the second examination, at 48 h, there was minimal perfusion of the muscles without contraction and islands of ischemic necrosis. Clinically, there was complete palsy of the dorsiflexors of the foot. The case shows the danger of a compartment syndrome when tourniquet of the limb, arthroscopy and a firm bandage are combined. Continuous epidural analgesia masks the classic symptoms of compartment syndrome.

The deltoid extension lag sign for diagnosis and grading of axillary nerve palsy

The deltoid extension lag sign has been developed to avoid the pitfalls confounding the diagnosis of an axillary nerve lesion. The physician elevates the arm into a position of near full extension. The patient is asked to attempt active maintenance of this position. If the deltoid is weak, the arm will drop. In five patients with traumatic axillary nerve palsy after anterior dislocation of the shoulder, the deltoid extension lag sign was used to evaluate the functional status of the deltoid muscle. The magnitude of the angular drop, or lag, of the arm was a precise indicator of the functional status and recovery of the deltoid. The sign proved to be objective and reproducible, allowing confident assessment of deltoid function and when repeated over time allowed precise follow-up of deltoid recovery.

[Indications and results of shoulder prosthetics in complex proximal humerus fractures]

Complex fractures of the proximal humerus are uncommon injuries and a therapeutic challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. Successful treatment requires proper evaluation of the patient and analysis of standardized high-quality radiographs. The trauma series of radiographs (including true anteroposterior and lateral views in the scapular plane, and axillary view) is essential for accurate fracture assessment. Generally, joint-preserving reconstructive techniques are emphasized, aiming at restoration of the anatomy of the proximal humerus. In young individuals with excellent quality of the bone fragments, careful techniques of reduction and fixation, avoiding additional surgical devascularization, should be performed, even in case of possible impairment of the vascular supply to the humeral head. In elderly individuals with osteoporotic bone and limited compliance throughout aftercare, humeral head replacement may be indicated less restrictively. In the latter group hemiarthoplasty generally can be expected to result in painfree shoulders. However, recovery of function and range of motion are much less predictable.

Plate osteosynthesis of diaphyseal fractures of the radius and ulna

Between January 1980 and December 1989, 133 consecutive patients were treated for a fracture of the shaft of one or both forearm bones (134 forearms in total). All fractures were stabilized with AO/ASIF 3.5 mm stainless-steel dynamic compression plates. The 1 year follow-up rate was 99 per cent; the long-term follow-up rate was 92 per cent (the mean long-term follow-up was 10.2 years (range, 2.7-15.2)) so there were 96 men and 35 women, with an average age of 37.5 years (range, 16-63). Twenty-two per cent of the forearms had open fractures, 26 per cent of patients had sustained multiple injuries and 19 per cent had a head injury. One hundred and twenty-seven of 132 forearms (96.2 per cent) underwent problem-free consolidation before 6 months. Two delayed unions and two non-unions required reoperation. There was one superficial infection in a patient with a closed fracture. Plates were removed from 70 patients (53 per cent) at a mean of 33.1 months (range, 8-122) after the first operation. In this group, there were three refractures (4.3 per cent) occurring at a mean of 8.7 months (range, 0-14) after plate removal. This study confirms the safety and efficacy of plate osteosynthesis in forearm shaft fractures: a high union rate and low complication rate can be anticipated. The data presented form the most reliable information on this subject currently available with the longest and highest rate of follow up of a sufficient number of patients using a single implant system in a single institution.

Lag signs in the diagnosis of rotator cuff rupture

We assessed the relative value of lag signs for the evaluation of rotator cuff rupture in a prospective study of 100 consecutive painful shoulders with impingement syndrome, stages 1 to 3. Lag signs were compared with the Jobe and lift-off signs. Three tests were designed to assess the main components of the rotator cuff: the external rotation lag sign (ERLS) for the supraspinatus and the infraspinatus tendons, the drop sign for the infraspinatus, and the internal rotation lag sign (IRLS) for the subscapularis tendon. For assessment of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus the ERLS was less sensitive but more specific than the jobe sign. The drop sign was the least sensitive but was as specific as the ERLS. Partial ruptures of the supraspinatus remained concealed to the ERLS. For assessment of the subscapularis the IRLS was as specific but more sensitive than the lift-off sign. Partial ruptures of the subscapularis tendon could be missed by the lift-off sign but were detected by the IRLS. The magnitude of the lag correlated with the size of the rupture for both the ERLS and the IRLS. Clinical testing for lag signs was efficient, reproducible, and reliable. In patients with little or no restriction of motion it enhanced the accuracy of clinical diagnosis in rotator cuff lesions.

Shoulder arthroplasty after glenohumeral fusion

We present a case of conversion of a glenohumeral fusion to an arthroplasty. Chronic pain in the scapulo-thoracic joint after shoulder arthrodesis, in the presence of a functional deltoid muscle, was judged to be the indication for conversion to a prosthesis. A deeply reamed glenoid fossa stabilized the prosthetic head. A glenoid component was not used. Pain relief was dramatic and permanent. Function was poor. Subjectively the patient was greatly improved. This solution is considered a salvage procedure for the rare instances of resistant, chronic pain originating in the scapulo-thoracic joint after glenohumeral fusion.

Total shoulder arthroplasty: Some considerations related to glenoid surface contact

The area of prosthetic surface contact is an important surgeon-controlled variable in total shoulder arthroplasty and is related to the geometry of the glenoid and humeral articular surfaces and their relative positions. This study explores some of the factors that affect joint surface contact area. We measured the humeral and the glenoid articular surface angles in the superior-inferior and anteroposterior planes for two prosthesis systems representative of those in common clinical use. On the basis of these data we determined the range of glenohumeral positions providing full glenoid surface contact, a condition in which all of the articular surface of the glenoid component is in contact with the articular surface of the humeral component. We found a wide variability in the range of glenohumeral positions providing full glenoid contact with different prosthetic combinations. Some combinations do not even offer full glenoid surface contact with the joint in the centered position, for example, when the center of the humeral head articular surface is opposed to the center of the glenoid articular surface. The maximal range of glenohumeral positions providing full glenoid surface contact was 117° for a combination with a small radius of head curvature and a large articular surface angle. The relative positions of the humeral and glenoid articular surfaces also have a major influence on the joint contact area. Some combinations offer full glenoid surface contact only in a position of humeral abduction with respect to the scapula. Loss of full glenoid surface contact between the glenoid and humerus may allow for unwanted translations of the humeral head on the glenoid in the direction where contact is lacking. Furthermore, in positions where full surface contact is lacking, humeral bone or soft tissue may make unwanted contact with the glenoid. These results suggest that the design of the humeral articular surface and the surgical procedure should maximize full glenoid surface contact in functionally important positions.

Humeral head prosthetic arthroplasty: Surgically relevant geometric considerations

The relationship of the humeral head prosthesis to the humerus is a critical determinant of the result in glenohumeral arthroplasty. With canal-fitting humeral prostheses, the position of the component is largely dictated by the location of the reamed medullary canal. This study explores the geometric relationships of a surgically defined humeral reference, the "orthopedic axis." This is the axis of a cylindric reamer or press-fit prosthetic stem inserted to the appropriate depth for the humeral prosthesis. The orthopedic axis provides a reference for measuring surgically important geometric features of the normal humeral articular surface and comparing them with those available with humeral prosthetic components. In 10 cadaveric proximal humeri, we measured the following seven parameters in a radiologic projection of the humerus on the plane transverse to the orthopedic axis: the surgically-determined reamed diameter of the humeral canal, the diameter of curvature of the humeral head articular surface, the effective humeral neck length, the combined head and neck length, the subtended angle of the humeral joint surface, the anterior/posterior offset of the center of the humeral head, and the biceps-articular surface angle. We then determined the prosthetic geometry of a canal-fitting humeral component necessary to match the stem size, head diameter, head and neck length, and effective humeral neck length. To examine the effect of changing component version, we determined the maximal angle of anteversion and retroversion achievable by rotation of the component about the orthopedic axis without compromising the tuberosities. In the maximal possible anteversion or retroversion, the combined head and neck length changed by only 2 mm. Thus the effect of component version of a press-fit prosthesis on glenohumeral soft-tissue tension is small. The study suggests that the surgeon controls relatively few important variables in a canal-fitting humeral arthroplasty. Kinematics of the arthroplasty are controlled primarily by soft-tissue releases and the selection of the prosthetic head-neck length.

[Results of repositioning osteotomies in delayed healing or pseudarthrosis of the proximal femur]

The results after valgus osteotomy for delayed or nonunion in 20 patients with femoral neck fractures (9 Pauwels type II and 11 type III) and 10 intertrochanteric fractures are reported. The mean age of the patients at presentation with delayed/nonunion of femoral neck fractures and intertrochanteric fractures was 37.5 and 60 years, respectively. The average interval between injury and valgus osteotomy in the first and second group was 8 and 13 months, respectively. The average size of the preoperatively determined and intraoperatively removed wedge was 30 degrees in both groups. The results of the two fracture groups were analyzed separately. All but one osteotomy in a patient with a nonunion of a femoral neck fracture consolidated without complications. This case developed a nonunion at the osteotomy and required additional surgery consisting of bone graft and refixation to heal. Of the femoral neck delayed/nonunion cases, 15 (75%) healed immediately following valgus osteotomy. In the intertrochanteric delayed/nonunion patients, valgus osteotomy led directly to bone consolidation in 6 (60%). In each fracture group 3 additional cases healed following reoperation for a total consolidation rate of 90%. In the femoral neck group one union was complicated by infection, resulting in ankylosis of the hip and 3.5 years later another patient with a revascularized femoral head required total hip arthroplasty because of a large, loose osteochondral fragment. In two cases union of the former femoral neck fracture could not be achieved. Partial avascular necrosis determined the course and total hip arthroplasty was required for both cases.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Coracoclavicular screw fixation for unstable fractures of the distal clavicle. A report of five cases

Five consecutive unstable fractures of the distal third of the clavicle were treated by indirect open reduction and internal fixation using a temporary Bosworth-type screw. Coracoclavicular fixation provided and maintained reduction of the fracture. Healing occurred uneventfully within nine weeks in all cases. The screw was removed under local anaesthesia after healing of the fracture and there were no surgical complications. Shoulder function was restored to the pre-injury level. Temporary coracoclavicular screw fixation appears to be a valuable alternative for the treatment of type II fractures of the distal third of the clavicle.

Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament alone in the treatment of a combined instability with complete rupture of the medial collateral ligament. A prospective study

In a prospective study, 14 patients with a complete rupture of both the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL) were treated by reconstruction of the ACL alone. The torn MCL was not addressed. The initial instability was documented clinically and by stress radiographs (20 kp) taken under anaesthesia. The postoperative management involved immediate mobilization and partial weight bearing for 6-8 weeks. Follow-up examination at an average of 14 months demonstrated excellent results in 11 cases, good in 2 cases, and fair in 1 case. With the exception of one residual anterior tibial translation of 8 mm, all knees showed almost normal stability in the frontal and sagittal plane, with full range of motion. These result confirm that ACL reconstruction utilizing the patellar tendon alone is sufficient in the treatment of combined instability due to ACL and MCL injuries.

[Alternative treatment methods in complex fractures and fracture-dislocations of the anterior tarsus]

Obtaining and maintaining an anatomic reduction are the keystones in the treatment of severe midtarsal injuries to avoid long-term disability. The use of the small external fixator or the minidistractor allows an indirect reduction with careful management of the soft tissues. By leaving the external fixation for at least 8 weeks the important length of the medial and lateral longitudinal arch can be maintained. Further advantages are the postoperative observation of the soft tissues and circulation without cast immobilisation.

Pauwels osteotomy for nonunions of the femoral neck

The concept of the Pauwels osteotomy seems to be a valuable method of treating nonunions of the femoral neck. If there is concomitant avascular necrosis, the involved area should be small and the patient younger than 60 years old.

[Multiple recurrence of tibial fracture]

After a historical review of the term refracture and the related nomenclature, three cases of multiple refracture of the tibia are presented. Radiological findings confirm that the major etiology in refracture is bone necrosis as a result of vascular damage caused by the initial trauma and/or the surgical maneuvers performed to treat it. Normal loads then lead to microfractures of the avascular bone, which is unable to provide adequate substitution or remodelling. In our three cases not only was the periosteal blood supply diminished, but also the medullary canal was narrowed or closed at the fracture site by bone fragments and/or poorly vascularized new bone formation. These pathogenetic findings are supported by experimental studies. Part of the logical therapeutic concept is the opening of the medullary canal and closed medullary nailing. Although reaming and intramedullary rod placement causes transient circulatory disturbances in the inner diaphyseal cortex, this allows restoration of the medullary vascular network. Bone perfusion of the refracture zone is thereby improved and definitive consolidation can take place, as shown in our three cases.

[Hanggliding accidents. Distribution of injuries and accident analysis]

Paragliding--a relatively new sport to Switzerland--brought 23 patients with 48 injuries (38% lower limb and 29% spinal) within a period of 8 months to the Inselspital University hospital in Berne. The aim of the study in characterizing these injuries is to formulate some guidelines towards prevention. With over 90% of accidents occurring at either take off or landing, emphasis on better training for the beginner is proposed with strict guidelines for the more experienced pilot flying in unfavourable conditions.

Proximal tibial osteotomy. A new fixation device

A new internal fixation device was applied to 41 proximal tibial osteotomies to ensure against loss of postoperative correction. An oblique osteotomy was stabilized by two screws and a five-hole one-half tubular plate. Thirty-six patients with 41 proximal tibial osteotomies were reviewed for an average roentgenographic follow-up time of 22.6 months (range, six to 48 months) with no loss of correction. In addition, 16 patients with 19 osteotomies and a minimum clinical follow-up time of two years were reviewed using the Hospital for Special Surgery knee scoring system; these early results demonstrated a similar outcome to previously published series. The new fixation device is simple to use, permits early postoperative motion, and maintains the exact correction obtained at the time of surgery.

Extracorporeal isolated pig liver perfusion: influence of various blood primes on liver function

Extracorporeal isolated pig liver perfusion was performed in three groups of five piglets each to assess the influence of different blood primes on liver function. All prime volumes were hemodiluted to a hematocrit of 0.3-0.35 and adjusted to a pH of 7.35-7.45 with sodium bicarbonate at a temperature of 38 degrees C. Fresh slaughterhouse blood was collected, mechanically filtered and used in Group A, whereas analogously collected blood was biologically filtered by passage through the organism of the piglet in Group B. In Group C, the priming blood consisted of autologous blood gained during hepatectomy by a special technique. A high potassium concentration (10.4 +/- 0.94 mmol/l) in Group A and impurities of the slaughterhouse blood in both Groups A and B led to rapid edema formation and an increase in vascular resistance of the perfused liver, and a prolonged perfusion was not achieved. In the third group, however, liver perfusion over a period of 5 h without any deterioration of liver function was possible. Beside liver function tests, oxygen consumption, the macroscopic aspect and bile flow of the liver seemed to be the most reliable parameters in assessing the function of the isolated perfused pig liver. Our technique to gain autologous blood can be recommended not only for extracorporeal liver perfusion but also for any other extracorporeal isolated organ perfusion.