Does correction of carpal malalignment influence the union rate of scaphoid nonunion surgery?

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the relation between carpal malalignment correction and radiological union rates in surgery for scaphoid nonunions. A total of 59 scaphoid waist fracture nonunions treated with open reduction and palmar tricortical autograft were divided according to their pre- and postoperative scapholunate (SL) and radiolunate (RL) angles. We found that carpal malalignment failed to correct in 32 of 59 (54.2%) patients despite meticulous surgical technique and placement of an appropriately sized wedge-shaped graft. In total, 43 (72.9%) fractures united at a mean of 4.47 months (range 3-11). Of the 27 fractures with postoperative SL and RL angles within the normal range, 21 united, whereas 22 of the 32 remaining fractures that failed to achieve postoperative angles within the normal range went on to union. The postoperative SL and RL angles were not related to union. Our findings suggest that in scaphoid fracture nonunion surgery, carpal malalignment may not be corrected in a substantial proportion of patients, but such correction may not be essential for bony union. Our findings also show that there is no marked collapse of the scaphoid graft in the early postoperative period.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

A Case for Acute Proximal Row Carpectomy for Perilunate Injuries

Background

Perilunate injuries are complex injuries typically arising from high-energy injuries to the wrist. Standard treatment involves open reduction and internal fixation with ligamentous reconstruction; however, outcomes are fraught with complications including pain, stiffness, and arthrosis. Several case reports have demonstrated the role of proximal row carpectomy as a salvage procedure for complex carpal trauma in the setting of significant cartilage injury or bone loss. The authors believe that proximal row carpectomy may be an appropriate acute treatment in certain patient populations, with functional results similar to those obtained with ligamentous reconstruction.

Methods

A retrospective review of two cases with perilunate dislocations managed with primary proximal row carpectomy are presented.

Results

At greater than 1-year follow-up, both patients had stable radiocarpal alignment. Quick-DASH scores were 22.7 and 27.3.

Conclusion

Primary proximal row carpectomy is a treatment option in the acute setting for perilunate injuries in elderly, lower-demand patients. Functional results are similar to those obtained with ligamentous reconstruction, with a shorter recovery period. Level of Evidence: IV.

Simultaneous Bilateral Chronic Volar Lunate Dislocation: A Case Report

CASE

A 24-year-old professional judo competitor suffered injuries to both the wrists when he fell on his back while lifting a 90-kg barbell in the bilateral dorsiflexed wrist position. Simultaneous bilateral volar lunate dislocation had been missed for a year. The degenerated lunates were simultaneously removed using a palmar approach. At 12 months postoperatively, the patient returned to judo competitions without pain. Radiography showed no progression of the intercarpal alignment abnormality.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous bilateral chronic volar lunate dislocation is extremely rare. Long-term follow-up is necessary to check for carpal alignment.

Locked Traumatic Pisiform Dislocation: A Case Report

CASE

A 32-year-old man presented to the emergency department with several carpal bone fractures and a locked distal pisiform dislocation after trauma. Treatment consisted of open surgical and reduction, osteosynthesis with a single Kirschner wire, and ligament repair. The patient's functional outcome was excellent, and his Mayo wrist score was 90 at 36 months after injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Pisiform dislocations may be difficult to diagnose because anteroposterior and lateral radiographs may not be sufficient to visualize the injury. A 30° semisupinated wrist x-ray and computed tomography can be helpful. A satisfactory clinical result may be achieved if distal pisiform dislocations are detected early and managed surgically with open reduction and ligament repair.

Comparison of the racing performance of Thoroughbreds with versus without osteochondral fragmentation of the accessory carpal bone identified on yearling sales repository radiographs

OBJECTIVE To evaluate 2- and 3-year-old and career race performance of Thoroughbred racehorse prospects with and without osteochondral fragmentation of the accessory carpal bone (ACB) identified on yearling presale radiographs. DESIGN Retrospective, matched cohort study. ANIMALS 47 nonlame Thoroughbreds with (exposed cohort) and 94 nonlame Thoroughbreds without (unexposed cohort) osteochondral fragmentation of ACB facture identified on yearling sales repository radiographs. PROCEDURES Repository radiographic interpretation reports for September yearling sales of a large Kentucky auction house from 2005 through 2012 were reviewed, and race records were collected and analyzed. Race performance was compared between horses with and without ACB fracture chosen from the same sale to identify associations between racing performance and ACB fracture. RESULTS No significant differences were identified between horses with or without ACB fracture in their incidence of starting a race as a 2- or 3-year-old and the number of races started, earnings, or earnings per start for 2- or 3-year-old or career race performance. There was no significant difference in performance between horses with or without concurrent carpal osteoarthritis, nor did performance differ between horses with ACB fracture alone and those with ACB fracture and other radiographic abnormalities found to be associated with poorer performance in previous studies. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE ACB fracture with or without carpal osteoarthritic changes identified on repository radiographs of Thoroughbred yearlings was not associated with poorer racing performance or lower likelihood of starting a race as a 2- or 3-year-old, compared with outcomes for unaffected horses.

Perihamate-Peripisiform-Transtriquetrum Axial Ulnar Fracture Dislocation of the Hand With an Associated Perilunate Injury

Axial fracture-dislocations are rare, high-energy injuries. Although cases of axial fracture-dislocations are reported in the literature, there are few reports of a patient who suffered a combined perilunate injury with an ulnar axial dislocation of the hand. This case report describes the anatomical injury and operative treatment of a patient who suffered this injury and discusses the importance of associated soft tissue management.

Some Aspects of the Fractured Scaphoid

Ninety-three patients who presented at a district general hospital in one year with a suspected or actual scaphoid fracture were studied. Certain changes in the accepted management of scaphoid fractures, particularly the radiology of these fractures, are suggested. These changes could result in significant savings of time and money. A new investigation is described which may prove helpful in the long-term prognostic assessment of patients who have suffered a scaphoid fracture.

[Proximal Row Carpectomy - Five-Year Results]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY This study aims to evaluate the results of patients treated by proximal row carpectomy at a follow-up of at least 5 years after the surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 25 patients were treated by proximal row carpectomy for degenerative changes of the wrist as a consequence of the previous trauma or avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, of whom 21 patients underwent a follow-up examination at least 5 years postoperatively. Proximal row carpectomy was indicated in 15 patients for SLAC wrist, in 4 patients for avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, in 1 patient for SNAC wrist, and in 1 patient for inveterate dislocation of the wrist. The follow-up clinical and radiological examinations were performed at least 5 years after the surgery. The range of wrist motion, grip strength, presence of pain at rest or pain under loads, total clinical score according to the Green and O'Brien scoring system, patient satisfaction with the outcome of surgery were assessed. By fluoroscopy the range of wrist motion, degenerative changes of the radiocapitate joint, and translation of the capitate bone with respect to the distal radius were evaluated. RESULTS Postoperative improvements in the range of motion and grip strength were confirmed. Also, the pain relief at rest and under loads was achieved. Five years after the surgery, most of the patients (85.6%) reported an overall improvement. The total clinical score according to the Green and O'Brien scoring system improved from 35.8 preoperatively to 63.1 postoperatively. DISCUSSION The advantage of this procedure is a low percentage of complications, relative technical simplicity, maintenance of functional motion of the wrist, satisfactory grip strength, and pain relief. There are no complications related to the implant, no risk of a non-union. CONCLUSIONS As shown by our results obtained 5 years after the surgery as well as the published data, in the indicated cases the proximal row carpectomy is an appropriate surgical technique to treat the degenerative changes of the wrist. In most of the patients, favourable functional results and pain relief can be expected. Key words:proximal row carpectomy, SLAC wrist, SNAC wrist, avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, dislocation of the wrist.

Rupture of the Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon Resulting from the Non-Union of a Scaphoid Fracture

A case is described in which a patient presented with a rupture of the flexor pollicis longus tendon resulting from an ununited scaphoid fracture. No similar case appears to have been reported in the literature. This was not an attrition rupture and the mechanism is explained. The proximal pole of the scaphoid was removed and the tendon repaired. The patient regained good movement at the interphalangeal joint of the thumb.

Late Rupture of the Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon: The Case against Attrition

The authors report the case of a 23-year-old man who sustained ipsilateral volar Barton’s and scaphoid fractures which were complicated by a late rupture of the extensor pollicis longus tendon. The anatomy of the injury precluded attrition as the cause of the tendon rupture and the alternative theory of ischaemic rupture is examined. Clinicians should be aware that injuries other than the Colles’ fracture may be complicated by rupture of extensor pollicis longus.

Diagnostic Strategy for Suspected Scaphoid Fractures in the Presence of Other Fractures in the Carpal Region

Bone scintigraphy will identify up to 25% of occult scaphoid bone fractures after negative scaphoid X-rays. Consequently, it deserves a place in the diagnostic process of suspected scaphoid fractures. However, the role of bone scintigraphy is less clear if scaphoid X-rays show other fractures in the carpal region. We analysed 111 consecutive patients with a suspected scaphoid fracture on physical examination. Scaphoid X-rays revealed 61 fractures. Fifty-five patients had scaphoid fractures only and six patients had other fractures in the carpal region but no scaphoid fracture. In 50 cases, no bone injury was seen on these X-rays. In three out of the six patients with other fractures in the carpal region, bone scintigraphy revealed four occult concomitant fractures: one scaphoid, one scaphoid and trapezial and one capitate fracture. In conclusion, bone scintigraphy is required when scaphoid X-rays do not confirm a suspected scaphoid fracture, even in the presence of other fractures in the carpal region.

Physical Examination of the Carpal Bones by Orthopaedic and Accident and Emergency Surgeons

Our aim was to test knowledge of carpal bone surface anatomy among orthopaedic and accident and emergency surgeons. A survey of 58 surgeons was conducted. Each was asked to palpate seven points on five commonly injured carpal bones. Eight surgeons declined to participate. Five of the remaining 50 correctly palpated all surface markings. Six failed to accurately palpate even a single point. The scaphoid waist and trapezial ridge were accurately palpated by 47 surgeons. The median score for all participants was 3 correctly identified points. The majority of orthopaedic and accident and emergency surgeons do not perform an accurate physical examination of the carpal bones. The ancient art of history taking, precise physical examination and elucidation of a confident diagnosis is at risk of being replaced with tentative diagnoses and imaging techniques that are expensive and time consuming. We believe that basic anatomical teaching is inadequate.

[Fractures of carpal bones]

Fractures of the carpal bones are uncommon. On standard radiographs fractures are often not recognized and a computed tomography (CT) scan is the diagnostic method of choice. The aim of treatment is to restore pain-free and full functioning of the hand. A distinction is made between stable and unstable carpal fractures. Stable non-displaced fractures can be treated conservatively. Unstable and displaced fractures have an increased risk of arthritis and non-union and should be stabilized by screws or k‑wires. If treated adequately, fractures of the carpal bones have a good prognosis. Unstable and dislocated fractures have an increased risk for non-union. The subsequent development of carpal collapse with arthrosis is a severe consequence of non-union, which has a heterogeneous prognosis.

Core curriculum illustration: trans-scaphoid volar perilunate fracture-subluxation

This is the 11th installment of a series that will highlight one case per publication issue from the bank of cases available online as part of the American Society of Emergency Radiology (ASER) educational resources. Our goal is to generate more interest in the use of our online materials. To view more cases online, please visit the ASER Core Curriculum and Recommendations for Study online at http://www.aseronline.org/curriculum/toc.htm .

Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center (AFHSC). Injuries associated with combat sports, active component, U.S. Armed Forces, 2010-2013

The practice of combat sports creates a potential for training- and sports-related injuries among military members. During the 4-year surveillance period, there were 12,108 cases of injuries associated with combat sports among active component service members; the overall incidence rate was 21.0 per 10,000 person-years (p-yrs). The rates were higher among service members who were male, Hispanic, in the youngest age groups, in the Army, junior enlisted, and in combat-specific occupations. The rate among recruit/ trainees (779.4 per 10,000 p-yrs) was more than 165 times the rate among all other active component service members (non-recruits) (4.7 per 10,000 p-yrs). Sprains, strains, and contusions accounted for more than one-half of the primary (first-listed) diagnoses associated with combat sports cases. More serious conditions such as concussions/head injuries and skull/face fractures/intracranial injuries were reported among 3.9% and 2.1% of all cases and were more common among boxing-related cases. Hand/wrist fractures were also common among boxing cases. Wrestling had comparatively greater proportions of dislocations and open wounds. Although the combat sport training provides many physical and mental benefits to the individual, safety practices should be enforced to reduce the most frequent and serious injuries.

[Axial-fracture dislocation of the carpal bone, report of three cases and literature review]

We report three cases of axial-fracture dislocation of the carpal bone treated in our department. The three men were between thirty and forty years old who had a work related crushing fracture. We performed an open reduction and stabilization with pins in all cases; patients were then referred to physical medicine and rehabilitation. We assessed the wrist function at ten months using the Mayo Wrist Score and with X-rays to evaluate postoperative results. In this summary we present three examples of patients who suffered these injuries with "good", "satisfactory" and "poor" outcomes.

[A case of malignant hyperthermia with evident symptoms in the postoperative period]

A 36-year-old man (185 cm tall, weighing 85 kg) was scheduled for fixation of a right carpal bone fracture. He had no operative history, and his preoperative laboratory data were normal. A laryngeal mask was inserted after intravenous propofol and fentanyl administration without a muscle relaxant. Anesthesia was maintained by sevoflurane in a mixture of air and oxygen. A tourniquet was placed on the right upper arm. One hour after the operation, his heart rate increased to 90-100 beats x min(-1) from 70-80 beats x min(-1) at the start of the operation, and tachycardic continued, even after release of the tourniquet. Although end-tidal CO2 was 50-60 mmHg, his body temperature remained 37.6 degrees C, and neither muscle stiffness nor brown urine was observed. The duration of the operation and the duration of anesthesia were 2 hours 40 min and 4 hours, respectively. The patient went back to the ward without myalgia after removal of the laryngeal mask. On the postoperative day one, the patient had brown urine. On the postoperative day 2, he experienced myalgia of the upper and lower extremities and masseter muscle. On the postoperative day 3, myoglobinuria was detected. As in this case, although evident symptoms of malignant hyperthermia are not always observed during operations, some cases show obvious symptoms during the postoperative period. Thus, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of malignant hyperthermia postoperatively for early diagnosis and treatment.

What every resident should know about wrist fractures: case-based learning

The treatment of patients with distal radius fractures can be challenging and requires a thorough understanding of the condition. Many treatment options are available. The choice of treatment is based on patient factors, such as age and activity level, along with the characteristics of the fracture. It is helpful to use a case-based format to review the anatomy, the radiographic evaluation, and the initial and definitive treatment options for patients with distal radius fractures.

[Anterior traumatic axial disruption of the middle carpal joint. Case report with literature review]

We report a case of traumatic axial disruption of the radial mid carpal joint. This unusual type of scaphotrapezo-trapezoïdal dislocation occurred after falling from a height. We performed open reduction and wire fixation. At 12months follow-up, functional outcome was satisfactory with good muscle strength (clamping force, grip strength and pinch grip: 90% compared to the opposite side) and good range of motion was preserved. Work was resumed at the tenth week. Radial midcarpal disruption is uncommon. It includes the separation of the trapezium, trapezoïdal, first and second and third metacarpal bones from the remaining wrist. This pattern of carpal derangement has not been previously described in the literature. Mechanism of the injury and treatment are discussed.

Surgical menopause and nonvertebral fracture risk among older US women

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether older postmenopausal women with a history of bilateral oophorectomy before natural menopause (surgical menopause) have a higher risk of nonvertebral postmenopausal fracture than women with natural menopause.

METHODS

We used 21 years of prospectively collected incident fracture data from the ongoing Study of Osteoporotic Fractures, a cohort study of community-dwelling women without previous bilateral hip fracture who were 65 years or older at enrollment, to determine the risk of hip, wrist, and any nonvertebral fracture. χ(2) and t tests were used to compare the two groups on important characteristics. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models stratified by baseline oral estrogen use status were used to estimate the risk of fracture.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics differed significantly among the 6,616 women within the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures who underwent either surgical (1,157) or natural (5,459) menopause, including mean age at menopause (44.3 ± 7.4 vs 48.9 ± 4.9 y, P < 0.001) and current use of oral estrogen (30.2% vs 6.5%, P < 0.001). Fracture rates were not significantly increased for surgical versus natural menopause, even among women who had never used oral estrogen (hip fracture: hazard ratio [HR], 0.87; 95% CI, 0.63-1.21; wrist fracture: HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.78-1.57; any nonvertebral fracture: HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.93-1.32).

CONCLUSIONS

These data provide some reassurance that the long-term risk of nonvertebral fracture is not substantially increased for postmenopausal women who experienced premenopausal bilateral oophorectomy, compared with postmenopausal women with intact ovaries, even in the absence of postmenopausal estrogen therapy.

Avulsion fracture of the extensor carpi radialis longus tendon: case report and literature review

Isolated avulsion fracture of the index finger metacarpal is rare. There have been only a few noted in the English literature. A review of literature shows that these injuries occur as a result of avulsion of the tendon of extensor carpi radialis longus. In our report we present a case of such an avulsion injury where the proximal fragment was pulled about 2 cm down. The patient was treated conservatively with early mobilisation.

[Treatment of carpal fractures. Recommendations of the Hand Surgery Group of the German Trauma Society]

The primary goal in the treatment of carpal fractures is the preservation of a painless wrist function. Scaphoid fractures are the most common carpal fractures and when such a fracture is clinically suspected CT or MRI scans are usually advisable. Only stable and non-displaced scaphoid fractures can be treated conservatively, all other fractures require internal fixation with restoration of normal anatomy. Second most common are fractures of the triquetrum which can occur as chip avulsions of the dorsal rim and are usually treated symptomatically. Fractures of the body of the triquetrum should be treated according to the degree of instability and displacement. This is virtually true for all carpal bones. Perilunate fracture dislocations of the carpus deserve special attention. In these severe injuries a fracture line can run through all carpal bones but the scaphoid is mostly affected. Accurate reduction and internal fixation by screws and K-wires are indicated not only in these cases, but also in carpometacarpal fracture dislocations.

[Fractures of the hamate bone and metacarpal bone: a rare combination]

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the hamate bone are rare, but are being seen more frequently due to the increasing popularity of racket sports and golf.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 43-year-old man presented at our emergency department with a swollen, painful left hand after hitting a concrete wall with his fist. X-rays and CT scans revealed comminuted fracture of the hamate bone and the base of the fourth metacarpal bone. Open reduction and internal fixation, using screws and Kirschner wires, were performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. At one-year follow-up the patient had regained full use of his hand.

CONCLUSION

On conventional X-rays, 60% of wrist fractures are missed. If the clinical picture indicates a fracture of the hamate bone but conventional X-rays reveal no abnormalities then a supplementary CT-scan is advisable. Non-displaced fractures, or fractures with little displacement, can be treated conservatively, but surgical treatment is preferred in the case of displacement or non-union.

Comparison between proximal row carpectomy and four-corner fusion for treating osteoarthrosis following carpal trauma: a prospective randomized study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the functional results of carpectomy and four-corner fusion surgical procedures for treating osteoarthrosis following carpal trauma.

METHODS

In this prospective randomized study, 20 patients underwent proximal row carpectomy or four-corner fusion to treat wrist arthritis and their functional results were compared. The midcarpal joint was free of lesions in all patients.

RESULTS

Both proximal row carpectomy and four-corner fusion reduced the pain. All patients had a decreased range of motion after surgery. The differences between groups were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Functional results of the two procedures were similar as both reduced pain in patients with scapholunate advanced collapse/scaphoid non-union advanced collapse (SLAC/SNAC) wrist without degenerative changes in the midcarpal joint.

Current concepts review: carpal injuries - fractures, ligaments, dislocations

An overview about current concepts in treating carpal injuries is presented. These injuries are more commonly seen in young, active individuals after a fall on an outstretched hand. Conventional radiographs and a thorough examination are important. The scaphoid is the most affected bone. Scaphoid fractures can be classified in accordance to OTA, AO, and other classification systems, but mostly to Herbert. It can be treated non-operatively if undisplaced, however a percutaneous internal fixation can be discussed to achieve earlier return to work and shorter time to union, but hazarding the consequences of an operation. Unstable, proximal pole, or delayed diagnosed scaphoid fractures should be treated surgically. Nonunion is seen in 5 - 40% of scaphoid fractures depending mainly on displacement and localization of the fracture. The gold standard in non-osteoarthritic scaphoid nonunion is debridement of the nonunion site, bone grafting, realignment, stable fixation and rehabilitation. The treatment of scaphoid-nonunion advanced collapse is more complex. Proximal row carpectomy or arthrodesis (four-corner or complete wrist) can be mandatory. Other carpal bone fractures are rare. Perilunate dislocations are also uncommon but can be disabling. They usually originate in high-energy trauma. The Mayfield stages help to understand the injury pattern. Open reduction through both volar and dorsal approaches, repair of the volar capsule as well as volar and dorsal ligaments, and internal fixation is commonly the standard treatment. However osteoarthritis and carpal instability are often encountered.

Trans-scaphoid transcapitate transhamate fracture of the wrist: case report

We describe a new pattern of upper limb injury: a combination of fractures of both radius and ulna, with a rare type of trans-scaphoid transcapitate transhamate greater arc injury of the wrist and fractures of metacarpals, managed successfully.

Scaphoid dislocation associated with axial carpal dissociation during volar flexion of the wrist: a case report

We present the first report of a patient with an isolated scaphoid dislocation with axial carpal dissociation sustained during volar flexion of the wrist. The scaphoid was dislocated to the radial side of the radial styloid process and was slightly shifted to the dorsal side. It was shown that the position of the wrist played an irrelevant role for occurring scaphoid dislocation.

Volar scaphotrapezial dislocation

We present a case of volar luxation of the scaphotrapezial bone, in which radiographs suggested luxation of the scaphoid, but unclear relations to the other carpal bones. Computer tomographic reconstruction showed an isolated scaphotrapezial luxation. This was treated by closed reduction and a plaster cast, after which the patient regained normal function of her wrist.

Outcome of proximal row carpectomy

Fifty-one patients who had had proximal row carpectomy between 1992 and 2002 with a minimum follow-up of one year were followed up clinically and radiologically retrospectively. Their diagnoses included Kienböck disease (n=21), avascular necrosis of the scaphoid (n=4), nonunion of the scaphoid with osteoarthritis (n=9), and scapholunate advanced collapse (n=17). The mean follow-up was 5 years, 8 months. The mean "disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand" (DASH) score was 18. The mean patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score list was 25% of maximum disability for the function and pain score. Thirty-four patients (87%) were able to return to work a mean of six months after operation (range 3 weeks - 35 months). Nine patients (11%) required arthrodesis of the wrist and are considered as failures. Mean flexion of the wrist was 66%, extension 73%, radial deviation 74%, ulnar deviation 76%, and grip force 70% of the opposite side. Excision of the proximal row provided predictable and durable pain relief, restored functional movement and grip strength, and allowed returned to gainful employment in most of the patients.

Pancarpal and partial carpal arthrodesis

Arthrodesis can be an effective procedure to restore acceptable function and alleviate pain when other medical or surgical treatments are not possible. A thorough knowledge of carpal anatomy and strict adherence to the principles of arthrodesis are essential to success. The most important factor in determining whether a partial carpal arthrodesis can be performed is the stability of the antebrachiocarpal joint. Multiple techniques, including plating, pinning, and external skeletal fixation, have proven successful, and this article discusses these techniques and the complications of each.

Relationship of body mass index with main limb fragility fractures in postmenopausal women

Body mass index (BMI) has been found to be related to the risk of osteoporotic hip fractures in women, regardless of bone mineral density (BMD). The same relationship is under debate for other limb fragility fractures. Very few studies have investigated the comparison of fracture risk among BMI categories, classified according to the WHO criteria, despite the potential usefulness of such information for clinical purposes. To address these issues we studied 2,235 postmenopausal women including those with fragility fractures of the hip (187), ankle (108), wrist (226) and humerus (85). Statistical analyses were performed by logistic regression by treating the fracture status as the dependent variable and age, age at menopause, femoral neck BMD and BMI as covariates. BMI was tested as a continuous or categorical variable. As a continuous variable, increased BMI had a protective effect against hip fracture: OR 0.949 (95% CI, 0.900-0.999), but carried a higher risk of humerus fracture: OR 1.077 (95% CI, 1.017-1.141). Among the BMI categories, only leanness: OR 3.819 (95% CI, 2.035-7.168) and obesity: OR 3.481 (95% CI, 1.815-6.678) showed a significantly higher fracture risk for hip and humerus fractures, respectively. There was no relationship between ankle and wrist fractures and BMI. In conclusion, decreasing BMI increases the risk for hip fracture, whereas increasing BMI increases the risk for humerus fractures. Leanness-related low BMD and obesity-related body instability might explain the different BMI relationships with these two types of fracture.

Treatment for scaphoid fracture and nonunion--the application of 3.0 mm cannulated screws and pedicle vascularised bone grafts

SUMMARY BACKGROUND

Scaphoid fractures are very common in wrist trauma, and scaphoid nonunions with avascular necrosis are frequent complications of a fractured scaphoid. The purpose of these two retrospective studies was to examine the clinical and x-ray results of treatments for acute scaphoid fracture and scaphoid nonunion. The surgical techniques of cannulated screw fixation and pedicled vascularised bone graft are described.

METHODS

From 2001-2004, 80 patients with scaphoid fractures were treated with 3.0 mm cannulated screws and 5.5 mm threaded washers in our hospitals. The average age was 35 years, and the average time from injury to surgery was 16.5 hours. Outcomes were assessed by x-ray and the modified Mayo wrist score system. During the 6-year period of 1998-2004, 72 patients with scaphoid nonunions were treated using pedicled vascularised bone graft (VBG)in our hospitals. The average age was 38.5 years, and the average time from injury to surgery was 9.5 months.

RESULTS

The union rate was 96.25% and satisfactory function rate was 93.75% in acute scaphoid fractures with an average follow-up of 3.5 years. The union rate (90.28%) and satisfactory function rate (81.94%) achieved in scaphoid nonunions were acceptable, with an average follow-up of 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies suggested that appropriate application of a cannulated screw and threaded washer was able to produce satisfactory results in scaphoid fracture, and that pedicled vascularised bone graft was effective for treating scaphoid nonunion.

[Limb fractures: ultrasound imaging features]

US, a non-irradiating imaging modality, is complementary to radiographs in the evaluation of limb fractures. US may in some cases demonstrate or suggest the presence of a fracture without corresponding abnormality on radiographs, or confirm or exclude a possible fracture detected on radiographs. Knowledge of the US features of fractures is necessary. In this article, the different direct and indirect US findings of fractures will be reviewed, with radiographic correlation. Direct findings include cortical discontinuity or irregularity. Indirect findings include subperiosteal or juxtaphyseal hematoma suggesting cortical or physeal fractures respectively.

Surgical treatment of carpal and hand injuries in children

Most carpal and hand injuries in children are treated nonsurgically. However, surgical treatment is often required for certain clinical situations. Complications resulting from pediatric hand fractures, dislocations, and soft-tissue injuries are most commonly caused by a failure to identify and treat an injury requiring surgery.

[Fractures of the wrist and hand. Principles of conservative treatment]

Over the last years, many special instruments and implants were designed for operative treatment of fractures of the wrist and hand. Therefore, conservative treatment of these injuries became old-fashioned in the eyes of most patients and surgeons. Nevertheless, conservative treatment of nondislocated stable fractures of the wrist and hand usually shows better clinical results than operative treatment does. On the other hand, conservative treatment of displaced fractures is very difficult. The key to success is thorough knowledge of the use of casts, splints, and functional therapy and good patient compliance to avoid complications. Opportunities for conservative treatment of fractures of the wrist and hand are herein described.

Neglected, open, multiple carpal-metacarpal fracture dislocations of the hand--an unusual entity and its management

A rare case of neglected, open, multiple carpal-metacarpal fracture dislocations complicated by wound infection, soft-tissue contractures, and Sudeck's dystrophy is reported. Satisfactory cosmetic and functional results at 2 years were achieved with staged distraction using Ilizarov's fixator to stretch soft tissues and gain length, followed by open reduction and internal fixation.