The rate of nonunion in the MRI-detected occult scaphoid fracture

Aims

There is a lack of published evidence relating to the rate of nonunion seen in occult scaphoid fractures, diagnosed only after MRI. This study reports the rate of delayed union and nonunion in a cohort of patients with MRI-detected acute scaphoid fractures.

Methods

This multicentre cohort study at eight centres in the UK included all patients with an acute scaphoid fracture diagnosed on MRI having presented acutely following wrist trauma with normal radiographs. Data were gathered retrospectively for a minimum of 12 months at each centre. The primary outcome measures were the rate of acute surgery, delayed union, and nonunion.

Results

A total of 1,989 patients underwent acute MRI for a suspected scaphoid fracture during the study period, of which 256 patients (12.9%) were diagnosed with a previously occult scaphoid fracture. Of the patients with scaphoid fractures, six underwent early surgical fixation (2.3%) and there was a total of 16 cases of delayed or nonunion (6.3%) in the remaining 250 patients treated with cast immobilization. Of the nine nonunions (3.5%), seven underwent surgery (2.7%), one opted for non-surgical treatment, and one failed to attend follow-up. Of the seven delayed unions (2.7%), one (0.4%) was treated with surgery at two months, one (0.4%) did not attend further follow-up, and the remaining five fractures (1.9%) healed after further cast immobilization. All fractures treated with surgery had united at follow-up. There was one complication of surgery (prominent screw requiring removal).

Conclusion

MRI-detected scaphoid fractures are not universally benign, with delayed or nonunion of scaphoid fractures diagnosed only after MRI seen in over 6% despite appropriate initial immobilization, with most of these patients with nonunion requiring surgery to achieve union. This study adds weight to the evidence base supporting the use of early MRI for these patients.

Occult periprosthetic femoral fractures occur frequently during a long, trapezoidal, double-tapered cementless femoral stem fixation in primary THA

The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence and clinical consequences of occult intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Between 2012 and 2017, a total of 113 primary THAs were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 66.4 ± 7.6 years. We assessed occult intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures with the use of computed tomography (CT) and risk factors, including age, sex, body mass index, diagnosis, stem size, and radiographic parameters of proximal femoral geometry were analyzed. We also assessed the differences in thigh pain and stem subsidence and alignment between the patients with and without occult periprosthetic femoral fracture. Occult intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures were found in 13 of 113 hips (11.5%). In 9/13 (69.2%) of occult fractures, fracture lines were started from the region below the tip of the lesser trochanter. Six periprosthetic femoral fractures (5.3%) were found during the operation. Out of the five hips that had detected femoral fractures around the lesser trochanter intra-operatively, four hips (80%) showed concurrent occult fractures on different levels. The female sex (P = .01) and canal filling ratio at 7 cm below the tip of the lesser trochanter (P = .01) were significantly different between the patients with and without occult periprosthetic femoral fracture. The sex was significantly associated with an increased risk in predicting an occult intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fracture (odds ratio of male, 0.25 compared with the female; 95% CI, 0.08-0.85; p = .02). There was a significant difference in the incidence of thigh pain between occult fracture group and non-occult fracture group (P < .05). There were no significant differences in stem subsidence and alignment between the patients with and without occult periprosthetic femoral fracture. All 13 cases of occult intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures were healed at the final follow-up. Occult periprosthetic femoral fractures are common during a long, trapezoidal, double-tapered cementless femoral stem fixation in primary THA, that CT scans are helpful to identify them, and that these fractures do not adversely affect the implant's survival if a rigid fixation of the implants has been achieved.

[Patellar tendon rupture with distal closed fracture of the ipsilateral femur]

We here report the case of a 45-year old patient who had injured his right knee because of a road accident. The patient had right comminuted supracondylar femur fracture and ipsilateral patellar tendon rupture. This association is exceptional and no case has been reported in the literature. Targeted clinical and radiological diagnostic tests followed by early and suitable management based on internal osteosynthesis and suitable early functional rehabilitation enabled good long term outcome.

Analysing outcomes through orthopaedic trauma registry - A prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To develop a registry for recording injury-specific data to identify gaps and improve care.

Methods

The prospective cohort study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from June 2015 to July 2018 though enrollment of patients with limb trauma is continuing to date. Data on injuries and management related to Tibia shaft fractures was collected from medical records, and outcomes were assessed on follow-up visits. Internationally validated injury-specific scores were utilised for assessing functional, clinical and radiological outcomes. SPSS version 19 was used for data analysis.

Results

There were 763 patients with 825 limb injuries. Of the injuries, 310(37.6%) related to upper limbs and 515(62.4%) to the lower limbs. Management was surgical for 741(89.9%) and conservative for 84(10.1%) injuries. Overall, 12(1.57%) patients died, and in 7(0.91%) cases mortality was unrelated to trauma and its management. There were 105 patients with tibia shaft fractures. Of them, 88(83.8%) were males and 17(16.2%) were females. At one-year follow-up excellent-to-good results were 12(92%) for intramedullary nailing followed by 7(78%) for open reduction and internal fixation.

Conclusion

Registry data can be used to develop preventive strategies and to improve management protocols.

Skeletal surveys in young, injured children: A systematic review

Skeletal surveys (SSs) have been identified as a key component of the evaluation for suspected abuse in young children, but variability in SS utilization has been reported. Thus, we aimed to describe the utilization patterns, yield, and risks of obtaining SS in young children through a systematic literature review. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE and CINAHL databases for articles published between 1990 and 2016 on SS. We calculated study-specific percentages of SS utilization and detection of occult fractures and examined the likelihoods that patient characteristics predict SS utilization and detection of occult fractures. Data from 32 articles represents 64,983 children <60months old. SS utilization was high (85%-100%) in studies of infants evaluated by a child protection team for suspected abuse and/or diagnosed with abuse except in one study of primarily non-pediatric hospitals. Greater variability in SS utilization was observed across studies that included all infants with specific injuries, such as femur fractures (0%-77%), significant head injury (51%-82%), and skull fractures (41%-86%). Minority children and children without private insurance were evaluated with SS more often than white children and children with private insurance despite lack of evidence to support this practice. Among children undergoing SS, occult fractures were frequently detected among infants with significant head injury (23%-34%) and long bone fractures (30%) but were less common in infants with skull fractures (1%-6%). These findings underscore the need for interventions to decrease disparities in SS utilization and standardize SS utilization in infants at high risk of having occult fractures.

Periprosthetic Occult Fractures of the Acetabulum Occur Frequently During Primary THA

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic fractures of the acetabulum occurring during primary THA are rare. Periprosthetic occult fractures are defined as those not identified by the surgeon during the procedure which might be missed on a routine postoperative radiograph. However, it is unclear how frequently these fractures occur and whether their presence affects functional recovery.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

In this study, using routine CT scans that were obtained as part of another primary hip arthroplasty study protocol, we retrospectively assessed (1) the prevalence of occult fractures of the acetabulum occurring during primary THA, (2) the location of occult fractures of the acetabulum during THA, and (3) risk factors contributing to such occult fractures.

METHODS

Between 2004 and 2013, our institute performed 585 primary THAs (cementless or hybrid) in 494 patients with DICOM pre- and postoperative CT; during the period in question, all patients undergoing THA underwent CT before and after surgery. Preoperative CT images were taken as part of a CT-based three-dimensional templating software and navigation system. Postoperative CT images were taken an average of 1 week after surgery as part of a different protocol to evaluate cup position, restoration of leg length and offset, volume of postoperative hematoma to assess anticoagulation effects after THA, and fractures that were not found on routine postoperative radiographs (which we defined as occult fractures). Patients with a history of prior pelvic osteotomy, trauma, and infection were excluded (88 patients/99 hips); 406 patients (102 males and 304 females; 486 hips) form the basis of this report. The mean age of the patients was 60 ± 11 years, with a mean BMI of 23 ± 4 kg/m2. The mean followup of the patients with periprosthetic fracture of the acetabulum was 58 ± 28 months (range, 12-131 months). Potential risk factors for occult acetabular fracture including age, sex, BMI, preoperative diagnosis, additional dome screw fixation, composition and size of each cup, and acetabular design were examined in multivariate analysis. Acetabular component designs were categorized as true hemispheric, peripheral self-locking, and elliptical; during the period in question the indications for each cup design were based on the brand of stem used. Comparison between preoperative and postoperative CT images was done to detect the fractures. Patients with fractures identified during surgery were treated with additional dome screw fixation and a 3-week period of nonweightbearing. Patients with occult fractures in this series did not receive additional treatment as we had confirmed secure fixation of the cup during surgery.

RESULTS

Occult fractures occurred in 41 hips (8.4%); periprosthetic fractures of the acetabulum were seen during surgery in an additional two hips (0.4%). The superolateral wall was the most frequent location for occult fractures of the acetabulum. After controlling for relevant confounding variables, only the use of peripheral self-locking cups was associated with an increased risk of occult fracture (odds ratio [OR], 2.6 compared with hemispheric cups; 95% CI, 1.2-5.6; p < 0.05). All patients with occult fractures showed bone ingrowth fixation at the final followup, without any additional surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Periprosthetic occult fractures of the acetabulum may occur relatively frequently during press-fit impaction. We observed a higher rate of fractures associated with the use of peripheral self-locking components. Occult acetabular fractures not detected on routine postoperative plain films may be ignored if secure fixation of the cup has been confirmed during the operation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Follow-up skeletal survey use by child abuse pediatricians

Skeletal survey is frequently used to identify occult fractures in young children with concern for physical abuse. Because skeletal survey is relatively insensitive for some abusive fractures, a follow-up skeletal survey (FUSS) may be undertaken at least 10-14 days after the initial skeletal survey to improve sensitivity for healing fractures. This was a prospectively planned secondary analysis of a prospective, observational study of 2,890 children who underwent subspecialty evaluation for suspected child physical abuse at 1 of 19 centers. Our objective was to determine variability between sites in rates of FUSS recommendation, completion and fracture identification among the 2,049 participants who had an initial SS. Among children with an initial skeletal survey, the rate of FUSS recommendation for sites ranged from 20% to 97%; the rate of FUSS completion ranged from 10% to 100%. Among sites completing at least 10 FUSS, rates of new fracture identification ranged from 8% to 28%. Among completed FUSS, new fractures were more likely to be identified in younger children, children with higher initial level of concern for abuse, and those with a fracture or cutaneous injury identified in the initial evaluation. The current variability in FUSS utilization is not explained by variability in occult fracture prevalence. Specific guidelines for FUSS utilization are needed.

[Our experience with orthopedic damage control in high-energy tibial pylon fractures]

High-energy tibial pylon fractures represent some of the most severe injuries of the ankle joint and currently represent a challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. These are usually polytraumatized patients and before admitting them into the traumatology unit, spinal cord, pelvic or thoracoabdominal injuries should be ruled out. Due to the special anatomy of the area, its thin skin cover and subcutaneous location, soft tissues are usually severely affected and this is key when choosing the time for a surgical intervention. Although the definitive treatment of these injuries is controversial, the so called two-stage treatment seems to predominate in order to minimize soft tissue iatrogenic injuries applying the concept of orthopedic damage control of the limb. We present the preliminary results of 10 patients operated with this method at our center.

Epidural hematoma associated with occult fracture in ankylosing spondylitis patient: a case report and review of the literature

STUDY DESIGN

A case report and review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE

To highlight the risk of occult fracture associated with symptomatic epidural hematoma in patient with ankylosing spondylitis.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Hyperextension injuries are common in patients with ankylosed spine. Failure of standard imaging to detect these fractures may result in delayed diagnosis. Ossification of the ligaments in these patients makes even subtle fractures grossly unstable owing to the increased lever arm. Delayed diagnosis of fractures may result in further displacement and increased risk of neurological injury.

METHODS

The clinical findings, roentgenographic appearance, and treatment were presented.

RESULTS

A 69-year-old patient with a history of ankylosing spondylitis fell 9 feet from a ladder. The patient developed pain in his neck and numbness in his hands. Initial computed tomography (CT) scan of spine showed a subtle fracture in the vertebral body of C7. A magnetic resonance imaging scan showed an epidural hematoma extending from C5 to T3. The patient was taken to the operating room urgently for decompression. Laminectomy was performed from C5 to T3 and a large epidural hematoma was evacuated. After decompression the patient had some improvement in his neurological status. A postdecompression repeat CT scan revealed obvious fracture at C6-C7 with anterior distraction indicating a hyperextension injury. The patient was taken back to the operating room within 16 hours of his decompression for C4 to T3 posterior segment instrumentation and fusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis who sustain low-energy injuries should be considered to have a fracture especially if they develop epidural hematoma. A high index of suspicion is necessary in such a case. Imaging studies including magnetic resonance imaging and CT scans should be reviewed carefully to rule out any occult fracture.

A noncontiguous 2-level spinal injury in a young female driver due to a 3-point seat belt restraint

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this case is to describe noncontiguous fracture and dislocations of the thoracolumbosacral spine in a 23-year-old female driver with a 3-point seat belt restraint.

CLINICAL FEATURES

A 23-year-old woman presented to us after a motor vehicle accident while driving with a 3-point seat belt restraint. She was neurologically intact except for loss of motor function in the distribution of the L5 nerve root in the right lower limb. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed fracture and dislocation of T3 with considerable retrolisthesis and complete anterolisthesis of L5 over the sacrum.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME

Both fractures were reduced and fixed with bone graft and instrumentation. She was discharged a month later without any further neurologic deterioration.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this case is the first report in the literature of a seat belt safety restraint causing 2 noncontiguous fracture dislocations of the spine. Although the consensus is that seat belts can prevent most spine injuries, this case shows that the seat belt can be a contributor to spine injury. It shows that the shoulder-lap restraint can act as 2 fulcrums at the upper and lower bands causing 2 separate fracture dislocations. A thorough radiologic evaluation of the spine with respect to the clinical findings is mandatory in seat belt-restrained road traffic accidents cases.

Unusual fracture of the humerus in a volleyball player: a case report

We describe a case of a female high school volleyball player who suffered a humeral shaft fracture while executing a floater serve. Based on the patient's history, a stress fracture was initially suspected. However, plain radiographs showed no periosteal reactions, callus formation or osteosclerosis, and thus we could not make a definite diagnosis of "stress fracture". It is suggested that an instantaneous muscle force in addition to rotational forces applied by impact with the ball caused the fracture. Her fracture healed without any subsequent disabilities based on a conservative medical management with a plaster splint, and she returned to the volleyball team. The inaccuracy of her serve form in addition to her own muscular force might be involved in the mechanism of injury. Instruction on achieving appropriate serve form might help prevent such fractures.

[Fracture due to bilateral avulsion of the tuberosity of the shin bone (tibia). A case report]

INTRODUCTION

The avultion-fracture of the tibial tuberosity is a rare injury, one which appears in adolescents, predominantly male and happens in a zone in which the conditions of bone immaturity are favorable, so that an abrupt traction of the patellar tendon generates the injury. The reports of simultaneous fractures in both knees are rare.

CLINICAL CASE

A 14-year-old masculine patient, who had suffered indirect trauma in both knees while playing soccer. The injuries correspond to a 3-A and one 3-B of Ogden's classification for the right and left knee respectively. Both injuries were treated in the same surgical act using screws and wire. The recovery of the patient was satisfactory.

CONCLUSION

The avultion-fracture of the tibial tuberosity is a rare injury. The bilateral presentation in simultaneous form is even rarer. Generally they are injuries of type 3 that require surgical handling. Preexisting conditions such as Osgood-Schlatter disease and the type of athletic training must be considered.

"Occult" osteoporotic vertebral fractures: vertebral body fractures without radiologic collapse

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

OBJECTIVES

We report our experience with patients who presented with osteoporotic vertebral fractures with no visible deformation of vertebral body.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The diagnosis of osteoporotic vertebral fractures largely relies on the observation of vertebral deformations on plain radiographs, termed vertebral collapses. There are no data on the characteristics, or indeed of the reality, of osteoporotic vertebral fractures with no significant deformation of the vertebral body.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed cases that presented with acute back pain with no initial deformation of the vertebral body on plain radiographs, and later proved to be fresh osteoporotic vertebral body fractures. All cases met each of the following criteria: 1) The incriminated vertebra appeared normal on initial radiographs (Genant's Grade 0 deformation). 2) The diagnosis of fresh vertebral body fracture was confirmed by MRI. 3) The diagnosis of osteoporosis was made by the combination of established osteoporosis, ruling out of underlying disease, and follow-up.

RESULTS

We observed 21 fractures in 16 patients (11 female/5 male; mean age, 72 years). Most of these fractures affected the lumbar spine (14 of 21 occurred at L2-L5). Osteoporosis was known beforehand in 9 patients and newly diagnosed in 7 patients. At follow-up, radiographs were obtained for 19 of 21 fractures: in 15 cases, the vertebral fracture developed a vertebral collapse (Genant's Grade > or = 0.5) in a mean of 12.5 weeks (range, 4-24 weeks); in the 4 remaining cases, the vertebra remained normal. All cases had a clinically favorable outcome.

CONCLUSION

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures with no sign of vertebral collapse on initial radiographs do indeed exist. They are analogous to occult stress fractures well known in other skeletal sites. They must not be misdiagnosed as malignant lesions.

Fixation of a talar osteochondral fracture with cyanoacrylate glue

Cyanoacrylate glue was invented by Ardis in 1949 and was first used in surgery in 1959 by Coover. By further modifications, a nonhistotoxic form, butyl-2-cyanoacrylate, which had strong tissue binding properties even in nondry environments, was developed. Its use in the fixation of fractures and osteotomies is still under investigation and has had promising results in treatment of craniofacial and mandibular injuries. We fixed a talar osteochondral fracture with cyanoacrylate. After 3 months, magnetic resonance imaging showed an anatomically reduced and intact chondral surface. The clinical result was excellent. We believe cyanoacrylate glue may form an alternative means of fixation for osteochondral and, possibly, for chondral fractures.

Lumbar chance fracture in an adult snowboarder: unusual mechanism of a chance fracture

STUDY DESIGN

A case of a Chance fracture in an adult snowboarder following a fall is presented. The mechanism of this fracture is reported.

OBJECTIVE

To increase awareness of the spinal injuries in snowboarders and to propose the mechanism of this unusual fracture.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Chance fractures rarely occur in adults and are very unusual in children. Nearly all of the reported cases are in conjunction with lap-type seat belt injuries. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of a lumbar Chance fracture in an adult snowboarder.

METHODS

A 25-year-old snowboarder sustained an L1 Chance fracture following a fall backward. The patient was placed in a hyperextension cast, and the cast was changed to a thoracolumbar orthosis after 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Complete bony union was obtained with body cast immobilization, and an excellent functional restoration was obtained.

CONCLUSIONS

Chance fractures are horizontal splitting fractures of the posterior elements of the vertebrae, and the mechanism of the injury is that of a hyperflexion of the spine over a fulcrum. A Chance-type fracture can be seen in an adult snowboarder, when acute hyperflexion of the spine occurs following a fall backward.

The treatment of an osteochondral shearing fracture-dislocation of the head of the proximal phalanx: a case report

We report the morphology and treatment of a proximal interphalangeal joint dislocation resulting in an injury to the articular surface of the proximal phalanx and avulsion of the radial collateral ligament from its proximal origin. A large osteochondral fragment was sheared from the radial articular surface of the proximal phalanx and remained displaced volarly after reduction of the joint. Plain radiographs and 2- and 3-dimensional computed tomography images were used to evaluate this unusual injury before surgery. Open reduction and internal fixation using a small K-wire and figure-of-eight wire technique restored the articular surface of the head of the proximal phalanx and gave a satisfactory functional result.

Skeletal injuries associated with sexual abuse

BACKGROUND

Sexual abuse is often associated with physical abuse, the most common injuries being bruising and other soft-tissue injuries, but fractures occur in 5% of sexually abused children. The fractures described to date have formed part of the spectrum of injuries in these children and have not been specifically related to the abusive act.

OBJECTIVE

To describe concurrent sexual abuse and fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three children with pelvic or femoral shaft injuries in association with sexual abuse.

RESULTS

A 3-year-old girl with extensive soft-tissue injuries to the arms, legs and perineum also sustained fractures of both pubic rami and the sacral side of the right sacro-iliac joint. A 5-month-old girl with an introital tear was shown to have an undisplaced left femoral shaft fracture. A 5-year-old girl presented with an acute abdomen and pneumoperitoneum due to a ruptured rectum following sexual abuse. She had old healed fractures of both pubic rami with disruption of the symphysis pubis.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the finding of a perineal injury in a young child may be significant enough for the diagnosis of abuse, additional skeletal injuries revealed by radiography will assist in confirmation of that diagnosis and may be more common than hitherto suspected.

Serious pyogenic spondylitis following vertebroplasty--a case report

STUDY DESIGN

The aim of this case report is to examine the problem of serious pyogenic spondylitis that may follow vertebroplasty.

OBJECTIVES

To report 1 case of serious pyogenic spondylitis caused by percutaneous vertebroplasty with polymethyl methacrylate.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Serious pyogenic spondylitis caused by percutaneous vertebroplasty with polymethyl methacrylate is a rare complication. We herein report a case of pyogenic spondylitis that occurred after the patient had undergone vertebroplasty.

METHODS

A 78-year-old woman with a T12 osteoporotic compression fracture, and without a magnetic resonance imaging sign of infection, underwent percutaneous vertebroplasty using polymethyl methacrylate without complication. RESULTS.: About 1 month after the operation, the patient was readmitted because of severe backache, and the diagnosis of pyogenic spondylitis was made using radiograph and magnetic resonance imaging. Anterior inter-body fusion with a strut bone graft after debridement and posterior instrumentation were then performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Vertebroplasty should proceed under sterile conditions. Excluding the possibility of spinal infection before surgery and a detailed evaluation assuring that the patient is without systemic infectious disease before the vertebroplasty procedure is crucial.

Fracture of the femoral tunnel after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Fractures after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructive surgery are rare. Patella fractures can occur as a complication after bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts, and few case reports of tibia fractures have been published. Although reports of femur fractures have been published, the causes are attributed to stress risers other than the femoral tunnel. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a femoral tunnel serving as a stress riser after an ACL reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft. The patient's fracture resulted from minimal trauma and required surgical fixation.

[The closed fracture of femur after revascularization osteotrefination in patient with atherosclerotic occlusion of the tibials arteries]

In this article is represented the case of revascularization osteotrefination in patient with atherosclerotic occlusion of the tibials arteries which was complicated by the closed fracture of femur in late postoperative period.

Management of scaphoid nonunions

Scaphoid nonunions result in a predictable pattern of wrist arthrosis. To minimize the incidence of arthrosis, the goal of treatment should be consolidation of the fracture with the scaphoid in anatomic alignment. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans can aid evaluation of carpal collapse, scaphoid collapse, scaphoid nonunion, bone loss, and detection of osteonecrosis. Nonunion of the scaphoid waist may result in a humpback deformity, increasing the chances of further collapse and arthrosis. This collapse deformity must be approached volarly with an intercalary bone graft and internal fixation. A dorsal approach to proximal scaphoid nonunions allows easier access for removing the necrotic bone from the proximal pole and applying accurate screw or pin fixation. Vascularized bone graft is recommended to manage scaphoid nonunions with osteonecrosis.

[Epidemiological survey of wrist fractures in children]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The incidence of wrist fractures is increasing in children. We undertook an epidemiological survey in western France to determine characteristic features.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective multicentric study was conducted over one year in five university hospital centers in western France. The survey included 839 wrist fractures in children aged 6 to 16 years. The following criteria were recorded: age and gender, date and energy of the trauma, side and description of the fracture. Displacement was measured on the AP and lateral radiographs.

RESULTS

The boys were older than the girls at the time of the wrist fractures, generally during the summer season (May to October). The left wrist was involved in 55% of the fractures; 83% were metaphyseal fractures. Fractures with epiphyseal detachment were more frequent in adolescents and occurred after high-energy trauma. Metaphyseal fractures were more common in girls than in boys. Displacement was greater in older children, particularly in case of epiphyseal detachment.

DISCUSSION

We did not observe the male predominance often reported in our country. The girls probably practice sports as much as boys.

Avulsion fracture of the pelvis: separation of the secondary ossification center in the superior margin of the acetabulum

A 13-year-old female sustained a rare avulsion fracture of the secondary ossification center in the superior margin of the acetabulum as the result of contraction of the reflected head of the rectus femoris muscle. Diagnosis was made from plain films and CT scans with 3D image reconstruction. The patient was treated non-operatively by bed rest with semiflexion of the hip and knee, and appropriate analgesia.

Fracture of the lateral process of the talus associated with snowboarding

Snowboarding is one of the fastest-growing winter sports and is associated with a relatively high rate of ankle injuries. Presented is a patient who, after falling while snowboarding, complained of lateral ankle pain and was misdiagnosed with an ankle sprain. Further workup revealed a lateral process of the talus fracture, an injury that is rare outside of snowboarding. A lateral process of the talus fracture should be suspected when there is a history of inversion with dorsiflexion and there is tenderness over the lateral process of the talus. Results of plain films are negative up to 40% of the time, and therefore a computed tomographic scan is the imaging modality of choice. Treatment includes immobilization and not bearing weight for 4 to 6 weeks for nondisplaced fractures or open reduction and fixation for displaced fractures. Up to two thirds of patients with lateral process of the talus fractures report chronic pain. Early recognition may decrease this relatively high rate of morbidity.

Occult bilateral acetabular fractures associated with high-energy trauma and osteoporosis

Acetabular fractures that are radiographically occult are associated with osteoporosis, low-energy trauma, and advanced age. We present a case of bilateral occult acetabular fractures in a 65-year-old woman who presented with an open tibia-fibula fracture and compartment syndrome and thoracolumbar spine fractures sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Initial radiographs of the pelvis and a pelvic CT scan did not show any bony injuries when the films were reviewed prospectively. At 6 weeks after injury, a CT scan and plain radiographs showed bilateral healing transverse acetabular fractures with acetabular protrusio on the left. At most recent follow-up, the patient had posttraumatic hip arthritis with moderate protrusio on the left and was ambulating with a cane. Total hip arthroplasty is anticipated in the future.

Tibial shaft fractures in amateur footballers

BACKGROUND

Footballers constitute a unique group of patients with tibial shaft fractures. They tend to have excellent general health and well developed musculature in the leg, and their fractures are generally closed injuries caused by low velocity trauma. However, little has been reported on the outcome after tibial shaft fractures in this group.

OBJECTIVE

To identify patterns of injury, response to treatment, and functional outcome in such a group.

METHOD

Fifty consecutive tibial shaft fractures in adult footballers treated at Merlin Park Regional Hospital over a five year period were analysed.

RESULTS

Most of the fractures were type A injuries (AO/ASIF classification). The incidence of complications was low. All patients reported good or excellent satisfaction with their outcome. However, only 54% of patients returned to playing competitive football.

CONCLUSION

Tibial shaft fractures in amateur footballers are associated with good results when traditional outcome criteria are used, but many patients do not regain their previous level of function.

[Diagnostic and therapeutic options for traumatic sternal fractures]

BACKGROUND

Sternal fractures are uncommon injuries observed in the direct impact of the sternum against the steering wheel in car accidents with the likelihood of associated thoracic injuries.

OBJECTIVES

To present our experience in the management of blunt sternal fractures.

LOCATION

Hospital de Urgencias de Córdoba.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with blunt sternal fracture were included over a one year period. After an anterior chest x-ray suggested a clinical problem, lateral x-ray of the sternum was performed for the fracture diagnosis. CT scan, ECG, serum CPK and an echocardiogram were used to evaluate the associated trauma. The indications for fixation were bony deformity, intractable pain and thoracic instability.

RESULTS

Of eight patients with sternal fractures, 5 were caused by road accidents and the others by a direct blow in the chest. Five patients suffered associated injuries. One patient presented cardiac contusion but did not require treatment. Fixation was performed on 4 patients. No surgical complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Sternal fracture should be suspected in patients with anterior chest trauma from road accidents. A lateral x-ray of the sternum is useful in fracture evaluation. Possible associated thoracic Injuries need to be necessarily evaluated. Osteosintesis should be performed on patients with bony deformity and severe pain, while for stable, not displaced or conminuted fractures, pain relief should be performed.

Exsanguination due to right ventricular rupture during closed-chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation

We report on a 61-year-old woman in whom cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was unsuccessful. While the patient was initially resuscitated from the primary cardiac arrest, with evidence of neurologic recovery, she ultimately succumbed to injuries resulting directly from closed-chest CPR. Autopsy revealed multiple rib fractures, a sternal fracture, pulmonary laceration, and cardiac rupture. In a patient with deteriorating vital signs following successful closed-chest CPR, such injuries should be considered.

[Fracture-dislocation of the second carpometacarpal joint. Case report and review of the literature]

A 26-year-old man was involved in a car crash then he presented an isolated trauma of the hand. We found out a dorsal dislocation of the second carpometacarpal joint with trapezoid fracture and a Rolando fracture. In emergency, closed reduction with percutaneous wires to stabilize, was performed. In the same time, the Rolando fracture was treated by internal fixation (plate). In a second time, after computerized tomography of the carpus, the trapezoid was reduced through a dorsal incision and held with two Kirschner-wires. At last follow-up one year after injury, the result was good. All movements of the wrist and fingers were full and pain free. Thumb index pinch and grasp were approximately 80% those of the uninjured hand. The mechanisms of injury, anatomic factors and management of seventy-one cases of similar trauma (included at least a dislocation of the second carpometacarpal joint) were reviewed in the literature.

Predictors of outcome of floating knee injuries in adults: 89 patients followed for 2-12 years

Of the 98 floating knee injuries that were consecutively treated from 1987 to 1997, 89 patients were available for analysis. There were 80 males and 9 females, ranging from 15 to 70 years old. Average follow-up was 5 (2-12) years. Injury severity scores ranged from 18 to 45. 21 fractures were intra-articular. 55 fractures were open. Substantial comminuted and segmental fractures occurred in 57 cases and 35 cases, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that increasing age was associated with delays in bony union and full weight bearing ability. An increase in the number of pack years smoked at the time of injury predicted the likelihood of knee stiffness, delays in bony union and full weight bearing ability. Higher injury severity scores were associated with delayed full weight bearing ability. The presence of open fractures predicted the likelihood of knee stiffness and delayed full weight bearing ability. Comminuted fractures were associated with malunion, and segmental fractures with delayed bony union. Using the outcome of floating knee injuries as fair or poor, according to Karlström and Olerud's criteria, we constructed a preoperative prognostic scoring scale which showed a sensitivity of 0.72 and a specificity of 0.90.

Orthopedic pitfalls in the ED: scaphoid fracture

Wrist injuries are frequently encountered in the emergency department. When a patient presents with such an injury, the possibility of scaphoid fracture must be at the top of the differential for the emergency practitioner. Unfortunately, these injuries can be missed on first presentation, as they are frequently radiographically occult. When left unrecognized and untreated, these injuries lead to a high incidence of long-term functional disability and chronic pain. The emergency physician needs to be vigilant for scaphoid fracture and be aggressive in both its diagnosis and treatment to avoid this practice pitfall. This review examines the clinical presentation, diagnostic techniques, and management options applicable to the emergency physician.

Fractures in transfusion dependent beta thalassemia--an Indian study

AIM OF STUDY

To analyse the incidence of fractures in beta thalassemia patients and to identify causative factors.

METHODS

We examined all cases of transfusion dependent beta thalassemia (TDBT) seen at our institute over a two-year period. The transfusion records, incidence of fractures, cause of fracture and Hb levels were recorded. Radiographs of the involved parts were taken in cases with fractures only.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Amongst 105 cases of TDBT assessed, 14 sustained a total of 28 fractures. Seven patients sustained more than one fracture. Two thirds of these fractures were caused by trivial trauma. All fractures, except one, were of the closed type. Radiologically, fractures frequently showed minimal or no displacement. All fractures were successfully treated by closed modalities of treatment. Majority of the fractures healed within normal union time for a given bone. Permanent deformities and gross limb length discrepancies were uncommon. On reviewing the literature, we noted that the incidence of fractures in our series and in the latest reports was lesser than previously reported. We postulate that this is a result of better and earlier control of hemoglobin status by improved transfusion techniques, and earlier recognition of the disease. Difficulties arise due to inadequate blood transfusion facilities in developing countries.

Fractured rheumatoid elbow: treatment with Souter elbow arthroplasty--a clinical and radiologic midterm follow-up study

We report the results in 26 patients who had 32 preoperative fractures treated with Souter elbow arthroplasty. All were rheumatoid patients with a mean disease duration of 29.7 years (range, 10 to 43). Six of the fractures were of the olecranon and 26 of the distal humerus. The time interval between fracture and arthroplasty was 9 months (mean; range, 0 to 48). Fragments were not excised, and osteosynthesis was performed. The follow-up was 2.6 years (mean; range, 0.5 to 8), when 20 of the fractures had united and 12 had not. K-wire fixation, either alone or in combination with cerclage or PDS suture, and bone grafting led to satisfactory results. Union was verified in 14 of 17 cases treated with this technique. There were no severe early complications. Six patients had late complications. In 3 cases, loosening of the humeral component was observed radiologically. One patient had a hematogenous deep infection 4 years after the operation, and 2 patients had avulsion rupture of the triceps tendon. Fracture in the badly destroyed elbow can be more reasonably treated with an arthroplasty than with an attempt of osteosynthesis before arthroplasty. If excision of the fragments is avoided, original, or near original, anatomy of the elbow joint can be better restored and acceptable outcome obtained with elbow arthroplasty.

Closed pelvic fractures: characteristics and outcomes in older patients admitted to medical and geriatric wards

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the characteristics and outcomes of older patients with pelvic fracture admitted to medical and geriatric wards.

METHODS

All patients admitted to medical and geriatric wards with a pelvic fracture over a four year period were identified using the hospital clinical coding database. Data were collected from casenotes, hospital and Family Health Services Authority databases. Where available, pelvic radiographs were graded according to the Singh index.

RESULTS

The casenotes of 148 patients (126 women) were studied; 83% (n=123) of patients suffered a pelvic fracture in low energy trauma. Mean (SD) length of hospital stay was 21.3 (17.6) days. Single breaks of the pubic rami accounted for 47.2% (n=68) of all fractures. Inpatient mortality was 7.6% and at one year was 27%. There was a marked adverse effect on the mobility of survivors with all patients using at least a walking stick at discharge and 51.1% (n=70) needing assistance for mobility. Although 70.9% (n=83) of patients admitted from home (or warden aided accommodation) were able to return there, 84.3% (n=70) of them required extra community support. Rates of institutionalisation rose from 20.9% (n=31) at admission to 35.8% (49/137) of survivors at discharge. Altogether 93% (n=107) of 115 patients, in whom adequate quality pelvic radiographs were available, were assigned a Singh index grade of 4 or less indicating the presence of osteoporosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic fractures are often the result of low energy trauma. They are associated with appreciable inpatient and considerable one year mortality. They also have marked negative effects on mobility in the short term. They result in increased levels of dependency in terms of higher levels of community support and rates of institutionalisation. On the evidence of Singh index grading, pelvic fractures are associated with low bone density.

Upper extremity injuries in the paediatric athlete

Injuries to the upper extremity in paediatric and adolescent athletes are increasingly being seen with expanded participation and higher competitive levels of youth sports. Injury patterns are unique to the growing musculoskeletal system and specific to the demands of the involved sport. Shoulder injuries include sternoclavicular joint injury, clavicle fracture, acromioclavicular joint injury, osteolysis of the distal clavicle, little league shoulder, proximal humerus fracture, glenohumeral instability and rotator cuff injury. Elbow injuries include supracondylar fracture, lateral condyle fracture, radial head/neck fracture, medial epicondyle avulsion, elbow dislocation and little league elbow. Wrist and hand injuries include distal radius fracture, distal radial physeal injury, triangular fibrocartilage tear, scaphoid fracture, wrist ligamentous injury thumb metacarpalphalangeal ulnar collateral ligament injury, proximal and distal interphalangeal joint injuries and finger fractures. Recognition of injury patterns with early activity modification and the initiation of efficacious treatment can prevent deformity/disability and return the youth athlete to sport.

Low-energy scapular body fracture: a case report

Scapula fractures are relatively rare and most often the result of high-energy trauma. However, they should always be included in a physician's differential diagnosis when a patient has a complaint of shoulder pain after trauma or violent muscular contraction about the shoulder. Because the vast majority are the result of a high-energy mechanism of injury, the physician should, as always, completely evaluate the patient for associated injuries. Most scapula fractures can be diagnosed on physical examination with localized tenderness, swelling, and hematoma formation over the fracture site. Radiographic confirmation and evaluation is routinely made using the three-view trauma series of the shoulder; additional views are rarely indicated. Treatment, consisting of a sling or sling and swath for comfort, mild narcotic medication, and early range-of-motion exercises virtually always leads to union and good glenohumeral function. Operative treatment is rarely indicated. A case of an low-energy isolated scapular body fracture sustained by a 41-year-old man is presented.

[Pathologic fracture of the tibia associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease]

The authors report a case of pathologic fracture of the distal tibia associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Pathologic fracture was visible four weeks after initial pain. Treatment consisted in a short leg walking cast for six weeks. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a slowly progressive neurogenic muscular atrophy affecting the distal parts of the lower limbs. The muscular atrophy is responsible for radiographic bony changes including narrowing of the shaft with thinning of the cortex, rarefaction at the end of the long bones and relative widening of the medullary cavity. Pathologic fractures in neuromuscular disease are rare; a few cases have been reported following application of very small forces. The authors draw attention to the increased risk of pathologic fractures in patients with neuromuscular disease. Ambulatory treatment of fractures should be used whenever possible; prolonged immobilization could result in further loss of function.

Successful non-operative management of an Achilles fracture

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Triplane fractures in the hand

Two new cases of triplane fracture of the distal tibia are reported in the proximal phalanx of the thumb and the distal radius, respectively, of a 12-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy. Neither fracture showed any displacement, achieving healing at 4 weeks of external immobilization. Triplane fractures can occur across growth plates other than the distal tibia. Because of the rapid physiologic physeal arrest, the potential for growth deformity is null. In cases without displacement, these fractures should be treated conservatively by external immobilization, as one would treat a one-plane fracture.