bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micromotion of cemented and uncemented femoral components
Authors: Burke DW , O'Connor DO , Zalenski EB , Jasty M , Harris WH
Published: February 2018

We evaluated the initial stability of cemented and uncemented femoral components within the femoral canals of cadaver femurs during simulated single limb stance and stair climbing. Both types were very stable in simulated single limb stance (maximum micromotion of 42 microns for cemented and 30 microns for uncemented components). However, in simulated stair climbing, the cemented components were much more stable than the uncemented components (76 microns as against 280 microns). There was also greater variation in the stability of uncemented components in simulated stair climbing, with two of the seven components moving 200 microns or more. Future implant designs should aim to improve the initial stability of cementless femoral components under torsional loads; this should improve the chances of bony ingrowth.
Immunopathological response to loose cementless acetabular components
Authors: Santavirta S , Konttinen YT , Hoikka V , Eskola A
Published: February 2018

The membranes surrounding seven loose cementless acetabular implants were shown to contain polyethylene particles, birefringent in polarised light. Three of these implants were made of titanium alloy and the membranes around these contained titanium particles as well. There was no metallosis around the four implants made of chromium-cobalt-steel alloy. Both titanium and polyethylene particles caused migration, adherence and phagocytosis of CD11b-positive, peroxidase-negative macrophages. There were no histological signs of activation of the specific immune response; neither interleukin-2 receptor-positive activated T cells nor PCA-1 plasmablasts/plasma cells were present in the tissues. In cases of simple loosening, resident mesenchymal fibroblast-like cells were active. In aggressive granulomatosis, there were many macrophages and multinucleated giant cells but little fibroblast reaction. The clinical relevance of the findings is that the use of cementless prostheses is not a guarantee against adverse tissue reactions.
Joint proprioception in normal, osteoarthritic and replaced knees
Authors: Barrett DS , Cobb AG , Bentley G
Published: February 2018

We measured joint position sense in the knee by a new method which tests the proprioceptive contribution of the joint capsule and ligaments. The leg was supported on a splint, and held in several positions of flexion. The subjects' perception of the position was recorded on a visual analogue model and compared with the actual angle of flexion. Eighty-one normal and 45 osteoarthritic knees were examined, as were 10 knees with semi-constrained and 11 with hinged joint replacements. All were assessed with and without an elastic bandage around the knee. There was a steady decline in joint position sense with age in subjects with normal knees. Those with osteoarthritic knees had impaired joint position sense at all ages (p less than 0.001). Knee replacement improved the joint position sense slightly (p less than 0.02); semi-constrained replacement had a greater effect than hinged replacement. The effect of an elastic bandage in subjects with poor position sense was dramatic, improving accuracy by 40% (p less than 0.001). It is proposed that reduced proprioception in elderly and osteoarthritic subjects may be responsible for initiation or advancement of degeneration of the knee.
Repair of cartilage lesions using biological implants. A comparative histological and biomechanical study in goats
Authors: Shahgaldi BF , Amis AA , Heatley FW , McDowell J , Bentley G
Published: February 2018

We report the experimental use of three different biological implants to restore articular surface defects: glutaraldehyde-fixed bovine meniscal xenograft, glutaraldehyde-fixed bovine costal cartilage xenograft, and viable osteochondral allografts. The grafts were implanted in the knees of 19 goats who were allowed free-field activity and were studied for up to one year. The natural articular surfaces of meniscal fibrocartilage provided excellent articular surfaces at all times. Equally good articular surfaces were restored by host tissue growth covering costal cartilage grafts at six months, but by 12 months this surface had degenerated. The majority of the allografts survived and integrated with the host at six months, but many showed signs of failure at 12 months. Only three out of seven ungrafted defects healed completely at six months and the healed surfaces were degenerating at 12 months.
Natural history of nontraumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Ohzono K , Saito M , Takaoka K , Ono K , Saito S , Nishina T , Kadowaki T
Published: February 2018

We studied the natural history of nontraumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) in 115 hips in 87 patients, 69 steroid-induced, 21 related to misuse of alcohol and 25 idiopathic. The average length of follow-up was over five years. Collapse occurred most often when the focus of bone necrosis occupied the weight-bearing surface of the femoral head. Flatness of the head due to subchondral fracture was an early manifestation of collapse. Classification into six types based upon the radiographic findings provided an accurate prognosis for individual cases of ANFH which is useful in planning treatment and in assessing its outcome.
Conservative management or closed nailing for tibial shaft fractures. A randomised prospective trial
Authors: Hooper GJ , Keddell RG , Penny ID
Published: February 2018

We performed a prospective randomised trial on matched groups of patients with displaced tibial shaft fractures to compare conservative treatment with closed intramedullary nailing. The results showed conclusively that intramedullary nailing gave more rapid union with less malunion and shortening. Nailed patients had less time off work with a more predictable and rapid return to full function. We therefore consider that closed intramedullary nailing is the most efficient treatment for displaced fractures of the tibial shaft.
The snapping hip. Treatment by Z-plasty
Authors: Brignall CG , Stainsby GD
Published: February 2018

We describe a new method of Z-plasty for the snapping hip caused by a tight band in the iliotibial tract. Eight hips in six patients were treated by this method and at follow-up all had a successful result, with relief of snapping.
Sagittal plane laxity following knee arthroplasty
Authors: White SH , O'Connor JJ , Goodfellow JW
Published: February 2018

We measured the sagittal laxity in 70 knee replacements at least six months after surgery, using a KT 1000 arthrometer. With an unconstrained prosthesis (the Oxford meniscal knee) anteroposterior stability was normal in joints known to have intact cruciate ligaments. There was increased laxity in those which lacked an anterior cruciate ligament. In knees with an intact anterior cruciate ligament, sagittal laxity did not increase with time.
Iatrogenic injuries of peripheral nerves
Authors: Birch R , Bonney G , Dowell J , Hollingdale J
Published: February 2018

In this study, we discuss 68 cases in which peripheral nerve trunks were inadvertently divided by surgeons. Most of these accidents occurred in the course of planned operations. Delay in diagnosis and in effecting repair was common. We list the nerves particularly at risk and the operations in which special care is needed. We recommend steps to secure prompt diagnosis and early treatment.
Coracoclavicular screw fixation for unstable fractures of the distal clavicle. A report of five cases
Authors: Ballmer FT , Gerber C
Published: February 2018

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.
Forearm fractures in children. Cast treatment with the elbow extended
Authors: Walker JL , Rang M
Published: February 2018

Fractures of the proximal forearm in young children may be unstable with the elbow flexed but stable with it in extension. Fifteen such fractures were managed by immobilisation in long-arm casts with the elbow extended. Only one patient had more than 15 degrees angulation at the time of bony union. All obtained normal elbow movement at two weeks and full forearm rotation at follow-up. No casts fell off. The extended elbow cast is awkward but it provides an alternative to internal fixation for some unstable fractures.
Unstable Colles' fractures in elderly patients. A randomised trial of external fixation for redisplacement
Authors: Roumen RM , Hesp WL , Bruggink ED
Published: February 2018

We report the results of a prospective randomised controlled trial of the management of 101 Colles' fractures in patients over the age of 55 years. Within two weeks of initial reduction 43 fractures had displaced with either more than 10 degrees dorsal angulation or more than 5 mm radial shortening. These patients were randomly divided into two groups: 21 were remanipulated and held by an external fixator; in the control group of 22 patients, the redisplacement was accepted and conservative treatment was continued. Patients treated with external fixation had a good anatomical result, but their function was no better than that of the control group. We found no correlation between final anatomical and functional outcome, and concluded that the severity of the original soft-tissue injury and its complications are the major determinants of functional end result.
Bipolar hemiarthroplasty for subcapital fracture of the femoral neck. A prospective randomised trial of cemented Thompson and uncemented Moore stems
Authors: Emery RJ , Broughton NS , Desai K , Bulstrode CJ , Thomas TL
Published: February 2018

We performed a randomised prospective trial to compare the results of 27 cemented and 26 uncemented bipolar hemiarthroplasties in active patients with displaced subcapital fractures of the femoral neck. After a mean follow-up of 17 months, significantly more of the uncemented group were experiencing pain in the hip and using more walking aids than the patients in the cemented group. The incidence of postoperative complications, the early mortality rate and the operating time and blood loss were not significantly different. Using otherwise identical prostheses the early results were much better with a cemented Thompson stem than with an uncemented Austin Moore stem.
Fixation of intertrochanteric fractures of the femur. A randomised prospective comparison of the gamma nail and the dynamic hip screw
Authors: Bridle SH , Patel AD , Bircher M , Calvert PT
Published: February 2018

We have prospectively compared the fixation of 100 intertrochanteric fractures of the proximal femur in elderly patients with random use of either a Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) or a new intramedullary device, the Gamma nail. We found no difference in operating time, blood loss, wound complications, stay in hospital, place of eventual discharge, or the patients' mobility at final review. There was no difference in failure of proximal fixation: cut-out occurred in three cases with the DHS, and twice with the Gamma nail. However, in four cases fracture of the femur occurred close to the Gamma nail, requiring further major surgery. In the absence of these complications, union was seen by six months in both groups.
Coccydynia. Aetiology and treatment
Authors: Wray CC , Easom S , Hoskinson J
Published: February 2018

A five-year prospective trial involving 120 patients was undertaken to investigate the aetiology and treatment of coccydynia. The cause lies in some localised musculoskeletal abnormality in the coccygeal region. Lumbosacral disc prolapse is not a significant factor. The condition is genuine and distressing and we found no evidence of neurosis in our patients. Physiotherapy was of little help in treatment but 60% of patients responded to local injections of corticosteroid and local anaesthesia. Manipulation and injection was even more successful and cured about 85%. Coccygectomy was required in almost 20% and had a success rate of over 90%.
Isolated rupture of the tendon of the subscapularis muscle. Clinical features in 16 cases
Authors: Gerber C , Krushell RJ
Published: February 2018

Traumatic rupture of the tendon of the subscapularis muscle was documented as an isolated lesion in the shoulders of 16 men. The injury was caused either by forceful hyperextension or external rotation of the adducted arm. The patients complained of anterior shoulder pain and weakness of the arm when it was used above and below the shoulder level. They did not experience shoulder instability. The injured shoulders exhibited increased external rotation and decreased strength of internal rotation. A simple clinical manoeuvre called the 'lift-off test', reliably diagnosed or excluded clinically relevant rupture of the subscapularis tendon. Confirmation of the clinical diagnosis was best achieved by ultrasonography or MRI, but arthrography or CT arthrography were also useful. Surgical exploration confirmed the diagnosis in every case. Repair of the ruptured tendon was technically demanding and required good exposure to identify and protect the axillary nerve.
Total hip arthroplasty in high congenital dislocation. 21 hips with a minimum five-year follow-up
Authors: Fredin H , Sanzen L , Sigurdsson B , Unander-Scharin L
Published: February 2018

Total arthroplasty was performed on 21 congenitally dislocated hips in 18 women. In all cases the femoral head was dislocated cranially at least one-fifth of the height of the pelvis. The components were both cemented, the acetabulum being replaced to its original position. The acetabular roof was reconstructed by bone graft in 13 hips, and trochanteric osteotomy was done in 18 hips. The patients were assessed at a median follow-up time of 7.5 years when their median age was 54 years. Nine patients had been revised or required revision. At follow-up the average functional score (according to Charnley) was 6 for pain, 4 for walking ability and 5 for range of motion. The Harris hip score was 82. The patients' subjective evaluation of their satisfaction with the late results on a visual analogue scale was 93, range 23 to 100. The high loosening rate in such patients demands regular follow-up and preparedness for revision surgery.
Dislocation and fracture-dislocation of the hip
Authors: Jaskulka RA , Fischer G , Fenzl G
Published: February 2018

Of 54 patients with posterior dislocations of the hip of type I and type II (Stewart and Milford 1954), 47 were followed for a mean period of 6.7 years (2 to 11). Of these, 23 had dislocation with minimal lesions of the acetabulum (type I) and 24 had an avulsed dorsocranial fragment (type II). All were reduced by closed methods within six hours. The subsequent treatment of type I dislocations was conservative. At the beginning of the period type II injuries were treated conservatively, but surgery was increasingly chosen for later cases. Type I dislocations had significantly better results (p < 0.05) than type II fracture-dislocations, regardless of the method of treatment. There were no essential differences between the results of surgical and conservative treatment in type II dislocations.
Ankle fractures and alcoholism. The influence of alcoholism on morbidity after malleolar fractures
Authors: Tonnesen H , Pedersen A , Jensen MR , Moller A , Madsen JC
Published: February 2018

The postoperative morbidity after osteosynthesis of malleolar fractures was investigated retrospectively by comparing 90 alcohol abusers with 90 controls. The two groups were selected from 626 male patients and were matched regarding trauma, treatment for cardiovascular, pulmonary and endocrine diseases, age, weight, smoking habits, anaesthesia and duration of surgery. The alcohol abusers developed significantly more early complications, especially infections, after surgery. Follow-up at six, nine and 12 weeks after surgery also revealed a significantly higher morbidity among the alcoholics.
Trochanteric fixation by cable grip in hip replacement
Authors: Ritter MA , Eizember LE , Keating EM , Faris PM
Published: February 2018

We used the stainless steel cable grip system described by Dall and Miles in 1983 to fix trochanters in 40 hips after total arthroplasty with trochanteric osteotomy. The cable broke in 32.5% of the hips; the trochanter failed to unite in 37.5%. Significantly more cables broke when placed inside the femoral canal than when the cable was placed round the femoral shaft (58% as against 9.5%, difference p less than 0.01). The high incidence of breakage may have resulted from contact between the stainless steel cable and the titanium prosthesis, from the acute angulation, or because of the lower fatigue strength of stainless steel. Better results have been obtained using cables with a higher fatigue strength, passed outside the proximal femur.
Anteromedial osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: White SH , Ludkowski PF , Goodfellow JW
Published: February 2018

Medial tibial plateaux excised during 46 unicompartmental arthroplasties for osteoarthritis were collected and photographed. The anterior cruciate ligament was intact in all joints. In every case the cartilage and bone erosion was centred anteriorly on the plateau and the posterior cartilage was intact. The site of the lesion and the intact state of the cruciate ligaments taken together explain why varus deformity was observed only in the extended knee, and why the deformity was correctable and had not become fixed. Failure of the anterior cruciate ligament may allow the erosion to extend posteriorly, producing fixed varus deformity and leading to degeneration of the lateral compartment. Anteromedial osteoarthritis is a distinct clinicopathological entity; its radiographic features enable it to be diagnosed from lateral radiographs; its anatomical features render it suitable for treatment by unicompartmental arthroplasty.
Pseudarthrosis of the scaphoid treated by the Matti-Russe operation. A long-term review of 77 cases
Authors: Hooning van Duyvenbode JF , Keijser LC , Hauet EJ , Obermann WR , Rozing PM
Published: February 2018

We report the long-term results of the Matti-Russe operation for pseudarthrosis of the scaphoid in 100 cases, reported previously by Mulder in 1968. Clinical results for 77 patients and radiographic data for 74 were reviewed at 22 to 34.8 years after surgery. In general, there was satisfactory relief of pain and stiffness but some patients had limitation of motion and reduced grip-strength, with usually slight osteoarthritic changes. There was poor correlation between subjective, objective, and radiographic results but 88% of the patients were satisfied with their results.
End-stage avascular necrosis of bone in renal transplant patients. The natural history
Authors: Churchill MA , Spencer JD
Published: February 2018

We report the results of conservative treatment of stage III and stage IV avascular necrosis of bone (AVN) affecting the hip or knee in renal transplant patients. Twenty-nine patients were followed for a mean period of five years. Conservative management was successful in controlling symptoms in 40% of those with AVN of the hip and in 70% of those with AVN of the knee. Knowledge of the natural history of AVN is important because of the long survival times after renal transplantation.
Ultrasonography in transient synovitis and early Perthes' disease
Authors: Futami T , Kasahara Y , Suzuki S , Ushikubo S , Tsuchiya T
Published: February 2018

We used ultrasonography to examine 36 children suffering from transient synovitis and 12 children with early Perthes' disease. Widening of the joint space was revealed by ultrasonography in all affected hips with either disease. In the patients with transient synovitis, capsular distension was attributed to synovial effusion, while in the patients with Perthes' disease it was produced by thickening of the synovial membrane. Neither capsular distension nor thickening of the joint cartilage was seen in the contralateral normal hip in the patients with transient synovitis, but they were common in early Perthes' disease. Ultrasonography may provide significant diagnostic clues to differentiate early Perthes' from transient synovitis.
Radiographic sign of persistent soft-tissue imbalance after knee replacement
Authors: Sambatakakis A , Wilton TJ , Newton G
Published: February 2018

We report on the radiological findings in a series of 871 consecutive primary condylar knee replacements followed up for an average of four years. A new radiological sign has been identified, consisting of a smoothly tapering wedge of cement visible beneath the horizontal portion of the tibial component on the anteroposterior radiograph. This was found in 25.4% of our cases and appears to indicate a persistent soft-tissue imbalance following condylar arthroplasty of the knee. The cement-wedge sign was associated with a highly significant increase in radiolucent lines at the tibial cement-bone interface.
The mechanical and biological properties of demineralised cortical bone allografts in animals
Authors: Guo MZ , Xia ZS , Lin LB
Published: February 2018

We studied the calcium content and mechanical strength of cortical bone from rats and dogs after different periods of demineralisation, showing that the rate of demineralisation differed considerably between the species. Specimens from the rat were further treated by chemical extraction and autolysis and tested for osteoinductive properties. We showed that partially demineralised cortical bone retained adequate mechanical strength, while retaining the biological effects of completely demineralised bone. This shows that it is possible to prepare allografts which have adequate mechanical strength and still retain osteo-inductive properties.
Need the thumb be immobilised in scaphoid fractures? A randomised prospective trial
Authors: Clay NR , Dias JJ , Costigan PS , Gregg PJ , Barton NJ
Published: February 2018

Immobilisation of the thumb is widely believed to be important in the management of fractures of the carpal scaphoid. To assess the need for this, we randomly allocated 392 fresh fractures for treatment by either a forearm gauntlet (Colles') cast, leaving the thumb free, or by a conventional 'scaphoid' plaster incorporating the thumb as far as its interphalangeal joint. In the 292 fractures which were followed for six months, the incidence of nonunion was independent of the type of cast used.
Pachydysostosis of the fibula
Authors: Maroteaux P , Freisinger P , Le Merrer M
Published: February 2018

We report four patients with unilateral bowing of the lower leg, affecting only the fibula. The bone is too long with anterolateral curvature of the distal third. Because of its regressive course and the absence of cutaneous involvement, this newly described entity can be distinguished from other forms of bowing of the leg.
Chiari osteotomy for congenital dislocation and subluxation of the hip. Results after 20 to 34 years follow-up
Authors: Windhager R , Pongracz N , Schonecker W , Kotz R
Published: February 2018

We reviewed 236 of the 388 Chiari pelvic osteotomies performed between 1953 and 1967 at the Orthopaedic University Clinic of Vienna for the treatment of congenital dislocation and subluxation of the hip. Over 90% of the operations were performed by Chiari himself. Twenty-one hips had needed reoperation after an average of 15.4 years; the other 215 hips had been followed up for 20 to 34 years (mean 24.8). The overall clinical results were excellent or good in 51.4%, fair in 29.8% and poor in 18.3%. The results were worse with increasing age at operation. The Trendelenburg sign improved only in patients aged seven or less at operation, and range of movement decreased in all cases. Subjectively poor results were seen in patients with pre-operative signs of osteoarthritis. Radiological loss of correction during follow-up was seen only in cases with incomplete primary correction. The addition of an intertrochanteric varus osteotomy in 36 cases did not achieve either better centering or better development of the acetabular roof. Degenerative changes increased significantly during the long-term follow-up, but their progress seemed to have been slowed down by the osteotomy in the younger age groups. Indications and contra-indications for the operation are discussed.
Replacement arthroplasty of the rotator cuff deficient shoulder
Authors: Laurence M
Published: February 2018

The rotator cuff is often severely damaged in arthritis of the shoulder and there is no satisfactory technique for its repair. patients with a ruptured cuff and an eroded glenohumeral joint may have intractable pain, and standard methods of joint replacement are then inappropriate. A ball and socket prosthesis has been designed to replace the function of both the rotator cuff and the glenohumeral joint. Mechanical testing has shown that the scapular cup can be securely fixed. The outcome in 71 shoulders operated upon since 1973 is reported.
Locked intramedullary nailing of open tibial fractures
Authors: Court-Brown CM , McQueen MM , Quaba AA , Christie J
Published: February 2018

We report the use of Grosse-Kempf reamed intramedullary nailing in the treatment of 41 Gustilo type II and III open tibial fractures. The union times and infection rates were similar to those previously reported for similar fractures treated by external skeletal fixation, but the incidence of malunion was less and fewer required bone grafting. The role of exchange nailing is discussed and a treatment protocol is presented for the management of delayed union and nonunion.
The clones of osteoarthritic cartilage
Authors: Mitchell N , Lee ER , Shepard N
Published: February 2018

We studied the early cartilage changes in osteoarthritis, examining the most normal appearing articular cartilage from the hips of 17 patients. Normal appearing cartilage from five patients treated for fractures was used as control material. Two different types of clone were found. The first had increased staining for proteoglycan and was thought to have been engaged in the synthesis of matrix. The other type was associated with a severe deficiency of proteoglycan, matrix streaks and evidence of degradation and phagocytosis of matrix components. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated large amounts of chondroitin 4 and 6 sulphate about the synthetic-type clones, and little or no reactivity about the degenerative clones which lay more superficially and were associated with matrix destruction. Clones appeared to be engaged in either matrix synthesis or its destruction. The disease process of osteoarthritis appeared to begin at the surface of the articular cartilage.
A venous foot pump reduces thrombosis after total hip replacement
Authors: Fordyce MJ , Ling RS
Published: February 2018

In a prospective, randomised controlled trial, the efficacy of the A-V Impulse System in the prevention of deep-vein thrombosis was investigated in 84 patients who had undergone total hip replacement. The incidence of venographically proven, and clinically significant postoperative deep-vein thrombosis was 40% in the control group and 5% in the treatment group (p less than 0.001). No adverse reactions were recorded.
Upper and lower limb fractures with concomitant arterial injury
Authors: Schlickewei W , Kuner EH , Mullaji AB , Gotze B
Published: February 2018

We describe a management strategy for upper- and lower-limb fractures with associated arterial injury and report the results in 113 cases treated over a period of 18 years. Primary amputation was performed in 23 patients and of those who underwent primary vascular repair, 27 needed secondary amputation, two-thirds of them within a week of the injury. Of those requiring secondary amputation, 51.8% had ischaemia exceeding six hours, 81.4% had severe soft-tissue injury and 85.2% had type III open fractures. The patients whose limbs had been salvaged were followed up for an average of 5.6 years. The eventual outcome depended on the severity of the fracture, the degree of soft-tissue damage, the length of the ischaemic period, the severity of neurological involvement, and the presence of associated major injuries. There was a 30% incidence of long-term disability in the salvaged limbs, largely due to poor recovery of neurological function. Prompt recognition of such combined injuries is vital and requires a high index of suspicion in patients with multiple injuries and with certain fracture patterns. We recommend a multidisciplinary approach, liberal use of pre-operative angiography in upper-limb injuries and selective use of intra-operative angiography in lower-limb injuries. Stable external or internal fixation of the fractures and re-establishment of limb perfusion are urgent surgical priorities to reduce the period of ischaemia which is critical for successful limb salvage.
Polyethylene wear in meniscal knee replacement. A one to nine-year retrieval analysis of the Oxford knee
Authors: Argenson JN , O'Connor JJ
Published: February 2018

We recovered 23 meniscal bearings from 18 failed bicompartmental Oxford knee prostheses. They had been implanted for one to nine years. The minimum thickness of the retrieved bearings was measured and compared with the thickness of 25 unused bearings. The mean penetration rate, calculated by two methods, was either 0.043 or 0.026 mm per annum. This compares with 0.19 mm per annum reported for the Charnley hip. The use of a fully congruous meniscal bearing prosthesis can reduce wear in knee arthroplasty to a very low rate.
Gamma nails and dynamic hip screws for peritrochanteric fractures. A randomised prospective study in elderly patients
Authors: Leung KS , So WS , Shen WY , Hui PW
Published: February 2018

The Gamma nail was introduced for the treatment of peritrochanteric fractures with the theoretical advantage of a load-sharing femoral component which could be implanted by a closed procedure. We report a randomised prospective study of 186 fractures treated by either the Gamma nail or a dynamic hip screw. Gamma nails were implanted with significantly shorter screening times, smaller incisions, and less intraoperative bleeding. The Gamma nail group had a shorter convalescence and earlier full weight-bearing, but there was no significant difference in mortality within six months, postoperative mobility, or hip function at review. More intra-operative complications were recorded in the Gamma nail group, mainly due to the mismatching of the femoral component of the nail to the small femurs of Chinese people. Use of a smaller modified nail reduced these complications. We conclude that with careful surgical technique and the modified femoral component, the Gamma nail is an advance in the treatment of peritrochanteric fractures.
Tibial nerve mistakenly used as a tendon graft. Reports of three cases
Authors: McGeorge D , Sturzenegger M , Buchler U
Published: February 2018

We describe three patients in whom the tibial nerve was used, in mistake for the plantaris tendon, to repair a ruptured calcaneal tendon. The tendon repair was successful in all cases, but despite attempted reconstruction of the nerve, no patient had any motor recovery although two regained some protective sensation.
Hip arthroplasty in patients with sickle-cell haemoglobinopathy
Authors: Acurio MT , Friedman RJ
Published: February 2018

We reviewed retrospectively 25 hip arthroplasties in 25 patients with sickle-cell haemoglobinopathy and osteonecrosis. The mean age of the ten women and 15 men at the onset of hip symptoms was 25 years, and at surgery 30 years (16 to 45); 66% had either SS or S-thal disease, 20% sickle-cell trait, and the remainder SC disease. The mean follow-up was 8.6 years (two to 18). Fourteen (40%) of the arthroplasties had been revised at a mean of 7.5 years after the primary procedure and nine other hips were either radiographically and/or symptomatically loose. The overall complication rate was 49% and the infection rate 20%. The risk-to-benefit ratio of hip arthroplasty in sickle-cell haemoglobinopathy is high.
The natural history of the meniscus in anterior cruciate insufficiency. Arthroscopic analysis
Authors: Irvine GB , Glasgow MM
Published: February 2018

We studied arthroscopically the meniscal pathology in 100 patients with functional instability of the knee from isolated rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament at an average time of three years after injury. Meniscal tears were observed in 86 patients and multiple lesions of both menisci were common. An incomplete longitudinal cleavage, visible on both surfaces of the posterior horn, was seen in more than half the knees and seemed to indicate progressive meniscal deterioration. Clinical examination was unreliable and we suggest that arthroscopic assessment is necessary for accurate diagnosis and staging.
MRI and discography of annular tears and intervertebral disc degeneration. A prospective clinical comparison
Authors: Osti OL , Fraser RD
Published: February 2018

We attempted to correlate the findings of MRI and discography in patients with low back pain, examining 108 lumbar intervertebral discs in 33 consecutive patients. MRI results were assessed from the intensity and shape of the signal obtained from the central part of the disc. Discography was classified according to the pattern of contrast material, the pressure accepted and the pain reproduced. All discs which were abnormal on MRI had altered patterns on discography, but 18 of the 60 discs with normal MRI had abnormal discograms. Of 39 asymptomatic discs, 33 had normal MRI signals and 24 had normal discograms. None of the 15 discs showing severe degeneration on MRI sustained high levels of intradiscal pressure, but only six of the 60 discs giving normal MRI had low pressure. With current techniques, discography is more accurate than MRI for the detection of annular pathology: a normal MRI does not exclude significant changes in the peripheral structure of the intervertebral disc which can produce low back pain.
Dillwyn Evans operation for relapsed club foot. Long-term results
Authors: Graham GP , Dent CM
Published: February 2018

We reviewed the long-term results of the Dillwyn Evans procedure for club foot in 60 feet of 45 patients with an average age of 29 years, using four different scoring systems. The results at 12 to 38 years were compared with those of an earlier study of the same group of patients. Function was satisfactory in 68% of feet; 90% of the patients were able to perform all desired activities. Mild residual deformity was compatible with satisfactory function, and poor function was related to ankle and subtalar stiffness. Our results suggest that this procedure has a low rate of deterioration and degenerative change with time.
Experimentally produced fractures of articular cartilage and bone. The effects of shear forces on the pig knee
Authors: Tomatsu T , Imai N , Takeuchi N , Takahashi K , Kimura N
Published: February 2018

Experimental injuries of cartilage and bone were produced by applying shear force to the articular surfaces of the lateral femoral condyles of six-month-old pigs under various loading conditions. The lesions were divided into two groups, 'open' or 'closed', depending on the presence of a crack on the articular surface. Each was further divided into four types according to the depth of penetrating injury: (1) splitting of uncalcified cartilage; (2) splitting at the subchondral plate; (3) subchondral fracture; and (4) intra-articular fracture. When shear force was applied at high speed but with low energy, the articular cartilage surface was the first to crack. At low speed and low energy, splits occurred in the deeper layers first. As the energy increased, both loading conditions eventually resulted in similar open lesions. Experimentally produced shear injuries are useful models for clinical osteochondral fracture, osteochondritis dissecans, and chondromalacia patellae.
Calcium hydroxyapatite ceramic used as a delivery system for antibiotics
Authors: Shinto Y , Uchida A , Korkusuz F , Araki N , Ono K
Published: February 2018

Porous blocks of calcium hydroxyapatite ceramic were evaluated as delivery systems for the sustained release of antibiotics. We tested gentamicin sulphate, cefoperazone sodium, and flomoxef sodium in powder form placed in a cylindrical cavity in calcium hydroxyapatite blocks, using in vitro studies of elution and in vivo studies in rats. Gentamicin sulphate gave a maximum concentration within the first week, which gradually decreased but was still effective at 12 weeks, when 70% of the antibiotic had been released. Even at this stage the antibiotic concentration from a 75 mg dose was five times the minimum inhibitory concentration for staphylococci. In the in vivo studies the release of gentamicin sulphate into the normal bone of rats was at similar rates and levels. The bacteriocidal activity of the drugs was not affected by packing into calcium hydroxyapatite ceramic and the blocks were completely biocompatible on histology. This new system overcomes the disadvantages of other drug delivery systems, avoiding thermal damage to the antibiotics and a second operation for the removal of the carrier. Some mechanical strength is provided by the ceramic and healing may be accelerated by bone ingrowth into its micropores.
Posterior fracture-dislocation of the shoulder. A superior subacromial approach for open reduction
Authors: Stableforth PG , Sarangi PP
Published: February 2018

We describe 11 cases of posterior fracture-dislocation of the shoulder that required open reduction and fixation. Difficulties with access through anterior approaches led us to use the superior subacromial approach. This is an extension of the approach often used to expose the rotator cuff; the joint is opened by splitting the supraspinatus tendon 5 mm behind the cuff interval. The glenoid, proximal humerus and any fracture fragments can be seen from above, allowing reduction of the dislocation and osteosynthesis to be performed with minimal risk of damage to the humeral head and its blood supply. The proximity of the axillary nerve limits the exposure of the proximal humeral shaft. The superior subacromial approach is ideal for posterior dislocation with fracture of the articular segment, but is not suitable when there is a fracture of the proximal humeral shaft.
The strength of surgical repairs of the rotator cuff. A biomechanical study on cadavers
Authors: Sward L , Hughes JS , Amis A , Wallace WA
Published: February 2018

Using 26 cadaver shoulders, we produced a standard defect in the supraspinatus tendon and performed one of three types of repair. Their strength was found by testing in tension the force required to produce a gap of 3 mm, then 6 mm, and finally total disruption of the repair. The use of a polyethylene patch to spread the forces over the lateral bone surface and of extra sutures to grasp the tendon end raised by 2.6 times the load at which a 3 mm gap in the repair occurred and by 1.7 times the load to failure.
Post-mortem description of slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Authors: Cooperman DR , Charles LM , Pathria M , Latimer B , Thompson GH
Published: February 2018

We found, in a museum collection of skeletons, nine adult hips with untreated slipped capital femoral epiphyses. All the specimens were from men, five black and two white. Their mean age at death was 44 years. Seven of the femora were retroverted beyond neutral and five had true varus deformities. Osteoarthritis was detected in eight of the hips and the most severe degeneration was seen in the most deformed hips. Radiography revealed that cysts which appeared to occupy the femoral head in fact lay in the metaphyseal bone of the femoral neck.
Polymethylmethacrylate-induced inflammatory macrophages resorb bone
Authors: Quinn J , Joyner C , Triffitt JT , Athanasou NA
Published: February 2018

Macrophages and their fused products are commonly found at the polymethylmethacrylate cement-bone interface, but it is not known if they contribute directly to the osteolysis associated with loosening of the cemented prosthesis. We isolated mononuclear phagocytes from granulomas formed by subcutaneous implantation of polymethylmethacrylate into mice and incubated them on bone slices in which they formed resorption lacunae after co-culture for seven to 14 days with both marrow stromal cells and osteoblast-like cells (in the presence of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and dexamethasone). Increased numbers of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive mononuclear and multinucleated cells formed in these cultures. Both in the presence and absence of stromal cells, macrophages produced extensive superficial roughening of the bone surface. Polymethylmethacrylate-induced macrophages are thus capable of low-grade surface and high-grade lacunar osteolysis, the latter requiring the presence of specific hormonal and stromal cell elements. These two forms of bone resorption could account for the pathogenesis and clinical patterns associated with loosening of the cemented prosthesis.
Aortography in children with myelomeningocele and lumbar kyphosis
Authors: Fromm B , Carstens C , Niethard FU , Lang R
Published: February 2018

In 21 children with myelomeningocele who underwent kyphectomy for congenital kyphosis of the lumbar spine, aortography revealed no case in which the aorta followed the spinal curvature. Many anomalies of the intercostal and segmental arteries were demonstrated which were only in part associated with deformities of the respective vertebral bodies. The kidneys, which were frequently malformed, often lay within the kyphosis and were therefore at risk of operative damage. We conclude that the aorta is not at risk and that aortography is not usually necessary before kyphectomy, except in patients who have undergone prior abdominal surgery. Non-invasive methods (ultrasound, CT or MRI) should be used to detect malpositions and malformations of the kidneys.
Early diagnosis of congenital dislocation of the hip
Authors: Poul J , Bajerova J , Sommernitz M , Straka M , Pokorny M , Wong FY
Published: February 2018

In this prospective study, 35,550 neonates were examined shortly after birth by a team of orthopaedic surgeons. They diagnosed 775 unstable or dislocated hips in 656 babies; there were two teratological dislocations. Treatment was first with a Frejka pillow and, if this failed to give a normal hip, a Pavlik harness at three months. Early clinical examination did not identify 21 infants who were found to have subluxation or dislocation of the hip at the three-month review. The number of missed cases declined during the study, however, reflecting the increasing experience of the examiners. One case of avascular necrosis occurred in the group treated from birth and one in the late-diagnosed group. Open reduction was necessary only in the two teratological dislocations. Experienced examiners are needed for accurate clinical diagnosis; and treatment should be started before the baby is discharged from the maternity ward.
Revision arthroplasty using an anti-protrusio cage for massive acetabular bone deficiency
Authors: Berry DJ , Muller ME
Published: February 2018

Revision hip arthroplasty in patients with massive acetabular bone deficiency has generally given poor long-term results. We report the use of an 'anti-protrusio cage', secured to the ischium and ilium, which bridges areas of acetabular bone loss, provides support for the acetabular socket, and allows pelvic bone grafting in an environment protected from excessive stress. Forty-two failed hip arthroplasties with massive acetabular bone loss were revised with the Burch-Schneider anti-protrusio cage and evaluated after two to 11 years (mean five years). There was failure due to sepsis in five hips (12%) and aseptic loosening in five (12%); the remaining 32 hips (76%) showed no evidence of acetabular component failure or loosening.
Early loosening of femoral components after cemented revision. A roentgen stereophotogrammetric study
Authors: Franzen H , Mjoberg B , Onnerfalt R
Published: February 2018

Roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis was used to measure the migration of 24 cemented femoral components implanted during revision for mechanical loosening. All hips were examined one week, four months and one year after surgery; 14 hips were also examined after two years. Twenty-one components subsided 0.2 to 5.5 mm during the observation period; in 17 of these, subsidence occurred within four months of surgery. In 16 hips the prosthetic head was displaced 0.7 to 11.2 mm posteriorly. The fixation of the femoral components was less secure than after primary arthroplasty, especially in cases of femoral canal enlargement, when a standard-sized rather than a thick-stemmed prosthesis had been used, and in cases of inadequate cement filling.
Angulated radial neck fractures in children. A prospective study of percutaneous reduction
Authors: Steele JA , Graham HK
Published: February 2018

We made a prospective study of angulated radial neck fractures in children reduced by leverage with a percutaneous Kirschner wire. Of 36 consecutive cases with angulation of more than 30 degrees reduction was successful in 33. We obtained an excellent or good final result in 31 (94%).
Fracture of the tibial spine in adults and children. A review of 31 cases
Authors: Kendall NS , Hsu SY , Chan KM
Published: February 2018

We reviewed 19 adults and 12 children who had been treated for avulsion fractures of the tibial spine. Adult injuries have not previously been reported at length; most were caused by road-traffic accidents, and 68% were associated with other injuries, of which 58% were around the knee. The higher incidence of associated injuries in adults as compared with children, indicates that the injury is the result of greater energy and perhaps a different mechanism. The worse outcome in some adults was due to other associated intra-articular fractures and tears of the medial collateral ligament. Arthroscopy is useful in both diagnosis and treatment. Early accurate diagnosis and the correct treatment produce a good outcome.
Modification of the L'Episcopo procedure for brachial plexus birth palsies
Authors: Covey DC , Riordan DC , Milstead ME , Albright JA
Published: February 2018

We reviewed 19 children who had undergone a new modification of the L'Episcopo procedure for obstetric brachial plexus palsy. Through an axillary approach the latissimus dorsi tendon was re-routed anteriorly to the humerus and then anastomosed to the teres major tendon routed posteriorly. At an average follow-up of four years two months, the mean increase in shoulder abduction was 26 degrees and the mean increase in external rotation was 29 degrees. No neurovascular injury or postoperative infection occurred. Two patients had complications, and five did not gain from the procedure. The modified operation was relatively easier to perform and provided excellent cosmesis.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome with soft-tissue contractures
Authors: Hamada S , Hiroshima K , Oshita S , Doi T , Ono K
Published: February 2018

We report four patients with a form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome associated with soft-tissue contractures from birth and skin hyperalgesia. In early infancy, these cases were thought to be forms of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, Larsen's syndrome or Marfan's syndrome. The characteristic triad of signs of Ehlers-Danlos disease gradually appeared from four to six years of age, allowing us to establish the correct diagnosis. We discuss the differential diagnosis of these connective-tissue disorders and the problems of the orthopaedic treatment of the associated joint deformities. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a heterogeneous group of metabolic diseases of collagen and our cases constitute a group which is distinct from the conventional types.