Showing papers in "Journal of clinical orthopaedics and trauma in 2015"

Surgical site infection in orthopedic trauma: A case-control study evaluating risk factors and cost.

Abstract: Background With the shift of our healthcare system toward a value-based system of reimbursement, complications such as surgical site infections (SSI) may not be reimbursed. The purpose of our study was to investigate the costs and risk factors of SSI for orthopedic trauma patients.

Scurvy in pediatric age group - A disease often forgotten?

Abstract: Scurvy is caused by prolonged severe dietary deficiency of vitamin C. Being rare as compared to other nutritional deficiencies, it is seldom suspected and this frequently leads to delayed recognition of this disorder. Children with abnormal dietary habits, mental illness or physical disabilities are prone to develop this disease. The disease spectrum of scurvy is quite varied and includes dermatological, dental, bone and systemic manifestations. Subperiosteal hematoma, ring epiphysis, metaphyseal white line and rarefaction zone along with epiphyseal slips are common radiological findings. High index of suspicion, detailed history and bilateral limb radiographs aids physician in diagnosing this eternal masquerader. We searched Pubmed for recent literature (2009–2014) with search terms “scurvy” “vitamin C deficiency” “ascorbic acid deficiency” “scurvy and children” “scurvy and pediatric age group”. There were a total of 36 articles relevant to pediatric scurvy in children (7 reviews and 29 case reports) which were retrieved. The review briefly recapitulates the role of vitamin C, the various disease manifestations and the treatment of scurvy to create awareness of the disease which still is reported from our country, although sporadically. The recent advances related to scurvy and its management in pediatric age group are also incorporated.

Polyethylene in knee arthroplasty: A review.

Abstract: Polyethylene (PE) has been used extensively in knee arthroplasty since the mid 20th century. Progress in material manufacturing and processing has led to newer polyethylenes over last few decades with different material properties. It has been established that PE wear in knee arthroplasty causes particle induced osteolysis which is the main reason for late failure and requires revision surgery. Although there are various causes of wear, the properties of PE have long been a matter of investigation as a contributory factor. The advent of newer highly cross linked PE has been shown to improve wear rates in hip arthroplasty but the benefits have not been shown to be of the same degree in knee arthroplasty. The laboratory and clinical studies so far are limited and slightly conflicting in their conclusions. The risks of using highly cross linked PE in knee arthroplasty include tibial post fracture, disruption of locking mechanism, liner fracture which can lead to increased wear and osteolysis. The current evidence suggests that highly cross linked polyethylenes should be used with caution and only considered in younger active patients. The results of a recently completed randomized trial to compare the conventional with high molecular weight PE in knee arthroplasty are awaited.

Pelvic ring injuries: Emergency assessment and management.

Abstract: Pelvic ring injuries are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Understanding the anatomy of the pelvic ring is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. A systematic approach taking into account the mechanism of injury, physical examination, and radiographic assessment is important to quickly identify unstable pelvic disruptions and associated injuries. Because the pelvis is a ring structure, isolated pubic rami fractures on plain radiographs are unusual and should warrant careful evaluation for posterior pelvic disruption with computed tomography. Hemorrhagic shock can occur in about 10% of pelvic ring injuries. Immediate recognition and treatment of this life-threatening condition is critical in emergency management. In addition to fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion, circumferential wrapping, angiographic embolization, laparotomy with pelvic packing, and external fixation can be important life-saving adjuncts in the setting of hemodynamic instability.

Evaluation of pain in bilateral total knee replacement with and without tourniquet; a prospective randomized control trial.

Abstract: Aim Thigh pain following tourniquet application is a common complaint in early post operative period following total knee arthroplasty.

Analysis of outcome of avascular necrosis of femoral head treated by core decompression and bone grafting.

Abstract: Background Femoral head is the most common bone affected by avascular necrosis. Core decompression procedure, when done in the initial stages, before collapse, may arrest or reverse the progress of avascular necrosis and thereby may preserve the normal femoral head. Hence, we have analysed the clinical, functional and radiological outcome of core decompression and bone grafting in patients with Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) upto stage IIB (Ficat & Arlet).

Management of infection following reconstruction in bone tumors

Abstract: Limb salvage surgery in bone tumors has evolved in recent years and includes all of the surgical procedures designed to accomplish removal of a malignant tumor and reconstruction of the limb with an acceptable oncologic, functional, and cosmetic result. This dramatic change came about as the result of three important developments, i.e. effective chemotherapy, improved precision imaging techniques and advances in reconstructive surgery. Reconstruction with a modular custom-made oncological endoprosthesis (megaprosthesis) has become a common procedure nowadays. These large foreign bodies make infection a common and feared complication. However, the occurrence of complications may be multifactorial, including a poor nutritional and compromised immune status due to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, a lengthy operation, extensive dissection and resection of soft tissues, inadequate soft-tissue coverage, a longer exposure of the wound resulting in infection, etc. Management of postoperative infection in these cases remains a challenge. This article analyses the current literature available for these cases and summarizes the cause and different available methods of treatment.

Ultrasound guided versus landmark guided corticosteroid injection in patients with rotator cuff syndrome: Randomised controlled trial.

Abstract: Objective Impingement syndrome is the most common differential in a patient presenting to an orthopaedic OPD with shoulder pain. Impingement syndrome is often managed with subacromial corticosteroid injection, which can be instilled using either landmark guided (LMG) approach or with the assistance of ultrasound (US). This study was envisaged to enquire whether ultrasound assistance improves the accuracy, efficacy or safety profile of the injection.

Revision knee arthroplasty with a rotating-hinge design in elderly patients with instability following total knee arthroplasty.

Abstract: Background Revision knee arthroplasty with a rotating-hinge design could be an option for the treatment of instability following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in elderly patients.

A novel technique of patella fracture fixation facilitating early mobilization and reducing re-operation rates

Abstract: Objective Fractures of patella constitute 1% of all fractures. Various techniques have been described for internal fixation of patella fractures. Superiority of one technique over the other has long been debated. We reviewed a series of fifty-one patients with transverse or comminuted fractures of patella treated with a novel technique to assess if it had any advantages over the existing methods of fixation.

Heterotopic ossification after hemiarthroplasty of the hip - A comparison of three common approaches.

Abstract: Objective Heterotopic ossification (HO) about the hip after total hip arthroplasty and internal fixation of the hip, pelvis, and acetabulum has been linked to surgical approach. However, no study has investigated surgical approach and HO in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty. We therefore aimed to explore the influence of operative approach in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty. Methods Through a retrospective case series at an Urban level I trauma center, we found 80 patients over the age of 60 undergoing hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures from 2000 to 2009. Patient charts, operative notes, and radiographs were reviewed for demographics, operative approach (anterior: A, anterior-lateral: AL, posterior: P), and any development of HO. Fisher's exact test compared rates of HO among the three approaches. Student's t-tests compared Brooker Classification levels of HO among the approaches. Results 82 hemiarthroplasties (26 A, 32 AL, 24 P) were included for analysis. 22 patients (27%) had HO. There was no significant difference in the development of HO based upon surgical approach: A: 19% (n = 5); AL: 34% (n = 11); P: 25% (n = 6). There was a significant difference in the grade of HO based on Brooker Classification (BC) with the posterior approach resulting in significantly lower grade of HO: A (BC: 2.60); AL (BC: 2.64); P (BC: 1.50) (p = 0.012). Conclusions Our data is the first to evaluate surgical approach and HO in patients with hemiarthroplasty. Patients have a significant risk of developing higher grade HO based on surgical approach (A or AL). Orthopedists should be mindful of these risks when considering A or AL approaches.

Non-union coronal fracture femoral condyle, sandwich technique : A case report

Abstract: Coronal fractures of the femoral condyle (Hoffa fracture) are rare injuries but can be managed with satisfactory outcome if properly treated. We discuss an unusual case of a young adult male presenting with 9 month old neglected Hoffa fracture with pain, stiffness and limitation of knee movement, managed with sandwich bone grafting technique.1

Evaluation of functional outcome and complications of locking calcaneum plate for fracture calcaneum.

Abstract: Background Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is the treatment of choice for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture at many orthopaedic trauma centres. In this prospective study, we evaluated the functional outcome and complications of locking compressive calcaneum plate for displaced intra-articular fracture calcaneum.

Resurgence of vitamin D: Old wine in new bottle.

Abstract: There are early references of it in ancient text and physicians have discussed its importance and features of its deficiency in the past. Vitamin D has again regained interest with recent dramatic rise in the incidence of deficiency in the developing as well as developing world. In this review article, we discuss the biochemical and role of vitamin D in the skeletal system. We also discuss the recommended dietary requirements and features of skeletal deficiency. Extra-skeletal roles of vitamin D deficiency have been a matter of debate lately and it has also been discussed in detail in this article. In conclusion, it would not be wrong to label vitamin D as one of the most important vitamin involved in the metabolism of the musculoskeletal system and any clinician, especially the orthopaedician, should be well versed with its overall mechanism and roles in the human body.

Bilateral lipoma arborescens with osteoarthritis knee: Case report and literature review.

Abstract: Lipoma arborescens is villous proliferation of synovium and is often unilateral in the absence of any systemic disease. We report a case of 54 year old male presenting with bilateral lipoma arborescens associated with osteoarthritis. The diagnosis is often difficult due to similar symptomatology of lipoma arborescens and osteoarthritis.

Comparative study of fresh femoral neck fractures managed by multiple cancellous screws with and without fibular graft in young adults

Abstract: Objectives Aim of our study was to assess the role of addition of fibular strut graft to multiple cancellous screws in functional outcome, union and complications associated with those managed by only multiple cancellous screws in fresh femoral neck fractures. Methods A randomized control trial study was conducted on the patients of femoral neck fractures managed with multiple cancellous screws (group A) and multiple cancellous screws with fibular graft (group B). Patients aged between 20 and 50 years, having Gardens type III or IV fracture with duration of injury less than two weeks were included in the study. Results Eighty seven cases were analysed n = 45 were in group A and n = 42 in group B. Functional outcome (Harris hip score) was excellent in 30 patients in group A as compared to 12 in Group B which was statistically significant favouring group A. The time of full weight bearing, union and non union rates showed no statistical significance (p > 0.05). On statistical grounds none of the procedures proved to be better than other. Conclusions Fresh femoral neck fracture in young adults managed with multiple cancellous screws fixation with fibular graft has no added advantage over multiple cancellous screws fixation alone.

Accuracy of templating the acetabular cup size in Total Hip Replacement using conventional acetate templates on digital radiographs.

Abstract: Objective Templating of the acetabular cup size in Total Hip Replacement (THR) is normally done using conventional radiographs. As these are being replaced by digital radiographs, it has become essential to create a technique of templating using digital films. We describe a technique that involves templating the digital films using the universally available acetate templates for THR without the use of special software. Materials and methods Preoperative digital radiographs of the pelvis were taken with a 30 mm diameter spherical metal ball strapped over the greater trochanter. Using standard acetate templates provided by the implant company on magnified digital radiographs, the size of the metal ball (X mm) and acetabular cup (Y mm) were determined. The size of the acetabular cup to be implanted was estimated using the formula 30*Y/X. The estimated size was compared with the actual size of the cup used at surgery. Results Using this technique, it was possible to accurately predict the acetabular cup size in 28/40 (70%) of the hips. When the accuracy to within one size was considered, templating was correct in 90% (36/40). When assessed by two independent observers, there was good intra-observer and inter-observer reliability with intra-class correlation coefficient values greater than 0.8. Conclusion It was possible to accurately and reliably predict the size of the acetabular cup, using acetate templates on digital films, without any digital templates.

Pseudo-winging of scapula due to benign lesions of ventral surface of scapula - Two unusual causes.

Abstract: Winging of the scapula due to benign lesion of ventral surface of scapula is one of the rare cause and difficult to diagnose in first place. We present two unusual cases of pseudo winging of scapula due to benign lesions of scapula. First case was of 23 year old male with solitary osteochondroma of ventral surface of scapula. Second was 38 year old female with hemangioma involving subscapular muscles. Both the patients presented to us with dull aching pain over right scapular and shoulder region of 6 months duration with gradually increasing pseudo-winging of scapula. On examination there was mild tenderness over superomedial border of scapula with scapular snapping5 or 'clunk' on hyper abduction of shoulder. Further radiographic evaluation of right scapular region revealed solitary osteochondroma of ventral surface of right scapula in first case whereas MRI revealed hemangioma of subscapular muscles in second case. Hemangioma was initially treated by weekly injecting sclerosing agent (Inj. Polidocanol) locally for 4 weeks. Both lesions were later treated by excision and subsequent follow up revealed disappearance of pain and winging of scapula.

Tardy ulnar nerve palsy after fracture non-union medial epicondyle of humerus – An unusual case

Abstract: Tardy ulnar nerve palsy is a chronic clinical condition characterised by delayed onset ulnar neuropathy. Typically tardy ulnar nerve palsy occurs as a consequence of non-union of lateral condyle in child resulting in cubitus valgus deformity which ultimately is the cause of ulnar nerve palsy. However very few literature are available for tardy ulnar nerve palsy as a result of old fracture of medial epicondyle without cubitus varus or valgus deformity. We report a rare case of tardy ulnar nerve in an adult male with fracture non-union of medial epicondyle of humerus.

Arthroscopic decompression of paralabral cyst around suprascapular notch causing suprascapular neuropathy.

Abstract: A case of 22 year old male gymnast, who suffered from suprascapular neuropathy due to compression of suprascapular nerve by paralabral cysts around suprascapular notch, leading to marked atrophy of supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles. After arthroscopic decompression of paralabral cysts, weakness and atrophy of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles improved.

Plating for intra-articular calcaneal fractures…. Is it an overkill?

Abstract: Objectives Even after evolution of computerized tomography and improved surgical measures, treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures remains a controversy. Hence this study was carried out to compare functional outcomes of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures, treated with operative management with plating and conservative management with cast.

Solitary plasmacytoma of L3 vertebral body treated by minimal access surgery: Common problem different solution!

Abstract: Introduction Solitary plasmacytoma of bone is a local primary bone tumour consisting of malignant plasma cells without systemic involvement. These tumours are known for large amount of blood loss, and the use of electrocautery is helpful in reducing blood loss and performing surgery in a relatively bloodless field; however, use of unipolar cautery in patients with indwelling cardiac pacemaker is known to cause arrhythmias and cardiac events. Minimally invasive techniques offer potential advantages over open techniques particularly in patients with spinal tumours, where massive amount of blood loss is expected, if open procedure is performed. Here, we present a case of solitary L3 plasmacytoma with progressive neurological deficit with chronic refractory anaemia with indwelling cardiac pacemaker treated by minimally invasive technique. Materials and methods A 71-year-old male presented with increasing back pain with Left L3 radiculopathy since 6 months and progressive left lower limb weakness since 5 days. The patient is a known case of chronic renal failure with chronic refractory anaemia. The patient has indwelling cardiac pacemaker for cardiac arrhythmias. Radiology was suggestive of L3 body plasmacytoma. L3 corpectomy and anterior column reconstruction with expandable cage and posterior stabilization by minimally invasive techniques were performed. Results Two years of follow-up showed no local recurrence. The patient is ambulatory unaided with no neurological deficit and backache. Discussion There is no consensus regarding appropriate surgical approach and perioperative strategies in treatment of solitary plasmacytoma. A solitary plasmacytoma was found in the spine of a patient with cardiac pacemaker where anaesthetic consideration, blood loss and the use of electrocautery were the limiting factors. Minimally invasive approach is a good option.

Distal femoral rotational alignment in the Indian population - An important consideration in total knee arthroplasty.

Abstract: Objective To measure the angular relationships of distal femoral rotational axes in the normal Indian population. Materials and methods Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans of the knee of 40 Indian subjects were used to define the posterior condylar axis, the transepicondylar axis and the Whiteside's line (anteroposterior axis). The posterior condylar angle (PCA) – the angle between the posterior condylar axis and the transepicondylar axis, and the Whiteside-epicondylar angle (W-EP angle) were then calculated. Results The mean posterior condylar angle in the Indian knee was 4.67° and the mean Whiteside-epicondylar angle was 92.7°. Conclusion There are differences in the distal femoral rotational axes among various races. The mean PCA and the W-EP angle are more externally rotated in the Indian than in the Western, population, but similar to the Chinese. Using fixed values to define the angular relationships between the axes could lead to malrotation of the femoral component. An understanding of the racial differences is essential while designing implants for the Indian population.

A rare case of giant cell tumour arising from anterior cruciate ligament: Its diagnosis and management

Abstract: Tenosynovial giant cell tumour is a locally aggressive tumour arising from the synovia of the fibrous tissue surrounding the joints, tendon sheaths and tendons. Areas of predilection are the hand, and in the case of synovial joints, the knee joint is particularly affected. We describe a rare case of an intra-articular localized tenosynovial giant cell tumour arising from the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in a 27 year male who presented with pain and giving way of his left knee without prior history of any trauma. Tests for internal derangement of knee were negative. MRI reported an ACL tear with a heterogeneous fibrous mass attached to the distal part, most probably an organized haematoma. It was decided to do a diagnostic arthroscopy before proceeding for ACL reconstruction. Arthroscopy revealed a purple coloured mass attached to distal part of ACL. The mass was removed piecemeal using an additional posterolateral portal. ACL was found intact. Histopathology reported it to be tenosynovial giant cell tumour. The patient was asymptomatic at each subsequent follow up. It is a rare diagnosis which presented as an ACL tear; in such suspected cases it is prudent to perform a diagnostic arthroscopy before going for ACL reconstruction.

The clinical profile of musculoskeletal injuries in children attending a major hospital in Delhi, India

Abstract: Background Children are vulnerable to musculoskeletal injuries both at home and on the street for various reasons. Morbidity and disabilities resulting from these, mostly preventable, injuries, make them a burden to their families and society. The role of various factors associated with injuries is often not documented.

Neglected anterior dislocation of shoulder with large Hillsach's lesion & deficient glenoid: Treated by autogenous bone graft & modified Latarjet procedure

Abstract: Neglected anterior dislocation of shoulder is rare in spite of the fact that the anterior dislocation of the shoulder is seen in around 90% of the acute cases. Most of the series of neglected dislocation describe posterior dislocation to be far more common.(1) (,2) We hereby report a case of the neglected anterior shoulder dislocation in a 15 year old boy who had a history of epilepsy. There was a large Hill Sachs lesion in humeral head which was impacted in glenoid inferiorly and glenoid was eburnated at that margin. The humeral head was reconstructed with a tricortical iliac graft. Glenoid was reconstructed by transfer of coracoids process of scapula to antero-inferior glenoid (modified Latarjet procedure). This case is unique because management of humeral head defect with bone graft is not mentioned in anterior dislocation.

Management of diabetic foot: Brief synopsis for busy orthopedist

Abstract: According to available medical reports, over 10% of diabetic patients will develop foot ulcers during their lifetimes. This condition still remains great challenges to many clinicians. Various mechanisms may explain treatment-resistant entity. Treatment varies widely, relying on the severity of the ulceration as well as the presence of infection or ischemia. However, the most important things to keep in mind should consist of the following: 1) appropriate debridement; 2) off-loading of pressure; 3) effective control of infection; 4) local wound care strategy; 5) timely reconstructive surgery. The ideal flap for diabetic foot reconstruction should provide a well-vascularized tissue to control infection, adequate contour for footwear, durability, and solid anchorage to resist shearing forces. A thorough assessment of patient's general condition and voluntary motivation of the patient should be warranted to prevent any sort of postoperative recurrence.

Immobilisation of extra-articular distal radius fractures (Colles type) in dorsiflexion. The functional and anatomical outcome.

Abstract: Background Cast immobilisation after successful closed reduction is a standard treatment for displaced extra-articular fractures of lower end radius. The position of the wrist during immobilisation is controversial. Immobilisation in dorsiflexion prevents redisplacement after closed reduction. Our aim is to determine the effectiveness of immobilization of wrist in dorsiflexion in such cases and evaluate anatomical and functional outcome. Materials and methods Study included 54 patients, above 19 years of age with closed extra-articular fractures of lower end radius treated conservatively with below elbow cast application. The wrist was maintained in 15° of dorsiflexion during plaster immobilisation. At 24 weeks, functional results were evaluated with subjective symptoms and objective signs, as per modified Demerit Point Score System. Anatomical result was evaluated based on the scheme devised by Lidstrom (1959) and modified by Sarmiento et al. (1980). Results 76% patients had Excellent to Good subjective symptoms. Out of 42 patients that had residual dorsal angulation of less than 10°, 37 had excellent to good functional outcome. 39 of the 43 patients who had loss of radial length less than 6 mm had excellent to good functional outcome. 40 out of 49 patients having loss of radial angulation less than 9° showed excellent to good functional outcome. Functional result was directly proportional to anatomical outcome. Conclusion Cast immobilization of extra articular fractures of lower end radius with wrist in dorsiflexion prevents re-displacement of the fragments resulting in satisfactory anatomical & functional outcome.

Acetabular fractures labelled poor surgical choices: Analysis of operative outcome

Abstract: Purpose We report the surgical outcome in 52 patients with acetabular otherwise considered as poor surgical choices.

Cysticercosis of Soleus muscle presenting as isolated calf pain.

Abstract: CNS is the most common site of involvement by cysticercosis. Symptomatic involvement of isolated skeletal muscle by solitary cysticercosis cyst is extremely rare. We report a rare and unusual case of cysticercosis presenting as acute calf pain, which is a diagnostic challenge. But the diagnosis was reached by sero-radiological examination and patient was managed conservatively by medical means.