Injury
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Periprosthetic distal femur fractures (PPDFFs) present a challenge in terms of optimizing fixation in patients with poor bone quality and limited bone stock. The main treatment options include laterally based plating and intramedullary nailing. We hypothesized that treatment of PPDFFs with intramedullary nails would result in improved union rate, fewer complications, and an equivalent rate of malalignment compared to plating. ⋯ Intramedullary nailing was associated with an increased risk of malalignment, most commonly an extension deformity, in this series. However, malalignment was not associated with worse outcomes.
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Observational Study
Ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures. When do we need further image screening of the hip?
The objective of the present study was to identify patterns of femoral diaphyseal fractures which are associated with fractures of the ipsilateral femoral neck according to the AO classification. We propose an algorithm of investigation based on plain radiographs, recognizing cases that need additional screening with computed tomography. ⋯ The patterns of high-energy diaphyseal fractures (A3, B and C) have a higher prevalence of associated ipsilateral neck fractures. Our study suggests that routine additional methods of image investigation of femoral neck fractures may be unnecessary for diaphyseal fractures type A1 and A2.
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Extensor tendon ruptures caused by bicortical screws impingement following distal radius fracture fixation with volar plates are extensively reported in the literature. Thus, a biomechanical study comparing unicortical and bicortical fixations in intra-articular distal radius fracture models is critical in decision-making regarding distal radius fracture management. Forty-two synthetic radius models were fixed using a variable angle volar distal locking plate with seven screws. ⋯ Therefore, one can realize that stiffness differed during dorsal flexion only in the first static test. Maximum force to break the model in axial compression was greater in bicortical than in unicortical construct. Since biomechanical properties are similar, we recommend using unicortical distal locking screws in distal radius fracture fixation with volar plates to prevent extensor tendon ruptures.
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In the pathogenesis of femoral pseudoarthrosis, the arched shape of the bone is important when determining traction force on the anterolateral plane and posteromedial compression. In plate osteosynthesis, flexion forces affect the implant and can determine its breakdown and osteosynthesis failure. The wave plate seeks to solve the problem by transferring the support to the cortex under the plate or creating the resistance of a leaf spring. ⋯ The wave plate technique was effective in bone healing of femoral pseudoarthrosis, promoting consolidation from the cortical failure to the bone contact zone.
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Fractures of the proximal humerus are frequent and are widely studied with regards to their treatment indications. The aim of this article is to establish a correlation between the size of the epiphyseal fragment in fractures of the proximal humerus and the probability of loss of reduction after a surgical procedure. ⋯ A cross-sectional length of the epiphyseal fragment of less than 15.5 mm indicates a higher probability of loss of reduction in fractures of the proximal end of the humerus after extra-medullary osteosynthesis.