International orthopaedics
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The choice between reamed and unreamed intramedullary nailing for the treatment of open and closed tibial fractures is an ongoing controversy. We carried out a comprehensive search strategy. Six eligible randomised controlled trials were included. ⋯ Our results suggested no statistical differences in risk reduction of all the complications evaluated between reamed and unreamed nails in open tibial fractures. In conclusion, our study recommended reamed nails for the treatment of closed tibial fractures. But the choice for open tibial fractures remains uncertain.
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Open reduction and internal fixation in distal tibial fractures jeopardises fracture fragment vascularity and often results in soft tissue complications. Minimally invasive osteosynthesis, if possible, offers the best possible option as it permits adequate fixation in a biological manner. Seventy-nine consecutive adult patients with distal tibial fractures, including one patient with a bilateral fracture of the distal tibia, treated with locking plates, were retrospectively reviewed. ⋯ Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) with LCP was observed to be a reliable method of stabilisation for these fractures. Peri-operative docking of fracture ends may be a good option in severely impacted fractures with gap. The precontoured distal medial tibial LCP was observed to be a better tolerated implant in comparison to the 4.5-mm LC-LCP or metaphyseal LCP with respect to complications of soft tissues, bone healing and functional outcome, though its contour needs to be modified.
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Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) has been advocated as a safe approach to humeral shaft fracture management. We evaluated the reproducibility of this technique in a regional hospital. Thirty-five patients underwent MIPO of humerus shaft fractures. ⋯ Lower elbow ROM and higher fracture angulation at healing were nevertheless found. MIPO is technically demanding and requires adequate intraoperative imaging and surgical experience in order to obtain adequate fracture alignment. Brachialis muscle scarring and inadequate postoperative rehabilitation may be involved in limited elbow range of motion.
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Non-union of femoral neck fractures may occur due to mechanical and biological factors. Valgus intertrochanteric osteotomy (VITO) alters hip biomechanics and enhances fracture union. The double-angled 120° plate is usually used for internal fixation of the osteotomy. ⋯ Twenty-two patients (61%) were pain free, nine (25%) had hip pain on lengthy walks and the remaining five (14%) had persistent pain. Preoperative limb shortening averaged 2.5 cm, and post-operative shortening averaged 0.5 cm. We recommend VITO and fixation by a single-angled 130º plate for vertical femoral neck fractures and non-unions in relatively young adult patients.