Der Unfallchirurg
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The clinical results after DFN-osteosynthesis of n=56 AO-classification 33A-fractures (32%), 33C-fractures (43%), 32X-fractures (21%) and pseudarthrosis treatment (4%) are presented. ⋯ The mechanical stability of the implant allows a save osteosynthesis of unstable supracondylar and complete articular femoral fractures without additional bone grafting. Mechanical stability and minimal invasive operative technique permit a safe bone healing without major complications.
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A higher-than-average rate of aseptic loosening has been postulated to be associated with the combination of a titanium stem and bone cement. In this prospective follow-up study we therefore investigated our first consecutive series of 250 implantations of a cemented femoral shaft prosthesis made of titanium alloy (BiCONTACT((R)), Aesculap, Tuttlingen, Germany). Average time of follow-up evaluation was 9.7 years (range 8.7-10.3 years). ⋯ In conclusion, the long-term follow-up results with this cemented titanium femoral component are encouraging and are comparable to other successful cemented femoral components in primary total hip arthroplasty. No increased risk for aseptical loosening was associated to the combination of titanium and cement in this specific stem. Design parameters seem to play an important role in the development of aseptic loosening in cemented titanium stems.
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Case Reports
[Coracoid pseudarthrosis caused by anterior shoulder dislocation with concomitant coracoid fracture].
Fractures of the coracoid process are rare and represent only 2-5% of all fractures of the scapula. The most frequent cause of a coracoid fracture is direct trauma, but indirect trauma may also lead to a fracture of this kind. Avulsion injuries as part of an acromioclavicular dislocation are the most frequent forms of trauma. ⋯ One cause of the coracoid fracture could be direct impact of the dislocated head of the humerus on the coracoid process, another may be the occurrence of a sudden strong pull of the muscles inserting at the coracoid process during shoulder dislocation. In the majority of cases, conservative treatment with six weeks of immobilization is appropriate. If a pseudarthrosis occurs and there is persistent pain, we recommend the operative fixation of the distal coracoid fragment by insertion of cancellous bone graft taken from the iliac crest and stabilization with a cannulated AO titanium small fragment screw and PDS cord.
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The hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare form of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon in workers who frequently use the ulnar side of the palm as a hammer. Clinically the patient with HHS shows neurologic symptoms such as paresthesia, numbness and pain and signs of vascular insufficiency such as coldness, pallor, discoloration and blanching of the affected ulnar sided fingers. The diagnosis is verified by angiography, showing thrombosis or aneurysm of the distal ulnar artery. ⋯ But with the ongoing working habit of using the hand as a hammer there is always the risk of a recurrence. Therefore the job environment has to be changed considerably and the most effort should go into prevention and prophylaxis. If the change of the working habit is not possible, the job is clearly at stake.