Journal of orthopaedic trauma
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Biomechanical testing was performed to evaluate five techniques of internal fixation of transverse patella fractures. Using cadaveric lower extremities, transverse osteotomies of the patella were performed, and the simulated fractures were fixed with the following techniques: the modified tension band, anterior tension band with a supplemental cerclage wire (the Pyrford technique), tension band with cancellous bone screws, Pyrford technique with cancellous screws, and cancellous screws alone. ⋯ The tension band with screws technique performed significantly better than did the modified tension band, with an average fracture gap approximately half that of the traditional modified tension band technique. Mechanically, the addition of the screws to the tension band techniques reduces fracture separation by providing compression throughout the range of motion and by resisting the tensile loading during terminal extension.
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We report three cases of tibial compartment syndrome after closed intramedullary nailing of the tibia. In no case was there any obvious other predisposing factor for the development of the syndrome apart from the surgery and the fracture potential itself. It is recommended that tibial compartment syndrome be regarded as a rare, but significant complication of tibial nailing.
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Transcarpal fractures in children are rare in the orthopaedic literature. This is a case report of a 10-year-old boy who sustained fractures across the distal radius, scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum with gross displacement. ⋯ The injury healed with good wrist function but abnormal carpal development. This unusual pattern of injury is described so that it may be more readily appreciated in the future.
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Forty-seven tibial nonunions were treated with a reamed intramedullary nail. Initially, there were 14 (30%) closed and 33 (70%) open tibial fractures. The initial fracture management consisted of casts in 12 (26%) patients, Ender or Lottes nails in nine (19%), and external fixation in 26 (55%). ⋯ After one or more procedures, these nonunions consolidated without apparent infection. Reamed intramedullary nailing is a safe and effective method of treatment for tibial nonunions of previously closed fractures and prior open fractures that have been treated with Ender or Lottes nails. Because of the risk of infection, we do not recommend its use after external fixation of open fractures.
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Closed degloving injuries of the toes are rare due to their short length, protection in shoes, and general lack of adornment. When these injuries occur, neurovascular compromise can lead to a loss of viability of the toe. Prompt recognition and successful reduction are necessary to maintain normal structure and function.