Foot & ankle international
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Comparative Study
Minimally invasive treatment of distal tibial fractures with locking and non-locking plates.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical performances of stainless steel nonlocking plates and titanium locking plates in minimally invasive medial plating of extra-articular metaphyseal fractures of the distal tibia. ⋯ Minimally invasive medial plating with titanium locking plates resulted in prolonged secondary healing both in comminuted and simple fracture patterns compared to conventional stainless steel nonlocking plates. We believe that in biological fixation of distal tibial fractures, similarly good results may be obtained with both materials as the locking technology had a greater effect on stability.
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Comparative Study
Early complications following the operative treatment of pilon fractures with and without diabetes.
An increased rate of complications has been clearly shown in diabetic patients undergoing operative treatment for displaced ankle fractures. To date, no studies have specifically looked at the complication rates following the operative management of pilon fractures in this difficult patient population. We performed a retrospective review to determine the rates of complications in diabetic patients undergoing operative fixation of tibial pilon fractures compared with a control group of patients without diabetes. ⋯ The management of tibial pilon fractures in diabetic patients is difficult, with a high rate of complications compared to non-diabetic patients. These results mirror those previously reported for ankle fractures in diabetic patients.
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The sustentaculum tali of the calcaneus is a vital load-bearing structure. Isolated sustentacular fractures are rare and may have implications for future hindfoot function. This retrospective cohort study describes sustentacular fracture patterns and characteristics, associated foot injuries, and a method of surgical treatment via a medial approach to the calcaneus. ⋯ Fractures of the sustentaculum tali are rare injuries associated with high energy mechanisms, and associated ipsilateral foot injuries are common. Open reduction and internal fixation of these fractures was reliable and possible through a medial approach involving distal retraction of the digital flexors and neurovascular bundle, allowing for an anatomical extraarticular cortical reduction.
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The poor vascularity of tendons is a major factor in their limited healing capacity. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) on angiogenesis during tendon healing. ⋯ Although these results need replication and further biomechanical research, PRP may promote tendon healing acceleration.