Purpose

This study compares outcomes in patients with complete congenital fibula absence, associated with severe lower limb deformity, treated with an amputation protocol to those using an extension prosthesis.

Purpose

This study compares outcomes in patients with complete congenital fibula absence treated with an amputation protocol to those using an extension prosthesis.

Methods

A retrospective review of 80 patients with unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis from 1998–2012 was undertaken to determine the outcome of the unaffected hip. All patients were treated with either prophylactic single Richards screw fixation or observation of the uninvolved hip and were followed up for at least 12 months. The unaffected hip of 44 patients (mean age 12.6 years, range 9–17) had simultaneous prophylactic fixation and 36 patients (mean age 13.4 years, range 9–17.4) were managed with observation.

Summary

PCA-III, a phosphocitrate analog, acts not only as a potent calcification inhibitor but also as a protective agent for extracellular matrices. PCA-III has potential as a disease-modifying drug in the treatment of primary osteoarthritis and posttraumatic osteoarthritis in humans.

Purpose:

To examine the feasibility of surgical outcome measures for a children's orthopaedic surgeon when compared with other specialties.

CECS is an exercised induced condition that causes pain, typically in the lower limbs, and is relieved by rest. It is often seen in military personnel significantly restricting their duties. Conservative treatment is rarely successful and patients often require surgical decompression by fasciotomy or fasciectomy.

All IMP (intramuscular pressure) tests (n=286) carried out between December 2007 and October 2010 on patients with suspected CECS in the anterior compartment of the lower leg were reviewed. The treatment and outcomes of those referred for surgery were analysed. Pre- and post-surgery military medical grading for leg function was extracted from the medical records system. Independent t-tests compared differences between patients that had surgery or did not. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test compared grades before and after surgery.

According to the diagnostic criterion, 80% of patients undergoing IMP testing had CECS. Of these, 179 (68%) patients underwent surgery, 17 (9%) of these were for recurrent symptoms. Almost all decompressions were bilateral (95%). The majority of operations (121) were fasciectomies of the anterior compartment only and were performed by 2 surgeons. The remaining operations (58) were performed by 6 surgeons and were fasciotomies of both anterior and lateral compartments. The mean time from testing to surgery was 24 (median 11) weeks. There were 23 (13%) complications other than recurrence including 16 wound infections, 6 seromas and 1 haematoma. Pre- and post-surgery grading was available for 67% of patients. These patients had significantly better leg function after surgery (Z=−3.67, p<0.001). Of these, 47% improved, 38% showed no improvement and 15% had a poorer outcome had. Those who had a fasciectomy were significantly more likely to improve than those who had a fasciotomy (p=0.023, rho=−1.96).

Our results demonstrate that patients generally improve lower limb function following surgical decompression. However, 53% showed no improvement or deteriorated in their medical grading. In addition, there is a high diagnosis rate for CECS following IMP measurement. This may reflect the poor validity of the diagnostic criterion or this could be due to good clinical selection for testing. Furthermore, fasciectomy shows a greater correlation with improved outcome than fasciotomy. There is a need to develop more accurate diagnostic criteria and to evaluate the benefits of standardising surgical technique.

Introduction

Patients with knee osteoarthritis frequently complain that they develop pain in other joints due to over-loading during gait. However, there have been no previous studies examining the effect of knee arthritis on the other weight bearing joints. The aim of this study was to examine the loading of the hips and contra-lateral knee during gait in a cohort of patients pre- and post knee replacement.

Purpose of Study

A description of a procedure to stabilize symptomatic complete discoid menisci with medium term results.

Introduction

Patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) often tell us that they put extra load on the joints of the opposite leg as they walk. Multiple joint OA is common and has previously been related to gait changes due to hip OA (Shakoor et al 2002). The aim of this study was to determine whether patients with medial compartment knee OA have abnormal biomechanics of the unaffected knee and both hips during normal level gait.

The purpose of this study was to assess the Interobserver Reliability of the Sauvegrain Skeletal Age Assessment.

Elbow radiographs requested to exclude injury were anonymised. Sixteen examinations were assessed by ten independent orthopaedic specialist registrars or consultants. The Sauvegrain method as modified by Dimeglio was used to score the radiographs. The observations made were then assessed for interobserver reliability by means of a multiple observer Kappa score and the total scores by intra-class correlation coefficient.

Kappa scores for the components of the score were 0.403 for the lateral condyle; 0.492 for the trochlea; 0.354 for the proximal radius and 0.508 for the olecranon. Adding item scores to produce a modified Sauvegrain score had an intraclass reliability of 0.858 (95% CI 0.758 to 0.935).

Methods of identifying skeletal maturation and predicting future growth generally depend on the use of an atlas of hand radiographs. Difficulties with poor interobserver reliability associated with these methods has led to a move towards assessments that do not depend upon bone age estimations. Unfortunately plans based on ratios of growth or average patterns produce errors when unusual types of growth disturbance are present. We conclude that use of a scoring system for maturation assessed by elbow radiographs offers a significant advantage when substituted into the straight line method of growth prediction. The Sauvegrain method as modified by Dimeglio1 has demonstrated an excellent level of inter observer reliability. We have used Sauvegrain scores to improve the accuracy of timing when using the Mosely straight line method.

Aim: To assess the Interobserver Reliability of the Sauvegrain Skeletal Age Assessment

Methods and Results: Elbow radiographs requested to exclude injury were anonymised. Sixteen examinations were assessed by ten independent orthopaedic specialist registrars or consultants. The Sauvegrain method as modified by Dimeglio was used to score the radiographs. The observations made were then assessed for interobserver reliability by means of a multiple observer Kappa score and the total scores by intra-class correlation coefficient.

Kappa scores for the components of the score were 0.403 for the lateral condyle; 0.492 for the trochlea; 0.354 for the proximal radius and 0.508 for the olecranon. Adding item scores to produce a modified Sauvegrain score had an intra-class reliability of 0.858 (95% CI 0.758 to 0.935).

Conclusions: Methods of identifying skeletal maturation and predicting future growth generally depend on the use of an atlas of hand radiographs. Difficulties with poor interobserver reliability associated with these methods have led to a move towards assessments that do not depend upon bone age estimations. Unfortunately plans based on ratios of growth or average patterns produce errors when unusual types of growth disturbance are present. We conclude that use of a scoring system for maturation assessed by elbow radiographs offers a significant advantage when substituted into the straight-line method of growth prediction. The Sauvegrain method as modified by Dimeglio¹ has demonstrated an excellent level of interobserver reliability. We have used Sauvegrain scores to improve the accuracy of timing when using the Mosely straight-line method³.

Purpose of study: To describe the histological effects of botulinum toxin on gastrocnemius muscle affected by cerebral palsy.

Method: Samples of gastrocnemius were obtained at the time of surgery. Ethical committee approval had been obtained for the study. Details of timing and doses of botulinum toxin previously administered to the muscle were recorded. A variety of immunohistochemical tests were employed to identify any changes in the muscle. Alterations in the distribution of myosin isoforms were identified with antibodies for fast, slow and neonatal myosin. The presence of persistent denervation was inferred from fibres deficient in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). Mitochondrial abnormalities were assessed with an NADH stain and the presence of chronic atrophic fibres (nuclear clumps) noted.

Results: Our first case had received 3 botulinum injections over a period of 5 years, the last one 3 years prior to biopsy. Histology showed pronounced abnormalities with a wide variation in fibre size, areas of myofibrillar disruption and 50% of fibres co-expressing fast and slow myosin. Other samples showed less change but showed more frequent nuclear clumps than controls, indicating chronic atrophy and more hybrid fibres than controls, but always less than 10%. Treated muscles also showed a small, variable number of atrophic fibres without nNOS. Treated samples showed no apparent fibre type grouping, a feature associated with collateral sprouting of peripheral nerves following denervation.

Conclusions: Moderate doses of botulinum toxin appear to produce an alteration in muscle histology apparent several years afterwards. No correlation could be found between the timing of the previous injection or the dose of botulinum toxin injected and the severity of the changes. Botulinum toxin remains a valuable aid in the management of spastic muscle. However consideration should be given to other methods of treatment if an effective non surgical alternative exists.

Introduction: Legislation driven & technology aided reductions in mortality have been documented over the past 10 years for road traffic accidents (RTAs). However many authors have noted an increasing morbidity as a result of serious lower limb injuries. In collaboration with the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) a 2 stage research programme has been carried out on fresh frozen PHMS lower limbs. This programme, has culminated in a specific series of PMHS tests to reproduce the most disabling lower limb injuries seen in real world accident data. The authors aimed to establish force thresholds for failure (fracture) of the calcaneus, talus and tibial plafond in frontal and frontal offset RTAs. This data is considered essential to support new pan-European legislation for better lower limb protection structures in new motor vehicles which is currently under discussion.

Methods: A 5m bungee driven sled test facility capable of creating a validated and repeatable dynamic crash pulse was used to subject 15 PMHS lower limb specimens to, axial impact loading. The pulse was modelled on the accelerometer toe-pan recordings from a full-scale automotive crash test in frontal impact. To represent brake pedal intrusion at an impact velocity of up to 14ms⁻¹, a staggered double impact, delaying application of axial loading was used. Impact loading was achieved via a modelled brake pedal to the mid-foot. All specimens were preloaded through the Achilles tendon and by knee extension to simulate the plantar flexing response seen in the foot & ankle in driving simulator studies. Delaying the application of axial loading after the initial impact and sled deceleration effectively imparts momentum into the specimen, further preloading the foot and ankle and thus increasing pre-impact bracing. Transducer data were recorded using high frequency (20 & 100 KHz) capture systems (K-Trader and Prosig). High-speed cinematography enabled additional kinematic analysis. Each specimen was tested once only. Specimens were selected at random for five impact severity groups. All specimens underwent pre impact BMD evaluation using protocols previously designed for this type of work. Post impact analysis included X-rays and necropsy.

Results: The specimens used varied in BMD and age similar to specimens used in other centres for similar testing. In the 15 final test specimens 8 calcaneal fractures were generated, one with an additional talar neck fracture. Seven specimens did not sustain injury. Measured BMD did not appear to be a useful predictor of load to failure. Peak axial forces ranged from 5KN up to 14kN. Toe pan and foot accelerations up to 200g were generated.

Discussion: This test method appears to predispose the calcaneus to injury. It failed to create either a Pilon fracture or an isolated talus fracture. Previous research investigating axial impact loading have applied a direct impact with varing levels of pre-load. They resulted in a range of injuries and suggested pre-loading reduced injury thresholds for talar and tibial injuries. This has not been our experience.

Conclusions: This data is invaluable, enabling thresholds for legislative car crash testing to be authoritatively stated and incorporated into national and international standards.

Introduction: Selective dorsal rhizotomy has been used extensively in Europe and North America in the management of spasticity secondary to cerebral palsy. Permanent reduction in lower limb spasticity has been observed with consequent improvements in gait parameters. A decade ago a rhizotomy programme was established in Oswestry to utilise the technique for a carefully monitored group of children with cerebral palsy diplegia.

Methods: Using stringent selection criteria, twenty children underwent selective lumbar dorsal rhizotomy with follow up by means of gait analysis. A permanent reduction in spasticity has been observed with a significant improvement in almost all parameters. We report the need for further bony and soft tissue surgery and our complications. There has been weight gain in the majority of cases. There has been no major spinal deformity.

Conclusion: As a result of our review of the results in the first twenty cerebral palsy diplegic patients we have modified our selection criteria. Exclusion criteria include weakness, not enough spasticity or poor control.

Aim: A retrospective review of the triple pelvic osteotomies performed between 1988 and 2002 identifying the factors that may predict a favourable outcome from surgery.

Method: A case note and x-ray review identifying various parameters that influence outcome.

Results: 30 osteotomies in 26 patients have been studied. 3male and 27 female patients have been identified. All patients were symptomatic prior to surgery complaining of pain and reduced exercise tolerance. Following surgery 21 patients were satisfied with their outcome and 9 patients had poor results.

The average age of patients with a good outcome was 20.9 years. The average age of patients with a poor outcome was 30.9 years.

There was no correlation between the correction of either the Sharp angle or the centre-edge angle and outcome. Sphericity of the head was unrelated to outcome. Obesity was associated with a poorer outcome in older patients.

Conclusion: Triple pelvic osteotomy provides a reliable method of improving symptoms in younger patients with dysplastic hips. An increased rate of failure should be expected in patients over thirty years of age.

Introduction The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence, in Australia, of popliteal artery injury during knee surgery; to assess the distance from the popliteal artery to the posterior tibia in flexion and extension; and to investigate the influence of major trauma or surgery on the anatomy.

Methods A questionnaire was sent to Australian members of the ANZ Society of Vascular Surgeons. Duplex ultrasound studies were obtained through the Vascular Laboratory University of Melbourne. Studies in extension and 90° of flexion assessed the distance from the popliteal artery to the posterior tibia. Twelve persons with normal knees were assessed bilaterally. Eight patients with a posterior cruciate ligament deficient knee were assessed bilaterally. Seventy vascular surgeons responded documenting 115 popliteal artery injuries occurring during knee surgery. There were 69 lacerations, 27 thromboses, 13 AV fistula and 19 false aneurysms. In 12 normal people (24 knees) the popliteal artery was 5.5 mm (2.9 to 9.9) from the tibia in extension and 5.7 mm (2.9 to 10.0) in 90° of flexion. In ten of 24 knees the artery moved closer in flexion. In the eight posterior cruciate ligament deficient knees the artery was 4.7 mm (2.7 to 6.9) from the tibia in extension and 3.8 mm (2.6 to 4.5) at 90° of flexion. In all eight PCL knees the artery moved closer in flexion. In normal knees the popliteal artery may move closer to the tibia in flexion, the average distance being about 5.5 mm.

Conclusions The popliteal artery is closer to the knee joint following trauma or surgery and specifically closer in flex-ion than in extension. Risks of injury are significant.

Aim: To assess the T-L plasty as a treatment of the overriding fifth toe.

Materials and Methods: 12 cases of T-L plasty undertaken for an overriding fifth toe were reviewed ( Mean age 9.8 years). The operation entails a T-shaped dorsal and plantar incision over the fourth to fifth web space. Extensive tenotomy and dorsal capsulotomy of the little metatarsophalangeal joint is undertaken. The corner of the lateral dorsal flap is advanced along the longitudinal limb of the ‘T’ and the incision is converted to an L-shaped wound. This transposition is reversed in the plantar aspect. The correction is stable without the need for K-wire fixation.

Results: 11 patients were satisfied with the correction. In 4 of the cases, the external rotation of the overriding fifth toe was not corrected. There was one failure. However, he had previously had 2 Butler procedures. The scar was acceptable.

Conclusion: The Freund is an alternative method for correction of an overriding fifth toe.

Routine metalwork removal, in asymptomatic patients, remains a controversial issue in our daily practice. Current literature emphasized the potential hazards of implant removal and the financial implications encountered from these procedures. However, there is little literature guidance and no published research on current practice.

To estimate the current state of practice of orthopaedic surgeons in the United Kingdom regarding implant removal for limb trauma in asymptomatic patients, an analysis of the postal questionnaire replies of 36% (500 out of 1390) of randomly selected UK orthopaedic consultants was performed by two independent observers.

47.4% replies were received. A total of 205 (41%) were found to be suitable for analysis. The most significant results of our study I: 92% of orthopaedic surgeons stated that they do not routinely remove metalwork in asymptomatic skeletally mature patients. II: 60% of trauma surgeons stated that they do routinely remove metalwork in patients aged 16 years and under, while only 12% of trauma surgeons do routinely remove metalwork in the age group between 16–35 years. III: 87% of the practising surgeons indicated that they believe it is reasonable to leave metalwork in for 10 years or more. IV: Only 7% of practising trauma surgeons replied to this questionnaire have departmental or unit policy.

No policy is needed for metalwork removal, as most of the orthopaedic surgeons were complying with literature guidance supporting the potential risks associated with implant removal, in spite of the limited number of departmental or units’ policies on implant removal and the paucity of the literature documenting the current practice. However, there is a discrepancy among trauma surgeons in relation to metalwork removal between patient age groups. This indicates guidelines would be helpful to guide the surgeon for the best practice. This is important from a medico-legal standpoint because surgeons are being criticised for not achieving satisfactory results in negligence cases.

Aim: To study of the results of the first 100 Miller-Galante, unicompartmental knee replacements performed by one surgeon over the period from May 1990 to November 1996, with particular reference to the failure mechanisms.

Method: A cohort of 100 patients has been followed up prospectively on a biennial basis. They have been assessed using the Nottingham Knee Proforma of Tew & Waugh. An up-dated review was carried out of the cases for the preparation of this presentation.

Results:

Alive, knee functioning satisfactorily – 57

Reasons for revision:

6 developed degeneration in another compartment

Conclusions: This prosthesis remains a surgical option for treatment of unicompartmental knee osteoarthrosis. As judged on survival it appears to be superior to high tibial osteotome (HTO) but it appears to be inferior to total knee replacement (TKR). It is easier to revise than failed HTO or TKR. Careful patient selection is obviously required.