The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of placement of pelvic binders and to determine whether circumferential compression at the level of the greater trochanters is the best method of reducing a symphyseal diastasis. . Patients were identified by a retrospective review of all pelvic radiographs performed at a military hospital over a period of 30 months. We analysed any pelvic radiograph on which the buckle of the pelvic binder was clearly visible. The patients were divided into groups according to the position of the buckle in relation to the greater trochanters: high, trochanteric or low. Reduction of the symphyseal diastasis was measured in a subgroup of patients with an open-book fracture, which consisted of an injury to the symphysis and disruption of the posterior pelvic arch (AO/OTA 61-B/C). . We identified 172 radiographs with a visible pelvic binder. Five cases were excluded due to inadequate radiographs. In 83 (50%) the binder was positioned at the level of the greater trochanters. A high position was the most common site of inaccurate placement, occurring in 65 (39%). Seventeen patients were identified as a subgroup to assess the effect of the position of the binder on reduction of the diastasis. The mean gap was 2.8 times greater (mean difference 22 mm) in the high group compared with the trochanteric group (p < 0.01). Application of a pelvic binder above the level of the greater trochanters is common and is an inadequate method of reducing pelvic fractures and is likely to delay cardiovascular recovery in these seriously injured patients

Circumferential pelvic binders have been developed to allow rapid closure of the pelvic ring in unstable fracture patterns. Despite evidence to support the use of pelvic binders, there is a paucity of clinical data regarding the effect of binder position on symphyseal diastasis reduction. All patients presenting to the UK's military hospital in Afghanistan who survived and underwent pelvic radiography were reviewed. Cases were identified by retrospective assessment of all digital plain pelvic radiographs performed between January 2008 and July 2010. All radiographs and CT images were assessed to identify the presence of any pelvic fracture. Patients were grouped into three categories according to the vertical level of the buckle: superior to the trochanters (high), inferior to the trochanters (low) and at the level of the trochanters (troch). Diastasis reduction was measured in patients with Anterior-Posterior Compression (APC) grades II and III, or Combined Mechanical Injuries(CMI). Comparison of diastasis reduction between the high and troch groups was assessed by an independent samples Student's t-test. We identified 172 radiographs where the metallic springs in the buckle of a SAM Pelvic Sling. ™. were clearly visible. The binders were positioned at the trochanteric level in 50% of radiographs. A high position was the commonest site of inaccurate placement (37%). In the patients with fractures and an open diastasis, the mean pelvic diastasis gap was 2.75 times greater in the high group compared to the trochanteric level (mean difference 22 mm) (p < 0.01). Application of pelvic binders superior to the greater trochanters is commonplace and associated with inadequate fracture reduction, which is likely to delay cardiovascular recovery in these significantly injured casualties

We describe the routine imaging practices of Level 1 trauma centres for patients with severe pelvic ring fractures, and the interobserver reliability of the classification systems of these fractures using plain radiographs and three-dimensional (3D) CT reconstructions. Clinical and imaging data for 187 adult patients (139 men and 48 women, mean age 43 years (15 to 101)) with a severe pelvic ring fracture managed at two Level 1 trauma centres between July 2007 and June 2010 were extracted. Three experienced orthopaedic surgeons classified the plain radiographs and 3D CT reconstruction images of 100 patients using the Tile/AO and Young–Burgess systems. Reliability was compared using kappa statistics. A total of 115 patients (62%) had plain radiographs as well as two-dimensional (2D) CT and 3D CT reconstructions, 52 patients (28%) had plain films only, 12 (6.4%) had 2D and 3D CT reconstructions images only, and eight patients (4.3%) had no available images. The plain radiograph was limited to an anteroposterior pelvic view. Patients without imaging, or only plain films, were more severely injured. A total of 72 patients (39%) were imaged with a pelvic binder in situ. Interobserver reliability for the Tile/AO (Kappa 0.10 to 0.17) and Young–Burgess (Kappa 0.09 to 0.21) was low, and insufficient for clinical and research purposes. Severe pelvic ring fractures are difficult to classify due to their complexity, the increasing use of early treatment such as with pelvic binders, and the absence of imaging altogether in important patient sub-groups, such as those who die early of their injuries. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1396–1401

Aim. The rise of multidrug-resistant bacteria and the decreasing efficacy of antibiotic therapy in successfully treating biofilm-associated infections are prompting the exploration of alternative treatment options. This study investigates the efficacy of different bioactive glass (BAG) formulations - alone or combined with vancomycin - to eradicate biofilm. Further, we study the influence of BAG on pH and osmotic pressure as important factors limiting bacterial growth. Method. Different BAG-S53P4 formulations were used for this study, including (a) BAG-powder (<45 μm), (b) BAG-granules (500–800 μm), (c) a cone-shaped BAG-scaffold and (d) two kinds of BAG-putty containing granules, with no powder (putty-A) or with additional powder (putty-B), and a synthetic binder. Inert glass beads were included as control. All formulations were tested in a concentration of 1750 g/ml in Müller-Hinton-Broth. Targeted bacteria included methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and epidermidis (MRSE). Vancomycin was tested at the minimum-inhibitory-concentration for each strain (1 µg/ml for MRSA; 2 μg/ml for MRSE). To investigate the antibiofilm effect of BAG alone or combined with vancomycin, 3 hour-old MRSA or MRSE biofilms were formed on porous glass beads and exposed to BAG ± vancomycin for 24h, 72h and 168h. After co-incubation, biofilm-beads were deep-washed in phosphate-buffered saline and placed in glass vials containing fresh medium. Recovering biofilm bacteria were detected by measuring growth-related heat production at 37°C for 24h by isothermal microcalorimetry. Changes in pH and osmotic pressure over time were assessed after co-incubation of each BAG formulation in Müller-Hinton-Broth for 0h, 24h, 72h and 168h. Results. All BAG formulations showed antibiofilm activity against MRSA and MRSE in a time-dependent manner, where longer incubation times revealed higher antibiofilm activity. BAG-powder and BAG-putty-B were the most effective formulations suppressing biofilm, followed by BAG-granules, BAG-scaffold and finally BAG-putty-A. The addition of vancomycin had no substantial impact on biofilm suppression. An increase in pH and osmotic pressure over time could be observed for all BAG formulations. BAG-powder reached the highest pH value of 12.5, whereas BAG-putty-A resulted in the lowest pH of 9. Both BAG-putty formulations displayed the greatest increase on osmotic pressure. Conclusions. BAG-S53P4 has demonstrated efficient biofilm suppression against MRSA and MRSE, especially in powder-containing formulations. Our data indicates no additional antibiofilm improvement with addition of vancomycin. Moreover, high pH appears to have a larger antimicrobial impact than high osmolarity. Acknowledgements. This work was supported by PRO-IMPLANT Foundation (Berlin, Germany). The tested materials were provided by Bonalive Biomaterials Ltd (Turku, Finland)

Aims

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine if there are differences in short-term clinical outcomes among four different types of matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte transplantation (MACT).

Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a technically demanding procedure, reporting poorer outcomes compared to the primary procedure. Identification of the cause of primary failure and a thorough pre-operative evaluation is required to plan the most appropriate surgical approach. 3D printing technology has become increasingly commonplace in the surgical setting. In particular, patient-specific anatomical models can be used to aid pre-operative planning of complicated procedures. We have conducted a qualitative study to gauge the interest amongst orthopaedic knee surgeons in using a 3D-printed model to plan revision ACL reconstructions. A tibia and femur model was printed from one patient who is a candidate for the procedure. The binder jetting printing technique was performed, using Visijet PXL Core powder. 12 orthopaedic knee surgeons assessed the usefulness of the 3D-printed model compared to conventional CT images on a likert scale. 6 key steps of preoperative planning were assessed, including the size and location of the tunnel defects, the need for notchplasty, and whether a staged revision was required. We found that surgeons preferred the 3D-printed model to conventional CT images only, and 83% of them would use such a model for both pre-operative simulation, and as an intra-operative reference. However, there were some variation in the perceived usefulness of the model in several areas assessed. This may reflect differences in individual approach towards planning of the procedure. Our findings suggest that 3D-printed models could be a versatile pre-operative and intra-operative tool for complicated arthroscopic knee surgery. While 3D printing technology is becoming increasingly accessible and affordable, in-depth cost-effectiveness studies need to be conducted before it can be integrated into clinical. Further study would be needed to determine the clinical utility and economic cost-effectiveness of the 3D-printed model in revision ACL reconstruction

High energy fractures of the pelvis are a challenging problem both in the immediate post-injury phase and later when definitive fixation is undertaken. No single management algorithm can be applied because of associated injuries and the wide variety of trauma systems that have evolved around the world. Initial management is aimed at saving life and this is most likely to be achieved with an approach that seeks to identify and treat life-threatening injuries in order of priority. Early mortality after a pelvic fracture is most commonly due to major haemorrhage or catastrophic brain injury. In this article we review the role of pelvic binders, angiographic embolisation, pelvic packing, early internal fixation and blood transfusion with regard to controlling haemorrhage. Definitive fixation seeks to prevent deformity and reduce complications. We believe this should be undertaken by specialist surgeons in a hospital resourced, equipped and staffed to manage the whole spectrum of major trauma. We describe the most common modes of internal fixation by injury type and review the factors that influence delayed mortality, adverse functional outcome, sexual dysfunction and venous thromboembolism

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) include a spectrum of his-tologically and clinically different tumors. Patients are typically relatively young and the course of disease is characterized by early metastasis as well as limited response to chemotherapy. However, a few subtypes such as small round cell tumors (SRCTs) and rhabdomyosarcoma (except from pleomorphic), are considered chemotherapy-sensitive. In addition, reflecting successful translational research of recent years, gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans have become model diseases for targeted oncological therapy. With a very limited number of active compounds at hand, treatment choices in metastatic STS with inkonsistent genomic alterations were easy to overview until only a few years ago. However, with novel therapeutic strategies such as the antiangiogenic approach and a multitude of novel compounds available both outside and within clinical studies, it may have become more difficult to keep track of currently available treatment options and their clinical safety and efficacy. Anthracyclines with or without ifosfamide are still considered standard of care in most STS-subtypes, especially in high-grade tumors. There is no evidence-based recommendation as to second-line treatment options. However, a number of established compounds, including dacarbazine/temozolomide, gemcitabine, taxanes, trofosfamide, DNA topoisomerase I inhibitors, DNA minor groove binders, and bendamustine, have shown activity. Recently, trabectedin, a DNA minor groove binder initially isolated from a sea sponge, has proven effective and received European approval for use in treatment-refractory STS. In addition, novel compounds such as bevacizumab, multityrosine kinase inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, imatinib mesylate, and the thrombospondin agonist ABT 510 represent attractive partners for the above-mentioned cytostatic agents or may even be effective single agents in the clinically advanced setting. Novel combinations are being evaluated in clinical studies. In order to be successful, we may have to combine not only different compounds but also different targets beyond the proliferation machinery of sarcoma cells such as tumor angiogenesis, the tumor stromal compartment or tumor cell oncogene products

A common injury pattern in current military experience is traumatic lower limb amputation from improvised explosive devices. This injury can coexist with pelvic girdle fractures. Of 67 consecutive patients with traumatic lower limb amputations treated in Camp Bastion Hospital Afghanistan, 16 (24%) had an associated pelvic fracture (10 APC/vertical shear and 6 acetabular or pubic rami fractures). Traumatic single amputees (n=28) had a 14% incidence of associated pelvic fracture with traumatic double amputees (n=39) increasing this association to 31%. However if the double amputations were above knee the incidence of associated open book fractures was 26% (6/23) with 39% (9/23) sustaining some form of pelvic bony injury. The majority of patients (95%) had a pelvic X-ray as part of the primary survey. Of these 51% (n=34) had a Sam sling(r) in situ but only fifteen were deemed appropriately applied. Given the high risk of pelvic fractures in patients with traumatic bilateral lower limb amputations, particularly those involving opening of the pelvic ring, it is imperative that the earliest and proper application of a pelvic binder be initiated

Introduction. A common injury pattern in current military experience is traumatic lower limb amputation from improvised explosive devices. This injury can co-exist with pelvic girdle fractures. Methods. We reviewed 67 consecutive patients with traumatic lower limb amputations treated in Camp Bastion Hospital, Afghanistan. Results. 16 (24%) had an associated pelvic fracture (10 APC/vertical shear and 6 acetabular or pubic rami fractures). Traumatic single amputees (n=28) had a 14% incidence of associated pelvic fracture with traumatic double amputees (n=39) increasing this association to 31%. However, if the double amputations were above knee, the incidence of associated open book fractures was 26% (6/23) with 39% (9/23) sustaining some form of bony pelvic injury. The majority of patients (95%) had a pelvic X-ray as part of the primary survey. Of these 51% (n=34) had a Sam sling. (r). in situ but only fifteen were deemed appropriately applied. Conclusions. Given the high risk of pelvic fractures in patients with traumatic bilateral lower limb amputations, particularly those involving opening of the pelvic ring, it is imperative that the earliest and proper application of a pelvic binder be initiated

Aims

There is evidence that morbidly obese patients have more intra- and postoperative complications and poorer outcomes when undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the direct anterior approach (DAA). The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of DAA for THA, and compare the complications and outcomes of morbidly obese patients with nonobese patients.

Aims

This study aimed to establish the optimal fixation methods for calcaneal tuberosity avulsion fractures with different fragment thicknesses in a porcine model.

Summary Statement. This work features a new approach to overcome drawbacks of commercial calcium phosphate cements in terms of application by on-site preparation and bone ingrowth by introduction of macropores in the material using a hydrofluoroalkane based aerosol foam. Introduction. The application of calcium phosphate bone cements (CPCs) into a void for example of an osteoporotic bone is very difficult as the cement paste is made outside the application site and subsequently applied into the damaged bone. A common drawback of especially apatitic cements is a very low resorption rate due to small pore size Therefore different approaches have been described to add macropores into the cement. 2. , leading to bone ingrowth and tissue penetration. The aim of this project is the use of two separate formulations in pressurised systems – a suspension and an emulsion – which can be mixed in a specially developed device and can be applied easily and efficiently into a bone directly during surgery leading to a self-hardening macro porous CPC foam. The intention is to fill voids in osteoporotic bones to ensure stability for implants like e.g. screws for femur neck fractures. An increased stability for implants can allow the possibility of a less invasive femur neck preserving therapy in contrast to a femur neck replacement. Other indications for such foam (i.e. kyphoplasty) are under evaluation. Methods. As suggested above two separate formulations for the components are developed to prevent premature hardening. Hydrofluoroalkanes were preferred as propellants to propane, butane or isobutane, due to their superior safety profile. The hardener component was formulated as propellant-in-water emulsion. Several parentally approved emulsifiers (e.g. Poloxamer 188) were tested in view of solubility at the given salt and binder concentration. The stability of resulting emulsions in pressurised containers, the corresponding foams as well as the foam expansion volume was analyzed. Porous hydroxyapatite is formed after addition of tetra-calciumphosphate, di-calciumphosphate dihydrate and tri-sodiumcitrat dehydrate incorporated in the suspension component. To overcome quick sedimentation of these solids, particle size was reduced by dry or non-aqueous wet milling, respectively. Changes in particle size distribution and enthalpy changes during processes were analyzed. Hardening properties of both components were tested particularly with regard to compressive strength. In order to apply the components, a suitable application system was developed and the hardened product analyzed using x-ray diffraction. Results. The optimised Ca. 2+. /(PO. 4. ). 3−. component is a submicron-sized suspension in a mixture of ethanol and HFA 134a. The development of the suspension led to new knowledge with regard to milling effects on the Ca. 2+. /(PO. 4. ). 3−. components. The optimised hardener component contains an aqueous solution of sodium phosphates, Povidone 90 and Poloxamer 188 emulsified in HFA 227. Both components are formulated in pressurised cans. Discussion/Conclusion. A two component bone foam for stabilisation in osteoporotic bones including a new mixing / application system, which allows actuation of the components and leads to a hardening process that results in hydroxyapatite in a suitable test setup, was developed. The new application system. Further steps i.e. proof of concept (in-vitro and in-vivo) are being taken

Introduction: Early mortality associated with unstable pelvic ring injuries is often secondary to continuous pelvic bleeding. Hemostatic measures such as pelvic binders or external fixation may help to control low pressure bleeding from lacerated veins or broad fracture surfaces, while control of high pressure arterial bleeding may require embolization. Purpose: Evaluate our experience with the control of hemorrhagic shock associated with pelvic ring injuries during initial patient management. Methods: From January 2003 until December 2006, all [105] patients admitted to our level I trauma center with a pelvic or an acetabular fracture were prospectively entered into our polytrauma data base. Of 105 patients, 67 were classified with a type B or C pelvic fracture. All these patients received a pelvic strap belt by the paramedic team at the scene of the accident. Pelvic fractures were diagnosed on the initial anteroposterior pelvic radiograph and computed tomography. From this initial group of 67 patients, we identified 38 as unstable requiring blood transfusion and intensive care monitoring. The results and survival rate were evaluated according to the initial sequence of surgical procedures and the patients were divided into 3 groups, X,Y, and Z Follow-up physical examination and radiographs was performed for all survivors at an average of 10 months post-injury (range, 6 months to 3 years). Results: The average age of the 38 patients was 38.6 years (range, 24–51 years) and their average ISS was 53 (range 21–75).All were injured in a high velocity motor vehicle accident or a fall from a height. The patients were managed in the emergency department by a multidisciplinary team according A.T.L.S. guidelines. Of the 38 patients, five died shortly after arrival in the emergency department despite resuscitation efforts. Within the first 24 hours, pelvic stabilization was performed in 27 patients with either an anterior external fixator frame (n=13), pelvic clamp (n=11) or primary open reduction internal fixation (n=3). In group X, of 19 patients initially treated with external fixation and eventual arterial embolization without laparotomy, 18 (94 %) survived. In group Y, there were 8 patients treated by external fixation, eventual arterial embolization and laparotomy, and 7 (87 %) survived. In group Z, all 6 patients in whom a scratch laparotomy with packing prior to any skeletal fixation was attempted,no patient survived ! All survivors underwent definitive open reduction and plate and screw fixation, with an average ICU stay of 10 days (3–15). Conclusion: This study shows that optimal control of bleeding associated with pelvic ring injuries is achieved by initial skeletal fixation prior to any other surgical procedures. Immediate laparotomy was associated with a high rate of intraoperative death due to the failure to control bleeding

Aim

There is not adequate evidence to establish whether external fixation (EF) of pelvic fractures leads to a reduced mortality. We used the Japan Trauma Data Bank database to identify isolated unstable pelvic ring fractures to exclude the possibility of blood loss from other injuries, and analyzed the effectiveness of EF on mortality in this group of patients.

There have been many advances in the resuscitation and early management of patients with severe injuries during the last decade. These have come about as a result of the reorganisation of civilian trauma services in countries such as Germany, Australia and the United States, where the development of trauma systems has allowed a concentration of expertise and research. The continuing conflicts in the Middle East have also generated a significant increase in expertise in the management of severe injuries, and soldiers now survive injuries that would have been fatal in previous wars. This military experience is being translated into civilian practice.

The aim of this paper is to give orthopaedic surgeons a practical, evidence-based guide to the current management of patients with severe, multiple injuries. It must be emphasised that this depends upon the expertise, experience and facilities available within the local health-care system, and that the proposed guidelines will inevitably have to be adapted to suit the local resources.

Increasing innovation in rapid prototyping (RP) and additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is bringing about major changes in translational surgical research.

This review describes the current position in the use of additive manufacturing in orthopaedic surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:455-60.

The types of explosive devices used in warfare and the pattern of war wounds have changed in recent years. There has, for instance, been a considerable increase in high amputation of the lower limb and unsalvageable leg injuries combined with pelvic trauma.

The conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan prompted the Department of Military Surgery and Trauma in the United Kingdom to establish working groups to promote the development of best practice and act as a focus for research.

In this review, we present lessons learnt in the initial care of military personnel sustaining major orthopaedic trauma in the Middle East.

Objectives

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the onset and progression of involutional osteoporosis. However, classical antioxidants fail to restore osteoblast function. Interestingly, the bone anabolism of parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been shown to be associated with its ability to counteract oxidative stress in osteoblasts. The PTH counterpart in bone, which is the PTH-related protein (PTHrP), displays osteogenic actions through both its N-terminal PTH-like region and the C-terminal domain.