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SummaryThe Fracture Improvement with Teriparatide (Fix-IT) study randomized 13 women with an atypical femur fracture to immediate vs delayed teriparatide therapy; all were followed for 12 months. Results suggested a trend for superior healing and lesser bone mineral density declines in the immediate vs delayed group with no differences in adverse events.PurposeLittle clinical data are available on the use of teriparatide for the treatment of bisphosphonate-associated atypical femur fractures (AFF). The goal of the Fix-IT study was to determine if immediate therapy with teriparatide was superior for fracture healing after an AFF compared to a 6-month delay in teriparatide therapy.MethodsThis randomized pilot clinical trial included 13 women with an AFF who were randomized to immediate teriparatide vs a delay of 6 months. All were followed for 12 months on teriparatide. The primary outcomes included individual and composite measures of radiologic bone healing (scored 1 point [no healing] to 4 points [complete healing]) at 6 and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included bone mineral density of the unfractured contralateral hip, spine, 1/3 distal radius, and adverse events.ResultsWe found there was a trend for superior healing with the composite score (12.6 vs 11.2 at 6 months and 15.4 vs 13.2 at 12 months), and lesser bone mineral density declines at the 1/3 distal radius (12-month change − 1.9 vs − 6.1%) in the immediate vs the delayed group. There were no differences in adverse events. There was one implant failure in the delayed group.ConclusionsThere is a preliminary signal for greater improvements with immediate teriparatide therapy vs delayed therapy. However, because an AFF is a rare event, and only a small number of patients were included, the results must be interpreted with caution.

Background Reverse obliquity fractures of the proximal femur have biomechanical characteristics distinct from other intertrochanteric fractures and high implant failure rate when treated with sliding hip screws. Intramedullary hip nailing for these fractures reportedly has less potential for cut-out of the lag screw because of their loadbearing capacity when compared with extramedullary implants. However, it is unclear whether nail length influences healing. Questions/purposes We compared standard and long types of intramedullary hip nails in terms of (1) reoperation (fixation failure), (2) 1-year mortality rate, (3) function and mobility, and (4) union rate. Methods We conducted a pilot prospective randomized controlled trial comparing standard versus long (≥ 34 cm) intramedullary hip nails for reverse obliquity fractures of the proximal femur from January 2009 to December 2009. There were 15 patients with standard nails and 18 with long nails. Mean age was 79 years (range, 67–95 years). We determined 1-year mortality rates, reoperation rates, Parker-Palmer mobility and Harris hip scores, and radiographic findings (fracture union, blade cut-out, tip-apex distance, implant failure). Minimum followup was 12 months (mean, 14 months; range, 12–20 months). Results We found no difference in reoperation rates between groups. Two patients (both from the long-nail group) underwent revision surgery because of implant failure in one and deep infection in the other. There was no difference between the standard- and long-nail groups in mortality rate (17% versus 18%), Parker-Palmer mobility score (five versus six), Harris hip score (74 versus 79), union rate (100% in both groups), blade cut-out (zero versus one), and tip-apex distance (22 versus 24 mm). Conclusions Our preliminary data suggest reverse obliquity fractures of the trochanteric region of the femur can be treated with either standard or long intramedullary nails. Level of Evidence Level II, therapeutic study. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

A femoral fracture is a severe injury occurring in traumatic and pathologic causes. Diagnosis and Preoperative planning are indispensable procedures relying on preoperative radiographs such as X-ray and CT images. Nevertheless, CT imaging has a higher cost, radiation dose, and longer acquisition time than X-ray imaging. Thus, the fracture 3D reconstruction from X-ray images had been needed and remains a challenging problem, as well as a lack of dataset. This paper proposes a 3D proximal femoral fracture reconstruction from biplanar radiographs to improve the 3D visualization of bone fragments during preoperative planning. A novel Fracture Reconstruction Network (FracReconNet) is proposed to retrieve the femoral bone shape with fracture details, including the 3D Reconstruction Network (3DReconNet), novel Auxiliary class (AC), and Fractural augmentation (FA). The 3D reconstruction network applies a deep learning-based, fully Convolutional Network with Feature Pyramid Network architecture. Specifically, the auxiliary class is proposed, which refers to fracture representation. It encourages network learning to reconstruct the fracture. Since the samples are scarce to acquire, the fractural augmentation is invented to enlarge the fracture training samples and improve reconstruction accuracy. The evaluation of FracReconNet achieved a mIoU of 0.851 and mASSD of 0.906 mm. The proposed FracReconNet’s results show fracture detail similar to the real fracture, while the 3DReconNet cannot offer.

Background Displaced femoral neck fractures usually are treated with hemiarthroplasty. However, the degree to which the design of the implant used (cemented or uncemented) affects the outcome is not known and may be therapeutically important. Questions/purposes In this randomized controlled trial, we sought to compare cemented with cementless fixation in bipolar hemiarthroplasties at 5 years in terms of (1) Harris hip scores; (2) femoral fractures; (3) overall health outcomes using the Barthel Index and EQ-5D scores; and (4) complications, reoperations, and mortality since our earlier report on this cohort at 1-year followup. Methods We present followup at a median of 5 years after surgery (range, 56–65 months) from a randomized trial comparing a cemented hemiarthroplasty (112 hips) with an uncemented, hydroxyapatite-coated hemiarthroplasty (108 hips), both with a bipolar head. Results were previously reported at 1-year followup. Harris hip scores, Barthel Index, and EQ-5D scores were assessed by one research nurse and one orthopaedic surgeon. Complications and reoperations were determined by chart review and radiographs examined by three orthopaedic surgeons. Sixty patients (56%) had died in the cemented group and 63 (60%) in the uncemented group. Respectively, three and two patients (2.7% and 1.9%) were completely lost to followup. Results Harris hip scores at 5 years were higher in the uncemented group than in the cemented group (86.2 versus 76.3; mean difference 9.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9–17.9). The prevalence of postoperative periprosthetic femoral fractures was 7.4% in the uncemented group and 0.9% in the cemented group (hazard ratio [HR], 9.3; 95% CI, 1.16–74.5). Barthel Index and EQ-5D scores were not different between the groups. Between 1 and 5 years, we found no additional infections or dislocations. The mortality rate was not different between the groups (HR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.82–1.7). Conclusions Both arthroplasties may be used with good medium-term results after displaced femoral neck fractures. The uncemented hemiarthroplasty may result in higher hip scores but appears to carry an unacceptably high risk of later femoral fractures. Level of Evidence Level I, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The cortical thickness index (CTI) is a radiological measure and correlates with diminishing local bone quality in the proximal femur. The objective of this study was to assess the association between a lower CTI and the occurrence of peri- and postoperative surgical complications. A total of 228 consecutive patients treated with endomedullary nailing for trochanteric fracture (TFx) (AO/OTA 31A1.1–31A2.3) (n = 99) and hemi-/total hip arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture (AO/OTA 31B1–B3) (FNFx) (n = 129) with a mean age of 82 ± 9.9 (50–99) years were retrospectively reviewed. An evaluation of these cases was conducted to ascertain the presence of any surgery-related complications. Eighteen patients (7.9%) undergoing revision surgery were identified. Patient demographics and radiographic measurements of these groups were compared to the cases without complications (n = 210) and statistically analysed. A total of 18 patients (7.9%) with complications who underwent revision surgery were identified. Among the total number of patients, 10 (55.6%) exhibited mechanical complications. The remaining patients underwent a subsequent revision due to infection (n = 4), seroma/hematoma (n = 3), or a running wound (n = 1). The FNFx group exhibited a lack of intraoperative fractures; however, two periprosthetic fractures occurred subsequent to another fall (36 and 59 days postoperatively). A total of five incisions or extractions of the helical blade were identified in the TFx group. The following factors contributed to the necessity for revision: tractus irritation (n = 2), one intraoperative fracture, one running wound, and one seroma. Among all of the variables that were analyzed, including age, body mass index, and hemoglobin level, only the CTI of the affected side in the TFx group was found to be significantly higher in the complications group, as well as the mechanical complications group (0.51 ± 0.09, 0.58 ± 0.05, 0.58 ± 0.05; p  = 0.029). Poor local bone quality, as indicated by a low CTI, is not associated with increased complication rates following surgically managed proximal femoral fractures. Instead, the predominant contributors to mechanical complications seem to emanate from alternative factors, such as insufficient fracture reduction and suboptimal blade positioning.

Background Treatment of non-union remains challenging and often necessitates augmentation of the resulting defect with an autologous bone graft (ABG). ABG is limited in quantity and its harvesting incurs an additional surgical intervention leaving the risk for associated complications and morbidities. Therefore, artificial bone graft substitutes that might replace autologous bone are needed. S53P4-type bioactive glass (BaG) is a promising material which might be used as bone graft substitute due to its osteostimulative, conductive and antimicrobial properties. In this study, we plan to examine the clinical effectiveness of BaG as a bone graft substitute in Masquelet therapy in comparison with present standard Masquelet therapy using an ABG with tricalciumphosphate to fill the bone defect. Methods/design This randomized controlled, clinical non-inferiority trial will be carried out at the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology at Heidelberg University. Patients who suffer from tibial or femoral non-unions with a segmental bone defect of 2–5 cm and who are receiving Masquelet treatment will be included in the study. The resulting bone defect will either be filled with autologous bone and tricalciumphosphate (control group, N  = 25) or BaG (S53P4) (study group, N  = 25). Subsequent to operative therapy, all patients will receive the same standardized follow-up procedures. The primary endpoint of the study is union achieved 1year after surgery. Discussion The results from the current study will help evaluate the clinical effectiveness of this promising biomaterial in non-union therapy. In addition, this randomized trial will help to identify potential benefits and limitations regarding the use of BaG in Masquelet therapy. Data from the study will increase the knowledge about BaG as a bone graft substitute as well as identify patients possibly benefiting from Masquelet therapy using BaG and those who are more likely to fail, thereby improving the quality of non-union treatment. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), ID: DRKS00013882 . Registered on 22 January 2018.

Background Ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures are severe injuries caused by high-energy trauma. In recent years, the incidence and discussion of such fractures have increased significantly. Research and literature on these fractures primarily consist of clinical retrospective analyses, meta-analyses, or case reports. Domestic and international studies have examined surgical timing, blood loss, complications, and healing duration across different treatment approaches for these fractures. Currently, no universally agreed-upon standard exists for managing such fractures in the literature. Objective Finite element analysis was performed to compare the biomechanical characteristics of four different types of fixations for the treatment of ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures (IFNSF), with the objective of determining the optimal choice of internal fixation. Method Femoral neck and shaft fracture models were simulated in conjunction with four fixation methods, including a femoral locking plate with a cannulated compression screw (plate + CCS), a retrograde nail with a cannulated compression screw (retrograde nail + CCS), a dual construct (InterTan), and a reconstruction nail. These models were assembled, and finite element analysis was conducted utilizing Ansys workbench. Results The peak von Mises stress for the femoral neck and internal fixation device was the lowest (219.91 MPa and 223.81 MPa, respectively) for the CCS and the highest (392.47 MPa and 388.32 MPa, respectively) for the reconstruction nail. For the A1-A3 type femoral shaft fractures, the peak von Mises stress was highest (102.54 MPa) for the reconstruction nail and lowest (88.554 MPa) for the retrograde nail. For the B2- and C2-type femoral shaft fractures, the peak von Mises stress was the highest (709.32 MPa) for the locking plate, whereas the lowest peak von Mises stress occurred for the retrograde nail (309.32 MPa). The elastic deformation of internal fixation was smallest (7.3365 mm) for the retrograde nail + CCS and largest (17.692 mm) for the plate + CCS. Conclusion In the treatment of ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures, if the femoral shaft fracture is A1–A3, a retrograde nail with CCS or a femoral locking plate with CCS can achieve optimal mechanical stability. In complex femoral fractures (B2, C2), a retrograde nail with CCS results in superior mechanical stability.

Background The burden of orthopaedic trauma in the developing world is substantial and disproportionate. SIGN Fracture Care International is a nonprofit organization that has developed and made available to surgeons in resource-limited settings an intramedullary interlocking nail for use in the treatment of femoral and tibial fractures. Instrumentation also is donated with the nail. A prospectively populated database collects information on all procedures performed using this nail. Given the challenging settings and numerous surgeons with varied experience, it is important to document adequate alignment and union using the device. Questions/purposes The primary aim of this research was to assess the adequacy of operative reduction of closed diaphyseal femur fractures using the SIGN interlocking intramedullary nail based on radiographic images available in the SIGN database. The secondary aims were to assess correlations between postoperative alignment and several associated variables, including fracture location in the diaphysis, degree of fracture site comminution, and time to surgery. The tertiary aim was to assess the functionality of the SIGN database for radiographic analyses. Methods A review of the prospectively populated SIGN database was performed for patients with a diaphyseal femur fracture treated with the SIGN nail, which at the time of the study totaled 32,362 patients. After study size calculations, a random number generator was used to select 500 femur fractures for analysis. Exclusion criteria included open fractures and those without radiographs during the early postoperative period. The following information was recorded: location of the fracture in the diaphysis; fracture classification (AO/Orthopaedic Trauma Association [OTA] classification); degree of comminution (Winquist and Hansen classification); time from injury to surgery; and patient demographics. Measurements of alignment were obtained from the AP and lateral radiographs with malalignment defined as deformity in either the sagittal or coronal plane greater than 5°. Measurements were made manually by the four study authors using on-screen protractor software and interobserver reliability was assessed. Results The frequency of malalignment greater than 5° observed on postoperative radiographs was 51 of 501 (10%; 95% CI, 6.5–11.5), and malalignment greater than 10° occurred in eight of 501 (1.6%) of the femurs treated with this nail. Fracture location in the proximal or distal diaphysis was strongly correlated with risk of malalignment, with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.7 (95% CI, 1.5–9.3) for distal versus middle diaphyseal fractures and an OR of 4.7 (95% CI, 1.9–11.5) for proximal versus middle fractures (p < 0.001). Time from injury to surgery greater than 4 weeks also was strongly correlated with risk of malalignment (p < 0.001). Inherent fracture stability, based on fracture site comminution as per the Winquist and Hansen classification (Class 0–1 stable versus 2–4 unstable) showed an OR of 2.3 (95% CI, 1.2–4.3) for malalignment in unstable fractures. Interobserver reliability showed agreement of 88% (95% CI, 83–93) and mean kappa of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.65–0.87). The SIGN database of radiographic images was found to be an excellent source for research purposes with 92% of reviewed radiographs of acceptable quality. Conclusions The frequency of malalignment in closed diaphyseal femoral fractures treated with the SIGN nail closely approximated the incidence reported in the literature for North American trauma centers. Increased time from injury to surgery was correlated with increased frequency of malalignment; as humanitarian distribution of the SIGN nail increases, local barriers to timely care should be assessed and improved as possible. Prospective clinical study with followup, despite its inherent challenges in the developing world, would be of great benefit in the future. Level of Evidence Level III, therapeutic study.

BackgroundDistal third femoral shaft fractures are characterized by increasing incidence and complexity and are still considered a challenging problem (high morbidity and mortality). No consensus on best surgical option has been achieved. This study aims to investigate radiographic, mineral bone densitometry and clinical outcomes of locking retrograde intramedullary (LRN) nailing, non-locking retrograde intramedullary nailing and anatomical locking plate to surgically treat distal third femoral shaft fractures in young adults. Our hypothesis was that there is no significant statistical difference among the surgical options in terms of results (radiographic, bone densitometry and outcomes assessment).MethodsRetrospective study: 90 patients divided into three groups (group 1 LRN, group 2 NLRN, group 3 plating). Average age was respectively 42.67 (± 18.32), 44.27 (± 15.11) and 42.84 (± 18.32) years. Sex ratio F:M was respectively 2.75, 2.33 and 2.00. AO Classification, KOOS, NUSS and RUSH score, VAS, DEXA scans and plain radiographs were used. Evaluation endpoint: 12 months after surgery.ResultsThere were no statistical differences in terms of surgery time, transfusions, and wound healing. Results were similar with regard to average time of bone healing, RUSH scores, VAS, KOOS, regression between RUSH and VAS, average correlation clinical–radiographic results and patients outcomes.ConclusionsOur results showed no statistical difference in the use of LNR, NLNR and plating for treatment of distal third femur shaft fractures in terms of radiographic, bone densitometry and clinical outcomes. Good subjective and objective results are provided by all three techniques. The choice among the studied techniques must be based on surgeons’ experience, indications and subjective patients’ aspects. The absence of relevant similar data in the published literature does not allow definitive validation (or rejection) of our hypothesis. A more powered study with a bigger cohort is needed for definitive validation.

Background Cementless hemiarthroplasty is a widely used treatment for femoral neck fractures. Intra-operative femoral fracture occasionally occurs during the procedure, and the use of cerclage wire has been proposed to stabilize both the prosthesis and the bone. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of cerclage wiring to manage intra-operative fractures occurring during cementless hemiarthroplasty in older patients with a femoral neck fracture. Methods Medical records and radiographs of older patients with femoral neck fractures who underwent hemiarthroplasty during 2009 to 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who received cerclage wiring were matched with a demographically matched control group that did not. Patients were followed for at least 12 months. Functional outcomes and health-related quality of life were evaluated by determining the distance of distal stem migration, Barthel Index, EuroQol-visual analog scale (VAS), and pain-VAS. Results Eighty-one patients were included, comprising 27 study group and 54 control group patients. A tapered wedge-shaped femoral prosthesis was implanted in all cases. No significant differences in distance of distal stem migration or rate of stem subsidence > 2 mm were observed between the case and control groups (subsidence rate 11.1 vs. 14.8%, respectively). There was also no significant difference in functional outcomes between groups. Conclusion Our results revealed a low mean distance of distal stem migration and a low subsidence rate. Functional outcomes and quality of life were similar between the two groups. Cerclage wiring technique is safe, and it should be routinely performed when intra-operative femoral fracture occurs during cementless hemiarthroplasty.