Gerhild Thalhammer

Anterior screw fixation of odontoid fractures comparing younger and elderly patients.

Study Design. A retrospective, comparative study. Summary of Background Data and Objectives. Anterior screw fixation has become an accomplished treatment option for the management of odontoid fractures. In younger patients, it has shown encouraging results with low complication rates; whereas in geriatric trauma victims, it remains the subject of controversy. The purpose of this study was to determine functional and radiographic results after anterior screw fixation of Type II odontoid fractures, with the particular interest to compare the outcome between younger and elderly patients. Material/Methods. We reviewed clinical and radiographic records of 110 patients with an average age of 54 years at the time of surgery after anterior double screw fixation of their odontoid fractures between 1990 and 2004. To compare functional and radiographic results between nongeriatric and geriatric patients, they were divided by age into 2 groups: Group A included patients 65 years of age or younger and Group B contained patients older than 65 years. Results. A total of 95 patients had returned to their preinjury activity level and were satisfied with their treatment. The Smiley-Webster scale showed an overall outcome score of 1.42 with similar results in both groups (Group A, 1.34; Group B, 1.50). Bony fusion was achieved in 102 patients, failures of reduction or fixation occurred in 12 patients. Comparing between the 2 groups, we had a nonunion rate of 4% in younger individuals and a significantly higher rate of 12% in geriatric patients. Reoperation due to nonunion or technical failures was necessary in 8 patients. Conclusion. We had encouraging results using anterior screw fixation for surgical treatment of odontoid fractures and favor this method as preferred management strategy for stabilization of these fractures. Comparing between age groups, we had similar results on cervical spine function. With regards to fracture healing as well as morbidity and mortality, younger patients had a superior outcome.

Displaced fractures of the greater tuberosity: a comparison of operative and nonoperative treatment.

BACKGROUND Displaced two-part fractures of the greater tuberosity requiring surgical intervention are rare and the literature gives only few data of functional results after operative treatment. The purpose of this study was to analyze functional and radiographic long-term results in patients who had undergone surgical treatment of displaced greater tuberosity fractures and to compare those results with the results of patients who had been treated nonoperatively. MATERIAL From a prospectively gathered database, we retrospectively analyzed functional and radiographic results of 52 patients with operative treatment of displaced greater tuberosity fractures at an average time of 5.5 years (range, 2-11 years) after trauma. Those results were compared with the functional and radiographic outcome of nine patients with equal injuries, who had been treated nonoperatively. Functional results were defined by three supplementary shoulder scores: the Vienna Shoulder Score (VSS), the Constant Score (CS), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)-Score. Radiographic results were assessed based on accurate radiographs in two planes (anteroposterior and axillary). Patients underwent either open reduction and internal fixation (n = 30) or closed reduction and percutaneous internal fixation (n = 22). RESULTS Thirty-four patients (65%) achieved good functional results (CS >80 points, VSS <8 points, UCLA >28 points) and eight patients (15%) had excellent results with a maximum of points on two of three shoulder scores. Ten patients (20%) experienced satisfactory results with two-thirds points on two of three shoulder scores. All fractures healed without any signs of nonunion or relevant loss of reduction. In nine patients (17%) we had a minimal loss of reduction (<5 mm) to superior, but there was no significant influence on shoulder function. In comparison of the operative techniques, patients with open reduction and internal fixation had slightly better functional results than did those with closed reduction and percutaneous internal fixation, but this was statistically not significant (p > 0.05). In comparison of the results of the surgical study group and the nonoperative control group, patients with reduction and fixation of greater tuberosity fractures had significantly better results on shoulder function than did those with conservative treatment (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Surgical treatment of displaced greater tuberosity fractures revealed good functional and radiographic results. Reduction and fixation of those fractures is recommended because patients with nonoperative treatment showed significantly worse results. Similar results can be achieved for open reduction and internal fixation, or closed reduction and percutaneous fixation.

Thromboembolic complications after spinal surgery in trauma patients.

Background Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) may be significant complications following spinal surgery. The incidence rate ranges from 0.5% to 2.5% in patients with symptomatic thromboembolic disease and up to 15% in patients with non-symptomatic thrombotic complications. We determined the incidence of symptomatic thromboembolism after spinal surgery in patients with postoperative systemic prophylaxis and investigated general and specific risk factors for development of this disease. Patients and methods We analyzed the clinical records of 978 patients who had undergone surgery of the spine because of trauma and who had been admitted to our level-I trauma center between 1980 and 2004. Spinal procedures included anterior and/or posterior spinal fusion, video-assisted thoracoscopic fusion, and spinal decompression. Symptomatic thromboembolic disease was diagnosed when patients showed significant clinical signs or symptoms of DVT or PE. In cases of DVT, diagnosis was confirmed by duplex scan of the lower limbs; in cases of PE, diagnosis was confirmed by CT-scanning of the thorax or at post mortem. Results The incidence rate of symptomatic thromboembolic complications was 2.2% (n 22). 17 patients showed clinical signs of deep venous thrombosis, with 4 of them developing pulmonary embolism subsequently. The other 5 patients developed pulmonary embolism without prior clinical signs of deep venous thrombosis. 6 patients died because of thromboembolic disease. Thromboembolic complications were more frequent in older patients and among males, as well as in patients with regular tobacco consumption and obesity. Thromboembolic complications were also seen more frequently in patients with surgical procedures at the lumbar spine, in patients with anterior spinal fusion, and in those with motor deficits in the lower extremities. Interpretation We found a rather low rate of clinically significant thromboembolic complications after spinal surgery because of trauma, compared to the results reported in the literature. Level of spinal surgery, surgical approach, and motor deficits in the lower extremities were identified as specific risk factors for DVT or PE. Age, sex, obesity and regular smoking were identified as general risk factors.

Clearing the cervical spine in critically injured patients: a comprehensive C-spine protocol to avoid unnecessary delays in diagnosis

Clearing the cervical spine in polytrauma patients still presents a challenge to the trauma team. The risk of an overlooked cervical spine injury is substantial since these patients show painful and life-threatening injuries to one or more organ systems so that clinical examination is usually not reliable. A generally approved guideline to assess the cervical spine in polytrauma patients might significantly reduce delays in diagnosis, but a consistent protocol for evaluating the cervical spine has not been uniformly accepted or followed by clinicians. One purpose of this study was to analyse the common methods for cervical spine evaluation in critically injured patients and its safety and efficacy at this trauma centre. The second purpose was to present a comprehensive diagnostic C-spine protocol, based on the authors’ experiences with documented cases. From a prospectively gathered polytrauma database, we retrospectively analysed the clinical records of all polytrauma patients, with skeletal and/or non-skeletal cervical spine injuries, who were admitted to this level I trauma centre between 1980 and 2004. All patients were assessed following the trauma algorithm of our unit (modified by Nast-Kolb). Standard radiological evaluation of the cervical spine consisted of either a single lateral view or a three-view cervical spine series (anteroposterior, lateral, odontoid). Further radiological examinations (functional flexion/extension views, oblique views, CT scan, MRI) were carried out for clinical suspicion of an injury or when indicated by the standard radiographs. Sixteen patients (14%) had a single cross-table lateral view for radiological assessment of the cervical spine during initial trauma evaluation, Twenty-nine patients had a three-view cervical spine series (anteroposterior, lateral, odontoid) and 81 patients underwent extended radiological examinations by cervical CT scan (n=52), functional flexion/extension views (n=26) or MRI (n=3). Correct diagnosis was made in 107 patients (91%) during primary trauma evaluation, whereas in 11 patients (9%) our approach to clear the cervical spine failed to detect significant cervical spine injuries. In six patients skeletal injuries were missed by a single lateral view and in two patients by a three-view standard series because inadequate radiographs with poor technical quality or incomplete visualization of the cervical spine did not show the extent of the injury. In three cases ligamentous injuries were missed despite complete sets of standard radiographs and cervical CT scan, but without functional radiography. Common methods for cervical spine evaluation in critically injured patients were plain radiographs, cervical CT scan and functional flexion/extension views. Cervical CT scan was the most efficient imaging tool in detecting skeletal injuries, showing a sensitivity of 100%. A single cross-table lateral view appeared to be insufficient, as we found a sensitivity of only 63%. Functional radiography or MRI was also necessary, as plain radiographs and CT scan failed to detect significant ligamentous injuries in 6% of the patients. For more comprehensive assessment of the C-spine, we presented a new C-spine protocol based on the authors’ experiences, with the aim to avoid unnecessary delays in diagnosis.

Femoral shortening after surgical treatment of trochanteric fractures in nongeriatric patients.

BACKGROUND Femoral shortening is a well-known clinical finding after surgical treatment of per- and intertrochanteric fractures. Particularly, in geriatric patients with poor bone quality and unstable fracture types, secondary compression of these fractures often leads to length inequality of the lower limbs. In younger patients with good bone quality and mobilization with delayed weight bearing, limb length shortening is expected to be a rare complication. The purpose of this study was to analyze incidence and degree of femoral shortening in patients younger than 60 years of age after fixation of different types of per- and intertrochanteric fractures. In addition, we compared the results of two different implants, which were used for operative treatment. METHODS Ninety-five patients, younger than 60 years of age, were evaluated for femoral shortening after surgical treatment of per- and intertrochanteric fractures between 1997 and 2002. Follow-up examinations took place at an average of 3.2 years (2-5 years) after trauma. Fractures were classified by the AO/OTA system and divided into sub-types 31 A1, 31 A2, and 31 A3. Two different implants (dynamic hip screw and cephalomedullary nail) were used for operative treatment, mainly depending on type and stability of the fracture. Femoral shortening was analyzed by standardized lower extremity radiographs measuring the distance from the top of the femoral head to the center of a line drawn between the most distal part of the medial and lateral femoral condyles. RESULTS Fifty-seven patients were treated by a cephalomedullary nail, 38 by dynamic hip screw. Femoral shortening was seen in 46 patients (48%) with a mean value of 11 mm. Twenty-two patients had a femoral inequality of less than 10 mm, 17 patients an inequality between 10 mm and 20 mm, and 7 patients a shortening of more than 20 mm. Statistical analysis revealed that fracture type and implant had a significant influence on the shortening: In patients with fracture types 31 A2 and A3 femoral shortening was found to be more severe than in patients with fracture type 31 A1. Additionally, in unstable fracture types (31 A2 and A3) femoral shortening was significantly larger, if patients were treated by dynamic hip screw than by a cephalomedullary nail. CONCLUSION Femoral shortening after operative treatment of per- and intertrochanteric fractures was found to be a common clinical finding in nongeriatric patients. Nearly half of them showed a lower limb length inequality after fracture fixation. The degree of the shortening was rather low and depended mainly on the fracture type. Comparing the two different implants used for operative treatment, a cephalomedullary nail was more successful in preventing limb length discrepancy in unstable fracture types than dynamic hip screw.

Incidence and analysis of radial head and neck fractures

AIM To investigate several complications like persistent radial head dislocation, forearm deformity, elbow stiffness and nerve palsies, associated with radial head fractures. METHODS This study reviewed the clinical records and trauma database of this level I Trauma Center and identified all patients with fractures of the radial head and neck who where admitted between 2000 and 2010. An analysis of clinical records revealed 1047 patients suffering from fractures of the radial head or neck classified according to Mason. For clinical examination, range of motion, local pain and overall outcome were assessed. RESULTS The incidence of one-sided fractures was 99.2% and for simultaneous bilateral fractures 0.8%. Non-operative treatment was performed in 90.4% (n = 947) of the cases, surgery in 9.6% (n = 100). Bony union was achieved in 99.8% (n = 1045) patients. Full satisfaction was achieved in 59% (n = 615) of the patients. A gender related significant difference (P = 0.035) in Mason type distribution-type III fractures were more prominent in male patients vs type IV fractures in female patients-was observed in our study population. CONCLUSION Mason type I fractures can be treated safe conservatively with good results. In type II to IV surgical intervention is usually considered to be indicated.

Posterior Atlanto-Axial Arthrodesis for Fixation of Odontoid Nonunions

Study Design. A retrospective case series. Objective. To determine the clinical and radiographic long-term results after posterior atlanto-axial arthrodesis of odontoid nonunions. Summary of Background Data. Nonunion of odontoid fractures is a relatively common and dreaded complication after surgical and nonoperative treatment of these injuries. Although there might be a significant rate, which require surgical stabilization due to atlanto-axial instability, only few publications have covered this issue and presented reliable long-term results. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and radiographic records of 9 (4 women and 5 men) patients with an average age of 68 (42–78) years at the time of injury who had undergone posterior atlanto-axial arthrodesis for surgical treatment of odontoid nonunions between 1988 and 2004. For posterior atlanto-axial arthrodesis, we performed either C1–C2 transarticular screw fixation, or posterior wiring and bone grafting, or a combination of these 2 techniques. Results. Eight patients achieved a satisfactory clinical outcome and returned to their preinjury activity level. The Smiley-Webster scale showed an overall functional outcome score of 2.2, which was 0.9 points superior to the outcome score before surgery. Neurologic deficits after operative treatment of the odontoid nonunion were evaluated in 2 patients. In all the other patients with primary neurologic deficits or delayed neurologic sequelae we saw a full recovery. Solid bony fusion of the cervical arthrodesis was achieved in all of the patients. Failures of reduction or fixation were noted in 2 patients, but no reoperations were necessary. Conclusion. In summary, we had a satisfactory outcome after surgical treatment of odontoid nonunions in patients with atlanto-axial instability and severe motion pain at the cervical spine. With a bony union rate of 100% and a noticeable improvement of clinical results and neurologic function, posterior atlanto-axial arthrodesis seems to be an appropriate option for nonunited odontoid fractures that require surgical stabilization.

Incidence and Analysis of Simultaneous Bilateral Radial Head and Neck Fractures at a Level I Trauma Center

BACKGROUND Reviewing the current literature, very few reports are given on simultaneous bilateral radial head and neck fractures. There are no reports on this entitys incidence. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence and outcome of simultaneous bilateral radial head fractures. METHODS This study reviewed the clinical records and trauma database of this Level I Trauma Center and identified all adult patients with fractures of the radial head or neck who were admitted between 1992 and 2007. From a database of 2,296 adult trauma victims with radial head or neck fractures, an analysis of clinical records revealed 34 patients suffering from simultaneous bilateral injuries (68 fractures) being classified according to Mason. For clinical examination, range of motion, local pain, and activities of daily living were assessed. To quantify the clinical results, the patients were asked to grade their functional outcome according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). RESULTS The incidence of simultaneous bilateral fractures was 1.48%. Nonoperative treatment was performed in 86.8% (n = 59) of the cases. Solid bony union was achieved in all patients. Full satisfaction concerning treatment was achieved in 97% of the patients. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score showed an overall functional outcome score of 97.1. DISCUSSION Reviewing the literature, the frequency of this injury was assessed for the first time. An incidence of 1.48% of all radial head fractures was explored. Our material was representative and included 2,296 injuries covering a 15-year period.

Clearing the Cervical Spine in Polytrauma Patients: Current Standards in Diagnostic Algorithm

Introduction:Clearing the cervical spine in polytrauma patients still presents a challenge for the trauma team. The risk of an overlooked cervical spine injury is substantial since these patients show painful and lifethreatening injuries to one or more organ systems so that clinical examination is usually not reliable. A generally approved guideline to assess the cervical spine in polytrauma patients might significantly reduce delays in diagnosis, but a consistent protocol for evaluating the cervical spine has not been uniformly accepted or performed by clinicians. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of the diagnostic algorithm at this trauma center and to propose a possible consensus of the optimal method for clearing the cervical spine in polytrauma patients.Materials and Methods:This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical records of all polytrauma patients with cervical spine injuries (n = 118) who were admitted to this level-I trauma center between 1980 and 2004. All patients were assessed following the trauma algorithm of our unit (modified by Nast-Kolb). Standard radiological evaluation of the cervical spine consisted of a single lateral view or a three-view cervical spine series. Further radiological examinations (functional flexion/extension views, oblique views, CT-scan, MRI) were performed by clinical suspicion of an injury or when indicated by the standard radiographs.Results:Correct diagnosis was made in 107 patients (91%) during primary trauma evaluation, whereas in 11 patients (9%) our approach to clear the cervical spine failed to detect significant cervical spine injuries: In six cases skeletal injuries were missed because only a lateral view of the cervical spine was performed during primary trauma evaluation and in one case because a three-view cervical spine series did not show the extent of the injury. In four cases discoligamentous injuries were missed despite complete sets of standard radiographs and a CT-scan, but missing functional flexion/ extension views.Conclusion:For assessment of the cervical spine in poly-trauma patients we recommend a three-view trauma series as minimum to clear the cervical spine and the more liberal use of CT-scan as standard diagnostic tool in a specific subset of patients with clinically suspected cervical spine injuries and significant trauma history. In those patients also, passive functional flexion/ extension views should be considered as obligate in later stages of diagnostic algorithm.