Hamza M. Alrabai

Use of internal lengthening nails in post-traumatic sequelae

External fixators are a well-established modality for treating fractures with bone defects, leg-length discrepancy, malunion, nonunion and other post-traumatic consequences. However, use of internal lengthening rods has remarkably increased recently for post-traumatic conditions. The main advantage of internal lengthening rods is eliminating pin-site complications. Internal lengthening rods are also associated with less pain. Motorised internal lengthening rods show promising performance in post-traumatic cases. Rigorous pre-operative planning is paramount to reducing lengthening-related complications. Certain types of internal lengthening rods offer bidirectional movement capability. Nail mechanism malfunction is a possibility with all kinds of nails. Direct doctor supervision is required, especially in the initial stages while the nail is lengthening. Internal lengthening nails are not as stiff as regular nails, with intricate internal mechanisms that can be broken under inattentive weightbearing activities. Preliminary positive outcomes indicate the role of internal lengthening rods in treating post-traumatic problems of leg-length discrepancy, malunion and nonunion.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Lesions and Insufficiency

The rate of occurrence of Posterior Tibial Tendon (PTT) injuries and insufficiency in sports is not yet clear based on the available literature. However, literature review may point to a link between some sports with specific lesions such as PTT dislocation, PTT tear, and PTT Insufficiency (PTTI) stage I or II. High index of suspicion is needed to diagnose and treat those lesions to prevent their progression to advanced stages.

Rebound of Frontal Plane Malalignment After Tension Band Plating

Background: Despite the popularity of tension band plating (TBP) current literature lacks clinical data concerning recurrence (“rebound”) of frontal plane malalignment. This study investigated the rebound phenomenon after TBP in idiopathic genu varum/valgum deformities. We analyzed factors that may contribute to the development of rebound after removal of TBP. Methods: Patients who had correction of idiopathic valgus or varus deformities by TBP at the distal femoral and/or proximal tibial growth plate were selected from a prospective consecutive database. Only patients who had plates removed for at least 1 year and had a long standing radiograph of the lower limbs before plate removal were included. Patients who had presumably not yet reached skeletal maturity (age under 14 y for girls and under 16 y for boys) were excluded. The change of the mechanical axis from plate removal to follow-up after skeletal maturity was evaluated and a statistical analysis was performed. Results: Twenty-nine patients (64 extremities) were eligible. The mean follow-up was 39.1 months (range, 12.3 to 67.3 mo). The mean mechanical axis deviation (MAD) was +0.8 mm (range, −26 to +22 mm) after plate removal and −2.4 mm (range, −29 to +27 mm) at follow-up, accounting for a significant change of MAD (P=0.046). We observed a mean, relative recurrence of frontal plate malalignment into valgus direction of −3.2 mm (range, −48 to +23 mm). Twenty extremities (31%) showed <3 mm of MAD change; 27 extremities (42%) showed >3 mm of MAD change into valgus, and 17 extremities (27%) >3 mm of MAD change into varus direction. Patients with <3 mm MAD change had only 0.8 years, and those >3 mm a mean of 2.0 years of remaining growth until skeletal maturity. Each additional m2/kg of body mass index increased the risk of valgus recurrence by 12.1%. The 3 genua vara patients revealed to have an even higher rate of malalignment recurrence (4 of 6 limbs) at final follow-up. Conclusions: Given our strict criteria, there is a high rate of radiologic recurrence of frontal plane malalignment after TBP. Children who are more than 1 year before skeletal maturity at TBP removal, and those with increased body mass index are at higher risk for rebound growth. Level of Evidence: Level IV—consecutive therapeutic case series.

Trapezius Muscle Transfer for Restoration of Elbow Extension in a Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury

Voluntary elbow extension is essential for optimal upper limb positioning required for daily living activities, particularly above-shoulder maneuvers. The authors present a case of traumatic brachial plexus injury in which paralysis of the musculature selectively supplied by the posterior cord was based on magnetic resonance imaging and nerve conduction studies. An attempt at a radial nerve graft at another center was not effective. Ipsilateral hand function improved after multiple local tendon transfers were performed. Restoration of active elbow extension was not possible using the posterior deltoid or the latissimus dorsi because they were denervated by the primary trauma and so the trapezius muscle was used as a donor muscle unit to restore voluntary elbow extension. The patient resumed biking 6 weeks after the transfer procedure. At 2-year follow-up, full active elbow extension was regained, elbow extension power scored 4 of 5, and the patient reported that he could ride his bicycle for 70 miles.

Short-Term Results of Endoscopic Percutaneous Longitudinal Tenotomy for Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy and the Presentation of a Simplified Operative Method

Purpose: This study was aimed to review the short-term results of endoscopic percutaneous longitudinal tenotomy for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy using the Centerline Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release instrument (Arthrex). This method simplifies the operation technique, allows a good endoscopic visualisation of the Achilles tendon with very promising results. Methods: We performed multiple percutaneous longitudinal tenotomies under local anesthesia in 24 patients (25 tendons) with Achilles tendinopathy or peritendinitis that had failed conservative treatment between January 2013 and September 2016. All ambulatory procedures consisted of paratenon release and longitudinal tenotomies. The results were reviewed in 22 patients (23 tendons) at an average follow-up period of 22.5 months (range 10-36 months). Patients’ satisfaction and functional outcomes were evaluated using the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire, the pain visual analog scale (VAS), and the functional foot index. Results: Initial results are very promising with excellent results in 12 patients, good results in 9 patients, and fair result in 1 patient. One patient developed a postoperative thrombosis of the operated limb. Another patient developed a hypertrophic painful scar of the incision wound. The VAS for pain decreased drastically after the index procedure and averaged to 0.2 (SD 0.447). The VISA-A questionnaire score had improved from 42 ± 7.2 points preoperatively to 96.8 ± 14.3 points postoperatively (P = .004). The functional foot index decreased from 84 (SD 30.517) to 33.4 (SD 6.452) on the follow-up examination. Conclusions: The endoscopic-assisted longitudinal tenotomies procedure of the Achilles tendon is easily feasible and can be performed on an outpatient basis, produces minimal complications and shows excellent results. The described technique is recommended for all surgeons especially for those familiar with endoscopy of the Achilles tendon. Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case Series

Prenatal diagnosis of congenital upper limb differences: a current concept review

Abstract Congenital upper limb differences are frequently associated with complex syndromes. Ultrasonography is considered as the first-line diagnostic modality, and fetal MRI can be useful to further evaluate ill-defined areas. Genetic and non-invasive prenatal testing help to identify the underlying genetic disorder. The diagnostic assessment is a multidisciplinary task that should involve early prenatal consultations with specialists involved in case management and treatment planning. Obstetricians, geneticists, radiologists, psychologists and dedicated surgeons are needed to provide good parental education, prenatal and postnatal care, and successful outcomes. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the clinicopathologic background, current diagnostic and imaging procedures in affected fetuses.

Triphalangeal Thumb Reduction Osteotomy Through a Versatile Spiral Approach

Triphalangeal thumb (TPT) is a congenital condition characterized by the presence of an additional phalanx. Variable degrees of thumb deformity, malalignment, and excessive length are common features. Impairment of hand function has been reported with TPT probably secondary to anomalistic long thumb incompatible with fine hand skills. Abnormal thumb appearance moreover represents a major psychological concern from patients perspective. Both removal of the extra phalanx and phalangeal reduction osteotomy with resection of the unhealthy extra interphalangeal joint are established methods for correction of the associated excessive thumb length. In our experience, however, previous surgical approaches have not been able to sufficiently reduce the skin and soft tissue surplus, which exists after reduction osteotomy through classic circular incisions. We thus feel that conduction of TPT reconstruction through a spiral incision provides a safe and generous anatomic exposure required for simultaneous reduction of skeletal and soft tissue components.

Morton’s Neuroma in Sports

Morton’s neuroma is a common cause of metatarsalgia which characterized by enlargement of interdigital nerve possibly due to nerve entrapment. Morton’s neuroma is usually common among middle age population with female gender predominance. Diagnosis of Morton’s neuroma is essentially clinical. Imaging modalities may help to delineate and localize the nerve lesion. Prone position foot MRI is associated with higher visibility of Morton’s neuroma. Identification of Morton’s neuroma, as a cause of metatarsalgia, tends to be missed by clinicians. Hence, high index of suspicion should be invested for this purpose. Proper footwear awareness should be emphasized among athletes. The cross-training shoes are discouraged for long distance running. Local steroid injection may provide temporary relief. Ultrasound-guided injection can improve the localization of injection. Neurectomy of the thickened nerve is considered the standard surgical treatment to date. Majority of surgeons prefer dorsal approach for first-time excision of Morton’s neuroma despite of its limited exposure reserving the plantar approach to the revision cases. Plantar surgical approach provides direct anatomical access and allows wide exploration of the area of neuroma. Recurrent neuroma is a major concern after neurectomy. Deep burial of nerve stump within the intermetatarsal soft tissues might minimize the risk of recurrent neuroma formation.

Evaluation of the orthopedic residency training program in Saudi Arabia and comparison with a selected Canadian residency program

Objective The primary aim of the present study was to assess the quality of the Saudi Orthopedic Residency Program. Methodology As a comparator, a cross-sectional survey involving 76 Saudi residents from different training centers in Saudi Arabia namely; Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, Abha, and Dammam and 15 Canadian. Results The results showed that Canadian residents read more peer-reviewed, scholarly articles compared with Saudi residents (P=0.002). The primary surgical role for residents was to hold retractors during surgery. The survey respondents strongly supported the ability to recommend removal of incompetent trainers. Saudi trainees were more apprehensive of examinations than Canadian trainees (P<0.0001). Most residents preferred studying multiple-choice questions before examinations. Saudi and Canadian participants considered their programs to be overcrowded. Unlike Canadian participants, Saudi trainees reported an inadequate level of training (P<0.0001). Conclusion Educational resources should be readily accessible and a mentorship system monitoring residents’ progress should be developed. The role of the resident must be clearly defined and resident feedback should not be ignored. Given the importance of mastering basic orthopedic operative skills for residents, meaningful remedial action should be taken with incompetent trainers.