Irfan Ozturk

Conservative treatment of fractures of the thoracolumbar spine

We reviewed 48 patients with thoracolumbar fractures treated conservatively between 1988 and 1999. The average follow-up was 77.5 (31–137) months and average patient age (23 women, 25 men) was 46 (18–76) years. Twenty-nine patients suffered a fall from a height and 13 patients were injured in traffic accidents. Thirty-two patients had compression-type fractures and 16 burst-type fractures. There were no neurological deficits. Twenty-nine patients were treated by orthosis, 13 by body cast and six by bed rest. In addition to pain and functional scoring, we measured a number of radiographic parameters at the time of admission and at latest follow-up and compared the values. In patients with compression fractures there were significant changes in scoliosis angle and wedging index (p<0.05). The mean pain score was 1.66 and mean functional score 1.03. In patients with burst fractures, vertebral index, wedging index and height loss increased after treatment (p<0.05). The mean pain score was 1.26 and functional score 0.93. Compression fractures with kyphosis angle <30° are supposed to be stable and can be treated conservatively. If the kyphosis angle is more than 30°, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be performed, and if the posterior ligamentous complex is damaged, surgery should be considered. In burst fractures, MRI should always be performed and conservative treatment should only be considered if there is no neurological deficit and the ligaments are intact.RésuméNous avons examiné 48 malades avec une fracture dorsolombaire traitée d’une manière conservatrice entre 1988 et 1999. Le suivi moyen était de 77,5 (31–137) mois et l’âge moyen des malades (23 femmes, 25 hommes) était de 46 (18–76) ans. Vingt-neuf malades avaient fait une chute de grande hauteur et 13 malades ont été blessés dans un accident de la circulation. Trente-deux malades avaient des fractures du type compression et 16 fractures du type explosion. Il n’y avait pas de déficit neurologique. Vingt-neuf malades ont été traités par orthèse, 13 par corset plâtré et six par repos au lit. En plus des scores douleur et des scores fonctionnels, nous avons comparé plusieurs paramètres radiographiques entre l’admission et le plus long recul. Chez les malades avec fracture-compression il y avait des changements significatifs dans l’angle de la scoliose et l’index angulaire (p<0.05). Le score moyen de la douleur était 1.66 et le score fonctionnel moyen 1.03. Chez les malades avec fracture-explosion, l’index vertébral, l’index angulaire, et la perte de hauteur ont augmenté après traitement (p<0.05). Le score moyen de la douleur était 1.26 et le score fonctionnel 0.93. Les fractures de type de compression avec angle de cyphose <30° sont supposés être stables et sont traités d’une manière conservatrice. Si l’angle de la cyphose est de plus de 30°, une IRM devrait être exécutée et si le complexe ligamentaire postérieur est endommagé, la chirurgie devrait être envisagée. Dans les fractures du type de explosion, une IMR devrait toujours être exécutée et le traitement conservateur devrait être retenu seulement s’il n’y a aucun déficit neurologique et si les ligaments sont intacts.

Results of open reduction and plate osteosynthesis in comminuted fracture of the olecranon

HYPOTHESIS Using radiologic and clinical results, we studied the outcome of patients who underwent open reduction and plate osteosynthesis for comminuted olecranon fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively studied 18 patients (5 women [27.8%] and 13 men [72.2%]; mean age, 41 years [range, 19-67 years]) with comminuted fractures of the olecranon who underwent locking-plate osteosynthesis after open reduction between March 2005 and August 2009. According to the Mayo classification, 11 cases were classified as type IIB (61.11%) and 7 cases were classified as type IIIB (38.88%). In 7 cases, additional injuries were present in the olecranon area. We evaluated results with respect to clinical and radiologic findings. The mean follow-up duration was 22.6 months (range, 7-42 months). RESULTS Complete union was achieved in all cases. Mean union time was 4.4 months (range, 4-6 months). According to the Morrey scale, 4 cases were considered very good; 8, good; 5, fair; and 1, poor. The mean QuickDASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score was 17 (range, 0-75). There were no statistically significant differences between the Mayo type IIB and type IIIB cases in terms of elbow range of motion, QuickDASH score, and Morrey score. On long-term follow-up, elbow stiffness developed in 1 patient, who underwent surgical release with simultaneous removal of the hardware. The cases with fair and poor scores were cases with open fractures and additional elbow injuries. CONCLUSIONS Locking-plate osteosynthesis is an effective and safe treatment option for comminuted olecranon fractures, allowing early joint motion and yielding satisfactory radiologic and clinical results. In cases with concomitant injuries, the risk of limited elbow motion is high.

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head in childhood: the results of treatment with articulated distraction method.

The treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head in children is still being debated. We performed articulated distraction in 11 children with avascular necrosis of the femoral head between March 1994 and February 1997. The reasons for avascular necrosis were: Perthes disease in eight patients, fracture of the femoral neck in two, and complication arising because of treatment of developmental hip dysplasia in one. Mean age was 7.9 years. Fixator duration time was 3.5 months and mean follow-up was 32 months. At follow-up, the femoral head was spherical and congruent in four patients, aspherical and congruent in five, and aspherical and incongruent in two according to Stulbergs criteria. The aim of the articulated distraction method is to neutralize muscle and weight-bearing forces, to prevent stress fractures of subchondral immature bone, to encourage synovial circulation, and to promote creeping substitution.

Radiographic and functional results of osteosynthesis using the proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures.

OBJECTIVES We evaluated the radiographic and functional results of the proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) system in patients with unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures. METHODS The study included 45 patients (25 women, 20 men; mean age 72 years; range 27 to 97 years) who underwent osteosynthesis using the PFNA for unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures. The fractures were in the right hip in 25 patients, and in the left hip in 20 patients. The fractures were classified according to the AO system. One patient had an open fracture due to firearm injury (Gustilo-Anderson 3A). The patients underwent surgery within a mean of eight days (range 2 to 21 days) from injury. The mean hospital stay was 13.5 days (range 4 to 25 days). Closed reduction was achieved in all the patients. The results were assessed clinically and radiographically. The neck-shaft angle of the femur (collodiaphysial angle) and the tip-apex distance were measured. The position of the helical screw within the femoral head was determined using the method of Cleveland and Bosworth. Clinical evaluation was made using the Harris hip score. Perioperative and postoperative complications were recorded. The mean follow-up period was 17.3 months (range 6 to 23 months). RESULTS The mean operation time was 37.8 min (range 22 to 118 min) and the mean blood loss was 225 ml (range 150 to 450 ml). During surgery, femoral shaft fracture occurred in three patients, and greater trochanter fracture occurred in nine patients. Union was obtained in all the patients. Reduction was poor in four patients (8.9%), acceptable in seven patients (15.6%), and good in 34 patients (75.6%). The mean collodiaphysial angle was 136.7 degrees (range 125 degrees to 148 degrees). The tip-apex distance was <25 mm in 36 patients (80%), and =or>25 mm in nine patients (20%). The position of the helical screw in the femoral head was appropriate in 38 patients (84.4%). Postoperative complications included secondary varus (n=2, 4.4%), calcification at the tip of the greater trochanter (n=7, 15.5%), sensitivity over the fascia lata (n=7), medial thigh pain (n=11, 24.4%), and screw cut-out (n=1, 2.2%). Nine patients developed femoral shortness (mean 9.4 mm; range 8 to 13 mm). Screws showed lateral displacement in five patients (11.1%), which was less than 5 mm in four patients. Secondary surgery was required in four patients (8.9%). The mean Harris hip score was 77.8. Harris hip scores were very good in 11 patients (24.4%), good in 19 patients (42.2%), moderate in nine patients (20%), and poor in six patients (13.3%). CONCLUSION Due to advantages of high union rate, early postoperative mobilization, and short operation time, PFNA osteosynthesis is the method of choice for surgical treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures..

Long-term radiographic complications following treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures with the proximal femoral nail and effects on functional results

OBJECTIVES We aimed to evaluate radiographic complications occurring after treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures with the Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) and their effect on functional results. METHODS The study included 35 patients (23 women, 12 men; mean age 71 years; range 62 to 111 years) who were treated with the PFN for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures. According to the AO classification, there were 12 type AII-1, 12 AII-2, 3 AII-3, 3 AIII-1, 5 AIII-3 fractures. The mean time to surgery was 13 days (range 5 to 32 days). Closed reduction was achieved in 31 patients. The patients were evaluated clinically (Harris hip score) and radiographically after a mean follow-up of 32.4 months (range 26 to 52 months) and complications were recorded. RESULTS Reduction was assessed as good or acceptable in all the patients. The mean tip-apex distance was measured as 24.2 mm (range 16 to 40 mm). Complete union was achieved in all but two patients. The mean Harris hip score was 82.1. The results were excellent in 11 patients (31.4%), good in 15 patients (42.9%), fair in seven patients (20%), and poor in two patients (5.7%). Radiographic complications mainly included secondary varus displacement in nine patients (25.7%), and calcification at the tip of the greater trochanter in two patients (5.7%). Secondary varus displacement was due to cut-out of the proximal screws (n=2), screw loosening due to collapse of the fracture site (n=2), and reverse Z-effect (n=5). Clinical results were good in two patients with calcification at the tip of the greater trochanter. Of nine patients with secondary varus displacement, the results were excellent or good in six patients, fair in two patients, and poor in one patient. Five patients (14.3%) required a subsequent operation. CONCLUSION The correct position of the osteosynthesis material and use of an intramedullary nail providing a stronger fixation of the proximal part may reduce mechanical complications following the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures.

Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in major orthopaedic surgery: A multicenter, prospective, observational study

OBJECTIVES We investigated risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE), prophylaxis measures employed, and incidence of symptomatic deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery (MOS). METHODS An open, multicenter, prospective, observational study was conducted in 21 medical centers, comprising 899 patients. Of these, 316 patients (35.2%) underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA), 328 patients (36.5%) underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and 255 patients (28.4%) underwent surgery for hip fractures (HF). Pharmacologic prophylaxis was employed in all the patients. RESULTS Risk factors for VTE were seen in 73.2% of the patients, the most common being obesity (72%) and prolonged immobilization (36.3%). Low-molecular-weight heparin (91.1%) and fondaparinux (8.9%) were used for prophylaxis, which was short-term in 273 patients (30.4%) and long-term in 626 patients (69.6%). Mechanical prophylaxis was performed with compression stockings in 610 patients (67.9%) and by intermittent pneumatic compression in 67 patients (7.5%). During three-months of follow-up, symptomatic DVT and PE were seen in eight (0.9%) and four patients (0.4%), respectively. Mortality occurred in 10 patients (1.1%). Complications of major and minor bleeding were seen in eight (0.9%) and 40 (4.5%) patients, respectively. CONCLUSION Effective VTE prophylaxis is associated with low risk of clinically apparent DVT and PE in MOS.

Analysis of risk factors affecting mortality in elderly patients (aged over 65 years) operated on for hip fractures

OBJECTIVES We analyzed the relationship between mortality rates and preoperative medical conditions and vital factors in elderly patients (aged over 65 years) operated on for hip fractures. METHODS The study included 92 patients (56 females, 36 males) who were operated on for hip fractures and had follow-up data up to 36 months. The mean age was 76 years (range 65 to 96 years) for women, and 74 years (range 65 to 92 years) for men. The fractures were intertrochanteric in 54 patients (58.7%), and in the femur neck in 38 patients (41.3%). The patients were divided into three risk groups, namely, low (n=23, 25%), moderate (n=45, 48.9%), and high (n=24, 26.1%), according to our institutional Sişli Etfal risk factor assessment scale. Relationships were analyzed between mortality and sex, preinjury ambulation level, cognitive functions, and time to surgery in each risk group. RESULTS One-year mortality rates were 6.9%, 31.4%, and 80% in low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups, respectively. The risk scores were significantly correlated with mortality rates (r=0.664; p<0.05). Thirty-four female patients (60.7%) and 18 male patients (50%) were dead at the end of 36 months. No significant relationship was found between mortality rates and sex, cognitive functions, and time to surgery (p>0.05). Mortality within the first three postoperative months among patients who could only ambulate with a walker preoperatively was significantly higher than those who could walk independently or with an aid (p=0.037). CONCLUSION A risk assessment system covering all risk factors to estimate postoperative mortality following surgery for hip fractures would be helpful in planning treatment.

The results of open reduction and screw or K-wire fixation for isolated type II radial head fractures

OBJECTIVES We evaluated the functional and radiographic results of patients treated with open reduction and screw or K-wire fixation for isolated Mason type II radial head fractures. METHODS The study included 21 patients (14 men, 7 women; mean age 36 years; range 25 to 58 years) who were treated with open reduction followed by mini screw (n=11) or K-wire (n=10) fixation for isolated type II radial head fractures. Functional results were evaluated using the modified Morrey functional rating index. Radiographically, osteoarthritis or heterotopic ossification were investigated. The mean follow-up was 30.5 months for K-wire fixation, and 32.1 months for screw fixation. RESULTS Union was achieved in all the patients, within a mean of 6.2 weeks with screw fixation, and 5.8 weeks with K-wire fixation. The range of motion of elbow flexion-extension and pronation-supination were 131.4 degrees and 144.4 degrees with screw fixation, and 127.5 degrees and 146.5 degrees with K-wire fixation, respectively. The mean Morrey index was 94.5 (range 73 to 100) with screw fixation, yielding excellent or good results in 10 patients. One patient whose result was fair had a 2-mm step-off on the joint surface, resulting in osteoarthritis. The mean Morrey index was 92.1 (range 73 to 100) in the K-wire group, with excellent or good results in nine patients, and fair in one patient. All the patients returned to preinjury work in a mean of 11.7 weeks and 12.5 weeks in screw and K-wire groups, respectively. Heterotopic ossification was not observed. The two fixation groups were similar with respect to union time, joint range of motion, Morrey score, and time to return to work (p>0.05). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that both methods provide sufficient fixation resulting in similar functional results in isolated type II radial head fractures.

The results of surgical treatment for posttraumatic heterotopic ossification and ankylosis of the elbow

OBJECTIVES Heterotopic ossification which may develop following elbow injuries or elbow surgery may result in complete loss of elbow functions. We evaluated the results of surgical treatment for ankylosis of the elbow due to posttraumatic heterotopic ossification. METHODS The study included seven patients (6 males, 1 female; mean age 36 years; range 23 to 55 years) who developed heterotopic ossification and ankylosis of the elbow joint following surgical treatment of high-energy fractures in the circumference of the elbow. Two patients had comminuted olecranon fractures and elbow luxation, and five patients had comminuted intra-articular distal humeral fractures. Three patients had open fractures. Involvement was in the right elbow in two patients, and in the left elbow in five patients. One patient was monitored and treated in the intensive care unit for head trauma for 22 days. Initially, six patients were treated with plate osteosynthesis and one patient with tension band wiring. Foci of heterotopic ossification were detected on the radiographs taken after a mean of 24 days (range 20 to 32 days) following surgical treatment of fractures. The patients were followed-up with conventional radiography and scintigraphy for a mean of 11 months (range 7 to 15 months) before surgical treatment, during which functional loss in elbow joint movements deteriorated and ankylosis developed. All the patients had Hastings type IIIC ankylosis and poor Mayo elbow performance scores (mean score 50.7). A posterior incision was used in three patients, and a double-column incision was used in four patients. At surgery, the ulnar nerve and the lateral and medial collateral ligaments were preserved, and a posterolateral capsular release, removal of heterotopic ossification, purging of the olecranon fossa, and resection of the tip of the olecranon were performed. After completion of capsular release, cartilage pathologies were evaluated. Four patients were found to have no definite cartilage damage, whereas in three patients the joint cartilage was seriously damaged. At final controls, the patients were assessed with the Mayo elbow performance score. The mean follow-up period was 23.4 months (range 10 to 36 months). RESULTS In all cases, the range of motion and stability of the elbow joint were controlled and were found to be complete and stable at the end of the operation. At final controls, the Mayo elbow performance scores were good in three patients, moderate in one patient, and poor in three patients. All the patients with a poor elbow score had severe joint cartilage damage intraoperatively. CONCLUSION Patients who develop heterotopic ossification and ankylosis of the elbow following trauma or elbow surgery may benefit from removal of heterotopic ossification foci and elbow relaxation procedures provided that there is not severe damage to the articular cartilage.

Intramedullary osteosynthesis of instable intertrochanteric femur fractures with Profin® nail in elderly patients

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the radiologic and functional results of patients with instable intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with Profin® nails. METHODS This study included 32 patients (24 female, 8 male; mean age: 70.7 years; range: 65 to 96 years) who were treated with Profin® nails for instable intertrochanteric fractures. Fractures were caused by a simple fall in 30 patients and pedestrian accident in two. Eleven patients had Type 31-A2 and 21 patients had Type 31-A3 fractures according to the AO/OTA classification. Results were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Mean follow-up period was 17.3 (range: 12 to 23) months. RESULTS Good or acceptable reduction was achieved in 93.7% of our patients. Mean surgery duration was 28.2 (range: 22 to 75) minutes and mean blood loss was 215 (range: 150 to 320) cc. Complete union was achieved in all patients at a mean of 17.6 (range: 15 to 22) weeks. Postoperative mean collodiaphyseal angle was 125.5 (range: 122 to 130) degrees and there was no significant difference with follow-up values (p>0.05). Twenty-two patients were able to walk with support and 10 without support after surgery. Mean Oxford hip score was 23.70 (range: 14 to 39) points. One year mortality rate was 18.75%. CONCLUSION Good functional and radiologic results can be achieved using Profin® nails for unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures in elderly patients.