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Introduction: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may potentially delay or cause non-union of fractures by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. However, studies have shown conflicting results. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize current evidence on the potential influence of NSAIDs on bone healing. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases for studies published up to 25 July 2023. Specific keywords included "NSAID," "nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug," "cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor," "bone healing," "non-union," "pseudoarthrosis," "delayed union," and "atrophic bone." Eligible studies included prospective, retrospective, and case-controlled studies assessing the correlation between NSAID use and bone healing outcomes. The leave-one-out approach was used to test the robustness of the meta-analysis results. Results: A total of 20 studies with 523,240 patients were included in the analysis. The mean patient age ranged from 6.7 to 77.0 years, with follow-up durations from 3 to 67 months. The meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in non-union or delayed union between NSAID users and non-users [pooled adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.99-1.23]. Initial analysis identified a significant association between NSAID usage and an increased risk of reoperation, but this association became insignificant upon sensitivity analysis (crude OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 0.88-2.28). Discussion: NSAIDs may have a minimal impact on non-union or delayed union risks. However, caution is advised due to the limited number of studies and the absence of a specific focus on NSAID types and dosages. Further research is necessary to better understand the implications of NSAID use on bone healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

challenge clinicians due to their complex nature and the diverse patient demographics they affect. Primary stability is key, especially in cases involving osteoporotic bones or younger patients. The Ellis plate with a locking screw mechanism offers a promising solution to achieve this stability, potentially preventing secondary displacement regardless of bone quality. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to rigorously assess the effectiveness of the Ellis volar locking compression plate in treating distal end radius fractures. It focuses on evaluating functional outcomes post-treatment, providing insights into the efficacy of this approach. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated the efficacy of the Ellis plate in managing distal radius fractures, under ethical approval number KMC/IEC/Ortho/2021-5. Twenty adult patients with unstable fractures were included based on specific criteria and provided informed consent. Exclusion criteria included unwillingness for surgery, medical unsuitability, osteoporosis, minors, and compound fractures with vascular injury. Surgical outcomes were assessed using the Gartland and Werley scoring system, with follow-up appointments scheduled over 1 year to monitor progress and adherence to physiotherapy plans. Results: The study encompassed 20 patients, with a gender distribution of 12 males and eight females and an average age of 43.3 years. Utilizing the Gartland and Werley demerit grading system, the study reported 45% superb outcomes, another 45% good outcomes, 10% fair outcomes, and no poor outcomes. This distribution highlights the potential of the Ellis plate technique in achieving positive results in fracture treatment. Conclusion: The study concludes that the Ellis plate technique is a viable and effective option for stabilizing distal end radius fractures. However, achieving the best possible outcomes depends on several factors, including strict adherence to AO principles, maintaining high standards of aseptic practice, following appropriate post-operative rehabilitation protocols, and ensuring comprehensive patient education. This multifaceted approach is crucial for the successful treatment of these fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical management of fractures has advanced with the incorporation of advanced technology, surgical techniques, and regenerative therapies, but delayed bone healing remains a clinical challenge and the prevalence of long bone nonunion ranges from 10 to 15% of surgically managed fractures. Delayed bone healing arises from a combination of mechanical, biological, and systemic factors acting on the site of tissue remodeling, and careful consideration of each case's injury-related, patient-dependent, surgical, and mechanical risk factors is key to successful bone union. In this review, we describe the biology and biomechanics of delayed bone healing, outline the known risk factors for nonunion development, and introduce modern preventative and corrective therapies targeting fracture nonunion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fracture healing is a very complex and well-orchestrated regenerative process involving many cell types and molecular pathways. Despite the high efficiency of this process, unsatisfying healing outcomes, such as non-union, occur for approximately 5–10% of long bone fractures. Although there is an obvious need to identify markers to monitor the healing process and to predict a potential failure in callus formation to heal the fracture, circulating bone turnover markers' (BTMs) utility as biomarkers in association with radiographic and clinical examination still lacks evidence so far. Methods: A systematic review on the association between BTMs changes and fracture healing in long bone non-union was performed following PRISMA guidelines. The research papers were identified via the PubMed, Cochrane, Cinahl, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases. Studies in which the failure of fracture healing was associated with osteoporosis or genetic disorders were not included. Results: A total of 172 studies were collected and, given the inclusion criteria, 14 manuscripts were included in this review. Changes in circulating BTMs levels were detected during the healing process and across groups (healed vs. non-union patients and healthy vs. patients with non-union). However, we found high heterogeneity in patients' characteristics (fracture site, gender, and age) and in sample scheduling, which made it impossible to perform a meta-analysis. Conclusions: Clinical findings and radiographic features remain the two important components of non-union diagnosis so far. We suggest improving blood sample standardization and clinical data collection in future research to lay the foundations for the effective use of BTMs as tools for diagnosing non-union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing non-unions involves stabilizing the affected area through osteosynthesis and improving bone biology using bone grafts. However, there is no consensus on the optimal treatment method. This study aims to compare outcomes of non-union surgery using conventional treatment methods (metal hardware ± graft) versus osteosynthesis with the human allogeneic cortical bone screw (Shark Screw®) alone or in combination with a metallic plate. Thirty-four patients underwent conventional treatment, while twenty-eight cases received one or more Shark Screws®. Patient demographics, bone healing, time to bone healing, and complications were assessed. Results revealed a healing rate of 96.4% for the Shark Screw® group, compared to 82.3% for the conventionally treated group. The Shark Screw® group exhibited a tendency for faster bone healing (9.4 ± 3.2 vs. 12.9 ± 8.5 weeks, p = 0.05061). Hardware irritations led to six metal removals in the conventional group versus two in the Shark Screw® group. The Shark Screw® emerges as a promising option for personalized non-union treatment in the foot, ankle, and select lower leg cases, facilitating effective osteosynthesis and grafting within a single construct and promoting high union rates, low complications, and a rapid healing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fractures with delayed healing can be a serious complication, especially for athletes depending on quick return to sports. To our knowledge, no cases of increased healing of delayed union fractures with autologous biomedical interventions have been reported. Case presentation: A 33-year-old Swedish professional boxer with a fractured humerus with a delayed union and a partially torn supraspinatus tendon was treated with injections of liquid platelet-rich fibrin and heat-coagulated albumin gel. He recovered almost completely from both injuries in only 1 month and could return to professional boxing in 3 months. Conclusion: This case raises the hypothesis that liquid platelet-rich fibrin and heat-coagulated albumin gel may be an effective, minimally invasive intervention in fractures with a delayed union. Further research is required to test this theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the efficacy of ketorolac in pain management and the short duration of use align well with current clinical practice guidelines, few studies have specifically evaluated the impact of ketorolac on bony union after fracture or surgery. The purpose of this study was to review the current basic science and clinical literature on the use of ketorolac for pain management after fracture and surgery and the subsequent risk of delayed union or nonunion. Animal studies demonstrate a dose-dependent risk of delayed union in rodents treated with high doses of ketorolac for 4 weeks or greater; however, with treatment for 7 days or low doses, there is no evidence of risk of delayed union or nonunion. Current clinical evidence has also shown a dose-dependent increased risk of pseudoarthrosis and nonunion after post-operative ketorolac administration in orthopedic spine surgery. However, other orthopedic subspecialities have not demonstrated increased risk of delayed union or nonunion with the use of peri-operative ketorolac administration. While evidence exists that long-term ketorolac use may represent risks with regard to fracture healing, insufficient evidence currently exists to recommend against short-term ketorolac use that is limited to the peri-operative period. Level of evidence V: Narrative Review [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Delayed union in long bone fractures poses a significant clinical challenge, necessitating effective treatment solutions. The urgency for novel and effective treatment modalities is ever-increasing, especially considering the prevalence and complications associated with delayed union. Aims and Objectives: This retrospective analysis aims to assess the safety and efficacy of autologous bone marrow injections in treating delayed union in a diverse cohort of individuals with long bone fractures. Materials and Methods: The study includes 100 individuals aged 21-69 with varying fracture types. Fracture classifications comprised 40% closed fractures (n=40) and 60% open fractures (n=60). Notably, the femur had a higher prevalence of open fractures (n=30) than closed fractures (n=20). Tibia fractures demonstrated a similar propensity, with 25 open and 15 closed cases. Humerus fractures manifested an even distribution between open and closed categories (n=5 each), indicating their relative resilience to open fractures. Results: Union was attained in 82 cases, with a mean union time of 7.4 weeks post-the-third bone marrow injection. The timeframe for the union varied widely, ranging from 4 to 17 weeks. In eight instances where bone marrow injections failed to achieve union, alternative treatment via bone grafting was necessary. No significant complications were reported; however, minor discomfort was experienced by 13% of the patients and was effectively managed with over-the-counter analgesics. Conclusion: This retrospective analysis demonstrates the high efficacy and safety of autologous bone marrow injections in treating delayed union in long bones, making them a promising alternative treatment strategy with minimal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subtrochanteric femoral (ST) fractures are associated with high rates of delayed and non-union. The aim of this study was to analyse the risk factors associated with delayed/non-union in ST fractures. All patients with surgical stabilisation of ST fractures during the period 2014 to 2019 were identified in an electronic patient records database in two trauma centres. Exclusion criteria were incomplete clinical/radiological data, pathological fractures and loss to follow-up. Radiographs at about 6 months post-surgery were assessed for fracture union using Radiographic Union Score for Hip (RUSH). Fracture was deemed to be un-united if RUSH score was <18. CCD (caput-collum-diaphyseal) angle of operated and uninjured hip, residual displacement at fracture site and 3-point relationship was calculated on operative or immediate post-operative images in both groups. Student's t-test was used to compare CCD angle difference between operated and uninjured sides and the residual fracture displacement between delayed union and united fractures group. Chi-square test was used for 3-point relationship. Observational analysis was performed on implant failure rates including distal screw breakage. During the study period, there were total of 278 patients. 193 with inadequate data and 22 with pathological fractures were excluded. Advanced age and female sex had significantly higher rate of delayed union (p value of 0.043 and 0.003 respectively). Delayed union group (26) had a mean RUSH score of 14.1 and united group (37) had a mean RUSH score of 26.3 (p = 0.019). The mean CCD angle difference between operated and uninjured sides was −5.77° for delayed union and −2.33° for united fractures (p = 0.03). Residual displacement at fracture site showed statistically significant difference between delayed union and united fractures on anteroposterior and lateral views (p = 0.001 each). There was no statistical difference in 3-point relationship of implant in two groups (p = 0.775). 10 revision procedures were performed for implant failures. Distal screw failure (3 cases) was not a precursor for non-union in this study. This study confirms varus alignment of hip and residual fracture displacement after fracture fixation of subtrochanteric fracture are surgeon associated significant risk factors for delayed union at 6 months. Fracture contact and alignment are key to reduce failures in these group of fractures. Among patient factors, advancing age and female sex predisposes to higher rate of delayed union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to clarify the relationship between vitamin D status and complications after periacetabular osteotomy. Methods: A total of 46 hips of 39 patients (3 men and 36 women; mean age at surgery, 41.0 years; mean postoperative follow-up duration, 63 months) were reviewed to obtain the following information: patients' serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] status, prevalence of postoperative delayed union of osteotomy sites in the greater trochanter (DUGT) and ischiopubic stress fractures (IPSFs), and risk factors. Results: The mean serum 25(OH)D level was 11.9 ng/ml. DUGT and IPSF were found in four (10.3%) and three (7.7%) patients, respectively. Serum 25(OH)D levels ≤11 ng/ml were significantly associated with DUGT in female patients (p =.02). Serum 25(OH)D levels ≤9 ng/ml and smoking were significantly associated with IPSF (p =0.01 and 0.02, respectively). Overall, 21.7% of patients with serum 25(OH)D levels ≤11 ng/ml developed at least one complication; no complications occurred when serum 25(OH)D levels were >11 ng/ml. Conclusion: Severe vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent in relatively young patients. Vitamin D deficiency and smoking were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. Proactive supplementation is advisable to reduce postoperative complications, especially in patients with serum 25(OH)D levels ≤11 ng/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal balance between mechanical environment and biological factors is crucial for successful bone healing, as they synergistically affect bone development. Any imbalance between these factors can lead to impaired bone healing, resulting in delayed union or non-union. To address this bone healing disorder, clinicians have adopted a technique known as "dynamization" which involves modifying the stiffness properties of the fixator. This technique facilitates the establishment of a favorable mechanical and biological environment by changing a rigid fixator to a more flexible one that promotes bone healing. However, the dynamization of fixators is selective for certain types of non-union and can result in complications or failure to heal if applied to inappropriate non-unions. This review aims to summarize the indications for dynamization, as well as introduce a novel dynamic locking plate and various techniques for dynamization of fixators (intramedullary nails, steel plates, external fixators) in femur and tibial fractures. Additionally, Factors associated with the effectiveness of dynamization are explored in response to the variation in dynamization success rates seen in clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis (AAA) has risks of complications, such as delayed union and non-union. The number and direction of the inserted screws have been reported as important factors affecting the time to union of AAA. However, the ratio of inter-screw distance (ISD) to tibial width (TW) in different planes has not been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to explore the effect of this ratio on bone union following AAA. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 63 patients (64 ankles) undergoing AAA from 2013 to 2019. Then, their age, body mass index (BMI), sex, diabetes mellitus (DM) status, Takakura–Tanaka classification, number of screws and radiographic parameters were analysed. Results: The patients had a mean age of 70.3 (range, 45–91) years. Bone fusion was achieved in 57 ankles (89%) in a mean period of 3.3 (range, 2–6) postoperative months. There were four cases of delayed union and three of non-union. No significant differences in age, BMI, sex, DM, Takakura–Tanaka classification, and number of screws could be detected between the groups. However, the sagittal ISD/TW ratio was significantly larger in the union group than in the delayed/non-union group with a cut-off value of 57.0%. Conclusion: Larger sagittal ISD/TW ratios result in reduced post-AAA delayed union or non-union. The surgeon should be aware that the anterior and posterior screw widths should be approximately 60% or more of the anteroposterior width of the tibia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is used as an alternative to total knee arthroplasty in young patients with knee osteoarthritis. In the conventional HTO, if the distraction distance is large, the osteotomy section will be significantly separated, forming a large bone defect gap, which may lead to delayed healing or even nonunion. We treated a series of 10 patients with medial knee osteoarthritis by a novel M-shaped high tibial osteotomy. This helped to improve greater contact of cortical sections and rapid healing of the osteotomy break. Over a mean follow-up period of 8.5 months (range, 6.0–12.0 months), all patients achieved bone union. None of the patients showed complications such as nonunion or infection. The novel M-shaped HTO procedure can reduce the probability of delayed union/nonunion and avoid the complications associated with bone grafting. Hence, this technique may be an effective alternative for the HTO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose: Impaired healing is a feared complication with devastating outcomes for each patient. Most studies focus on geriatric fracture fixation and assess well known risk factors such as infections. However, risk factors, others than infections, and impaired healing of proximal femur fractures in non-geriatric adults are marginally assessed. Therefore, this study aimed to identify non-infection related risk factors for impaired fracture healing of proximal femur fractures in non-geriatric trauma patients. Methods: This study included non-geriatric patients (aged 69 years and younger) who were treated between 2013 and 2020 at one academic Level 1 trauma center due to a proximal femur fracture (PFF). Patients were stratified according to AO/OTA classification. Delayed union was defined as failed callus formation on 3 out of 4 cortices after 3 to 6 months. Nonunion was defined as lack of callus-formation after 6 months, material breakage, or requirement of revision surgery. Patient follow up was 12 months. Results: This study included 150 patients. Delayed union was observed in 32 (21.3%) patients and nonunion with subsequent revision surgery occurred in 14 (9.3%). With an increasing fracture classification (31 A1 up to 31 A3 type fractures), there was a significantly higher rate of delayed union. Additionally, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) (OR 6.17, (95% CI 1.54 to 24.70, p ≤ 0.01)) and diabetes mellitus type II (DM) (OR 5.74, (95% CI 1.39 to 23.72, p = 0.016)), were independent risk factors for delayed union. The rate of nonunion was independent of fracture morphology, patient's characteristics or comorbidities. Conclusion: Increasing fracture complexity, ORIF and diabetes were found to be associated with delayed union of intertrochanteric femur fractures in non-geriatric patients. However, these factors were not associated with the development of nonunion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As non-unions are still common, a predictive assessment of healing complications could enable immediate intervention before negative impacts for the patient occur. The aim of this pilot study was to predict consolidation with the help of a numerical simulation model. A total of 32 simulations of patients with closed diaphyseal femoral shaft fractures treated by intramedullary nailing (PFNA long, FRN, LFN, and DePuy Synthes) were performed by creating 3D volume models based on biplanar postoperative radiographs. An established fracture healing model, which describes the changes in tissue distribution at the fracture site, was used to predict the individual healing process based on the surgical treatment performed and full weight bearing. The assumed consolidation as well as the bridging dates were retrospectively correlated with the clinical and radiological healing processes. The simulation correctly predicted 23 uncomplicated healing fractures. Three patients showed healing potential according to the simulation, but clinically turned out to be non-unions. Four out of six non-unions were correctly detected as non-unions by the simulation, and two simulations were wrongfully diagnosed as non-unions. Further adjustments of the simulation algorithm for human fracture healing and a larger cohort are necessary. However, these first results show a promising approach towards an individualized prognosis of fracture healing based on biomechanical factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delayed bone healing and nonunions represent a great challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. In addition to traditional surgical approaches, increasing attention is being given to the use of systemic anabolic therapy with Teriparatide, whose efficacy in preventing osteoporotic fractures is widely validated and whose application as a promoter of bone healing has been described but it is still debated. The aim of the study was to evaluate bone healing in a series of patients with delayed unions or nonunions treated with Teriparatide in conjunction with eventual appropriate surgical procedure. Methods: Twenty patients with an unconsolidated fracture that were treated at our Institutions from 2011 to 2020 with Teriparatide were retrospectively included into the study. The pharmacological anabolic support was used off-label with a planned duration of 6 months; radiographic healing was evaluated at 1-, 3- and 6-months follow-up outpatient visits over plain radiographs. Also, eventual side-effects were registered. Results: Radiographic signs indicative of favorable evolution of the bone callus were observed as early as at 1 month of therapy in 15% of cases; at 3 months, healing progression was appreciated in 80% of cases and complete healing in 10%; at 6 months, 85% of delayed and nonunions had healed. In all patients, the anabolic therapy was well tolerated. Conclusions: In accordance to Literature, this study suggests that Teriparatide plays a potentially important role in the treatment of some forms of delayed unions or nou-nions, even in the presence of failure of hardware. The results suggest a greater effect of the drug when associated with a condition in which the bone is in an active phase of callogenesis, or with a "revitalizing" treatment which represents a local (mechanical and/or biological) stimulus to the healing process. Despite the small sample size and the variety of cases, the efficacy of Teriparatide in treating delayed unions or nonunions emerged, highlighting how this anabolic therapy can represent a useful pharmacological support in the treatment of such a pathology. Although the results obtained are encouraging, further studies, particularly prospective and randomized, are needed to confirm the efficacy of the drug, and define a specific treatment algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allograft bone screws are rarely described for the fixation of the scaphoid. When fresh fractures are treated, metal screws are mainly used; when pseudarthrosis is the indication, plates in combination with vascularized or non-vascularized bone grafts are mainly used. The necessity of metallic screw removal is under debate, but it is mandatory for plates because of movement restrictions due to the plate. The use of biomaterials in scaphoid fracture fixation was described as leading to union rates of between 64 and 100%. Brcic showed the incorporation of an allogeneic cortical bone screw at 10 weeks postoperative, along with revascularization and stable osteosynthesis with primary bone healing, without any signs of immunological rejection. The purpose of this retrospective study was to explore the results obtained using an allogenic cortical bone screw (Shark Screw®) in patients with fresh scaphoid fracture fixation and pseudarthroses with respect to union rates and time to union. Patients and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 75 patients: 31 with fresh fractures and 44 pseudarthrosis patients. The Shark Screw® was used for the fixation of the scaphoid in the fresh-fracture and pseudarthrosis patients. We evaluated the union rate, complication rate and time to union. Results: Using the human allogeneic cortical bone screw for scaphoid fracture fixation led to a high union rate (94–96%). There were two nonunions in the fresh fracture group and two nonunions in the pseudarthrosis group. The complication rate was 1.3% (1 patient). Median time to union was 16, 18 and 29 weeks for the fresh-fracture, pseudarthrosis and delayed-union patients, respectively. The treatment of fresh scaphoid fractures and pseudarthroses showed similar union rates to those described in the literature, uses a shorter and less invasive surgical method with no need for hardware removal, and has a low complication rate. Conclusion: Using the human allogenic cortical bone screw (Shark Screw®) led to similar union rates in fresh fractures—but better union rates in pseudarthrosis patients—compared to those presented in the literature for other scaphoid fracture fixation techniques, and it enabled a short and low-invasive procedure without any donor site morbidity and without the necessity to remove the hardware in a second surgery. The pseudarthrosis patient group showed a particularly strong benefit from this new procedure. The physiological bone metabolism remodels the cortical bone screw without scars. Level of evidence: III: retrospective cohort study, therapeutic investigation of a treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures of long bones unite without any complication except for 2%–10% which may lead to delayed or non-union of the fracture. Management of delayed union of fractures poses a great challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood-derived biological agent, which delivers growth factors, cytokines, and bio-micro molecules at supraphysiologic concentrations at the site of tissue injury, thus potentiating the body's healing efforts. Various studies and research have proved the osteogenic activity of PRP. The growth factors present in the PRP induce the locally available resilient progenitor or stem cells and convert the atrophic environment into a trophic environment. We investigated the safety and efficacy of autologous PRP injection in the delayed union of long bone fractures. A total of 25 cases of delayed union of long bone fractures were augmented with 3 doses of autologous PRP at 3 weekly intervals and were followed up for 12 months. All the cases were documented with pre-and post-procedural and 12th -month visual analog score (VAS) and Warden's score. Out of 25 cases, 21 (84.00%) cases showed good union of fracture with adequate callus formation by 10–12 weeks with 3 doses of autologous PRP injections. The mean pre-procedural VAS and Warden's score at the final follow-up showed statistically significant results (p < 0.05). No other complications were noted due to autologous PRP application among the study participants during the study period except for 3 cases (2 cases of non-union, and 1 case of implant failure). Results of the current study suggest that autologous injection of PRP might be a safe and effective therapeutic tool for the management of delayed union of long bone fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the fracture union with percutaneous autologous bone marrow injection in delayed union and non-union of long bone fractures. Methods: Patients who were admitted in department of orthopaedics in Katuri medical college and hospital, Chinnakondrupadu, Guntur, with delayed union and non-union of long bone fractures, were included in this prospective study. Study span is about 2 years and sample size of 34 patients. Preoperatively patients were examined clinically and radiologically. Post operatively patients were followed up through serial post operative x-rays. Results: This study included 34 patients, out of which one case was lost in follow up. 24 out of 33 cases good bone union was achieved (72.7%). Radiographically the healing was seen on an average of 14 weeks. Conclusion: Percutaneous bone marrow injection is a minimally invasive procedure. It is a simple, quick, safe procedure providing cellular reactivation of osteogenesis with no related complications that may occur with bone grafting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Soft tissue injury and soft tissue injury as risk factors for nonunion following trochanteric femur fractures (TFF) are marginally investigated. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for impaired fracture healing in geriatric trauma patients with TFF following surgical treatment with a femoral nail. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included geriatric trauma patients (aged > 70 years) with TFF who were treated with femoral nailing. Fractures were classified according to AO/OTA. Nonunion was defined as lack of callus-formation after 6 months, material breakage, and requirement of revision surgery. Risk factors for nonunion included variables of clinical interest (injury pattern, demographics, comorbidities), as well as type of approach (open versus closed) and were assessed with uni- and multivariate regression analyses. Results: This study included 225 geriatric trauma patients. Nonunion was significantly more frequently following AO/OTA 31A3 fractures (N = 10, 23.3%) compared with AO/OTA type 31A2 (N = 6, 6.9%) or AO/OTA 31A1 (N = 3, 3.2%, p < 0.001). Type 31A3 fractures had an increased risk for nonunion compared with type 31A1 (OR 10.3 95%CI 2.2 to 48.9, p = 0.003). Open reduction was not associated with increased risk for nonunion (OR 0.9, 95%CI 0.1 to 6.1. p = 0.942) as was not the use of cerclage (OR 1.0, 95%CI 0.2 to 6.5, p = 0.995). Factors such as osteoporosis, polytrauma or diabetes were not associated with delayed union or nonunion. Conclusion: The fracture morphology of TFF is an independent risk factor for nonunion in geriatric patients. The reduction technique is not associated with increased risk for nonunion, despite increased soft tissue damage following open reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Femoral shaft fractures constitute only 1.6% of all paediatric fractures but at the same time they are the most common fractures which require hospitalization in children. The present study was conducted to assess outcome of submuscular plating in paediatric femoral shaft fractures. Materials & Methods: 56 paediatric femoral shaft fractures patients of both genders were selected and fracture characteristics, intra-operative and post-operative findings, radiological findings, intraoperative or post complication was recorded. Preoperative anteroposterior and lateral view x ray of femur were taken to see the type of fracture. Results: Out of 56 patients, males were 30 and females were 26. The mean duration of hospital stays was 10.2 days, fluoroscopy time per surgery was 65.2 minutes, average time of callous formation was 3.2 in weeks and average time of fracture union was 8.1 weeks. Mechanism of injury was RTA in 32, fall in 20 and others in 4. Fracture pattern was oblique in 10, spiral in 14, transverse in 8 and comminuted in 24. Fracture site was proximal 1/3 in 12, middle 1/3 in 30 and distal 1/3 in 14. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Common complications reported were delayed union in 2, non-union in 3, refracture in 1 and superficial infection in 2 patients. The difference was non-significant (P> 0.05). Conclusion: Sub-muscular plating is a surgical method with learning curve and is a very effective method of fixation for paediatric femur fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subacute proximal pole scaphoid fractures (1 month to 6 months) have a higher risk of non-union. The aim of the present retrospective analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of gelled platelet-rich plasma (GPRP) as additional treatment to antegrade headless screw fixation of proximal pole scaphoid fractures. Methods: Forty-one patients were divided into two groups based on surgical treatment received: screw fixation alone (group A) and screw fixation and GPRP application at the fracture site (group B). A short cast was maintained for 4 weeks after surgery. Outcome measures included time to union, need for additional procedures, time to return to work, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire, Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) and Mayo wrist score (MWS).Time to union was determined by monthly radiographs and confirmed by a computerized tomographic (CT) scan done at 4 months. Results: Union was achieved in 85.7% of patients in group A and in 100% of patients in group B. Patients in group B showed a faster time to healing (2.3 ± 0.4 months vs 3.1 ± 0.7 months, p = 0.0001) and earlier return to work (10.4 ± 2.2 vs 15.1 ± 2.9, p = 0.0001). There were no significant differences in patient-rated outcomes scores between the two groups at final follow-up. Conclusions: Internal fixation alone is effective in treating subacute proximal pole scaphoid fractures. GPRP application improves bone healing and functional recovery. Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Within the last few decades, focused high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has proven to be an effective alternative to standard of care revision surgery in delayed healing fractures or manifest non-unions in various anatomical regions. Materials and methods: A retrospective multi-variant analysis of an open prospective, single-armed clinical study was conducted. Patients receiving focused high-energy ESWT for a delayed healing or an apparent non-union of a humeral fracture between January 1999 and December 2015 at a single trauma center were included in the study. Bony healing was defined as cortical continuity in three of four cortices and pain-free force loading and evaluated using CT scans and clinical examination at three- and six-month follow-ups after ESWT. Results: A total of 236 patients were included. N = 93 (43.8%) showed bony consolidation three months after ESWT and n = 105 (52.5%) after six months. Sub-group analysis showed significantly better healing for the proximal metaphyseal humerus (66.7% after six months, n = 42) compared to the diaphyseal region (48.1%, n = 133) and distal metaphyseal humerus (48.1%, n = 25). Regression analysis indicated significantly increased healing rates for patients of younger ages (p = 0.001) and a fracture diastasis of less than 5 mm (p = 0.002). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that ESWT can be considered as a treatment option for a well-selected patient population despite the lower healing rates compared to other anatomical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Open fractures are more commonly seen in tibia as compared to other bones because of subcutaneous location and the tenuous soft tissue cover. There has been rise in open tibia fractures with increased road traffic accidents. Management of open tibial fracture remains controversial. Ilizarov external fixator is a better option for the treatment of these fractures. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical outcome of open tibial fractures managed with an Ilizarov external fixator. Material & Methods: Twelve patients among those who presented to the emergency department with Type II, Type IIIA and Type IIIB Gustilo-Anderson type open tibial fracture were enrolled. All these cases were treated by Ilizarov external fixator and appropriate wound management. Active movements were started at the earliest after the surgery. Partial weight bearing with support was started from the second day after the surgery. Results: Mean age of the study subjects was 37.66 ± 8.77 years. Half of the patients had Type IIIB Gustilo-Anderson type fractures. The mean duration of fracture union was 7.1 months. Pin tract infection of the wires was the more common among complications. Excellent to good outcome was seen in 90% of study subjects. Conclusion: Ilizarov external fixator gives stable fixation of the open tibial fractures and allows better wound care. It also helps in early ambulation and rehabilitation of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest in discovering new methods of employing natural growth factor preparations to promote bone fracture healing is becoming increasingly popular in the field of regenerative medicine. In this study, we were able to demonstrate the osteogenic potential of hypoxia preconditioned serum (HPS) on human osteoblasts in vitro. Human osteoblasts were stimulated with two HPS concentrations (10% and 40%) and subsequently analyzed at time points of days 2 and 4. In comparison to controls, a time- and dose-dependent (up to 14.2× higher) proliferation of osteoblasts was observed after 4 days of HPS-40% stimulation with lower lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)-levels detected than controls, indicating the absence of cytotoxic/stress effects of HPS on human osteoblasts. With regards to cell migration, it was found to be significantly faster with HPS-10% application after 72 h in comparison to controls. Further osteogenic response to HPS treatment was evaluated by employing culture supernatant analysis, which exhibited significant upregulation of OPG (Osteoprotegerin) with higher dosage (HPS-10% vs. HPS-40%) and longer duration (2 d vs. 4 d) of HPS stimulation. There was no detection of anti-osteogenic sRANKL (soluble Receptor Activator of NF-κB Ligand) after 4 days of HPS stimulation. In addition, ALP (alkaline phosphatase)-enzyme activity, was found to be upregulated, dose-dependently, after 4 days of HPS-40% application. When assessing ossification through Alizarin-Red staining, HPS dose-dependently achieved greater (up to 2.8× higher) extracellular deposition of calcium-phosphate with HPS-40% in comparison to controls. These findings indicate that HPS holds the potential to accelerate bone regeneration by osteogenic promotion of human osteoblasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demineralized bone matrix (DBM) has been shown to have positive effects on union rates in many orthopedic subspecialties; however, minimal evidence exists about bone graft substitutes in foot and ankle surgery. The purpose of this study is to compare nonunion rates in arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis in patients receiving DBM with those without. We hypothesized DBM to be associated with a decreased risk of nonunion. This retrospective review includes 516 consecutive ankle arthrodesis cases from March 2002 to May 2016. Of these, 58 ankles (56 patients) that underwent primary arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis met the inclusion criteria, and 31 of these ankles received DBM, while 27 did not. Nonunion was assessed by clinical examination and routine postoperative radiographs. If nonunion was suspected, a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed. The primary outcome measure was nonunion rate. Secondary outcome measures included wound complications, return to operating room (OR), and rate of postoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). From the study cases, 58 were available for final follow-up. The average age was 55.9 years (±17.4), and mean follow-up was 43.0 months (range 6.3–119.4). There was no difference in nonunion rate in patients who received DBM (4/31, 12.9%) versus those who did not (4/27, 14.8%) (p = 0.83). Similarly, when comparing the two groups, there were no statistically significant differences in superficial wound complications (6.5% vs. 3.7%, p = 1.0) or rate of return to OR (29% or 0.037/person-years vs. 37% or 0.099/person-years; p = 0.20). No major complications including deep wound infections, DVTs, or PEs occurred. This is the largest study to directly compare nonunion rates and complications for patients receiving DBM versus those who did not in primary arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis. No significant association was found between DBM usage and risk of nonunion, wound complications, return to OR, or postoperative DVT or PE development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tibiotalar arthrodesis successfully treats ankle arthritis but carries risk of nonunion. It is unclear whether concurrent distal tibiofibular arthrodesis affects tibiotalar nonunion rate. The purpose of this study is to compare tibiotalar nonunion and complication rates in patients with versus without a distal tibiofibular arthrodesis. This is a retrospective review of 516 consecutive ankle arthrodesis performed between March 2002 and May 2016. A total of 319 ankles (312 patients) underwent primary, open tibiotalar arthrodesis (227 with distal tibiofibular arthrodesis, 92 without). Primary outcome measure was nonunion rate. Secondary outcome measures were time to tibiotalar union, rate of development of post-operative deep vein thrombosis (DVT)/pulmonary embolism (PE), rate of deep wound complications, and rate of return to operating room (OR). No differences in nonunion rates were observed in both cohorts of patients with versus without distal tibiofibular arthrodesis: 17/227 (7.5%) versus 11/92 (12%) (p = 0.2), respectively, odds ratio was 0.74, 95% CI: 0.29~2.08 (p = 0.55). There was no difference in deep wound complications (5.3% versus 10.9%, p = 0.42), time to union (3.7 months versus 4.1 months, p = 0.72), or rate of development of DVT/PE (5.2% versus 2.2%, p = 0.18) between patients with and without distal tibiofibular arthrodesis, respectively. This is the first study directly comparing nonunion and complication rates in primary, open ankle arthrodesis with and without distal tibiofibular arthrodesis. Inclusion of the distal fibular joint with the tibiotalar fusion was not associated with a change in tibiotalar nonunion rate, time to union, wound complications, or postoperative DVT/PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The outcome of non-surgical treatment is generally good, but the treatment course can be long and painful with approximately a quarter of the patients acquiring a nonunion. Both surgical and non-surgical treatment can have disabling consequences such as nerve injury, infection, and nonunion. The purpose of the study is to compare patient-reported outcomes after surgical and non-surgical treatment for humeral shaft fractures.Methods: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial (RCT) is planned with two study groups (SHAFT-Young and SHAFT-Elderly). A total of 287 eligible acute humeral shaft fractures are scheduled to be recruited and randomly allocated to surgical or non-surgical treatment with the option of early crossover due to delayed union. The surgical method within the allocation is decided by the surgeon. The primary outcome is the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score at 52 weeks, and is assessor blinded. The secondary outcomes are DASH score, EQ-5D-5L, pain assessed by visual analog score, Constant-Murley score including elbow range of motion, and anchor questions collected at all timepoints throughout the trial. All complications will be reported including; infection, nerve or vascular injury, surgical revisions (implant malpositioning, hardware failure, aseptic loosening, and peri-implant fracture), major adverse cardiovascular events, and mortality.Discussion: The SHAFT trial is a pragmatic multicenter RCT, that will compare the effectiveness of the main strategies in humeral shaft fracture treatment. This will include a variety of fracture morphologies, while taking the dilemmas within the population into account by splitting the population by age and providing the orthopedic society with an interval for early crossover surgery.Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04574336 . Registered on 5 October 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fracture nonunion/delayed union seriously affects physical and mental health and quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relative efficacy of different adjuvant treatments for nonunion/delayed union by network meta-analysis.Methods: A comprehensive search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating adjuvant treatment in the management of nonunion/delayed union. A network meta-analysis reporting on healing rate, healing time, and adverse effect (AE) outcomes was conducted to assess and compare different interventions.Results: Thirty studies were included in the analysis. For the healing rate outcome, bone marrow aspirate (BMA) + autologous cancellous bone (ACB) was found to be significantly better than ACB alone (odds ratio: 0.12; 95% confidence interval: 0.03, 0.59). In the ranking results, BMA+ platelet-rich plasma (PRP) (96%), BMA + ACB (90%), and BMA alone (82%) showed relative advantages in the healing rate. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasonography (LIUS) intervention significantly shortened the healing time compared with ACB (SMD: -9.26; 95% CI: - 14.64, - 3.87). LIUS (100%), BMA + PRP (74%), and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) (69%) have relative advantages. Compared with the control, electromagnetic field (EMF) (OR: 13.21; 95% CI: 1.58, 110.40) and extracorporeal shock wave (ESWT) (OR: 4.90; 95% CI: 1.38, 17.43) had a higher AE risk.Conclusions: Among the current intervention strategies, BMA in combination with PRP and ACB can improve the healing rate of nonunion/delayed union. LIUS can significantly shorten the healing time. EMF and ESWT may have a high risk of AE. However, large-scale, well-designed studies are still needed to confirm the results.Trial Registration: Retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-unions remain a clinical problem and are characterised by the failure to heal after a defined period of time. Current preclinical non-union models apply a wide variety of techniques to diminish intrinsic healing potential deviating from the clinical situation. The aim of this study was to develop and characterise a non-union model in rats using internal plate fixation without the need for additional healing insults, whereby bone healing can be longitudinally assessed using microCT. It was hypothesized that healing/non-unions can be accurately predicted at early time points by microCT. Materials and methods: Female, skeletally mature Fischer F344 rats received a 2 mm or 1 mm femoral osteotomy, stabilized with either a 2 mm thick plate or a 1.25 mm thick plate. Healing was monitored by microCT over 14 weeks and histological analysis at euthanasia. The mechanical environment was characterised using finite element (FE) modelling and biomechanical testing. Results: The majority of animals receiving the 2 mm thick plate displayed poor healing responses in both the 2 mm and 1 mm defect size groups. Bone and cartilage formation were markedly improved using the 1.25 mm thick plate. MicroCT could accurately predict bone forming capacity at early time points (3–4 weeks). Conclusions: The 2 mm thick plating system confers poor healing responses in female Fischer F344 rats, comparable to atrophic non-unions. By reducing plate thickness to increase interfragmentary strain within the defect site healing is improved, leading to borderline healing situations or increased abundance of cartilage tissue present in the defect site with ultimate failure to bridge the defect (hypertrophic non-union). Furthermore, microCT can reliably identify delayed/non-healing animals within 4 weeks, thereby allowing their selective targeting for the testing of novel, clinically relevant treatment strategies in different clinical situations aimed at restoring impaired bone healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Impaired fracture healing results in extensive and prolonged disability and long-term pain. Previous studies reported that nerve growth factor (NGF) was expressed during fracture healing and that anti-NGF antibody improves physical activity associate with facture pain. However, NGF expression levels in delayed or non-union are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE: We compared chronological changes in NGF in the callus of young mice after femur fracture with those in aged mice after femur fracture as a model of bone fracture in the elderly. METHODS: We used young (age 8 weeks) and aged (age 10 months) male C57BL/6J mice. A fracture was generated in the femur. At 5, 7, 10, 14, 17, and 21 days after creation of a fracture, mRNA expression levels of Col2a1, Col10a1, NGF were evaluated using quantitative PCR. We examined NGF protein expression levels and localization in the callus at day 14 using ELISA and immunohistochemistry, respectively. RESULTS: Expression of NGF in the callus after femur fracture in aged mice was significantly greater than that in young mice at days 5, 7, 10, 17, and 21 days. NGF protein levels in the callus of aged mice were also significantly higher than that in young mice. Immunohistochemical staining showed that NGF was heavily expressed in hypertrophic chondrocytes in the callus in aged mice. CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested that delayed Col2a1 and Col10a1 expression reflects delayed chondrocyte formation and delayed chondrocyte maturation in aged mice and that higher NGF expression in aged mice at day 14 may be associated with the presence of remaining hypertrophic chondrocytes in callus with delaying endochondral ossification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Dynamization has already been described as a secondary intervention for delay unions of tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nailing. Although it's a common procedure, it is not widely supported in the literature. The purpose of this study was to determine the union rate of nail dynamization in cases of delayed union of diaphyseal tibial fractures, and assess the effect of fracture morphology on union rates. Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed a series of 199 consecutive tibial shaft fractures. We recorded the dynamization rate, period from nailing to dynamization, nailing to the union, the fracture pattern (according to AO/ASIF and whether it was closed or open), the callus diameter before dynamization (fracture healing index; FHI) and union/failure rates. Results: Out of a total of 199 fractures treated during the study period, 41 (20.6%) were dynamized. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 39 patients with 39 fractures were included in the study. The mean time from nailing to dynamization was 18.4 ± 7.2 weeks. The union rate was 92.3% (n = 36) over a mean time of 14.1 ± 5.6 weeks as from dynamization. The overall failure rate was 6.7% (n = 3). There was no significant association between failure and AO/ASIF classification (p > 0.05) or fracture exposure (X2 = 0.19; p = 0.66). The pre-dynamization FHI of ≥ 1.17 was significantly associated with consolidation (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In cases of delayed union of tibial fractures, dynamization offered a high union rate associated with pre-dynamization FHI, while fracture morphology did not affect the failure rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to 1) identify predictors of delayed and nonunion of tibial shaft fractures in patients treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN), including patient demographics and surgical factors, and 2) determine whether the nail/shaft ratio is associated with delayed and nonunion. Methods: This retrospective, multicenter study included 315 patients with tibial shaft fracture treated with IMN between 2014 and 2019 and excluded patients with insufficient follow-up for 12 months, lost data and inadequate radiographs. Finally, we analyzed 258 patients (184 males; 74 females). Main outcome measurements were delayed union at 6 and nonunion at 12 months after surgery as determined on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs. We extracted the following as risk factors of delayed and nonunion: age, sex, BMI, fracture site, fracture type, injury energy, smoking history, and nail/shaft ratio. We conducted logistic regression analysis to investigate risk factors of delayed and nonunion using these extracted items as explanatory variables. Results: Type C fracture was independently associated with delayed union (odds ratio 2.9, 95% confidential interval: 1.04–8.09, P = 0.04). Nail/shaft ratio was not an independent factor of delayed union. No independent explanatory factors were related to nonunion. Conclusions: Type C fractures, which were unstable and fragmented, was associated with delayed union in tibia fractures treated with IMN, whereas nail thickness was not associated with delayed or nonunion fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fracture non-union is a significant orthopaedic problem affecting a substantial number of patients yearly. Treatment of nonunions is devastating to patients and costly to the healthcare system. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of non-union is typically made in a reactionary fashion by an orthopaedic surgeon based on clinical assessment and radiographic features several months into treatment. For this reason, investigators have been trying to develop prediction algorithms; however, these have relied on population-based approaches and lack the predictive capability necessary to make individual treatment decisions. There is also a growing body of literature focussed on identifying blood biomarkers that are associated with non-union. This review describes the research that has been done in this area. Further studies of patient-centered, precision medicine approaches will likely improve fracture non-union diagnostic/prognostic capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Limited evidence exists in the literature regarding the detection rates of lateral hinge fracture (LHF) on computed tomography (CT) after medial closing wedge distal femoral osteotomy (MCDFO). Moreover, the effect of LHF on bone healing after MCDFO remains unclear. Hypothesis: The detection rates of LHF after MCDFO would be higher on CT than on plain radiography. The incidence of problematic bone healing would be higher in the knees with LHF than in those without LHF. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis), Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients who underwent MCDFO between May 2009 and July 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The presence of LHF was evaluated using immediate postoperative plain radiography and CT. The detection rates of LHF on plain radiography and CT were compared. The incidence of problematic bone healing (nonunion, delayed union, and loss of correction) was also compared between the knees with LHF and those without LHF. Results: A total of 55 knees of 43 patients (mean age, 37.7 ± 16.7 years) were included in the study. Although 33 LHFs were detected on CT, only 19 LHFs were detected on plain radiography. The detection rate of LHF was significantly higher on CT than on plain radiography (60% vs 34.5%; P =.008). At 1-year follow-up, 10 cases of problematic bone healing (1 nonunion, 4 delayed unions, and 5 losses of correction) were identified. The incidence of problematic bone healing was significantly higher in the knees with LHF than in those without LHF as shown on plain radiography (36.8% vs 8.3%; P =.001) and CT (30.3% vs 0%; P =.004). Conclusion: LHF can be detected better on CT than on plain radiography and has a negative effect on bone healing after MCDFO. For patients with LHF detected on either plain radiography or CT, careful rehabilitation with close follow-up is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medial malleolus fractures are commonly encountered by orthopaedic surgeons in their daily practice. Medial malleolus fractures are articular fractures and hence need anatomical reduction to prevent the potential complications. Many methods of fixation are in practice for fixing medial malleolus with the aim to achieve stable fixation and union of the fracture site. Aim: To evaluate the outcome of medial malleolus fracture fixation by three different methods- two partially threaded screws, one partially threaded screw and one k-wire and tension band wiring, in Weber type B and C ankle injuries. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted from August 2017 to September 2020 in a tertiary care orthopaedics hospital in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. A total of 40 patients (aged 18 years or greater) of Weber B and C types medial malleolus fracture, were included in the present study. The medial malleolus was fixed with two partially threaded screws in 16 patients (Group A), 1 partially threaded screw and 1 Kirschner wire (K)-wire in 14 patients (Group B) and tension band wiring was done in 10 patients (Group C). The fixation was decided on intraoperative finding of fragment size and comminution as well as quality of bone. The parameters assessed were time of union, delayed union, non union, ankle range of motion and symptomatic hardware. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test was used to compare parametric data of the three groups. The p-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the patients was 40.20 years with range 18-65 years. 22 patients were females and 18 were males and the male to female ratio was 0.81. The mean time of healing of fracture was 10.25 weeks in group A, 11.14 weeks in group B and 10.80 weeks in group C. There were two cases of delayed union, one each in group B and C. Symptomatic hardware was mostly seen in group C. There was no case of non union in the present study. Conclusion: it can be concluded that all the three fixation methods used in this study achieved the union in comparable time duration with no case of non union. A particular method of fixation should be used by taking into consideration the type of fracture, size of the fragment, comminution and quality of the bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bilateral neck of femur fracture in children is a rare occurrence with only twelve cases reported till the date. We report a case of a 3-year-old schoolgirl with bilateral Delbet type 2 fracture neck femur after a fall from height. She was managed elsewhere by bilateral closed reduction and screw fixation within 24 h. She presented to us three months after surgery with painful hip movements and inability to walk. Her X-ray showed bilateral Ratliff type three avascular necrosis and bilateral delayed union with visible fracture lines. We placed her in double hip spica for three months. Fortunately, on both sides fractures united well with complete resolution of avascular changes. At one year follow-up, she had no functional limitation, no limb length discrepancy, and an x-ray showed mild coxa vara on left. Bilateral delayed union and avascular necrosis of fracture neck femur has not been reported till date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fracture healing is a complex process requiring mechanical stability, an osteoconductive matrix, and osteoinductive and osteogenic biology. This intricate process is easily disrupted by various patient factors such as chronic disease and lifestyle. As the medical complexity and age of patients with fractures continue to increase, the importance of developing relevant experimental models is becoming paramount in preclinical research. The objective of this review is to describe the most common small animal models of systemically impaired fracture healing used in the orthopedic literature including osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and ageing. This review will provide orthopedic researchers with a summary of current models of systemically impaired fracture healing used in small animals and present an overview of the methods of induction for each condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Overall, 5–10% of fractures result in delayed unions or non-unions, causing major disabilities and a huge socioeconomic burden. Since rescue surgery with autologous bone grafts can cause additional challenges, alternative treatment options have been developed to stimulate a deficient healing process. This study assessed the technical feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of local percutaneous implantation of allogeneic bone-forming cells in delayed unions of long bone fractures. Methods: In this phase I/IIA open-label pilot trial, 22 adult patients with non-infected delayed unions of long bone fractures, which failed to consolidate after 3 to 7 months, received a percutaneous implantation of allogeneic bone-forming cells derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (ALLOB; Bone Therapeutics) into the fracture site (50 × 106 to 100 × 106 cells). Patients were monitored for adverse events and need for rescue surgery for 30 months. Fracture healing was monitored by Tomographic Union Score (TUS) and modified Radiographic Union Score. The health status was evaluated using the Global Disease Evaluation (GDE) score and pain at palpation using a visual analogue scale. The presence of reactive anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies was evaluated. Results: During the 6-month follow-up, three serious treatment-emergent adverse events were reported in two patients, of which two were considered as possibly treatment-related. None of the 21 patients in the per-protocol efficacy population needed rescue surgery within 6 months, but 2/21 (9.5%) patients had rescue surgery within 30 months post-treatment. At 6 months post-treatment, an improvement of at least 2 points in TUS was reached in 76.2% of patients, the GDE score improved by a mean of 48%, and pain at palpation at the fracture site was reduced by an average of 61% compared to baseline. The proportion of blood samples containing donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies increased from 8/22 (36.4%) before treatment to 13/22 (59.1%) at 6 months post-treatment, but no treatment-mediated allogeneic immune reactions were observed. Conclusion: This pilot study showed that the percutaneous implantation of allogeneic bone-forming cells was technically feasible and well tolerated in patients with delayed unions of long bone fractures. Preliminary efficacy evidence is supporting the further development of this treatment. Trial registration: NCT02020590. Registered on 25 December 2013. ALLOB-DU1, A pilot Phase I/IIa, multicentre, open proof-of-concept study on the efficacy and safetyof allogeneic osteoblastic cells (ALLOB®) implantation in non-infected delayed-union fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We retrospectively reviewed 12 minimally displaced fractures of the scaphoid waist in 12 patients who developed delayed or nonunions with or without conservative treatment. Mean time between injury and surgery was 6 months (range 3–12). The fractures were stabilized with double screws, which were percutaneously inserted with robot assistance, and without bone grafting. All fractures united at a mean of 8 weeks (range 6–10) after surgery. The patients were followed-up at 6 months and 1 year. The patients recovered good wrist function. No major postoperative complications were reported, and the patients returned to their usual level of activity. Robot assistance gave a high degree of accuracy when placing the cannulated screws since only two attempts were needed for correct placement of the guide wires. We explain the high union incidence by patient selection, good stabilization and not disturbing the vascular supply. Level of evidence: IV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study demonstrated that number of three specific radiological risk factors (MR T2WI confined high-intensity pattern and diffuse low-intensity pattern, thoracolumbar vertebrae involvement, middle column injury) added prognostic information for delayed union, kyphotic deformity, and prolonged pain. Purpose: Delayed union after osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) causes prolonged pain, QOL impairment, progression of collapse, kyphotic deformity, and neurologic impairment. Some specific radiological findings can be useful for predicting delayed union. We aimed to explore the prevalence and concomitance of various types of radiological risk factors for delayed union after osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) and to assess the impact of risk factor number on clinical outcomes. Methods: A total of 508 patients with fresh OVF from 25 institutes were evaluated. All patients were treated conservatively without surgical interventions. At the 6-month follow-up, the patients were classified into bone union and delayed union groups based on plain X-ray findings. We examined the presence and absence of three specific radiological risk factors (MR T2WI confined high-intensity pattern and diffuse low-intensity pattern, thoracolumbar vertebrae involvement, middle column injury) and analyzed clinical outcomes according to numbers of radiological risk factors. Results: Delayed union was observed in 101 patients (19.9%) at the 6-month follow-up. The most common radiological risk factor was thoracolumbar vertebrae involvement (73.8%), followed by middle column injury (33.9%) and specific MRI findings (T2WI confined high-intensity pattern and diffuse low-intensity pattern) (29.7%). Overall, 85 (16.7%) patients had zero radiological risk factors, 212 (42.7%) had one, 137 (27.0%) had two, and 69 (13.6%) had three. When assessing the number of radiographic risk factors which included the MRI findings (the 3-risk factor method), the odds ratio for delayed union after acute OVF was 5.8 in the 2/3-risk factor group and 13.1 in the 3/3-risk factor group. Even when assessing the number of radiographic risk factors without MRI findings (2-risk factor method), the odds ratio was 3.2 in the 1/2-risk factor group and 10.2 in the 2/2-risk factor group. Conclusion: Number of radiological risk factors added prognostic information for delayed union, kyphotic deformity, and prolonged pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neglected fractures of the lateral humeral condyle (LHC) are misdiagnosed or insufficiently treated fractures, presenting later than 3 weeks after injury. The management of neglected LHC fractures in children remains controversial. Methods: Twenty-seven children were included in this retrospective study. Charts and medical records were investigated for demographics, time interval between injury and treatment, and type of treatment. Baseline radiographs were assessed for fracture grading and displacement. Final radiographs were investigated for bone healing, avascular necrosis, elbow deformities and growth disturbances. Complications were classified by the Clavien-Dindo-Sink (CDS) system. Outcomes were assessed according to the Dhillon Score (DhiS) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Results: The mean time from injury to presentation was 27 months. Treatments included nonoperative management (6 patients), "in-situ" fixation (7 patients), open reduction and internal fixation (11 patients) and corrective osteotomy (3 patients). The mean follow-up was 7 years (range: 2-16). Overall, we observed complications in 16 patients (59%); six complications were considered major (22%) and occurred in Weiss Grade 3 fractures, with lateral displacement ≥5 mm. At the latest follow-up, pain and functional scores improved in 23 of 27 patients (85%). Mean MEPS increased from an average of 62 points preoperatively to 98 points postoperatively, while mean DhiS improved on average from 5 to 8 points. CDS score and time interval between injury and treatment were independent predictors of MEPS and DhiS. Conclusion: Our study describes outcomes from a cohort of children undergoing different treatments for neglected LHC fractures. Prolonged time interval between injury and treatment and perioperative major complications negatively impacted the treatment outcomes. Our findings strengthen the requirement for widely agreed guidelines of surgical management in neglected LHC fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonunion is known to occur in up to 10% of all bone fractures. Until recently, the treatment options considered in cases of delayed union and nonunion focused on revision surgery and improvement of local healing. Lately, teriparatide has been introduced as an osteoanabolic factor that induces fracture healing in cases with delayed or nonunions. We report on a series of five cases of delayed and nonunions treated with teriparatide: delayed unions of an atypical femoral fracture, of a multifragmentary clavicle fracture, and of a periprosthetic humeral fracture; nonunion of a tibial and fibular fracture; and infected nonunion of a tibial and fibular fracture. Based on this series, the indications and limits of application of teriparatide in cases of impaired fracture healing are discussed. Due to the "off-label" character of this application, informed consent, and cost coverage from the healthcare insurance must be obtained prior to treatment. In our experience and according to the limited existing literature, teriparatide is a safe feasible treatment in cases of delayed and nonunions with a reasonable need of resources. While adequate biomechanical stability remains the cornerstone of fracture healing, as well as healing of nonunions, teriparatide could help avoid repetitive surgeries, especially in atrophic delayed and nonunions, as well as in patients with impaired fracture healing undergoing bisphosphonate therapy. There is an urgent need for widely accepted definitions, standardized protocols, as well as further clinical trials in the field of impaired fracture healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: The primary care has an important role to prevent fractures and make sure of complete healing without any complications like a Malunion which arises when a fracture has healed in a non-anatomical position, and a delayed union which defined as a healing time of more than 12 weeks and a non-union which occurs when absence of fracture healing progression on series of radiographs or with no evidence of healing over 10 weeks. Objectives: To identify the proportion of fracture healing failure types and identify Patient-dependent Factors. Methodology: cross sectional study consecutive sampling till completing sample size (90) patients. Data collection tool was Pretested Pre-Coded self-administered questionnaire it was subjected to a probe to test for validity and reliability. Data analyzed Using SPSS P value of less than 0.05 considered as significant results. Chi-square test was the test of significance. Results: From 90 adult male participants, 71% were 35 years of age and above and below 55 years. Our result indicated that the commonest risk factor was smoking in 62.2% of respondents, and 27.8% have Diabetes mellitus. 50% of fractures failure was diagnosed as delayed union while non-union accounts for 40% and malunion for 10%. We've noticed that smokers mostly had delayed union, while diabetic patients had mostly non-union. Conclusion: the study found that the most associating Patient-dependent Factors were cigarettes smoking and Diabetes mellitus, also most fractures failure were diagnosed as delayed union, non-union, and malunion respectively and we can help prevent these complications by controlling DM and stop cigarettes smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal models indicate that osteoporosis may negatively influence the fracture healing process, but clinical studies on this topic are scarce. In this study we investigated the effect of osteoporosis on fracture healing in patients with an upper extremity fracture. This retrospective cohort study included all patients aged 50 years or older, with a fracture of the proximal humerus or the distal radius treated in the period June 2012 to July 2015 and a DEXA scan within a year after fracture. The incidence of delayed-union and non-union were compared between patients with or without osteoporosis (BMD T score ≤ −2.5SD). A secondary analysis was performed with a more pragmatically definition; BMD T score ≤ −2.5SD or a proximal humerus fracture with a T-score between −2.5SD and −1.0SD. Osteoporosis was diagnosed in 133/455 patients (29.2%). A total of 461 fractures (distal radius n = 311 and proximal humerus n = 150) were treated. Radiological delayed- or non-union was described in 11/461 cases (2.4%); all proximal humerus fractures of which 6 cases (1.3%) were clinically manifest. The incidence of delayed- or non-union in fracture treatment did not differ between patients with osteoporosis (5/137 fractures) and the patients without osteoporosis (6/324 fractures) (p = 0.27). In the second analysis a significantly higher incidence was found in patients with osteoporosis (10/214 fractures vs 1/247 fractures p = 0.003) The results of this study suggest that osteoporosis does not significantly influence the progress of fracture healing in distal radius and proximal humerus fractures, although there seems to be a tendency towards a negative effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), some problems might occur in fracture healing; however, clinical evidence is limited. Therefore, we compared the time to union and complication rate of femoral fractures between RA and non-RA patients. Materials and Methods: This study included 42 RA patients who underwent osteosynthesis for femoral trochanter or shaft fracture. For comparison with the RA group, 126 non-RA patients were selected as a control group. The RA group was divided into the trochanteric (RA group I) and shaft fracture group (RA group II) for comparison with each control group (control groups I and II). We analyzed risk factors for nonunion or delayed union and divided patients according to whether atypical or ordinary fracture in shaft fracture. Results: Time to union (p = 0.823) and complication rate (p = 0.440) did not differ significantly between RA group I and control group I. A significantly longer time to union (p = 0.001) and higher nonunion rate (p = 0.013) were observed in RA group II compared with control group II. The presence of RA (p = 0.040) and atypical femoral fracture (p = 0.006) were significant risk factors for nonunion or delayed union. Conclusions: The high prevalence of atypical femoral fracture among the femur shaft fractures in the RA patients was considered a significant risk factor for nonunion and delayed union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Antibiotic nails are taking over the traditional method of fixation of open fractures of tibia now and are becoming a treatment of choice for Gustilo Type I, II and IIIA fractures. They not only hasten the bone union as a single step procedure but also decrease the systemic side effects of parenteral antibiotics postoperatively. These nails elute the antibiotic exactly in right doses where it is needed to combat the infection and prevent a possible delayed union or hostile environment in Gustilo type I, II and IIIA compound tibial fractures. Aim: To study the clinical and radiological outcome of antibiotic impregnated Intramedullary (IM) nailing in compound tibial fractures. Materials and Methods: Twenty five adults having compound tibial shaft fractures of Gustilo Type I and Type II and IIIA were treated with antibiotic impregnated IM nails to evaluate the outcome. Data collection, compilation, and analysis performed using microsoft excel 2007. Results: Results were excellent to good in 92% (Lysholm's scale). Partial weight bearing commenced at 5.44 weeks and full weight bearing after 10.48 weeks of operation on an average. Radiological union achieved in 12 to 18 weeks (average 15.55 weeks) in all AO (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen, German for "Association for the Study of Internal Fixation") group A, group B fractures with Gustilo type I injury. Complex (AO group C), while Gustilo type II took 12 to 22 weeks (average 16.69 weeks). One Gustilo type IIIA fracture showed delayed union (beyond 22 weeks). There was minimal incidence of infection [overall 24% (20% in type II- superficial in 12% and deep in 8% cases; 4% in type IIIA-deep)]. One Gustilo type IIIA fracture showed infection along the deeper tissue planes. Conclusion: Antibiotic impregnated nails can be a trustworthy alternative single stage treatment modality obviating the need of multiple procedures to achieve the bony union in open fractures of tibia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome is a rare genetic disease caused by a chromosomal deletion of the distal short arm of Chromosome 4. It is associated with multisystem abnormalities, including delayed growth, characteristic facial features, epilepsy, and skeletal abnormalities. We report three patients who developed hip displacement, and describe the occurrence of delayed and nonunion in patients who underwent corrective proximal femoral osteotomy for hip displacement. We also performed a literature review identifying common musculoskeletal presentations associated with the condition. Patients with Wolf–Hirschhorn Syndrome are at risk of hip displacement (subluxation), and we would advocate annual hip surveillance in this patient group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]