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Humeral shaft fractures are relatively common, representing up to 5% of all fractures. Conservative management is the treatment of choice for most humeral shaft fractures and offers good functional and union outcomes. Age and oblique fractures of the proximal third are two risk factors for non-union. Surgical indication threshold should be lower for patients with these factors. Functional outcomes and union rates after plating and intramedullary nailing are comparable, but the likelihood of shoulder complications is higher with intramedullary nailing. Finally, there is no advantage to early exploration of the radial nerve even in case of secondary radial nerve palsy.Les fractures de la diaphyse humérale sont relativement fréquentes et représentent jusqu’à 5 % des fractures. Le traitement conservateur par brace est le traitement de choix pour la majorité des fractures. Il permet un taux élevé de consolidation et est associé à de bons résultats fonctionnels. L’âge ainsi que les fractures obliques du tiers proximal sont deux facteurs de risque de pseudarthrose en présence desquels une prise en charge chirurgicale doit être plus facilement envisagée. Lorsqu’ils sont indiqués, l’ostéosynthèse par plaque et l’enclouage centromédullaire offrent des taux de consolidation et des résultats fonctionnels équivalents, avec cependant un risque de problème d’épaule plus important après enclouage. Finalement, l’exploration chirurgicale immédiate du nerf radial n’est pas recommandée, même en cas de parésie secondaire à la réduction de la fracture.

Le développement économique des pays à faibles revenus a pour corollaire une augmentation considérable des véhicules motorisés, et en particulier des motocyclettes. Les accidents de la circulation augmentent ainsi que les fractures qui y sont associées. Le traitement des fractures des os longs repose dans la majorité des cas sur l´enclouage centro-médullaire verrouillé, procédé rarement disponible en situation sanitaire dégradée. Pour apporter à ces pays un traitement optimal, le clou SIGN (Surgical Implant Generation Network) a été développé en 1999 par Lewis Zirkle. Il est actuellement utilisé gratuitement dans 53 pays. En contrepartie une base de données internationale doit être remplie afin de l´évaluer et de le faire évoluer. A la lumière de nos expériences en Haïti et au Burundi et d´une revue de la littérature, nous décrivons ici ses particularités conceptuelles et techniques, dont l´implantation dans les pays francophones reste limitée.

Les auteurs rapportent 54 cas de fracture de la diaphyse humérale traités par embrochage de Hackethal. 3 cas avec paralysie du nerf radial ont été observé dont l'abstention thérapeutique en urgence a été l'attitude avec surveillance et qui ont abouti à une récupération. La technique de l'embrochage est relativement facile mais nécessite une technique rigoureuse et une bonne expérience de l'opérateur. Un taux de 7,84 % de pseudarthrose était observé. L'embrochage d'Hackethal peut être considérer comme un traitement orthopédique amélioré avec un coût modeste et une innocuité importante.

Le but de notre étude est de décrire les complications de l'embrochage centromédullaire élastique stable (ECMES) dans le traitement des fractures diaphysaires des deux os de l'avant-bras chez l'enfant. Entre janvier 2009 et décembre 2013, 87 enfants présentant des fractures diaphysaires des os de l'avant-bras ont été traités par embrochage centro-médullaire élastique stable par des broches de Métaizeau. Il s'agissait de 76 garçons et 11 filles d'âge moyen 12 ans. L'embrochage a été réalisé d'emblée dans 50 cas et suite à un déplacement secondaire sous plâtre dans les autres. Les deux os ont été embrochés dans tous les cas. L'immobilisation plâtrée était systématique pour tous les malades pendant une durée moyenne d'un mois. Les broches ont été enlevées au bout d'environ 6 mois en moyenne. Les résultats fonctionnels ont été étudiés avec un recul moyen de 10 mois. Les complications ont été marquées par 14 infections superficielles, 2 cas d'ostéites sur matériel, 3 cas de refracture, 3 cas de pseudarthrose, 2 cas de retard de consolidation et une synostose radio-cubitale proximale. Bien que l'embrochage centro-médullaire soit une méthode d'ostéosynthèse idéalement adaptée aux enfants, il reste plus invasif que le traitement orthopédique. Ses indications doivent rester dans les limites de celui ci.

Les fractures du quart distal de la jambe, sont des fractures dont le trait est situé au niveau du quart inférieur du tibia. Elles sont réputées graves et posent à la fois des problèmes de consolidation, de contention et de stabilité. Nous présentons l'expérience du service de traumatologie orthopédie de l'Hôpital militaire Avicenne de Marrakech, concernant 30 fractures fermées du quart inférieur de la jambe, sur une période de 10 ans (de Janvier 2001 à Décembre 2010) ayant reçu un enclouage centromédullaire. Le montage était verrouillé à 80% des cas et simple dans les autres cas. La moyenne d'âge de nos patients était de 36 ans. Il existait une nette prédominance masculine avec 27 hommes pour 3 femmes. La consolidation a été obtenue dans un délai normal de 17 semaines en moyenne et les résultats fonctionnels était satisfaisants. Un seul cas d'infection est survenu à 6 mois du geste chirurgical soit 3,3% et aucune autre complication n'a été mentionnée. Un cal vicieux a été retrouvé chez 30% de nos patients. Nos données épidémiologiques et nos résultats sont presque identiques à ceux de la littérature. Quant aux résultats angulaires, ils sont nettement inférieurs aux séries de plaques, à l'opposé, leurs résultats infectieux portent à la prudence et certains séries de clous rapportent d'excellents résultats angulaires à condition d'avoir un montage stable. A la lumière de ces résultats, nous sommes en droit de conclure au grand intérêt d'élargir les indications classiques de l'enclouage centromédullaire verrouillé à la prise en charge des fractures du quart distal de la jambe, à condition d'avoir un montage stable par un double verrouillage distal et une ostéosynthèse primaire des fractures distales de la fibula.

Le débat principal autour des fractures de l’humérus se centre sur les indications thérapeutiques car tout type de stabilisation orthopédique ou chirurgicale trouve des défenseurs parfois inconditionnels et véhéments. A travers cette étude rétrospective, nous avons revu 80 patients traités initialement par embrochage fasciculé centromédullaire selon Hackethal au service de traumatologie orthopédie de l’hôpital militaire Avicenne entre janvier 2000 et janvier 2012. Les fractures ont été classées selon la classification AO et selon la classification de Hackethal modifiée par De La Caffinière. L’évaluation fonctionnelle a utilisé la classification de Stewart et Hundley modifiée. Nous avons obtenu 60 très bons résultats, 6 bons résultats, 2 assez bons résultats et 2 mauvais résultats. Les deux mauvais résultats étaient des cas de pseudarthrose. Nous n’avons pas noté de paralysie radiale iatrogène, ni d’infection, ni de migration de broches. Le délai moyen de consolidation a été de 9semaines et 6 jours. C’est une méthode fiable, de réalisation facile et à faible cout économique, qui fournit une bonne stabilisation du foyer de fracture permettant ainsi la mobilisation précoce avec des résultats fonctionnels excellents.

L’enclouage centromédullaire antérograde s’est imposé comme un des traitements de référence des fractures céphalotubérositaires à deux, trois et quatre fragments. Nous présentons une étude rétrospective de 06 patients ayant bénéficié d’un enclouage centromédullaire depuis janvier 2012. Le Recul moyen est de 12 mois, l’âge moyen était de 57 ans. Evaluation clinique se basait sur le score de Constant et Murley, en brut et pondéré en fonction de l’âge et du sexe, avec un comparatif avec le coté sain. Le bilan radiologique nous a permis d’évaluer la consolidation osseuse, l’apparition d’Ostéonécrose de la tête ou arthrose post traumatique. Surveille aussi l’Etat des tubérosités avec l’existence ou non d’ostéolyse du trochiter. Elle recherche aussi les critères de bonne réduction à savoir l’angle calotte céphalique et l’axe diaphysaire (αF) sur les clichés de face. Tous les patients ont été traités selon la même technique chirurgicale. Le score de Constant et Murley sur l’ensemble des patients était de 64.13 points. Le score pondéré en fonction de l’age et du sexe était de 73%. Les mobilités articulaires étaient en moyenne sur l’ensemble des patients 116° en élévation antérieure, 99.9° en élévation latérale, et 42° en rotation externe. Angle αF moyen s’élève à 42°. Tous les patients présentaient des critères de bonne réduction à savoir αF. L’enclouage centromédullaire permet une synthèse osseuse simple et au prix d’un abord limité avec des résultats fonctionnels très prometteurs. La comminution fracturaire et l’ostéoporose peuvent limiter ces indications.

Over-reduction is a classical complication following pinning of distal radius fractures. Indeed, the pinning techniques derived from Kapandji's technique do not allow anterior stabilization. A literature review and our experience show that it is an underestimated complication that can affect up to one-third of cases, but that is well tolerated if the anterior tilt is less than 20°. Excessive angulation of the dorsal intrafocal K-wires becomes a significant risk factor beyond 60°. Volar comminution of the fracture is an obvious predisposing factor. We will outline our ideas on the topic and present a new pinning technique, which has reduced the over-reduction rate to below 3 %: multiple mixed pinning combines two dorsal intrafocal K-wires with two trans-styloid K-wires along the anterior and posterior cortices of the radius to provide true sagittal stabilization of the fracture. This technique is suitable for fractures without major instability or associated anterior comminution-Milliez types 1 and 2 are its best indications. In our practice, there still is a place for pinning of non-complex fractures in young active subjects. More than 20° malunion in flexion can lead to symptoms; in this instance, isolated opening osteotomy of the radius is the most suitable technique.

La fracture de jambe à fibula intact (FJFI) est caractérisée par un potentiel de déplacement minime ainsi le pronostic semble bon, souvent associées à des difficultés de réduction de consolidation ou de cal vicieux. Notre but est de comparer les résultats du traitement orthopédique et de l'enclouage centromédullaire (ECM). Entre janvier 2006 et janvier 2011, on a traité 60 fractures de jambe à fibula intact. 31 patients ont bénéficié d'un ECM, dont 14 fois était statique, 16 fois dynamique et simple une fois, avec un appui compris entre le 2eme jour (pour la plupart des patients) et la sixième semaine. 29 patients ont bénéficiés d'un traitement orthopédique après réduction par plâtre cruro-pédieux avec libération du genou après 4 semaines avec appui total chez la plupart des patients. La durée de consolidation été de 4 mois en moyenne pour les patients traites par ECM et de 6 mois pour les patients traites orthopédiquement. On a noté 3 cas de pseudarthrose dans notre série d’étude soit 5%: 2 observées chez le groupe de l'ECM soit 6,4% et un cas pour le groupe du traitement orthopédique soit 3,8%. 6 cas de déplacement secondaires ont été note chez les patients traites orhtopédiquement à j15 du traitement, pour 5 patients le déplacement été jugé tolérable et pour un seul patient (trouble angulaire supérieur à 10°) ayant nécessité un ECM. 13 cas soit 54% de cal vicieux angulaire supérieur à 10 dans notre série tous traités orthopédiquement versus aucun cas de cal vicieux chez les patients du groupe du traitement par ECM. Cliniquement: tous les patients traités par ECM ont présenté une mobilité du genou et de la cheville normale. Les patients traités orthopédiquement ont tous bénéficié d'une rééducation du genou libération du genou et confection d'un plâtre type Sarmiento et celle de la cheville après son ablation définitive, ainsi aucun de nos patients n'a gardé une raideur après avoir terminé la rééducation. Le rôle de l'intégrité de la fibula dans l’évolution des fractures de jambe n'est pas négligeable, puisque sa fréquence est de 15 à 25% des fractures de jambe. Les caractères épidémiologiques, et l’évolution de chaque type de traitement (orthopédique et ECM) de ces fractures seront discuté. Il nous semble que le traitement des FJFI est l'ECM en première intention avec appui précoce et dynamisation voir fibulotomie si retard de consolidation et de réserver le traitement orthopédique pour les fractures non ou peu déplacées ou quand le traitement chirurgicale est contre indiqué.

Osteoporosis is an increasing public health problem. The bisphophonates are the most useful treatment used through the world to prevent osteoporotic fractures. Their large prescription revealed an unpredictable side effect: the atypical fracture. These fractures appear in the subtrochanteric or diaphysal femoral proximal site, spontaneously or after a low trauma, and could be bilateral. X-rays shows a transversal or oblique fracture with a spur in the cortex and with a diffuse thickening of the cortical of the proximal femur. Expert's recommendations are current in progress to well understand and managed this problem. Here we report three cases of atypical femur fractures occurred in our Centre of bone diseases with some management and treatment propositions.Die Osteoporose ist ein zunehmendes Problem für die öffentliche Gesundheit. Für die osteoporotische Fraktur-Prävention werden Bisphosphonate am häufigsten verwendet. Ihr verbreiteter Einsatz zeigt nun einen Zusammenhang mit einer unerwarteten Nebenwirkung: atypische Femurfrakturen. D. h. subtrochanterische Femurfrakturen oder diaphysäre Frakturen des proximale Femurs – manchmal bilateral, spontan oder nach einem geringen Trauma ausgelöst. Im Röntgenbild zeigt sich eine Quer- oder Schrägfraktur mit einem Sporn im Kortex und einer diffusen kortikalen Verdickung im proximalen Femur. Expertenempfehlungen werden herausgegeben, um diesen Nebenwirkung besser zu erkennen und zu behandeln. Wir berichten von drei Fällen mit atypischen Femurfrakturen aus unserem Zentrum und schlagen Management und Therapievorgehen vor.L'ostéoporose est un problème croissant de santé publique. Les bisphosphonates sont les médicaments les plus utilisés dans le monde pour prévenir les fractures ostéoporotiques. Leur grande utilisation révèle une association avec un effet secondaire inattendu: les fractures atypiques du fémur. Ces dernières surviennent dans la région sous-trochantérienne ou diaphysaire proximale spontanément ou après un traumatisme mineur, et peuvent être bilatérales. La radiographie montre une fracture transversale ou oblique simple avec un «éperon» au niveau du cortex, et un épaississement cortical diffus du fémur proximal. Des recommandations d'experts voient le jour pour une meilleure connaissance et prise en charge. Nous rapportons trois cas de fractures atypiques survenues sous bisphosphonate avec proposition de prise en charge thérapeutique.

The management of open tibia fractures remains controversial despite increase in its incidence. Some surgeons avoid internal fixations for fear of infection while others have demonstrated its superiority. Identifying an optimal management modality is of utmost benefit to our patients. Study objectives were to compare the rate of infection and mean duration to healing in the management of open tibia fractures using unreamed interlocking intramedullary nail and external fixation.The study was an interventional study comparing two known standard methods of managing open tibia fractures conducted in the orthopaedic and trauma department of a tertiary health institution in South west, Nigeria. Forty patients who presented with open tibia fractures were allocated alternately into primary interlocking nailing group and external fixation group. Follow-up was for two years.Incidences of deep wound infection in both groups were 35% (external fixation) and 11.1% (interlocking nailing) respectively. The relative risk of developing infection in external fixation group was 3.2. Mean duration to union was 14.8 weeks and 14.4 weeks in the external fixation and interlocking nailing groups respectively, difference in mean was not statistically significant, (t=0.133, p=0.895).The risk of wound infection was observed to be higher in this study with the use of external fixation in the management of open tibia fractures compared with unreamed interlocking intramedullary nail.

Middle phalanx neck fracture is an unusual injury. In order to prevent malunion and stiffness, a surgical treatment is usually recommended. Owing to the distal localization of the fracture, internal fixation is demanding. Open reduction can further damage the soft tissues and the bone itself, resulting in stiffness or condylar necrosis. The bulk of plate and screws can interfere with the extensor apparatus and transarticular or cross K-wires may damage the joint surfaces or ligaments. An intramedullary pinning technique is reported minimizing these pitfalls. The technique is described and illustrated by two clinical cases with good result.

Osteosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm characterized by local lytic or plastic processes. We observed a case of radius osteosarcoma in a 10-year-old boy 3 months after intramedullary osteosynthesis in the ipsilateral distal radius. Treatment consisted of amputation of the distal humerus and adjuvant chemotherapy; no complications were observed.

Consensual treatment of the Galeazzi's fracture is a plate osteosynthesis of the radius more or less associated to the confection of a plaster cast in distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ) dislocation. The authors are reporting in this study the clinical and functionnal results of the intra-medullary pinning of the radius in this type of fracture in adult.During a prospective study from January 2003 to December 2006, 23 patients (20 men and three women), average-aged of 32 years (16-70 years) presenting with a Galeazzi's fracture were treated by an intra-medullary pinning of the radius. The DRUJ dislocations were locked 17 times by a brachio-ante-brachio-palmar plaster cast in the supination position, and six times by an ulno-radial pinning. Only the 16 over-aged patients presenting with closed recent fractures were included in this study. The DRUJ dislocation was ranked according to Mansat, the radial fracture according to Müller (AO). The assessment of the treatment results used Mestdagh's criteria. In this study, each pseudarthrosis of the radius was considered as a failure.The DRUJ dislocation was reparted into six sprains, eight subdislocations, and three Galeazzi's fracture equivalents. The radius fractures were simple (n=20) or wedge fractures (n=3). These fractures were located at the proximal third (n=13), middle third (n=7) and distal third (n=3). The average consolidation delay was 10 weeks (8 to16 weeks). Two pseudarthrosis have been observed and then treated by a plate osteosynthesis. At the mean follow up of 37 months (18 to 41 months), the mean score according to Mestdagh was 7.8 points, with 20 satisfying results. Nineteen patients were satisfied by their treatment; the reasons were: the esthetic care of their scar, and the good functionnal resumption, as well as before the fracture.The intra-medullary pinning of radius in Galeazzi's fractures, in contrary to the previous studies, give good results compared to a plate osteosynthesis treatment. The systematic complementary lock by brachio-ante-brachio-palmar plaster cast during 3 to 4 weeks has balanced the stability defect that Mikic was reproaching to it. Moreover, it confers the benefits of elastic closed osteosynthesis. That less simple and less expensive method represents an alternative to a plate osteosynthesis in Galeazzi's fractures in adult, if it is well standardized.

The intramedullary nailing of humerus has emerged as one of the treatments of reference for proximal fractures. We have reviewed 38 patients aged 64.2 on average with a mean follow of 18 months. The functional scores used were the Constant and Murley's score as well as the DASH self-administered quality of life questionnaire. Radiological criteria have been analyzed, namely the cephalic angle noted alphaF and the presence of any osteolysis of the major tuberosity. Patients were grouped by type of fracture, according to Neer's classification, with nine cases in Neer 2 group, 19 in Neer 3 group, and ten in Neer 4 group. The unrefined Constant score was 53.4 points on average, balanced to 71.6%. The joint mobilities were an average forward elevation of 108 degrees, an average abduction of 100 degrees and an external rotation of 27 degrees. These scores were even worse than the fracture was comminuted. It was not found a radioclinical correlation between value of the angle alphaF and clinical outcome, but the presence of osteolysis of the major tuberosity was significantly associated with poor late functional results. Five cases of osteonecrosis have been counted, divided with 10.5% in the Neer stage 3, and 30% in the Neer stage 4. The average unrefined Constant score from these patients was 38.5 points on average, balanced to 57.7%. Intramedullary nailing allows fixation of comminuted fractures with three or four fragments, but control of fixing and strength of assembly were not always practiced. In young patients, where tuberosities consolidation is essential, screwed plates seem to be a favorable alternative. Moreover, total reverse prosthesis seems to have more and more arguments to impose itself like the preferred treatment towards fractures in four fragments in people aged over 75 years.

Fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal (boxer's fracture) represent 20% of all fractures of the hand and are frequently observed in male patients, involve the dominant hand, and very often follow a direct blow or punch. We present a retrospective study of 24 fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal, treated by "L" pinning as described by Vives, between January 2004 and January 2008. All the patients were men with a mean age of 30 years (range 18 to 50). The mechanism of injury was dominated by fist strike (18 cases). Surgical treatment was performed in cases of fractures with a mean palmar tilt of 37 degrees (range 30 degrees to 60 degrees ). Pinning with a Vives procedure consisted of inserting two pins in an "L" configuration; the first a centromedullary pin measuring 20mm, the second a transverse one through the fourth metacarpal bone controlling rotation and measuring 12mm. Surgery was performed under loco-regional anaesthesia in 75% of cases, and under general anaesthesia in 25% of cases. No immobilization was recommended. Physiotherapy was performed in all cases. Fracture consolidation was obtained in all cases, and the pins were removed in the 6th week following surgery. This technique of osteosynthesis allowed us to obtain good clinical and radiological results according to the criteria of Frere with a mean follow up of 24 months.

A retrospective multicentric observational study of 172 floating knee injuries is reviewed. According Fraser's classification 71.5% of the cases are type I and the repartition of the type II in the 3 subgroups is as follow: II A 8.2%, II B 11.6%, et II C 8.7%. At least one of the fractures was open in 69.2% of the patients. The average Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 19.5. The polytraumatized patients (ISS over 18) represented 37.7% of the cases. The surgical procedure started within the 6 first hours in 62% of the injured people. The Intramedullary nailing (IM) was the preferred method at the femur site (73%, 126 cases), at the tibia IM was performed in 54.4% of cases and external fixation was used in one every four patients. The mean operating time was 167 minutes (range: 40'-300') and the total time for the whole procedure was 216 minutes (range: 80'-410'). The mean follow up is 34.2 months. According the functional score of Karlström and Olerud, 23 patients were rated as excellent, 38 as good, 35 as fair and 20 as bad. The contributing factors influencing bad functional outcome are the age, a type II lesion, a femoral fracture located at the distal third, and an open fracture. The IM using a single knee incision does not show in this series better results but the shortening of the operating time was highly significant.

The goal when treating shaft fractures of the forearm bones is to obtain good bone healing with good preservation of upper limb function. We report a retrospective (1995-2004) consecutive series of patients aged 32 years on average (range 16 to 92 years) who presented 46 shaft fractures of both forearm bones.Using Hackethal's classification by sixths, the fracture involved the 3rd and 4th sixth in 39 cases (84.7%) for the radius and 33 (71.7%) for the ulna. Seventeen (37%) patients were trauma victims with multiple injuries. Fourteen fractures (30.4%) were open and all fractures were treated: 11 stage I (23.9%), two stage II (4.3%) and one stage III (2.3%). Intramedullary pinning was used in all cases for the radius and the ulna. In 27 patients (58.6%) pinning was achieved without open access to the focus. Pin diameter was 2.5mm for 38 cases (82.6%). Self-controlled rehabilitation exercises were started immediately without complementary immobilization. Outcome was assessed in 41 patients with a mean follow-up of 18 months (range three months to seven years).Functional outcome, according to Tscherne and Oestern, was very good or good in 31 cases (75.5%). For 35 cases (85.4%) bone healing was achieved at mean 3.5 months for the radius and four months for the ulna. Retarded healing was noted in four cases (9.7%) for the ulna. For the 41 patients reviewed, 11 (26.8%) presented axial misalignment of one of the forearm bones with an angle strictly greater than 10 degrees for three. There were six patients with nonunion (14.6%), of both bones in two and one in four. Radioulnar synostosis was observed in four cases (9.7%). No infections or recurrent fractures were noted.The localization of the fracture line affected the outcome. Among the four cases with a fracture in the 5th sixth of the radius, two developed misalignment with an angle strictly greater than 10 degrees and one presented a secondary displacement which required revision on day 15 for plate-screw fixation of the radius. This might be due to the spreading corticals of the distal radius where pin stabilization would be less effective than for fractures in the 3rd or 4th sixths where the corticals run parallel. Outcome was less satisfactory when the fracture focus was opened. Four of the six nonunions and three of the four synostoses occurred among the 19 patients who had open pinning. This might be due to loss of the fracture hematoma. Analysis of the type of fixation has shown that our best results were obtained when we used a single 2.5 mm elastic pin. For the cases where we used a smaller pin (2 mm), we had three major misaligments, one nonunion involving both bones and one recurrent dislocation of the radial head. There were no infections or recurrent fractures in this series where the pin was removed in 27 patients (65.6%) at mean one year.Intramedullary pinning is an attractive alternative for the treatment of shaft fractures involving both forearm bones in adults. Best results are obtained if the fracture (situated outside the 5th sixth) can be stabilized without opening the focus with a single 2.5 mm pin. This method combines the advantages of closed osteosynthesis, that is, a simple nontraumatic procedure decreasing the risk of suppuration, and early return of function, limiting postoperative immobilization. It enables early sturdy bone healing with a low risk of recurrent fracture.

Traumatic injuries of the hip, mostly fractures of the proximal femur, are in constant progression. Though morbidity has decreased due to improved surgical and anesthesiologic techniques and postsurgical rehabilitation, mortality from hip fractures remains significant. Radiographs of the hip remain helpful, but MDCT and MRI have become indispensable tools. Findings on imaging studies must be well characterized to ensure rapid and cost-effective management. Difficult or cases with imaging features that are difficult to interpret or misleading will be presented to avoid incorrect interpretations that could lead to inadequate management of patients.

We report a case of a dorsal coronal fracture of the hamate associated with an unstable hematometacarpal dislocation in a 15 year old patient. An accurate assessment was done only after a 3D-CT was performed. Open reduction and intramedullary fixation yielded a very good result.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability in compression of a new implant for fractures of the distal radius. Of all the displacements found with this fracture, shortening is the one most difficult to maintain by osteosynthesis. We tested the properties of a central-medullary steel nail 9 cm length, of diameter 5 mm, curvilinear, introduced at the radial styloid, combining proximal unicortical and distal bicortical locking. The biomechanical laboratory tests were carried out on 10 human radii taken from 5 male anatomical subjects of ages ranging from 48 to 88 years. A wedge-shaped defect in the metaphyseal zone was created to reproduce posterior shortening in these Pouteau-Colles' fractures. The same anatomical subject received the two types of osteosynthesis: an intramedullary nail and a styloid pinning. The force-displacement curves showed that intramedullary osteosynthesis with this interlocking nail is an assembly three times more resistant to compression than bi-styloid pinning. Stabilization of this fracture in porotic bone has to rely on distal screw purchase in the subchondral bone, which seems to us to be the only element able to resist compressive forces. This new implant should make it possible to restore and preserve the length of the radius whilst maintaining reduction in all three dimensions. Given its good biomechanical results, this nail constitutes a viable possibility for minimally invasive internal fixation of these fractures and warrants a clinical trial.

Pluridisciplinary management of patients with metastasis to the femur is well defined, but the choice between palliative surgery or abstention must be decided on the basis of a few evaluated prognostic criteria. We report a series of 24 cases of metastasis to the weakened or fractured femur which was evaluated with the Tokuhashi score and treated by surgery.Sixteen women and eight men, mean age 71 years (58-89) underwent centromedullary nailing of the femur. These patients had metastases from breast cancer (n = 13 of the 16 women). Twenty of the 24 patients also had other metastases. The Tokuhasi score was6 in 16/24 patients. Fourteen patients had pain which did not respond to morphine. Thirteen had fractures and eleven weakened femurs. Time to surgery was six days (1-15). A full nail was inserted in four patients and a reconstruction nail in twenty.Operative time was 93 minutes (57-123). Blood loss was 200 ml (150-350). There were no intraoperative complications (fat embolism) excepting increased comminution. Hospital stay was 23 days (8-55). Survival was 148 days (8-510) for patients with fractures and 272 days (12-730) for patients with weakened femurs. Eight patients with a fractured femur died (six within the first three postoperative weeks), two among those with preventive nailing. On average, weight bearing among the surviving patients with nailing for fracture was achieved on the 57th postoperative day (30-90). Only six patients required morphine early after surgery. Centromedullary nailing successfully relieved pain in all patients with an isolated metastasis. Mean survival in patients with a Tokuhashi score3 was 2.1 months. It was 17 months in those whose score was6.Centromedullary nailing for fractured or weakened femur due to metastasis is a useful therapeutic solution for patients with short life expectancy. With this technique, antalgesics can be reduced while preserving independence as long as possible. The Tokuhashi score is easy to establish. If it is less than 3, centromedullary nailing should not be attempted due to the short expected survival.

The objective of this study was to compare the dynamic hip screw (Synthes) and intramedullary fixation (Targon PF, Aesculap) for the treatment of pertrochanteric fractures in terms of stability, complications and cost effectiveness.This prospective randomized study included 60 patients hospitalized in an emergency setting for pertrochanteric fractures between December 2003 and June 2004. All surgeons in our unit participated in the study. Two fixation systems were used: the Targon proximal femoral nail (Aesculap) and the screw-plate dynamic hip screw (Synthes). We noted: patient status (ASA classification), operative data (type of implant, duration), postoperative data (blood loss, radiographic findings, early complications), and outcome (Harris score, time to walking, mortality). All patients were assessed three months after surgery. The series included 60 patients, 14 men (23%) and 46 women (77%). The Targon PF nail was used for 34 patients and the DHS for 26. In the intramedullary fixation group mean age was 81 years (SD = 12.8, range 23-96); it was 82 years (SD 9.8, range 47-97) in the screw-plate group. The AO classification was: intramedullary fixation 31A1 (n = 11), 31A2 (n = 20), 31A3 (n = 3); screw-plate 31A1 (n = 14), 31A2 (n = 11), 31A3 (n = 1). Thirty-one fractures were stable, 29 unstable. Unstable fractures were treated with the Targon PF nail (n = 18) and the DHS screw-plate (n = 11). Stable fractures were treated with the Targon PF nail (n = 15) and the DHS screw-plate (n = 15).Mean operative time was 35 minutes for intramedullary nailing and 42 mintues for screw-plate fixation. Mean blood loss was 410 ml for intramedullary nailing and 325 ml for screw-plate fixation (p = 0.07). Mean hospital stay was the same (11 days) in both groups. At three months, mechanical complications involved migration of the cervical screw outside the femoral head for three Targon PF fixations and for two DHS fixations. Screw migration was favored by fracture instability and presence of osteoporosis. There were two deaths in the intramedullary nailing group and one in the screw-plate group. Time to walking was 20 days on average in the intramedullary nailing group and 25 days in the screw-plate group. The mean Harris hip score was 60 in the intramedullary group and 59 in the screw-plate group.Data in the literature report an advantage for intramedullary nailing, particularly a mechanical advantage, for the treatment of pertrochanteric fractures. Our findings show that good results are obtained with the screw-plate fixation using the DHS with less blood loss and at a lower cost.

Many methods have been proposed for treatment of displaced humeral shaft fractures in adults. This study was designed to evaluate the anatomical and functional results of patients treated by retrograde intramedullary nailing through the lateral condyle.Sixty-three fresh traumatic fractures of the humerus were treated between January 2000 and January 2003. Five patients were lost to follow-up. The AO classification and the Hackethal classification modified by De La Caffinière were used. Outcome was assessed according to the modified Stewart and Hundey classification.We had 23 very good results, 26 good results, five passable results and four bad results. The bad results were three cases of non-union and one case with poor function (stiffness of elbow and shoulder). Mean delay to union was ten weeks four days. There were no cases of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy or pin migration.Retrograde intramedullary nailing is a reliable method, easy to perform and of low economic cost. We propose it for all types of displaced shaft humeral fractures.

Elastic sliding centromedullary nailing (ESCN) proposed by Métaizeau in 1987 for the prevention and treatment of limb fractures in osteogenesis imperfecta has never been evaluated. A multicentric serie was studied in order to evaluate results of these procedure.Thirty-six ESCN procedures were performed in fourteen patients. Percutaneous pinning was used for the femur and distal tibia and arthrotomy for the distal femur as needed and in all cases for the proximal tibia. The pins were bent in compliance with the principles of the ESCN system. The ends of the pins were bent back to form a U pushed into the epiphysis. Reaxing osteotomies required minimal incisions. Age at the first procedure, the number of procedures and complications, and time between procedures were recorded. Pin overlap and the angle formed were also recorded. Pin gliding was evaluated. Ability to walk with or without assistance was noted.The medullary canal measured 4 to 10 mm. The first procedure was performed at a mean age of four years (range 15 days to 10 years). Follow-up was eight years (range 1-12). There were 2.5 procedures per patient (range 1-5). Pins had to be changed in 75% of the bone segments. Mean time between two procedures was 3.2 years. There were no cases of defective sliding or infection. There were four cases of secondary fracture with a mean 30% pin overlap, two pin migrations, one nonunion, and one shortening. The majority of the complications occurred after the age of five years. At last follow-up, three patients could not walk, four walked with aids, and eight without aids.The advantages of the technique (size of the pins, nailing without reaming, pin sliding in all cases, low cost) must not overshadow the drawbacks (risk of pin deformation and migration, secondary fracture). Secondary fractures might be limited by discrete valgus of the femoral shaft and preventive pin change when the angle formed approaches 30 degrees and when there is only 30% overlap left. Use of telescopic nails before the age of five years increases the risk of complications while most of the complications observed with ESCN occur after the age of five years. Twenty-five percent of the ESCN complications involved only the femur. The percent of secondary fractures was less than with telescopic nailing (3.6% versus 11%) but there were more cases of nail migration. All pins slid, compared with 6% failure of elongation with telescopic nails. Although proof is not available, surgical treatment of osteogenesis imperfecta before the age of five years appears to provide more rapid functional progress.Sliding centromedulary nailing is an attractive alternative before the age of five years. In older children and to the end of growth, telescopic nail or pinning should be discussed although pinning may permit more secondary fractures which can be limited by rigorous surveillance of pin position.

A 24-year-old patient with homozygous sickle cell disease developed a stress fracture of the femur. Successive x-rays demonstrated defective ossification and a spontaneous unicortical fracture with no notion of trauma or stressful activities (e.g. sports) followed six months later by a bicortical fracture with displacement and periosteal reaction leading to the diagnosis of stress fracture. This type of fracture has not been reported previously in sickle cell disease. The patient was treated with centromedullary nailing. The follow-up was uneventful. Bone healing was achieved at three months. The patient was pain free and could walk without crutches. Stress fracture is a potential diagnosis in homozygous sickle cell disease patients with defective ossification who present spontaneous pain even when plain x-rays do not visualize an overt fracture. Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging should be performed when available. Conventional treatment with nailing provides successful cure with good functional outcome.

The well leg compartment Syndrome following long procedures in the dorsal lithotomy or hemi-lithotomy position is a rare complication. Its diagnosis is usually late and the neurological deficit are often permanent. We report two cases of femoral nailing complicated by Compartment Syndrome of the contralateral leg. We review the published literature on 40 cases which suggests a clear relationship between these positions, the duration of the intervention and the degree of leg elevation. Given the potentially severe sequel, prevention is a must and a high degree of suspicion is the key to an early diagnosis. A modified hemi-lithotomy position is proposed. That avoids extreme elevation of the leg and diminishes the hip and knee flexion required while allowing adequate fluoroscopy.

The authors report a case of bilateral fracture of the thigh bone that occurred in a 22 year old man with multiple exostosis. Clinical deformities, radiology and histology confirmed the diagnosis. Traumatic fractures were caused by a road accident. The treatment, because of deformities, consisted of an open fire synthesis of the both thigh bones with Küntscher's nails. The post-operative evolution was marked by rapid healing of fractures. The scarcity of this genetic affection and the symmetrical lesions have lead the authors to conduct a literature review.

Little work has been devoted to femoral shaft fractures in the elderly, contrasting with the data available for proximal neck or trochanteric fractures. The purpose of this study was to determine the epidemiological and clinical features of femoral shaft fractures in the elderly from a retrospective series of 58 patients who underwent locked intramedullary nailing procedures with Grosse and Kempf (GK) or long gamma (GL) nails.The series included 38 women and 20 men, mean age 83.6 years, who suffered a fracture of the femoral diaphysis due to a fall at home (49 fractures), a traffic accident (8 fractures) or a high-energy fall (1 fracture). Prior to the fracture, 10 patients had homolateral osteoarthritis and two had a contralateral hip arthroplasty. Twenty-six patients were in very good health, 19 had a history of cardiovascular disease, 9 had diabetes and 12 suffered parkinsonian syndromes or dementia. The ASA score was I in 24, II in 23 and III in 11. The diaphyseal fracture was isolated in 31 cases and associated with trochanteric involvement in 27. The upper third of the femur was involved in 37 cases, the middle third in 7 and the lower third in 14. Generally there was a simple spiroid subtrochanteric fracture line (36 cases), or a torsion wedge with or without a proximal extension. Mean delay to surgery was 1.9 days. Subtrochanteric fractures with a proximal line were stabilized with a GL (34 nails) and diaphyseal fractures with a GK (24 nails). Mean duration of the procedure was 1.9 for GL and 2 hours for GK. In 22 cases (17 GL and 5 GK), a minimally invasive access was needed to achieve reduction or stabilization during reaming and insertion of complementary fixation (3 screw fixations, 7 cerclages).Six patients died before six months, 4 during the initial hospitalization. Twenty patients experienced general complications: 7 cases of phlebitis and 5 "end-of-life" syndromes. Infection occurred in 3 cases including one septic arthritis leading to a bedridden situation. A new fracture beyond the ends of the implant occurred in 2 others. The upright position was achieved within 31 days and total weight bearing within 69 days. Bone fusion was achieved at 4 months (mean). Six patients died between 6 and 12 months, giving a 20.6% mortality at 1 year. Clinical outcome at 12 months was available for 42 living patients: 21 were walking without assistance, 7 used a cane, 8 required crutches or another assistance device and 6 were bedridden.The general and functional prognosis of femoral shaft fractures in the elderly is the same as for proximal fractures. These diaphyseal fractures can be individualized due to their characteristic mechanical and anatomic features: composite fracture with a rotation element involving the distal portion of the trochanter and the proximal quarter of the diaphysis. Several types of ostheosynthesis have been proposed for fixation. Locked intramedullary nailing has been found to be effective despite the difficulty in reduction, especially for particularly proximal fractures. There is a risk of iterative fracture in the transition zones between the femoral component and the osteoporotic bone.

We assessed outcome after intramedullary interlocking nailing for humeral fractures to identify problems and indications in comparison with reports in the literature.We implanted the Russel and Taylor nail to treat 38 fresh humeral shaft non-pathological fractures using 33 anterograde insertions and 5 retrograde insertions.All patients were examined at a mean follow-up of 16.3 months. Problems and complications involved 3 open procedure conversion, 3 peroperative re-fractures, 2 locking errors, 2 secondary dismantelings, 2 regressive iatrogenic palsies, and 4 cases of pain due to protruding material. First intention bone healing was achieved in 34 cases and following a revision procedure in 2. Two cases of nonunion were not reoperated. The Neer and Constant scores, used to assess functional outcome, identified 5 non-satisfactory results.The risk of infection with locking nails is low, as is the risk of nervous complications which are generally related to traction manoeuvres during reduction. Bone healing is easily achieved if the assembly is perfectly stable. The risk of disassembly or nonunion is related to technical errors: defective locking, insufficient hold in the bone fragments. The risk of stiffness or rotator cuff tears is low, generally related to protrusion of the material and not to insertion through the cuff muscles. Retrograde insertion can be recommended for fractures of the distal third of the humeral shaft.Insertion of the Russel and Taylor intramedullary locking nail requires a learning curve to minimize the risk of iatrogenic complications. It can be proposed for fractures of the mid-third of the humeral shaft and can be discussed for the proximal and distal thirds if perfect stability can be obtained on the short bony fragment.

To compare clinical and radiological results in per- and subtrochanteric fractures' management with 90 degrees blade plate or Gamma nail fixation; an implant allowing early weight-bearing and fracture healing in correct position remains still difficult.Between 1993 and 1995, 26 patients addressed to our Center for a Kyle IV [1] fracture were divided into 2 groups, one fixed with blade plate and the other with Gamma nail. The follow-up for all patients is 12 months.Gamma nail allows early weight-bearing in all patients, fracture healing is acquired at 4.2 months; an operative diaphyseal fracture needed conversion to a long Gamma nail. We observed a slight cut-out that didn't need reoperation. In the blade plate group, we noticed three femoral head necrosis without major flattening, two non-unions, one plate's breakage and two malunions; fracture healing is acquired at 6.3 months. The two non-unions and the plate's breakage didn't need reoperation because of low functional demand.We prefer Gamma nail in per- and subtrochanteric femoral fractures' management, it allows early and fast weight-bearing and fracture healing is acquired in all cases.

A clinical trial on the treatment of humeral shaft nonunions with locked nailing evidenced 5 failures among 13 cases. The circumstances leading to the nonunion, the patient's condition, and the nailing method were not found to have a predominant effect explaining this outcome. Inversely, clinical data suggested that abnormal mobility of the nonunion appeared to result from play in the assembly. To check this hypothesis, we measured primary stability in three nailing models using cadaver bones.Three nailing models, Seidel (S), Russel-Taylor (RT) and ACE were tested, each on 5 cadaver specimens. A 1 cm segmental resection was made in the mid third of the humerus to simulate an unstable nonunion. The nailing was performed in accordance with the instructions furnished by the manufacturers. The nailed specimens were placed in a testing device which alternatively applied a rotation force around the longitudinal axis (+/- 0.5 Nm), an axial compression-traction force (+/- 20 N) and a transverse shear force applied at the level of the osteotomy (+/- 20 N).This study demonstrated an instability of the three nails when submitted to a rotation force or a shear force: 14 to 28 degrees and 1.6 to 3.4 mm respectively for the RT nail; 8 to 20 degrees and 1 to 3 mm for the S nail; 5 to 15 degrees and 1.7 to 3.2 mm for the ACE nail. The ACE nail appeared to be more stable when submitted to compression-traction force; the S nail accepted a 0.05 to 0.65 mm play which reached 9.7 mm for the RT nail. This instability appeared to result from play in the locking systems.These findings would demonstrate that these nailing systems cannot, in themselves, provide satisfactory primary stability. The experimentally evidenced instability would contribute, probably in association with locally unfavorable physiological or biological conditions, to the failure rate observed when nailing is used alone.The locking system for tested nails would have to be modified to eliminate play in the assembly before continuing their use for the treatment nonunion of the humeral shaft.

The aim of this work was to assess results after treatment by nailing of nonunion of the humeral shaft. In particular, we focused on consolidation and factors predictive of failure.A prospective study was conducted in 13 consecutive patients presenting aseptic nonunion of the humeral diaphysis. There were five cases after orthopedic treatment and eight cases after internal fixation. Two patients had iterative nonunions. Locked nailing was performed with three successive types of nails: the Seidel nail in four cases, the Russel Taylor nail in seven, and the ACE nail in two. Anterograde nailing was used for the first three cases and retrograde nailing for the others. All patients were followed regularly in our department. Last follow-up was one to seven years after nailing.Five nonunions (38%) did not consolidate after locked nailing. Consolidation was achieved in the other patients after four to 18 months. The anatomic result was good in these patients. Between the success and failure groups, there was no significant difference in age, gender, type of fracture, first intention treatment, delay from fracture to nailing, type or diameter of the nail, surgical access or not to the fracture site during nailing, or duration of complementary fixation. Anterograde nail insertion, used in our first three patients in this series, appeared to affect shoulder function. The retrograde route was used in other patients and did not appear to have any impact on the elbow itself or the elbow region.This clinical study was unable to identify clinical factors explaining failures but did provide several arguments suggesting that defective primary stability of the initial fixation could be incriminated in the failures.Centromedullary locked nailing is a simple technique with potential for resolving difficult problems of nonunion. Good functional outcome can be obtained when consolidation is achieved. Rather than abandoning this technique, it would be advisable to conduct further research to determine what factors are determinant in its failures.

A retrospective series of 40 patients who underwent simultaneous intramedullary nailings for bilateral femoral shaft fractures was analyzed. The aim of our study was to verify that simultaneous nailing without reaming does not increased risk of fat embolism and to assess clinical and radiological outcome.This series included 27 men and 13 women, mean age 27.8 years, who underwent first intention intramedullary nailing between 1986 and February 1999. Thirty-two patients had multiple fractures. Mean ISS was 23 (range 9 to 59). Among the 80 femoral shaft fractures, 15 were open fractures, 3 were associated with sciatic paralysis, and 4 were complicated by an interruption of the femoral vessels. The AO classification was: type A=44; type B=25; type C=11. Mean delay to simultaneous centromedullary nailing was 3. 8 days: surgery was performed on the day of arrival for 25 patients. General anesthesia was used in all cases with respiratory assistance (FIO(2) =50 to 100 p. 100). Mean nail diameter was 11.6 (range 10-14). Gurd criteria and PaO(2) were followed to assess pulmonary function. Clinical and radiological outcome was assessed using the modified Thorensen criteria.Preoperatively, PaO(2) was87 mmHg in 8 patients. Four of these patients showed a discrete drop off and three improved well above the normal level. Only one patient experienced an important decrease but did not develop respiratory distress. Among the 32 patients with a normal level preoperatively, PaO(2) remained in the normal range in 18, fell to a limit level but below 87 mmHg in 4, and showed a substantial drop off of 46 to 172 mmHg in 10. Two of these 10 patients developed respiratory distress due to fat embolism which was fatal in one case. One other patient died in the immediate postoperative period of an undetermined cause. All of the other patients recovered normal gas levels within a few hours or days. There were four cases of phlebitis, including one with pulmonary embolism, one case of respiratory distress by pulmonary superinfection, and one case of septicemia. Both femoral fracture sites became infected in one patient. Malunion occurred in two cases. Two vascular repairs of the femoropopliteal axis were unsuccessful, leading to above knee amputations. Thirty-four patients have been examined after a minimal 12 months follow-up (mean 30 months). Outcome was excellent for 48 femurs, good for 10 and fair for 10.This continuous series of simultaneous bilateral femoral shaft intramedullary nailings appears to be the only such report to date. The clinical and radiological outcomes were comparable with those achieved in one-side femoral fractures. The risk of fat embolism is inevitable after long bone fractures. Many factors favoring the risk are recognized, the most important being delay to fixation. Reaming creates excessive pressure in the medullary canal and could thus contribute to the risk. The presence of an associated chest trauma is not a formal contraindication if effective hematosis is preserved as evidenced by the blood gases.Simultaneous nailing of bilateral femoral shaft fractures can be performed if blood gases remain acceptable and minimal reaming is used.

The authors report some general considerations concerning the bony anatomy and the bone blood flow. They describe the vascularization of the long bones involving arteries, veins, capillaries and lymphatic vessels. The double systemic and local control of the bone blood flow is evaluated. The local factors are numerous: autoregulation, nervous regulation as well as humoral, metabolic and cellular factors. Some surgical deductions are then discussed concerning osteosynthesis procedures and biomechanical properties of vascularized bone grafts.

In 1949 Leslie Rush described a new method of management of Colles' fractures by means of a rigid medullary nail. Claude Py in 1969 followed this concept but used two flexible intramedullary pins. After briefly recalling the biomechanical principle and operating technique, the authors outline their series of 39 extra- and intra-articular fractures (10 males and 29 females) operated between March 1995 and April 1996 with an average follow-up of 6.5 months (1.5-14.5 months). The radiological and functional results are discussed: 55% of the cases showed good anatomical reduction whereas 59% achieved a satisfactory functional result. The advantage of this operating technique lies in its simplicity. Nevertheless, considerable experience is necessary owing to the relatively high complication rate (secondary displacement, tendon or nerve lesions, reflex sympathetic dystrophy). However, this method requires only a limited amount of time and remains a good indication for extra-articular and simple articular fractures. In the case of severe posterior comminution, the use of cancellous bone graft can help to prevent secondary dorsal impaction and its repercussion on distal radio-ulnar function.

Between 1995 and 1997 we implanted 45 Marchetti nails. These nails were implanted for traumatic fractures in 39 patients, but also for pathologic fractures in 5 patients. Among these 39 patients, 7 were lost of view, the average age was 60 years. Among these 39 patients, 4 have got an other treatment before which failed. 10 fractures were placed D1, 8 fractures placed D2, 5 fractures placed D3, 16 fractures placed D4 according to the classification of Hackethal modified by De la Caffinière. The fracture type was classified according to A. O. classification: 7 A1, 11 A2, 7 A3, 2 B1, 6 B2, 1 B3, 4 C1, 1 C2. Among the 32 patients reviewed with an average of follow-up of 11 months, we have observed 5 very good results, 14 good results, 6 passable results and 3 bad results (classification of Stewart and Hundley). The average length of consolidation was 3 months. At follow-up the average elbow mobility was 129 degrees. Among the 3 bad results, there were 2 pseudarthrosis, in D4 zone. We have got 3 supracondylar fractures during the removal of the nail and 2 impactions of the metaphysis fracture. 5 patients had a nailing for pathologic fractures, one of them bilateral (4 women and one man, average age 65 years). Only two patients were reviewed, the fracture healed without any difference with the traumatic group. Contrary to other nailing, this materiel respects the rotator cuff. The global functional result was good.

The main difficulties encountered in the orthopedic treatment of leg fractures with intact fibula are reduction of the tibial and an unusually high rate of varus unions and non-unions. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the outcome after reamed nailing of tibial fractures with an intact fibula.Between 1986 and 1997, 38 fractures of the tibia with an intact fibula were treated by first intention centromedullar nailing. There were 28 men and 10 women, mean age 28 years, with a single fracture in 25 cases. There were 25 motor vehicle accidents (17 two-wheel, 8 four-wheel), 5 sports accidents, 2 home falls, and 6 others. Fracture of the tibial diaphysis was associated with a homolateral femoral fracture in 7 cases, 7 fractures were open (7 type 1, 2 type 2, 1 type 3), 7 fractures were associated with abrasive skin lesions. Using the AO classification, the tibial fracture was type A in 26 cases, type B in 11, and type C in 1. The fracture was in the middle third of the tibia in 21 cases, the distal third in 15 and in the proximal third. Grosse and Kempf nails were used exclusively. Static nailing was used in 27 cases, dynamic nailing in 8, and the nail was not locked in 3 cases. Nails of diameter 9 to 13 were implanted after reaming 1 mm more.The fracture gap increased during the reaming in 5 patients; 2 patients had to undergo a secondary aponeurectomy due to a postoperative compartment syndrome and had no further sequela. Consolidation was achieved after the first intention treatment in 30 patients, after dynamization in 6. A non-union in 2 patients was also successfully managed with new nailing and dynamization. Delay to consolidation was a mean 175 days (range 60 - 480). Transverse fractures consolidated more rapidly (mean 122 days). At last follow-up (minimum 1 year), active knee and ankle mobility were normal in all patients. Nineteen patients complained of pain at the site of the nail insertion, evaluated at 1 on a 10-point analogie scale by 10 of them and at 2 by the 9 others. Eight out of 10 patients felt cure had been achieved 5 months postoperatively.These rapidly obtained clinical results and the relatively low rate of non-union (5 p. 100) should be attributed to the reamed nailing technique. We discuss the frequency of tibial fractures with intact fibula and the underlying circumstances. The lack of patent fibular fracture does not signify the fibula is intact. Trauma-induced tibio-fibular dislocation (1 case in our series) can occur. A review of the literature emphasizes the frequency of non unions and misalignment after orthopedic treatment. The most widely used surgical technique is reamed nailing. This technique has the inconvenience of possible pain at the insertion site which usually disappears after ablation of the nail and also a compartment syndrome where reaming is a possible aggravating factor.Nailing is a reliable technique for the treatment of tibial fractures with an intact fibula. Weight bearing should be encouraged as early as possible. The indication for a locked nail depends on the anatomic type of the tibial fracture and its localization. Immediate weight bearing should be recommended. Strict surveillance allows dynamization with fibulotomy in case of late consolidation. Prospective randomized studies comparing nailing with other therapeutic methods are needed to confirm these data.

To suggest a mechanically satisfying method to stabilize the unfrequent distal diaphyso-metaphyseal fractures of the radius, when they are anteriorly displaced, avoiding the classical use of an anterior osteosynthesis by plate and screws.Ten cases of postero medial Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing are presented. Technically, a small postero medial approach with gentle retraction of extensors tendons is used. Then a hole is drilled through the postero medial metaphysis of the distal radius. A present wire is introduced intramedullary, directing its elastic forces in a postero lateral way, fighting against the displacement.The instability of this fracture often requires an osteosynthesis. Plating needs a larger incision and a direct control of the fracture (danger of injure of the growth plate, scar). Retrograd nailing through the proximal end of the bone can injure nerves. Then, postero medial Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing can be useful for stabilization of the diaphysometaphyseal fractures of the radius.

Three fractures of the femoral neck after intramedullary nailing for diaphyseal fracture are reported. In two cases, the diagnosis was established after nailing but the iatrogenic etiology may be not sure because of an imperfect primary radiological exploration. The localisation of the entry point and the rigidity of Grosse-Kempf's nail could be a contributing factor of this exceptional complication.

The Seidel intramedullary locking nail is one of the alternative methods for operative treatment of humeral shaft fractures. Short follow-up demonstrated persistent pain and stiffness at the shoulder joint. The aims of this retrospective study were first to evaluate results with attention to operative technique, consolidation rate and postoperative complications. Second we studied rotator cuff healing in our first patients.Twenty-five acute diaphyseal fractures were treated between May 91 and Dec 94. We reviewed personally 23 patients with a mean follow-up of 33 months (range 22-66). The dominant fracture type according to AO was type A. Clinical shoulder assessment was carried out using the Constant score. Isometric strength was recorded in both shoulders with a hand-held dynamometer in abduction, external and internal rotation. Sonographic evaluation of the rotator cuff was performed using a 7.5 MHz linear array transducer in all 23 patients.All but one fracture healed at an average of two months. Impingement was observed in three patients but pain relief and normal shoulder motion have been reached after nail removal. Infection occurred in one patient but final result was good. Constant score averaged 78.7 (range 51-94.2) classifying the result in all but two patients as excellent or good. Compared with the external and internal rotations, strength was significantly reduced in abduction but reached 83.5 per cent of the opposite shoulder. No statistical differences were found in relation with age, gender and side. Compared with the contralateral shoulder, rotator cuff evaluation with sonography was considered as normal in 18 patients. Calcium deposits of the cuff were noticed in the infected patient. In three cases sonography detected hyperechoic line considered as scar in the supraspinatus tendon without any partial or full-thickness tear.A median starting point avoids the avascular area and gives a straight access to the medullary canal. This study demonstrates that using this entry portal and a reliable technique antegrade nailing of the humerus does not compromise rotator cuff healing and shoulder function. Technical errors lead to poor or fair results but despite this learning curve, Seidel nail when operative treatment is indicated, is a good choice. Attention must be paid to patients with clinical history of impingement or rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Over a 7 years period (from September 1989 to April 1996), 25 patients have been treated for proximal humeral fractures using Kapandji's method of internal fixation. Twenty-one were available for evaluation. The mean follow-up was 3 years 9 months. Various indications were found, with a majority of 2 and 3-part fractures. Complications were frequent, the most common being pin migration, but the functional results following Constant scores are very good. The technique is easy, quick, non- invasive and inexpensive. The approach is direct and avoids opening the elbow joint.

This study was designed to evaluate the complication rate of a novel intramedullary pinning technique described in 1988. After 10 years of clinical experience, it was possible to establish a significant difference in terms of healing delay compared with other fixation methods or conservative treatment.During a 10-year period, a total of 82 fractures, mostly isolated, unstable fractures, were treated. Retrograde intramedullary pinning (RIMP) was used for proximal and midshaft fractures and antegrade pinning (AIMP) for distal fractures. Statistical analysis was used to investigate the role of all parameters that may influence healing delay.92.7% of the fractures healed in an average time of 9 weeks. Neither location nor fracture type, nor even an intrefragmental gap had any significant influence on healing delay. There were 7 primary axial deviations of more than 10 degrees in which union was achieved and 6 nonunions. These nonunions were mostly proximal fractures and inappropriate fixation. No radial nerve injury, no infection, and no deterioration of the fracture site was observed. There were 27 pin migrations, mainly towards the shoulder, which dit not affect the final anatomic and functional outcome. Functional result was good in 88% of cases. Four algodystrophy syndromes and 6 nonunions induced stiffness, mainly in the shoulder.Intramedullary pinning using this technique did not induce any severe iatrogenic condition. Healing delay compares favorably with better results of conservative treatment. Improving surgical technique should further minimize disadvantages of this method.Humeral intramedullary pinning technique has a low complication rate. It is a good compromise between conservative treatment and conventional osteosynthesis. It causes little trauma to the patients, allows stabilization of any fracture site, and delay to bone union is similar to that with conservative treatment.

The authors report a study from a series of 113 adults treated by osteosynthesis in a seven year period, for an adult isolated ulnar shaft fracture by osteosynthesis. These patients were divided into two groups: 57 patients treated by open reduction and AO plate fixation (group n(o) 1), and 56 patients operated by percutaneous intramedullary nailing, according to Böhler technique, with a simple Kirschner pin suited into the medullary canal (group n(o) 2).For this ulnar fracture, the proportion of men and women was equal, with an average age of 37 years, predominant on the left limb (61 per cent). The most common cause was direct trauma (71 per cent): Böhler's "parry fracture", followed by traffic accidents (14 per cent), and 6 per cent by falls. We never found, in this series, indirect fractures by fall on the hand palm, and never clinical or radiological objective signs for a suspected lesion of the proximal and distal joints. Both operative procedures are described, with a particular emphasis on the simplicity of the nailing technique. No immobilization, of any kind, was applied, and patients were allowed to start full movements of the wrist and elbow, immediately after surgery.There were no early post operative complications, but great differences in the evolution between both groups. In group n(o) 1, there was a 29.8 per cent complication rate, 47 per cent of this was considered as "major" including osteomyelitis, non union, plate breakage, screw loosening, refractures. Patients in group n(o) 2, suffered only a few "minor" complications. Functional and anatomical results were also better in group 2 with earlier return to work.Isolated fracture of the ulnar shaft in the adult is known as a problematic fracture which needs long time to unite and often ends in non union. If opinion varies between plaster or internal fixation, we have abandoned the conservative treatment for the osteosynthesis. In order to demonstrate that intramedullary nailing technique gives a "sufficient" fixation, the authors pointed out the biomechanical importance of soft tissues structure preservation.Percutaneous intramedullary nailing of isolated ulnar shaft fractures in adult, is a simple and inexpensive technique, which gives predictable bone union, without particular complication and without drawbacks of other internal fixation techniques.

We retrospectively determined by computed tomography torsionnal abnormalities and length discrepancies after diaphyseal tibial and femoral fractures treated by intramedullary nailing.Eighty femoral fractures and 89 tibial fractures were evaluated after healing. All these patients were treated by Grosse-Kempf intramedullary locked nail. AO classification was used: there were 16 type A, 32 type B and 32 type C, femoral fractures. Tibial fractures were 48 type A, 29 type B, and 12 type C. Reaming was systematic, 90 per cent of the nailing were static.We measured comparatively length and torsion of tibias and femurs after bone healing and tried to find statistical correlation between clinical, epidemiological, anatomical factors and CT measurements.For the femur the mean difference in torsion was 9.9 degrees (max. -21 degrees min. +45 degrees) 52.5 per cent had the same measurements in intact and fractured side. For tibias the mean torsionnal value was 6.84 degrees. Seventy three per cent of patients had the same torsion in intact and fractured side. The mean femoral length discrepancy was 6.3 mm (max. -25 mm min. +19 mm) and 4.1 mm (max. -19, min. 20 mm) for the tibia. There were no statistical correlation.Even though there is no clinical sign after torsionnal abnormalities in our patients, hip, knee or ankle arthrosis is possible after nailed shaft fracture. A long term follow-up is necessary. A prospective study will be necessary in order to assess the exact frequency of these malalignements.

We present here the clinical results achieved with locked intramedullary flexible osteosynthesis (LIFO) system in femoral fractures. The two major advantages of the device are its flexibility an ease of use.Over a period of 6 years, 42 patients were treated. Two died and 7 were lost for follow-up, leaving 33 cases available for evaluation. Fourteen cases were specifically analysed for callus morphological characteristics: volume, length and width, and compared to 18 cases from a previous series involving 27 intramedullary unmatched appaired nailings.Results in the 33 patients of this series are: no nonunion, 1 osteomyelitis in an open fracture, 4 malunions (2 primary iatrogenic malunions, 2 secondary cases due to a weak fixation). Fractures united at a mean delay of 10 weeks, that is, 4 weeks less than with a nail. Morphological callus study also showed that the LIFO system generates about 25 per cent longer of peripheral new bone formation than a nail.A LIFO construct with 3 or even 4 pins yields a shorter healing time than a nail. Furthermore, it generates a callus of 25 per cent longer around the fracture. The four pins construct was found to be as dependable as a locked nail, and minimizes inventory. This technique is indicated in the treatment of all common femoral shaft fractures in adults.

A clinical and radiographical study with CT in 30 cases was undertaken in femoral fractures fixed with Russel-Taylor intramedullary nail.In this retrospective study of 57 femoral fractures (mean follow-up 22 months), all fractures were analysed according to the classification of Wiss and Winquist-Hansen-Clawson. Fixation was performed with Russel-Taylor intramedullary mailing. Fifty fractures were classified as unstable due to the type of fracture and for its localization. Analysis of the clinical and radiographical results was performed immediately postoperatively and later by CT (30 cases).Clinical results showed seven cases of hip pain and limited walking capability; twenty with decreased hip mobility; twenty-one with functional impairment of the knee with limited flexion (11 cases) and/or knee sprain (15 cases). Radiographical results showed sixteen cases of leg shortening inferior to 1 cm, three between 1 and 2 cm, and one exceeded 2 cm; nine with varus angulation of 5 degrees, one with valgus angulation of 5 degrees, and seven with external rotation exceeding 10 degrees, five with internal rotation exceeding 10 degrees. Results were determined according to Thorensen's criteria.The use of Russel-Taylor intramedullary nail for the management of complex femoral fractures is discussed. Rotational deformities appeared related to the quality of reduction during surgery. Because of the stiffness of this type of nail, a smaller diameter can be used. Result analysis demonstrates that static nailing should probably be used more frequently in unstable femoral fractures.