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Background: Due to the increase in hip and knee prosthetic as a result of the demographic changes, with raised levels of activity among older persons with geriatric comorbidities, a continuous increase in periprosthetic fractures can be observed., Objective: The incidence and causes of periprosthetic fractures, presentation of diagnostic pathways and derivation of a recommendation according to generally accepted classifications., Material and Method: Literature search of basic scientific work, recommendations of experts as well as evaluation of own patient collective., Conclusion: With a growing number of prosthetic interventions in combination with increasing patient age, an increase in periprosthetic fractures is to be expected. The treatment of periprosthetic fractures is complex and requires detailed analysis of the location of the fracture and its morphology as well as the recognition of possibly loosened prosthetic material. Based on this information, the correct surgical treatment can be determined and scheduled in an appropriate center of care. In geriatric patients with corresponding comorbidities, an individual holistic treatment plan should be developed., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

This case report describes the successful fixation of a periprosthetic patellar fracture in an 89-year-old female patient after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and cemented retropatellar component. Fixation was performed by use of a fixed-angle plate combined with cerclage, under preservation of the firmly fixed retropatellar prosthetic component. No complications were observed postoperatively. Radiologic controls confirmed bone healing. A range of movement of the knee joint of 0/5/110° was achieved by the last clinical examination 5 years postoperatively. The patient was free of pain and had an age-appropriate mobility. The use of fixed-angle plates in the treatment of type II periprosthetic patellar fractures according to Ortiguera and Berry can provide stable fixation while preserving the retropatellar prosthetic component. Additional augmentation by cerclage, tapes or traction screws is recommended in cases of poor bone stock or severe osteoporosis., (© 2021. Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

The incidence of periprosthetic fractures of the proximal femur is increasing due to the growing numbers of hip replacements in old age. The treatment of these fractures is a challenge for the treating physician and standardized procedures are necessary. The unified classification system (UCS) is a suitable tool to establish treatment strategies: On the basis of the fracture localization and extent, bone quality, stability of the prosthesis and the presence of further implants, the fractures can be classified according to the UCS and a treatment algorithm can be derived. This article gives an overview of the diagnostics, classification and characteristics of the various periprosthetic fracture types as well as the treatment.

The incidence of periprosthetic hip fractures is increasing due to the increase in endoprosthetic hip replacements. These fractures require a staged and individual treatment concept with the aim of mobilization of the patient as early as possible. The special challenge in the diagnostics is to identify pre-existing signs of loosening of the prosthesis. When the prosthesis is still firmly fixed femoral fractures can be treated with angular stable osteosynthesis. Loosened stems usually have to be revised, mostly in combination with osteosynthesis. Fractures around the acetabulum with a fixed cup can be treated nonoperatively or with osteosynthesis, while loosened cups have to be revised. In revision surgery the stabilization of the dorsal column is crucial for a successful outcome.

This article presents the case of an 83-year-old woman with a peri-implant femoral fracture after hip arthrodesis in adolescence. Due to the rarity of such operations, there is no standardized approach for these cases. In order to secure the treatment goal of rapid pain-adapted full weight bearing despite reduced bone quality, it was decided to perform a new osteosynthesis with a retrograde femoral nail after removal of some fixation screws of the existing arthrodesis plate. Due to this type of treatment, the preservation of activity and independence of an older trauma patient could be sustainably secured despite operative challenges. Taking an extended osteoporosis treatment into consideration, a bony fracture consolidation and complete convalescence of activity and autonomy were ultimately achieved.

Proximal femoral fractures in old age are known as fragility fractures. They are the sequelae of osteoporosis and an expression of a general reduced capacity and an increase in sensory and functional deficits against the background of multimorbidity. They are often caused by reduced compensation strategies. Simultaneously, for many older people they represent a life event. Despite modern osteosynthesis techniques and less stressful anesthesia procedures, the occurrence of a proximal femoral fracture shakes the labile equilibrium of those affected. Proximal femoral fractures are associated with a high risk of mortality. Only some 50% of those affected achieve the pretraumatic functional level again. Therefore, a comprehensive, multiprofessional and interdisciplinary management of these patients is required. The rehabilitation has to start at the time of diagnosis and at the latest after the operation with a comprehensive interdisciplinary management. Pain and complaints during the rehabilitation have to be clarified and targeted, mostly multimodal interventions, must be included.

There are many cases in the literature that describe atypical femur fractures under antiresorptive therapy. Other localizations of fractures of this genesis, especially if occurring bilaterally, are rare. This case reports about the diagnosis, treatment and process of a 76-year old patient, who within a 4‑month period suffered from bilateral distal tibial shaft fractures, after years of treatment with bisphosphonates, strontium ranelate and denosumab.

Background: In Germany there are 5000 to 7000 new cases of atraumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head in adults per year. It occurs mostly in middle age. An increased frequency of idiopathic cases can be observed. Chemotherapy, corticoids and kidney transplants are frequently associated with the disease. In most cases the disease occurs on both sides. Early diagnosis is of particular importance, since in early stages it is most likely to avoid late damage with joint destruction. Whereas previously the temporary operational joint preservation and subsequent joint replacement were often the only option of treatment, conservative and joint-preserving measures today play an increasing role., Material and Methods: After the AWMF guidelines for S3 guideline clinical questions were formulated. Over the period from 01/01/1970 to 31/05/2013 a literature search was conducted. Systematic reviews, metaanalyses, original papers and clinical trials of all designs were evaluated. There were a total of 3715 references, of which 422 for the assessment regarding SIGN were eligible and finally 180 were in accord with the defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. For the untreated course and the assessment of conservative measures, a total of 42 references was suitable. In formulating the recommendations the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system was used, which distinguishes A "shall", B "should" and 0 "can"., Results and Conclusion: If left untreated, the aFKN within 2 years leads to a subchondral fracture and subsequent collapse. After the diagnosis of femoral head necrosis, the risk of a disease of the opposite side is high within the next 2 years, then unlikely. The sole conservative treatment brings no benefit for the treatment of atraumatic avascular necrosis in the adult. Although it improves function, less pain can be obtained, and surgical intervention can be delayed, the progression is not stopped. Conservative treatment must therefore always be part of the overall treatment. In ARCO stage I to II Iloprost may be considered as a pharmacological approach to reduce the pain and the bone marrow oedema. This also applies to alendronate. Since this is an off-label use, and thus a therapeutic trial, an appropriate patient education must take place. For the use of anticoagulants and statins, there is no recommendation. Also the hyperbaric oxygen therapy, shock waves and pulsating electromagnetic fields or electrical stimulation cannot be recommended., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

The present article describes the guidelines for the surgical treatment of atraumatic avascular necrosis (aFKN). These include joint preserving and joint replacement procedures. As part of the targeted literature, 43 publications were included and evaluated to assess the surgical treatment. According to the GRADE and SIGN criteria level of evidence (LoE), grade of recommendation (EC) and expert consensus (EK) were listed for each statement and question. The analysed studies have shown that up to ARCO stage III, joint-preserving surgery can be performed. A particular joint-preserving surgery currently cannot be recommended as preferred method. The selection of the method depends on the extent of necrosis. Core decompression performed in stage ARCO I (reversible early stage) or stage ARCO II (irreversible early stage) with medial or central necrosis with an area of less than 30 % of the femoral head shows better results than conservative therapy. In ARCO stage III with infraction of the femoral head, the core decompression can be used for a short-term pain relief. For ARCO stage IIIC or stage IV core decompression should not be performed. In these cases, the indication for implantation of a total hip replacement should be checked. Additional therapeutic procedures (e.g., osteotomies) and innovative treatment options (advanced core decompression, autologous bone marrow, bone grafting, etc.) can be discussed in the individual case. In elective hip replacement complications and revision rates have been clearly declining for decades. In the case of an underlying aFKN, however, previous joint-preserving surgery (osteotomies and grafts in particular) can complicate the implantation of a THA significantly. However, the implant life seems to be dependent on the aetiology. Higher revision rates for avascular necrosis are particularly expected in sickle cell disease, Gaucher disease, or kidney transplantation patients. Furthermore, the relatively young age of the patient with avascular necrosis should be seen as the main risk factor for higher revision rate. The results after resurfacing (today with known restricted indications) and cemented as well as cementless THA in aFKN are comparable for the appropriate indication to those in coxarthrosis or other diagnoses. Regardless of the underlying disease endoprosthetic treatment in aFKN leads to good results. Both cemented and cementless fixation techniques can be recommended., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Aim: Treatment of periprosthetic fractures by implantation of a specially constructed, retrograde hollow nail which fits over the tip of the prosthesis and becomes locked on it., Indications: Periprosthetic femoral fractures with firmly anchored prosthesis shaft after total hip arthroplasty of types B1 and C according to the Vancouver classification., Contraindications: Loosened prosthesis (type B2/B3) and trochanteric fractures (type A). Broken or damaged prosthesis, florid inflammation and soft tissue injuries in the operation field, contracted knee joint, advanced deformation in the knee joint and distal femur, enclosed prosthesis and general contraindications., Surgical Technique: In a supine position the periprosthetic fracture is exposed via a lateral access. For cemented prostheses the cement is removed around the tip of the prosthesis (at least 2-3 cm) and medullary cavity. Arthrotomy with flexion of the knee joint and marking of the nail entry point. Drill the medullary cavity, retrograde introduction of the nail, visually fit the nail over the tip of the prosthesis and lock the nail with the prosthesis. If necessary use additional spongiosaplasty or also placement of additional cerclages depending on fracture type and size of the defect zone. Lock the nail distally. Use intraoperative radiological imaging to control correct positioning and length of the nail. Close the wound layer by layer with placement of suction drainage devices and dressing., Postoperative Management: Partial loading for 6 weeks with a subsequent pain-adapted loading gradient until full loading is possible. If selective partial loading is not possible, a decision must be made in individual cases as to whether the intraoperative findings allow immediate full loading., Results: From 2004 to 2011 a total of 25 periprosthetic femoral fractures in 25 patients were treated in 2 locations using specially constructed slotted hollow nails. Within the framework of a retrospective study 20 of these patients (16 female and 4 male; average age 77.2 [72-84] years) were clinically and radiologically re-examined on average 19.3 (7-31) months postoperatively. No postoperative bleeding, wound healing disorders and infections. In all patients there was a loading stable consolidation of the fracture in the correct femoral axis, length and rotation with no evidence for radiological signs of loosening of the prosthesis or dislocation of the nails. In one case there was loosening of the prosthesis which had obviously occurred during the operative procedure. After consolidation of the fracture it was necessary to exchange the prosthesis for a long shafted prosthesis. A comparable situation to the preoperative degree of mobility was found in 12 out of the 20 patients, a moderate deterioration in 5 patients, a substantial residual impairment in 2 patients and an improvement of the situation in 1 patient.

Background: The increasing number of implantations of total knee endoprostheses shows a correlation with an increase in revision operations and periprosthetic fractures., Objective: This article presents strategies for prevention of complications after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of periprosthetic fractures in addition to the classification of periprosthetic fractures of the knee joint., Therapy Strategies: Osteosynthetic treatment is only applicable in some of the cases. Although special periprosthetic, angle locking plates are available for osteosynthesis, treatment of periprosthetic fractures of the knee joint remains a challenge with a high complication rate. If the prosthesis becomes loosened, the prosthesis should be replaced and ORIF should not be performed., Risk Factors: The risk factors for failure of osteosynthesis include the prosthesis model and the associated reduction of residual bone and the mostly osteoporotic bone structures.

An 84-year-old female patient was admitted to our emergency department with a periprosthetic fracture of the left femur with an implanted Avantage prosthesis (Biomet®). Conventional X-ray images revealed besides the fracture a lateralisation of the prosthesis stem. An additional CT scan showed a dissociation of the polyethylene inlay from the head of the prosthesis which took place 3 years ago in the course of a closed reposition of a postoperative luxation. This event shows the relevance of a precise analysis of X-ray images after reposition regarding the exact articulation of the different prosthesis components., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Two case reports demonstrate the consequences of a deficient calcium supply in dogs. The first case describes an adult dog with a history of food allergy. The dog had been fed with an unbalanced elimination diet (no minerals and vitamins supplemented) over many years and was referred with the diagnosis of osteomalacia (rubber jaw) for optimization of his ration. The second case refers to a puppy which was fed a homemade diet without supplementing the missing minerals and vitamins and suffered a femur fracture after moderate physical impact. In both cases, the computer-aided ration calculation showed a suboptimal to severely deficient supply for several minerals and vitamins, in particular calcium whereas serum calcium levels were normal. Both dogs recovered after being fed a complete and balanced diet. In conclusion, a survey of the feeding using ration calculation is essential especially in the case of potential nutrition-related skeletal disorders. Serum calcium levels cannot be used as a tool to diagnose nutritional calcium deficiency.

Non-union is a common and serious complication in orthopaedic surgery with high socioeconomic importance. In addition to conventional methods for the treatment of non-unions bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-7 for the induction of bone tissue is available. The case report demonstrates successful treatment of a septic and atrophic femoral non-union by combination therapy with BMP-7 and autologous spongiosa graft after multiple revision surgeries.

Background: With the increasing number of revision operations after knee replacement a growing incidence of periprosthetic femoral fractures which are difficult to treat is observed., Material and Methods: This retrospective study describes the operating procedure for osteosynthetic treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures using a specially made slotted hollow nail which is engrafted with the purpose of in-situ lengthening of the prosthesis and thus becomes stably clamped. From 1999 to 2008 our patients have included 9 who were treated by this method. There were 5 male and 4 female patients with an average age of 63.4 years (range 47–80 years). Prerequisites for the performance of this operation are stability of the prosthesis and knowledge of the type of prosthesis or exact preoperative planning based on CT measurement of the thickness and length relationships., Results: It was possible to conduct a clinical and radiological follow-up examination of all 9 patients after an average time of 29.1 months (range 10–64 months). In all cases load-bearing stabilization of the fracture was confirmed., Conclusion: In-situ coupling of an endoprosthesis with a slotted hollow nail represents a valuable treatment option for periprosthetic fractures.

Objectives: Retrospective study of the causes, location, configuration, treatment and outcome of long bone fractures in newborn calves., Material and Methods: The medical records of 125 calves presented during a 16-year period because of fracture of the humerus (3 calves), radius/ulna (14), femur (50) or tibia (58) were evaluated. The majority of calves (61.6%) sustained the fractures during assisted delivery. Of 125 calves, 107 were treated and 18 were euthanized because of concurrent diseases. Conservative treatment was used in 16 calves and surgical treatment in 91. Four of the latter were euthanized because of muscle contraction which prevented fracture reduction, and five others died in surgery., Results: Fracture healing occurred after conservative treatment in 10 of 16 calves and after surgical treatment in 44 of 82 calves. The outcome was better in calves with plate and clamp-rod internal fixation (37/58 healed) than with intramedullary pinning (4/16 healed) or external fixation (3/8 healed). There were significant associations (chi2-test, p<0.01) between concurrent diseases and choice of therapy and fracture healing. Of 67 calves that developed complications, only 26 could be cured. Common complications were implant loosening and instability, which were often followed by osteomyelitis and sepsis. Implants were removed in 39 of 44 surgically treated calves that survived up to 6 months postoperatively. Long-term follow up (> 6 months postoperatively) by clinical and radiographic re-examination (25 calves) or telephone inquiry (29 calves) revealed that 54 animals were sound and had returned to their intended use., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: The treatment of long bone fractures in newborn calves remains difficult because of a high incidence of complications. These are most likely attributable to trauma during delivery, which results in insufficient colostrum intake and predisposes to concurrent diseases. In addition, the characteristics of juvenile bones do not provide sufficient physical strength for implants. Therefore, professional and diligent assistance during forced extraction, particularly in presentations with "stifle lock" or "hip lock", is required to minimize the incidence of long bone fractures in newborn calves. Most cases require surgical fixation, which is time consuming, expensive and carries a guarded prognosis.

Improvements in implant design, material combination and operating instruments have led to an increased number of resurfacing arthroplasties of the hip joint especially in younger patients. Therefore, there is generally a higher risk of periprosthetic fractures even with this type of prosthesis. These fractures are divided into mainly iatrogenic fractures of the head/neck part of the femur and trochanteric fractures of the femur caused by trauma. Especially in the second group preservation of the prosthesis is much desired since the patient cohort is often very young and active. We report on a 31-year-old male patient who suffered an intertrochanteric fracture (classification AO 31 A2.1) after resurfacing arthroplasty of the hip joint (McMinn BHR prosthesis). The patient was treated with 3 AO lag screws by the percutaneous technique following closed reduction. During follow-up 22 months after the operation the reduction was preserved and the fracture fully consolidated with a good range of motion of the hip joint. The Harris hip score gave a result of 97 points.

Background: Locked plate devices offer advantages in the treatment of periprosthetic femur fractures associated with fixed total hip or total knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the early results and complications with a locked plate system (NCB-DF(R))., Patients and Methods: A total of 31 patients (mean age 76 years, 7 males, 24 females) with a femur fracture above a fixed total knee arthroplasty (TKA, n=12) or a total hip arthroplasty (THA, n=19) were treated with a locked plate., Results: There were 11 complications necessitating revision: 6 implant failures, 2 in patients with a THA and 4 in patients with a TKA, 4 hematomas and 1 infection and 2 patients died. After 6 months all fractures had healed securely but a secondary correction was necessary in one patient., Conclusion: Fixation of periprosthetic femur fractures with a locked plate system provided satisfactory results in patients with a THA, however, the relatively high implant failure rate in fractures above a stable TKA is a cause for concern.

Hip dislocations and particularly fractures of the femoral head are very rare injuries. Various therapy options are described. So far there has been consensus about the severity of the trauma which has causes this type of injury. This case study presents a type II Pipkin fracture. This specific "accident" was due to low impact trauma, which was previously considered to be insufficient to cause this type of injury. We report on the diagnostic and therapeutic measures and compare this procedure with information from the literature.

Malignant bone tumors and osteitis of the distal femur are common at every age. These conditions must be considered in patients with total knee arthroplasty and suspicious x-rays. A patient with gross polyethylene-wear-induced osteolysis and periprosthetic fracture is described. Neoplasm and infectious granuloma were excluded through biopsy, and the bone defect was bridged with a rotating hinged distal femoral replacement.

This is a case report of a 31-year-old motorcyclist who was admitted to our emergency department with severe multiple injuries and an ISS score of 38 points.There were bone injuries on all 4 extremities, fractures of both proximal femurs, both radii, a great soft tissue injury of the lower limb, stable fractures of the spine and a blunt thoracic injury. A bone fragment compressed femoral vein and artery on the right side with consecutive thrombus in the inferior caval vein and thrombembolism of the central lung artery. The proximal femur fractures were treated initialy with gamma-nails after implanting a cava-filter because of the high-risk constellation for further thrombembolism. Operation was monitored with transesophageal echocardiography.The cava filter could be delivered on 2nd postoperative day without complication. The patient was ventilated for 1 day, stayed on ICU for 9 days and left hospital in a good condition after 28 days. It was the strategic and logistic great achievement of an interdisciplinary trauma center to implant cava filter and decide for intramedullar osteosythesis without delay.

In times of plentiful nutrition an environmental advantage turns into a problem - obesity. Apart from an increase in morbidity and overall mortality the development of osteoarthrosis is well documented. Pre-arthrotic conditions may arise from trauma and can lead, depending on the pattern of injury, to full-blown arthrosis. The presence of obesity can play the role of a relevant progressive factor in this setting. Here we report about the case of an obese man (BMI 53.5 kg/m(2)), who suffered a fracture of the femoral head with acetabular participation (Pipkin IV) as well as a fracture of the tibial plateau. Operative management and rehabilitation were followed by gastric bypass surgery for weight reduction. The case is discussed with regard to the present literature.

Periprosthetic fractures are familiar complications after total hip arthroplasty and have often been reported in the literature. The most frequent localization of such fractures is the middle third of the shaft. In the case described here a minor trauma resulted in a periprosthetic fracture with fracture of the femur and of the femoral component of a Lord prosthesis. A radiograph taken prior to trauma showed an endosteal reaction at the level at which the fracture later occurred. This might have been an indication that the stem of the prosthesis was already broken; had this radiological sign been correctly interpreted, it is possible that the fracture could have been avoided.

We present a 65 year old patient who complained of pain in the right supracondylar femur region after minor trauma. He previously underwent arthrodesis of the knee and had had several operative treatments for a septic hip endoprosthesis on the same side. The MRI showed a fracture of the supracondylar femur, which was successfully treated by partial intra- and extramedullary minimal invasive osteosynthesis.

Objective: Healing of the periprosthetic fracture and area of defective bone by the bone healing mechanisms of intramedullary stabilization. Reconstruction of the correct length, axial alignment, and rotation of the fractured femoral shaft by anchoring a revision stem in the intact femoral diaphysis., Indications: Periprosthetic femoral shaft fracture in the region of the prosthetic stem combined with preexistent loosening and/or defect in the periprosthetic bone bed (Vancouver classification type B2 and B3)., Contraindications: General contraindications, local infection., Surgical Technique: Lateral transmuscular approach to the femoral shaft. Longitudinal osteotomy of the proximal femur taking the geometry of the fracture into account. Opening of an anterior "bone shell". Removal of the loose prosthetic stem and cement. Debridement. Preparation of the femoral diaphysis and insertion of a distally anchored revision stem. Distal locking. Repositioning of the "bone shell", reduction of the fracture, and retention with cerclage wires., Postoperative Management: Bed rest for approximately 1 week, mobilization with 20 kg partial weight bearing for 12 weeks, gradual increase in weight bearing with radiologic checks on progress, removal of the distal locking bolts after 12-24 months at the earliest., Results: 21 patients (13 women, eight men) aged between 43 and 86 years (mean age: 71.2 years) with periprosthetic fracture of the femur, additional loosening of the stem in eight cases (Vancouver B2) and additional bone loss in 13 cases (Vancouver B3). Postoperative complications: two fractures following another fall (repeat operations: one replacement, one plate), four revisions due to subsidence of the stem (three replacements involving change to a standard stem with healed proximal femur, one replacement with another interlocked revision stem). Bone healing occurred for all fractures after a mean 5.6 months (3-11 months). Follow-up examination after a mean 4.5 years: all patients were able to walk, average Harris Score 70.5 points (29-95 points).

Early experiences with the two-incision approach at the hip joint are reported. We started in July 2002 and until now 272 procedures have been performed. Blood loss (292 ml) and the need for rehabilitation are reduced, the patients will achieve a Harris Hip Score of more than 90 points within 6 or 8 weeks. Complications related to the approach primarily include irritation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. During the learning curve when the initial shaft model was used, shaft fractures or fissures occurred in 4% of the cases. This complication was no longer observed with the ML Taper shaft model now employed (n=102). The development and establishment of minimally invasive approaches constitute a valuable and seminal option for implantation of hip endoprostheses. In the medium term, the time spent in rehabilitation could conceivably be reduced. Conventional approaches still represent the gold standard.

Periprosthetic fractures of the femur, tibia and patella are being registered with increasing frequency due to the rising numbers of total knee replacements. Depending on the site of the fracture, apart from mere traumatic mechanisms, implant specific parameters and implant loosening may represent the main causes of periprosthetic fracture. Moreover, general risk factors promote the manifestation of a periprosthetic fracture. Nowadays, valid classifications are available to categorize periprosthetic fractures of the femur, tibia and patella, and to create the basis for specific decision-making in choice of treatment. Despite a wide field of treatment options, the actual functional outcome after therapy and the high rates of complications imply that an adequate analysis of the fracture etiology and the corresponding transfer into an individualized treatment concept offer the chance of functional restoration of the patient similar to the pre-fracture state.

According to the literature, the need for surgical treatment of fractures of the lower extremity in patients with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) is very limited. Conservative management is usually presented as the treatment of choice. We present the results of a retrospective review of 55 fractures in 44 patients from 1996 to 2000 which were managed surgically. Rating of the outcome was based on basic clinical and radiological criteria. The results of the radiological investigation on bone remodeling and bone positioning after healing were rated as good or excellent in 43 and fair in five limbs. In five cases, the treatment failed. For 53 of the 55 fractures, the patients regained their normal level of independence. Comparing our results to those presented in the literature, we clearly had fewer complications as well as better clinical and radiological results. We therefore advocate surgical treatment as an appropriate choice of treatment for lower extremity fractures of patients with chronic SCI.

Fractures in osteoporotic bones or segment defects are problematic bone lesions with a reduced biological capability of regeneration. We tested the hypothesis that cell-mediated ex vivo gene therapy to deliver BMP4 can heal critically sized defects and improve bone healing in osteoporotic rats. Primary muscle-derived cells were isolated from the hindlimb muscle of rats and retrovirally transduced to express bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4). The bone formation was evaluated following local application of these cells in critically sized defects and in fractures of osteoporotic bones. Radiographic analysis revealed bridging callus formation in a critically sized defect in all specimens using muscle-derived cells expressing BMP4 at 12 weeks. These findings were confirmed by histological evaluation, which revealed callus bone formation with good integration to the distal and proximal bone. Following treatment with muscle-derived cells expressing BMP4, the bone healing process in the osteoporotic bone was improved to the level similar to that of normal bone. The ex vivo gene therapy could be a promising tool for the treatment of osteoporotic fractures and critically sized defects. The reduced number of complications (nonunions, loss of reduction, and fragment dislocation), shortening of hospitalization period, and improvement of bone strength are decisive advocates for this treatment option.

The objective of this study was to examine changes in the histomorphometric and mechanical evaluation of the influence of the diabetic metabolic state on defect healing depending on the defect size in spontaneously diabetic BB/O(ttawa)K(arlsburg) rats. Based on blood glucose levels and postoperative insulin requirements, 120 spontaneously diabetic BB/OK rats were divided into groups with well-compensated or poorly compensated metabolic state. Sixty LEW.1A rats served as the normoglycemic controls. Bone defects of different sizes were created proximal to the knee joint space and then allowed to heal for 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Bone defect sizes > or =0.8 mm showed significant differences in the structural calculations and bone defect sizes > or =1.2 mm showed a significant decrease of all fluorochrome-based parameters of mineralization exclusively in the rats with poorly compensated diabetic metabolic state as well as significantly decreased values of biomechanical properties in comparison to the spontaneously diabetic rats with well-compensated metabolic states and to the control rats. Bone repair of minor bone defects is independent of the diabetic metabolic state in the spontaneously diabetic BB/OK rats. With controlled insulin therapy and resultant well-compensated diabetic metabolic state, severe mineralization and biomechanical disorders in healing of larger bone defects in the poorly compensated diabetic metabolic state of the experimental animal can be avoided.

A 29-year old employee (controller in the textile industry) had an occupational accident leading to a femoral fracture. After surgery, he developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) necessitating intensive care treatment. Three weeks after the accident, he developed generalized severe itching on a daily basis unresponsive to systemic and topical treatments. After one year, the itching had decreased to approximately 50% of its initial intensity. Hydroxyethyl starch (HES)-induced pruritus was diagnosed, based on the typical history and clinical features, the proven administration of HES and its cutaneous tissue storage by electron microscopy. Drug-induced pruritus caused by the plasma expander hydroxyethyl starch can be a secondary consequence of an occupational accident and thus an issue in accident compensation claims.

A 26-year-old female patient with a femoral shaft fracture underwent retrograde femoral nailing. Nail removal was performed 2 years later, after fracture healing. An intraoperative fracture of the medial condyle of the femur occurred. This complication has not been previously described in the literature. Screw osteosynthesis of the fracture was performed and articular congruence reestablished. After 6 weeks of fractional weight bearing, the patient proceeded up to full weight bearing without complication. The case demonstrates that the removal of retrograde femoral nails is not without complications. The decision to undertake implant removal should be made carefully.

Aim: Intraarticular osteochondral fractures resulting from traumatic patellar dislocation in children are reported most frequently between 13 and 15 years of age. Fracture localization concerns, apart from loose intraarticular bodies, the inferiomedial patellar facet and the lateral femoral condyle. Osteochondral fractures of the lateral femoral condyle with more than 50 % of its surface are extremely rare and reported infrequently., Method: We report a traumatic patellar dislocation in a 14 year old patient that let to an osteochondral fracture of the lateral femoral condyle. MRI-scan demonstrated an extensive fracture size concerning more than 50 % of the condylar surface with intraarticular dislocation. Initially arthroscopic surgery followed an open reduction and internal refixation of the osteochondral fragment with resorbable, poly-p-dioxanon pins., Results: Follow-up MRI-scan revealed 7 weeks after surgery an adequate repositioning of the fragment with correct pin placement. Second-look arthroscopy demonstrated an osteochondral reintegration of the fragment within a period of 7 months after prior surgery., Conclusion: Resorbable poly-p-dioxanon pins as a mean for refixation of an osteochondral, intraarticular fracture in an adolescent, with an arthroscopic confirmed acceptable result, seem to be a considerable therapy option.

Cement restrictors are accepted parts of modern cementing technique and reduce the risk of revision. The restrictor should seal the intramedullary cavity to ensure sustained pressurization and optimal cement penetration into cancellous bone. Significant complications after use of a cement restrictor are rarely described. Dislocation and cement leakage are well known problems. We describe the occurrence of a femoral fissure after insertion of a resorbable Gelatine cement restrictor.

Aim of the study was to evaluate typical complications in osteosynthesis of inter- and subtrochanteric femur fractures with intramedullary nailing systems. In the literature screw perforation of the femoral head into the acetabulum, postoperative fracture of the femur shaft, intraoperative shaft fracture, problems in placing of distal locking screws and deep infections are mostly described. In a retrospective study the complication rate of 100 consecutive gammanail osteosyntheses (GAN) and 96 glidingnail osteosyntheses (GLN) was analysed. 93 % of GAN and 89.3 % of GLN were followed up. Cutting out rate of GAN/GLN was 7.0 %/3.1 %, postoperative shaft fractures occurred in 1.0 %/0 %, intraoperative shaft fractures in 1.0 %/2.1 %, problems with distal locking in 2.0 %/1.0 % and deep infections in 3.0 %/1.0 %. In an analysis of internationally published data on 2 241 GAN and 365 GLN the cut-out rate was 2.3 %/0.5 %, postoperative shaft fracture 2.2 %/1.4 %, intraoperative shaft fracture 1.2 %/0.3 % and deep infection 1.2 %/2.2 %. GLN shows lower complication rates with regard to femoral head perforation and late shaft fracture than GAN.

In terms of their clinical impact, bone fractures as late sequelae of osteoporosis are still largely ignored in Germany. Up to 80-90% of patients with treatment-requiring osteoporosis are not receiving specific treatment. The consequences for the patient are enormous: weeks of severe pain, subsequent fractures that occur for ever more banal reasons, increasing restriction of daily activities, invalidism and an increasing need for nursing care. All this despite the availability of powerful medications. In concert with an appropriate early diagnosis, not only could the majority of patients be spared such a fate, but also the costs incurred as a direct consequence of such fractures could be drastically lowered.

In adverse situations and in hospitals of less prosperous countries, the operative treatment of fractures may for many reasons not be possible and conservative procedures remain the treatment of choice. This applies to the rule that under difficult conditions fracture treatment should be as conservative as possible and as operative as necessary, if at all feasible. This report goes on 109 Patients with femur fractures consecutively treated by Perkins traction in East African hospitals between Nov. 1991 and Sept. 1999. Out of them, 44 patients had wide open fractures, 41 of them caused by explosives and bullets. The Perkins procedure is a traction without a fixating splint. As soon as possible, the patient is forced to sit up in his bed, the removable parts of the springs are dropped and the patient starts with exercises flexing and stretching the knee. With the right traction weight and the bodys counterweight the fragments of the fracture find an alignment, and a malrotation of the distal fragment is prevented. Exercises as early as possible stimulate a rapid callus formation and prevent muscle atrophy and stiffness of the joints. We have seen 2 posttraumatic deep infections, 5 refractures in patients whose traction was removed too early or who fell down whilst walking with crutches. All patients had a good callus formation and in all patients, except two, the traction could be removed after 6-12 weeks, in the most cases even after 6-9 weeks. To the patients with refractures, the traction was reapplied and callus consolidation then occurred without major problems. At the time of removal of the traction all patients showed a flexion of the knee of at least 80 degrees -90 degrees and all were able to nearly fully stretch the knee joint.Compared with other methods of conservative treatment of femur fractures, Perkins traction has some advantages: simple management, immediate start of exercises, simple exercises, early callus formation, no stiffness of the joints and only few x-ray controls. Malalignment, non union, excessive shortening and rotation of the distal fragment are uncommon.

Hip fractures are a major cause of impairment, disability and death in elderly people. The incidence of hip fractures is increasing. Most attempts to prevent hip fractures have focused on reducing underlying medical disorders and risk. In 1993 Lauritzen et al. reported the results of a clinical trial which showed a significant (53%) reduction for hip fractures in the protector wearing group. These results were reproduced many times. Hip protectors offer a powerful new method for reducing the risk of hip fractures. Their use should be encouraged for people with advanced osteoporosis or high fall risk and for those living in nursing homes.

Epidemiology of osteoporosis reveals some specific properties with considerable consequences on economic and social aspects, which are discussed briefly. Large parts of an aging population are under risk of developing osteoporosis with consecutive morbidity and mortality. The epidemiological consequences and economic burden will increase during the next 20 years due to demographic changes. Proximal femoral fractures are most important causing relevant mortality and, if survived, regularly relevant functional loss. Due to the increasing importance of osteoporosis, efficient age-adapted strategies in diagnosis and therapy need to be developed.

Unlabelled: Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh has been infrequently reported in the literature. Closed femoral fractures and blunt soft tissue trauma are the main causes of this injury. The multiple injured patient in this case report developed a compartment syndrome of the thigh after intramedullary nailing of a comminuted fracture of the femur. Fasciotomy was performed two days after surgery because of extense swelling of the thigh in the ventilated and sedated patient. Sciatic and femoral nerve palsy was recognized after extubation of the patient nine days after the injury. During the following weeks the paresis of the femoral nerve recovered but neither motor nor sensory function of the sciatic nerve could be demonstrated. Therefore an operative revision of the sciatic nerve was performed eighteen weeks after trauma. No direct nerve injury could be detected but there were adhesions around the nerve as a sign of compression neuropathy caused by the compartment syndrome. The tibial component of the sciatic nerve showed a complete recovery within the next months but there was a persisting peroneal nerve palsy., Conclusion: Early clinical symptoms of a compartment syndrome like pain, paresthesia and paresis can not be ascertained in a ventilated and sedated patient. Tense swelling of the muscles is often the only detectable sign. Frequent measurements of compartment pressure should be done in these patients. We suggest early decompressive fasciotomy because the morbidity caused by fasciotomy in a borderline compartment syndrome is far outweighed by the morbidity that accompanies an undiagnosed untreated compartment syndrome with possible nerve palsy.

Since the first clinical experiences with the fully implantable programmable distraction nail nearly ten years ago, the system has been improved in Munich and meanwhile used in 26 patients. During the first 10 cases there has been highest interest in the reliability of the system, while in the following the expansion of indications was more important. At the thigh a good indication beside shortening is the combination of shortening and axis deviation, even if the center of deviation is located near to the knee joint in the supracondylar area. According to preoperative planing the deformity correction can be done acutely while the lengthening procedure follows postoperatively automatically at night-time. If the stabilization with an intramedullary nail is possible, large bone defects can be treated by bone transport using this system also. The fully implantable intramedullary nail has proved its variable functions in cases of large bone defects combined with shortening of the femur. The system is able to perform the bone transport at first and the lengthening procedure automatically without any further operation thereafter.

Periprosthetic femur fractures are one of the most severe complications in hip surgery. Osteoporosis as seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis could favour such fractures, which are located mostly between the stems of the hip and knee prostheses. A traumatic event is not even required. The fracture rate increases with predisposing factors, such as preliminary changes of the prosthesis or osteoporosis. This paper reports two patients with rheumatoid arthritis (males, 54 and 71 years old) with femur fractures after total hip and knee replacements. Both had a severe osteoporosis caused by a long-term steroid therapy. Consecutively, both patients showed refractures of the femur with loosening of the osteosynthetic material, so that a total femur replacement was required. However, both patients are able to walk. To reduce the risk of femur fractures between the tips of knee and hip prostheses it is advisable to use knee prostheses without a proximal intramedullary stem. In this way pressure stress is reduced.

Refractures of the femur frequently occur after open fractures or following an infection. There has to be distinguished between aseptic and septic refractures. Both forms have in common dystrophy as a favoring factor at the time point of refracture. Traumatizing means of osteosynthesis, missing soft tissue protection and lack of medial support after internal fixation are the main factors concerning the development of refractures. In case of aseptic refractures of the femur we propose intramedullary nailing if possible independent of the method of primary osteosynthesis. In case of septic refractures infect repair comes first. Besides internal fixation, autogenous cancellous or cortico-cancellous bone graft and plastic soft tissue repair are of most importance. We propose the following procedure for fractures of the femur with severe soft tissue damage: Primary fixation with fixateur externe, after soft tissue repair electively intramedullary nailing or internal fixation, in case of missing medial support combined with autogenous cancellous or cortico-cancellous bone graft. This procedure showed a rate of 0.9% of refractures after primary operative treatment of 2073 fractures of the femur at the Berufsgenossenschaftliche Unfallklinik Tübingen.

Aim: Control of the long term results of the Judet-TEP., Methods: From 1980-1985 124 Pat. have been operated. The follow up was done in the same collective of 83 patients after 2-6 years and > 6 years., Results: The intraoperative complications have been fractures of the femur (19.3%) and the trochanter major (3.6%) and luxation (1.9%). In the follow up time the clinical results declined. The patients complained increasing pain in the thigh (26.5%) and the groin (13.2%). Radiological loosening of the acetabulum occurred especially in the medio-caudal area (61.5%) and in the proximal femur (32.5%). Cranial movement of the cup (31.3%) and varus deviation in the femur (40.9%) predominated. 28 prostheses were revised. After 11 years the cumulative success rate was 55.1%., Conclusions: The long term results are disappointing.