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The canine common calcanean tendon can be repaired successfully using a modified Kessler knotless barbed technique. A long‐term ultrasound follow‐up showed improved and increased normal tendon fibrillar echotexture and homogeneity.

A relatively rare tumor, osteoid osteoma most commonly affects the lower extremity. In 10% of the cases, it can affect the hand and wrist. We present a case of osteoid osteoma in the proximal phalanx of ring finger that was initially misdiagnosed as a soft tissue lesion. The soft tissue lesion was resected, but the symptoms recurred shortly thereafter, leading to repeat diagnostic workup. Despite X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and tissue biopsy, the diagnosis remained elusive until surgical re-exploration. Based on the lessons learned from this case and the experience reported in literature, we discuss the intricate nature of osteoid osteoma diagnosis in the hand, the obstacles often encountered, and how to approach these challenging patients in a stepwise and critical fashion.

The mangled extremity that sustains limb-threatening trauma is a challenging condition to manage. Significant tissue defects of the mangled limb result in exposed vital structures such as bone, nerves, vessels, and tendons that require stable, durable coverage in order to receive a reasonable functional outcome. When the extent of soft tissue damage is severe, and serial debridement followed by primary or local soft tissue reconstruction is not appropriate, microsurgical soft tissue reconstruction is indicated for limb salvage. The modern principles of microsurgical soft tissue reconstruction of the mangled limb are described that include the indications, facility requirements, patient assessment, free flap selection, postoperative care, and management of complications. The advantages, disadvantages, and indications of the most commonly used flaps are outlined. The goals of microsurgical reconstruction of the mangled limb are to provide the best wound coverage that allows for early functional rehabilitation while minimizing donor site morbidity.

Just as in the craft of carpentry, a stable foundation and framework are absolutely essential to the final function of a building, but no more important than the drywall, trim, and paint that make the building functional, durable, and livable. Reconstruction of the lower extremity is similar; the orthopaedic surgeon must obtain stable fixation of the damaged or diseased bone once a thorough debridement of nonviable bone is performed, while the plastic or orthopaedic soft tissue surgeon must provide vascularized, stable coverage. These two components are complementary and both contribute to the success or failure of functional limb restoration. The stability of bone repair will predict the ultimate functional status, while the vascularized envelope will enhance the biology of bone and soft tissue healing. When both components are properly attended to, the result is often a functional limb with an acceptable appearance. While a single surgeon need not perform both of these tasks (although some may choose to do so), the orthopaedic and plastic surgeon involved in this care must have a clear understanding of each other's role and their importance for a good outcome. This is what we call the orthoplastic approach to reconstructive surgery of the extremities, that is, the application of principles and practice of both specialties applied simultaneously to optimize the outcomes in limb reconstruction. In this review article, we discuss the history of orthoplastic surgery, the key elements of orthoplastic surgery, and thoughts on factors that lead to good outcomes through select cases.

In select high-risk cases of ankle arthrodesis, conventional techniques may lead to a high incidence of failure because of a combination of multiple operations; high risk of infection; avascular, often bulky allografts; and poor soft-tissue quality. In high-risk distal limb salvage, the authors have performed ankle arthrodesis using a free vascularized fibula graft from the ipsilateral limb with saphenous vein grafts.The authors present data from six patients. The cause of the defect was avascular necrosis of the talus (n = 4), osteomyelitis (n = 1), and failed total ankle replacement (n = 1). The ipsilateral fibula was used in all cases as a free vascularized graft. Nonviable bone and soft tissue were débrided, and the fibula was shortened to size and impacted into the cavitary space spanning the distance between the tibia, talus, and calcaneus. The pedicle distally was anastomosed to saphenous vein grafts and proximally anastomosed to the divided peroneal vessels.The flap success rate was 83 percent (n = 5). The complication rate was 83 percent; complications included flap loss (intraoperative arterial thrombosis), loss of skin island, hematoma, and arterial thrombosis. Despite one flap failure and a high complication rate, successful union was obtained in all patients. All patients achieved full weight-bearing status by a mean of 4 months after surgery (range, 3 to 7 months). There were no amputations.Vascularized free fibula graft is a reliable option for ankle arthrodesis in complex salvage situations. Using a saphenous vein graft to perform the anastomosis with the divided peroneal vessels proximally should be considered.

Background: Chronic hand ischemia refers to progressive, non-acute ischemic symptoms such as cold intolerance, rest pain, ulceration, tissue necrosis, and digit loss and poses a significant challenge in management. Conservative treatment begins with medical optimization and pharmacologic therapy, but when symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be required. Various operations exist to improve circulation including sympathectomy, arterial bypass, or venous arterialization. The purpose of this study is to systematically review published outcomes and present our experience with each surgical technique.Methods: A systematic review of literature regarding surgical treatment of chronic hand ischemia published between 1990 and 2016 was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. A retrospective-review of surgical interventions for chronic hand ischemia from 2010 to 2016 was then conducted. Primary outcomes included improvement in pain, wound-healing, and development of new ulcerations.Results: The review included 38 eight studies, showing all three techniques were effective in treating chronic hand ischemia. Sympathectomy had the lowest rate of new ulcerations (0.8%); bypass had the highest rate of healing existing ulcerations (89%). Arterialization was associated with consistent pain improvement pain (100%) but more complications (30.8%). Our series included 18 patients with 21 affected hands, 18 sympathectomies, 6 ulnar artery bypasses, and 1 arterialization. Most hands had improvement of wounds (89.5%) and pain (78.9%). No patients developed new ulcerations, but one required secondary amputation.Conclusions: When conservative measures fail to improve chronic hand ischemia, surgical intervention is an effective last line treatment. An algorithmic approach can determine the best operation for patients with chronic hand ischemia.

Purpose Currently, numerous assessment tools are available to measure functional outcomes after bilateral hand transplantation. The purpose of this article is to present our experience utilizing quantitative assessment tools for functional evaluation and to describe our results after bilateral hand transplantation. Methods A single surgeon’s experience with bilateral hand transplantation from 2011 to 2016 was retrospectively reviewed. Three bilateral hand transplantations were performed in 2 adults and 1 child. A minimum 2-year follow-up evaluation was available. For the adult patients, postoperative outcome measures included patient-reported pain and disability scores, return of sensation, muscle strength, range of motion, and return to work/activities of daily living, the Hand Transplant Scoring System (HTSS), the Sollerman hand function test, and complications. For our pediatric patient, postoperative outcome measures included the Functional Independence Measure for children (WeeFIM) scale, a functional independence measure for children, the 9-Hole Peg Test, the Box and Block test, and complications. Results Our 2 adult patients were age 28 and our pediatric patient was age 8 at transplantation. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 7 years. The functional assessments were performed over a period from 11 to 48 months after transplantation. Both adult patients achieved functional independence and the HTSS, Short Form-36 Health Score (SF-36), DASH, and Sollerman tests demonstrated sequential improvement compared with pretransplantation scores assessed with the use of prostheses. Our pediatric patient demonstrated improvement in his Box and Block test score for each hand at sequential visits after transplantation. His 9-Hole Peg Test demonstrated improvement, and his WeeFIM assessment at 20 months indicated a greater level of independence. Conclusions Patient-reported outcomes and the Sollerman test when used in addition to the HTSS appear to reflect functional improvement in adult patients after bilateral hand transplantation. Although children pose a unique challenge with functional assessment, we found the WeeFIM assessment, 9-Hole Peg Test, and the Box and Block test helpful in evaluating functional outcomes in our pediatric patient. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic V.

Background Arthroscopic dorsal wrist ganglionectomy is an established alternative to open excision in the adult population. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively compare outcomes of arthroscopic and open dorsal wrist ganglionectomy in the pediatric population. Methods All patients who underwent arthroscopic or open dorsal wrist ganglionectomy at a single pediatric institution between 2011 and 2014 were retrospectively evaluated by chart review and telephone interview. The primary outcome variable was whether or not the cyst had recurred. Other outcome measures included the incidence of complications, and patient-rated outcome measures such as satisfaction, pain, function, and aesthetics. Results There were eight cases of arthroscopic and 19 cases of open ganglionectomy, with a mean age of 14 years. At an average follow-up of 2 years, the recurrence rate was one of eight for the arthroscopic group and two of 19 for the open group. No patients in the arthroscopic group reported functional limitations, compared with three patients in the open group. On a 10-point scar appearance scale, with 1 being not satisfied at all and 10 being highly satisfied, the median score in the arthroscopic group was 9.5, compared with 8 in the open group. No patients in the arthroscopic group had residual pain at the surgical site, compared with nine patients in the open group, a finding that was statistically significant. All patients in the arthroscopic group reported that they would undergo surgery again, whereas two patients in the open group would not undergo surgery again. Conclusion Arthroscopic dorsal wrist ganglionectomy compares favorably with open ganglionectomy in the pediatric population.

As upper extremity transplantation is becoming more accepted worldwide, the demand for a fresh tissue cadaveric training model for this procedure is increasing and necessary to assure surgical success. Surgical rehearsals can decrease operative time, improve technique, and reduce errors made on the actual day of surgery. The purpose of this article is to describe a method for surgical rehearsal of upper extremity transplantation using cadaveric specimens based on the clinical experience of an academic institution with an active transplantation program. The logistics of rehearsal setup, equipment, and modified version of procedural checklists are described.

Background: Isolated scaphoid fractures (ISFs) are common, whereas transscaphoid fracture-dislocations (TSFDs) are not. Scaphoid fracture location and the extent of comminution are factors that affect treatment and outcome. The purpose of this study is to compare the radiographic characteristics of ISFs with TSFDs associated with greater arc injury. Methods: This study is a retrospective review of all ISFs and TSFDs that presented to our institution during a 5-year period. Fracture location (along the long axis of the scaphoid) was calculated by dividing the distance from the proximal pole to the fracture by the entire length of the scaphoid. The extent of comminution was measured in millimeters along the mid-axis of the scaphoid and divided by the entire length of the scaphoid. Results: One-hundred thirty-eight scaphoid fractures in 137 patients were identified. One-hundred twelve fractures (81%) were ISFs, and 26 (19%) were associated with a TSFD. The mean fracture location was more proximal in TSFDs than in ISFs. However, fractures occurred in the distal third of the scaphoid in 12% of ISFs compared with 0% of TSFDs. Nine percent of ISFs demonstrated comminution as compared with 12% of TSFDs. Extent of comminution was 16% and 28% for ISFs and TSFDs, respectively. Conclusion: Scaphoid fractures associated with greater arc injuries are located more proximally and are more comminuted than ISFs, and distal pole fractures rarely occur in the setting of TSFDs. The increased incidence and extent of comminution in TSFDs may be suggestive of a higher energy injury mechanism.

Background: Upper extremity transplantation is a quality-of-life enhancing treatment for select patients with upper extremity loss. This article reviews the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative challenges in the upper extremity transplantation process and the lessons learned from the first 2 decades of hand transplantation. Methods: Key components of the author’s hand transplantation protocol including patient selection, donor screening, surgical rehearsal, donor procurement, transplantation, immunosuppression, and patient outcome reporting/follow-up are reported to assist other teams who wish to establish a hand transplantation program. Results: There have been many advancements in the first 20 years of hand transplantation including better patient selection criteria, the recent addition of pediatric patients, improved surgical techniques such as the use of virtual surgical planning, and improved immunosuppression protocols. Improvement has also taken place in the tracking and reporting of hand transplant outcomes, but more work is clearly needed to fully define the benefits of transplantation, especially for pediatric patients. Conclusions: Over the past 20 years, significant progress has been made in upper extremity transplantation although a number of challenges remain including how to best document and share outcome measures, optimize immunosuppression, and diagnose/treat rejection. The authors encourage upper extremity transplant programs to report their experience and protocols to advance hand transplantation as standard of care for properly selected individuals.

Hand transplantation requires precise preoperative planning and surgical execution. Coordinating a transplant team-including surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and supporting staff-is a time-sensitive challenge when a donor-recipient match is confirmed. International human limb transplantation occurs when the recipient and donor are in separate countries. The authors describe the logistics behind the first transatlantic adult bilateral hand transplantation, which, to date, required the highest level of coordination and timing. The authors' experience serves as a proof of concept that international limb transplantation or salvage is possible when the complex logistics of such an endeavor are carefully anticipated.

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the indications for metacarpal fixation. 2. Understand the rationale for various surgical treatment options, based on high-level evidence where available. 3. Describe selected operative techniques and their postoperative management. Metacarpal fractures are extremely common, constituting one in five fractures that present to the emergency department. Although many metacarpal fractures can be treated nonoperatively, some require surgery. The purpose of this CME article is to present a practical, up-to-date guide to the management of these common injuries. A review of nonoperative management, surgical indications, and selected surgical techniques is provided. The authors reviewed the literature related to the treatment of metacarpal fractures, and the highest level evidence available to help guide decision-making is presented. Metacarpal fractures can often be treated nonoperatively, although some fractures will benefit from surgical treatment. Although there is some high-level evidence to guide decision-making, there are many clinical scenarios for which there is little high-quality applicable research. As a general principle, the treatment option that achieves the desired reduction and degree of fixation, allows early motion, and minimizes soft-tissue injury should be preferred.

Purpose To compare the work of flexion, ultimate strength, and gap resistance of a conventional 4-strand tendon repair to a knotless barbed-suture 4-strand tendon repair. Methods Tendon repairs were performed on 16 cadaver flexor digitorum profundus tendons using either a 4-strand double Kessler repair or a similar but knotless 4-strand repair with a unidirectional barbed suture. Work of flexion, gap resistance during cyclical loading, and ultimate strength of both techniques were determined and their means compared. Results There was no difference in mean maximum load and gap formation between the 2 techniques. Work of flexion was higher for the barbed-suture repair group compared with the traditional repair group (39 N·mm vs 31 N·mm). Conclusions The higher work of flexion in the barbed-suture group suggests that barbed suture may negatively affect tendon gliding within the flexor tendon sheath. Clinical relevance Knotless barbed-suture tendon repair leads to increased work of flexion compared with traditional flexor tendon repairs, which may result in an increased rupture incidence.

Background: The fibula is a common source of bone graft used in skeletal reconstruction. Although in most cases only the diaphysis of the fibula is used, there are clinical scenarios in which the proximal end of the fibula and fibular head are harvested for use in articular reconstruction. The purpose of this systematic review is to determine the incidence of knee instability and peroneal nerve motor dysfunction associated with removal of the proximal end of the fibula and fibular head. Methods: A systematic search was performed using the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and cochrane databases. Studies accepted for review included those that clearly reported donor site morbidity (instability or peroneal nerve motor dysfunction) after proximal fibula resection. All studies in which the proximal fibula was resected for bone graft or for marginal resection of tumor were included. Results: Fifteen studies reporting a total of 337 patients were included. The rate of symptomatic knee instability after proximal fibula resection was 3.9%. The incidence of instability that was detectible on physical examination or stress radiographs was higher. Although transient motor dysfunction was not uncommon, the incidence of persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction was 2.6%. Conclusion: Although asymptomatic laxity is common, the incidence of symptomatic knee instability after resection of the proximal fibula is relatively low. The incidence of persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction is also low when the nerve is intentionally protected during surgery. V C 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 00:000‐000, 2014. Free vascularized fibula grafts are commonly used for the reconstruction of bony defects in the head and neck, extremities, spine, and pelvis 1‐7 and avascular necrosis of femoral head. 8 Most commonly, the mid-portion of the fibula is harvested, with preservation of the proximal and distal articulations. It is recommended that the proximal 4‐8 cm of the fibula be preserved in order to prevent knee instability and to avoid injury to the peroneal nerve. 9‐11 However, the proximal end of the fibula, including the fibular head, has proven useful in the reconstruction of the distal end of the radius and the proximal end of the humerus. 12,13 The fibular head has also been used in reconstruction of the mandibular condyle. 14 In the literature, the reported incidence of postoperative knee instability after resection of the proximal fibula ranges from 0 to 50%, 15‐29 and the incidence of peroneal nerve motor loss ranges from 0 to 10%. 15‐29 The purpose of this literature review is to determine the incidence of knee instability and persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction after resection of the proximal fibula.

Background: Complex hindfoot pathology may benefit from vascularized bone flap reconstruction rather than traditional bone grafting techniques. Medial femoral condyle (MFC) flaps provide vascularized periosteum, skin, and corticocancellous bone. Methods: A retrospective, single-institution cohort study of consecutive MFC flaps performed for complicated hindfoot reconstruction between 2013 and 2019 was reviewed. Radiologic follow-up assessed osseous union and clinical outcomes were evaluated with the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score. Thirty MFC flaps were performed in 28 patients for complex hindfoot pathology. Twenty-seven flaps had adequate clinical and radiographic follow-up (mean 15.8 months). Results: The majority presented with avascular necrosis (83%) and failed prior operations (67%, mean 3.1). Most hindfoot procedures involved arthrodesis (n = 24, 80%); tibiotalocalcaneal (n = 11) and talonavicular (n = 7) most frequently. Mean osseous flap volume was 10.3 cm3 (range 1.7-18.4 cm3); one flap required takeback for venous congestion but no total flap losses occurred. Primary osseous union was initially achieved in 20 patients (74%, mean 217 days). Six flaps developed interface nonunion; 5 underwent revision arthrodesis and ultimately achieved union in 24/27 flaps (89%, mean 271 days). Risk factors for nonunion were body mass index (BMI) >30 ( P = .017) and prior arthrodesis ( P = .042). Mean AOFAS hindfoot scores increased significantly from 52.3 preoperatively to 70.7 postoperatively ( P < .001). Subscore analysis demonstrated significant improvement in postoperative pain scores from 14.2 to 27.3 out of 40 ( P < .001). Conclusion: The MFC free flap provided vascularized bone for complicated foot and ankle reconstruction with relatively low donor site morbidity, promising osseous union results, and improved functional outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Wrist ligamentous injuries can be challenging to treat successfully. In some cases the ligament repair or reconstruction fails, resulting in instability and progressive degenerative changes. In other cases the original injury is missed, and the patient presents for the first time with established wrist arthritis. Multiple operations have been devised to treat patients with arthrosis secondary to wrist ligament injuries. This article discusses definitive salvage operations such as intercarpal arthrodeses and proximal row carpectomy, as well as other alternatives such as wrist denervation and radial styloidectomy.

Distal tibial tumor ablation results in combined soft tissue and bone defect that involves the ankle joint. This area is unique and problematic because it combines low caliber limb size, relatively soft tissue deficiency, suboptimal bone and soft tissue healing ability, and the need to sustain increased mechanical loads. The management is difficult, controversial, and traditionally was treated by primary amputation. We present our experience with a limb sparing surgery using biological reconstruction. Between 2004 and 2007, 5 patients with malignant bone tumors of the distal tibia underwent tumor resection and reconstruction with free vascularized osteoseptocutaneous fibula flap. The average age was 33.2 years (range, 11–62 years). In all cases, a skin island was harvested and used for wound closure. Arthrodesis of the ankle joint was preformed in all patients. Double fixation system was used to provide stability and avoid flap rotation. All flaps survived. There were no major complications. One patient had partial loss of the skin paddle that was treated conservatively. Callous formation was documented after an average time of 4 months, partial weight bearing after an average time of 4 months, and full weight bearing after an average time of 11.5 months. All patients regained almost normal ambulation within a year.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has become an increasingly common cause of skin and soft-issue infections. The purpose of this study was to review and summarize the most recent literature on methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand.The English-language literature related to methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand was reviewed, and information related to the history, epidemiology, clinical presentation, and treatment of methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand was summarized.Community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus hand infections have increased rapidly in prevalence over the past two decades. The prevalence varies markedly around the world, but in the United States, community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus now causes the majority of purulent hand infections.Purulent hand infections should be treated with surgical drainage. When antibiotics are indicated, empiric coverage for community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus should be provided if local prevalence rates exceed 10 to 15 percent.

BackgroundThe medial femoral condyle vascularized bone graft has grown in popularity for treating recalcitrant fracture non-unions and has become particularly useful in treating scaphoid non-union with avascular necrosis of the proximal pole. The medial femoral condyle is an excellent source of dense, well-vascularized bone and results in minimal donor site morbidity.MethodsWe describe an unusual case of chronic scaphoid non-union and total scaphoid avascular necrosis in a skeletally immature patient. Scaphoid reconstruction was performed with a vascularized medial femoral condyle graft, with successful graft incorporation, and restoration of pain-free wrist motion.ConclusionsTechnical considerations for harvest of the medial femoral condyle bone graft in the skeletally immature patient are discussed.

The fibula is a common source of bone graft used in skeletal reconstruction. Although in most cases only the diaphysis of the fibula is used, there are clinical scenarios in which the proximal end of the fibula and fibular head are harvested for use in articular reconstruction. The purpose of this systematic review is to determine the incidence of knee instability and peroneal nerve motor dysfunction associated with removal of the proximal end of the fibula and fibular head.A systematic search was performed using the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and cochrane databases. Studies accepted for review included those that clearly reported donor site morbidity (instability or peroneal nerve motor dysfunction) after proximal fibula resection. All studies in which the proximal fibula was resected for bone graft or for marginal resection of tumor were included.Fifteen studies reporting a total of 337 patients were included. The rate of symptomatic knee instability after proximal fibula resection was 3.9%. The incidence of instability that was detectible on physical examination or stress radiographs was higher. Although transient motor dysfunction was not uncommon, the incidence of persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction was 2.6%.Although asymptomatic laxity is common, the incidence of symptomatic knee instability after resection of the proximal fibula is relatively low. The incidence of persistent peroneal nerve motor dysfunction is also low when the nerve is intentionally protected during surgery.

In the pursuit of success in sports, some athletes are not deterred by health risks associated with the (mis)use of black market preparations of dubious origin as performance-enhancing agents. Several studies published in the recent years demonstrated that anabolic-androgenic steroids, but also stimulants and growth hormones, are misused by numerous recreational athletes from all over the world. Trenbolone is an anabolic steroid routinely used in the finishing phase of beef production to improve animal performance and feed efficiency. A 35-year-old male patient presented to our plastic surgery clinic after self-intramuscular administration of Trenbolone to the superior gluteal area bilaterally, which led to a full-thickness defect in a cone-like distribution. The wounds underwent surgical debridement and were treated locally with mafenide acetate irrigation and wound dressings. Closure was achieved by secondary intention healing. In this report, we discuss the first documented case of full-thickness skin and subcutaneous tissue necrosis after black market anabolic steroid injection. This illustrates a plastic complication and resolution of a widespread but seldom reported problem.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death, and therefore demands special attention. Novel recent approaches for the chemoprevention of CRC focus on selective targeting of key pathways. We review the study by Zhang and colleagues, evaluating a selective approach targeting APC-deficient premalignant cells using retinoid-based therapy and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). This study demonstrates that induction of TRAIL-mediated death signaling contributes to the chemopreventive value of all-trans-retinyl acetate (RAc) by sensitizing premalignant adenoma cells for apoptosis without affecting normal cells. We discuss these important findings, raise few points that deserve consideration, and may further contribute to the development of RAc-based combination therapies with improved efficacy. The authors clearly demonstrate a synergistic interaction between TRAIL, RAc and APC, which leads to the specific cell death of premalignant target cells. The study adds to the growing body of literature related to CRC chemoprevention, and provides solid data supporting a potentially selective approach for preventing CRC using RAc and TRAIL.