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The supracondylar humeral fracture is the most common elbow fracture in children, accounting for just under one-fifth of all paediatric fractures and 60% of paediatric elbow fractures. Modifications of the Gartland classification have been made over the years. The mainstay treatment option is that of closed reduction and percutaneous wiring. However, there remains no gold standard in the management of this injury. Outcomes from other treatment options, including traction and external fixator application have been described and report good results. There remains controversy in the wiring configuration used, and there is no consensus on the approach to be used when faced with an irreducible fracture. This article aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the current practices in the management of this common injury, including the ‘pink pulseless’ hand, ‘poorly perfused white’ hand, surgical techniques, and the associated complications that can ensue.

Background Distraction osteogenesis is a very demanding process. For decades, external fixation was the only reliable option for gradual deformity correction. Recently, intramedullary magnetic nails have gained popularity. This research aimed to assess the quality of life in children during gradual deformity correction using intramedullary lengthening nails compared to external fixation. Method Prospective analysis included children who had gradual lower limb deformity correction between 2017 and 2019. Group A included children who had magnetic lengthening nails; patients in group B had external fixation devices. Child health utility 9D (CHU- 9D) and EuroQol 5D youth (EQ- 5D-Y) were used to measure the quality of life at fixed points during the distraction osteogenesis process. The results were used to calculate the utility at each milestone and the overall quality of life adjusted years (QALYs). Results Thirty-four children were recruited, group A had 16 patients, whilst group B had 18 patients. The average ages were 16.0 years and 14.7 years for groups A and B, respectively. Group A patients reported significantly better utility compared to group B. This was observed during all stages of treatment (P = 0.00016). QALYs were better for group A (0.44) compared to group B (0.34) (P Conclusion The quality of life was generally better in group A compared to group B. In most patients, the health utility progressively improved throughout treatment. In the same way, QALYs were better with the lengthening nails compared to external fixators. The magnetic lengthening devices (PRECICE nails) which were used in this research were recently relabelled to restrict their applications in children; this study was conducted before these restrictions.

Aims:Our main objectives were to evaluate the effect of surgery using self-assessed health scores. Secondary objectives were to correlate outcome with grade of deformity (Stulberg classification I–V) or age at surgery and whether additional periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is beneficial for patients with concurrent acetabular dysplasia.Methods:This was a retrospective cohort and in part a cross sectional study using a planned clinical and radiological follow-up of patients. All patients with healed Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) treated with osteochondroplasty and relative neck lengthening using surgical hip dislocation, with or without periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) were included. A total of 39 patients were identified and invited to participate (29 males and 10 females) of which 32 accepted. Radiographic assessment and Stulberg classification were obtained. The Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS), modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and the VAS scale of EQ-5D-5L were used.Results:The majority of the patients experienced improvement (74%, n = 27) and 21 patients (78%, n = 27) found the surgery worthwhile. Preoperative Stulberg II and III patients (83% improvement) showed better results than Stulberg IV and V patients (56% improvement) ( n = 27, p = 0.121). There was significantly better patient-satisfaction for those younger than 29 years of age (⩽18 years old (92%), 19–28 years old (89%), ⩾29 years old (67%), x2(2) = 8512, n = 27, p = 0.022) and a negative correlation for age at onset of LCPD and mHHS ( r = –0.420, p = 0.046, n = 23). Patients with concurrent acetabular dysplasia ( n = 19), 82% (9 of 11) improved after additional PAO compared to 63% (5 of 8) who were not operated on with PAO.Conclusion:This procedure is worthwhile in selected cases except for severe deformity (Stulberg IV and V) and patients >28 years of age.

BACKGROUND\ud \ud Femoral lengthening is a procedure of great importance in the treatment of congenital and acquired limb deficiencies. Technological advances have led to the latest designs of fully implantable motorized intramedullary lengthening nails. The use of these nails has increased over the last few years.\ud \ud \ud \ud AIM\ud \ud To review and critically appraise the literature comparing the outcome of femoral lengthening in children using intramedullary motorized lengthening nails to external fixation.\ud \ud \ud \ud METHODS\ud \ud Electronic databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane) were systematically searched in November 2019 for studies comparing the outcome of femoral lengthening in children using magnetic lengthening nails and external fixation. The outcomes included amount of gained length, healing index, complications and patient reported outcomes.\ud \ud \ud \ud RESULTS\ud \ud Of the 452 identified studies, only two (retrospective and non-randomized) met the inclusion criteria. A total of 91 femora were included. In both studies, the age of patients treated with nails ranged from 15 to 21 years compared to 9 to 15 years for patients in the external fixation group. Both devices achieved the target length. Prevalence of adverse events was less in the nail (60%-73%) than in the external fixation (81%-100%) group. None of the studies presented patient reported outcomes.\ud \ud \ud \ud CONCLUSION\ud \ud The clinical effectiveness of motorized nails is equivalent or superior to external fixation for femoral lengthening in young patients. The available literature is limited and does not provide evidence on patient quality of life or cost effectiveness of the interventions.

Aim and objective Ilizarov hip reconstruction (IHR) is a traditional method of salvaging chronic adolescent problem hips but faces practical issues from external fixators leading to reduced compliance. We present the same reconstruction procedure using only internal devices with a modification in the technique and review early results. Materials and methods We retrospectively evaluated eight patients between 2014 and 2017 with chronic painful hips treated by two-stage reconstruction; stage I included femoral head resection and pelvic support osteotomy using double plating, whereas stage II comprised distal femoral osteotomy avoiding varus followed by the insertion of a retrograde magnetic nail for postoperative lengthening. Patients continued physiotherapy postoperatively while protecting from early weight-bearing. Results At a mean follow-up of 19 months (range, 6–36), all osteotomies healed with a bone healing index of 47 days/cm (range, 30–72). Pain improved from 8.3 (range, 7–9) to 2 (range, 0–6) while the limb length discrepancy got corrected from 4.3 cm (range, 3–5) to 1.4 cm (range, 0–2.5) at the final follow-up. Trendelenburg sign was eliminated in three patients and delayed in five patients. No examples of infection or permanent knee stiffness were noted. One patient had plate breakage due to mechanical fall, and another patient had 35 mm of lateral mechanical axis deviation (MAD) requiring corrective osteotomy. Conclusion Pelvic support hip reconstruction with exclusive internal devices is a technique in evolution with encouraging early results. It avoids common complications of external fixators and facilitates quick rehabilitation of joints. Refraining from distal varus can effectively eliminate Trendelenburg gait, although with some degree of lateral MAD. Unlike external fixation where there is a possibility of gradual correction, this staged procedure of internal fixation is technically demanding with a learning curve. Clinical significance Pelvic support hip reconstruction performed by internal implants is a viable alternative to Ilizarov hip reconstruction with potential benefits. How to cite this article Metikala S, Kurian BT, Madan SS, et al. Pelvic Support Hip Reconstruction with Internal Devices: An Alternative to Ilizarov Hip Reconstruction. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2020;15(1):34–40.

We intend to compare the outcomes of arthroscopic osteoplasty with open neck osteotomy for correction of the hip impingement and improvement of hip function in children with moderate to severe healed Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE). Our aim is to verify if arthroscopic osteoplasty could achieve the same outcome as open procedures. A retrospective analysis of the hospital hip database retrieved 187 cases of SCFE from 2006 to 2013. We found 12 patients underwent open neck osteotomy and deformity correction for moderate/ severe healed SCFE and ten underwent arthroscopic osteoplasty of the hip. We compared the outcomes between these groups. In the arthroscopy cohort, the mean age at surgery was 15.8 years (range 13–19 years) and mean follow-up was 46.1 months (range 33–66 months). In the neck osteotomy group, the mean age at surgery was 14.6 years (11–20 years) and mean duration of follow-up was 49 months (36–60 months). The outcomes in arthroscopic osteoplasty group vs. open neck osteotomy were as follows: antero-posterior (AP) slip angle 9.2° (0.3°- 28.8°) vs 10.8° (1°–17.9°) (p = 0.0003), lateral slip angle 44.8° (36.5°–64.2°) vs 13.5° (1°–28.5°) (p = 0.00001), oblique plane deformity 47.1° (40.2°–53.5°) vs 16.7° (1°–28.6°) (p = 0.0003), alpha angle 61.88° (52.1°–123°) vs.34.6° (23.2°–45.6°) (p = 0.0003), anterior offset 0 mm (0 mm–2 mm) vs. 5 mm (2–13 mm) (p = 0.0003), modified Harris hip score (MHHS) 75.5 (58.75–96.8) vs. 90 (86.2–99) (p = 0.003), non-arthroplasty hip score (NAHS) 67.12 (18.75–100) vs. 92.1 (81.25–100) (p = 0.002), internal rotation 20° (0–20°) vs. 50° (30°–70°) (p = 0.0002), respectively. Even though the radiographic correction lagged behind in the arthroscopic group, the functional outcomes achieved did convey the gain of function in this cohort. In carefully selected cases, arthroscopy could be a less invasive procedure which has desirable outcomes.

Restoration of the anatomy of the hip joint and biomechanics across it, carry the immense importance to prevent future osteoarthritis of the joint. The aim of this review is to provide the brief concept of the methods to preserve the hip, especially in young adults. Attempts to preserve the hips start with the intense preoperative planning of the corrective procedure. Different parameters regarding the femur and acetabulum in all 3 dimensions need to be assessed. Especially, measurement of the anteversion of the femur and acetabulum is a significant step to avoid osteoarthritis. In addition, the suprapelvic and infrapelvic (spine and lower limb lengths) alignment needs to be considered in the planning. Correction of the femoral side of the hip needs the understanding of the blood supply of the proximal femur which carries the risk of avascular necrosis more so with intracapsular osteotomies. Acetabular reorientation, to re-distribute the forces over the weight bearing part, can be carried out with re-directional osteotomy such as periacetabular osteotomy. It needs the understanding of the acetabular anatomy and the force distribution in it. To conclude, correction of both femoral and acetabular side parameters need to be considered in decision making depending on the alterations due to various etiologies causing the hip disorders.

Summary Background Patients with Achilles tendon rupture who have non-operative treatment have traditionally been treated with immobilisation of the tendon in plaster casts for several weeks. Functional bracing is an alternative non-operative treatment that allows earlier mobilisation, but evidence on its effectiveness and safety is scarce. The aim of the UKSTAR trial was to compare functional and quality-of-life outcomes and resource use in patients treated non-operatively with plaster cast versus functional brace. Methods UKSTAR was a pragmatic, superiority, multicentre, randomised controlled trial done at 39 hospitals in the UK. Patients (aged ≥16 years) who were being treated non-operatively for a primary Achilles tendon rupture at the participating centres were potentially eligible. The exclusion criteria were presenting more than 14 days after injury, previous rupture of the same Achilles tendon, or being unable to complete the questionnaires. Eligible participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive a plaster cast or functional brace using a centralised web-based system. Because the interventions were clearly visible, neither patients nor clinicians could be masked. Participants wore the intervention for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was patient-reported Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) at 9 months, analysed in the modified intention-to-treat population (all patients in the groups to which they were allocated, excluding participants who withdrew or died before providing any outcome data). The main safety outcome was the incidence of tendon re-rupture. Resource use was recorded from a health and personal social care perspective. The trial is registered with ISRCTN, ISRCTN62639639. Findings Between Aug 15, 2016, and May 31, 2018, 1451 patients were screened, of whom 540 participants (mean age 48·7 years, 79% male) were randomly allocated to receive plaster cast (n=266) or functional brace (n=274). 527 (98%) of 540 were included in the modified intention-to-treat population, and 13 (2%) were excluded because they withdrew or died before providing any outcome data. There was no difference in ATRS at 9 months post injury (cast group n=244, mean ATRS 74∙4 [SD 19∙8]; functional brace group n=259, ATRS 72∙8 [20∙4]; adjusted mean difference –1∙38 [95% CI –4∙9 to 2∙1], p=0·44). There was no difference in the rate of re-rupture of the tendon (17 [6%] of 266 in the plaster cast group vs 13 [5%] of 274 in the functional brace group, p=0·40). The mean total health and personal social care cost was £1181 for the plaster cast group and £1078 for the functional bract group (mean between-group difference –£103 [95% CI –289 to 84]). Interpretation Traditional plaster casting was not found to be superior to early weight-bearing in a functional brace, as measured by ATRS, in the management of patients treated non-surgically for Achilles tendon rupture. Clinicians may consider the use of early weight-bearing in a functional brace as a safe and cost-effective alternative to plaster casting. Funding UK National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme.

Background\ud Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome is an important cause of hip pain in young adults. It can be treated by arthroscopic hip surgery, including reshaping the hip, or with physiotherapist-led conservative care. We aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness of hip arthroscopy with best conservative care.\ud \ud Methods\ud UK FASHIoN is a pragmatic, multicentre, assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial, done at 23 National Health Service hospitals in the UK. We enrolled patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome who presented at these hospitals. Eligible patients were at least 16 years old, had hip pain with radiographic features of cam or pincer morphology but no osteoarthritis, and were believed to be likely to benefit from hip arthroscopy. Patients with bilateral femoroacetabular impingement syndrome were eligible; only the most symptomatic hip was randomly assigned to treatment and followed-up. Participants were randomly allocated (1:1) to receive hip arthroscopy or personalised hip therapy (an individualised, supervised, and progressive physiotherapist-led programme of conservative care). Randomisation was stratified by impingement type and recruiting centre and was done by research staff at each hospital, using a central telephone randomisation service. Patients and treating clinicians were not masked to treatment allocation, but researchers who collected the outcome assessments and analysed the results were masked. The primary outcome was hip-related quality of life, as measured by the patient-reported International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33) 12 months after randomisation, and analysed in all eligible participants who were allocated to treatment (the intention-to-treat population).\ud \ud This trial is registered as an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial, number ISRCTN64081839, and is closed to recruitment. Findings Between July 20, 2012, and July 15, 2016, we identified 648 eligible patients and recruited 348 participants: 171 participants were allocated to receive hip arthroscopy and 177 to receive personalised hip therapy. Three further patients were excluded from the trial after randomisation because they did not meet the eligibility criteria. Follow-up at the primary outcome assessment was 92% (319 of 348 participants). At 12 months after randomisation, mean iHOT-33 scores had improved from 39·2 (SD 20·9) to 58·8 (27·2) for participants in the hip arthroscopy group, and from 35·6 (18·2) to 49·7 (25·5) in the personalised hip therapy group. In the primary analysis, the mean difference in iHOT-33 scores, adjusted for impingement type, sex, baseline iHOT-33 score, and centre, was 6·8 (95% CI 1·7–12·0) in favour of hip arthroscopy (p=0·0093). This estimate of treatment effect exceeded the minimum clinically important difference (6·1 points). There were 147 patient-reported adverse events (in 100 [72%] of 138 patients) in the hip arthroscopy group) versus 102 events (in 88 [60%] of 146 patients) in the personalised hip therapy group, with muscle soreness being the most common of these (58 [42%] vs 69 [47%]). There were seven serious adverse events reported by participating hospitals. Five (83%) of six serious adverse events in the hip arthroscopy group were related to treatment, and the one in the personalised hip therapy group was not. There were no treatment-related deaths, but one patient in the hip arthroscopy group developed a hip joint infection after surgery. Interpretation Hip arthroscopy and personalised hip therapy both improved hip-related quality of life for patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. Hip arthroscopy led to a greater improvement than did personalised hip therapy, and this difference was clinically significant. Further follow-up will reveal whether the clinical benefits of hip arthroscopy are maintained and whether it is cost effective in the long term.\ud \ud Funding\ud The Health Technology Assessment Programme of the National Institute of Health Research.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a common paediatric orthopaedic problem that attracts substantive research and debate. The understanding of the pathophysiology of this disorder and its subsequent treatments are evolving at a slow pace. Some forms of treatments have become obsolete while new surgical techniques have emerged which have been widely adopted without substantive evidence regarding long term outcomes. This chapter describes and evaluates the current practice regarding SCFE, the evidence that underpins this practice, in addition to future clinical and research directions.

Management of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is difficult. We proposed to ascertain if staged hip distraction could prevent collapse and recover the femoral head.A retrospective review of the hip database retrieved 16 children with unstable SCFE and AVN. All underwent capital realignment by surgical dislocation followed by 2nd-stage hinged hip distraction. Patient demographics and radiographic parameters of deformity, AVN and arthritis were collected. The patients scored their hip function both before and after intervention and at follow-up using the modified Harris Hip Score and Nonarthritic Hip score.7 boys and 9 girls formed the study group (Pre-emptive application of hip distractor for those children with proven lack of blood flow to the femoral head is a potential option to stall the progression of AVN and to help recover useful hip function.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) may lead to symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). We report our experience of arthroscopic treatment, including osteochondroplasty, for the sequelae of SCFE.Data were prospectively collected on patients undergoing arthroscopy of the hip for the sequelae of SCFE between March 2007 and February 2013, including demographic data, radiological assessment of the deformity and other factors that may influence outcome, such as the presence of established avascular necrosis. Patients completed the modified Harris hip score (mHHS) and the non-arthritic hip score (NAHS) before and after surgery.In total, 18 patients with a mean age of 19 years (13 to 42), were included in the study. All patients presented with pain in the hip and mechanical symptoms, and had evidence of FAI (cam or mixed impingement) on plain radiographs.The patients underwent arthroscopic osteoplasty of the femoral neck. The mean follow-up was 29 months (23 to 56).The mean mHHS and NAHS scores improved from 56.2 (27.5 to 100.1) and 52.1 (12.5 to 97.5) pre-operatively to 75.1 (33.8 to 96.8, p = 0.01) and 73.6 (18.8 to 100, p = 0.02) at final follow-up, respectively. Linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between poorer outcome scores and increased time to surgery following SCFE (p < 0.05 for all parameters except baseline MHHS).Symptomatic FAI following (SCFE) may be addressed using arthroscopic techniques, and should be treated promptly to minimise progressive functional impairment and chondrolabral degeneration.Take home message: Arthroscopy of the hip can be used to treat femoroacetabular impingement successfully following SCFE. However, this should be performed promptly after presentation in order to prevent irreversible progression and poorer clinical outcomes.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:21–7.

We present our experience of lengthening and correction of complex deformities in the management of patients with Ollier’s dysplasia (multiple enchondromatosis) from 1985 and 2002. All patients were under 18 years with a minimum follow-up time of 2 years (mean 9.6 years, range 2–15 years). There were a total of ten patients of which seven were male and three female. The mean age at presentation was 10.7 years (range 5–17 years; SD 3.7 years). The total length gain was 42.3 mm (range 30–110 mm; SD 28.9 mm). The number of days in external fixation was 164.8 days (range 76–244 days; SD 42.9 days). The bone healing index was 32.5 days/cm (18–50 days/cm; SD 10.3 days/cm). Patients with Ollier’s disease have limb length inequality and angular deformities and require multiple reconstructive procedures owing to a high incidence of recurrence. We identified a tendency for the osteotomy to prematurely consolidate and advise the latency period after surgery to be 4–5 days and for distraction to proceed at a faster rate.

Background: Cancellous bone bleeding (CBB) is a significant source of blood loss in spine and pelvis surgery. Current hemostatic methods are either ineffective or interfere with bone healing. A novel fibrin dressing (NFD) controls arterial, solid organ, and CBB in various species. The purpose of this clinical study was to determine the safety and performance of the NFD at controlling CBB. Methods: Forty patients were enrolled at 9 centers in the UK, Norway and India. In each country Ethics Committee approvals were obtained prior to the study. This was a Level IV single-arm study of patients who met the inclusion eligibility criteria. The follow-up period was 6 weeks. The primary endpoint was control of bleeding at 3 min. Secondary endpoints were control of bleeding at 6 min, as well as clinical and laboratory criteria. Anatomical sites (AS) included posterior spinal fusion (PSF), iliac crest graft (ICG), and pelvic osteotomy (PO). Intraoperatively, the surgeon assessed the severity of CBB (pulsatile, flowing, oozing or none) and applied the dressing for 3 min. Bleeding was then assessed again and if it was not controlled (oozing or none) a second dressing was applied for an additional 3 min. For bleeding not controlled after the second dressing application the surgeon used an alternative method. Patients were assessed at 24 h and 6 weeks clinically (for hematoma, allergic reaction, etc.) and with lab analysis, including CBC, PT, aPTT and INR. Results: All 40 patients completed the 6 week follow up. Twenty-three patients had PSF, 14 ICG and 3 PO. The dressing was used on a second AS in 11 of these patients for a total of 51 AS tested. Of the 51 treated AS, bleeding was controlled at 3 min in 41/51 (80.4%) and 6 min in 48/51 (94.1%). Three patients required alternative treatment. Bleeding in all 3 of the PO patients, the most vigorous bleeding, was controlled with the dressing. Adverse events (AE) considered to be "possibly device-related" occurred in 4 patients (13.3%). Conclusions: This Phase I clinical trial demonstrated the safety and efficacy of this novel fibrin dressing, SurgiClot in cancellous bone bleeding. A randomized, controlled FDA trial currently is underway.

Aims We describe surgical dislocation with capital realignment as an option for management of failed in-situ pinning in children with severe unstable slipped capital femoral physis. Patients and methods A retrospective data collection from our hospital hip database retrieved 7 patients with severe unstable slipped capital femoral physis who had failed in-situ pinning with severe deformity and grossly restricted movements. The failure of pinning in-situ was due to slip progression with inadequate screw purchase in four patients, stress fracture of the femoral neck in one patient, and screw head impingement in two patients. All these patients under went open surgical dislocation, removal of the screws, followed by sub-capital realignment and fixation. Results The average age at presentation was 11.9 years (10–14 years). The mean follow-up was 50.14 months (25–66 months). Four patients who had pre-existing avascular necrosis at presentation underwent second stage hinged distraction of the hip joint. Preoperatively, the mean Modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS) was 19.57 (0–56) and the mean Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS) was 21.07 (5–51.5) respectively. The mean MHHS at the last follow-up visit was 88.97 (71–96) and NAHS was 84.28 (69.5–91) respectively. Conclusion Allowing the hip to heal in its anatomical position is the best possible correction we could give for any patient with severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis. We found that surgical dislocation for those with failed in-situ pining proved to be an effective bailout option for restoration of anatomy and function.

Background Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is commonly treated with in situ pinning. However, a severe slip may not be suitable for in situ pinning because the required screw trajectory is such that it risks perforating the posterior cortex and damaging the remaining blood supply to the capital epiphysis. In such cases, an anteriorly placed screw may also cause impingement. It is also possible to underestimate the severity of the slip using conventional radiographs. The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate a novel method for calculating the true deformity in SCFE and to assess the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of this technique. Methods We selected 20 patients with varying severity of SCFE who presented to our institution. Cross-sectional imaging [either axial computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans] and anteroposterior (AP) pelvis radiographs were assessed by four reviewers with varying levels of experience on two occasions. The degree of slip on the axial image and on the AP pelvis radiographs were measured and, from this, the oblique plane deformity was calculated using the method as popularised by Paley. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to determine the interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities between and amongst the raters. Results The interobserver reliability for the calculated oblique plane deformity in SCFE ICC was 0.947 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.90–0.98] and the intraobserver reliability for the calculated oblique plane deformity of individual raters ranged from 0.81 to 0.94. The deformity in the oblique plane was always greater than the deformity measured in the axial or the coronal plane alone. Conclusion This method for calculating the true deformity in SCFE has excellent interobserver and intraobserver reliability and can be used to guide treatment options. This technique is a reliable and reproducible method for assessing the degree of deformity in SCFE. It may help orthopaedic surgeons with varying degrees of experience to identify which hips are suitable for in situ pinning and those which require surgical dislocation and anatomical reduction, given that plain radiographs in a single plane will underestimate the true deformity in the oblique plane. Level of evidence Level II diagnostic study.

We present our experience of the modified Dunn procedure in combination with a Ganz surgical dislocation of the hip to treat patients with severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). The aim was to prospectively investigate whether this technique is safe and reproducible. We assessed the degree of reduction, functional outcome, rate of complications, radiological changes and range of movement in the hip. There were 28 patients with a mean follow-up of 38.6 months (24 to 84). The lateral slip angle was corrected by a mean of 50.9° (95% confidence interval 44.3 to 57.5). The mean modified Harris hip score at the final follow-up was 89.1 (sd 9.0) and the mean Non-Arthritic Hip score was 91.3 (sd 9.0). Two patients had proven pre-existing avascular necrosis and two developed the condition post-operatively. There were no cases of nonunion, implant failure, infection, deep-vein thrombosis or heterotopic ossification. The range of movement at final follow-up was nearly normal. This study adds to the evidence that the technique of surgical dislocation and anatomical reduction is safe and reliable in patients with SCFE. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:424–9.

This study reports the complications observed in children with long bone fractures treated using Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing (ESIN). One hundred and sixty-four (n = 164) fractures in 160 patients under the age of 16 years formed the basis of our review. This included 108 boys and 52 girls with the median age of 11 years and median follow up of 7.5 months. The analysis included fractures of the radius/ulna, humerus, femur and tibia. All pathological fractures were excluded. In this series 54 patients (34%) had complications however majority of these were minor complications with irritation due to prominent nail ends being the commonest complication. No long-term sequelae were encountered in our patients.

Complex tibial fractures especially intraarticular pilon and plateau fractures are difficult to manage. Literature shows poor results in the treatment of these fractures due to complexity of the fracture and involvement of articular surface. Taylor spatial frame (TSF) is a hybrid, multiplanar, external fixator, which uses the slow correction principles of Ilizarov system. Specialised centres around the world use these frames to treat various long bone fractures and to correct deformities. Very few district general hospitals and hospitals of similar set-up deal with these injuries. TSF was used to treat 26 complex intraarticular fracture of tibial plateau (Schatzkar type IV–VI) and pilon fractures (Rudi III) in a district general hospital. Seventeen were pilon and nine were plateau fractures. There were 21 male and 5 female patients. Average length of time patients had the frames on was 191 days. The average follow up was 14 months. The average operative time was 2 h 13 min for pilon fractures, 2 h 37 min for tibial plateau fractures. Fourteen patients did not have any complications. Twelve had 1–3 pin-site infection. Four had chronic pain. Two pilon fractures had delayed union and one had nonunion. One patient had foot compartment syndrome and underwent decompression. No cases of osteomyelitis, broken pins or nerve palsy occurred. With proper training, preoperative and postoperative care, TSF can be used in a district general hospital safely. The procedures can be planned well in advance. Referral to specialist centre, possible complications during transfer and a second procedure at the referral centre could be avoided.

We present a rare case of acute anterior compartment syndrome of the thigh in a rugby player with no history of trauma during the game. Decompressive fasciotomy with subsequent closure of the wound resulted in good outcome. Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh should be suspected following vigorous exercise and fasciotomy is to be performed on urgent basis.

This contribution focuses on the basic features and management of cerebral palsy, spina bifida and poliomyelitis.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) undergo a decline in function following ex vivo expansion and exposure to irradiation. This has been associated with accumulation of DNA damage and has important implications for tissue engineering approaches or in patients receiving radiotherapy. Therefore, interventions, which limit accumulation of DNA damage in MSC, are of clinical significance. We were intrigued by findings showing that zoledronate (ZOL), an anti‐resorptive nitrogen containing bisphosphonate, significantly extended survival in patients affected by osteoporosis. The effect was too large to be simply due to the prevention of fractures. Moreover, in combination with statins, it extended the lifespan in a mouse model of Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome. Therefore, we asked whether ZOL was able to extend the lifespan of human MSC and whether this was due to reduced accumulation of DNA damage, one of the important mechanisms of aging. Here, we show that this was the case both following expansion and irradiation, preserving their ability to proliferate and differentiate in vitro. In addition, administration of ZOL before irradiation protected the survival of mesenchymal progenitors in mice. Through mechanistic studies, we were able to show that inhibition of mTOR signaling, a pathway involved in longevity and cancer, was responsible for these effects. Our data open up new opportunities to protect MSC from the side effects of radiotherapy in cancer patients and during ex vivo expansion for regenerative medicine approaches. Given that ZOL is already in clinical use with a good safety profile, these opportunities can be readily translated for patient benefit. Stem Cells 2016;34:756–767

Pediatric patients require a systematic approach to treating back pain that minimizes the number of diagnostic studies without missing specific diagnoses. This study reviews an algorithm for the evaluation of pediatric back pain and assesses critical factors in the history and physical examination that are predictive of specific diagnoses. Eighty-seven pediatric patients with thoracic and/or lumbar back pain were treated utilizing after this algorithm. If initial plain radiographs were positive, patients were considered to have a specific diagnosis. If negative, patients with constant pain, night pain, radicular pain, and/or an abnormal neurological examination obtained a follow-up magnetic resonance imaging. Patients with negative radiographs and intermittent pain were diagnosed with nonspecific back pain. Twenty-one (24%) of 87 patients had positive radiographs and were treated for their specific diagnoses. Nineteen (29%) of 66 patients with negative radiographs had constant pain, night pain, radicular pain, and/or an abnormal neurological examination. Ten of these 19 patients had a specific diagnosis determined by magnetic resonance imaging. Therefore, 31 (36%) of 87 patients had a specific diagnosis. Back pain of other 56 patients was of a nonspecific nature. No specific diagnoses were missed at latest follow-up. Specificity for determining a specific diagnosis was very high for radicular pain (100%), abnormal neurological examination (100%), and night pain (95%). Radicular pain and an abnormal neurological examination also had high positive predictive value (100%). Lumbar pain was the most sensitive (67%) and had the highest negative predictive value (75%). This algorithm seems to be an effective tool for diagnosing pediatric back pain, and this should help to reduce costs and patient/family anxiety and to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.

We present a case of a type I Monteggia equivalent lesion in a 7-year-old child consisting of anterior dislocation of the radial head, radial neck fracture, and a fracture of the olecranon without an associated fracture of the ulnar diaphysis or metaphysis. After a review of the literature, we report this fracture pattern as a rare type I Monteggia equivalent fracture-dislocation variant. This report describes delayed surgical treatment and outcome after close follow-up of a rare type I Monteggia equivalent lesion. Diagnostic challenges with and treatment options for pediatric Monteggia equivalent fracture-dislocations are discussed.

We report a case of unilateral genu valgum secondary to focal fibrocartilaginous dysplasia (FFCD) isolated in the posterolateral cortex of the distal femur. This case is the first incidence of a discrete fibrous band occurring in conjunction with a FFCD lesion in the distal posterolateral femur treated with excision of the tether and the overlying periosteum with curettage of the cortical focal fibrocartilaginous defect. Treatment was considered successful with gradual resolution of the 30 degrees valgus deformity over 24 months, and we avoided the necessity of corrective osteotomy and its associated risks. To our knowledge, resolution of genu valgum secondary to FFCD in the distal posterolateral femur after curettage has not been previously described in the literature.

A 34 year old female typist presented to the orthopaedic outpatients clinic with a painless swelling in her right ring finger for 3 years duration. Examination revealed a mobile, hard lump on the volar aspect of the right ring finger at the level of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint with restricted range of movement at the PIP joint. The swelling was a cause of concern for the patient and was affecting her job as a typist. Plain radiography (Fig. 1) demonstrated a discrete soft tissue ossified swelling adjacent to the PIP joint which appeared separate from the underlying joint, but the exact nature of the swelling could not be identified. An Ultrasound examination performed showed high density echogenic shadow, consistent with cancellous bone formation. The lesion was relatively mobile, lying superficial to the flexor tendon and arising from the flexor sheath without involving the underlying bone. The decision to proceed with surgery was made keeping in mind the benign nature of the swelling. Intraoperatively, the tumor which was found to be originating from the digital flexor sheath was 1×0.5 cm in diameter, grey in color and firm in consistency. Complete excision of the swelling was carried out with preservation of the digital neurovascular bundles. Microscopic examination of the specimen sent for histopathology showed dense fibrous tissue merging into fibrocartilagenous tissue with ossification. This was regarded as a soft tissue fibrochondroma with ossification arising in a tendon sheath. (Figs. 2 & 3). No cellular atypia was identified in the cartilaginous component. The patient was followed up 2 weeks and 6 months after surgery, there was no clinical evidence of recurrence and she had complete functional recovery with painless full range of movement at the proximal and distal interphalangeal joint.

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome of anterior lumbar interbody fusion without instrumentation (uninstrumented ALIF) against that with stable anterior cage fixation using Hartshill horseshoe instrumentation (ALIF-HH) for similar severity of disc disease. Between April 1994 and June 1998 the senior author N.R.B. performed 29 instrumented ALIF procedures with a Hartshill horseshoe cage (ALIF-HH). Between 1990 and 1998, the other senior author (J.M.H.), together with another senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon, performed 27 noninstrumented ALIF procedures using corticocancellous iliac crest autograft. All the patients in both groups had single-level fusion. An independent assessor (S.M.) performed the entire review. The mean follow-up was 4.7 years (2.3-7.9 years) in the uninstrumented ALIF group and 3.0 years (2.1-4.4 years) in the ALIF-HH group. There was subsidence of graft in four patients in the uninstrumented ALIF group. It is reasonable to assume that there was no pseudarthrosis in the ALIF-HH group. This difference was statistically significant (two-sided P-value =0.0425). On subjective score assessment, there was a satisfactory outcome (score/=30) of 87.5% (21 patients) in the uninstrumented ALIF group and 85.2% (23 patients) in the ALIF-HH group ( P0.05). On classification by the Oswestry Index into four categories, we found no difference in outcome between the two groups: 83.3% ( n=20) had a satisfactory outcome (defined as Excellent or Better) with ALIF and 77.8% ( n=21) had a satisfactory outcome with ALIF-HH using the Oswestry Disability Index for post-operative assessment ( P0.05). The results of this study indicate that the Hartshill horseshoe cage does improve the fusion rate, but does not affect clinical outcome.

The objective of our study was to assess the efficacy of Graf ligamentoplasty in comparison with rigid fixation and fusion with the Hartshill horseshoe cage for similar severity of disc degeneration. Although studies have been done on the Graf ligamentoplasty procedure and the Hartshill horseshoe cage, their efficacy has never been compared in any study. This study was done to decide whether retaining mobility and stabilizing the spine is best or stiffening the lumbar segment by fusion is preferable. Between 1995 and 1997, a prospective randomized study was performed comparing Graf ligament stabilization and anterior lumbar interbody fusion. Twenty-eight patients had single-level Graf ligaments inserted and 27 patients had single-level anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) with a Hartshill horseshoe cage and tricortical iliac crest autograft. The two groups were similar in age, sex, symptoms, severity of the disc degeneration, and duration of follow-up. The chi-square test and t-test were used to evaluate the outcome. At a minimum follow-up of 2.1 years, we found that 93% of patients who had undergone Graf ligamentoplasty had a satisfactory outcome (rated "excellent" or "better") compared to 77.8% of patients who had been treated with ALIF with Hartshill horseshoe cage stabilization and fusion, when measured on the Oswestry Disability Index (P

Operative correction for infantile and adolescent tibia vara has been described using both external and internal fixation. Gradual correction using a circular fixator offers the advantage of accurate coronal, sagittal, and axial plane correction without significant soft tissue dissection. This study evaluated the use of six-axis deformity analysis and the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) for the correction of tibia vara. Nineteen patients (22 tibias), 6 with infantile and 13 with adolescent tibia vara, underwent correction with TSF. On the basis of mechanical axis correction, 21 of 22 tibias were corrected within 3 degrees of normal. Using Schoenecker's criteria, all patients achieved good results (no pain

Clinical outcome of low back fusion is unpredictable. There are various reports discussing the merits and clinical outcome of these two procedures. The patients were selected from a population of patients who had chronic low back pain unresponsive to conservative treatment. Thirty-six instrumented posterolateral fusions and 35 instrumented circumferential fusions with posterior lumbar interbody fusions were done simultaneously. Preoperative radiographic assessment included plain radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging scans, and provocative discography in all the patients. Posterolateral fusion or anterior lumbar interbody fusion was done for internal disc disruption. The Oswestry disability index, subjective scoring, and assessment of fusion were done at a minimum followup of 2 years. On subjective scoring assessment there was a satisfactory outcome of 63.9% (23 patients) in the posterolateral fusion group and 82.8% (29 patients) in the posterior lumbar interbody fusion group. On assessment by the Oswestry index no difference was found in outcome between the two groups. The posterolateral fusion group had a 63.9% satisfactory outcome and the posterior lumbar interbody fusion group had an 80% satisfactory outcome using the Oswestry disability index for postoperative assessment. There was 61. 1% improvement in working ability in the posterolateral fusion group and 77.1% improvement in the posterior lumbar interbody fusion group which was not statistically significant. The authors consider instrumented circumferential fusion with posterior lumbar interbody fusion better than instrumented posterolateral fusion for managing chronic disabling low back pain.

A good long-term outcome following a total knee arthroplasty relies on restoration of the mechanical axis and effective soft tissue balancing of the prosthetic knee. Arthroplasty surgery in patients with secondary osteoarthritis of the knee with an extra-articular tibial deformity is a complex and challenging procedure. The correction of mal-alignment of the mechanical axis is associated with unpredictable result and with higher revision rates. Single-staged deformity correction and replacement surgery often result in the use of constraint implants. We describe our experience with staged correction of deformity using a Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) followed by total knee arthroplasty in these patients and highlight the advantage of staged approach. The use of TSF fixator for deformity correction prior to a primary total knee arthroplasty has not been described in the literature. We describe three cases of secondary osteoarthritis of the knee associated with multiplanar tibial deformity treated effectively with a total knee arthroplasty following deformity correction and union using a TSF. All patients had an improved Knee Society score and Oxford Knee score postoperatively and were satisfied with their replacement outcome. Staged deformity correction followed by arthroplasty allows the use of standard primary arthroplasty implants with predicable results and flexible aftercare. This approach may also provide significant improvement of patient symptoms following correction of deformity resulting in deferment of the arthroplasty surgery.

We analysed 68 cases of acetabular augmentation using the Wroblewski wedge for recurrent posterior dislocation of Charnley total hip replacements inserted through a posterior approach. The follow-up was done by postal questionnaire in living patients or by thorough search of case notes in the dead. All hips were followed up either until death or a minimum of 2 years. The average follow-up for the surviving successful group was 35.3 months. Out of 68 hips, 52 (76%) had no further dislocation at a mean follow-up of 35.3 months (range, 24-95 months). An additional 4 hips became stable after one closed reduction for a re-dislocation. After a second augmentation, 5 more hips were stabilised. Wroblewski wedge augmentation is a simple and effective procedure and should be considered before embarking on major revisions in recurrent posterior dislocations in the elderly with no obvious cause for instability.

Study design This retrospective study analyzed the outcome of 44 patients who had decompression, pedicle screw-rod fixation, and fusion for Grades 1 and 2 spondylolytic spondylolisthesis. Objective To evaluate the outcome of two methods for stabilization and fusion: posterolateral fusion and circumferential fusion involving posterior lumbar interbody fusion and posterolateral fusion for low grades of isthmic spondylolisthesis. Summary of background data It has been suggested that stabilization with instrumented fusion is somewhat unpredictable due to lack of anterior support. Does circumferential fusion using posterior lumbar interbody fusion circumvent all the problems, and is it better than posterolateral fusion clinically? Methods A single surgeon treated 21 patients with instrumented posterolateral fusion and 23 patients with instrumented circumferential fusion, (i.e., posterior lumbar interbody fusion, and posterolateral fusion. These two groups were compared for clinical outcome, fusion rate, and correction of slippage. Results The minimum follow-up period for the patients was 2.1 years. The clinical satisfactory outcome on the Oswestry index was 81% for posterolateral fusion and 69% for posterior lumbar interbody fusion. The subjective outcome was 86% and 65%, respectively, for the two groups (P > 0.05). However, a consideration of subjective scores showed that three patients (14.3%) in posterolateral fusion group and eight patients (34.8%) in posterior lumbar interbody fusion group had an unsatisfactory outcome (P = 0.0135), which was very significant. There were two nonunions in the posterolateral fusion group and none in the posterior lumbar interbody fusion group (P > 0.05). The correction of slippage and the loss of correction at the last follow-up assessment was better in the posterior lumbar interbody fusion group, although this was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Radicular symptoms and neurologic improvement were statistically similar between the two groups. Conclusions Posterolateral fusion has a better clinical outcome in low grades of isthmic spondylolisthesis, although posterior lumbar interbody fusion is more predictable in maintaining correction and achieving union. Careful patient selection is needed for each operation, and adjacent level disc degeneration may influence the procedure offered to the patient.

The Hartshill Horseshoe cage is a titanium implant that is inserted after removal of the disc in anterior lumbar interbody fusion. The authors use corticocancellous iliac crest graft, which is contained within the confines of the implant. The cage and the motion segment are stabilized by inserting screws into the adjacent vertebral bodies through holes in the implant. Between 1995 and 1997, 27 patients had this implant inserted. Minimum follow-up was 2.1 years (mean: 2.9 years). Patients were assessed using the Oswestry disability index, a core set of six questions, a pain drawing, and psychometrically using the Zung Depression Scale and the Modified Somatic Perception Questionnaire. The patients' subjective assessment was also obtained. Twenty-one patients (77.8%) improved significantly on the Oswestry disability index and 22 patients (81.5%) improved by subjective assessment using the "core set" of six questions. There was no evidence of pseudarthrosis, loosening, or osteolysis around the implant or the screws. The cage prevents graft extrusion, collapse, or sinkage through the endplates. The normal lumbar lordosis is restored and, by restoring normal intervertebral disc space height, the Horseshoe opens up the neural foraminae. This cage stabilizes the motion segments and secures the graft, preventing micromotion at the graft vertebral body interface and providing a conducive environment for fusion.

Talipes equino varus is a complex deformity occurring in an otherwise normal child or as part of many prenatal disorders [1]. It has four components: equinus, varus, adductus, and cavus. Regardless of the treatment technique the goal is to correct all components of the deformity so that the patient has a plantigrade foot, without the need to wear orthosis or modified shoes [2]. We report the case of a patient with talipes equino varus of the right foot whose treatment using serial casting was complicated because of a cavernous haemangioma. The cavernous haemangioma ulcerated and became infected prolonging the treatment. Despite this complication we persisted with gentle manipulation and serial casting (Ponsetti method) and achieved a good result. To the best of our knowledge the management of this complication associated with a haemangioma and occurring during the treatment of talipes equino varus using the Ponseti method has not been previously reported in the literature. Our patient’s parents were informed that data concerning their daughter’s case might be submitted for publication.

From July 1993 to September 1997, 28 nailings were done on 26 patients using the Marchetti-Vicenzi flexible nail. The minimum length of follow-up was 1 year. All the patients were examined clinically and radiographically. All the 19 tibiae united. Of the nine femur fractures, one required exchange nailing. Complications were delayed union, mal-union, shortening and infection. The complication rate was 3/19 for the tibia and 2/19 for the femur. The mean operative time and the mean fluoroscopy time for the tibia nailings was 36 and 0.22 min and for the femur nailings was 39 and 0.20 min, respectively. This was much lower than that for Russell-Taylor nails.

Objective To compare the results of hip arthroscopy in patients under the age of 25 with those over 25 years. Design From March 2006 until May 2010, data were collected on all patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for symptomatic intra-articular hip pathology. The patients were divided into two groups based on age (less than 25 years and over 25 years). Patients completed the modified Harris hip score (MHHS), non-arthritic hip score (NAHS) and hip dysfunction and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) questionnaires at baseline then at 6 weeks, 6 months, 12 months and at latest follow-up. Participants 88 patients who underwent 94 hip arthroscopies by the senior author. Mean age was 24.3 (range 11–57 years). Results The mean NAHS and HOOS subscales for pain and activities of daily living were worse at baseline in over 25 groups. Follow-up ranged from 9 to 68 months. 45 hips had greater than 3 year follow-up. The MHHS improved in both groups with a mean difference in the under-25 group of 16.22, and 20.88 in the over 25s. Improvements in the NAHS and HOOS subscales were also of a similar magnitude. There was no statistically significant difference between outcome scores of the two groups at the latest follow-up visit. Conclusions We found a comparable improvement in outcome between those patients under 25 years and those over 25 years. We propose that hip arthroscopy is of potential benefit to patients with symptoms of femoroacetabular impingement regardless of age.

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) have been shown to have potential in regenerative approaches in bone and blood. Most protocols rely on their in vitro expansion prior to clinical use. However, several groups including our own have shown that hMSCs lose proliferation and differentiation ability with serial passage in culture, limiting their clinical applications. Cellular prion protein (PrP) has been shown to enhance proliferation and promote self-renewal of hematopoietic, mammary gland, and neural stem cells. Here we show, for the first time, that expression of PrP decreased in hMSC following ex vivo expansion. When PrP expression was knocked down, hMSC showed significant reduction in proliferation and differentiation. In contrast, hMSC expanded in the presence of small molecule 3/689, a modulator of PrP expression, showed retention of PrP expression with ex vivo expansion and extended lifespan up to 10 population doublings. Moreover, cultures produced a 300-fold increase in the number of cells generated. These cells showed a 10-fold increase in engraftment levels in bone marrow 5 weeks post-transplant. hMSC treated with 3/689 showed enhanced protection from DNA damage and enhanced cell cycle progression, in line with data obtained by gene expression profiling. Moreover, upregulation of superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD2) was also observed in hMSC expanded in the presence of 3/689. The increase in SOD2 was dependent on PrP expression and suggests increased scavenging of reactive oxygen species as mechanism of action. These data point to PrP as a good target for chemical intervention in stem cell regenerative medicine. Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.

Dysplasia of the hip is characterized by malpositioning of the proximal femur in a shallow acetabulum, providing deficient femoral head coverage. This abnormal relationship leads to altered biomechanics of the hip joint, as predicted by measurement of kinematic parameters such as increased load over reduced acetabular weight-bearing area, leading to increased joint contact stresses, which subsequently results in secondary osteoarthrosis, pain, and disability. To prevent these sequelae, particularly in children and younger adults, various osteotomies have been performed with varying degrees of success. The goal of this study was to devise a simple and reproducible laboratory method to perform a kinematic analysis of the individual and comparative effects of 5 commonly performed pelvic osteotomy techniques: Chiari pelvic osteotomy, Salter innominate bone wedge osteotomy, Steel triple pelvic osteotomy, Tönnis triple pelvic osteotomy, and Ganz periacetabular pelvic osteotomy. The aim was to determine which of the osteotomy techniques caused greater correction in most of the kinematic parameters used to estimate changes in the biomechanics of the hip joint. Our hypothesis was that pelvic osteotomies such as Chiari and Salter produced favorable changes and were relatively easily reproducible, but that more biomechanical correction in all planes would be achieved by the relatively more complex triple innominate bone and Ganz osteotomy.

Spontaneous intrapelvic masses causing vascular compression raise the suspicion of a neoplasm or infection. We present a patient who developed a recurrent intrapelvic cyst 14 years after a McKee-Farrar total hip arthroplasty which presented as acute onset of lower limb swelling, threatening the vascularity of the limb. This cyst recurred three times, and the patient finally needed revision total hip arthroplasty. The most probable cause of the recurrence was the cement and metal wear debris. Such cysts have been described in the literature, but to the best of our knowledge, this is the only report that describes it complicating a metal-on-metal prosthesis.

The purpose was to assess the accuracy of deformity correction achieved in patients with tibia vara using acute intraoperative correction compared with gradual postoperative correction. Acute correction (AC) group consisted of 14 patients (14 tibiae) with a mean age of 11.4 years and whose tibia vara was corrected acutely and held using an EBI external fixator. Gradual correction (GC) group consisted of 18 patients (18 tibiae) with a mean age of 10.2 years and whose tibia vara was corrected gradually using 6-axis deformity analysis and Taylor Spatial Frame. Deformity measurements were compared preoperatively, postoperatively, and at latest follow-up. At latest follow-up, medial proximal tibial angle deviation from normal was similar for the 2 groups; posterior proximal tibial angle was significantly greater in the AC group (5.6 degrees) than in the GC group (1.9 degrees). Mechanical axis deviation was significantly greater in the AC group (17.1 mm) than in the GC group (3.1 mm). Postoperatively, frequency of accurate translation corrections (achieved translation within 5 mm of preoperative required translation) was significantly greater in the GC group (18/18) than in the AC group (7/14). Frequency of accurate angulation corrections (medial proximal tibial angle within 3 degrees of normal and posterior proximal tibial angle within 5 degrees of normal) was significantly greater in the GC group (17/18) than in the AC group (7/14). For both groups, all tibiae with preoperative internal rotation deformity had accurate rotation correction. Correction of preoperative limb-length inequality was achieved in 5 of the 7 patients in the AC group and 11 of the 11 patients in the GC group. Gradual deformity correction is a more accurate treatment method of tibia vara than acute correction.

A 17-month-old boy with a toed-out left lower extremity was presented for evaluation. Before coming to the doctor, the mother had applied a zinc oxide lotion to treat a simple diaper rash in the groin. The radiologist did not remove the boy's diaper for the radiographic examination and so did not notice the lotion. The first radiograph showed what looked like multiple soft-tissue calcifications in the groin, but the radiopacities had been produced by the zinc oxide. This case serves as a reminder to be aware that metal-containing substances both on and in the body can produce radiopacities.

A relatively simple triple pelvic osteotomy using two cosmetically small skin incisions can provide excellent coverage of the femoral head. An adductor approach and a bikini approach are used to do the osteotomy. The 'almost' percutaneous pelvic osteotomy successfully increases femoral head coverage in a concentric hip joint. The VCA angle of Lequesne and the center-edge angle of Wiberg both show significant improvement in the coverage of the femoral head. Three-dimensional computed tomography scanograms may provide a more graphic representation before and after surgery. Preoperatively, this is especially useful in evaluating posterior acetabular coverage of the femoral head. The almost percutaneous pelvic osteotomy is another possible triple pelvic osteotomy for procedures for hip dysplasia. It has a relatively low learning curve in comparison with other triple pelvic osteotomies for hip dysplasia in children aged 6-14 years. With careful patient selection, femoral head coverage can be improved with small incisions that are cosmetically acceptable.

Inherited skeletal dysplasias are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders associated with abnormalities in the skeletal system frequently presenting with limb abnormalities and disproportionate short stature. There are over 100 distinct skeletal dysplasias, which have been classified primarily on the basis of the clinical or radiographic characteristics (International Working Group, 1998). The management of these conditions require a combined effort involving various specialists including radiologists, orthopaedic surgeons, clinical geneticists, physiotherapists, rehabilitation clinicians and clinical psychologists.

Thirty-four patients were studied throughout the evolution of Perthes' disease. The acetabular changes included osteopoenia of the roof, irregularity of its contour, and decrease in its depth. These changes were proportional to the femoral head involvement. The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of the morphological changes of the femoral head on the acetabulum and the outcome, and to determine the extent to which coxa magna and acetabular enlargement induced by Perthes disease in childhood persist into adolescence. Radioisotope scans of the hip were examined in fourteen children with unilateral Perthes' disease and comparison was made with the contralateral hip. These scans showed increased uptake on the lateral part of the acetabulum and no uptake over the avascular part of the femoral head. Average follow-up was ten years and children were followed up on average from six years to fifteen years of age. Six readings of the measurements of various dimensions of the acetabulum and the femoral head were done. CT scan also showed irregularity in the acetabulum. Statistical tests lead to the conclusion that the decrease in the depth of the acetabulum was secondary to the femoral head involvement and the extent of its dimensional changes affected the final congruity between the femoral head and the acetabulum. Also the remodelling potential of the acetabulum decreases as the child grows older. Therefore containment procedures could be done by femoral osteotomy in younger children, whereas acetabular osteotomy may benefit older children.