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Background: Injuries to the deep peroneal nerve result in tibialis anterior muscle paralysis and associated loss of ankle dorsiflexion. Nerve grafting of peroneal nerve injuries has led to poor function; therefore, tendon transfers and ankle-foot orthotics have been the standard treatment for foot drop.Questions/purposes: We (1) describe an alternative surgical technique to obtain ankle dorsiflexion by partial tibial nerve transfer to the motor branch of the tibialis anterior muscle; (2) evaluate ankle dorsiflexion strength using British Medical Research Council grading after nerve transfer; and (3) qualitatively determine factors that influence functional success of surgery.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 11 patients treated with partial tibial nerve transfers after peroneal nerve injury. Pre- and postoperative motor strength was measured. Patients completed questionnaires regarding pre- and postoperative gait and disability.Results: One patient regained Grade 4 ankle dorsiflexion, three patients regained Grade 3, one patient regained Grade 2, and two patients regained Grade 1 ankle dorsiflexion. Four patients did not regain any muscle activity. Clinically apparent motor recovery occurred an average 7.6 months postoperatively. A majority of patients (nine) could walk and participate in activities. Seven patients did not wear ankle-foot orthotics and four patients did not limp. The donor deficits included weak toe flexion (two patients) and reduced calf circumference (seven patients).Conclusion: Our observations suggest nerve transfers to the deep peroneal nerve provide inconsistent ankle dorsiflexion strength, possibly related to the mechanism of peroneal nerve injury or delays in surgery. Despite variable strength, four patients achieved M3 or greater motor recovery, which enabled them to walk without assistive devices.Level Of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiographic changes consisting of alterations in mineral content, osteopaenia or destructive neuropathy that occur following successful finger replantation have already been described. We report our experience about four fingers in three individuals in whom bone changes developed in the first three months postoperatively with complete "restitution ad integrum". Three patients, 21-49 years old (average 36 years) sustained a clean-cut amputation of four fingers. The first patient had an amputation at the base of the middle phalanx of the index finger and the second patient at the base of the proximal phalanx of the ring finger. The third had an amputation at the base of the first metacarpal bone and the proximal phalanx of the small finger in a five finger amputation. In the first case, two dorsal veins and two palmar digital arteries and nerves were repaired. In the second case, one palmar artery and one dorsal vein were reanastomosed. In the third case at the thumb, two dorsal veins and two palmar digital arteries and nerves were reconstructed. At the small finger, one dorsal vein, one palmar digital artery and two digital nerves were reconstructed. Bone fixation was achieved with two and three K-wires or tension-band wiring. Replantation was successful in all cases. Three weeks after replantation, the X-rays showed rapid development of osteopaenia in the juxtaarticular region and metaphyses of the bone. These changes were followed by subperiosteal, intracortical and endosteal bone resorption. No further surgical procedures or splintage were needed and hand therapy was not discontinued. At 10-13 weeks (average 12 weeks) postoperatively, the X-rays showed a complete recovery with new periosteal bone formation. We suggest that the radiographic changes after finger replantation are transient, first evident subperiosteally and progressing centrally. They may reflect small-vessel compromise and microinfarction and transient hyperemia secondary to neurovascular damage or to sympathetic progressive recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Open irrigation and débridement is the standard of treatment for septic arthritis of the wrist. Although isolated cases of arthroscopic irrigation and débridement have been reported, a comparison of arthroscopic and open techniques has not been performed, to our knowledge. The purpose of this study was to compare the two methods of management.Methods: A retrospective comparison of patients with septic arthritis of the wrist initially treated, over an eleven-year period, with open or arthroscopic irrigation and débridement was undertaken at a single institution. The clinical presentation, laboratory and microbiological findings, hospital course, complications, and outcomes were compared between the two groups.Results: Between 1997 and 2007, thirty-six patients with septic arthritis involving a total of forty wrists were identified. Nineteen wrists (seventeen patients) were initially treated with open irrigation and débridement, and twenty-one wrists (nineteen patients) were initially treated arthroscopically. Eleven wrists in the open-treatment cohort required repeat irrigation and débridement, and eight wrists in the arthroscopy cohort required a repeat procedure. If a repeat irrigation and débridement was required, it was performed in an open fashion in all but two cases. When the comparison included all of the patients in the series, no difference between the two cohorts was found with regard to the number of irrigation and débridement procedures required or the length of the hospital stay. However, when the comparison was limited to the patients with isolated septic arthritis of the wrist, it was found that only one of seven wrists in the open-treatment cohort but all eight wrists in the arthroscopy cohort had been successfully managed with a single irrigation and débridement procedure (p = 0.001). No patient in whom isolated septic arthritis of the wrist had been treated with arthroscopic irrigation and débridement required a second operation. The patients in whom isolated septic arthritis of the wrist was treated with the open method stayed in the hospital for an average of sixteen days compared with a six-day stay for those in whom isolated septic arthritis of the wrist was treated with the arthroscopic method (p = 0.04). The ninety-day perioperative mortality rate in the series was substantial (18% [three patients] in the open-treatment cohort and 21% [four patients] in the arthroscopy cohort).Conclusions: Arthroscopic irrigation and débridement is an effective treatment for patients with isolated septic arthritis of the wrist; these patients had fewer operations and a shorter hospital stay than did patients who had received open treatment. However, these benefits were not seen in patients with multiple sites of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgically, it is difficult to achieve union of a scaphoid nonunion that is associated with osteonecrosis of the proximal pole, and those with carpal collapse are especially difficult to treat. A variety of vascularized bone grafts can be used. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two types of vascularized bone graft -- a distal radial pedicle graft and a free vascularized medial femoral condyle graft -- in the treatment of scaphoid waist nonunions associated with proximal pole osteonecrosis and carpal collapse.Methods: A retrospective review was conducted at two institutions to identify all patients with a scaphoid waist nonunion associated with an avascular proximal pole and carpal collapse. Between January 1994 and June 2006, twenty-two such nonunions were identified in twenty-two patients. Ten were treated with a distal radial pedicle vascularized graft and twelve, with a free vascularized medial femoral condyle graft. Patient demographics were similar between the groups, and the duration of follow-up averaged twelve months. Union was determined with use of plain radiographs and computed tomography or trispiral tomograms. In addition, carpal angles, time to union, union rates, and complications were recorded.Results: Four of the ten nonunions treated with the distal radial pedicle graft healed, at a median of nineteen weeks, and all twelve nonunions treated with the free medial femoral condyle graft healed, at a median of thirteen weeks. The rate of union was significantly higher (p = 0.005) and the median time to healing was significantly shorter (p < 0.001) for the nonunions treated with the medial femoral condyle graft.Conclusions: A vascularized interposition graft from the medial femoral condyle is the recommended vascularized bone graft for the surgical treatment of scaphoid waist nonunion with avascularity of the proximal pole and carpal collapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgically, it is difficult to achieve union of a scaphoid nonunion that is associated with osteonecrosis of the proximal pole, and those with carpal collapse are especially difficult to treat. A variety of vascularized bone grafts can be used. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two types of vascularized bone graft--a distal radial pedicle graft and a free vascularized medial femoral condyle graft--in the treatment of scaphoid waist nonunions associated with proximal pole osteonecrosis and carpal collapse.Methods: A retrospective review was conducted at two institutions to identify all patients with a scaphoid waist nonunion associated with an avascular proximal pole and carpal collapse. Between January 1994 and June 2006, twenty-two such nonunions were identified in twenty-two patients. Ten were treated with a distal radial pedicle vascularized graft and twelve, with a free vascularized medial femoral condyle graft. Patient demographics were similar between the groups, and the duration of follow-up averaged twelve months. Union was determined with use of plain radiographs and computed tomography or trispiral tomograms. In addition, carpal angles, time to union, union rates, and complications were recorded.Results: Four of the ten nonunions treated with the distal radial pedicle graft healed, at a median of nineteen weeks, and all twelve nonunions treated with the free medial femoral condyle graft healed, at a median of thirteen weeks. The rate of union was significantly higher (p = 0.005) and the median time to healing was significantly shorter (p < 0.001) for the nonunions treated with the medial femoral condyle graft.Conclusions: A vascularized interposition graft from the medial femoral condyle is the recommended vascularized bone graft for the surgical treatment of scaphoid waist nonunion with avascularity of the proximal pole and carpal collapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The application of vascularized rib grafts in spine surgery has been limited to the treatment of kyphosis with anterior placement of the rib graft to facilitate anterior spine arthrodesis. The outcomes following use of vascularized rib grafts in complex spinal reconstruction have not been adequately evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine the results, including the time to osseous union and complications, following anterior or posterior placement of pedicled vascularized rib grafts for complex spinal reconstruction.Methods: The medical records and images of all patients in whom a vascularized rib graft had been used for a multisegmental spine reconstruction at a single institution between 1994 and 2004 were retrospectively reviewed. Eighteen patients (mean age, 45.3 years) who had been followed for an average of 31.8 months were identified. Details regarding indications, the levels that were spanned, the graft length, the time to union, and complications were evaluated.Results: The preoperative diagnoses included metastatic or primary tumor (thirteen patients) and progressive kyphosis secondary to chronic osteomyelitis (two), injury (one), congenital anomalies (one), or implant failure (one). On the average, 4.4 levels were fused and 1.9 vertebral bodies were excised. All eighteen arthrodeses included various forms of allograft and/or autograft material, and instrumentation was used, in addition to the vascularized rib graft, in twelve patients. The mean rib length was 16.1 cm, and a rib between the fifth and eleventh ribs, inclusive, was used, depending on the location of the spinal reconstruction. The average time to union was 6.8 months, and all rib grafts united. There were no complications specific to the rib-harvesting procedure.Conclusions: The use of a vascularized rib graft in complex spinal reconstruction adds little time to the overall procedure, is associated with low morbidity, and appears to offer substantial benefits to the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The application of vascularized rib grafts in spine surgery has been limited to the treatment of kyphosis with anterior placement of the rib graft to facilitate anterior spine arthrodesis. The outcomes following use of vascularized rib grafts in complex spinal reconstruction have not been adequately evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine the results, including the time to osseous union and complications, following anterior or posterior placement of pedicled vascularized rib grafts for complex spinal reconstruction.Methods: The medical records and images of all patients in whom a vascularized rib graft had been used for a multisegmental spine reconstruction at a single institution between 1994 and 2004 were retrospectively reviewed. Eighteen patients (mean age, 45.3 years) who had been followed for an average of 31.8 months were identified. Details regarding indications, the levels that were spanned, the graft length, the time to union, and complications were evaluated.Results: The preoperative diagnoses included metastatic or primary tumor (thirteen patients) and progressive kyphosis secondary to chronic osteomyelitis (two), injury (one), congenital anomalies (one), or implant failure (one). On the average, 4.4 levels were fused and 1.9 vertebral bodies were excised. All eighteen arthrodeses included various forms of allograft and/or autograft material, and instrumentation was used, in addition to the vascularized rib graft, in twelve patients. The mean rib length was 16.1 cm, and a rib between the fifth and eleventh ribs, inclusive, was used, depending on the location of the spinal reconstruction. The average time to union was 6.8 months, and all rib grafts united. There were no complications specific to the rib-harvesting procedure.Conclusions: The use of a vascularized rib graft in complex spinal reconstruction adds little time to the overall procedure, is associated with low morbidity, and appears to offer substantial benefits to the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyponatremia has emerged as an important cause of race-related death and life-threatening illness among marathon runners. We studied a cohort of marathon runners to estimate the incidence of hyponatremia and to identify the principal risk factors.Methods: Participants in the 2002 Boston Marathon were recruited one or two days before the race. Subjects completed a survey describing demographic information and training history. After the race, runners provided a blood sample and completed a questionnaire detailing their fluid consumption and urine output during the race. Prerace and postrace weights were recorded. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with hyponatremia.Results: Of 766 runners enrolled, 488 runners (64 percent) provided a usable blood sample at the finish line. Thirteen percent had hyponatremia (a serum sodium concentration of 135 mmol per liter or less); 0.6 percent had critical hyponatremia (120 mmol per liter or less). On univariate analyses, hyponatremia was associated with substantial weight gain, consumption of more than 3 liters of fluids during the race, consumption of fluids every mile, a racing time of >4:00 hours, female sex, and low body-mass index. On multivariate analysis, hyponatremia was associated with weight gain (odds ratio, 4.2; 95 percent confidence interval, 2.2 to 8.2), a racing time of >4:00 hours (odds ratio for the comparison with a time of <3:30 hours, 7.4; 95 percent confidence interval, 2.9 to 23.1), and body-mass-index extremes.Conclusions: Hyponatremia occurs in a substantial fraction of nonelite marathon runners and can be severe. Considerable weight gain while running, a long racing time, and body-mass-index extremes were associated with hyponatremia, whereas female sex, composition of fluids ingested, and use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs were not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging of the hip was prospectively evaluated in 19 military subjects engaged in endurance training. These patients had hip pain, negative radiographs, and radionuclide bone scans consistent with femoral neck stress fracture. Twenty-two hips were identified as positive for femoral neck stress fracture by bone scan. Each patient underwent magnetic resonance imaging and 6-week follow-up plain radiographs of the hips. Magnetic resonance imaging studies differentiated femoral neck stress fractures from a synovial pit, iliopsoas muscle tear, iliopsoas tendinitis, obturator externus tendinitis, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, and a unicameral bone cyst. The follow-up radiographs were used to verify the diagnosis of stress fracture. The radiographs showed healing callus in patients with stress fractures. Patients with diagnoses other than stress fractures had no changes on follow-up radiographs. Magnetic resonance imaging studies were as sensitive and much more specific than bone scan in determining the cause of hip pain. Radionuclide bone scan had an accuracy of 68% for femoral neck stress fractures with 32% false-positive results; MRI was 100% accurate. Magnetic resonance imaging proved to be superior to radionuclide bone scanning in providing an early and accurate diagnostic tool that aided in the differential diagnosis of hip pain in the young endurance athlete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to validate the use of grayscale muscle ultrasound by measuring echo intensity to longitudinally evaluate functional muscle reinnervation in a rabbit peroneal nerve defect model., Methods: Eighteen New Zealand White rabbits underwent a 30-mm peroneal nerve reconstruction with autografts or decellularized allografts. Ultrasound measurements of tibialis anterior muscles were performed before surgery and at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks postoperatively and included cross-sectional muscle area, mean gray value (MGV), and mean gray value normalized for area (MGVA). At 24 weeks, functional motor recovery was evaluated with isometric tetanic force (ITF) and compound muscle action potential (CMAP). MGVA data was compared with ITF and CMAP measurements by calculating the Spearman correlation coefficient., Results: Muscle area (Left/Right Ratio (L/R)) of autografts was superior to allografts at 4, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks (p<0.03 for all comparisons). MGVs of the operated side were significantly higher for autografts at 4, 8, and 12 weeks and at 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks for allografts (p<0.01 for all comparisons), compared to their unoperated sides. Similar patterns were seen in both groups for MGVA (operated versus control side). MGVA (L/R) demonstrated a strong correlation with ITF (L/R) for autografts (ρ = -0.7) and allografts (ρ = -0.87), but inconsistent with CMAPs (L/R)., Conclusion: Quantitative muscle ultrasound demonstrated a reliable, non-invasive tool for evaluating motor recovery in a rabbit peroneal nerve reconstruction model. Clinical translation could provide valuable insights into muscle health and structural changes following nerve reconstruction., (Copyright © 2024 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

The presentation, management and outcomes of brachial plexus injuries are likely to be subject to regional differences across the globe. A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify relevant articles related to spinal accessory to suprascapular, intercostal to musculocutaneous, and ulnar and/or median nerve fascicle to biceps and/or brachialis motor branch nerve transfers for treatment of brachial plexus injuries. A total of 6007 individual brachial plexus injuries were described with a mean follow-up of 38 months. The specific indication for accessory to suprascapular and intercostal to musculocutaneous transfers were considerably different among regions (e.g. upper plexus vs. pan-plexal), while uniform for fascicular transfer for elbow flexion (e.g. upper plexus +/- C7). Similarly, functional recovery was highly variable for accessory to suprascapular and intercostal to musculocutaneous transfers, while British Medical Research Council grade ≥3 strength after fascicular transfer for elbow flexion was frequently obtained. Overall, differences in outcomes seem to be inherent to the specific transfer being utilized. Level of evidence: III., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declare no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

A total of 26 adolescent patients were treated for scaphoid nonunion with a vascularized bone graft from either the medial femoral condyle or dorsal distal radius. There was an 85% union incidence, improved carpal alignment and a low incidence of complications., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: Patients with brachial plexus birth injuries (BPBIs) are at risk for limitations in shoulder external rotation. The role of lower trapezius tendon transfer to restore shoulder external rotation in this population has not been well characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of lower trapezius tendon transfer for restoration of external rotation in a subset of pediatric patients., Methods: Seventeen pediatric patients with BPBI were treated with lower trapezius tendon transfer to restore external rotation of the shoulder. Mean age at surgery was 8 years, and 11 were female. Six patients had prior shoulder surgery to restore external rotation, while 1 had prior nerve surgery to restore shoulder function. Range of motion before lower trapezius transfer and at latest follow-up was obtained. Mean follow-up was 36 months., Results: Active forward flexion did not significantly change from preoperative to final follow-up (mean, 147° and 141°; P = 0.46). External rotation in adduction significantly changed from preoperative to final follow-up (mean, 4° and 26°; P < 0.001). External rotation in abduction significantly changed from preoperative to final follow-up (mean, 75° and 84°; P = 0.048). Six patients (35%) had subsequent surgeries at average 17 months from this procedure. Significant univariate associations with subsequent surgery included certain intraoperative concomitant procedures-coracoid osteotomy/excision (P = 0.02) and biceps tenodesis (P = 0.04)-while bony glenoid augmentation/reconstruction trended toward significant association (P = 0.05)., Conclusions: Lower trapezius tendon transfer for BPBI showed a statistically significant but unlikely clinically meaningful improvement in external rotation with a high rate of reoperation., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest and Source of Funding: The authors report no conflicts of interest and no source of funding.

Background: Due to the pauci-bacillary nature of tuberculous (TB) pleurisy, clinical diagnosis is common, but microbiological confirmation is necessary to determine drug resistance. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic yield of medical thoracoscopy (MT) for microbiological confirmation of TB pleurisy., Methods: Medical records of patients diagnosed as TB pleurisy with microbiological or histologic evidence who underwent MT between May 2015 and July 2023 at Incheon St. Mary's Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Sensitivities of microbiological results [acid-fast bacilli (AFB) culture or TB-polymerase chain reaction (PCR)] of pre-MT pleural fluid and those of targeted pleural washing fluid and pleural tissues obtained during MT were compared. Difference in sensitivity was verified with McNemar's test., Results: A total of 72 patients were enrolled. With pre-MT pleural fluid, sensitivities of AFB culture and TB PCR were 5.6% (4/72) and 1.4% (1/72), respectively. With targeted pleural washing fluid, sensitivities of AFB culture and TB-PCR were 23.6% (17/72) and 12.5% (9/72), respectively. With pleural tissues, sensitivities of AFB culture and TB-PCR were 18.1% (13/72) and 40.3% (29/72), respectively. MT showed an additional 27.8% [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 14.2-40.1%, P<0.001] of sensitivity gain in AFB culture and 40.3% (95% CI: 25.7-52.5%, P<0.001) of sensitivity gain in TB-PCR. With pleural washing, additional 19.4% (95% CI: 6.8-31.6%, P=0.001) of sensitivity gain in microbiological confirmation was identified, whereas additional 37.5% (95% CI: 22.6-50.2%, P<0.001) of sensitivity gain was identified with pleural biopsy., Conclusions: With MT, 44.4% of additional sensitivity gain in microbiological confirmation of TB pleurisy was identified. This underscores the role of MT in the diagnosis of TB pleurisy., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: All authors have completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure form (available at https://jtd.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/jtd-24-143/coif). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare., (2024 Journal of Thoracic Disease. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Recovering from neuromuscular injuries or conditions can be a challenging journey that involves complex surgeries and extensive physical rehabilitation. During this process, individuals often rely on orthotic devices to support and enable movement of the affected limb. However, users have criticized current commercially available powered orthotic devices for their bulky and heavy design. To address these limitations, we developed a novel powered myoelectric elbow orthosis., Materials and Methods: The orthosis incorporates 3 mechanisms: a solenoid brake, a Bowden cable-powered constant torque elbow mechanism, and an extension limiter. The device controller and battery are in a backpack to reduce the weight on the affected arm. We performed extensive calculations and testing to ensure that the orthosis could withstand at least 15 Nm of elbow torque. We developed a custom software effectively control the orthosis, enhancing its usability and functionality. A certified orthotist fitted a subject who had undergone a gracilis free functioning muscle transfer surgery with the device. We studied the subject under Mayo clinic IRB no. 20-006849 and obtained objective measurements to assess the orthosis's impact on upper extremity functionality during daily activities., Results: The results are promising since the orthosis significantly improved elbow flexion range of motion by 40° and reduced compensatory movements at the shoulder (humerothoracic joint) by 50°. Additionally, the subject was able to perform tasks which were not possible before, such as carrying a basket with weights, highlighting the enhanced functionality provided by the orthosis., Conclusion: In brief, by addressing the limitations of existing devices, this novel powered myoelectric elbow orthosis offers individuals with neuromuscular injuries/conditions improved quality of life. Further research will expand the patient population and control mechanisms., (© The Association of Military Surgeons of the United States 2024. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site–for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Purpose: Hirayama disease (HD) is a rare, nonfamilial, self-limiting, progressive lower cervical myelopathy, resulting in debilitating distal upper-extremity motor deficits, mimicking high ulnar neuropathy, lower trunk brachial plexopathy, or C8-T1 radiculopathy. Although most literature focuses on pathophysiology and prevention of disease progression, there remains limited discussion regarding treatment to improve upper-extremity function in patients with stable disease. The upper-extremity manifestations of HD are reviewed along with surgical options for restoring hand function., Methods: A retrospective review of patients with HD who underwent reconstruction to improve hand function was undertaken. Demographic data, preoperative electrodiagnostic and electromyographic, and physical examination findings were collected. Outcome data involved postoperative grip, pinch, and functional assessment documented on clinical visits. Qualitative descriptions of the surgical techniques are described., Results: Among six patients identified, four met the inclusion criteria and underwent tendon transfers and selected joint arthrodeses. All patients were diagnosed as teenagers, were right hand-dominant, and three were male. Unilateral symptoms were present in one patient and were bilateral in the rest. All patients were treated with tendon transfers for thumb opposition, grasp, anticlaw, and thumb interphalangeal joint arthrodesis. All patients had postoperative grip strength improvement. The average follow-up was 3.2 years., Conclusions: Hirayama disease is a rare disease often managed by spine surgeons and neurologists who may be unaware of options for restoring hand function deficits. Technical strategies and outcomes of improving hand function in HD have not been adequately described. Surgical options to improve hand function are tailored to the deficits and include tendon transfers, select joint arthrodeses, and/or tenodeses. Risk of disease progression and expectations following hand reconstruction must be managed carefully., Type of Study Level of Evidence: Therapeutic V., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly to this article., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Case: A multicenter series of 3 patients with amyoplasia of the upper extremity were indicated for gracilis free functional muscle transfer (FFMT) to restore elbow flexion and found to have an absent gracilis. A final case is discussed detailing standardized evaluation with ultrasound to confirm gracilis before surgical intervention., Conclusion: In amyoplasia, the gracilis muscle may be absent or have fatty infiltration, making this donor muscle inadequate. Preoperative ultrasound to determine the presence of the gracilis is noninvasive and recommended in patients with amyoplasia of the upper extremity being considered for FFMT., Competing Interests: Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJSCC/C410)., (Copyright © 2024 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

Purpose: The aim of this prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blinded pilot study was to determine the rates of post-traumatic osteoarthritis and assess joint space width in the presence or absence of a single intra-articular injection of corticosteroid after an acute, intra-articular distal radius fracture (DRF)., Methods: Forty patients received a single, intra-articular, radiocarpal joint injection of 4 mg of dexamethasone (DEX) (n = 19) or normal saline placebo (n = 21) within 2 weeks of a surgically or nonsurgically treated intra-articular DRF. The primary outcome measure was minimum radiocarpal joint space width (mJSW) on noncontrast computed tomography scans at 2 years postinjection. Secondary outcomes were obtained at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postinjection and included Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand; Michigan Hand Questionnaire; Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation; wrist range of motion; and grip strength., Results: At 2-year follow-up, there was no difference in mean mJSW between the DEX group (2.2 mm; standard deviation, 0.6; range, 1.4-3.2) and the placebo group (2.3 mm; standard deviation, 0.7; range, 0.9-3.9). Further, there were no differences in any secondary outcome measures at any postinjection follow-up interval., Conclusions: Radiocarpal joint injection of corticosteroid within 2 weeks of an intra-articular DRF does not appear to affect the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis within 2 years follow-up in a small pilot cohort., Type of Study/level of Evidence: Therapeutic II., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Our objective was to determine if patients with a distal radius fracture and concomitant lower-extremity fracture benefit from bridge plating when compared with volar plating., Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study evaluating distal radius fractures fixated by bridge or volar plating in orthopedic trauma patients with a concomitant lower-extremity fracture. Patients were prescribed a platform walker and followed for gait aid use and both upper and lower-extremity fracture-related outcomes., Results: Differences in platform walker use, radiographic findings, and rates of complications for both distal radius and lower-extremity fractures were comparable between groups., Conclusions: Although more studies are needed, it appears that this cohort of patient's ability to mobilize using a gait aid is similar, regardless of the distal radius fracture fixation method. A concomitant lower-extremity fracture should not necessarily indicate bridge plating over volar plate fixation., Type of Study/level of Evidence: Therapeutic Study IV., Competing Interests: No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly to this article., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Chemical investigation of n -hexane extract from the marine sponge Leucetta sp. led to the isolation of five new lipids, 1 - 5 , each characterized by a substituted dioxolane core. The structures of 1 - 5 were established based on the interpretation of NMR and HRESIMS data. To assign the absolute configuration at C-1', model systems consisting of diastereomers at C-2, C-4, and C-1' of the dioxolane core were prepared from a chiral glycerol dimethylacetal. 1 H NMR inspection of model compounds revealed that a pair of C-1' epimers, 11a/c and 11b/d , was indistinguishable, restricting structural assignment by direct comparison of NMR data. In addition, the lack of chromophores in the dioxolane core resulted in unreliable ECD results, with Cotton effects appearing below 190 nm. As an alternative, a chiral NMR method using Eu(hfc) 3 revealed notable lanthanide-induced shifts, allowing the spectroscopic discrimination of 11a/c and ent- 11a/c . Therefore, the absolute configuration of all five new lipids was determined to be 2 S , 4 S , 1' S by direct comparison with the Eu(hfc) 3 -induced 1 H NMR data.

Restoration of elbow flexion is a priority in treating adult traumatic brachial plexus injuries. A tendon transfer is an ideal option for patients not candidates for reconstructive nerve surgery or free-functioning muscle transfer. For patients with a partial brachial plexus injury or a pan plexus injury with adequate recovered triceps function and loss of elbow flexion, a triceps-to-biceps tendon transfer is a nonmicrosurgical option to restore elbow flexion. The technique of triceps-to-biceps transfer in which the complete triceps tendon is transferred laterally, secured lateral to the radial tuberosity, and reinforced with suture to the biceps tendon is described., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest and Source of Funding: The authors report no conflicts of interest and no source of funding., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Functional recovery after acellular nerve allograft (ANA) reconstruction remains inferior to that after autologous nerve grafting, but improved outcomes have been demonstrated with the addition of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Controversy exists regarding the optimal cell-delivery method to enhance ANA reconstructions. The authors investigated the functional recovery of ANAs after dynamic seeding versus microinjection of MSCs., Methods: Forty Lewis rats underwent reconstruction of a 10-mm sciatic nerve defect. Animals were divided into 4 groups: reversed autograft, ANA alone, dynamically seeded ANA, or ANA injected with MSCs. During the survival period, ultrasound measurements of the tibialis anterior muscle cross-sectional area were performed. At 12 weeks, functional recovery was evaluated using measurements of ankle contracture, compound muscle action potential, maximum isometric tetanic force, muscle mass, histomorphometry, and immunofluorescence., Results: The dynamic seeding and microinjection groups demonstrated higher cross-sectional tibialis anterior muscle area recovery than autografts and ANAs alone at week 8 and weeks 4 and 8, respectively. The ankle contracture and compound muscle action potential amplitude recovery were superior in autografts and both seeding methods compared with ANAs alone. The microinjection group demonstrated significantly higher isometric tetanic force, muscle mass, and number of axons compared with ANAs alone. Both seeding methods showed higher CD34 densities compared with ANAs alone. No significant differences between dynamic seeding and microinjection were observed in functional or histologic outcomes., Conclusions: The addition of MSCs to ANAs demonstrated earlier motor regeneration compared with autografts and ANAs alone. Both seeding methods improved functional outcomes in the rat sciatic nerve defect model., (Copyright © 2023 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: Lazertinib is an oral, third-generation EGFR-TKI, which specifically targets the EGFR T790M mutation along with activating mutations Ex19del and L858R. More real-world data are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in treating locally advanced and metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) following prior EGFR TKI treatment., Methods: This multicenter retrospective study was conducted at seven university hospitals affiliated to the Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Korea. A clinical data warehouse (CDW) platform was used to access and extract information., Results: A total of 48 patients were assessed. The majority were female (75%) and diagnosed with adenocarcinoma (95.8%). All patients had the EGFR mutation at diagnosis, 27 (56.3%) had the exon 19 deletion, 20 (41.7%) had the L858R mutation, and one (2.0%) had the exon 18 mutation. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 15.4 months. At 6, 12, and 18 months, PFS rates were 79.1%, 53.6%, and 27.3%, respectively. When PFS was analyzed by prior TKI duration (<18 months vs. >18 months), significant differences were noted at the 6 and 9-month mark (p = 0.013 and p = 0.010, respectively). In multivariate analysis for PFS, only prior TKI duration and ECOG score showed statistical significance (p = 0.026 and p = 0.049, respectively). In the multivariate analysis for OS, ECOG score showed statistical significance (p = 0.006). Among 48 patients, 34 (70.8%) experienced adverse events (AEs) related to lazertinib. The most frequent AEs were skin reaction (29.8%), diarrhea (21.3%), and peripheral neuropathy (20.8%)., Conclusions: The results suggest that lazertinib is effective in second or more line settings, with tolerable safety profile. More patient data are necessary to find possible prognostic markers associated with patient outcome., (© 2024 The Author(s). Thoracic Cancer published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

Serial physical examination is often required in the evaluation of brachial plexus injuries. (Noland, 2019) A comprehensive evaluation that includes a thorough history, electrodiagnostic evaluation, and imaging studies, in addition to physical examination, can provide valuable information about the location of the lesion, prognosis for recovery, and whether surgical intervention is necessary. After brachial plexus reconstruction, physical examinations are also performed to document clinical improvement and identify any residual issues. The videos included in this clinical examination techniques section demonstrate the muscle strength examination testing for the brachial plexus and offer best practices for documentation., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest and Source of Funding: The authors report no conflicts of interest and no source of funding., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Pan-brachial plexus injury patients present a reconstructive challenge. The root analysis score, developed from parsimonious multivariable modeling of 311 pan-brachial plexus injury patients, determines the probability of having a viable C5 nerve based on four categories: positive C5 Tinel test, intact C5 nerve on computed tomography myelogram, lack of hemidiaphragmatic elevation, and absence of midcervical paraspinal fibrillations., Methods: Root analysis scores were calculated for a separate cohort of patients with pan-brachial plexus injuries. Scores were validated by the presence or absence of a graftable C5 root, based on supraclavicular exploration and intraoperative electrophysiologic testing. Receiver operating characteristic curve, accuracy, and concordance statistic of the scores were calculated. Patients were divided into three root analysis score cohorts: less than 50 (low), 50-75 (average), and 75-100 points (high) based on dividing the score into quartiles and combining the lowest two. The probability, sensitivity, and specificity of each cohort having an available C5 nerve were based on the intraoperative assessment., Results: Eighty patients (mean age, 33.1 years; 15 women and 65 men) were included. Thirty-one patients (39%) had a viable C5 nerve. The root analysis calculator had an overall accuracy of 82.5%, a receiver operating characteristic of 0.87, and a concordance statistic of 0.87, demonstrating high overall predictive value; 6.5% of patients with a score of less than 50 (94% sensitivity and 43% specificity), 16.1% of patients with a score of 50-75 (94% sensitivity and 67% specificity), and 77.4% of patients with a score of 75-100 (77% sensitivity and 90% specificity) had a graftable C5 nerve., Conclusions: The root analysis score demonstrated high accuracy and predictive power for a viable C5 nerve. In patients with a score of less than 50, the necessity of supraclavicular root exploration should balance patient factors, presentation timing, and concomitant injuries., Type of Study/level of Evidence: Diagnosis II., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly to this article., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The purpose of this study was to compare two sources of nerve graft for brachial plexus reconstruction: the denervated superficial branch of the radial nerve (SBRN) and the sural nerve. Ninety-seven patients who underwent brachial plexus reconstruction with denervated SBRN nerve (24 patients with 24 grafts) or with sural nerve grafting (73 patients with 83 nerve grafts) were included. The two groups were compared with respect to postoperative muscle reinnervation, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scores. In the SBRN group, only four (17%) of the nerve grafts provided grade III or higher muscle function. In the sural nerve group, 31 (37%) of the nerve grafts provided grade III or higher muscle function. Smoking had a negative impact on muscle recovery. Denervated SBRN grafts are associated with inferior outcomes when compared with sural nerve grafts in the treatment of traumatic adult brachial plexus injuries. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 33(2):080-083, 2024).

Background: In pan-brachial plexus injury, distinguishing between preganglionic and postganglionic injuries is crucial to reconstructive planning. This study aimed to identify preoperative factors that would accurately predict a reconstructible C5 spinal nerve., Methods: Patients with pan-brachial plexus injury from a single institution between 2001 and 2018 were reviewed. Patient demographics, clinical examination, diagnostic imaging, and electrodiagnostic results were recorded. C5 viability was determined based on supraclavicular exploration and intraoperative electrophysiologic testing. Univariate analysis identified significant factors for regression analysis. A multivariable parsimonious model was created using stepwise high-performance logistic regression., Results: A total of 311 patients (mean age, 29.9 years; 46 women and 265 men; mean Injury Severity Score, 17.2) were included. A total of 134 patients (43%) had a viable C5 nerve, and 50 patients (12%) had a viable C6 nerve. Intact C5 spinal nerve on computed tomographic (CT) myelogram (OR, 5.4), positive Tinel test (OR, 2.6), muscle strength greater than or equal to 4 (according to the modified British Medical Research Council scale) for the rhomboid (OR, 1.3) or greater than or equal to 4 for the serratus anterior (OR, 1.4), and rhomboid needle electromyography (OR, 1.8) were predictive of having a viable C5 spinal nerve. The multivariable parsimonious stepwise model (area under the curve, 0.77) included four factors: positive Tinel test, intact C5 spinal nerve on CT myelogram, hemidiaphragmatic elevation, and midcervical paraspinal fibrillations., Conclusions: In this cohort of pan-brachial plexus patients with major polytrauma, there was a 43% incidence of viable C5 spinal nerve. A positive Tinel test (OR, 2.1) and intact C5 spinal nerve on CT myelogram (OR, 4.9) predicted a viable C5 nerve. In contrast, hemidiaphragmatic elevation (OR, 3.1) and midcervical paraspinal fibrillations (OR, 2.92) predicted root avulsion., Clinical Question/level of Evidence: Risk, III., (Copyright © 2023 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: Restoration of hand function after traumatic brachial plexus injury (BPI) remains a formidable challenge. Traditional methods such as nerve or free muscle transfers yield suboptimal results. Advancements in myoelectric prostheses, characterized by novel signal acquisition and improved material technology, show promise in restoring functional grasp. This study evaluated the ability of adults with a BPI injury to control an externally powered prosthetic hand using nonintuitive signals, simulating the restoration of grasp with a myoelectric prosthesis. It also assessed the effectiveness of a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation in guiding treatment decisions., Methods: A multidisciplinary brachial plexus team assessed adults with compromised hand function due to BPI. The feasibility of amputation coupled with fitting of a myoelectric prosthesis for grasp reconstruction was evaluated. Participants' ability to control a virtual or model prosthetic hand using surface electromyography (EMG) as well as with contralateral shoulder motion-activated linear transducer signals was tested. The patient's input and injury type, along with the information from the prosthetic evaluation, were used to determine the reconstructive plan. The study also reviewed the number of participants opting for amputation and a myoelectric prosthetic hand for grasp restoration, and a follow-up survey was conducted to assess the impact of the initial evaluation on decision-making., Results: Of 58 subjects evaluated, 47 (81%) had pan-plexus BPI and 42 (72%) received their initial assessment within 1 year post-injury. Forty-seven patients (81%) could control the virtual or model prosthetic hand using nonintuitive surface EMG signals, and all 58 could control it with contralateral uniscapular motion via a linear transducer and harness. Thirty patients (52%) chose and pursued amputation, and 20 (34%) actively used a myoelectric prosthesis for grasp. The initial evaluation was informative and beneficial for the majority of the patients, especially in demonstrating the functionality of the myoelectric prosthesis., Conclusions: The study indicates that adults with traumatic BPI can effectively operate a virtual or model myoelectric prosthesis using nonintuitive control signals. The simulation and multidisciplinary evaluation influenced informed treatment choices, with a high percentage of patients continuing to use the myoelectric prostheses post-amputation, highlighting its long-term acceptance and viability., Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence., Competing Interests: Disclosure: No external funding was received for this work. The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJS/I8)., (Copyright © 2024 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.)

Background: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves located between the neck and axilla, which receives input from C5-T1. Distally, the nerves and blood vessels that supply the arm and forearm form a medial neurovascular bundle. The purpose of this study was to illustrate that a peripheral nerve dissection via a 2 × 2 inch window would allow for identification and isolation of the major nerves and blood vessels that supply the arm and forearm., Methods: A right side formalin-fixed latex-injected cadaveric arm was transected at the proximal part of the axillary fold and included the scapular attachments. Step-by-step anatomical dissection was carried out and documented with three-dimensional digital imaging., Results: A 2 × 2 inch window centered 2 inches distal to the axillary fold on the medial surface of the arm enabled access to the major neurovascular structures of the arm and forearm: the median nerve, ulnar nerve, medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve, radial nerve and triceps motor branches, musculocutaneous nerve and its biceps and brachialis branches and lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve, basilic vein and brachial artery and vein, and profunda brachii artery., Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that the majority of the neurovascular supply in the arm and forearm can be accessed through a 2 × 2 inch area in the medial arm. Although this "key window" may not be entirely utilized in the operative setting, our comprehensive didactic description of peripheral nerve dissection in the cadaver laboratory can help in safer identification of complex anatomy encountered during surgical procedures., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Challenges to communication between families and care providers of paediatric patients in intensive care units (ICU) include variability of communication preferences, mismatched goals of care, and difficulties carrying forward family preferences from provider to provider. Our objectives were to develop and test an assessment tool that queries parents of children requiring cardiac intensive care about their communication preferences and to determine if this tool facilitates patient-centred care and improves families' ICU experience., Design: In this quality improvement initiative, a novel tool was developed, the Parental Communication Assessment (PCA), which asked parents with children hospitalised in the cardiac ICU about their communication preferences. Participants were prospectively randomised to the intervention group, which received the PCA, or to standard care. All participants completed a follow-up survey evaluating satisfaction with communication., Main Results: One hundred thirteen participants enrolled and 56 were randomised to the intervention group. Participants who received the PCA preferred detail-oriented communication over big picture. Most parents understood the daily discussions on rounds (64%) and felt comfortable expressing concerns (68%). Eighty-six percent reported the PCA was worthwhile. Parents were generally satisfied with communication. However, an important proportion felt unprepared for difficult decisions or setbacks, inadequately included or supported in decision-making, and that they lacked control over their child's care. There were no significant differences between the intervention and control groups in their communication satisfaction results., Conclusions: Parents with children hospitalised in the paediatric ICU demonstrated diverse communication preferences. Most participants felt overall satisfied with communication, but individualising communication with patients' families according to their preferences may improve their experience.

Reconstruction of peripheral mixed motor/sensory nerves using autografts has remained the gold standard. Inconsistent and nonphysiologic results across nerve allograft studies, including successful and failed motor reinnervation, have limited the current clinical application of nerve allografts to noncritical small-diameter sensory nerve defects less than 3 cm. This scoping review aimed to compare outcomes in both basic science and clinical applications of autograft and allograft nerve reconstruction for mixed motor/sensory nerves., Competing Interests: No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly to this article., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Nicotiana benthamiana is a fundamental model organism in plant research. Recent advancements in genomic sequencing have revealed significant intraspecific genetic variations. This study addresses the pressing need for a precise genome sequence specific to its geographic origin by presenting a comprehensive genome assembly of the N. benthamiana LAB strain from the Republic of Korea (NbKLAB). We compare this assembly with the widely used NbLAB360 strain, shedding light on essential genomic differences between them. The outcome is a high-quality, chromosome-level genome assembly comprising 19 chromosomes, spanning 2,762 Mb, with an N50 of 142.6 Mb. Comparative analyses revealed notable variations, including 46,215 protein-coding genes, with an impressive 99.5% BUSCO completeness score. Furthermore, the NbKLAB assembly substantially improved the QV from 33% for NbLAB360 to 49%. This refined chromosomal genome assembly for N. benthamiana, in conjunction with comparative insights, provides a valuable resource for genomics research and molecular biology. This accomplishment forms a strong foundation for in-depth exploration into the intricacies of plant genetics and genomics, improved precision, and a comparative framework., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Shoulder function following spinal nerve grafting in pan-brachial plexus injuries(Pan-BPI) is not well described. The purpose of this study was twofold: 1)to evaluate shoulder abduction(ABD) and external rotation(ER) after grafting of viable spinal nerves to the suprascapular nerve(SSN), axillary nerve(AxN), or posterior division of the upper trunk(PDUT); and 2)to determine patient characteristics, injury severity/characteristics, and nerve graft factors that influenced outcomes., Methods: 362 Pan-BPI reconstruction patients from a single institution were reviewed for those who underwent spinal nerve grafting for shoulder reanimation between 2001 and 2018. Patient demographics, injury severity scores(ISS), graft characteristics, strength, range of motion for shoulder ABD and ER, and patient-reported outcomes were recorded. Patients were divided into three groups based on the recovery of shoulder function: no return, ABD only, and ABD and ER., Results: 110 patients underwent spinal nerve grafting, with 41 meeting inclusion criteria. 17(41.5%) had no return of shoulder function, 14(34.1%) had ABD alone, and 10(24.4%) had ABD and ER. Patients with recovery of both ABD and ER were significantly younger(18.6±5.56), had lower BMI(22.4±4.0), and lower ISS(10.5±6.24, p=0.003). Multivariable analysis found that with increasing age(OR:0.786, 95%CI:0.576,0.941) and ISS(OR:0.820, 95%CI:0.606-0.979), odds for return of ABD and ER significantly decreased., Conclusions: In Pan-BPI, 24.4% of patients demonstrated return of both ABD and ER following spinal nerve grafting to SSN and either AxN or PDUT. Age, BMI, and ISS were associated with poorer recovery of shoulder function. Careful patient selection and consideration of age, BMI, and ISS may improve outcomes of spinal nerve grafting for shoulder reanimation., Level of Evidence: III., (Copyright © 2024 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)