Yuan, Brandon J.

Fixation of olecranon fractures, especially those with minimal proximal bone and those that present with significant comminution, can be technically challenging. Current open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) methods, such as tension band wire (TBW) constructs, plate fixation (PF), and intramedullary screws (IMSF), have demonstrated high rates of reoperation and symptomatic implants. We present the omega plate technique, which utilizes a mini-fragment plate passed under the triceps tendon insertion, allowing maximal implant surface area contact with small, proximal olecranon fracture fragments. The mini-fragment plate is not placed on the dorsal subcutaneous border of the ulna, which allows it to capture medial and lateral fragments of cortical comminution and may contribute to less soft tissue irritation.

Abstract Background Native joint septic arthritis (NJSA) is definitively diagnosed by a positive Gram stain or culture, along with supportive clinical findings. Preoperative antibiotics are known to alter synovial fluid cell count, Gram stain, and culture results and are typically postponed until after arthrocentesis to optimize diagnostic accuracy. However, data on the impact of preoperative antibiotics on operative culture yield for NJSA diagnosis are limited. Methods We retrospectively reviewed adult cases of NJSA who underwent surgery at Mayo Clinic facilities from 2012 to 2021 to analyze the effect of preoperative antibiotics on operative culture yield through a paired analysis of preoperative culture (POC) and operative culture (OC) results using logistic regression and generalized estimating equations. Results Two hundred ninety-nine patients with NJSA affecting 321 joints were included. Among those receiving preoperative antibiotics, yield significantly decreased from 68.0% at POC to 57.1% at OC (P < .001). In contrast, for patients without preoperative antibiotics there was a non-significant increase in yield from 60.9% at POC to 67.4% at OC (P = .244). In a logistic regression model for paired data, preoperative antibiotic exposure was more likely to decrease OC yield compared to non-exposure (odds ratio [OR] = 2.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.24–3.64; P = .006). Within the preoperative antibiotic group, additional antibiotic doses and earlier antibiotic initiation were associated with lower OC yield. Conclusions In patients with NJSA, preoperative antibiotic exposure resulted in a significant decrease in microbiologic yield of operative cultures as compared to patients in whom antibiotic therapy was held prior to obtaining operative cultures.

OBJECTIVES: To compare three fluoroscopic methods for determining femoral rotation. METHODS: Native femoral version was measured by computed tomography in 20 intact femurs from 10 cadaveric specimens. Two Steinmann pins were placed into each left femur above and below a planned transverse osteotomy which was completed through the diaphysis. Four surgeons utilized the true lateral (TL), neck-horizontal angle (NH), and lesser trochanter profile (LTP) techniques to correct the injured femur's rotation using the intact right femur as reference, yielding 120 measurements. Accuracy was assessed by comparing the angle subtended by the two Steinmann pins before and after manipulation and comparing against version measurements of the right femur. RESULTS: Absolute mean rotational error in the fractured femur compared to its uninjured state was 6.0° (95% CI, 4.6-7.5), 6.6° (95% CI, 5.0-8.2), and 8.5° (95% CI, 6.5-10.6) for the TL, NH, and LTP techniques, respectively, without significant difference between techniques (p = 0.100). Compared to the right femur, absolute mean rotational error was 6.6° (95% CI, 1.0-12.2), 6.4° (95% CI, 0.1-12.6), and 8.9° (95% CI, 0.8-17.0) for the TL, NH, and LTP techniques, respectively, without significant difference (p = 0.180). Significantly more femurs were malrotated by >15° using the LTP method compared to the TL and NH methods (20.0% vs 2.5% and 5.0%, p = 0.030). Absolute mean error in estimating femoral rotation of the intact femur using the TL and NH methods compared to CT was 6.6° (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.1-8.2) and 4.4° (95% CI, 3.4-5.4), respectively, with significant difference between the two methods (p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS: The true lateral (TL), neck-horizontal angle (NH), and the lesser trochanter profile (LTP) techniques performed similarly in correcting rotation of the fractured femur, but significantly more femurs were malrotated by >15° using the LTP technique. This supports preferential use of the TL or NH methods for determining femoral version intraoperatively.

Abstract Background Native joint septic arthritis (NJSA) is diagnosed by synovial fluid analysis to evaluate for evidence of infection but may be definitively established by a positive gram stain or culture. Antibiotics given prior to synovial fluid sampling have been described to alter cell count, gram stain, and culture results and are conventionally deferred until after arthrocentesis to optimize diagnostic yield. However, there is limited data on the impact of preoperative antibiotic therapy on operative culture yield in the diagnosis of NJSA. Methods Following IRB approval, we reviewed medical records of adults diagnosed with NJSA who underwent surgical intervention at Mayo Clinic facilities from January 2012 to December 2021. The effect of preoperative antibiotic therapy on operative culture yield was evaluated through a paired analysis of preoperative and operative cultures results utilizing logistic regression along with generalized estimating equations (GEE) to account for correlations of multiple measurements on the same subject. Results A total of 299 patients with NJSA of 321 joints with the accompanying characteristics who underwent surgery met study criteria (Table 1). Joint distribution, microbiology, and antibiotic administration are outlined in Table 2. Among those treated with preoperative antibiotics, there was a significant decrease in yield between preoperative and operative cultures (68.0% to 57.1%, p < .0001), whereas in patients without preoperative antibiotic exposure, there was an increase in yield (60.9% to 67.4%, p = 0.244; Figure 1). Logistic regression analysis revealed that preoperative antibiotic exposure was more likely to decrease operative culture yield as compared to non-exposure (change, -10.9% vs. +6.5%; p = .006). Secondary analyses restricted to individuals who received preoperative antibiotics revealed that an increasing number of doses and earlier administration of initial antibiotic therapy were associated with lower rates of operative culture yield (Figure 2). Joint distribution, diagnostic/microbiologic, and antibiotic administration characteristics of 321 joints in 299 patients with native joint septic arthritis Composite Image 1: Figure 1, 2a/2b Figure 1: Change in Preoperative and Operative Culture Yield with Antibiotic Exposure Figure 2: Effect of Antibiotic Doses and Timing of Therapy on Predicted Probability of Operative Culture Positivity Conclusion In patients with NJSA, preoperative antibiotic exposure resulted in a significant decrease in microbiologic yield of operative cultures as compared to patients in which antibiotic therapy was held prior to obtaining operative cultures. Disclosures Brandon J. Yuan, M.D., American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Board Member|DePuy, A Johnson & Johnson Company: Advisor/Consultant|Mid America Orthopaedic Association: Board Member|Stryker: Advisor/Consultant Gina A. Suh, M.D., Adaptive Phage Therapeutics: Grant/Research Support|Adaptive Phage Therapeutics: IP royalties|Phagelux: Grant/Research Support Aaron J. Tande, M.D., Musculoskeletal Infection Society: Board Member|Wolters Kluwer Health - Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: Publishing royalties, financial or material support

Abstract Background Native joint septic arthritis (NJSA) of the wrist is a rare condition, with published literature suggesting an incidence of approximately 1.5% among patients presenting with acute painful and swollen wrist. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics, management, and outcomes of wrist NJSA at our institution. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of all adults diagnosed with wrist NJSA who underwent surgical intervention at Mayo Clinic facilities from January 2012 to December 2021. The diagnosis was confirmed based on clinical presentation, synovial fluid white blood cell count, and aspiration or operative cultures. Results A total of 557 patients developed NJSA during the study period, of whom 55 (9.9%) were diagnosed with wrist NJSA, median age was 63, with the associated demographics (Table 1). 12 (21.8%) had a history of antecedent trauma or procedure, 11 (20%) had synchronous joint infections, and 22 (40%) had positive blood cultures. The median synovial white blood cell count was 94,050/mm3 (IQR 51,920 – 139,941 /mm3). Crystals were detected in 5 patients (8.8%). Additional diagnostic data are available in Table 2. Open debridement was performed in 35 (61.4%) patients, and the rest underwent arthroscopy. Positive Gram stain results were detected in the preoperative synovial fluid of 12 (21.8%) cases. The most common pathogen isolated was Staphylococcus aureus in 13 (24%) of cases. The median duration of antimicrobial therapy was 31 days (IQR 26 – 45 days). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of complications between patients who underwent open debridement and those who underwent arthroscopy (Table 3). The most common complication of both groups was compromised range of motion of the wrist joint. Conclusion Native wrist septic arthritis comprised 9.9 % of all NJSA during the study period. Concomitant bacteremia and synchronous joint infections were common, highlighting the importance of obtaining blood cultures and comprehensive joint exam in this setting. Crystals and Gram stains were detected in 10 % and 22% of cases, respectively. These findings should not rule out NJSA. Decreased range of motion was common complication, affecting 21% of all cases. Disclosures Gina A. Suh, M.D., Adaptive Phage Therapeutics: Grant/Research Support|Adaptive Phage Therapeutics: IP royalties|Phagelux: Grant/Research Support Aaron J. Tande, M.D., Musculoskeletal Infection Society: Board Member|Wolters Kluwer Health - Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: Publishing royalties, financial or material support Brandon J. Yuan, M.D., American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Board Member|DePuy, A Johnson & Johnson Company: Advisor/Consultant|Mid America Orthopaedic Association: Board Member|Stryker: Advisor/Consultant

Objectives: To investigate the correlation between a screw's radiographic relationship to the piriformis fossa with position on CT in the clinical setting. Methods: Intraoperative fluoroscopic images of patients treated with cannulated screw fixation of a femoral neck fracture, who also had a postoperative CT scan, were retrospectively evaluated by 4 fellowship-trained orthopaedic trauma surgeons. The posterosuperior screw on the AP fluoroscopic view was determined to be above the piriformis fossa (APF) or below the piriformis fossa (BPF). Using CT scan to determine IOI placement, the ability to predict IOI position based on fluoroscopic imaging was evaluated by calculating accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and interobserver reliability. Results: 73 patients met inclusion criteria. The incidence of IOI screw placement was 59% on CT evaluation. The use of the PF landmark accurately predicted CT findings in 89% of patients. A screw placed APF was 90% sensitive and 88% specific in predicting cortical breach, with near-perfect interobserver agreement (κ = 0.81). Conclusion: The use of the PF radiographic landmark is highly sensitive and specific in predicting the placement of an IOI posterosuperior femoral neck screw. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Objectives: To describe a reproducible technique for reduction assessment and percutaneous reduction of unstable intertrochanteric fractures treated with a cephalomedullary nail on a traction table. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Level-1 trauma center. Patients: Two-hundred 20 consecutive patients with intertrochanteric fractures. Intervention: Initial closed reduction performed on a traction table. Accessory incisions were used to facilitate a reduction in 77 patients (35%). All fractures were stabilized with a cephalomedullary nail. Main Outcome Measurements: Radiographic outcome including union, cutout, and fracture collapse (FC). Surgical outcomes including infection and hematoma were also reported. Results: Mechanical complications (nonunion, cutout, and varus collapse) occurred in 8.8% of patients at 1 year. Eleven of 13 patients who developed these complications had either suboptimal implant placement (tip-to-apex distance >25 mm) or a varus reduction. There was no difference in the incidence of reoperation, nonunion, lag screw cutout, or posttraumatic arthritis based on the use of an accessory incision for fracture reduction. There was a significant increase in FC in patients who received an accessory incision (6.8 mm vs. 5.4 mm, P = 0.04). One patient (1%) developed a hematoma in the accessory incision cohort, and 1 patient (0.7%) who did not have an accessory incision developed a postoperative infection. Conclusions: The current study suggests utilization of accessory incisions assist in reduction is safe and is associated with a low rate of complications. The surgeon should prioritize fracture reduction and optimal implant placement and not hesitate to use an accessory incision to assist with fracture reduction. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Objectives: To evaluate the association between preoperative international normalized ratio (INR) and postoperative mortality and other outcomes after hemiarthroplasty for geriatric femoral neck fractures. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: A single Level-I trauma center. Patients/Participants: Patients ≥55 years of age with OTA/AO 31B proximal femur fractures [1556 patients (1616 hips)] Intervention: Hip hemiarthroplasty. Main Outcome Measurements: Ninety-day mortality, postoperative transfusion within 72 hours, and 90-day postoperative outcomes. Results: Adjusting for confounders, the association of preoperative INR and 90-day mortality was not statistically significant [hazard ratio (HR): 1.3; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.97, 1.8; P = 0.08]. Dementia (HR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4–2.6; P < 0.001), Charlson Comorbidity Index (HR: 1.1; 95% CI: 1.1–1.2; P < 0.001), and age by decade (HR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–1.8; P = 0.002) were associated with 90-day mortality. Increasing INR was significantly associated with blood transfusion [odds ratio (OR) 1.4; 95% CI 1.03–1.6; P = 0.031]. Preoperative hemoglobin <10 g/dL (OR 13.7; 95% CI 8.4–23.3; P < 0.001) was also associated with a postoperative transfusion, whereas intraoperative tranexamic acid use (OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.2–0.5; P < 0.001) was inversely associated with postoperative transfusion rate. INR was associated with superficial wound infection (HR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1–3.7; P = 0.02) and noninfected wound complications (HR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.1–2.4; P = 0.007). Risk of superficial infection increased when INR was >1.8. Conclusion: When controlling for confounders, preoperative INR was not significantly associated with 90-day mortality. Underlying medical conditions contribute to postoperative mortality more than an elevated INR. However, INR is associated with superficial wound complications. This risk becomes statistically significant as INR rises above 1.8. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Background: Modular fluted tapered (MFT) stems have advanced treatment of Vancouver B 2 and B 3 periprosthetic femoral fractures, but series to date have been limited with respect to cohort size and follow-up duration. The purpose of this study was to determine implant survivorship, radiographic results, complications, and clinical outcomes of Vancouver B 2 and B 3 periprosthetic femoral fractures treated with MFT stems in a large series of patients. Methods: We identified 171 Vancouver B 2 (109) and B 3 (62) periprosthetic femoral fractures treated with an MFT stem between 2000 and 2018 using our institutional total joint registry. The mean age was 75 years, 50% were female, and the mean body mass index was 29 kg/m 2 . The median stem diameter was 18 mm and median stem length was 210 mm. The cumulative incidences of revision and reoperation with death as the competing risk were calculated, radiographs were reviewed, and clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Harris hip score (HHS). The mean follow-up was 5 years. Results: The 10-year cumulative incidence of any revision was 10%. There were 17 revisions, of which only 3 were for the distal fluted portion of the MFT stem. Revision indications included periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) (n = 6) and dislocation (n = 11). The 10-year cumulative incidence of any reoperation was 15%. In addition to the above 17 revisions, there were 7 reoperations for superficial wound complications (n = 4), Vancouver B 1 periprosthetic femoral fracture (n = 1), vascular occlusion (n = 1), and acetabular cartilage degeneration requiring an acetabular component (n = 1). Radiographically, there was 1 fracture nonunion. All unrevised MFT stems were radiographically well fixed. Subsidence of ≥5 mm occurred in 11%, but all implants were stable at the most recent follow-up. The mean HHS was 75 at 2 years (n = 71). Conclusions: In this large series of 171 Vancouver B 2 and B 3 periprosthetic femoral fractures treated with MFT stems, we found that such constructs were associated with a high rate of fracture healing and provided extremely reliable and durable implant fixation, with no revisions for aseptic loosening. Dislocation and PJI were the most common complications. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Abstract: Globally, the burden of musculoskeletal conditions continues to rise, disproportionately affecting low and middle-income countries (LMICs). The ability to meet these orthopaedic surgical care demands remains a challenge. To help address these issues, many orthopaedic surgeons seek opportunities to provide humanitarian assistance to the populations in need. While many global orthopaedic initiatives are well-intentioned and can offer short-term benefits to the local communities, it is essential to emphasize training and the integration of local surgeon-leaders. The commitment to developing educational and investigative capacity, as well as fostering sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships in low-resource settings, is critical. To this end, global health organizations, such as the Consortium of Orthopaedic Academic Traumatologists (COACT), work to promote and ensure the lasting sustainability of musculoskeletal trauma care worldwide. This article describes global orthopaedic efforts that can effectively address musculoskeletal care through an examination of 5 domains: clinical care, clinical research, surgical education, disaster response, and advocacy.