STUDY DESIGN A biomechanical comparison of fixation constructs in an experimental fracture model. OBJECTIVE To determine the relative postoperative stability of anterior graft and plating with that of posterior or combined fixation constructs in an unstable thoracolumbar burst fracture model. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Several treatment modalities have been proposed for unstable thoracolumb...

We have studied fracture-dislocation of the fifth lumbar vertebra in seven patients and reviewed 50 previously reported cases. Based on this information, we have classified the injury into five types: type 1, unilateral lumbosacral facet-dislocation with or without facet fracture; type 2, bilateral lumbosacral facet-dislocation with or without facet fracture; type 3, unilateral lumbosacral face...

PURPOSE There is currently no gold standard treatment for unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the elderly. Internal fixation and hemiarthroplasty are two common treatment methods but studies comparing the functional outcomes of these procedures in the elderly are limited. This study evaluates the functional outcomes of hip fracture patients treated either with internal fixation or hemiarthr...

No entirely reliable method exists for assessing union during Ilizarov treatment. Premature removal results in potential treatment failure; hence, alternative methods warrant investigation. Wire deflection might provide an indication of fracture site deformation on weight bearing, indicating progress towards union. This study aimed to test a method for assessing wire deflection within an Ilizar...

Introduction: Haemodynamically unstable pelvic fracture carries a high mortality rate of up to 60%. Being one of the trauma centers in Hong Kong, we have been developing and modifying a protocol for unstable pelvic fracture since 1996, with continuous improvement in survival rate. In the most updated 3-in-1 Pelvic Damage Control Protocol, three different sources of bleeding, including bony, ven...

Introduction. Intertrochanteric fractures are located in the proximal upper part of the femur, extracapsulary and extend up to 5 cm under the minor trochanter (3). Intramedullary fixation is used almost exclusively for this kind of fractures in our department for many years. The most common mechanical complication of intramedullary fixation is the cut out of the sliding screw trough the femoral...

Once the patient with pelvic fracture is resuscitated and stabilized, definitive surgical management and anatomic restoration of the pelvic ring become the goal. Understanding injury pattern by stress examination with the patient under anesthesia helps elucidate the instability. Early fixation of the unstable pelvis is important for mobilization, pain control, and prevention of chronic instabil...