Der Unfallchirurg
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Percutaneous internal fixation of pelvic fractures is increasing in popularity with multiple new techniques reported. ⋯ Percutaneous fixation of pelvic fractures requires high-quality imaging and can be aided by computer navigation. Safe techniques are reproducible; however, not all patients and fracture patterns can be treated using these techniques.
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Three-dimensional (3D) imaging can enhance trauma care by allowing better evaluation of bony detail and implant position compared to conventional fluoroscopy or x‑ray. Intraoperative 3D imaging further improves this evaluation by allowing any necessary revisions to be made in the operating room prior to the patient emerging from anesthesia. ⋯ Improved image volume, resolution, and software capability have allowed surgeons to obtain high-quality, wide field views of bony anatomy that can include the uninjured side as a comparison. In this paper, the evolution of intraoperative 3D imaging over the past 25 years is discussed.
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The most favorable treatment for acute Achilles tendon ruptures remains controversial. In particular, three key questions are intensively debated: is operative or non-operative treatment superior? If surgery is performed, should open or minimally invasive percutaneous techniques be used? How should the follow-up treatment be carried out? The aim of this article is to answer these essential questions based on the currently available evidence. Non-operative treatment leads to a higher rate of re-ruptures and inferior functional results when compared to operative treatment. ⋯ Nevertheless, treatment protocols vary greatly with the majority still carrying out open suture and immobilizing follow-up treatment with fixed plantar flexion. Based on the available data the authors recommend minimally invasive percutaneous suture of the tendon followed by progressive functional rehabilitation. Implementation of the available evidence into routine practice is the next important step for successful treatment of this challenging injury.
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The world's population is aging resulting in changes in the way we manage geriatric care. Furthermore, this population has a considerable risk of fragility fractures, most notably hip fractures. Hip fractures are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and have large economic consequences. ⋯ These trauma centers utilize the expertise in orthopedic and geriatric disciplines to provide coordinated care to the elderly hip fracture patient. As a result, studies have demonstrated improvements in clinical outcomes within the hospital stay, a reduction in iatrogenic complications, and improvements in 1-year mortality rates compared to the usual care given at a similar facility. Furthermore, economic models have demonstrated that there is a role for regionalized hip fracture centers that can be both profitable and provide more efficient care to these patients.
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The most common cause of degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon is a congenital valgus deformity of the calcaneus. Other associated pathologies are forefoot supination, forefoot abduction and shortening of the gastrocnemius muscle. ⋯ The correction of the hindfoot deformity as well as the subsequent treatment of the different components of the pathology lead to a significant improvement in foot function. Pre-existing degenerative alterations are limiting factors.