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Case Report
Successful reconstruction and functional recovery of a pediatric medial malleolus defect in an 8-year-old girl using autologous iliac crest bone grafting in Korea: a case report
Sung Yoon Jung, Dong-hee Kim, Sang Hyun Lee, Ki-Hun Kim
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(3):245-251.   Published online April 8, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2026.00059
Funded: Pusan National University Hospital
AbstractAbstract PDF
An 8-year-old girl presented after a traffic accident with a severe crush and degloving injury of the medial right ankle and foot, a distal tibiofibular fracture, and medial midfoot bone defects. After staged irrigation and debridement with temporary external fixation, definitive reconstruction was performed on August 6, 2016. The medial malleolar defect (2.5×2.0 cm) was reconstructed using a contoured autologous iliac crest bone graft secured with internal fixation, and medial stability was augmented using harvested gluteal fascia as a deltoid ligament substitute fixed with suture anchors. A bone-cement spacer was placed adjacent to the injured physis to mitigate physeal bridging, and the extensive soft-tissue defect was covered with a free anterolateral thigh flap and skin graft. During follow-up, progressive varus deformity and contracture were managed with corrective osteotomy and plating, Achilles tendon lengthening, Z-plasty, and Ilizarov fixation. At the final follow-up (March 6, 2025), the limb-length discrepancy was 5 mm, active ankle dorsiflexion was 0° (passive dorsiflexion 5°), and the patient was pain-free with full participation in daily activities, including hiking and dancing. This case emphasizes the value of an integrated staged strategy that combines bony reconstruction, medial stabilization, physeal management, and durable soft-tissue coverage during skeletal growth. Level of evidence: V.
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Original Articles
Open reduction and internal fixation for distal humerus fractures in older adults: a retrospective comparative study by osteoporosis status
Tong Joo Lee, Hee Beom Shin, Yongseok Lee
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(3):227-235.   Published online July 15, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2026.00101
Funded: Inha University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Distal humerus fractures in older patients, particularly those with osteoporosis, pose substantial treatment challenges because of increased fracture complexity and compromised bone stock. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is the preferred treatment but may be complicated by fixation failure. This study investigated the outcomes of ORIF in older osteoporotic and nonosteoporotic patients with complete articular distal humerus fractures.
Methods
This retrospective study included 19 patients with Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/ Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) 13C distal humerus fractures who underwent surgical treatment between 2012 and 2024. The mean patient age was 79.1 years. Patients were divided into osteoporotic (n=11) and nonosteoporotic (n=8) groups based on the lowest recorded dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry T-score at the femoral neck or lumbar spine. Osteoporosis was defined as a T-score of −2.5 or lower, and the nonosteoporotic group included patients with osteopenia. All fractures were treated with ORIF using bicolumnar plating. All included patients completed 12 months of clinical follow-up for visual analog scale (VAS) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) assessments. Radiographic follow-up was recorded separately and continued until union was confirmed; imaging follow-up extended to 12 months or longer in 14 patients and was limited to 6 months in five asymptomatic patients after confirmed union.
Results
Both groups showed significant within-group improvement in pain, as assessed using the VAS, and function, as assessed using the MEPS, over time. Between-group comparisons at each follow-up time point showed no statistically significant differences in VAS or MEPS. No radiographic nonunion was observed during the available imaging follow- up, and complications were limited to one case of screw pullout/loosening and one case of postoperative stiffness.
Conclusions
ORIF provides reliable outcomes for older patients with complex distal humerus fractures, regardless of osteoporosis status, when stable reconstruction is achievable. These findings suggest that ORIF remains a viable treatment option, with satisfactory functional recovery and low complication rates in this population. Level of evidence: III.
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Postoperative sagittal alignment and reoperation predict late outcomes after plate fixation of AO/OTA 33C distal femur fractures: a retrospective cohort study
Hee Gon Park
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(3):216-226.   Published online July 24, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2026.00073
Funded: Dankook University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Intra-articular distal femoral fractures are associated with high complication rates and variable late outcomes. Although the AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification system is useful for describing injury severity and anticipating complications, whether fracture subtype alone determines clinically relevant late outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate postoperative complications and late outcomes following plate fixation of intra-articular distal femoral fractures and to identify factors independently associated with final clinical outcomes.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a regional Level I trauma center. Patients with AO/OTA 33C intra-articular distal femoral fractures who underwent plate fixation and were followed for at least 12 months were included. Radiographic parameters reflecting coronal and sagittal alignment were assessed using standardized measurement methods. Postoperative complications and reoperation were recorded as intermediate events. Clinically relevant late outcomes included final knee range of motion (ROM), leg length discrepancy, and radiographic osteoarthritis severity, assessed as the difference in Kellgren-Lawrence grade. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors independently associated with late outcomes.
Results
The 33C3 group (n=33) had significantly higher rates of open fracture (54.5%), nonunion (39.4%), and reoperation (45.5%) than the 33C1–2 group (n=49). At the final follow-up, 33C3 fractures were associated with lower mean ROM (P<0.001) and greater osteoarthritis progression (P<0.001). However, multivariable analysis showed that sagittal malalignment (Δ anatomical posterior distal femoral angle: β=−2.35, P=0.001) and reoperation (β=−17.5, P=0.001), rather than AO/OTA subtype itself, were independent predictors of final ROM.
Conclusions
Although fracture subtype according to the AO/OTA classification was associated with predictable complication patterns, clinically relevant late outcomes following intra-articular distal femoral fractures were more closely associated with postoperative alignment quality and the treatment course than with fracture classification alone. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing radiographic alignment and preventing complications that lead to reoperation to improve long-term outcomes after plate fixation. Level of evidence: III.
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Clinical and radiographic outcomes after surgical treatment of supination-adduction type ankle fractures in older (≥65 years) and younger (<65 years) patients: a retrospective single-center comparative study in Korea
JungHo Lee, Bawoo Ko, Hongik Choi, Jun-young Lee
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(3):236-244.   Published online July 24, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00374
Funded: Chosun University Hospital
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Supination-adduction (SAD) ankle fractures involve a vertical medial malleolar fracture and potential tibial plafond impaction, but pattern-specific evidence in older patients remains limited. We compared postoperative complications and clinical/radiographic outcomes between older and younger patients and explored complication-associated factors within the older group.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 51 patients who underwent surgery for SAD-type ankle fractures (2010–2020): 30 younger (<65 years) and 21 older (≥65 years). The primary outcome was a composite of surgical site infection, loss of reduction, or delayed union. Functional recovery was assessed using Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores through 12 months. Union and posttraumatic osteoarthritis were assessed radiographically at ≥18 months. Preoperative dual- energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed in older patients for exploratory analyses.
Results
Postoperative complications were higher in the older group (38.1% vs. 10.0%, P=0.035). In older patients, diabetes mellitus was associated with complications (odds ratio [OR], 9.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15–73.24; P=0.037); smoking was not (OR, 5.50; 95% CI, 0.71–42.60; P=0.103). At 12 months, OMAS and AOFAS scores did not differ significantly. One older patient developed nonunion, and posttraumatic osteoarthritis occurred in one patient per group. Lower T-scores (mean, −2.3±0.5) correlated with greater tibial plafond impaction depth (3.1±1.2 mm; ρ=−0.46, P=0.036) and showed a borderline significant correlation with articular step-off (2.0±0.8 mm; ρ=−0.43, P=0.052).
Conclusions
Older patients had higher postoperative complication rates than younger patients, although 12-month functional and late radiographic outcomes were comparable. Diabetes was associated with complications, though the small sample warrants cautious interpretation. Findings support careful perioperative optimization and individualized fixation based on fracture morphology and bone quality in older patients, especially those with diabetes. Level of evidence: III.
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Percutaneous anterior leverage technique for anteromedial cortical support in intertrochanteric femur fractures: a computed tomography-based validation study
Whee Sung Son, Bum Jin Shim, Oog-jin Shon
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(2):117-129.   Published online March 27, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00311
Funded: Yeungnam University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Anteromedial cortical support (AMCS) enhances stability in intertrochanteric femur fractures. However, reproducible, validated methods of achieving AMCS have not previously been reported. This study introduces a percutaneous anterior leverage technique and validates its AMCS effects using computed tomography (CT).
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed patients treated by a single surgeon between March 2022 and December 2024. The inclusion criteria were an AO/OTA classification of A1–A3, application of the percutaneous anterior leverage technique, available pre- and postoperative CT, and ≥6 months follow-up. Outcomes included CT-based AMCS (anterior on axial and medial on coronal images, classified as positive, neutral, or negative), time to union, union rate, changes in neck-shaft angle, and treatment failure (varus collapse, blade cut-through, or nonunion without the former two). The risk factors for failure were analyzed.
Results
Of 273 patients reviewed, 53 met the inclusion criteria. Follow-up was at least 6 months in all cases. Positive anterior support was achieved in 37 patients (69.8%) and positive medial support in 42 (79.25%). No patient demonstrated negative anterior support; one (1.9%) had negative medial support. Cortical support improved significantly after surgery. CT images demonstrated significant postoperative improvements (anterior P=0.026; medial P<0.001). Bone union was achieved in 50 patients (94.34%) at a mean of 3.93±1.48 months. The mean change in the neck-shaft angle at last follow-up was 1.75°±2.34° varus. Three patients (5.66%) experienced treatment failure. Anteromedial cortical breakage during follow-up differed between failure and nonfailure groups (P=0.002), but regression identified no independent predictors. No technique-related complications were observed.
Conclusions
Our percutaneous anterior leverage technique produced favorable CT-confirmed AMCS and high union with low failure, supporting its safety and effectiveness in intertrochanteric femur fractures. Level of evidence: IV.
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Clinical and radiographic outcomes of hemiarthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures in Korea with three or more years of follow-up: a retrospective cohort study
Sang Jin Cheon, Kyu-Hak Jung, Min Hyeok Choi, Suk-Woong Kang
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(2):147-155.   Published online February 26, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00325
Funded: Pusan National University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Shoulder hemiarthroplasty (HA) is an established treatment option for complex proximal humeral fractures, particularly in cases involving severe comminution or osteoporotic bone. This study investigated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of HA with a minimum follow-up of 3 years and aimed to identify prognostic factors associated with postoperative function.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 44 patients (16 males and 28 females; mean age, 61.2 years; range, 23–83 years) who underwent shoulder HA for complex proximal humeral fractures between 2005 and 2018. The mean follow-up duration was 70.4 months (range, 36–168 months). Clinical evaluations included the Constant score, visual analog scale pain score, patient satisfaction, and range of motion. Radiographic assessments examined tuberosity healing, radiolucent lines, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and glenoid arthrosis.
Results
At the 3-year follow-up, 64% of patients reported being satisfied or very satisfied. The mean Constant score was 46.6 (range, 13–71), and the age- and sex-adjusted Constant score was 53.5 (range, 19–92). Radiographically, 23% of patients demonstrated radiolucent lines, and 41% showed evidence of glenoid arthrosis. Tuberosity absorption occurred in 39% of patients, with a mean onset of 11.2 months postoperatively, and was significantly associated with lower Constant scores and reduced range of motion. Patients younger than 60 years demonstrated better functional outcomes and lower rates of tuberosity absorption. The mean AHD decreased from 8.4 mm postoperatively to 4.4 mm at the 3-year follow-up (P<0.001).
Conclusions
Shoulder HA for complex proximal humeral fractures yielded satisfactory pain relief and functional outcomes, particularly when tuberosity healing was preserved. However, elderly patients with diminished bone quality were more likely to develop tuberosity absorption and experience poorer functional recovery. Meticulous surgical technique and careful postoperative surveillance remain essential to achieving optimal results. Level of evidence: III.
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Biomechanical comparison of anatomically precontoured patellar plate, anterior tension wiring through cannulated screws, and double-sided plating in patellar fractures using a synthetic bone model
Abdullah M. Aljeaid, Wonseok Choi, Jeong-Seok Choi, Youngsig Choi, Jiyeon Bae, Jong-Keon Oh, Jae-Woo Cho
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2026;39(2):130-139.   Published online April 7, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00353
Funded: Seoul R&BD Program
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Patellar fractures are common injuries that require stable fixation to achieve optimal healing and restoration of knee function. This study aimed to analyze the mechanical properties of an anatomically precontoured patellar plate and to compare its maximum tensile load-bearing capacity with that of anterior tension wiring through cannulated screws and double-sided plating for the fixation of patellar fractures.
Methods
Artificial Sawbones with a standardized transverse fracture line were used to simulate patellar fractures. Each sawbone was attached to polyester bands, and this fracture model was applied consistently across all test samples. To evaluate mechanical properties of the anatomically precontoured patellar plate (model code 25-ANPA-209) made of ASTM F67 titanium, static tensile strength testing and dynamic tensile strength testing were performed, with seven samples prepared for each test. For comparison of maximum tensile load capacity among the anatomically precontoured patellar plate, anterior tension wiring through cannulated screws, and double-sided plating, five samples were prepared for each fixation group. All specimens were tested using a tension/compression testing machine.
Results
In the static tensile strength test, all seven samples exhibited a maximum tensile load capacity above 844 N without any fractures or failure points. The dynamic tensile strength test showed that all seven samples completed 10,000 cycles without deformation or damage to the anatomically precontoured patellar plate. When comparing maximum tensile load capacity, the anatomically precontoured patellar plate exhibited a significantly higher maximum tensile load-bearing capacity than anterior tension wiring through cannulated screws and double-sided plating.
Conclusions
The anatomically precontoured patellar plate demonstrated satisfactory mechanical performance, successfully meeting the criteria of both static and dynamic tensile strength testing, and showed superior maximum tensile load-bearing capacity compared with the other fixation methods evaluated. These findings suggest that the anatomically precontoured patellar plate may represent a reliable fixation option for the management of patellar fractures. Level of evidence: V.
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Correlation of bone mineral density with ankle fractures in older adults in Korea: a retrospective cohort study
Seung Hyun Lee, Chae Hun Lee, Seo Jin Park, Jun Young Lee
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2025;38(4):186-192.   Published online October 24, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00150
Funded: Chosun University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Bone mineral density (BMD) is well-documented in relation to fractures of the spine, hip, distal radius, and proximal humerus; however, its correlations with other fracture types are less established. This study aimed to analyze BMD and associated risk factors in older adults (≥65 years of age) with osteoporotic ankle fractures. These fractures involve low-energy trauma, resulting from falls from a standing height or lower, and occur from impacts which typically do not cause fractures in individuals with normal bone.
Methods
This retrospective study analyzed data from 1,411 patients diagnosed with ankle fractures admitted to Chosun University Hospital between February 2012 and April 2023. After applying inclusion criteria (age ≥65 years; low energy ankle fracture) and exclusion criteria (high energy trauma, open/multiple fractures, missing dual X-ray absorptiometry [DXA]), 73 of 1,411 patients were analyzed. Lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip T scores were obtained with a Horizon Wi DXA scanner, and associations with age, sex, mechanism of injury, comorbidities, smoking status, alcohol consumption, body mass index (BMI), and history of fractures were tested by ANOVA with Scheffe post hoc and Fisher exact tests.
Results
Lower BMD correlated significantly with older age, female sex, and lower BMI (P<0.05) in older adults with ankle fractures. No significant associations were observed for comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, dementia), smoking, alcohol consumption, injury mechanism, or prior fractures.
Conclusion
These results indicate that older age, female, and lower BMI are linked to reduced BMD in ankle fracture patients over 65 years of age. Focused osteoporosis screening and management may therefore be most beneficial for older, low BMI women presenting with ankle fractures. Level of evidence: IV.
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Risk factors for ankle fractures in older adults based on clinical components of the Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX) tool and comorbidities in Korea: a retrospective case-control study
Myeong Jun Song, Se Woong Jang, Jun Young Lee, Seojin Park
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2025;38(4):193-202.   Published online October 24, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00143
Funded: Chosun University Hospital
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
Ankle fractures are common in older adults; however, their relationship with osteoporotic fractures remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate potential risk factors for ankle fractures in older adults by analyzing individual clinical components of the Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX) tool and comorbidities.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective case-control study including 84 patients aged ≥65 years with ankle fractures and 150 controls who underwent bone mineral density (BMD) testing without prior ankle fractures. The variables analyzed included age, sex, body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, prior fracture history, and comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dementia. BMD was measured at the spine, total hip, and femoral neck.
Results
Univariate analysis showed that alcohol consumption, diabetes mellitus, and total hip T-score categories were significantly associated with ankle fractures. In binary logistic regression, alcohol consumption remained significantly associated with higher ankle fracture risk (odds ratio [OR], 5.302; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.778–15.811; P=0.003), and both osteopenia and osteoporosis at the total hip were also associated with increased risk (OR, 3.260, P=0.049; OR, 3.561, P=0.031, respectively). Diabetes mellitus did not reach statistical significance in the adjusted model (P=0.074). Model fit was adequate (Hosmer-Lemeshow P=0.377), and post hoc power analysis confirmed sufficient sample size.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that lower total hip BMD and alcohol-related factors may be associated with ankle fracture risk in older adults. The FRAX score itself was not calculated; instead, this study focused on analyzing selected clinical components. Limitations include the retrospective design, lack of fall and medication data, and cross-sectional BMD assessment. Level of evidence: III.
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Computational simulation of coracoclavicular screw insertion through the superior distal clavicular plate for clinical applications in Korean cadavers
Hyung-Lae Cho, Ji Han Choi, Se-Lin Jeong, Gu-Hee Jung
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2025;38(3):143-151.   Published online July 22, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00122
Funded: Gyeongsang National University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
The study was conducted to determine the practical area for inserting the coracoclavicular (CC) screw through the plate by analyzing three-dimensional (3D) shoulder models featuring virtually implanted, actual-size plates and screws.
Methods
Ninety cadaveric shoulders (41 males and 49 females) underwent continuous 1.0-mm slice computed tomography scans. The data were imported into image-processing software to generate a 3D shoulder model, including the scapula and clavicle. The overlapping area between the clavicle and the horizontal portion of the coracoid process (horizontal portion_CP) was analyzed in the cranial view. A curved pelvic recon plate was virtually placed on the upper surface of the distal clavicle, and an actual-size (3.5 mm) CC screw was inserted through the plate.
Results
The distal clavicle directly overlapped with the horizontal portion_CP in the vertical direction. The overlapping area was sufficient to place the 3.5 mm and 4.5 mm-sized screws. In all shoulder models, the CC screw could be inserted through the plate into the vertical direction, with an average length of 35.5 mm (range, 26.2–62.5 mm; standard deviation, 1.2 mm). In 87 models, the CC screw was inserted through the third hole from the lateral end of the plate. Two models were inserted through the second hole, and one model through the fourth hole.
Conclusions
The upper surface of the clavicle has sufficient overlapping area to place CC screws through the plate in the vertical direction in the corresponding hole. Supplemental CC screw fixation through the plate can be performed without additional or special equipment. Level of evidence: IV
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Biomechanical finite element analysis of a femoral neck system fixation construct for femur neck fractures and clinical implications
Hoon-Sang Sohn, Se-Lin Jeong, Gu-Hee Jung
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2025;38(3):133-142.   Published online July 22, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00108
Funded: Gyeongsang National University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
This study assessed the structural/mechanical stability of fixation constructs with a femoral neck system (FNS) via finite element analysis after simulating femoral neck fractures and explored the clinical implications.
Methods
We simulated subcapital, transcervical, basicervical, and vertical fracture models using a right femur (SAWBONES) and imported the implant model of FNS to Ansys (Ansys 19.0, Ansys Inc.) to place the implant in the optimal position. The distal end of the femur model was completely fixed and was abducted 7°. The force vector was set laterally at an angle of 3° and posteriorly at an angle of 15° in the vertical ground. The analysis was conducted using Ansys software with the von Mises stress (VMS) in megapascals (MPa).
Results
The maximum VMS of the fracture site was 67.01 MPa for a subcapital, 68.56 MPa for a transcervical, 344.54 MPa for a basicervical, and 130.59 MPa for a vertical model. The maximum VMS of FNS was 840.34 MPa for a subcapital, 637.37 MPa for a transcervical, 464.07 MPa for a basicervical, and 421.01 MPa for a vertical model. The stress distribution of basicervical and vertical fractures differed significantly, and the basicervical fracture had higher VMS at the bone, implant, and fracture sites.
Conclusions
FNS fixation should be performed with consideration the osseous anchorage in the femoral head, and this technique might be appropriate for vertical fractures. Regarding the VMS at the fracture site, FNS might be applied cautiously only to basicervical fractures with anatomical reduction without a gap or comminution. Level of evidence: IV.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Finite element analysis of screw thread geometry and titanium plate materials in internal fixation of the human femur
    Abdessamed Bachiri, Mustapha Amine Arab, Nadia Kadouri
    Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering.2026; : 1.     CrossRef
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Review Article
How to obtain the desired results from distal tibial nailing based on anatomy, biomechanics, and reduction techniques
Jungtae Ahn, Se-Lin Jeong, Gu-Hee Jung
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2025;38(2):74-85.   Published online March 31, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00024
Funded: Ministry of Science and ICT, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
AbstractAbstract PDF
Distal tibial metaphyseal fractures are commonly caused by high-energy injuries in young men and osteoporosis in older women. These fractures should be clearly distinguished from high-energy pilon fractures. Although the optimal surgical intervention methods for distal tibial metaphyseal fractures remain uncertain and challenging, surgical treatments for nonarticular distal tibia fractures can be broadly divided into two types: plate fixation and intramedullary nail (IMN) fixation. Once functional reduction is achieved using an appropriate technique, distal tibial nailing might be slightly superior to plate fixation in reducing postoperative complications. Thus, the surgical strategy should focus on functional realignment and proceed in the following sequence: (1) restoring the original tibial length, regardless of whether fibular fixation is to be done; (2) making the optimal entry point through an anteroposterior (AP) projection based on the overlapping point between the fibular tip and lateral plateau margin; (3) placing Kirschner wires (Ø2.4 mm) as blocking pins (in the AP orientation for coronal control and in the mediolateral [ML] orientation for sagittal control) as close to the upper locking hole as possible without causing further comminution on the concave aspect of the short fragment; and (4) making the the distal fixation construct with at least two ML and one AP interlocking screw or two ML interlocking screws and blocking screws. After the IMN is adequately locked, blocking pins (Ø2.4 mm) need to be replaced by a 3.5 mm screw.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Rigid intramedullary nailing with suprapatellar approach for tibial shaft fractures in adolescents with open physes
    Jong Wha Lee, Jae Ho Cho, Tae Hun Kim, Hyung Keun Song, Won-Tae Cho, Seungyeob Sakong, Hyun Il Choi, Sumin Lim
    Injury.2026; 57(4): 113130.     CrossRef
  • Impact of Foot Width on Patient-Reported Outcomes Assessed by 3-Dimensional Foot Morphometry in Hallux Valgus
    Jungtae Ahn, Dae-Cheol Nam, Gu-Hee Jung
    Clinics in Orthopedic Surgery.2025; 17(6): 1062.     CrossRef
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Original Article
The clinical outcome of treating elderly distal radius fractures by long volar locking plate with the elimination of irreducible metaphyseal comminuted volar cortical fragments: a retrospective case series
Soo Min Cha
J Musculoskelet Trauma 2025;38(1):13-22.   Published online January 24, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jmt.2025.00003
Funded: Chungnam National University
AbstractAbstract PDF
Background
In severe comminuted metaphyseal distal radius fracture (DRF) of elderly patients, after maintaining only radiological parameters of the radius using long volar locking plates (VLPs), we inevitably eliminated a few volar cortical fragments of metaphysis. Here, we report the final radiological and clinical outcomes of our method. Methods: For the patients who were treated between 2014 and 2018, the demographic factors, the preoperative radiologic factors, area of the eliminated volar cortical fragment, and final radiologic parameter, were evaluated. Clinical outcomes and ranges of active motion were evaluated. Results: In total, 31 patients were included. The mean patient age was 77.3 years and the mean eliminated cortical area was 3.30 cm2. At the final follow-up, the mean volar tilt, radial inclination, articular step-off, and ulnar variance were 10.35°, 20.00°, 0.58 mm, and 0.71 mm, respectively. There were no definitive correlations between bone mineral density, fragment area, the largest cortical fragment diameter ratio and differences in final and immediate postoperative measurements of these radiological parameters, respectively. Visual analog scale and disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scores were satisfactory, and the mean arcs of flexion-extension and pronation-supination were 124.35° and 133.23°. Clinical outcomes were not significantly different according to the AO system category. Conclusions: For maintenance of radiological parameters of the radius, long VLPs are useful in older patients with DRFs who exhibit volar metaphyseal comminution, despite concurrent ulnar fractures. Inevitable elimination of irreducible free comminuted cortical fragments when filling the defect does not affect final radiological and clinical outcomes. Level of evidence: Level IV, case series.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Open distal radius fracture with ulnar neurovascular injury treated with dorsal spanning plate fixation and vein interposition grafting: a case report
    Kyeong-Eon Kim, Ho-Yong Lee, Shin-Woo Lee, Ji-Sup Kim
    Journal of Musculoskeletal Trauma.2026; 39(3): 262.     CrossRef
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