Axillary artery compromise in a minimally displaced proximal humerus fracture: a case report

Minimally displaced fractures of the surgical neck of the humerus are rarely associated with axillary artery injury. The innocuous appearance of the x-rays can be misleading and a missed arterial injury in these fractures could potentially lead to disastrous consequences. We report the case of a patient who sustained a minimally displaced fracture of the proximal humerus with vascular compromise requiring immediate investigation and referral to vascular surgeons. Despite spontaneous resolution of the vascular insult, it is important to remember the association of such fractures with vascular injuries in order to diagnose them early and prevent serious complications including amputation

Two-stage procedure in the treatment of late chronic hip infections - spacer implantation

Infection after total hip arthroplasties (THA) is a devastating complication with significant consequences for both the patients and the healthcare systems. In recent times, a two stage procedure using antibiotic-impregnated interim spacers has become the most popular treatment for late chronic hip joint infections after THA with success rates over 90%. In this review, we discuss the different types of spacers used in the treatment of chronically infected THA and conclude that hip spacers are effective in the treatment of hip joint infections.</p

Using a curved Kirschner wire for fixation of unstable distal radius fractures in children

Displaced metaphyseal and diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius are common in children. Using a plate-screw construct necessitates open reduction and a second operation to remove the metal work. Using a percutaneous Kirschner (K) wire can be attempted closed with an added advantage of a relatively minor procedure to remove the wire after fracture healing. However, using a straight wire may often be challenging due to the shallow angle the K wire needs to pass in order to engage the proximal fragment. Skin pressure and necrosis may also result at the insertion point. Rigidity of the K wire may result in ulnar deviation of the distal fragment and engaging the proximal fragment with a straight wire often necessitates starting the entry point at the tip of the radial styloid and thereby having to transgress the radial epiphysis (Figure 1)

Using a Curved Kirschner Wire for Fixation of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures in Children

Displaced metaphyseal and diaphyseal fractures of the distal radius are common in children [...