Biomedical subjects
N Borisch
Publications and source records attributed to N Borisch.
[Results of Kapandji-Sauvé operation after distal radius fractures].
Incongruity of the distal radioulnar joint represents a major problem following malunited fractures of the distal radius. A useful solution is the arthrodesis of the distal radioulnar joint with distal ulnar pseudarthrosis as described by Kapandji-Sauvé. The results of this procedure are presented and the indication compared to alternative treatment options discussed. Between 1991 and 1997, 19 patients were treated with a Kapandji-Sauvé procedure, for rheumatoid arthritis in seven and for a malunited fracture of the distal radius in twelve patients. All of the patients with a malunion of the distal radius were followed up 5 to 70 months postoperatively by clinical and X-ray examination. For evaluation the protocol by Martini for malunited fractures of the distal radius was used. All but one patient agreed that the operation had been beneficial and would choose to undergo the same procedure again necessary. Mean forearm rotation improved from 99 to 166 degrees. Preoperative pain was reduced in eleven patients. Two patients were completely pain-free and seven noticed pain during heavy load only. Grip strength improved postoperatively in three patients, remained unchanged in four and was diminished in three. In two patients preoperative measurements were not available. Evaluation by the Martini protocol gave three very good, four good, four fair, and one poor result. In one patient, regeneration of the ulna across the resected segment occurred necessitating a secondary excision. This resulted in a return of forearm rotation of 140 degree and good patient satisfaction. Arthrodesis of the distal radioulnar joint with distal ulnar pseudarthrosis reliably reduces pain and improves forearm rotation after malunited fractures of the distal radius. However, it cannot influence pain originating from the radiocarpal joint. Therefore, patients with advanced radiocarpal arthrosis are not suitable for the operation. We consider the procedure to be indicated when the distal radioulnar joint is compromised by the fracture itself or by posttraumatic degenerative arthrosis or when instability or subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint occurs that cannot be corrected. We have not observed persisting problems resulting from instability of the proximal ulna.
[MRI evaluation of carpal tunnel morphology after carpal tunnel release by a retinaculum lengthening technique].
AIM: The benefits of maintaining the pulley function of the flexor retinaculum in carpal tunnel release by lengthening or reconstructing it have been described. Quantitative MR imaging was used to investigate the morphological changes after open carpal tunnel release by such a retinaculum lengthening technique. METHOD: Ten patients had bilateral carpal tunnel MRI pre- and postoperatively. The MRI examinations were performed with a 1.5 Tesla imaging system and wrist coils. Carpal tunnel volume, carpal arch width, median nerve position and flexor tendon position in relation to the hamate-trapezial axis were recorded . RESULTS: Like other methods of carpal tunnel release with complete division of the flexor retinaculum, the retinaculum lengthening technique showed a significant postoperative increase of carpal tunnel volume. Carpal arch width increased only slightly. There was a significant palmar displacement of the median nerve but not of the flexor tendons. CONCLUSION: The findings support the hypothesis that maintenance of the pulley function of the retinaculum may lead to an early postoperative recovery of grip strength. In spite of some difficulties in application quantitative MR imaging may be a useful tool in evaluating the carpal tunnel morphology.
[First results after implantation of a pyrocarbon-endoprosthesis in patients with degenerative arthritis].
AIM: Evaluation of an unconstrained pyrocarbon prosthesis (Ascension) in the treatment of idiopathic degenerative arthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the hand. METHODS: In this study 10 patients (13 implants), that were treated with this type of prosthesis between February 2002 and January 2005 were clinically and radiologically studied. RESULTS: All but one patient were satisfied with the postoperative situation and would agree to another operation. A significant pain reduction was observed. The average ROM was 58 degrees. Five patients demonstrated a free extension, two patients had a swan neck deformity, which could be actively compensated for, and the remaining six patients had an extension deficit of 30-45 degrees. The average flexion was 76 degrees (+/-12 degrees). X-ray examination was unremarkable in eight patients with a regular position of the endoprosthesis. However, in five patients significant radiolucent lines (>or=1 mm) were observed. So far, a luxation of the prosthesis has not occurred and all implants are still in-situ. However, a dorsal tenoarthrolysis had to be performed in 3 patients. CONCLUSION: The results of this study show a high rate of patient satisfaction with a significant pain reduction. A missing osteointegration may be an explanation for the radiological results. The prosthesis has to be closely monitored in the future. Long-term results with a higher number of patients are necessary. A central registry for finger implants is recommended.