BACKGROUND: Strong core stabilization not only minimizes the load on the vertebral column, but also improves strength and endurance of peripheral joints, and enables the energy transfer to distal segments. Despite the current interest surrounding cor

Objective The aim of this study was to describe an alternative fixation method for distal humeral extra-articular fractures through posterior approach using distal tibia anatomic locking plate; and to evaluate the patient's functional outcome and union condition. Methods Eighteen patients (11 men and 7 women; average age of 37.0 ± 17.3 years (range: 18–73 years)) with a distal humeral extra-articular fracture who were treated with distal tibial medial locking plate were included into the study. The mean follow up time was 36.2 ± 16.7 (12–57) months. Functional results were evaluated with perception of pain, range of joint motion, grasp and pinch strengths. Results Union was achieved in 17 of 18 patients. Only one patient had non-union due to infection and underwent debridement. The mean time for union was 7.8 ± 5.9 months (2–20). Patient perception of pain was X = 1.88 ± 2.50 and X = 4.55 ± 2.68, respectively, at rest and activity. The active ranges of joint motion were adequate for functional use. General functional state of affected extremity (DASH-T) was perfect (X = 27.14 ± 25.66), the performance of elbow joint was good (X = 84.44 ± 11.57). There were no differences in the comparison of grasp and pinch grip of patients with uninvolved extremity (p > 0.05). Conclusions In distal humeral extra-articular fractures, use of distal medial tibia plate has advantages such as providing high rates for union, low rates for complication, and early return to work with early rehabilitation, therefore it may be considered a fixation choice that can be used for distal humeral extra-articular fractures. Level of evidence Level IV, therapeutic study. ER -

Objectives: The aim of this study is to compare the effects of low-density pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) treatment on growth factors/collagen production, histological, biomechanical, and function of rats with Achilles tendon injury. Materials and methods: A total of 44 Wistar Albino rats were used in the study between April 2017 and June 2018. The rats were randomized to two treatment groups. Group 1 (n=6) received LIPUS treatment (0.3 Watt/cm2; 1 MHz, 1:5 pulse mode) and Group 2 (n=6)received sham ultrasound (US) treatment following Achilles tendon surgery. Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and collagen gene expression levels were evaluated using polymerase chain reaction. The histological evaluation was performed with the Bonar scoring system. The tensile strength was measured by biomechanical testing and the function was evaluated with the Achilles Functional Index (AFI). Results: Although TGF-β1 expression and tensile strength evaluation showed a tendency to improve in favor of the LIPUS group, no statistically significant difference was found (p=0.065 and p=0.053, respectively). The COL3 gene expression in the LIPUS group and the COL1 expression in the sham US group were significantly higher. Bonar scores and AFI scores showed a statistically significant improvement in the LIPUS group, compared to the sham US group. Conclusion: Our study results show that LIPUS yields positive effects on tendon histology and functional status in repaired Achilles tendon in rats.

Introduction: To compare surgical and conservative management of midshaft clavicle fractures according with scapulothoracic joint angle change, considering clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes. Methods: A total of 95 midshaft clavicle fracture patients aged between 18-70 years with a minimum follow-up duration of 12 months were included in this study. Patients were treated either conservatively (Group I) or surgically (Group 2). Plane deformities, scapulothoracic joint angle, shortness and isokinetic muscle strength were measured. Shoulder Pain, Disability Index (SPADI) and Short Form-3 6 (SF36) were assessed. Results: Scapulothoracic joint angles were higher in the conservative treatment group than in surgery group (p=0.036). Consequently, winged scapula was seen more commonly in the conservative treatment group than in the surgery group (p=0.001). Surgical treatment was associated with significantly better SF-36 physical scores and with SPADI pain and disability scores. However, the two groups did not differ in terms of isokinetic muscle strength. Negative anteroposterior plane deformity (p<0.001) and negative axial plane deformity (p=0.004) were more frequent in the conserva- tive treatment group. Clavicle shortness was more common in the conservative treatment group. Conclusions: According to our findings scapulothoracic joint angle changes were seen in the conservative treatment group more than in the surgery group. Consequently, winged scapula was seen more commonly in the conservative treatment group than in the surgery group (p=0.001). Level of Evidence III; Retrospective comparative study.