(1) Background: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe and aggressive pathology with a rapid progression and high mortality risk. Periocular NF is a rare condition associated with a lower mortality risk but significantly higher disabling sequelae. (2) Methods: We present the case of a 67-year-old homeless patient, a victim of assault, with multiple untreated comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, cardiac conditions, and schizophrenia) and a delayed diagnosis of periocular necrotizing fasciitis. The condition showed a cyclical evolution influenced by the existing comorbidities, and the patient underwent both surgical and medical treatment with a multidisciplinary team. Additionally, we report a systematic review of cases from the literature. (3) Results: The patient’s survival outcomes were favorable; however, the sequelae were disabling, not only concerning aesthetic aspects but also due to the loss of the affected eye globe. The systematic review revealed the rarity of such cases and the peculiarities of the presented case compared to those reported in the literature up to this point. (4) Conclusions: Understanding the signs, symptoms, and predisposing factors, as well as the potential rare localizations of NF, including the periocular region, can lead to the early diagnosis and treatment with good functional and aesthetic outcomes, minimizing significant disabilities.
Background: Lipomas are the most frequent benign soft tissue tumor that are rarely found in the hand and are exceptionally rare on the fingers. The aim of this study was to investigate lipomas of atypical locations, so that they can be taken into account when making a differential diagnosis of a tumor of the hand or fingers. Methods: We studied a group of 27 patients diagnosed with lipoma of the wrist, palm, and fingers. The diagnosis was made by clinical and imaging examinations. Surgical treatment was established based on symptoms of pain, paresthesias, functional impairment, or aesthetic concerns. Treatment outcomes were assessed clinically at 1.5 years post-intervention. Results: Sizes over 5 cm were recorded in five cases, with the largest lipoma being 8 by 5 by 3.5 cm in size and weighing 125 g, located in the palm. There was one case of spontaneous tendon rupture and one case of carpal tunnel syndrome. There was no recurrence recorded at 1.5-year follow-up. Conclusions: Lipomas in the palm and fingers are rare entities (with more men affected), and surgical treatment consists of complete removal of the tumor and providing definitive healing. Despite their rarity, clinicians should consider lipomas when making differential diagnoses of soft tissue tumors of the hand.
The C-Nail® system is a novel intramedullary fixation method for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical performance of the C-Nail® system and compare it with conventional plate fixation for the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures using finite element analysis. The geometry of a Sanders type-IIB fracture was constructed using the computer-aided design software Ansys SpaceClaim. The C-Nail® system (Medin, Nové Mesto n. Morave, Czech Republic) and the calcaneal locking plate (Auxein Inc., 35 Doral, Florida) and screws were designed according to the manufacturer specifications. Vertical loading of 350 N and 700 N were applied to the subtalar joint surfaces to simulate partial weight bearing and full weight bearing. Construct stiffness, total deformation, and von Mises stress were assessed. The maximum stress on the C-Nail® system was lower compared with the plate (110 MPa vs. 360 MPa). At the bone level the stress was found to have higher values in the case of the plate compared to the C-Nail® system. The study suggests that the C-Nail® system can provide sufficient stability, making it a viable option for the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.
Background: Although schwannoma (neurilemmoma) is the most common tumor of the peripheral nerve, its low incidence, slow growth and vague symptoms often lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. The aim of the study is to present a series with a large number of schwannomas in the upper limbs, some with very rare occurrence. Methods: We report 17 patients with a mean age of 58.5 years and upper limb schwannomas, located on the median, ulnar and radial nerves, but also on the posterior interosseous nerve and digital collateral nerves. The diagnosis was made by clinical examination and imaging tests, and in no case was a preoperative biopsy performed. Surgical treatment was established based on symptoms or aesthetic concerns. In all cases, a diagnosis of schwannoma was confirmed through histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations. Results: For all patients, a complete tumor enucleation was performed under a surgical microscope. No recurrence was recorded at 2 years after surgery. Patient satisfaction was good, with complete socio-professional integration in all cases. Conclusions: Although more frequently present on the main nerve trunks, schwannoma may be present on the collateral digital nerves in rare cases. A correct technique with complete tumor excision offers excellent postoperative outcomes and avoids recurrences.
Distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability is a complex condition that can severely affect forearm function, causing pain, limited range of motion, and reduced strength. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the diagnosis and management of DRUJ instability, emphasizing a new classification system that we propose. The review synthesizes anatomical and biomechanical factors essential for DRUJ stability, focusing on the interrelationship between the bones and surrounding soft tissues. Our methodology involved a thorough examination of recent studies, incorporating clinical assessments and advanced imaging techniques such as MRI, ultrasound, and dynamic CT. This approach allowed us to develop a classification system that categorizes DRUJ injuries into three distinct grades. This system is intended to be practical for both clinical and radiological evaluations, offering clear guidance for treatment based on injury severity. The review discusses a range of treatment options, from conservative measures like splinting and physiotherapy to surgical procedures, including arthroscopy and DRUJ arthroplasty. The proposed classification system enhances the accuracy of diagnosis and supports more effective decision making in clinical practice. In summary, our findings suggest that the integration of advanced imaging techniques with minimally invasive surgical interventions can lead to better outcomes for patients. This review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians, providing a structured approach to managing DRUJ instability and improving patient care through the implementation of our new classification system.
Background and objectives: Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) are of increasing interest lately, being associated with a loss of mobility and affecting the quality of life. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of FFP on disability and pain in patients, after one year since injury. Materials and Methods: In the study, we included 76 patients diagnosed with FFP, who were admitted to our trauma department between January 2016 and January 2019, and were above 65 years of age. The Von Korff pain intensity and disability scores were calculated in the hospital at 6 months and after 1 year. Results: Fifty-four patients were female (71%), with an average age of 75.9 ± 7.19 years. Twenty-two patients were male (29%) and had a mean age of 77.22 ± 7.33 years. We did not record significant differences regarding age between the men and women (p > 0.05). Significant improvements appeared between the baseline and the 6 month follow-up; the average pain intensity score at 6 months was 44.94 (SD 21.20) (p < 0.001), and the disability score was 54.30 (SD 21.62). The following average pain intensity and disability scores after 12 months were similar to the values at6 months: 44.48 (SD 21.74) for pain intensity and 52.36 (SD 24.53) for disability. The Von Korff pain score at 6 months and after 1 year depends on gender and on the initial Von Korff pain score (p = 0.02). The Von Korff disability score at 6 months depends on gender, the baseline pain score and the baseline disability score (p = 0.001). Conclusions: our patients reported long-lasting pain that had a severe effect on their daily routines, and they could not return to their normal status prior to injury.