Journal of Trauma Issue 1

Journal of Trauma Issue 1

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Distal radius fractures are common injuries, accounting for a significant portion of emergency room cases, and affecting both young adults and the geriatric population. High-energy trauma usually causes intraarticular fractures in younger individuals, while older adults often suffer from extra-articular fractures. Treatment aims at anatomic reduction and stable fixation to restore function, with options including closed reduction and casting, percutaneous fixation, external fixation, and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) via dorsal or volar approaches. The dorsal approach offers advantages like direct visualization of fracture fragments and support against dorsal collapse, making it ideal for complex fractures with dorsal comminution. Comparative studies show similar clinical and radiological outcomes between dorsal and volar plating, though each approach has associated complications. The introduction of low-profile locking plates has decreased tendon irritation associated with dorsal plating, increasing its effectiveness for certain fracture patterns. Although some research suggests a greater likelihood of implant removal with dorsal plating, both methods are effective in restoring wrist function. Further high-quality studies are needed to determine the best surgical approach for various types of distal radius fracture.

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Tibial shaft fractures are among the most prevalent orthopedic injuries, representing about 2% of all fractures in adults and 37% of long bone fractures. These injuries occur frequently in both high-energy trauma scenarios and low-energy falls, with significant variations in treatment based on fracture severity and patient age. The Gustilo-Anderson classification guides treatment based on fracture severity. Conservative treatment with casting is effective for stable fractures but carries risks like delayed union and malunion. Surgical management, including external fixation, intramedullary nailing (IMN), and plating, is essential for displaced or complex fractures. External fixation offers rapid stabilization but has higher infection risks. IMN, preferred for its stability and minimal soft tissue damage, is effective for diaphyseal and open fractures. Plating is less common but useful for specific fracture patterns. Management of tibial shaft fractures requires a tailored approach considering fracture type, patient health, and potential complications. Both conservative and surgical methods have specific advantages and limitations. Further studies are needed to optimize treatment strategies and improve patient recovery.

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Tibial plateau fractures, caused by valgus or varus impact with axial compression or torque force, result in complex injuries of the intra-articular and metaphyseal aspect of tibia. These fractures can lead to intra-articular chondral damage, meniscal tear, ligament rupture etc. Treatment choice depends on fragment displacement, subchondral bone involvement, injury severity, associated injuries, and patient characteristics. Successful treatment mandates anatomical reduction, stable fixation, minimal invasiveness, and restoration of postoperative range of motion. Inadequate treatment may lead to pain, joint instability, restricted motion, and substantial disability. Comprehensive understanding of the fracture is crucial for effective management. Surgical strategies aim to achieve for meticulous fracture reduction while minimizing morbidity and avoiding additional damage. Traditionally, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using plates and screws has been a standard treatment. However, ORIF is associated with complications such as infections, stiffness, pain etc. Arthroscopically assisted reduction with percutaneous internal fixation (ARIF) has emerged as a promising alternative, offering lower morbidity, precise reduction assessment, improved intra-articular lesion treatment, shorter hospital stays, lower infection rates, and better functional scores compared to ORIF.

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Osteoporosis is a significant non-communicable disease and the most prevalent bone disorder, affecting one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 globally. In India, the prevalence of osteoporosis is particularly high, with an overall prevalence of 24.7% among men and women aged 30–90 years, and a higher prevalence among women from low-income groups, where 52% experience osteopenia and 29% suffer from osteoporosis. Osteoporosis affects an estimated 200 million women globally, particularly as they age, and is notably underdiagnosed and undertreated in Asia, especially in rural areas where fractures are often managed conservatively. The aging population is expected to increase the incidence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women significantly. A systematic review found that postmenopausal women in India are at significant risk of low bone mineral density (BMD), with a 29% prevalence of osteoporosis in the lumbar spine region, 6% in the hip region, and 29% in the femoral neck region. Osteopenia was prevalent in 37% of women in the lumbar spine and femoral neck, and 6% in the hip. Thus, addressing postmenopausal osteoporosis is crucial because women in this stage of life spend approximately one-third of their lives with a reduced bone mass and an elevated risk of fractures. Fractures of the pelvis, vertebrae, and distal radius contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality, with a 20% mortality rate within the first year following a hip fracture.

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