Biodegradable implants in the treatment of scaphoid nonunions
INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS, vol.28, no.5, pp.261-266, 2004 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 28 Issue: 5
- Publication Date: 2004
- Doi Number: 10.1007/s00264-004-0580-z
- Journal Name: INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
- Page Numbers: pp.261-266
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
We reviewed 12 male patients with scaphoid nonunions treated by open reduction, bone grafting, and internal fixation with biodegradable implants made of self-reinforced poly-L-lactic acid. Mean patient age was 22.5 (20-25) years. Ten patients had type D2 scaphoid nonunions with a fracture line in the middle one third, one patient had type D2 nonunion with a fracture line in the proximal one third, and one patient had type D1 distal one-third fibrous union. The mean wrist score (modified Mayo wrist score) was 20.8 (10-40) preoperatively and improved after 22-80 months (55-90). All nonunions healed, and the mean solid union time was 4.5 (3.5-7) months. We obtained excellent results in five patients, good results in four, fair results in two, and a poor result in one. The results of this study offer a valid alternative in the fixation of scaphoid nonunions. The major advantage of biodegradable materials is to eliminate the requirement for the removal of the fixation material.