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Publications (25)10.95 Total impact

  • Article: Limb salvage and amputation in Type 3C tibial fractures.
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of limb salvage and primary amputation treatments in patients with Type 3C tibia fractures and compare with normative population data. Limb salvage was performed in 20 patients and primary amputation in 14 patients with Type 3C tibia fractures between 1993 and 2009. Mean follow-up period was 5.3 years. Treatment times, complications, number of operations and return-to-work status of groups were compared. The Short Form-36 (SF-36) was used to assess quality of life and domains were compared among the patient groups and normative data. Limb salvage patients had longer treatment periods with more operations and complications than the primary amputation group. Return-to-work percentage was 59% in the limb salvage group and 71% in the amputation group. There was no statistical difference in all SF-36 domains for limb salvage and primary amputation patients. Physical functioning, social functioning, limitation due to emotional problems and pain were statistically lower in all patients than in the general population. Type 3C tibia fractures treated with both limb salvage and primary amputation have negative effects on quality of life. Patients should be informed about limited functional capacity, pain complications and problems with return-to-work at the end of treatment. In addition, high rates of limb salvage can be achieved with proper conditions in suitable patients.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2013; 47(1):19-26. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: Sonographic assessment of transverse carpal ligament after open surgical release of the carpal tunnel.
    Nuri Karabay, Murat Kayalar, Sait Ada
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to sonographically evaluate the anatomy of the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) after open surgical release in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and to establish new ultrasonographic criteria for the completeness of TCL release. Thirty-six patients who underwent open surgical release for CTS were recruited prospectively. Patients were evaluated with physical examination and ultrasonography before and after the operation. All patients' symptoms resolved after surgery. TCL was found to be diffusely thickened and to have lost its smooth form after surgery. Postoperative TCL thickness showed a statistically significant increase when compared with preoperative values (p<0.05). Sonography is a capable imaging method for assessment of the TCL after open release surgery. In addition, ultrasound may be considered as a complementary tool to exclude diagnosis of incomplete transection of TCL in patients with persistent symptoms.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2013; 47(2):73-8. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: [Humeral shaft nonunions: plates and nails].
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    ABSTRACT: This study aims to compare the functional results of dynamic compression plates (DCP) and interlocked retrograde intramedullary nails (IRIN) used for the treatment of humeral shaft nonunions. Twenty-six patients (12 males, 14 females; mean age, 42.8 years; range 21 to 61 years) who underwent surgical treatment of humeral shaft nonunion either with DCP (n=13) or IRIN (n=13) between October 1999 and January 2008, were retrospectively analyzed. Treatment consisted of removing previous implants and DCP or IRIN fixation with additional autogenous bone grafts for atrophic nonunions. Union time, range of motion, radiographic length difference, Constant-Murley Scale (CMS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH-T) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were evaluated at a mean follow-up time of 59.5 months (range; 17 to 125 months). There was a statistically significant correlation among the functional scores of DASH-T, MEPS and CMS. No statistically significant difference was observed in the functional outcome between the groups (DCP and IRIN). Range of motion of the elbow joint was significantly impaired in three patients who were plated for distal shaft nonunions. Both DCP and IRIN provide satisfactory functional outcomes in the treatment of humeral shaft nonunions. Distal shaft nonunions may demonstrate a decrement in elbow motion associated with distal placement of plates.
    Eklem hastalıkları ve cerrahisi = Joint diseases & related surgery. 12/2012; 23(3):150-5.
  • Article: Risk factors for occupational hand injuries: relationship between agency and finger.
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to define the risk factors for occupational hand injuries and explore the relationship between the machines and the fingers injured, based on the records of a hospital in Turkey specialized in hand and microsurgery. Five thousand twenty seven occupational hand injuries treated at a hand and microsurgery hospital between 1992 and 2005 were included in the study. All the injuries were retrospectively recoded according to ICD-10, (ICECI) and ILO recommendations. Logistic regression and chi-square for trend analysis were used to evaluate the risk factors for occupational injuries. The most frequent injuries were traumatic amputation of wrist and hand (53.2%), open wound of wrist and hand (46.3%). Considering all injuries, 60.9% of agricultural machines, 52.7% of metal working machines, 54.7% of transmission machinery, and 42.8% of wood and assimilated machines affected the right hand. Powered wood cutters, presses, planning and milling machines, and machine belts were the most frequent five machines involved in injuries, each having a different finger pattern. The proportion of machinery among all hand injuries was significantly decreasing with time. A stricter and more frequent supervision of the use of protective equipment and prohibition of the purchase of machinery not complying with the regulations could contribute to the prevention of hand injuries.
    American Journal of Industrial Medicine 02/2012; 55(5):465-73. · 1.63 Impact Factor
  • Article: Comparison of dorsal and volar percutaneous screw fixation methods in acute Type B scaphoid fractures.
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    ABSTRACT: In this study, we aimed to compare the clinical and functional results of patients treated with dorsal or volar percutaneous screw fixation for acute scaphoid fractures. We retrospectively evaluated 27 wrists of 26 patients (24 males, 2 females; mean age: 33.1 years) who underwent dorsal or volar percutaneous screw fixation for acute scaphoid fractures between 2000 and 2009. The dorsal approach group contained 13 wrists and the volar approach group 14 wrists. Splint was removed and wrist exercises initiated on the 10th postoperative day. Pinch power, grip power and range of motion were evaluated using the contralateral wrist as controls. Functional evaluation was performed using the patient-rated wrist evaluation score (PRWE) and Mayo wrist scoring system. According to the Herbert and Fisher's classification system there were 9 B2, 3 B3 and 1 B1 fractures in the dorsal approach group, and 12 B2 and 2 B1 fractures in the volar approach group. Fracture union was achieved in all patients. There was no significant difference between the two groups according to functional and clinical results (p>0.05). All patients returned to their jobs in an average of 4.2 weeks and there was no significant difference between the groups (p=0.437). Wrist flexion was significantly better in the control wrists in both groups (p=0.009). In one patient, the screw was removed due to ongoing pain and asymptomatic screw head displacement in the scaphotrapezoid joint was detected in another. The surgical approach does not affect the clinical and functional outcomes in percutaneous screw fixation of Type B scaphoid fractures. Percutaneous fixation is a valuable treatment method for Type B scaphoid fractures as it enables early wrist motion and high patient satisfaction.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2012; 46(5):339-45. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: Results of volar locking plating for unstable distal radius fractures.
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to analyze the complications and functional and radiographic results of volar locking plating in the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures. Forty-six patients (mean age: 48.7 years) with Type C distal radius fractures were treated with volar locking plates and evaluated over a mean follow-up period of 19 months. Range of motion, strength, DASH questionnaire and MAYO wrist score were assessed. Shortening, inclination and palmar tilt were recorded on standard radiographs and tenosynovitis and tendon ruptures were assessed using ultrasound. The uninjured wrists were examined as controls. Statistical analysis was made using t-tests. All fractures achieved union. Postoperative MAYO scores revealed 14 excellent results, 11 good, 20 satisfactory and one poor result. The mean postoperative DASH score was 15.9 (range: 0 to 72). Active wrist motion averaged 52.3 degrees of flexion, 57.7 degrees of extension, 79.2 degrees of supination and 79.3 degrees of pronation. Mean grip strength was 82% of the uninjured side and mean loss of radial inclination was 0.6 degrees and palmar tilt was 6.6 degrees as compared to normal side. Carpal tunnel syndrome was observed in one patient, flexor tenosynovitis in one patient, extensor tendon rupture in one patient and extensor tenosynovitis in eleven patients. Functional and clinical limitations were most evident in the patients with tendon tear or tenosynovitis. Fixation of unstable distal radius fractures with volar locking plates provides sufficient stability, and satisfactory clinical outcomes. However, these systems have complication potential that may limit better outcomes.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2012; 46(1):22-5. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: The effect of medial side repair in terrible triad injury of the elbow.
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of surgical repair of the medial collateral ligament and ulnar nerve release in cases of terrible triad injuries of the elbow. This study included 16 patients (average age: 34 years) who underwent surgery following a diagnosis of terrible triad injury of the elbow between 1996 and 2007. Average follow up was 34.5 months. In all cases, the radial head was first fixed or replaced and the anterior capsule/coronoid complex and lateral collateral ligament were repaired. The medial side of the elbow was addressed (medial collateral ligament repair and ulnar nerve release) in 8 cases and not addressed in the remaining 8 cases. Range of motion, pain, stability, ulnar nerve symptoms, functional Mayo Elbow Performance Index, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores were documented. Serial X-rays were used to confirm ulnohumeral arthritis and development of ectopic calcification. Ultrasonography or MRI was used to detect ulnar nerve entrapment. Range of motion was slightly more limited in cases where the medial side was not addressed. Ulnohumeral range of motion and flexion degrees were higher in the cases where the medial side was addressed (p<0.05). Serial X-rays demonstrated impending ectopic calcification located at the proximal insertion of medial collateral ligament in patients who did not undergo medial side repair. MRI or ultrasonography confirmed these findings, revealing swollen displaced nerves resembling findings similar to cubital tunnel syndrome. Ulnar neuropathy is a common complication after medial collateral ligament injury and prophylactic release will facilitate overall results and postoperative patient satisfaction.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2012; 46(2):96-101. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: Free vascularized fibular grafts in Type 3 open tibia fractures.
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results and complications of free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG) for the reconstruction of bone defects in Gustilo Type 3 open tibia fractures. Free vascularized fibular grafting was performed on open tibia fractures with a bone defect of an average of 10 (range: 6 to 18) cm in 21 patients (19 males, 2 females; mean age: 32 years; range: 16 to 47 years). Primary FVFG was performed for 15 patients with open fractures and secondary FVFG in 6 patients with osteomyelitis due to open fractures or defective nonunions. Bony unions were evaluated retrospectively. At a mean follow-up time of 74 (range: 18 to 216) months, 18 patients were examined for malalignment, shortness, and range of motion. Quality of life was evaluated using the Short Form 36 (SF-36). Mean bony union times for the proximal and distal fibula were 19 (range: 16 to 24) weeks and 20 (range: 16 to 28) weeks, respectively. Proximal nonunion was detected in three patients. Mean external fixation removal time was 6.3 (range: 3 to 14) months. Stress fractures occurred in 15 patients following fixator removal. Malalignment of over 5 degrees was detected in 7 patients and shortness over 2 cm was detected in 4 patients. SF-36 scores were significantly lower in the domains of physical functioning, role limitation due to physical problems, bodily pain, general perception of health, social function, and role limitation due to emotional problems. Mental health, energy and vitality were similar to the healthy reference group. Free vascularized fibular grafting appears to be a reliable and effective method for reconstructing bone defects and soft tissue defects in a single session in open tibia fractures.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2012; 46(6):430-7. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: Peroneal nerve injury surgical treatment results.
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    ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the clinical and functional results of nerve grafting and end-to-end peroneal nerve repair between sciatic bifurcation and distal branching. The study included 26 patients (22 men, 4 women; mean age: 19.9 years; range: 5 to 46 years) who underwent peroneal nerve repair between 1992 and 2009. Open nerve injuries were seen in 21 patients and closed injuries in 5. Surgical repair was performed with sural nerve grafting in 19 patients and end-to-end in 7. Mean nerve graft length was 5.42 (range: 2 to 15) cm with a mean 3.1 (range: 2 to 4) nerve cables used. Mean follow-up was 33 (range: 13 to 96) months. The British Medical Research Council (BMRC) scale was used for the evaluation of the tibialis anterior and peroneal muscles and Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments were used for protective sensation evaluation. Adequate and full recovery was observed in 19 patients (73%). Mean follow-up time was 39.3 months in patients undergoing nerve grafting and 30.1 months in end-to-end nerve repair. Fifteen of 19 patients with nerve grafting and 4 of 7 patients with end-to-end nerve repair had an adequate or full recovery. Posterior tibial tendon transfer to dorsal foot was applied in 3 of 7 patients without recovery. Protective sensory recovery was determined in 16 of 22 patients. Good results in both end-to-end repair and in repair with grafting is possible in peroneal nerve repair.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2012; 46(6):438-42. · 0.34 Impact Factor
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    Article: The results of reverse-flow island flaps in pulp reconstruction.
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to retrospectively review the results of homodigital reverseflow proximal or middle phalanx dorsal skin island flaps. We reviewed the overall results of 67 dorsal skin flap reconstructions performed on 61 proximal phalanxes and 6 middle phalanxes at our hospital during an 11 year period. The results were evaluated with static two point discrimination, Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, occurrence of nail deformities, loss of interphalangeal joint motion, scar appearance of flap donor area, the incidence of vascular insufficiency in postoperative period, and subjective evaluation of patient satisfaction. The highest incidence of defect types were palmar oblique pulp defects in 18 patients (26.8%), transverse pulp defects in 16 patients (23.8%), and hemipulp oblique amputations in 11 patients (16.4%). Crush injuries were the cause of injury in 66% of patients. The average followup time was 40 months and long-term results were available in 21 patients. Total necrosis of flap in one patient (1.4%), superficial epidermolysis in 4 patients (5.9%), and nail deformity in 4 patients (5.9%) were seen. According to Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test results, protective sensation was achieved in 76% of patients. Static two point discrimination data showed variable distribution between 2 mm and 11 mm. The subjective patient satisfaction level was 95%. Homodigital reverse-flow proximal or middle phalanx dorsal skin island flaps give satisfactory cosmetic and sensorial results outside the pinch area, even if the dorsal branch of the digital nerve is not included.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 09/2011; 45(5):304-11. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: Results of partial matrixectomy for chronic ingrown toenail.
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    ABSTRACT: Several treatment modalities which targeted partial matrixectomies, including chemical, laser matrixectomy, and partial nail avulsion, have been used in the dermatology, podiatry, and orthopaedic literature. We report our experience with surgical matrixectomy. We treated 224 patients with severe ingrowing toenails. Segmental wedge resection of involved margin was performed. Followup time was a minimum of 10 months. Statistical analysis of recurrence and disease parameters such as stage of disease, infection, involved margin, previous surgery, followup time, and age showed no significant correlation (p>0.05). Twenty-two patients (9.8%) had a recurrence. Revision surgery was performed in 16 patients (7.1%). We recommend the Winograd technique with a few modifications especially for severe Stage 2 and 3 cases. Both loupe magnification and observation of soft tissue in the postoperative period were important details.
    The Foot and Ankle Online Journal 09/2011; 32(9):888-95. · 1.22 Impact Factor
  • Article: Long-term functional results after radial nerve repair.
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    ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate the functional results of end-to-end repairs in radial nerve injuries. The study included 18 (15 males, 3 females) patients who underwent middle level end-to-end radial nerve repair and who responded to our final follow-up call. Patients' average age was 30 (range: 16 to 43) years. The average time lapse between injury and repair was 25.1 days (range: 1 day to 13 months). Pinch and grip strength measurements were graded according to the modified Verga classification. The Highet classification was used for the evaluation of sensorial recovery. Functional outcome were assessed with the DASH-T score. Average follow-up time was 62.5 (range: 24 to 156) months. Motor function according to the Verga classification was excellent in 16 patients and poor in two. Pinch and grip power measurement comparison of the two sides in the 16 patients with excellent results showed a respective 24.1% and 14.3% decrease on the affected side. According to Highet's classification, sensorial evaluation was S4 in seven patients, S3+ in four, S3 in three, S2+ in one, S2 in one, and S1 in two patients. The average DASH-T score of patients with excellent results was 7.3. Radial nerve repairs, if done end-to-end using an appropriate technique, may lead to nearly full recovery in younger patients.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2011; 45(6):387-92. · 0.34 Impact Factor
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    Article: [The importance of patient selection for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures with percutaneous technique].
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    ABSTRACT: We evaluated the indications and disadvantages of percutaneous technique for proximal humerus fractures in relation to complications encountered in osteoporotic elderly patients and the importance of patient selection. The study included 18 patients (10 men, 8 women; mean age 48 years; range 14 to 89 years) who underwent percutaneous fixation (closed reduction and pin fixation with K-wires or Schanz screws) for proximal humerus fractures. Eight patients were beyond 60 years of age. According to the Neer classification, five patients had two-part, 13 patients had three-part neck fractures. The patients were evaluated with range of motion of the shoulder, radiographs, and the Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH). The mean follow-up was 23 months (range 8 to 60 months). The mean shoulder abduction was 134 degrees (range 30 degrees to 160 degrees) and the mean elevation was 118 degrees (range 30 degrees to 140 degrees). Full range of motion of the shoulder was achieved in 11 patients (61.1%), including all with two-part fractures. Abduction losses of 60 degrees to 130 degrees and less than 30 degrees were seen in four patients and three patients, respectively, all of whom were older than 60 years. The mean DASH score was 18 (range 0 to 77). Fourteen patients having a score of less than 10 had no pain or functional complaints. Four patients with a score of more than 10 were older than 70 years. Pin migration was observed in seven patients (38.9%), all of whom were over 60 years of age. One patient required revision with partial prosthesis. Nonunion was seen in one patient (5.6%) and malunion with a varus/valgus deformity occurred in four patients (22.2%). None of the patients developed avascular necrosis. Percutaneous fixation may be preferred in the treatment of two-part and carefully-selected three-part proximal humerus fractures. Due to high complication rate, patient selection is of primary importance among elderly patients.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 02/2009; 43(1):35-41. · 0.34 Impact Factor
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    Article: [Long-term results of major upper extremity replantations].
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term clinical and functional results of major upper extremity replantations. We retrospectively evaluated 26 male patients (mean age 27 years; range 3 to 69 years) who underwent major upper extremity replantations and had a mean follow-up of 11.3 years (range 5 to 19 years). The levels of the replantations were transmetacarpal (n=6), wrist (n=4), forearm (n=5), elbow (n=4), and arm (n=7). Amputations were of clean-cut, crush, and avulsion types in seven, eight, and 11 patients, respectively. Secondary operations were performed in 19 patients. Functional results were assessed using the Chen's criteria and the Turkish version of the DASH questionnaire (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) was administered. The mean surgical shortening was 37.2 mm, and the final mean radiographic shortening was 52.2 mm. The mean grip and pinch strengths on the affected side were 12.3 kg and 3.6 kg, compared to the strengths of 37.6 kg and 8.7 kg on the normal side, respectively. Monofilament testing showed sensory recovery in 20 patients. Two-point discrimination could be made by 18 patients for the median nerve, and by 17 patients for the ulnar nerve. According to the Chen's criteria, the results were very good or good in 17 patients (65.4%), moderate in three patients (11.5%), and poor in six patients (23.1%). Functional results were correlated with the level (r=0.71) and type (r=0.65) of injury, with injuries at the elbow level and avulsion injuries being associated with a worse outcome. The mean DASH score was 6.7 (range 0 to 32.5) and the mean scores of Chen's grade I-II and grade III-IV patients differed significantly (p<0.05). Lower DASH scores show increased satisfaction of the patients and improved use of their replanted extremities as the helper arm whereby functional deficiency is somewhat compensated.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2009; 43(3):206-13. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: Elbow arthrolysis in severely stiff elbows.
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    ABSTRACT: This study involves the results of open elbow arthrolysis performed on a series of patients having fixed joint contracture. Eighteen patients were treated with open arthrolysis. Eleven patients had very severely stiff elbows (flexion arc less than 30 degrees ), five patients had severely stiff elbows (31 degrees -60 degrees ) and two patients had moderately stiff elbows (60 degrees -90 degrees ). Fixed flexion deformity was observed in nine patients preoperatively.The mean interval between the trauma and arthrolysis was 14.8 months. The mean age was 27 years. After radiological examination, lateral kocher incision was used on 13 patients, medial and lateral incision on 3 patients, transolecranon approach on 1 patient and anterior and posterior approach on 1 patient. External fixator was applied on four patients. Fasia lata interposition was performed in three patients. Additional procedures were as follows, bone fixation in five patients, bone grafting in two patients, nerve grafting in one patient, subcutaneous ulnar nerve transposition in three patients. The average follow-up time was 47 months. At the final evaluation, the mean extension deficit had improved from 55 degrees to 32 degrees . The mean end flexion increased from 81 degrees to 124 degrees postoperatively. The flexion arc of three patients in whom heterotopic ossification was excised had increased to 65 degrees . Infection was diagnosed in two patients (11%). The importance of this study is that the patients have fixed deformities and a long follow-up time. Severely stiff elbow is one of the main indications of open arthrolysis in the patients without muscle atrophy. We suggest sequential arthrolysis as an effective way to obtain good range of motion especially in severe stiff elbows as well as to maintain the ligamantous stability of the elbow joint.
    Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery 05/2008; 128(10):1055-63. · 1.37 Impact Factor
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    Article: [Comparison between two mini incision techniques utilized in carpal tunnel release].
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    ABSTRACT: We compared two mini skin incision techniques utilized in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Twenty-seven patients who underwent surgery for CTS were evaluated in two groups according to the site of the mini incision performed for surgical release. A single mini skin incision was performed over the transverse carpal ligament in 12 patients (group 1; 17 hands; 1 man, 11 women; mean age 55 years; range 38 to 66 years), and on the distal side of the ligament in 15 patients (group 2; 17 hands; all women; mean age 54 years; range 34 to 71 years). The two groups were compared with regard to improvement in pain and numbness, rigidity and sensitivity of the scar tissue, time to use the hands, and palmar pinch and grip strengths. The mean follow-up was 26.6 months in group 1, and 23.7 months in group 2. Complete disappearance of symptoms was obtained in 14 wrists (82.4%) in group 1, and in 15 wrists (88.2%) in group 2, with no significant difference between the two groups (p>0.05). Rigidity and sensitivity of the scar tissue were seen in nine wrists (52.9%) in group 1, and in two wrists (11.8%) in group 2 (p<0.05), which lasted 3.5 months and 1.5 months, respectively. In group 2, time to use the affected hand for basic needs (9 days) and normal function (21 days) was significantly shorter, compared to 18 days and 35 days in group 1, respectively (p<0.05). The mean differences of grip and pinch strengths of the two hands were -2.78 kg and -0.60 kg in group 1, and -0.77 and -0.46 kg in group 2, respectively (p>0.05). Although both methods of release yield satisfactory results in the mid- and long-term, mini skin incision performed on the distal side of the transverse carpal ligament is associated with less incision-related morbidity.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 02/2008; 42(4):234-7. · 0.34 Impact Factor
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    Article: [Isolated severance of the intrinsic motor branch of the ulnar nerve caused by stab injuries to the hand: A report of three cases].
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    ABSTRACT: Laceration of the deep intrinsic motor branch of the ulnar nerve below the Guyon canal is rarely seen in penetrating injuries of the hand. We report three patients (1 woman, 2 men) who underwent microsurgical repair for isolated injuries to the motor nerve branch of the ulnar nerve due to penetrating injuries to the hypothenar area of the hand. Two patients had normal sensation. All the patients had intrinsic muscle paralysis and claw deformity of some fingers, with significantly weakened grip and pinch strengths. Exploration showed isolated severance of the deep intrinsic motor branch of the ulnar nerve. One patient underwent end-to-end repair with epiperineural suture technique. Two patients required bridging with a sural nerve graft from the leg for 2-cm and 4-cm gaps, respectively, that occurred following nerve excision. During the follow-up period, grip and pinch strengths of all the patients approximated to the values of the normal side. Intrinsic muscle function and abduction and adduction of fingers recovered in two patients, whereas in one patient finger adduction was not reversible and claw deformity persisted in one finger even after two years.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 02/2007; 41(3):249-52. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: [The importance of finger extension test in the diagnosis of occult wrist ganglion].
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    ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of diagnostic tools in comparison with surgical results of occult ganglion cyst of the wrist, which is one of the causes of chronic wrist pain. Twenty-five patients (4 males, 21 females; mean age 29 years; range 16 to 46 years) underwent surgery with an initial diagnosis of occult ganglion following unsuccessful conservative treatment. The mean symptom duration was 29 months (range 3 months to 10 years). Diagnosis was based on finger extension test performed in 24 patients. Six patients and 13 patients were assessed by ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), respectively. Interosseous neurectomy was performed in three patients. The mean follow-up was 31 months (range 6 to 72 months). Occult dorsal ganglion was resected from the scapholunate interval in 22 patients (88%). No ganglion was found in three patients, who had only degeneration of the scapholunate ligament. Finger extension test was positive in 23 patients. One patient with a negative test result was found to have degeneration of the scapholunate ligament. The test yielded two false positive results, one of which was negative by MRI. Surgical confirmation was achieved in 11 patients evaluated by MRI and in four patients evaluated by ultrasonography. Diagnostic accuracy rates for MRI, ultrasonography, and finger extension test were 92%, 66%, and 92%, respectively. Two patients (8%) underwent reoperation for recurrence. None of the patients complained of instability in the late period. Except for one patient, all patients (96%) were asymptomatic at final evaluations. Finger extension test is an important diagnostic tool for occult ganglion with 92% accuracy. Both diagnosis and treatment of occult ganglion cysts have become easier by evolving diagnostic tools.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 02/2007; 41(1):42-7. · 0.34 Impact Factor
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    Article: [The effect of dorsal cortical comminution on radiographic results of unstable distal radius fractures treated with closed reduction and K-wire fixation].
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    ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of dorsal cortical comminution on radiographic outcome of unstable distal radius fractures after treatment with closed reduction and K-wire fixation. Forty-two patients were treated with closed reduction and K-wire fixation for unstable, extra-articular distal radius fractures with dorsal angulation. The patients were evaluated in two groups depending on the presence or absence of dorsal metaphyseal cortical comminution observed as a radiopacity on lateral radiographs. Thus, 30 patients (13 males, 17 females; mean age 56 years; range 22 to 77 years) did not have dorsal cortical comminution, whereas 12 patients (8 males, 4 females; mean age 48 years; range 18 to 76 years) did. The mean follow-up period was 8.8 months (range 3 to 106 months) in the former, and 5.5 months (range 3 to 131 months) in the latter groups. Radiographic parameters were compared including palmar tilt measured on lateral, radial inclination and radial length on posteroanterior radiographs obtained before treatment and after union. Radial inclination, palmar tilt, and radial length showed significant improvements in both groups (p<0.05). The results were acceptable in all the patients with achievement of standard reference values. The presence of dorsal cortical comminution did not have any significant effect on radiographic parameters (p>0.05). No significant complications were encountered during the follow-up period. Dorsal cortical metaphyseal comminution does not have an adverse effect on radiographic results. Treatment with closed reduction and K-wire fixation is safe and effective even in the presence of dorsal cortical comminution.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2007; 41(3):202-6. · 0.34 Impact Factor
  • Article: [The frequency of vascular variations and complications with the use of the posterior interosseous artery flap].
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    ABSTRACT: We evaluated vascular problems in patients who were planned to receive posterior interosseous artery (PIA) flap for soft tissue defects in the dorsal hand, thumb, and the first web. The study included 25 male patients (mean age 27 years; range 12 to 54 years) in whom reconstruction was planned with the use of the reverse PIA flap. The defects were in the following localizations: the dorsal hand (n=15), the first web (n=5), hypothenar region (n=3), and the palmar aspect of the wrist (n=2). The frequency of anatomic variations and complications were evaluated. The use of the PIA flap was cancelled in one patient (4%) due to an anatomic variation of the PIA in the forearm. The vascular pedicle of the flap was removed because of insufficient arterial perfusion due to the absence of distal carpal anastomosis and the donor tissue was used as a free flap in two patients (8.3%). The remaining 22 patients who received pedicled flaps were followed-up for a mean of 3.2 months (range 1.5 to 6.5 months), during which six patients (27.3%) developed venous insufficiency. A superficial vein anastomosis was performed in five patients within the first 24 hours, which resulted in complete improvement. One patient was not available for venous anastomosis and developed flap necrosis. The occurrence of venous insufficiency was not correlated with the timing of flap surgery, the size of the flap, and the placement of the flap pedicle (p>0.05). The use of the reverse PIA flap is appropriate for soft tissue defects in the dorsal hand, thumb, and the first web. However, the frequency of anatomic variations and vascular complications is higher compared to other reverse pedicled flaps.
    acta orthopaedica et traumatologica turcica 01/2006; 40(4):307-10. · 0.34 Impact Factor