Biomedical subjects

Paul C Dell

Publications and source records attributed to Paul C Dell.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMedDate not supplied

Total elbow arthroplasty with massive composite allografts.

Total elbow arthroplasty is challenging when there is extensive bone loss. We studied retrospectively the long-term (mean, 6.5 years) clinical and radiographic results of 10 patients in whom 14 massive allograft-prosthetic composites were used in such clinical situations. The mean arc of active flexion/extension was 92 degrees. The Bryan-Morrey and Hospital for Special Surgery elbow scoring systems were used and revealed a modest improvement in pain and stability but a disappointing return of function, with independent self-care possible in only 3 patients, household and employment activities in 2, and recreational pursuits in 2. Three patients claimed that they were unable to use the elbow. Multiple procedures (mean, 2.2) were sometimes required to optimize the result. The 79% rate of allograft-host union is similar to that of hip and knee arthroplasty. The use of massive allografts is a reasonable alternative in salvage situations involving total elbow arthroplasty with massive bone loss.

Aged↗

PubMedDate not supplied

A clinical report of the effect of mechanical stress on functional results after fasciectomy for Dupuytren's contracture.

Early postoperative treatment after Dupuytren's fasciectomy traditionally has included the application of mechanical stress to digital extension with splints and exercise. This study examines the effect of mechanical stress, which may compromise nutrient delivery to the tissues, on inflammation, flare, hypertrophic scar, digital range of motion (ROM), and therapy visits. The authors compared functional outcomes in operated digits treated postoperatively with tension applied (TA) and no tension applied (NTA), retrospectively from 1983 to 1993 (TA only) and prospectively from 1993 to 1999 (TA and NTA). The charts of 268 patients who underwent Dupuytren's fasciectomy were reviewed and divided into 2 groups (TA and NTA). Each case was analyzed with respect to age, sex, number of digits operated, postoperative management technique, therapy visits, metacarpophalangeal joint and proximal interphalangeal joint ROM, degree of flare, and scar. There were significant differences in ROM, scar formation, flare, and treatment time in favor of the NTA technique. The results indicate that postoperative management that prevents applied mechanical tension in the early phases of wound healing decreases complications after this surgery and that no digital motion is lost to extension with the NTA technique.

Aged↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Ulnar intrinsic anatomy and dysfunction.

Normal hand function is a balance between the extrinsic and intrinsic musculature. Although individually the intrinsics are small muscles in diameter, collectively they represent a large muscle that contributes approximately 50% of grip strength. Dysfunction of the intrinsics consequently leads to impaired grip and pinch strength as well recognized deformities. Low ulnar nerve palsy preserves ulnar innervated extrinsics resulting in sensory loss, digital clawing, thumb deformity, abduction of the small finger, and asynchronous finger motion. High ulnar nerve palsy is characterized by the above plus paralysis of the ulnar profundi and the flexor carpi ulnaris. Understanding the normal anatomy allows the clinician to identify the site of the lesion and plan appropriate surgical intervention. This article revisits the classic work of Richard J. Smith on ulnar nerve palsy with contemporary perspective.

Finger Joint↗