SUNScholar - Browsing by Author "Ferreira, N."

Browsing by Author "Ferreira, N."

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Antibiogram profiles and efficacy of antibiotic regimens of bacterial isolates from chronic osteomyelitis of the appendicular skeleton: A developing-world perspective
(Health & Medical Publishing Group, 2021-06-30) Ferreira, N.; Reddy, K.; Venter, R. G.; Centner, C. M.; Laubscher, M.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Chronic osteomyelitis is notoriously difficult to eradicate, and high treatment failure rates have been reported in the literature.[1,2] Although no evidence-based treatment guidelines exist for the management of chronic osteomyelitis, the ideal treatment strategy can be outlined as judicious resection of all necrotic tissue, dead-space management, and neovascularisation of the debridement site followed by soft-tissue and bony reconstruction as required.[3-7] Antibiotic therapy is empirically initiated as an adjunct to surgical management, and then continued as prolonged culture-specific (targeted) therapy.[3]In the absence of non-invasive sampling methods to ascertain the microbiological profile of osteomyelitis, the choice of empirical antibiotic therapy to initiate is often aimed at the most probable infecting organism, in conjunction with current international reports.[8] As the organism and antibiotic susceptibility profiles conceivably differ between geographical regions, empirical antibiotic strategies should ideally be based on local microbiological antibiograms. There are limited data available on the local pathogen profiles and antibiograms in developing countries, including South Africa (SA).
An audit of circular external fixation usage in a tertiary hospital in South Africa
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2018) Van der Walt, Nico; Ferreira, N.
Background: Circular external fixation is a well-known treatment modality in reconstructive orthopaedic surgery and is frequently used for deformity correction, limb lengthening, limb salvage, and complex diaphyseal and periarticular fractures. The current use of this treatment modality in the South African context remains largely unknown. This retrospective review aims to describe the indications, outcomes and complications of the use of circular external fixation in a tertiary hospital in South Africa. Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 480 patients treated with circular external fixation in a specialist limb reconstruction unit. We report on patient demographics, comorbidities, indications and outcomes. Results: The final cohort consisted of 346 men and 134 women with a mean age of 35.5 years (SD 14.9, range: 5–73). Comorbidities were identified in 163 (34.0%) patients. These included diabetes in 14 (2.9%) patients and smoking in 102 (21%) patients. HIV infection was diagnosed in 120 patients (25%) with a mean CD4 count of 425 cells/mm3 (SD: 223, range: 82–1056). The mean time in external fixator was 24.6% weeks (SD: 15.3, range 4–159). The treatment objective was achieved in 441 patients (92%). The overall complication rate excluding pin-site infection was 26%. Pin-site infection occurred in 88 patients (18.3%) but had no impact on the outcome of treatment. Conclusion: Circular external fixation treatment objectives can be achieved in a high percentage of patients in the context of a South African specialist reconstruction unit. This study shows favourable outcomes in deformity correction, limb lengthening, limb salvage, and complex diaphyseal and periarticular fractures. Comorbid factors, including HIV, diabetes and smoking had no effect on achieving the planned outcomes, but smoking did increase the overall time in external fixator.
Calcific myonecrosis following snakebite
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2017) Ferreira, N.; Marais, L. C.
Calcific myonecrosis is a rare condition and is believed to be a late sequela of untreated compartment syndrome. Patients usually present with a progressively enlarging mass, years after the initial injury, that can be misdiagnosed as a soft tissue sarcoma. Calcific myonecrosis following snakebite is extremely rare. The anterior compartment of the leg is most frequently involved and appears to be especially vulnerable to developing this complication. Conservative management should be considered in asymptomatic patients but spontaneous soft tissue breakdown with sinus formation may develop and prolonged surveillance is advised. We report two similar cases of calcific myonecrosis of the anterior compartment of the lower leg that developed decades following snakebite.
Circular external fixation in the management of tibial plateau fractures in patients over the age of 55 years
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2018) Marais, L. C.; Ferreira, N.
Introduction: Tibial plateau fractures in the elderly pose significant treatment challenges because of coexisting medical problems, pre-existing degenerative joint disease and osteoporosis. While several studies have reported promising results with the use of circular external fixation, little data is available on its use in older patients. This study aims to compare the complications and union rate of circular external fixation in patients over the age of 55 years with that achieved in younger patients. Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients treated with circular external fixation over a six-year period. Patients were divided in two groups: Group 1 consisted of patients under the age of 55 years and Group 2 of patients 55 years and older. Group 1 consisted of 63 cases (mean age 37.2 ± 9.1 years and Group 2 of 16 cases (mean age 60.2 ± 5.8 years). Apart from the patient age, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographics, mechanism of injury (p-value = 0.9) or the prevalence of polytrauma (p=1.0). Results: At a mean follow-up of 19 ± 6.2 months all but two of the fractures had united. The mean overall duration of external fixation was 20.2 ± 8.2 weeks, with a slightly longer mean time-in-frame in Group 1 (20.9 ± 1.1 weeks) in comparison to Group 2 (17.8 ± 1.4 weeks, p=0.1). Complications occurred more frequently in patients over the age of 55 years (56% vs 37%, p-value = 0.2). Loss of reduction also occurred more frequently in patients over 55 years (19%), compared to patients younger than 55 years (6%) (p=0.1). Conclusion: Circular external fixation may be a viable treatment option in patients over the age 55 years who sustain high-energy tibial plateau fractures associated with significant soft tissue compromise. No significant difference was found in terms of the union rate or the development of complications when compared to younger patients.
Circular frames of the humerus : salvage surgery case series
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2019-11) Pretorius, H. S.; Strauss, K.; Ferreira, N.; Lamberts, R. P.
INTRODUCTION: High energy fractures like gunshot-related injuries or high velocity road traffic accidents are often complex to treat and have been associated with a higher non-union rate, especially when there is extensive bone loss. Fractures with severe comminution may not heal due to bone loss and an inability to achieve adequate fracture stability. Treatment of fractures that are not amenable to plating or nailing may lead to non-unions, septic or aseptic, that need repeat surgeries. Stabilisation with external fixation is a reliable option to maintain stability and provide a suitable environment for union. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study used medical records of all patients with complex mid-shaft humerus fractures, as well as their complications, that were treated with hexapod circular external fixation between January 2009 and September 2015. All the patients in this case series presented with severe humerus fractures or complications thereof which were not amenable to conventional therapy. RESULTS: Union was achieved in ten out of the 12 cases (83.3%). Union was achieved without bone graft or any other interventions at the fracture site except implant removal where indicated. The median time in external fixation was 196 days (interquartile range: 112-228). The most common complication encountered in this series was pin-site infection. Fixation points were noted to be infected in 33% of cases at some time during the treatment period. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that humeral non-unions and complex humerus fractures that are not amenable to conventional fixation methods, such as intramedullary nails and plates, can successfully achieve union when treated with a hexapod circular external fixator. Level of evidence: Level 4
Current concepts in the management of open tibia fractures
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2019-11) Manjra, M. A.; Basson, T.; Du Preez, G.; Du Toit, J.; Ferreira, N.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Open tibia fractures are associated with an increased risk of infection, delayed union, non-union and wound complications. Management is aimed at mitigating the risk of infection while optimising the biological and biomechanical environment to encourage soft tissue and bone healing. With ongoing clinical trials and research, our knowledge around best clinical practice continues to evolve. Multiple consensus documents and protocols have been formulated, yet some controversy exists around the ideal management for high risk grade III injuries. Early antibiotic therapy has become a cornerstone in the management of these injuries. However, some controversy remains around the type and duration of antibiotic therapy. Emergent debridement and lavage is a critical factor in treatment success. Intramedullary nailing is a viable fixation option for most open tibia fractures while circular external fixation has gained prominence in the management of high energy grade III injuries, especially in the presence of bone and soft tissue loss. The timing of the various treatment interventions continues to provoke debate and controversy. Considering the available literature, the local context needs to be considered. Inadequate access to theatre, shortage of staff, resources and expertise are frequently encountered. We aim to elucidate current literature with regard to the management of open tibia fractures guided in part by various consensus documents and protocols. Level of evidence: Level 5
Financial burden of orthopaedic gunshot-related injury management at a major trauma centre
(Health & Medical Publishing Group, 2020-08-31) Van Heukelum, M.; Le Roux, N.; Jakoet, S.; Ferreira, N.
Background: Violence and injuries are a significant global public health concern, and have a substantial emotional, physical and economic impact on society. In South Africa (SA), the Western Cape Injury Mortality Profile shows that homicides increased from 38 deaths per 100 000 in 2010 to 52 deaths per 100 000 in 2016. This increase is directly related to an increase in firearm-related homicides, which doubled from 2010 to 2016. Previous research estimated the average cost per gunshot wound (GSW)-related orthopaedic patient at USD2 940. GSW-related patient numbers as well as treatment costs have escalated exponentially over the past few years. Objectives: To calculate the financial costs involved in managing gunshot-related orthopaedic injuries both surgically and non-surgically at a tertiary centre in SA. Methods: After ethics approval, a retrospective review of all GSW patients seen in the emergency unit at Tygerberg Hospital in 2017 was undertaken. Patient records yielded data on the following parameters: injury site and characteristics, imaging modalities, orthopaedic management, hospital admission and duration of hospitalisation, theatre episodes, orthopaedic implants and blood products administered. Cost analysis was performed using this information. Results: A total of 389 patients (360 male and 29 female), average age (range, standard deviation) 28 (3 - 69, 9.50) years, were treated during the study period. Patient records identified a total of 449 orthopaedic injuries. A total of 187 patients were admitted, with 175 requiring surgical fixation. The conservatively calculated cost of managing this patient group was ZAR10 227 503. The average management cost per patient was ZAR26 292, with an average of ZAR46 670 per case requiring surgical management and ZAR8 810 for non-surgical cases (the average USD-ZAR exchange rate in 2017 was USD1-ZAR13.30). Conclusions: The total cost of managing 389 patients with gunshot-related orthopaedic injuries at a tertiary hospital was ZAR10 227 503. Improved understanding of these costs will help the healthcare system better prioritise orthopaedic trauma funding and training and highlights the urgent need for cost-saving measures, specifically primary prevention initiatives.
Functional outcomes following surgical treatment of chronically unreduced simple elbow dislocations : a retrospective review
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2018-11) Yende, Thabiso; Senoge, M. E.; Ferreira, N.
Background: Chronic elbow dislocations are rare injuries that present late for orthopaedic management. The delay in presentation is frequently due to patients not seeking treatment after the initial injury, poor access to health care, inadequate initial treatment of acute dislocation or initial missed diagnosis. Chronic simple elbow dislocations refer to dislocations that remain unreduced for more than two weeks and are not associated with fractures. This study aims to evaluate the outcome of surgically treated chronic elbow dislocations. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients who were treated for chronic simple elbow dislocations between September 2009 and August 2014 was undertaken. Further information regarding return to function was obtained from the records or telephonic consultation with the patients. Nine patients were included for final analysis. Results: Nine patients were eligible for the study. Three patients were employed, three were scholars and three were unemployed. All patients were able to return to premorbid function with minor limitations due to occasional pain. According to the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) score, two patients had excellent outcomes, three good and three fair. One could not be scored as there was no recorded scoring on the file and telephonic contact was unsuccessful. The range of motion varied from 20° of extension to 140° of flexion. One patient developed a stiff elbow but was able to adapt to activities of daily living. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of chronically unreduced simple elbow dislocations offers satisfactory outcome with minimal complications and should be considered for all patients presenting with this condition.
HIV seroprevalence and its relation to bone infection, bone tumours and limb reconstruction patients in a South African tertiary hospital
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2017-11) Kruger, N.; O'Connor, M.; Ferreira, N.; Marais, L. C.
BACKGROUND: HIV infection causes a relative immunodeficient state, potentially predisposing patients to osseous infection. It is also associated with non-AIDS defining cancers, and has been described in patients with limb girdle sarcomas and malignant fibrohistiocytic tumours. HIV is further known to suppress cells important in bone healing; however, it is unclear whether bone tumours and mal- or non-unions are more prevalent in patients with HIV. This study aimed to determine the HIV seroprevalence of patients attending a tumour, sepsis and reconstruction (TSR) unit, and explore its relationship to bone infection, bone tumours and patients undergoing limb reconstruction. METHODS: A retrospective review of all adult patients treated over a three-year period was performed. Patients were stratified according to pathology into bone infection, bone tumour, and limb reconstruction categories. Each patient had an opt-in HIV test as part of routine workup. Recruitment, prevalence and statistically significant relationship were then calculated relative to the HIV-uninfected cohort. RESULTS: Nine-hundred-and-six patients were included, 21.3% of whom were HIV positive. There were 313 patients with bone infection, 263 patients with bone tumours, and 330 limb reconstruction patients. All groups were similar in HIV prevalence. There was no statistically significant difference between the HIV-positive or -negative patients in any of the groups. CONCLUSION: This series found no significant difference in the incidence of bone infections, bone tumours or the need for limb reconstruction, between HIV-positive and -negative patients.
HOST study – HIV in orthopaedic skeletal trauma study : protocol for a multicentre case-cohort study
(2018) Graham, Simon Matthew; Harrison, W. J.; Lalloo, D. G.; Simpson, A. H.; Laubscher, M.; Held, M.; Ferreira, N.; Maqungo, S.
Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) have both been shown to reduce bone mineral density, mineralisation and bone turnover. Our study group and other researchers have suggested that HIV may impair fracture healing, based on extrapolation from basic science. These observations prompted this study as the true effect of HIV and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on bone healing is very poorly understood and has not previously been investigated. Methods: HOST Study is a multicentre case-cohort study being undertaken at two orthopaedic trauma centres in Cape Town, South Africa. All adult patients older than 18 years with fresh (within 2 weeks of injury), closed and open, tibia and femur fractures who undergo intramedullary (IM) nailing for fracture fixation will be eligible or the study. Participants will be recruited over 24 months and undergo a baseline questionnaire, HIV testing and assessment of their bone mineral density (BMD). They will be followed up at 2 and 6 weeks, and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. All adult patients who develop delayed bone union at the 6-month follow-up will be considered cases. Adult patients who show evidence of radiological union at 6 months or less will be considered controls. We will then determine if HIV is a risk factor for the development of delayed bone union. HIV prevalence levels in the cases and controls will be summarised using IRR (incidence rate ratio) statistics with their 95% confidence intervals. Negative binomial regression methodswill be used to adjust the IRR estimates for the possible effects of confounding factors and/or important covariates. Results: Outcomes from the primary manuscript will be disseminated through publications in academic journals and presentations at relevant orthopaedic conferences. We will communicate trial results to all participating sites. Participating sites will communicate results with patients who have indicated an interest in knowing the results.
Lost to follow-up : challenges to conducting orthopaedic research in South Africa
(Health & Medical Publishing Group, 2018) Badenhorst, D. H.; Van der Westhuizen, C. A.; Britz, E.; Burger, M. C.; Ferreira, N.
Loss to follow-up poses a major problem for clinicians and researchers, and several factors that may increase its risk have been postulated. The objective of this study was to describe potential factors that contribute to loss to follow-up as seen in orthopaedic patients participating in a research study and attending the sole public orthopaedic service provider in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa (SA). All patients who underwent ankle fracture surgery at Kimberley Provincial Hospital between January 2012 and July 2013 were included, and the number of follow-up visits attended by each participant was recorded prospectively. Demographic information pertaining to travel distance, social circumstances and comorbid conditions was captured and reviewed. A total of 268 patients (male n=112, 41.8% and female n=156, 58.2%) were included. The mean (standard deviation (SD)) age was 42.3 (13.8) years (95% confidence interval (CI) 40.6 - 43.9, n=266) and the mean body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) was 28.0 (6.5) (95% CI 27.2 - 28.8, n=251), the BMI for females being 30.2 (6.1) (95% CI 29.3 - 31.2, n=152) compared with 24.6 (5.7) (95% CI 23.4 - 25.7, n=99) for males. After excluding local patients living within 5 km of the hospital (n=77), the mean travel distance was 460 km (range 10 - 910). There was a significant association between the number of follow-up visits attended and travel distance (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.999, 95% CI 0.999 - 1.000; p=0.030), BMI (IRR 0.980, 95% CI 0.966 - 0.994; p=0.004) and HIV status (IRR 0.841, 95% CI 0.725 - 0.975; p=0.022). The main factors identified in this study that influenced the number of follow-up visits attended were travel distance, BMI and HIV status. BMI was a unique finding in our study. It was identified to be a significant contributing factor to the loss to follow-up. BMI was not a contributing factor in other studies.
Outcomes of segmental tibia fractures treated with circular external fixation at a single centre in a developing world setting
(South African Orthopaedic Association, 2018) O'Connor, Megan; Marais, Leonard C.; Ferreira, N.
Background: Segmental tibia fractures historically are treated with special consideration due to their complexity, high complication rate and the propensity for associated injuries. Circular external fixators (CEFs) offer several potential advantages in this situation due to their modularity and minimally invasive application. These advantages have been demonstrated in several developed countries but not as yet in the developing world. This analysis aimed to evaluate if these beneficial outcomes are reproducible in a developing world environment. Methods: We retrospectively assessed the data pertaining to skeletally mature patients who sustained segmental tibia fractures and were treated with CEFs between January 2008 to December 2015. These cases were performed in our tertiary hospital and overseen by a consultant with limb reconstruction experience. Union rates, time to union and complications encountered over a median of 10 months (range 6–20 months) follow-up period were among the outcomes measured. Results: Fourteen male and three female patients with a median age of 34 years were included. Sixteen patients (94%) were injured as a result of high energy trauma, nine patients (53%) had associated injuries, fourteen cases (83%) were compound injuries and there were no cases of compartment syndrome. Fifteen patients (88%) united with the use of the initial CEF at a median of 25 weeks (16–52 weeks), the two cases of non-union were treated with adjustments to the CEF and distraction across the affected fracture site with ultimate union. Two cases (12%) of superficial pin infection were encountered and one case (6%) of deep infection occurred after union of the fractures necessitating removal of the CEF. Three cases (18%) developed malunion. Conclusion: Circular external fixators used for segmental tibia fractures, when applied in a developing setting by clinicians with limb reconstruction experience, display a satisfactory union rate and acceptable complication frequency, as compared to that achieved in developed countries.

Browsing by Author "Ferreira, N."

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