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Background: Reliable data on the adult SARS-CoV-2 infection fatality rate in Germany are still scarce. We performed a federal state-wide cross-sectional seroprevalence study named SaarCoPS, that is representative for the adult population including elderly individuals and nursing home residents in the Saarland. Methods: Serum was collected from 2940 adults via stationary or mobile teams during the 1st pandemic wave steady state period. We selected an antibody test system with maximal specificity, also excluding seroreversion effects due to a high longitudinal test performance. For the calculations of infection and fatality rates, we accounted for the delays of seroconversion and death after infection. Results: Using a highly specific total antibody test detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 responses over more than 180 days, we estimate an adult infection rate of 1.02% (95% CI: [0.64; 1.44]), an underreporting rate of 2.68-fold (95% CI: [1.68; 3.79]) and infection fatality rates of 2.09% (95% CI: (1.48; 3.32]) or 0.36% (95% CI: [0.25; 0.59]) in all adults including elderly individuals, or adults younger than 70 years, respectively. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of study design and test performance for seroprevalence studies, particularly when seroprevalences are low. Our results provide a valuable baseline for evaluation of future pandemic dynamics and impact of public health measures on virus spread and human health in comparison to neighbouring countries such as Luxembourg or France.

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BACKGROUND: Ongoing controversy exists on postoperative weightbearing status after open reduction and internal fixation of an ankle fracture. This prospective randomized controlled trial aimed to compare patient-based and physician-based outcomes after early weightbearing at 2 vs 6 weeks postoperatively. METHODS: Fifty patients with unstable rotational-type ankle fractures were treated operatively with subsequent immobilization in a below-the-knee cast for 2 weeks and were then randomly allocated to 2 groups. The first group had early weightbearing at 2 weeks postoperation and the second group at 6 weeks postoperation. Follow-up included subjective and objective evaluations performed at 2, 6, 12, and 26 weeks postoperatively. The primary outcome was the patient-based general health status as measured with the EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) scoring system. Secondary outcome was the Olerud and Molander ankle score. Power analysis revealed a study group of 50 patients was needed to show a clinically relevant effect size of 10 points in both EQ-5D visual analog scale (VAS) score and Olerud and Molander score. RESULTS: Patients in the early weightbearing group had higher mean EQ-5D VAS scores at a 6-week follow-up (P = .014) of 77 ± 14 compared to 66 ± 15 for late mobilization. No difference was found at other follow-up points or between groups for physician-based outcome measures. At 26 weeks postoperatively, mean Olerud and Molander ankle scores were similar at 84 ± 16 and 81 ± 17 for mobilization at 2 and 6 weeks postoperation, respectively. CONCLUSION: Early weightbearing after operative fixation of rotational-type ankle fractures had a clinically relevant and statistically significant benefit in patient-based general health status, as quantified with EQ-5D VAS scores, at 6 weeks postoperation. These results contribute to our understanding of early weightbearing and may encourage consideration of weightbearing at 2 weeks postoperatively in standard protocols. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I, prospective randomized controlled trial.

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Background Volar plating for distal radius fractures exposes the risk of extensor tendon rupture, mechanical problems, and osteoarthritis due to protruding screws. Purposes The purpose of this review was to identify the best intraoperative diagnostic imaging modality to identify dorsal and intra-articular protruding screws in volar plating for distal radius fractures. Methods The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed for this review. In vitro and in vivo studies that analyzed the reliability, efficacy, and/or accuracy of intraoperatively available imaging modalities for the detection of dorsal or intra-articular screw protrusion after volar plating for distal radius fractures were included. Results Described additional imaging modalities are additional fluoroscopic views (pronated views, dorsal tangential view [DTV], radial groove view [RGV], and carpal shoot through [CST] view), three-dimensional (3D) and rotational fluoroscopies, and ultrasound (US). For detection of dorsal screw penetration, additional fluoroscopic views show better results than conventional views. Based on small (pilot) studies, US seems to be promising. For intra-articular screw placement, 3D or 360 degrees fluoroscopy shows better result than conventional views. Conclusion Based on this systematic review, the authors recommend the use of at least one of the following additional imaging modalities to prevent dorsal protruding screws: CST view, DTV, or RGV. Tilt views are recommended for intra-articular assessment. Of all additional fluoroscopic views, the DTV is most studied and proves to be practical and time efficient, with higher efficacy, accuracy, and reliability compared with conventional views. Level of Evidence The level of evidence is Level III.

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Hip fractures are a global concern, resulting in poor outcomes and high health care costs. They mostly affect people >80 years. Hip fractures are influenced by various (modifiable) risk factors. Emerging evidence suggests hand grip strength (HGS) to be one of several useful tools to identify hip fracture risk. This is the first systematic review that aims to assess the evidence underlying the relationship between hip fracture incidence and HGS. Eleven studies were selected for this review (six case-control and five cohort studies), comprising 21,197 participants. Where reported, HGS was significantly decreased in individuals with a hip fracture near the time of injury as compared to controls (p < 0.001); HGS was associated with increased hip fracture risk in all included studies. Meta-analysis was not possible. All studies included in this systematic review confirmed a relationship between decreased HGS and hip fracture incidence. We were not able to quantify the strength of this relationship, due to the heterogeneity of the included studies. HGS merits further investigation as a useful tool for identifying individuals that might be at elevated risk for sustaining a hip fracture.

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OBJECTIVE: To measure the deviations of four different cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) devices in three dimensions by means of a three-dimensional (3D) implant-planning program. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A master radiographic template with two vertical, two transverse, and two sagittal radiopaque markers was fabricated for a human dry skull. The lengths of the markers were measured with a high-precision caliper. The skull and the template were scanned in each of the four CBCT devices (1. Gendex GXCB-500; 2. Sirona Galileos Comfort; 3. Sirona Orthophos XG 3D; 4. Carestream CS 9300) 19 times (10 scans without moving the skull, and 9 scans with repeated repositioning of the skull in the device, according to the manufacturers' instructions). A 3D implant-planning program was used to measure the lengths of the six markers digitally. Actual and digital measurements were compared to determine device-specific errors. The repositioning of the skull examined the reproducibility of the CBCT devices. Linear measurements were analyzed statistically (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Mean deviations without moving the skull (vertical/sagittal/transverse) for device 1 were 0.023 mm/0.000 mm/0.025 mm (0.07%/0.19%/0.24%), for device 2 were 0.410 mm/0.115 mm/0.080 mm (-1.75%/0.32%/0.88%), for device 3 were -0.665 mm/-0.215 mm/-0.675 mm (-2.71%/-1.82%/-4.42%), and for device 4 were -0.045 mm/-0.135 mm/-0.410 mm (-0.45%/-1.54%/-2.57%). The overall mean deviation for device 1 was 0.028 mm (0.16%), for device 2 was 0.072 mm (-0.95%), for device 3 was 0.518 mm (-2.97%), and for device 4 was -0.197 mm (-1.53%). The mean deviation after repositioning for device 1 was 0.004 mm (-0.65%), for device 2 was -0.250 mm (0.95%), for device 3 was 0.496 mm (-2.66%), and for device 4 was -0.265 mm (-1.92%). Thus, apart from device 3, the deviations increased. CONCLUSION: Deviations from the actual measurements were detected with each device. Therefore, respecting safety distances when placing implants is crucial.

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Syndesmotic disruption occurs in more than 10% of ankle fractures. Operative treatment with syndesmosis screw fixation has been successfully performed for decades and is considered the gold standard of treatment. Few studies have reported the long-term outcomes of syndesmosis injuries. This study investigated long-term patient-reported, radiographic, and functional outcomes of syndesmosis injuries treated with screw fixation and subsequent timed screw removal. A retrospective cohort study was carried out at a Level I trauma center. The study group included 43 patients who were treated for ankle fractures with associated syndesmotic disruptions between December 2001 and May 2011. The study included case file reviews, self-reported questionnaires, radiologic reviews, and clinical assessments. At 5.1 (±1.76) years after injury, 60% of participants had pain, 26% had degenerative changes, 51% had loss of tibiofibular overlap, and 33% showed medial clear space widening. Retained syndesmotic positions on radiographs were linked to better self-reported outcomes. There is an inversely proportional relation between age at the time of injury and satisfaction with the outcome of the ankle fracture as well as a directly proportional relation between age at the time of injury and pain compared with the preinjury state. Optimal restoration and preservation of the syndesmosis is crucial. Syndesmotic disruption is associated with poor long-term outcomes after ankle fracture. Greater age is a risk factor for chronic pain and dissatisfaction with the outcome of ankle fracture and syndesmosis injury. Therefore, patient education to facilitate realistic expectations about recovery is vital, especially in older patients.

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BACKGROUND: Treatment of displaced paediatric distal forearm fractures is not always successful. Re-occurrence of angular deformity is a frequent complication. No consensus exists when to perform secondary manipulations. The purpose of this study was to analyse the long-term outcome of re-angulated paediatric forearm fractures to determine if re-manipulations can be avoided. METHODS: Children who underwent closed reduction for distal forearm fractures and presented with re-angulation at follow-up were included in this retrospective cohort study. We compared those that were re-manipulated to those managed conservatively. Re-angulation was defined as ≥15° of angulation on either the AP or lateral view. Children were reviewed after 1-8 years post injury. Outcome measures were residual angulation on radiographs, active range of motion, grip strength, Visual Analogue Scales (satisfaction, cosmetics and pain) and the ABILHANDS-kids questionnaire. RESULTS: Sixty-six children (mean age of 9.6 years) were included. Twenty-four fractures were re-manipulated and 42 fractures had been left to heal in angulated position. At time of re-angulation, children <12 years in the conservative group had similar angulations to those re-manipulated. Children ≥12 years in the re-manipulation group had significantly greater angulations than children in the conservative group. At final follow-up, after a mean of 4.0 years, near anatomical alignment was seen on radiographs in all patients. Functional outcome was predominantly excellent. There was no significant difference in functional, subjective or radiological outcomes between treatment groups. CONCLUSION: Re-manipulation of distal forearm fractures in children <12 years did not improve outcomes, deeming re-manipulations unnecessary. Children ≥12 years in the conservative group achieved satisfactory outcomes despite re-angulations exceeding current guidelines. Based on observed remodelling, we now accept up to 30° angulation in children <9 years; 25° angulation in children aged 9-<12; 20° angulation in children ≥12 years, when re-angulation occurs. We conclude that clinicians should be more reluctant to perform re-manipulations.

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BACKGROUND: Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an excellent treatment option for actinic keratosis (AK). Pain is one of the major adverse effects. OBJECTIVE: To compare the pain intensity during the extensive treatment of cosmetic units using 5-aminolaevulinic acid methylester (MAL) or 5-aminolaevulinic acid nanoemulsion (BF-200-ALA). METHODS: 173 patients with 965 treated areas were enrolled in this retrospective monocentric study. All patients had multiple AKs and received an extensive treatment of the photodamaged area. 424 areas were treated with MAL and 541 with BF-200-ALA. Pain was rated using a standardized visual analogue scale (VAS). The number of PDT treatment interruptions was documented. RESULTS: PDT with MAL led to a lower mean VAS score (5.0 vs. 5.8), a lower number of treatment interruptions (13.2 vs. 19.9%) and a lower amount of patients experiencing severe pain (25.0 vs. 36.0%) compared to PDT with BF-200-ALA. CONCLUSION: Our data shows that PDT using MAL is less painful than PDT using BF-200-ALA resulting in a significantly lower mean VAS score (p < 0.001), significantly fewer patients experiencing severe pain (p < 0.001) and a significantly (p < 0.05) lower number of treatment interruptions. Differences in selectivity for tumour cells and transport of ALA in peripheral neurons may play a role.

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Blaschkitis is an acquired, rare dermatitis that follows the lines of Blaschko. Many consider blaschkitis as a variant of lichen striatus, although authors felt that it is a separate entity. A 2½-year-old girl presented with multiple grouped papules along the lines of Blaschko on her trunk. The main differences to lichen striatus are illustrated. Our case supports the hypothesis that blaschkitis is an entity of its own.

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BACKGROUND: Topical photodynamic therapy is a good treatment option for extensively photodamaged skin with multiple actinic keratoses. Pain is one of the major adverse effects during and after the treatment. OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine the pain intensity and its influencing factors during the extensive photodynamic treatment of complete cosmetic units. METHODS: In total, 104 patients with 411 treated fields were enrolled in this retrospective monocentric study. All patients had multiple actinic keratoses on the face, scalp, or back of hands and received an extensive treatment of the complete photodamaged area in our dermatologic outpatient department between February and May 2009. Pain was rated using a visual analog scale directly and 8 hours after photodynamic therapy. RESULTS: Multifactorial analysis of the data shows that pain intensity is dependent on sex of the patient (P = .030) and location of the treated field (P < .001). Visual analog scale scores were independent of the age and skin type of the patient. No significant difference in pain between the use of 5-amino-4-oxo-pentanoate (methylaminolevulinate) and 5-aminolevulinic acid was noticed. During treatment, mean visual analog scale scores +/- SEM of the different locations were 2.5 +/- 0.36 (hand), 3.6 +/- 0.35 (occiput), 5.2 +/- 0.19 (forehead), 5.9 +/- 0.20 (cheeks), and 7.4 +/- 0.48 (lips). Eight hours after treatment the mean pain +/- SEM in all locations was reduced significantly (P < .001) from 5.2 +/- 0.14 to 3.0 +/- 0.14. The rate of therapy interruptions showed a significant correlation (P = .044) with the location of the treated field. In all, 71% of the patients showed a good and 29% a poor clinical outcome. LIMITATIONS: Because of the retrospective study design not all factors that may influence pain (eg, protoporphyrin IX fluorescence) were recorded. CONCLUSION: These results show that pain intensity is dependent on the location of the treated field. Pain intensity is higher in male patients. After 8 hours pain decreases significantly.

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