ObjectivesTo evaluate the results obtained through using an intramedullary or extramedullary guide for sectioning the tibia in total knee arthroplasty procedures, with a view to identifying the accuracy of these guides and whether one might be superior to the other.MethodsThis was a randomized double-blind prospective study on 41 total knee arthroplasty procedures performed between August 2011 and March 2012. The angle between the base of the tibial component and the mechanical axis of the tibia was measured during the immediate postoperative period by means of radiography in anteroposterior view on the tibia that encompassed the knee and ankle.ResultsThere was no demographic difference between the two groups evaluated. The mean alignment of the tibial component in the patients of group A (intramedullary) was 90.3° (range: 84–97°). In group B (extramedullary), it was 88.5° (range: 83–94°).ConclusionIn our study, we did not find any difference regarding the precision or accuracy of either of the guides. Some patients present an absolute or relative contraindication against using one or other of the guides. However, for the other cases, neither of the guides was superior to the other one.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and to compare the Spaso and Kocher reduction maneuvers in terms of efficiency, time of reduction, facileness, pain, discomfort to the patient, complications and risks, besides promoting the comparison between the two maneuvers, aiming to ground the emergency conduct. METHODS: A prospective study with 105 patients with acute shoulder dislocations were enrolled in the study between February 2011 and September 2012. The patients were randomized into two groups and they were submitted to the reduction of dislocation using the Spaso maneuver (group A) or the Kocher technique (group B) by first, second or third-year orthopedic surgery residents from our service. The results were evaluated and compared. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, timing of reduction, number of precedent episodes and complications after reduction. However, reduction was achieved in more cases using the Spaso method than it was among the Kocher group, as well as the mean duration of the reduction maneuver and discomfort were shorter in the group A patients. CONCLUSIONS: Both methods presented good results in terms of dislocation reduction and low complications rates. Nevertheless, the Spaso maneuver was more efficient, fast and easily applicable in comparison with Kocher's method. Level of Evidence I, Therapeutic.

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