Drawer Test Research Articles

Quantitative Evaluation of Ankle Instability Using a Capacitance-Type Strain Sensor

Category:Basic Sciences/Biologics; Ankle; SportsIntroduction/Purpose:Manual evaluation is an important method for assessing ankle instability, but it is not quantitative. Capacitance-type sensors can be used to measure the distance on the basis of the capacitance value. We applied the sensor to the noninvasive device for measuring ankle instability and showed its utility.Methods:First, five ankles embalmed by Thiel's method were used in an experiment using a cadaver. The capacitance-type sensor was fixed alongside the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) of a specially made brace, and the anterior drawer test was performed. The test had been performed for the intact ankle, with the ATFL transected, and with both the ATFL and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) transected. The anterior drawer distance was calculated by the sensor. Intra and interinvestigator reliability were also analyzed. Next, as a clinical study, a brace with a sensor was fitted to 22 ankles of 20 patients with a history of ankle sprain. An anterior drawer test at a load of 150 N was conducted using a Telos stress device. The anterior drawer distances measured by the sensor and based on X-ray images were then compared.Results:The mean anterior drawer distance for the intact cadavers was 3.7 +- 1.0 mm, 6.1 +- 1.6 mm with the ATFL transected (P < 0.001), and 7.9 +- 1.8 mm with the ATFL and CFL transected (P < 0.001). The intrainvestigator intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were 0.862-0.939, and the interinvestigator ICC was 0.815. In the experiments on patients, the mean anterior drawer distance measured by the sensor was 2.9 +- 0.9 mm and 2.7 +- 0.9 mm from the X-ray images. The correlation coefficient between the sensor and the X-ray images was 0.843.Conclusion:We carried out a quantitative evaluation of anterior drawer laxity using a capacitance-type sensor and found it had high reproducibility. It was also very strongly correlated with stress radiography measurements in patients with ankle instability. Capacitance-type sensors can be used for the safe, simple, and accurate evaluation of ankle instability.

Prevalence of ipsilateral knee ligament injuries associated with femoral shaft fractures in Menoufia University Hospitals

ObjectiveThis study was designed to estimate the prevalence of ipsilateral knee ligament injuries associated with fracture shaft femur in Menoufia University Hospitals.BackgroundIpsilateral knee ligament injuries associated with femoral shaft fractures are a common finding but can be easily missed during early management of initial trauma.Patients and methodsAfter femoral fixation with intramedullary rod placement, external fixation, or plate fixation, all patients underwent a thorough physical examination of the involved limb including varus and valgus stress tests, Lachman test, anterior drawer test, and posterior drawer test, under anesthesia. Clinical assessments were performed and compared with the contralateral knee.ResultsThe most common mechanism of injury observed was RTA. Of the 44 patients who were studied, 15 (34.1%) patients had a knee ligament injury. Of the 15 patients, 47% had a cruciate ligament injury. The ligament injury was not treated at the time of the osteosynthesis procedure.ConclusionWe highlight the difficulty of diagnosis of ipsilateral knee ligament injuries at the time of admission and the need for systemic physical examination after surgical treatment of femoral fractures.

Mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament: A case study

Mucoid degeneration of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a rare pathological condition characterized by knee pain and restriction of movements. In this condition, ACL is infiltrated by mucoid (glycosaminoglycans) like material within its substance. We discuss the case and present a review of literature including clinical and radiological features and management options. We encountered a 33-year-old female complaining of increasing pain in right knee since last 6 years with difficulty in squatting and sitting cross-legged. There was no history of significant trauma or instability of the knee. Clinical examination demonstrated pain on deep knee flexion, negative Lachman, and anterior drawer test. Plain radiograph of knee suggested early onset degenerative changes of knee in the form of medial joint space reduction. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hyperintense signal in ACL substance in T1W and T2W images which is classically described as Celery Stalk appearance on T2 STIR images. This was often mistaken as partial tear of ACL. Patient was planned for diagnostic arthroscopy. During arthroscopy, ACL was occupying the whole intercondylar notch. It was hypertrophied, homogenous, and firm. Arthroscopic debulking of ACL was done cautiously and mucoid tissue was removed. The specimen was sent for histopathological examination which confirmed the diagnosis of mucoid degeneration. Post-operatively patient was relieved of symptoms and was doing well without any specific complaints like instability till last follow up at 18 months. Repeat MRI was not done as patient was not symptomatic. Mucoid ACL degeneration affects active persons in third to fourth decade of life without significant trauma. MRI is the most useful tool for diagnosis with specific findings. If this disease is considered preoperatively, it can be diagnosed early. Treatment with debulking or partial resection shows good functional results.

Outcomes of Arthroscopic vs Open Broström Surgery for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies

Category:Ankle; Arthroscopy; SportsIntroduction/Purpose:Ankle sprains are the most common ankle injury accounting for up to 85% of all ankle injuries, and nearly 20% of acute ankle sprains progress to chronic lateral ankle instability that requires surgical intervention. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in arthroscopic Broström techniques as an alternative to open surgery. In the past two years alone, four comparative studies have been published. Recent case series and cohort studies showed reliable improvement in clinical and radiographic outcomes with arthroscopic surgeryAIM. The current study aims at providing the foot and ankle surgery community with the most updated evidence comparing outcomes of open to arthroscopic Broström procedure for chronic lateral ankle instability.Methods:This article was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Two independent authors searched several databases for relevant comparative studies in English literature were identified between database inceptions to May 2020. The primary outcomes were (1) Functional scores (KAFS, AOFAS) and (2) Pain score on VAS, whereas the secondary outcomes were differences in (1) anterior drawer and talar tilt, (2) surgical time and complications rate, (3) time to return to sports and weight-bearing. Population: Chronic lateral ankle instability (LAI)Intervention: Arthroscopic Broström procedure Control: Open Broström procedure Outcomes: Primary: Functional scores, pain Secondary: Anterior drawer and talar tilt, complications, time to return to sport and weight-bearingResults:A total of 408 patients in eight studies met the inclusion criteria were subjected to analysis. 193 (47.3%) patients underwent open surgery, while 215 (52.7%) patients underwent arthroscopic surgery. The one year-AOFAS was 80.05 vs. 88.6 in open and arthroscopic surgery, respectively (MD= -11.96, CI= -21.26, -2.76, I2= 82%, p= 0.01). The mean one year VAS was 2.05 and 1.45 in open and arthroscopic repair, respectively (MD= 0.31, CI= 0.09 to 0.54, I2=0%, p<0.001).The mean time to weight- bearing was 14.25 weeks and 9.0 weeks in open and arthroscopic repair, respectively (MD=1.89, CI= 1.24 to 2.54, I2=99%, p<0.001).There were no statistically significant differences in the time to RTP, postoperative anterior drawer, postoperative talar tilt, and operative time. The total complications rate in open and arthroscopic repair was 21.3% vs. 10%, with statistical insignificance (OR= 0.73, 95%CI= 0.39 to 1.38, I2=0%, p= 0.34).Conclusion:While technically more demanding, arthroscopic Broström is superior to open Broström-Gould surgery in AOFAS functional scores at six and twelve months, time to return to weight-bearing, and VAS pain scores. Operative time, complications rate, talar tilt, and anterior drawer tests are excellent and statistically comparable. Long-term clinical trials are required before recommending arthroscopic Broström as the new gold standard.

Not strong enough? Movements generated during clinical examination of sagittal and rotational laxity in a cadaver knee

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is associated with sagittal and rotational laxity, which is exacerbated by damage to the anterolateral capsuloligamentous structures, also known as the anterolateral ligament (ALL). The amount of laxity reported in biomechanical studies might be clinically insignificant during a surgeon's examination, possibly influencing clinical judgement. We aimed to measure whether the motion generated by clinicians in a cadaver model after the ACL and ALL were transected is clinically significant METHODS: A group of orthopaedic surgeons and trainees examined a cadaver knee for sagittal and rotational laxity at 30° and 90° with intact ligaments, after the ACL was transected, and after the ACL and ALL were transected. The examiners were blinded to the dissection process. Rotational and sagittal movements during these examinations were recorded by a computer-assisted surgery (CAS) system RESULTS: Twenty-four orthopaedic surgeons took part in the study. The median sagittal plane motion captured by CAS at 30° flexion was 7 mm (IQR 2 mm, p-value 0.32) in the intact knee, 9 mm (IQR 1 mm, p-value 0.34) after the ACL was cut and 9 mm (IQR 3 mm, p-value 0.63) after ACL and ALL were cut. The median arc of rotational motion at 30° was 19° (IQR 7°, p-value 0.12) in the intact knee, 24° (IQR 5°, p-value 0.56) after the ACL was cut, and 22° (IQR 6°, p-value 0.8) after the ACL and ALL were cut. None of the differences in these movements was significant CONCLUSION: The surgeons could not generate significant differences in sagittal or rotational motion in a cadaver model, which could be objectively detected by CAS, when examining the intact knee, ACL deficient (only), or combined ACL and ALL deficient knee. This challenges the utility of known clinical tests and calls for improved objective laxity assessment tools to provide input in clinical decision-making and measure outcomes of these injuries Level of evidence: Level 5 Keywords: knee, anterolateral ligament, anterior drawer's test, pivot shift, rotatory instability, anterior cruciate ligament, iliotibial band, Kaplan fibres

The Lateral Drawer Test: A Novel Clinical Test to Assess Mortise Instability in Weber B Fibula Fractures

Category:Trauma; AnkleIntroduction/Purpose:Assessment of mortise stability is paramount in determining appropriate management of ankle fractures. While instability is readily apparent in bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fractures, determination of instability in the apparent isolated Weber B fibula fracture often requires further investigations such as stress radiography. While several authors have previously demonstrated poor predictive value of physical examination findings such as tenderness, ecchymosis and swelling with instability, no previous investigation has examined the ability of a translational test to determine deltoid ligament injury. The goal of this study is to test the validity of a novel clinical test, the lateral drawer test, in determining mortise instability in a cohort of patients with Weber B fibula fractures.Methods:Patients presenting with isolated fibula fractures were prospectively identified by an orthopaedic nurse practitioner or resident. Three views of the ankle as well as gravity stress views (GSV) were obtained. Prior to examining radiographs, two foot & ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons (JYK, CPM) performed and graded the lateral drawer test. (Grade 0: no instability/symmetric to contralateral ankle, Grade I: translation < 5mm, Grade II: translation >= 5mm) While the surgeons were made aware of the presence of a Weber B fibula fracture, radiographs were not visualized prior to conducting the drawer test.Medial clear space (MCS) was measured. VAS pain scores were obtained before and after testing. The results of the lateral drawer test results were compared with radiographic measurements of MCS.Results:The study enrolled 57 consecutive patients with Weber B ankle fractures. Twenty-nine (51%) patients demonstrated radiographic instability with widening of the medial clear space >= 5 mm on GSV. When correlated with MCS measurement, the lateral drawer test demonstrated a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 96%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 96% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 84% for determining instability. There was a strong correlation between the lateral drawer test grade and amount of MCS widening (⍴=0.82, p<0.001). Patients tolerated the lateral drawer test well with an average increase of 0.8 points on the VAS pain scale after testing.Conclusion:The lateral drawer test demonstrates high sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for detecting instability in patients presenting with Weber B fibula fractures. While further validation is required in a larger cohort of patients, the lateral drawer test may offer an adjunct tool via physical examination to predict mortise stability.

Ideal Combination of Anatomic Tibial and Femoral Tunnel Positions for Single-Bundle ACL Reconstruction.

Background:Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is preferred over nonanatomic ACLR. However, there is no consensus on which point the tunnels should be positioned among the broad anatomic footprints.Purpose/Hypothesis:To identify the ideal combination of tibial and femoral tunnel positions according to the femoral and tibial footprints of the anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL) anterior cruciate ligament bundles. It was hypothesized that patients with anteromedially positioned tunnels would have better clinical scores, knee joint stability, and graft signal intensity on follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) than those with posterolaterally positioned tunnels.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A total of 119 patients who underwent isolated single-bundle ACLR with a hamstring autograft from July 2013 to September 2018 were retrospectively investigated. Included were patients with clinical scores and knee joint stability test results at 2-year follow-up and postoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography and 1-year postoperative MRI findings. The cohort was divided into 4 groups, named according to the bundle positions in the tibial and femoral tunnels: AM-AM (n = 33), AM-PL (n = 26), PL-AM (n = 29), and PL-PL (n = 31).Results:There were no statistically significant differences among the 4 groups in preoperative demographic data or postoperative clinical scores (Lysholm, Tegner, and International Knee Documentation Committee subjective scores); knee joint stability (anterior drawer, Lachman, and pivot-shift tests and Telos stress radiographic measurement of the side-to-side difference in anterior tibial translation); graft signal intensity on follow-up MRI; or graft failure.Conclusion:No significant differences in clinical scores, knee joint stability, or graft signal intensity on follow-up MRI were identified between the patients with anteromedially and posterolaterally positioned tunnels.

Improved arthroscopic high-strength suture fixation for the treatment of posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture.

Background: To investigate the curative effects of improved non-absorbable high-strength fixation under arthroscopy on posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 16 cases of PCL avulsion fracture in 15 patients who underwent high-strength suture fixation under arthroscopy from December 2017 to November 2019. According to the Meyers-McKeever classification, there were 2 cases of type II and 14 cases of type III. The fracture was reduced under arthroscopy, and knotted and fixed under the anterior and medial skin of the knee joint with high-strength sutures and a button plate. Regular follow-up of the knee joint healing and stability, the range of motion and the functional recovery of affected limb was conducted. The last follow-up was completed after the button plate was taken out. The Lysholm score was used to assess the recovery situation. Results: The button plate was taken out 6-9months (average 7.2months) after surgery. At the last follow-up, the fractures of the 15 patients were all healed. Moreover, six patients were positive for posterior drawer test within Grade 1 and the others were negative. All patients had no knee extension limitation, and the range of knee flexion reached more than 120°, with an average of (132.4 ± 3.6)°. The average Lysholm score was (93.1 ± 4.7). There were significant differences in knee flexion angle and Lysholm score at different time points after operation, p = 0.000. Conclusion: For the treatment of PCL avulsion fracture, the optimized arthroscopic high-strength suture fixation is easy to perform and repeat, and the fixation is strong and solid. The functions of the knee joint experienced good recovery after the surgery.

Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Debridement for Lateral Epicondylitis with Partial Injury of the Lateral Collateral Ligament Complex.

BackgroundLateral collateral ligament injuries may occur in patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis. The present study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic debridement between patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis combined with a partial ligament injury and those without a ligament injury.MethodsBetween 2016 and 2018, patients who underwent arthroscopic debridement for lateral epicondylitis were evaluated. Partial injury to the lateral collateral ligament was defined as discontinuity or thinning with increased signal of the lateral ligament on magnetic resonance imaging and laxity with a firm endpoint in the varus or posterolateral rotatory stress test. Arthroscopic debridement was performed when there was no apparent instability in the stress test under fluoroscopic guidance after anesthesia. Patients with a ligament injury were compared with those without a ligament injury in terms of physical examination (varus stress test and posterolateral rotatory drawer test), pain visual analog scale, Mayo elbow performance score, and quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score.ResultsThere were 38 patients in the intact ligament group and 15 patients in the partial ligament injury group. There were 23 men and 30 women, and the mean patient age was 50 years (range, 27–77 years). The mean follow-up period was 30 months (range, 24–49 months). Instability was not observed in both groups at the last follow-up, and clinical scores improved significantly after surgery. Postoperative results did not show significant difference between the two groups. One patient in the partial injury group underwent revision open debridement owing to persistent pain.ConclusionsThe clinical outcomes of arthroscopic debridement for lateral epicondylitis did not show significant differences between patients with a partial ligament injury and those without a ligament injury.

Treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability by double-band anatomical reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament's fibular enthesis.

Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury is one of the most common injuries in sports medicine, resulting in chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI). The patients' daily life may be seriously affected by ankle osteoarthritis and other irreversible damages, if the ATFL injury is not treated in time and drags on. Patients with ATFL injury who show no significant recovery after 3-6 months of conservative treatment should consider surgical treatment as soon as possible to restore ankle stability and function. This study aims to investigate the effect of double-bands anatomical reconstruction of the ATFL's fibular enthesis for the treatment of CLAI. A retrospective review was conducted on 67 patients diagnosed with CLAI in the Department of Sports Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from January 2015 to January 2018, including 42 males and 25 females, aged from 17 to 41 years old, with disease course of (12.6±3.2) months. Of the 67 patients, 29 left ankles and 38 right ankles were included in this study. Patients suffered from repeated sprains which leaded to pain, swelling and obvious ankle relaxation. There were obvious tenderness at the ATFL insertion and the calcaneal fibular ligament insertion. Both the anterior ankle drawer test and the varus stress test were positive. Other ankle disorders were excluded by X-ray. Preoperative color Doppler ultrasonography and magnetic resonance examination were performed to observe ATFL injury. All the patients had surgical indications and no obvious contraindications, and they were treated with arthroscopic debridement and double-bundle anatomical reconstruction of the AFTL's fibular enthesis under anesthesia. Postoperative routine nursing and standardized rehabilitation exercise were recommended. Outpatient follow-up was conducted at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, Karlsson Ankle Functional (KAF) score, and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) scale were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Intraoperative arthroscopic examination of 67 patients showed inflammatory synovial hyperplasia in 52 cases (77.6%), obvious osteophyte hyperplasia in 12 cases (17.9%), talus osteochondral injury of grade II-III in 23 cases (34.3%), and cartilage injury of grade IV in 5 cases (7.5%). All operations were carried out successfully, and both the anterior ankle drawer test and the varus stress test were negative under anesthesia after surgery. The anchors were in good position. Among them, 3 patients (4.5%) got temporary superficial peroneal nerve palsy and skin numbness at ankle joint after surgery, which gradually recovered within 2 weeks. There were no serious perioperative complications such as infection and suppurative arthritis. Postoperative follow-up was conducted for 12-24 (15.64±3.17) months. At the last follow-up, all patients were walking normally. Most patients had no pain or occasionally mild pain. Ankle function and motion were restored without re-instability. Sixty-four patients (95.5%) worked and exercised as before the surgery. Standing X-ray examination indicated normal joint space without stenosis, and the internal fixation was in good position. Postoperative AOFAS scores (94.78±6.37) were significantly better than the preoperative scores (64.17±12.43, P<0.01). Besides, the KAF scores and the JSSF ankle/hindfoot scale before surgery were significantly increased (KAF: 91.04±11.36 vs 59.74±13.63, P<0.01; JSSF: 95.32±10.21 vs 66.92±14.38, P<0.01). Arthroscopic debridement and double-bands anatomical reconstruction of the ATFL's fibular enthesis for the treatment of CLAI gains beneficial short-term effects for its minimal invasion and quick recovery.

The influence of anesthesia- body mass index and chronicity of the injury on the reliability of diagnostic tests for anterior cruciate ligament rupture

This study aimed to analyze the accuracy and interobserver reliability of the four common diagnostic tests for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. The effect of anesthesia, chronicity of the injury and patient’s body mass index (BMI) on the reliabilities was also assessed. Patients who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery were examined before the surgery and under anesthesia by three observers categorized based on their experience levels. One hundred two patients were evaluated to determine the accuracy of these tests. Sixty-two patients with ACL rupture were further examined to assess the effect of BMI (≤25 kg/m2, or >25 kg/m2) and chronicity (≤4 or >4 weeks) of the injury on reliabilities with using the Fleiss kappa method. The Lachman test performed under anesthesia had the highest sensitivity (100%, 100%, and 96.7%). In contrast, pivot shift and lever sign tests had the lowest sensitivity both in awake (24.2%, 17.7%, 8.1% and 37.1%, 33.8%, 29%) and anesthetized condition (75.8%, 75.8%, 67.7% and 41.9%, 43.5%, 40.3%). Specificities of the tests except pivot shift were negatively affected when performed under anesthesia. The reliability of the anterior drawer test was perfect under anesthesia. The lever sign test had the highest reliability in the awake condition in patients with a BMI of >25 kg/m2. Furthermore, the reliabilities of the anterior drawer, Lachman, and pivot-shift tests in awake condition were found to be increased in patients with a chronic injury. Finally, the examiner’s experience is not important for the physical diagnosis of ACL rupture.

Graft position at the femoral condyle affects knee mobility after posterior cruciate ligament replacement

BackgroundIn some cases posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears require surgical reconstruction. As the femoral footprint of the ligament is quite large, an ideal graft fixation position on the medial notch wall has not yet been identified. The aim of this study was to compare three different graft fixation positions within the anatomical footprint of the PCL and test it for posterior tibial translation at different knee flexion angles. MethodsIn six human knee specimens a drawer test was simulated on a material testing machine by applying load on the tibia. At three different knee flexion angles (0°, 45°, 90°) knee mobility was examined with respect to tibial posterior translation and stiffness for the following conditions: intact ligaments, detached PCL, three different graft fixation positions on the femoral condyle. ResultsReplacement of the PCL within its femoral footprint restored knee stability in terms of tibial posterior translation. Low graft position showed comparable drawer displacements to the intact condition for all knee flexion angles (p > 0.344). A higher graft position excessively reduced the posterior translation (p < 0.047) and resulted in a restricted knee mobility and a stiffer joint. ConclusionsGraft fixation positions on the femoral condyle play a crucial role in post-operative knee mobility and joint functionality after PCL replacement. Even though all graft fixation positions were placed within the femoral footprint of a native PCL, only the lower position on the medial notch wall showed comparable posterior tibial translation to an intact PCL.

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF ARTHROSCOPIC ACL RECONSTRUCTION WITH HAMSTRING GRAFT

Background: The most common joint to be injured in our body is knee joint, and the commonest ligament to be injured is anterior cruciate ligament in the knee.Etiology includes road trafc accidents and sport injuries. The ACL, along with other ligaments, the capsule are the stabilizers of the knee and prevents anterior translation, and limits valgus and rotational stress. The articular cartilage injuries in acute ACL tears constitutes from 16 – 46%, and in chronic tears, the incidence increases further2. For prevention of further worsening of the existing lesions and also to prevent formation of new lesions, stablity of the knee should be achieved.The present study is to assess the functional outcome of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using hamstring tendon (gracilis and semitendinosus) autograft in patients with ACL tears. Methods: Study design: Hospital Based Observational study. Study period: September 2019 to August 2021. Sample size: 30 30 consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstructions with hamstring graft were taken for this study. Results: Out of these, 27 patients were male and 3 were female. Right side affected in 18 patients and left side in 12 patients. The most common mechanism of the injury was sports activity in 17 patients, RTA injuries in 10 patients and other job related injuries in 3 patients. Isolated ACL tears in thirteen patients in our study and rest had associated injuries to menisci in same knee.Better postoperative functional scores are seen with patients with isolated ACL injuries compared to those patients with associated injuries of the knee like meniscal tears. Observations include anterior drawer test was negative in 83.33% of patients at 3 months, 86.67% of patients at 6 months and at 1 year 96.15% of patients had a negative anterior drawer test. Full range of motion attained in 86.67% of patients at 3 months, 93.33% of patients at 6 months and at 1 year 96.15% of patients.Pivot shift test was negative postoperatively for all the patients at any follow-up. Postoperatively at 3 months 25 (83.33%) patients had 5/5 quadriceps power (MRC grading) 92.3% of them had 5/5 power at latest follow up. Complications include Supercial infection and Deep infection in our study. Conclusion: Anterior cruciate ligament tears are most common at a mean age of 28 years with preponderance to male gender. The most common mechanism of the injury was sports activity. Isolated ACL injury is more common than along with associated meniscal injuries.Anatomic single bundle reconstruction with quadrupled hamstring graft gives good functional results.Hamstring graft xation with endobutton and interference screw gives better functional outcome.

Clinical outcomes of anterior tibiofibular ligament’s distal fascicle transfer versus ligament reconstruction with InternalBrace™ for chronic ankle instability patients

PurposeTreatment of chronic ankle instability (CAI) for ankle sprain patients remains a challenge. If initial treatments fail, surgical stabilization techniques including ligament reconstruction should be performed. Anterior tibiofibular ligament (ATiFL) distal fascicle transfer for CAI was recently introduced. The goal of the study is to assess the 1-year clinical effectiveness of ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer versus ligament reconstruction with InternalBrace™ (Fa. Arthrex, Naples).MethodsBetween October 2019 and February 2021, 25 patients (14 males and 11 females) scheduled for ligament reconstruction treatment of CAI were enrolled after propensity score matching. Twelve underwent ligament reconstruction with InternalBrace™ (InternalBrace™ group) and thirteen underwent ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer (ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer group). We recorded the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), anterior drawer test grade, patient satisfaction and complications. All results of this study were retrospectively analyzed.ResultsStatistically significant (p = 0.0251, independent-samples t test) differences in the AOFAS can be found between the ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer group and the InternalBrace™ group. No substantial changes in the VAS (p = 0.1778, independent-samples t test), patient satisfaction (p = 0.1800, independent-samples t test) and anterior drawer test grade (p = 0.9600, independent-samples t test) were found between the two groups. There was one patient with superficial wound infection and one patient with sural nerve injury in the InternalBrace™ group and ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer group, respectively.ConclusionThis is the first study that assessed a cohort of CAI patients and suggests that the ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer operation has the potential to attain good-to-excellent clinical outcomes after 1-year recovery. The AOFAS scores were significantly higher for patients with ATiFL’s distal fascicle transfer, indicating that this technique may be considered a viable option for both patients and their surgeon, while long-term outcomes should be investigated in the future.

The Ratio of Stress to Nonstress Anterior Talofibular Ligament Length on Ultrasonography: Normative Values.

Background:Stress ultrasonography (US) has been shown to be a valid procedure for evaluating chronic anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury. The ratio of stress/nonstress ATFL length (ATFL ratio) as measured on US is clinically useful; however, there are no published normative data concerning this ratio.Purpose:To report a normative value of the ATFL ratio on US and evaluate the relationships between sex, generalized joint laxity (GJL), and the grade of anterior drawer test (ADT).Study Design:Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:The ATFL lengths were prospectively measured in the stress and nonstress positions (manual maximal anterior drawer position) for participants with noninjured ankles from March 2020 to March 2021. GJL was defined as a Beighton score ≥4. A manual ADT was also performed. The ATFL ratio was calculated, and the relationships between sex, GJL, and ADT grade were evaluated.Results:A total of 333 ankles in 184 participants (mean age, 24.5 ± 2.7 years; range, 20-33 years) were eligible for the analysis. GJL was found in 69 ankles (20.7%). The mean ATFL ratio was 1.08 ± 0.04 (95% CI, 1.08-1.09; range, 1.01-1.24), and there was a significant difference between male (1.07 ± 0.04; 95% CI, 1.07-1.08; range, 1.02-1.23) and female (1.09 ± 0.04; 95% CI, 1.08-1.10; range, 1.01-1.24) ankles (P = .001). In male ankles, the ATFL ratio was significantly greater in participants with GJL (1.11 ± 0.06 vs 1.07 ± 0.03; P = .02) or a higher grade of ADT (grade 2 vs grade 1: 1.11 ± 0.06 vs 1.07 ± 0.03, P = .002). These findings were not observed in female ankles.Conclusion:The normative value of the ATFL ratio on stress US was 1.07 ± 0.04 in men and 1.09 ± 0.04 in women. The ATFL ratio was affected by the presence of GJL in men but not in women. These findings will be useful for future studies seeking to establish the cutoff value of the ATFL ratio for diagnosing chronic lateral ankle stability on stress US.

Kinematics and biomechanical validity of shoulder joint laxity tests as diagnostic criteria in multidirectional instability

BackgroundClinical laxity tests are commonly used together to identify individuals with multidirectional instability (MDI). However, their biomechanical validity in distinguishing distinct biomechanical characteristics consistent with MDI has not been demonstrated. ObjectiveTo determine if differences in glenohumeral (GH) joint laxity exist between individuals diagnosed with multidirectional instability (MDI) and asymptomatic matched controls without MDI. MethodsEighteen participants (9 swimmers with MDI, 9 non-swimming asymptomatic matched controls without MDI) participated in this observational study. Participants were classified as having MDI with a composite laxity score from three laxity tests (anterior/posterior drawer and sulcus tests). Single plane dynamic fluoroscopy captured joint motion with 2D-3D joint registration to derive 3D joint kinematics. Average GH translations occurring during the laxity tests were compared between groups using an independent sample's t-test. The relationship of composite laxity scores to overall translations was examined with a simple linear regression. Differences of each laxity test translation between groups were analyzed with a two-way repeated measures ANOVA. ResultsMean composite translations for swimmers were 1.7 mm greater (p = 0.04, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.1, 3.3 mm) compared to controls. A moderate association occurred (r2 = 0.40, p = 0.005) between composite laxity scores and composite translation. Greater translations for the posterior drawer (-2.4 mm, p = 0.04, 95% CI: -0.1, -4.6) and sulcus tests (-2.7 mm, p = 0.03, 95% CI: -0.3, -5.0) existed in swimmers compared to controls. ConclusionSignificant differences in composite translation existed between symptomatic swimmers with MDI and asymptomatic control participants without MDI during GH joint laxity tests. The results provide initial biomechanically based construct validity for the clinical criteria used to identify individuals with MDI.

Kinematic Analysis of Lateral Meniscal Oblique Radial Tears in the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Deficient Knee

Background: Lateral meniscal oblique radial tears (LMORT) occur frequently in conjunction with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) disruption and are anatomically distinct from meniscus root tears. Hypothesis/Purpose: The purpose of this study was to characterize the effects of LMORT types 3 (LMORT3) and 4 (LMORT4) lesions on joint stability and meniscal extrusion in ACL-deficient knees. Our hypothesis was that both lesions would promote significant increases in anterior translation and meniscal extrusion, with the LMORT4 lesion having a greater effect. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Two matched pairs of cadaveric knees (n = 4) were used to optimize the testing sequence. Additional cadaveric knees with LMORT3 (n = 8) and LMORT4 (n = 8) lesions created after ACL transection underwent robotic kinematic testing for anterior drawer and pivot-shift simulations with associated ultrasound-measured meniscal extrusion at clinically relevant knee flexion angles. Results: Optimization testing showed no differences on the effect of LMORT4 lesions for anterior translation and lateral meniscal extrusion with ACL-intact versus ACL-deficient knees. ACL deficiency and LMORT3 and LMORT4 lesions with ACL deficiency were associated with significantly greater anterior translation compared with ACL-intact state for both anterior drawer and pivot-shift testing at all flexion angles (P < .001). ACL deficiency with either LMORT3 or LMORT4 lesion was associated with significantly greater anterior translation than was ACL deficiency only (P < .005) for anterior drawer testing at 90° of flexion. Meniscal extrusion was greater with LMORT3 and LMORT4 lesions compared with ACL deficiency only (P < .05) for anterior drawer at 60° of flexion and for pivot shift at 15° of flexion. The LMORT4 lesion demonstrated increased anterior translation for anterior drawer (P = .003) at 60° of flexion (12%) as well as for pivot shift at 15° of flexion (7%) and 30° of flexion (13%) (P < .005) compared with ACL deficiency only. Conclusion: In this cadaveric model, the addition of an LMORT3 or LMORT4 lesion increased anterior laxity for both the anterior drawer and the pivot shift when compared with an isolated ACL tear. Lateral meniscal extrusion was also exacerbated by these LMORT lesions. Clinical Relevance: LMORT lesions, distinct from meniscus root tears, occur frequently in conjunction with ACL tears. This study characterized the biomechanical consequences of LMORT3 and LMORT4 lesions on joint stability and meniscal function, highlighting the importance of diagnosing and treating LMORT lesions at the time of ACL reconstruction.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Clinical Tests in Knee Joint Injuries: A Single Centered Experience

OBJECTIVES: The accuracy of clinical tests (Lachman, McMurray, Anterior Drawer) in the diagnosis of knee joint injuries in comparison to arthroscopy taken as gold standard. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar for 3 years. Total of 48 patients were recruited in the study. Data was collected after ethical approval from the hospital ethical committee using consecutive non-probability sampling techniques. Written informed consent was obtained from the patients. Arthroscopy examination was taken as a gold standard. Data analysis was performed using statistical software SPSS 21 and MEDCALC online software for calculating sensitivity and specificities of the clinical tests. RESULTS: Mean age was 26.4+6.5 years. Lachman and Anterior Drawer tests were noted to have 91.67% and 66.67% sensitivity for anterior cruciate ligament while McMurray test was noted only 66.67% sensitive for both meniscal injuries. On the other hand, Lachman was 95.8% specific, McMurray was 77.78%, and Anterior Drawer was 79.2% specific. Regarding accuracy, Lachman was 93.7%, McMurray 70.8% and Anterior Drawer was 72.9% accurate. CONCLUSION: Among clinical examination and specific examination tests, Lachman has high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy followed by Anterior Drawer test and MacMurray for diagnosing anterior cruciate ligament and meniscal injuries of knee joint.

Arthroscopic Two-Point Suture Bridge Fixation Technique for the Treatment of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion Fractures

This study aimed to present and evaluate a new arthroscopic technique that uses two-point suture fixation for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tibial avulsion fractures. A total of 15 patients diagnosed with ACL tibial avulsion fracture underwent arthroscopic suture fixation from November 2018 to October 2019 and were treated using two-point suture fixation. The patients were followed up and evaluated according to Lysholm scores, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores, Tegner activity level scales, anterior drawer testing, and KT-1000 arthrometer testing. The mean follow-up period was 18 months (12 to 24). All patients had a negative Lachman test and anterior drawer test at final follow-up and showed the radiological union of avulsion fracture at 12-week postoperative radiograph. The Lysholm score improved significantly postoperatively with a mean score of 94.26±3.63 (87 to 98; p &lt; 0.001). The Tegner score improved significantly postoperatively from 3.61 ±1.37 to 7.14±1.51 (P &lt; 0.001). The KT-1000 measured value decreased significantly postoperatively from 7.3±1.5 to 1.4 ±1.2 (P &lt; 0.001). The IKDC category was abnormal or severely abnormal preoperatively, and all patients improved to normal or nearly normal at final follow-up. Arthroscopic treatment using the two-point suture fixation technique is effective for ACL avulsion fracture and can restore the function and stability of the knee joint.

Second-look arthroscopy after double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Effect of patient age

PurposeSecond-look arthroscopy is invasive but still one of the most useful postoperative evaluation methods since graft morphology including graft tension, graft tear, and synovial coverage can be directly evaluated. However, only a few studies have evaluated transplanted posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) grafts. This study aimed to clarify the PCL graft morphology and chondral damages at second-look arthroscopy after double-bundle PCL reconstruction (PCLR) and to investigate the effects of patient age on these arthroscopic findings. MethodsThis study retrospectively included 26 patients who underwent second-look arthroscopy at the time of hardware removal 14 months after double-bundle PCLR for isolated PCL injury from January 2007 to December 2020. The patients were divided into two groups: group A, 39 years or younger (n = 14); and group B, 40 years or older (n = 12). At second-look arthroscopy, the grafts were evaluated based on tension (taut, graft tension as tense as a normal PCL; lax, graft tension looser than a normal PCL, unclassified, completely torn graft), tear (one or more tendon strands torn), and synovial coverage (good, synovial coverage greater than 80% around the graft; fair, synovial coverage greater than 50%; and poor, synovial coverage less than 50%). The chondral damages were evaluated using the Outerbridge classification system. Radiographic posterior tibial translation with gravity sag view as well as clinical outcomes were also evaluated. ResultsAnterolateral (AL) graft tension was lax in 8% of the patients, whereas posteromedial (PM) graft tension was lax or unclassified in 24% (p = 0.043). Graft tear was observed only in the PM graft of 19% patients (p = 0.022). Synovial coverage of AL grafts was good or fair in all cases, whereas that of PM grafts was poor in 28% cases (p < 0.001). Regarding the effect of patient age, the synovial coverage of PM grafts was significantly poorer in group B (p = 0.033), but no statistical difference in graft tension or tear was found. The chondral damages were significantly advanced in group B (p ≤ 0.01), except for the trochlear groove and lateral femoral condyle. No patients had residual subjective posterior instability, knee swelling, or loss of extension exceeding 5° or flexion exceeding 10°. All patients had improved from grade II or III preoperatively to grade I or grade II in the posterior drawer test. The posterior tibial translation significantly improved from 10.0 ± 3.6 mm preoperatively to 3.6 ± 2.1 mm at second-look arthroscopy. No significant differences in the postoperative clinical outcomes were observed between the two groups. ConclusionThe morphology of the PM grafts at second-look arthroscopy after double-bundle PCLR was poorer than that of the AL grafts. Patient age negatively affected the postoperative graft synovial coverage and chondral status but did not affect the clinical outcomes.