Anterolateral Portal Research Articles

Virtual reality hip arthroscopy simulator demonstrates sufficient face validity

PurposeTo test the face validity of the hip diagnostics module of a virtual reality hip arthroscopy simulator.MethodsA total of 25 orthopaedic surgeons, 7 faculty members and 18 orthopaedic residents, performed diagnostic supine hip arthroscopies of a healthy virtual reality hip joint using a 70° arthroscope. Twelve specific targets were visualised within the central compartment; six via the anterior portal, three via the anterolateral portal and three via the posterolateral portal. This task was immediately followed by a questionnaire regarding the realism and training capability of the system. This consisted of seven questions addressing the verisimilitude of the simulator and five questions addressing the training environment of the simulator. Each question consisted of a statement stem and 10-point Likert scale. Following similar work in surgical simulators, a rating of 7 or above was considered an acceptable level of realism.ResultsThe diagnostic hip arthroscopy module was found to have an acceptable level of realism in all domains apart from the tactile feedback received from the soft tissue. 23 out of 25 participants (92%) felt the simulator provided a non-threatening learning environment and 22 participants (88%) stated they enjoyed using the simulator. It was most frequently agreed that the level of trainees who would benefit most from the simulator were registrars and fellows (22 participants; 88%). Additionally, 21 of the participants (84%) agreed that this would be a beneficial training modality for foundation and core trainees, and 20 participants (80%) agreed that his would be beneficial for consultants.ConclusionsThis VR hip arthroscopy simulator was demonstrated to have a sufficient level of realism, thus establishing its face validity. These results suggest this simulator has sufficient realism for use in the acquisition of basic arthroscopic skills and supports its use in orthopaedics surgical training.Level of evidenceI.

Cadaveric anatomical study of anterior and posterior ankle arthroscopic portals in ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion positions

Category: Arthroscopy Introduction/Purpose: Arthroscopy of the foot and ankle, which is minimally invasive technique, is able to be used in the treatment of various foot and ankle pathologies. However, complications after anterior or posterior ankle arthroscopies have been described, such as neurovascular structures injury around portals. On the other hand, plantarflexion and dorsiflexion of the ankle joint leads movement of the neurovascular structures. However, there were a few reports about the change of the distance between each portal and nerves or vessels during motion of the ankle. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the distance between each anterior or posterior portal and neurovascular structures, to elucidate the change of the distance between each portal and neurovascular structures in ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion positions. Methods: Six feet of 6 fresh cadavers (3 males and 3 females) were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 81.5 years. Standard antero-lateral (AL), antero-medial (AM), postero-lateral (PL) and postero-medial (PM) portals were identified using needles. Skin was dissected from the underlying soft tissue to visualize neurovascular structures clearly as little as possible. The distances were assessed in ankle plantarflexion position and dorsiflexion position, from AL portal to superficial peroneal nerve (SPN), from AM portal to saphenous nerve (SpN), great saphenous vein (SpV), from PL portal to sural nerve (SN) and lesser SpV, and from PM portal to flexor hallux longus, posterior tibial artery PTA and tibial nerve (TN). Results: SPN was the closest structure to any of the anterior portals (3.2 /8.3 mm in ankle plantarflexion position and 5.2 /10.8 mm in ankle dorsiflexion position from AL portal as Fig.1 was showing), followed by SpN in anterior ankle arthroscopy. Distances from SPN to AL portal, and from SpN and great SpV to AM portal increased with ankle dorsiflexion and decreased with plantarflexion. SN was the closest structure to any of the posterior portals (10.4 mm in ankle plantarflexion position and 8.5 mm in ankle dorsiflexion position from PL portal), followed by lesser SpV in posterior ankle arthroscopy. Distances from SN, SpN and lesser SpV to PL portal, and from FHL, PTA and TN to PM portal increased with ankle plantarflexion and decreased with dorsiflexion. Conclusion: Results of this study showed the distances from each anterior or posterior arthroscopic portal to neurovascular structures, and elucidated the change of the distances between each portal and neurovascular structures in ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion positons in ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion positions. The ankle dorsiflexion position for the standard AL and AM portals placement and the ankle plantarflexion position for PL and PM portals placement might be recommended. Results of this study might be useful to prevent injury to the neurovascular structures during anterior or posterior ankle arthroscopy.

A new arthroscopic BrostrÖm procedure for chronic lateral ankle instability

Category: Arthroscopy Introduction/Purpose: Chronic lateral ankle instability is usually progressed from previous lateral ankle sprain which is not treated properly. Although patients with acute lateral ankle ligament injury are often managed successfully with conservative treatment, approximately 20%-40% will go on developing symptomatic chronic recurrent lateral ankle instability. Several procedures have been introduced to address these patients including open or arthroscopic techniques, the most common of which is the BrostrÖm procedure. The aim of this study was to describe a new outside-in arthroscopic BrostrÖm procedure and its results for treating patients with chronic lateral ankle instability. Methods: Of the 32 patients that were treated, 18 males and 14 females, and aged from 15~57 years (mean 27.8 years). All patients were symptomatic with a combination of recurrent ankle sprains, giving way and avoidance of sports, as well as presented positive anterior drawer test in the physical examination. The history of all patients was over 6 months and conservative treatments were not enough to relieve the symptoms. Standard anteromedial and anterolateral portal was established. Using a suture anchor (2.9 mm Lupine BR, preloaded with double orthocord sutures, DePuy Synthes) and a cannulated needle as a suture passer, anterior talofibular ligament repair was achieved with an outside-in technique. Follow-up was 6~14 months (mean 8.7). Results: Subjective instability and mechanical instability were all significantly improved. No recurrences of ankle instability were reported. The mean AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot score increased from 74 preoperatively to 95 at final follow-up. 2 patients reported superficial peroneal nerve (SPN) irritation symptom postoperatively but only 1 persisted. 2 patients complained mild pain anteroinferior to the lateral ankle. Conclusion: The arthroscopic outside-in BrostrÖm procedure with a single suture anchor was a safe, effective and reproducible technique for chronic lateral ankle instability. The ankle stability resumed with high clinical success rate. The main complication of this procedure was injury to SPN, which crossed the area of repair. The transient neurologic symptom may be related to stretch injury when establishing the anterolateral portal, while the persistent one may be due to nerve entrapment.

Does Patient Positioning and Portal Placement for Arthroscopic Subtalar Arthrodesis Matter?

Category: Arthroscopy Introduction/Purpose: Arthroscopic subtalar joint arthrodesis was first described over two decades ago. The procedure was originally performed with the patient in the lateral decubitus or supine position using anterolateral and posterolateral portals based on the fibula. More recently, several authors have advocated for prone positioning utilizing posteromedial and posterolateral portals. Proponents of the prone position cite improved intra-articular visualization with limited need for traction and more thorough preparation of the posterior facet. Multiple studies have compared arthroscopic to open subtalar arthrodesis and demonstrated similar fusion rates, lower morbidity, and a high level of patient satisfaction with the arthroscopic procedure. To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating how patient positioning and portal placement affects outcomes and morbidity for the arthroscopic procedure. Methods: A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines utilizing PubMed and Embase. All original studies with reported complication rates for arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis were included. Two independent reviewers collected patient demographic data, operative positioning, complications, and outcomes including time to fusion and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores. Patients were placed into the prone group if they were positioned prone with posterior portals or the lateral group if they underwent lateral portal placement. The rate of complications related to portal placement, nonunion rate, rate of painful hardware, and rate of revision were also recorded. The proportions of patients with specific complications in each group were determined and transformed using the Freeman-Tukey double-arcsine method to stabilize variances. Heterogeneity across studies was present as determined using the Q and I2 statistics or likelihood ratio test. Inverse-variance weighted random-effects models were used to evaluate the pooled estimates using R software. Results: A total of 484 feet in 468 patients with a mean follow-up of 36.1 months were included for analysis. Thirteen studies examined patients in the prone position (n=302) and seven articles looked at lateral portals (n=182). Mean AOFAS scores improved from 46.3 to 81.6 following surgery. Fusion was seen in 95.8% of feet at a mean of 10.9 weeks. The total complication rate was similar (p=0.620) between the prone (18.2%) and lateral (17.6%) groups. There was no difference observed in the rate of complications secondary to portal placement (p=0.919), rate of painful hardware (p=0.534), and revision rate (p=0.400) between the two groups. The prone group sustained 20 nonunions (6.6%) which was significantly more than the 2 nonunions (1.1%) found in the lateral group (p=0.039). Conclusion: Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis is an effective treatment option for subtalar joint pathology. We found a higher rate of nonunion when the patient is positioned prone and the arthroscopic portals are placed posteriorly. There was no difference in the rate of nerve/tendon injury, painful hardware, and revision surgery. AOFAS scores were improved regardless of portal placement. Limitations of our study include the variability in fusion hardware and use of bone graft for fusion augmentation between studies. We also were unable to account for surgeon experience, operative volume, and comfort level with the procedure. Further large scale prospective studies are warranted.

Outcome of Autologous Bone Grafting with Preservation of Articular Cartilage to Treat Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus with Large Subchondral Cysts

Category: Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Treatment options for osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) have substantially increased over the last decade. There are a wide variety of surgical treatments for OLT, and good clinical results have been reported. However, treatment for OLT with large subchondral bone cysts remains under discussion. The combination of autologous bone grafting for subchondral bone cyst with fixation of articular cartilage would be the desirable procedure for the repair of the large subchondral cyst preserving the original cartilage with native structure and geometry. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcome of autologous cancellous bone graft and fixation of cartilage fragment for OLT with large subchondral cysts. Methods: Patients comprised seven men and five women, aged 14–70 (mean 35.9) years. All OLTs included full-thickness articular cartilage, extended through subchondral bone and were associated with subchondral cysts. The mean size of the cysts was 9 ×8.6 ×12.3 mm on preoperative CT. Medial lesions were exposed through an oblique medial malleolar osteotomy; lateral lesions through expansion of an anterolateral arthroscopic portal. After refreshed the subchondral cyst, it was grafted with autologous cancellous bone from the distal tibial metaphysis, then cartilage fragments were fixed with nylon suture to surrounding cartilage. Postoperative MRI and CT scans were acquired for all patients at one year after surgery. Seven patients requested screw removal although none had symptoms. The screws were removed and simultaneous arthroscopic examination was performed at 1.5–2 years after surgery with the patients’ permission. The cartilage repair was assessed according to the criteria of the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS). Results: Functional outcome was evaluated at 25.3 (15–50) months after surgery. Mean American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot outcome score improved from 65.7 to 92 (90–100) postoperatively, with 100% patient satisfaction. All follow-up CT scans showed that the grafts were well consolidated with the surrounding subchondral bone. On MRI one year after surgery, no scans showed any signs of osteochondral graft instability. The mean ICRS arthroscopic score from follow-up arthroscopy was 11.1 (8–12) points, and represented nearly normal cartilage. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated good results of autologous bone grafting in preserving articular cartilage in cases of symptomatic OLT with subchondral cysts. In seven cases, we performed follow-up arthroscopy at 1.5–2 years after primary operation and the chondral fragment showed a smooth surface and good stability. The technique of autologous bone grafting with chondral fragment fixation could be a promising option for treatment of OLT with subchondral cysts.

Sensitivity of the Saline Load Test for Traumatic Arthrotomy of the Ankle

Category: Ankle Introduction/Purpose: The saline load test is routinely used to evaluate for traumatic arthrotomy in orthopaedics. The purpose of this study was to determine the volume of saline required to detect traumatic arthrotomy of the ankle. Methods: 42 patients undergoing elective ankle arthroscopy were prospectively enrolled. For each patient, a standard 4 mm anteromedial portal was established. Next, an 18-guage needle was inserted at the site of the anterolateral portal. Sterile saline was slowly injected through the needle until saline extravasated from the anteromedial portal. Saline volumes at the time of extravasation were recorded and analyzed. Results: The saline volume required to achieve extravasation ranged from 0.2mL-60.0 mL (Figure 1A). The median saline volume required to achieve extravasation (and interquartile range) was 9.7 mL (3.8-29.6 mL); however, five of 42 patients required volumes between 50.0 mL and 60.0 mL. A total of 50.0 mL was required to achieve 90% sensitivity, 55.0 mL to achieve 95% sensitivity, and 60.0 mL to achieve 99% sensitivity (Figure 1B). Conclusion: The previously recommended 30 mL of saline required to reliably detect traumatic arthrotomy of the ankle may be too small a volume. The present study suggests that clinicians should attempt to inject 60 mL in order to effectively rule out a traumatic arthrotomy injury.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Diffuse Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis of the Knee: Complete Synovectomy and Septum Removal-Midterm Results.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and describe the clinical results of complete arthroscopic synovectomy through the four arthroscopic portals in the knees affected by diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis (DPVNS). Between 2009 and 2012, 21 patients (15 men and 6 women) with the diffuse form of PVNS of the knee were enrolled in the study after qualification. The clinical diagnosis was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and postsurgical pathologic examination. All patients underwent complete synovectomy through posteromedial, posterolateral, anteromedial, and anterolateral portals. Each patient was evaluated before treatment and followed up for a minimum of 5 years (range: 60-79 months) using the Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score. Both Lysholm score and IKDC scores were significantly improved in all study participants. No cases of clinical recurrence, infection, joint stiffness, or neurovascular lesions were observed. This study showed that an attentive arthroscopic synovectomy is a safer alternative with better clinical outcomes, with no clinical recurrences.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Sequential Arthroscopic Approach for Ramp Lesions of the Posterior Horn of the Medial Meniscus in Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Deficient Knee

To document the diagnostic accuracy and steps for sequential arthroscopic exploration of ramp lesions-peripheral tear within 4mm of meniscocapsular junction of medial meniscus-associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This was a prospective consecutive study of 195 primary ACL reconstructions with arthroscopic exploration for ramp lesion in 4 steps: (1) standard exploration through the anterolateral portal, (2) through the intercondylar space using a 30° arthroscope, (3) through the intercondylar space using a 70° arthroscope, and (4) after creation of a posteromedial portal. Acute (<3months) and chronic case (>3months) groups were compared, and the sensitivity and specificity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were assessed. Overall, 50 patients (26.6%) were confirmed as having a ramp lesion. After step 1, only 19 cases (38%) were identified as a ramp lesion. After step 2, 24 cases (48%) were found, and the sensitivity of step 2 was estimated at 48%. After step 3, an additional 26 cases (52%) were identified. No more additional cases of ramp lesion were found after step 4. There were statistically significant differences between steps 2 and 3 (P= .001), but no differences between steps 1 and 2, or steps 3 and 4. Although there were no statistical differences in overall prevalence for acute (28/128, 21.8%) and chronic (22/67, 32.8%) groups (P=.136), the incidence of ramp lesion confirmed through the standard portal approach was found to be significantly correlated with chronic group (odds ratio: 2.95, P= .023). The sensitivity and specificity of preoperative MRI were 84% and 95.17%. Many ramp lesions could not be diagnosed through the standard portal and intercondylar space using a 30° arthroscope. Posteromedial inspection using a 70° arthroscope has improved the diagnostic accuracy for ramp lesion without direct exploration through the posteromedial portal. Care should be taken to identify ramp lesions when ACL reconstruction is performed. Level I, diagnostic study of consecutive patients.

Outcome of autologous bone grafting with preservation of articular cartilage to treat osteochondral lesions of the talus with large associated subchondral cysts

The aim of this study was to evaluate antegrade autologous bone grafting with the preservation of articular cartilage in the treatment of symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the talus with subchondral cysts. The study involved seven men and five women; their mean age was 35.9 years (14 to 70). All lesions included full-thickness articular cartilage extending through subchondral bone and were associated with subchondral cysts. Medial lesions were exposed through an oblique medial malleolar osteotomy, and one lateral lesion was exposed by expanding an anterolateral arthroscopic portal. After refreshing the subchondral cyst, it was grafted with autologous cancellous bone from the distal tibial metaphysis. The fragments of cartilage were fixed with 5-0 nylon sutures to the surrounding cartilage. Function was assessed at a mean follow-up of 25.3 months (15 to 50), using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot outcome score. The radiological outcome was assessed using MRI and CT scans. The mean AOFAS score improved from 65.7 (47 to 81) preoperatively to 92 (90 to 100) at final follow-up, with 100% patient satisfaction. The radiolucent area of the cysts almost disappeared on plain radiographs in all patients immediately after surgery, and there were no recurrences at the most recent follow-up. The medial malleolar screws were removed in seven patients, although none had symptoms. At this time, further arthroscopy was undertaken, when it was found that the mean International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) arthroscopic score represented near-normal cartilage. Autologous bone grafting with fixation of chondral fragments preserves the original cartilage in the short term, and could be considered in the treatment for adult patients with symptomatic osteochondral defect and subchondral cysts. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:590-5.

Neurovascular and tendon injuries due to ankle arthroscopy portals: a meta-analysis of interventional cadaveric studies.

Neurovascular and tendon structures are considered at risk when performing ankle arthroscopy. Injury rate and distance from portals to such structures varied in the literature. The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the injury risk of these structures in terms of proximity and injury prevalence. Thirteen studies including 184 cadaveric ankle arthroscopy procedures met the inclusion criteria. The antero-central portal exhibited the highest frequencies of nerve/vessel proximity and nerve/vessel missed injuries. Weighted mean distances were as follows: 2.76 ± 2.37mm for the superficial fibular nerve (SFN) to the antero-lateral portal, 8.13 ± 2.45mm for the saphenous nerve to the antero-medial portal, 2.1 ± 1.7mm for the dorsalis pedis artery (DPA) to the antero-central (AC) portal, 6.84 ± 2.59mm for the sural nerve to the postero-lateral portal. Distances to the postero-medial portal were 7.82 ± 2.98 and 11.03 ± 3.2mm for the posterior tibial nerve and the posterior tibial artery, respectively. A total of 14 (10.3%) nerve injuries and 17 (12.5%) missed nerve injuries with a cumulative frequency of 22.8% of nerve structure at high risk. The SFN was the most vulnerable (10.3% of injury/missed injury), and it was the closest nerve to a portal. Vascular involvement consisted of 2 (1.5%) injuries and 12 (8.8%) missed injuries with the DPA being the most vulnerable (20%) through the AC portal. Tendon injuries were found in 8.7% procedure acts. The injury rates of extra-articular structures were found to be higher than previously reported in clinical literature. Apart from clinical studies, distance to portals and missed injuries of these structures could be evaluated. This cadaveric meta-analysis yielded more accurate results over the proximity and potential injury risk of ankle noble structure and should incite surgeons for more attention during portal placement. Such anatomical meta-analyses could offer an excellent statistical model of evidence synthesis when assessing injury risk in mini-invasive surgeries.

Submeniscal Portal for Horizontal Cleavage Tear with Parameniscal Cyst of the Lateral Meniscus

Horizontal cleavage tears of the medial and lateral meniscus can be difficult to treat using the standard anteromedial or anterolateral arthroscopy portals. In this Technical Note, we present a new surgical technique to better manage the inferior leaflet of horizontal cleavage tears of the medial and lateral meniscus and their associated parameniscal cysts.

Clinical outcomes following arthroscopic treatment of femoro-acetabular impingement using a minimal traction approach and an initial capsulotomy. Minimum two year follow-up.

Although the arthroscopic management of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is increasing, severe complications have been reported due to traction. We developed an arthroscopic technique based on an initial capsulotomy and a minimal traction approach. The main purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical outcomes of FAI treatment using this technique after at least two years of follow-up. Forty-seven consecutive patients underwent surgery for FAI. There were two initial portals: a proximal anterolateral portal and a distal anterior instrumental portal. An anterior working space was created and a T-shaped incision was made in the anterior capsule to relieve joint distraction. Short traction (less than 20 mn) made it possible to approach the central compartment. Acetabuloplasty was performed in the presence of pincer impingement. Traction was then released. A head-neck femoral osteochondroplasty was performed in case of bump impingement. All patients underwent a mean 3.3 ± one years of follow-up based on two self-administered questionnaires: the Harris hip score and the QOL Oxford score. None of the patients were lost to follow-up. There were three complications: two ossifications and one case of injury to the femoral cutaneous nerve with good clinical outcomes at the final follow-up. Five patients (10%) underwent surgical revision after a mean 1.4years of follow-up: three total hip arthroplasties, one peri-acetabular osteotomy, and one repeat arthroscopic hip debridement. The Harris score increased significantly from 60 ± 10 to 86 ± 15 (p < 0.0001) and the Oxford score improved from 34 ± 15 to 50 ± 11. Only 25% of patients had a "forgotten hip" at the final follow-up. Our clinical results were comparable to previously reported outcomes with other surgical techniques for the management of FAI. However, it should also be noted that despite these good clinical outcomes, the percentage of patients with a "forgotten hip" is low, and patients should be informed of this.

Anatomic Study of Anterior and Posterior Ankle Portal Sites for Ankle Arthroscopy in Plantarflexion and Dorsiflexion: A Cadaveric Study in the Japanese Population

Arthroscopy is an important and minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic tool. However, the risk of injury to the neurovascular structures around the portals exists during arthroscopy of the ankle. In the present study, we measured the distance between each portal and the adjacent neurovascular structures with the foot in plantarflexion and dorsiflexion in the Japanese population. Standard anterolateral (AL), anteromedial, posterolateral (PL), and posteromedial portal positions were identified in 6 fresh adult cadaveric feet. The skin was dissected from the underlying tissue to visualize the adjacent neurovascular structures as noninvasively as possible. The superficial peroneal nerve was the structure closest to an anterior (i.e., AL) portal (3.2 ± 4.2 and 8.3 ± 3.9 mm in plantarflexion and 5.2 ± 4.3 and 10.8 ± 4.1 mm in dorsiflexion), followed by the saphenous nerve and great saphenous vein (SpV). The distance from the superficial peroneal nerve to the AL portal and from the saphenous nerve and great SpV to the anteromedial portal increased significantly with dorsiflexion and decreased significantly with plantarflexion. The sural nerve was the structure closest to the posterior (i.e., PL) portal (10.4 ± 4.8 mm in plantarflexion and 8.5 ± 3.9 mm in dorsiflexion), followed by the lesser SpV. The distance from the sural nerve, saphenous nerve, and lesser SpV to the PL portal and from flexor hallucis longus, posterior tibial artery, and tibial nerve to the posteromedial portal increased significantly in plantarflexion and decreased significantly in dorsiflexion. These findings could help to prevent damage to the neurovascular structures during ankle arthroscopy.

Technique for Arthroscopic Long Head of Biceps Tenodesis Using Anchor With Fork Tip Eyelet

This article describes a method of arthroscopic subscapular tenodesis of the long head of the biceps tendon using a single anterolateral portal, making it a minimally invasive procedure. This method is done by using the Swivelock tenodesis anchor with forked tip PEEK Eyelet from Arthrex, which enables anatomically stable fixation of the biceps tendon with a relatively decreased rate of complications.

Arthroscopic Viewing Position Affects Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Femoral Tunnel Length Measurements

PurposeTo purpose of this study was to compare arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction femoral tunnel length measurements from the anterolateral portal between the standard notch view using a 30° arthroscope versus a “top-down” view utilizing a 70° arthroscope to visual the far side of the femoral tunnel aperture.MethodsArthroscopic femoral tunnel length measurements using calibrated reamers from the standard notch versus the “top-down” view were obtained and reviewed in 54 skeletally mature patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with no prior bony knee surgery. Patient age, height, weight, sex, and surgery laterality were also recorded. Measurements of femoral tunnel length were repeated using both views for inter-observer and intra-observer correlation.ResultsInter-observer and intra-observer intra-class correlation coefficients for the standard notch view and “top-down” views were excellent, with higher reliability values appreciated using the “top down” view. Mean overall femoral tunnel length measurements obtained using the standard notch view were significantly longer than measurements from the “top-down” view (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe standard notch view provides significantly longer femoral tunnel length measurements in comparison to the “top-down” view.

Sensitivity of the Saline Load Test for Traumatic Arthrotomy of the Ankle With Ankle Arthroscopy Simulation.

The saline load test has been used to evaluate for traumatic arthrotomy in orthopedics. The purpose of this study was to determine the volume of saline required to detect traumatic arthrotomy of the ankle. Forty-two patients undergoing elective ankle arthroscopy were prospectively enrolled. For each patient, a standard 4-mm anteromedial portal was established. Next, an 18-gauge needle was inserted at the site of the anterolateral portal. Sterile saline was slowly injected through the needle until saline extravasated from the anteromedial portal. Saline volumes at the time of extravasation were recorded and analyzed. The saline volume required to achieve extravasation ranged from 0.2 to 60.0 mL. The median saline volume required to achieve extravasation was 9.7 mL (interquartile range, 3.8-29.6 mL); however, 5 of 42 patients required volumes between 50.0 and 60.0 mL. A total of 50.0 mL was required to achieve 90% sensitivity, 55.0 mL to achieve 95% sensitivity, and 60.0 mL to achieve 99% sensitivity. The previously recommended 30 mL of saline required to reliably detect traumatic arthrotomy of the ankle may be too small a volume. The present study suggests that clinicians should attempt to inject 60 mL of saline to effectively rule out a traumatic arthrotomy injury. Because of the study's methods involving an anteromedial arthrotomy with anterolateral saline injection, these findings may be most valid for arthrotomies on the medial side of the ankle.

Modified minimally invasive approach and intra-osseous portal for three-part proximal humeral fractures: a comparative study

BackgroundProximal humeral fracture is a common fracture. Different approaches have been utilized in the surgical intervention of three-part fractures. Our study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of a modified anterolateral approach and intra-osseous portal in minimally invasive treatment for three-part proximal humeral fractures in comparison to the traditional deltopectoral approach.MethodsFrom March 2015 to September 2016, 13 patients with three-part proximal humeral fractures were treated with internal fixation through the modified anterolateral minimally invasive approach (MIPO). These cases were compared to 20 additional cases using the deltopectoral approach (DP). Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed, including the constant score (CS) and range of motion in abduction, flexion/extension and external/internal rotation. Complications were recorded as well.ResultsAll patients were followed up for a mean time of 12.12 ± 4.01 months. At the latest follow-up, no significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in terms of length of stay, range of motion for abduction, flexion or internal/external rotation of the shoulder, Constant score or visual analog scors (VAS) for pain. Elbow flexion (142.31 ± 8.32 vs. 123.00 ± 10.18), posterior shoulder extension (41.92 ± 5.22 vs. 35.50 ± 5.83) and postoperative VAS (4.38 ± 1.04 vs. 6.15 ± 0.99) were significantly better in the MIPO group than in the DP group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were detected in the radiographic evaluation, and complications including axillary nerve injury were not present.ConclusionThe use of the modified anterolateral approach and intra-osseous portal is safe and effective for minimally invasive reduction and plating treatment for three-part proximal humeral fractures.

Arthroscopic suprapectoral tenodesis of the long head of the biceps tendon

The aim of atenotomy of the long biceps tendon is to remedy apainful pathology in the proximal region of the tendon. Tenodesis of the tendon can restore the motor and cosmetic function of the biceps brachii muscle. Partial rupture or tendopathy of the long biceps tendon, injuries of the anchor of the long biceps tendon (SLAP lesions; SLAP: superior labrum anterior posterior), lesions of the pulley system. Infections or tumors, loss of the long head biceps tendon from the intertubercular groove. Shoulder arthroscopy via aposterior standard portal in beach chair position. Anteroinferior portal. Standard diagnostic arthroscopy. Checking the stability of the biceps anchor and the pulley system with aprobe. Testing the extra-articular portion of the long biceps tendon with the hook. By pulling the tendon into the joint, the course of the tendon can be assessed. Anterolateral portal superior of the intertubercular groove. Pulling the tendon out of the anterolateral portal. Arming of the tendon with Krackow stitches. Fixation of the tendon in the intertubercle groove with aknotless suture anchor. Three weeks immobilization with an arm sling, 6weeks no forced elbow flexion and forearm supination, 2weeks active-assisted mobilization of the shoulder up to horizontal, 30° external rotation, internal rotation free. The results published in the literature show that epiossal anchor tenodisis improves the clinical scores (preoperative vs. postoperative) and leads to abetter cosmetic result and alower rerupture rate than soft tissue tenodesis.

Improved arthroscopic one-piece excision technique for the treatment of symptomatic discoid medial meniscus

BackgroundDiscoid medial meniscus is an extremely rare abnormality of the knee. During arthroscopic meniscectomy for symptomatic discoid medial meniscus, it is difficult to remove the posterior portion of the meniscus because of the confined working space within the compartment and the obstruction caused by the anterior cruciate ligament and the tibial intercondylar eminence. To overcome these problems, we describe an improved arthroscopic technique for one-piece excision of symptomatic discoid medial meniscus through three unique portals.MethodsThree improved portals were made in the injured knee: a standard anteromedial portal, a central transpatellar tendon portal, and a high anterolateral portal. The anterior side of the discoid medial meniscus was cut 7 mm from the periphery of the meniscus. Next, the anterior portion of the free discoid meniscus fragment was pulled in the anterolateral direction with tension. A curve-shaped cut was made along the longitudinal tear to the posterior horn using basket forceps through the standard anteromedial portal. Then, the anterior portion of the free discoid meniscus was pulled in the anteromedial direction. Pulling the fragment under tension made it easier to cut the posterior side of the discoid meniscus. The posterior side of the discoid meniscus was cut 7 mm from the periphery of the meniscus with straight scissors or basket forceps through the central transpatellar tendon portal.ResultsThis technique resulted in satisfactory results. Excellent visualization of the posterior part of the discoid medial meniscus was gained during the procedure, and it was easy to cut the posterior part of the discoid medial meniscus. No recurrent symptoms were found.ConclusionsThis improved arthroscopic one-piece excision technique for the treatment of symptomatic discoid medial meniscus enables the posterior part of the meniscus to be cut satisfactorily. Moreover, compared with previous techniques, this novel technique causes less formation of foreign bodies and less damage to the anterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and cartilage and requires a shorter procedural time.

Comparison of the Accuracy and Reproducibility of the Femoral Tunnel Location Between Anterior and Posterior Viewing During Outside-In Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Accuracy and reproducibility of the femoral tunnel location could be improved with a TS portal viewing using a 30° arthroscope. During outside-in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, anteromedial (AM) or anterolateral (AL) portals are usually used for the viewing of the femoral foot print. However, observing the posterior portion of the ACL femoral foot print (AM bundle footprint) using an AM or AL portal could be difficult due to blocking by remnant ACL or ridge on the medial wall of the lateral femoral condyle. In this view point, using a 70° arthroscope through posterolateral (PL) portal, posterior part of the ACL footprint could be seen directly. However, this view could be a little distorted because the wall of the ACL insertion should be seen from posterior to anterior direction. The posterior trans-septal portal (TS) could allow direct visual access to the posterior part of the ACL femoral footprint through the posteromedial (PM) portal. The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy and reproducibility of the femoral tunnel location between three different viewing techniques (observed through an AL or AM portal using a 30° arthroscope (A group) vs. PL portal using a 70° arthroscope (PL group) vs. TS portal using a 30° arthroscope (TS group) by 3D CT in outside-in ACL reconstruction. The hypothesis of this study was that femoral tunnel locations would be more accurate and reproducible in the posterior viewing group (PL and TS), and the TS viewing technique would be the best because it offers the most direct view of the medial wall of the lateral femoral condyle. One-hundred and six outside-in ACL constructions patients were recruited. Patients were divided into three groups according to the viewing techniques (36 A vs. 35 PL vs. 35 TS patients). Femoral tunnel locations were evaluated with a quadrant method and anatomic coordinate axes measurement (ACAM) method in the medial wall of the lateral femoral condyle using 3D reconstructed CT. The accuracy and reproducibility of the femoral tunnel locations were compared between three techniques. The accuracy of the tunnel location was higher in the TS group by the quadrant method (A group vs. TS group: p<0.001, PL group vs. TS group: p<0.001) as well as the ACAM (A group vs. TS group: p<0.001, PL group vs. TS group: p=0.02). The reproducibility of the femoral tunnel position in the TS group was the highest and femoral tunnel locations of the TS group were more compactly distributed compared with those of the A and PL group (standard deviation: A group [4.68%], PL group [3.75%], and TS group [1.34%] by the quadrant method; A group [5.18%], PL group [3.85%], and TS group [1.92%] by the ACAM method). Accuracy and reproducibility of the femoral tunnel location could be improved with a TS portal viewing using a 30° arthroscope and anterior and PL portal viewing using a 70° arthroscope showed no difference.