Arthroscopic Approach Research Articles

Diagnostics and surgical treatment of ruptured Baker's cysts: A prospective study

AimsWe assessed diagnostic and arthroscopic surgery challenges the ruptured Baker's cysts (RBC) cases may present compared to intact Baker's cyst cases (IBC). The main question to explore was: Is RBC arthroscopic surgery more complex than IBS surgery? The null hypothesis was that RBC cases might present additional, and specific challenges for a surgeon and the arthroscopic procedure may be more complicated. MethodsThe prospective cohort study analyzed 100 operated patients (43 % female; mean age 61 ± 9.5 years) (2005–2022; follow-up to August 2023) diagnosed with RBC. The comparison group consisted of 100 operated patients (48 % female; mean age 57 ± 12.5 years) with IBC. We compared diagnostic challenges, surgical approaches, functional outcomes, the rates of postsurgical complications and recurrence, durations of surgery and immobilization, and the time to recovery. ResultsAmong statistically significant results, RBCs were more frequently detected during the differential diagnosis with thrombophlebitis (28 vs. 17, p = 0.04) and by 99m-Tc-MDP radiography (30 vs. 10, p = 0.03). They frequently involved a three-port arthroscopic approach (89 vs. 71, p = 0.04), the cyst wall preservation (p = 0.03), and had the eight-day shorter time to recovery (p = 0.05). Other above-mentioned variables were similar in both groups of patients. ConclusionRBCs do not present an additional challenge for a surgeon if an arthroscopic technique is used, but the diagnostic process may be challenging. Most RBCs require a three-port arthroscopic approach and permit cyst wall preservation.

Analysis of the efficacy of triple-channel minimally invasive knee arthroscopy in treating popliteal cysts in children

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate a technique for treating pediatric popliteal cysts with a triple-channel knee arthroscopic approach, hypothesizing that this technique exhibits favorable clinical outcomes with reduced recurrence rates.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 14 patients with symptomatic pediatric popliteal cysts admitted to the joint surgery center using an arthroscopic minimally invasive technique from December 2017 to December 2020. Arthroscopy was employed for adequate enlargement of the posterior medial flap opening between the cyst and the joint cavity and to completely resect the cyst wall. The popliteal cyst recurrence was assessed through Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) at 3 and 12 months post-surgery, and the Rauschning and Lindgren scores were recorded to evaluate the clinical prognosis.ResultsA total of 14 children completed the follow-up, including 8 boys and 6 girls, with a mean age of 9.9 ± 1.1 years (5–12 years); 5 cases in the left knee and 9 cases in the right knee; the mean operative time was 19.2 ± 2.7 min (10–25 min); and the mean follow-up time was 15.1 ± 2.4 months (12–24 months). There was no intraoperative vascular or nerve injury and no incisional exudate infection. Postoperatively, posterior knee symptoms disappeared in the children, Rauschning and Lindgren scores significantly improved, and no recurrence signs were observed on MRI.ConclusionsThis study determined that the arthroscopic three-channel minimally invasive technique is effective and safe for treating popliteal cysts in children, making it worthy of clinical promotion.

Arthroscopic Pincer Resection Utilizing an Outside-In Approach for Intra-articular Access

In the standard approach to hip arthroscopy, access to the joint is achieved using fluoroscopic guidance to enter the central compartment of the hip using the Seldinger technique, penetrating the capsule with a needle and subsequently cannulating and obtaining direct visualization of the joint. In such a way, arthroscopists then proceed with accessory portal creation and capsulotomy, as desired, under direct intra-articular visualization. In cases with severe pincer morphology or coxa profunda, it may not be possible to safely access the central compartment under fluoroscopic guidance due to significant lateral overcoverage of the femoral head. We present an outside-in arthroscopic approach for accessing the hip joint in such patients, allowing for safe visualization, osseous pincer resection, and improved central compartment access while minimizing the risk to cartilage and labral tissue.

Arthroscopic Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening After Total Hip Arthroplasty: Utilization of the Iliopsoas Air Bursogram Technique for Safe and Efficient Access

Background: Patients with persistent symptomatic iliopsoas tendonitis following total hip arthroplasty may benefit from iliopsoas fractional lengthening. We present an arthroscopic approach utilizing an air bursogram that provides safe and predictable access to the iliopsoas tendon for efficient tendon lengthening without violating the capsule or unintentional instrumentation of the nearby medial neurovascular bundle. Indications: Arthroscopic iliopsoas fractional lengthening is indicated for patients with clinical evidence of symptomatic iliopsoas tendonitis following total hip arthroplasty and have no radiographic evidence of frank acetabular malpositioning. A diagnosis of iliopsoas tendinitis amenable to surgical management can be established with substantial but nondurable relief following image-guided anesthetic injection to the iliopsoas bursa. Technique Description: Under fluoroscopic guidance, an air bursogram is employed in the anatomic plane of the iliopsoas tendon to accurately identify its course. This allows for hip portal placement with precise subsequent instrumentation. This technique is preferred in the setting of postarthroplasty anatomy because it avoids capsular violation and the challenge of working in an altered anatomic space with a nearby, medially based neurovascular bundle. Results: Arthroscopic and endoscopic approaches to iliopsoas release have been shown to provide excellent functional and patient-reported outcomes in >85% of patients, and several studies have shown that an arthroscopic approach not only provides a less invasive technique but also results in comparable or improved clinical outcomes with lower revision rates compared to open release or acetabular cup revision. Our technique for arthroscopic iliopsoas fractional lengthening using the air bursogram is both safe and reproducible and offers distinct advantages, including maintenance of an intact capsule, visual confirmation of the correct anatomic structure to be released, and percutaneous access with standard arthroscopic access cannulas without the need for hip distraction. Conclusions: Arthroscopic fractional iliopsoas lengthening is a minimally invasive and successful treatment option for patients with persistent groin pain after total hip arthroplasty, especially without substantial acetabular component malpositioning. This technique includes using an air bursogram to safely identify and navigate to the iliopsoas tendon without violating the hip capsule, thereby reducing the risk of inadvertent instrumentation of adjacent critical neurovascular structures. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Arthroscopic selective approach to dynamic posterior shoulder instability: long-term follow-up insights

AimsEvaluate outcomes of arthroscopic capsulolabral repair in patients with structural dynamic posterior instability (Moroder classification B2), analyzing factors associated with inferior clinical outcomes or recurrence. The primary hypothesis is that this surgical approach in patients without static structural changes such as excessive glenoid retroversion or dysplastic glenoids will result in satisfactory clinical outcomes and low failure rates. MethodsObservational retrospective analysis in patients diagnosed with posterior structural dynamic instability who underwent arthroscopic capsulolabral repair. Demographic, clinical and radiologic characteristics were registered as well as patient reported outcomes, satisfaction, complications and failure with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Association between these outcomes and preoperative factors was investigated. Results21 patients were included, with an average age of 38.1 years (range 27-51) and a mean follow-up of 68.7 months (range 24-127). At final follow-up the degree of instability was 0 in 19 (90.5%) patients. Overall outcome assessment demonstrated a mean SSV of 82.3 (±15.2), mean WOSI score of 460.1 (±471) and a mean 91.5 (±13) ROWE score. Furthermore, a significant portion of patients returned to sport 71.4% at any level and 57.1% at previous level, and 71.4% reported satisfaction with treatment, while 5 patients (23.8%) had criteria for failure. ConclusionArthroscopic capsulolabral repair in selected patients with type B2 posterior shoulder instability without static posterior findings yielded satisfactory clinical outcomes and low failure rates.

Arthroscopic Mumford Procedure for AC Joint Arthritis

Background: Acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis is a common cause of shoulder pain in young patients. Management has been focused on relieving pain mainly with conservative nonsurgical procedures such as corticoid injections, physical therapy and even, recently, orthobiological interventions with platelet-rich plasma and hyaluronic acid injections. However, failed conservative management opens the door to surgical interventions such as the arthroscopic distal third of the clavicle resection. Indications: Patients submitted to this surgery must have a confirmed diagnosis of an arthritic, painful AC joint that has not been properly responding to nonoperative management. Technique Description: The surgical procedure is done in the beach chair position with standard arthroscopic portals. After a proper intraarticular evaluation of the structures and ruling out any other causes of pain, the surgeon passes to the subacromial space. Identification of the AC joint is made by following the coracoacromial ligament medial and with manipulation of the clavicle from the patient's skin. Debridement should start by releasing the anterior and posterior ligaments to allow for proper visualization of the articulation. A bur or a 5.5-mm shaver is used to start resection of the distal third of the clavicle under visualization and with care to not create a vault. The procedure is considered done when a smooth articular surface is visualized and with at least 5 mm of space between the clavicle and the acromion. Results: The proposed technique, which is a variant of the classic distal clavicle excision, has shown improved functional outcomes with reproducible postoperative scores and low complications rates in the setting of patients with isolated AC joint arthritis. Conclusion: Surgical management of the painful, arthritic AC joint has been evolving alongside with the history of shoulder arthroscopy; the proposed arthroscopic approach is an easy and effective way of freeing the patient of pain and discomfort with quick return to activities and sports. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Clinical Outcomes After Mini-Open Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis

Background Long head of the biceps tendon pathology is a common cause of shoulder pain. Current surgical treatment options for long head of the biceps tendon disorders include tenotomy and tenodesis. Younger and high-demand patients are usually treated with tenodesis since tenotomy is associated with increased biceps pain and cramping, cosmetic deformity and patient dissatisfaction. Previous studies have shown biomechanical advantages of subpectoral open approach over arthroscopic suprapectoral approach, with less biceps over tension and increased ultimate load to failure. Despite this, there is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding the management of biceps-related pathology. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent subpectoral biceps tenodesis with unicortical endo-button fixation between January 2015 and December 2019. Only patients who had a minimum of 24 months follow-up were included in the study. We reviewed patient demographics. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Visual Analogue score were assessed and complications were recorded. Results A total of thirty-two patients were enrolled in this study. 15 were young patients and sports athletes with SLAP (Superior Labrum from Anterior to Posterior) lesions or isolated biceps instability and the remaining 17 were middle-age patients with degenerative biceps disease and concomitant pathology. The mean follow-up time was 36 months. SLAP lesions group average age was 24,3 and degenerative group average age was 53,8. The ASES score and the VAS score and were statically significative better in the isolated subpectoral tenodesis due to SLAP lesions 99,8 and 0,1 respectively in comparison with the degenerative group, 85,7 and 1,5 respectively. We recorded two complications. One case of superficial infection and one case of a patient that was concomitant submitted to arthroscopic rotator cuff tear repair with persisting shoulder pain. There was no case of failure of fixation or associated Popeye deformity. Conclusions Subpectoral biceps tenodesis with unicortical endo-button fixation is a viable treatment option for patients with symptomatic biceps disease. Anterior shoulder pain and biceps symptoms were resolved with this technique. Patients with coexistent rotator cuff lesion may have less favorable outcomes.

Multiportal Arthroscopy-assisted Surgical Resection of Diffuse-type Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumors in the Ankle Joint Yields Favorable Clinical Outcomes: A Retrospective Study.

Diffuse-type tenosynovial giant cell tumors (Dt-TGCTs) commonly occur in the knee joint and tend to recur postoperatively. However, limited clinical data are available on ankle joint involvement especially associated multiportal arthroscopic treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to report the clinical results of multiportal arthroscopy-assisted resection of Dt-TGCTs of the ankle. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 33 patients with Dt-TGCT of the ankle who underwent multiportal arthroscopic treatment between August 2011 and December 2020. Clinical follow-up included the visual analogue scale (VAS) score, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Kofoed score, and recurrence rate to assess surgical outcomes. The number of patients who achieved the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) based on the AOFAS score was also examined. Additionally, the patients were categorized into two groups based on the final surgical approach: Group A who underwent multiportal arthroscopic synovectomy and Group AO who underwent combined arthroscopic and open surgical excision. Intergroup comparisons were conducted. Intraoperative characteristics, such as the number of patients with involvement of the tarsal tunnel and fibularis tendon and the Outerbridge grading of cartilage damage, were recorded to assess the selection of surgical procedures. Among the 33 patients, 15 were assigned to Group A, and 18 were in Group AO. The median follow-up duration for the 33 patients was 77 months (range, 28-142 months). The median VAS score was 1 (range, 0-4), the AOFAS score was 96 (range, 65-100), and the Kofoed score was 96 (range, 67-100). A total of 27 patients (82%) achieved PASS based on AOFAS scores, while five patients (15%) had recurrence. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in recurrence rate, follow-up VAS score, AOFAS score, Kofoed score, or number of patients who reached the PASS (p > 0.05). In the AO group, 16 cases of Dt-TGCT involved the tarsal tunnel, and 11 cases involved the fibularis tendon. All these patients exhibited extension beyond the joint. In contrast, only one patient in Group A had involvement of the tarsal tunnel. Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups (p < 0.001). This study demonstrated that, with the assistance of a multiportal arthroscopic approach, surgical excision of Dt-TGCT in the ankle resulted in favorable clinical outcomes with a relatively low recurrence rate. Additionally, patients with extra-articular involvement were more likely to require concomitant open surgery.

Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation for fracture of the posterior process of the talus (Shepherd’s fracture): a case report

IntroductionFracture of the lateral tubercle of the posterior process of the talus (Shepherd fracture) is an uncommon injury seen in sport. It is secondary either to indirect trauma on the plantarflexed foot or to high-impact direct trauma. The fracture can be missed with conventional X-rays and therefore advanced imaging methods such as CT scans are usually warranted for management planning. There is a low threshold towards surgical management in the displaced or comminuted case as the delayed functional outcome with conservative treatment is frequently sub-optimal with long-term pain, degenerative changes and non-union. In this regard, recent years saw an increasing interest in the role of minimally invasive approaches for Shepherd´s fracture treatment, such as arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF).Case reportWe present a case of a 27-year-old white male professional football player from Serbia who had Shepard fracture and successfully managed with arthroscopic osteosynthesis. The technical approach is detailed with posterior ankle arthroscopy offering the advantages of a minimally invasive approach with low morbidity and a rapid return to regular sporting activities.ConclusionThe utilization of the 2-port arthroscopic approach this method enables the direct observation of the articular surface along with the corresponding fracture lines, thereby affording the surgeon the chance to achieve accurate reduction via a minimally invasive soft tissue aperture. We advocate that Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) is a reliable method for the fixation of Shepherd's fracture in the hands of experienced ankle arthroscopists.

Single-Portal Arthroscopy Improves the Assessment of Radial-sided Disorders of the Wrist

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to describe the technique, indications, and advantages of the single-portal arthroscopic approach for the diagnosis and staging of chronic radial-sided disorders, including scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) tear, scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) deformities. Methods The single portal technique was used in 138 patients affected by suspected SLIL lesions, SLAC and SNAC wrist injuries with positive clinical symptoms and inconclusive imaging (X-ray and MRI). It was used to grade the nature of the SLIL lesion and the extension of the osteochondral damage in the SLAC and SNAC wrist deformity to guide appropriate treatment. Results Patients were divided into group 1 (SLIL: 45 cases), group 2a (SLAC: 65 cases), and group 2b (SNAC: 28 cases). In group 1, stage 4 SLIL lesions were confirmed in 36 cases and 9 were assessed as SLAC wrist deformity. In group 2a, single-portal arthroscopy confirmed the preoperative diagnosis in 74% of cases. In the remaining 26% of patients, arthroscopy modified the preoperative diagnosis: 1 case of SLAC 1 resulted in SLAC 2, 14 cases of SLAC 2 resulted in SLAC 3, 1 case of SLAC 3 resulted in SLAC 2. A case of SLAC 2 turned out to be an SLIL lesion stage 4. In group 2b, single-portal arthroscopy confirmed the preoperative diagnosis in 86% of cases. In the remaining 14% (4 cases), it modified the preoperative diagnosis: 1 of SNAC 1 resulted in SNAC 2 and the other in SNAC 3, 1 case of SNAC 2 turned out to be an SNAC 3, and 1 case of SNAC 3 resulted in SNAC 4. Conclusion Single-portal wrist arthroscopy modified the preoperative diagnosis of wrist pathology in 42 patients over 138 cases. The use of single-portal wrist arthroscopy should be considered in the evaluation of the radiocarpal and midcarpal joints to allow accurate visualization of the joint surfaces for surgeon and patient planning. Type of Study/Level of Evidence Observational study level of evidence IV.

Utilization of a stepwise model to assess pivotal information for patient decision-making regarding open vs. arthroscopic Latarjet procedure

BackgroundThe popularity of arthroscopic Latarjet has increased significantly in recent years due to its perceived advantages. The latter include a smaller surgical incision, faster recovery, quicker return to sports, and ability to treat concomitant intra-articular pathology. Nevertheless, the arthroscopic technique is more technically challenging, has a more significant learning curve, longer operating time and is less cost-effective. The study aimed to identify the various factors influencing patient decision-making between undergoing arthroscopic or open Latarjet using a stepwise questionnaire model. MethodsAll patients with a primary, whether arthroscopic or open Latarjet procedure were subjected to a stepwise interviewing process and were asked to select between arthroscopic and open approaches at each step. ResultsFifty patients with a mean age of 28.8±8.8 years old participated in the study. Twenty (40%) consistently selected an arthroscopic approach after analysis of the incision's aspect, whereas 34 (68%) had a final decision different from their initial choice. In addition, out of the 15 patients who chose arthroscopy or were undetermined after presentation of the incisional aspect, 9 (60%) changed their decision to open surgery after presentation of the pros and cons of each approach. Twenty-three (46%) patients were unable to choose and left the choice to their surgeon. The faith in their surgeon and recovery were identified as the two most important factors influencing patients' final decisions. ConclusionsThe minimally invasive nature of arthroscopic incisions was not considered to be more cosmetically appealing than that of a single open incision. The advantages of the arthroscopic procedure may not be as valued by patients as by surgeons. Patients were more interested in the equivalent short- and mid-term outcomes of both approaches and the shorter surgical duration of the open option. It is crucial to adequately inform patients during preoperative counseling to achieve the best consensus.

All-Inside Arthroscopic Tie-Grip Suture Repair for Radial Tear in the Midbody of Lateral Meniscus Using an All-Inside Device and Slotted Cannula

Inside-out repair of meniscal tears is the gold standard surgical approach; however, its use is limited by the need for a posterior incision and neurovascular risk. In this Technical Report, we present details of the all-inside arthroscopic tie-grip approach for repairing a radial tear of the midbody of the lateral meniscus using an all-inside device (TRUESPAN) and a slotted cannula. In contrast to the inside-out approach, this technique helps reduce surgical invasiveness and provides stable fixation as the vertical mattress sutures bundle the circumferential fibers and act as rip stops for the horizontal sutures. However, the operating surgeon must understand proper insertion techniques to successfully use the devices required for this procedure.

Native Joint Septic Arthritis.

Native joint septic arthritis (NJSA) is a severe and rapidly progressing joint infection, predominantly bacterial but also potentially fungal or viral, characterized by synovial membrane inflammation and joint damage, necessitating urgent and multidisciplinary management to prevent permanent joint damage and systemic sepsis. Common in large joints like knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows, NJSA's incidence is elevated in individuals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, immunosuppression, joint replacement history, or intravenous drug use. This review provides a comprehensive overview of NJSA, encompassing its diagnosis, treatment, antibiotic therapy duration, and surgical interventions, as well as the comparison between arthroscopic and open debridement approaches. Additionally, it explores the unique challenges of managing NJSA in patients who have undergone graft anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, microbiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, antibiotic treatment, surgical intervention, prevention, and prophylaxis of NJSA are discussed, highlighting the need for prompt diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and ongoing research to enhance patient outcomes.

Modified arthroscopic repair of a posterior cruciate ligament tibial avulsion fracture improves IKDC and Lysholm score compared to open reduction

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to analyse the difference between arthroscopic fixation and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tibial avulsion fractures.MethodsThis retrospective study analysed patients with an acute PCL tibial avulsion fracture who underwent surgical treatment at our hospital and follow-up for at least 24 months. Variables based on sex, age, Meyers–McKeever type, surgical method, meniscus tear, external fixation, labour or sports, Lysholm knee score, IKDC score, and KT-1000 value were also recorded. Multifactor unconditional logistic regression and Student’s t test with 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) to remove confounding factors were used for analysis.ResultsSixty-five cases achieved knee function graded as “good” or better, and 9 cases not. Single-factor analysis indicated that Meyers–McKeever type (χ2 = 4.669, P = 0.031) and surgical approach (χ2 = 9.428, P = 0.002) are related to functional outcomes. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis further confirmed that Meyers–McKeever typing (OR = 10.763, P = 0.036, [95% CI 1.174–98.693]) and surgical approach (OR = 9.274, P = 0.008, [95% CI 1.794–47.934]) are independent risk factors affecting prognosis. In addition, PSM verified significant differences in the Lysholm score (t = 3.195, P = 0.006), IKDC score (t = 4.703, P = 0.000) and A-KT/H-KT (t = 2.859, P = 0.012). However, the affected-side KT-1000 value (A-KT, mm, t = 1.225, P = 0.239) and healthy-side KT-1000 value (H-KT, mm, t = 1.436, P = 0.172) did not significantly differ between the two groups. The proportions of cases in which the Lysholm score, IKDC and A-KT/H-KT exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) were 62.5% (20/32), 62.5% (20/32) and 93.75% (30/32), respectively.ConclusionCompared with ORIF, an arthroscopic approach for PCL tibial avulsion fractures achieves better results.Level of evidence: Retrospective cohort study; Level II.

Latarjet Classics: An Analysis of The 50 Most-Cited Articles on The Latarjet Procedure

Purpose: The Latarjet procedure was initially described by Michel Latarjet in 1954 as a treatment for recurrent dislocations of the shoulder. Over the last decade, an arthroscopic approach has emerged as the natural evolution of the open procedure. The purpose of this study was to identify and analyze the fifty most-cited articles related to the Latarjet, analyze the associated characteristics of each article, and to evaluate whether surgeons are currently influenced by primarily higher versus lower-level studies. Methods: Various Boolean queries were searched on the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science, which yielded final search terms of topics on “latarjet OR latarjet-bristow OR bristow-latarjet OR latarjet-patte or patte-latarjet”. Information collected included: author demographics, study type, level of evidence, journal name, number of citations, and publication year. Results: The top fifty Latarjet articles had 5,319 citations and consisted of 0 level I, 3 level II, 8 level III, 25 level IV and 14 level V studies (date range: 1983 – 2017, median 2012). The most cited article received 454 citations. Authors from France (n = 14, 27%) contributed the most to included papers, followed by the United States (n = 8, 16%). Conclusions: The most-cited articles on the Latarjet procedure tend to be case series, cohort studies, and expert opinions published primarily by French and American authors between 2000 and 2016. With the recent technical innovation surrounding the Latarjet procedure and glenoid bone-block reconstruction in general, these articles may form the foundation that future higher level-of-evidence studies will build upon in their research.

Arthroscopic-Assisted Fixation of Tibial Spine Fractures

Tibial spine fractures (TSF) are an avulsion injury of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) at the insertion on the tibial plateau. These injuries predominantly affect the pediatric population and are important to treat appropriately as they act similarly to complete ACL injuries. The decision to pursue surgical management is dictated mostly by fracture displacement, but also by various factors such as concomitant injuries, age and level of activity. Multiple fixation strategies are available, ranging from transosseous suture and suture anchors to the use of screws, staples or absorbable nails.This technique paper describes the author's preferred technique involving an arthroscopic assisted reduction of the tibial spine fracture and transosseous suture fixation. High tensile non-absorbable sutures are passed through the base of the ACL which are then passed through two 2.4mm transosseous tunnels tied over a bone bridge on the anterior medial tibia.An arthroscopic approach has been reported to have similar positive outcomes when compared to open reductions. Furthermore, the transosseous suture construct has been described to be advantageous biomechanically and to yield satisfactory results when compared to alternative fixation options.

Better short-term outcomes of mini-open rotator cuff repair compared to full arthroscopic repair.

Rotator cuff tears commonly cause shoulder pain and functional impairment, prompting surgical intervention such as miniopen and arthroscopic methods, each with distinct benefits. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and complications of these two approaches. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 165 patients who underwent rotator cuff repair using either arthroscopic-assisted mini-open or full arthroscopic approaches. Patient demographics, tear characteristics, clinical outcomes, and complications were assessed, with statistical analyses conducted to discern differences between the groups. Among the patients, 74 (53.2%) received the mini-open approach, while 65 (46.8%) underwent arthroscopic repair, with a mean follow-up of 19.91 months. The mini-open group exhibited significantly higher postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores compared to the arthroscopic group (P=0.002). Additionally, the mini-open group demonstrated a more significant improvement in ASES scores from preoperative to postoperative assessments (P=0.001). However, the arthroscopic method had a significantly longer operative time (P<0.001). Complications, including anchor placement issues, frozen shoulder, infection, and re-rupture, occurred in 17.3% of patients overall. Re-rupture rates were 13.5% for mini-open and 6.2% for full arthroscopic repair, with no significant difference between the two methods (P=0.317). Both the mini-open and arthroscopic methods yielded favorable clinical outcomes for rotator cuff tear treatment, but the mini-open group exhibited superior results. Surgeons should consider patient characteristics, tear attributes, and surgical expertise when selecting the appropriate technique. Level of evidence: III.

Comparison of Clinical Outcomes After Different Surgical Approaches for Lateral Epicondylitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is one of the most common causes of lateral elbow pain. When nonoperative treatment fails, 1 of the 3 surgical approaches-open, percutaneous, or arthroscopic-is used. However, determining which approach has the superior clinical outcome remains controversial. To review the outcomes of different operative modalities for LE qualitatively and quantitatively. Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. This review was performed and reported according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies published in PubMed, Medline (via EBSCO), and ScienceDirect databases that treated LE with open, percutaneous, or arthroscopic approaches with at least 12 months of follow-up were included. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool and the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies score. The primary outcome was the success rate of each operative treatment approach-open, percutaneous, and arthroscopic. From an initial search result of 603 studies, 43 studies (n = 1941 elbows) were ultimately included. The arthroscopic approach had the highest success rate (91.9% [95% CI, 89.2%-94.7%]) compared with the percutaneous (91% [95% CI, 87.3%-94.6%]) and open (82.7% [95% CI, 75.6%-89.8%]) approaches for LE surgery with changes in the mean visual analog scale pain score of 5.54, 4.90, and 3.63, respectively. According to the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, the functional outcome improved in the arthroscopic group (from 54.11 to 15.47), the percutaneous group (from 44.90 to 10.47), and the open group (from 53.55 to 16.13). The overall improvement was also found in the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, the arthroscopic group (from 55.12 to 90.97), the percutaneous group (from 56.31 to 87.65), and the open group (from 64 to 93.37). Arthroscopic surgery had the highest rate of success and the best improvement in functional outcomes among the 3 approaches of LE surgery.

Open Approach for Repair of Tibial PCL Avulsion

Background: Tibial avulsion of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) often requires operative fixation, which frequently results in successful outcomes if identified acutely. Open or arthroscopic techniques are most commonly used. Indications: Primary surgical indications for open fixation include acute tibial avulsion of the PCL. Secondary indications include grade 2 to grade 3 posterior drawer test and radiographic posterior subluxation of the tibia. Ideally, the joint space and articular cartilage should be well preserved. Technique Description: In the simplified approach initially described by Burks and Schaffer, the patient is placed prone, and an inverted L-shaped incision is made over the posteromedial corner of the knee. A plane is developed between the medial head of the gastrocnemius and the semimembranosus down to the knee joint capsule. The gastrocnemius is retracted laterally to protect neurovascular structures and a vertical capsulotomy is performed. The tibial attachment of the PCL is reduced and held with K (Kirschner) wires and then fixated with screw and washer. Results: Six months post operation, our patient achieved full active and passive range of motion with a stable posterior drawer test. He returned to work without difficulty. Multiple studies have shown success with open PCL fixation and decreased rates of arthrofibrosis when compared with arthroscopic approach. In this case, the patient did not develop arthrofibrosis. Discussion/Conclusion: PCL tibial avulsions can be safely treated with an open approach. Contrary to other ligaments that favor reconstruction over repair, PCL avulsions may be better treated with early repair, so it is important to avoid delay in intervention. The most common complication in both open and arthroscopic approaches is arthrofibrosis, which is less common in the open approach. Early range of motion is encouraged to prevent arthrofibrosis. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Arthroscopic Biceps Tenodesis With Interference Screw Fixation: A Technique Video

Background: Management of long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) pathology is accomplished through a biceps tenotomy or tenodesis. While both modalities provide beneficial outcomes, a biceps tenodesis may confer improved cosmesis, functional outcomes, and decreased muscle cramping postoperatively. Many procedural considerations are undertaken prior to a tenodesis, such as the surgical approach and fixation device. While similar clinical outcomes are achieved between an open subpectoral and arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis (ASPBT) with interference screw (IS) fixation, the latter technique offers a minimally invasive modality. Indications: The primary indications for an ASPBT include superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) tears, LHBT tears, biceps instability, bicipital tunnel disease, biceps pulley lesions, and biceps tenosynovitis. Contraindications to the arthroscopic approach include a distal lesion of the biceps tendon below the pectoralis major tendon (PMT). The IS may be used to create a biomechanically stiffer construct. Technique Description: With the arthroscope in the lateral portal, the distal aspect of the bicipital groove proximal to the superior border of the PMT is identified and opened. The LHBT is subsequently mobilized and released. An anterosuperolateral portal is localized with a spinal needle positioned perpendicular to the bicipital tunnel, 1.5 cm proximal to the superior border of the PMT. The biceps is then removed ex vivo and whip-stitches are sewn beginning 1 cm proximal to the myotendinous junction of the LHBT. After firmly associating the LHBT with the tip of the IS, a guidewire is placed 1.5 cm superior to the superior border of the PMT, perpendicular to the humerus, and a reamer is used to prepare a 6-, 7-, or 8-mm diameter socket. The tendon is inserted through the accessory portal into the tunnel, followed by screw fixation. Suture tails are tied with 5 alternating half hitches, each secured via an arthroscopic knot pusher. Results: ASPBT with IS fixation provides significant pain relief, improves range of motion (ROM), and enhances quality of life. Discussion: ASPBT with IS fixation provides significant improvements in patient-reported and functional outcomes and thus can be an acceptable treatment for LHBT pathology. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.