Arthroscopic Procedures Research Articles

Anchorless Arthroscopic Transosseous Rotator Cuff Repair.

Rotator cuff repair techniques have evolved over time. The original techniques were open procedures, then surgeons adopted arthroscopic repair procedures with anchors and implants. Today, rotator cuff repair has evolved to be performed as an arthroscopic transosseous technique that is again performed without the use of anchors. In this video, the 5 essential steps of arthroscopic transosseous repair will be demonstrated. (1) Position the patient in either the beach chair or lateral decubitus position. (2) Utilize 4-portal arthroscopy, which allows a consistent vantage point while having 3 other portals for instrumentation. (3) Perform just enough bursectomy to expose the rotator cuff. (4) Anatomically reduce the rotator cuff anatomy where possible. (5) Triple-load the transosseous tunnels with high-strength sutures in order to maximize the biomechanical strength of the repair. Alternative surgical techniques include open rotator cuff repair and single and double-row rotator cuff repair using anchors. The goal of any rotator cuff repair is to anatomically restore the rotator cuff. The fundamental principles include a strong initial biomechanical fixation, cuff footprint anatomy restoration, and maximization of biological factors to promote healing of the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff repair was originally performed as an open procedure, which allows for direct visualization of the tear and repair; however, open repair requires some level of deltoid splitting, which can potentially affect postoperative early mobilization. Single-row and double-row cuff repairs can both be performed arthroscopically. Proponents of the double-row procedure prefer that technique for its footprint restoration and stronger biomechanical fixation; however, the double-row procedure can result in overtensioning of the repair and can lead to medial-based rotator cuff failures. Proponents of the single-row procedure prefer that technique for its ease of operation, fewer implants, lower cost, and low repair tension; however, the single-row procedure fixes the tendon at a single point, limiting the repaired footprint, and can be associated with lower fixation strength. The arthroscopic transosseous rotator cuff repair achieves all of the above goals as it provides strong initial fixation and anatomic footprint restoration, which allows maximal patient biology for healing. There are numerous studies that can attest to the success of arthroscopic transosseous repair. Some of the benefits include decreased health-care costs and postoperative pain levels. In a 2016 study of 109 patients undergoing arthroscopic transosseous rotator cuff repair, Flanagin et al. reported a mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score of 95 and a failure rate of 3.7% at mid-term follow-up1. Similarly, in a study comparing transosseous repair to transosseous equivalent repair, Srikumaran et al. reported that patients undergoing transosseous repair had a mean ASES score of 92 and a failure rate of 14%, with no significant differences between treatment groups2. Finally, in a study assessing the results of arthroscopic transosseous rotator cuff repair at >10 years postoperatively, Plachel et al. reported a mean ASES score of 92 and a failure rate of 27%3. Compared with conventional rotator cuff with anchors, the transosseous cuff repair can lead to cut-out of the repair sutures from the bone.Use a 4-portal arthroscopy technique, which will help the surgeon visualize all tear configurations while instrumenting them.Perform just enough bursectomy, in order to preserve the growth factors for cuff healing.Take care to minimize tuberosity trauma as a result of burring.Prepare the transosseous tunnels with a wide bone bridge.Load each tunnel with 3 high-strength sutures in order to maximize repair strength.Restore the rotator cuff footprint to facilitate tissue healing. ASES = American Shoulder and Elbow SurgeonsRCR = rotator cuff repairATRCR = arthroscopic transosseous rotator cuff repairARCR = arthroscopic rotator cuff repairPDS = polydioxanone sutureROM = range of motionSSV = Subjective Shoulder ValueFF = forward flexionOR = operating roomFU = follow-up.

Capsular Repair, Labral Repair, and Femoroplasty are Increasingly Performed for the Arthroscopic Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

PurposeThe purpose of our study was to provide an updated assessment of hip arthroscopy utilization using an institutional database that is specific to the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). MethodsAll patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for the treatment of FAIS were retrospectively identified between the years 2014 and 2022 via Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding in a multi-institutional, single health-system database. A longitudinal analysis was performed to identify trends in the utilization of arthroscopic techniques including capsular and labral treatment, osteoplasty, and traction set-up. ResultsDuring the study, a total of 789 arthroscopic hip procedures in 733 patients were analyzed (56 staged bilateral). Between 2016 and 2022, the number of hip arthroscopies performed each year increased by 1490% (R2 =0.87, p=0.001). Capsular repair (R2=0.92, p<0.001), labral repair (R2=0.75, p=0.002), and femoroplasty (R2=0.70, p=0.004) were performed in an increasing proportion of cases over our study period while labral debridement (R2=-0.84, p<0.001) became less utilized. Postless traction systems were employed in 84% (663/789) of hip arthroscopies overall, were used in at least 70% of hip arthroscopies each year, and did not undergo any significant changes in utilization (R2=0.02, p=0.73). ConclusionCapsular repair, labral repair, and femoroplasty were increasingly performed for the arthroscopic treatment of FAIS while the use of labral debridement decreased significantly over our study period. Postless traction systems were utilized in the majority of cases each year. Clinical RelevanceAs comparative literature continues to define the safety and efficacy of hip arthroscopy, understanding how novel techniques or procedures are incorporated in clinical practice is important.

Intra-articular VEGF and MMP-1 are the Primary Drivers of Worse Baseline KOOS Symptoms and Quality of Life Subscores at Time of Knee Chondroplasty

Objectives: Biomarkers are a topic of interest in orthopaedics in the setting of osteoarthritis and patients undergoing knee arthroscopy for any reason. However, in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy for chondral defects, the influence of cytokines on patient pain and function is not fully understood. The purpose of this study is to investigate the concentrations of synovial inflammatory cytokines in patients undergoing arthroscopic chondroplasty for chondral defects in the knee and correlate those cytokine levels with baseline patient reported outcome measures (PRO’s) and defect characteristics. We hypothesized that the synovial cytokine environment will correlate with patient symptoms more so than baseline defect characteristics. Methods: Sixty patients 18-50 years old undergoing arthroscopic chondroplasty for knee cartilage defects were enrolled. Patients were assigned preoperative Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and International Knee International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Forms. Preoperative magnetic resonance images were used to calculate AMADEUS (Area Measurement And Depth Underlying Structure) scores.1 All patients received a successful synovial fluid aspiration just prior to initiation the arthroscopic procedure. The number of defects, total defect area, and ICRS grades were recorded based on intraoperative assessment. Patients with concomitant procedures beyond partial meniscectomy were excluded. Multiplex ELISA analyzed aspirations for: PDGF-BB, CCL-5/RANTES, MMP-3, MMP-1, EGF, VEGF, IL-1a, FGF-2, CCL-2, BMP-2, and aggrecan. Univariate correlation testing was used to assess significance between cartilage defect characteristics, PROs, and cytokine concentrations (Figure 1). The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) was utilized to select the best-fit multivariate regression model using the 4 most significant independent variables for each cytokine (Figure 2). AIC best-fit modeling was repeated for each PRO that had at least two significant cytokine associations on univariate testing (Figure 3). Significance was set at P&lt;0.05. Results: MMP-1 had a positive correlation with number of defects treated (P=0.016) and negative correlation with KOOS quality of life (QOL) subscores (P=0.035; R2 =0.173). VEGF was positively correlated with defects treated (P=0.005) and negatively correlated with KOOS Symptoms scores (P=0.035; R2 =0.225). The treatment of multiple defects was an independent predictor of elevated IL-1a (P=0.002, R2 =0.202). CCL-2 was positively correlated with multiple defects (P=0.012) and negatively with KOOS QOL (P=0.016, R2 =0.173). Female sex was correlated with higher concentrations of MMP-3 (P=0.007, R2 =0.144), FGF (P=0.012, R2 =0.178), and BMP-2 (P=0.008; R2 = 0.169). BMP-2 was negatively correlated with KOOS Symptom (P=0.019). The primary driver of preoperative KOOS Symptoms scores on multivariate analysis was VEGF (P=0.023, R2 =0.120), influencing patient symptoms beyond defect characteristics. Similarly, KOOS QOL was independently correlated with MMP-1 concentration (P= 0.045, R2 =0.079), more so than ICRS grade (Figure 3). Conclusions: Multivariate regression analysis revealed that elevated MMP-1 was the primary driver of worse preoperative KOOS QOL scores, more so than defect characteristics such as the number of lesions treated. Similarly, worse preoperative KOOS Symptoms scores were more strongly correlated with elevated VEGF concentrations rather than defect ICRS grades. Our study demonstrated that synovial fluid cytokines appear to be the primary drivers of patients’ subjective assessments of their pain and function preoperatively.

Arthroscopic Bankart with remplissage results in lower rates of recurrent instability with similar range of motion compared to isolated arthroscopic Bankart for anterior glenohumeral instability: Asystematic review and meta-analysis.

The addition of the remplissage procedure to an arthroscopic Bankart procedure has been shown to improve clinical outcomes, yet at the expense of potentially decreasing shoulder range of motion. The purpose of this study was to assess recurrent instability, range of motion, functional outcomesand rates of return to sport outcomes in patients undergoing an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair compared to those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair in addition to the remplissage procedure. According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a search was conducted using threedatabases (MEDLINE/OVID, EMBASEand PubMed). Retrieved studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for comparative studies. Data were extracted and meta-analysis performed using a random-effects model. A total of 16 studies (13 level III studies, 2 level II studiesand 1 level I) were included with a total of 507 and 704 patients in the Bankart plus remplissage and isolated Bankart repair groups, respectively. No studies reported glenoid bone loss of >20% with the least percentage of glenoid bone loss reported amongstudies being <1%. There was a significantly increased rate of recurrent dislocations (odds ratio [OR] = 4.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.380-7.48, p < 0.00001) and revision procedures (OR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.52-7.41, p = 0.003) in the isolated Bankart repair group compared to the Bankart plus remplissage group. Additionally, there were no significant differences between groups in terms of external rotation at side (n.s.), in abduction (n.s.)or at forward flexion (n.s.) at final follow-up. Furthermore, return to preinjury level of sport favoured the Bankart plus remplissage group (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.35-0.85, p = 0.007). Patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart plus remplissage for anterior shoulder instability have lower rates of recurrent instability, higher rates of return to sport, and no significant difference in range of motion at final follow-up when compared to an isolated arthroscopic Bankart repair. Further large, prospective studies are needed to further determine which patients and degree of bone loss would benefit most from augmentation with the remplissage procedure. Level III.

Buffering Mitigates Chondrocyte Oxidative Stress, Metabolic Dysfunction, and Death Induced by Normal Saline: Formulation of a Novel Arthroscopic Irrigant.

For decades, surgeons have utilized 0.9% normal saline (NS) for joint irrigation to improve visualization during arthroscopic procedures. This continues despite mounting evidence that NS exposure impairs chondrocyte metabolism and compromises articular cartilage function. We hypothesized that chondrocyte oxidative stress induced by low pH is the dominant factor driving NS toxicity, and that buffering NS to increase its pH would mitigate these effects. Effects on chondrocyte viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and overall metabolic function were assessed. Even brief exposure to NS caused cell death, ROS overproduction, and disruption of glycolysis, pentose phosphate, and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle pathways. NS also stimulated ROS overproduction in synovial cells that could adversely alter the synovial function and subsequently the entire joint health. Buffering NS with 25 mM 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) significantly increased chondrocyte viability, reduced ROS production, and returned metabolite levels to near control levels while also reducing ROS production in synovial cells. These results confirm that chondrocytes and synoviocytes are vulnerable to insult from the acidic pH of NS and demonstrate that adding a buffering agent to NS averts many of its most harmful effects.

Open and Arthroscopic Management of Chondral and Chondrolabral Defects of the Hip

Focal chondral and chondrolabral injuries of the hip have become more commonly recognized lesions of hip joint pathology in the last decade. These injuries are associated with worse clinical outcomes, risk of global degenerative disease, and future conversion to hip arthroplasty. Recent technological advances have expanded the indications and improved outcomes associated with joint preserving hip procedures to address chondral and chondrolabral defects. Options for surgical management include both open and arthroscopic procedures focusing on three general treatment goals: chondral flap stabilization, cartilage regeneration, and cartilage restoration. We provide a comprehensive review of these procedures, discuss their outcomes, and provide future directions for research and development.

Arthroscopic Latarjet Versus Arthroscopic Free Bone Block Procedures for Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Proportional Meta-analysis Comparing Recurrence, Complication, and Reoperation Rates

Background: Several arthroscopic glenoid bone augmentation techniques have been introduced to treat patients affected by anterior shoulder instability associated with critical bone loss. The efficacy of the different arthroscopic bony procedures has not been compared yet. Purpose: To compare the recurrence, complication, and reoperation rates of the arthroscopic Latarjet (AL) and arthroscopic free bone block (ABB) procedures for anterior shoulder instability. Study Design: Meta-analysis and systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase to identify clinical studies reporting the outcomes of the AL and ABB procedures. The following search phrases were used: “Arthroscopic” AND “Bone Block” OR “Bone Graft,” and “Arthroscopic” AND “Glenoid Augmentation” OR “Glenoid Reconstruction,” and “Arthroscopic” AND “Latarjet” OR “Coracoid Graft” OR “Coracoid Transfer.” Exclusion criteria were <24 months of minimum follow-up, sample size <10 cases, revision after previous glenoid bone grafting, epilepsy, and multidirectional instability. Data regarding the study design, patient characteristics, surgical technique, and outcomes were extracted and analyzed. A proportional meta-analysis was conducted to compare the complication, recurrence, and reoperation rates between the 2 groups. Multiple subgroup analyses were performed to analyze the incidence of each complication and assess the weight of different fixation methods (in the whole cohort) or different graft types (in the ABB group). The modified Coleman Methodology Score was used to assess the risk of bias. Results: Of 5010 potentially relevant studies, 18 studies regarding the AL procedure (908 cases) and 15 studies regarding the ABB procedure (469 cases) were included. The 2 groups were comparable in age (P = .07), sex (P = .14), glenoid bone loss (P = .14), number of preoperative dislocations (P = .62), proportion of primary and revision procedures (P = .95), length of follow-up (P = .81), modified Coleman Methodology Score (P = .21), and level of evidence (P = .49). There was no difference in the recurrence (P = .88), reoperation (P = .79), and complication (P = .08) rates. The subgroup analyses showed a higher rate of hardware-related complications for screw fixation compared with flexible fixation (P = .01). Conclusion: The AL and ABB procedures had similar recurrence, reoperation, and complication rates. Screw fixation of the bone graft was related to an increased risk of complications compared with flexible fixation. Registration: CRD42022368153 (PROSPERO).

Faster strength recovery and better strength ratio with arthroscopic Latarjet compared to the open technique: An observational study

IntroductionThe arthroscopic bone block has shown reliability and reproducibility regarding functional scores and shoulder mobility compared to the open bone block technique. The recovery of muscle strength, especially the strength ratio external rotator/internal rotator (ER/IR), is crucial to recovering satisfactory function. This ratio should be as near to 1 as possible, meaning a good strength balance. Little is known about the difference in strength recovery between the open and arthroscopic techniques. HypothesisArthroscopic Latarjet reduces surgical stress and improves the strength recovery and strength ratio. ObjectivesTo compare arthroscopic and open Latarjet procedures for shoulder muscle strength and functional outcomes. Material and methodsIt was an observational longitudinal and prospective cohort follow-up. Two groups of patients were accessible for comparison: 35 in an arthroscopy group and 38 in an open group. The main outcome was the muscle strength of shoulder muscles measured with a dynamometer and expressed in Newton (N) at day 21 (D21), D45, D90, D180, and D365 in the operated and contralateral shoulders. The measurements were made for the pectoralis major, the three deltoid fascicles, and the subscapularis. The shoulder ER/IR strength ratio was calculated. Other variables were the range of motion (ROM), the Walch-Duplay (WD), the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability score (WOSI), and the Visual Analogic Scale for pain assessment. The strength, ROM, and functional scores were compared between open and arthroscopy with linear mixed models. ResultsThe median strengths at 52 weeks were significantly higher than at 3 weeks (P<10−4): anterior deltoid (AD) 8N (Q1:7, Q3: 9) versus 4N (Q1:2, Q3: 5), lateral deltoid (LD) 9N (Q1:9, Q3: 11) versus 6N (Q1:4, Q3: 7), posterior deltoid (PD) 14N (Q1:12, Q3: 15) versus 9N (Q1:8, Q3: 10), subscapularis 10N (Q1:9, Q3: 12) versus 7N (Q1:5, Q3: 8), and pectoralis major (PM) 11N (Q1:9, Q3: 12) versus 7N (Q1:5, Q3: 10). The overall strengths were lower in the open group compared to the arthroscopy group: AD −2.1N (CI95%[−3.1−−1.2], p=0.0005), LD −1.3N (CI95% [−2.4−−0.15], p=0.03), PD −0.35N (CI95% [−1–0.9], p=0.52), subscapularis −2.1N (CI95% [−3.3−−0.7], p=0.006), and PM −1.4N (CI95% [−2.2−−0.02], p=0.03). The ER/IR ratio was stable throughout the follow-up for both the operated and contralateral shoulders (p>0.5). The overall mean ratio was 1.3 (median 1.2, Q1: 1, Q3:1.45) for the operated shoulder and 1.1 (median 1, Q1: 0.9, Q3:1.3) for the contralateral shoulder (p=0.0004). The average ER/IR ratio was 0.27 points higher in the open group (CI95% [0.1–0.46], p=0.003). The ROM was similar between the two groups, and there was no correlation between the ER/IR ratio and the ROM (p>0.5). The VAS < 3 weeks and WD > 12 weeks were significantly poorer in the open group: +0.61 (CI95% [0.03–1.16] p=0.02), and −7.3 points (CI95% [−13−−0.01], p=0.05), on average, respectively. ConclusionThe patients in the arthroscopy group had a better ER/IR strength ratio (closer to 1) and better WOSI after 12 weeks. The strength and the ROM were not correlated with each other. Level of evidenceIII.

Social Determinants of Health in Maryland Hip Arthroscopy Patients.

Background Prior studies have demonstrated racial and socioeconomic disparities in patient-reported outcome measure(PROM) completion rates, and improvement exists across multiple orthopedic conditions. The purpose of this study was to assess whether these disparities are present in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy (HA) procedures. Methods A retrospective study of 306 patients undergoing HA from 2021 to 2023 was performed. Social determinants of health (SDOH) were compared between HA patients and the general Maryland population. Patients were then classified by whether they completed baseline and six-month PROMs (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) instrument). Patients who completed PROMIS-PF were classified by whether or not they achieved minimal clinically important difference (MCID) at six months. Demographics and SDOH were compared using univariate analyses between patients who did and did not complete PROMs and between those who did and did not achieve MCID. SDOH were evaluated at the zip-code level using regional health information exchange measures. Results Compared to the Maryland population, HA patients resided in areas of lower social vulnerability. Preoperative and six-month PROMs were completed by 102 (33%) patients. No significant differences in demographics or any SDOH were found between patients who did and did not complete PROMs. Six-month MCID was achieved in 75 of 102 (74%) patients with complete PROMs; no significant differences in demographics or SDOH were observed between patients who did and did not achieve MCID. Conclusions For patients undergoing HA, disparities in patient-reported outcome completion rates and postoperative functional improvement do not appear to be present across demographics and SDOH, indicating equitable care is being delivered.

Incidence and Time Course of Symptomatic Thromboembolic Outcomes After Lower Extremity Arthroscopic Surgery, Ankle Fracture Surgery, and Achilles Tendon Repair.

The incidence and time course of acute venous thromboembolism (VTE) after ambulatory surgery for lower extremity orthopaedic conditions is not well-defined. The purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence, the time course, and risk factors associated with clinically diagnosed acute deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism within 3 months of surgery in patients undergoing specific operations for lower extremity injuries. Patients undergoing arthroscopic procedures of the knee, ankle fracture surgery, Achilles tendon repair, and ankle arthroscopy from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2010, were identified in the California Ambulatory Surgery database with linkage to hospital discharge data, emergency department data, and a death registry. Outcomes were acute VTE and death within 90 days. Time courses were compared using Kaplan-Meier analysis, and risk factors were analyzed using proportional hazard modeling. Analysis of data from 468,699 surgeries showed that the cumulative incidence of acute VTE was significantly higher after Achilles tendon repair (0.72%, P < 0.001) than ankle fracture surgery (0.33%), knee arthroscopy procedures (range, 0.29% to 0.41%), or ankle arthroscopy (0.24%). The time course of diagnosis of VTE was similar for all arthroscopic procedures (median postoperative day for diagnosis = 9 to 10; 80% by 22 to 36 days), whereas for Achilles tendon surgery, the time course was protracted (median postoperative day for diagnosis = 29 days; 80% by 51 days). Ninety-day mortality was low (<0.06%) after all procedures except ankle fracture (0.12%). Predictors of pulmonary embolism included age older than 60 years (HR, 3.1; 95% CI; 2.0 to 4.8, versus younger than 30 years), Achilles tendon repair (HR, 3.8; 95% CI; 2.8 to 5.3), and ankle fracture surgery (Hazard Ratio [HR], 2.1; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]; 1.5 to 2.8); Asian/Pacific Islander (HR, 0.3; 95% CI; 0.1 to 0.6) and Hispanic patients (HR, 0.5; 95% CI; 0.4 to 0.7) had significantly lower risk. The incidence and time course of onset of acute VTE after lower extremity orthopaedic surgeries varies significantly depending on the surgical procedure. These findings have implications regarding the use and duration of pharmacologic thromboprophylaxis.

A REVIEW OF 2021 AND 2022 AAOS GUIDELINES FOR MENISCAL ARTHROSCOPIC PROCEDURES IN OSTEOARTHRITIS

For many decades, arthroscopy was considered the least invasive of all existing surgical methods of treating patients with gonarthrosis, however, carried out at the beginning of the XXI century randomized clinical trials (RCTs) demonstrated the futility of isolated lavage and debridement for this category of patients. The purpose of this work is to show trends in the indications for debridement and partial meniscectomy in patients with osteoarthritis in the 2021–2022 AAOS guidelines. Methods. AAOS 2021, 2022 recommendations for the treatment of osteoarthritis (without arthroplasty). The strength of recommendations depends on the number and quality of studies that may or may not recommend surgery. The results. In 2021, the third edition of the AAOS clinical guidelines for the treatment of osteoarthritis was released, which was supported by four studies. They suggest that arthroscopic partial meniscectomy be used for the treatment of meniscal tears in patients with concomitant mild or moderate osteoarthritis in whom physical therapy or other nonsurgical treatments have been ineffective. The 2022 AAOS guidelines reviewed 216 osteoarthritis situations and indications for arthroscopic procedures. The developed criteria are aimed at covering the most common clinical scenarios faced by qualified specialists treating osteoarthritis of the knee joint. The final decision on any particular criterion must take into account all the circumstances presented by the patient, as well as the needs and resources specific to the area or institution. Conclusions. The 2021 AAOS guidelines do not recommend arthroscopy with lavage and/or debridement in patients with a primary diagnosisof knee osteoarthritis. According to AAOS 2022 recommendations, arthroscopic interventions are suitable for young people with arthrosis of the knee joint in one or 2–3 departments. Arthroscopy as a method of choice for the treatment of terminal gonarthrosis has exhausted itself: most studies prove the ineffectiveness of lavage, debridement, microfracturing of the subchondral bone, and partial meniscectory.

Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Surgery in Patients with Gluteal Muscle Contracture: Single-Institution Results from a High-Volume Cohort.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to assess clinical outcomes of arthroscopic surgery for gluteal muscle contracture (GMC) with at least 2 years of follow-up in a large sample. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 665 patients who underwent arthroscopic release procedure at our institution between March 2014 and December 2018 and met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. All the patients were operated on by the same surgeon and the surgeon released the contracture band from anterior to posterior starting from the anterior edge of the ITB, the contracture band of the gluteus maximus, and vastus medialis tensor. After exclusion, 544 patients (218 males and 326 females) were finally included. Clinical outcomes at 2 years of postoperative follow-up were evaluated by a combination of several methods, including a new criterion we proposed for postoperative assessment, which included the cross-leg test, difficulty in squatting with legs together, and abnormal gait, the visual analogue scale (VAS), the modified Harris hip score (mHHS), and the satisfaction of patients. RESULTS The average follow-up time was 48.2±14.9 months. Based on the new criteria, 513 (94.3%) patients were evaluated as good, 25 (4.6%) as fair, and 6 (1.1%) as poor. The mHHS increased from 72.1±6.0 (range, 56.0-81.3) to 97.3±2.2 (range, 92.3-100.0) (P<0.001). The VAS decreased from 3.3±1.1 (range, 0-5) to 0.062±0.13 (range, 0-1) (P<0.001). For subjective satisfaction, 526 (96.7%) patients were satisfied, 14 (2.6%) patients were neutral, and 4 (0.7%) patients were dissatisfied. CONCLUSIONS In a large sample, favorable and durable clinical outcomes were observed after the arthroscopic procedure. Clinical symptoms and mHHS showed significant improvement with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

Assessing the histomorphology, and microscopic composition of the triangular fibrocartilage complex [TFCC] of the wrist joint: A cadaveric observational study

TFCC, being a complicated structure, located on the ulnar side of the wrist is composed of multiple distinct anatomic entities which together play a critical role in wrist biomechanics. The anatomy of TFCC has not been extensively studied in the Indian population. To elucidate the microscopic anatomy and composition of the triangular fibrocartilage complex of the wrist joint using haematoxylin-eosin and Verhoff Van Gieson staining methods. Samples collected from 40 specimens (20 right and 20 left limbs) were placed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for fixation. Paraffin-embedded blocks were prepared and tissue sections were taken at 7-micron thickness. The slides were subjected to H&amp;E and VVG staining following standardized protocol. The morphological structure of the seven components of triangular fibrocartilage complexes was assessed. The articular disc consisted of densely packed interlaced fibrocartilage with sparse blood vessels. Radioulnar ligaments showed densely-packed-parallel or interlaced- collagen-bundles. A mixture of tight and loose parallel tissue was observed in the sub-sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle, the ulnar-triquetral (UTL), and the ulnar-lunate ligament (ULL). Irregular morphological composition and loose connective tissue predominated in the ulnar-carpal meniscus (UCM). Blood vessels were observed in the epi-fascicular/ fascicular areas of the UTL, interstitial region of ULL and UCM. The microscopic anatomy of TFCC was complex owing to the varied nature of its entities. An understanding of the distribution of connective tissue, blood vessels, and elastic fibres would be of immense help in planning arthroscopic procedures.

Is Arthroscopic Meniscectomy Associated With an Increased Risk of Total Knee Arthroplasty for Claimants in the Workers' Compensation System? A 10-Year Study of Workers' Compensation Claims From a Large Nationwide Workers' Compensation Insurance Carrier.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a commonly performed knee surgery and prior arthroscopic meniscectomy (AM) has been linked to an increased risk of TKA in the general population. To study the relationship between AM and TKA among injured workers whose medical care is paid for under workers' compensation (WC). A total of 17,247 lost-time claims depicting all arthroscopic knee surgical procedures performed from 2007 to 2017 were followed to the end of 2022 and analyzed. The odds ratio of undergoing a TKA for those with a preceding AM is 2.20, controlling for age, sex, and attorney involvement. Undergoing an AM is associated with an increased risk of TKA in WC claimants.

Wide-Awake Needle Arthroscopy of the Anterior Ankle: A Standardized Approach

Over the years, possibilities in ankle arthroscopy have evolved from diagnostic inspection to complex interventional procedures. Further innovation may come from needle arthroscopy, which has improved substantially in image quality in recent years and can now be used for interventional procedures as well. We here present a standardized approach to wide-awake needle arthroscopy of the anterior ankle under local anesthesia. As new needle arthroscopic procedures of the ankle arise, this approach serves to help ensure safe, uniform, and beneficial adoption of this emergent technique.

Comparative Analysis of Mini Open versus Arthroscopic Repair of Supraspinatus Tears

Background and Aim: Among all the rotator cuff tendon injuries, supraspinatus tear is very common and it is mostcommon in older individuals. Before the arthroscopy came into high demand, the open repair of supraspinatustear was the preferred method of surgery. Recently, the miniopen technique of repair has also gained popularitybecause of certain factors like better repair strength, requires less expertise and facilitates early active mobilization.Present stud was performed to compare functional and clinical outcomes of arthroscopic and mini-open repair.Material and Methods: The present analysis is the randomized control study done on the patients diagnosedwith rotator cuff tears and was planned with supraspinatus repair with the use of arthroscopic and mini opentechnique. As per the inclusion and exclusion criteria total of 128 patients were included in the study. The includedpatients were equally divided into two groups: 64 patients who underwent mini-open repair and 64 patientswho underwent arthroscopic repair. Follow up was done after 12 months postoperatively and the results wereevaluated using University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score.Results: For arthroscopic repair group, UCLA shoulder score were: 26 patients got excellent result, 30 patients gotgood result and only 8 patients got fair result. In the other group UCLA shoulder score were: 22 patients in whomexcellent results were obtained good results were obtained in 32 patients and in 10 patients we got fair results.Conclusion: The arthroscopic procedure decreased postoperative pain, faster regains normal ROM and quickerreturn to function and in turn early return to work compared to mini-open procedure. The arthroscopic procedurebetter in addressing intra-articular and other associated problems than mini-open technique.

Comparison of the effect of dexmedetomidine intrathecal injection and intravenous infusion on subarachnoid blockade during knee arthroscopy procedures: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundComparison of whether intrathecal dexmedetomidine prolongs spinal anesthesia-associated sensorimotor blockade more than intravenous infusion during knee arthroscopy procedures performed under subarachnoid blockade.MethodsNinety patients aged 18–75 years, ASA class I-II, who underwent knee arthroscopy between October 2022 and April 2023 were randomized into intrathecal、intravenous and control groups.Subjects received three modes of administration: an intrathecal group (2 ml of 1% ropivacaine + 1 ml of 5 μg dexmedetomidine, along with intravenous saline infusion), an intravenous group (intrathecal 2 ml of 1% ropivacaine + 1 ml of 0.9% saline, with dexmedetomidine pumped intravenously at a dose of 0.5 μg/kg/h), and a control group (intrathecal 2 ml of 1% ropivacaine + 1 ml of 0.9% saline, along with intravenous saline infusion). Total analgesic duration, duration of sensory and motor blockade, Ramsay sedation score, Visual Analogue Score (VAS) at different postoperative time points, and occurrence of adverse effects were recorded.ResultsThe total analgesia duration was significantly longer in the intrathecal group than in the intravenous and control groups (352.13 ± 51.70 min VS 273.47 ± 62.57 min VS 241.41 ± 59.22 min, P < 0.001).The onset of sensory block was shorter in the intrathecal group than in the intravenous and control groups (4 [3–4]min VS 5 [4–5]min VS 5 [4–5]min; P < 0.001);the onset of motor block was shorter in the intrathecal group than in the intravenous group and the control group (5 [4–5]min VS 5 [5–6]min VS 6[5.5–7]min; P < 0.001).Sedation scores were higher in the intravenous group than in the intrathecal and control groups (P < 0.001). At 5 h postoperatively, the VAS score in the intrathecal group was lower than that in the intravenous and control groups (P < 0.001). At 24 h postoperatively, the VAS score in the intrathecal group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.001). In addition, the incidence of bradycardia was significantly higher in the intravenous group than in the intrathecal and control groups (30%, 6.5%, and 3.4%, respectively; P = 0.018, P = 0.007).ConclusionsIntrathecal administration of dexmedetomidine did prolong the total analgesia duration, as well as accelerate the onset of sensory-motor blockade compared with intravenous infusion, and did not result in any hemodynamic instability or other adverse events at the doses studied.Trial registrationThis single-center, prospective, RCT has completed the registration of the Chinese Clinical Trial Center at 26/09/2023 with the registration number ChiCTR2300076170.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of carpal tunnel syndrome among orthopedic surgeons working in Riyadh, KSA

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and its associated risk factors among orthopedic surgeons working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among orthopedic surgeons working in multiple hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The data were collected from the participants through Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ). Results: This study enrolled 151 orthopedic surgeons. Around 39.1% were aged between 25 and 29 years old, with males being dominant (88.1%). And 39.7% were overweight (25 – 29.9 kg/m2). Most of them were right-handed (93.4%). The prevalence of surgeons who were diagnosed with CTS was 3.3%. Around 20.5% were consultant surgeons with 57.6% had 1 to 5 years of experience and 55.6% had 5 or less performed surgeries per week. The overall mean score of the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) domain was 13 (SD 4.12), with 62.3% considered as having no symptoms. Regarding the Functional Status Scale (FSS) domain, the total mean score was 8.38 (SD 1.49), with nearly all categorized as no difficulty (83.4%). It was observed that increasing SSS score was associated with increasing BMI level (Z=2.164; p=0.030) and performing arthroscopic procedures (Z=2.653; p=0.008), while a higher FSS score was more associated with conducting arthroscopic procedures (Z=1.438; p=0.021) Conclusion: The prevalence of mild to severe CTS symptoms among orthopedic surgeons was 37.7%. Increased severity was more prevalent among surgeons with elevated body mass index, while those regularly dealing with arthroscopic procedures had increased symptom severity and functional difficulties.

Significant improvements in clinical outcome measures and patient satisfaction after combined all-arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation and autologous chondrocyte implantation: A single-centre longitudinal study.

The optimal treatment approach for the complex pathology of meniscal insufficiency and coexisting full-thickness cartilage defects remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the viability, safety, and efficacy of this combined surgical approach at medium-term follow-up. This is a single-centre longitudinal study with blinded outcome assessment. All consecutive patients treated with combined all-arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) with bone bridge fixation and ACI using chondrospheres at our institution between 2001 and 2021 were eligible for inclusion. Twenty patients with an average follow-up of 72.6 ± 34.4 months were included in the statistical analysis. Clinical outcomes were assessed pre- and postoperatively using the IKDC Subjective Knee Form, Lysholm Score, Tegner Activity Scale, KOOS, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for patient satisfaction. Failure and reoperation rates were assessed, and cartilage regeneration tissue was evaluated on postoperative MRI. IKDC scores significantly improved from 52.1 ± 16.9 to 68.5 ± 16.3 (p = 0.003). Lysholm scores improved from 61.5 ± 21.7 to 78.5 ± 12.9 (p = 0.004). Tegner scores improved from 3.5 (1-4) to 4.0 (2-6) (p = 0.014). KOOS scores improved significantly across all subcategories, except 'symptoms', where improvements did not reach statistical significance. VAS for overall patient satisfaction showed improvements but did not reach statistical significance. The combined procedure was successful in 17 patients (85%). Eight patients had to undergo reoperation (40%), comprising mostly small, arthroscopic procedures. Seven reoperations were directly attributable to meniscal allograft transplantation (46.7%). Postoperative Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue scores were 68.9 ± 16.8 (n = 14). Combined arthroscopic MAT and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is a viable, safe, and effective treatment approach for younger patients with meniscal insufficiency and coexisting full-thickness cartilage damage, where alternative treatment options are limited. The combined surgical procedure achieved significant improvements in clinical outcome measures and patient satisfaction with acceptable failure and high arthroscopic reoperation rates. MAT is the limiting part of this combined procedure, with most failures and reoperations being attributable to MAT, as opposed to ACI. Level III.

Clinical outcomes and direct cost analysis of rotator cuff repair surgery.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes in patients who underwent surgical treatment for rotator cuff tears using open and arthroscopic techniques, and to evaluate the direct costs involved. Retrospective cohort study with analysis of the data of patients who were referred to two private hospitals in Sao Paulo, Brazil for surgical repair of the rotator cuff from January 2018 to September 2019. Clinical outcomes were assessed using functional scores (SPADI and QuickDASH) and a quality of life questionnaire (EuroQoL). Procedure costs were calculated relative to each hospital's costliest procedure. Data from 362 patients were analyzed. The mean patient age was 57 years (SD= 10.46), with a slight male predominance (53.9%). Arthroscopic procedures were more common than open procedures (95.6% versus 4.4%). Significant clinical improvement was reported in 84.8% of the patients. The factors associated with increased surgery costs were arthroscopic technique (increase of 29.2%), age (increase of 0.6% per year), and length of stay (increase of 18.9% per day of hospitalization). Rotator cuff repair surgery is a highly effective procedure, associated with favorable clinical outcomes and improvement in life quality, and low rates of complications. Arthroscopic surgery tends to be costlier than open surgery.