Articular Margin Research Articles

Anterior Cable Reconstruction Using the Proximal Biceps Tendon for Large Rotator Cuff Defects Limits Superior Migration and Subacromial Contact Without Inhibiting Range of Motion: A Biomechanical Analysis

To assess an anterior cable reconstruction (ACR) using autologous proximal biceps tendon for large to massive rotator cuff tears. Nine cadaveric shoulders (mean age, 58years) were tested with a custom testing system. Range of motion, superior translation of the humeral head, and subacromial contact pressure were measured at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of external rotation (ER) with 0°, 20°, and 40° of glenohumeral abduction. Five conditions were tested: intact, stage II tear (supraspinatus), stage II tear+ ACR, stage III tear (supraspinatus+ anterior half of infraspinatus), and stage III tear+ ACR. ACR involved a biceps tendon tenotomy at the transverse humeral ligament, preserving its labral attachment. ACR included nonpenetrating suture-loop fixation using 2 side-to-side sutures and an anchor at the articular margin to restore anatomy and secure the tendon along the anterior edge of the cuff defect. ACR was performed in 20° glenohumeral abduction and 60° ER. ACR for both stage II and stage III showed significantly higher total range of motion compared with intact at all angles (P ≤ .001). ACR significantly decreased superior translation for stage II tears at 0°, 30°, and 60° ER for both 0° and 20° abduction (P ≤ .01) and for stage III tears at 0° and 30° ER for both 0° and 20° abduction (P ≤ .004). ACR for stage III tear significantly reduced peak subacromial contact pressure at 30° and 60° ER with 0° and 40° abduction and at 30° ER with 20° abduction (P ≤ .041). ACR using autologous biceps tendon biomechanically normalized superior migration and subacromial contact pressure, without limiting range of motion. ACR may improve rotator cuff tendon repair longevity by providing basic static ligamentous support to the dynamic tendon while helping to limit superior migration without restricting glenohumeral kinematics.

Anterior Cable Reconstruction Using the Proximal Biceps Tendon for Large Rotator Cuff Defects Limits Superior Migration and Subacromial Contact Without Restricting Range of Motion

Objectives:Large rotator cuff defects involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons, either due to irreparability or after partial repair lack superior capsule support. Any remaining tendon is at risk for tear progression as the tendon must function as both a dynamic tendon and static ligamentous structure. Our purpose was to biomechanically assess an anterior cable reconstruction (ACR) using autologous biceps tendon. We hypothesized that ACR will normalize superior migration and subacromial contact, without limiting range of motion.Methods:Nine cadaveric shoulders were tested using a custom testing system. Glenohumeral kinematics and subacromial contact pressure were measured using a MicroScribe 3DLX and a Tekscan pressure sensor. Each specimen was tested in five conditions: Intact, Stage 2 tear (supraspinatus), Stage 2 tear + ACR, Stage 3 tear (supraspinatus + anterior half of infraspinatus), Stage 3 tear + ACR. ACR involved a biceps tendon tenotomy at the transverse humeral ligament preserving its labral attachment. ACR included “loop-around” suture fixation using two side-to-side sutures and an anchor at the articular margin in order to restore anatomy and secure the tendon along the anterior edge of the cuff defect. ACR was performed in glenohumeral 20° abduction and 60° external rotation. Specimens were tested at 0°, 20°, and 40° of glenohumeral abduction. Total rotational range of motion was measured with 2.2 Nm of torque under a physiologic muscle load. A superiorly unbalanced load was applied to measure superior translation and contact pressure. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used for statistical significance (P < 0.05).Results:The average specimen age was 58 years (range 33-77). Stage 2 and 3 tears showed increased total range of motion at all abduction angles (P < 0.007). ACR after both Stage 2 and 3 tears showed greater total range of motion at 20° abduction (P = 0.035 and P = 0.040) and 40° abduction (P = 0.003 and P < 0.001). The ACR conditions showed significantly higher total ranges of motion compared to Intact (P ≤ 0.007). Superior translation increased significantly from Intact for Stage 2 tears at 7/12 positions (P ≤ 0.014) and Stage 3 tears at all positions except 40° abduction, 90° external rotation (ER) (P < 0.001). At 0° abduction, ACR significantly decreased superior translation for Stage 2 tears at 0°, 30°, and 60° ER (P < 0.01) and Stage 3 tears at 0° and 30° ER (P < 0.001). At 20° abduction, ACR significantly reduced superior translation for Stage 2 tears at 0°, 30°, and 60° ER (P < 0.013) and Stage 3 tears at 0° and 30° ER (P < 0.004). At 40° abduction, ACR significantly decreased superior translation only for Stage 3 tears at 0° ER (P = 0.006). Peak contact pressure significantly increased with Stage 3 tears at 7/12 positions (P ≤ 0.023). ACR significantly reduced peak subacromial contact pressure for Stage 3 tears at: 0° abduction, 30° and 60° ER (P < 0.007); 20° abduction, 30° ER (P < 0.041); 40° abduction, 30° and 60° (peak only) ER (P < 0.024).Conclusion:ACR using autologous biceps tendon can biomechanically normalize superior migration and subacromial contact pressure, without limiting range of motion, similar to superior capsule reconstruction. ACR may improve rotator cuff tendon longevity by providing basic static ligamentous support while helping to maintain normal glenohumeral kinematics.

Clinical Significance of Lateral Ankle Radiograph after the Reduction of a Syndesmosis Injury

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: To introduce reliable and newly developed radiographic measures based on a lateral ankle radiograph to assess a syndesmotic reduction after screw fixation and to compare with the radiographic measures based on the anteroposterior (AP) and mortise radiographs. Methods: The postoperative ankle radiographs of 34 ankle fracture cases after screw fixation for concurrent syndesmosis injury were reviewed. Two radiographic parameters were measured on each AP and mortise radiograph; tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) and tibiofibular overlap (TFO). Five radiographic parameters were measured on the true lateral radiographs; the anteroposterior tibiofibular (APTF) ratio, anterior tibiofibular ratio (ATFR), posterior tibiofibular ratio (PTFR), distances of intersection of the anterior fibular border and the tibial plafond to anterior cortex of the tibia (AA’), and the intersection of posterior fibular border and tibial plafond to the tip of the posterior malleolus (BB’). In addition, the distance (XP) between the fibular posterior margin (X) crossing tibial plafond or the posterior malleolus and posterior articular margin (P) of the tibial plafond was measured on the lateral view. Results: Using TFCS and TFO in the AP and mortise radiographs, malreductions of syndesmosis were estimated in 17 of 34 cases (50.0%). Using the introduced and developed radiographic measures in the lateral radiographs, syndesmotic malreductions were estimated in 16 out of 34 cases (47.1%). Seventeen cases (50.0%) showed no evidence of postoperative diastasis using the radiographic criteria on the AP and mortise view, 10 cases (58.8%) of whom showed evidence of a malreduction on the lateral radiograph. The newly developed measurements, XP, were measured 0 in 11 out of 34 cases (32.4%). Conclusion: The reduction of syndemosis after screw fixation can be accurately assessed intraoperatively with a combination of several reliable radiographic measurements of lateral radiograph and traditional radiographic measurements of AP and mortise radiograph. Using various radiographic parameters selectively, malreduction could be prevented even when some parameters are difficult to measure because of implants or when posterior malleolar fracture is accompanied.

Effect of McGlamry Elevator Placement on the Plantar Plate Origin

Category: Lesser Toes Introduction/Purpose: Lesser metatarsal phalangeal (MTP) joint plantar plate tears have been implicated in a variety of lesser toe pathologies, and plantar plate repair (PPR) through a dorsal approach has become increasingly popular as a treatment of lesser toe deformities and lesser MTP instability. With the aid of a McGlamry elevator, releasing the collateral ligaments and micro-suture passing techniques, the plantar plate is repaired under direct visualization. While this approach is seen as a reliable alternative, the consequence of this technique on local MTP joint anatomy is not yet well understood. The purpose of this study is to describe the proximal plantar plate attachment and to quantify the amount of soft tissue disruption of the lesser toe MTP joint anatomy with insertion of a McGlamry elevator. Methods: Fresh frozen human cadaveric feet were dissected, and the proximal plantar plate attachment of the second, third, and fourth toe MTP joints (n=6) were examined, focusing on the relationship of structures connecting the distal metatarsal shaft and head to the plantar plate. The accessory collateral ligament insertions and proximal plantar plate attachments were measured using digital calipers. Next, the second, third, and fourth rays (n=12) of separate fresh frozen cadaveric specimens were isolated. An 11mm McGlamry elevator was then inserted in standard surgical fashion in both a more shallow (limited exposure) and deeper (greater exposure) position. Using mini C-arm fluoroscopy, radiographs were taken in both positions, and the depth of insertion along the metatarsal was measured. Results: The proximal plantar plate attachment to the metatarsal is most robust just proximal to the lateral articular margin and this attachment extends an average of 10.42mm (SD= 2.71mm) proximally along the metatarsal neck and shaft. In addition there are stout proximal plantar plate attachments at the bilateral insertion sites of the accessory collateral ligament (ACL) which are thick and broad with an average insertion length of 9.01mm (SD=1.35mm). Insertion of a McGlamry elevator resulted in stripping of the distal plantar soft tissues over an average of 21.58% of the total metatarsal length (SD=4.43%) for shallow placement and 34.87% (SD=4.40%) for deep placement with a significant difference of 7.96% between the two positions (p&lt;.00001). Conclusion: Current techniques of plantar plate repair through a dorsal approach require releasing collateral ligaments and proximal stripping of the plantar plate from the metatarsal for adequate visualization. We suggest that this significantly destabilizes the metatarsal from the plantar plate as it strips approximately the distal most one third of the metatarsal including all major proximal plantar plate attachments to the metatarsal. As surgical techniques continue to evolve and improve, surgeons should consider avoiding the placement of a McGlamry elevator as this can destabilize the proximal attachment of the plantar plate to the metatarsal.

Morphometric Measurements of the Calcaneus in Adults with Stage IIb, Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: The pathophysiology of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) is not fully explained by degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon alone. While a shortened or dysplastic lateral column has been implicated in flatfoot deformity in pediatric population, there is no study that has quantified the degree of shortening or dysplasia in adults with a stage IIb flatfoot deformity, or if any exists at all. The purpose of this study was to use reconstructive 3D modeling from computed tomography (CT) scans of the calcaneus in order to perform three-dimensional morphometric measurements of the lateral column in patients with stage IIb posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) compared to controls in an effort to better understand the morphology of patients with AAFD. Methods: After IRB approval, an institutional radiology database was queried for patients with PTTD who had CT performed between January 2011 and June 2016. Controls were patients receiving CT scan for an intraarticular distal tibia fracture without preexisting foot or calcaneal pathology. Clinical office notes, physical examination, and weight-bearing radiographs were used to identify patients that met clinical criteria for stage IIb PTTD. A 1:1 match was performed using age, laterality, gender, and BMI. Morphometric measurements of the calcanei were performed involving the length of the calcaneal axis (LCA), height of the anterior process (HAP), and length of the anterior process (LAP) (Figure 1). Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess the differences between control and PTTD patients with respect to LAP, HAP, and LCA measurements, with also considering measurements from 3 independent observers. We considered a difference of ± 4 mm as our threshold of clinical significance. Results: Of the 3586 CT within our institutional database, a total of 14 patients were available for reconstruction and analysis. There were no statistical differences detected between patient characteristics or demographics between these groups. On average, the long axis of the calcaneus (LCA) was 3.1 mm shorter (95% confidence interval: 0.43-5.76 mm) in patients with stage IIb PTTD compared to controls (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, the distance from the articular margin of the posterior facet to the anterior process (LAP) was shorter in PTTD patients compared to controls 3.35 mm (p&lt;0.001; 95% confidence interval: 1.82- 4.88). Comparison of observers demonstrated high agreement between LCA and LAP measurements, as illustrated by satisfactory concordance correlation coefficients. Conclusion: Our results support the hypothesis that the calcaneus of adult patients with stage IIb AAFD is, indeed, dysplastic when compared to healthy controls, which further supports the utility of LCL. Analysis of these results, taken together with previous literature, may suggest the use of a smaller graft between 4-6 mm as ideal when performing this procedure.

A Locked Intraosseous Nail for Transverse Patellar Fractures: A Biomechanical Comparison with Tension Band Wiring Through Cannulated Screws.

Displaced transverse patellar fractures require open reduction and internal fixation. State-of-the-art stabilization techniques are tension band wiring (TBW) using Kirschner wires or cannulated screws. These techniques are associated with high rates of secondary fracture displacement, implant migration, implant prominence, wound-healing disturbances, and the need for implant removal. Recently, a locked intraosseous patellar nail prototype was developed. The aim of the present study was to investigate the biomechanical performance of this nail compared with TBW using cannulated screws. Seven paired fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees were stripped of all soft tissues except the extensor apparatus. A transverse osteotomy was created to simulate an OTA/AO type 34-C1 transverse patellar fracture. The specimen pairs were randomly assigned to be fixed with TBW using cannulated screws or with the new intraosseous nail. Each specimen was cyclically tested for 5,000 cycles by pulling on the quadriceps tendon and simulating active knee extension and passive knee flexion within the range from 90° of flexion to full knee extension. Anterior and articular margin displacement of the fracture as well as interfragmentary rotation around the mediolateral axis were investigated with optical motion tracking after 100, 500, 1,000, 2,500, and 5,000 test cycles. Within the respective 5 testing-cycle time points evaluated, the articular margin displaced on average 68%, 60%, 72%, 76%, and 81% less after intraosseous nailing compared with TBW. Whereas the difference remained nonsignificant after 100 and 500 cycles (p ≥ 0.116), a trend toward significance was observed after 1,000 cycles (p = 0.063), which became significant after 2,500 and 5,000 cycles (p ≤ 0.043). From a biomechanical point of view, the locked intraosseous patellar nail may be an alternative to TBW using cannulated screws because of the higher interfragmentary stability provided at the articular fracture site. A locked patellar nail for transverse patellar fractures achieved a stable osteosynthetic construct that may reduce hardware-associated complications because of its intraosseous positioning.

The biomechanics of proximal humeral fractures: Injury mechanism and cortical morphology.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of arm position on proximal humerus fracture configuration and to determine whether cortical thinning would predispose to fracture propagation and more complex patterns of injury. A drop test rig was designed to simulate falls onto an outstretched arm ('parachute reflex'). Thirty-one cadaveric specimens underwent computer tomography scanning and cortical thicknesses mapping. Humeri were fractured according to one of the two injury mechanisms and filmed using a high-speed camera. Anatomical descriptions of the injuries were made. Areas of thinning were measured and correlated with zones of fracture propagation. Direct impact simulation resulted in undisplaced humeral head split fractures in 53% of cases, with the remainder involving disruption to the articular margin and valgus impaction. Alternatively, the 'parachute reflex' predominantly produced shield-type injuries (38%) and displaced greater tuberosity fractures (19%). A strong correlation was demonstrated between cortical thinning and the occurrence of fracture (odds ratio = 7.766, 95% confidence interval from 4.760 to 12.669, p<0.0001). This study has shown that arm position during a fall influences fracture configuration of the proximal humerus. Correlating fracture pattern and mechanism of injury will allow more appropriate fracture reduction techniques to be devised.

The posterior ridge of the greater tuberosity of the humerus: a suitable landmark for the posterior approach to the shoulder joint?

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the posterior ridge of the greater tuberosity, a palpable prominence during surgery, as a landmark for the posterior approach to the glenohumeral joint. Twenty-five human cadaveric shoulders were dissected. In 5 cases, a full-thickness rotator cuff tear was present. The posterior surgical anatomy was defined, and the distance from the ridge to the interval between the infraspinatus (IS) and teres minor (TM) muscle, the distance from the ridge to the inferior border of the glenoid (IBG), and the distance between the IS-TM interval and the IBG were determined. In all specimens, a prominent ridge on the posterior greater tuberosity lateral to the articular margin could be identified. The IS-TM interval was located, on average, 3 mm proximal to this ridge. The IS-TM interval corresponded to a point 5 mm proximal to the IBG. In all shoulders, the ridge was located, on average, 8 mm proximal to the IBG. The plane of the IS-TM interval showed a vertically oblique direction. The posterior ridge of the greater tuberosity is a suitable landmark to locate the internervous plane between the IS and TM and should not be crossed distally. Unlike other landmarks, the ridge moves with the humeral head, making it is less dependent on the patient's size, sex, and arm position and the quality of the rotator cuff. The ridge is always located proximal to the insertion of the TM and IBG.

Evaluating Periarticular Screw Margins for Locking Plate Osteosynthesis of Proximal Humerus Fractures

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine whether placing screws farther from the articular cortex could achieve comparable levels of purchase to the more deeply buried configurations currently recommended (between 5 and 8 mm from the articular surface), thus lowering the risk of screw cutout. Methods: Locking screws were inserted into synthetic composite models of osteoporotic bone at depths corresponding to 8, 11 and 14 mm from the articular surface of an anatomic reference model and subjected to mechanical testing. This protocol was then recapitulated in 24 paired cadaveric humeral specimens to assess the forces required to dislodge screws at depths of 8 and 14 mm from the articular surfaces. Results: The average pullout strengths of screws positioned 8, 11 and 14 mm from the articular surface in the synthetic bone composites were 145.64, 140.31 and 140.36 N respectively, demonstrating no significant difference. Pullout testing was performed with screw depths of 8 and 14 mm from the articular surfaces in 24 paired proximal humerus samples. The mean pullout strength of screws 8 and 14 mm from the articular surface were 23.92 and 21.79 N respectively (p=0.37). Conclusion: This study demonstrates no significant difference in locking screw purchase up to 14 mm of the articular margin. Increasing the periarticular distance of locking screws can help confer strength and stability to the implant, while simultaneously mitigating the risk of screw cutout. Clinical relevance: Biomechanical study comparing screw purchase of varying periarticular margins to decrease risk of screw cutout without sacrificing fixation.

Lateral Intercondylar Ridge: Is it a reliable landmark for femoral ACL insertion?: An anatomical study

BackgroundIncorrect femoral tunnel placement is the most common cause of graft failure during Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction. A reliable landmark can minimize errors. AimTo identify whether the Lateral Intercondylar Ridge (LIR) is a consistent anatomical structure and define its relationship with the femoral ACL insertion. Materials and methodsPhase 1: we studied 23 femoral dry bone specimens macroscopically. Using a digital microscribe, the medial surface of the lateral femoral condyle was reconstructed (3D) to evaluate whether there was an identifiable bony ridge.Phase 2: 7 cadaveric specimens with intact soft tissues were dissected to identify the femoral ACL insertion. A 3D reconstruction of the femoral ACL insertion and the surface allowed us to define the relationship between the LIR and the ACL insertion. ResultsAll specimens had a defined LIR on the medial surface of the lateral femoral condyle. The ridge was consistently located just anterior to the femoral ACL insertion. The ACL footprint was present in the depression between the ridge and the Inferior Articular Cartilage Margin (IACM). The mean distance from the midpoint of the IACM to the LIR was 10.1 mm. ConclusionsThis is the first study to use the microscribe to digitally reconstruct the medial surface of the lateral femoral condyle. It shows that the LIR is a consistent anatomical structure that defines the anterior margin of the femoral ACL insertion, which guides femoral tunnel placement. Our findings support the ruler technique, which is a commonly used method for anatomic single bundle ACL reconstruction.

Transrectal ultrasonographic examination of the sacroiliac joints of the horse: Abnormal findings and lesions

SummaryTransrectal ultrasonography is a useful technique for the assessment of sacroiliac osteoarthrosis because of the ventral localisation of lesions. Comparison between the right and left side is essential. Due to the deep localisation of the sacroiliac joints, other imaging modalities have limitations for diagnosing osteoarthrosis. A grading system from 1 to 4 is suggested in order to classify the severity of lesions based on the shape of the articular margins and architecture of the ventral sacroiliac ligament. Abnormal ultrasonographic findings should be correlated with clinical manifestations.

Transrectal ultrasonographic examination of the sacroiliac joints of the horse: Technique and normal images

SummaryTransrectal ultrasonography of the sacroiliac joints is routinely performed for the diagnosis of the cause of low back pain and lack of power in the hindlimbs. As a result of the localisation of these small joints, performing and interpreting ultrasonographic images requires a good anatomical knowledge. This paper describes an ultrasonographic procedure that allows imaging of the ventral aspect of the sacroiliac joints. A complete screening should be done to evaluate the articular margins. Moreover, the shape of sacral and iliac wings can vary among individuals especially depending on the gender.

Short frontal plane fractures involving the dorsoproximal articular surface of the proximal phalanx: Description of the injury and a technique for repair.

Chip fractures of the dorsoproximal articular margin of the proximal phalanx are common injuries in racehorses. Large fractures can extend distal to the joint capsule insertion and have been described as dorsal frontal fractures. To report the location and morphology of short frontal plane fractures involving the dorsoproximal articular surface of the proximal phalanx and describe a technique for repair under arthroscopic and radiographic guidance. Single centre retrospective case study. Case records of horses with frontal plane fractures restricted to the dorsoproximal epiphysis and metaphysis of the proximal phalanx referred to Newmarket Equine Hospital were retrieved, images reviewed and lesion morphology described. A technique for repair and the results obtained are reported. A total of 22 fractures in 21 horses commencing at the proximal articular surface exited the dorsal cortex of the proximal phalanx distal to the metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal joint capsule in 17 hind- and five forelimbs. All were in Thoroughbred racehorses. In 16 cases these were acute racing or training injuries; 20 fractures were medial, one lateral and one was midline. All were repaired with a single lag screw using arthroscopic and radiographically determined landmarks. A total of 16 horses raced after surgery with performance data similar to their preinjury levels. The study demonstrates substantial morphological similarities between individual lesions supporting a common pathophysiology, but does not identify precise causation. There are no cases managed differently that might permit assessment of the comparative efficacy of the treatment described. Short frontal plane fractures involving the dorsoproximal margin of the proximal phalanx that exit the bone distal to the metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal joint capsule have substantial morphological similarities, are amenable to minimally invasive repair and carry a good prognosis for return to training and racing.

'On-track' and 'off-track' shoulder lesions.

Shoulder stability depends on the position of the arm as well as activities of the muscles around the shoulder. The capsulo-ligamentous structures are the main stabilisers with the arm at the end-range of movement, whereas negative intra-articular pressure and concavity-compression effect are the main stabilisers with the arm in the mid-range of movement.There are two types of glenoid bone loss: fragment type and erosion type. A bone loss of the humeral head, known as a Hill-Sachs lesion (HSL), is a compression fracture of the humeral head caused by the anterior rim of the glenoid when the humeral head is dislocated anteriorly in front of the glenoid. Four out of five patients with anterior instability have both Hill-Sachs and glenoid bone lesions, which is called a ‘bipolar lesion’.With the arm moving along the posterior end-range of movement, or with the arm in various degrees of abduction, maximum external rotation and maximum horizontal extension, the glenoid moves along the posterior articular margin of the humeral head. This contact zone of the glenoid with the humeral head is called the ‘glenoid track’.A HSL, which stays on the glenoid track (on-track lesion), cannot engage with the glenoid and cannot cause dislocation. On the other hand, a HSL, which is out of the glenoid track (off-track lesion), has a risk of engagement and dislocation. Clinical validation studies show that the ‘on-track/off-track’ concept is able to predict reliably the risk of a HSL being engaged with the glenoid. For off-track lesions, either remplissage or Latarjet procedure is indicated, depending upon the glenoid defect size and the risk of recurrence.Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:343-351.

Fracture line morphology of complex proximal humeral fractures

The aim of this study was to assess proximal humeral fracture patterns using 3-dimensional computed tomography images and relate them to the normal osseous landmarks and soft-tissue attachments. Forty-eight 3-dimensional computed tomography scans of proximal humeral fractures were retrospectively collected, and the fractures were transcribed onto proximal humeral templates. We analyzed the common location and orientation of the fracture lines, with a focus on fractures of the articular surface, tuberosities, metaphysis, and proximal diaphysis. These fractures were compared with the attachments of the rotator cuff and glenohumeral capsule. Fifty-two percent of the fractures involved the articular surface. No fractures passed through the bicipital groove, and fractures were more commonly found on the posterior lesser tuberosity and on the anterior greater tuberosity, coinciding with the intervals between the rotator cuff tendon insertions. Intracapsular fractures of the calcar were more common (68%) than extracapsular fractures (32%). On the anterolateral aspect of the proximal humerus, fractures radiated from the articular margin, vertically down through the tuberosity zone between the rotator cuff footprints, meeting horizontally oriented fractures in the metaphyseal zone. On the posterior aspect, vertical fractures from the tuberosity zone continued downward to the metaphyseal zone adjacent to the infraspinatus and teres minor footprints. Fractures of the proximal humerus follow characteristic patterns. Fractures frequently split the greater tuberosity and are closely related to the intervals of the rotator cuff attachments.

Arthroscopic Excision of Osteoid Osteoma of the Elbow

Osteoid osteoma has been reported infrequently around the elbow joint, and is usually treated with radiofrequency ablation or open excision. Elbow arthroscopy is useful for excision of accessible lesions, and the accompanying elbow stiffness can be treated concurrently. This report describes an arthroscopic excision of an osteoid osteoma located in the juxta-articular distal humeral bone. An initial adhesiolysis and capsulectomy is performed to gain access to the region above the capitellar articular margin. A 70° arthroscope is necessary to visualize this region via the anteromedial portal. An accessory lateral portal is used to detach the capsule from the distal humerus; the scar tissue overlying the lesion is debrided and the circumferential lesion is visualized and probed for identification of its extent. A biopsy is performed, and thereafter the lesion is excised piecemeal. The sclerotic margins are curetted, and radiofrequency ablation is performed. The technique is cosmetic and minimally invasive, and can be performed in revision scenarios involving recurrences after open surgery or needle radiofrequency thermal ablation. Early rehabilitation restores range of motion and strength. Technical tips for identification and curettage of the lesion are presented.

Radiological assessment of ankle syndesmotic reduction

IntroductionThe intraoperative assessment of adequacy of syndesmotic reduction is challenging. The aim of this study was to develop a radiographic measure based on the lateral ankle view to assess both the normal and abnormal relationship between the tibia and fibula after simulated syndesmotic malreduction and to evaluate the effect on commonly used mortise measurements. MethodsMortise and talar dome lateral radiographs were obtained in eight fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens before and following syndesmosis division and posterior fibular displacement of 2mm increments. Using the technique described, on the lateral radiograph the anterior fibular line ratio (AFL ratio) and posterior fibular line distance (PFL distance) were measured. Both measures were based on the anterior and posterior distal tibia articular margins and flat borders of the fibula. ResultsInter- and intraobserver reliability of the AFL ratio and PFL distance measured almost perfect agreement. In all uninjured specimens the AFL lay just anterior to the midpoint of the tibia and the PFL intersected the posterior tibia articular margin or lay just anterior to it, not posterior. At 2, 4 and 6mm of posterior fibular displacement the decrease in AFL ratio and PFL distance showed significant differences between all pairwise comparisons. ConclusionThe proposed new measures of syndesmotic reduction are reproducible and capable of detecting from 2mm of sagittal fibula displacement and can be useful adjuncts in the assessment of syndesmotic reduction.

Observations of the Acetabulum and Proximal Femur of the Dire Wolf (Canis dirus, Leidy 1854)

individuals, including 23 ace- tabula and 23 proximal femora. The specimens are curated at the Page Museum, Rancho La Brea, CA USA. We selected specimens for the appearance of subtle pathology because our observation plan was lim- ited to establishing whether features of coxofemoral degenerative joint disease (DJD) would be observed on the acetabular fossa, medial articular margin, articular bone surface, lateral articular margin, and peri-articular structure. Similarly, evaluation of femora included articular surface and margin, peri-articular structure, and joint capsule attachment.

Evaluation of the functional results after rotator cuff arthroscopic repair with the suture bridge technique

ObjectiveTo evaluate the results of arthroscopic treatment of large and extensive rotator cuff injuries (RCI) that involved the supra and infraspinatus muscles using the suture bridge (SB) technique. MethodsBetween July 2010 and November 2014, 37 patients with RCI who were treated with SB technique were evaluated. The study included all patients with a minimum follow-up of 12 months who underwent primary surgery of the shoulder. Twenty-four patients were male and 13 were female. The mean age was 60 years (45–75). The dominant side was affected in 32 cases. The most common cause of injury was trauma (18 cases). The mean preoperative motion was 123°, 58°, T11. Through magnetic resonance imaging, 36 fatty degenerations were classified according to Goutallier. Patients underwent rotator cuff repair with SB technique, which consists of using a medial row anchor with two Corkscrew® fibertape® or fiberwire® at the articular margin, associated with lateral fixation without stitch using PushLocks® or SwiveLocks®. ResultsThe mean age was 60 years and mean fatty degeneration was 2.6. The mean range of motion (following the AAOS) in the postoperative evaluation was 148° of forward elevation, 55° in lateral rotation and medial rotation in T9. Using the criteria of the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), 35 (94%) patients had excellent and good results; one (2.7%), fair; and one (2.7%), poor. ConclusionArthroscopic repair of a large and extensive RCI using SB technique had good and excellent results in 94% of the patients.

"Missing head sign".

A 56 years old male, farmer by occupation, presented with an altered gait. Five years back he had pain in right hip associated with fever and loss of body weight. On investigation, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate was raised (70 mm in first hour), X-ray revelaed dimunition of joint space and erosion of articular margins (A). On further investigation he was found to be mantoux test positive. Based on the clinicoradiological finding, he was started on Antitubercular Therapy (ATT). He was well counselled regarding the duration of treatment and the need of regular intake of drugs as prescribed from a nearby Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS) centre. After starting ATT, the fever subsided. The pain gradually settled. However, still he was having painless limp. He took ATT for 18 months as per our protocol. Two years later he followed up. X-ray revealed loss of major part of femoral head (B). The treatment options were discussed with the patient. As he was not having any problem in doing his activities of daily living, he did not opt for any surgical intervention rather went with a shoe raise option. A year further when he followed up, the X-rays revealed near complete loss of femoral head (C). At latest follow up, his x-rays showed that the femoral head was completely missing (D). We have given an acronym to this unusual presentation as a “Missing Head Sign”. As the patient was still managing his activities of daily living despite the limp, we have just kept him in regular follow up.