Clinical Outcome Scores Research Articles

Percutaneous subtalar joint screw fixation of comminuted calcaneal fractures: a salvage procedure.

Malunited comminuted calcaneal fractures result in poor function due subtalar joint arthritis and altered biomechanics. We aimed to assess whether percutaneous subtalar joint screws after fracture reduction provide good outcomes for these difficult injuries. We retrospectively analysed 15 comminuted calcaneal fractures (in 14 patients) treated with percutaneous subtalar screw fixation. All patients had a minimum of 12months' follow-up. Six patients had open injuries. On the preoperative and the latest postoperative radiograph, Bohlers angle, Gissane angle, calcaneal inclination, width and length, absolute foot height, and posterior facet height were measured. Preoperative computed tomography scans were used to classify the fractures by Sanders classification. Clinical outcome scores were recorded postoperatively. Mean age was 34.2 ± 14.2years. Minimum follow-up was 12months (mean 17.2 ± 4.4months). Nine patients had a Sanders 4, 3 had a Sanders 3AB, 2 had a Sanders 3BC, and 1 had a Sanders 3AC fracture. Eighty percent of patients had their angle of Gissane, absolute foot height, calcaneal length and inclination restored by this technique. Bohlers angle was restored back into the normal range in 54% of patients. Mean postoperative AOFAS score was 74 ± 11. AOFAS scores positively correlated with postoperative Bohlers angle (Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.85; p = 0.004). One patient (7%) had a wound breakdown postoperatively and three patients (20%) had heel pain from the screws, which improved after removal. Percutaneous subtalar screws offer a reliable option to restore calcaneal anatomy in comminuted calcaneal fractures, with low complication rates. Over 80% of patients had their angle of Gissane, calcaneal length and inclination restored, and over 50% of patients had all radiological parameters restored by this technique. It offers the benefits of percutaneous reduction and fixation and this procedure may be considered an effective first stage prior to definitive subtalar fusion. Further work is needed to review the longer-term outcomes and the conversion rate to arthrodesis. IV (case series), Therapeutic.

Health-related quality of life in patients with Achilles tendinopathy: Comparison to the general population of the United Kingdom

BackgroundThere is little evidence available regarding the impact of Achilles Tendinopathy (AT) on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The primary aim of this study was to quantify the clinical and health-related quality-of-life patient-reported outcome measures for a population presenting with either mid-substance or insertional Achilles tendinopathy. MethodsA prospective comparative observational study of consecutive patients with AT presenting for extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) at a large teaching hospital. The primary outcome was assessment of a validated health-related quality of life PROMs (Euroqol EQ-5D-5L) and comparison to 2 general UK population datasets. The secondary outcomes were Visual Analogue Pain Scale (VAS-Pain) and two validated foot-specific patient reported outcome measures (Foot Function Index (FFI) and Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A)). ResultsBetween March 2014 and June 2021, 320 consecutive patients (125 male; 195 female) were diagnosed with AT and referred for a first course of ESWT. EQ-5D-5L PROMs were prospectively collected for 303 of these patients (94.7%). The mean age (± standard deviation(SD)) was 52.1 ± 11.4 years. The mean EQ-5D-5L Index score (mean±SD) for the AT cohort was 0.783 ± 0.131. Patients less than 55 years with AT had a statistically significantly worse quality of life compared with members of the same age group in the general population. The mean VAS-Pain, FFI, VISA-A clinical outcome scores were 6.0 ± 2.3, 49.5 ± 21.2 and 34.1 ± 14.4 respectively. There was a statistically significant moderate correlation between HRQOL and clinical PROMs (VAS-Pain and FFI vs EQ-5D) however there was no correlation with age. ConclusionThis study demonstrates that patients under the age of 55 with AT have a significantly reduced quality of life compared with the general population. Level of evidenceIII

The effects of smoking on clinical and structural outcomes after rotator cuff repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Several factors have been reported to adversely affect clinical and structural outcomes after rotator cuff repair (RCR). However, the effects of smoking on rotator cuff healing and clinical outcomes remain controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and structural outcomes after RCR between smokers and nonsmokers. We hypothesized that there would be no significant difference in the clinical scores after RCR and that smoking would be associated with a significantly increased risk of retear and reoperation. This systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. We included only articles in which patients underwent arthroscopic and open RCR, the clinical outcome scores were reported for smokers and nonsmokers, and the number of rotator cuff retears and reoperations were reported. Data relevant to this study were extracted and statistically analyzed. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to assess the risk of bias in each study and calculated the I2 value to quantify the effect of heterogeneity. Fourteen eligible articles were identified, with 73,817 participants (8553 smokers and 65,264 nonsmokers). The meta-analysis demonstrated that there were no significant differences in the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (P = .10), Simple Shoulder Test score (P = .19), University of California-Los Angeles score (P = .09), or visual analog scale score (P = .19) between smokers and nonsmokers after surgery, but the Constant score was significantly lower (P = .005) for smokers. Smoking was significantly associated with an increased risk of retear (P = .002; risk ratio, 2.06 [95% confidence interval, 1.30-3.28]; I2 = 31%) and reoperation (P < .001; risk ratio, 1.29 [95% confidence interval, 1.20-1.40]; I2 = 36%) in patients after RCR. Besides the Constant score, which was lower in smokers, there were no significant differences in the clinical scores after RCR between smokers and nonsmokers. However, smoking was associated with a significantly increased risk of retear and reoperation.

Comparison of Locking Plate Fixation and Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction for Neer Type 2B Distal Clavicle Fractures.

Background:There remains no consensus regarding which repair technique provides the most optimal results for unstable distal clavicle fractures.Purpose:To compare radiologic and clinical outcomes between locking plate fixation and anatomic coracoclavicular (CC) ligament reconstruction for patients with unstable distal clavicle fractures.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:The study included 41 patients with Neer type 2B distal clavicle fracture. In group A (n = 15), patients were treated using CC ligament reconstruction with autologous palmaris longus tendon, artificial tape, and Steinmann pin fixation; in group B (n = 26), patients were treated using anatomic locking plate fixation. All patients had a minimum 2 years of follow-up. CC distance and arthrosis of the acromioclavicular joint were assessed radiographically. Clinical outcomes—including range of motion, visual analog scale for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons rating scale, and Constant score—were compared between the groups using the paired Student t test and Fisher exact test.Results:Bone union was attained in all patients. In both groups, the CC distance decreased significantly from presurgery to final follow-up: group A, from 16.25 ± 4.75 to 7.66 ± 2.61 mm (P < .001); group B, from 17.3 ± 4.07 to 9.33 ± 2.01 mm (P < .001). The final CC distance was significantly greater in group B (7.66 vs 9.33 mm in groups A and B, respectively; P = .028). Osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint occurred in 13 of 41 patients (3 in group A and 10 in group B). At final follow-up, there was no statistical significance between the groups in range of motion, and clinical outcome scores were satisfactory in both groups, with no statistical difference between them.Conclusion:Anatomic locking plate and anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligament showed good clinical results, so both techniques can be considered reliable for restoring stability. However, CC ligament reconstruction had better CC distance on radiologic assessment and did not require removal surgery, so it may be the preferable surgical option to treat unstable distal clavicle fractures (Neer type 2B).

Effectiveness of Nonoperative Management of Hip Microinstability

Background: Hip microinstability has recently gained acceptance as a cause of hip pain. In this condition, the femoral head demonstrates increased motion relative to the acetabulum, which may lead to chondrolabral damage. Even though patients are initially prescribed a trial of nonoperative treatment, the success rates of rehabilitation are unknown. Purpose: To determine the success rate of nonoperative treatment of hip microinstability. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: After institutional review board approval was obtained, a retrospective chart review was performed on patients at a university sports medicine practice between January 2013 and July 2016. All patients older than 18 years presenting with hip microinstability who were initially recommended for treatment with physical therapy were enrolled in this study. Formal physical therapy sessions focused on strengthening the hip and core muscles. These sessions took place twice a week for a minimum of 6 weeks in conjunction with a home exercise program. The number of patients who eventually underwent surgical treatment and the clinical scores for the cohort (modified Harris Hip Score [mHHS] and 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool) were recorded. Results: A total of 64 patients (63 female, 1 male), with a mean ± SD age of 32.2 ± 10.5 years, were identified and studied. Onset of symptoms was insidious (n = 45; 70.3%), acute atraumatic (n = 12; 18.8%), and traumatic (n = 7; 10.9%). A total of 9 (14.1%) patients were high-level athletes. After a follow-up of 45.7 ± 14.6 months, 14 (29.8%) patients eventually underwent hip arthroscopy for persistent hip pain. Capsular plication was performed in all surgical cases. High-level athletes were not more likely to need surgery (50% vs 26.8%; P = .34). The mHHS was available in 24 patients who were treated nonoperatively, and it improved from 67.4 to 85.0 (P < .01). Conclusion: More than two-thirds of patients treated for hip microinstability were able to avoid surgery; they were successfully treated nonoperatively with physical therapy and a home exercise program and demonstrated improved clinical outcome scores.

Low healing rates and moderate functional outcome after arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction using a porcine xenograft.

In the absence of arthropathy, symptomatic massive irreparable rotator cuff tears contribute to a therapeutic challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The concept of superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) was introduced as an option for these challenging cases. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the clinical outcome scores when using a decellularized porcine xenograft and to evaluate the graft healing and incorporation. A multicentric retrospective study of consecutive SCR's performed between 2016 and 2019 by four surgeons in four centers. Preoperative and postoperative Constant score, Subjective shoulder value (SSV) and Visual analog scale for pain (VAS) were recorded. Graft healing was evaluated by ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A total of 28 shoulders were retrospectively analyzed with an average follow-up of 24 ± 9months. One infection and four revisions (14%) to reversed shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) were reported at the final follow-up. The absolute Constant score showed a moderate, but significant improvement from 40 ± 12 to 57 ± 20 (P = 0.001). A significant improvement in pain scores was observed (P < 0.001). For patients undergoing SCR as a primary surgery, an average postoperative Constant score of 62 ± 16 was observed. This was in contrast to 43 ± 22 for patients who underwent SCR after failed rotator cuff repair. Although a strong trend in absolute differences was observed in regard to the Constant score, they did not reach statistical significance. For all other recorded outcome scores, a significant difference was reported between these groups. Graft healing was observed in (7/22) 30% of the patients. In the case of graft incorporation, an absolute constant score of 70 ± 9 was observed compared to 48 ± 21 in the graft failure group (P = 0.003). All cases with graft healing were considered to have a successful clinical outcome. This compared to only (7/15) 47% in the case of graft failure. In these series, SCR with a dermal xenograft successfully alleviated pain, but provided only a moderate improvement in functional outcome. In the case of graft healing, satisfactory clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction were observed. The present study indicates the benefit of performing SCR as a primary surgery, yet warns against using SCR as a salvage option for failed rotator cuff repair. In this group, the use of dermal xenografts is limited by the low healing rates and high complication rate. IV. Retrospective case series, treatment study.

Bilateral and concomitant pathology’ surgeries do not affect the outcomes of mini-open distal linear metatarsal osteotomy (Bosch osteotomy) with manipulation for hallux valgus deformity

BackgroundBosch osteotomy for hallux valgus (HV) deformity has advantages of reduction both the operating time and surgical dissection, and may be performed bilaterally and with fewer complications than other surgical procedures as well as early weight-bearing. However, there are few reports on the effects of bilateral simultaneous surgery, simultaneous surgery on concomitant pathologies, and the preoperative HV angle on the postoperative results. The present assessed the factors that might affect the improvement in clinical outcomes following mini-open Bosch osteotomy with manipulation to treat HV deformity. MethodsSeventy patients with 110 feet were included. They were divided into groups as follows: unilateral and bilateral simultaneous surgery groups, Bosch osteotomy alone and simultaneous surgeries for concomitant pathologies groups, and preoperative HV angle< 40° and ≥ 40° groups. Subjective clinical outcome scores using the Self-Administered Foot Evaluation Questionnaire (SAFE-Q) and the HV and intermetatarsal first and second metatarsal (M1M2) angles according to the anteroposterior (A-P) view of the weighted foot X-ray were assessed preoperatively and at 12 months after surgery. ResultsThe mean HV angle, M1M2 angle and all subscales of the SAFE-Q score showed significant improvement at 12 months after surgery, regardless of simultaneous bilateral surgery, simultaneous surgery for concomitant pathologies, or the preoperative HV angle. On comparing the groups, there were no significant differences in the HV angle at 12 months after surgery. Significant inferiority at 12 months after surgery was found in the intermetatarsal angle in the simultaneous surgery for concomitant pathologies group and in all subscales of the SAFE-Q score in the HV angle ≥ 40° group. ConclusionMini-open Bosch osteotomy with manipulation for HV deformity demonstrated good results in both radiological assessments and subjective clinical scores at 12 months after surgery, even for simultaneous bilateral surgery, simultaneous concomitant pathologies’ surgery, and severe HV deformity. Level of EvidencePrognostic Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Vancomycin-soaked femoral head allograft in opening wedge high tibia osteotomy enables earlier postoperative recovery and reduces infection rates compared to allogenic bone chips.

To investigate the benefits of vancomycin-soaked femoral head allograft versus allogenic bone chips as an osteotomy gap filler in reducing infection rates and perioperative pain control after medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOW-HTO). Retrospective analysis of 114 knees that underwent MOW-HTO between 2013 and 2020. Osteotomy gaps were filled with vancomycin-soaked femoral head allograft (Study Group) or allogenic bone chips (Control Group). Both groups received systemic antibiotics. Perioperative parameters studied included pain, blood loss, length of stay, postoperative day (POD1) pain scores at rest, with activity as well as ambulatory distance. Patients in the Study Group were also followed up prospectively and clinical outcome scores, namely Knee Society Score, Oxford knee score (OKS) and Physical and Mental Component of the Short-Form 36 Questionnaire (PCS and MCS, respectively). Statistical analyses using Student's T-test were performed between the groups. Patients of the study group had significantly better POD1 visual analogue scale (VAS) at rest (0.9 ± 1.6 vs 2.9 ± 1.2, p < 0.001) as well as when active (3.0 ± 1.9 vs 5.8 ± 1.5, p < 0.001). A greater proportion of patients in the study group ambulated on POD 1, (90.6% vs 26.0%, p < 0.001). Of those who ambulated on POD1, study group patients managed to cover a greater ambulatory distance (13.9 ± 7.4m vs 8.4 ± 9.3m, p < 0.05). The proportion of study group patients requiring patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) was also significantly less compared to the control group (32.8% vs 58.0%, p < 0.05). Of those requiring PCA, the amount of morphine requirement was also significantly reduced in the group with vancomycin-soaked allograft (8.7 ± 8.1mg vs 23.9 ± 33.0mg, p < 0.05). The study group also had a reduced length of stay (3.5 ± 2.0days vs 5.5 ± 2.6days, p < 0.001). Patients in the study group demonstrated significant improvement in Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS), OKS, PCS and MCS at 12months postoperatively. The study group had a significantly reduced incidence of superficial wound infections compared to the control group (3.1% vs 18.0%, p < 0.05). Vancomycin-soaked femoral head allograft reduced superficial and deep wound infections in MOW-HTO. It was also effective in reducing postoperative pain, thereby enabling early ambulation and shorter hospital stays. Retrospective comparative study, III.

Long-term outcomes of open modified inferior capsular shift for traumatic anterior shoulder instability: over 20 years of follow-up.

This study aimed to assess the long-term outcomes of the open modified inferior capsular shift procedure across more than 20 years in patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability. Participants in this study comprised 84 patients (86 shoulders; 67 men, 17 women). Mean follow-up was 28.0 years. We compared the recurrent instability rate after surgery, apprehension, revision rate, satisfaction, return to preinjury sporting activity, and patient background characteristics between recurrent and nonrecurrent groups. Twenty-seven patients who were examined directly were evaluated for differences in range of motion and muscle strength between affected and nonaffected sides. Clinical outcome scores used for this study were the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index and the Rowe score. Nine shoulders (10.5%) showed recurrent instability, as dislocation in 3 shoulders and subluxation in 6 shoulders, but no revisions were required. All patients with recurrent instability were males with new trauma. Three shoulders developed recurrent instability ≤5 years after surgery, and the remaining 6 shoulders showed recurrent instability >5 years after surgery. No significant differences in any patient characteristic were identified between the recurrent and nonrecurrent groups. Significant differences between affected and nonaffected sides were seen in the mean active range of motion or muscle strength for external rotation in the anatomic position or in 90° of abduction. Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index and Rowe score were significantly worse in the recurrent group than in the nonrecurrent group. Patients reported that 84 shoulders (97.7%) were "much better." Most athletes (88.4%) had returned to sports activity at a level >70%. We investigated long-term outcomes of the open modified inferior capsular shift procedure for traumatic anterior shoulder instability. Our data suggest that recurrent instability might result from new trauma even if a long time has passed since the open modified inferior capsular shift procedure, so follow-up should be continued as long as possible after surgery. As in other reports, satisfaction was high and clinical scores were good. We thus believe this surgical method offers good results even after more than 20 years.

Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Humeral Avulsion Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in the Setting of Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Retrospective Comparative Study

Background: Humeral avulsion glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are often underreported but have been shown to occur in up to 10% of cases of anterior shoulder instability. Purpose: To compare clinical outcomes and recurrence rates of patients with HAGL lesions undergoing open stabilization for anterior shoulder instability versus a pair-matched control. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients who underwent both arthroscopic and open stabilization procedures with a minimum 24-month follow-up was performed. Patients with HAGL lesions were pair-matched in a 1:6 ratio for age, sex, sport, level of preoperative play, and follow-up length with those without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone. Return to play (RTP), the level of return, and the timing of return were assessed. In addition, recurrence, visual analog scale for pain (VAS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Rowe score, satisfaction, and whether they would undergo the same surgery again were compared. Results: A total of 15 patients with HAGL lesions who underwent shoulder stabilization procedures were included, with a mean age of 21.5 ± 4.1 years and mean follow-up of 53.5 ± 17.4 months, and were pair-matched to 90 patients without HAGL lesions. Overall, there was no significant difference in any of the clinical outcome scores (VAS, Rowe, SSV, satisfaction) used between the 2 groups (1.6 vs 1.7, P = .86; 83.4 vs 88.0, P = .06; 85.7 vs 87.2, P = .76; and 86.7% vs 94.5%, P = .26, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences in terms of overall rates, levels, and timing of RTP between the 2 groups (93.3% vs 90.0%, P > .99; 80.0% vs 78.9%, P > .99; and 5.3 ± 2.2 vs 5.9 ± 2.9 months, P = .45, respectively). There was no significant difference in the rates of apprehension, subluxation, and recurrent instability between the HAGL and pair-matched control groups (26.7% vs 26.7%, P > .99; 6.7% vs 3.3%, P = .47; and 13.3% vs 6.7% months, P = .32, respectively). Conclusion: Patients with anterior shoulder instability undergoing surgical stabilization with open HAGL repair demonstrate excellent functional outcomes and high rates of RTP, with low rates of recurrence in the medium term compared with a control group without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone.

Minimum 5-Year Outcomes of a Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized Control Trial Assessing Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Patient-Specific Instrumentation in Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundPatient-specific instrumentation (PSI) was developed to produce more accurate alignment of components and consequently improve clinical outcomes when used in total knee arthroplasty. We compare radiological accuracy and clinical outcomes at a minimum of 5-year follow-up between patients randomized to undergo total knee arthroplasty performed using PSI or traditional cutting block techniques. MethodsThis multicenter, randomized control trial included patients blinded to the technique 1used. Outcome measures were coronal alignment measured radiologically, Euroqol-5D, Oxford knee score, and International Knee Society Score measured at 1- and 5-year follow-up. ResultsAt a minimum 5-year follow-up, there were 38 knees in the PSI group and 39 in the conventional instrumentation group for analysis. Baseline demographics and clinical outcome scores were matched between groups. Overall, there was no significant difference in the coronal femoral angle (P = .59), coronal tibial angle (P = .37), tibiofemoral angle (P = .99), sagittal femoral angle (P = .34), or the posterior tibia slope (P = .12) between knees implanted using PSI and those implanted with traditional cutting blocks. On the measurement of coronal alignment, intraobserver reliability tests demonstrated substantial agreement (k = 0.64). Clinical outcomes at both 1-year and 5-year follow-up demonstrated statistically significant and clinically relevant improvement in scores from baseline in both groups, but no difference could be detected between the Euroqol-5D (P = .78), Oxford knee score (P = .24), or International Knee Society Score (P = .86) between the 2 groups. ConclusionThis study has shown no additional benefit to PSI in terms of improved alignment or functional outcomes at minimum 5-year follow-up over traditional techniques.

Outcomes of Bone Marrow Stimulation for Secondary Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus Equal Outcomes for Primary Lesions

Category:AnkleIntroduction/Purpose:To compare clinical, sports, work, and radiological outcomes between primary and secondary OLTs (<15mm) treated with arthroscopic BMS.Methods:Ethical approval was obtained before the start of the study. A power analysis was performed for the primary outcome measure, the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) during activities. Secondary OLTs were matched to primary OLTs in a 1:2 ratio using lesion size, patient age, body mass index, and sex as prognostic covariates to control for confounding. Secondary outcomes included pre- and one-year postoperative clinical assessment of the NRS at rest, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) subscales, and the EQ-5D general health questionnaire. The rates and time to return to work and sports were collected. Radiological examinations were performed preoperatively and at final follow-up using computed tomography (CT). The postoperative outcomes were compared with a Wilcoxon rank-sum test; a univariate linear regression analysis was used to investigate the influence of covariates on clinical outcome scores.Results:After matching, 22 and 12 patients with smaller (<15 mm) OLTs were included in the primary and secondary group, respectively. The NRS during activities was not different between primary cases (median: 2, IQR: 1 - 4.5) and secondary cases (median: 3, IQR: 1 - 4), P= 0.5. Both groups showed a significant difference between all pre- and postoperative clinical outcome scores, except for the FAOS symptoms subscale in the primary group and NRS at rest in the secondary group. No significant differences in any clinical outcome scores were found between both groups at one-year follow-up, nor did any covariate significantly influence the clinical outcome scores. The return to sport rate was 90% for primary cases and 83% for secondary cases (P= 0.6). All patients returned to work. Lesion filling on CT was complete (67% - 100%) in 59% of primary cases and 67% of secondary cases (P= 0.6).Conclusion:No differences in outcomes were observed between arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation in primary and secondary OLT at one-year follow-up. Repeat BMS may therefore be a viable treatment option for failed OLTs in the short term.

Presence of Night Pain, Neuropathic Pain, or Depressive Disorder Does Not Adversely Affect Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Cohort Study.

A considerable proportion of patients warranting total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have night pain, neuropathic pain, and/or depressive disorder, which may not be resolved by TKA. This prospective, longitudinal cohort study aimed to document the prevalence of night pain, neuropathic pain, and depressive disorder in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis undergoing TKA and to determine whether the specific coexisting pain and/or disorder at the time of TKA adversely affected postoperative outcomes. In this study, 148 patients undergoing TKA were longitudinally evaluated. The presence of night pain, neuropathic pain (determined using Douleur Neuropathique 4 [DN4]) and depressive disorder (determined using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) was determined before and 6 weeks, 3 months and 1 year after TKA. In addition, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) scores were assessed before and 1 year after TKA. Potential associations of night pain, neuropathic pain, and/or depressive disorder with pre- and postoperative WOMAC and EQ-5D scores were examined in subgroup analyses. Preoperatively, 72% (n = 106) of patients reported night pain, and the prevalences of neuropathic pain and depressive disorder were 15% and 17%, respectively. Preoperatively, compared with patients without night pain, those with night pain had significantly poorer preoperative WOMAC scores, but no significant difference was seen between groups 1 year after TKA. Preoperatively, the WOMAC, EQ-5D, and EQ-5D health scores of patients with neuropathic pain were not significantly different from those of patients without neuropathic pain, and there was no difference in clinical outcome scores 1 year after TKA between these groups. Preoperatively, the patients with depressive disorder showed significantly poorer preoperative WOMAC, EQ-5D, and EQ-5D health scores than those without depressive disorder, but no significant differences in scores were observed 1 year after TKA between these groups. This study revealed a considerable prevalence of night pain, neuropathic pain, and depressive disorder in patients undergoing TKA and that patients with these specific conditions reported poorer functional and quality of life scores preoperatively. However, such adverse effects disappeared after TKA. Our study findings suggest that TKA can provide satisfactory outcomes for patients with these specific conditions.

Transcranial Color Coded Duplex Sonography Findings in Stroke Patients Undergoing Rehabilitation: An Observational Study.

Background Transcranial color-coded duplex sonography (TCCD) provides information on intracranial blood flow status in stroke patients and can predict rehabilitation outcomes. Objective This study aimed to assess middle cerebral artery (MCA) parameters using TCCD in MCA territory stroke patients admitted for rehabilitation and correlate with clinical outcome measures. Materials and Methods Patients aged 18 to 65 years with a first MCA territory stroke, within 6 months of onset were recruited. The clinical outcome scales and TCCD parameters were assessed at both admission and discharge. The scales used were the Scandinavian stroke scale (SSS), Barthel Index (BI), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), Fugl–Meyer upper extremity scale (FMA-UE), modified motor assessment scale (mMAS) scores. TCCD parameters measured were MCA peak systolic, end diastolic, mean flow velocities (MFV), and index of symmetry (SI) and were correlated with clinical scores. Results Fourteen patients were recruited with median age of 56.5 years, median duration of stroke was 42.5 days. Mean flow velocities of affected and unaffected MCA were 46.2 and 50.7 cm/s, respectively. Flow velocities and SI did not change between the two assessments. There was significant improvement in clinical outcome scores at discharge. Significant correlation was observed for patient group with SI > 0.9 at admission with FMA-UE, SSS, and BI scores at discharge ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Flow velocity parameters did not change during in-patient rehabilitation. Patients with symmetric flow at admission had improved clinical outcomes measure scores at discharge. Thus SI can predict rehabilitation outcomes in stroke survivors.

Clinical and radiological mid- to long-term investigation of anterior lumbar stand-alone fusion: Incidence of reoperation and adjacent segment degeneration

IntroductionAnterior stand-alone fusion (ASAF) devices have been developed in an attempt to reduce adjacent segment degenerative changes observed with posterior instrumented fusion techniques. Research questionThe purpose of this study was to assess mid- to long-term clinical and radiological results following ASAF at the lumbosacral junction with special emphasis on the assessment of adjacent level pathologies.Materials & Methods: Clinical outcome scores and radiological data were acquired within an ongoing single-center prospective cohort study. Progression of adjacent level degeneration was evaluated based on MRI scans according to the Pfirrmann and Weishaupt classification system by two independent radiologists. ResultsThe results from 37 patients (FU ​≥ ​5 years) demonstrated high satisfaction rates and significant improvements in VAS and ODI scores. N ​= ​8 patients (21.6%) had to undergo subsequent surgery at the cranially adjacent level. The incidence of adjacent level disc degeneration and adjacent facet joint degeneration was 24.3% and 35.1%, respectively. More pronounced degenerative changes of the adjacent level discs (p ​= ​0.005) and facet joints (p ​= ​0.042) prior to surgery and a lower segmental lordosis reconstruction at the lumbosacral junction (p ​= ​0.0084) were identified as potential risk factors for the development of subsequent adjacent level pathologies. Discussion & ConclusionThe study revealed satisfactory clinical results at a mid-to long-term FU of ≥5 years. The incidence of adjacent level degeneration was higher than initially expected. Patients with preexisting radiographic signs of degenerative adjacent level changes have a higher risk for subsequent deterioration necessitating reoperation at the adjacent segment at later stages. Furthermore, adequate intraoperative segmental lordosis reconstruction at the index segment is paramount as the present data reveal this to be a key protective factor for adjacent segment preservation.

Comparison of Newly Designed Three Spike Insole and Total Contact Insole in Refractory Plantar Fasciitis: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Non-Inferiority Study

Category:Ankle; HindfootIntroduction/Purpose:Plantar fasciitis is one of the common foot complaints that is chronic and can induce dysfunction. Total contact insole (TCI) is simple but effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Nevertheless of the effect, the cost and the long duration for production have been the major flaws. Therefore, we developed newly designed three-spike insole (TSI) that can be commercially productive and compared the clinical outcomes with TCI.Methods:Patients with plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative treatment for more than 6 weeks were candidates. We produced insoles with hardness of 58 +- 5 Shore-A. Twenty-eight patients were randomly allocated to use either TSI or TCI evenly (Figure 1). The following assessment tools were used: visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, Karlsson-Peterson (KP) score, Short Form-36 for quality of life, and Foot Function Index. Non-inferiority was declared if VAS was within the statistical variability of minimal important difference. A blinded assessor evaluated the groups at baseline and after 6, 12, and 24 weeks.Results:The groups were homogenous for majority of variables at baseline. Overall patient-reported satisfaction showed improvement from mean 5.2 (range, 1 - 12) weeks of wearing and all clinical outcome scores showed significant improvements in both groups over time on the basis of Friedman test (p <.05). TSI showed non-inferiority to TCI at each time point. Post hoc analysis revealed that many scales showed significant superiority of TSI at 3 month (p <.0125) and KP score at 6 month (p <.001).Conclusion:We reaffirmed that semi-rigid insole is effective in refractory plantar fasciitis and showed TSI restores pedal function more rapidly than TCI. TSI can be not only effective in deriving better clinical outcomes but also be manufactured for popularization to lower the price and producing time of orthosis.

A New Approach for Stage 2 Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity

Category:HindfootIntroduction/Purpose:Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity (AAFD) is a common progressive pathology that mainly affects patients after their 50s. Even though it is not clear yet what causes AAFD, the great majority of patients have their talonavicular (TN) joint sub dislocated in one or more planes. According to the severity of the deformity and its flexibility, different surgical procedures can be performed to realign the foot. The deformities usually happen around the TN joint, making it the center of rotation and angulation (CORA). Corrections on the CORA realign deformities in different planes and his concept can be applied to mostly any deformity. The objective of this study is to evaluate clinically and radiographically patients with stage 2 AAFD submitted to isolated TN fusion.Methods:Fifty-four patients (59 feet) from July 2013 to December 2019 with stage 2 AAFD were submitted to isolated TN fusion. All patients had clinical deformity and arch foot collapse associated with pain along the medial hindfoot. Weight-bearing x- rays were performed pre-operatively, the Meary's and calcaneal pitch angles were measured on lateral view and the Talar coverage and Simmon's angle were measured on antero-posterior view. Angles were measured by a fully trained foot and ankle surgeon. Post-operative measurements were done with the same set of images by the same surgeon, one month after the initial measurements. FAAM and VR12 were used to compare patient's clinical status. Patients with previous surgeries on the foot or ankle and patients submitted to other fusions or hindfoot osteotomies were excluded from the study. Gastrocnemius lengthening and toes corrections were not an exclusion criterion.Results:Thirty-seven females and seventeen males were evaluated with a mean age 61 years at the time of surgery. Only the FAAM score significantly improved from pre-operative (FAAM = 48.48, VR-12 Mental = 55.73, VR-12 Physical = 37.25) to most recent mean follow-up of 16.2 months (FAAM = 58.45 (p<.001), VR-12 Mental = 57.19 (p=.179), VR-12 Physical = 37.53 (p=.832). The lateral view X-Rays showed Meary's and calcaneal pitch angles mean improving from 27 and 15 degrees pre-operatively to 9 and 18 degrees post operatively (p<.001), whereas Front view foot X-Rays showed Talo-Naviciular coverage angle and Simmon's angle going from 35 and 20 degrees to 5 and 6 degrees respectively (p<.001)Conclusion:Isolated talonavicular fusion can correct the deformity on its multiple planes providing not only significant improvement on radiographic alignment but also the FAAM clinical outcome score. Comparative studies should be performed to determine which is the best technique for patients with stage 2 AAFD.

Clinical and Functional Outcomes of Total Knee Arthroplasty in Sarcopenia: A Case-Control Retrospective Cohort Study.

The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between sarcopenia and both clinical and functional outcome scores following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) performed for patients over 65 years of age. We assessed patient demographics, preoperative health status, postoperative Knee Society Clinical (KSS-C) and Function (KSS-F) subscores, and perioperative complications for 180 patients with sarcopenia and 345 comparatively healthy patients at a mean of 12.0 months after surgery. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to define whether sarcopenia was an independent risk factor for lower KSS-F and KSS-C subscores and peroperative complication rates. Patients with sarcopenia had lower mean body mass index, preoperative albumin, and preoperative hemoglobin levels (p < 0.01). Compared with the healthy control group, patients with sarcopenia had lower KSS-C (83.0 vs. 88.2, p < 0.01) and KSS-F (79.2 vs. 86.1, p < 0.01) subscores and increased postoperative complication rates (14.1% vs. 4.1%, p < 0.01). Patients with sarcopenia present with generally poorer preoperative health and this appears to be associated with lower patient-reported clinical and functional outcome scores. Complication rates were higher among patients with sarcopenia who were still determined to have adequate health status to support TKA. Most complications were limited and could be managed with supportive treatment.

The Value of SPECT-CT in Diagnosing Complex Non-Arthritic and Non-Neoplastic Conditions of the Foot and Ankle.

There is little information on the value of using single photon emission computerized tomography-computed tomography (SPECT-CT) in non-arthritic and non-neoplastic conditions of the foot and ankle (F&A). The vast majority of studies have investigated the role of SPECT-CT in degenerative conditions, bony pathology, and neoplastic conditions. The diagnostic value of SPECT-CT in purely non-arthritic and non-neoplastic conditions, in the absence of other conclusive radiological findings, is yet to be clarified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of SPECT-CT in a cohort of patients with complex F&A pathology, in whom diagnostic uncertainty existed after conventional imaging techniques, and to assess its added value in routine clinical practice. A retrospective analysis of 297 SPECT-CTs from 2010 to 2017 found 18 SPECT-CTs (age = 16-56 years) performed for non-arthritic F&A pathology. Changes in diagnosis, management, and clinical outcome scores were recorded before and after SPECT-CT imaging. The results demonstrated that the provisional diagnosis was different from the SPECT-CT diagnosis in 10 (56%) out of the 18 patients and led to a modified treatment plan, which was successful in 8 (80%) out of the 10 patients. The post-intervention Manchester Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOX-FQ) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score improved from 76 ± 18 to 58 ± 24 (P = .02), and from 72 ± 17 to 49 ± 32 (P = .01), respectively. The SPECT-CT scan was useful in confirming the provisional diagnosis in the remaining 8 patients where a diagnostic uncertainty existed after conventional imaging techniques. Overall, a total of 15 out of 18 patients (83%) showed an improvement in their symptoms after management led by SPECT-CT diagnosis. Our study highlights the added value of SPECT-CT in patients presenting with non-arthritic and non-neoplastic F&A conditions in which there is diagnostic uncertainty after conventional imaging. In 80% of cases, a change in management driven by the SPECT-CT findings led to a successful outcome. We have found SPECT-CT to be a useful investigative modality in assessing these complex F&A cases. Level IV.

Clinical Outcome of Coccygectomy Using a Paramedian Curvilinear Skin Incision in Adults and Children With Meta-Analysis of the Literature Focusing on Postoperative Wound Infection.

A single surgeon case series and meta-analysis of literature. To evaluate the clinical outcome and patient satisfaction following coccygectomy for coccygodynia in adults and children using a curvilinear paramedian skin incision and to conduct a meta-analysis of the literature to determine the associated infection rate with different surgical factors. 45 consecutive patients (40 adults and 5 children) underwent surgical coccygectomy for persistent coccygodynia symptoms using a paramedian curvilinear incision. Postoperative clinical outcome scores, patients' satisfaction and wound complications were assessed. A systematic literature search using specific MesH terms was then conducted covering the period from 1980 to 2020. Only those studies reporting infection rates post coccygectomy were included in a meta-analysis. The average age of patients was 39years with a mean duration of symptoms prior to surgery of 7.4years. The mean Oswestry Disability Index improved from 29 to 7.7 (P < .001). The mean pain Visual analogue scale improved from 8 to 2 (P < .001) and the median patient satisfaction score was 8 (out of 10) suggesting good to excellent outcome. The clinical improvement was the same in children and adults. There was a total of 5 (11%) wound infections, 2 of which needed surgical debridement. Meta-analysis of the included studies showed that the use of prophylactic antibiotics for 24hours, nonabsorbable skin sutures and glue were associated with low infection rate. Coccygectomy using curvilinear paramedian skin incision for chronic coccygodynia is an effective procedure with similar or lower complication rates as reported in the literature.