Contralateral Knee Research Articles

A two-stage digestion of whole murine knee joints for single-cell RNA sequencing

ObjectiveSingle-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a powerful technology that can be applied to the cells populating the whole knee in the study of joint pathology. The knee contains cells embedded in hard structural tissues, cells in softer tissues and membranes, and immune cells. This creates a technical challenge in preparing a viable and representative cell suspension suitable for use in scRNA-seq in minimal time, where under-digestion may exclude cells in hard tissues, over-digestion may damage soft tissue cells, and prolonged digestion may induce phenotypic drift. We developed a rapid two-stage digestion protocol to overcome these difficulties. DesignA two-stage digest consisting of first collagenase IV, an intermediate cell recovery, then collagenase II on the remaining hard tissue. Cells were sequenced on the 10x Genomics platform. ResultsWe observed consistent cell numbers and viable single cell suspensions suitable for scRNA-seq analysis. Comparison of contralateral knees and separate mice showed reproducible cell yields and gene expression patterns by similar cell-types. A diverse collection of structural and immune cells were captured with a majority from immune origins. Two digestions were necessary to capture all cell-types. ConclusionsThe knee contains a diverse mixture of stromal and immune cells that may be crucial for the study of osteoarthritis. The two-stage digestion presented here reproducibly generated highly viable and representative single-cell suspension for sequencing from the whole knee. This protocol facilitates transcriptomic studies of the joint as a complete organ.

The Influence of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Posterior Tibial Slope (PTS) on further Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury: A monocentric case-control study

Posterior tibial slope (PTS) is a potential risk factor for primary ACL injury, along with Body Mass Index (BMI). This case-control study aimed to assess the influence of BMI and PTS on subsequent ACL injury affecting either ACL graft or the native ACL of the contralateral knee after primary ACL reconstruction. Two groups were created from a retrospective cohort during January 2010 to January 2020 patients who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using the same surgical procedure: Hamstring tendon autograft (gracillis + semitendoneus). The study group (group I) included all the patients ( n = 94) during the 10 years who sustained a subsequent ACL injury of either ACL graft ( n = 56) or the native ACL ( n = 38) of the contralateral knee. The control group (group II) consisted of 94 patients randomly selected who did not sustain any further ACL injury after a follow-up of a mean of 6.4 ± 2.2 years. The control group matched the study group in age and sex. PTS was measured by 2 surgeons (blinded) on lateral knee view radiographs of the operated knee after primary ACL. BMI in kg/m 2 was measured during the anesthesia preoperative consultation exclusion criteria were: non-Hamstring tendon primary graft, associated knee surgical ligament injury, iterative knee surgeries, open growth plate, associated fracture, unstable meniscal injury, rotated bad incidence lateral knee radiographs. The mean posterior tibial slope in group I was 7.5° ± 2.9, and 7.2° ± 2.5 in group II. A PTS angle cutoff was set at 10 degrees. The rate of patients showing a PTS ≥ 10° was significantly higher in group I compared to group II (20.2% versus 4.3% respectively, p < 0.01). Patients with PTS > 10° were 5.7 times more likely to sustain a subsequent ACL injury, (OR: 5.7 95% CI [1.858–17.486]). Average BMI in group I (24.5 ± 3.7 kg/m 2 ) compared to group II (23.3 ± 3.0 kg/m 2 ), BMI results were classified into four categories based on range in both groups. There were no significant differences in any of the four categories between both groups ( p -value 0.289). A series of BMI cut offs were also analyzed at 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30 kg/m 2 , and there was no significant difference between both groups in terms of all these cut-off values. A posterior tibial slope above or equal 10 degrees measured on lateral knee radiographs, was associated with 5.7 times higher risk of further ACL injury, either ACL graft rupture or contralateral native ACL rupture; however, BMI was not found to be a proportional or exponential risk factor.

Clinical outcomes following combined ACL and anterolateral ligament reconstruction versus isolated ACL reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft as a gold standard: A matched-pair analysis of 2018 patients

BPTB autografts are widely considered the gold standard for ACL reconstruction. The aims of this study were to compare the clinical outcomes following ACLR with « gold standard » BPTB versus combined ACLR + anterolateral ligament reconstruction at medium term follow-up in a large series of propensity matched patients. Patients undergoing combined ACL and ALLR using HT between January 2003 and December 2019 were propensity matched in a 1:1 ratio to patients undergoing isolated ACLR using BPTB. At the end of the study period graft rupture, contralateral knee injury and any other reoperations or complications after the index procedure were identified by interrogation of a prospective database and review of medical records. A total of 1009 matched pairs were included. The mean duration of follow-up was 101.3 ± 59.9 months. Patients in the BPTB group were > 3-fold more likely to have a graft failure than those in the combined group (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 3.554 [1.744;7.243] ( p = 0.0005). Patients aged less than 20 years were at particularly high risk of graft rupture (HR) = 5.65 [1.834;17.241] ( p = 0.0002). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that isolated ACLR with BPTB conferred a > 3 fold increased risk of graft rupture in young patients when compared to ACLR + ALLR with HT. Additionally, there was a significantly higher reoperation rate following isolated ACLR (BPTB group 20.5%, combined group 8.9%, p < 0.0001). The overall rate of subsequent contralateral rupture was 9.1% for both groups after the index surgery (BPTB 10.2% vs. ACL + ALLR 8.0%, p = 0.09) indicating that overall risk profiles for both groups were similar. Patients who underwent isolated ACLR with BTB autografts experienced significantly worse ACL graft survivorship and overall re-operation free survivorship when compared to those who underwent combined ACLR + ALLR with hamstring autografts. The risk of graft rupture was more than 3-fold higher in patients who underwent isolated ACLR using BPTB.

Patient-reported dissatisfaction following second side in staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review.

Around one third of patients who undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) will eventually have the contralateral knee replaced. Overall patient satisfaction after staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty procedures performed on different days is reportedly similar to unilateral TKA. Nevertheless, in our anecdotal experience patients often report less satisfying outcomes following the second side. A cursory review of available literature tended to confirm that observation. We sought therefore to consolidate all of the available data on this issue to further investigate this phenomenon. To consolidate available published data revealing satisfaction scores among patients following staged bilateral TKA, and to evaluate the phenomenon of less satisfying results following TKA2. A systematic review of available literature reporting on satisfaction with TKA1 and TKA2 after staged bilateral knee arthroplasty was undertaken using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. From 427 records, five full-length articles met criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The data were then extracted and assessed on the basis of the Reference Citation Analysis (https://www.referencecitationanalysis.com/). A total of 1889 patients with an average age of 68 (range: 38-92) underwent staged bilateral TKA with outcomes reported at 1 year following each TKA with a mean 21.9 mo between surgeries (range: 2 d to 14.5 years). Overall satisfaction with both knees was 83.70% (1581) and dissatisfaction with both knees was 2.75% (52). In the remaining 13.56% (256) who were dissatisfied with one side, 61.0% were dissatisfied with TKA2, and 39.0% were dissatisfied with TKA1. Patient-reported outcome scores for TKA2 were frequently lower than TKA1 even in patients reporting overall satisfaction with both knees. At 1-year follow-up, there was a 50% greater risk of dissatisfaction with TKA2 among the 13.56% of patients reporting dissatisfaction in one knee after staged bilateral TKA. Whether the interval between procedures or long-term follow-up changes these results requires further investigation.

What's New in Adult Reconstructive Knee Surgery.

What's New in Adult Reconstructive Knee Surgery.

A combined anterior cruciate ligament/Meniscal injury alters the patellofemoral joint kinematics of anterior cruciate ligament-deficient knees during a single-leg lunge exercise: A cross-sectional study.

Anterior cruciate ligament deficiency (ACLD) is often accompanied by concomitant meniscal tears. The study aimed to assess the kinematic alterations of patellofemoral joint (PFJ) in anterior cruciate ligament deficiency knees with or without meniscal tears during a single-leg lunge. Sixty unilateral anterior cruciate ligament deficiency patients were recruited for the study, including 15 isolated anterior cruciate ligament deficiency patients (group 1), 15 anterior cruciate ligament deficiency patients with medial meniscal tears (group 2), 15 patients with lateral meniscal tears (group 3) and 15 patients with combined medial/lateral meniscal tears (group 4). The patellofemoral joint kinematics were determined by a single fluoroscopic image system. Patellofemoral joint kinematics of contralateral anterior cruciate ligament-intact (ACLI) and anterior cruciate ligament deficiency knees were compared. With or without meniscal tears, anterior cruciate ligament deficiency knees had significantly smaller patellar flexion than the anterior cruciate ligament-intact knees (∼5°-10°; p < 0.05). anterior cruciate ligament deficiency knees had more patellar lateral tilting by approximately 1°-2° than the anterior cruciate ligament-intact knees (p < 0.05) in groups 2, 3, and 4. anterior cruciate ligament deficiency groups with medial meniscal deficiencies showed consistent increased lateral patellar translations (2-4mm) compared to the anterior cruciate ligament-intact group during a single-leg lunge. The results indicate that meniscal tears alter anterior cruciate ligament deficiency patients' patellofemoral joint kinematics and the types of the meniscal injuries also affect the patellofemoral joint kinematics. Considering the varying effects of meniscal tears on the patellofemoral joint kinematics, specific treatments for anterior cruciate ligament deficiency patients with meniscal tears should be proposed in some closed kinetic chain (CKC) exercise programs, such as single-leg lunge.

Age as a Prognostic Factor in Arthroscopic Drilling of Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee: A National Database Review

Background: Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans (JOCD) is a common knee condition that can cause significant morbidity if the lesion does not heal. Arthroscopic drilling is a common surgical treatment for low-grade intact lesions, but its success rate and complications have not been well defined in a large series.Purpose: This study seeks to determine the reoperation rate and the incidence of major complications following arthroscopic drilling of JOCD lesions of the knee.Methods: A query of patients in the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database from 2013 to 2018 was performed for the diagnosis and billing codes specific for arthroscopic drilling of an intact JOCD lesion. Subsequent surgical procedures on ipsilateral and contralateral knees were then analyzed for evidence of additional surgical procedures related to non-healing of the lesion.Results: We identified 1027 patients, 6-17 years of age, who underwent arthroscopic drilling as their initial surgical treatment for a diagnosis of JOCD of the knee. Within 6 months of the original surgery, 27 patients (3%) had a secondary surgery on the ipsilateral knee, and 27 patients (3%) had surgery on the contralateral knee. By 2 years, 84 patients (8%) had a secondary surgery on the ipsilateral knee and 38 patients (4%) had surgery on the contralateral knee. Patient age was a significant factor in both the frequency and distribution of secondary surgeries, with older patients requiring repeat procedures and tending to have more invasive procedures more frequently. Less than 1% of patients underwent another surgical procedure of the knee not specifically to treat the JOCD lesion.Conclusions: The 2-year reoperation rate following drilling of an intact juvenile OCD lesion was 8%. Younger patients (<13 years old) were less likely to undergo a subsequent procedure compared to older patients. In addition, if they did require a second procedure, the majority of older patients required a salvage-type cartilage procedure. The rate of complications requiring additional knee surgeries was less than 1%.Level of Evidence: Level III, Prognostic Study Key Concepts•Arthroscopic drilling in the treatment of juvenile OCD of the knee is very effective, and only 3% of patients require a second surgery in the first 6 months and 8% in the first 2 years.•Younger patients were not as likely to require subsequent arthroscopic drilling for osteochondritis dissecans of the knee.•Intact lesions with low rates of anticipated healing may lead to favorable outcomes if treated sooner.

Augmentation in the repair of traumatic patellar tendon ruptures. A novel mechanical and biological construct: Technical note

Patellar tendon ruptures are infrequent and potentially disabling injuries. These injuries are usually repaired with transosseous suture tunnels. However, this technique can produce a significant gap formation and prolonged postoperative immobilization. Although several techniques have been described to improve the integrity of the repair, the surgical technique of choice is a matter of debate especially when there is tissue loss due to high-energy trauma. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with acute patellar tendon ruptures due to high-energy trauma treated with a novel construct configuration that includes a suture anchor and a figure-of-eight augmentation with hamstring autograft with medial and lateral reinforcement. To determine the clinical outcomes the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was obtained pre-surgery and at 12 months of follow-up. A total of six patients were recruited, with a median age of 27.5 years, five of these were male. Three lesions were in the proximal pole of the tendon, two were mid-substance and one was in the junction with tibial tuberosity. The IKDC clinical score significantly increased from pre-surgery to the 12-month follow-up with a median difference of 32.8 (95% CI, 19.5–42.6, p = 0.0313). Likewise, the patients presented a post-surgery quadriceps strength level with a median of 5/5. All patients had full active knee extension with a median of 0–120°. There was no statistical difference in the range of motion comparing the surgical knee to the contralateral knee (p = 0.6883). No patient presented any type of reintervention or complication during the follow-up period. The configuration of the construct presented in the technique had not been reported before in the literature and combines the advantages of the use of suture anchors and biological augmentation with lateral and medial reinforcement. This technique may be useful in patients with traumatic injuries with and without loss of tissue. Although it is a small series with concomitant injuries, satisfactory clinical results were presented during follow-up.

Intra-articular injection of epigallocatechin (EGCG) crosslinks and alters biomechanical properties of articular cartilage, a study via nanoindentation.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are debilitating conditions, affecting millions of people. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis degrade the articular cartilage (AC) at the ends of long bones, resulting in weakened tissue prone to further damage. This degradation impairs the cartilage’s mechanical properties leading to areas of thinned cartilage and exposed bone which compromises the integrity of the joint. No preventative measures exist for joint destruction. Discovering a way to slow the degradation of AC or prevent it would slow the painful progression of the disease, allowing millions to live pain-free. Recently, that the articular injection of the polyphenol epigallocatechin-gallate (EGCG) slows AC damage in an arthritis rat model. It was suggested that EGCG crosslinks AC and makes it resistant to degradation. However, direct evidence that intraarticular injection of EGCG crosslinks cartilage collagen and changes its compressive properties are not known. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of intraarticular injection of EGCG induced biomechanical properties of AC. We hypothesize that in vivo exposure EGCG will bind and crosslink to AC collagen and alter its biomechanical properties. We developed a technique of nano-indentation to investigate articular cartilage properties by measuring cartilage compressive properties and quantifying differences due to EGCG exposure. In this study, the rat knee joint was subjected to a series of intraarticular injections of EGCG and contralateral knee joint was injected with saline. After the injections animals were sacrificed, and the knees were removed and tested in an anatomically relevant model of nanoindentation. All mechanical data was normalized to the measurements in the contralateral knee to better compare data between the animals. The data demonstrated significant increases for reduced elastic modulus (57.5%), hardness (83.2%), and stiffness (17.6%) in cartilage treated with injections of EGCG normalized to those treated with just saline solution when compared to baseline subjects without injections, with a significance level of alpha = 0.05. This data provides evidence that EGCG treated cartilage yields a strengthened cartilage matrix as compared to AC from the saline injected knees. These findings are significant because the increase in cartilage biomechanics will translate into resistance to degradation in arthritis. Furthermore, the data suggest for the first time that it is possible to strengthen the articular cartilage by intraarticular injections of polyphenols. Although this data is preliminary, it suggests that clinical applications of EGCG treated cartilage could yield strengthened tissue with the potential to resist or compensate for matrix degradation caused by arthritis.

Effects of perioperative exercise therapy combined with nutritional supplementation on functional recovery after fast-track total hip arthroplasty

BackgroundThe combination of exercise therapy combined with nutritional supplementation (Nutr) is widely used for frail or sarcopenic older persons. However, the effects of Nutr in elderly patients after fast-track total hip arthroplasty (THA) are unknown. This study examined the effects of perioperative Nutr on muscle strength, functional performance, and quality of life (QOL) in frail elderly women after fast-track THA. MethodsA total of 58 frail elderly women aged 65–80 years scheduled for unilateral primary THA were randomly allocated to two groups: the physical exercise (Ex) combined with Nutr (Ex + Nutr; n = 29) group, and the Ex alone (Ex; n = 29) group. Protein and vitamin D supplements were provided daily from 4 weeks preoperatively to 8 weeks postoperatively (12 weeks) to the patients in the Ex + Nutr group, whereas the Ex group did not receive any supplements. Surgery and postoperative rehabilitation programmes during intervention were identical in both groups.Hip abductor and knee extensor muscle strength, functional performance (Timed Up & Go test, Harris Hip Score), and QOL (Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire) were assessed at baseline and at 12 weeks (8 weeks postoperatively). ResultsAfter the intervention, hip abductor muscle strength on the contralateral leg and knee extensor muscle strength on both sides significantly improved in the Ex + Nutr group compared to the Ex group (p = 0.03, 0.01, and 0.01, respectively). However, hip abductor muscle strength on the operated side did not differ significantly between the groups (p = 0.23). There were no significant differences in functional performance and QOL. ConclusionEx + Nutr does not have an additional effect on the improvement of hip abductor strength, functional performance, and QOL compared to Ex alone after fast-track THA. However, significant improvements were observed in the strength of some muscles after fast-track THA. Trial registrationUMIN 000042964. The IRB approvalThis study was approved by the Mirai Iryo Reesearch Center (approval number TGE1602-115).

Clinical Outcomes After Combined ACL and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Versus Isolated ACL Reconstruction With Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone Grafts: A Matched-Pair Analysis of 2018 Patients From the SANTI Study Group

Background: Bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) autografts are widely considered the standard for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Purpose/Hypothesis: The aims of this study were to compare the clinical outcomes after ACLR with gold standard BPTB autografts versus combined ACLR + anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) with hamstring tendon (HT) autografts at medium-term follow-up in a large series of propensity-matched patients. The hypothesis was that combined ACLR + ALLR with HT autografts would result in lower graft rupture rates and non–graft rupture-related reoperation rates. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients undergoing combined ACLR + ALLR using HT autografts between January 2003 and December 2019 were propensity matched in a 1:1 ratio to patients undergoing isolated ACLR using BPTB autografts. At the end of the study period, graft ruptures, contralateral knee injuries, and any other reoperations or complications after the index procedure were identified by a search of a prospective database and a review of medical records. Results: A total of 1009 matched pairs were included. The mean duration of follow-up was 101.3 ± 59.9 months. Patients in the isolated group were >3-fold more likely to have graft failure than those in the combined group (hazard ratio, 3.554 [95% CI, 1.744-7.243]; P = .0005). Patients aged <20 years were at a particularly high risk of graft ruptures compared with patients aged >30 years (hazard ratio, 5.650 [95% CI, 1.834-17.241]; P = .0002). Additionally, there was a significantly higher reoperation rate after isolated ACLR than after combined ACLR + ALLR (20.5% vs 8.9%, respectively; P < .0001). The overall rate of subsequent contralateral ruptures was 9.1% after index surgery (isolated: 10.2%; combined: 8.0%; P = .0934), indicating that the risk profiles for both groups were similar. Conclusion: Patients who underwent isolated ACLR with BPTB autografts experienced significantly worse graft survivorship and overall reoperation-free survivorship compared with those who underwent combined ACLR + ALLR with HT autografts. The risk of graft ruptures was >3-fold higher in patients who underwent isolated ACLR using BPTB autografts.

Side-to-side differences in knee laxity and side hop test may predispose an anterior cruciate ligament reinjury in competitive adolescent alpine skiers.

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a common, severe injury in alpine skiing, and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is frequently performed in competitive alpine skiers younger than 20 years old. To reduce the reinjury rate, both intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors should be examined. The aim of this study was to investigate possible intrinsic risk factors for an ACL reinjury in competitive alpine skiers. A cohort of 384 alpine skiers (191 males/193 females) from the Swedish ski high schools were prospectively followed during their high school years. The students were clinically examined and physically tested prior to each ski season. In addition, the RAND 36-Item health survey 1.0 (SF-36, Copyright 1994 Medical Outcome Trust, distributed by RAND Corporation) and injuries were prospectively registered. Thirty-one of the skiers (five males/26 females) had undergone an ACLR before entering the ski high school. This cohort was analyzed with respect to the occurrence of, and possible risk factors for an ACL reinjury (including ipsilateral and contralateral ACL injuries). Skiers who sustained an ACL reinjury were called the “ACL reinjury group,” and those who did not sustain an ACL reinjury were called the “ACL injury group.” Notably, 12 of the 31 students (39%), ten female and two male skiers, aged 16.5 (SD 0.5) years, sustained an ACL reinjury during the two first years at the ski high school. In addition, 10 of the 12 ACL reinjuries occurred within 10–23 months from the first injury [m 14.8 (SD4.7)] and two ACL reinjuries occurred at 29 and 47 months, respectively, from the first injury. It is noted that eight of the ACL reinjuries were to the ipsilateral knee and four to the contralateral knee. There were no differences between the groups with respect to muscle flexibility in the lower extremity, Beighton score, and one leg hop for distance or square hop test. Side-to-side differences were found with respect to knee joint laxity, >3 mm, measured with KT-1000 arthrometer (p = 0.02), and the side hop test (p = 0.04). RAND 36-Item health survey did not predict an ACL reinjury. In conclusion, a side-to-side difference in the side hop test and knee joint laxity (KT-1000) may predispose an ACL reinjury in competitive adolescent alpine skiers.

Relationship between Hip Abductor Muscle Strength and Frontal Plane Kinematics: A Cross-Sectional Study in Elite Handball Athletes

Frontal plane kinematics of the lower limb could be especially relevant in the risk of injuries in handball (HB) athletes. An association between lower limb frontal plane kinematics and hip abductor muscles strength has been investigated in different populations. However, the relationship between pelvis, hip, and knee frontal plane kinematics and the hip abductor strength in HB athletes has not been considered. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between hip abductor muscles strength and frontal plane kinematics (contralateral pelvic drop, femoral adduction, and knee valgus) in elite HB athletes using 2D analysis. Design: Cross-sectional and correlational study. Methods: Thirty-four male professional HB athletes were recruited. Athletes had to perform a deep single-leg squat. The frontal plane was recorded using the Camera app on iPhone (5SE). The clinical variables were hip abductor muscles strength assessed using a Lafayette hand-held dynamometer version 01165, and frontal plane kinematics measured with Kinovea 2D software version 0.9.4. Both variables were measured independently by two different examiners. Results: The correlation analysis showed a statistically significant negative correlation between the hip abductor muscles strength and the pelvic drop angle (p &lt; 0.001; PCC: −0.873). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the hip abductor muscles strength and the femoral adduction angle (p &lt; 0.001; PCC: 0.767) and between the hip abductor muscles strength and the knee valgus angle (p &lt; 0.001; PCC: 0.855). Conclusion: Hip abductor muscles strongly correlate with frontal plane kinematics in HB athletes.

Posterior tibial slope (PTS) ≥ 10 degrees is a risk factor for further anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury; BMI is not

PurposeThis case–control study aimed to assess the influence of BMI and PTS on subsequent ACL injury affecting either ACL graft or the native ACL of the contralateral knee after primary ACL reconstruction.MethodsA retrospective case–control study was performed using a cohort of patients who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction between 2010 and 2020 using the same surgical procedure: Hamstring tendon autograft. The study group (group I) included all the patients (n = 94) during this period who sustained a subsequent ACL injury. The control group (group II) consisted of 94 patients randomly selected (matched Group I in terms of sex, age, and ACL graft) who did not sustain any further ACL injury. PTS was measured by two blinded surgeons on lateral knee view radiographs of the operated knee after primary ACL. BMI in kg/m2 was measured during the preoperative anesthesia consultation. Exclusion criteria were: non-true or rotated lateral knee radiographs of the operated knee post-ACLR, associated knee ligament injury requiring surgical management, iterative knee surgeries, open growth plate, and related fracture.ResultsThe mean posterior tibial slope in group I was 7.5° ± 2.9, and 7.2° ± 2.0 in group II. A PTS angle cutoff was set at 10 degrees. The rate of patients showing a PTS ≥ 10° was significantly higher in group I compared to group II (p < 0.01). Patients with PTS ≥ 10° were 5.7 times more likely to sustain a subsequent ACL injury, (OR: 5.7 95% CI[1.858–17.486]). The Average BMI in group I was 24.5 ± 3.7 kg.m−2 compared to group II which was 23.3 ± 3.0 kg.m−2. There were no significant differences in any of the four BMI categories between both groups (p value 0.289). A series of BMI cut-offs were also analyzed at 23 to30 kg/m2, and there was no significant difference between both groups.ConclusionsA posterior tibial slope equal to or above 10 degrees measured on lateral knee radiographs was associated with 5.7 times higher risk of ACL graft rupture or contralateral native ACL injury; however, BMI was not.

Risk factors for contralateral total knee arthroplasty after unilateral total knee arthroplasty

BackgroundLittle attention has been focused on risk factors for undergoing bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after primary unilateral TKA among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). This study investigated the differences in characteristics between groups with and without additional TKA for the contralateral knee among patients with knee OA who underwent primary unilateral TKA. MethodsSeventy-six patients who underwent primary unilateral TKA were included in this study. We defined patients who underwent additional TKA for the contralateral knee within one year of the primary TKA as a bilateral TKA group, and patients who did not undergo bilateral TKA as a unilateral TKA group. Femorotibial angle (FTA), percentage of mechanical axis (%MA), Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grade, range of motion, Japan Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, 10 m-walking time, C-reactive protein, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and serum albumin levels were selected as independent variables including covariates of age, sex, and body mass index for predicting bilateral TKA. We compared differences in variables between the two groups using the t-test or Mann–Whitney U-test and general linear models. A multivariate stepwise logistic regression model was also used to determine which variables correlated with bailateral TKA. ResultsIn pairwise comparisons, the KL grade, FTA, %MA, JOA score, and knee flexion angle in the contralateral knee were significantly worse in the bilateral TKA group than in the unilateral TKA group after controlling for covariates (P < 0.01, respectively). A stepwise logistic regression revealed that significant contributors to undergoing the contralateral TKA were FTA (OR = 1.47, P < 0.001) and knee flexion angle (OR = 0.96, P = 0.022) of the contralateral knee. ConclusionsSevere varus deformity and limitations of flexion in the contralateral knee were found to be risk factors for undergoing additional TKA within one year of primary unilateral TKA among patients with knee OA.

Repeat Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Return to Sport in Australian Soccer Players After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Hamstring Tendon Autograft

Background: Soccer is the most commonly played team sport in the world and a high-risk sport for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and subsequent ACL reconstruction (ACLR). Purpose: To assess the rate of further ACL injury in patients who have undergone ACLR with hamstring tendon autograft after soccer injuries in Australia and to determine factors associated with repeat ACL injury and return to soccer. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: From a prospectively collected database, a series of 1000 consecutive ACLRs using hamstring autografts performed in soccer players were identified. Patients were surveyed at a minimum 5 years after reconstruction, including details of further ACL injuries to either knee, return to soccer or other sports, and psychological readiness per the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale. Results: Of the 862 participants reviewed, ACL graft rupture occurred in 85 (10%) and contralateral ACL rupture in 68 (8%) within 5 years after the reconstruction. The 5-year ACL graft survivorship was 94% for females and 88% for males. The survivorship of the contralateral ACL was 92% for males and 90% for females. When compared with those aged >25 years, the odds of ACL graft rupture was increased by 4 to 5 times in those aged 19 to 25 years and 3 to 7 times in those ≤18 years. Further ACL injury to the graft or contralateral knee occurred in 44% of males aged ≤18 years. Risk factors for further ACL injury were younger age at time of surgery, male sex, and return to soccer. Graft diameter did not influence ACL graft rupture rates, and 70% of patients returned to soccer after ACLR. The mean ACL-RSI score was 59, and patients who reported more fear of reinjury on this scale were less likely to have returned to soccer. Conclusion: The prevalence of ACL graft rupture (10%) and contralateral ACL rupture (8%) was near equivalent over 5 years in this large cohort of mostly recreational Australian soccer players. ACLR with hamstring autograft is a reliable procedure, allowing 70% of patients to return to soccer in this high-risk population. Risk factors for further ACL injury are progressively younger age at time of surgery, male sex, and return to soccer. Graft diameter was not a factor in ACL graft rupture, indicating that other factors, particularly age, are of primary importance.

Tension Band Wiring of Patella Fractures: Mid-Term Radiological and Clinical Results

Objective: We aimed to share our radiological and clinical results with a mid-term follow-up on patella fractures treated with tension band wiring (TBW).&#x0D; Methods: Patients surgically treated with TBW for AO type 34-A1/C1/C2/C3 patella fractures between January 2013 and June 2021 at a level 1 trauma center were included. For radiological evaluation, radiographs obtained at the routine follow-up were analyzed for complications (such as nonunion, malunion, loss of reduction, malreduction, patella baja, elongated patella, implant failure), Insall-Salvati Index (ISI), and Patellar Morphology Ratio (PMR). The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Score (KOOS) was utilized for functional evaluation, which includes five subscales: pain, symptoms, activities of daily living (ADL), sports/recreation, and quality of life (QOL). The clinical assessment also included the range of motion (ROM), thigh circumference (TC), and complications such as implant irritation (II).&#x0D; Results: This study reviewed 42 eligible patients (10 females, 32 males) with a mean age of 42.6 ± 16.1 years and a mean follow-up of 35.4 ± 24.1 months. There were 28 patients (66.7%) with at least one complication (II: 66.7%, flexion deficit: 61.9%, malunion: 40.5%, elongated patella/patella baja: 16.7%). The reoperation rate was high at 69.1% due to the high implant removal rate for II. There were statistically significant differences between injured (I) and uninjured contralateral healthy knees (UI) in terms of mean KOOS subscale scores (symptoms: I: 72.3, UI: 89.8; pain: I: 70.4, UI: 89.4; ADL : I: 72.1, UI: 90; sports: I: 61.4, UI: 84.8; QOL: I: 67.9, UI: 86.2), mean flexion degrees (I: 126.2°, UI: 135.4°), mean ISI (I: 0.9, UI: 1.0), and mean PMR (I: 1.5, UI: 1.4) (all p &lt; 0.01). There was no difference in mean extension degrees and TC (all p &gt; 0.05). All fractures achieved union.&#x0D; Conclusion: Firstly, the mid-term clinical results of patellar fractures treated with TBW were significantly worse than the contralateral healthy knee; secondly, implant irritation, knee flexion deficit, malunion, and patella baja were the significant complications, and efforts should be made to manage these problems; thirdly, patellar fractures are susceptible to developing interesting cases of the elongated patella.

Changes in the Cross-Sectional Profile of Treated Anterior Cruciate Ligament Within 2 Years After Surgery.

Background:The cross-sectional area (CSA) of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and reconstructed graft has direct implications on its strength and knee function. Little is known regarding how the CSA changes along the ligament length and how those changes vary between treated and native ligaments over time.Hypothesis:It was hypothesized that (1) the CSA of reconstructed ACLs and restored ACLs via bridge-enhanced ACL restoration (BEAR) is heterogeneous along the length. (2) Differences in CSA between treated and native ACLs decrease over time. (3) CSA of the surgically treated ACLs is correlated significantly with body size (ie, height, weight, body mass index) and knee size (ie, bicondylar and notch width).Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.Methods:Magnetic resonance imaging scans of treated and contralateral knees of 98 patients (n = 33 ACL reconstruction, 65 BEAR) at 6, 12, and 24 months post-operation were used to measure the ligament CSA at 1% increments along the ACL length (tibial insertion, 0%; femoral insertion, 100%). Statistical parametric mapping was used to evaluate the differences in CSA between 6 and 24 months. Correlations between body and knee size and treated ligament CSA along its length were also assessed.Results:Hamstring autografts had larger CSAs than native ACLs at all time points (P < .001), with region of difference decreasing from proximal 95% of length (6 months) to proximal 77% of length (24 months). Restored ACLs had larger CSAs than native ACLs at 6 and 12 months, with larger than native CSA only along a small midsubstance region at 24 months (P < .001). Graft CSA was correlated significantly with weight (6 and 12 months), bicondylar width (all time points), and notch width (24 months). Restored ACL CSA was significantly correlated with bicondylar width (6 months) and notch width (6 and 12 months).Conclusion:Surgically treated ACLs remodel continuously within the first 2 years after surgery, leading to ligaments/grafts with heterogeneous CSAs along the length, similar to the native ACL. While reconstructed ACLs remained significantly larger, the restored ACL had a CSA profile comparable with that of the contralateral native ACL. In addition to size and morphology differences, there were fundamental differences in factors contributing to CSA profile between the ACL reconstruction and BEAR procedures.Registration:NCT 02664545 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Graft Failure in Professional Athletes: An Analysis of 342 Patients With a Mean Follow-up of 100 Months From the SANTI Study Group

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common knee injuries sustained in elite sport, and athletes generally undergo ACL reconstruction (ACLR) to facilitate their return to sport. ACL graft rupture is a career-threatening event for elite athletes. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors for graft failure in professional athletes undergoing ACLR. It was hypothesized that athletes who underwent combined ACLR with a lateral extra-articular procedure (LEAP) would experience significantly lower rates of graft rupture in comparison with those who underwent isolated ACLR. Study design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Professional athletes who underwent primary ACLR with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were identified from the Santy database. Patients were excluded if they underwent major concomitant procedures, including multiligament reconstruction surgery or osteotomy. Further ipsilateral knee injury, contralateral knee injury, and any other reoperations or complications after the index procedure were identified by interrogation of the database and review of the medical notes. Results: A total of 342 athletes with a mean follow-up of 100.2 ± 51.9 months (range, 24-215 months) were analyzed. Graft failures totaling 31 (9.1%) were reported, requiring revision surgery because of symptomatic instability. The rate of graft failure was significantly higher when ACLR was not combined with a LEAP (15.5% vs 6.0%; P = .0105) and in athletes aged 21 years or younger (13.8% vs 6.6%; P = .0290). A multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox model and demonstrated that athletes undergoing an isolated ACLR were at >2-fold risk of ACL graft rupture (hazard ratio [HR], 2.678 [1.173; 4.837], P = .0164) when compared with those undergoing a combined ACLR with a LEAP. Additionally, athletes aged ≤21 years were also at >2-fold risk of graft failure (HR, 2.381 [1.313; 5.463]; P = .0068) than those aged >21 years. Sex, sport, and graft type were not found to be significant risk factors for graft failure. Conclusion: Professional athletes undergoing isolated ACLR and aged ≤21 years are at >2-fold greater risk of graft failure. Orthopaedic surgeons treating elite athletes should combine an ACLR with a LEAP to improve ACL graft survivorship.

Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Platelet-Rich Plasma With Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Injections in Patients With Bilateral Knee Osteoarthritis.

Introduction Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) intra-articular injections have gained popularity and are suggested to be more effective and longer lasting than corticosteroid or visco-supplementation therapy. There are few studies comparing PRP with corticosteroid injections and none comparing PRP in patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis with the patient acting as their own control. Methods We performed a double-blind randomized controlled trial including 29 patients (58 knees) with radiologically confirmed mild-to-moderate bilateral knee osteoarthritis. They were randomized to receive an intra-articular PRP injection into one knee and a methylprednisolone injection with a local anesthetic into the contralateral knee. The primary outcome was measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) before the treatment and at six weeks, three months, and six months. Secondary outcome was measured pain with the visual numerical pain rating scale (VNS). Results Corticosteroids and PRP were both effective in improving pain, stiffness, and function at all time points, with maximal improvements at six weeks and three months. PRP scored slightly better than steroid injections at six months; nevertheless, there was no statistically significant difference between corticosteroids and PRP injections (F2,139=0.173, p=0.84). The secondary outcome also delivered the same result with improvement at all time points but no statistically significant difference (F2,139=0.168, p=0.85). Conclusions Both corticosteroids and PRP interventions are effective in improving pain, stiffness, and function in patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis up to six months with no statistically significant difference between the two.