High-energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Research Articles

Radiometry in a comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy of calcifying tendinobursopathy of the shoulder

Introduction. Uncomfortable working conditions and excessive professional loads on the shoulder joints cause a high prevalence of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the periarticular tissues. Calcifying tendinitis and bursitis occupy a special place, characterized by multifocal accumulation of calcium phosphate crystals in tendons, mucous bags and muscles. The study is devoted to solving the problem of optimizing the X-ray diagnostics of the evolution of calcifying tendinobursopathy of the shoulder (CTS) in the dynamic assessment of the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy.
 The aims of the study to optimize the X–ray diagnosis of calcifying tendinobursopathy of the shoulder in people working under the influence of adverse production factors.
 Materials and methods. The authors conducted a comparative retrospective analysis of the results of a comprehensive dynamic clinical and X-ray examination of 155 able-bodied men aged 35-57 years with an average work experience of 14.5±2.7 years (miners, loaders, bricklayers) examined for pain syndrome and dysfunction in the shoulder joint. The main group (65 people) are patients with CTS clinic, the presence of calcifications in the periaricular tissues of the rotator cuff and in the biceps muscle of the shoulder, evaluated in dynamics after shock wave therapy (SWT) of the shoulder in the phases of rest, resorption and recovery. The comparison group (90 people) consisted of patients with the absence of instrumentally detectable signs of multifocal accumulation of calcium phosphate crystals in the periarticular tissues of the shoulder. The study included patients whose routine conservative treatment proved ineffective. The following criteria for the effectiveness of therapy were identified: pain at rest, measured using a visual analog scale (VAS); dimensions (calcification area (in mm2)); optical density and calcification density gradient. Specialists evaluated the data at the initial stage of the study before the use of therapy, immediately after treatment and 12 months after the final SWT session.
 Results. In patients of the main group with the presence of CTS, the main manifestations of shoulder-scapular periarthritis (SSP) both in the main group and in the comparison group were moderately pronounced, however, the frequency of detection of the main SSP syndromes, primarily rotator cuff lesion, as well as background pathology (arthrosis of the shoulder joint) and acromioclavicular joint) were significantly higher in the main group. The effectiveness of SWT was demonstrated by regression of pain syndrome and positive dynamics of density characteristics of periarticular tissues of shoulder joints in areas of interest (in anatomotopographic projections of localization of tendons, mucous bags and muscles). In all patients of the main group, the decalcification process was characterized by both a visually perceptible pattern of disintegration and a decrease in its area, and a decrease in optical density immediately after the end of treatment. In 36.9% of patients, 12 months after the start of SWT, the X-ray and X-ray densitometric picture confirmed the prolongation of the decalcification process up to complete lysis of foci and calcification sites.
 Conclusions. In a comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of CTS therapy, along with traditional X-ray diagnostics, special methodological techniques of radiometry (X-ray diffraction and X-ray densitometry in areas of interest) can be used, allowing for more accurate and more objective reflection of the direction of the dynamics of changes.
 The use of X-ray calcifications in the arsenal of methodological techniques, such as area, optical density and optical density gradient, can significantly improve the quality of diagnosis and avoid the use of computed tomography and an increase in radiation exposure to the patient.
 High-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy is largely able to solve the problem of treating resistant forms of calcifying tendinobursopathy of the shoulder.

Long-term experiences with high-energy shock wave therapy in the management chronic phase Peyronie’s disease using two different electromagnetic lithotripters

BackgroundExtracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy represents one option for the non-surgical management of Peyronie’s disease. Despite promising results, several questions are still pending. We want to present the long-term results of a retrospective study using high-energy extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.Material and methodsWe evaluated retrospectively 110 patients treated between 1996 and 2020 at the Department of Urology, SLK Kliniken Heilbronn for chronic phase Peyronie’s disease using two electromagnetic lithotripters (Siemens Lithostar Plus Overhead Module, Siemens Lithoskop) applying high-energy shock waves under local anesthesia and sonographic or fluoroscopic control. A standardized questionnaire focused on the change in pain, curvature, sexual function and the need of penile surgery.ResultsIn 85 of the 110 patients (mean age 54 years) we had sufficient data for evaluation. The median follow-up was 228 (6–288) months. There were no significant complications. Pain reduction was achieved in all patients, 65 (76%) patients were free of pain. Improvement of penile curvature was achieved in 43 patients (51%) ranging from 25% improvement (deflected angle < 30°) to 95% (angle 30–60°). 59 patients (69%) reported problems with sexual intercourse, 40 of those (68%) reported improvement. Only 9 (10.5%) patients underwent surgical correction. We did not observe any significant differences between both electromagnetic devices with stable long-term results.ConclusionsHigh-energy shock wave therapy delivered by two standard electromagnetic lithotripters is safe and efficient providing stable long-term results. In cases with significant plaque formation, the concept of high-energy ESWT should be considered in future studies.

High Energy Focused Extracorporeal Shock Wave therapy for early and mid stage femoral head necrosis: A single center Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Research has shown that extracorporeal shock wave therapy has a certain therapeutic effect on the osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). However, the sample sizes are relatively small. The aim of this study is to evaluate and investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of high-energy extracorporeal shock wave treatment (ESWT) in the management of early and mid-stage ONFH by observing a large size clinical sample. Materials &amp; Methods: 453 patients with stage I–III ONFH treated ESWT in our hospital between June 2019 to August 2021, are included. The visual analog pain scale (VAS), Harris hip score, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging were used to estimate treatment results. The progression of ONFH was evaluated by imaging examination and clinical outcomes. Results: The mean follow-up was 39.81±7.94 months (range 26 to 50 months). The mean VAS decreased from 5.54 ± 1.19 before ESWT treatment to 1.92 ± 0.43 points at the 12 months follow-up (p &lt; 0.001). The mean Harris hip score improved from 75.51 ± 5.14 before ESWT treatment, to 92.21 ± 4.53 at the 12 months follow-up (p &lt; 0.001). The clinical success(improvement) was observed in 85.71% of ARCO stage I patients, 48.09% of ARCO stage II patients, and 49.15% of ARCO stage III patients. Imaging success (no worsening of clinical images) was observed in 12.38% stage I hips, 28.37% of stage II hips, and 27.12% of stage III hips, respectively. The hip joint survival rate of stage Ⅱ and stage Ⅲ patients was 86.51% and 77.97% (P&lt;0.05). Conclusions: The result of the current study suggests that ESWT definitely represents an effective, reliable, and safe therapeutic method for early and middle stages of ONFH with bone marrow edema syndrome (BMES), and should be recommended as a therapeutic option. Keywords: High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy, Osteonecrosis, Femoral head, Bone marrow edema.

A Novel Treatment Method for Ankylosing Spondylitis Combined With Sacroiliac Joint Bone Marrow Edema

Objective: To investigate whether high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) combined with conventional oral medicine as a potential novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS)combined with sacroiliac joint bone marrow edema. Materials &amp; Methods: 40 patients were divided into two groups and were treated with or without ESWT in combination with conventional oral medicine. A visual analog scale (VAS) score of spinal pain, as well as indicators of spinal mobility, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) scores, inflammatory index (C-reactive protein, blood cell sedimentation rate), and other indicators were compared between the two groups. The Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) scoring system was used to evaluate pain and structural damage in the sacroiliac joint. Results: (1) After one month of treatment (T1), VAS, BASDAI, BASFI, and SPARCC scores were lower in both groups than at the start of treatment (T0) (P &lt; 0.05), with greater decreases observed in the treatment group (P &lt; 0.05). (2) Also, at T1, indicators of spinal mobility for the two groups were improved (P &lt; 0.05). (3) ESR and C-reactive protein levels for the two groups decreased significantly at T1 versus T0 (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: ESWT combined with oral medication can significantly relieve pain and improve clinical functional symptoms for patients with AS. It can also reduce sacroiliac joint bone marrow edema and control the inflammatory reaction in the sacroiliac joint, which represents a novel, effective, reliable, and safe clinical treatment therapeutic method. Keywords: Ankylosing spondylitis, Sacroiliac joint, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, oral medicine.

New Frontiers of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Medicine in Urology from Bench to Clinical Studies.

A shock wave (SW), which carries energy and propagates through a medium, is a type of continuous transmitted sonic wave that can achieve rapid energy transformations. SWs have been applied for many fields of medical science in various treatment settings. In urology, high-energy extracorporeal SWs have been used to disintegrate urolithiasis for 30 years. However, at lower energy levels, SWs enhance the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), chemoattractant factors, and the recruitment of progenitor cells, and inhibit inflammatory molecules. Low energy extracorporeal shock wave (LESW) therapy has been used in urology for treating chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), overactive bladder, stress urinary incontinence, and erectile dysfunction through the mechanisms of anti-inflammation, neovascularization, and tissue regeneration. Additionally, LESW have been proven to temporarily increase tissue permeability and facilitate intravesical botulinum toxin delivery for treating overactive bladders in animal studies and in a human clinical trial. LESW assisted drug delivery was also suggested to have a synergistic effect in combination with cisplatin to improve the anti-cancer effect for treating urothelial cancer in an in vitro and in vivo study. LESW assisted drug delivery in uro-oncology is an interesting suggestion, but no comprehensive clinical trials have been conducted as of yet. Taken together, LESW is a promising method for the treatment of various diseases in urology. However, further investigation with a large scale of clinical studies is necessary to confirm the real role of LESW in clinical use. This article provides information on the basics of SW physics, mechanisms of action on biological systems, and new frontiers of SW medicine in urology.

Effects of High-Energy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Pain, Functional Disability, Quality of Life, and Ultrasonographic Changes in Patients with Calcified Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy.

Objective The current trial was designed to evaluate the effects of high-energy shockwave therapy on objective and subjective outcomes among participants with calcified rotator cuff tendinopathy. Methods This parallel-group, randomized trial consists of 42 patients affected by calcific tendinopathies divided into two groups of 21 participants. Patients having calcified tendinopathy aged between 30 and 65 years with type A or B calcification were selected in the trial after signing the written consent form. Participants in the ESWT+RPT group received eight sessions of shockwaves, while the RPT group was treated by routine physical therapy. About 2000 shockwaves of 0.32 mJ/mm2, 120 Hz per treatment, were given as 12 sessions for the first six weeks (2 sessions/week). Pain intensity and shoulder functional ability, ultrasonographic changes, and quality of life were assessed with the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), Constant-Murley score (CMS), ultrasonography, and Western Ontario rotator cuff index (WORC). Results There were significant differences regarding NPRS and CMS between the two groups, at baseline and 6th and 12th weeks after intervention (p < 0.05). Within-group differences also showed statistically significant results after treatment (all p < 0.05). Significant results were seen in the WORC and ultrasonographic results pre- and posttreatment; more significant findings were found in the experimental group as compared to others. Conclusion High-energy shockwave therapy has been proved to be effective and thus strongly recommended for the management of calcified rotator cuff tendinopathy, improving the pain, functionality, and quality of life of these participants and decreasing the size of calcified deposits. Shockwave therapy is proved to be superior to routine physiotherapy.

The Effects of Three and Six Sessions of Low Energy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Graft Incorporation and Knee Functions Post Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Introduction:One session of high energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) was found to improve the healing of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) after reconstruction in animal and human studies. This study investigated the effects of three and six sessions of low energy ESWT on graft incorporation and knee functions post ACL reconstruction in humans.Materials and methods:Thirty participants with ACL injuries were recruited and assigned equally into three groups with 10 participants per group (n=10). Participants in the control group received physiotherapy alone without low energy ESWT. Participants in the 3ESWT group underwent three sessions of low energy ESWT (one session per week) combined with physiotherapy, and participants in the 6ESWT group received six sessions of low energy ESWT (one session per week) combined with physiotherapy. However, five participants were lost to follow-up. Evaluations of graft incorporation of the tibial tunnel using magnetic resonance (MRI) and Lysholm score were carried out before ACL reconstruction and after six months post ACL reconstruction.Results:The number of grafts with partial incorporation in the tibia tunnel in 6ESWT was significantly higher compared with the number of grafts with non-incorporation at six months post-operatively, X2 (1, N=9) =5.44, p =0.02. However, there was no significant difference between frequencies of graft incorporation in tibia tunnel in the control and 3ESWT groups, X2 (1, N=7) =3.57, p =0.06 and X2 (1, N=9) =2.78, p =0.10, respectively at 6 months postoperatively. Lysholm scores were significantly higher at 6 months post ACL reconstruction compared to the baseline value for each group (p<0.002, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in the Lysholm score between each group (F = 2.798, p = 0.083).Conclusions:Six sessions of low energy ESWT improved graft incorporation in the tibial tunnel. Both three and six sessions of low energy of ESWT does not affect the knee function score at six months post ACL reconstruction.

Evaluating the efficacy of High-energy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Aimed at Treating Calcified Shoulder (ESWT-CS): a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Shockwave therapy is a solid scientifically based medical tool used to manage calcified shoulder. This therapy, along with its pros and cons, is paving its way among armamentarium of interventions for musculoskeletal disorders. Objective: To determine efficacy of extracorporeal shockwave therapy on subjective and objective measures in patients with calcified shoulder. Methods: Single-blinded, parallel-group, randomized trial will be conducted on sample of 48 participants recruited through convenient sampling. Patients with calcified shoulder tendinopathy, aged between 30-55 years and both gender will be included. Outcome measures will be numeric pain rating scale, Constant and Murley score, Western Ontario rotator cuff index, shoulder ROM and radiological outcomes. Current study has been initiated in June 2020 till enrollment in December 2020.The quantitative data would present in the form of mean and standard deviation. After fulfilling the parametric assumptions, data will be analyzed using independent sample t-test/Mann Whitney test. Repeated measure ANOVA/Friedman test for pair-wise comparisons for follow-ups will be used to determine the effects of treatment within the groups at baseline, in 6th week and 12th week after commencement of treatment. Discussion: Evidence reported related to shockwave therapy for tendinopathy shows less quality and less number of randomized trials done, with no comparable groups and methodological deficiencies of studies. Trial registration: Approval was obtained from Institutional Review Board Committee (ref: IRB-UOL-FAHS/693/2020). The study was registered on 28th March 2020 in Iranian Registry of Clinical trials (IRCT), its registration reference number is IRCT20200204046373N1 https://irct.ir/trial/45657.

Pain Management Optimisation by an Ultrasound-Guided Analgesic Technique in Outpatients with Plantar Fasciitis during High-Energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy.

Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (HESWT) for the treatment of painful foot diseases. A crucial complication of HESWT is the appearance of pain with the subsequent interruption of the procedure. The aim of this study was the evaluation of ultrasound (US)-guided posterior tibial nerve block (PTNB) efficacy in outpatients who discontinued the first application of HESWT due to surge of moderate-severe pain. Twenty-one patients, scheduled for HESWT due to plantar fasciitis, who interrupted the treatment for surge of pain (numeric rating scale [NRS] 5), were enrolled. After interruption of the first treatment, the patients received US-guided PTNB for every subsequent HESWT session. The same skilled anaesthesiologist performed an US-guided PTNB all the times. Once the nerve was identified, the needle was inserted and 5ml mepivacaine 1% were injected. Intensity of pain during each procedure by NRS and evaluation of patient's adherence to the treatment were detected. The HESWT was split into only three applications giving in average about 0.25 mJ mm-2, and all patients completed the treatment sessions. US-guided PTNB showed a significant reduction of NRS (P < 0.01) between the first HEWST without anaesthesia and the three subsequent treatments under peripheral block. US-guided PTNB resulted a valid support for the HEWST in outpatients with plantar fasciitis because it reduced the pain during the procedure, allowing to minimise the patient discomfort and to give the therapeutic doses just in three sessions.

High-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy in humeral delayed and non-unions.

Within the last few decades, focused high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has proven to be an effective alternative to standard of care revision surgery in delayed healing fractures or manifest non-unions in various anatomical regions. A retrospective multi-variant analysis of an open prospective, single-armed clinical study was conducted. Patients receiving focused high-energy ESWT for a delayed healing or an apparent non-union of a humeral fracture between January 1999 and December 2015 at a single trauma center were included in the study. Bony healing was defined as cortical continuity in three of four cortices and pain-free force loading and evaluated using CT scans and clinical examination at three- and six-month follow-ups after ESWT. A total of 236 patients were included. N = 93 (43.8%) showed bony consolidation three months after ESWT and n = 105 (52.5%) after six months. Sub-group analysis showed significantly better healing for the proximal metaphyseal humerus (66.7% after six months, n = 42) compared to the diaphyseal region (48.1%, n = 133) and distal metaphyseal humerus (48.1%, n = 25). Regression analysis indicated significantly increased healing rates for patients of younger ages (p = 0.001) and a fracture diastasis of less than 5mm (p = 0.002). The findings of this study indicate that ESWT can be considered as a treatment option for a well-selected patient population despite the lower healing rates compared to other anatomical regions.

Electronic focusing high-nergy extracorporeal shockwave combined with conventional oral medicine for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis

To observe the progress of disease activity and sacroiliac joint imaging in patients with ankylosing spondylitis treated by extracorporeal shockwave combined with conventional oral medicine, and find a new safe and effective therapeutic method. The clinical data of 30 patients with ankylosing spondylitis treated from January 2018 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Including 20 males and 10 females, aged from 18 to 50 years with an average of (34.50±9.60) years. All 30 patients had different degrees of sacroiliac joint bone marrow edema on MRI before treatment. Thirty patients were divided into treatment group and control group according to different treatment methods. Among them, 15 cases in control group were treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and sulfasalazine enteric-coated tablets, for the 15 cases in treatment group, in addition to oral medicine in line with control group, electronic focusing high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy was added. The course of disease, age, pre- and post-treatment erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein in the two groups were analyzed; and visual analogue scale (VAS) and spondyloarthritis research consortium Canada (SPARCC) scoring system were used to evaluate the pain of the sacroiliac joint and the structural damage of the sacroiliac joint;Bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI) was calculated. All patients were followed up for at least 3 months. One month after treatment, VAS, and SPARCC scores in treatment group were significantly better than in control group (P<0.05). After 1 month of treatment, there was no significant difference in BASDAI, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein between two groups(P>0.05). VAS, BASDAI, SPARCC, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein of all patients after treatment were significantly improved compared with those before treatment (P< 0.01). Electronic focusing high-energy extracorporeal shockwave combined with conventional oral medicine in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis has a good clinical effect in rapidly relieving pain, improving disease activity, and preventing imaging progress. In addition, it is safe and non-invasive, which is worthy of clinical application.

Antibiofilm efficacy of focused high-energy extracorporeal shockwaves and antibiotics in vitro.

AimsBiofilm formation is one of the primary reasons for the difficulty in treating implant-related infections (IRIs). Focused high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (fhESWT), which is a treatment modality for fracture nonunions, has been shown to have a direct antibacterial effect on planktonic bacteria. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effect of fhESWT on Staphylococcus aureus biofilms in vitro in the presence and absence of antibiotic agents.Methods S. aureus biofilms were grown on titanium discs (13 mm × 4 mm) in a bioreactor for 48 hours. Shockwaves were applied with either 250, 500, or 1,000 impulses onto the discs surrounded by either phosphate-buffered saline or antibiotic (rifampin alone or in combination with nafcillin). The number of viable bacteria was determined by quantitative culture after sonication. Representative samples were taken for scanning electron microscopy.ResultsThe application of fhESWT led to a ten-fold reduction in bacterial counts on the metal discs for all impulse numbers compared to the control (p < 0.001). Increasing the number of impulses did not further reduce bacterial counts in the absence of antibiotics (all p > 0.289). Antibiotics alone reduced the number of bacteria on the discs; however, the combined application of the fhESWT and antibiotic administration further reduced the bacterial count compared to the antibiotic treatment only (p = 0.032).ConclusionThe use of fhESWT significantly reduced the colony-forming unit (CFU) count of a S. aureus biofilm in our model independently, and in combination with antibiotics. Therefore, the supplementary application of fhESWT could be a helpful tool in the treatment of IFIs in certain cases, including infected nonunions.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(1):77–84.

High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy for early stage femoral head osteonecrosis: A protocol of systematic review.

Background:Published trials reported that high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (HEEPSWT) can effectively treat early stage femoral head osteonecrosis (ESFHO). However, their results are still inconsistent. Thus, this study will systematically and comprehensively explore the effectiveness and safety of HEEPSWT for ESFHO.Methods:We will retrieve the electronic databases of Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, VIP database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure from inception to the present. All randomized controlled trials that focusing on the effectiveness and safety of HEEPSWT for ESFHO will be considered. Two researchers will undertake literature selection, information collection, and risk of bias evaluation separately. If disagreements occur, we will invite a third researcher for consultation and a final decision will be made. Cochrane risk of bias tool, and Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation will be utilized to assess the risk of bias and quality of evidence, respectively. We will perform statistical analysis using RevMan 5.3 software.Results:This study will provide a detailed summary of exist evidence related to the effectiveness and safety of HEEPSWT for ESFHO.Conclusion:The results of this study synthesize the evidence regarding the HEEPSWT for ESFHO, which may help to guide clinical management in the future.Systematic review registration:INPLASY202060055.

Quantifying the minimal and substantial clinical benefit of the Constant-Murley score and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score in patients with calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff

BackgroundTo aid the interpretation of clinical outcome scores, it is important to determine the measurement properties. The aim of this study was to establish the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) for the Constant-Murley score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score in patients with long-lasting rotator cuff calcific tendinitis treated with high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy and ultrasound guided needling. The secondary purpose was to assess the responsiveness of both questionnaires and to identify variables associated with achieving the MCID and SCB.MethodsA prospective cohort of 80 patients with rotator cuff calcific tendinitis was analyzed. Two anchor-based methods were used to calculate the MCID and SCB. Effect sizes and standardized response means were calculated to assess the responsiveness. Additional univariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the achievement of the MCID and SCB.ResultsFor the Constant-Murley score, we found an MCID and SCB of 9.8 and 19.9, respectively, based on the mean change method and 5.5 and 10.5, respectively, based on receiver operating characteristic analysis. For the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, we found an MCID and SCB of –8.2 and –19.6, respectively, with the former and –11.7 and –12.5, respectively, with the latter. The responsiveness of both outcome measures was good, with large effect sizes and standardized response means. The radiographic resorption after 6 weeks and after 6 months appeared to be the most important positive predictor for achieving the MCID and SCB after 6 months.ConclusionThis study established the MCID, SCB, and responsiveness for patients with long-lasting rotator cuff calcific tendinitis who were treated with minimally invasive treatment options. With this information, physicians can distinguish between a statistically significant difference and a clinically relevant benefit. Successful radiographic resorption after 6 weeks and after 6 months was associated with achieving clinically significant improvement after treatment.

The Therapeutic Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) on the Rotator Cuff Lesions with Shoulder Stiffness: A Prospective Randomized Study.

Aim We wish to investigate the therapeutic potential of a single-session high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on the rotator cuff lesions with shoulder stiffness. Patients and Methods. Thirty-seven patients afflicted with rotator cuff lesions with shoulder stiffness were randomized to receive either shockwave or sham treatment based on statistical randomization. In the shockwave group, we used Orthospec™ Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy 3000 impulse 24 kV (0.32 mJ/mm2) focused at two points as one session. The sham intervention entailed the use of the device in which the silicone pad was removed from the stand-off device. The visual analogue scale (VAS), muscle power of the shoulder, Constant and Murley score (CMS), and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder were assessed for all patients. Ten milliliters of peripheral venous blood was obtained from every participant for the measurements of markers for inflammation, tissue regeneration, angiogenesis, and substance P before and at 1 week and 4 weeks after intervention. Results The ESWT group has significantly better VAS, muscle power, CMS, and ROM at 6 and 12 months after intervention. No between-group differences were observed before as well as 1 and 4 weeks after intervention in the selected biomarkers. Conclusion ESWT may be a good adjuvant for the treatment of rotator cuff lesions with shoulder stiffness.

Comparing Ultrasound-Guided Needling Combined With a Subacromial Corticosteroid Injection Versus High-Energy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Calcific Tendinitis of the Rotator Cuff: A Randomized Controlled Trial

To compare clinical and radiographic outcomes after treatment with standardized high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and ultrasound-guided needling (UGN) in patients with symptomatic calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff who were nonresponsive to conservative treatment. The study was designed as a randomized controlled trial. The ESWT group received ESWT (2000 pulses, energy flux density 0.35 mJ/mm2) in 4 sessions with 1-week intervals. UGN was combined with a corticosteroid ultrasound-guided subacromial bursa injection. Shoulder function was assessed at standardized follow-up intervals (6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months) using the Constant Murley Score (CMS), the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire, and visual analog scale for pain and satisfaction. The size, location, and morphology of the deposits were evaluated on radiographs. The a priori sample size calculation computed that 44 participants randomized in each treatment group was required to achieve a power of 80%. Eighty-two patients were treated (56 female, 65%; mean age 52.1 ± 9 years) with a mean baseline CMS of 66.8 ± 12 and mean calcification size of 15.1 ± 4.7 mm. One patient was lost to follow-up. At 1-year follow-up, the UGN group showed similar results as the ESWT group with regard to the change from baseline CMS (20.9 vs 15.7; P= .23), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (-20.1 vs -20.7; P= .78), and visual analog scale for pain (-3.9 and -2.6; P= .12). The mean calcification size decreased by 13 ± 3.9 mm in the UGN group and 6.7 ± 8.2 mm in the ESWT group (<P= .001). In total, 22% of the UGN and 41% of the ESWT patients received an additional treatment during follow-up because of persistent symptoms. This RCT compares the clinical and radiographic results of UGN and high-energy ESWT in the treatment of calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff. Both techniques are successful in improving function and pain, with high satisfaction rates after 1-year follow-up. However, UGN is more effective in eliminating the calcific deposit, and the amount of additional treatments was greater in the ESWT group. II, randomized controlled trial.

Effectiveness of non-surgical interventions for rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy: A systematic review.

To evaluate the effectiveness of non-surgical interventions for rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy. Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials, PEDro and SPORTDiscus from inception to March 2018, and accompanying reference lists. Peer-reviewed randomized clinical trials of non-surgical interventions for adults with rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy were included. The same 2 reviewers independently evaluated eligibility, extracted data and evaluated risk of bias of the included randomized clinical trials. A system to resolve any disagreements was established a priori. Short-term, medium-term and long-term outcomes for pain, shoulder function and calcific morphology related to rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy were extracted. Due to diversity in outcome measures a meta-analyses was not conducted. Of the 2,085 articles identified, 18 met the inclusion criteria, all of which had high risk of bias. Five non-surgical interventions were identified (extracorporeal shockwave therapy, ultrasound-guided percutaneous intervention, pulsed ultrasound, acetic acid iontophoresis, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). There was moderate evidence for high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy over low-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy for pain and function between 3 and 6 months, and over placebo for function in the first 6 months. There was moderate evidence for ultrasound-guided percutaneous intervention over medium/high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy for reduced pain and calcific morphology over a 1-year period. Methodological concerns preclude definitive recommendations.

Focused high-energy extracorporeal shockwaves as supplemental treatment in a rabbit model of fracture-related infection.

Focused high-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (fhESWT) is used to improve fracture healing in cases of nonunion. In addition, it has been shown to have direct antibacterial effects. We evaluated fhESWT as an adjunct to conventional treatment in a clinically relevant rabbit model of fracture-related infection (FRI). A humeral osteotomy in 31 rabbits was fixed with a seven-hole locking compression plate. FRI was established with a clinical Staphylococcus aureus isolate. After 2 weeks, a revision surgery was performed with debridement, irrigation, and implant retention. Rabbits then received: no further treatment (controls); shockwaves (4000 impulses with 23 kV at days 2 and 6 after revision); systemic antibiotics (rifampin and nafcillin); or the combination of antibiotics and shockwaves. Treatments were applied over 1 week. Blood cultures were taken before and after shockwave sessions. After another week without treatment, rabbits were euthanized and quantitative bacteriology was performed on implants and tissues to determine infection burden. Indicator organs (brain, heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, and spleen) were cultured to assess possible bacteremia. All the rabbits were infected at revision surgery as determined by the bacteriological culture of debrided materials. fhESWT in combination with antibiotic treatment lowered the bacterial burden 100-fold compared with antibiotic treatment alone in all samples (P = .38). This effect was most prevalent for the implant sample (P = .08). No significant effect was seen for fhESWT alone compared with untreated controls. No signs of bacteremia occurred in blood cultures and organs. fhESWT appears safe and could be a helpful adjunct to conventional treatment in certain difficult-to-treat FRIs.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for the treatment of scaphoid delayed union and nonunion: a retrospective analysis examining the rate of consolidation and further outcome variables

Operative procedures are considered gold standard in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion, albeit their considerable complexity and the risk of intraoperative complications. High energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) offers a non-invasive treatment option for scaphoid nonunion. The aim of this study was to explore the rate of bony consolidation and further outcome variables in patients with delayed union of scaphoid fractures and scaphoid nonunion treated with ESWT. Due to delayed union (21) or nonunion (21) of a scaphoid fracture 42 patients (37 men, and 5 women) with an average age of 48,3 (15-66) years underwent ESWT followed by immobilization in a forearm cast including the proximal phalanx of the thumb for 6 to 8 weeks. In 13 patients the fracture was initially treated, 8 with immobilization, 5 with screw fixation. In 5 of the 29 patients without an initially treatment, the fracture resp. nonunion was secondarily treated with screw fixation (2) or a medial femur condyle (3) but failed to heal. 10 to 12 weeks after the ESWT bony healing was controlled with computed scanning in the long axis of the scaphoid. If 50 % of diameter of the scaphoid showed trabecula bony healing was considered. Factors with potential influence on bony healing (site of the fracture/nonunion, scapholunate angle, patient´s age, Body Mass Index, smoking and alcohol consume) were analyzed. In addition, 34 patients underwent a clinical follow-up examination including DASH and Mayo Wrist Score, pain analyzes (VAS). Seventy-one per cent of patients showed scaphoid fracture consolidation using ESWT. In 7 out of 8 patients with conservative treatment and in 4 out of 5 patients with screw fixation of the initial fracture bony healing was achieved. From the 5 patients with secondary surgical treatment of the scaphoid only 1 patient, treated with a medial femur condyle, failed to heal the scaphoid. 15 out of the 24 initially non-treated scaphoid fractures healed. The time between ESWT and the documented bony healing averaged 8.4 months (256 days). Neither fracture site, nor the scapholunate angle, alcohol and tobacco use, as well as biometric factors, such as age and BMI had influence on the success rate of the ESWT. Side effects of the ESWT were limited to local skin irritations and petechial bleedings. ESWT has a positive effect regarding bony healing of scaphoid fracture with delayed fracture healing and nonunion with a success rate of 71 %. The complication rate is low, and the clinical results regarding wrist motion and pain are satisfying. Further investigations are necessary to evaluate the input of fracture/nonunion characteristics like the morphological appearance on bony healing.

Effect of different energy of extracorporeal shock waves on diabetic neuralgia in rats

Objective To observe the effects of different energy of extracorporeal shock waves(ECSWs)on diabetic neuralgia in rats. Methods Fifty clean-grade healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes, aged 8 weeks, weighing 180-200 g, were divided into 5 groups (n=10 each) using a random number table method: control group (group C), diabetic neuralgia group (group DN), low-energy ECSW group (group L+ DN), medium-energy ECSW group (group M+ DN), and high-energy ECSW group (group H+ DN). Diabetic neuralgia models were established by intraperitoneally injecting streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) in DN, L+ DN, M+ DN and H+ DN groups.ECSWs at 1, 2 and 3 bar were applied during 4 consecutive weeks after successful establishment of the model once a week (T1-T4) in L+ DN, M+ DN and H+ DN groups, respectively.The mechanical paw withdrawal threshold (MWT), thermal paw withdrawal latency (TWL) and motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) were measured at T1-T4.Animals were sacrificed after the last measurement, and the sciatic nerve samples were obtained for determination of the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α) and interluekin-6(IL-6) (by Western blot) and expression of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA (by real-time polymerase chain reaction). Results Compared with group C, MWT, TWL and MNCV were significantly decreased at T1-T4, and the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 protein and mRNA was up-regulated in the other groups (P<0.05). Compared with group DN, MWT at T2-4 and TWL and MNCV at T3, 4 were significantly increased, and the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 protein and mRNA was down-regulated in L+ DN, M+ DN and H+ DN groups (P<0.05). Compared with group H+ DN, MWT at T2-4 and TWL and MNCV at T3, 4 were significantly increased, and the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 protein and mRNA was down-regulated in L+ DN and M+ DN groups, and the expression of IL-6 mRNA was significantly down-regulated in group L+ DN (P<0.05). Conclusion ECSWs can mitigate diabetic neuralgia in rats, and the low- and medium-energy ECSWs produce better efficacy, and the mechanism is related to inhibiting inflammatory responses. Key words: High-energy shock waves; Diabetic neuropathies