Improvement In Outcome Scores Research Articles

CUSTOM-MADE PATIENT-SPECIFIC HIGH TIBIAL OSTEOTOMY IMPLANTS AND SURGICAL GUIDES SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE CLINICAL OUTCOMES: FIRST-IN-MAN CASE SERIES

High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a joint preserving alternative to knee replacement for medial tibiofemoral osteoarthritis in younger, more active patients. The procedure is technically challenging and limited also by ‘one size fits all’ plates which can result in patient discomfort necessitating plate removal.This clinical trial evaluated A novel custom-made HTO system – TOKA (3D Metal Printing LTD, Bath, UK) for accuracy of osteotomy correction and improvements in clinical outcome scores.The investigation was a single-arm single-centre prospective clinical trial (IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04574570), with recruitment of 25 patients (19M/6F; average age: 54.4 years; average BMI: 26.8), all of whom received the TOKA HTO 3D planning and surgery. All patients were predominantly diagnosed with isolated medial knee osteoarthritis and with a varus deformity under 20°. Patients were CT scanned pre- and post-operatively for 3D virtual planning and correctional assessment. All surgeries were performed by the lead clinical investigator – a consultant knee surgeon with a specialist interest in and clinical experience of HTO.On average, Knee Society Scores (KSS) improved significantly (p<0.001) by 27.6, 31.2 and 37.2 percentage points respectively by 3-, 6- and 12-months post-surgery respectively. Other measures assessed during the study (KOOS, EQ5D) produced similar increases.Our early experience using custom implants is extremely promising. We believe the reduced profile of the plate, as well as the reduced invasiveness and ease of surgery contributed to faster patient recovery, and improved outcome scores compared to conventional techniques. These clinical outcome results compare very favourably other case-series with published KOOS scores using different devices.

The association between body mass index and patient-reported outcome measures before and after primary total hip or knee arthroplasty: a registry.

The objective is to determine whether body mass index is associated with patient-reported expectations and well-being before primary total hip or total knee arthroplasty, and patient-reported outcomes 6 months after surgery. Data were obtained from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry. Outcome measures included pre-operative expectations for post-operative mobility, joint pain and health, pre- and post-operative EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS, Oxford Hip/Knee Scores and joint pain scales, and post-operative perceived change and perceived satisfaction. Associations with BMI were assessed using chi-square tests, analysis of variance and Linear Mixed Models equations. Data were available for 12 816 primary THA patients and 20 253 primary TKA patients. Pre-operatively, patients in higher BMI categories were significantly more likely to expect ongoing problems with mobility, more joint pain and poorer health following surgery (P<0.01 for all analyses). For arthroplasty patients, higher BMI was associated with poorer pre-operative and post-operative scores for all measures. BMI was positively associated with improvements in EQ-5D, OHS/KS and joint pain. While between-group differences were statistically significant, many were small in magnitude. There was no association between BMI and patient-perceived change or satisfaction after arthroplasty. Patients undergoing THA/TKA, higher BMI was associated with lower pre-operative expectations, poorer well-being before surgery, and worse scores after surgery. Patients who were obese demonstrated comparable satisfaction with their operated joint, compared with non-obese patients. BMI was associated with greater pre- to post-operative improvements in outcome scores for EQ-5D, VAS knee, OHS/OKS and joint pain but these differences may not be clinically important.

Outcomes for Treatment of Capsulolabral Adhesions With a Capsular Spacer During Revision Hip Arthroscopy

Background: The presence of adhesions is a common source of pain and dysfunction after hip arthroscopic surgery and an indication for revision surgery. The placement of a capsular spacer in the capsulolabral recess after lysis of adhesions has been developed to treat and prevent the recurrence of adhesions. Purpose: To evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and survivorship at a minimum of 2 years after revision hip arthroscopic surgery with capsular spacer placement for capsular adhesions. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Between January 2013 and June 2018, a total of 95 patients (99 hips) aged ≥18 years underwent revision hip arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of capsular adhesions with the placement of a capsular spacer. Overall, 53 patients (56 hips) met the inclusion criteria and had a minimum 2-year follow-up, forming the cohort of this study. Exclusion criteria included confounding metabolic bone diseases (eg, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, Marfan syndrome), labral deficiency, or advanced osteoarthritis (Tönnis grade 2 or 3). Preoperative and postoperative outcome scores (modified Harris Hip Score [mHHS], Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living [HOS-ADL], Hip Outcome Score–Sport-Specific Subscale [HOS-SSS], 12-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-12], and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index [WOMAC]) were collected and compared in addition to the revision rate, conversion to total hip arthroplasty, and patient satisfaction. Results: The mean age of the cohort was 32 ± 11 years, with 32 female hips (57%) and a median number of previous hip arthroscopic procedures of 1 (range, 1-5). The arthroplasty- and revision-free survivorship rate at 2 years was 91%. Overall, 5 patients (6 hips; 11%) underwent revision surgery at a mean of 2.4 ± 1.4 years after capsular spacer placement, with symptomatic capsular defects being the most common finding. There were 4 patients (7%) who converted to total hip arthroplasty. For hips not requiring subsequent surgery (n = 46), there was a significant improvement in outcome scores except for the SF-12 Mental Component Summary, with rates of achieving the minimal clinically important difference of 70%, 70%, and 65% for the mHHS, HOS-ADL, and HOS-SSS, respectively. Conclusion: Capsular spacers, as part of a systematic approach including lysis of adhesions with early and consistent postoperative physical therapy including circumduction exercises, resulted in improved PROs as well as high arthroplasty– and revision-free survivorship (91%) at a minimum 2-year follow-up. Capsular spacers should be considered in revision hip arthroscopic procedures when an adequate labral volume remains but adhesions continue to be a concern.

Cell transplantation techniques for cartilage restoration

BackgroundFocal articular chondral lesions are a common finding among patients presenting with knee pain. If symptomatic and unresponsive to conservative treatment, cell transplantation techniques offer a unique solution to address larger defects by engineering chondrocytes to integrate within the subchondral bone of the lesion and regenerate cartilage. ObjectivesThe purpose of this article is to review the evaluation of, and clinical decision making for, patients being considered for cell transplantation and the available techniques an orthopaedic surgeon has at their disposal. MethodsA review of recent literature regarding cartilage defects in the knee and cell transplantation techniques was performed to provide strategies for evaluating and treating chondral defects with matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) or particulated juvenile allograft cartilage (PJAC) procedures. ResultsChondral defects in the knee can be treated with patients’ own chondrocytes embedded into a collagen membrane as a MACI procedure, or minced autologous donor cartilage that is then implanted onto a scaffold as a PJAC procedure. These cell transplantation techniques offer advantages compared to bone marrow stimulation or mosaicplasty, and have shown clinically significant improvements in outcome scores with low rates of complications. ConclusionCell transplantation techniques such as MACI and PJAC offer treatment options that can effectively address large full-thickness chondral defects in the tibiofemoral joint or patellofemoral joint that may respond poorly to bone marrow stimulation or mosaicplasty.

High Intensity Therapeutic Laser Induced Changes in Cross-sectional Area of Hamstring Muscle: A Case Report

Ultrasonography can provide a clear depiction of Muscle Thickness (MT) and Cross-sectional Area (CSA) while monitoring muscle contraction. Estimating muscle contraction through ultrasonography with physiotherapy interventions has shown to be a beneficial method for training tightened muscles. A 26-year-old male patient presented to physical therapy with a diagnosis of acute hamstring tightness in both lower extremities, based on clinical examination. Muscle tightness was confirmed through the CSA of the hamstring muscles using ultrasonography. A total of six sessions over two weeks, three times per week, including HighIntensity Laser Therapy (HILT) on each hamstring muscle using the contact method, were applied. Circumference and area of each hamstring muscle were measured through ultrasonography, along with flexibility using the sit-toe and touch test and the Active Knee Extension (AKE) test, both pre- and post-intervention. At the end of the sessions, the subject reported clinically meaningful improvement in outcome scores. This case illustrates the improvement in hamstring muscle flexibility as observed in radiological ultrasonography findings following HILT intervention in a subject with hamstring muscle tightness.

Bilateral Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty – Is it Feasible, Safe, and Worth Considering: A Pilot Study

Introduction: Outpatient total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in selected patients has proved to be beneficial to both patients and health-care systems in terms of safety, reoperations, readmission rate, complications, cost-effectiveness, increased patient satisfaction, and improved outcome scores. However, these benefits of outpatient TKA have been limited to unilateral TKA. Hence, we reviewed the results of bilateral outpatient TKA in five patients to educate surgeons about the feasibility, safety, benefit, and area of research for bilateral outpatient TKA and its worth consideration in selected groups of patients to decrease patient morbidity and cost. Materials and Methods: Five bilateral knee arthroplasties done as outpatient surgeries at our center were reviewed for patient satisfaction, readmission, reoperation, emergency visit without readmission, unplanned clinic visits, and complications. All these cases followed proper selection criteria, adequate preoperative planning, and strict adherence to our standard operating protocols. Results: Five patients of bilateral outpatient TKA with a mean age of 48.6 years were included in the study. All patients have excellent outcomes at 1-month follow-up. The mean Knee Society Score was 91. None of the patients required reoperation or revision surgery. All the patients demonstrated a high level of satisfaction, without any complications of instability, infection, ileus, urinary tract infection, or deep vein thrombosis. Conclusion: Bilateral outpatient TKA can be considered a suitable alternative with benefits of reduced hospital stay, and hence decreased morbidity and cost, early mobilization and recovery, economical advantages, minimal pain owing to multimodal analgesia, faster return to normalcy, and less mental stress or disturbances, but in selected patients at specialized center only. The study stresses on the fact of bilateral outpatient TKA should also considered a key area of research in the field of outpatient TKA in addition to other areas of universal selection criteria, ideal risk assessment tool, safety aspect, surgical duration, ambulation, and reasons for not able to discharge.

The influence of psychological need on rehabilitation outcomes for people with spinal cord injury.

Single-centre, retrospective study of peoplewith a spinal cord injury or disorder(PwSCI/D) and identified psychological need. To examine the effect of psychological need on rehabilitation outcomes. National Spinal Injuries Centre (NSIC), Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, United Kingdom. Self-reported data from the Stoke Mandeville Spinal Needs Assessment Checklist (SMS-NAC) were used to examine identified psychological need (characterised by referral for psychological treatment, or scoring above clinical threshold in admission psychometric measures) on SCI rehabilitation outcome domains. Participants were grouped according to whether they were referred, not referred, scored above or below clinical threshold. 234 participants were included (Mean age at injury (years) = 53, 70% Male, 29% tetraplegia, 38% paraplegia, 33% ASIA D). There was a significant improvement in outcome scores from admission to discharge across all domains irrespective of participant group, however individuals with identified psychological need scored lower across all rehabilitation domains than those without. While individuals with psychological need demonstrated longer rehabilitation stays, more frequent and longer discharge delays, they also showed comparatively greater rehabilitation improvements. Psychological screening measures were more effective at detecting psychological need than individuals identified via referral, and participants scoring above clinical threshold had poorest overall rehabilitation outcomes. Individuals with psychological need have greater rehabilitation need and may require longer rehabilitation and benefit from additional discharge planning. Early, proactive psychometric screening can better facilitate improvements for delivering rehabilitation. Future research should consider specific contributing factors to psychological need, such as pre-existing mental health conditions or socio-demographic influences.

Tapered Modular Femoral Stems for Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty Show Excellent Mid-Term Survivorship.

Revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) can be challenging in the face of proximal femoral bone loss, catastrophic implant failure, or recurrent hip instability. Tapered modular femoral stems have shown substantial success at short follow up for aseptic revisions. The purpose of this study was to report mid-term revision THA outcomes of a tapered modular femoral stem at a tertiary referral center used to treat both aseptic as well as periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). We specifically sought to assess: (1) revision-free implant survivorship; (2) patient-reported outcome measurements (i.e., Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Joint Replacement [HOOS JR]); (3) postoperative surgical complications and 30-day readmissions; as well as (4) radiographic outcomes. We reviewed a consecutive series of 92 patients who underwent revision THA between 2009 and 2013 with a tapered modular femoral stem. After accounting for mortality (n=7) and loss to follow up (n=13), a total of 72 implants in 66 patients who had eight years of mean follow up (range, 2 to 11) were included. PJI (46%) was the predominant preoperative indication for revision THA, followed by aseptic loosening (25%), periprosthetic fracture (18%), and symptomatic hardware (10%). Outcomes of interest included all-cause revision-free survivorship, postoperative complications, and HOOS JR, as well as SF-12 scores. Radiographically, they were evaluated for subsidence, radiolucencies, and loosening. Aseptic revision-free survivorship of the femoral component was 95.8% (69 out of 72). Including septic cases, revision-free survivorship was 87.5% (63 cases), and 60 implants (83.3%) had an all-cause revision-free survivorship. For those patients who underwent septic revisions, eight out of nine remained infection free, while one underwent a resection arthroplasty. Furthermore, the cause for femoral aseptic revisions were subsidence (1.4%) and aseptic loosening (2.8%). Functional score improvements for HOOS JR, SF-12 PCS, as well as MCS were 29, 13, and 2, respectively (all p<0.001). There were eight emergency department visits (11.1%,) and six inpatient readmissions (8.3%). Additionally, two patients had dislocations (2.8%, two out of 72) not requiring revision. There were two cases of femoral subsidence and one aseptic loosening requiring revision; whereas, the rest did not demonstrate any progressive radiographic lucencies. The eight-year mean survivorship results of the tapered modular femoral stems in revision THA demonstrated excellent results. Our series found improved outcome scores and relatively low postoperative complications, which indicate a favorable implant survivorship profile for revision THA. These results serve to inform arthroplasty surgeons of expected outcomes of the modular stems when used for patients who need complex revision THA.

Limited Open Achilles Repair without Instrument Guided Assistance: A Surgical Technique

Category: Sports Introduction/Purpose: The limited open Achilles tendon repair technique has recently gained popularity as a treatment option for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. This surgical technique video describes a limited open Achilles tendon repair without instrument guided assistance, demonstrating improved clinical outcomes for patients while also reducing reliance on operative equipment, cost, and the duration of surgery. Methods: The indications for this limited open Achilles tendon repair technique include an Achilles tendon rupture less than six weeks from injury occurring in the watershed area. The patient is prone and a two to three centimeter longitudinal incision is made over the Achilles tear. In the proximal stump, three non-absorbable sutures are passed horizontally from proximal to distal direction. In the distal stump, the same is done in a non-locking manner. The stumps are then reflected and the deep fascial compartment is released. The foot is plantarflexed to reduce tension on the repair site. The non-locking sutures are tied sequentially from distal-distal to proximal-proximal direction. A running box suture using a non-absorbable suture followed by 0- Vicryl around the rupture site is performed. Results: This technique has demonstrated, at a median follow-up of 3.7 years, restored preinjury function along with no wound complications, reruptures, or reoperations in 33 patients. The median time from injury to surgery was 10 (range, 1-45) days and the mean time for returning to preinjury level of activity was 5.6 (range, 1.7-22.1) months. After the procedure, patients demonstrated significant improvements in mean Foot and Ankle Disability Index (49.1 to 98.4), mean Visual Analog Scale pain score (4.8 to 0.2), and mean Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) subscales such as FAOS pain (54.8 to 99.2), FAOS symptoms (84.6 to 97.0), FAOS activities of daily living (61.4 to 97.2), FAOS sports and recreational activity (39.5 to 98.5), and FAOS quality of life (39.7 to 88.7). Conclusion: Patients who underwent a limited open Achilles tendon repair without instrument guided assistance demonstrated significant improvements in outcome scores with minimal complications.

Arthroscopic Posterior Articular Coverage and Shift (PACS) Procedure for Treatment of Preosteoarthritic Constitutional Static Posterior Shoulder Instability (Type C1)

Background: Different joint-preserving techniques for treatment of preosteoarthritic, constitutional static (type C1) posterior shoulder instability (PSI) have been proposed, including posterior glenoid open wedge osteotomy and bone graft augmentation. However, the techniques are demanding, the reported complication and reoperation rates are high, and posterior decentering cannot reliably be reversed. Purpose: To assess the clinical and radiological longitudinal outcomes of patients with type C1 PSI after arthroscopic posterior articular coverage and shift (PACS) surgery. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospective database with longitudinal follow-up including 14 shoulders in 13 patients who underwent an arthroscopic PACS procedure for symptomatic preosteoarthritic constitutional static posterior instability (type C1) with previous failed nonoperative treatment. Patients were clinically evaluated before surgery and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively in terms of satisfaction and pain levels as well as standardized physical examination, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) score, Constant score, and Rowe score. Preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained in all patients. A paired 2-sample t test was used to compare changes in continuous variable parameters over time. Correlation analyses were performed using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: All outcome scores and the pain level improved significantly from preoperatively to postoperatively, and the improvement was sustained over the follow-up period of 2 years (pain level, 6.4 preoperatively vs 3.3 at 2 years, P < .001; SSV, 40 vs 70, P = .001; WOSI, 33 vs 56, P = .001; Constant, 70 vs 79, P = .049; Rowe, 52 vs 76, P < .001). The mean glenohumeral and scapulohumeral subluxation indices were significantly lower in the early postoperative period compared with preoperative measurements (glenohumeral, 52% ± 6% vs 58% ± 10%, P = .02; scapulohumeral, 70% ± 8%; vs 77% ± 9%, P = .002, respectively); however, they returned to baseline values at follow-up (57% ± 7% vs 58% ± 10%, P = .7; 75% ± 6% vs 77% ± 9%, P = .4, respectively). A high scapulohumeral subluxation index, excessive glenoid retroversion, and increased posterior positioning of the humeral head in relation to scapular blade axis and older age were correlated with worse clinical outcomes. Conclusion: Over the follow-up period of 2 years, the PACS procedure significantly improved outcome scores in patients who had preosteoarthritic constitutional static posterior shoulder instability, especially in younger patients with less severe glenoid retroversion and posterior decentering of the humeral head. However, similar to other techniques, the PACS procedure needs to be considered a symptomatic therapy that does not reverse the underlying cause or stop the progressive pathology.

Effect of Preoperative Joint Space Width on Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation: Outcomes at Midterm Follow-up.

Background:It remains unclear whether lateral joint space narrowing without severe cartilage loss before meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) affects clinical outcomes and graft extrusion.Hypothesis:Patients with greater preoperative joint space narrowing would show more graft extrusion, more osteoarthritis progression, and worse clinical outcomes than would those with less narrowing.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:We retrospectively evaluated 61 patients who underwent lateral MAT and had a minimum follow-up of 4 to 5 years. The median preoperative joint space width (JSW) on Rosenberg view radiographs was used to classify patients into those with less joint space narrowing (JSW ≥3 mm; group A) and greater joint space narrowing (JSW <3 mm; group B). We compared differences between groups in terms of graft extrusion and articular cartilage loss (modified Outerbridge grade ≥3) on 1-year postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and changes in JSW and clinical outcomes at the last follow-up.Results:There were 31 patients in group A and 30 patients in group B; the mean follow-up time for all patients was 64.4 ± 10.3 months. All patients showed a significant preoperative to postoperative improvement in outcome scores (P < .001 for all). The mean preoperative JSW was 3.8 ± 0.9 mm in group A and 2.3 ± 0.4 mm in group B (P < .001). In group B, there was more graft extrusion on postoperative MRI scans (3.0 ± 0.9 vs 1.9 ± 0.6 mm, respectively; P < .001) and a higher proportion of patients with pathological graft extrusion at final follow-up (43.3% vs 12.9%, respectively; P = .011) compared with group A. At 1 year postoperatively, cartilage loss grade ≥3 was observed at the lateral femoral condyle in 3.2% and 20.0% of patients in groups A and B (P = .053), respectively, and at the lateral tibial plateau in 3.2% and 30.0% of patients (P = .006), respectively. There were moderate correlations between graft extrusion and preoperative absolute JSW (r = –0.471; P < .001) and preoperative relative JSW (r = –0.428; P = .001).Conclusion:Patients with less preoperative joint space narrowing had less graft extrusion and cartilage loss on 1-year postoperative MRI scans, as well as better radiological and clinical outcomes at midterm follow-up, compared with patients with greater preoperative narrowing.

Arthroscopic Posterior Labral Repair in Active-Duty Military Patients: A Reliable Solution for an At-Risk Population, Regardless of Anchor Type

Background: Active-duty servicemembers are a population at risk for the development of posterior shoulder instability. While short-term outcomes after arthroscopic posterior labral repair for posterior shoulder instability are promising, there is a paucity of longer term follow-up data for this procedure. Purposes: The primary purpose was to report midterm outcomes after arthroscopic posterior labral repair in active-duty military patients for posterior shoulder instability without bone loss. The secondary purpose was to determine if outcomes varied between anchor types used. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Preoperative and postoperative outcomes, with a minimum 3-year follow-up, for a visual analog scale for pain, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the Rowe score were collected and analyzed. A separate subgroup analysis was performed comparing the outcomes of patients who underwent repair with biocomposite anchors versus those who underwent repair with all-suture anchors. Results: A total of 73 patients with a mean follow-up of 82.55 ± 24.20 months met the inclusion criteria and were available for analysis. As a whole, the cohort demonstrated statistically and clinically significant improvements in outcome scores at final follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion did not vary significantly. While the difference in final outcome scores between the 2 anchor types did not reach statistical significance, a statistically significantly larger proportion of patients who underwent repair with all-suture anchors versus those who underwent repair with biocomposite anchors met the Patient Acceptable Symptom State for the SANE (97.14% vs 78.95%, respectively; P = .0180) and the ASES score (88.57% vs 68.42%, respectively; P = .0171). The proportion of patients who achieved the substantial clinical benefit or surpassed the minimal clinically important difference, however, did not vary by anchor type. Overall, 70 patients (95.89%) remained on active duty and were able to return to preinjury work and recreational activity levels. There were 3 patients (4.11%) who had recurrent posterior instability. Conclusion: This population of active-duty servicemembers undergoing posterior labral repair for posterior labral instability without bone loss demonstrated a statistically and clinically significant improvement in midterm outcomes, a low recurrence rate, and a rate of return to active duty of 95.89%, regardless of the anchor type used.

Long-term Results of Arthroscopic Repair of Full-Thickness Traumatic Rotator Cuff Tears in Active Duty Military Patients Under the Age of 40 Years

Background: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an effective procedure through which to decrease pain and increase strength, with favorable long-term outcomes demonstrated in older patient populations with full-thickness rotator cuff tears. The long-term outcomes after this procedure in younger, higher-demand patients, however, is not as clearly defined. Purpose: To report on the long-term outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair of traumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tears in active duty military patients under the age of 40 years at the time of surgery. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Preoperative, midterm, and final evaluations were collected, including scores on the visual analog scale for pain, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder form. A total of 42 patients were screened for inclusion: 3 underwent additional surgical procedures on the operative shoulder and 2 were lost to follow-up, leaving 37 patients with mean follow-up of 104.51 months available for analysis. A subgroup analysis was performed comparing outcomes between patients with Southern California Orthopaedic Institute grade 1 or 2 tears and those with grade 3 or 4 tears. Results: At final follow-up, pain per the visual analog scale decreased to 1.16 from 8.03 (P < .0001); the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score increased to 87.32 from 48.24 (P < .0001); and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score increased to 88.68 from 41.00 (P < .0001). There was no statistically significant difference in outcome scores or range of motion between midterm and final follow-up. Improvement in outcome scores and range of motion at final follow-up did not vary between patients with small and large tears. Of 42 patients, 37 (88.1%) were able to return to full unrestricted active duty and sporting activity, while 5 (11.9%) were medically separated from the military. Conclusion: Active duty military patients under the age of 40 years with traumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tears had statistically and clinically significant increases in outcome scores and decreases in pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair at long-term follow-up.

Influence of posterior malleolar fragment morphology on the outcomes of trimalleolar fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTrimalleolar fractures are generally considered to have inferior outcomes among ankle injuries. Historically, emphasis was placed on the size of the posterior malleolar fracture (PMF) to guide surgical decision-making and predict outcomes. Recent studies have suggested that the morphology of the PMF fragment is more important than its size. The aim of this systematic review was to determine if the outcomes of trimalleolar fractures depend on the morphology of the PMF as per the Haraguchi classification system after surgical fixation. MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted in the electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Ovid. Title and abstracts were screened, and data from eligible studies were extracted. Meta-regression and pooled analysis was performed using appropriate computer software. Results11 studies with 597 patients were included in the final analysis. Pooled mean AOFAS score was 87.43 (95% CI 84.24–90.62) after a mean follow-up of 31.6 months. Univariate and multivariate meta-regression analysis demonstrated that as the percentage of Haraguchi type 1 patients increased, there was a statistically significant improvement in outcome scores. A similar trend was noted for Haraguchi type 3 fractures, and a reverse trend was observed for Haraguchi type 2 injuries, although neither were statistically significant. ConclusionOur review suggests that the outcomes of trimalleolar fractures after surgical fixation may depend on the morphology of the PMF, with Haraguchi type 1 fractures having overall superior functional outcomes than Haraguchi type 2 and 3 injuries. Future studies need to done to conclusively prove or refute these findings.

Distalization of the Tibial Tubercle for Patellar Stabilization Combined With Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: Length of Distalization or Residual Patella Alta and its Affect on Outcome

Background: Previous research supports that distal translation of the tibial tubercle osteotomy (dTTO) for patients with recurrent lateral patellar dislocation (R-LPD) and patella alta is effective for surgical patellar stabilization. Hypothesis/Purpose: The main purpose of this article is to evaluate (1) the results of modifying the surgical threshold and postoperative goal of patellar height measurements for surgical stabilization originated in the “menu à la carte” approach to patellar surgical stabilization and (2) the relationship between the distance distalized in millimeters and postoperative complications. Our hypothesis was that dTTO with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFL-R) will successfully stabilize the patella with improvement in outcome scores and few complications, using a modification of the original menu à la carte as our surgical algorithm. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A total of 68 consecutive patients with R-LPD underwent dTTO and MPFL-R for surgical patellar stabilization by a single surgeon between May 2009 and September 2015. Surgical indications were R-LPD combined with patella alta. The surgical threshold for dTTO was Caton-Deschamps index (CDI) or Insall-Salvati ratio ≥1.4 and/or a patellar trochlear index <0.15. The postoperative surgical goal for patellar height was a CDI of 1.1 to 1.2. Length of the distalization was computed by using the CDI measurement as the primary intraoperative guide and measured intraoperatively with a ruler. Clinical, radiographic, and patient outcome measures were reviewed. Results: The mean CDI preoperatively was 1.40 and postoperatively it was 1.09. The mean distalization was 9.9 mm (range, 4-15 mm). Three patients (4.4%) had frank R-LPD postoperatively. Ten patients had residual patella alta (CDI >1.2), with 1 redislocation. Mean postoperative CDI in the recurrent dislocation group was 1.13 (range, 1.06-1.25) as compared with 1.09 (range, 0.92-1.35) in the nonrecurrent group (P = 0.65). Complications included 3 tibial fractures (4.4%) and postoperative knee arthrofibrosis in 6 patients (8.8%), with mean distalization greater in the arthrofibrosis group (P = .04). Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) values improved in all domains, including a 31–point increase in Quality of Life. Conclusion: dTTO with MPFL-R for patients with patella alta leads to a high rate of normalization of patellar height measurements (87%) and patellar stabilization (95.6%). Residual patella alta is not associated with an increased risk of recurrence. The length of dTTO up to 15 mm is not associated with an increase in postoperative complications, except for an increased prevalence of arthrofibrosis (8.8%).

Functional Outcome of Joshi’s External Stabilization System Fixation in Distal Radius Fractures

BackgroundDistal radius fractures account for almost one-sixth of all fractures in a casualty setting. The usual aim of distal radius fracture treatment is to restore the function of the wrist joint, of which the distal radius is an important part. There seems to be no consensus regarding which mode of treatment is optimal for managing distal radius fracture, particularly when it is associated with distal radioulnar joint instability.ObjectiveTo describe the functional outcome in patients presenting with displaced distal radius fractures who undergo Joshi’s external stabilization system (JESS) fixation.MethodsAn observational study was done among 32 working-age (18 to 55 years) patients presenting with unilateral displaced distal radius fractures (excluding volar displaced) and subsequently treated with JESS fixation. The outcomes of the patients were assessed using the Green and O’Brien Scoring System modified by Cooney et al. at six months and one year following the surgery. Radiographs were also taken postoperatively and during follow-up. The data were analyzed (using IBM SPSS software version 22 and Microsoft Excel) in terms of the proportion of patients with acceptable clinical and radiological outcomes.ResultsAcceptable functional outcomes (good and excellent scores in the Green and O’Brien Scoring System) were observed in 78.1% of the study population. Though the functional outcome scores were higher among the younger age group, a statistically significant difference was not obtained. 96.9% of the patients had acceptable radiological reductions, and infection of the pin tracts complicated 9.4% of the cases. A significant improvement in outcome scores (p-value 0.0001) was observed between the outcome scores at six months and one year after surgery.ConclusionsJESS fixation is an easy and effective method for treating displaced distal radius fractures to achieve good to excellent clinical outcomes. The functional outcome scores were better in the younger age group and male patients, but no statistically significant difference was observed.

Effect of rotational malalignment of components on functional outcome of total knee arthroplasty: A prospective observational study

Background: Correction of coronal alignment alone may not translate into optimum functional outcome after total knee arthroplasty. Painful knees and patellofemoral complications are quite common after total knee arthroplasty, and rotational malalignment of the prosthetic components may be responsible. Objectives: We conducted a prospective observational study to compare functional outcomes following total knee arthroplasty among subjects with and without rotational malalignment. Methods: We studied 396 patients (contributing 709 knees with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 4 osteoarthritis) undergoing total knee arthroplasty in a tertiary care hospital setting, with 2-3 years of follow-up. Postoperative axial CT scans were obtained to estimate the rotational alignment of femoral and tibial components. External and internal rotation of components was measured with software to estimate combined external rotation, combined internal rotation, or component mismatch, based on which knees were grouped into two cohorts: having rotational malalignment or with normal alignment. Functional outcome was assessed by Knee Society Score, Oxford Knee Score, Knee Society Pain Score, Lower Extremity Functional Scale, and Public Health Questionnaire-9. Results: Normal alignment (combined external rotation < 10 degrees) was observed in 475 knees, while the rest of 234 knees had rotational malalignment in the form of combined external rotation of 10 degree or above, combined internal rotation or component mismatch. A significant difference in outcome scores was found between these two cohorts at the first follow-up itself. Knee Society Pain Score clearly indicated painful knees in the rotational malalignment cohort. Poorer improvement in outcome scores occurred in this cohort, throughout the duration of follow-up. Conclusions: Rotational malalignment of components is almost invariably associated with the poorer outcome of total knee arthroplasty; manifested by anterior knee pain or incomplete functional recovery, compared to the knees with normal alignment.

Pathologic Findings on Hip Arthroscopy in High-Level Athletes Competing in Flexibility Sports

Background: Athletes who compete in flexibility sports (FS) place unique demands on their hip joints because of the supraphysiologic range of motion required. Purpose: To compare the pathologic features, outcomes, and return-to-sports (RTS) rates of high-level athletes participating in FS who underwent hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) and labral tear against a propensity score–matched cohort of high-level athletes participating in non–flexibility sports (NFS). Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed for high-level athletes who underwent primary hip arthroscopy for FAIS from April 2008 to December 2018. Patients who participated in FS such as dancing, gymnastics, martial arts, figure skating, and cheerleading were propensity score matched by body mass index, age at time of surgery, sex, sports competition level, and labral treatment to a cohort of high-level athletes participating in all other sports, such as distance running, soccer, volleyball, and softball. Baseline patient characteristics, intraoperative findings, and surgical procedures were compared. Minimum 2-year patient-reported outcome measures were compared for the modified Harris Hip Score, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Hip Outcome Score–Sport Specific Subscale, and visual analog scale for pain and satisfaction. Rates of secondary surgery and RTS were compared. Results: A total of 47 patients (50 hips) who participated in FS were included and propensity score matched to 130 patients (150 hips) who participated in NFS. Follow-up time was 37.5 ± 10.4 months (mean ± SD). Most patients (96.0%) were female with a mean age of 19.5 ± 7.3 years. FS athletes had significantly higher rates of femoral head cartilage lesions (Outerbridge ≥2; 12.0% vs 2.0%; P = .008) and ligamentum teres tears (48% vs 26%; P = .003). FS and NFS athletes demonstrated significant clinical improvements after surgery for all patient-reported outcome measures. Of the patients who attempted, 34 (75.6%) participating in FS were able to RTS while 11 (24.4%) were not because of ongoing hip issues. This was not significantly different than the NFS group (P = .073). Conclusion: High-level athletes who participated in FS and were treated for FAIS with hip arthroscopy exhibited higher rates of femoral head cartilage lesions and ligamentum teres tears requiring debridement when compared with a benchmark group of athletes who participated in other sports. Despite this, both groups demonstrated similar improvements in outcome scores and comparable rates of RTS at minimum 2-year follow-up.

Superior Capsule Reconstruction Is a Viable Option for Patients with Symptomatic, Isolated, and Irreparable Supraspinatus Tears

PurposeTo evaluate the outcome of superior capsular reconstruction for isolated subscapularis tears using a decellularized porcine allograft as a superior capsular reconstruction.MethodsPatients who had symptomatic tears of supraspinatus who had failed to improve a conservative rehabilitation program were included. Previous surgery to the shoulder was not a bar to inclusion. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively with the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), the single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) score, as well as clinically assessed for their shoulder range of motion (ROM). Patients were followed up with in-person clinic appointments for the first year, followed by a postal questionnaire and telephone consultation at a minimum of 2 years following surgery.ResultsTwenty patients (11 males and 9 females) with a mean age of 67.5 years were included (range: 54-72 years). The average follow-up period was 31 months (24-50). The mean improvement in OSS was 14 points (P < .001), SANE score was 27 points (P < .01). Significant improvements in mean ROM were recorded (flexion 80.7°; P < .001; abduction: 81°; P < .001; external rotation: 31°; P < .001). Six patients suffered SCR failures diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging, despite this they still recorded improvements in recorded OSS, SANE and ROM (excluding external rotation). Patient demographics for failed superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) highlighted smoking and revision surgery as risk factors.ConclusionsSCR appears to be a viable option for patients with symptomatic, isolated, and irreparable tears of the supraspinatus. Our results demonstrate that there are significant improvements in outcome scores and active range of motion, even in the subgroup in whom postoperative structural failure of the SCR was identified. We recommend caution in patients who have previously failed rotator cuff repair and in heavy smokers.Level of EvidenceLevel IV, therapeutic case series.

Limited Open Achilles Repair Without Instrument-Guided Assistance

Background: The limited open Achilles tendon repair technique has recently gained popularity as a treatment option for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. This surgical technique video describes a limited open Achilles tendon repair without instrument guided assistance, demonstrating improved clinical outcomes for patients while also reducing reliance on operative equipment, cost, and the duration of surgery. Indications: The indications for this limited open Achilles tendon repair technique include an Achilles tendon rupture less than 6 weeks from injury occurring in the watershed area. Technique Description: The patient is prone and a 2- to 3-centimeter longitudinal incision is made over the Achilles tear. In the proximal stump, 3 nonabsorbable sutures are passed horizontally from proximal to distal direction. In the distal stump, the same is done in a nonlocking manner. The stumps are then reflected and the deep fascial compartment is released. The foot is plantarflexed to reduce tension on the repair site. The nonlocking sutures are tied sequentially from distal-distal to proximal-proximal direction. A running box suture using a nonabsorbable suture followed by 0-Vicryl around the rupture site is performed. Results: This technique has demonstrated, at a median follow-up of 3.7 years, restored pre-injury function along with no wound complications, re-ruptures, or re-operations in 33 patients. The median time from injury to surgery was 10 (range, 1-45) days and the mean time for returning to pre-injury level of activity was 5.6 (range, 1.7-22.1) months. After the procedure, patients demonstrated significant improvements in mean Foot and Ankle Disability Index (49.1-98.4), mean Visual Analog Scale pain score (4.8-0.2), and mean Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) subscales such as FAOS pain (54.8-99.2), FAOS symptoms (84.6-97.0), FAOS activities of daily living (61.4-97.2), FAOS sports and recreational activity (39.5-98.5), and FAOS quality of life (39.7-88.7). Conclusion: Patients who underwent a limited open Achilles tendon repair without instrument-guided assistance demonstrated significant improvements in outcome scores with minimal complications.