Knee Rating Score Research Articles

Efficacy of Cal-Cemex as bone substitute for tibial plateau fractures

BackgroundVarious factors influence treatment and outcomes in tibial plateau fractures. Bone defects are among them. Many materials have been proposed to address this problem: allograft, bone–cements and various bone substitutes (BSM). Cal-Cemex (β-tricalciophosphate and polymethylmethacrylate) is a new hybrid bi-component BSM. A retrospective multicenter study was conducted based on the clinical experience of three European Hospitals, to demonstrate its clinical effectiveness, versatility and safety.Materials and MethodsFrom December 2016 to March 2022, 45 displaced tibial plateau fractures were treated with internal fixation and augmentation using Cal-Cemex. The average age was 55.9 years. According to Schatzker classification, we included 13 type II, 24 type III, 3 type V and 4 type VI fractures. The postoperative follow-up (FU) consisted of clinical and radiological examinations at 6 and 12 weeks and 1 year after surgery. A CT scan was performed preoperatively and 1 year after surgery. Full weight bearing was permitted after less than 6 weeks. Clinical data were collected from patient charts, while functional data were evaluated using the Rasmussen knee function score, the KOOS score and the Hospital for Special Surgery knee rating score (HSS), to evaluate the range of motion, axis and functionality of the knee.ResultsThe average FU was 42.8 months. CT scans taken at 1 year demonstrated a good surface osteointegration without radiolucent lines or osteolysis with good evidence of interdigitation and even bone ingrowth. At 1-year FU, the mean Rasmussen score was 24.7, the mean KOOS score was 90.7 and the mean HSS was 89.9 and the average full weight-bearing period 34.9. No patients had hardware failure or fracture secondary displacement.DiscussionCal-Cemex combines biological features and good mechanical performances. It guarantees biocompatibility and osteoconductivity, although it is not fully reabsorbable; β-tricalciophosphate component gives macro- and microporosity that allow fluids to penetrate inside the material, to stimulate bone ingrowth.ConclusionsThe study suggests that Cal-Cemex is an option for tibial plateau fractures, where augmentation and support are necessary for early full weight bearing. The absence of major complications, ease of application, the possibility to cut and perforate this material support its extensive use in bone augmentation for trauma cases.

Fixation method can affect posterior tibial slope in opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy: a retrospective study

BackgroundPosterior tibial slope (PTS) alterations following open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) can cause instability and excessive tibial translation in the sagittal plane. These changes can be influenced by the type of fixation. This study aims to compare PTS changes between patients undergoing OWHTO with Puddu plate or TomoFix plate fixation.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, we included 104 knees from 85 patients undergoing OWHTO, with a mean age of 41.98 ± 9.95 years; 51.8% of the participants were male. Seventy-two knees were fixed with Puddu plates, while 32 knees were fixed with TomoFix plates. PTS changes, demographic factors, Cincinnati Knee Rating Score (CKRS), Tegner-Lysholm score (TLS), length of stay (LOS), and complications were evaluated. PTS changes were measured preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at the 6-month follow-up.ResultsDemographic factors were similar between the Puddu plate and TomoFix groups. There were no significant differences in preoperative, postoperative, or follow-up PTS measurements between the two groups. PTS changes were not significant in the TomoFix group postoperatively or at follow-up. However, the Puddu plate group showed a significant increase in PTS both postoperatively (P = 0.027) and at follow-up (P = 0.014). CKRS, TLS, LOS, and complications did not significantly differ between the groups.ConclusionWhile overall PTS changes did not significantly differ between the Puddu Plate and TomoFix Plate groups, analyzing changes within each group revealed distinct results. TomoFix fixation exhibited nonsignificant PTS changes, while Puddu plate fixation resulted in a significant increase in PTS after surgery and at the 6-month follow-up. Our findings suggest that the choice of fixation may influence PTS changes after OWHTO.Level of Evidence: Level III.

Comparison of the intraarticular osteotomy and the “window” osteotomy in the treatment of tibial plateau fracture involving depressed posterolateral fragments

ObjectivesThe methods of reduction of depressed posterolateral fragments in tibial plateau fracture through anterolateral approaches remain controversial. This paper aimed to compare the intraarticular osteotomy technique and the “window” osteotomy technique for the reduction of depressed posterolateral fragments through anterolateral approach.MethodFrom January 2015 to January 2022, we retrospectively reviewed the data on patients with tibial plateau fracture involving depressed posterolateral fragments treated with the intraarticular osteotomy or the “window” osteotomy. 40 patients underwent the intraarticular osteotomy were divided into group A, while 36 patients underwent the “window” osteotomy were divided into group B. The operative time, bone grafting volume, fracture healing time, complication, reduction quality and postoperative functional results were compared between the two groups.ResultsThe average follow-up duration was 16.6 ± 3.7 months. The average bone grafting volume for all patients in group B was essential larger than group A (p = 0.001). Compared to group B, patients in groups A had significantly shorter fracture healing time (p = 0.011). The depth of depressed articular surface, PSA and the radiographic evaluation at 2 days and 6 months after surgery in group A were significantly lower than group B (p<0.05). Based on the HSS knee-rating score, no significant difference in function results was found between the two groups (p>0.05). No significant difference was found in operation time and blood loss between the two groups (p>0.05).ConclusionThe intraarticular osteotomy could obtain satisfactory clinical results in tibial plateau fracture involving posterolateral fragments.

The effects of remnant-preserving anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction on proprioception: A prospective comparative study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction performed by preserving remnant tissue on proprioception and to assess the effects it has on isokinetic quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, as well as on range of motion and functional scores. A prospective study was conducted with 44 patients who underwent either anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with remnant preservation (study group, n=22) or with remnant excision (control group, n=22) with the use of a 4-strand hamstring allograft. The mean follow-up time was 20.2 ± 1.4 months after surgery. Using an isokinetic dynamometer, proprioception was evaluated with passive joint position perception at 150, 450, and 600, and quadriceps femoris, and hamstring muscle strength were evaluated at speeds of 900, 1800, and 2400 per second. Range of motion was measured using a goniometer. Functional outcomes were assessed using International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee evaluation score and Lysholm knee scoring questionnaires. It was only at 15° of knee flexion that there was a statistically significant difference in proprioception; the median of the difference in the amount of deviation from the target angle between the healthy knee and the operated side was 1.7 (range, 0.7-20.7) in those with remnant preserved, and 2.7 (range, 1-26) in those with remnant excised (P=.016). At 2400/s speed, the mean quadriceps femoris strength was 77.2 ± 24.3 Nm in those with remnant preserved and 67.6 ± 24.2 Nm in those with remnant excised. (P=.048) There was no difference between the 2 groups in terms of range of motion, International Knee Documentation Committee, and Lysholm knee scoring. (P > .05) Conclusion: The present study has demonstrated that better proprioception and higher quadriceps femoris muscle strength can be obtained by remnant-preserving anatomical single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a hamstring autograft. Level II, Therapeutic study.

Tibial graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: multiple tibial tunnel technique (collateral tunnel technique).

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of patients with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture who underwent tibial fixation using the multiple tibial tunnel fixation (MTTF) and standard tibial fixation methods. This retrospective study was conducted between January 1, 2020, and August 1, 2021. MTTT was applied to 43 patients diagnosed with ACL rupture. Of the 43 patients who met the study criteria, 38 were classified as Group 1. In the clinic where the study was conducted, 40 of 57 patients who underwent standard ACL reconstruction by opening a single tibial tunnel were assigned to Group 2. The Endobutton technique was used for fixation of the graft to the femur in both groups. Bioabsorbable and postfix screws were used for the tibial fixation of the patients in Group 2. For patients in Group 1, a bioabsorbable screw, a postfix screw, and an additional MTTT fixation were performed for tibial fixation. Lachman, anterior drawer, Pivot-Shift test results, Lysholm and IKDC knee evaluation scores of the patients in both groups were compared. In this study, there was no significant difference between the groups for the anterior drawer, Lachman, and Pivot-Shift test results at the final control (p > 0.05). There was a significant difference between the two groups for the Lysholm and IKDC scores at the final controls (p < 0.05). There was a significant difference in the Lysholm and IKDC scores between the groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, ACL reconstruction was performed using the MTTF technique in this study. Due to the additional fixation, it was observed that the patients had a more successful knee function after the surgery.

Short-term functional outcomes of anatomic single-bundle ACL reconstruction using modified I.D.E.A.L technique

To achieve a satisfactory knee function and successful return to sports activities in patients with an ACL injury, it is essential to accurately reproduce the native ligament anatomy and biomechanics by placing the graft in the anatomical position within the ACL footprint. Our objectives are to investigate the short-term functional outcomes of an anatomic single-bundle reconstruction using the modified I.D.E.A.L technique of femoral tunnel placement, with 1-year follow-up.A retrospective observational study of 120 patients who developed ACL rupture and underwent anatomic single-bundle reconstruction in TUY MALIK private hospital/ Sulaymaniyah city/Iraq from March 2020 till March 2022. The functional outcomes of the procedure were assessed using the subjective knee evaluation scores (IKDC, Lysholm, and Tegner scores) preoperative and 1-year postoperatively. The mean preoperative IKDC score was 50.96 (40.22- 60.91), and 1-year postoperative score was 83.81 (72.41-95.40), with a (p-value 0.000), whereas the mean Lysholm score was 51.17 (40-67) and 86.19 (75-95) preoperative and postoperative, respectively, with a (p-value 0.000). The mean Tegner score was 7.59 preinjury, while 3.63 before the operation and 7.18 after the operation with (p-value 0.000), representing a statistically significant enhancement in functional outcomes between preoperative and final clinical follow-up assessment.Reconstructing ACL anatomically by placing the graft in the modified I.D.E.A.L position within the native femoral footprint can reestablish near-normal knee biomechanics, obtain unrestricted knee range of motion, and successful return to preinjury activity level.

Posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with independent internal brace reinforcement: surgical technique and clinical outcomes with a minimum two year follow-up

PurposeWe developed an augmentation technique for PCL reconstruction with independent internal brace reinforcement and evaluated the functional outcome after PCL reconstruction employing autologous hamstrings augmented with an internal brace system for patients with isolated or combined grade 3 posterior instability who were treated with this technique.MethodsFrom January 2016 to January 2018, patients with isolated or combined grade 3 PCL tears who underwent single-bundle PCL reconstruction using autologous hamstrings augmented with independent internal braces were studied. The function of the operated knee was evaluated according to the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, and Tegner activity score. The patients were asked the level of returned to their previous sport. Posterior knee laxity was examined with a KT-1000 arthrometer, and data on range of motion (ROM), re-operation, and other complications were collected.ResultsA total of 33 consecutive patients who received single-bundle PCL reconstruction using autologous hamstrings augmented with independent internal braces with a minimum two years follow-up were included in this study. Two patients had undergone this procedure during the study period and were not included in this study (one had combined bone fractures, and one patient had previous meniscus surgery). Thirty-one patients were available for final analysis. The mean follow-up was 45.35 ± 10.88 months (range 29–66 months). The average IKDC subjective knee evaluation scores from 51.65 ± 12.35 to 84.52 ± 6.42, the Lysholm score from 53.90 ± 11.86 to 85.68 ± 4.99, and the Tegner score from 2.81 ± 0.79 to 6.71 ± 1.83 (P < 0.05 for all). The mean total posterior side-to-side difference in knee laxity, assessed using a KT-1000 arthrometer, decreased from 12.13 ± 2.66 mm pre-operatively to 1.87 ± 0.56 mm post-operatively at 70° (P < 0.05). Most patients (29/31) had normal or near normal knee ROM post-operatively; two patients revealed a 6–15° loss of knee flexion compared with the contralateral knee. Twenty-nine patients (93.55%) returned to a normal daily exercise level. Twenty-three patients (74.19%) returned to competitive sports with high-level sports (Tegner score of 6 or above; eleven patients (35.48%) reported to be on the same level as well as the Tegner level); six patients (19.35%) returned to recreational sports (Tegner score of 4 or 5). Two patients had Tegner scores of 2 and 3, indicating poor function level. No patient needed PCL revision surgery during the follow-up period.ConclusionSingle-bundle PCL reconstruction with internal brace augmentation for PCL injury exhibited satisfactory posterior stability and clinical outcomes in patients with isolated or combined grade 3 PCL injuries at a minimum two year follow-up.

Comparison of Postoperative Pain and Application Effect of High Tibial Osteotomy and Total Knee Replacement in Patients with Knee Arthritis

Objective: To investigate the effects of high tibial osteotomy (HTO) and total knee replacement (TKR) on postoperative pain of patients with knee arthritis. Methods: From February 2017 to March 2019, 72 patients with knee arthritis in our unit were collected for the experiment. Patients in the control group (CG, 35 cases) were treated with HTO, and research group (RG, 37 cases) were treated with TKR. Clinical efficacy. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score. Knee Society Score (KSS), and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee rating score of the two groups of patients were observed. Intraoperative blood loss, operative time and hospitalization expenses were observed, as well as the effect of knee joint recovery after operation. Results: In terms of overall effective rate, RG was superior to CG (p &lt; 0.05). VAS score of RG was notably lower at 1 week and 2 weeks after operation than that in CG (p &lt; 0.05). KSS of RG was evidently higher than that of CG (p &lt; 0.05). HSS score of RG was notably higher than that of CG after operation (p &lt; 0.05). The intraoperative blood loss and operative time in RG were notably better than those in CG (p &lt; 0.05). The effects of knee joint recovery in RG was considerably better than that in CG (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: TKR has a better clinical effect on elderly patients, which can reduce postoperative pain, intraoperative blood loss and operative time, and improve the recovery effect of knee joint.

Clinical outcome of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with modified transtibial and anteromedial portal

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is the current standard care of treatment for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Modified transtibial (mTT) and anteromedial portal (AMP) techniques aim at the anatomical placement of femoral tunnel. Controversy existed in the literature with regard to the outcome of these techniques. Hence, we designed a retrospective comparative study to analyse the clinical and functional outcomes of mTT and AMP techniques. We hypothesized that there would be no difference between the clinical and functional outcomes in mTT and AMP techniques. This retrospective observational study was conducted in consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using semitendinosus-gracilis (STG) quadrupled graft in our tertiary care centre with a minimum follow-up of two years. Out of 69 patients, 37 had undergone ACL reconstruction by mTT technique and remaining by AMP technique. All the patients were assessed clinically by anterior drawer, Lachman’s, pivot shift and single-legged hop test. Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee evaluation score were used for the functional status. Knee instability was assessed objectively by KT-1000 arthrometer. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline demographic characteristics between mTT and AMP groups. At the end of 2 years, no statistically significant difference was noted in the anterior drawer and Lachman’s test. Though not significant, IKDC scores and Lysholm’s scores showed a better outcome in the AMP group when compared to the mTT group. AMP group showed significantly better outcome with KT-1000 arthrometer. Based on the results obtained, we presume that overall both mTT and AMP have similar functional outcome. However, as AMP technique offers significantly improved subjective rotational stability on pivot shift test, better hop limb symmetry index and KT 1000 readings compared to mTT, we suggest AMP over mTT.

Changes in Infrapatellar Fat Pad Volume 6 to 12 Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Associations With Patient-Reported Knee Function.

Hypertrophy of the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) in idiopathic knee osteoarthritis has been linked to deleterious synovial changes and joint pain related to mechanical tissue impingement. Yet little is known regarding the IFP's volumetric changes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). To examine changes in IFP volume between 6 and 12 months after ACLR and determine associations between patient-reported outcomes and IFP volume at each time point as well as the volume change over time. In a subset of individuals, we examined interlimb IFP volume differences 12 months post-ACLR. Prospective cohort study. Laboratory. We studied 26 participants (13 women, 13 men, age = 21.88 ± 3.58 years, body mass index = 23.82 ± 2.21 kg/m2) for our primary aims and 13 of those participants (8 women, 5 men, age = 21.15 ± 3.85 years, body mass index = 23.01 ± 2.01 kg/m2) for our exploratory aim. Using magnetic resonance imaging, we evaluated the IFP volume change between 6 and 12 months post-ACLR in the ACLR limb and between-limbs differences at 12 months in a subset of participants. International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee evaluation (IKDC) scores were collected at 6-month and 12-month follow-ups, and associations between IFP volume and patient-reported outcomes were determined. The IFP volume in the ACLR limb increased from 6 months (19.67 ± 6.30 cm3) to 12 months (21.26 ± 6.91 cm3) post-ACLR. Greater increases of IFP volume between 6 and 12 months were significantly associated with better 6-month IKDC scores (r = .44, P = .03). The IFP volume was greater in the uninjured limb (22.71 ± 7.87 cm3) than in the ACLR limb (20.75 ± 9.03 cm3) 12 months post-ACLR. The IFP volume increased between 6 and 12 months post-ACLR; however, the IFP volume of the ACLR limb remained smaller than that of the uninjured limb at 12 months. In addition, those with better knee function 6 months post-ACLR demonstrated greater increases in IFP volume between 6 and 12 months post-ACLR. This suggests that greater IFP volumes may play a role in long-term joint health after ACLR.

Favorable Reoperation Rate at 2 Years Following Repair of Horizontal Cleavage Tears Using an All Suture-Based Technique: A Prospective, Multicenter Trial

PurposeThis prospective, multicenter trial evaluates the clinical success (as measured by reoperation rates and improvements in patient-reported outcome measures) of using circumferential compression stitches with all-suture techniques for horizontal cleavage tears (HCTs) of the meniscus.MethodsInvestigators enrolled 30 patients (mean age, 38.2 years; standard deviation, 11.1 years) aged 18 to 60 years with HCTs in the symptomatic compartment at 8 centers in the United States who underwent HCT repair with all-suture circumferential stitches using a self-retrieving all-inside suture passing device. Postoperative follow-up visits were conducted at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Study outcomes included freedom from reoperation of the index meniscus repair site; knee pain and function, as measured by International Knee Documentation Committee Knee evaluation (IKDC), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Lysholm Knee Scale, and Tegner Activity Scale; and serious complications observed during the study. Minimal clinically important difference at 1 year was assessed for IKDC and Lysholm.ResultsTwenty-three patients had 2-year follow-up data available. Freedom from reoperation was 96.0% at 6 months (26/27, 91.7% at 1 year [23/25], and 82.6% at 2 years [19/23]). Significant improvement was observed in over baseline at 2 years for IKDC (36.7-82.5; P < .001), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (52.2-89.3; P < .001), Lysholm (50.2-87.4; P < .001), and Tegner scores (3.3-5.3; P = .007). Minimal clinically important difference was met or exceeded for IKDC and Lysholm scores at 1 year 69.2% and 65.4% of patients, respectively. Four patients (6.7%) experienced serious complications, of which 2 were assessed as being related to the procedure.ConclusionsRepair of HCTs using all-suture circumferential stitches placed with a self-retrieving all-inside suture passing device leads to a favorable reoperation rate (17.4%), significant improvements in clinical outcomes, and an acceptable rate of serious complications (6.7%) at 2 years, supporting the viability of this treatment approach in this indication.Level of EvidenceLevel IV, therapeutic case series.

Clinical outcomes of rectangular tunnel technique in posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were comparable to the results of conventional round tunnel technique.

To compare clinical outcomes between the conventional round and rectangular tunnel techniques in single-bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction. Twenty-seven and 108 patients who underwent PCL reconstructions using a rectangular dilator (Group 1) and rounded tunnel reamer (Group 2), respectively, were included. The exclusion criteria were having a concomitant fracture, osteotomy, subtotal or total meniscectomy, and no remnant PCL tissue. A 4:1 propensity score matching was performed. The knee laxity on stress radiography, International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation score, Tegner activity score and Orthopädische Arbeitsgruppe Knie score were evaluated. No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of clinical scores. (n.s.) The mean posterior translations were also not significantly different between the Group 1 and 2 (3.6 ± 2.8 and 3.8. ± 3.1mm, respectively; n.s.). However, 3 patients (11.1%) in Group 1 and 15 patients (13.8%) in Group 2 showed posterior translation of > 5mm. The combined posterolateral corner sling technique was performed for 27 patients (100%) in Group 1 and for 96 patients (88.9%) in Group 2. We found no significant difference in rotational stability at the final follow-up. One patient was found to have a femoral condyle fracture during rectangular femoral tunnel establishment, which was healed after screw fixation, without laxity, during follow-up. The intra- and inter-observer reliabilities of the radiological measurements ranged from 0.81 to 0.89. Arthroscopic anatomical remnant-preserving PCL reconstruction using a rectangular dilator showed satisfactory clinical results and stability as compared with PCL reconstruction using a conventional rounded reamer. Rectangular tunnel technique in PCL reconstruction could be a good treatment option with theoretical advantage to be anatomic. Level IV.

Two-Year Recall Bias After ACL Reconstruction Is Affected by Clinical Result.

Background:Recall bias is a systematic error caused by inaccuracy in reporting past health status and can be a substantial methodological flaw in the retrospective collection of data. Little is known about recall bias following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients’ recall bias regarding preinjury knee function at 2 years after ACLR.Methods:Patients undergoing ACLR were enrolled in an institutional ACL registry. Preoperatively and at 2 years postoperatively, patients quantified their preinjury knee function on a scale of 0 to 10 (10 = best). Recall bias was quantified as the difference in the reported preinjury function between the 2 time points. The clinical result of ACLR was evaluated according to the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation score. Patients meeting the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in the IKDC score were considered to have had a good outcome, while patients who did not reach the MCID were considered to have had failure of treatment. Recall bias was compared between the 2 groups.Results:Of 2,109 patients enrolled in the registry, 1,219 were included in the study. Patients with a good outcome remembered their preinjury knee function on a 0-to-10 scale to be better than what they reported at baseline, by a mean difference of 0.40 points (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22 to 0.58 points). The recall bias was stronger for patients with a poor outcome, who remembered their knee function to be worse than reported at baseline, by a mean difference of −0.81 (95% CI, −1.4 to −0.26). The mean difference in recall between the 2 groups was −1.21 (95% CI, −1.74 to −0.67) (p < 0.0001).Conclusions:The recall bias of preinjury knee function following ACLR was small and not clinically meaningful for the majority of patients. However, patients with a poor outcome had a clinically relevant and significant recall bias.Clinical Relevance:Our findings suggest that patients with a poor outcome have a substantial recall bias. This has clinical relevance when considering treatment effects of revision surgery, whereby the clinical benefit of the treatment might be affected by recall bias.

A Comparison of Psychological Readiness and Patient-Reported Function Between Sexes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Postoperative functional and return-to-sport outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) differ by sex. However, whether sex disparities are observed in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) before return to sport after ACLR is unclear. To compare common PROMs between young men and women who had not yet returned to sport after ACLR. Cross-sectional study. University laboratory. Forty-five young men (age = 18.7 ± 2.7 years, time since surgery = 6.8 ± 1.4 months) and 45 women matched for age (±1 year) and time since surgery (±1 month; age = 18.8 ± 2.8 years, time since surgery = 6.9 ± 1.4 months) with ACLR participated. Participants completed the Tegner Activity Scale, ACL Return to Sport After Injury scale, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Score, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). The PROMs were compared between men and women using Mann-Whitney U tests. Odds ratios were calculated to evaluate the odds of a male reporting a PROM value above the previously established normative value as compared with a female. Sex differences were present for the IKDC score (P = .01) and KOOS Pain score (P = .04) but not for the Tegner Activity Scale (P = .22), ACL Return to Sport After Injury scale score (P = .78), Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia score (P = .64), or other KOOS subscales (P values = .40 to .52). The odds of reporting values above normative levels differed only for the IKDC score (odds ratio = 2.72, 95% confidence interval = 1.16, 6.38). After ACLR, young men and women reported similar levels of knee-related function, fear of movement, and readiness for return to sport and were equally likely to meet clinically meaningful normative values before return to sport. Overreliance on patient reports or objective functional outcomes in evaluating patient progress and readiness for return to sport after ACLR may limit clinicians in their ability to comprehensively evaluate and develop individualized interventional approaches that optimize patient outcomes.

Efficacy of a Deep Thermal Therapy System for Osteoarthritis of the Knee

This study sought to assess the efficacy of a deep-tissue thermal therapy system with a resonant cavity applicator (DTT-RCA), which safely heats deep joint tissue for treating osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Two groups of participants were recruited. The DTT-RCA group comprised 20 knees. Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) grade was I and II in 8 knees (DTT-RCA I/II group) [mean age 73.3 years (standard deviation 11.4) ], III and VI in 12 knees (DTT-RCA III/IV group) [75.4 (8.6) years]. The control group comprised 13 knees [68.2 (10.8) years]. K-L grade was I in 7 knees and II in 6 knees. This group received exercise therapy. The DTT-RCA I/II group and the control group were imaged by MRI T2 mapping at baseline and 6 months to determine the area of cartilage degeneration. Visual Analogue Scale improved only in the DTT-RCA I/II post-intervention (p < 0.01). Japanese Orthopedic Association knee rating scores (DTT-RCA I/II: p < 0.01, control group: p < 0.01), the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure (DTT-RCA I/II: p < 0.05, control: p < 0.01), and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (DTT-RCA I/II: p < 0.01, DTT-RCA III/IV: p < 0.05, control: p < 0.01) post-intervention. The magnitude of change did not differ significantly between the three groups. The area of cartilage degeneration did not change significantly post-intervention in the DTT-RCA I/II group, not even relative to the control group. This was the first study to test a DTT-RCA system in patients with knee OA. The system reduced the clinical symptoms of knee OA and could potentially be effective for conservative therapy.

Arthroscopic tri-pulley Technology reduction and internal fixation of pediatric Tibial Eminence fracture: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundFixing a tibial eminence fracture with a tri-pulley is a new technique. The purpose of this study was to present the early clinical outcome of arthroscopic tri-pulley suture fixation for tibial eminence fractures in children.MethodsTwenty-one pediatric patients with type II or type III anterior tibial eminence fractures were included in this retrospective study. All Patients underwent surgical fixation by tri-pulley technology and were followed up for at least 24 months. They were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively by physical, X-ray, and computed tomography (CT) examination and subjectively with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), and Lysholm questionnaires.ResultsThe patients included 12 males and 9 females; mean age, 12.5 years (range, 8 ~ 16 years). They were followed-up for a median of 27 months (range, 24 ~ 39 months). We did not find post-operative instability in any of the patients by physical examination. The KT-2000 difference of both knees decreased from 9.3 ± 1.2 mm preoperatively to 2.6 ± 0.8 mm 24 months postoperatively (P < 0.001); the IKDC subjective knee evaluation score improved from 43.1 ± 13.2 preoperatively to 83.8 ± 6.3 postoperatively (P < 0.001); and Lysholm improved from 48.3 ± 6.21 to 87.1 ± 9.8 (P < 0.001). No unhealed fractures or epiphyseal damage were reported in the postoperative X-ray and CT.ConclusionsArthroscopic tri-pulley fixation technology may provide a suitable technique for repair of tibial eminence fractures in skeletally immature patients.Level of evidenceCase series; Level of evidence IV.

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction for Asian Patients with Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Gracilis Tendon Grafts: A Matched-Control Comparison.

For anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient patients, using a single bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) graft for the double-bundle concept is one of the suitable approaches for acquiring better stability and reducing bone tunnel enlargement compared with the use of hamstring grafts. At least 10-mm width of BPTB autograft is needed to achieve this concept; however, it is larger than one-third of the patellar tendon width for small or middle physique patients. This study aimed to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes of BPTB and gracilis (G) composite autografts for primary double-bundle ACL reconstruction in Asian athletes. Thirty-two Asian patients undergoing double-bundle ACL reconstruction with 7.0 to 7.5 mm of BPTB and 5.0 to 5.5 mm of G composite grafts were compared with 43 double-bundle ACL reconstruction with hamstring graft cases. The BPTB graft was used for the anteromedial bundle (AMB), with the G graft for the posterolateral bundle (PLB). Percentage of femoral bone tunnel enlargement compared with the original size was determined by computed digital radiographs on the first postoperative day and at 12 months in the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. Standard clinical evaluations, including the limb symmetry index (LSI), were also performed. Less PLB tunnel enlargement was found in the BPTB + G group than in the hamstring group in the AP (101.9 ± 22.9 vs.113.7 ± 20.6%, p = 0.031) and lateral views (104.4 ± 18.1 vs. 120.6 ± 23.4%, p < 0.01).There was no significant difference between the groups in 12-month postoperative clinical outcomes (Lysholm's score, Tegner's activity level scale, and International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee evaluation score).The side-to-side difference was significantly less in the BPTB + G group (0.2 ± 1.3 vs. 0.9 ± 1.1 mm, p = 0.026). Despite the small sizes of the BPTB and G grafts, there was no significant difference in the knee extensor LSI between the groups (92.9 ± 10.1 vs. 93.3 ± 12.2%, p = 0.707), whereas the knee flexor LSI was significantly higher in the BPTB + G group (97.7 ± 14.8 vs. 90.1 ± 13.3%, p = 0.033). Double-bundle ACL reconstruction with a small size BPTB and G composite graft procedure provided good clinical outcomes and significantly less femoral bone tunnel enlargement than the hamstring procedure 12 months after surgery. It is thus a useful surgical option for ACL-deficient Asian athletes. This study reflects level of evidence III.

Early clinical and neuromuscular properties in patients with normal or sub-normal subjective knee function after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

To determine clinical and neuromuscular properties in patients with normal or sub-normal subjective knee function after finalisation of 6months' post-operative rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Sixty patients after primary anatomical single-bundle hamstring ACLR were prospectively enrolled. Demographics, subjective, clinical and functional status of the injured knee were recorded at baseline, 6 and 12months post-operatively. Return to pre-injury activities time (months) was monitored. Tensiomyography and isokinetic dynamometry of thigh muscles were performed at 6months, when standard ACLR rehabilitation is finalized. Based on their IKDC Subjective Knee Evaluation scores at 6months, they were assigned into "Normal" or "Sub-normal" group. All the above measured parameters were then compared between the two groups. At 6months' timeline, 21 patients (35%) perceived their knee function as "Normal", while 39 (65%) were "Sub-normal". There were no differences in clinical status between both groups, but patients in Normal group achieved higher IKDC, Lysholm, Tegner scores as well as higher single-leg hop test. They were taller, had lower body mass index and more of them achieved their preinjury level of activity at 12months (67% vs. 33%). Tensiomyography revealed higher biceps femoris as well as semitendinosus and semimembranosus radial displacement values on the operated leg in Normal group. Isokinetic dynamometry showed significantly higher normalised peak torque and average power of knee extensor muscles. Patients who perceive their knee function as normal at 6months following ACLR presented with better neuromuscular properties of the thigh muscles. Decreased hamstring stiffness seems to be the key to higher return-to-preinjury activity. Postoperative rehabilitation should be more focused on reducing hamstring stiffness in addition to improving knee extensor muscle strength. Level of evidence II (prospective cohort study).

The clinical efficacy of arthroscopic combined with dual-plane high tibial osteotomy in the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injury combined with varus deformity of knee joint

Objective: To explore the short-term effectiveness of arthroscopic combined with dual-plane high tibial osteotomy in the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injury combined with varus deformity of knee joint. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 17 patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury combined with varus deformity of knee joint who underwent arthroscopic combined with dual-plane high tibial osteotomy at Department of Bone and Joint, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University from January 2017 to June 2018.There were 11 males (11 knees) and 6 females (6 knees), aged 41.3 years (range: 32 to 49 years) .During the surgery, the weight bearing line of lower extremity was set to 62.5% position of the tibial plateau on coronal plane. The tibial slope was adjusted to the normal range on sagittal plane, and anterior cruciate ligament was reconstructed to improve the stability of knee joint.At final follow up, full length weight bearing X ray was used to evaluate the position of weight bearing line, femoral tibial angle and tibial slope pre- and post-operatively.The Lysholm scores, Hospital for Special Surgery score, Tegner knee activity scores and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were used to estimate knee joint function, while the Lachman test, KT-1000 side-to-side difference and pivot-shift test were used to estimate the knee joint stability. Results: The patients were followed up for 1.8 years(range:1.2 to 2.5 years). No complication such as infection, deep vein thrombosis, graft failure, nonunion or delayed union was observed.The weight bearing line was corrected from (28.48±2.24)% preoperatively to (57.43±1.02)% postoperatively (t=46.80, P=0.00) .The femoral tibial angle was improved from (172.31±3.37) ° preoperatively to (178.91±1.34) ° postoperatively(t=10.46, P=0.00). The tibial slope was decreased from (14.29±1.26) ° preoperatively to (9.31±0.79) ° postoperatively (t=24.59, P=0.00) . The KT-1000 side-to-side difference decreased from (7.95±1.19) mm preoperatively to (1.79±0.49)mm postoperatively(t=18.34, P=0.00). At the last follow-up, Lysholm score, Hospital for Special Surgery score, Tegner score, and the IKDC knee evaluation score of patients showed significant improvement from preoperative(P<0.05). Conclusion: Arthroscopic combined with dual-plane high tibial osteotomy can get a good short term efficacy in the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injury combined with varus deformity of knee joint which can significantly improve the alignment of lower extremity and knee joint stability.

Clinical Outcomes After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction With Suture Fixation of the Gracilis Tendon via Transosseous Tunnels.

Background:Several fixation methods have been introduced in medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction. However, the optimal management of patients with recurrent patellar dislocation remains controversial.Purpose:To present a case series with a minimum 2-year follow-up of 29 patients with recurrent patellar dislocation who underwent a new transosseous suture fixation technique for MPFL reconstruction.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:From January 2014 through February 2016, a total of 29 patients with recurrent patellar dislocation for which the MPFL was reconstructed with transosseous suture patellar fixation were studied. All patients were available for follow-up (mean, 37.52 months; range, 26-48 months). The patellar attachment was fixed by transosseous patellar sutures. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee score, Kujala score, Tegner score, range of motion, congruence angle, patellar tilt angle, and complications were assessed both pre- and postoperatively.Results:No recurrent dislocation was observed in any of the 29 patients for a minimum of 2 years. All outcome scores improved significantly from preoperatively to postoperatively: the average IKDC subjective knee evaluation score from 53 to 87, Kujala from 54 to 90, Lysholm from 50 to 89, and Tegner from 3 to 5 (P < .001 for all). The congruence angle significantly decreased from 22° preoperatively to –3° postoperatively, and the patellar tilt angle (Merchant) decreased from 23° preoperatively to 5° postoperatively (P < .001 for both). In total, 25 patients (25/29; 86.21%) were completely pain-free when performing activities of daily living at the last follow-up, and 27 patients (93.1%) rated themselves as very satisfied or satisfied with the results.Conclusion:In patients with chronic recurrent patellar dislocation, transosseous patellar suture fixation for MPFL reconstruction can significantly improve patellar stability and achieve good results at short-term follow-up.