Knee Joint Function Research Articles

Outcomes of Anterior Lateral Approach and Gerdy's Tubercle Osteotomy for Tibial Plateau Fractures Involving the Posterior Lateral Condyle: A Retrospective Study of 20 Patients.

BACKGROUND The objective of this investigation was to assess the effectiveness of using T-shaped steel plates through the anterior lateral approach and Gerdy's tubercle osteotomy for treating posterior lateral tibial plateau fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from 20 patients, aged on average 53.9±10.36 years, who were admitted for tibial plateau fractures involving the posterior lateral condyle between January 2019 and October 2022. The fixation and reduction of the posterior lateral bone block were performed using the anterior lateral approach combined with Gerdy's tubercle osteotomy to address the posterior lateral tibial plateau fracture. Post-surgery assessment was conducted using the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee combined score. RESULTS During the 12-24 (14.2±1.7) month postoperative period, we conducted 20 surgeries. Within 9 to 12 weeks, fracture healing transpired without any complications such as incision infection, nerve injury, or fracture displacement being detected. Assessment of knee joint function at the final follow-up was conducted using the HSS knee combined score, with results indicating 16 cases rated as excellent, 3 cases as good, and 1 case as fair. CONCLUSIONS In tibial plateau fractures impacting the posterior lateral condyle, the anterior lateral approach, combined with Gerdy's tubercle osteotomy, allows for direct exposure and manipulation of the posterior lateral bone block fracture. Using a T-shaped support plate and a lateral locking plate provides a reliable method for fracture fixation, aiding in convenient surgical positioning and intraoperative fluoroscopy. The treatment approach effectively manages fractures located on the posterior lateral aspect of the tibial plateau.

Efficacy of Intraoperative Platelet-Rich Plasma After Meniscal Repair: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Meniscal injuries frequently require surgical intervention to restore knee joint function and stability. Intraoperative platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection has emerged as a potential adjunctive therapy to enhance tissue healing post-meniscal repair. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of PRP in terms of pain relief, functional recovery, and overall success rates in patients undergoing meniscal repair procedures. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies across Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases. The inclusion criteria encompassed human studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohorts, and case-control studies, focusing on intraoperative platelet-rich plasma (PRP) use post-meniscal repair and reporting outcomes related to pain, functionality, and cure rates. Exclusion criteria comprised animal studies, non-English publications, studies lacking relevant outcome measures, and those with insufficient data. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, resolving disagreements through consensus or consultation with a third reviewer, followed by a full-text assessment for potentially eligible studies. Data extraction was conducted independently by two reviewers using a standardized form. The reliability of observational studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Subgroup analyses and pooled effect estimates for main outcomes were computed using RevMan 5.3, a meta-analysis tool. The demographic analysis revealed that the PRP group had an average age of 41.39years, while the control group had an average age of 42.1years. In terms of gender distribution, the PRP group consisted of 61 men and 29 women, while the control group had 62 men and 34 women. Pain ratings showed a preference for PRP with a mean difference of 4.83 (p = 0.13). However, there was no significant difference in Lysholm scores (mean difference: - 0.44, p = 0.91) or IKDC scores (mean difference: 2.80, p = 0.14) between the PRP and control groups. Similarly, ROM measures did not show a statistically significant difference, with a mean difference of 2.80 (p = 0.18). Additionally, there was no significant distinction in failure rates between the PRP and control groups, as indicated by a weighted mean difference of 0.71 (p = 0.52). These findings suggest that while PRP may offer some benefits in pain relief, its impact on functional recovery, range of motion, and failure rates following meniscal repair procedures is inconclusive. The current evidence regarding the effect of intraoperative platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection on patients undergoing meniscal repair remains inconclusive. While some studies suggest potential benefits in terms of pain relief and functional recovery, others show no significant differences compared to control groups. The impact of PRP therapy on overall success rates, including rates of re-tear and revision surgery, is also uncertain. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed to provide more robust evidence and guide clinical practice in orthopedic surgery.

Demonstrating the effectiveness of intra-articular prolotherapy combined with peri-articular perineural injection in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThis study aimed to compare the efficacy of intra-articular prolotherapy (IG) combined with peri-articular perineural injection (PG) in the management of knee osteoarthritis (KOA).MethodsA total of 60 patients with the diagnosis of KOA were included in this double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trials. The inclusion criteria were as follow: (1) 48–80 years old; (2) the diagnose of KOA; (3) the grade 2 and 3 of the Kellgern–Lawrence grading scale; (4) the pain, crepitation, and knee joint stiffness continuing for 3 months at least. The main exclusion criteria were as follow: (1) any infection involving the knee skin; (2) history of any Influencing factors of disease. All patients were divided into three groups and received either IG, PG and I + PG under the ultrasound guidance and the 2, 4 and 8 weeks follow-up data of patients were available. (IG n = 20 or PG n = 20, I + PG n = 20). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), The Western Ontario McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and the pressure pain threshold (PPT) were used as outcome measures at baseline, 2, 4 and 8 weeks.ResultsThere were no statistically significant differences in terms of age, sex, BMI, duration of current condition and baseline assessments of pain intensity, WOMAC scores and PPT. After treatment, the improvement of VAS activity, WOMAC and PPT values was showed compared with pre-treatment in all groups (p < 0.05). At 4 and 8 weeks after treatment, the VAS and WOMAC scores of the I + PG were significantly lower than those of the PG or IG, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The PPT values of PG and I + PG were significantly improved compared to IG at 2, 4, and 8 weeks after treatment.ConclusionThe ultrasound guided I + PG of 5% glucose seem to be more effective to alleviate pain and improve knee joint function than single therapy in short term. Clinical rehabilitators could clinically try this combination of I + PG to improve clinical symptoms in patients with KOA.

Effects of gait intervention using the draw-in maneuver on knee joint function and the thoracic kyphosis angle in knee osteoarthritis

BackgroundTo evaluate whether the knee adduction moment (KAM) could be reduced by a short instruction in the Draw-in (DI) maneuver in healthy adults, and whether knee joint function would improve with a longer DI gait intervention in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). MethodIn Study 1, healthy adults received 10 minutes supervised instruction in DI gait in and then practiced the gait independently for 10 minutes. Three-dimensional motion analysis measurement was performed in each phase. In Study 2, patients with OA performed a 20-minute DI gait intervention daily for 6 weeks. At baseline and after 6 weeks, knee pain, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, the MOS 8 item Short-Form Health Survey, thoracic kyphosis angle, knee joint range of motion, knee extension muscle strength, hip abduction muscle strength, and activity level were evaluated. ResultsIn Study 1, the DI gait to decrease KAM could be learning following only 10 minutes of instruction and 10 minutes of self-practice in healthy adults. In Study 2, knee pain was reduced by 19 % and the thoracic kyphosis angle was reduced by 2.6° after 6 weeks. No significant changes in other parameters were detected, and the implementation rate was 86 ± 14 %. SignificanceIn healthy adults, DI gait instruction for 10 minutes of instruction and 10 minutes of self-practice reduced the KAM. In patients with knee OA, 20 minutes of DI gait per day for 6 weeks may reduce knee pain and thoracic kyphosis.

Study on the therapeutic effect of Kirschner wire tension band combined with anchor cross-stitch technique in the treatment of comminuted patellar inferopolar fractures.

Fractures of the inferior patellar pole, unlike other patellar fractures, present challenges for traditional surgical fixation methods. This article introduces the clinical technique and outcomes of using Kirschner wire tension band combined with anchor screw cross-stitch fixation for comminuted inferior patellar pole fractures. This retrospective case series study included 14 patients with comminuted inferior patellar pole fractures treated at our institution from September 1, 2020, to April 30, 2022. All patients underwent surgery using the Kirschner wire tension band with anchor screw cross-stitch technique. Follow-up assessments involved postoperative X-rays to evaluate fracture healing, as well as clinical parameters such as healing time, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, range of motion (ROM), and Bostman scores. All patients were followed for an average of over 12 months, with no cases of internal fixation failure. Knee joint stability and function were excellent. X-rays revealed an average healing time of approximately 10.79 ± 1.53 weeks, hospitalization lasted 5.64 ± 1.15 days, surgery took approximately 37.86 ± 5.32 minutes, and intraoperative blood loss was 33.29 ± 8.15 ml. One patient experienced irritation from the internal fixation material. At the final follow-up, the Bostman score averaged 28.29 ± 0.83, knee joint flexion reached 131.07° ± 4.88°, all patients achieved full knee extension, and the VAS score was 0.36 ± 0.63. Kirschner wire tension band with anchor screw cross-stitch fixation for comminuted inferior patellar pole fractures delivered satisfactory clinical outcomes. This surgical method, characterized by its simplicity and reliability, is a valuable addition to clinical practice.

ANALYSIS OF CAUSES AND POSTOPERATIVE RECOVERY OF ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT INJURY CAUSED BY AEROBICS IN KNEE JOINTS

Background: During the process of aerobic exercise, there are a lot of jumping and split movements, which can easily cause anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in the knee joint. After undergoing ACL reconstruction (ACLR) surgery, postoperative recovery is crucial. Currently, many methods have been applied, but research on water exercise is still limited. Purpose: This paper aims to understand the role of water exercise in the recovery of athletic ability after ACLR and provide guidance for athletes’ postoperative rehabilitation. Methods: Forty athletes with ACL injuries caused by aerobics practice or competition and undergoing surgery were randomly assigned to either group A or group B. The former received six weeks of a conventional postoperative recovery program, and the latter received six weeks of a water exercise postoperative recovery program. Knee joint range of motion (ROM), swelling value, visual analog scale (VAS) score, knee joint function score, and passive angle reproduction (PAR) were measured before and after the experiment. Results: After six weeks of recovery, the knee ROM was [Formula: see text], the swelling value was [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]cm, the VAS score was [Formula: see text], the Lysholm score was [Formula: see text], and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was [Formula: see text] in group B, which were significantly lower than those before recovery and those in group A ([Formula: see text]). After recovery, the PAR of the affected side was still different from that of the healthy side in the two groups ([Formula: see text]), but the PAR of group B was better than that of group A ([Formula: see text]). Conclusion: Compared to the conventional program, the water exercise-based postoperative recovery program demonstrates better performance in improving knee joint ROM, functionality, and proprioception, and can be used for practical post-ACLR rehabilitation.

Clinical Effects of Ultrasound-Guided Acupotomy in Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment.

The protocol presented here demonstrates the operation method of ultrasound-guided acupotomy for knee osteoarthritis (KOA), including patient recruitment, preoperative preparation, manual operation, and postoperative care. The purpose of this protocol is to relieve pain and improve knee function in patients with KOA. A total of 60 patients with KOA admitted between June 2022 and June 2023 were treated with ultrasound-guided acupotomy. Pathological changes and knee function scores were compared before and after the treatment. After 1 week of treatment, the synovial thickness of the suprapatellar bursae was significantly lesser than before treatment (p < 0.05), the Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Score (HSS) was significantly higher than before treatment (p < 0.05), the Visual analogue scale (VAS) was significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.05) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.05). Therefore, ultrasound-guided acupotomy for the treatment of KOA can reduce synovial thickness, relieve pain, improve knee joint function, and have a remarkable curative effect.

Treatment of open fracture bone defect of distal femur with antibiotic cement column and bone graft

To investigate the efficacy of antibiotic cement column combined with iliac bone graft in the treatment of open fracture with bone defect of distal femur. From October 2014 to March 2021, 16 patients of open fracture bone defect of distal femur were treated with antibiotic bone cement column and iliac bone graft, including 12 males and 4 females. The age ranged from 28 to 68 years old. There were 11 cases of traffic accident injury, 5 cases of falling injury, 3 cases as Gustilo type Ⅰ, 5 cases as type Ⅱ and 8 cases as type ⅢA. AO classification was used:9 cases of C2 type and 7 cases of C3 type. The time from injury to final bone grafting ranged from 4 to 119 days. The length of bone defect ranged from 2 to10 cm. Fractures healing time, complications and knee function Merchan score were recorded. All the 16 patients were followed up from 9 to 29 months. The incisions of 16 patients healed in one stage without postoperative infection, plate fracture, limb shortening and valgus and varus deformity. The healing time randed from 4 to 10 months . Knee joint function according to the Merchant scoring standard, showed that 8 cases were excellent, 4 cases were good, 3 cases were fair, and 1 case was poor. The use of antibiotic bone cement column combined with iliac bone graft in the treatment of open and complex bone defects of distal femur is an effective surgical method to prevent infection, assist fracture reduction, increase fixation strength and significantly reduce the amount of bone grafting.

Current therapy progress on the acute patellar dislocation

The treatment of acute patellar dislocation remains a topic of debate among orthopedic surgeons. While conservative treatment has traditionally been favored, recent studies have highlighted the high redislocation rate, prompting a reevaluation of treatment strategies. Current approaches recognize the importance of addressing not only the knee joint but also associated factors contributing to instability. Surgical intervention, particularly focusing on restoring patellar stability through medial patella-femoral ligament (MPFL), repair or reconstruction, has gained popularity. MPFL reconstruction can provide long-term stability of the patella, but further research is needed. When acute patellar dislocation is associated with abnormal bony factors, multiple surgical modalities are often required, with the goal of restoring the normal trajectory of the patella, maintaining the stability of the patellofemoral joint, and optimizing knee joint function. This review provides an overview of advances in the treatment of acute patellar dislocation and related problems, so as to provide reference for clinicians.

The Efficacy of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Peroneus Longus Tendon and its Impact on Ankle Joint Function.

Peroneus Longus Tendon (PLT), a viable anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft, shares similar biomechanics, making it suitable for reconstruction. Controversy exists over whether PLT transplants affects the donor ankle joint. The purpose of this study was to examine the recovery of knee joint function following arthroscopic ACL restoration using autologous PLT and its influence on the donor ankle joint. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 65 patients with ACL rupture who underwent PLT graft reconstruction in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2021. A three-dimensional gait analysis of the bilateral knee and ankle joints was performed postoperatively using an Opti_Knee three-dimensional motion measurement and analysis system-Yidong Medical Infrared Motion Gait Analyzer. Knee function scores and changes in the range of motion of the bilateral knee and ankle joints were collected. The analysis of preoperative and postoperative joint function scores, bilateral knee and ankle mobility was performed by t-tests. One year after surgery, the patients' International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOSs), and Lysholm scores were significantly improved compared to preoperative scores, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference in the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score of the donor ankle joint before and after surgery (p > 0.05). During different gait cycles, there was no statistical difference in knee joint mobility between the affected and healthy sides (p > 0.05), but there was a statistical difference in the inversion and eversion angle of the donor ankle joint during the support phase (p < 0.05). ACL reconstruction using the PLT can yield satisfactory knee joint function. However, it does affect inversion and eversion in the donor ankle joint, necessitating postoperative exercises. Similar subjective function ratings for both operated and non-operated feet, despite increased inversion-eversion motion in the operated foot, may be influenced by the subjective nature and margin of error in the AOFAS Ankle-hindfoot score, along with the relatively small variation in ankle inversion-eversion angles.

Age-stratified analysis of HTO and UKA clinical effects in cross-indicated anterior medial osteoarthritis

PurposeTo compare clinical outcomes of high tibial osteotomy (HTO) and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) for anterior medial osteoarthritis (AMOA) as well as offer surgical recommendations through age stratification.MethodsBetween May 2019 and May 2021, 68 cross-indicated AMOA patients were analyzed. The patients were divided into HTO and UKA groups and further into two age groups of 55–60 and 60–65 years. Additionally, general data, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and Hospital for Special Surgery knee score (HSS) were analyzed.ResultsAll the patients were followed up for 18 months. Knee joint HSS significantly improved, and VAS score decreased in both groups (P < 0.05). In the 55–60 age group, HTO showed superior knee HSS at 1 and 3 months (P < 0.05), with no significant difference at 6, 12, and 18 months. HTO had a significantly lower VAS score at one month, and the VAS scores of the two groups decreased gradually with no significant difference. In the 60–65 age group, the UKA group showed superior knee joint HSS at one month, with no significant difference at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. The UKA group had a significantly lower VAS score at one month, and both groups’ VAS scores decreased gradually with no significant difference.ConclusionBoth methods yield satisfactory results for AMOA cross-indications, improving knee joint function. The observed recovery trends have implications for personalized surgical recommendations, guiding interventions based on age-specific considerations for optimal outcomes in anterior medial osteoarthritis cases.

Clinical application of anatomical locking plate in treatment of Rockwood type Ⅰ- Ⅲpatella fractures

To investigate the effectiveness of anatomical locking plate in the treatment of Rockwood type Ⅰ-Ⅲ patella fractures. The clinical data of 16 patients with patella fractures who were admitted between November 2021 and January 2023 and met the selection criteria was retrospectively analyzed. There were 14 males and 2 females, with an average age of 44.5 years (range, 19-72 years). Causes of injuries included tumble in 12 cases and traffic accident in 4 cases. The fractures were rated as type Ⅰ in 2 cases, type Ⅱ in 9 cases, and type Ⅲ in 5 cases according to Rockwood classification criteria. The time from injury to operation ranged from 6 to 15 days, with an average of 9 days. After fracture reduction, an appropriate anatomical locking plate was selected for internal fixation. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and incision healing were recorded; the Lysholm score, Böstman patella fracture efficacy score, knee joint mobility, and visual analogue scale (VAS) score were used to evaluate the knee joint function and pain degree; X-ray films were used to review the fracture reduction and healing. The operation time was 65-100 minutes (mean, 75.3 minutes); the intraoperative blood loss was 10-35 mL (mean, 25.6 mL). All incisions healed by first intention after operation. All patients were followed up 11-26 months (mean, 19.7 months). X-ray films showed that the fractures were reduced satisfactorily, and all achieved bony healing with healing time of 3-5 months. At last follow-up, the Lysholm score was 90-95 (mean, 93.0); the Böstman patella fracture efficacy score was 27-30 (mean, 28.8), of which 12 cases were excellent and 4 were good; the VAS score was 0-1 (mean, 0.3). There was no significant difference in the range of motion of the knee joint between the healthy and affected sides [145° (140°, 150°) vs 145° (140°, 145°); Z=1.890, P=0.059]. Choosing anatomical locking plates for Rockwood typeⅠ-Ⅲ patella fractures can achieve strong fixation with minimal surgical trauma, rapid recovery of knee joint function, and mild pain after operation.

A prospective comparative study on effectiveness of single versus continuous adductor canal block combined with local infiltration anesthesia in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

To compare the early analgesic effects and the impact on knee joint function recovery after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) between single adductor canal block (SACB) and continuous adductor canal block (CACB) combined with local infiltration anesthesia (LIA) using a prospective study. The patients with knee osteoarthritis admitted between April 2022 and December 2023 were enrolled as a subject. Among them, 60 patients met the selection criteria and were enrolled in the study. They were randomly assigned to the SACB group or CACB group in a ratio of 1:1 using a random number table method. There was no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05) in terms of age, gender, height, body mass, body mass index, affected side, and preoperative resting visual analogue scale (VAS) score and active VAS score, Oxford knee score (OKS), and American Hospital of Special Surgery (HSS) score. All patients received multimodal analgesia management using LIA combined with SACB or CACB. The operation time, pain related indicators (resting and activity VAS scores, number and timing of breakthrough pain, opioid consumption), joint function related indicators (quadriceps muscle strength, knee range of motion, OKS score, and HSS score), as well as postoperative block complications and adverse events were recorded and compared between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the operation time between the two groups ( P<0.05). All patients in the two groups were followed up with a follow-up time of (9.70±4.93) months in the SACB group and (12.23±5.05) months in the CACB group, and the difference was not significant ( P>0.05). The CACB group had a significant lower resting VAS score at 24 hours after operation compared to the SACB group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in resting and active VAS scores between the two groups at other time points ( P>0.05). The CACB group had a significantly lower incidence of breakthrough pain compared to the SACB group [9 cases (30.00%) vs. 17 cases (56.67%); P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the timing of breakthrough pain occurrence and opioid consumption between the two groups ( P>0.05). Four cases in the SACB group and 7 cases in the CACB group experienced adverse events, with no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups ( P>0.05). The CACB group had significantly better knee joint mobility than the SACB group at 1 and 2 days after operation ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups in knee joint mobility on 0 day after operation and quadriceps muscle strength and OKS and HSS scores at different time points ( P>0.05). In UKA, the analgesic effects and knee joint function recovery are similar when compared between LIA combined with SACB and LIA combined with CACB. However, SACB is simpler to perform and can avoid adverse events such as catheter displacement and dislocation. Therefore, SACB may be a better choice.

Congenital dislocation of the knee: A noninvasive treatment method

BACKGROUND: Congenital knee dislocation is a significant topic of interest in the possible application of new reduction techniques immediately after birth. This initiative aims to minimize the consequences of dislocation, ensuring the possibility of normal joint formation and functioning from the very first stages of life. This is not only a technical achievement but also an approach to providing optimal conditions for the health and development of children with congenital knee dislocation.&#x0D; AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the functional and long-term treatment outcomes of congenital knee dislocation using a new patented method.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 120 patients (194 knees) with congenital knee dislocation were examined. The patients were divided into the main group (55 patients, 90 knee joints) and the control group (65 patients, 104 knee joints). The main group received the treatment developed by the authors using an Ergopower ER 7028 vibration massager. In the control group, the traditional method of orthopedic correction of congenital knee dislocation using a Von Rosen splint and circular plaster casts was employed. At the start of treatment, the age of the patients in the main group was Me 28 [Q1 28; Q3 30] hours and that of the control group was Me 30 [Q1 28; Q3 34.5] hours.&#x0D; RESULTS: A comparative analysis of the treatment outcomes of the main and control groups showed that the developed method for correcting congenital knee dislocation using a vibration massager and careful manipulations, in contrast to traditional technology, achieved the most accurate orthopedic correction in 95% of cases, ensured the restoration of the axial profile of the knee joint and its stability, and created conditions for the harmonious growth and development of the lower extremities in adulthood. In the main group, after conservative treatment of congenital knee dislocation using improved technology, indicators for assessing knee joint function (66.7%) and pain relief (98.2%) were excellent after 5 years of observation, which was confirmed by data from a clinical study and use of specialized questionnaires.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: The proposed innovative method of conservative orthopedic correction of congenital knee dislocation by vibrovascularization of the thigh muscles is a differentiated approach to conservative treatment, which improved the overall and long-term treatment outcomes.

Effectiveness of Rehabilitation for Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Scoping Review of Network Meta-Analyses.

Although an increasing number of network meta-analyses have been conducted on the effectiveness of conservative therapy for knee osteoarthritis, these may have been poorly planned and executed.We aimed to review the qualities of a comprehensive set of network meta-analyses on rehabilitation therapies for knee osteoarthritis and provide an overview of the effectiveness of each therapy. The eligibility criteria were as follows: (i) conservative rehabilitation was the primary treatment in the intervention group, (ii) included patients were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, and (iii) patient groups were aged ≤75 years, and rehabilitation interventions comprised exercise, orthotic, or physical therapies or patient education. Two independent reviewers screened the titles and abstracts of the identified records and selected the eligible reviews; their full texts were further assessed for eligibility. Then, a checklist derived from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension statement for the reporting of systematic reviews incorporating network meta-analyses of healthcare Interventions was used to validate the completeness of the reporting of each network meta-analysis. Furthermore, the statistical and outcome data regarding the quality of life, knee joint function and pain, adverse events, and physical functions were extracted using a customized spreadsheet. Overall, 2701 titles and abstracts were screened, and eight network meta-analyses were ultimately selected. Nearly all reviews adequately addressed the PRISMA extension checklist, and the completeness of reporting was adequate; therefore, all expected information could be extracted. However, the methodology used to confirm the transitivity assumption was insufficient in many reviews. The following interventions were effective in reducing pain and improving physical function: (i) strengthening, flexibility, aerobic, and mind-body exercises, (ii) pulsed ultrasound, (iii) focused and radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy, and (iv) continuous ultrasound. The following interventions were effective in improving the quality of life: (i) strengthening, (ii) mixed, and (iii) mind-body exercises. Our results suggested that exercise therapies, including muscle-strengthening, aerobic, flexibility, and mind-body exercises, are likely to be effective for pain relief and functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis. This may be the first review to provide a comprehensive perspective for considering priorities for future rehabilitation interventions for knee osteoarthritis.

A Retrospective Study to Compare Patient Outcomes from Standard Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) versus Navigation-Guided Arthroplasty Using the Brainlab Software-Guided Surgical System at a Center in Hebei Province January 2021 to July 2023.

BACKGROUND This retrospective study aimed to compare patient outcomes from standard total knee arthroplasty (TKA) vs navigation-guided arthroplasty using the Brainlab software-guided surgical system at Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated TCM-WM, Hebei, Hebei Province, China from January 2021 to July 2023. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 239 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty in Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated TCM-WM, Hebei from January 2021 to July 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the inclusion criteria, 212 eligible patients were selected for analysis and divided into a Navigation Group (NG) (n=105) and a Traditional Group (TG) (n=107) according to surgical method used. Outcomes measured included duration of disease, operative time, intraoperative blood loss volume, postoperative length of hospital stay, and pain measured by the hospital for special surgery knee score (HSS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and forgotten joint score (FJS). RESULTS The comparison of perioperative results between the 2 groups showed that the incision length in the NG was significantly longer than that in the TG (P<0.001, 95% Cl 2.59-3.35). At 3 months after surgery, the HSS score of the NG was statistically higher than that of the TG (P=0.002, 95% Cl 3.42-4.46); the WOMAC score of the NG was lower than that of the TG (P<0.001, 95% Cl -4.41-2.87); and the FJS score of the NG was significantly higher than that of the TG (P=0.003, 95% Cl 2.39-3.67). CONCLUSIONS Compared with conventional TKA, use of the Brainlab navigation system is associated with a longer incision, more accurate implantation position of the prosthesis, faster recovery of knee joint function, and helps patients to "forget" about their knee prosthesis in the short term.

Analysis of postoperative complications 5 years after osteosynthesis of patella fractures—a retrospective, multicenter cohort study

PurposeThe study aims to investigate the influence of patient- and fracture-specific factors on the occurrence of complications after osteosynthesis of patella fractures and to compare knee joint function, activity, and subjective pain levels after a regular postoperative course and after complications in the medium term.MethodsThis retrospective, multicenter cohort study examined patients who received surgery for patella fracture at level 1 trauma centers between 2013 and 2018. Patient demographics and fracture-specific variables were evaluated. Final follow-up assessments included patient-reported pain scores (NRS), subjective activity and knee function scores (Tegner Activity Scale, Lysholm score, IKDC score), complications, and revisions.ResultsA total of 243 patients with a mean follow-up of 63.4 ± 21.3 months were included. Among them, 66.9% of patients underwent tension band wiring (TBW), 19.0% received locking plate osteosynthesis (LPO), and 14.1% underwent screw osteosynthesis (SO). A total of 38 patients (15.6%) experienced complications (TBW: 16.7%; LPO: 15.2%; SO: 11.8%). Implant-related complications of atraumatic fragment dislocation and material insufficiency/dislocation, accounted for 50% of all complications, were significantly more common after TBW than LPO (p = 0.015). No patient-specific factor was identified as a general cause for increased complications. Overall, particularly following complications such as limited range of motion or traumatic refracture, functional knee scores were significantly lower and pain levels were significantly higher at the final follow-up when a complication occurred. Implant-related complications, however, achieved functional scores comparable to a regular postoperative course without complications after revision surgery.ConclusionThe present study demonstrated that implant-related complications occurred significantly more often after TBW compared to LPO. The complication rates were similar in all groups.

Impact of preoperative balance training on postoperative functional recovery of patients after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Previous studies' results on the impact of preoperative balance training on postoperative functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) appeared to be ambiguous. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to investigate the effects of preoperative balance training on walking ability, balance-specific performance, and other functional indicators in elderly patients post-TKA. Patient data were obtained from databases including PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus. The inclusion criteria followed the Population-Intervention-Comparison-Outcome (PICO) principle. The assessment process involved meticulous screening, judicious data extraction, and rigorous evaluation of trial method quality, conducted by two independent researchers. Based on standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals, meta-analysis was performed employing a random-effects model or fixed-effects model. Preoperative balance training appears to be a potentially effective intervention for enhancing the knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients' knee joint function (RR = 1.16, 95% CI: -2.58, 4.91), isometric knee flexion (RR = 2.49, 95% CI: -2.53, 7.50), knee extension (RR = -0.13, 95% CI: -0.45, 0.18), knee society score (KSS) (RR = 2.18, 95% CI: -1.51, 5.88), stair test (RR = -0.73, 95% CI: -1.84, 0.37), and timed up and go (RR = -1.18, 95% CI: -1.60, -0.76). Compared to interventions with less emphasis on balance training, rehabilitation programs highly emphasizing balance training significantly enhance the walking ability, balance specificity, and functional indicators of elderly patients post-TKA. This includes rehabilitation programs for senior TKA patients, with a focus on activities meant to improve the sensory system, balance in particular.

The Current Status of Partial Rupture of Anterior Cruciate Ligaments in Sport Players Coming for Examination and Treatment at Tan Son Nhat Hospital, An Sinh Hospital and Gia An Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam

The study employed methods of clinical and paraclinical medical examination and statistical mathematics to investigate the current status of partial rupture of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in sports players examined at An Sinh Hospital, Tan Son Nhat Hospital and Gia An Hospital (n = 33). The results of both clinical and paraclinical tests clearly showed that partial rupture of the ACL had a significant impact on the patients’ knee joint function. However, signs such as pain level were not too large (only average) making the patients easy to get subjective. If not treated promptly, the ACL could be completely ruptured. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the screening of ACL to avoid missing lesions. Furthermore, if treated early, the remaining ACL should be a good foundation for the support and orientation of collagen fiber proliferation. As a result, it is necessary to have early intervention measures to improve and restore knee function helping patients return to sports activities soon.

Deficient gait function despite effect index of the Western Ontario and McMaster university osteoarthritis index score considered cured one year after bilateral total knee arthroplasty

BackgroundTo clarify the value of gait analysis and its consistency with traditional scoring scales for the evaluation of knee joint function after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsThis study included 25 patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) who underwent bilateral TKA, and 25 conditionally matched healthy individuals, categorised into the experimental and control groups, respectively. Patients in the experimental group underwent gait analysis and Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) evaluation before and 1 year after TKA. Weight-bearing balance and walking stability were assessed using discrete trends of relevant gait indicators. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed on the gait and WOMAC score data of the experimental group before and after TKA.ResultsOne year after TKA, patients’ gait indices (except gait cycle) were significantly better than before surgery, but significantly worse than that of the control group (P < 0.01). The shape of patients’ plantar pressure curves did not return to normal. Additionally, the discrete trend of related gait indicators reflecting weight-bearing balance and walking stability were smaller than before TKA, but still greater than that of the control group. The WOMAC scores of patients 1 year after TKA were significantly lower than those before TKA (P < 0.001), and the efficacy index was > 80%. The WOMAC scores and gait analysis results were significantly correlated before TKA (P < 0.05).ConclusionsGait analysis should be used in conjunction with scoring scales to assess joint functions.