Medial Parapatellar Approach Research Articles

Double plating of intra-articular multifragmentary C3-type distal femoral fractures through the anterior approach.

In this prospective case series, we report a mean of 12-month follow-up of the utilization of a dual plating of distal femoral fractures. Our technique included a lateral distal femoral locked plate with a low-contact-locked medial plate and bone graft through an extended medial parapatellar anterior approach for the fixation of C3-type distal femoral fractures. Sixteen patients (11 males and 5 females) presented with supracondylar femoral fracture type C3, according to Müller long-bone classification system and its revision OA/OTA classification. These were treated using dual plating through extended anterior approach and bone grafting. Our outcomes included clinical and radiological outcomes. Secondary outcomes included postoperative complications. The mean time of complete radiological union in the studied population was 6.0±3.5months with a range of 3-14months. We have not observed postoperative varus or valgus deformity in our cohort. The majority (68.75%) of the studied patients showed significant improvement in range of motion (90°-120°) during follow-up. Eleven out of sixteen patients (68.75%) had well-to-excellent functional outcome. Poor outcome was reported in only two patients (12.50%). Dual plating fixation using anterior approach for type C3 distal femoral fractures is an efficient method of management. It has several advantages such as precise exposure, easy manipulation, anatomical reduction and stable fixation. However, operative indications and instructions should be strictly followed. The surgical technique must be rigorous, and the biomechanical qualities of these implants must be understood to prevent the development of major complications.

Modified Intervastus Approach to the Knee.

The modified intervastus approach to the anterior knee is an approach that may be used in the majority of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. This article presents the first description of this approach. The advantages of this approach include its extensile nature, similar to a medial parapatellar approach, and preservation of the extensor mechanism and the vastus medialis, leading to a more rapid return to active knee extension than is traditionally observed. The approach is also simple to perform, easy to close, and is compatible with more extensile approaches such as a quadriceps snip if required in revision scenarios.

Functional Outcome of Isolated Hoffa Fractures Treated with Cannulated Cancellous Screw.

Introduction: Isolated Hoffa fracture is an infrequent injury and little research has been done on this subject. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome and complications of surgically managed Hoffa fractures with cannulated cancellous screw.Materials and Methods: Between 2011 and 2014, eight isolated Hoffa fractures in seven adult patients with mean age 39.8±11.9 years (range 25-60 years) were managed with cannulated cancellous screw of 6.5mm diameter applied in anterior to posterior direction using swashbuckler and medial parapatellar approach for lateral and medial Hoffa fractures respectively. All patients were evaluated using knee evaluation score after two years or longer. Mean follow up was 28±3.8 months (range 24-36 months).Results: All fractures in the eight patients healed clinicoradiologically by the 16th week with excellent result in 87.5% cases and good in 12.5% cases. By the end of union, the range of motion (ROM) of the knee was 0° to 110° except in two patients. One patient had ROM 10°-100° and other had 15°-90°. Mean knee evaluation score was 87.5±10.4. There was no incidence of non-union, infection or avascular changes in the patients or loss of reduction till final follow up.Conclusion: Open reduction and fixation with two 6.5 mm cannulated cancellous screws with early mobilization yielded good functional outcome in isolated Hoffa fractures.

Comparison of fixed and mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty in terms of patellofemoral pain and function: a prospective, randomised, controlled trial

BackgroundDespite growing evidence in the literature, there is still a lack of consensus regarding the use of the mobile-bearing (MB) design total knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsIn a prospective, comparative, randomised, single centre trial, 106 patients with end-stage osteoarthritis of the knee were randomised to either an MB or fixed-bearing (FB) group to receive posterior stabilised (PS)-TKA using a standard medial parapatellar approach and patellar resurfacing with follow-up (FU) for 5 years. The primary outcome was anterior knee pain (AKP) during the chair rise test and the stair climb test 5 years after surgery. The secondary outcome was the ability to rise from a chair and to climb stairs, range of motion (ROM), Knee Society Score (KSS), RAND-36 scores and radiological analysis of the patellar tilt.ResultsNo statistically significant difference was found between the two groups at 5 years FU in terms of median AKP during the chair rise test and the stair climb test (p = 0.5 and p = 0.8, respectively). There was no significant difference in any of the other secondary outcome parameters between the groups at 5 years FU.ConclusionA mobile-bearing TKA does not decrease AKP compared to fixed bearings.Trial registration numberClinicalTrials.gov NCT02892838.Level of evidenceII

To study surgical outcome of various surgical procedures of lateral release in valgus knee in total knee arthroplasty

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Fixed valgus deformity presents a major challenge in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), especially in moderate or severe cases. In knee arthritis, fixed-varus deformity (50 to 55%) is three times more frequent than fixed-valgus deformity (10 to 15%). Valgus deformity occurs more commonly in rheumatoid arthritis and also in osteoarthritis with hypoplasia of the lateral femoral condyle. Valgus deformity is often associated with flexion or external rotation contracture of the knee. In this study we aim to study the surgical outcome of total knee replacement in valgus deformity via standard medial parapatellar approach using various techniques like Pie –Crusting release of lateral structures or combined technique of pie crusting and standard release of lateral structures. Aim: To evaluate surgical outcome of various surgical techniques via standard medial parapatellar approach in fixed valgus deformity in Total Knee Arthroplasty.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> The present study involved both male and female patients with osteoarthritis of knee with valgus deformity. In present series, 26 consecutive patients of osteoarthritis with valgus deformity operated with total knee replacement were included. Previously operated cases of high tibial osteotomy and patients having contraindication for TKA were excluded from the study.<strong></strong></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> Valgus angle in this study was between 13 to 27 degree with average 17.84 degree. These results were comparable to many such similar studies. In our study, post operatively, knee society score was average 87.69 and function knee score was 82.5. Mean range of motion was 105 degree. In our study, mean tibiofemoral alignment improved from 17.84 valgus to 4.7 valgus.</p><p class="Default"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> Knee society score is excellent with both techniques and there is no difference in both techniques Iliotibial band and posterolateral capsule are most common structures that require release. Initial ligament balancing should be done with pie crusting and then sequential lateral release if require. </p>

Medial parapatellar approach leads to internal rotation of tibial component in total knee arthroplasty.

The purpose of this study was to investigate if the type of approach [medial parapatellar approach (MPA) versus lateral parapatellar approach with tibial tubercle osteotomy (LPA)] influences rotation of femoral and/or tibial component and leg axis in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It was the hypothesis that MPA leads to an internally rotated tibial TKA component. This study included 200 consecutive patients in whom TKA was performed using either a parapatellar medial (n=162, MPA) or parapatellar lateral approach with tibial tubercle osteotomy (n=38, LPA). All patients underwent clinical follow-up, standardized radiographs and computed radiography (CT). TKA components' position and the whole leg axis were assessed on 3D reconstructed CT scans (sagittal, coronal and rotational). Mean values of TKA component position and the whole leg alignment of both groups were compared using a t test. The tibial component was graded as internally rotated (<3° of external rotation (ER)), neutral rotation (equal or between 3° and 6° of ER) and externally rotated (>6° ER). The femoral component was graded as internally rotated [>3° of internal rotation (IR)], neutral rotation (equal or between -3° IR and 3° of ER) and externally rotated (>3° ER). There was no significant difference in terms of whole leg axis after TKA between both groups (MPA: 0.2° valgus±3.4; LPA: 0.0° valgus±3.5). Means of tibial component rotation were 2.7° ER±6.1 (MPA) and 7.6° ER±5.4 (LPA). Patients of group LPA presented a significantly less internally rotated (LPA: 18.4%; MPA: 48.8%) and more externally rotated (LPA: 52.6%; MPA: 22.8%) tibial component (p<0.001). No significant differences were seen for the femoral component position, tibial valgus/varus and tibial slope. The type of approach (medial versus lateral) significantly influenced tibial TKA component rotation. It appears that a MPA tends to internally rotate the tibial TKA component and a LPA tends to externally rotate the tibial TKA. The anterior cortex should not be used as landmark for tibial TKA component placement when using the lateral approach with tibial tubercle osteotomy. Retrospective comparative study, Level III.

Evaluation of outcomes of suction drainage in patients with haemophilic arthropathy undergoing total knee arthroplasty.

Closed suction drainage has been extensively applied for orthopaedic procedures for the sake of avoiding fluid collections around the wound at the operated limb. We believed that without application of suction drainage after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the risk of infection and haematoma formation will not increase while the need for blood transfusion because of decreased blood loss will be lesser. In a prospective randomized clinical trial from April 2010 to April 2014, 176 patients with haemophilia who underwent TKA were included. The study group consisted of 88 patients (108 knees), in which we did not insert suction drain and the control group included 88 patients (106 knees), in which drain was inserted at the end of the surgery. All patients underwent TKA via anterior knee incision and medial parapatellar approach. The mean follow-up period of study group and control group was 21 ± 11 months vs. 20 ± 9 months consecutively (P = 0.54). The mean hospital stay was 13 ± 8 days vs. 14 ± 8 days in study and control group consecutively (P = 0.40). In both groups, the major part of improvement in clinical knee society score was due to increase in pain subset (mean increase of 42 vs. 39 points consecutively) and to a lesser extent to alleviation of flexion contracture (mean increase of 13 vs. 15 points consecutively). We observed no differences in the mean visual analogue scale (VAS) value between both groups. Average functional outcome in both groups improved during follow-up visits. We can conclude that there is no rationale for the use of drain after primary TKA.

Stability of capsule closure and postoperative anterior knee pain after medial parapatellar approach in TKA

Anterior knee pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a widely discussed postoperative complication. In contrast to sports traumatology, the role of the dissected medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) using a medial parapatellar approach in TKA has not been discussed so far. In the present study, it was hypothesized that the attempted repair of the MPFL in TKA by simple closure of the joint capsule may not be successful in some cases, causing anterior knee pain. Furthermore, it was hypothesized, that the success of repair might be influenced by femoral component rotation. Forty patients received their TKA in a ligament-balanced and forty patients in a conventional measured-resection technique. After implantation of the TKA using a medial parapatellar approach, two titan clips were attached on both sides of the capsule incision. 3days and 3 months after surgery, the dehiscence of the two clips was measured on skyline patella radiographs; additionally patellar tilt, shift, the Knee Society Score and the Feller Score were obtained. 48 patients showed an increase of capsule dehiscence. Patients with a capsule dehiscence of more than 4mm showed significantly less improvement in the Feller score 3months postoperatively than patients with a capsule dehiscence≤4mm. Regarding the radiological measurements and the clinical outcome, no significant difference between the ligament-balanced and the measured-resection group was found. The present results suggest that the successful repair of the MPFL after using a medial parapatellar approach in TKA could reduce the high rate of postoperative anterior knee pain. Furthermore, the appearance of capsule dehiscence and anterior knee pain does not seem to be dependent on the used operative technique.

Surgery of patellar fractures using a medial parapatellar approach.

The general surgical approach for patellar fractures has a significant weakness, in that the articular facet is invisible because the fixation is performed using radiation amplifiers after exposing the fracture site through vertical or transverse dissection on the anterior patella. We report excellent outcomes in the surgical treatment of patellar fractures, using a medial parapatellar approach. This study evaluated 20 patients who underwent surgery between August 2008 and April 2014 to correct patellar fractures with comminution or with displacement of the articular facet of ≥2 mm and who had ≥1 year of follow-up. Surgery was performed using anatomical reduction with direct exposure of the articular facet of the patella via a medial parapatellar approach. Bone union, severity of displacement, range of motion (ROM) of the patella, and complications were evaluated after surgery, and patellar function was evaluated using the Lysholm knee score. Bone union was achieved in all cases, and average displacement of the articular facet decreased from 3.2 mm (range: 1.2-7.3 mm) preoperatively to 0.2 mm (range: 0-0.5 mm) postoperatively. No particular postsurgical complication was observed. All cases had a normal ROM, and the average Lysholm score at final follow-up was 96.2 points. Anatomical fixation of the articular facet via a medial parapatellar approach appears to be suitable for patellar fractures, which are intra-articular.

Patella Eversion in Knee Arthroplasty: Does it lead to an adverse outcome?

Objectives:Proponents of minimally invasive knee replacements argue that retracting rather than everting the patella results in quicker postoperative recovery and improved function compared to the standard approach. We aimed to investigate this in a group of patients undergoing knee arthroplasty using a standard medial parapatellar approach.Methods:In a prospective randomized double-blinded study sixty-eight patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty through a standard medial parapatellar approach were assigned to either retraction or eversion of the patella. An independent observer assessed the flexion and secondary outcome measures of Oxford knee score, the SF12 score, visual analog pain scores, range of motion data and radiographs preoperatively, at three months and at one-year post surgery.Results:Early (3 month) follow-up showed no significant difference between eversion and subluxation in flexion (mean and 95%CI, 101°± 5.37 vs 102°±4.14) Oxford knee scores (25±3 vs 27±2.69), SF12 or visual analog pain scores (1.9±0.54 vs 1.1±0.44). A statistically significant improvement in extension was found (-3.9°±1.12 vs 2.0°±0.91 (p=0.034)) but this was not thought to be clinically significant. There was no difference in any outcomes at one year. There was a significant difference in implant malpositioning in the subluxation group with increased percentage lateral tibial overhang (0.45±0.39 vs 1.84±0.82 (p=0.005)) but this did not correlate with functional outcome. There was no statistical difference in alignment between the two groups (178.29°±0.84 vs 178.18°±0.78). There was no difference between the two groups in Insall-Salvati Ratio (1.15±0.06 vs 1.12±0.06) although there was a correlation to a reduction in the ratio and functional outcome. There were two partial divisions of the patella tendon in the retraction group, but no patella related complications in the eversion group.Conclusion:Retracting rather than everting the patella during total knee arthroplasty results in no significant clinical benefit in the early to medium term. There is no increase in patella tendon shortening as a result of eversion rather than subluxation.

A retinaculum-sparing surgical approach preserves porcine stifle joint cartilage in an experimental animal model of cartilage repair

BackgroundThis study compares a traditional parapatellar retinaculum-sacrificing arthrotomy to a retinaculum-sparing arthrotomy in a porcine stifle joint as a cartilage repair model.FindingsSurgical exposure of the femoral trochlea of ten Yucatan pigs stifle joint was performed using either a traditional medial parapatellar approach with retinaculum incision and luxation of the patella (n = 5) or a minimally invasive (MIS) approach which spared the patellar retinaculum (n = 5). Both classical and MIS approaches provided adequate access to the trochlea, enabling the creation of cartilage defects without difficulties. Four full thickness, 4 mm circular full-thickness cartilage defects were created in each trochlea. There were no intraoperative complications observed in either surgical approach. All pigs were allowed full weight-bearing and full range of motion immediately postoperatively and were euthanized between 2 and 3 weeks. The traditional approach was associated with increased cartilage wear compared to the MIS approach. Two blinded raters performed gross evaluation of the trochlea cartilage surrounding the defects according to the modified ICRS cartilage injury classification. The traditional approach cartilage received a significantly worse score than the MIS approach group from both scorers (3.2 vs 0.8, p = 0.01 and 2.8 vs 0, p = 0.005 respectively).ConclusionThe MIS approach results in less damage to the trochlear cartilage and faster return to load bearing activities. As an arthrotomy approach in the porcine model, MIS is superior to the traditional approach.

Approach to Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Double Blind Study between Medial Parapatellar and Midvastus Approach in the Early Postoperative Period in Asian Population.

The purpose of this randomized study was to compare clinical and surgical outcomes of total knee replacements (TKRs) in the early postoperative period using midvastus approach versus medial parapatellar approach in Asian population in a double blind manner. Forty-two knees each were operated using midvastus approach and the medial parapatellar approach. Clinical parameters that were evaluated included Knee Society score (KSS); knee pain using visual analogue scale (VAS) on day 1, 1 week, and 1 month; time required to straight leg raise (SLR); patellar tracking; mean extensor lag at 1 week and 1 month; and time of discharge from the hospital. Surgical parameters that were evaluated included tourniquet time, incidence of lateral retinacular release, estimated blood loss, and any complications during the surgery. KSS at 1 week and 1 month postoperatively were significantly higher in the midvastus group as compared with medial parapatellar group; though similar at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. The patients in midvastus group required fewer number of lateral retinacular releases; achieved SLR earlier; had less mean extensor lag at 1 week; had less mean VAS score at day 1, 1 week, and 1 month; and had shorter hospital stay. There was no significant difference in the mean tourniquet time and estimated blood loss. One patient had patellar maltracking in the medial parapatellar group as compared with none in midvastus group. Midvastus approach to TKR results in quicker functional recovery with early discharge and rehabilitation in the Asian population as compared with medial parapatellar approach.

Femoral Quadriceps Tendon Closure Failure After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Extensor mechanism disruption after total knee arthroplasty is rare. Extensor mechanism disruption can occur either intraoperatively or postoperatively. We present our first case a femoral quadriceps tendon closure failure in a medial parapatellar approach. Two causes might explain the failure of the femoral quadriceps tendon closure. One is insufficient sutures in the closure of the medial parapatellar approach. The other might be the effect of a local periarticular injection. A torn tendon was refreshed and performed tightly with heavy nonabsorbable sutures. A successful repair was obtained.

Patellofemoral Outcome after Medial Unicompartmental Knee Replacement: A Retrospective Study of 25 Cases

Introduction: Osteoarthritis and impingement, in patellofemoral compartment after partial arthroplasty, have been rarely reported. The purpose of our study was to evaluate outcome at long-term follow-up. Methods: We have reviewed retrospectively twenty-five unicompartmental arthroplasties. The medial parapatellar approach was used in all cases. Patients have been evaluated with regard to patellar impingement and osteoarthritic changes revealed by radiographs. The mean follow-up was 10.4 years. The clinical scoring system of the Knee Society and specific questions regarding patellofemoral symptoms were used for functional outcome. Patellofemoral complications such as osteoarthritis, impingement and the position of the femoral component were diagnosed on X-ray views of the knee. Results: At the final follow-up, fifteen knees revealed lateral patellofemoral osteoarthritis and four knees had patellofemoral impingement. Excepted of two cases, all knees with patella impingement did not revealed degenerative modifications. Anterior pain of the knee was noted more frequently in knees with patellar complications. Patellar impingement was considered the first cause of knee pain, more than knees with degenerative modifications. Only one revision surgery was indicated in front of patellofemoral conflict. The occurrence of patellar impingement depends on the surgical procedure. The anterior position of the femoral component seems to increase the frequency of such complication. Conclusion: Several degenerative modifications may occur in the patello-femoral compartment following partial knee arthroplasty. Patellar impingement and total knee arthritis are the most reported modifications. Functional outcome may be affected progressively when these changes become obvious. Patellar impingement is the major cause of knee pain and needs revision.

Quadriceps sparing (subvastus/midvastus) approach versus the conventional medial parapatellar approach in primary knee arthroplasty

IntroductionQuadriceps-sparing (subvastus/midvastus) approach has emerged as an alternative to the classical medial parapatellar approach in total knee arthroplasty with the results claiming faster rehabilitation in the quadriceps sparing group. The present study was conducted to determine if the quadriceps sparing (subvastus/midvastus) approach offers any advantages over the classical medial parapatellar approach in primary knee replacements. Material and methods55 patients undergoing unilateral TKA were randomized into two groups: the subvastus/midvastus group and the medial parapatellar group. The patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 7 days, 1 month, 3 months and finally at 6 months. Knee Society Scoring was used to compare the groups. Perioperative blood loss, duration of surgery and need for lateral release were also compared. The patient was kept on same pain management and postoperative rehabilitation protocol. Statistical analyses tested the null hypotheses of no differences in patients treated with either group at 95% significance level (p<0.05). ResultsThe difference between the two groups in terms of duration of surgery and perioperative blood loss were statistically not significant. Lateral release was required in 13.8% of patients in the parapatellar group compared to 3.8% of patients in the quadriceps-sparing group. On comparing the postoperative Knee Society Scores of the two groups at each follow up the difference was statistically significant at 7 days and 4 weeks postoperatively (p value<0.05) but the difference between the two groups at 3 and 6 months was not significant statistically (p value>0.05). ConclusionQuadriceps sparing approach (subvastus/midvastus) offers advantages over the standard medial parapatellar approach in terms of better pain relief and faster rehabilitation in the early postoperative period.

Research progress of Hoffa fracture

Hoffa fracture is a rare type of fracture confined to the coronal plane of the femoral condyle. High-energy is a common reason of Hoffa fracture, and low-energy trauma and iatrogenic injury can also cause Hoffa fracture in some cases. The commonly used classifications include Letenneur classification, CT classification, AO classification and modified AO classification. X-ray is the first choice to diagnose Hoffa fractures, fracture lines can be found. If the X-ray is negative, CT scan and MRI should be performed. Nondisplaced fractures can be managed conservatively with cast immobilization, however, there is high risk of redisplacement. Open reduction and internal fixation is preferred. For the young patient with good compliance, a simple medial or lateral condylar fractures can be treated via medial or lateral parapatellar approach. When the fracture is exposed, the headless compression screws can be inserted vertical to the fracture line from backward to forward. For a bicondylar fracture, median parapatellar incision can be selected. While for a complex fracture with osteoporosis or high body mass index, cannulated screws with anti-sliding plate fixation technique should be used.

Primary total knee arthroplasty for elderly complex tibial plateau fractures

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results of primary Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) for elderly complex tibial plateau fractures. Materials and methodsBetween November 2010 and February 2012, six cases of elderly complex tibial plateau fractures were treated with primary TKA using the standard medial parapatellar approach. All six patients were available at follow up with mean duration of 32.3 months (range 25–41 months). There were 3 women and 3 men with an average age of 69.5 years (58–78 years) at the time of the arthroplasty. ResultsThe mean Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score was 89.8 (range 85–94): 6/6 excellent. The mean knee flexion was 119.2° (105–130°). No significant postoperative complications were noted. None of these patients had significant postoperative knee pain required revision surgery, or had radiographic loosening of the components at the latest follow-up. ConclusionsTKA is a suitable solution for the treatment of elderly patients with complex tibial plateau fractures. Level of EvidenceLevel IV, Therapeutic study

The mid term functional outcomes of NexGen legacy posterior stabilized flex fixed bearing total knee replacement in primary osteoarthritis

Introduction: To evaluate the midterm functional outcomes of patients who had undergone total knee replacement (TKR) using posterior stabilized (PS) fixed bearing system from January 2005 until April 2006 for primary osteoarthritis of the knees. Methods: A retrospective study was done on forty-six patients, 87% female (n= 40) and 13% male (n=6), aged 54 to 81 years old (mean 69 ± 5.69) who had undergone primary TKR using the NexGen LPS-Flex Zimmer Warsaw. The patients were followed up for at least five years. A medial parapatellar approach and cemented posterior stabilized fixed bearing TKR system were used performed by one of two arthroplasty surgeons. All patients followed the same rehabilitation protocol post-operatively. Assessments were done using Oxford-12 knee scoring questionnaire to evaluate knee function and SF-36 to assess quality of life outcomes. Results: Oxford knee score revealed patients had lower (better) than average scores in terms of function (score 14.35 ± 4.21 out of 35) and pain (score 9.28 ± 3.01 out of 25). Analysis on the quality of life outcome score with SF-36 revealed a higher (better) score for mental component summary (MCS) relative to physical component summary (PCS). Patients had the highest score for role emotional (RE), followed by mental health (MH), and social functioning (SF). Conclusions: The NexGen LPS-Flex TKR produced a good functional outcome with minimal pain in the operated knee with better mental compared to physical health of patients in the midterm period post-total knee replacement.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of an Osteochondral Patellar Fracture in an Eleven Year-Old Girl

WOsteochondral patellar fractures in pediatric age can result from acute patellar dislocations (APDs). The purpose of this article is to document and discuss the surgical treatment performed to a young female patient diagnosed with an osteochondral fracture (OCF) of the patella in the first episode of an APD. We state the first episode of an APD in a 12 year-old girl, who presented with pain, edema and limited extension of the right knee, after a direct knee trauma. She had no predisposing factors regarding patellofemoral instability. This patient was treated at our Orthopaedic Surgery Department and then clinically (Kujala score) and radiographically evaluated, at 12 months of follow-up. The knee radiograms gave rise to the suspicion of a large inferior osteochondral patellar fragment. Operative treatment was decided and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the fragment was performed, through a medial parapatellar approach. The fragment dimensions were 24x18mm. The medial structures were addressed and repaired. The patient went through a rehabilitation programme and returned to full activities three months postoperatively. After 12 months of follow-up, there was full range of motion, no redislocation episodes and the Kujala score was 96. Open reduction and anatomic in situ internal fixation of the osteochondral fragment was mandatory in this case, due to its dimensions and location. We consider this a safe and efficient technique that allows osteosynthesis of the osteochondral fragment; the approach used makes possible the acute repair of the medial structures. There is still no general consensus about whether or not to reconstruct the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) in the context of a primary APD. WOsteochondral patellar fractures in pediatric age can result from acute patellar dislocations (APDs). The purpose of this article is to document and discuss the surgical treatment performed to a young female patient diagnosed with an osteochondral fracture (OCF) of the patella in the first episode of an APD. We state the first episode of an APD in a 12 year-old girl, who presented with pain, edema and limited extension of the right knee, after a direct knee trauma. She had no predisposing factors regarding patellofemoral instability. This patient was treated at our Orthopaedic Surgery Department and then clinically (Kujala score) and radiographically evaluated, at 12 months of follow-up. The knee radiograms gave rise to the suspicion of a large inferior osteochondral patellar fragment. Operative treatment was decided and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the fragment was performed, through a medial parapatellar approach. The fragment dimensions were 24x18mm. The medial structures were addressed and repaired. The patient went through a rehabilitation programme and returned to full activities three months postoperatively. After 12 months of follow-up, there was full range of motion, no redislocation episodes and the Kujala score was 96. Open reduction and anatomic in situ internal fixation of the osteochondral fragment was mandatory in this case, due to its dimensions and location. We consider this a safe and efficient technique that allows osteosynthesis of the osteochondral fragment; the approach used makes possible the acute repair of the medial structures. There is still no general consensus about whether or not to reconstruct the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) in the context of a primary APD.

Functional outcome of total knee arthroplasty in patients with haemophilia.

Haemophilic arthropathy (HA) is a debilitating complication of haemophilia which leads to TKA in severe cases. We conducted a prospective study of the outcome of TKA in our haemophilia cohort to define the outcomes in this population and increase the cost effectiveness of the procedure in our developing country. We reviewed patients with haemophilia who underwent TKA between April 2010 and April 2014. Patients with at least 6 months of follow-up were included. Preoperative knee scores (KSS and WOMAC) and the scores of the quality of life were recorded. Radiographic indices were registered pre- and postoperatively. Any complications were recorded. The patients underwent TKA with medial parapatellar approach. We had a low threshold for quadriceps snip when exposure was difficult. As our routine we did not use suction drains postoperatively. We included 83 patients (all males, 103 knees). The mean age of the patients was 35.8 years. The mean follow-up period was 45.1 months. Three patients (3.6%) had factor inhibitors. Twenty patients (24.1%) underwent bilateral simultaneous TKA. The mean admission time was 13.87 days. We had two cases of wound infection and one case of haematoma. None of our patients needed transfusion. All knee scores were significantly improved (P < 0.000). Total knee replacement is an effective procedure in treatment of HA. Definition of standards of care for this procedure, which are tailored for resources of a developing country, can have major impact in improving outcomes while maximizing cost effectiveness of this surgery.