Postoperative DASH Score Research Articles

Arthrodesis of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint of the Finger Using an Intramedullary Implant

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the joints of the hand is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders in the elderly population. It is a complex, degenerative disease affecting all components of the joint. Surgical treatment is indicated when conservative therapy fails. The ultimate solution is arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. Various methods of arthrodesis have been described, ranging from the use of K-wires or compression screw to different types of intra-articular (intramedullary) implants. The aim of this study is to evaluate the surgical outcomes of arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint of the fingers using intramedullary implants. Since 2011, arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint using an intramedullary implant has been performed at our department 97 times in total, in 59 patients. 9 patients (15 cases of arthrodesis) were excluded from the study group due to their failure to complete the questionnaire, 1 female patient died. In the final group, 82 cases of arthrodesis in 49 patients (47 women, 2 men) were evaluated. In 72% of cases, the surgery was performed on the dominant hand. The mean age at the time of surgery was 58 years (median 59 years). The patients were indicated for surgery after the failure of all conservative treatment options. In addition to radiographs, also the hand function and pain were assessed based on the preand postoperative DASH score questionnaires. The surgical outcomes for all implants are satisfactory. In all 82 patients, the surgical wounds healed per primam. In one case, implant extraction was performed due to infection. Another complication was an unhealed fusion and formation of a non-union with minimum pathological mobility (the patient is satisfied with the outcome). In three patients, a fracture at the base of the distal phalanx was observed on postoperative radiographs, which fully healed within 3 months after surgery. The mean DASH score decreased from 41.95 preoperatively to 14.93 postoperatively. The mean time to healing of the arthrodesis observed on radiographs was 9.1 weeks. Currently, there are many different types of arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint of the hand. Each method has its pros and cons. Arthrodesis using an intramedullary implant has the advantages of the older methods while minimizing postoperative complications. Our results are comparable to those reported in the foreign literature. Based on the evaluated outcomes, arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint using an intramedullary implant can be considered valid. It definitely deserves to be included in the portfolio of surgical treatment of osteoarthritis of the DIP joints of the hand. According to our observation, the differences between various types of implants are minimal and their outcomes are comparable to those reported in foreign publications. The pain relief, restored finger function and fusion rate are comparable to, if not better than, those achieved by the older surgical methods. The advantage of this method is mainly easier implantation, fewer complications, and the possibility of implantation without the use of an X-ray image intensifier, which ultimately reduces the cost of surgery. The main disadvantage is the higher purchase price of the implant. osteoarthritis, distal interphalangeal joint, arthrodesis.

Functional outcome and histologic analysis of late onset total type brachial plexus injury treated with intercostal nerve transfer to median nerve with local umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells or secretome injection: a double-blinded, randomized control study.

Intercostal nerve transfer is a surgical technique used to restore function in patients with total brachial plexus injury. Stem cell and secretome therapy has been explored as a potential treatment for brachial plexus injuries. This study aimed to compare the functional and histologic outcome of intercostal nerve transfer to median nerve with local stem cells or secretome injection in total type brachial plexus injuries. This was a double-blinded, randomized controlled study (RCT). We included patients with neglected total type brachial plexus injury (BPI) who underwent nerve transfer and local injection of either umbilical cord-derivedmesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) or secretome into median nerve-flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) neuromuscular junction (NMJ). We measured preoperative and 8-month postoperative FDS muscle strength, SF-36, DASH score, and histologic assessment. We then analyzed the difference outcome between those two groups. A total of 15 patients were included in this study. Our study found that after nerve transfer and implantation with either UC-MSC or secretome, significant postoperative improvements were observed in physical functioning, role limitations, energy/fatigue, emotional well-being, social functioning, pain, general health, and DASH scores, particularly in the overall cohort and the secretome group. When we compared the mean difference of clinical outcome from preoperative to postoperative between UC-MSC and secretome groups, the UC-MSC group showed better improvement of health change in SF-36 subgroup compared to secretome group. From the analysis, there was no significant difference in the histologic outcomes (inflammation, regeneration, and fibrosis) in overall cohort between preoperative and postoperative cohort. There was also no significant difference in mean change of the histologic outcomes (inflammation, regeneration, and fibrosis) preoperative and postoperatively between UC-MSC and secretome groups. Implantation of either UC-MSC or secretome along with nerve transfer may provide clinical improvement, while to achieve histologic improvement, further conditioning should be performed.

Long-term outcomes of the Universal 2 total wrist arthroplasty

AimsThe Universal 2 total wrist arthroplasty (TWA) aims to alleviate wrist pain and restore function. This study investigates the survival time, revision rate, complication rate, and performs radiological analysis on Universal 2 TWAs in the long term. MethodsForty-seven Universal 2 TWA in 45 patients were performed between 2006 and 2014. Patient satisfaction, DASH score, complications, revision rate and radiological analysis of the TWA were recorded. ResultsMean follow-up was 11.7 years (range 2.5–17.6 years). There was significant improvement in post-operative DASH score (mean 58.3, SD 13) compared to preoperative DASH scores (mean 33, SD 20, p < 0.001). At latest follow-up, 65 % of patients would undergo the procedure, a reduction from 87 % at mid-term follow-up. On radiological analysis, 26 wrists had lucencies of at least one component. Complications occurred in 18 wrists (38 %). Eleven TWA (23 %) were revised at a mean 7.3 years post-operation (range 2.0–13.7 years). Mean survival of the implant was 13.6 years (12.2–15.0 years 95 % CI). Kaplan-Meier analysis identified no significant differences in survivorship between inflammatory arthritis (13.2 years, 11.5–14.9 years 95 % CI) and osteoarthritis (12.9 years, 11.0–14.8 years 95 % CI, p = 0.39). ConclusionAt long-term follow-up, the Universal 2 TWA can produce significant improvements in DASH scores and good satisfaction rates. However, a significant number of implants showed radiological loosening, with a high associated complication and revision rate. Patients should be adequately counselled on these risks pre-operatively.

Local ketorolac infiltration for postoperative pain in open trigger finger surgery: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundMultimodal analgesia is crucial for effective postoperative pain management in minor hand surgeries, enhancing patient satisfaction. The use of local wound infiltration with Ketorolac as an adjuvant pain management strategy is proposed for open trigger finger release surgery. This study aims to compare pain scores and functional outcomes between local wound infiltration with Ketorolac and oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.MethodsThis study is a double-blind, parallel design, randomized controlled trials. Sixty-nine patients underwent trigger finger surgery between December 2021 and October 2022 were randomized into one of three groups: oral Ibuprofen alone group, local Ketorolac alone group and local Ketorolac with oral Ibuprofen group. The assessment included postoperative numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, grip strength, mobility of proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. and complications.ResultsNRS pain scores during movement of the operated fingers were significantly lower at 6 h in local Ketorolac alone group and local Ketorolac with oral Ibuprofen group compared to oral Ibuprofen alone group. However, there were no significant differences between the groups in postoperative DASH scores, grip strength, mobility of PIP joints, and complications.ConclusionsLocal infiltration of Ketorolac as an adjunct in postoperative pain management has been shown to provide superior analgesia during finger movement within the initial 6 h following trigger finger surgery, in comparison to oral NSAIDs.Clinical trial registrationThaiclinicaltrials.org identifier: TCTR20210825002. Registered 25/08/2021. https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20210825002

Ultrasound-guided vs. non-guided trigger finger release: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Trigger finger (TF) is a common hand condition that can be treated with surgery. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess whether ultrasound-guided (US-guided) percutaneous surgery is superior to other conventional surgical methods. We conducted a comprehensive search in Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant studies. We included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing US-guided TF release with blind percutaneous or open approaches. We combined Risk Ratios (RR) and Mean Differences (MD) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) across studies. Data processing and analysis were conducted using R software, version 4.3.1. Our analysis included eight RCTs and two observational studies with 555 patients. US-guided surgery significantly reduced postoperative DASH scores (MD -3.75 points; 95% CI = -7.48, -0.02; p < 0.01), shortened time to resume activities (MD -11.52 days; 95% CI = -16.13, -6.91; p < 0.01), hastened discontinuation of oral analgesics (MD -4.44 days; 95% CI = -8.01, -0.87; p < 0.01), and improved patient satisfaction scores (RR 1.13; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.23; p = 0.75). There were no significant differences in VAS scores, time to movement recovery, or surgical success rate. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous release is a safe, effective, and superior alternative for treating TF compared to other methods, leading to improved DASH scores, quicker recovery, faster cessation of oral analgesics, and enhanced patient satisfaction.

Mid- to long-term outcomes of proximal humerus fractures treated with open reduction, plate fixation, and iliac bone autograft augmentation.

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using locking plates is a widely adopted treatment for displaced proximal humerus fractures. Various augmentation techniques have been developed to enhance the stability of plate fixation. Among these, iliac bone autograft is notable for its advantages over allografts, such as ready availability and the elimination of costs and risks associated with disease transmission. Despite its potential benefits, data on the outcomes of iliac bone autograft augmentation (IBAA) are still limited. This study aims to present the mid- to long-term results of treating proximal humerus fractures with ORIF using locking plates and IBAA. The study included 15 patients treated with ORIF and IBAA. We classified fracture patterns using the Neer classification and estimated local bone density via the deltoid tuberosity index. We measured the neck shaft angle (NSA) and humeral head height (HHH) on both immediate postoperative and most recent X-ray images to assess the maintenance of reduction. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) and Constant scores. The average follow-up duration was 59.56 months, ranging from 24 to 93 months. A majority of fractures were classified as four-part (53%). The average immediate and late postoperative NSAs were 132.6±8.19 and 131.6±7.32 degrees, respectively. The average HHH on the immediate postoperative and latest follow-up images were 16.46±6.07 and 15.10±5.34, respectively. None of the patients exhibited any radiological signs of avascular necrosis or loss of reduction at the latest follow-up. The mean postoperative Constant and DASH scores at the latest follow-up were 79.6 and 11.5, respectively. Our findings suggest that ORIF with IBAA is an effective method for managing three- or four-part proximal humerus fractures, yielding excellent outcomes.

Ligament Suspensionplasty With Suture Tape Augmentation​ for Basal Thumb Arthritis.

Thumb carpometacarpal arthritis is common with aging, more common in women than men, and usually occurs after age 40. If a patient fails conservative treatments such as splinting, medications, and corticosteroid injections, then surgical intervention may be appropriate. Currently, there is no consensus on the best surgical treatment. By limiting metacarpal subsidence, ligament suspensionplasty with suture tape augmentation offers great pain relief, excellent functional outcomes, and limited postoperative immobilization. With this technique, trapeziectomy is first performed. A portion of the abductor pollicis longus tendon is resected and loaded onto the SwiveLock anchor using 4-0 FiberLoop, in addition to suture tape. The prepared graft and tape construct is anchored into the lateral first metacarpal (MC) base and index metacarpal base. After surgery, patients are put in a short arm thumb spica splint, interphalangeal (IP) joints free. Active motion is initiated at the first postoperative visit, usually within 1 week. All patients who had thumb arthritis treated with carpometacarpal suspensionplasty and suture tape augmentation between 2015 and 2022 by a single hand surgeon at our institution were queried. A total of 110 patients were invited to take part in this study, and 61 patients consented and were included in this study. Mean last in-office follow up was at 7.5±4.0 months, which showed significant improvements in pinch strength (P=0.011). A survey taken at a mean 2.8±1.3 years (range: 0.5 to 5.2y) after surgery reports a postoperative DASH score of 7.3±7.7 (range: 0 to 23.3), and VAS pain score of 0.7±1.1 (range: 0 to 5).

Thoracic outlet syndrome in overhead athletes

BackgroundWe aimed to retrospectively compare the clinical outcomes of endoscopy-assisted first-rib resection for thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) between overhead athletes and non-athletes and investigate the return to same-level sports rate in overhead athletes. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 181 cases with TOS (75 women, 106 men; mean age, 28.4 years; range, 12–57 years) who underwent endoscopy-assisted first-rib resection. We divided into two groups: 79 overhead athletes and 102 non-athletes groups. A transaxillary approach for first-rib resection and neurovascular decompression was performed under magnified visualization. Endoscopic findings related to the neurovascular bundle, interscalene distance, and scalene muscle were evaluated intraoperatively. We assessed the Roos and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, return to same-level sports rate, and ball velocity. ResultsOverhead athletes were significantly more likely to be men, younger, used the dominant side more frequently, and have a larger physique, more shoulder and elbow pain, and shorter symptom duration. The outcomes of the Roos score revealed significant differences in excellent or good results between overhead athletes (91.1%) and non-athletes (62.8%). The two groups significantly differed in preoperative and postoperative DASH and recovery rate scores (P = 0.007, < .001, < .001). ConclusionsOverhead athletes with TOS were more likely to be men, younger, dominant side more frequently, and have more shoulder and elbow pain, and a shorter symptom duration. Endoscopy-assisted transaxillary first-rib resection and neurolysis provided superior clinical outcomes in overhead athletes with TOS compared with non-athletes and a high return-to-same-level-play rate in sports.

Comparison of nerve versus tendon transfer for radial nerve palsy

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the choice of intervention time and operation mode between nerve and tendon transfer for the treatment of radial nerve palsy (RNP). Methods46 RNP patients underwent nerve transfer (n = 22) and tendon transfer (n = 24). The intraoperative blood loss, main incision length, operation duration, and length of hospital stay and follow-up period of patients in these two groups were recorded and compared. The range of motion (ROM) of the elbow, wrist, fingers, and thumb, the hand grip and pinch strength, the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores were measured and compared preoperatively and postoperatively between the two groups. ResultsThe ROM of thumb and the hand grip strength of patients in the nerve transfer group were greater than that in the tendon transfer (P < 0.05). Both of the two groups indicated significant improvements in the ROM of elbow, wrist, finger, thumb and the hand grip and pinch strength (P < 0.05) postoperatively. The DASH scores decreased significantly at 6 months (P < 0.05) and 12 months (P < 0.05) after surgery in both groups, while the postoperative SF-36 scores significantly increased (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative DASH and SF-36 scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). ConclusionIn summary, both nerve and tendon transfer techniques are effective treatments for RNP. Nerve transfer is particularly advantageous for early RNP, while tendon transfer is suitable for patients with radial nerve injury more than one year.

Combined Arthroscopic Wafer Procedure and Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Debridement versus Ulnar Shortening Diaphyseal Osteotomy in Management of Ulnar Impaction Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract Background The literature presents great challenge in comparing the arthroscopic wafer procedure (AWP) versus ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) in the treatment of ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS). Purpose We aimed primarily to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of AWP with triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) debridement versus USO in the management of UIS. Methods The study was conducted as a randomized clinical trial including 43 patients with UIS whose ulna variance was less than 4 mm. Patients were randomly allocated to either the AWP group (21 patients) who underwent AWP and TFCC debridement or the USO group (22 patients) who underwent diaphyseal USO. Patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The primary outcome measure was the Modified Mayo Wrist (MMW) score. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, the mean operative time, postoperative complications, and patient satisfaction were our secondary outcomes. Results Radiological correction of variance was achieved in all patients. The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the AWP group. The postoperative MMW and DASH scores were better in the AWP group than in the USO group. Fewer complications occurred in the AWP group (1 of 21 patients) compared with the USO group (3 of 22 patients). Conclusions AWP with TFCC debridement is a reliable and safe method for the management of UIS with a positive variance of less than 4 mm with better clinical and functional results than diaphyseal USO. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic type II.

Treatment of Complete Brachial Plexus Injuries Using Double Free Muscle Transfer

The purpose of this study was to examine the surgical outcomes of double free muscle transfer (DFMT) performed in patients with complete brachial plexus injury (BPI). We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of DFMT for 12 patients with complete BPI who were followed up for more than 2 years after the final muscle transplantation. Their mean age was 29 years (range, 18-41). Three patients underwent contralateral C7 nerve root transfer before the DFMT. The range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder, elbow, and fingers was measured. Patient-reported outcome measures, including Disability of the Shoulder, Arm, and Hand (DASH) scores and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain, were also examined. The mean shoulder ROM against gravity was 22° ± 8° in abduction and 33° ± 5° in flexion. Seven patients underwent phrenic nerve (PhN) transfer to the suprascapular nerves, and five exhibited asymptomatic lung impairment on spirography more than 2 years after PhN transfer. The mean elbow ROM against gravity was 111° ± 9° in flexion and -32° ± 7° in extension. All patients obtained elbow flexion >90° against a 0.5-kg weight. All patients obtained touch sensation and two recognized warm and cold sensations in the affected palm. The mean total active motion of the affected fingers was 44° ± 11°. All patients exhibited hook function of the hands. The mean preoperative and postoperative DASH scores were 70.3 ± 13.4 and 51.8 ± 15.9, respectively. The mean pain VAS score was 28 ± 31 at the final follow-up. Double free muscle transfer provided patients with complete brachial plexus palsy with good elbow flexion and hand hook functions. Therapeutic IV.

Arthroscopic repair for isolated subscapularis tear: successful functional outcomes and high tendon healing rate can be expected nine years after surgery

BackgroundLiterature describing outcomes and integrity after isolated subscapularis (SSC) tendon repair is emerging but remains limited to a few small case series with short-term follow-up. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes and repair integrity in patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of isolated SSC tears. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted with the following inclusion criteria: (1) primary and elective shoulder arthroscopy for isolated SSC repair, (2) type III (a full-thickness tear in the upper two-thirds of the tendon) or IV (a complete tear without tendon retraction) SSC tear according to the Lafosse classification, and (3) a minimum 24-month follow-up. Preoperatively, the range of motion (ROM) and the Constant-Murley score (CMS) and at follow-up, the ROM, the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Rating Scale, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and the CMS were evaluated; an ultrasonographic assessment of tendon healing was performed according to the Sugaya classification. ResultsThe final sample consisted of 45 patients with an average age of 55±9 years. After a mean follow-up time of 107±54 months, the mean UCLA and DASH scores were 8.7±1.3 and 42.2±6.4, respectively. ROM and CMS showed statistically significant improvements (all p<0.001). Before surgery, the mean CMS was 49% that of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals, and all patients showed a CMS lower than the normative data. At the final follow-up visit, the mean CMS was 94.2% that of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals, and no patients showed CMS of 30 or less. The mean increase in the CMS was 41.4±9.8 points (range, 23-60 points). The ultrasonographic assessment showed SSC tendon healing in 39 (86.7%) cases; tendon retear was recorded in 5 (13.3%) cases. All scores directly correlated with the healing of the tendon. A higher postoperative DASH score was associated with male sex (p=0.039, β=5.538) and a longer follow-up period (p=0.044, β=0.001). The postoperative CMS (p < 0.001) and UCLA scores (p = 0.001) were significantly higher in patients younger than 60 years of age at surgery than in older individuals. ConclusionArthroscopic repair of isolated SSC tears achieves excellent clinical and functional results at a mean of 9 years postoperatively, with a satisfactory healing rate. Better functional outcomes correlate with SSC tendon integrity and were observed in male patients and in those younger than 60 years at surgery.

Is Tension Band Wire Fixation Superior to Plate Fixation for Simple Displaced Olecranon Fractures? A Randomized Trial With Median Follow-up of 7.5 Years.

Surgeons disagree about the best surgical treatment for simple, displaced olecranon fractures. Although the tension band wiring technique and plate fixation are the most common surgical options for fixation, studies comparing both are limited. To date, there have been no randomized trials comparing patient-reported outcomes and complications at more than 5 years of follow-up. (1) Does tension band wiring or plate fixation result in better ROM and patient-reported outcome scores for simple displaced olecranon fractures? (2) What is the risk of complications associated with each technique? Between November 2012 and October 2017, 68 patients were treated for acute, displaced olecranon fracture in a hand and upper extremity surgery unit at a tertiary-care center. Patients 18 years or older with traumatic, nonpathologic, simple olecranon fractures who presented within 2 weeks of injury were considered potentially eligible. Based on that, 74% (50) of patients met the inclusion criteria; 16% (11) of patients declined to participate in the study, and another 10% (seven) were excluded because they did not meet the prespecified inclusion criteria. Patients were randomized on a 1:1 basis to either tension band wiring or plate fixation and were evaluated at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. At the final follow-up interval, 16% (eight) were lost to follow-up: 4% (two) in the tension band wiring group and 12% (six) in the plate fixation group. The median follow-up time was 8 years (IQR 7 to 9 years). We evaluated complications at a minimum of 6 years after surgery. The primary outcome measure was the 1-year postoperative DASH score. Additional outcome measures included the patient-reported Oxford Elbow Score, ROM, and the proportion of patients in each group who reported hardware-related symptoms and had subsequent implant removal or postoperative infection. No differences were observed in the DASH score (tension band wiring 18 [range 3 to 65] versus plate fixation 24 [range 3 to 52], median difference -6 [95% CI -12.7 to 14.9]; p = 0.73), Oxford Elbow Score (tension band wiring 36 [range 10 to 48] versus plate fixation 39 [range 17 to 47], median difference -3; p = 0.53), or all ROM measurements (p > 0.05) between the groups at 1 year of follow-up. The odds of having surgery for symptomatic implant removal were lower for plate fixation than for tension band wiring (one of 19 versus eight of 23, OR 9.6 [95% CI 1.08 to 85.7]; p =0.02); the odds of infection, however, were higher in the plate group (three of 19 versus 0 of 23; p = 0.048). No differences were observed between the two techniques in terms of ROM or patient-reported outcomes. Surgeons should consider that although the risk of implant removal is higher in tension band wiring, patients older than 85 years undergoing plate fixation for simple olecranon fractures are at a greater risk of postoperative infection. Level I, therapeutic study.

Postoperative psychological factors and quality of life but not shoulder brace adherence affect clinical outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Despite the high prevalence, there is no consensus for postsurgical management after rotator cuff repair. We aimed to assess the impact of psychological well-being on patients who underwent rotator cuff repair. We also investigated correlations and possible predictors between patient demographics and adherence to the use of the shoulder brace and outcomes in terms of shoulder functionality and quality of life. We conducted a retrospective study with prospective data collection enrolling 120 consecutive patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy for rotator cuff tear repair. Each patient was clinically evaluated after a mean follow-up of 24.2 (±9.8) months using (1)the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scale, (2) the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), (3) the Rotator Cuff Quality of Life (RC-QoL), (4) the visual analog scale, and (5) the Medical Adherence Measure. The final sample consisted of 100 patients (45 females, 45%) averaging 60.9 (±8.5) years. The average brace wearing time was 3.4 (±0.6) weeks, with an adherence superior to 80% in 84% of cases, and 96% of patients were living with family members. The mean postoperative DASH scores were 20.1 (±16.7), 23.4 (±25), and 18.9 (±21.5) for the general, work, and sport sections, respectively. The mean Medical Adherence Measure score reached 72.5 (±14.2) points, and the RC-QoL mean score was 30.4% (±20.5). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression scores' continuous mean values were 5.1 (±3.4) and 3.9 (±3.6), respectively. The DASH, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression, and RC-QoL scores directly correlated with each other, and all these questionnaires directly correlated with the visual analog scale scores. Moreover, we found a direct correlation (r=0.204, P=.033) between the female sex and adherence to the brace and a direct correlation (r=0.242, P=.015) between adherence to the brace and the number of weeks it was worn according to the medical recommendation. A correlation between lower educational qualifications and poorer outcomes was found. No correlation emerged between adherence to the brace and functional results. According to the regression analysis, diabetes was found to be a predictor of worse postoperative DASH scores (β=0.245, P=0.28). A lower perceived quality of life was associated with worse functional results, anxiety and depression symptoms, and pain after rotator cuff repair surgery. The adherence to the use of the shoulder brace was associated with the female sex and a longer prognosis, but no correlation emerged between adherence to the brace and functional outcomes.

Changes in Self-Esteem in Patients with Hirayama Disease and its Association with Prognosis After Anterior Cervical Fusion Procedures

To quantify self-esteem in patients with Hirayama disease (HD) and investigate the impact of this psychosocial factor on surgical outcomes in HD. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) was measured in 58 patients with HD before anterior cervical fusion. These patients further underwent motor unit number estimation, handgrip strength, disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Beck Depression Index (BDI) before and 18 months after operation. Furthermore, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was administered to all patients at postoperative 18-month assessments. Compared with the general population, patients with HD showed a relatively lower RSES, and RSES was negatively associated with both postoperative DASH (r=-0.431, P<0.05) and preoperative to postoperative changes (r=-0.295, P<0.05) and positively associated with IPAQ (r=0.472, P<0.05). Similar to the difference in postoperative DASH scores, more patients with low self-esteem felt postoperative aggravated motor dysfunction than those with high/normal self-esteem (P<0.05). Postoperative BDI exerted a partial mediating effect on the relationship between RSES and DASH scores (B=-0.30, P<0.05), and postoperative BAI played a partial mediating effect on the relationship between RSES and IPAQ scores (B=0.30, P<0.05). The self-esteem of HD patients may be below the population norms. Importantly, relatively low self-esteem in HD patients may cause/worsen postoperative depression and anxiety, thereby resulting in poor self-reported surgical prognosis and an inactive lifestyle after operation. Therefore, perioperative treatment and rehabilitation efforts in HD patients, especially those with low self-esteem, should account for both physiological and psychological symptoms.

Indomethacin for heterotopic ossification prophylaxis following surgical treatment of elbow trauma: a randomized controlled trial

Heterotopic ossification is a frequent complication following surgical treatment of elbow trauma. The use of indomethacin to prevent heterotopic ossification is reported in the literature; however, its effectiveness is controversial. The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to determine whether indomethacin is effective in reducing the incidence and severity of heterotopic ossification after surgical management of elbow trauma. Between February 2013 and April 2018, 164 eligible patients were randomized to receive postoperative indomethacin or placebo medication. The primary outcome was the incidence of heterotopic ossification on elbow radiographs at 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes included the Patient Rated Elbow Evaluation score, Mayo Elbow Performance Index score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score. Range of motion, complications, and nonunion rates were also obtained. At 1-year follow-up, there was no significant difference in the incidence of heterotopic ossification between the indomethacin group (49%) and the control group (55%) (relative risk, 0.89; P=.52). There were no significant differences in postoperative Patient Rated Elbow Evaluation, Mayo Elbow Performance Index, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores or range of motion (P=.16). The complication rate was 17% in both the treatment and control groups (P>.99). There were no nonunions in either group. This Level I study demonstrated that indomethacin prophylaxis against heterotopic ossification in the setting of surgically treated elbow trauma was not significantly different from placebo.

Clinical Outcomes of Lunocapitate Arthrodesis: A Retrograde Single-Screw Approach.

A single-site retrospective study was designed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of single-screw lunocapitate arthrodesis (LCA) using a retrograde approach for the treatment of scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) wrist. We retrospectively identified 31 patients (33 cases) between September 2010 and December 2019 with SLAC wrist changes who were treated with single-screw LCA. Objective outcomes included time to fusion, union rate, range of motion, and grip and pinch strength recovery. Subjective outcomes included Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores. We report on 33 cases (7 female), mean age 58.4 years (range: 41-85), with SLAC wrist who underwent LCA. Our cohort reported a 94% union rate and a 90-day mean time to fusion. Final active wrist range of motion was 38° dorsiflexion, 35° volarflexion, 17° radial deviation, 17° ulnar deviation, 82° pronation, and 83° supination (mean: 450.8 days). Final grip and pinch strengths recovered was 75% gross grip, 84% lateral pinch, and 75% precision pinch (mean: 379.0 days) compared with the contralateral side. The mean postoperative DASH score was 27 (mean: 1203.9 days). Two nonunions were observed. Two hardware complications occurred: one symptomatic screw and one screw fatigue fracture. We found retrograde single-screw LCA to be an effective salvage procedure for SLAC wrist. LCA is a less-taxing procedure, requires shorter operating time, and produces range of motion and grip and pinch strength recovery comparable to those of 4-corner arthrodesis. Furthermore, the viability of single-screw fixation may reduce hardware-related operative costs without compromising union rates.

Scaphoid Nonunions Treated with Nonvascularized Bone Grafting and Screw Fixation.

Background Vascularized bone grafting with screw fixation is currently considered the treatment of choice for scaphoid nonunions with avascular necrosis (AVN) of the proximal pole. A viable alternative to using vascularized bone grafts for scaphoid nonunions with AVN is nonvascularized bone grafting with screw fixation. Question What are the functional outcomes of patients with scaphoid nonunions and associated proximal pole AVN who are treated with nonvascularized distal radius bone grafting and screw fixation? Patients and Methods Eight scaphoid nonunions with AVN, which received nonvascularized distal radius bone graft and screw fixation, underwent a retrospective review. Range of motion, strength, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores were obtained. Follow-up X-rays were compared with immediate postoperative X-rays. Results At a mean follow-up of 88.9 months, thumb palmar abduction and radial abduction were significantly higher on the operative side ( p = 0.28 and 0.49, respectively). Extension/flexion arc was significantly lower in the operative wrist ( p = 0.148). There was no significant difference between the operative and nonoperative sides with regard to strength. The median postoperative DASH score was 2.9 (interquartile range [IQR]: 8.3). There was no progression of osteoarthritis when immediate postoperative and follow-up X-rays were compared. Radiographic union was observed in six of the seven (85.7%) patients who were able to return to the office for follow-up radiographs. The mean scapholunate and radioscaphoid angles measured on X-rays were within normal anatomic range postoperatively. Conclusions Using nonvascularized distal radius bone graft and screw fixation in the treatment of scaphoid nonunions with associated AVN has favorable radiologic and functional outcomes and should be considered a viable treatment option for this difficult problem.

Biological Reconstruction of the Coracoclavicular Ligament with Semitendinosus Autograft and Repair of Distal Clavicle Fractures.

Most of the options available to treat distal clavicle fractures involve hardware-related complications and high failure rates. This study aims to determine the outcome of distal clavicle fractures treated by a technique that combines biological reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligament with semitendinosus autograft with reinforced fibrous tissue tapes. In this retrospective study, 8 patients with displaced distal third clavicle fracture cho's IIB or II C were operated on with the described surgical technique between 2018 and 2021. The results were assessed by comparing the preoperative Constant Murley score and the postoperative DASH score. In addition to these variables, several other variables were also assessed, such as the coracoclavicular distance, the time until union, and all intraoperative and postoperative complications. The study included eight patients with an average age of 36.5 years, and the average time from surgery to recovery was five days. According to Cho's classification, all eight patients achieved radiographic union within 89 days. Of the eight cases, six were classified as II C and two as II B. The follow-up period was an average of 13 months. During the postoperative period, the Constant Murley score score increased from 22.2 preoperatively to 92.2 postoperatively. The mean DASH score was 89.6, and the mean postoperative DASH score was 7.75. In terms of the coracoclavicular distance, the mean preoperative was 20.2mm, and the mean postoperative was 10.3mm. One patient experienced a minor wound complication after surgery, treated with secondary suturing after the operation. No intraoperative complications occurred. There was no donor site morbidity observed in the patients. It has been demonstrated that the use of this technique in displaced unstable distal clavicle fractures using a fiber tape and a semitendinosus autograft results in a satisfactory union and excellent clinical outcomes with very few complications.

EARLY SURGICAL RESULTS OF SUTURE ANCHOR TENDON REPAIR COMBINED WITH BONE DRILLING TECHNIQUE FOR RECALCITRANT LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS

Objectives: The aim of this study was to report the early results of patients who underwent surgical treatment with suture anchor tendon repair combined with the bone drilling technique for a diagnosis of recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis. Methods: A retrospective analysis was made of 11 patients (2 males, 9 females; mean age: 38.3 years) who underwent surgery with suture anchor tendon repair and the bone drilling technique for a diagnosis of recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis between September 2019 and January 2022. The demographic data of the patients, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) value, joint Range of Motion (ROM) values, and the wrist extension, pinch and grip muscle strength measurements at the final follow-up examination were recorded. Results: The mean follow-up period was 18 months (range, 12-26 months), and the time to return to pre-injury activity in 10 patients was determined to be mean 7.3 months (range, 6-9 months). No significant loss of ROM was observed in any patient. The postoperative DASH score was calculated as mean 8.3 (range, 0 -43.5). A decrease of 84% was determined in the VAS scores postoperatively. Wrist extension strength was evaluated as grade 5 in 10 patients and grade 4 in one. The mean pinch strength was +102% of the non-operated extremity, and the mean grip strength was +101% of the non-operated extremity. Conclusion: The suture anchor tendon repair combined with the bone drilling technique can be an effective method in the surgical treatment of recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis, providing an early return to pre-injury activity, pain reduction and maintaining muscle strength