Rate Of Postoperative Instability Research Articles

P258: Does The Latarjet Procedure For Anterior Shoulder Instability Put Off-Track Lesions Back On Track: A Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction The Latarjet procedure is commonly used in the treatment of shoulder instability for high risk patients. The glenoid track is widened by fixing the coracoid to the anterior glenoid. In the presence of bipolar bone loss there is concern that the Latarjet procedure may not adequately address off-track lessions.The aim of this systematic review to assess whether the Latarjet procedure is sufficient to convert 'off-track' Hill-Sachs lesions back to 'on-track'. Methods A systematic review of Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library was performed in October 2023. The primary outcome was the rate of post-operative 'on-track' lesions and of recurrent instability. Changes in glenoid diameter and Hill-Sachs lesion interval were also recorded. Results A total of 5 studies were included with 187 patients. Weighted mean age was 29.2 ± 2.2 years old and 90.8% of patients were male. The mean follow-up time was 26.8 months. All patients had off-track Hill-Sachs lesions pre-operatively. 88.6% of cases were converted to on-track lesions. The overall post-operative instability rate was 4.8%. The recurrence rate was significantly greater for off-track lesions (33.3%) than for on-track lesions (4.2%), odds ratio 11.4 (3.5-37.0). The weighted mean post-operative glenoid diameter change was 8.4 ± 5.8mm. The weighted mean Hill-Sachs lesion interval was 25.6 ± 4.5mm. Conclusion The Latarjet procedure results in the majority of Hill-Sachs lesions being converted to on-track lesions. However, due to bipolar bone loss approximately 1/9 cases will remain off track. In cases of failure to return on-track, there is an unacceptably high rate of recurrent instability (33.3%).

Comparative Analysis of Microendoscopic and Open Laminectomy for Single-Level Lumbar Spinal Stenosis at L1–L2 or L2–L3

BackgroundSeveral reports have highlighted comparable surgical outcomes between microendoscopic laminectomy (MEL) and open laminectomy (open) for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). However, the unilateral approach in MEL may present challenges for the upper lumbar levels, where facet joints are located deeper inside. Our objective was to compare surgical outcomes and radiographic evaluations for single-level decompression cases at L1-L2 or L2-L3 between MEL and open laminectomy. MethodsWe analyzed patients who underwent single-level decompression for upper LSS at 12 distinguished spine centers from April 2017 to September 2021. Baseline demographics, preoperative, and 1-year postoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs), along with imaging parameters, were compared between the MEL and open groups. To account for potential confounding, patients' backgrounds were adjusted using the inverse probability weighting method based on propensity scores. ResultsAmong the 2487 patients undergoing decompression surgery, 118 patients (4.7%) underwent single-level decompression at L1-L2 or L2-L3. Finally, 80 patients (51 in the MEL group, 29 in the open group) with postoperative data were deemed eligible for analysis. The MEL group exhibited significantly improved postoperative EQ-5D values compared to the open group. Additionally, the MEL group showed a lower facet preservation rate according to computed tomography examination, whereas the open group had a higher incidence of retrolisthesis. ConclusionAlthough overall surgical outcomes were similar, the MEL group demonstrated potential advantages in enhancing EQ-5D scores. The MEL group's lower facet preservation rate did not translate into a higher postoperative instability rate.

Recurrent or junctional lumbar foraminal herniated disc in patients operated with trans pars microscopic approach

This is a retrospective monocentric study. The aim of this study is to analyze the incidence of recurrent or junctional lumbar foraminal herniated disc, in patients treated with trans pars microsurgical approach. Foraminal lumbar disc herniation represents a challenging pathology for the spinal surgeon. The appropriate surgical approach still represents a matter of debate. Several open and minimally-invasive techniques have been developed, in order to allow a proper tissue exposure and preserving the vertebral stability. The trans pars approach has already been described as a possible alternative, allowing excellent exposure of the herniated fragment with minimum bone removal. While few studies have analyzed the very low rate of post-operative instability, no articles deal with the incidence of post-operative herniated disc recurrence or junctional disc herniation in patients treated with this technique. We enrolled 160 patients operated at our institution. A univariate and multivariate analysis of possible factors influencing outcome (age, sex, level and BMI) was performed. Outcome variables were recurrent or junctional herniated disc. At the end, 135 patients were analyzed. Of the 135 patients, six presented recurrent herniated disc (4.4%) and other three developed a junctional herniation (2.2%). The occurrence of junctional herniated disc or recurrent herniated disc was not influenced by the analyzed variables, both at univariate and at multivariate analyses. The trans pars approach presents a low rate of recurrence and junctional herniation. Age, sex, level, and BMI do not influence the recurrence rate, both at same level and at junctional level.

Outcomes and Return to Sport and Work After Open Bankart Repair for Recurrent Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review.

Background:Open Bankart repair provides surgeons and patients with an alternative solution for managing recurrent instability in young athletes with or without minimal bone loss. Despite many studies that have reported low recurrence rates and good functional outcomes after open Bankart repair, we have limited knowledge about the return to sport and work for high-demand populations.Purpose:To assess the return to sport and work for high-demand populations after open Bankart repair for recurrent anterior shoulder instability, outcomes of open Bankart repair with regard to recurrence, and development of osteoarthritic (OA) changes.Study Design:Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using keywords as well as Medical Subject Headings terms and Emtree using “(Open Bankart OR Bankart surgery) (NOT arthroscopy NOT revision)” for English-language studies. We conducted a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines.Results:In total, 11 articles (10 with level 4 and 1 with level 3 evidence) including 563 patients (566 shoulders) were identified. The majority of patients were male (82%), the average age at the time of surgery was 27.4 years, and the mean follow-up was 11.5 years (range, 2.5-29 years). The most common functional score used was the Rowe score (95%) for the reported outcome measures, which showed good to excellent results (mean, 88.5 points). The overall recurrent instability rate, including dislocation and subluxation as a postoperative complication, was 8.5%. A total of 87% of patients were able to return to sport and work postoperatively. Overall, OA changes were reported in 33% of the patients, and the overall revision rate was 1%.Conclusion:Open Bankart repair exhibited favorable results, with a low postoperative instability rate. It is a reliable surgical procedure that allows high-demand patients to return to sport and work.

Differences in Outcomes Between Anterior and Posterior Shoulder Instability After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background:The glenohumeral joint is one of the most frequently dislocated joints in the body, particularly in young, active adults.Purpose:To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate and compare outcomes between anterior versus posterior shoulder instability.Study Design:Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:A systematic review was performed using the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE databases (from inception to September 2019) according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies were included if they were published in the English language, contained outcomes after anterior or posterior shoulder instability, had at least 1 year of follow-up, and included arthroscopic soft tissue labral repair of either anterior or posterior instability. Outcomes including return-to-sport (RTS) rate, postoperative instability rate, and pre- and postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores were recorded and analyzed.Results:Overall, 39 studies were included (2077 patients; 1716 male patients and 361 female patients). Patients with anterior instability had a mean age of 23.45 ± 5.40 years (range, 11-72 years), while patients with posterior instability had a mean age of 23.08 ± 8.41 years (range, 13-61 years). The percentage of male patients with anterior instability was significantly higher than that of female patients (odds ratio [OR], 1.36; 95% CI, 1.04-1.77; P = .021). Compared with patients with posterior instability, those with anterior instability were significantly more likely to RTS (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.76-3.04; P < .001), and they were significantly more likely to have postoperative instability (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.07-2.23; P = .018). Patients with anterior instability also had significantly higher ASES scores than those with posterior instability (difference in means, 6.74; 95% CI, 4.71-8.77; P < .001). There were no significant differences found in postoperative complications between the anterior group (11 complications; 1.8%) and the posterior group (3 complications; 1.6%) (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.29-6.30; P = .999).Conclusion:Patients with anterior shoulder instability had higher RTS rates but were more likely to have postoperative instability compared with posterior instability patients. Overall, male patients were significantly more likely to have anterior shoulder instability, while female patients were significantly more likely to have posterior shoulder instability.

Predisposing factors for chronic syndesmotic instability following syndesmotic fixation in ankle fracture: Minimum 5-year follow-up outcomes

BackgroundThis study aimed to identify risk factors for chronic syndesmotic instability following syndesmotic fixation. MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of consecutive patients who had sustained ankle fractures requiring syndesmotic fixation. Patients available for a minimum 5 years of follow-up were classified into 2 groups according to the presence of syndesmotic instability. Statistical binary logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the significance of various risk factors. Functional outcomes were assessed using the FAOS. ResultsIn total, 166 patients who met the study inclusion criteria underwent analysis. The overall postoperative instability rate was 20.5%, which was significantly affected due to BMI (p = 0.018; OR 6.72), and concomitant posterior malleolar fracture (p = 0.032, OR 2.77). The mean scores in the syndesmotic instability (SI) group were significantly lower than those in the no syndesmotic instability (NSI) group (p = 0.021). ConclusionsObesity and concomitant posterior malleolar fracture were significant risk factors for postoperative syndesmotic instability.

Can Dislocation Rates Be Decreased Using the Anterior Approach in Patients With Lumbar Spondylosis or Lumbar Instrumented Fusion?

BackgroundAlthough spinopelvic stiffness is known to contribute to instability following total hip arthroplasty (THA), it is unknown whether use of an anterior surgical approach is associated with decreased postoperative instability rates in patients with lumbar spondylosis or fusion. MethodsA retrospective review was performed of 1750 patients who underwent primary THA at our institution over an 8-year time period. Radiographic and chart review was performed evaluating for dislocations. Lumbar and pelvic radiographs were used to identify the presence of spondylosis and/or instrumented fusion. Patients were then divided into non-spondylosis and spondylosis or fusion groups to compare dislocation rates by surgical approach. ResultsIn total, 54.4% of THA patients had an anterior approach (n = 952) and 54.6% had lumbar spondylosis or instrumented fusion (n = 956). There were 29 dislocations in total (1.7%), with less occurring in anterior approach patients (0.6% vs 2.9%, P < .001). In the patients without lumbar spondylosis, there were less dislocations in the anterior approach group (0.2% vs 1.7%, P = .048). Likewise, in patients with lumbar spondylosis or fusion, there were less dislocations in the anterior approach group (1.0% vs 3.8%, P = .004). Using logistic regression, there was a 4.1× increased risk of dislocation with a posterior approach vs an anterior approach in the spondylosis or fusion group (P = .011). ConclusionPatients with lumbar spondylosis or fusion have high rates of instability. At our institution, we found that utilization of an anterior surgical approach substantially mitigated this risk.

Instability After All-Cause Acetabular-Only Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty Remains a Clinical Problem

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to (1) evaluate the rate of instability and reoperation after acetabular component–only revision, (2) compare instability rates across various head sizes, and (3) determine patient factors correlating with postoperative instability. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed all isolated acetabular component revisions (n = 200) at our institution between 2007 and 2017. Patients with less than one-year follow-up were excluded. Patients were subdivided into 4 head size groups: (1) 32 mm or less, (2) 36 mm or more, (3) dual mobility, and (4) constrained liners. Factors including the body mass index, cup position, prior revision(s), and subsequent reoperation were compared across groups. Results189 patients (200 hips) met the inclusion criteria. The overall rate of instability was 12% (n = 24), and 37 (18.5%) cases underwent subsequent revision, including 11 cases for recurrent instability. There was no significant difference in postoperative dislocation or reoperation for instability across the various groups. The use of a constrained liner trended toward the highest rate of postoperative instability (36.4%, P = .090). History of preoperative instability was a significant risk factor for postoperative instability with or without history of prior revision (P = .011 and P = .001, respectively). ConclusionContemporary isolated acetabular revision is still associated with significant rates of instability. Surprisingly, the head size was not a predictive factor for postoperative dislocation or reoperation, but a prior history of instability was associated with postoperative instability. Patients revised to a constrained liner experienced highest rates of failure and remain an unsolved clinical problem.

Does graft choice influence the outcome of MPFL reconstruction in patients with patellofemoral instability and increased TT-TG distance?

A systematic review of the literature was conducted to determine the effect of graft choice on patient outcomes in patients undergoing a medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with concomitant tibial tubercle transfer (TTT). Utilizing the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and QUORUM (Quality of Reporting of Meta-Analyses) protocol, a systematic search identified and analyzed the published literature pertaining to MPFL reconstruction with TTT. The literature search yielded eight eligible studies with a total of 183 knees treated with a MPFL reconstruction with TTT procedure involving either a gracilis autograft, a semitendinosus autograft, or a medial retinaculum autograft. The eight studies varied on the outcome measures reported, but the outcome measures most consistently used and assessed in this systematic review included the complication rate, postoperative instability rate, Kujala score, Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee functional evaluation form, and the Tegner activity scale. Our study found that patients undergoing MPFL reconstruction with TTT resulted in good overall patient outcomes. No statistical difference was found between the graft choices on any of the outcome measures. While MPFL reconstruction with TTT resulted in low to moderate complication rates and low postoperative patellofemoral instability rates, one potential explanation for the postoperative instability and knee stiffness observed may derive from graft choice. Future research may consider addressing the effect of graft choice on improperly tensioned grafts and overmedialized TTTs.

Outcomes After Latarjet Procedure: Patients With First-Time Versus Recurrent Dislocations

Background: The preoperative number of dislocations has been previously proved to be a major factor influencing the results after Bankart repair with more preoperative dislocations correlated with higher recurrence rates and more reoperations. This could possibly be because of the lower quality of the tissue repaired during the procedure after multiple dislocations. On the other hand, the Latarjet procedure does not “repair” but rather reconstructs and augments the anterior glenoid. Purpose/Hypothesis: The main objective was to report the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing a Latarjet procedure after 1 dislocation versus multiple (≥2) dislocations. The hypothesis was that the preoperative number of dislocations would not influence clinical results. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients older than 18 years who had undergone a primary Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability with at least 2 years of follow-up were included. Three different techniques were used: a mini-open technique using 2 screws, an arthroscopic technique using 2 screws, and an arthroscopic technique using 2 cortical buttons. Patients were evaluated and answered a questionnaire to assess the number of episodes of dislocation before surgery, the time between the first dislocation and surgery, recurrence of the dislocation, revision surgery, the Walch-Duplay score, the Simple Shoulder Test score, and the visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain. Results: A total of 308 patients were included for analysis with a mean follow-up of 3.4 ± 0.8 years. Of that, 83 patients were included in the first-time dislocation group and 225 in the recurrent dislocation group. At last follow-up, the rates of recurrence and reoperation were not significantly different between groups: 4.8% in the first-time dislocation group versus 3.65% in the recurrent dislocation group and 6.1% versus 4.0%, respectively. The overall Walch-Duplay scores at last follow-up were also comparable between the 2 groups, 67.3 ± 24.85 and 71.8 ± 25.1, even though the first-time dislocation group showed a lower pain subscore (15.0 ± 8.6 vs 18.0 ± 7.5; P = .003). The VAS for pain was also significantly higher in the first-time dislocation group compared with the recurrent dislocation group (1.8 ± 2.3 vs 1.2 ± 1.7; P = .03). Conclusion: The number of episodes of dislocation before surgery does not affect postoperative instability rates and reoperation rates after the Latarjet procedure. However, patients with first-time dislocations had more postoperative pain compared with patients with recurrent dislocations before surgery.

Risk factors for instability after reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

This study aims to identify risk factors related to postoperative instability after reverse shoulder arthroplasty and evaluate the modalities and results of treatments in a large series of patients, with medium to long-term follow-up. Retrospective multicenter series of 1035 consecutive Grammont type reverse shoulder arthroplasties implanted between 1992 and 2010. 19.9% had a reverse shoulder arthroplasty with bony lateralization on the glenoid side. Patients were reviewed and radiographed with minimum five years' follow-up. At a mean follow-up of eight years, the overall rate of postoperative instability was 3.0%. Instability was more frequent in case of reverse shoulder arthroplasty for revision surgery, in younger patients, in case of scapular notching, and tuberosity resorption. Lateralized reverse shoulder arthroplasties were associated with a lower instability rate. A reoperation to restore stability was needed in 70% of cases. The improvement in Constant Score was lower in patients with unstable reverse shoulder arthroplasties when compared to stable reverse shoulder arthroplasties. Younger patients are at higher risk for instability after Grammont type reverse shoulder arthroplasty implantation. Conversely, lateralized reverse shoulder arthroplasties resulted protective. When conservative treatment had failed, shoulder stability can be obtained with reoperation or prosthetic revision (needed in 70% of the cases), but to the price of lower functional results.

Outcomes of the Latarjet procedure for the treatment of chronic anterior shoulder instability: patients with prior arthroscopic Bankart repair versus primary cases

ObjectivesThe two most common surgical interventions for recurrent anterior shoulder instability include arthroscopic Bankart repair and the Latarjet procedure. However, indications for each procedure remain debated between surgeons with 90% of surgeons (except French surgeons) preferring soft tissue Bankart repair initially. It remains unclear whether the results of a Latarjet procedure performed after a failed arthroscopic Bankart repair differ from those performed for primary cases. The purpose of our study was to compare the postoperative outcomes of patients who had undergone a Latarjet as a primary surgery versus those who had had a Latarjet as revision surgery for a failed arthroscopic Bankart repairMethodsPatients who had undergone open or arthroscopic Latarjet procedure between 2003 and 2015 in 5 fellowship-trained surgical practices were included. Charts were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients who had undergone a primary Latarjet or those who had had a Bankart repair prior to the Latarjet. Age, ISIS score, BMI, sports activity, hyperlaxity and delay before surgery were retrospectively collected. Outcome measures were prospectively collected, including range of motion, SSV, Walch-Duplay, scores, recurrence of instability, apprehension or new surgery.ResultsA total of 311 patients were included. 28% of the patients were lost to follow-up and the mean follow-up was 3.4 years +/-0.8. There were 21 patients who had had a Bankart repair prior to the Latarjet procedure. Both populations were comparable regarding preoperative data. The postoperative instability rate was 3% in the overall population; 4.8% in the “primary Latarjet” group and 2.3% in the ”Latarjet for failed Bankart” group. This difference was not significant (p=0.50). However, the mean Walch-Duplay score was significantly lower and the pain scores significantly higher in patients who had had a prior Bankart repair: 51.9 +/- 25 versus 72.1 +/- 25.2 and 2.5/10 versus 1.2/10 respectively. The Simple Shoulder Test was comparable in both groups.ConclusionThe study confirms that the Latarjet is an effective procedure to treat primary chronic anterior instability and also to stabilize a shoulder after a failed Bankart repair. However, the thought that a Bankart repair does not “burn any bridges” appears to be incorrect relative to postoperative pain and functional scores in the setting of future Latarjet procedure.

Anteromedializing Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy for Patellofemoral Instability: Occupational and Functional Outcomes in U.S. Military Service Members.

This article sought to determine rates for return to work, pain relief, and recurrent patellofemoral instability for military service members undergoing tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) for persistent lateral patellar subluxation or dislocation. Patient demographic and surgical variables were isolated from the medical records of active duty service members with at least 2 years of postoperative follow-up, and correlated with return to work, pain improvement, recurrent patellofemoral instability, and perioperative complications. There were 51 service members (58 primary TTOs) with an average follow-up of 3.3 (range, 2.0-6.7) years. Service members had an average of 2.8 (1-12) instability events preoperatively. At a minimum of 2 years postoperatively, 41 (80%) military service members returned to full active duty service. Among the 58 TTOs, there was a 46% improvement in the patient-reported visual analog score from 4.1 to 2.2 (p < 0001). The postoperative recurrent instability rates were patellar dislocation (5.1%) and patellar subluxation (15.5%). Concomitant proximal realignment was performed in 48% of cases, which did not affect return to service, postoperative patellar instability events, or pain improvement (p > 0.05). The overall complication rate was 10%. Postoperative tibial fractures occurred in 6.9% of TTOs. At short- to mid-term follow-up, 80% of service members undergoing TTO for patellofemoral instability returned to military duty with significant improvement in pain scores and a moderate perioperative complication and postoperative instability rate. This study is a level IV therapeutic case series.

Outcomes After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: Patients With First-Time Versus Recurrent Dislocations

Background: The young athletic population makes up the largest portion of shoulder instability and, when treated nonoperatively, has a recurrent dislocation rate as high as 71%. It is unknown how the outcomes of those who have a recurrent dislocation are affected versus those who have a stabilization procedure after a first-time dislocation. Purpose: To report the postoperative outcomes of patients with first-time dislocations versus patients with recurrent dislocations before surgery. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to identify patients who had arthroscopic Bankart repair between 2003 and 2013. A total of 173 eligible patients were identified across 8 fellowship-trained surgical practices. The first phase of the study was a retrospective chart review. Patients were identified as having a first-time dislocation or as having recurrent dislocations when they had >1 dislocation before surgical intervention. The second phase consisted of a survey to record a Simple Shoulder Test score and return to sport and to report postoperative instability and whether patients had further surgery on the shoulder. Results: A total of 121 patients participated, providing 70% follow-up at an average of 51 months. There were 53 patients in the recurrent dislocation group and 68 in the first-time dislocation group. The postoperative instability rate was 29% in the first-time dislocation group and 62% in the recurrent dislocation group; this difference was significant (P < .001). The odds of postoperative instability were 4 times higher in the recurrent dislocation group (odds ratio = 4.14). The first-time dislocation group reported a 7% rate of repeat operation to address instability, whereas the recurrent dislocation group reported a rate of 32%; this difference was significant (P < .001). The odds of needing additional surgery on the index shoulder was 6 times higher in the recurrent dislocation group (odds ratio = 6.01). Conclusion: Patients with first-time dislocations had lower postoperative instability rates and reoperation rates when compared with patients with recurrent dislocations before surgery. Young patients with shoulder instability should be offered early surgical intervention to lower the risk of postoperative instability and reoperation.

Outcomes after Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

Objectives:The shoulder is the most common joint dislocation effecting roughly 2% of the general population. Males are effected to a higher degree that females at a ratio of 3:1.1-2 The young, athletic population make up the largest portion of shoulder instability, and treated nonoperatively have a recurrent dislocation rate approaching 50%.3-5 Owens et. al recently published a cohort looking at 45 college athletes with an in season shoulder instability event. 73% of athletes returned to play in season. Only 36% of athletes completed the season without re-injury and 64% of athletes had a recurrent instability event.6 It is unknown how the outcomes of those who go on to have a recurrent dislocation in season are effected versus those who have a stabilization procedure after a first time dislocation. The objective of the current study is to report the postoperative outcomes of first time dislocators versus patients with recurrent dislocations prior to surgery.Methods:CPT codes were used to identify patients who had arthroscopic Bankart repair between 2003-2013. 439 patients aged 16-30 years were identified across 8 fellowship trained surgical practices. The first phase of the study was a retrospective chart review to obtain patient demographics, number of reported preoperative dislocations, review imaging, and number of anchors placed. Patients were identified as first time dislocators or as recurrent dislocators when they had more than one dislocation prior to surgical intervention. The second phase consisted of a survey to obtain a simple shoulder test score, whether they returned to sport, postoperative instability events and further surgery on the shoulder. Postoperative instability was defined as a subluxation or dislocation reported by the patient survey in the postoperative period. Of the 439 patients identified, 296 were excluded for revision surgery, open repair, posterior instability, multidirectional instability, HAGL lesion, labral tears involving the biceps anchor and refusal to participate. This left 144 patients eligible for the study.Results:121 patients participated for a follow up rate of 85% at an average of 51 months post surgery. There were 53 patients in the recurrent dislocation group and 68 in the first time dislocation group. The average age in both groups was 19yrs. The postoperative instability rate in the first time dislocator group was 9%. The postoperative instability rate in the recurrent dislocator group was 47%. This was statistically significant with p<0.0001. The first time dislocator group reported a 7% rate of repeat operation to address instability. The recurrent dislocator group reported a 32% rate of repeat operation to address instability. This was statistically significant with a p=0.0007. The Simple Shoulder Test (SST) score in the first time dislocator group was 11.4. The SST score in the recurrent dislocator group was 11. The difference was significant with p=0.037.Conclusion:First time dislocators had lower postoperative instability rates and reoperation rates when compared to patients with recurrent dislocations prior to surgical intervention. The SST scores were significantly different between groups. Young, athletic patients with shoulder instability should be offered early surgical intervention to lower the risk of postoperative instability and reoperation.

The outcome of decompression alone for lumbar spinal stenosis with degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Lumbar spinal stenosis in the presence of degenerative spondylolisthesis is generally treated by means of surgery. The role of lumbar decompression without fusion is not clear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess whether patients who undergo decompression alone have a favourable outcome without the need for a subsequent fusion. This is a prospective cohort study with single blinding of 83 consecutive patients with lumbar stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis treated by decompression, without fusion, using a spinous process osteotomy. Blinded observers collected pre- and post-operative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), EuroQol Five Dimensions (EQ-5D), and visual analogue scale (VAS) for back and leg pain scores prospectively. Failures for this study were those patients who required a subsequent lumbar fusion procedure at the decompressed levels. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t test and Mann-Whitney test. There were 36 males and 47 females with a mean age of 66years (range 35-82). The mean follow-up was 36months (range 19-48months). The mean pre-operative ODI, EQ-5D, and VAS scores were 52 [standard deviation (SD) 18], 0.25 (SD 0.30), and 61 (SD 22), respectively. All mean scores improved post-operatively to 38 (SD 23), 0.54 (SD 0.34) and 36 (SD 27), respectively. There was a statistically significant improvement in all scores (p≤0.0001). Nine patients (11%) required a subsequent fusion procedure and five patients (6%) required revision decompression surgery alone. Our study's results show that a lumbar decompression procedure without arthrodesis in a consecutive cohort of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with degenerative spondylolisthesis had a significant post-operative improvement in ODI, EQ-5D, and VAS. The rate of post-operative instability and subsequent fusion is not high. Only one in 10 patients in this group ended up needing a subsequent fusion at a mean follow-up of 36months, indicating that fusion is not always necessary in these patients.

Cervical Laminoplasty: The History and the Future.

Cervical laminoplasty was developed as an alternative to cervical laminectomy for treatment of cervical myelopathy, in which hinges are created to lift the lamina. Various techniques of laminoplasty have since been developed after two prototype techniques: Hirabayashi’s open-door laminoplasty and Kurokawa’s spinous process splitting (double-door) laminoplasty. Several in vitro studies report superior biomechanical stability of the cervical spine after laminoplasty compared with laminectomy. In clinical situation, randomized control studies are scarce and superiority of one procedure over another is not uniformly shown. Lack of hard evidence supporting the purported advantages of laminoplasty over laminectomy, that is, reduced rate of postoperative instability and kyphosis development, while preserving range of motion (ROM), has been a weak selling point. Currently, laminoplasty is performed by majority of spine surgeons in Japan, but is rarely performed in the United States and Europe. Recent development in laminoplasty is preservation of muscle attachment, which enabled dynamic stabilization of the cervical spine by neck extensor muscles. After treatment with new laminoplasty techniques with active postoperative neck ROM exercises, postoperative instability, kyphosis, axial neck pain, and loss of ROM seems minimal. Well-designed clinical trials to show the effectiveness and long-term outcome of this surgical procedure are warranted.

Modified hemiarthroplasty for four‐part fractures of the proximal humerus

Hemiarthroplasty is used to treat patients with Neer four-part fractures but the post-operative complication rate remains high, particularly with regard to shoulder joint instability. This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a modified rotator cuff reconstruction and balance technique by comparing it with conventional rotator cuff restoration surgery for Neer four-part fractures. This retrospective therapeutic study included 67 patients with Neer four-part fractures. Forty-five patients underwent the modified surgery and 22 control patients underwent conventional surgery. All patients were followed up for more than 3 years. Outcome was assessed by grading clinical outcome and pain and strength, measuring range of motion, and radiographic analysis. The Neer score was higher in the modified surgery group (84 versus 75; P = 0.009). The rate of satisfaction (Neer score ≥80) in the modified surgery group was higher than in the conventional surgery group (71.11% versus 40.91%; P = 0.017). Range of motion for active abduction, external rotation, internal rotation and active forward elevation was greater in the modified surgery group (all P < 0.01). The morbidity rate of post-operative instability of the shoulder joint in the modified surgery group was much lower than that in the conventional surgery group (2.22% versus 18.2%; P < 0.01). The modified hemiarthroplasty procedure for treatment of Neer four-part fractures prevents post-operative instability of the shoulder joint and improves function of the shoulder more effectively than the conventional hemiarthroplasty procedure.

Surgical Technique: The Anterosuperior Approach for Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

The anterosuperior approach used for reverse shoulder arthroplasty is an intermediate between the transacromial approach originally proposed by Paul Grammont and the anterosuperior approach described by D. B. Mackenzie for shoulder arthroplasty. As an alternative to the deltopectoral approach, the anterosuperior approach has the advantages of simplicity and postoperative stability. The anterior deltoid is divided from the anterior edge of the acromioclavicular arch, allowing exposure to the glenoid for glenosphere implantation. We used the findings of published studies to assess instability, function and pain scores, scapular notching, and complications after this approach. In a comparison of the deltopectoral and anterosuperior approaches in 527 reverse arthroplasties with a minimum 2-year followup, postoperative instability rate was greater with the deltopectoral (5.1%) than with the anterosuperior (0.8%) approach. Other published studies confirm this finding. No differences in Constant-Murley score or active mobility were found. Scapular notching occurred at similar rates after the anterosuperior (74%) and deltopectoral (63%) approaches. Humeral diaphyseal fracture rates were similar, whereas the acromial fracture rate was higher using the deltopectoral approach. Loosening tended to occur more often with the anterosuperior approach. The anterosuperior approach can be used in primary and revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty, as well as in acute humeral head fracture. Its main apparent advantages are simplicity, ease of axial humerus preparation, quality of frontal exposure of the glenoid, and due to subscapularis tendon preservation, a low risk of postoperative instability. Its drawbacks are risk of inaccurate glenoid positioning, axillary nerve palsy, and deltoid weakening.

Clinical outcomes of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis treated with lumbar decompression and the Cosmic “semi-rigid” posterior system

Background Although some investigators believe that the rate of postoperative instability is low after lumbar spinal stenosis surgery, the majority believe that postoperative instability usually develops. Decompression alone and decompression with fusion have been widely used for years in the surgical treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. Nevertheless, in recent years several biomechanical studies have shown that posterior dynamic transpedicular stabilization provides stabilization that is like the rigid stabilization systems of the spine. Recently, posterior transpedicular dynamic stabilization has been more commonly used as an alternative treatment option (rather than rigid stabilization with fusion) for the treatment of degenerative spines with chronic instability and for the prevention of possible instability after decompression in lumbar spinal stenosis surgery. Methods A total of 30 patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (19 women and 11 men) were included in the study group. The mean age was 67.3 years (range, 40–85 years). Along with lumbar decompression, a posterior dynamic transpedicular stabilization (dynamic transpedicular screw–rigid rod system) without fusion was performed in all patients. Clinical and radiologic results for patients were evaluated during follow-up visits at 3, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Results The mean follow-up period was 42.93 months (range, 24–66 months). A clinical evaluation of patients showed that, compared with preoperative assessments, statistically significant improvements were observed in the Oswestry and visual analog scale scores in the last follow-up control. Compared with preoperative values, there were no statistically significant differences in radiologic evaluations, such as segmental lordosis angle (α) scores ( P = .125) and intervertebral distance scores ( P = .249). There were statistically significant differences between follow-up lumbar lordosis scores ( P = .048). There were minor complications, including a subcutaneous wound infection in 2 cases, a dural tear in 2 cases, cerebrospinal fluid fistulas in 1 case, a urinary tract infection in 1 case, and urinary retention in 1 case. We observed L5 screw loosening in 1 of the 3-level decompression cases. No screw breakage was observed and no revision surgery was performed in any of these cases. Conclusions Posterior dynamic stabilization without fusion applied to lumbar decompression leads to better clinical and radiologic results in degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. To avoid postoperative instability, especially in elderly patients who undergo degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis surgery with chronic instability, the application of decompression with posterior dynamic transpedicular stabilization is likely an important alternative surgical option to fusion, because it does not have fusion-related side effects, is easier to perform than fusion, requires a shorter operation time, and has low morbidity and complication rates.