Postoperative Visual Analog Scale Pain Score Research Articles

Efficacy of preemptive multimodal analgesia initiated at various time points before total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, double-blind randomized controlled trial.

Preemptive multimodal analgesia (PMA) is commonly employed for pain control after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the optimal timing for initiating PMA remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of PMA administered at different time points before TKA. In this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial, 120 patients who underwent TKA were randomized into three groups. PMA (200mg celecoxib and 150mg pregabalin administered every 12h) was initiated 48h (group A), 24h (group B), and 1h (group C) before surgery. The primary outcome was the postoperative administration of morphine hydrochloride as a rescue analgesic. Secondary outcomes included time to first rescue analgesia, postoperative pain assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), functional recovery assessed by knee motion range and ambulation distance, time until hospital discharge, and complication rates. Compared with group C, groups A and B exhibited significantly lower morphine consumption within 24h after surgery, lower total morphine consumption, longer time to first rescue analgesia, and superior range of knee motion on the day of surgery. Groups A and B did not exhibit significant differences in these outcomes. The three groups did not differ significantly in postoperative VAS pain scores, ambulation distance, length of hospital stay, or complication rates. In comparison with PMA starting at 1h preoperatively, initiating PMA at 24 and 48h preoperatively provided better postoperative pain relief. Considering the aim of minimizing the amount of ineffective medication received by patients, initiating PMA at 24h preoperatively may be a more favorable option for patients undergoing TKA. However, the clinical significance of our results and the optimal starting time for PMA require further investigation.

Effect of Patient Resilience on Functional Outcomes After Meniscectomy

Background: Recent literature has identified that patient resilience may affect outcomes after meniscectomy. Research into psychological risk factors for poor surgical outcomes has been a focus in orthopaedic surgery. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between preoperative patient resilience and 2-year postoperative outcomes after arthroscopic meniscectomy. It was hypothesized that there would be no relationship between resilience and patient-reported outcomes after meniscectomy. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Patients who underwent meniscectomy between January and June 2020 at a single multicenter institution were identified, and those aged ≥18 years without evidence of significant osteoarthritis who completed the brief resilience scale (BRS) preoperatively were considered for inclusion. Included patients completed the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS-JR), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. Based on BRS scores, patients were stratified into low resilience (LR), normal resilience (NR), and high resilience (HR) groups, and differences and changes in outcomes were compared among the groups using the analysis of variance or the Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous data and the chi-square test for categorical data. Results: Overall, 100 patients were included (LR group, n = 17; NR group, n = 65; HR group, n = 18). Patients with higher preoperative resilience had higher preoperative IKDC ( P = .004) and KOOS-JR ( P = .003) scores. However, resilience was not a fixed construct: The median BRS increased in the LR group and decreased in the HR group from pre- to postoperatively (+0.17 and –0.58, respectively; P = .001). At the 2-year follow-up, there was no difference in patient-reported outcome scores across resilience groups, nor was there a difference in the change in IKDC or KOOS-JR scores. Although a positive correlation was observed between preoperative resilience and preoperative IKDC ( rS = 0.331) and KOOS-JR ( rS = 0.334) scores, preoperative resilience did not correlate with postoperative or 2-year improvements in IKDC or KOOS-JR scores. A weak positive correlation was observed between postoperative resilience and postoperative IKDC ( rS = 0.229) and SANE ( rS = 0.202) scores, and a weak negative correlation was observed between postoperative resilience and VAS pain scores ( rS = ∓0.256). Conclusion: Our study indicated that preoperative patient resilience was not predictive of functional outcome scores at a 2-year follow-up after arthroscopic meniscectomy.

Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Versus Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Spinal Pathology: Clinical Outcome Comparison in Patients With Predominant Back Pain.

Retrospective review. To compare perioperative and postoperative clinical outcomes between minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) in patients presenting with predominant back pain. Two popular techniques utilized for lumbar arthrodesis are MIS-TLIF and LLIF. Both techniques have reported high fusion rates and suitable postoperative clinical outcomes. Scarce literature exists, however, comparing these 2 common fusion techniques in a subset population of patients presenting with predominant back pain preoperatively. A retrospective review of lumbar procedures performed between November 2005 and December 2021 was conducted using a prospectively maintained single-surgeon database. Inclusion criteria were set as primary, elective, single, or multilevel MIS-TLIF or LLIF procedures for degenerative spinal pathology in patients with predominant preoperative back pain [visual analog scale (VAS) back pain preoperative score > VAS leg preoperative score]. Patients undergoing a revision procedure, single-level procedure at L5-S1, or surgery indicated for infectious, malignant, or traumatic etiologies were excluded. In addition, patients with VAS leg preoperative scores ≥ to VAS back preoperative scores were excluded. Patient demographics, perioperative characteristics, postoperative complications, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected. PROMs included VAS for back and leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Short Form-12 (SF-12) Item Survey Mental (MCS) and Physical (PCS) Composite Scores with all values collected at the preoperative, 6-week, 12-week, 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up time point. Patients were grouped into 2 cohorts, depending on whether a patient underwent a MIS-TLIF or LLIF. Demographic and perioperative characteristics were compared between groups using χ 2 and Student t test for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Mean PROM scores were compared between cohorts at each time point utilizing an unpaired Student t test. Postoperative improvement from preoperative baseline within each cohort was assessed with paired samples t test. Achievement of minimum clinical important difference (MCID) was determined by comparing ΔPROM scores to previously established threshold values. MCID achievement rates were compared between groups with χ 2 analysis. Statistical significance was noted as a P value <0.05. Eligible study cohort included 153 patients, split into 106 patients in the MIS-TLIF cohort and 47 patients in the LLIF cohort. The mean age was 55.9 years, the majority (57.5%) of patients were males, the mean body mass index was 30.8kg/m 2 , and the majority of the included cohort were nondiabetic and nonhypertensive. No significant demographic differences were noted between cohorts. The MIS-TLIF cohort had a significantly greater proportion of patients with preoperative spinal pathology of recurrent herniated nucleus pulposus, whereas a significantly greater proportion of patients in the LLIF cohort demonstrated isthmic spondylolisthesis ( P < 0.046, all). No significant differences were noted between cohorts for operative duration, estimated blood loss, 1-year rate of arthrodesis, postoperative length of stay, postoperative VAS pain scores on postoperative day 0 or 1, and postoperative narcotic consumption on postoperative day 0 or 1. Patients in the LLIF cohort showed greater rates of postoperative ileus (4.3% vs 0.0%). No other significant differences were noted between cohorts for postoperative complications. Between cohorts, preoperative PROM scores did not significantly differ. The following significant postoperative mean PROM scores were demonstrated: VAS back at 12 weeks and ODI at 12 weeks with both mean scores favoring the LLIF cohort. The MIS-TLIF cohort reported significant improvement from preoperative baseline to the 2-year time point for all PROMs collected at all individual postoperative time points except SF-12 MCS at 6 weeks ( P < 0.0, all). LLIF cohort reported significant improvement from preoperative baseline to the 1-year time point for all PROMs collected at all individual postoperative time points except for ODI at 6 weeks, 1 year, and 2 years, SF-12 MCS at 6 weeks and 2 years, and SF-12 PCS at 2 years( P < 0.042, all). The majority of patients in both cohorts achieved overall MCID for VAS back, VAS leg, ODI, and SF-12 PCS. A significantly greater proportion of patients in the LLIF cohort achieved MCID for SF-12 PCS at 12 weeks (94.4% vs 61.1%; P < 0.008). Patients with predominant back pain undergoing MIS-TLIF or LLIF for degenerative spinal pathology demonstrated similar 2-year mean clinical outcomes for physical function, disability, leg pain, and back pain. At the 12-week time point, mean outcome scores for back pain and disability favored the lateral approach with concurrent higher rates of MCID achievement for physical function at that time point.

Single-Incision Direct Lateral Approach Versus Dual-Incision Approach for Distal Tibial and Fibular Fractures.

Distal tibial and fibular fractures are typically the result of high-energy trauma. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) are often used to reconstruct and reduce displaced fractures, especially intra-articular ones. These fractures can be addressed either by a dual-incision approach (medial approach for the distal tibia and lateral approach for the fibula) or by a single-incision direct lateral approach to fix both the tibia and fibula. The direct lateral approach avoids injury to the medial soft tissues. This study was conducted to compare the postoperative clinico-radiological and functional outcomes of the single-incision direct lateral approach and the dual-incision approach for distal tibial and fibular fractures. A prospective comparative cohort study of 40 patients was conducted. The patients were classified into two cohorts of 20 each based on the surgical approach: those who underwent a single-incision direct lateral approach and those who underwent a dual-incision approach for distal tibial and fibular fractures (procedure: ORIF with plating). The study was conducted from September 2022 to March 2024. A follow-up period of at least 12 months was carried out, comparing operative time, discharge time, and postoperative outcomes using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, ankle range of motion (ROM), Southampton wound score for wound healing, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and periodic radiographs at each follow-up. Complications were also studied. The mean operative time was 95.06 ± 7.04 minutes for thesingle-incision approach and 109.89 ± 7.88 minutes for the dual-incision approach. The average blood loss was 202.41 ± 32.76 mL for thesingle-incision approach and 248.39 ± 28.18 mL for the dual-incision approach. The hospital stay was shorter in the direct lateral approach group, and the AOFAS score at 12 months was better in the direct lateral approach group (91.47 ± 2.55 for thesingle-incision approach vs. 83.33 ± 8.71 for the dual-incision approach). Postoperative wound healing was observed, and the Southampton wound score was compared. Overall, soft tissue complications were fewer in the direct lateral approach group. The postoperative VAS pain score was consistently lower in the single-incision direct lateral approach group, which also demonstrated better ankle ROM. The p-value was significant (<0.05) for these parameters. At the six-month follow-up, all patients exhibited clinical and radiographic healing and bone union, except for one case in the dual-incision group. A medial compound wound, treated by plastic surgery with flap cover intervention, was identified as one of the definitive indications for single-incision plating. The single-incision approach was associated with better soft tissue healing, fewer wound complications, and superior ankle functional outcomes compared to the dual-incision approach.

Analysis of Patients Who Undergo Index Arthroscopy With Biopsy but Not Implantation for Staged Chondrocyte Cell Transplantation.

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) are 2-stage procedures requiring an index full-thickness cartilage biopsy. Only a portion of patients ultimately undergo second-stage ACI/MACI. To identify patients with articular cartilage defects who underwent arthroscopic debridement with biopsy for ACI/MACI and compare those who did with those who did not proceed with implantation within 2 years after biopsy. Additionally, the authors sought to identify why patients did not proceed with implantation. Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Patients who underwent arthroscopy and autologous chondrocyte biopsy from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2019, and who had minimum 2-year follow-up data were grouped into those who proceeded with second-stage ACI/MACI (implant group; n = 97) and those who did not (biopsy group; n = 63). Demographic factors, cartilage defect characteristics, and preoperative International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were analyzed. Patients in both groups were evaluated postoperatively using the IKDC, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and patients who did not undergo implantation were asked for their reasoning. Body mass index (BMI) (P < .001) and Outerbridge grades at index arthroscopy (P = .047) were significantly higher for the implant group than the biopsy group. Both groups had significantly improved IKDC scores from their initial presentation to final follow-up (implant group: 46.4 ± 16.2 preoperative vs 69.6 ± 20.6 postoperative [P < .001]; biopsy group: 47.2 ± 15.9 preoperative vs 70.7 ± 19.1 postoperative [P < .001]); however, the level of improvement did not differ significantly between groups. Postoperative WOMAC, SANE, and VAS pain scores were also similar between groups. In the biopsy group, 23 patients (37%) cited symptom resolution or activity level improvement after initial arthroscopy as the reason for not proceeding with implantation. Patients who proceeded to the second stage of chondrocyte implantation via either ACI or MACI had higher-grade articular defects and higher BMI compared with those who underwent biopsy with concomitant debridement chondroplasty alone. Postoperative outcomes were similar between the groups.

Comparison of Knotless Versus Knot-Tying Suture Anchors for Arthroscopic Repair of Hip Labral Tears.

Both knotless and knot-tying anchors are commonly employed in the arthroscopic repair of hip labral tears. To compare the midterm clinical results of arthroscopic hip labral repair using knot-tying versus knotless suture anchors. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Patients who underwent arthroscopic hip labral repair between January 2017 and January 2021 and who had at least 2 years of follow-up were included. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on the suture anchor type: a 2.9-mm knotless suture anchor (knotless group) or a 1.8-mm knot-tying suture anchor (knot-tying group). All patients underwent femoroplasty for cam lesions and acetabular rim trimming for pincer lesions. The modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Hip Outcome Score-Sport-Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS), Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), 12-item International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-12), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain were administered both preoperatively and postoperatively. The consistency of the outcome scores was assessed using the minimal clinically important difference and Patient Acceptable Symptom State. The statistical significance between groups was evaluated using the Mann-Whitney test and quantile-based analysis of variance. A total of 413 patients were included: 256 patients in the knotless group (median age, 35 years [interquartile range, 31-38 years]; median follow-up, 34 months) and 157 patients in the knot-tying group (median age, 34 years [interquartile range, 30-38 years]; median follow-up, 25 months). There were no significant differences in postoperative mHHS, HOS-ADL, or iHOT-12 scores between the 2 groups. However, there were significant differences, favoring the knotless group over the knot-tying group, in postoperative HOS-SSS (87 ± 2 vs 86 ± 1, respectively) and VAS pain (1 vs 2, respectively) scores (P < .0001 for both). Postoperative synovitis was found in significantly more patients in the knot-tying group than in the knotless group (17 vs 5, respectively; P = .01). In this study, patients who underwent arthroscopic hip labral repair with knotless suture anchors had slightly better postoperative HOS-SSS and VAS pain scores and a lower incidence of postoperative synovitis compared with patients who underwent repair with knot-tying suture anchors.

Humeral Component Version Has No Effect on Outcomes Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial.

Controversy exists regarding the ideal humeral component version to optimize humeral rotation and patient outcomes in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). Patients undergoing primary rTSA for rotator cuff tear arthropathy, a massive rotator cuff tear, or primary osteoarthritis with a rotator cuff tear were randomized to placement of the humeral component in neutral version or 30° of retroversion. Shoulder active range of motion and strength and visual analog scale (VAS) pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global 10 (PROMIS-10) scores were collected up to 2 years postoperatively. The goal of the study was to determine whether humeral external rotation and internal rotation are affected by humeral component version following rTSA at 2 years postoperatively. Sixty-six patients were included in the analysis. The median follow-up was 26 months for the neutral and 27 months for the 30° retroversion group. No differences between the groups were observed with respect to the primary diagnosis, sex, age, body mass index, or American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class. The 2 groups did not differ significantly in terms of improvement at 2 years in active shoulder abduction (p = 0.969), forward elevation (p = 1.000), internal rotation measured as the highest spinal level reached (p = 1.000), internal rotation with the arm abducted 90° (p = 0.451), external rotation (p = 0.362), or muscle strength in forward elevation (p = 1.000), abduction (p = 1.000), external rotation (p = 0.617), or internal rotation (p = 1.000). The 2 groups did not differ significantly in terms of improvement in postoperative ASES (p = 1.000), PROMIS-10 physical (p = 1.000), or VAS pain scores (p = 0.718) at the time of final follow-up. In the neutral version group, 1 patient underwent revision for instability and 1 for stiffness. One acromial stress fracture occurred in the 30° humeral retroversion group. Scapular notching was observed in 7 (21.2%) of the patients in neutral version group and 5 (15.2%) of the patients in the 30° retroversion group (p = 0.750). Securing the humeral component at neutral version or 30° of retroversion in rTSA resulted in similar active shoulder external rotation, internal rotation, forward elevation, abduction, and strength measurements, complication rates, and VAS pain, PROMIS-10 physical, and ASES scores at 2 years postoperatively. Therapeutic Level I . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Minimally Invasive Dorsal Cheilectomy and Hallux Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Arthroscopy for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus

Introduction/Purpose: Minimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy (MIDC) has become a popular alternative to an open approach for treating Hallux Rigidus, although the current literature is divided on its effectiveness regarding complications and patient reported outcomes. To combat a portion of the complications related to the MIDC approach, a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthroscopy can often be added to the procedure. The combined procedure has been demonstrated to be effective at improving patient reported outcomes without increasing the complication rate relative to an open procedure. This study looks to examine the effectiveness of the MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy procedure in patients with hallux rigidus with minimum 1 year follow up. Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective review was conducted for adult patients treated with MIDC and first MTP arthroscopy between 3/1/2020 and 8/1/2022, with at least one year of postoperative follow-up data. Patient charts were reviewed for demographic information, operative time, pre and postoperative first MTP range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS), Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), and EQ5DLD scores. Continuous data was expressed as a mean and standard deviation, categorical data was expressed as a percentage. Wilcoxon Rank Sum test was used to compare continuous variables. All P &lt; 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 31 patients were included in the study with an average follow-up time of 16.5 months (range: 12 to 26.2). There was 1 (3.2%) complication of an underservice EHL tendon tear, 2 (6.5%) patients were converted to a MTP fusion, and 1 (3.2%) patient underwent revision cheilectomy and capsular release for MTP joint contracture. There was a significant improvement in patient’s ROM in dorsiflexion (50 vs 89.6 degrees, P=0.002), but not in plantarflexion (11.3 vs 18.6 degrees, P=0.07). There was a significant improvement in patient’s postoperative VAS pain scores (6.4 vs 2.1, P&lt; 0.001), MOXFQ pain scores (58.1 vs 30.7, P=0.001), MOXFQ Walking/Standing scores (56.6 vs 20.6, P=0.001), MOXFQ Social Interaction scores (47.3 vs 19.36, P=0.002), and MOXFQ Index scores (54.7 vs 22.4, P&lt; 0.001). Conclusion: We found that MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy was effective at improving patient reported outcomes, specifically patient’s pain scores, at one year with low complication and revision rates. These results demonstrate MIDC and first MTP arthroscopy’s is an effective treatment for early-stage hallux rigidus and may be considered as an alternative to an open approach.

The Impact of Regular Diet Recovery on Postoperative Rehabilitation After Elective Cesarean Section

Abstract Objective To determine the role of regular diet recovery after restoration of normal muscle strength of both lower extremities in promoting postoperative recovery in women undergoing elective cesarean section. Methods This was a prospective observational cohort study. Patients who underwent elective cesarean section at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, from October 2022 to December 2022, were categorized into two groups based on the duration of postoperative fasting: the observation group resumed eating after regaining lower extremity muscle strength, while the control group adhered to traditional postoperative fasting guidelines, waiting 6 hours before eating. Primary outcomes included postoperative pain levels assessed by visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and time to first flatus. Demographic characteristics, time to first lactation, hospital stay length, and patient satisfaction were also assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted using Student’s t test and Chi-squared test, with significance set at P &lt; 0.05. Results Out of a total of 300 patients, 240 were included in the analysis, comprising 112 in the control group and 128 in the observation group. There were no significant differences in baseline demographic characteristics. The median values of the first flatus time and the first lactation time were 33.37 ± 1.22 vs. 18.06 ± 6.34 hours (P = 0.003) and 26.34 ± 8.21 vs. 7.05 ± 1.26 hours (P = 0.001) in the control and observation groups, respectively. The median hospital stay duration in the control and observation groups was 6.54 ± 0.53 vs. 4.84 ± 0.18 days (P = 0.000), respectively. Median postoperative VAS pain scores and patient satisfaction values were 8.57 ± 0.11 vs. 4.91 ± 0.27 (P = 0.000) and 9.36 ± 0.16 vs. 9.72 ± 0.08 (P = 0.005) in the control and observation groups, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in other postoperative outcomes, such as intestinal obstruction, infection, and readmission within 42 days (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion Food intake after restoration of lower extremity muscle strength improves first flatus, relieves postoperative pain, shortens hospital stay, and enhances satisfaction after elective cesarean section, without adverse effects. It is crucial for postoperative rehabilitation and should be encouraged.

Efficacy and Safety of Medical Thoracoscopic Bulla Volume Reduction in the Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Combined With Giant Emphysematous Bullae

To explore the efficacy and safety of medical thoracoscopic bulla volume reduction for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) combined with giant emphysematous bullae (GEB). A total of 66 patients with COPD combined with GEB were enrolled in the study. All the subjects received treatment at Zhengzhou Central Hospital affiliated with Zhengzhou University between March 2021 and December 2022. The subjects were divided into two groups, a medical thoracoscope group consisting of 30 cases treated with medical thoracoscopic bulla volume reduction and a surgical thoracoscope group consisting of 36 cases treated by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. All patients were followed up before discharge and 3 months and 6 months after discharge. The preoperative and postoperative levels of the pulmonary function, 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores and differences in postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. The operative duration, postoperative length-of-stay, and surgical costs and hospitalization bills, and the maximum visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores at 24 h after the procedure were assessed. The baseline data of the two groups were comparable, showing no statistically significant difference. The forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) 6 months after the procedures improved in both the medical thoracoscopy group ([0.78±0.29] L vs. [1.02±0.31] L, P<0.001) and the surgical thoracoscopy group ([0.80±0.21] L vs. [1.03±0.23] L, P<0.001) compared to that before the procedures. Improvements to a certain degree in 6MWT and SGRQ scores were also observed in the two groups at 3 months and 6 months after the procedures (P<0.05). In addition, no statistically significant difference in these indexes was observed during the follow-up period of the patients in the two groups. There was no significant difference in operating time between the two groups. The medical thoracoscopy group had shorter postoperative length-of-stay ([7.3±2.6] d) and 24-hour postoperative VAS pain scores (3.0 [2.0, 3.3]) than the surgical thoracoscopic group did ([10.4±4.3] d and 4.5 [3.0, 5.0], respectively), with the differences being statistically significant (P<0.05). Surgical cost and total hospitalization bills were lower in the medical thoracoscopy group than those in the surgical thoracoscopy group (P<0.05). The complication rate in the medical thoracoscopy group was lower than that in the surgical thoracoscopy group (46.7% vs. 52.8%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Medical thoracoscopic reduction of bulla volume can significantly improve the pulmonary function, quality of life, and exercise tolerance of patients with COPD combined with GEB, and it can reduce postoperative short-term pain and shorten postoperative length-of-stay. The procedure has the advantages of minimal invasiveness, quick recovery, and low costs. Hence extensive clinical application is warranted.

Minimally invasive Dorsal cheilectomy and Hallux metatarsophalangeal joint arthroscopy for the treatment of Hallux Rigidus

BackgroundMinimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy (MIDC) has become a popular alternative to an open approach for treating Hallux Rigidus (HR). To reduce some of the complications related to the MIDC approach, a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthroscopy can be performed in addition to address the intra-articular pathology associated with Hallux Rigidus. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy in patients with HR with a minimum 1-year follow-up. MethodsThis was a multicenter retrospective review for adult patients with Coughlin and Shurnass Grade 0–3 who were treated with MIDC and first MTP arthroscopy between 3/1/2020 and 8/1/2022, with at least one year of follow-up data. Demographic information, first MTP range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS), Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), and EQ-5D-5 L scores were collected. Continuous data was expressed as a mean and standard deviation, categorical data was expressed as a percentage. Wilcoxon Rank Sum test was used to compare continuous variables. All P < 0.05 was considered significant. ResultsA total of 31 patients were included in the study. Average follow-up time was 16.5 months (range: 12 to 26.2). There was 1 (3.2%) undersurface EHL tendon tear, 2 (6.5%) conversions to an MTP fusion, and 1 (3.2%) revision cheilectomy and capsular release for MTP joint contracture. There was a significant improvement in patient’s ROM in dorsiflexion (50 vs 89.6 degrees, P = 0.002), postoperative VAS pain scores (6.4 vs 2.1, P < 0.001), MOXFQ pain scores (58.1 vs 30.7, P = 0.001), MOXFQ Walking/Standing scores (56.6 vs 20.6, P = 0.001), MOXFQ Social Interaction scores (47.3 vs 19.36, P = 0.002), and MOXFQ Index scores (54.7 vs 22.4, P < 0.001). ConclusionWe found that MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy was effective at improving patient-reported outcomes at one year with low complication and revision rates. These results suggest that MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy is an effective treatment for early-stage HR. Level of EvidenceIV.

Contralateral translaminar endoscopic approach for highly down-migrated lumbar disc herniation using percutaneous biportal endoscopic surgery

ObjectiveUnilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE)is a minimally invasive spine surgery with reduced traumatization of the posterior lumbar ligament and muscular structures. This study reports contralateral translaminar approach with UBE for highly down-migrated lumbar disc herniation (LDH).MethodsData of 32 patients with highly down-migrated LDH treated using UBE at our center from January 2020 to July 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The operation time and perioperative complications were recorded, and the visual analog scale (VAS) of pain was recorded to evaluate the degree of lower back and extremity pain. The Oswestry disability index (ODI) was used to evaluate lumbar spine function. The modified MacNab score was used to evaluate clinical efficacy.ResultsAll patients successfully underwent the operation, with a time range from 47 to 65 min and an average operation time of 56.09 ± 5.11 min. Overall, 17 and 15 were males and females, respectively, with ages ranging from 34 to 72 years and an average age of 56 ± 7.89 years. The postoperative follow-up period was 12–18 months, with an average of 14.9 ± 2.3 months. The postoperative lower back VAS pain score and ODI were statistically significant compared with preoperatively (P < 0.05). At the final follow-up, according to the modified Macnab criteria, 90.6% of cases were classified as good or excellent.ConclusionUBE treatment of highly down-migrated LDH through the contralateral translaminar approach is safe and efficient. Therefore, this approach can be an efficient alternative for patients with highly downward-migrating LDH.

Enhanced analgesic efficacy and reduced stress response with ropivacaine transversus abdominis plane block in laparoscopic myomectomy.

Managing postoperative pain and stress response was critical in laparoscopic myomectomy, a procedure for uterine fibroids. Ropivacaine transversus abdominis plane block (RTAPB) may offer enhanced analgesic efficacy and reduced stress responses compared to traditional analgesia. This retrospective analysis examined 217 patients undergoing laparoscopic myomectomy at Hankou Hospital of Wuhan from June 2020 to September 2023. Patients were divided into routine analgesia (CA, n = 105) and RTAPB (n = 112) groups. Pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Stress hormone levels (cortisol, norepinephrine, Interleukin-6), preoperative and postoperative recovery, sleep quality, hemodynamic stability, complications, and patient satisfaction were evaluated post-surgery. The RTAPB group demonstrated significantly lower postoperative VAS pain scores at all measured intervals (P < 0.05). Stress hormones (postoperative cortisol, norepinephrine, and IL-6) were substantially lower in the RTAPB group compared to CA (P < 0.05), indicating reduced stress response. Intraoperative hemodynamic stability was improved with RTAPB, reflected in lower heart rate and mean arterial pressure (P < 0.05). Postoperative recovery and sleep quality were also better in the RTAPB group, as evidenced by higher QoR-40 and lower PSQI scores (P < 0.01). Although not statistically significant, RTAPB showed a trend toward fewer complications. Patient satisfaction, particularly with pain management, was significantly higher in the RTAPB group (P < 0.001). RTAPB significantly enhances analgesic efficacy and moderates the physiological stress response in laparoscopic myomectomy patients compared to routine analgesia.

Clinical efficacy of ultrasound doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation combined with procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids in treatment of severe hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are a prevalent anorectal condition that affects a wide range of adult populations. The severity of this condition was graded using a validated hemorrhoidal grading system, specifically focusing on grade III and IV cases. This retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of a standard Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids (PPH) with a combined Doppler-guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (DG-HAL) and a PPH approach in patients with severe hemorrhoids. Conducted from May 2021 to January 2023, the study included patients aged 18-65 with confirmed diagnosis of Grade III or Grade IV hemorrhoids. Patients with a history of anorectal surgery and significant comorbidities were excluded. The control group underwent standard PPH, whereas the observation group received DG-HAL followed by PPH. Clinical outcomes were measured using variables such as the operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative wound healing time, and length of hospital stay. Efficacy was evaluated using a hierarchical scale and a visual analog scale (VAS) for postoperative pain. The complication rates were also assessed. baseline characteristics were homogeneous between the 2 groups. The observation group demonstrated significantly faster postoperative wound healing and shorter hospital stay (P < .01). The overall therapeutic efficacy in the observation group was 90.0%, which was higher than that of the control group (75.0%; P = .025). The VAS pain scores were also significantly lower in the observation group (P = .002). A marked decrease in complication rates was observed in the observation group (3.3%) compared with that in the control group (17.9%) (P < .05). The combined DG-HAL and PPH surgical approach exhibited superior clinical efficacy in treating severe hemorrhoids. This technique offers high effectiveness, reduced postoperative VAS pain scores, and lower complication rates. The long-term efficacy requires further observation.

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Supramalleolar Osteotomy for the Old Age Patients with Medial Compartment Ankle Osteoarthritis

Category: Ankle Arthritis Introduction/Purpose: Supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) has recently been accepted as the major surgical option for treating painful asymmetric ankle arthritis. However, in many literatures, old age is regarded as relative contraindication for SMO. This study aimed to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis (OA) treated with SMO for the patients of relatively old age. Also, the study is aimed to compare the outcomes between old age group (≥ 65 years) and the group younger than 65 years. Methods: The study is based on consecutive 60 ankles of medial compartment ankle arthritis (60 patients) with moderate to severe medial ankle pain (at least 1-year follow-up). SMO and fibular valgization oblique osteotomy were performed. As for the functional evaluation, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle- hindfoot scores and ankle range of motion (ROM) were evaluated. On radiographs, tibial anterior surface angles (TAS), tibial lateral surface angles (TLS), and talar tilt angles (TT) were measured and the severity of ankle OA was classified by the Takakura stage. To evaluate how the age affects the outcomes of SMO procedures, the subjects were classified as two groups (Group 1: ≥ 65 years, 14 ankles, Group 2: &lt; 65 years, 46 ankles) and the comparison between the groups were made. Using second look arthroscopy, regeneration of articular cartilage was evaluated and compared between the groups. Results: The postoperative VAS pain score and ROM in group 1 were not inferior to those in group 2 (2.0 ± 2.0 vs 1.0 ± 1.4, p=0.949 / 50.7 ± 12.8 vs 52.0 ± 13.5, p=0.764). Also, the postoperative TLS angle and TT angle showed no significant difference between two groups. However, the postoperative AOFAS score was significantly higher in group 2 (79.0 ± 12.6 vs 88.0 ± 9.4, p&lt; 0.05). In terms of delayed union, there was no significant difference between two groups (3/14, 21.4% vs 9/46, 19.6%, p=0.818). As to complication rate, there was also no significant difference between two groups (1/14, 7.1% vs 6/46, 13.0%, p=0.899). There were no significant difference according to articular cartilage regeneration after SMO between two groups. Conclusion: SMO for the relatively older patients with painful medial compartment ankle OA achieved favorable clinical and radiological outcomes. In terms of osteotomy site union and complications, older age group (≥ 65 years) showed the results not inferior to those of younger age group ( &lt; 65 years). Even in the older age group, SMO could be one of the surgical options for the medial ankle OA.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Paracervical Blocks as A Perioperative Strategy in Reducing Postoperative Pain in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Introduction: Perioperative strategies to reduce postoperative pain are important for enhancing patient satisfaction. However, further research and trials has sparked ongoing debates of various strategies regarding efficacy and safety. Objective: This study aims to improve evidence-based strategies regarding the effect of paracervical anaesthetic blocks in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy. Materials and Method: A systematic literature search was conducted through PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect for RCTs in laparoscopic hysterectomy patients administered paracervical blocks and those given placebos. The quantitative analysis of pooled relative risk and mean difference with a 95% confidence interval were performed using the Review Manager 5.4 software in the random-effects model or fixed-effects model forest plot. Results: Based on four RCTs included in the analysis, there were significant differences in overall postoperative pain scores assessed by VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) [MD = -0.82, 95%CI (-1.47 to -1.06), p = 0.01]. The subgroup analysis also showed significant differences in VAS pain scores at 30 min and 1 hour post-operation [MD = -2.13, 95% CI (-3.09 to -1.16), p = 0.0001] and [MD = -2.55, 95% CI (-4.29 to -0.81), p = 0.004]. However, there were insignificant results in adequate pain control [RR = 7.90, 95%CI (0.39 to 158.67), p = 0.18], length of hospital stay [MD = 0.01, 95%CI (-0.52 to 0.54), p = 0.96], additional analgesics requirement at 24 hours [RR = 0.88, 95%CI (0.55 to 1.39), p=0.58], and perioperative complications [RR = 0.90, 95%CI (0.56 to 1.47), p = 0.68].Conclusion: This meta-analysis provides evidence that the administration of paracervical block in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy is associated with a reduction of postoperative VAS pain score but not associated with the length of hospital stay, adequate pain control, additional analgesics requirement at 24 hours, and perioperative complications.

Analgesic efficacy of bupivacaine with or without magnesium adjunct in bilateral ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve blocks following cesarean section under subarachnoid block: A randomized controlled trial.

Pain relief is a basic aspect of anesthesia care. Optimal post-cesarean section analgesia should minimize postoperative complications, facilitate infant care, and prevent postoperative morbidity. Bilateral ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric (IIIH) nerve block has been considered as a part of the multimodal approach. This study was designed to explore the efficacy of adding magnesium sulfate as an adjunct to bupivacaine to provide analgesia following cesarean delivery, using bilateral IIIH nerve block. Seventy-two parturients who were scheduled for elective cesarean section were randomized into two groups of 36 patients each. Group MB patients were given bilateral IIIH nerve block with 250 mg of magnesium sulfate and 95 mg of 0.25% plain bupivacaine. Group B patients were given bilateral IIIH nerve block with 0.9% normal saline and 95 mg of 0.25% plain bupivacaine. Postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores at post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 h, both at rest and with activity were measured. Rescue doses of opioid (intravenous [IV] tramadol 50 mg) at each time point of assessment, total tramadol consumption, time to patients' first request for rescue analgesic agent, and patients' satisfaction score were recorded. The demographic and social parameters of patients in both the groups were comparable. The mean postoperative VAS pain score in group MB was significantly lesser both at rest and with movement than in group B at 12 and 24 h after surgery (P < 0.05). Total postoperative tramadol consumed over 24 h was significantly lesser in the magnesium group than in the control group (125.55 ± 20.76 vs. 160.24 ± 25.82 mg), with a P value of 0.026. The time to patient's first analgesic request was significantly prolonged in group MB compared to group B (505.2 ± 41.4 vs. 372.6 ± 88.8 min, respectively), with a P value of 0.040. However, patients in both groups expressed good satisfaction scores. Magnesium sulfate as an adjunct to bupivacaine in bilateral IIIH nerve block reduced VAS pain scores, total tramadol consumption, and prolonged post-cesarean section analgesia.

Subpectoral, Suprapectoral, and Top-of-Groove Biceps Tenodesis Procedures Lead to Similar Good Clinical Outcomes: Comparison of Biceps Tenodesis Procedures

Subpectoral, Suprapectoral, and Top-of-Groove Biceps Tenodesis Procedures Lead to Similar Good Clinical Outcomes: Comparison of Biceps Tenodesis Procedures

Clinical Outcomes of Revision Arthroscopic Osteocapsular Arthroplasty in Primary Elbow Osteoarthritis: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty (OCA) achieves significant medium-term outcomes in patients with primary elbow osteoarthritis (OA); however, outcomes after revision arthroscopic OCA are not well known. Purpose: To assess clinical outcomes after revision arthroscopic OCA as compared with those after primary surgery in patients with OA. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients who underwent arthroscopic OCA attributed to primary elbow OA between January 2010 and July 2020 were enrolled. Range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were assessed. Operation time and complications were assessed by chart review. Clinical outcomes between the primary and revision surgery groups were compared, and subgroup analysis for radiologically severe OA was performed. Results: Data from 61 patients were analyzed (primary, n = 53; revision, n = 8). The mean ± SD age was 56.3 ± 8.5 and 54.3 ± 8.9 years in the primary and revision groups, respectively. The primary group had significantly better ROM arcs preoperatively (89.9°± 20.3° vs 71.3°± 22.3°; P = .021) and postoperatively (112.4°± 17.1° vs 96.9°± 16.5°; P = .019) than the revision group; however, the degree of improvement was comparable (P = .445). Postoperative VAS pain score (P = .164) and MEPS (P = .581) were comparable between the groups, as were the degrees of improvement in VAS pain score (P = .691) and MEPS (P = .604). The revision group required a significantly longer operative time than the primary group (P = .004) and had a nonsignificant higher complication rate (P = .065). Subgroup analysis showed that radiologically severe cases in the primary group had significantly better preoperative (P = .010) and postoperative (P = .030) ROM arcs than the revision group and a comparable postoperative VAS pain score (P = .155) and MEPS (P = .658). Conclusion: Revision arthroscopic OCA is a favorable treatment option for primary elbow OA with recurrent symptoms. Postoperative ROM arc was worse after revision surgery as compared with primary surgery; however, the degree of improvement was comparable. Postoperative VAS pain score and MEPS were comparable with primary surgery.

Patients With Low Resilience Scores Have Significantly Worse Postoperative Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Than Patients With Normal or High Resilience Scores

To evaluate the relationship between patient resilience and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) after primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Patients who underwent an ACL reconstruction by a single surgeon between January 2012 and June 2020 were identified by an institutional query using Current Procedural Terminology codes. Patients were included if they (1) underwent a primary ACL reconstruction and (2) had a minimum of 2 years' follow-up. Data were retrospectively collected regarding demographics, surgical details, visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and 12-item short form survey (SF-12) scores. Resilience scores were obtained via the Brief Resilience Scale questionnaire. Stratification into low (LR), normal (NR), and high resilience (HR) was based on standard deviation from mean Brief Resilience Scale score to determine differences in PROMS between groups. One-hundred eighty-seven patients were identified by the institutional query. Of the 187 patients, 180 met inclusion criteria. Seven patients underwent revision ACL reconstruction and were excluded from the study. One-hundred three patients (57.2%) completed the postoperative questionnaire and were included. Patients in the NR group and HR group had significantly greater postoperative SF-12 scores (P < .001) and lower postoperative VAS pain scores (P < .001) when compared with those of the LR group. This trend was again shown with breakdown of the SF-12 into physical and mental aspects, each of which were significantly greater in either the NR group or HR group when compared with the LR group (P < .001). Overall, 97.9% and 99.0% of patients had changes in their SF-12 total and VAS pain scores respectively that exceeded the minimal clinically important difference for the cohort. Patients with lower resilience scores have worse PROMs and increased pain than patients with greater resilience at a minimum of 2-year follow-up after ACL reconstruction. Level IV, prognostic case series.