Reduction In Visual Analog Scale Pain Scores Research Articles

Accelerating Fracture Healing in Delayed Uniting Fractures: A Clinical Study

Background: Delayed union fractures pose a significant clinical challenge, often requiring enhanced treatment modalities to accelerate healing and improve patient outcomes. Various techniques, including autologous bone grafting and biologic agents like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), have been employed to stimulate bone regeneration. However, the optimal approach remains debated. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of autologous bone grafting, biologic agents, and combined therapies in promoting fracture healing, reducing pain, improving functional outcomes, and enhancing patient satisfaction in delayed union fractures. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 80 patients with delayed union fractures. Patients were randomly assigned to one of four groups: standard care (control), autologous bone grafting, biologic agents (PRP and BMPs), or a combination of bone grafting and biologic agents. Radiographic healing was assessed at 6, 12, and 24 weeks. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), functional outcomes were assessed using the AAOS lower limb function scale, and patient satisfaction was evaluated using a Likert scale. Results: The combined therapy group exhibited significantly faster radiographic healing, with 80% of patients showing callus formation at 6 weeks and 95% achieving complete union at 24 weeks, compared to 35% in the control group. The combined group also reported the greatest reduction in VAS pain scores, with a mean decrease from 7.8 to 1.5 at 24 weeks (p<0.001). Functional outcomes were significantly improved in the combined group, with a mean AAOS score of 100 at 24 weeks, compared to 70 in the control group (p<0.001). Additionally, 90% of patients in the combined group reported high satisfaction, compared to 40% in the control group. Conclusion: The combination of autologous bone grafting and biologic agents, such as PRP and BMPs, significantly accelerates ..........

Intranasal Tapentadol Versus Intravenous Paracetamol for Postoperative Analgesia in Lower Limb Orthopaedic Surgeries Under Spinal Anaesthesia: A Single Blind RCT.

We aimed to compare the analgesic effectiveness of intranasal tapentadol nasal spray 44.5mg and intravenous (IV) paracetamol 1gm during the postoperative period in patients undergoing lower limb orthopedic surgeries under spinal anesthesia. This prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical trial was carried out in a tertiary care teaching hospital. Patients aged between 18 and 60 years of physical status ASA grade 1-3 were included in the study. Postoperative pain scores were measured using the visual analog scale (VAS) in centimeters (cm) every 12 hours in 37 patients per group. The patients were administered either intranasal tapentadol or IV paracetamol every 6 hours for 72 hours, beginning 3 hours after surgery. There was a significant group by intervention effect favoring intranasal tapentadol, suggesting a greater reduction in VAS pain scores after the intervention at 72 hours (estimate: -1.58 cm; SE:0.2; P<0.001). Group by time effect for all the measured time frames, except for 36 hours, favored intranasal tapentadol with estimated values for greater reduction in VAS pain scores ranging from -0.8 cm to -1.6 cm. The results of the present study suggests that intranasal tapentadol results in a greater reduction of postoperative pain compared with IV paracetamol in lower limb orthopedic surgeries. The ease of administration of tapentadol may make it a preferred option over IV paracetamol in such surgeries.

An Open Label, Multi-center, Controlled, Retrospective Study of a Biodegradable Synthetic Graft for Soft Tissue Reconstruction in Patients Suffering from Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability

Category: Ankle; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Ankle sprains represent one of the most common injuries among both athletes and the general public (1). While most sprains resolve with conservative therapy, failure resulting in ligament laxity may necessitate surgical intervention due to pain and instability from injury to the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the weakest ligament in the lateral ligamentous complex (2). Surgical repair of ATFL has relatively high success rates, however post-procedure chronic instability and pain remain a clinical challenge, with re-operation rates reported as high as 14% (3). The Artelon® FlexBand® matrix is a biocompatible, synthetic matrix designed to reinforce soft tissue repair during tendon/ligament reconstructive procedures. The goal of this study is to compare the outcomes of ATFL reconstructive surgery with and without this synthetic graft augmentation. Methods: This multi-center, IRB approved study used a combination of retrospective medical chart review and prospective procedure satisfaction phone surveys in patients that had undergone ATFL repair (isolated and non-isolated) with or without synthetic graft augmentation. These results represent an interim data analysis of an ongoing clinical study. A total of 234 patients, (82 Control and 152 FlexBand augmented) diagnosed with chronic lateral ankle instability that had failed conservative therapy, and required surgical intervention to repair the lateral ligament complex were enrolled across four different research centers. Patient demographics, physician assessment of healing progression, safety, complications necessitating a return to OR, and post-op rehabilitation schedule were analyzed. Two study sites used Visual Analog Scale (VAS) to assess pain pre-surgically and at 2, 6, and 12 week follow-up visits. Phone survey questionnaires were given to patients that reached at least 1yr post-op to assess long-term patient satisfaction and function. Results: Average patient age was 42yrs in both groups and average follow-up time was 19.2mo (FlexBand) and 28.4mo (Control). There was no statistical difference in baseline VAS pain scores between groups. Augmented patients demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores at 2-,6-, and 12-week follow-up visits (p &lt; 0.001, p&lt; 0.0001and p&lt; 0.0001, respectively) compared to controls (Fig 1). In addition, a significant acceleration in return to FWB status in augmented group compared to control patients was observed (9.04 ± 0.38wks, N=101 vs. 11.82 ± 1.67wks, N=45; p = 0.027). Both groups demonstrated equivalent AE safety profiles and complications were similar across groups with 3.7% (3/82) of control and 3.9% (6/152) augmented patients requiring a return to OR, however, no AEs or complication events were related to the Flexband Device. Conclusion: Our data shows a significant reduction in VAS pain scores in patients who underwent the modified Brostrom procedure with augmentation at all follow up time points. In addition, synthetic graft augmentation may lead to earlier return to function due to the significantly lower time to achieve FWB status. Further investigation on the potential clinical benefits of ATFL augmentation with Artelon Flexband is ongoing through a prospective, randomized, controlled study. Overall, long-term (&gt;1yr) patient satisfaction was equivalent across groups and a trend toward potential earlier recovery times were better for the augmented group than the control group.

Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic-Assisted Volar Scapholunate Capsulodesis: A Case Series.

Purpose We have previously described arthroscopic-assisted volar scapholunate (SL) capsulodesis as an alternative technique for addressing volar SL interosseous ligament (SLIL) injuries. In this article, we report the outcomes of this procedure in a cohort of patients. Methods Postoperative outcomes including range of motion, grip strength, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), and Mayo Wrist Score were assessed through a prospective review of six patients in a single center who underwent this procedure. Results Six patients (four male and two female) with a mean age of 43 ± 14 years were evaluated in the study. The mean duration of follow-up was 41 ± 17 weeks. Postoperative outcomes noted a reduction in VAS pain score from 8 before surgery to 0.7 postoperatively ( p = 0.00004) and improvement in Mayo Wrist Score (42 preoperatively to 80 postoperatively; p = 0.001), grip strength (86% of contralateral side; p = 0.20), and flexion arc (81% of contralateral side; p = 0.08). QuickDASH was 20 ± 8 and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation score was 13 ± 2 at the last clinical follow-up. There was an improvement in SL gap ( p = 0.03), SL angle ( p = 0.11), and radiolunate angle ( p = 0.15) measurements postoperatively. Conclusions The described arthroscopic-assisted volar SL capsulodesis in this study presents an alternative method to address volar SLIL pathology with positive short-term clinical outcomes. Clinical Relevance Arthroscopic-assisted volar SL capsulodesis may be considered in the treatment algorithm for volar SLIL injuries.

Administration of Nebulised Ketamine for Managing Pain in the Intensive Care Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Introduction: The use of inhaled ketamine to manage a variety of painful conditions has been endorsed by the American College of Emergency Physicians and the American Academy of Emergency Medicine. Nebulized analgesia has multiple benefits, including rapid, effective and titratable analgesic delivery. The aim of our study is to assess the efficacy and safety of intranasal analgesic-dose ketamine compared to multimodal analgesia in patients presenting with acute postoperative pain or headache after a spinal anaesthetic in the intensive care unit of obstetrics and gynaecology. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study, with hospital Ethics Committee approval and written informed consent from study participants. We compared the effect of nebulized ketamine and multimodal analgesia postoperatively in 120 patients belonging to the physical status I - II of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, in the intensive care unit of obstetrics and gynaecology, at the Ibn Rochd University Hospital Center in Casablanca from June 2021 to June 2022. Results: We included 120 patients in our study divided into two groups of 60 patients: the average age was 35 years, with extremes ranging from 18 to 45 years, All patients were hospitalized for postoperative care: all women underwent locoregional anaesthesia with a standard dose according to the service protocol (10 mg of bupivacaine, 25γ of fentanyl, 100γ of morphine), where pain was the common denominator. Among these patients, 59 were admitted for management of postpartum haemorrhage, 43 for postoperative monitoring, 15 for post-spinal anaesthesia headache and 3 for pelviperitonitis. The results of the pain assessment 30 minutes after the ketamine nebulization were marked by a request for analgesia in 12 patients, which is 20% of group A, including 5 patients, whose visual analogue scale (VAS) on admission was between 5 and 7, and 7 patients whose VAS at admission was ≥8; all these patients received a second dose of ketamine by nebulization; the evaluation 30 min after the second dose was marked by a request for analgesia in 4 patients, which is 7% of Group A; in all these patients the VAS at admission was ≥8. Of the total number of patients of Group A, only 4 received morphine when they were requested for analgesia after the second dose of nebulized ketamine. Conclusion: The primary outcome of nebulized ketamine use is a significant reduction in VAS pain score. We believe that nebulized ketamine has a potential effect of reducing pain in the intensive care unit of obstetrics and gynaecology; this may be an additional analgesic modality for clinicians to provide rapid, effective and non-invasive pain relief.

Treatment of Hallux Rigidus: Comparison of Hemiarthroplasty with Cartiva Implant, Allograft Interpositional Arthroplasty, and Arthrodesis

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Other Introduction/Purpose: Hallux Rigidus (HR) can cause pain with motion, enlarged joint, decreased joint space, subchondral sclerosis, osteophyte formation and restricted joint mobility, limiting patient physical activity. A modern technique for the treatment of HR is 1st MTP hemiarthroplasty with the use of a Cartiva synthetic cartilage implant. The Cartiva implant is designed to imitate natural cartilage; this allows patients to maintain motion in the 1st MTP joint. Current scientific literature reporting early outcomes of the procedure is sparse and mixed. This discrepancy and the overall scarcity of data indicates the need for further analysis. The purpose of this study is to compare improvement in VAS with 1st MTP hemiarthroplasty with the Cartiva implant, allograft interposition arthroplasty and fusion in patients who failed conservative management or cheilectomy. Methods: This study evaluated subjects who underwent interpositional arthroplasty, arthrodesis, or hemiarthroplasty with the Cartiva implant from January 2008 to April 2020, with a minimum of one year documented follow-up. All subjects were 18 years of age and older, diagnosed Hallux rigidus with pain, had a decrease in 1st MTP motion, and had X-ray findings consistent with decreased joint space. Patient data collected includes age, gender, ethnicity, occupation, height, weight, BMI, diabetes status, rheumatoid arthritis status, smoking, co-morbid conditions, medication, activity of choice, duration of symptoms, and operative data. Pre-operative and post- operative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores were compared between groups. Pain, function, and alignment between groups were also evaluated, pre-operatively and post- operatively, using the AOFAS Midfoot Scale. Secondary objectives evaluated include surgical complications, surgical revision, and X-rays. Results: One hundred patients with 12 months of post-operative follow-up were included in this study: 52 hemiarthroplasty with Cartiva implant patients (Group A), 24 arthrodesis patients (Group B), and 24 interpositional arthroplasty patients (Group C). The mean age of patients was 57.12 years (range 35-95). Average VAS pain scores for Group A was 3.78 (0-9), for Group B was 2.71 (0-10), and Group C was 3.67 (0-8). The average AOFAS score for Group A was 63.36 (30-95), for Group B was 60.98 (32- 83), and Group C was 60.13 (31-83). Pre-operative average VAS pain scores were 4.86 (Group A), 2.32 (Group B), and 5.58 (Group C). Post-operative average VAS pain scores were 2.69 (Group A), 0.91 (Group B), and 1.75 (Group C). Pre-operative average AOFAS scores were 59.52 (Group A), 48 (Group B), and 47.25 (Group C). Post-operative average AOFAS scores were 67.20 (Group A), 73.96 (Group B), and 73 (Group C). Conclusion: Preliminary data shows the greatest reduction in VAS pain scores in the interpositional arthroplasty group. The greatest improvement in derived AOFAS score was seen in the arthrodesis and interpositional arthroplasty groups, indicating a better overall combination of post-operative pain, function, and alignment when compared to patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty with Cartiva implant. While this study is not yet complete, it appears that hemiarthroplasty with Cartiva implant may allow patients to maintain motion in the 1st MTP joint, but at the cost of increased post-operative pain.

Philosophies of Surgical Care Are Embedded in Outcome Studies: An Illustrative Reanalysis of the Cartiva MOTION Trial.

Subjective assumptions on the definition of surgical success are inherent to the design of clinical trials with a categorial outcome. The current study used reasonable alternative assumptions about surgical care to reassess data for the randomized controlled Cartiva trial (MOTION). Data from the published study were augmented by publicly accessible internal US Food and Drug Administration documents. As in the published report, 1-sided lower bound 95% CIs (LBCI95) for the difference of proportions were calculated for a series of alternative scenarios in which the assumptions underlying what constitutes surgical success were altered. Using a noninferiority margin of -15%, the MOTION trial reported success based on a 1-sided LBCI95 of -10.9%. Each of the 3 independent alternative scenarios analyzed yielded results that altered the primary outcome of the trial: (1) eliminating failures based solely upon radiographs findings, thereby considering a painless pseudarthrosis as a success (1-sided LBCI95 of -15.9%), (2) considering only major surgical revision as a failure and discounting isolated hardware removal (1-sided LBCI95 of -15.1%), and (3) using a visual analog scale (VAS) pain threshold of &lt;30 as the success criterion rather than a 30% reduction in VAS pain score (1-sided LBCI95 of -15.8%). In this reanalysis, applying any of 3 reasonable alternative assumptions about the definition of surgical success to the data resulted in failure to prove noninferiority of Cartiva over arthrodesis, a reversal of the reported trial result. These results highlight the effect of subjective assumptions in the design of clinical trials with a categorical outcome and illustrate how differing philosophies about what constitutes surgical success can be pivotal in determining the final result. Level II, prospective comparative study.

Comparative Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Acupuncture and Cupping for Treatment of Patients with Myofascial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome: A Double-blinded, Randomized Clinical Trial: Comparison of the Effects of LLL Acupuncture and Cupping.

Background: Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome (MPDS) is among the most common causes of facial pain. This study compared the efficacy of low-level laser (LLL) acupuncture and cupping for the treatment of MPDS. Materials and Methods: This double-blind, before-after, randomized clinical trial evaluated 60 MPDS patients that were divided into two groups for LLL acupuncture (808 nm, 0.5 W, 30 J, 4 J/cm2 energy density, 60 seconds; group 1), and cupping (group 2) of masticatory muscle trigger points. Both treatments were performed for maximally eight sessions once every other day. The level of pain at the trigger points was measured upon admission, before and 5 minutes after treatment in each session, at ten days, and two months after treatment completion by a visual analog scale (VAS). The painless maximum mouth opening (MMO) and patient satisfaction with treatment were also assessed at the time as mentioned earlier points. Results: Averagely, 4.5 treatment sessions were required to achieve a 50% reduction in VAS pain score, with no significant difference between the two groups (P=0.9). Both treatments significantly decreased the number of trigger points and pain score, but this reduction occurred significantly sooner in the cupping group (P=0.01). MMO significantly improved in both groups after treatment with no significant difference between them (P=0.2). Patients were significantly more satisfied with LLL acupuncture (P=0.05). Conclusion: Both cupping and LLL acupuncture are equally effective for MPDS; thus, the patient can choose the type of treatment after receiving sufficient information regarding the two modalities.

Predictors of Positive Outcomes and a Scoring System to Guide Management After Fasciotomy for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome.

Background:Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) of the lower limb usually responds well to fasciotomy in patients with failed nonoperative treatment. Careful history taking and compartment pressure testing are both required to accurately diagnose CECS.Purposes:To evaluate patients with CECS after fasciotomy to establish predictive criteria of positive outcomes and to develop a scoring system to aid clinicians in their management of such patients.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:We reviewed data from 28 patients who underwent fasciotomy between 2017 and 2019. All patients had undergone preoperative dynamic intracompartmental pressure (ICP) monitoring. For each patient, subjective preoperative and postoperative pain scores were gained via a questionnaire. The point biserial and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to calculate the association between multiple diagnostic criteria and a reduction in visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores after fasciotomy.Results:A reduction in VAS pain scores was strongly correlated with a peak ICP >40 mm Hg (r = 0.71; P = .0007) and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for an intraexercise ICP >22,000 mm Hg·s2 (r = 0.76; P = .0002). A moderate correlation was found between a history of CECS pain (r = 0.61; P = .005), a duration of symptoms of <30 minutes after stopping exercise (r = 0.60; P = .006), and a gradient in the intraexercise ICP >10 mm Hg (r = 0.60; P = .006). When combined into an objective, weighted scoring system (2 points for factors with r > 0.7; 1 point for r = 0.5-0.7), a score of ≥4 points (of 7) had a strong correlation (r = 0.85; P < .00001) with postoperative improvement in the VAS pain score. Linear regression of this score demonstrated a good fit (R 2 = 0.61; P < .0001), indicating a degree of predictive power.Conclusion:We identified diagnostic criteria in the history and examination of patients with CECS that can be used to help predict positive outcomes after fasciotomy. We propose a scoring system to aid clinicians in their management of such patients. We recommend taking these results forward in prospective trials to test the efficacy of predictive scoring.

Comparison of a Cryopneumatic Compression Device and Ice Packs for Cryotherapy Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of a cryopneumatic compression device with that of standard ice packs following arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, with a primary focus on early postoperative pain. Participants were divided into two groups: cryopneumatic compression device group (CC group) and standard ice pack group (IP group). Patients in the CC Group (28 patients) received a cryopneumatic compression device (CTC-7, Daesung Maref) treatment, while patients in the IP group (28 patients) received standard ice pack cryotherapy postoperatively. All cryotherapy was applied three times (every 8 hours) per day for 20 minutes until discharge (postoperative day 7). Pain scores were assessed preoperatively and at 4, 7, and 14 days after surgery, and the primary outcome for analysis was pain at postoperative day 4 assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS). Other variables were opioid and rescue medication use, knee and thigh circumferences, postoperative drainage, and joint effusion quantified by a three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reconstruction model. The mean pain VAS score and difference in VAS relative to the preoperative measurements for postoperative day 4 were significantly lower in the CC group than in the IP group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.007, respectively). The sum of postoperative drainage and effusion quantified by MRI showed a significant reduction of postoperative effusion in the CC group compared to the IP group (p = 0.015). The average total rescue medication consumption was comparable between the two groups. Circumferential measurements at days 7 and 14 postoperatively relative to those at day 4 (index day) demonstrated no significant differences between the groups. Compared to standard ice packs, application of cryopneumatic compression was associated with a significant reduction in VAS pain scores and joint effusion during the early postoperative period following ACL reconstruction.

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) for symptomatic endometriosis following surgery.

Endometriosis is a condition characterised by the presence of ectopic deposits of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, usually in the pelvis. The impact of laparoscopic treatment on overall pain is uncertain and a significant proportion of women will require further surgery. Therefore, adjuvant medical therapies following surgery, such as the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD), have been considered to reduce recurrence of symptoms. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effectiveness and safety of post-operative LNG-IUD in women with symptomatic endometriosis. We searched the following databases from inception to January 2021: The Specialised Register of the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group, CENTRAL (which now includes records from two trial registries), MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, LILACS and Epistemonikos. We handsearched citation lists of relevant publications, review articles, abstracts of scientific meetings and included studies. We contacted experts in the field for information about any additional studies. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing women undergoing surgical treatment of endometriosis with uterine preservation who were assigned to LNG-IUD insertion, versus control conditions including expectant management, post-operative insertion of placebo (inert intrauterine device), or other medical treatment such as gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) drugs. Two review authors independently selected studies for inclusion, and extracted data to allow for an intention-to-treat analysis. For dichotomous data, we calculated the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) using the Mantel-Haenszel fixed-effect method. For continuous data, we calculated the mean difference (MD) and 95% CI using the inverse variance fixed-effect method. Four RCTs were included, with a total of 157 women. Two studies areongoing. The GRADE certainty of evidence was very low to low. The certainty of evidence was graded down primarily for serious risk of bias and imprecision. LNG-IUD versus expectant management Overall pain: No studies reported on the primary outcome of overall pain. Dysmenorrhoea: We are uncertain whether LNG-IUD improves dysmenorrhoea at 12 months. Data on this outcome were reported on by two RCTs; meta-analysis was not possible (RCT 1: delta of median visual analogue scale (VAS) 81 versus 50, P = 0.006, n = 55; RCT 2: fall in VAS by 50 (35 to 65) versus 30 (25 to 40), P = 0.021, n = 40; low-certainty evidence). Quality of life: We are uncertain whether LNG-IUD improves quality of life at 12 months. One trial demonstrated a change in total quality of life score with postoperative LNG-IUD from baseline (mean 61.2 (standard deviation (SD) 14.8) to 12 months (mean 70.3 (SD 16.2) compared to expectant management (baseline 55.1 (SD 17.0) to 57.0 (SD 33.2) at 12 months) (n = 55, P = 0.014, very low-certainty evidence). Patient satisfaction: Two studies found higher rates of satisfaction with LNG-IUD compared to expectant management; however, combining the studies in meta-analysis was not possible (n = 95, very low-certainty evidence). One study found 75% (15/20) of those given post-operative LNG-IUD were "satisfied" or "very satisfied", compared to 50% (10/20) of those in the expectant management group (RR 1.5, 95% CI 0.90-2.49, 1 RCT, n=40, very low-certainty evidence). The second study found that fewer were "very satisfied" in the expectant management group when compared to LNG, but there were no data to include in a meta-analysis. Adverse events: One study found a significantly higher proportion of women reporting melasma (n = 55, P = 0.015, very low-certainty evidence) and bloating (n = 55, P = 0.021, very low-certainty evidence) following post-operative LNG-IUD. There were no differences in other reported adverse events, such as weight gain, acne, and headaches. LNG-IUD versus GnRH-a Overall pain: No studies reported on the primary outcome of overall pain. Chronic pelvic pain: We are uncertain whether LNG-IUD improves chronic pelvic pain at 12 months when compared to GnRH-a (VAS pain scale) (MD -2.0, 95% CI -20.2 to 16.2, 1 RCT, n = 40, very low-certainty evidence). Dysmenorrhoea: We are uncertain whether LNG-IUD improves dysmenorrhoea at six months when compared to GnRH-a (measured as a reduction in VAS pain score) (MD 1.70, 95%.CI -0.14 to 3.54, 1 RCT, n = 18, very low-certainty evidence). Adverse events: One study suggested that vasomotor symptoms were the most common adverse events reported with patients receiving GnRH-a, and irregular bleeding in those receiving LNG-IUD (n = 40, very low-certainty evidence) AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Post-operative LNG-IUDiswidely used to reduce endometriosis-related pain and to improve operative outcomes. This review demonstrates thatthere is nohigh-qualityevidence to supportthis practice. This review highlights the need for further studies with large sample sizes to assess theeffectivenessof post-operative adjuvant hormonal IUD on the core endometriosis outcomes (overall pain,most troublesome symptom, and quality of life).

Time-Dependent Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Reducing Donor-Site Pain After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) has a high incidence among sports players, and one important side effect of the surgery is graft donor site morbidity. Although some evidence suggests that application of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) during ACLR reduces pain and improves knee function, it is not a universal finding. Purpose: To perform a meta-analysis of previous studies testing the effects of PRP on donor site morbidity after ACLR. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We reviewed PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases to find studies testing the effects of PRP on the donor site of ACLR autograft. After identifying 4 studies, we conducted 2 meta-analyses, 1 for the effects of PRP on pain, assessed by visual analog scale (VAS), and the other for the functional knee scores. We also tested the ability of time after ACLR to predict the PRP-related reduction of pain. Results: In the 4 studies identified, 157 patients were analyzed. Although the VAS score was lower with PRP at 6 months (raw mean difference [RMD], –0.97 [95% CI, −1.59 to −0.36]; P = .001) and 12 months (RMD, −0.61 [95% CI,−1.02 to −0.21]; P = .003), the effects of PRP disappeared at 24 months (RMD, −0.08 [95% CI,−0.38 to 0.22]; P = .586). A univariate regression analysis reinforced the ability of time after ACLR to predict the PRP-related reduction of VAS pain score (r2 = 0.98). However, knee function after ACLR was not improved by the use of PRP (standardized mean difference, 0.71 [95% CI,−0.17 to 1.60]; P = .114). Conclusion: PRP applied to a bone–patellar tendon–bone donor site could reduce knee pain within a year, and this reduction had a correlation with time, meaning that the effect of PRP decreased with time after surgery. However, pain reduction did not reach clinical relevance and did not lead to better functional knee scores.

Influence of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Degenerative Changes on Functional Outcomes Following Hallux Valgus Correction

Category:Bunion; Midfoot/ForefootIntroduction/Purpose:Previous studies have documented the prevalence of 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthritis in the setting of hallux valgus, with the articulation between the metatarsal head and the sesamoids being particularly vulnerable. However, little is known as to whether such degenerative changes of the metatarsal head-sesamoid articulation have any influence on postoperative functional and pain scores following hallux valgus correction. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of degenerative changes of the 1st metatarsal head on outcomes at 2 years postoperatively.Methods:Patients underwent correction of a hallux valgus deformity from 2016-2017 by a single fellowship trained foot and ankle surgeon. Degenerative changes were classified by dividing the articular surface of the metatarsal head into 6 zones: zones 1 through 4 represented the surface articulating with the base of the proximal phalanx, while zones 5 and 6 represented the plantar aspect. Cartilage loss in each zone was graded from 0-2, with 0 representing the absence of arthritis, 1 indicating fissures without exposed bone, and 2 representing degenerative changes with exposed bone. Scoring was performed via direct visualization during the procedure. At 2 years postoperatively, patients were contacted to complete the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Sports subscales and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain. Spearman’s correlations and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed to determine if degree of arthritis had any influence on outcomes.Results:One hundred and forty-one patients (87.9% female) with both intraoperative arthritic grading and 2-year functional outcomes were included. At a mean of 25.4 (range, 23.0-34.8) months postoperatively, patients reported a mean (+- standard deviation) FAAM-ADL of 88.9 +- 17.3, FAAM-Sport of 77.3 +- 26.0, and VAS pain of 20.8 +- 27.1. Arthritis in zone 2 (r=0.20, p= 0.027) was found to be positively correlated with FAAM-Sport scores. ANOVA revealed those with a total arthritis grade of 0 or 2 or more in zones 1-4 had a significantly greater reduction in VAS pain scores (means of -35.1 and -37.7, respectively) than those with a grade of 1 (mean: -14.3) (p=0.008).Conclusion:Patients demonstrated a significant influence of arthritis on 2-year functional outcomes following HV correction, with higher levels of degenerative changes in zone 2 generally associated with better functional outcomes. Patients with more severe arthritic changes in zones 1-4 and those whose arthritic changes were localized solely to zones 5 and 6 demonstrated greater pain relief than those with mild degenerative changes. While these findings were unexpected, it demonstrates that those with more pronounced arthritis may benefit more from surgical correction of HV. Furthermore, surgeon intraoperative evaluation of arthritis may allow for improved counseling of patients regarding expected postoperative functional improvement.

Non-surgical peri-implantitis treatment using a pocket irrigator device; clinical, microbiological, radiographical and patient-centred outcomes-A pilot study.

AimThe aim of this prospective cohort study was to assess the effect of a pocket irrigator/evacuator device (IED) in the non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis.Material and MethodsIn total 24 patients having 38 implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis were included in this study. Peri‐implant pockets were irrigated six times in three consecutive weeks. The primary outcome was bleeding on probing (BoP). Secondary outcome parameters included plaque index (Pl), suppuration on probing (SoP), probing pocket depth (PPD), marginal bone loss (MBL), presence and numbers of periodontal pathogens. Parameters were assessed at baseline and 3 months after the last treatment. Treatment pain perception was scored using the visual analog scale (VAS) after the first and last treatment.ResultsAt 3 months, IED treatment revealed significant reduction of peri‐implant BoP (71% [±20] vs 57% [±28] [P = .014]) and peri‐implant plaque scores (10 [±14] to 5 [±9] [P = .039] [T0 vs T3 respectively]). Significant reduction in mean peri‐implant PPD from 4.92 mm (SD ± 1.28) to 4.66 mm (SD ± 1.35) (P = .041) was observed. In addition, a reduction in VAS pain score between the first and the last (6th) treatment was found (P = .039). No reduction in SoP (P = .088) was found. No changes in mean periodontal full mouth plaque, BOP, SOP and PPD levels, MBL and microbiological outcomes were found.ConclusionBeneficial clinical effects in terms of BoP, PPD and PI were found at 3 months after IED treatment. However, the IED does not seem to effectively treat peri‐implantitis in terms of disease resolution.

Influence of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Degenerative Changes on Functional Outcomes Following Hallux Valgus Correction

Category:Bunion; OtherIntroduction/Purpose:Previous studies have documented the prevalence of 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthritis in the setting of hallux valgus, with the articulation between the metatarsal head and the sesamoids being particularly vulnerable.However, little is known as to whether such degenerative changes of the metatarsal head-sesamoid articulation have any influence on postoperative functional and pain scores following hallux valgus correction. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of degenerative changes of the 1st metatarsal head on outcomes at 2 years postoperatively.Methods:Patients who underwent correction of a hallux valgus deformity from 2016 to 2017 with 1 of 4 foot and ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons were included in this study. Degenerative changes were classified using a novel grading system dividing the articular surface of the metatarsal head into 6 zones, with zones 1 through 4 representing the surface which articulates with the base of the proximal phalanx and zones 5 and 6 representing the plantar aspect of the metatarsal head.Cartilage loss in each zone was graded from 0-2, with a score of 0 representing the absence of arthritis, a score of 1 indicating fissures without exposed bone, and a score of 2 representing degenerative changes with exposed bone, for a maximum score of 12. Scoring was performed by the operating surgeon at the time of the index procedure by direct visualization. Photographic documentation of the metatarsal head was obtained in every case for secondary confirmation. At 2 years postoperatively, patients with intraoperative grading were contacted to complete the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Sports subscales and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain. Spearman’s correlations and one-way ANOVA were performed to determine if the degree of arthritis had any influence on outcomes.Results:Seventy-six patients (92.1% female) with both intraoperative arthritic grading and 2-year functional outcomes were included. At a mean of 24.6 (range, 23-28) months postoperatively, patients reported a mean (+- standard deviation) FAAM-ADL of 93.0 +- 11.9/100, FAAM-Sport of 84.8 +- 21.4/100, and VAS pain of 16.8 +- 22.2/100. Arthritis in zone 1 (r=0.345, p= 0.005) and zone 4 (r=0.249, p=0.044) was found to be positively correlated with FAAM-Sport scores. ANOVA analysis revealed those with a total arthritis grade of 0 or 2 or more in zones 1-4 had a significantly greater reduction in VAS pain scores (means of -36.5 and -48.1, respectively) than those with a grade of 1 (mean: +5.0) (p=0.005).Conclusion:We have demonstrated a significant influence of arthritis on 2-year functional outcomes following HV correction, with higher levels of degenerative changes in zones 1 and 4 generally associated with better functional outcomes. While this finding was unexpected, it demonstrates that those with arthritis may benefit more from surgical correction of HV. Furthermore, surgeon intraoperative evaluation of arthritis may allow for improved counseling of patients regarding expected postoperative functional improvement.

Return to Recreational Sport Following Lumbar Fusion.

This was a retrospective questionnaire study at a single academic medical center. The objective of this study was to obtain information on rates of return to sport following lumbar fusion as well as sport-specific effects to improve evidence-based preoperative patient counseling. Lumbar spinal fusion is one of the fastest-growing surgical procedures, with the majority being in patients aged 60 years and older. Remaining active is an important consideration for elderly patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion. Golf, swimming, and biking are common forms of recreational exercise for an older population in whom lumbar fusion is often performed. There is a lack of data in the current literature regarding rates of return to recreational sporting activities following elective lumbar fusion. Following Institutional Review Board approval, all patients undergoing lumbar fusion at a single institution from 2012 to 2016 were screened and included in this study. A minimum of 1-year postoperative follow-up was required. A total of 117 patients were identified undergoing single-level or multilevel lumbar fusion during this time period. The average age was 63 years. Questionnaires were obtained to screen and identify patients who participated in 1 of 3 recreational sports before surgery (golf, swimming, and biking). Preoperative and postoperative collected outcome measures were then compared using the Student t test. Of the 117 identified lumbar fusion patients, 32 patients (27%) participated in 1 of the 3 most common recreational sporting activities of golf, swimming, or biking. Within the golf cohort (n=13), 100% of patients returned to recreational golfing postoperatively. There was a statistically significant reduction in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores postoperatively (6.3±3.7-1.8±2.4, P=0.01). Driving distance was reduced postoperatively (223.3±42.7-212.1±44.4 yards, P=0.042) and handicaps increased (12.8±8.4-17.0±11.4, P=0.02). Within the swimming cohort (n=9), 100% of patients returned to recreational swimming following lumbar fusion. There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS pain scores postoperatively (9.1±1.7-2.2±2.3, P=0.01). There was a trend towards increased amounts of swimming (times per week) postoperatively, however, this was not statistically significant (2.1±1.7-3.7±1.5, P=0.10). Within the biking cohort (n=10), 100% of patients returned to recreational biking following lumbar fusion. There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS pain scores postoperatively (6.7±4.0-1.3±1.7, P=0.03). There was a trend towards increased amounts of biking (times per week) postoperatively, however, this was not statistically significant (2.5±1.8-3.7±1.6 postoperatively, P=0.20). In the cohort of patients from this study who partook in golfing, swimming or bicycling, 100% were able to return to their respective sport by 3-9 months postoperatively and all had a significant reduction in pain. With regards to golfers, lumbar fusion likely has an adverse effect on their golfing ability with an increase in handicap and an expected reduction in driving distance.

The Effectiveness of Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma for Osteoarthritis of the Hip: A Retrospective Analysis.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a minimally invasive treatment option to reduce pain and promote tissue healing. At the time this study was performed, there was limited published literature analyzing outcomes for patients treated with PRP for hip osteoarthritis. Thirty-six patients aged 49-85 (66.0 ± 12.1) years with chronic hip pain who met inclusion criteria underwent image-guided intra-articular hip PRP injection. Outcomes were measured at baseline, two weeks, three months, and up to six months using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). The proportion of responders, as defined by a ≥50% reduction in VAS pain score, was assessed at three and six months. At two weeks, there was a significant improvement (P < 0.05) of function in two HOOS subscales: Symptoms and Activities of Daily Living. There was a significant improvement in all HOOS categories at six months. A significant improvement in VAS was observed at six months (baseline VAS = 6.9 ± 0.7 &→ 4.3 ± 1.8, 95% confidence interval = 2.0 to 3.2, P < 0.05). Sixty-seven percent (24/36) of the patients reported a ≥50% improvement in pain at three months; 58% (21/36) reported a ≥50% improvement in pain at six months. Stratification by Kellgren-Lawrence grades revealed that 86% and 82% of the KL grades 1 and 2 were responders at six months, respectively. In patients with mild/moderate hip osteoarthritis, PRP may provide pain relief and functional improvement for up to six months.

Surgical Treatment of the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with the Application of Endoscopic and Electrophysiological Monitoring

Introduction. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a variant of tunnel neuropathy, which develops as a result of compression of the median nerve by a hypertrophic flexor retinaculum. Surgical treatment consists in the dissection of the flexor retinaculum which leads to fast pain alleviation and termination of neurologic deficit progression. Objective. To evaluate effectiveness of the new surgical treatment of CTS with endoscopic and electrophysiological monitoring. Materials and methods. Outcomes of the surgical treatment with the new combined technique were evaluated in a group of 72 patients. To assess effectiveness, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, frequency of complications and relapses, length of in-hospital stay, and temporary disability were assessed. Results. We found a significant reduction in VAS pain score from 6 [3; 7] to 2 [1; 3] points within the first day following surgery along with improvement of the skin pain sensitivity from 3 [2; 4] to 2 [2; 3] points. No significant complications and relapses were registered (N = 0). The average period of hospitalization was 16 [12; 24] hours and the temporary incapacity for work was 7 [5; 12] days. Conclusions. The new surgical approach significantly reduces level of pain syndrome and sensory disturbances, allows to achieve sufficient decompression of the nerve with minimal risks of complications, and reduce duration of in-hospital stay and temporary disability.

Friday, September 28, 2018 8:00 AM–9:00 AM interdisciplinary spine forum: abstract presentations: 146. Return to recreational sport following lumbar fusion

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Lumbar spinal fusion is one of the fastest growing surgical procedures, with the majority being in patients aged 60 years and older. Remaining active is an important consideration for elderly patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion. Golf, swimming, and biking are common forms of recreational exercise for an older population in whom lumbar fusion is often performed. There is a lack of data in the current literature regarding rates of return to recreational sporting activities following elective lumbar fusion. PURPOSE To obtain information on rates of return to sport following lumbar fusion as well as sport-specific effects to improve evidence-based preoperative patient counseling. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective questionnaire study conducted at a single academic medical center. PATIENT SAMPLE All patients undergoing lumbar fusion at a single institution from 2012 to 2016 were screened and included in this study. A minimum of 1 year postoperative follow-up was required. A total of 117 patients were identified undergoing single or multilevel lumbar fusion during this time period. The average age was 63 years old. Patients were screened to identify recreational athletes participating in one of three sports (golf, swimming and biking) preoperatively. OUTCOME MEASURES Outcomes collected included pre- and postoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, return to sport rates, pre- and postoperative exercise amounts, and golf-specific data regarding driving distances and handicap. METHODS Following IRB approval, patients within the identified lumbar fusion cohort with at least 1 year of follow-up were identified. Phone interview and mailed questionnaires were obtained to screen and identify patients who participated in one of three recreational sports prior to surgery (golf, swimming, and biking). Pre- and postoperative collected outcome measures were then compared using a student's T-test. RESULTS A total of 117 identified lumbar fusion patients, 32 patients (27%) were identified to have participated in one of the three most common recreational sporting activities of golf, swimming, or biking. Within the golf cohort (n=13), 100% of patients returned to recreational golfing postoperatively. There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS pain scores postoperatively (6.3±3.7 to 1.8±2.4, p=.01). Driving distance was reduced postoperatively (223.3 yards±42.7 to 212.1±44.4, p=.042) and handicaps increased (12.8±8.4 to 17.0±11.4, p=.02). Within the swimming cohort (n=9), 100% of patients returned to recreational swimming following lumbar fusion. There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS pain scores postoperatively (9.1±1.7 to 2.2±2.3, p=.01). There was a trend to increased episodes of swimming per week postoperatively, however, this was not statistically significant (2.1±1.7 to 3.7±1.5 postoperatively, p=.10). Within the biking cohort (n=10), 100% of patients returned to recreational biking following lumbar fusion. There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS pain scores postoperatively (6.7±4.0 to 1.3±1.7, p=.03). There was a trend to increased episodes of biking per week postoperatively, however, this was not statistically significant (2.5±1.8 to 3.7±1.6 postoperatively, p=.20). CONCLUSIONS Patients undergoing elective lumbar fusion have relatively low rates of preoperative recreational sport participation. However, among those who do participate, there is a high rate of return to sport. Golfers can be counseled that lumbar fusion likely has an adverse effect on their golfing ability with an increase in handicap and an expected reduction in driving distance.

Mirror therapy for an adult with central post-stroke pain: a case report

Background Treatment of central post-stroke pain (CPSP) after a thalamic-capsular stroke is generally based on pharmacological approach as it is low responsive to physiotherapy. In this case report, the use of mirror therapy (MT) for the reduction of CPSP in a subject after a stroke involving thalamus is presented.Case presentationFive years after a right lenticular-capsular thalamic stroke, despite a good recovery of voluntary movement that guaranteed independence in daily life activities, a 50-year-old woman presented with mild weakness and spasticity, an important sensory loss and a burning pain in the left upper limb. MT for reducing arm pain was administered in 45-min sessions, five days a week, for two consecutive weeks. MT consisted in performing symmetrical movements of both forearms and hands while watching the image of the sound limb reflected by a parasagittal mirror superimposed to the affected limb. Pain severity was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) before and after the intervention and at one-year follow-up. After the two weeks of MT, the patient demonstrated 4.5 points reduction in VAS pain score of the hand at rest and 3.9 points during a maximal squeeze left hand contraction. At one-year follow-up, pain reduction was maintained and also extended to the shoulder.ConclusionThis case report shows the successful application of a motor training with a sensory confounding condition (MT) in reducing CPSP in a patient with a chronic thalamic stroke.