SANE Score Research Articles

The Impact of Workers' Compensation on Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity and Legacy Outcome Measures in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

To examine the preoperative performance of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity (UE) Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) with respect to legacy scores in patients receiving rotator cuff repair (RCR). In addition, to define the impact of Workers' Compensation (WC) status on both performance and floor and ceiling effects. The PROMIS UE CAT was administered preoperatively alongside legacy patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to patients undergoing isolated arthroscopic RCR from November 2017 to September 2018. Performance was assessed using Spearman correlation coefficients, and floor and ceiling effects were examined. One hundred twenty-two patients (WC, n= 32; non-WC, n= 90; 62.3% male, 53.6 ± 11.5years) were included. PROMs assessing physical function (r= 0.41-0.77) correlated more strongly to the PROMIS UE CAT than did multidomain or mental health PROMs (r= 0.25-0.61). In WC patients, the PROMIS UE CAT demonstrated diminished correlative strength relative to shoulder function PROMs. WC patients also demonstrated relative floor effects for Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (SANE; 18.8%) and Constant-Murley (15.6%) and relative ceiling effects for the BriefResilience Scale (53.1%), Short Form 12 Mental Component Score (50%), and Veterans Rand 12 Mental Component Score (53.1%) and were more likely to report the minimum SANE score (P < .01) and the maximum Brief Resilience Scale score (P < .01). No absolute or relative floor/ceiling effects for the PROMIS UE CAT were found. Compared with a non-WC cohort, WC patients have significantly lower preoperative PROMIS UE CAT scores, are more likely to report the absolute minimum and maximum scores for various PROMs, and demonstrated relative floor and ceiling effects for PROMs assessing mental health. The absence of significant floor/ceiling effects for the PROMIS UE CAT may suggest improved outcome discrimination and may support the adoption of PROMIS UE for the assessment of functional status in WC patients with rotator cuff pathology. Level III, retrospective comparative trial.

Intra-Articular Laser Treatment Plus Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Significantly Reduces Pain in Many Patients Who Had Failed Prior PRP Treatment.

Background: In our practice, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections effectively reduce pain in most, but not all, arthritic patients. When PRP treatment fails, joint replacement surgery is often the only good alternative. Surface Low-Level-Laser-Therapy (LLLT) has not been helpful for osteoarthrosis in our experience. We hypothesized that intra-articular laser (IAL) treatment combined with PRP would improve results in patients with prior ineffective PRP treatment. Methods: We offered Intra-articular Low-Level-Laser-Therapy (IAL) treatment simultaneously with repeat PRP injection to patients who had received no benefit from PRP alone. They were the treatment and also historical control group since all had failed PRP treatment alone. Thirty joints were treated: 22 knees, 4 hips, 2 shoulder glenohumeral joints and 2 first carpo-metacarpal (1st CMC). Results: No adverse events were seen at any time after treatment in any patient. Twenty-eight joints were available for re-evaluation: ≥ 40% improvement was seen in 46% (6 months), 32% (12 months) and 32% (24 months) post-treatment. Mean SANE scores improved significantly at 1 and 2 years. Thirteen patients failed treatment and had joint replacement. Conclusions: PRP with IAL allowed avoidance of surgery and good pain control at least two years post-treatment in nearly half of patients who had failed PRP treatment alone.

Surgical Decompression for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Adolescent Patients

Objectives: Thoracic outlet syndrome represents a complex combination of symptoms in the upper extremity that occurs due to compression of the neurovascular structures of the thoracic outlet or subcoracoid space. It can be seen in overhead athletes and is commonly misdiagnosed as other shoulder pathology. This study seeks to highlight patient characteristics, intraoperative findings, and both short term and long term outcomes of thoracic outlet decompression in the adolescent population as well as a comparison of outcomes by mechanism of injury including athletes. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of patients between the ages of 13 and 21 with a clinical diagnosis of TOS that were treated surgically by a single surgeon between 2000 and 2015. Data points including preoperative patient characteristics and intraoperative findings were collected. In addition, patient reported outcome scores including quickDASH, CBSQ, VAS, and SANE were obtained for a cohort of patients with long-term follow up ranging from 2 to 15 years. Results: The study population consisted of 54 adolescents (61 extremities) aged 13-21 at the time of presentation. There was a 3:1 female to male ratio. Patients saw an average of 2.08 other healthcare providers before referral to our institution. The most common surgical procedures included neurolysis of the brachial plexus (60; 98.4%), anterior scalenectomy (59; 96.7%), middle scalenectomy (54; 88.5%), excision of the first rib (28; 45.9%), excision of cervical rib (5; 8.2%), and subclavian artery manipulation (50, 81.9%). A second incision in the subcoracoid space was utilized in 28 (45.9%) extremities for exploration of the infraclavicular brachial plexus with release of the coracocostal ligament in 26 of these 28 patients (92.9%). Long-term follow-up data, including patient reported outcomes, was collected for 24/54 patients (44%). In this patient subset, the average follow-up was 69.5 months and ranged from 24 months to 180 months. The average preoperative VAS was recorded at 8.2 with an average postoperative VAS of 2.0, showing an improvement of 6.2 points. The average preoperative SANE score was 28.9 and the average postoperative SANE score was 85.4 with an improvement in 56.5. The average postoperative quickDASH score was 11.4. The average postoperative CBSQ score was 27.4 . The average postoperative NTOS Index score was 17.2. Subgroup analysis was performed analyzing patients having a first rib excision versus patients where their first rib was left intact. There was no difference regarding clinical outcome measures in these groups including CBSQ, VAS, SANE score, quick DASH and NTOS index. An additional subgroup analysis was performed comparing mechanism of injury including overuse from sports, trauma, and idiopathic causes. There was also no difference regarding clinical outcome measures in these groups including CBSQ, VAS, SANE score, quick DASH and NTOS index. Conclusion: We found no difference in clinical outcome scores in patients treated with rib resection versus patients with the first rib left intact. We also found no difference in outcomes with respect to mechanism of injury including overhead sports athletes. Overall, patients did well long-term after decompression of the thoracic outlet. Thoracic outlet syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of athletes with upper extremity pain especially if they have neurologic findings.

Postoperative Recovery Comparisons of Arthroscopic Bankart to Open Latarjet for the Treatment of Anterior Glenohumeral Instability

Objectives: Recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability is a disabling pathology that can be successfully treated by arthroscopic Bankart repair or an open Latarjet procedure. Long-term outcomes have shown lower rates of apprehension, recurrent dislocation and operative revision following Latarjet when compared to Bankart repair. However, there is a paucity of studies comparing the short-term post-operative recovery of arthroscopic Bankart versus open Latarjet. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the post-operative recovery following Bankart and the open Latarjet procedure. Methods: The surgical outcomes system (SOS) database (Arthrex Inc., Naples, FL) was used to compare the post-operative recovery outcomes after either a primary or revision arthroscopic Bankart and an open Latarjet procedure. Patients were included who had a minimum of 1 year follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative (2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 year) time points were evaluated. Outcomes measures included Visual Analog Pain Scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Shoulder Function Score, ASES Shoulder Index Score, and SANE Score. Overall, 787 patients underwent primary Bankart (518 male, 240 female, 4 not recorded), 36 underwent revision Bankart (24 male, 10 female, 2 not recorded) and 75 underwent an open Latarjet procedure (59 male, 12 female, 4 not recorded). The mean age for primary Bankart, revision Bankart, and open Latarjet was 40.8, 38.6 and 32.8 respectively. Additionally, the average BMI for primary Bankart, revision Bankart, and open Latarjet was 27.2, 28.13, and 25.6, respectively. Results: The postoperative recovery curves are displayed in Figure 1. When compared to primary Bankart, open Latarjet demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores at six weeks (p=0.0272) and at three months (p=0.0094). Medium term outcomes for ASES Shoulder Index Score, ASES Shoulder Function Score, and SANE Score, at 1- and 2-years showed no difference between primary Bankart and Latarjet. For the revision Bankart and open Latarjet procedures, the open Latarjet cohort demonstrated significantly higher ASES Shoulder Index Scores at the 3-months (p= 0.0017), 1-year (p= 0.0021), and 2-years (p= 0.0006) timepoints. Open Latarjet patients also had significantly higher ASES Shoulder Function Scores than revision Bankart at 3-months (p= 0.0162), 1-year (p= 0.0083), and 2-years (p= 0.0013). Revision Bankart repair resulted in significantly higher VAS scores than open Latarjet at 2-weeks (p= 0.0025), 6-weeks (p=0.0114), 3-months (p= 0.0024), 1-year (p= 0.0039), and 2-years (p= 0.0007). Conclusion: When compared to Bankart repair, open Latarjet provides improved pain and functional outcomes during the early recovery phase, 2-weeks, 6-weeks, 3-months, and 6-months, with equivalent medium-term outcomes at 1-2-years. Furthermore, when compared to revision Bankart reconstruction, open Latarjet provides improved ASES Shoulder Index Scores, ASES Shoulder Function Scores and VAS Scores at nearly all timepoints. In the treatment of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability, open Latarjet is reasonable option in the primary setting and should be favored over Bankart repair for revision cases with improved pain relief and functional scores.

Quadriceps Tendon Autografts Have A Lower Early Graft Failure Rate Than Hamstring Tendon Autografts When Performing Transphyseal ACL Reconstructions

Objectives: It is unclear what the optimal graft choice is for performing a transphyseal ACL reconstruction in a skeletally immature patient. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate outcomes and complications of skeletally immature patients undergoing an ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon autograft versus quadriceps tendon autograft. Methods: Between 2012 and 2016, 104 skeletally immature patients from a single institution underwent a primary transphyseal ACL reconstruction with either quadriceps tendon autograft or hamstring tendon autograft based on surgeon preference. Patient demographic, injury, radiographic, and surgical variables were documented. Outcome measures included Lysholm score, SANE score, pain score, satisfaction, return to sport, and complications such as graft tears and physeal abnormalities. Results: Ninety patients (87%) including 62 hamstring tendon reconstructions and 28 quadriceps tendon reconstructions were available for a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The mean age of the patients was 14.8±1.3 years. No differences in chronologic age, bone age, gender, patient size, or mechanism of injury were noted between patient groups. There were no differences in surgical variables except the quadriceps tendon grafts were larger than the hamstring tendon grafts (9.6 mm vs 7.8 mm; p&lt;0.001). Patient outcomes at a mean follow-up of 2.8 years revealed no differences based graft type with a mean Lysholm score, SANE score, pain score, satisfaction, and Tegner score were 95, 91, 0.8, 9.3, and 6.9 respectively. While there were no physeal complications in either group, patients undergoing a hamstring tendon autograft reconstruction were more likely to tear their graft (19% vs 0%; p= 0.01). Conclusion: Skeletally immature patients undergoing an ACL reconstruction can be successfully managed with either a quadriceps tendon autograft or a hamstring tendon autograft with good short-term outcomes, relatively high rates of return to sport, and low rates of physeal abnormalities. The primary differences between grafts were that the quadriceps tendon grafts were larger and were associated with a lower retear rate. Although a relatively new graft source for skeletally immature ACL reconstructions, the quadriceps tendon is not only a viable graft option, but it may be superior to the hamstrings tendon when it comes to early graft failures.

Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction with and without Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy

Objectives: The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the primary soft-tissue restraint against lateral patellar displacement. Surgery to address MPFL incompetence is the current gold standard for recurrent patellofemoral instability. The role of tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) as an adjunct to MPFL reconstruction remains controversial. Our purpose was to evaluate a cohort of patella instability patients undergoing surgical soft tissue stabilization with or without concomitant TTO. Our hypothesis was that there would be no difference between cohorts in baseline values, subjective outcome scores at final follow-up, or complication profile. Methods: Following IRB approval, retrospective review of prospectively collected data identified a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing soft tissue stabilization for recurrent patella instability, with or without concomitant TTO. Indications for TTO were at the surgeon’s discretion, including elevated TT-TG, Caton-Deschamps ratio, and/or unloading chondral lesion(s). Surgery was performed by a single sports fellowship trained surgeon. Pre-surgical and post-surgical patient reported outcomes were collected including KOOS domains, PROMIS (global health, mental health, physical function, pain interference), IKDC, SANE, and Marx scores. Complications requiring re-operation (infection, stiffness, recurrent instability) were recorded. Results were analyzed statistically. Results: The cohort was comprised of 87 patients (95 knees), with 25 males (28.7%) and 62 females (71.3%). The MPFL-TTO cohort had 32 patients (38 knees) and the MPFL-Iso had 55 patients (57 knees). The average age of the MPFL-TTO cohort was 28.3 (range 19.5-44.6) and the average age of the MPFL-Iso group was 29.8 (18.7-55.3). There was no significant difference in pre-operation outcome scores between groups (p&gt;.05). Significant improvements were seen for all KOOS domains in both patient cohorts with no significant differences detected between groups. SANE, IKDC, and PROMIS scores improved significantly with no differences detected between groups. Marx activity score at 6 months post-operatively was significantly different between the groups favoring the isolate MPFL reconstruction cohort. (MPFL-TTO 0.79 +/- 2.15 vs. 4.61 +/- 5.44 in the MPFL-Iso group (p=0.01)). In terms of complications, 4 knees in the MPFL-TTO group required further surgery (2 for stiffness, 1 for infection, and 1 for fracture) and 6 knees in the MPFL-Iso cohort required surgery (4 for stiffness, 1 for infection, and 1 for recurrent instability). Neither the overall complication rate of 4 vs. 6 (p=1) nor the recurrent instability rate of 0 vs. 1 (p=0.41) was significant. Conclusion: In a cohort of patients undergoing MPFL reconstruction, the addition of an appropriately indicated TTO appears to be both safe and effective. Both MPFL-TTO and MPFL-Iso groups demonstrated significant improvement in the majority of subjective outcome scores without major difference between groups. Marx activity scores were higher for the isolated MPFL reconstruction cohort at relatively short term follow-up. The surgical complication profile was similar between groups. Further work is needed to clearly define the role of TTO as an adjunct procedure to MPFL reconstruction.

Reconstruction of Acute Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Dislocations with or without Tendon Graft: a Retrospective Comparative Study.

Reconstructions of acute acromioclavicular (AC) dislocations have been thought to result in superior outcomes than chronic dislocations. The use of tendon graft in reconstructions has demonstrated favorable biomechanical properties. To determine whether utilizing tendon graft during repair of acute AC dislocations results in superior outcomes and lower complication rate. A retrospective review of AC reconstructions was conducted. Reconstructions performed within 3 weeks of injury were included. Inclusion criteria included age over 18, grade 3-5 AC joint separation, and no previous ipsilateral shoulder injury. Primary outcome measure was radiographic loss of reduction. Secondary outcomes included ASES and SANE scores. Of 47 reconstructions of acute AC joint separations, 35 utilized fixation without a tendon graft, while 12 underwent an anatomic reconstruction with tendon graft. Repairs without the use of graft resulted in 8 (23%) cases of loss of reduction, while tendon graft augmented repairs resulted in 5 (42%). This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.22). No patients required reoperation. There was no statistical difference in the ASES and SANE scores between the two groups. Furthermore, we found no significant difference in ASES or SANE scores in patients who maintained reduction postoperatively versus those that lost reduction. A greater but not statistically significant rate of loss of reduction was observed in the group reconstructed with the use of a tendon graft. Further research is needed to determine whether the use of tendon graft is beneficial in the treatment of acute AC joint separations. IV.

Return to Duty Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Unstable Ankle Fractures in the Active Duty Population.

Literature on functional outcomes after ankle surgery is for the most part limited to return to sport studies. The purpose of this study was to determine occupational and functional outcomes following operative treatment of unstable ankle fractures in the active duty military population. All ankle fractures treated with open reduction internal fixation at a single institution from 2013 to 2015 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included active duty personnel with a single-sided injury requiring operative management. All patients had a minimum of 6 months follow-up. Forty-seven records were reviewed with 43 patients fitting these criteria. Patients were predominantly male (91%) with an average age of 26 years at the time of fracture. Functional outcomes were evaluated using AOFAS and SANE scores. Occupational outcomes were determined in reference to a service member's ability to return to full duty. Of the 43 subjects, 81% (n = 35) returned to active duty. Of the eight individuals who did not return to active duty, six were medically boarded out of the military. Looking at demographic, surgical, and functional variables, only the SANE and AFAOS scores functional outcomes showed a significant correlation with individual return to duty. Individuals who reported less pain and increased functional outcomes had increased return to duty rates. This study sought to determine predictors for return to duty within an active duty military population after ORIF of unstable ankle fractures. Given the paucity of military literature on this subject, the end goal was to provide realistic recovery expectations for both injured service members and their command teams. Overall, 81% of patients were able to return to active duty following operative treatment of unstable ankle fractures. There were no associations found between age, gender, military rank, or fracture patterns and return to duty.

Postoperative mobilization after Rotator Cuff Repair: Sling versus nothing. A randomized prospective study

Introduction Early-motion rehabilitation protocols after rotator cuff repair, gradually gained acceptance as they result in greater postoperative range of motion, pain relief, reduced stiffness, and earlier return to activities, compared to delayed motion rehabilitation. Negative impacts of early immobilization are unavoidable, and immobilization braces impair gait and cause falls, as well as adverse cardiovascular effects, especially when malpositionned. Methods We randomized 80 consecutive patients undergoing arthroscopic superior cuff repair (RCR) for small supraspinatus tears (> 3 cm) into 2 equal groups: no sling and sling-wearing groups. Patients in the sling-wearing group were asked to wear a sling for the first 4 postoperative weeks, while patients in the other group wore no brace. The latter group was asked not to perform active abduction. Overhead active-assisted mobilization was performed in both groups during the first 4 postoperative weeks followed by a progressive active mobilization. After surgery, patients were evaluated clinically at 1.5, 3 and 6 months, and using ultrasound at 6 months. Results Preoperative patient characteristics and function were not statistically different between the two groups. Patients without sling showed greater postoperative mobility at 6 weeks (active elevation (AE) 110.1 ± 31.9 vs. 97.0 ± 25.0; external rotation (ER) 23.5 ± 15.6 vs. 15.3 ± 14.6) and at 3 months of follow-up (AE, 139.0 ± 24.7 vs. 125.8 ± 24.4; internal rotation (IR) ?T12, 50% vs 27.5 %), compared to patients with sling. At 6 months, patients that wore slings reported lower VAS pain (0.8 ± 1.1 vs. 1.5 ± 1.6) as well as better SANE score (85.8 ± 10.7 vs. 79.4 ± 11.6) compared to patients that wore slings. No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding postoperative ASES, bursitis, tendon healing or repair integrity. Discussion and conclusion Absence of postoperative sling after rotator cuff repair was associated with better postoperative outcomes, greater mobility, and lower pain.

Clinical and radiological effects of platelet-rich plasma on interstitial supraspinatus lesion: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

Aim To assess effectiveness of ultra-sound guided platelet-rich plasma infiltrations (PRP) on the supraspinatus interstitial tear healing. Background Symptomatic interstitial superior rotator cuff tear management remains challenging, as conservative management is rarely fully effective, and surgical management requires a long recovery period of 6 months. PRP infiltration might thus represent a valuable alternative. Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial involving 80 patients suffering from a symptomatic isolated supraspinatus tendon interstitial tear. Patients received two intratendinous injections separated by 1 month, of either PRP (n = 41) or saline solution (n = 39). The primary outcome was tear size evolution, measured on magnetic-resonance arthrogram performed at baseline and at month 7. Results The tendon tear volume did not change between groups : 0 mm3 (range : −84 to +41) for PRP group and 9.8 mm3 (range : −264 to +270 mm3) for saline group (P = 0.175). Comparison between baseline and month 7 on the whole cohort showed a statistically significant decrease in median lesion size from 29 mm3 (range : 4–301) to 19 mm3 (range : 0–292) (P = 0.0293), and a significant improvement for all the clinical scores (VAS, SANE, Constant, and ASES scores) (P > 0.001). There were no between-group significant differences with respect to the clinical scores evolution. Main side effects identified were present on 26/80 patients (PRP : 18/41 ; control : 8/39 ; P = 0.0256), and consisted of : significant pain following injections (PRP : 11/41 ; control : 6/39), frozen shoulder (PRP : 8/41 ; control : 3/39), development of bursal- or articular-tear pattern at month 7 (PRP : 4/41 ; control : 1/39). Nine patients had to benefit a surgical rotator cuff repair after month 7 (PRP : 7/41 ; control : 2/40 ; P = 0.182). Conclusions PRP was not superior to saline injection regarding supraspinatus interstitial tear healing and clinical outcomes improvement. We observed a clinical and radiological improvement on the merged PRP and placebo groups between months 0 and 7. More side effects were observed on the PRP group. The potential costs of two PRP infiltrations are estimated as EURO 1100.

Short-Term Results of the DePuy Global Unite Platform Shoulder System: A Two-Year Outcome Study.

The Global Unite Shoulder System is the next generation of implant from the Depuy Global Shoulder line. The primary feature of the Global Unite is adaptability through the interchangeable modular bodies, modular suture collars, and stems. Short-term functional and radiographic outcomes of the Global Unite Platform Shoulder System were assessed as well as complication and revision rates. 95 subjects were enrolled prospectively between 2013 and 2015 that underwent anatomic or reverse shoulder arthroplasty utilizing the DePuy Global Unite Anatomic Platform Shoulder System. Functional outcome data (ASES and SANE) as well as radiographic data was collected on these patients pre-operatively, and at 6 months, 1 year and 2 years post-operatively. The cohort consisted of 97 shoulders in 95 patients of which 54 (56.8%) are males and 41 (43.2%) are female. There were 55/97 (56.7%) were primary anatomic total shoulder arthroplasties, 37/97 (38.1%) primary reverse shoulder arthroplasties, and 3/97 (3.1%) revision procedures to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Outcome scores demonstrated an increase in ASES score from a mean of 33.00 to 79.56 and SANE score of 21.30 to 84.08. The Depuy Global Unite shoulder system demonstrated very good short-term results in this two-year outcome study. Functional outcome scores are similar to current literature for anatomic and reverse primary cases. Radiographic measures at two years are promising with only 2 cases of grade 1 scapular notching and one case of grade 2 scapular notching. Overall the Depuy Global Unite is a versatile shoulder system with very good early outcomes.

SCAPULAR SUBSTITUTION AFTER ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR CORRELATES WITH POSTOPERATIVE PATIENT OUTCOME

Scapular substitution is an alteration of scapulohumeral kinematics that may occur when patients have shoulder pain or dysfunction. These abnormal scapular kinematic patterns have been recognized in patients with rotator cuff tears. It remains unknown if 1) normal scapular kinematics can be restored with rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair surgery and 2) abnormal scapular kinematics are associated with inferior patient-determined outcome scores, range of motion, or strength. The purpose of this study was to determine 1) if scapular substitution can be decreased or improved with rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair surgery and 2) if the presence or amount of scapular substitution was correlated with patient-determined outcome scores, range of motion, or strength after rotator cuff repair surgery. Retrospective review of prospectively collected data (LOE IV). Forty-eight patients who underwent post-operative rehabilitation after an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were reviewed for this study. The outcomes measures of interest included: patient-determined outcome scores (WORC, Simple Shoulder Test, the ASES Score, the Shoulder Activity Score, and the SANE rating), identification and quantification of scapular substitution, active range of motion, and strength. Outcomes were prospectively collected up to 12 months after surgery and assessed retrospectively. As patients progress through their first year of rehabilitation from a rotator cuff repair, the amount of scapular substitution decreases but remains statistically significantly greater than the contralateral, asymptomatic side. At all post-operative time points, patients with scapular substitution, (determined subjectively by a physical therapist), had 1) inferior WORC, ASES, SANE, and SST scores, 2) inferior flexion, abduction, and external rotation range of motion, and 3) inferior scaption strength compared to those patients without subjective scapular substitution. Rehabilitation decreases but does not normalize the amount of scapular substitution up to one year after rotator cuff repair. Subjective identification of scapular substitution is associated with inferior patient-determined outcome scores, range of motion, and strength. 4 - Prognosis study.

Treatment of Type Two Slap Lesion With Anatomic Suture Anchor Repair Without Biceps Tenotomy Or Tenodesis.

Background:Poor results after repair of type 2 SLAP tears are relatively common and some have reported better results after biceps tenodesis or tenotomy than repair. In addition, some believe that the long head of the biceps is expendable. Therefore, many now favor biceps tenotomy or tenodesis over biceps anchor repair either in all patients or in older patients, reserving SLAP lesion repair only for young athletes.Hypothesis:We hypothesized that repair of the biceps anchor of the labrum would be effective in all patients regardless of age provided that care was taken not to overtighten the labrum and that rotator cuff pain as the primary pain generator had been ruled out.Methods:All patients with type 2 SLAP lesion repair by the senior author since he began repairing them with suture anchors were prospectively evaluated. Patients with more than one other concomitant procedure, simultaneous rotator cuff repair or worker’s compensation status were excluded.Results:77% of patients were available for minimum two year followup. No patient had subsequent surgery or manipulation under anesthesis as a result of their SLAP repair. Standardized shoulder test score increased by 4 points. Mean SANE score decreased from 53 pre-op to 14 post-op. Results were the same in those over versus under 40 years of age.Conclusion:Anatomic repair of Type 2 SLAP lesions at the biceps anchor without biceps tenodesis or tenotomy can produce good results in patients of all ages.

Minimum Five-Year Outcomes and Clinical Survivorship Following Arthroscopic Double-Row Repair for Full-thickness Supraspinatus Tears

Objectives:Rotator cuff tears lead to significant morbidity due to pain and decreased function. Despite the prevalence of cuff repairs, mid-term outcomes have been scarcely reported. The purpose of this study is to report minimum 5-year outcomes and clinical survivorship after double-row rotator cuff repair for full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears.Methods:Patients at least five years out from arthroscopic double-row repair for a full-thickness cuff tear involving the supraspinatus tendon were included. Pre- and postoperative ASES, SF-12 PCS, QuickDASH, SANE, and satisfaction scores were collected. The relationship between outcomes and (1) tear chronicity, (2) number of tendons involved, (3) type of repair, and (4) primary versus revision procedure, was also evaluated. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis was conducted defining failures as progression to revision rotator cuff surgery.Results:From November 2005 to February 2012, a total of 189 shoulders were eligible for inclusion. Fifteen shoulders (7.9%) underwent revision rotator cuff repair and were considered failures. Outcomes data were reported at a mean follow-up of 6.6 (range, 5.0-11.0) years. All outcome scores significantly improved from pre- to postoperative time point, including mean ASES (57.9 to 92.9, P < 0.001), SF-12 PCS (43.4 to 52.0, P < 0.001), QuickDASH (35.2 to 10.5, P < 0.001), and SANE scores (61.5 to 86.5, P < 0.001). Acute tears demonstrated significantly better ASES and SANE scores than chronic tears (ASES 95.1 ± 8.9 versus 91.7 ± 11.2, P = 0.025; SANE 89.6 ± 19.9 versus 85.7 ± 21.3, P = 0.042). No other analyzed variable had a significant association with outcomes scores (P > 0.05). Survivorship analysis demonstrated a postoperative clinical survivorship of the repair of 96.5% at two years and 93.8% at five years (Figure 1).Conclusion:Patients can expect excellent clinical outcomes and a low failure rate following arthroscopic double-row repair of full-thickness supraspinatus tears at mid-term follow-up. The repair of acute tears and primary repairs were associated with better postoperative outcomes.

A novel remaining tendon preserving repair technique leads to improved outcomes in special rotator cuff tear patterns.

The purpose of this study was to identify the tear pattern that could be anatomically repaired by preserving the remaining tendon on footprint and evaluate clinical outcomes of patients who underwent remaining tendon preserving cuff repair. Of 523 patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears who underwent arthroscopic repair, 41 (7.8%) patients had repairable rotator cuff tear while preserving the remaining tendon. Among them, 31 patients were followed-up for more than 2years, including 26 patients with posterior L-shaped tear and 5 patients with transtendinous tear patterns. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using ASES and Constant score, SANE score for patient satisfaction, and VAS for pain. MRI was taken for tendon integrity 6months postoperatively. Of the 31 patients, 11 (35.5%) had previous injury history before rotator cuff tear, including 7 (26.9%) of the 26 patients with posterior L-shaped tear and 4 (80%) of the 5 patients with transtendinous tear. The average size of preoperative cuff tear was 17.8 ± 6.8mm in anterior-to-posterior direction and 15.2 ± 5.1mm in medial-to-lateral direction. ASES and Constant score, SANE score, and VAS for pain were significantly (p < 0.001) improved after remaining tendon preserving rotator cuff repair. Rotator cuff tendons of 22(84.6%) patients with posterior L-shaped tear and 4(80%) patients with transtendinous tear patterns were healed. Patients who underwent rotator cuff repair with preservation of the remaining tendon on the footprint obtained satisfactory functional outcomes. Rotator cuff tears in patients who had posterior L-shaped tear extending between supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons or transtendinous tear pattern with substantial remaining tendon could be repaired using remaining tendon preserving repair technique. Anatomic reduction of torn cuff tendon without undue tension could be achieved using the remaining tendon preserving repair technique.

Medial meniscal and chondral pathology at the time of revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction results in inferior mid-term patient-reported outcomes.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are frequently not isolated injuries and damage to the menisci and articular cartilage surfaces is common. The concomitant presence of meniscal and chondral damage has the potential to influence patient outcomes following ACL reconstruction surgery and especially following revision ACL reconstruction where these findings are more common. However, study results regarding the mid-term outcome have been inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to compare mid-term patient-reported outcomes and return to sport in patients with and without meniscal and chondral pathology at the time of revision ACL reconstruction surgery. A cohort of 180 patients (131 males, 49 female) with a mean age of 25.3 (SD 7.8) years participated at an average follow-up time of 4.6 (SD 1.3) years after revision ACL reconstruction surgery. All patients completed the IKDC Subjective, Marx Activity, KOOS-Quality of Life (QOL) and Single Numerical Assessment (SANE) scores. In addition, patients were asked to indicate the highest level of sport to which they had returned following their revision surgery. Any further injuries to either knee were also documented. Patients were grouped according to whether or not they had medial or lateral meniscal pathology at the time of revision surgery; and whether or not they had > 50% depth chondral damage (ICRS 3 or 4). All outcomes were compared between these groupings. Patients with medial meniscal pathology had significantly lower Marx, KOOS-QOL and SANE scores than patients without. There were no differences in any outcome score between patients with and without lateral meniscal pathology. Patients with ICRS 3 or 4 chondral pathology had significantly lower scores on all patient-reported outcomes as well as a lower rate of return to the same level of pre-injury sport. The presence of more severe chondral damage at the time of revision ACL reconstruction has a negative impact on functional outcomes, activity levels and return to sport rates. In addition, the presence of medial meniscal pathology was associated with significantly lower functional and quality of life scores than patients without pathology. These findings provide important clinically relevant data on the outcomes following revision ACL reconstruction with concomitant chondral and meniscal injury. III.

Do functional outcomes and cuff integrity correlate after single- versus double-row rotator cuff repair? A systematic review and meta-analysis study

The purpose of this study is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of all available level I prospective randomized controlled trials comparing arthroscopic single-row (SR) with double-row (DR) rotator cuff repairs by both clinical outcomes and radiological re-tear rates. PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases search was done for level I RCTs comparing clinical and radiological outcomes after SR versus DR rotator cuff repair. Clinical outcomes included UCLA, ASES, Constant, WORC, and SANE scores; structural outcomes included MRI, MRA, or US. Seven level I studies were included (5 mid-term and 2 short-term). Postoperative ASES, Constant, WORC, and SANE scores showed nonsignificant slightly better function of DR groups. Only, UCLA score showed significantly better scores with DR repair (p=0.007). Full-thickness re-tear incidence was reported in 15/174 (8.6%) in DR group and 20/175 (11.4%) in SR group (p=0.44). Partial-thickness re-tear rate was reported in 18/174 patients (10.3%) in DR group and 41/175 patients (23.4%) in SR group (p=0.009). Within the domain of level I mid-term and short-term studies, DR repair showed significant better UCLA score only. (ASES, Constant, WORC, and SANE scores showed no significance.) This may correlate weakly with the significant lower partial-thickness re-tear rates of DR repairs. In contrary, long-term level III studies showed a direct correlation of both functional outcomes and cuff structural integrity, with significant superiority of DR over SR repair techniques. Level 1, systematic review and meta-analysis.

Preliminary Results of Arthroscopic Superior Capsule Reconstruction with Dermal Allograft

Superior capsule reconstruction with dermal allograft provides functional outcome and patient satisfaction in the majority of cases at short-term follow-up. Superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) with fascia lata autograft has been proposed as a joint-preserving solution for irreparable massive rotator cuff tears (MRCT). Dermal allograft limits donor-site morbidity, has been used previously in augmentation of rotator cuff repairs, and has been used clinically for SCR. However, no studies have reported on the outcomes of arthroscopic SCR with dermal allograft. Our purpose was to evaluate the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic SCR with dermal allograft. A multi-center prospective study was performed on patients undergoing arthroscopic SCR for irreparable MRCTs. The minimum follow-up was 1 year. Range of motion and functional outcome according to VAS pain, ASES score, and SANE score were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Radiographs were used to evaluate the acromiohumeral distance (AHD). 31 patients with a mean age of 61.7 years had a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Fourteen patients (45.2%) had a prior rotator cuff repair. Forward flexion improved from 129° preoperatively to 156° postoperatively, and external rotation improved from 32° to 43° respectively (p < .05). Compared to preoperative values, VAS decreased from 5.7 to 1.5, the ASES score improved from 44.9 to 83.0, and SANE score improved from 35.8 to 76.5 (p < .05). The AHD was 6.6 mm at baseline, and improved to 7.3 mm at the 2 weeks postoperative. Twenty-three patients (74.2%) were satisfied with the procedure. Five patients (16.1%) underwent a revision procedure including 3 reverse shoulder arthroplasties. Arthroscopic SCR using dermal allograft provides functional improvement and patient satisfaction in the majority of cases. The preliminary results of this joint-preserving technique are encouraging in an otherwise difficult to manage patient population. However, further study is needed to examine the long-term outcome and need for secondary procedures, and evaluate the learning curve of the procedure as these results represent our initial patients.

OCA Transplantation Outcomes for Replacing Large Bipolar Defects in the Knee using Novel Techniques

Objectives:Osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation can functionally restore large articular cartilage defects in the knee, shoulder, hip and ankle. Studies have reported 10-year survivorship between 71% and 85% and up to 74% survivorship at 15 years. Outcomes after OCA treatment have been good to excellent, even in the athletic population in which 88% of patients returned to sport, including 79% returning to preinjury level of sport. However, OCA transplantations for bipolar defects in the knee have traditionally had less favorable results. With the advent of improved allograft preservation methods and refined surgical techniques, OCA transplantations for bipolar defects in the knee have shown a trend toward better outcomes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to report early functional outcomes associated with OCA transplantations to replace large (>4 cm2) bipolar articular cartilage defects in the knee using novel techniques for graft preservation, enhancing bone ingrowth, and implantation.Methods:With IRB approval, patients were enrolled in a dedicated registry for prospective assessment of outcomes after OCA surgery. Demographic and operative data were collected. Outcomes assessments including VAS pain, VAS level of function, IKDC, SANE and PROMIS Mobility are prospectively collected at 6 months and yearly after surgery. All complications and re-operations are recorded. OCA survival is determined based on maintenance of acceptable levels of pain and function and/or need for revision surgery. Data are compared to pre-operative and/or pre-injury levels using repeated measures analyses with significance set at p<0.05.Results:Large bipolar OCA transplantations were performed in 23 knees: femorotibial (n=19), patellofemoral (n=4). Mean age of patients was 34.6 years. Mean pre-operative pain, function, IKDC, SANE and PROMIS Mobility scores were 4.7, 4.1, 40.8, 40.1 and 42.1, respectively. At 6 months postop (n=17), mean scores improved to 1.3, 6, 56.2, 71.8 and 46.1, respectively. At 1 year (n=11), mean scores further improved to 0.4, 8.4, 76.7, 80.6 and 58.4, respectively (Table). Two (8.7%) meniscotibial grafts failed in the first 6 months after surgery and were successfully revised by a second OCA transplantation, making initial survival 91.3%. Five (21.7%) other patients required minor reoperations for lysis of adhesions to restore range of motion and/or screw removal. All subjects are enrolled in the registry and outcomes assessments are ongoing and will be updated for presentation.Conclusion:Bipolar osteochondral allograft transplantation surgeries for treatment of large (>4 cm2) femorotibial or patellofemoral articular cartilage defects in the knee using novel techniques are associated with significant improvements in levels of pain and function at 1 year after surgery.Table – Summary of Outcomes for Large Bipolar OCA Transplantation in Knees Time Point Pain Function IKDC SANE PROMIS Mobility Pre-Operative 4.74.140.840.142.1 6 months 1.3*6.056.271.8*46.1 1 year 0.4*8.4*76.7*80.6*58.4** denotes statistically significant (p<0.05) improvement from pre-op

Arthroscopic Superior Capsule Reconstruction (ASCR) vs Latissimus Dorsi Transfer (LDT): A Comparison of Early Clinical Outcomes

Objectives:Arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (ASCR) has been introduced as an alternative to latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears in young patients. The hypothesis of this study is that preliminary clinical outcomes for SCR patients will not significantly differ from those of LDT patients for irreparable and massive rotator cuff tears.Methods:Patients who underwent either a LDT or an ASCR and were a minimum of 6 months (mean, 12 months) out from surgery were included. In the SCR technique, a 3-mm acellular human dermal allograft was customized to the exact size of the defect. Surgical, objective, and demographic data were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed. Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures included ASES, SANE, QuickDASH, SF-12 and satisfaction scores. Acromiohumeral distance (AHD) was measured and Hamada classification applied. Patients progressing to reverse shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) or patients with a graft disruption were considered failures.Results:34 patients (13 women, 21 men) with a mean age of 52±7.4 years were included in this study. 16 patients underwent SCR reconstruction while 18 patients underwent LDT. Compared to the SCR group, the LDT group was significantly younger (49 years vs. 56 years; p=.006) and had a higher percentage of Workman’s Compensation cases (61% vs. 6%; p=.001). Failure of the repair occurred in one patient in the ASCR group (6.2%), who suffered a graft tear seen on MRI at 141 days postoperatively, and two patients (11%) in the LDT group, both of whom progressed to rTSA. Two additional patients (11%) in the LDT group had subsequent surgery around one-year postoperatively - an arthroscopic cuff repair and hardware removal. In those who did not fail, pain significantly decreased postoperatively in both groups (p<0.05). Only patients who underwent ASCR had a statistically significant functional improvement (p=0.002 vs. p=0.161). Mean change in abduction and flexion were -7.3° and 0.6°, respectively, in the LDT group, compared to 56.0° and 21.7°, respectively, in the ASCR group. At final follow-up, satisfaction was a median 8/10 points in both groups.Conclusion:Patients who underwent ASCR had significantly improved clinical scores and improved range of motion compared to patients who underwent LDT, but longer follow-up is needed.