Shoulder Questionnaire Research Articles

Clinical results of carpal tunnel Re-release revision surgery and synovial wrap for recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome

IntroductionCarpal tunnel syndrome is a challenging condition when conventional carpal tunnel revision surgery fails to alleviate symptoms. This study aims to assess the outcomes of combining carpal tunnel revision surgery with a synovial wrap for cases of recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome in patients who had adhered median nerve, with a minimum 1-year follow-up. Patients and methodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 10 patients (mean age: 73.7 years, nine females and one male) who underwent treatment for recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome. The approach involved carpal tunnel revision surgery coupled with a median nerve synovial wrap. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 1 year. The procedure involved harvesting a 3.5 cm × 4 cm section of the flexor synovial membrane with a distal ulnar pedicle, which was then wrapped around the adherent site of the median nerve. Physical assessments included the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), Tinel sign in the carpal tunnel, thenar muscle atrophy, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test (SW test), manual muscle test (MMT) as assessed on the 5-point British Medical Research Council Scale (5/5, normal; 0/5, absent), and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick DASH) questionnaire. The physical variables were compared before surgery and at final follow-up. ResultsAll patients showed some improvement in SW test. The MMT for the abductor pollicis brevis showed significant improvement at final follow-up (3 for four patients, 4 for four patients, and 5 for two patients) compared to pre-surgery assessments (2 for six patients, 3 for two patients, and 4 for two patients). The mean VAS score and DASH score at final follow-up (13.0 ± 10.3, 19.3 ± 12.7, respectively) were significantly lower than those recorded before surgery (76.5 ± 11.1, 52.4 ± 17.1, respectively). The Tinel sign and the thenar muscle atrophy significantly improved from before surgery to final follow-up. ConclusionCarpal tunnel release with a synovial wrap demonstrated significant improvements in muscle strength, pain relief and function. The synovial wrap method is an effective procedure for treating recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome.

Assessing the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome during physical examination by measuring two-point discrimination: Post-hoc analysis of prospectively collected data

IntroductionCarpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) commonly presents after distal radius fractures. Assessing its degree of severity is essential to therapeutic decision-making - i.e. operative vs. conservative treatment. The role of the two-point discrimination (2PD) has not yet been evaluated as a potential indicator of severity during physical examination. Therefore, in our cross-sectional study, we aimed to find a correlation between 2PD values and disease severity, based on the gold-standard electromyography and electroneurography (EMG-ENG) and ultrasonography findings. MethodsWe conducted a post-hoc analysis of prospectively assessed CTS patients for 2PD values. We analyzed the correlation between 2PD and EMG-ENG measurement results, patient characteristics, nerve ultrasonography, and relevant CTS questionnaires. CTS severity was determined by EMG-ENG results. The Pearson correlation was calculated between variables. ResultsThe study included 81 patients. The three pre-determined EMG-ENG severity categories showed a significant correlation between both 2PD values and 2PD severity categories (r= 0.29 [0.07–0.48] and r= 0.26 [0.03–0.45]). Distal sensory latency and conduction velocity values correlated significantly with 2PD categories. However, the correlation coefficients (r= 0.25 [0.02–0.46] and r=-0.24 [-0.37–0.07]) were low. The 2PD severity categories showed no significant correlation with the severity assessed by nerve ultrasound (r=-0.07 [-0.38–0.25]). The 2PD values showed a significant correlation between the values of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire (r= 0.3 [0.06–0.51]). We concluded that the best cut-off value for differentiating severe from non-severe CTS was at the 9.5 mm 2PD cut-off value (sensitivity = 0.65 [0.45–0.81], specificity = 0.71[0.58–0.82], AUC = 0.71 [0.59–0.83]). ConclusionThere is a significant correlation between 2PD values and the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome as determined by EMG-ENG; however, they are not interchangeable. Based on the results of our study, we propose that measuring two-point discrimination may be a quick and easy, reliable and cost-effective screening method to assess the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome following distal radius fractures.

Clinical, Radiographic, and Biomechanical Evaluation of the Upper Extremity in Patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

Introduction: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a hereditary disorder primarily caused by mutations in type I collagen genes, resulting in bone fragility, deformities, and functional limitations. Studies on upper extremity deformities and associated functional impairments in OI are limited. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate upper extremity deformities and functional outcomes in OI. Methods: We included patients regardless of their OI subtypes with a minimum age of 7 years. Radiographic analysis of radial head dislocation, ossification of the interosseous membrane, and/or radioulnar synostosis of the forearm were performed, and deformity was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Clinical evaluation was performed using the Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (qDASH) questionnaire and shoulder-elbow-wrist range of motion (ROM). Three-dimensional motion analysis of the upper limb was conducted using the Southampton Hand Assessment Procedure (SHAP). The SHAP quantifies execution time through the Linear Index of Function (LIF) and assesses the underlying joint kinematics using the Arm Profile Score (APS). Additionally, the maximum active Range of Motion (aRoM) was measured. Results: Fourteen patients aged 8 to 73 were included. Radiographic findings revealed diverse deformities, including radial head dislocation, interosseous membrane ossification, and radioulnar synostosis. Six patients had mild, six moderate, and two severe deformities of the upper extremity. Severe deformities and radial head dislocation correlated with compromised ROM and worse qDASH scores. The qDASH score ranged from 0 to 37.5 (mean 11.7). APS was increased, and LIF was reduced in OI-affected persons compared with non-affected peers. APS and LIF also varied depending on the severity of bony deformities. aRoM was remarkably reduced for pro-supination. Conclusion: Patients with OI showed variable functional impairment from almost none to severe during daily life activities, mainly depending on the magnitude of deformity in the upper extremity. Larger multicenter studies are needed to confirm the results of this heterogeneous cohort. Level of evidence: Retrospective clinical study; Level IV.

Impact of Exposure to Hand-Held Vibrating Tools on Patient-Reported Outcome Measures after Open Carpal Tunnel Release: A Retrospective Cohort Study with Matched Controls.

Objectives: Vibration exposure is a known risk factor for developing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and insufficient outcomes for surgery for CTS have been reported after such exposure. We aim to investigate whether vibration exposure affects patient-reported outcomes following open carpal tunnel release. Methods: From a population surgically treated for CTS (n = 962), we identified patients who reported previous or present vibration exposure, had undergone preoperative electrophysiology testing and answered the Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire before and at 12 months post-surgery (n = 23). We then matched the patients with controls based on age, sex, diabetes status, type of diabetes and smoking (n = 23). Results: Most of the patients included were men (17/23; 74% in each group) and had a mean age of 61 years. The preoperative electrophysiology results were slightly worse among vibration-exposed individuals, although the differences were not statistically significant. The QuickDASH scores did not differ between the two groups (preoperative QuickDASH scores in vibration-exposed individuals: median 45 [interquartile range; IQR 30-61]; non-exposed individuals: 43 [25-64], p = 0.68; postoperative 12 months QuickDASH score in vibration-exposed individuals: 20 [2-45]; non-exposed individuals: 14 [5-34], p = 0.87). Conclusions: When controlling for known confounders, vibration-exposed individuals can expect the same symptom relief following open carpal tunnel release as non-exposed individuals. Individual assessments and treatment of CTS are warranted if there is a history of vibration exposure.

Intra-articular fracture reduction: a comparative observational study of clinical results after the surgical treatment of distal radius fractures

Purpose: This study compared the outcomes of intra-articular fracture reduction for distal radius fractures. Methods: Among 180 patients who underwent open reduction and plate fixation, the exclusion criteria were as follows: non-acute fracture (>1 month), an accompanying ulnar neck fracture, a distal ulnar fracture requiring fixation, fixation through the dorsal approach, other accompanying hand fractures, the absence of preoperative or postoperative computed tomography (CT), and follow-up for <1 year. Intra-articular fractures were evaluated through CT. Forty-eight patients with intra-articular fractures were studied. Displaced intra-articular fractures were defined as: (1) articular step-off ≥1 mm, (2) fracture gap ≥2 mm, or (3) gross incongruence. Reduction was classified as good (n=23) or poor (n=25) based on postoperative CT. The pain visual analogue scale (pVAS), the quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and range of motion of the wrist joint were compared between both groups.Results: No significant between-group differences were found in the preoperative demographic data and the postoperative pVAS and quick DASH scores (pVAS: 0.6 vs. 0.8 and quick DASH: 9.4 vs. 10.2 in the good vs. poor reduction groups, respectively). However, the flexion-extension arc was significantly restricted in the poor reduction group (162° in the good reduction group vs. 146° in the poor reduction group, p<0.001).Conclusion: The reduction of the articular surface was not related to pain and functional results at the mid-term follow-up after the surgical treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures. However, insufficient fracture reduction affected the postoperative range of motion.

Functional and patient reported outcomes of Pyrocardan implants for carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.

The primary aim of this study was to assess functional and patient reported outcomes among those with first carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis treated with the Pyrocardan implant (Stryker-Wright Medical) in Ireland. The secondary aim of this study was to assess implant survival and revision rates. We conducted a single surgeon retrospective study assessing 40 Pyrocardan arthroplasties among 37 patients, with a minimum of 6months follow-up. Patient reported outcomes were assessed via quick disability of the arm, shoulder and hand (quick DASH) questionnaire, the visual analog score (VAS) for pain, and patient rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) questionnaire. Functional scores were assessed via lateral key pinch strength and Kapandji scores. Implant survival, complication and revision rates were also recorded. Forty Pyrocardan implants among 37 patients were included. Mean follow-up was 2.5years with a 97.5% implant survival rate. One patient underwent revision to trapeziectomy and Weilby sling. Eighty-eight percent of survey responders admitted that they would undergo the operation again, and 75% declared a 75-100% improvement in symptoms. Post-operative pain scores include a mean VAS of 2.07, quickDASH of 22.82, and PRWE of 26.92. Of those tested, there was an average increase in post-operative lateral key pinch, and 89% obtained a post-operative Kapandji score equal to or better than pre-operative scores. This is the first study assessing the Pyrocardan interpositional arthroplasty in Ireland. The implant appears to produce good functional and patient reported outcomes. There is high satisfaction and low revision rate, producing a reliable and successful surgical technique for treating CMC joint osteoarthritis.

Minimally invasive needle tenotomy vs. platelet rich plasma injection in the treatment of chronic elbow epicondylitis

BackgroundMedial and lateral epicondylitis, characterized by repetitive microtraumas to common flexor and extensor tendons respectively, are common causes of elbow pain in adults. Though symptoms generally are self-limiting, 10% of cases are refractory to conservative management, persisting for greater than 18 months and leading to surgery, which can have increased risk of complications. There is minimal data on sustained pain relief and functional benefit for newer non-surgical management options such as minimally invasive needle tenotomy (MINT) via Tenjet and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for chronic elbow epicondylitis. Additionally, no previously established correlation exists between MRI severity of chronic epicondylitis with pain and functional improvement in MINT and PRP-treated patients. MethodsA retrospective review of 51 adults (n=23 for Tenjet; n=28 for PRP) was conducted to investigate long-term outcomes in pain relief (via Visual Analog Scale or VAS) and improvements in upper extremity function (via Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire or qDASH). These outcomes were correlated with radiographic evidence of epicondylitis severity, assessed by grade of epicondylitis and percentage thickness of tendon tears. ResultsThere were significant improvements in pain (VAS) but no significant differences in function (qDASH) following MINT and PRP. On average, VAS score improved by 2.6 (p<0.001) post-Tenjet and by 3.8 (p<0.001) post-PRP, combined for all follow-up time points. No adverse events were reported over the entire study. A significantly higher percentage of patient-reported pain relief was noted post-Tenjet at all follow-up time points. VAS and qDASH outcomes post-Tenjet and post-PRP were not correlated with initial MRI severity of epicondylitis. ConclusionsThere are multifactorial benefits of both Tenjet and PRP as safe, non-open surgical modalities that can be used, despite MRI severity, to provide sustained pain relief for patients with refractory elbow epicondylitis.

Effect of Ergonomic Training and Exercise in Esports Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of exercises given with ergonomics training on sleep, neck, and upper extremity functions in esports players. Fifty professional or amateur esports players were randomly divided into two groups: an exercise group that received exercise and ergonomics training and a control group that received only ergonomics training. The exercise program was applied three days a week for eight weeks. Before and following the study, the participants were evaluated using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (DASH), the Neck Disability Questionnaire (NDI), the Rapid Upper Extremity Assessment (RULA), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Following the implementation of an intervention, there were notable declines in both the NDI and RULA scores in both groups. Conversely, while a reduction in the DASH and PSQI scores was observed in the exercise group, this was not evident in the control group. The decline in NDI and DASH scores in the exercise group following the intervention period was found to be statistically significant when compared to the control group (p &amp;lt; 0.01). The application of physical exercise improving thoracic and shoulder mobility, nerve stretching, and hand/wrist strength and mobility, along with ergonomics training, has been shown to have a positive impact on the neck, upper extremity functions, and sleep quality of the esports players.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine Bone-setting Manipulation for External Humeral Epicondylitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of extracorporeal shock waves combined with traditional Chinese medicine bone-setting manipulation for external humeral epicondylitis. Methods: Ninety-two patients with external humeral epicondylitis were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group. Patients in the control group were treated with extracorporeal shock waves while those in the observation group with traditional Chinese medicine bone-setting manipulation based on the control group. Patients in both groups were evaluated by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (DASH) before and after treatment. The inflammatory factors such as IL-6, IL-10, TNF-ɑ, and clinical outcomes were contrasted before and after treatment. Results: There were statistically significant differences in VAS score, MEPS score, and DASH score between the two groups before and after treatment (p &lt; 0.05). The observation group exhibited a more pronounced improvement in each score compared to the control group. Post-treatment, the inflammatory factors of both groups were significantly lower than pre-treatment levels (p &lt; 0.05), with the observation group showing a more noticeable decrease. The overall effectiveness of the observation group was higher than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The combination of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and traditional Chinese medicine bone-setting manipulation can effectively alleviate pain symptoms and improve dysfunction caused by external humeral epicondylitis, while also reducing inflammatory factor expression. This combined treatment may prove more effective than extracorporeal shock wave therapy alone. Clinical Trial: Registration: ChiCTR2200066075.

Perilunate Fracture-Dislocation: Results at Mean Follow-Up of 7 Years after ORIF.

Background: Perilunate fracture-dislocations are frequently associated with a high risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis. Current studies indicate that during mid-term follow-ups, radiological signs of arthritis do not appear to correspond with functional score. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of posttraumatic arthritis and the wrist function after perilunate dislocations (PLD) and fracture dislocations at a mid-term follow-up of 7 years. Methods: We report the clinical and radiological outcomes of 17 wrists treated for PLD or fracture-dislocation by open reduction and internal fixation through a dorsal approach with dorsal ligament repair. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the short version of the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH), the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation questionnaire (PRWE) and the Mayo Wrist Score (MWS). Results of radiographs were assessed using the Herzberg Radiological Scoring Chart. Results: The MWS showed five excellent, five good, five fair and two poor results with an average score of 81%. Radiological analysis using the Herzberg classification revealed midcarpal and/or radiocarpal arthritis in 65% of cases, lunate collapse in 59% and an increase in the mean ulnar translocation ratio in 53% of the cases. Complications included one case of lunate osteonecrosis and one case of stage 3 scapholunate advanced collapse that required revision surgery. Conclusions: Although the clinical and functional outcomes are favourable at mid-term follow-up, radiological evaluation shows a progression towards osteoarthritis (OA). Further research is warranted to refine treatment strategies and investigate factors influencing the development of OA. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Algorithm-Guided Treatment of Ulna Impaction Syndrome: A 10-Year Follow-Up Study of Ulna Shortening Osteotomy and Wafer Procedure.

Background: Ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS) is a common degenerative wrist condition which results from positive ulnar variance, leading to an overload on the ulnar carpus. Ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) and the arthroscopic wafer procedure (AWP) are established therapies for UIS if conservative management fails. This study assessed an algorithm-guided treatment of UIS over a period of 10 years. Methods: This prospective observational study compared the outcome of 54 patients who underwent either USO or AWP for UIS based on a predefined treatment algorithm. The mean follow-up period was 10 years. Primary outcome parameters were the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), whereas secondary outcome parameters were grip and pinch strength and range of motion. Results: The median preoperative ulnar variance was 2.6 mm in the USO group and 2.0 mm in the AWP group. The postoperative average ulnar variance was 0 mm in both groups. The preoperative pain at rest was 3.4 in the USO group and 2.3 in the AWP group. One year after surgery, there was a significant reduction to VAS 0.7 and 0.2, respectively. These results persisted to the 10-year follow-up (VAS 0.9 and 0.2). The pain in motion also decreased significantly in the first year (from 6.8 and 6.7 to 2.2 and 2.1), as well as after 10 years (2.4 and 1.0). The preoperative DASH score averaged 31.3 in the USO group and 35.8 in the AWP group. At the 10-year follow-up, the DASH of both groups decreased significantly to 4.35 in the AWP group compared to 12.7 in the USO group. Conclusions: Our data show that, when using our algorithm, both USO and AWP, two common operative treatment options of UIS, reliably reduce pain and significantly reduce the DASH score over at least a period of ten years. The results after 10 years differ from short-term results in so far as after one year, the USO group showed to some degree similar outcome parameters compared to AWP, whereas at the 10-year follow-up, AWP reached slightly better primary outcome parameters. The algorithm presented, thus, produced excellent short- and long-term outcomes. Our findings and the applied algorithm can assist in decision-making and patient education.

Arthroscopic Scaphoid Bone Graft Combined with Percutaneous Fixation versus Open Scaphoid Fixation with Non Vascularized Graft in Scaphoid Non-Union

Abstract Background Consensus about Management of scaphoid nonunion is controversial, many procedures have been described. This study compares between 2 modalities for management of scaphoid nonunion either arthroscopic scaphoid bone grafting from iliac bone combined with percutaneous fixation versus open scaphoid fixation and non-vascularized bone graft from iliac bone in management of scaphoid nonunion to identify if one technique is better as regards union rate, time to union and functional outcome. Patients and Methods A prospective randomized control trial held to recruit the patients between September 2019 and December 2020 between open grafting group (group O) for scaphoid non union (15 patient) and arthroscopic group (group A) ( 15 patients), randomization was done by using computerized random allocation. The mean follow up was 17.2 months(12- 24 months). We evaluated the results as regards union rate, time to union, complications, grip strength functional outcome according to disability of arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire (DASH) score and modified mayo wrist score (MMWS). We analyzed the results by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (SPSS) version 25. Results union rate for group A was 100 % with time to union mean of 9.73 weeks (±2.4 weeks), union rate for group O was 93.33% with time to union mean of11.64 weeks(±1.82 weeks) which was significantly faster to union for group A(p value&amp;lt;0.05) . The open group showed significantly less operative time, the mean operative time was59.2 min±11.01, 90.6min±11.77 for group O and group A respectively. Grip strength, range of motion, VAS, MMWS and DASH score improved post operative for both groups with no statistical difference between them with comparable complication rate. Conclusion arthroscopic grafting technique for scaphoid non unions showed comparable results as regard union rate, complications, range of motion and functional outcomes with significantly faster time to union however, significantly longer operative time.

Upper Limb Function in People With Upper and Lower Limb Loss 8Years Postinjury: The Armed Services Trauma Outcome Study (ADVANCE) Cohort Study.

Upper limb (UL) disability in people with UL loss is well reported in the literature, less so for people with lower limb loss. This study aimed to compare UL disability in injured (major trauma) and uninjured UK military personnel, with particular focus on people with upper and lower limb loss. A volunteer sample of injured (n= 579) and uninjured (n= 566) UK military personnel who served in a combat role in the Afghanistan war were frequency matched on age, sex, service, rank, regiment, role, and deployment period and recruited to the Armed Services Trauma Rehabilitation Outcome (ADVANCE) longitudinal cohort study. Participants completed the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, scored from 0 (no disability) to 100 (maximum disability) 8years postinjury. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compared DASH scores between groups. An ordinal model was used to assess the effect of injury and amputation on DASH scores. DASH scores were higher in the Injured group compared to the Uninjured group (3.33 vs 0.00) and higher in people with lower limb loss compared to the Uninjured group (0.83 vs 0.00), although this was not statistically significant. In the adjusted ordinal model, the odds of having a higher DASH score was 1.70 (95% CI = 1.18-2.47) times higher for people with lower limb loss compared to the Uninjured group. DASH score was not significantly different between people with major and partial UL loss (15.42 vs 12.92). The odds of having a higher DASH score was 8.30 (95% CI = 5.07-13.60) times higher for people with UL loss compared to the Uninjured group. People with lower limb loss have increased odds of having more UL disability than the Uninjured population 8years postinjury. People with major and partial UL loss have similar UL disability. The ADVANCE study will continue to follow this population for the next 20years. For the first time, potential for greater long-term UL disability has been shown in people with lower limb loss, likely resulting from daily biomechanical compensations such as weight-bearing, balance, and power generation. This population may benefit from prophylactic upper limb rehabilitation, strength, and technique.

Superior functional outcome following reverse shoulder arthroplasty compared to hemiarthroplasty for displaced three- and four-part fractures in patients 65 and older: results from a prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial - The shoulder hemiarthroplasty or reverse polarity arthoplasty (SHeRPA) trial

BackgroundAcute unreconstructible 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures can be treated with hemiarthroplasty or reverse polarity shoulder arthroplasty. Randomized trials using implants from multiple different companies or uncemented implants have found superior results with reverse polarity arthroplasty. AimsThis study aims to determine whether cemented reverse polarity arthroplasty produces a superior outcome compared to cemented hemiarthroplasty using one implant system in patients aged 65 years and over at 12 months follow-up as measured with the Constant score. MethodsA prospective patient and assessor blinded multicenter randomized controlled trial was conducted of shoulder hemiarthroplasty or reverse polarity arthroplasty in patients aged 65 years and older with acute 3- and 4-part proximal humerus fracture not amenable to osteosynthesis. The primary outcome was the Constant score at 12 months with total follow-up to 24 months. Block randomization by site was undertaken using random number generation and sealed envelopes. Power analysis indicated that 17 patients were required in each arm to achieve 80% power with an alpha-value of 5%. Secondary outcome measures were the difference in the mean Constant Score, Quick Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (QuickDASH), Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score and EQ5D-5L up to two years; differences in complication rate at one and two years; differences in revision and implant failure at one and two years. Results18 patients were randomized to hemiarthroplasty and 18 to reverse polarity arthroplasty across 4 sites. The primary outcome as measured by the Constant score at 12 months was better in the reverse polarity shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) group (Mean 51.1, s.d. 14.9) compared to the hemiarthroplasty (HA) group (mean 35.0, s.d. 13.5) (p=0.004). No significant difference was reported at 24 months but this may be due to high rates of attrition (22%). The mean EQ-5D-5L patient rated health status score was significantly higher in the RSA group compared to the HA group at 12 months. One hemiarthroplasty was revised due to implant uncoupling and one reverse polarity shoulder replacement was revised due to instability. No other complications were recorded. DiscussionTreatment of unreconstructible 3- or 4-part proximal humerus fractures with reverse polarity shoulder arthroplasty results in a superior outcome compared to shoulder hemiarthroplasty at 12 months measured with the Constant score with no increased risk of failure up to 24 months in patients age 65 years and over. High attrition rates are observed in this older population due to cognitive decline and death from other causes.

Functional outcome Measure of Programme for Scalular Stabilisation Exercise in Rehabilitation of Frozen Shoulder : An Experimental Study

Background: The signs and symptoms of adhesive capsulitis, another name for frozen shoulder, include shoulder joint stiffness and pain. Conventional rehabilitation methods concentrate on enhancing shoulder range of motion and minimizing discomfort. It has been suggested that by enhancing scapular kinematics and muscle activation patterns, scapular stabilization workouts can improve functional outcomes. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the functional outcomes of a scapular stabilization exercise program in individuals receiving rehabilitation for frozen shoulder. Methods: Forty people who had been diagnosed with frozen shoulder participated in a randomized controlled trial. One of two groups the scapular stability exercise Group A or the standard rehabilitation Group B was assigned at random to each participant. The eight-week intervention consisted of five thirty minute sessions, held five times a week. For eight weeks, Group A supplemented their traditional range of motion exercises with scapular stabilization exercises. Sessions lasted thirty minutes, consisted of ten repetitions each, and were conducted five days a week. Group B carried on with just traditional workouts. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale NPRS Goniometry for range of motion tests, and the Disability Associated with the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand DASH questionnaire at the beginning of the experiment. Follow up assessments were carried out after the eight week intervention phase. Results and Conclusion: When compared to the control group, the scapular stabilization group showed better results in terms of reduced discomfort and increased mobility. This implies that adding scapular stabilization exercises to the adhesive capsulitis treatment regimen could result in improved therapeutic outcomes. Larger sample sizes and longer follow up times are required for future study in order to confirm these results and improve adhesive capsulitis patient’s treatment plans.

Total joint arthroplasty for thumb carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint osteoarthritis (OA) is increasingly treated with total joint arthroplasty (TJA). We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the benefits and harms of the TJA for thumb CMC OA compared with other treatment strategies. We performed a systematic search on MEDLINE and CENTRAL databases on August 2, 2023. We included randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of TJA in people with thumb CMC joint OA regardless of the stage or etiology of the disease or comparator. The outcomes were pooled with a random effect meta-analysis. We identified 4 studies randomizing 420 participants to TJA or trapeziectomy. At 3 months, TJA's benefits for pain may exceed the clinically important difference. However, after 1-year follow-up TJA does not improve pain compared with trapeziectomy (mean difference 0.53 points on a 0 to 10 scale; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26-0.81). Furthermore, it provides a transient benefit in hand function at 3 months (measured with Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire, scale 0-100, lower is better) compared with trapeziectomy with or without ligament reconstruction tendon interposition. The benefit in function diminished to a clinically unimportant level at 1-year follow-up (4.4 points better; CI 0.42-8.4). Transient benefit in hand function for TJA implies that it could be a preferable option over trapeziectomy for people who consider fast postoperative recovery important. However, current evidence fails to inform us if TJA carries long-term higher risks of revisions compared with trapeziectomy.

Long-Term Functional Outcomes after Hand Burns: A Monocentric Controlled Cohort Study

Background: Hand burns are involved in 80–90% of severe burn injuries. Even though hands correspond to a small total burn surface area (TBSA) of less than 5%, the loss of their functionality has a significant impact on the patient’s life. Studies that provide long-term results regarding hand functionality after hand burns are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate functional long-term results in a patient-centric approach regarding burn depth, unilateral and bilateral hand involvement, and (non-)isolated hand burns as potential influencing factors in patients with hand burns. Methods: We conducted a controlled cohort study of patients with burned hands treated at our department between 2005 and 2022. Healthy age-, sex-, and handedness-matched participants were used as controls. Data on the demographics, burn-related injuries, and treatments were collected. For a patient-centric approach, we used the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (Quick-DASH) and the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) as patient-reported outcome measures for functional long-term evaluation, and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (patient scale) for assessing long-term scar quality. Results: We enrolled 61 patients with 88 affected hands and 63 matched control participants. Up to 77.1% of the participants were male, with a mean age of 50.7 (±15.5) years and a follow-up of 8.1 (±4.7) years. The mean TBSA was 13.9% (±15.8), with 72.4% of the hands presenting with deep partial-thickness and full-thickness burns and most of the patients had only one hand affected (55.7%). The hand burn patients perceived significantly worse long-term functional scores in every domain of the MHQ as well as in the “overall function” and “work” of the Quick-DASH. Superficial hand burns negatively affected the two-handed activities of daily living (p = 0.013) and aesthetic appearance (p = 0.005) when both hands were involved. Isolated hand burns were associated with more difficulties in work performance (p = 0.03), whereas patients with bilateral hand involvement perceived more pain (p = 0.025). Conclusions: The patients with hand burns can achieve satisfactory long-term functional outcomes over time, but they do not reach the same long-term hand functionality as the healthy matched control group. Our study revealed that factors such as burn depth, unilateral or bilateral hand involvement, and (non-)isolated hand burns indeed have an impact on certain aspects of perceived long-term hand functionality.

Comparison of the Effects of Volar-Assisted and Elastic Wrist Splints on Edema, Pain, Grip Strength, and Functionality in Pregnant Women With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common musculoskeletal problem in pregnancy. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of rigid and elastic wrist splints on edema, pain levels, grip strength, and upper-extremity functionality in pregnant women with CTS. Forty-one pregnant women in the last trimester of pregnancy who were diagnosed with CTS were included in the study. The grip strength was evaluated with the Jamar hand dynamometer, functionality with the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire, pain with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and edema with the water overflow method. The mean age of the participants was 31.71 ± 5.78 years, body mass index was 28.85 ± 3.63 kg/m2, duration of pain was 2.24 ± 0.79 months, and their pain intensity was 6.63 ± 1.69 according to the VAS. As a result of the study, reductions in pain (P = .001), increases in functionality values (P = .001), increases in grip strength (P = .001), and decreases in edema (P = .001) were observed in both groups after the treatment. However, there was no significant difference in pain, functionality, or grip strength values between the groups after the treatment (P > .05). In this study comparing the effects of a wrist splint to those of an elastic splint, both treatment methods for pregnant women with CTS decreased pain and edema, increased grip strength, and improved upper-extremity functionality. Considering individual needs, characteristics, and living conditions, both splints can be recommended for pregnant women with CTS.

Investigating the utility of HR-pQCT for the assessment of joint space and bone mineral density in hand osteoarthritis

ObjectiveOsteoarthritis affects joints of the hand and is radiographically characterized by joint space narrowing and changes in volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD). High-resolution peripheral computed tomography (HR-pQCT) allows for three-dimensional analysis of joint space width (JSW) changes but has yet to be applied to hand OA (HOA). The purpose of this study was to assess the utility of HR-pQCT in quantifying JSW and vBMD changes in HOA. DesignThe 2nd and 3rd distal interphalangeal (DIP2, DIP3) and trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joints of 20 women (10 controls, 10 HOA) were scanned using HR-pQCT. The Diseases of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Jebsen Hand Function Test (JHFT) were obtained. Radiographs were scored using the Eaton-Littler classification. We assessed between-group differences in HR-pQCT outcomes, and relationships between HR-pQCT outcomes and patient and radiographic characteristics. ResultsJSW maximum (JSW.Max) was higher in OA patients in the DIP2 (OA median [interquartile rage]: 2.07 mm [1.90–2.18], controls: 1.88 mm [1.84–1.89]) and DIP3 joints (OA: 2.01 mm [1.89–2.24], controls: 1.86 mm [1.82–1.95]). DIP3 JS volume was higher in OA (30.36 mm3, 19.35–34.57 mm3, controls: 17.05 mm3, 15.53–18.52 mm3). DASH scores were positively associated with DIP2 JSW asymmetry (JSW.AS), and JHFT times were positively associated with DIP3 JSW.Max, JSW.AS, and proximal DIP2 vBMD. Worsening radiographic TMC OA was associated with first metacarpal vBMD, JSW minimum, JSW.Max, and JSW.AS. ConclusionsThese preliminary findings suggest that HR-pQCT may be useful in investigating JS changes in HOA and warrants further investigation.

Transcultural adaptation and validation of the DASH questionnaire in Mexican healthy volunteers and patients with neurogenic disorders of the upper extremity

The Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire assesses the impact of upper extremity disorders on quality of life. However, its use in the Mexican population has not been formally validated. To conduct a cultural adaptation and validation of the DASH questionnaire to evaluate the perspective of patients with neurogenic disorders of the upper extremity regarding the impact on their quality of life. We performed an adaptation of the Spanish version of the DASH questionnaire to the Mexican vocabulary and applied it to 478 volunteers. Ceiling effect, floor effect, item-total correlation, descriptive statistics of items and total score, internal consistency, precision, cross-sectional and longitudinal validity were estimated by comparing healthy controls and affected individuals with different disability levels. Our DASH questionnaire version was equivalent to those previously approved and showed homogeneity of the items with respect to the total value of the questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha > 0.96). In addition, it showed an accuracy of 7.25 points and the crosssectional and longitudinal validity was documented with significant differences between groups and subgroups with distinct disability levels. The DASH questionnaire can be used with a high level of confidence in the Mexican population.