Shoulder Society Research Articles

The impact of Charlson and Elixhauser comorbidities on patient outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty.

To investigate the impact of the Charlson and Elixhauser comorbidity indices on patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) following shoulder arthroplasty. Patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), or hemiarthroplasty (HA) from 2016 to 2018 were identified, along with the Charlson and Elixhauser comorbidities listed as their secondary diagnoses in the electronic medical records. Patients were matched to our institution's registry to obtain their PROMs, including shoulder-specific (American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) and Shoulder Activity Scale (SAS)) and general health scales (12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Pain Interference). Linear regression models adjusting for age and sex were used to evaluate the association between increasing number of comorbidities and PROM scores. A total of 1,817 shoulder arthroplasties were performed: 1,017 (56%) TSA, 726 (40%) RSA, and 74 (4%) HA. The mean age was 67 years (SD 10), and 936 (52%) of the patients were female. The most common comorbidities were obesity (1,256, 69%) and hypertension (990, 55%). Patients with more comorbidities had lower ASES and SAS scores at baseline (p < 0.001). Elixhauser comorbidities continued to negatively impact ASES and SAS scores at one year (p = 0.002) and two-year follow-up (p = 0.002). Patients with more comorbidities reported greater pain interference on PROMIS at baseline (p = 0.007), but not at two years. Higher number of Charlson comorbidities were associated with lower scores on the SF-12 mental component at baseline (p < 0.001) and two years (p = 0.020). Higher number of Elixhauser comorbidities were associated with lower SF-12 physical component scores at baseline (p < 0.001) and two years (p = 0.004). Higher number of comorbidities was associated with lower baseline scores and worse outcomes on both shoulder-specific and general health PROMs. The presence of specific comorbidities may be used during shared decision-making to manage expectations for patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(5):964-970.

Radiological Analysis of Proximal Humerus Restoration and Functional Outcome in Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty

In shoulder hemiarthroplasty, the glenohumeral offset, subacromial gap, vertical and horizontal measurements of tuberosities, and stage of fatty infiltration are some of the radiological parameters that evaluate the restoration of proximal humerus. This study was designed to determine which radiological parameters are more compatible with functional results after hemiarthroplasty. Twenty-five patients, who were treated between 2002 and 2010 for proximal humerus fractures with hemiarthroplasty and had post-operative computed tomography (CT) scans, were evaluated. The final position of the prosthetic head, tuberculum restoration, and fatty degeneration of the supraspinatus muscle were analysed radiologically. The American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, Constant–Murley score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) index score were used to determine functional performance. The mean ASES, Constant–Murley, and DASH index scores of patients aged 52 to 84 years were 70, 66, and 23, respectively. The patient group with a normal retroverted prothesis had higher Constant–Murley and lower DASH index scores (p&amp;lt;0.05). The group with 0 to 5 mm horizontal malpositioning in CT scans had better clinical outcomes (p&amp;lt;0.05). Better clinical outcomes were noted in the stage 0 fatty infiltration group (p&amp;lt;0.05). Hemiarthroplasty remains an important treatment option in proximal humerus fractures. In collaboration with achieving closer restoration to proximal humerus anatomy, the stage of fatty degeneration plays an important role in a successful functional result.Keywords:

Fluoroscopically Guided Subacromial Spacer Implantation for Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: Two Years of Prospective Follow-up.

Background:Massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) are common and have been estimated to account for nearly 40% of all rotator cuff tears. An evolving strategy for management of MRCTs has been the implantation of a degradable subacromial spacer balloon that attempts to restore normal shoulder biomechanics.Purpose:To assess the safety and efficacy of fluoroscopically guided balloon spacer implantation under local anesthesia in a cohort of patients with 2 years of postoperative follow-up.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:The safety and efficacy of using fluoroscopically guided subacromial spacer implantation was assessed in 46 patients. Follow-up visits were scheduled according to routine clinical practice. Shoulder function was evaluated using Constant and American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) scores.Results:Overall, 87.5% (35/40) of patients saw clinically significant improvement in the total Constant and ASES scores from 6 weeks postoperatively, with improvement maintained up to 24 months postoperatively.Conclusion:The data suggest that fluoroscopically guided subacromial spacer implantation under local anesthesia is a low-risk, clinically effective option, especially for the elderly population and those patients who have multiple comorbidities or a contraindication to general anesthesia. Patients undergoing subacromial spacer implantation for the treatment of MRCTs had satisfactory outcomes at 2-year follow-up, with a low rate of complications.

Surgical vs. Nonsurgical Management for Humeral Shaft Fractures; Preference Among Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Determining trends in managing humeral shaft fractures may help identify variation in practice which might benefit design of clinical guidance. We aimed to determine the practice of members of the British Elbow and Shoulder Society (BESS) in managing humeral shaft fractures. An electronic survey was sent to members of BESS. Questions related to preferred surgical and nonsurgical approaches for management of humeral shaft fractures. This was divided into management of proximal, middle and distal third diaphyseal fractures. 91 fully completed responses were analysed. Nonsurgical management was preferred by 90.1% (n=82) for middle-third and 80.2 % (n=73) for proximal third fractures, however 52.7% (n=48) favoured surgical treatment for distal third fractures. 1. The management preference for humeral shaft fractures amongst surgeons is highly variable. 2. This may be partly attributed to the sparsity of high-quality evidence. 3. Well-designed randomised trials or pro-spective cohort studies may help further guide management of these injuries.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty: trends in the incidence, indications and complications as reported by ABOS part II oral examination candidates from 2005 through 2017

BackgroundThe experience of early-career orthopedic surgeons performing reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has not been previously reported. The aims of this study were to evaluate (1) the temporal trends in the incidence of and indications for RSA procedures performed among board-eligible orthopedic surgeons, (2) the temporal trends in the incidence of reported complications after RSA, and (3) the patient-related and surgeon-related variables that affected the reported complication rate. MethodsA query of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) Part II Oral Examination database for all cases of RSA from 2003 through 2017 was performed. The data over this time period was analyzed for incidence, indications, and complications. Risk factors for complication including patient demographic factors and shoulder fellowship training were also evaluated. ResultsFrom 2003 to 2017, a total of 2,633 RSA procedures were reported. There was an increased incidence of RSA (23-fold) and increased proportion of candidates performing RSA (19-fold) (P-trend < .001). While there was an increasing trend seen in the proportion of primary (P-trend = .009) and trauma cases (P-trend < .001), declining trend was seen in the proportion of revision cases (P-trend < .001). An increasing trend was seen in the proportion of RSA cases for off-label indications (P-trend < .001). Shoulder fellowship-training was reported by 27% of the candidates, and these candidates performed 42% of all RSA procedures. The complication rate over this time period was 34% and the incidence of medical, surgical and anesthesia complications was 18%, 15%, and 1.2%, respectively. The incidence of complications increased over the study period (P-trend < .001). Mortality, reoperation, and readmission rates were 0.6%, 3.2%, and 6.4%, respectively. Risk factors for medical complications were age and trauma cases, whereas revision RSA was a risk factor for surgical complications. Shoulder fellowship-training experience was not associated with a decrease in any of the complications. ConclusionThere was a dramatic increase in the use of RSA among board eligible orthopedic surgeons in the United States. The early complication rates for ABOS candidates performing RSA are above others reported in the literature and showed an increasing trend over the study period. Despite the improvements in the literature, and shoulder fellowship training, there has been no decrease in the incidence of surgical complications over the decade represented in this study. Level of evidenceLevel III; Cross-Sectional Design; Treatment Study

Patch augmentation surgery for rotator cuff repair: the PARCS mixed-methods feasibility study.

A rotator cuff tear is a common, disabling shoulder problem. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, lack of shoulder mobility and sleep disturbance. Many patients require surgery to repair the tear; however, there is a high failure rate. There is a need to improve the outcome of rotator cuff surgery, and the use of patch augmentation (on-lay or bridging) to provide support to the healing process and improve patient outcomes holds promise. Patches have been made using different materials (e.g. human/animal skin or tissue and synthetic materials) and processes (e.g. woven or mesh). The aim of the Patch Augmented Rotator Cuff Surgery (PARCS) feasibility study was to determine the design of a definitive randomised controlled trial assessing the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a patch to augment surgical repair of the rotator cuff that is both acceptable to stakeholders and feasible. A mixed-methods feasibility study of a randomised controlled trial. MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library databases were searched between April 2006 and August 2018. The project involved six stages: a systematic review of clinical evidence, a survey of the British Elbow and Shoulder Society's surgical membership, a survey of surgeon triallists, focus groups and interviews with stakeholders, a two-round Delphi study administered via online questionnaires and a 2-day consensus meeting. The various stakeholders (including patients, surgeons and industry representatives) were involved in stages 2-6. The systematic review comprised 52 studies; only 15 were comparative and, of these, 11 were observational (search conducted in August 2018). These studies were typically small (median number of participants 26, range 5-152 participants). There was some evidence to support the use of patches, although most comparative studies were at a serious risk of bias. Little to no published clinical evidence was available for a number of patches in clinical use. The membership survey of British Elbow and Shoulder surgeons [105 (21%) responses received] identified a variety of patches in use. Twenty-four surgeons (77%) completed the triallist survey relating to trial design. Four focus groups were conducted, involving 24 stakeholders. Differing views were held on a number of aspects of trial design, including the appropriate patient population (e.g. patient age) to participate. Agreement on the key research questions and the outline of two potential randomised controlled trials were achieved through the Delphi study [29 (67%)] and the consensus meeting that 22 participants attended. The main limitation was that the findings were influenced by the participants, who are not necessarily representative of the views of the relevant stakeholder groups. The need for further clinical studies was clear, particularly given the range and number of different patches available. Randomised comparisons of on-lay patch use for completed rotator cuff repairs and bridging patch use for partial rotator cuff repairs were identified as areas for further research. The value of an observational study to assess safety concerns of patch use was also highlighted. These elements are included in the trial designs proposed in this study. The systematic review is registered as PROSPERO CRD42017057908. This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 13. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

The management of displaced humeral shaft fractures - A survey of UK shoulder and elbow surgeons.

Indications for surgical management of displaced humeral shaft fractures are not clearly established, leading to variations in practice. The aim of this study was to determine the scale of these variations in the UK practice to help design a future national trial. An online survey was sent to all surgeon members of British Elbow and Shoulder Society to help define humeral shaft fractures, fracture displacement as well as indications for operative and non-operative management. Patient and injury related factors considered important when managing humeral shaft fractures were investigated. The survey achieved a response rate of 32% (104/327). There was a lack of consensus on definitions for humeral shaft fractures and fracture displacement. A functional brace was the most common form of non-operative treatment (63%). Majority immobilise humeral shaft fractures for 4-8 weeks or until callus are visible (62%) with a similar number considering operative treatment if adequate signs of healing are not present at around 12-16 weeks. Around half of our respondents exclusively use plates with variations in preference of approach and a minority (2%) exclusively use intra-medullary nails. The significant variation in management of displaced humeral shaft fractures in the UK suggests a clear need to evaluate clinical and cost effectiveness through a multi-centre randomised trial.

Opioid-prescribing patterns among shoulder and elbow surgeons: considerations for future prescription guidelines.

Although the achievement of adequate analgesia is critical to patient comfort and recovery following orthopedic procedures, no standard protocol exists to dictate the appropriate duration and quantity of narcotic prescription in the postoperative period. Therefore, the purpose of this survey was to determine patterns of opioid prescribing among orthopedic shoulder and elbow providers. In March 2020, a survey was distributed through a LISTSERV to 989 members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons orthopedic society. Survey recipients were asked to describe their personal and practice characteristics. Additionally, they were asked to list their 3 most commonly performed procedures and, for each operation, to list which narcotic pain medication they most commonly prescribe postoperatively, along with the corresponding number of tablets typically given. Similarly, respondents were asked to record frequently recommended alternative strategies for postoperative pain control, factors influencing the respondents' prescribing practices, and methods of patient counseling regarding opioid use and disposal. A total of 177 providers responded to the survey. Across all selected procedures, Percocet (5 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride and 325 mg of acetaminophen) was the most commonly prescribed drug, with 21-30 tablets being the most commonly prescribed amount. The majority of surgeons (82%) indicated that previous opioid prescriptions influence their decision to prescribe opioids. Respondentsmost frequently reported patient age (48%) and duration of the patient's symptoms (32%) as additional influential factors. Most surgeons (93%) reported counseling their patients regarding the use of opioid medications. However, only 30% of surgeons reported providing information regarding how to dispose of unused opioids. In lieu of opioids, nearly all investigators reported the use of ice as a pain-relief strategy, with rest and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reported as other commonly recommended alternatives. Of 137 respondents who were aware of prescription guidelines, 21% reported using recommendations from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 21% used institutional policies, and 20% used personal guidelines, whereas the remaining respondents used other literature findings in their prescription decisions. Of particular concern, 21% of overall respondents were unaware of any type of guidelines. To prevent both misuse and abuse of opioid prescribing, this analysis serves as a starting point for the establishment of more consistent, evidence-based opioid prescription guidelines for surgical procedures on the shoulder and elbow. In addition to recommending safe, procedure-specific opioid dosages and standardizing pain management strategies, these guidelines should include effective methods of educating both providers and patients regarding the use of opioid medication.

Arthroscopic repair versus open surgical techniques for the management of recurrent anterior shoulder instability: A comparative study

Background: Surgical shoulder stabilization has been shown to reduce the risk of recurrence with some authors recommending intervention even after a single dislocation. The present study compared arthroscopic repair versus open surgical techniques for the management of recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Materials & Methods: 50 patients of anterior shoulder instability of both genders were divided into 2 groups of 25 each. Group I comprised of patients managed with arthroscopic method and group II with open surgery. Modified Rowe score and ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Society) score were recorded. Results: The mean ROWE pain score at 4 weeks was 3.0 and 3.4 in group I and II respectively, at 6 weeks was 5.4 and 5.0 in group I and II respectively, at 9 weeks was 10.2 and 5.8 in group I and II respectively and at 12 weeks was 10.1 and 9.2 in group I and II respectively. The mean ASES pain score at 4 weeks was 2.6 and 1.3 in group I and II respectively, at 6 weeks was 4.3 and 2.5 in group I and II respectively, at 9 weeks was 2.8 and 2.0 in group I and II respectively and at 12 weeks was 3.2 and 3.0 in group I and II respectively. The difference was non- significant (P> 0.05). Conclusion: Both techniques were observed to be equally effective in the management of cases of recurrent anterior shoulder instability.

Stephen S. Burkhart, M.D. Shoulder Innovation Research Award Paper: Balloon Subacromial Spacer vs. Partial Repair for Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: A Randomized Trial

Limited options exist for the treatment of massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs). Surgical repair may be technically challenging and require prolonged rehabilitation with variable outcomes. The present study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of an arthroscopically-deployed inflatable biodegradable subacromial spacer balloon (InSpaceTM, OrthoSpace, Israel) as an alternative to partial repair in patients with MRCTs. A non-inferiority, prospective, single-blinded, multicenter, randomized, controlled, pivotal study was conducted to compare the outcomes of arthroscopic subacromial balloon spacer implantation to partial repair in the treatment of MRCTs. Patients ≥ 40-years of age with full thickness MRCTs (≥ 5 cm, ≥ 2 tendons) were included. Baseline and follow-up data were collected to identify patients that had reached a primary composite endpoint consisting of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) score (275 points) and American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score (6.4 points) by 6-weeks and maintained at 12-months without subsequent secondary surgical intervention (SSSI) or serious adverse device effects (SADEs). 184 patients were randomized, 176 (88/group) of which completed the required 12-month follow-up per protocol. At 12-months, 45 (51%) patients in the spacer implant group and 35 patients (39.8%) in the partial repair group, had reached and maintained the primary composite endpoint, corresponding to a difference between groups of 11.4% (non-inferiority margin 10%; p = 0.0049). Additionally, the spacer implant group demonstrated superior improvement (p = 0.0224) when evaluating the following combined efficacy timepoints of ASES score at 6-weeks and WORC score at 12-weeks, both maintained at 12-months in the absence of SSSI or SADEs, compared to the partial repair group. Arthroscopic subacromial balloon spacer implantation is a viable alternative to partial repair in the treatment of symptomatic MRCTs with comparable clinical outcomes at one year.

Generalizability of Eccentric Exercise for Patients with Subacromial Pain Syndrome to Real-world Clinical Practice: A Propensity Score-based Analysis.

ABSTRACTObjectives:Subacromial pain syndrome is a common problem in primary care. Although several randomized controlled trials have shown that eccentric exercise is effective in patients with subacromial pain syndrome, its generalizability to real-world clinical practice is unknown. This study aimed to investigate, using propensity score analysis, the generalizability of eccentric exercise for patients with subacromial pain syndrome to real-world daily clinical practice.Methods:In this study, 78 patients underwent eccentric exercise in addition to traditional exercise, and 77 patients underwent only traditional exercise for 4 weeks. Outcomes measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Society Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) scores were assessed at baseline and at 4 weeks.Results:In the propensity score-matched analysis, 65 patients in each group were successfully matched (130 of 155 patients, 84% overall). After 4 weeks of exercise, pain intensity was lower in the eccentric exercise group than in the traditional exercise group (VAS −14.5, 95% CI −21.2 to −7.9, P<0.001). No significant difference in the improvement in function was found between the two groups (ASES 4.1, 95% CI −2.0 to 10.2, P=0.18).Conclusions:Eccentric and traditional exercise in combination could reduce pain in patients with subacromial pain syndrome to a greater extent than traditional exercise alone. These findings have clinical relevance to primary care practitioners who provide conservative treatment for patients with subacromial pain syndrome.

Knot-Tying versus Knotless Suture Anchors for Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Comparative Study.

PurposeThis study aimed to compare the results of using knotless and knot-tying suture anchors in arthroscopic Bankart repair.Materials and MethodsThe patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair between 2011 and 2017 using knot-tying and knotless suture anchors were retrospectively reviewed. We collected demographic data, clinical scores (pain visual analogue scale), functional visual analogue scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Society scores, and Rowe score), and range of motion (ROM). Re-dislocation and subjective anterior apprehension test rates between the two techniques were also analyzed.ResultsOf the 154 patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair, 115 patients (knot-tying group: n=61 and knotless group: n=54) were included in this study. Of the 115 patients, 102 were male and 13 were female. The mean patient age was 27 years (range: 17–60), and the mean follow-up period was 43 months (range: 24–99). There were no significant differences in the final clinical scores and ROM between the two groups. Re-dislocation was observed in 6 (9.8%) and 4 (7.3%) patients in the knot-tying and knotless groups, respectively. Apprehension was observed in 11 (18.0%) and 12 (22.2%) patients in the knot-tying and knotless groups, respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups in regards to re-dislocation and anterior apprehension.ConclusionRe-dislocation rates and clinical scores were similar with the use of knotless and knot-tying suture anchors in arthroscopic Bankart repair after a minimal 2 year follow-up.

Comparative study between open and arthroscopic surgical techniques in the management of recurrent anterior instability of the shoulder

Background: Present study was done to compare the effectiveness i.e. range of motion and incidence of failure rates, recurrence and pain of arthroscopic repair versus open surgical techniques for the management of recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Materials and Methods: Institution based open-label, comparative clinical study was done at Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata between March 2016 to August 2017 (1.5 years). Based on the result of a similar previous study, a sample size of 15 in each group was calculated. Therefore, 15 cases of anterior shoulder instability treated by arthroscopic method and 15 cases treated by open surgery have been selected for study. Inclusion criteria were patient with soft tissue Bankart’s lesion, bony Bankart’s lesion, humeral avulsion of glenohumeral ligament (HAGL), anterior labral posterior sleeve avulsion (ALPSA), glenoidlabrum and articular disruption and capsular stretch and injury. Study tools were used like Modified Rowe score, ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Society) score and Goniometer. Operative techniques were used like arthroscopic capsulolabral repair and latarjet procedure. Results: About 14 (93.3%) patients were negative in bony apprehension test in arthroscopic technique. Approximately 15 (93.8%) patients were positive in bony apprehension test in Open technique. Association between bony apprehension test in two groups was not statistically significant (p difference was found between according to CT scan report in two groups (p=0.30910). Mean Rowe pain was significantly higher according in arthroscopic technique compare to open technique at 6W and 9W follow-up period. Mean Rowe stability was significantly higher according in arthroscopic technique compare to open technique at 6W and 9W follow-up period. Conclusion: Both arthroscopic and open surgical methods are utilized for management of anterior glenohumeral instability. The use of arthroscopy has increased significantly in today’s practice an

Can manipulation under anesthesia alone provide clinical outcomes similar to arthroscopic circumferential capsular release in primary frozen shoulder (FS)?: the necessity of arthroscopic capsular release in primary FS

BackgroundWe evaluated the need for arthroscopic capsular release (ACR) in refractory primary frozen shoulder (FS) by comparing clinical outcomes of patients treated with ACR and manipulation under anesthesia (MUA). MethodsWe assessed patients with refractory primary FS, 57 patients (group A) who were treated with MUA and 22 patients (group B) who were treated with ACR. In group A, manipulation including a backside arm-curl maneuver was performed under interscalene brachial block. In group B, manipulation was performed only to release the inferior capsule before arthroscopic circumferential capsular release, which was carried out for the unreleased capsule after manipulation. Pain, range of shoulder motion, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score were recorded at 1 week, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. We compared outcome variables between treatment groups and between diabetics and non-diabetics and also evaluated the numbers of patients receiving additional intra-articular steroid injection.ResultsOutcome variables at 3 months after surgery and improvements in outcome variables did not differ between groups. Group A showed significantly better results than group B in the evaluation of pain and range of motion at 1 week. Diabetics showed comparable outcomes to non-diabetics for most variables. Eleven patients required additional steroid injections between 8 to 16 weeks after surgery: 12.2% in group A, 18.2% in group B. Additional injections were given three times more often in diabetics compared to non-diabetics.ConclusionsMUA alone can yield similar clinical outcomes to ACR in refractory FS.

Shoulder surgeon perspective of surgical device representatives: a multinational survey.

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine the working relationships of shoulder surgeons and surgical device representatives, and benefits or detractors to the operating environment.MethodsAn electronic survey was distributed to all members of the Codman Shoulder Society, an international group of fellowship-trained shoulder surgeons.ResultsThe response rate was 44% (59 of 134). Mean yearly case volume was estimated as 253.3 ± 126.7, with 205.7 ± 119.6 cases having a surgical device representative present (81.2%). Among respondents, 41.1% (23 of 56) expressed wishes for the increased presence of device representatives during cases. A majority, 78.6% (44 of 56), felt that the presence of a device representative improved the efficiency of the operating room, with 7.3% (4 of 55) identifying an inability to use certain equipment without instruction. Valued qualities of device representatives were identified as attentiveness, organized, knowledgeable, honest, and available, whereas qualities not valued were pushiness/salesmanship, unpreparedness, disengagement, and disorganized. Median working time with the same representative was 5 years (0.5-20 years) with 94.4% (53 of 56) of respondents identifying desire for familiarity. A large proportion, 42.9% (24 of 56), identified changing their implants based on qualities of device representatives. Only 26.8% (15 of 56) felt that the presence of a device representative should be disclosed to a patient.ConclusionsHigh-volume shoulder surgeons partially dictate the use of surgically implanted devices and make decisions based on valued or disvalued surgical device representative traits. Working relationships between the shoulder surgeon and device representatives proceed longitudinally and are significant in establishing long-term company relationships.

Treatment of acromioclavicular joint separations in Japan: a survey.

BackgroundTreatment options for acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separations are highly dependent on severity, as well as the patient’s background. Furthermore, some patients can be switched from conservative to surgical treatment. In this study, we conducted a mail-based questionnaire survey of members of the Japan Shoulder Society on the administration of treatments for ACJ separations.MethodsA questionnaire survey with 5 categories was mailed to all 1655 members of the Japan Shoulder Society (including 59 councilors): initial treatment, whether surgery was performed, indications for surgery based on severity, switching from conservative to surgical treatment, and surgical methods.ResultsAltogether, 183 members, including 56 councilors, responded. Regarding the initial treatment, 17 respondents opted for treatment without immobilization or fixation and 166 opted for immobilization or fixation. Of the members, 11 opted for only conservative treatment whereas 172 chose surgery depending on the case; of the latter, 9 considered it for patients with a Rockwood classification of type 2 or higher; 120, for patients with type 3 or higher; and 172, for patients with types 4-6. Furthermore, 75 of 172 members had experience switching to surgical treatment during conservative treatment. For 64 of 172 members, the modified Cadenat method was the most common surgical method.ConclusionsOnly 11 members opted for conservative treatment of ACJ separations, and approximately 95% of physicians chose surgery. Furthermore, >70% of physicians considered surgery for an injury classified as type 3 or higher, and 37% of members performed the modified Cadenat method. However, the popularization of arthroscopic surgery may affect the selection of surgical methods in the future.

The Business of Orthopedics: Post-Pandemic Challenges and Opportunities - A Codman Shoulder Society Discussion

This paper considers several perspectives for the business of orthopedics resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes the viewpoint of orthopedic surgeons in private practice as well as in large medical centers, both academic and non-teaching facilities. The perspective of a large not-for-profit is also presented. We consider the potential for this crisis to lead to alignment between orthopedic industry and the hospitals and physicians they serve. Finally, we also consider the potential for data-analytics to create value, as well as the overall impact on mergers and acquisition of orthopedic businesses on a macro-level.

Early Follow-Up of Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure with Screw or Suture-Button Fixation for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the early clinical and radiographic results of arthroscopic Latarjet procedure using screw or suture‐button fixation in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation.MethodsTwelve patients who underwent arthroscopic Latarjet procedure between January 2015 and December 2018 at our institution were retrospectively studied. Data of the patients' history, including age, gender, side of affected arm, body mass index (BMI), and the number of dislocations since fist dislocation were collected. Preoperative and postoperative clinical follow‐up data were evaluated using Walch–Duplay score, American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, and modified Rowe score. Active external rotation and active internal rotation at 90° of abduction as well as active elevation were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. The position and healing condition of the transferred coracoid bony graft were also assessed using computed tomography (CT) and Mimics 19.0 software.ResultsMean follow‐up was 24.9 months (range, 13 to 53 months) of all patients. At final follow‐up, the average ASES score (preoperative vs postoperative values) had improved from 68.9 ± 7.9 to 91.1 ± 6.1 in screw fixation group and 68.9 ± 8.9 to 87.5 ± 6.7 in suture‐button fixation group; the average Rowe score (preoperative vs postoperative values) had improved from 25.0 ± 8.4 to 92.5 ± 4.2 in screw fixation group and 21.7 ± 13.7 to 93.3 ± 4.1 in suture‐button fixation group; the average of Walch–Duplay score (preoperative vs postoperative values) had improved from 12.5 ± 15.1 to 91.7 ± 4.1 in screw fixation group and 18.3 ± 20.7 to 88.3 ± 7.5 in button fixation group. The forward flexion was 175.0° ± 8.4° preoperatively and 178.3° ± 4.1° postoperatively in screw fixation group while 174.8° ± 10.2° preoperatively and 175.0° ± 5.5° postoperatively in suture‐button fixation group. The active external rotation was 77.5° ± 5.2° preoperatively and 71.7° ± 4.1° postoperatively in screw fixation group while 72.5° ± 6.9° preoperatively and 68.3° ± 7.5° postoperatively in suture‐button fixation group. The average of active internal rotation was 66.7° ± 6.1° preoperatively and 67.5° ± 6.1° postoperatively in screw fixation group while 68.3° ± 11.3° preoperatively and 66.7° ± 7.5° postoperatively in suture‐button fixation group. In postoperative CT scan, 91.7% grafts midline center were located at or under the equator in the en face view; 75% of the bone blocks were flush to the glenoid face in the axial view, with only two grafts exhibiting slight medial placement in screw fixation group (33.3%) and one graft exhibiting slight lateral placement in suture‐button fixation group (16.7%). All grafts achieved bone union. Graft absorption mostly occurred outside of the “best‐fit” circle. The average bony absorption rates of the coracoid grafts were 25.2% and 10.18% in screw fixation group and suture‐button fixation group, respectively, at 6 months postoperative follow‐up.ConclusionBoth suture‐button fixation and screw fixation techniques in arthroscopic Latarjet procedure revealed excellent clinical outcomes with low complication rates in the early follow‐up. The suture‐button fixation exhibited a flexible fixation pattern that allowed for self‐correction to some extent, even slight lateralization could finally remodel over time.

Current practices in the management of anterior glenohumeral instability in rugby union players

BackgroundRugby has the highest incidence of traumatic injuries of any sport, and glenohumeral injuries result in the lengthy delay in return to play. The purpose of this study is to survey surgeons from the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and the British Elbow and Shoulder Society (BESS) to evaluate the current state of management of anterior glenohumeral instability, and compare the differences in practices. MethodsA survey of surgeons from ASES and BESS was conducted. Treatment options were proposed in a variety of clinical scenarios of glenohumeral instability. The time of immobilization post-operatively, return to play, and attitudes on current contact regulations. Results were compared using the chi-square test or t-test. ResultsNinety-seven surgeons responded to the survey. There was a significant difference in treatment between ASES and BESS surgeons in the setting of primary dislocation (p < 0.05), but not recurrent dislocation (p > 0.05). The period of immobilization following injury and surgery was different between both treating groups. There was a significant difference in return to play between ASES and BESS surgeons with arthroscopic stabilization and open Bankart repair (p < 0.05), but not following conservative treatment or the Latarjet procedure (p > 0.05). ConclusionsThere remains wide variance on the management of glenohumeral instability in rugby union players among surgeons. While immobilization times post-operatively were similar, the BESS surgeons were more confident in allowing earlier return to play. There is also a significant concern that contact levels should be regulated to protect player safety. Level of evidenceLevel 4 (case series).

Exploring expert variability in defining pseudoparalysis: an international survey

There is currently disagreement among experts in the field of shoulder surgery when attempting to define the term "pseudoparalysis." Multiple surgical techniques to address this condition have been investigated; however, many studies have recruited heterogeneous patient populations and have used varying definitions of pseudoparalysis. This makes it difficult to compare outcomes among various techniques. To our knowledge, no previous study has surveyed international experts regarding the definition of pseudoparalysis using a questionnaire and video-based patient assessment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of agreement among shoulder surgeons in defining and applying the term "pseudoparalysis." We hypothesized that inter-rater agreement for classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis would be poor. Members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, the European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and the Elbow, and our national shoulder and elbow society were surveyed on 2 occasions using an electronic questionnaire. All surgeons were asked to identify their preferred definition of pseudoparalysis from 1 of 4 options. The surgeons then viewed video examinations of 10 patients and labeled them as having pseudoparalysis or not. Inter-rater reliability and intrarater reliability were calculated as κ coefficients. The Pearson χ2 test was used to detect associations between the preferred definition and demographic information. A total of 246 surgeons responded to at least 1 survey. Overall inter-rater agreement on classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis based on video consultation showed a κ value of 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58-0.60). The same verbal definition was selected by 56.1% of surgeons. The surgeons were not internally consistent in their choice of definition, with intrarater reliability showing a κ value of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.48-0.81). Intrarater reliability for classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis was better, with a κ value of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.72-0.83). An association was observed between how surgeons defined pseudoparalysis and their age (P = .03), as well as their shoulder caseload percentage (P = .04). Shoulder surgeons do not agree on how best to define pseudoparalysis of the shoulder. Inter-rater agreement based on video consultation was weak overall and improved with the elimination of an outlier video. Intrarater agreement was less frequent when selecting a preferred definition compared with classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis based on video examinations. Surgeons may rely less on explicit criteria and more on a conceptual framework when assigning a "pseudoparalytic" label. Care should be taken with use of the term "pseudoparalysis" in clinical outcome studies when there is clearly a lack of consensus among experts in defining this term.