Tendon Repair Research Articles

4 A Quantitative Image Analysis Study of Modified Kessler Extensor Repair

Abstract Aim The aims of this study were to compare and measure the amount of 4.0 Prolene suture material at the tendon repair site with 2 types of knot placement in a modified Kessler technique, as placement of suture knot can impact extensor tendon healing. Method Thirty-two extensor tendons of 2 fresh frozen cadaveric hands were divided and repaired using the modified Kessler technique with either intratendinous or extratendinous knot placement of a 4.0 Prolene suture. Tendon repairs were sectioned, and cross-sectional photographs were analysed using quantitative image analysis. Results Comparison of percentage change in tendon dimension surface area showed no significant difference (p = 0.4750) between intratendinous and extratendinous knot placement to demonstrate consistency of repair. Quantitative image analysis revealed suture material occupied a significantly (p = 0.0103) larger percentage of tendon cross sectional area in intratendinous than extratendinous knot placement. In both groups this represented <10% of the total cross-sectional area of the tendon at the repair site (7.49% vs 2.92%). There was no significant relation between digit, tendon or repair zone and percentage of repair zone occupied by suture material. Conclusions Intratendinous knot placement occupies a larger proportion of tendon cross sectional area than extratendinous knot placement, though this is still comparatively small when a 4’0 monofilament suture is used.

1050 Application of Bloom’s Taxonomy and Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory While Designing Low-Cost Surgical Skills Courses for Junior Doctors & International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in the NHS

Abstract Aim To design a surgical skills course underpinned by Bloom’s & Kolb’s learning theory for junior doctors in the NHS. To develop an affordable skills course for the acquisition of the necessary skills & confidence among junior doctors. Method RCSEd CPD approved 1-Day Surgical Skills Course with course fees of £95 was designed based on the learning theory and was attended by 12 foundation-level doctors (>60% IMGs). The course contents were Knot Tying, Suturing Technique, Skin-Lesions excision, Bowel Anastomosis & Tendon Repair. All six levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy were adopted for the Knot Tying session and Kolb’s for designing the remaining skills sessions. Results There was the flexibility of learning for the delegates as someone with good clinical knowledge and skills was able to reach level 6 Taxonomy (e.g one-finger knot-tying techniques) rather than limiting to Level 3(Apply) as seen in the conventional courses. Kolb’s learning theory helped the delegates to enter the learning cycle through any stage adopting any learning cycle complementing IMGs with their wide concrete experience. 100% n = 11 delegates responded their course expectations were met. Avg.54.5%n = 6 strongly agreed & 45.5%n = 5 agreed on improvement in their post-course surgical skills. Conclusions The low cost of the surgical skills course was found to be one of the confounding factors for the wide participation by junior doctors & IMGs (54.5% n = 5 scored 5/5 & 45.5% n = 6 scored 4/5 for appropriateness on course fees). Adapting these learning theories helped enhance the course outcomes by widening the horizons of skills acquisition.

527 BSSH Standards of Care in Hand Trauma: The Impact of COVID-19 on Timing to Treatment

Abstract Aim To evaluate the compliance of our regional unit against the British Society for the Surgery of the Hand (BSSH) standards of care in hand trauma (BSSH, 2020) following an increase in our WALANT practice post-pandemic. Method A retrospective audit of two parallel 6-month periods was undertaken in our unit in Greater Manchester. Group 1 (pre-pandemic) comprised of cases managed at our main site from September 2019 – February 2020. Group 2 (post-pandemic) consisted of patients managed under the newly devised regional and national WALANT guidance at our sister site between September 2020 – February 2021. Data collection involved cross-referencing multiple databases. Exclusion criteria included delayed presentation, no injury identified at time of surgery, re-rupture and re-operation. Results Number of cases across the 2 study periods were almost identical (group 1 = 451, group 2 = 449). There was an improvement in compliance post-pandemic (78.86%) versus pre-pandemic (75.4%); this was not statistically significant (p = 0.283). We observed a significant improvement in compliance for patients undergoing extensor tendon repair (pre-pandemic = 68.97%, post-pandemic = 85.94%, p = 0.42). This was not the case for the other sub-groups (table 1). Crucially, we observed a >50% reduction in GA cases post-pandemic (14.92%) compared to pre-pandemic (66.08%). Conclusions Despite a significant reduction in anaesthetic team input, we have achieved similar levels of compliance as pre-pandemic across multiple domains whilst observing improved compliance for extensor tendons.

Correlation between the Coaptation and Regeneration of Tendon Stumps in Endoscopic Assisted Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair.

When the endoscopic Achilles tendon repair technique is utilized, direct stitching of the ruptured site is challenging due to the frayed tendon stumps. To explore whether undesirable coaptation of the tendon stumps influences the generation of the tendons. This study is a retrospective analysis of 46 patients who underwent a modified endoscopic Achilles tendon rupture repair from October 2018 to June 2020. Patients were divided into two groups according to the coaptation of tendon stumps on postoperative ultrasonography. Group 1 included 17 cases with undesirable coaptation (<50%), and Group 2 included 29 cases with appropriate coaptation (≥50%). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained postoperatively at 3, 6, and 12 months to evaluate the tendon morphological construction. Clinical evaluations were performed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hind foot score, the Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS), muscle power, and the Achilles tendon resting angle at the final follow-up. Complications were also encountered. The Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used to assess differences among both groups. The mean follow-up time was 37.5 ± 10.6 months in Group 1 and 39.0 ± 11.6 months in Group 2, respectively. The average age in Group 1 is slightly older than in Group 2 (37.3 ± 6.1 vs. 32.7 ± 6.3, p = 0.021). The tendon cross-section areas and thickness increased initially and decreased later on postoperative MRI evaluation. It also showed a significantly higher signal/noise quotient (SNQ) in Group 1 at postoperative 3 months. At postoperative 6 and 12 months, the SNQ between both groups was similar. The AOFAS score (95.9 ± 5.1 vs. 96.2 ± 4.9, p = 0.832), ATRS score (97.0 ± 3.6 vs. 97.7 ± 3.3, p = 0.527), and muscle power (21.38 vs. 24.74, p = 0.287) were not significantly different between both groups. However, the resting angle of Group 1 was significantly larger than that of Group 2 (4.6 ± 2.4 vs. 2.4 ± 2.3, p = 0.004). There was no difference in the complications (p = 0.628). Although complete regeneration can be finally achieved, the early stage of tendon stump regeneration can be prolonged due to undesirable coaptation when endoscopic Achilles tendon repair technique is applied. The prolonged high signal duration on MRI indicates the less-than-ideal regeneration of the tendon, which might lead to elongation of the tendon.

Platelets Rich Plasma Increases Antioxidant Defenses of Tenocytes via Nrf2 Signal Pathway.

Tendinopathies are common disabling conditions in equine and human athletes. The etiology is still unclear, although reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress (OS) seem to play a crucial role. In addition, OS has been implicated in the failure of tendon lesion repair. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is rich in growth factors that promote tissue regeneration. This is a promising therapeutic approach in tendon injury. Moreover, growing evidence has been attributed to PRP antioxidant effects that can sustain tissue healing. In this study, the potential antioxidant effects of PRP in tenocytes exposed to oxidative stress were investigated. The results demonstrated that PRP reduces protein and lipid oxidative damage and protects tenocytes from OS-induced cell death. The results also showed that PRP was able to increase nuclear levels of redox-dependent transcription factor Nrf2 and to induce some antioxidant/phase II detoxifying enzymes (superoxide dismutase 2, catalase, heme oxygenase 1, NAD(P)H oxidoreductase quinone-1, glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit and glutathione, S-transferase). Moreover, PRP also increased the enzymatic activity of catalase and glutathione S-transferase. In conclusion, this study suggests that PRP could activate various cellular signaling pathways, including the Nrf2 pathway, for the restoration of tenocyte homeostasis and to promote tendon regeneration and repair following tendon injuries.

A Biomimetic Adhesive and Robust Janus Patch with Anti-Oxidative, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anti-Bacterial Activities for Tendon Repair.

Early stage oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and infection after tendon surgery are highly associated with the subsequent peritendinous adhesion formation, which may diminish the quality and function of the repaired tendon. Although various anti-inflammatory and/or antibacterial grafts have been proposed to turn the scale, most of them suffer from the uncertainty of drug-induced adverse effects, low mechanical strength, and tissue adhesiveness. Here, inspired by the tendon anatomy and pathophysiology of adhesion development, an adhesive and robust dual-layer Janus patch is developed, whose inner layer facing the operated tendon is a multifunctional electrospun hydrogel patch (MEHP), encircled further by a poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fibrous outer layer facing the surrounding tissue. Specifically, MEHP is prepared by gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, which are co-electrospun first and then treated by tannic acid (TA). The inner MEHP exhibits superior mechanical performance, adhesion strength, and outstanding antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and antibacterial properties, and it can adhere to the injury site offering a favorable microenvironment for tendon regeneration. Meanwhile, the outer PLLA acts as a physical barrier that prevents extrinsic cells and tissues from invading the defect site, reducing peritendinous adhesion formation. This work presents a proof-of-concept of a drug-free graft with anisotropic adhesive and biological functions to concert the healing phases of injured tendon by alleviating incipient inflammation and oxidative damage but supporting tissue regeneration and reducing tendon adhesion in the later phase of repair and remodeling. It is envisioned that this Janus patch could offer a promising strategy for safe and efficient tendon therapy.

Parathyroid Hormone Inhibits Fatty Infiltration and Muscle Atrophy After Rotator Cuff Tear by Browning of Fibroadipogenic Progenitors in a Rodent Model

Background: Progressive fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy after rotator cuff tears lead to tendon repair failure and poor outcomes. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) are involved in fatty infiltration and muscle homeostasis of skeletal muscle. Inducing FAP differentiation into brown adipocyte–like “beige adipocytes” suppresses fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy. Hypothesis: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) suppresses fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy after rotator cuff tears in a rat model by browning of FAPs. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: PTH was administered subcutaneously for 4 or 8 weeks to a rotator cuff tear model in rats. After treatment, fatty infiltration of supraspinatus muscles was assessed using Oil Red O staining and muscle atrophy using wet muscle weight and muscle fiber cross-sectional area. Costaining of platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (FAP marker) and uncoupling protein 1 (browning marker) was performed to confirm FAP browning by PTH. Mouse-isolated FAPs were cultured with PTH and evaluated for browning-related gene expression and adipogenic differentiation using BODIPY staining. Myogenic differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts was evaluated using coculture of PTH-treated browning FAPs with C2C12. Results: PTH inhibited fatty infiltration after rotator cuff tear at 8 weeks. Rotator cuff wet muscle loss of PTH-treated rats was inhibited at 4 and 8 weeks. Furthermore, PTH-treated rats demonstrated larger myofiber cross-sectional area than did untreated rats at 4 and 8 weeks. Costaining indicated colocalization of platelet-derived growth factor receptor α and uncoupling protein 1 and promoted PTH-induced FAP browning. PTH increased the expression of browning-related genes in FAPs and suppressed fat droplet accumulation in vitro. Coculture with PTH-treated FAPs promoted C2C12 cell differentiation into myotubes. Conclusion: PTH induced FAP-derived beige adipocytes by upregulating browning-related gene expression, and the browning effect of PTH on FAPs inhibited fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy in the rat rotator cuff tear model. PTH might have potential as a therapeutic drug for fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy after rotator cuff tears. Clinical Relevance: PTH may expand treatment options for rotator cuff tears by reducing fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy after rotator cuff tears by browning of FAPs.

The ALR-RSI score can be used to evaluate psychological readiness to return to sport after acute Achilles tendon tear

PurposeThe return to sport is one of the main goals following Achilles tendon tear repair. Several psychological factors influence the return to sport after a sports injury. The traditional tools to assess the return to sport do not take into account psychological factors. The ankle ligament reconstruction-return to sport injury (ALR-RSI), validated for ankle instability, is a score to evaluate psychological readiness to return to sport. The goal of this study was to validate the ALR-RSI score for the assessment of the readiness to return to sport after Achilles tendon repair.MethodsThe ALR-RSI score, adapted from the anterior cruciate ligament-return to sport injury (ACL-RSI) score used following knee ligament reconstruction, was validated according to the international COSMIN methodology. Patients operated for Achilles tendon repair responded to the questionnaire during the rehabilitation period. The EFAS, FAAM and VISA-A scores were used as reference questionnaires.ResultsA total of 50 patients were included. The ALR-RSI score was strongly (r > 0.5) correlated to the EFAS score: r = 0.68 [0.50–0.80] the FAMM sport score: r = 0.7 [0.52–0.84] the FAAM AVQ score (r = 0.6 [0.35–0.78]), and the VISA-A score (r = 0.54 [0.26–0.76]). The discriminant validity was good with the ALR-RSI, which was significantly lower in the patients that did not return to sport: 60.7 (40–81.4) compared to those that did: 83.2 (64.3–100) p = 0.001. Reproducibility was excellent with an intra-class correlation coefficient ρ of 0.99 [097–1.00]. The internal consistency was excellent (alpha coefficient = 0.95).ConclusionThe ALR-RSI score provides a valid, reproducible assessment of the psychological readiness to return to sport in patients who undergo surgical Achilles tendon suture repair.Level of evidenceIII.

FTP1.9 Two-Stage flexor tendon repair versus Primary repair: An evaluation of subjective and functional outcomes at a Regional Centre for Plastic Surgery

Abstract Aims The hand, as the primary executing organ, is at the centre of nearly all daily activities. In the anatomical extremity, the hand is frequently exposed to the potential risk of injury. If a flexor tendon is injured and recognized as needing surgical intervention, two main options are available; Two-stage Flexor Tendon (TSFT) repair or Primary repair. We evaluated the subjective and functional outcomes of the two surgical methods described above in patients presenting with flexor tendon injury in Zone I or II over a 5-year period. Methodology A retrospective study employing 35 patients (and a total of 42 tendon injuries) requiring TSFT repair over a 5-year period and 190 patients requiring primary flexor tendon repair between 2012-2014. Data collected included patient demographics, injury details, intraoperative findings and post-operative outcomes. Results Of the 35 digital injuries assessed, 15.8% had a good outcome, 21.1% with a fair outcome and 63.2% with a poor outcome, based upon the Strickland grading system. In comparison, of those undergoing primary flexor tendon repair, 51.5% had a good / Excellent outcome, leaving 48.5% with a poor outcome. Rupture rates post-surgery were higher in those undergoing TSFT repair than primary repair; 23.8% versus 12.0% respectively. Conclusion A damaged flexor tendon requiring surgery should ideally be repaired within 72 hours of initial insult via primary repair. Delayed presentation and subsequent scar formation with proximal stump retraction warrants a two-stage approach. It is widely accepted that a reconstruction in two-stages can yield effective results in restoring digital function, but these results are often superseded by a primary repair.

YouTube as a Patient Information Source for Tendon Repair Surgery.

Background For tendon rupture, a disabling musculoskeletal injury, surgical management is considered the gold standard. The goal is to reduce complications and enable the patient to regain full mobility and strength. With the rise of modern internet accessibility and social media, YouTube has become a frequently used platform for all ages; however, the accuracy and reliability of the videos and the information therein may be a point of concern. Methodology This cross-sectional, observational study was designed to analyze tendon repair surgery information available on YouTube. Data were collected using a Google Forms questionnaire which included questions analyzing the videos and their content and the professional status of the uploaders. Quality and reliability scores were assessed through the Global Quality Score (GQS), reliability score, and Video Power Index (VPI). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). We included videos one minute to twenty minutes in length that were relevant to the topic of tendon repair surgery and in the English language. Results A total of 82 videos were evaluated, of which 67 videos were chosen. A comparison of GQS, reliability score, and VPI based on the type of uploader was done using the Kruskal-Wallis test. The association between GQS and reliability score with that of the video uploader was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). Videos uploaded by hospitals had the highest GQS (4) and reliability score (4). Conclusions On comparing the uploader type, videos uploaded by hospitals had good quality and were useful for patients. The quality and reliability of the videos were almost above average. Only half discussed the signs and symptoms and even fewer discussed pre- and post-procedural care. The most important aspect, i.e., prevention, was mentioned in none of the videos. Due to our limitations, expanding the number of accounts used for search and increasing the number of videos might overcome the search algorithm.

Chronic Midsubstance Patellar Tendon and Retinacular Rupture: Primary Repair Enhancement Using Bioinductive Implant Augmentation

Midsubstance tears of the patellar tendon are uncommon and present a difficult injury to treat. If left untreated, these can be debilitating injuries for patients and leave them with an overall lack of function in the injured extremity. Compared to a proximal or distal patellar tendon rupture, midsubstance tears rely on tendon-to-tendon healing instead of bone to tendon healing. Given this situation, specific preoperative planning and the use of a bioinductive scaffolding allows surgeons to enhance the overall construct, while promoting a beneficial healing environment. Although the addition of bioinductive implants has grown in popularity for upper extremity injuries, few cases describe its use in the lower extremity setting. Here, we present a case of midsubstance patellar tendon repair, as well as a medial and lateral retinacular repair using a structural biological implant with Type I collagen for augmentation to enhance our overall final construct.

Safety and efficacy of ultrasonography of tension after zone II flexor tendon repair: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPrimary flexor tendon repairs of lacerations in zone II of the hand are fraught with problems. Traditionally, exercise (active and passive), orthoses, and physical agents are common interventions for the rehabilitation of patients experiencing these issues. One area of focus in this field is how to safely utilize tension to lengthen gliding distance following zone II injury. Finding effective solutions in this area is a key priority for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. PurposeTo identify the optimal immobilization position that meets safety standards for tension and is the most efficient, and consequently, to validate our clinical effectiveness. Study DesignA cross-sectional study was adopted for the first part of the research (Research 1). A prospective, parallel, 2-group, randomized trial was conducted with concealed allocation and single blinding in the second part of the research (Research 2). MethodsA total of 60 healthy adults were recruited to select the best-fit protective immobilization position in Research 1, which was confirmed by tendon tension (via Young’s modulus) and excursion (via gliding distance). We then randomly assigned 45 patients after zone II flexor tendon repair into two groups in Research 2 to compare functional outcomes. The control group underwent the conventional modified Duran protocol with early passive motion, while the experimental group received the protocol (optimized by Research 1) with early active motion. Ultrasonography was used to measure the tension and excursion of the flexor tendons. The outcomes measured at 16 weeks post-repair included total active motion, strength, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and Strickland scores. ResultsThree participants were unable to participate in Research 2 due to medical issues and poor attendance. The investigation found that the safe tendon threshold was 345.09 ± 87.74 kPa for partial active digital motion among the 60 participants. The optimal immobilization position requires the wrist to be neutral with a flexion angle of 30° at the metacarpophalangeal joint. The grip strengths (p = 0.012), ratio of grip strength (p = 0.015), the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (p = 0.036), and total active motion (p = 0.023) differed significantly between the two groups. ConclusionsProtective immobilization of the wrist in a neutral flexion position and with the metacarpophalangeal joint flexed at 30° can secure the repaired flexor tendon safely and efficiently. The effects of an early active motion ‎protocol may improve the grip strength and upper limb mobility of individuals after zone II flexor tendon repair. Clinical trial registrationChiCTR2000030592.

Comparative sensitivity and accuracy of 24vs.18 MHz ultrasound probes for the diagnosis of flexor tendon repair integrity.

To determine whether a 24 MHz transducer significantly improves sensitivity, specificity and accuracy in evaluating flexor tendon repair integrity compared with an 18 MHz transducer. One hundred and twelve cadaveric digits were randomised to an intact repair or simulated 'failed' repair, and to a two- or eight-strand repair of a flexor digitorum profundus laceration. A blinded sonologist evaluated specimens in static mode using 18 and 24 MHz transducers. Gaps were remeasured after scanning, and final gap width recorded. McNemar's exact test calculated differences between sensitivity, specificity and accuracy, and chi-squared test to compare sensitivity, specificity and accuracy between number of strands (2 vs. 8) and repair gap (≥4 mm). The 24 MHz transducer had higher sensitivity (81 vs. 59%), lower specificity (67 vs. 70%) and higher overall accuracy (74 vs. 64%), than the 18 MHz transducer. The difference for sensitivity was significant (P = 0.011), but not differences for specificity and overall accuracy (P > 0.05). Pearson's correlation (r = 0.61) demonstrated a moderate-to-strong positive correlation between measured and true gap sizes. Increased number of suture strands (2 vs. 8) did not impair sensitivity, specificity nor accuracy. Ultrasound may tend to overestimate gap width, and a slight risk that some intact repairs, or those with small, clinically insignificant gaps may undergo surgical exploration that may not be indicated. A 24 MHz transducer is a more sensitive and accurate transducer for assessing flexor tendon repair integrity and measuring small gaps.

Momordica charantia Enhances Tendon Healing in Rats: An Experimental Study

Momordica charantia (MC) is a traditional plant widely used since ancient times for wound healing. This study evaluated its potential effects on tendon healing. Adult male Wistar albino rats (n = 32, 8 rats in each group) were anesthetized, and their Achilles tendons were prepared for surgical procedures. Group 1 (Cont = control group) was not subjected to any surgery and was used as a control group for baseline values. Group 2 (PR = primary repair group) underwent primary repair (PR) with a monofilament suture after a full-thickness incision of the Achilles tendon. A full-thickness incision was also made to the Achilles tendon of group 3 (CT = collagen tube-administered group), followed by PR and collagen tube insertion. In group 4 (MC = M. charantia-administered group), 1 mL of MC extract was applied locally on the collagen tube in addition to the surgical procedure applied to group 3. The Achilles tendons were excised on the postoperative 40th day and examined stereologically, histologically, and bioinformatically. Data showed that the total volume of the collagen fibers was higher in MC and CT groups than in the PR group. The total volume of the tendon was decreased in MC and CT groups than in the Cont group. The ratios between the volumes of the collagen fibers and total tendon in the MC and CT groups were significantly different from PR, but not different from the Cont group. Additionally, MC improved tenoblastic activity, collagen production, and neovascularization. Bioinformatic interactions showed that the proteases of MC could trigger the signals playing a role on vasculogenesis, reducing inflammation, and contributing to tenoblast activation and collagen remodeling. MC extract ameliorates the healing of injured tendon and can provide satisfactory tendon repair. Further works are recommended to explore the healing capacity of MC.

Retrospective Study on the Risk of Nerve Injury After Distal Biceps Tendon Repair Using Cortical Button.

Distal biceps tendon ruptures are relatively rare injuries that typically require surgical intervention to restore flexion and supination strength. Concerns have been raised regarding the risk of nerve injuries, particularly the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN), associated with the use of cortical buttons in distal biceps repair. This study aimed to estimate the incidence of PIN injury as well as injuries to the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm and superficial branch of the radial nerve following distal biceps repair using cortical buttons. A retrospective review was conducted on all patients who underwent distal biceps repair with cortical buttons at a district general hospital between January 2014 and May 2022. Patient data, including age, gender, time from injury to surgery, type of procedure, and postoperative nerve injuries, were collected. The incidence of nerve injuries was analyzed, and the outcomes were assessed during postoperative follow-up visits. Ninety-six male patients were included in the study, with an average age of 45.6 years. The average time from injury to surgery was 22.6 days. All patients underwent primary repairexcept for two patients who underwent reconstruction with hamstring grafts. None of the patients experienced a PIN injury. However, 16 patients (16.7%) developed lateral cutaneous nerve injuries of the forearm, and three patients (3.1%) had superficial radial nerve injuries. Our study, encompassing a large cohort of patients over an eight-year period, demonstrates the safety of distal biceps repair using cortical buttons with regard to PIN nerve injury. However, there were incidences of lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm and superficial radial nerve injuries, consistent with previous studies.

The Effect of Timing Between Traumatic Flexor Tendon Injury of the Hand and Surgical Intervention on Repair Failure Rates.

Flexor tendon injuries of the hand, especially in zone II, pose a challenge for hand surgeons because of the region's intricate pulley mechanism and local avascularity, and post-surgical complications such as repair failure are not uncommon. One proposed predictor of outcomes following flexor tendon repair has been timing of surgery from initial injury. However, the effect of the timing of flexor tendon repair on failure rates remains controversial and understudied. The purpose of this study was to compare the failure rates of zone II flexor tendon repairs in patients at various time intervals from onset of injury. A retrospective chart review was conducted using data from hand surgery specialists at our level 1 trauma center from January 1, 2010, through May 31, 2020. This retrospective review included 407 zone II flexor tendon repairs. The primary outcome was failure of repair. Among 407 flexor tendon repairs, there were 12 reported repair failures. The failure rate was 2.9%. In the non-failure group, the mean number of days between the date of injury and the date of surgery was 7±13 days. For the failure group, this value was 14±17 days. Repairs occurring within 14 days had a failure rate of 2.3%, while repairs occurring beyond 14 days had a failure rate of 7.7%. This study demonstrates that there is a benefit to repairing the tendon within a 14-day window, as evidenced by a lower failure rate. More research is required to determine if other complications and overall health of the hand are also improved when a repair is performed in a more expedient manner. [Orthopedics. 2024;47(2):113-117.].

Effect of loading speed on gap resistance and tensile strength of flexor tendon repair under cyclic loading test

Postoperative digit motion is important for the functional recovery of injured tendons. To date, it is unknown whether the loading speed impacts the biomechanical properties of a repaired tendon. This study investigated the effect of loading speed on the gap resistance and tensile strength of tendon repairs. One hundred porcine flexor tendons were repaired with two core sutures, 4-strand modified Kessler and double Q, and cyclically loaded at the speeds of 10, 40, 80, 160, and 320 mm/min. The number of tendons that formed an initial or 2 mm gap at the repair site during cyclic loading, stiffness at the 1st and 20th loading cycles, gap size between tendon ends when cyclic loading ended, and the ultimate strength were recorded. Under the lowest loading speed, the tendons repaired with the 4-strand modified Kessler suture developed significantly larger gaps and smaller stiffness than those with a greater loading speed. The loading speed did not affect the maximum strength of both tendon repairs. The findings suggest that very slow motion promotes gap formation of tendon repair with inferior gap resistance. The rate corresponds to regular hand action or the tendon core suture possessing a strong gap resistance increases the safety margin during early active finger movement. Our findings help to guide the exercise regimens after tendon surgery.

Peculiarities of Acromioplasty in Patients with Chronic Massive Rotator Cuff Ruptures

Background. According to the literature, from 14% to 28% of patients with rotator cuff tendon ruptures have unsatisfactory results of treatment and require a reverse shoulder joint arthroplasty in the future.&#x0D; Objective: to compare the results of open rotator cuff repair of chronic massive rotator cuff tears in groups with standard subacromial decompression and subacromial decompression with resection of the lateral part of the acromion.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. The study included 58 patients who underwent an open rotator cuff repair of chronic massive rotator cuff tears (supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons) and who underwent a rehabilitation program and follow-up up to 12 months after surgery. The age of the patients ranged from 30 to 60 years. All patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 – classic subacromial decompression, group 2 – classic subacromial decompression complemented by resection of 5 mm of the lateral end of the acromion. Shoulder joint function was assessed using the Constant Shoulder Score and VAS scales before surgery, 6 and 12 months after surgery.&#x0D; Results. Six months after surgery, the mean functional result on the Constant Shoulder Score scale in group 1 was slightly worse (24.5 ± 16.2 points) than in group 2 (18.5 ± 6.1 points); p = 0.131. Twelve months after surgery, the mean functional score on the Constant Shoulder Score was 21.1 ± 5.6 points in group 1 and 10.1 ± 6.1 points in group 2 (p = 0.031). Six months after surgery, the average score on the VAS scale was worse in group 1 than in group 2 and ranged from 3.5 ± 1.2 points. Twelve months after surgery, the mean score on the VAS scale was also worse in group 1 than in group 2 (p = 0.05). Conclusions. Resection of the lateral part of the acromion during the open rotator cuff repair of chronic massive rotator cuff tendons tears allows to obtain better average functional results of treatment both 6 months and 12 months after the surgery. Resection of the lateral end of the acromion changes the vector of the total force of the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles during shoulder elevation. This reduces the probability of the subacromial conflict syndrome development and thus reduces the load on the area of the rotator cuff tendon suture.

Arthroscopic repair of the supraspinatus tendon with single-stage decompression of the suprascapular nerve at the superscapular notch

The history of shoulder problems dates back to ancient times, and the shoulder joint plays a significant role in various aspects of human life. Throughout history, doctors have been providing assistance to individuals experiencing shoulder pain. In the 20th century, significant advancements were made in shoulder surgery, driven by an improved understanding of joint biomechanics and the recognition of new diagnostic methods. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical technique, was first used for diagnosing shoulder conditions only about 30 years ago. Since then, it has replaced many open surgical procedures due to its enhanced visualization capabilities and lower invasiveness, leading to reduced injury rates. Suprascapular nerve decompression at the suprascapular notch is an example of a procedure that has benefited from arthroscopy. Dr. Laurent Lafosse's detailed description of arthroscopic manipulation in 2007 has been crucial in advancing this technique.This article aims to shed light on the pathogenesis of suprascapular nerve compression at the suprascapular notch following supraspinatus tendon retraction and examine the potential complications of suprascapular neuropathy. The principal author of this article has successfully performed 20 supraspinatus tendon repair operations with simultaneous decompression of the suprascapular nerve at the suprascapular notch, achieving positive outcomes in the postoperative period.

Distal biceps tendon ruptures: clinical features, diagnostic strategy and treatment options

Relevance. This paper reviews the latest evidence concerning distal biceps tendon repair, particularly aspects such as tear type, patient demographics, diagnostic clues, surgical indications, the anatomy of distal tendon insertion, radial tuberosity, single- vs double-incision reconstruction, fixation techniques (bone tunnels, distal biceps button, interference screw, button plus screw) and postoperative outcomes.Material and methods. The MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus and Elibrary online databases were searched using the keywords ‘distal biceps tendon’, ‘elbow’, ‘intramedullary’, ‘partial’. ‘complete’, ‘review’ and ‘rupture’. Sixty publications on distal biceps tendon rupture treatment were identified that appeared over 60 years, between 1951 and October 2021.Results and discussion. The review has demonstrated that complete deltoid ligament (DBT) tears are predominantly diagnosed clinically, while medical imaging has proven to be a valuable adjunct for diagnosing partial tears. Advances in clinical and medical imaging of partial tears have the potential to expedite the diagnostic process and guide treatment strategies. Primary repair is commonly employed for complete tears, utilizing either a single-incision or double-incision approach, resulting in favorable clinical outcomes. However, the double-incision technique carries a higher risk of heterotopic ossification, whereas the single-incision approach presents a greater risk of nerve-related complications. To mitigate the risk of posterior interosseous nerve lesions in single-incision repairs, intramedullary fixation may serve as a viable solution. Additionally, DBT endoscopy holds promise for the treatment of low-grade partial tears and tendinosis.