Varus Stress Research Articles

Instability after operative and conservative treatment of isolated Mason type II fractures

Radial head fractures are the most frequent fractures of the elbow joint in adults. For Mason typeII fractures without concomitant injuries favorable results have been shown with operative and conservative management. There is insufficient evidence concerning elbow joint stability after conservative treatment compared to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). All patients with isolated Mason type II (two part fracture displaced >2 mm and <5 mm) radial head fractures between 1 January 2003 and 1 April 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria were age <18years, associated fractures of the ipsilateral extremity or elbow luxation. A total of 50patients (mean age 44.2years, range 19-71years) who received either ORIF (n = 31) or conservative treatment (n = 19) were included. The mean follow-up was 43.2months (range9-61 months). Patients were evaluated using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS), and Oxford Elbow score (OES). Joint stability (varus and valgus stress) was assessed under fluoroscopy and a distinction was made between slight instability (angulation <10°), moderate instability (angulation ≥10°) and gross instability (elbow dislocation). Residual fracture displacement (conservative: 2.7 mm, ORIF: 1.4 mm, p < 0.042) and varus/valgus joint stability (3% ORIF vs. 26% conservative, p = 0.031) showed significant differences. The stability as tested by a radiological dynamic procedure showed an instability after ORIF in 3% of the joints compared to 26% after conservative treatment; however, this did not influence the short to mid-term clinical outcome: No significant differences were found in the DASH score (conservative 33points, ORIF 36points), MEPS (conservative 76points, ORIF 78points) and OES (conservative 41points, ORIF 43points). Both conservative management and operative treatment had agood functional outcome. Operative treatment showed apositive tendency concerning radiological and functional outcome without statistical significance.

Fibular Collateral Ligament: Varus Stress Radiographic Analysis Using 3 Different Clinical Techniques.

Background:Fibular collateral ligament (FCL) tears are challenging to diagnose. Left untreated, FCL tears lead to residual ligament instability and increased joint loading on the medial compartment of the knee. Additionally, when a concomitant anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is performed, increased forces on reconstruction grafts occur, which may lead to premature graft failure. Stress radiographs constitute a reliable and validated technique for the objective assessment of a complete grade III FCL tear.Purpose:To evaluate side-to-side difference (SSD) values of lateral compartment gapping on varus stress radiographs in patients with a grade III injury to the FCL. Additionally, to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of 3 different measurement techniques that used various radiographic reference points.Study Design:Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.Methods:Inclusion criteria were patients who sustained an FCL with or without a concomitant ACL injury and underwent a combined FCL + ACL reconstruction between 2010 and 2016. Patients were excluded if they had a complete posterolateral corner injury, open physes, intra-articular fracture, meniscal root tear, other ligament injury, or prior surgery on either knee. All FCL tears were diagnosed with a clinical varus stress examination at 0° and 20° of knee flexion and varus stress radiographs at 20° of knee flexion measured in 3 different locations. The SSD for lateral compartment gapping was obtained from the varus stress radiographs and then statistically compared for interrater and intrarater reliability.Results:A total of 98 consecutive patients (50 males, 48 females; 13 isolated FCL injuries, 85 combined ACL + FCL injuries) with mean age 33.6 years (range, 18-69 years) were included. Measurement techniques 1, 2, and 3 had mean ± SD lateral compartment SSDs of 2.4 ± 0.20 mm, 2.2 ± 0.20 mm, and 2.0 ± 0.03 mm, respectively (no significant differences). Interrater reliabilities for the 3 measuring techniques were 0.83, 0.86, and 0.91, respectively, while intrarater reliabilities were 0.99, 0.77, and 0.99, respectively.Conclusion:This study demonstrated a lower SSD value of 2.2 mm to be consistent with a grade III FCL tear on clinician-applied varus stress radiographs in the clinical setting. Although all SSD measurement locations had excellent reliability, the method using the midpoint of the lateral tibial plateau was found to be the most reproducible.

Evaluation of the results of the surgical treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability with knee flexor tendon autograft

Objective: To clinically and radiographically evaluate a group of patients undergoing lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery using knee flexor tendon autograft. Methods: The study included and prospectively evaluated 10 patients undergoing lateral ankle ligament reconstruction using knee flexor autograft. Clinical evaluation was performed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), preoperatively and after 1 year of follow-up. Radiographic evaluation included anteroposterior projections associated with ankle varus stress and profile projections of the ankle anterior drawer, also preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. Results: A mean preoperative AOFAS of 69.3 (SD ± 11.49) was obtained. One year after surgery, there was an increase in the mean score of 98.2 (SD ± 3.01), showing a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001). The anterior tibiotalar angle values improved markedly, with statistical significance. Although the anterior tibiotalar subluxation values also showed a marked improvement, it was not possible to calculate statistical significance; the group of 10 patients had to be divided into two, as six patients met the criteria when compared to the contralateral side (group 1) and four patients had an absolute value of anterior subluxation of more than 10 mm (group 2). Conclusion: After clinical and radiographic evaluation comparing preoperative and 1-year postoperative data, we conclude that in the analyzed group, the reconstruction technique used produced good or excellent results and should be considered for the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

Research progress of posteromedial rotatory instability of the elbow

To summarize the research progress in posteromedial rotatory instability (PMRI) of the elbow joint. The recent researches about the management of PMRI of the elbow joint from the aspects of pathological anatomy, biomechanics, diagnosis, and therapy were analyzed and summarized. The most important factors related to PMRI of the elbow joint are lateral collateral ligament complex (LCLC) lesion, posterior bundle of the medial collateral ligament complex (MCLC) lesion, and anteromedial coronoid fracture. Clinical physical examination include varus and valgus stress test of the elbow joint. X-ray examination, computed tomography, particularly three-dimensional reconstruction, are particularly useful to diagnose the fracture. Also MRI, arthroscopy, and dynamic ultrasound can assistantly evaluate the affiliated injury of the parenchyma. It is important to repair and reconstruct LCLC and MCLC and fix coronoid process fracture for recovering stability of the elbow joint. There are such ways to repair ligament injury as in situ repairation and functional reconstruction, which include direct suturation, borehole repairation, wire anchor repairation, and transplantation repairation etc. The methods for fixation of coronal fracture include screw fixation, plate fixation, unabsorbable suture fixation, and arthroscopy technology. It is crucial that recovering the stability of the elbow joint and early functional exercise for the treatment of PMRI. Individual treatment is favorable to protect soft tissue, reduce surgical complications, and improve the functional recovery and the quality of life.

Determination of Elbow Laxity in a Sequential Soft-Tissue Injury Model: A Cadaveric Study.

The objective of our study was to analyze, under fluoroscopy, joint angulation of uninjured elbows and elbows with distinct induced collateral ligament injury. Twelve elbow specimens were tested for varus and valgus joint angulation using 4 different examination methods (application of both varus and valgus stress by each of 2 examiners [Examiner 1 and Examiner 2] and application of 1 and 2 Nm of torque using a calibrated electric force scale) in 4 elbow positions (in full extension with 90° of supination and 90° of pronation, and in 30° of flexion with 90° of supination and 90° of pronation). Six elbow specimens were examined under varus stress at each of 5 sequential stages: (1) intact, (2) transection of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), (3) complete transection of the lateral collateral ligament complex (LCLC), (4) transection of the anterior aspect of the capsule (AC), and (5) transection of the medial collateral ligament (MCL). An additional 6 elbow specimens were examined under valgus stress at 5 sequential stages: (1) intact, (2) transection of the anteromedial collateral ligament (AML), (3) complete transection of the MCL, (4) transection of the AC, and (5) transection of the LCLC. Examinations under fluoroscopy were made to measure the joint angulation. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated. Testing of the intact elbow specimen by both examiners showed a joint angulation of <5°. Transection of the LUCL led to a varus joint angulation of 4.3° to 7.0°, and transection of the AML resulted in a valgus joint angulation of 4.9° to 8.8°. Complete dissection of the respective collateral ligament complex resulted in a joint angulation of 7.9° to 13.4° (LCLC) and 9.1° to 12.3° (MCL), and additional transection of the AC led to a joint angulation of >20° in some positions in both the medial and the lateral series. Under varus stress, elbow dislocations occurred only after dissection of the LCLC+AC (26% of the examinations) and additional dissection of the MCL (59%). Under valgus stress, elbow dislocations occurred only after dissection of the MCL+AC (30%) and additional dissection of the LCLC (47%). Very good to excellent ICCs were found among Examiners 1 and 2 and the tests done with the standardized torques at stages 1 through 4. Dynamic fluoroscopy makes it possible to distinguish among different stages of collateral ligament injury of the elbow and therefore might be helpful for guiding treatment of simple elbow dislocations. Assessment of collateral ligament injury with varus and valgus stress testing under fluoroscopy is an easily available method and is often used as the imaging modality of choice to determine the degree of elbow laxity. The technique and results described in this study should form the basis for additional clinical studies.

Articular Contact Area and Pressure in Posteromedial Rotatory Instability of the Elbow.

Joint incongruity in posteromedial rotatory instability (PMRI) has been theorized to determine early articular degenerative changes. Our hypothesis was that the articular contact area and contact pressure differ significantly between an intact elbow and an elbow affected by PMRI. Seven cadaveric elbows were tested under gravity varus stress using a custom-made machine designed to simulate muscle loads and allow passive elbow flexion (0° to 90°). The mean contact area and contact pressure data were collected and processed using the Tekscan sensor and software. After testing the intact specimen (intact elbow), a PMRI injury was simulated (PMRI elbow) and the specimen was tested again. The PMRI elbows were characterized by initial joint subluxation and significantly elevated articular contact pressure. Both worsened, corresponding with a reduction in contact area, as the elbow was flexed from 0° until the joint subluxation and incongruity spontaneously reduced (at a mean [and standard error] of 60° ± 5° of flexion), at which point the mean contact pressure decreased from 870 ± 50 kPa (pre-reduction) to 440 ± 40 kPa (post-reduction) (p < 0.001) and the mean contact area increased from 80 ± 8 mm to 150 ± 58 mm (p < 0.001). This reduction of the subluxation was also followed by a shift of the contact area from the coronoid fracture edge toward the lower portion of the coronoid. At the flexion angle at which the PMRI elbows reduced, both the contact area and the contact pressure of the intact elbows differed significantly from those of the PMRI elbows, both before and after the elbow reduction (p < 0.001). The reduction in contact area and increased contact pressures due to joint subluxation and incongruity could explain the progressive arthritis seen in some elbows affected by PMRI. This biomechanical study suggests that the early degenerative changes associated with PMRI reported in the literature could be subsequent to joint incongruity and an increase in contact pressure between the coronoid fracture surface and the trochlea.

Comparison of Clinical Efficacy of Lateral and Lateral and Medial Double-plating Fixation of Distal Femoral Fractures

The present study was performed to compare the clinical efficacy of lateral plate and lateral and medial double-plating fixation of distal femoral fractures and explore the indication of lateral and medial double-plating fixation of the distal femoral fractures. From March 2006 to April 2014, 48 and 12 cases of distal femoral fractures were treated with lateral plate (single plate) and lateral and medial plates (double plates), respectively. During the surgery, after setting the lateral plate for the distal femoral fractures, if the varus stress test of the knee was positive and the lateral collateral ligament rupture was excluded, lateral and medial double-plating fixation was used for the stability of the fragments. All the patients were followed up at an average period of 15.9 months. The average operation time, the intraoperative hemorrhage and the fracture union time of the two groups were compared. One year after operation, knee function was evaluated by the Kolmert’s standard. There was no significant difference in the average operation time, intraoperative hemorrhage, fracture healing time and excellent and good rates of postoperative knee function between two groups. Positive Varus stress test during operation can be an indication for lateral and medial double-plating fixation of distal femoral fractures.

Intraoperative Findings of Lateral Ligament Avulsion Fractures and Outcome After Refixation to the Fibula.

An acute ankle sprain can result in a bony avulsion of the lateral ankle ligaments. The extent of concomitant lesions and subsequent instability patterns are not clearly understood. The high incidence of old avulsion fractures found in symptomatic chronic ankle instability may indicate the need for primary fixation. Ten patients (5 male, 5 female; mean age, 34 years; range, 15-64 years) with bony avulsion fractures of the fibula after acute ankle sprains were included. All patients were treated after a mean of 7.7 days (range, 2-17 days) with screw fixation of the fragment to the fibula. Clinical and radiographic assessments were performed, and the extent of ligament injury was documented. The anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament were found to be attached to the avulsion fragment. The average size was 6.3 mm (range, 4-9 mm) in width from anterior to posterior and 5.2 mm (range, 4-7 mm) in length from superior to inferior. The displacement of the fragment increased under varus stress. Two patients had cartilage lesions in the lateral talus. After a mean follow-up period of 2.4 years (range, 2-4 years), all were clinically and radiographically stable, and patients were satisfied. It was observed arthroscopically that the anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament were attached to the fragment. This is critical because motion between the fragment and the fibula may prevent spontaneous healing. Primary fixation of the fragment prevented rotational instability and was efficient to restore function and stability. Level IV, retrospective case series.

One-Stage Arthroscopic Reduction Combined with Multiligament Reconstruction or Repair for Irreducible Posterolateral Knee Dislocation: A Retrospective Case Series with Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes after arthroscopic management of irreducible posterolateral knee dislocation. Twenty-one patients with irreducible posterolateral knee dislocation were treated in our institution from January 2009 to May 2014. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) patients who underwent one-stage arthroscopic reduction combined with multiligament reconstruction or repair and (2) patients with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Knee stability was assessed using physical examination and side-to-side differences (SSD) determined with a KT-1000 arthrometer and Telos stress device. Other assessments included the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, Lysholm score, Tegner score, and patient satisfaction rate. Thirteen of the 21 patients (8 males and 5 females) met our inclusion criteria and were included in this analysis. The mean age was 37.8 years (range, 27-56 years). The mean time from injury to surgery was 1.84 days (range, 1-3 days). The mean follow-up period was 32.6 months (range, 24-46 months). At the final follow-up, with the exception of one patient who had an abnormal valgus stress test, all patients achieved normal or nearly normal Lachman test, pivot shift test, posterior drawer test, and varus and valgus stress tests. The mean SSD of total anterior-posterior translation and isolated anterior translation determined with a KT-1000 arthrometer were 2.15 ± 1.57 mm (range, 0-6 mm) and 1.61 ± 0.86 mm (range, 1-4 mm), respectively. The mean SSD of anterior translation, posterior translation, and medial and lateral joint gapping determined with a Telos stress device were 2.23 ± 0.92 mm (range, 1-4 mm), 3.23 ± 1.16 mm (range, 2-5 mm), 1.77 ± 1.87 mm (range, 0-7 mm), and 0.46 ± 0.52 mm (range, 0-2 mm), respectively. The IKDC subjective score, Lysholm score, and Tegner score improved significantly postoperatively (p = 0.001) with a satisfaction rate of 84.6%. One-stage arthroscopic reduction combined with multiligament reconstruction or repair was an effective, reliable treatment for irreducible posterolateral knee dislocation. This is a case series with level of evidence as IV.

Posterolateral Corner Reconstruction Using the Anatomical Two-Tailed Graft Technique: Clinical Outcomes in the Multiligament Injured Knee.

Injury to the posterolateral corner (PLC) of the knee can lead to both varus and rotational instability. Multiple PLC reconstruction techniques have been described, including one-tailed graft (fibula-based constructs) or two-tailed graft (combined fibula- and tibia-based constructs). The purpose of our study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of anatomical two-tailed graft reconstruction of the PLC in the setting of multiligament knee injuries (MKLIs) with grade III varus instability. Patients were identified through a prospective MLKI database between 2004 and 2013. Patients who received fibular collateral ligament and PLC reconstructions using a two-tailed graft and had a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included. Patients were assessed for clinical laxity grade, range of motion, and functional outcomes using Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. Twenty patients (16 male, 4 female) with a mean age of 30.7 (range: 16-52) and a mean follow-up of 52.2 months (range: 24-93 months) were included. Knee dislocation (KD) grades included: 4 KD-1, 10 KD 3-L, 5 KD-4, and 1 KD-5. No patients had isolated PLC injuries. Mean IKDC and Lysholm score were 73.1 ± 25.8 and 78 ± 26, respectively. Mean range of motion was -1.1 to 122.8. In full extension, two patients (10%) had grade 1 laxity to varus stress. In 30 degrees of knee flexion, five (25%) patients had grade 1 laxity, and two (10%) had grade 2 laxity. Anatomical two-tailed PLC reconstruction can reliably restore varus stability when performed on patients with MLKIs and type C posterolateral instability with hyperextension external rotation recurvatum deformity. Satisfactory functional outcome scores were achieved in the majority of patients. This study supports the use of an anatomical two-tailed PLC reconstruction in the multiligament injured knee. The level of evidence is IV, case series.

A midterm analysis of Tibial plateau fractures: functional outcome and incidence of osteoarthritis in 240 cases

Background: Tibial plateau fractures are a risk to the functional integrity of the knee. They are the result of axial compressive forces alone or combined with varus or valgus stress on the knee joint. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis occurs after traumatic injury to the joint. The presence of residual incongruity at the time of fracture healing could lead to joint stiffness and long-term morbidity has established the restoration of articular congruity as the key principle on the management of these injuries. Despite anatomical joint reconstruction, development of osteoarthritis may still occur secondary to the initial articular cartilage injury. This prospective study evaluates the functional and radiological outcome of surgically managed tibial plateau fractures and incidence of osteoarthritis. Methods: In this study 240 patients with tibial plateau fractures were surgically managed by different modalities. The study was prospective, patients were evaluated by Rasmussen criteria clinically and radiologically and Kellgren & Lawrence grading for development of osteoarthritis at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, then onwards regular OPD follow-up and latest final follow-up. Results: Rasmussen clinical scoring system was applied to our study showed excellent results in around 34% (82) of the patients, 53% (127) had good,9% (22) had fair and 4% (9) had poor results.Out of 240 patients 78 (32.5%) developed OA knee ( including Kellgren and Lawrence grade 1) which is a significant number of patients. With increase in schatzker type & amount of articular depression the number of patients developing Osteo arthritis increased, schatzker Type I 16 % vs schatzker Type VI 54% and no articular depression 9.5% vs > 5mm articular depression 46 %. Conclusion: With increase in schatzker type & amount of articular depression the chance of patient developing Osteoarthritis significantly increases and thus excellent anatomical reduction with restored articular congruity rigid fixation is required to facilitate early knee motion and reduces chance post-traumatic osteoarthritis and thus achieving optimal knee function. Keywords: Tibial Plateau fracture, post-traumatic arthritis, Proximal tibia Fracture.

Combined Posteromedial and Anterolateral Approach in the "floating position" - Two Column Fracture of the Tibia Head

Background The posterior tibial plateau is often affected in intra-articular tibial fractures. Moreover, treating these posterior fractures is recognised as an important prognostic factor. Open reduction and internal fixation of lateral and posterior two column tibial plateau fractures can be achieved via a combined reversed L-shape approach and an anterolateral approach in the floating position without intraoperative repositioning of the patient. Material and Methods The operative procedure starts in the posterior position with visualisation of the posterior column after lateral retraction of the medial head of the M.gastrocnemius. The posterior fragment is then reduced and fixated. This is followed by reversed patient tilt, and slight flexion and varus stress on the knee. An anterolateral approach is performed with visualisation of the lateral column, direct reduction and internal fixation of the lateral tibia plateau. Results Since June 2014, 14 two column tibial plateau fracture patients with posterior and lateral column involvement have been treated according to this technique. The median follow-up was 306 days (IQR 194 - 438); 1 patient was lost to follow-up. During the last outpatient visit, 7 patients reported pain to some extent. At a median of 110 days (IQR 96 - 181), 10 patients showed a full range of motion. One deep infection was noted postoperatively. At the 3 to 4 month postoperative CT control, 10 of 14 patients showed successful reduction with restored alignment, whereas in 8 of 14 patients there was a congruent articular surface without significant articular steps (< 2 mm). Conclusion We have demonstrated that the surgical treatment of two column fractures of posterior and lateral tibial plateau fractures is technically possible via a combined posterior reversed L-shaped and anterolateral approach in a floating position without the necessity of intraoperatively repositioning of the patient. Although the number of patients was limited, the clinical and radiographic outcome was rather good.

Posterolateral Corner Injuries of the Knee at the National Football League Combine: An Imaging and Outcomes Analysis

(1) To determine the epidemiology, examination findings, imaging findings, and associated injuries of posterolateral corner (PLC) injuries in players participating in the National Football League (NFL) Combine and (2) to evaluate the impact of PLC injuries on performance compared with matched controls. All PLC injuries identified at the NFL Combine between 2009 and 2015 were reviewed. The inclusion criteria were any player who had clinical findings or a previous surgical procedure consistent with a PLC injury and who participated in medical and performance testing at the NFL Combine. PLC injuries were identified by evaluating the side-to-side difference in lateral-compartment laxity with varus stress and reviewing magnetic resonance imaging studies. NFL performance outcomes (draft position and number of games played or started within the first 2years) were compared with matched controls. Of the 2,285 players assessed at the NFL Combine, 16 (0.7%) were identified with a history of a grade II or III PLC tear and surgical management whereas 7 additional players (0.3%) had a PLC injury diagnosed on clinical examination, for 23 total PLC injuries (1%). On examination, 13 of 22 knees (59%) were shown to be stable; however, most of those managed surgically had significantly improved stability (13 of 15 stable) versus none of those managed nonsurgically (0 of 7 stable). Surgically managed PLC-injured athletes started significantly fewer games than controls (5.3vs 10.5, P= .03); the mean draft position for players with surgically treated PLC injuries was 139.7 versus controls' mean draft position of 111.3. Of the 16 athletes treated operatively, 2 reported a PLC injury recurrence; both were managed nonoperatively. A small percentage of players at the NFL Combine had evidence of a previous PLC injury (1%), with 0.4% having residual varus asymmetry on clinical examination. A worse overall mean draft position forisolated PLC-injured athletes versus controls was found: 132.8 versus 111.3 (P= .02). It is recommended that the use ofvarus stress radiographs be considered for NFL Combine athletes to objectively determine their grade of injury. LEVELOFEVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

The External Rotation Radiographic Technique for Posterolateral Injury

Posterolateral corner injuries are a severe and often unrecognized pathology. Injuries to these structures are difficult to identify using magnetic resonance images. Physical examination tests including the dial test, frog-leg test, and varus stress test can be difficult to perform. In addition it is difficult to correctly evaluate the results in a multiligament injury setting. The correct diagnosis of this pathology is essential to determine the proper treatment and improve outcomes. Furthermore, failure to recognize this pathology is associated with a high risk of failure following isolated anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions. The purpose of this Technical Note is to present an alternative method for the evaluation of posterolateral corner injuries using radiographic images.

Comparison of three surgical approaches for fractures of anterolateral and posterolateral columns of tibial plateau

Objective To compare the clinical effects of combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach, lateral incision via double intermuscular spatia approach, and posterolateral transfibular approach in the treatment of fractures of anterolateral and posterolateral columns of tibial plateau. Methods A retrospective analysis was done of the 18 patients with fracture of anterolateral and posterolateral columns of tibial plateau who had been treated at our hospital from January 2012 to January 2015. They were 10 men and 8 women, aged from 28 to 58 years (mean, 35.5 years). They were divided into 3 equal groups. Group A was treated with combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach, group B with lateral incision via double intermuscular spatia approach and group C with posterolateral transfibular approach. Operation time, surgical blood loss and complications were recorded. At the final follow-ups, Rasmussen score was used to evaluate the fracture reduction and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score to assess functions of the involved knees. Results The 18 patients were followed up for 10 to 18 months (average, 13.3 months). No such early complications as incision infection or deep vein thrombosis occurred. The operation time (89.5 min and 79.3 min, respectively) and surgical blood loss (151.7 mL and 207.8 mL, respectively) for groups A and B were obviously less than those for group C (102.5 min; 260.2 mL); the incision length for group A (10.5 cm) was shorter than that for group B (17.4 cm) and for group C (16.3 cm); group C had more cases of excellent reduction (6) than groups A and B (4 for both). There were no obvious differences between groups A, B and C in the Rasmussen score (16.8, 17.0 and 16.3) or HSS score (86.3, 86.0 and 85.7). One case of delayed incision healing due to partial necrosis occurred in group B. At the final follow-ups in group C, the varus stress test showed 2 cases of laxation of degree Ⅱ and 2 cases of laxation of degree Ⅰ. Conclusions In the treatment of fractures of anterolateral and posterolateral columns of tibial plateau, all the 3 approaches can lead to good exposure, fine reduction, rigid fixation and satisfactory outcomes. Although the combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach and lateral incision via double intermuscular spatia approach can lead to similar exposure ranges and fixation effects, the latter is easier in operation while the former exposes the anterior and posterior spatia more fully, allowing the anterior and posterior plates to be better positioned. The posterolateral transfibular approach can lead to the largest exposure range and more precise reduction, but it has risks of damage to the lateral ligamentous structure, greater invasion, postoperative lateral instability and injury to the common peroneal nerve. Key words: Knee joint; Fracture fixation, internal; Case-control studies; Surgical approach; Classification

Prospective study of arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament with quadrupled semitendinosus autograft

Background: In contrast to old time in today’s world of competitive sports and vehicular accidents twisting injuries to knee joints causing ligament and meniscal tears are a common occurrence. Being a prime stabilizer of the knee joint anterior cruciate ligament is truly “crucial” for normal functioning and stability of knee. It is responsible for prevention of forward displacement of tibia on the femur as well as prevention of hyperextension and excessive internal rotation of tibia. Additionally it acts as restraint on valgus and varus stress in all degrees of flexion and fine-tunes the screw home motion as the tibia approaches terminal extension. Rupture of ACL, unless properly reconstructed, can have catastrophic consequences for knee stability. The methods of reconstruction of a ruptured ACL include intra-articular reconstruction, extra-articular reconstruction and combined intra-articular and extra-articular reconstruction. With advances in arthroscopy intra-articular reconstruction is fast becoming procedure of choice due to less morbidity and prospect of an early mobilization. Recent studies have shown that four stranded semitendinosus tendon graft have similar strength and stiffness characteristics as that of normal anterior cruciate ligament. We conducted this study to evaluate the result of arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament with quadrupled semitendinosus autograft and complications associated with this procedure. Materials and Methods: After obtaining approval from institutional ethical committee we conducted a prospective study of 30 patients who had been admitted to our institute with pain, limp and instability due to anterior cruciate ligament rupture. Patients were enrolled on the basis of pre-defined inclusion criteria and any patient having any exclusion criteria was excluded from the study. X-Ray and MRI (if required) were done. Detailed history, thorough clinical examination and baseline investigations were done. All patients underwent ACL reconstruction by semitendinosus autograft. The outcome of arthroscopic reconstruction with quadrupled semitendinosus autograft and complications associated with this procedure were studied. The data was tabulated and analyzed using SPSS 16.0 version software. Results: This study consisted of 30 patients having been diagnosed with anterior cruciate ligament rupture. There were 27 men and 3 women with a M: F ratio of 1: 0.11. The most common age group involved was 31-35 years (30%) followed by 20-25 years (26.67%) and 26-30 years (16.67%). Road traffic accidents (46.67%) and Sports injuries (43.33%) were the predominant causes of ACL rupture. Most patients (26.67%) presented within 6 months of injury. Associated meniscal injuries were seen in 11 (36.67%) patients and medial meniscus (20%) was found to be involved more commonly than lateral meniscus (16.67%). Majority of the patients received 9 mm graft (60%). Most of the patients were discharged from hospital within 1 week (53.33%) while 9 patients (30%) needed to be kept in hospital for up to 2 weeks. Only 5 patients (16.67%) required hospitalization beyond 2 weeks. Pre-operative Tenger- Lysholm score was poor in majority of the patients (73.33%). Post-operatively at the time of 6 months follow up majority of the patients (66.67%) had an excellent Tenger-Lysholm score. No major complications were encountered in any of our patients. Minor complication like wound infection at the graft site (2/30), wound edge necrosis (2/30), foot drop (1/30), chemical burn under the tourniquet (1/30) and synovitis (1/30) were seen in some patients. All these complication resolved with proper management and no residual complications were seen in any of the patients. Conclusion: Arthroscopic reconstruction of ruptured anterior cruciate ligament by quadrupled semitendinosus autograft is associated with good functional results and excellent outcome. Minor complications associated with the procedure can be taken care of by appropriate management.

Effect of distal ulnar ostectomy on carpal joint stability during weight bearing in the dog.

To assess the influence of a 50% distal ulnectomy on mediolateral carpal stability in the dog. Canine cadaveric study. Seven canine thoracic limbs METHODS: Thoracic limbs were placed in a jig to mimic weight bearing with a load representing 30% of body weight. Carpal extension angle was standardized at 190° ± 5°. Frontal plane carpal angles were measured with the limb loaded on craniocaudal radiographs before and after ulnectomy. Valgus and varus stress radiographs with the limb loaded were acquired before and after ulnectomy. The limbs were palpated and were subjectively graded for valgus or varus instability by 2 investigators before and after ulnectomy. Mean (±SD) valgus angulation increased after ulnectomy (2.1° ± 1.7°; P = .017; CI95 = 0.5°-3.7°) when the limb was loaded without valgus or varus stress applied. Mean valgus angulation increased after ulnectomy (2.7° ± 2.8°; P = .032; CI95 = -0.2°-5.5°) when valgus stress was applied to the loaded limb. Varus angulation was unchanged after ulnectomy (0.6° ± 4.6°; P = .383; CI95 = -4.2°-5.3°) when varus stress was applied to the loaded limb. Palpation detected increased valgus score after ulnectomy. Distal ulnectomy with excision of the lateral styloid process induces a slight increase in valgus in canine cadaver carpi. The clinical consequences of that valgus on carpal function and health should be assessed in clinical patients.

Use of three-dimensional finite element models of the lateral ankle ligaments to evaluate three surgical techniques.

ObjectiveTo compare three surgical techniques for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction using finite element (FE) models.MethodsA three-dimensional FE model of the left foot of a healthy volunteer and lateral collateral ligament injury models were developed. Three tendons [one-half of the autologous peroneus longus tendon (PLT), one-half of the peroneus brevis tendon (PBT), and an allogeneic tendon] were used for lateral collateral ligament reconstruction. The ankle varus stress and anterior drawer tests were performed to compare the three surgical techniques.ResultsThe ankle varus stress test showed that the equivalent stresses of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) (84.00 MPa) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) (27.01 MPa) were lower in allogeneic tendon reconstruction than in the other two techniques but similar to those of normal individuals (138.48 and 25.90 MPa, respectively). The anterior drawer test showed that the equivalent stresses of the ATFL and CFL in autologous PLT reconstruction (31.31 and 28.60 MPa, respectively) and PBT reconstruction (31.47 and 29.07 MPa, respectively) were lower than those in allogeneic tendon reconstruction (57.32 and 52.20 MPa, respectively).ConclusionsThe allogeneic tendon reconstruction outcome was similar to normal individuals. Allogeneic tendon reconstruction may be superior for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction without considering its complications.

Comparison between Absorbable and Nonabsorbable Suture Material in Modified Broström Operation

Category: Ankle, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: The current clinical standard for the surgical treatment of lateral ankle instability remains the modified Broström procedure. Almost surgeons are using non-absorbable suture material because of their strength &amp; permanent. But this has several complications such as irritation, surface tenderness, etc. So we compare the clinical result between nonabsorbable and absorbable suture material. Methods: All patients who underwent the modified Broström operation of the anterior talofibular ligament and/or the calcaneofibular ligament by a single surgeon between July 2011 and May 2015 were included in this study. A total of 96 patients were included in this study: 63 men and 33 women (mean age, 33.16 years; range, 14-72 years). Non-absorbable suture(2-0 Fiberwire®, Arthrex, Naples, FL) patient were 50 (33 men, 17 women) and absorbable suture(0-Vicryl®, Ethicon, Sommerville, NJ) patient were 46(30 men, 16 women). Mean follow-up duration was 2.5 years (range, 1.0-4.7 years). Patients completed a subjective questionnaire. Outcomes measures included the Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Reoperation cases by the recurred lateral ankle instability. All data were collected prospectively and reviewed retrospectively. Results: In non-absorbable suture group, The mean talar tilt angle in preoperative talar tilt test was 14.4 and in absorbable suture group, 13.7, respectively. The mean talar tilt angle in postoperative talar tilt test was 5.3 and in absorbable suture group, 6.1, respectively. There were no significant differences between non-absorbable suture method and absorbable suture method with talar tilt angle in varus stress x-ray (P &gt; .05). There was no significant difference in FADI (87 vs 91; P = .553), AOFAS (83 vs 87; P = .372) score between non-absorable suture method group and the absorbable suture method group. During follow up, Except of 2 patients, they were no clinical symptom. Each one patient in non-absorbable and absorbable suture group underwent revision lateral ligament surgery. Conclusion: As compared with non-absorbable suture in open modified Broström procedure, absorbable suture method produced similarly favorable outcomes.

Stress radiographs under anesthesia for painful chronic lateral ankle instability

Category:AnkleIntroduction/Purpose:Anterior drawer and varus stress radiographs are commonly used for chronic lateral ankle instability. We compared pre-operative stress radiographs to intra-operative ones under anesthesia to figure out the accuracy and efficacy of stress radiographs at outpatient clinic.Methods:Data was collected from the patients underwent Modified Brostrom operation for painful chronic unilateral lateral ankle instability from January, 2014 to June, 2016. Subjects were divided by three groups (complete tear, partial tear and instability without rupture) according to the status of preoperative MRI findings of anterior talofibular ligament.Results:Ninety six patients were enrolled with a mean age of 29.63±12.04 (male: female=65: 31). Complete, partial tear and instability without rupture were 39, 46 and 11 respectively. On anterior drawer and varus stress radiographs on the affected limb, talar translation and tilting were increased significantly (2.57 mm and 2.01o). The differences betw...