Pathological, Morphometric and Correlation Analysis of the Modified Mankin Score, Tidemark Roughness and Calcified Cartilage Thickness in Rat Knee Osteoarthritis after Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy.

The paper displayed the pathological changes and relationships of the modified Mankin score, tidemark roughness and calcified cartilage (CC) thickness by extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) (0.25 mJ/ mm2 with 800 impulses) on different positions of the medial and lateral rat knee OA joint. After the experiments, the articular cartilage was assessed using histomorphometry, image analysis and statistical method. In the micro-CT analysis, ESWT on medial groups were better than lateral groups in the trabecular volume and trabecular number. The data showed a strong negative correlation between the modified Mankin score and tidemark roughness (r = -0.941; P < 0.001). In terms of the relationship of tidemark roughness with CC thickness, the medial and Sham groups showed a significant negative correlation (r = -0.788, P = 0.022). Additionally, the Euclidean distance derived from 3D scatter plot analysis was an indicator of chondropathic conditions, exhibiting a strong correlation with OA stage in the articular cartilage of the femur (r = 0.911, P < 0.001) and tibia (r = 0.890, P < 0.001) after ESWT. Principle component analysis (PCA) further demonstrated that ESWT applied to medial locations had a better outcome than treatment at lateral locations for knee OA by comparing with Sham and OA groups, and CC thickness was the most important factor affecting hyaline cartilage repair after ESWT.

Clinical and radiologic outcomes of the modified phemister procedure with coracoclavicular ligament augmentation using mersilene tape versus hook plate fixation for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

BACKGROUND: The clinical superiority of surgical treatment for acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of the modified Phemister procedure with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape to those of hook plate fixation for acute AC joint dislocation. METHODS: In this study, patients who received modified Phemister surgery with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape (PM group) or hook plate fixation (HK group) for acute unstable AC joint dislocation with a minimum 5-year follow-up period were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical outcomes were evaluated according to blood loss during surgery, surgical duration, visual analogue scale (VAS), Constant-Murley score (CMS), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder rating scale, and the occurrence of complications. Radiological outcomes were assessed from radiographs according to multiple parameters, including CC distance maintenance, acromion osteolysis, and the presence of distal clavicle osteolysis. RESULTS: A total of 35 patients completed follow-up for more than 5 years and were analyzed in this study (mean = 74.08 months). There were 18 patients in the PM group and 17 in the HK group. The PM group exhibited similar improvement in functional outcome to the HK group. Regarding radiological outcomes, the HK group had a superior performance in terms of CC distance maintenance, of statistical significance (CCDR: 94.29 ± 7.01% versus 111.00 ± 7.69%, p < 0.001) after a one-year follow-up period. However, there were 4 cases of acromion osteolysis and 2 cases of distal clavicle osteolysis in the HK group. CONCLUSION: Hook plate fixation was found to be superior to the modified Phemister technique with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape in terms of CC distance maintenance, but there was no significant difference in the functional outcome after 5 years of follow-up. Both surgical methods are reliable options for the treatment of acute AC joint dislocation. Modified Phemister surgery with CC ligament augmentation using Mersilene tape is a relatively lower-cost option for acute AC joint dislocation without the need of a second surgery for implant removal.

Music-Based Intervention Ameliorates Mecp2-Loss-Mediated Sociability Repression in Mice through the Prefrontal Cortex FNDC5/BDNF Pathway.

Patients with Rett syndrome (RTT) show severe difficulties with communication, social withdrawl, and learning. Music-based interventions improve social interaction, communication skills, eye contact, and physical skills and reduce seizure frequency in patients with RTT. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which music-based interventions compromise sociability impairments in mecp2 null/y mice as an experimental RTT model. Male mecp2 null/y mice and wild-type mice (24 days old) were randomly divided into control, noise, and music-based intervention groups. Mice were exposed to music or noise for 6 h/day for 3 consecutive weeks. Behavioral patterns, including anxiety, spontaneous exploration, and sociability, were characterized using open-field and three-chamber tests. BDNF, TrkB receptor motif, and FNDC5 expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus, basal ganglia, and amygdala were probed using RT-PCR or immunoblotting. mecp2 null/y mice showed less locomotion in an open field than wild-type mice. The social novelty rather than the sociability of these animals increased following a music-based intervention, suggesting that music influenced the mecp2-deletion-induced social interaction repression rather than motor deficit. Mechanically, the loss of BDNF signaling in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampal regions, but not in the basal ganglia and amygdala, was compromised following the music-based intervention in mecp2 null/y mice, whereas TrkB signaling was not significantly changed in either region. FNDC5 expression in the prefrontal cortex region in mecp2 null/y mice also increased following the music-based intervention. Collective evidence reveals that music-based interventions improve mecp2-loss-induced social dysfunction. BDNF and FNDC5 signaling in the prefrontal cortex region mediates the music-based-intervention promotion of social interactions. This study gives new insight into the mechanisms underlying the improvement of social behaviors in mice suffering from experimental Rett syndrome following a music-based intervention.

Effects of computer-assisted navigation versus the conventional technique for total knee arthroplasty on levels of plasma thrombotic markers: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major sequela after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We prospectively compared the differences in the perioperative plasma D-dimer and fibrinogen levels between the individuals undergoing TKA via computer-assisted navigation and via a conventional method as the surrogate comparison for VTE. There were 174 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria and providing valid informed consent between September 2011 and November 2013. There were 69 females and 20 males in the navigation-assisted group (median age: 71.00 years), while the conventional group was composed of 59 females and 26 males (median age: 69.00 years). Blood samples were obtained prior to and at 24 and 72 h after surgery for measurement of the levels of plasma D-dimer and fibrinogen. RESULTS: A significantly lower plasma D-dimer level 24 h after TKA (p = 0.001) and a milder postoperative surge 24 h after TKA (p = 0.002) were observed in patients undergoing navigation-assisted TKA. The proportions of subjects exceeding the plasma D-dimer cut-off values of 7.5, 8.6 and 10 mg/L 24 h after TKA were all significantly higher in the conventional group than in the navigation-assisted group (p = 0.024, 0.004, and 0.004, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: A lower plasma D-dimer level and a milder surge in the plasma D-dimer level were observed in patients undergoing navigation-assisted TKA in comparison with patients undergoing conventional TKA 24 h after surgery. These findings may supplement the known advantages of navigation-assisted TKA.

Inferior outcome of rotator cuff repair in chronic hemodialytic patients.

BACKGROUND: Repair of rotator cuff tears has yielded excellent functional outcomes in recent decades; however, poor outcomes and dissatisfaction have been noted in specific groups. Spontaneous tendon rupture has been reported in patients receiving long-term hemodialysis owing to alteration of tendon structure, which might impede functional recovery after rotator cuff repair. The purpose of the present study was to compare the clinical outcomes between hemodialysis and non-hemodialysis patients after rotator cuff repair. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent mini-open rotator cuff repair from Jan 2013 to Jan 2017. A total of 14 patients under chronic hemodialysis (HD) were matched to non-hemodialysis (NHD) patients at a 1:2 ratio according to age, gender, tear size, severity of fatty infiltration and history of diabetes. Pre- and post-operative functional outcome was assessed using the simple shoulder test (SST), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Shoulder Rating Scale of the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Clinical functional outcome at the last follow-up was adopted for comparison of the HD and NHD groups. RESULTS: A total of 42 patients were enrolled in this comparative study, with a mean age of 66.64 ± 1.68 years in the HD group and 65.71 ± 5.40 years in the NHD group. At the final clinical assessment, the post-operative functional outcome was significantly improved in both groups (p < 0.001). However, the functional outcome of the HD group was significantly inferior to that of the NHD group in terms of the SST score (6.50 ± 2.24 vs 9.39 ± 1.87, p < 0.001), ASES score (63.17 ± 15.93 vs 86.96 ± 11.43, p < 0.001), UCLA score (20.14 ± 7.71 vs 29.82 ± 5.08, p < 0.001) and VAS score (3.00 ± 0.96 vs 1.21 ± 1.03, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The improvement of pain and functional improvement of long-term hemodialysis patients were inferior to those of patients without hemodialysis after mini-open rotator cuff repair.

Comparative Effectiveness of Different Nonsurgical Treatments for Patellar Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To investigate the functional improvement and pain reduction of different nonsurgical treatments for patellar tendinopathy (PT), a systematic review with network meta-analysis was performed. METHODS: Studies were comprehensively searched for without language restrictions in the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and SPORTDiscus databases from inception to May 2018. Randomized controlled trials about nonsurgical treatments for PT were included. The outcome measurements were the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment (VISA) scale and pain scores (such as the visual analog scale or Numerical Rating Scale). Study quality was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database score. Direct comparisons were performed using pairwise meta-analysis, whereas network meta-analysis was performed using a frequentist method in a multivariate random-effects model. RESULTS: Eleven studies with 430 affected patellar tendons were included in the systematic review. The summary mean difference of improvement in the VISA scale versus the control group for corticosteroid injection was -23.00 (95% confidence interval [CI] -36.73 to -9.27), for leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma (LR-PRP) was 13.22 (95% CI 2.37-24.07), for focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) was -1.28 (95% CI -6.25 to 3.68), for radial ESWT was -6.68 (95% CI -20.20 to 6.84), for ultrasound was -0.70 (95% CI -11.23 to 9.83), for autologous blood injection was -0.60 (95% CI -9.30 to 8.10), for dry needling was 17.51 (95% CI -2.57 to 37.60), for topical glyceryl trinitrate was -0.90 (95% CI -13.07 to 11.27), and for skin-derived tendon-like cells was 10.40 (95% CI -1.59 to 22.39). LR-PRP (Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking curve [SUCRA] = 87.5%) or dry needling (SUCRA = 90.5%) was most likely to be ranked the best in terms of improvement on the VISA scale. Compared with the control group, the summary mean difference of the change in pain score for corticosteroid injection was 0.80 (95% CI -3.48 to 5.08), for LR-PRP was -1.87 (95% CI -3.28 to -0.46), for focused ESWT was 0.13 (95% CI -0.68 to 0.93), for radial ESWT was 0.03 (95% CI -1.92 to 1.98), for ultrasound was -0.20 (95% CI -1.49 to 1.09), for autologous blood injection was 0.60 (95% CI -0.73 to 1.93), for dry needling was -0.37 (95% CI -2.71 to 1.97), and for topical glyceryl trinitrate was -0.50 (95% CI -2.55 to 1.55). The treatment most likely to be ranked the best in terms of change in pain score was LR-PRP (SUCRA = 94.9%). CONCLUSIONS: The network meta-analysis demonstrated that LR-PRP has the greatest functional improvement and pain reduction for PT compared with other treatment options. However, the treatment effect estimates can be biased by the possible intransitivity and should not be overestimated. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I, meta-analysis of Level I studies.

The effectiveness of music therapy for individuals with Rett syndrome and their families.

BACKGROUND: Patients with Rett syndrome (RTT) present characteristic regression in communication and hand skills, which eventually leads to intellectual and physical disability. Moreover, caregivers of patients with RTT face stressors related to patients' medical and developmental concerns. Given the indications from case reports, this pilot study investigated the effectiveness of music therapy on RTT patients, as well as on parental stress for families of children with RTT. METHODS: Families in the study group were enrolled in a twice-weekly 120-minute music therapy program for 24 weeks (n = 11), whereas families in the control group did not receive music therapy (n = 12). Participants were administered the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Rett Syndrome Clinical Severity Scale, Rett Syndrome Motor Behavioral Assessment, and Parenting Stress Index for caregivers of RTT children before and after the music therapy program. RESULTS: Music therapy improved receptive language, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and social interaction for RTT patients. In addition, purposeful hand function, breathing patterns, and eye contact were significantly improved. Of note, music therapy also decreased the frequency of epileptic seizures. Lastly, caregivers in the study group exhibited significantly lower stress following the program. CONCLUSION: The 24-week music therapy program was effective in improving social interaction, communication skills, eye contact, hand function, and reducing seizure frequency among RTT patients. Additionally, music therapy was effective in relieving parenting stress, which may help healthcare providers initiate early intervention strategies that can prevent parenting stress and reduce the risk of depression.

Increased expression of type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor among patients with rotator cuff lesions and shoulder stiffness.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder stiffness is a disease manifested by pain, limited range of motion, and functional disability. The inflammatory and fibrosis processes play a substantial role in the pathogenesis of shoulder stiffness. The CB1 receptor has been recognized to mediate the processes of pathologic fibrosis. This study investigated the role of the CB1 pathway in pathogenesis of rotator cuff lesions with shoulder stiffness. METHODS: All of the patients undergoing repair surgery for rotator cuff lesions were recruited and subcategorized into subjects with and without shoulder stiffness. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay was used to evaluate the expression level of CB1 and interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß) in the subacromial bursae, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the concentration of CB1 and IL-1ß in the subacromial fluid. Tenocytes treated with CB1 agonists and antagonists were also studied for the relationship of CB1 and the inflammatory cytokine IL-1ß. RESULTS: The patients with shoulder stiffness had higher messenger RNA (mRNA) expression (P = .040) and immunohistochemistry staining (P < .001) of CB1 in the subacromial bursa and higher CB1 concentration in the subacromial fluid (P = .008). Tenocytes treated with the CB1 agonist WIN 55,212-2 and antagonist AM251 showed increased expression of IL-1ß mRNA (P = .049) and suppressed expression of IL-1ß mRNA (P = .001), respectively. DISCUSSION: The CB1 pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of shoulder stiffness. It may be a promising target for the treatment of rotator cuff lesions with shoulder stiffness.

The First Hand Allotransplantation in Taiwan: A Report at 9 Months.

PURPOSE: Hand transplantations have been initiated and have been encouraged by promising results for more than 1 decade. The aim of this study was to present the first case of hand transplantation performed in Taiwan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: On September 3, 2014, we transplanted the left distal forearm and hand of a brain-dead managed 37 years to a man aged 45 years who had traumatic amputation of the distal third of his right forearm 30 years ago. The total ischemic time during the transplantation was 6 hours and 45 minutes. Immunosuppression included anti-thymocyte globulins, and methylprednisolone (Solumedrol) was used for the induction. Maintenance therapy included systemic tacrolimus, mycophenolic acid [mycophenolate mofetil (MMF)], and prednisone. A combination of systemic (tacrolimus/MMF/prednisolone) and topical immunosuppressant cream (clobetasol and tacrolimus) was applied if acute rejection occurred. Follow-up included routine posttransplant laboratory tests, skin biopsies, intensive physiotherapy, and psychological support. RESULTS: The initial postoperative course was uneventful. No surgical complications were observed. Immunosuppression was well tolerated using tacrolimus, MMF, and prednisone, except for some immune-related complications. One episode of mild clinical and histological signs of cutaneous rejection was seen at 105 days after surgery. These signs disappeared after pulse therapy with Solumedrol and the topical application of immunosuppressive creams (tacrolimus and clobetasol). One infection episode occurred due to local cellulitis and axillary lymphadenopathy on day 140 and was successfully treated with antibiotics. The patient developed cytomegalovirus infection at 7 months that responded to medication. Intensive physiotherapy led to satisfactory progress in motor functioning. Sensory progress (Tinel sign) was good and reached the wrist by 3 months for the median and ulnar nerves, and could be felt in the finger tip by 9 months in response to deep pressure and light touch sensations. The patient has a lateral pinch that allows him to pick up and grip objects during daily living, although his muscle power is still insufficient. CONCLUSIONS: Hand allotransplantation is technically feasible. Currently available immunosuppression methods seem to control vascularized composite tissue allotransplantation rejection. A combination of topical and systemic immunosuppressants is a useful method to prevent acute hand allotransplant rejection.

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy shows site-specific effects in osteoarthritis of the knee in rats.

PURPOSE: This study investigated the site-specific effects of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) in osteoarthritis of the knee in rats. METHODS: Sixty SD rats were divided into five groups. Group I was the control and received sham surgery without anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) and medial meniscectomy (MM) and no ESWT. Group II received ACLT + MM, but no ESWT. Group III received ACLT + MM and ESWT at distal femur. Group IV received ACLT + MM and ESWT at proximal tibia. Group V received ACLT + MM and ESWT at distal femur and proximal tibia. Each ESWT session consisted of 800 impulses at 14 kV (= 0.219 mJ/mm(2) energy flux density). The evaluations included radiograph, bone mineral density (BMD), histomorphologic examination, and immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS: Radiographic appearance: Group II showed progressive osteoarthritis of the knee at 12 and 24 wk, whereas only subtle changes were noted in Groups I, III, VI, and V. BMD results: Group II showed significant decreases of BMD at 12 and 24 wk. The BMDs of Groups III, IV, and V were comparable to Group I. Cartilage degradation: Group II showed significant increases of Mankin score, Safranin O stain, and matrix metalloproteinase 13 and decrease of collagen II at 12 and 24 wk. The changes of Mankin score, Safranin O stain, matrix metalloproteinase 13, and collagen II in Groups III, IV, and V were comparable to Group I. Subchondral bone remodeling: Group II showed significant decreases of vascular endothelial growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein 2, and osteocalcin at 12 and 24 wk as compared to Group I. The changes of vascular endothelial growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein 2, and osteocalcin in Groups III, IV, and V were comparable to Group I. CONCLUSION: ESWT shows site-specific effects at distal femur and proximal tibia in osteoarthritis of the knee in rats. The effects of ESWT are consistent at distal femur and proximal tibia, with no additive effects when both areas were simultaneously treated.

Functional outcomes of Y-graft double-bundle and single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction of the knee.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the functional outcome, ligament laxity, and tibial tunnel enlargement between 3-tunnel double-bundle (DB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and single-bundle (SB) ACL reconstruction. METHODS: This retrospective study identified primary arthroscopic ACL reconstruction from July 2006 to July 2008. The cohort consisted of 50 knees in 49 patients, comprising 26 knees with SB ACL reconstruction and 24 with DB ACL reconstruction. Semitendinosus autograft was used in SB ACL reconstruction, and semitendinosus and gracilis grafts were used in DB ACL reconstruction. Both groups received the same rehabilitation protocol postoperatively. The evaluations included functional assessment, ligament laxity, and radiographs of the knee. Functional assessments included a pain score, the Lysholm functional score, the Tegner activity score, and the grade on the International Knee Documentation Committee knee examination form. Ligament laxity was measured by the anterior drawer test, Lachman test, pivot-shift test, and KT-1000 arthrometer (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) testing. It was graded as 0 for no laxity, 0 to 5 mm for mild laxity, 5 to 10 mm for moderate laxity, and 10 to 15 mm for severe laxity. Radiographs of the knee were used for the evaluation of bony appearance, alignment of the knee, joint space narrowing, and measurement of the tibial tunnel. RESULTS: Significant improvements in knee function and ligament laxity were noted after surgery in both groups. However, no statistical differences in functional scores and ligament laxity were noted between the 2 groups (P = .275 and P = .413, respectively). A mild increase in laxity was noted in 3 cases (14%) in the DB ACL reconstruction group and 3 cases (13%) in the SB ACL reconstruction group. A moderate increase in laxity was noted in 2 cases (9%) in the SB ACL reconstruction group and none in the DB ACL reconstruction group. Radiographic evaluations showed no statistical difference between the 2 groups (P = .114). CONCLUSIONS: Both 3-tunnel Y-graft DB ACL reconstruction and SB ACL reconstruction significantly improved the function and stability of the knee after surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Increased interleukin 1ß levels in the subacromial fluid in diabetic patients with rotator cuff lesions compared with nondiabetic patients.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic patients have a high prevalence of shoulder pain and stiffness. Interleukin (IL) 1ß was reportedly correlated with shoulder stiffness and decreased shoulder function. We retrospectively compared the expression of IL-1ß in the subacromial synovial fluid between diabetic and nondiabetic patients with rotator cuff tearing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We enrolled 68 patients with rotator cuff tearing (23 diabetic patients and 45 nondiabetic patients). The preoperative sum of range-of-motion deficit (SROMD), Constant score, and visual analog scale (VAS) score were obtained. Intraoperatively, subacromial synovial fluid was collected for the IL-1ß level measurement. Comparisons of IL-1ß levels, Constant scores, SROMD, and VAS scores between diabetic and nondiabetic patients were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULT: Diabetic patients with rotator cuff tearing had significantly increased subacromial IL-1ß levels (P = .048), SROMD (P < .001) and VAS scores (P = .022) and lower Constant scores (P < .001) than nondiabetic patients. The IL-1ß levels in the subacromial fluid were significantly correlated with the Constant score (r = -0.477, P < .001), VAS score (r = 0.698, P < .001), and SROMD (r = 0.293, P = .015) in all patients. CONCLUSION: The elevated IL-1ß levels in the subacromial fluid of patients with diabetes may explain the likelihood of pain and shoulder stiffness developing in these patients. We suggest more aggressive treatment for rotator cuff lesions in diabetic patients.

Preoperative templating and computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty for arthritic valgus knee.

We reported the functional outcomes, component alignment and optimal thickness of the tibial inserts and joint line changes of 21 arthritic valgus knee deformities using preoperative templating and computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty(TKA). The osseous cut was modified using a novel preoperative templating technique. Soft tissue balance and component implantation were implemented with the aid of a computed tomography-free navigation system. The arthritic valgus knees had clinical, and functional improvement of the knee Society scores and Lysholm scores postoperatively, at an average of 37.8 ± 7.2 months. The mean anatomic axis (15.2° ± 4.5° vs. 6.1° ± 1.4°) and mechanical axis (8.3° ± 5.2° vs. 0.28° ± 1.6°) were also significantly improved postoperatively. The mean thickness of tibial inserts and joint line changes was 10.7 ± 1.46 mm and 0.1 ± 1.4 mm. This computer-assisted technique with preoperative radiographic templating is an alternative strategy to improve TKA results in arthritic valgus knees.

Avoidance of intramedullary violation in computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty lowers the incidence of periprosthetic joint infection compared with conventional total knee arthroplasty: A propensity score matching analysis of 5342 cases.

BACKGROUND: Conventional total knee arthroplasty (CONV-TKA) inevitably perturbs femoral medullary canal, disturbs medullary micro-architecture and increases blood loss and inflammatory responses. We hypothesized that avoidance of intramedullary violation may lower the incidence of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The aim of this study was to verify whether computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty (CAS-TKA) lowers the incidence of PJI as compared with CONV-TKA. METHODS: A propensity score matching study of 5342 patients who underwent CAS-TKA (n = 1085) or CONV-TKA (n = 4257) for primary osteoarthritis of the knee from 2007 to 2015 in our institute was performed. Patients who underwent CAS-TKA were matched to those who received CONV-TKA at a 1:2 ratio according to demographics and comorbidities. PJI was defined according to the Musculoskeletal Infection Society diagnostic criteria from the 2013 International Consensus Meeting. RESULTS: After controlling potential risk factors, the use of CAS-TKA resulted in a lower incidence of PJI as compared with CONV-TKA [adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 0.42; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.18-0.99]. The same trend in PJI reduction was observed with the usage of CAS-TKA under sensitivity testing [HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.12-0.95]. The cumulative incidence of PJI was lower in the CAS-TKA group than the CONV-TKA group (log-rank test, p = 0.013). CONCLUSION: Avoidance of intramedullary violation during TKA may play a pivotal role in lowering the incidence of PJI. The use of CAS-TKA can reduce the incidence of PJI, with a better survival rate in terms of being free of PJI, as compared with CONV-TKA.

Treatment of sirolimus in the pathological femoral fracture related to blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome: A case report.

RATIONALE: Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare condition with characteristic vascular malformations of the skin, most frequently lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system, and less often, the musculoskeletal system. We report a 5-year case of BRBNS complicated with pathological femoral fracture that was successfully treated with sirolimus. PATIENT CONCERNS: We report the case of a 1-week-old girl with a diagnosis of BRBNS who had multiple venous malformations over her body. She also presented with right lower-limb swelling and complicated with a pathological femoral fracture. DIAGNOSES: BRBNS with the complication of pathological femoral fracture. INTERVENTIONS: Treatment with low-dose sirolimus as an antiangiogenic agent was administered, combined with hip spica protection. OUTCOMES: The vascular lesion was reduced after about 6 months and the fracture site had healed around 2.5 years after initiation of sirolimus therapy. There were no drug adverse effects at the 5-year follow-up point. The patient showed excellent spirit and no obvious sequelae were found. LESSONS: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the successful use of sirolimus in a patient with a pathological femoral fracture related to BRBNS complications.

The Differential Systemic Biological Effects between Computer Navigation and Conventional Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) Surgeries: A Prospective Study.

Distal femur reaming-free total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was reported to possess lower risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or venous thromboembolism (VTE) than conventional TKA in a retrospective population-based study. We tried to offer prospective biological evidence by comparing the levels of AMI and VTE serum surrogate markers among the patients undertaking navigation and conventional TKAs to support these observations. Thirty-four participants undertaking navigation TKA and 34 patients receiving conventional TKA were recruited between February 2013 and December 2015. Blood samples were drawn from all participants before TKA, and 24 and 72 h after TKA, to assess the concentration of soluble P-selectin, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) between the participants undergoing navigation and conventional TKAs. We showed that significantly lower serum levels of soluble P-selectin 24 h after, as well as CRP 24 and 72 h after TKA could be observed in the navigation cohort. The more prominent surge of serum soluble P-selectin and CRP were perceived 24 and 72 h after TKA among the participants undergoing conventional TKA. Based upon our prospective biological evidence, the merits of navigation TKA are strengthened by lower levels of AMI and VTE serum surrogate markers.

Comparison of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy with Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Intra-Articular Hyaluronic Acid Injection for Early Osteoarthritis of the Knees.

Conservative treatments for early osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee included the use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injection. Recently, several animal studies reported that extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) demonstrated chondroprotective effects on knee OA. The present study compared the efficacy of oral NSAIDs, HA injection, and noninvasive ESWT for early OA of the knee. Forty-five patients with early knee OA were randomized into three groups. NSAIDs group received celecoxib 200 mg daily for 3 weeks. HA group received intra-articular injection of HA once a week for 3 weeks. ESWT group received ESWT for 3 sessions at bi-weekly interval. All patients were followed up for one year. Evaluations included the visual analogue scale (VAS) score, serum enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), plain radiography, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In addition, the functional scores were performed including, WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index) score, KOOS (knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome) score, and IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) score. All three groups showed significant improvement in VAS and functional scores as well as in the collected one-year follow-up data after treatments. ESWT group had better pain relief than NSAIDs and HA groups. ESWT group had better therapeutic effects in the functional scores than NSAIDs and HA groups. The bone mineral density (BMD) of proximal tibia is significantly increased after ESWT than others. In the serum ELISA, ESWT inhibited the expression of COMP in knee OA patients as compared with NSAIDs and HA groups. The parameters of MRI showed no significant differences between three groups after treatments. ESWT and intra-articular HA injection showed comparable results than NSAIDs. ESWT was superior in pain relief than HA and NSAIDs. The results demonstrated that ESWT was an effective and alternative therapy than HA and NSAIDs for early osteoarthritis of the knees.

Tranexamic Acid Reduces Total Blood Loss and Inflammatory Response in Computer-Assisted Navigation Total Knee Arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an effective blood salvage agent that reduces perioperative blood loss in conventional total knee arthroplasty (TKA). As computer-assisted surgery for TKA (CAS-TKA) results in a lower perioperative blood loss than conventional TKA, the additional effect of blood conservation by TXA might be mitigated. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of TXA in CAS-TKA. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 222 consecutive patients who underwent CAS-TKA. Intravenous TXA was administered in 103 patients (TXA group) at a dosage of 20 mg/kg 15 min before deflation of the tourniquet. The other 119 patients did not receive TXA (control group). Patient demographic data including age, gender, BMI, DM, and hypertension were collected. The primary outcomes were the estimated total blood loss (ETBL) and perioperative data, including tourniquet duration, preoperative and postoperative day 1 (POD1) and day 3 (POD3) serum D-dimer, CRP, hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) levels. Secondary outcomes including transfusion rate and 90-day complications were recorded. RESULTS: The ETBL was lower in the TXA group on both POD1 (404.34 ± 234.77 vs. 595.47 ± 279.04, p < 0.001) and POD3 (761.39 ± 260.88 vs. 987.79 ± 326.58, p < 0.001). The TXA group also demonstrated a lower level of CRP on POD1 (p=0.02) and lower levels of CRP and serum D-dimer on POD3 (p=0.008 and p < 0.001). Consumption of fibrinogen was higher in the control group on both POD1 (p=0.013) and POD3 (p < 0.001). Length of hospital stay was lower in the TXA group (5.42 ± 1.21 vs. 6.25 ± 1.49, p < 0.001). The transfusion rate and perioperative complications were not significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Administration of TXA is not only effective in reducing perioperative blood loss and length of hospital stay but also exerts an anti-inflammatory effect following CAS-TKA without causing major complications.

Effects of computer-assisted navigation versus conventional total knee arthroplasty on the levels of inflammation markers: A prospective study.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a well-established modality for the treatment of advanced knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the detrimental effects of intramedullary reaming used in conventional TKA for distal femur cutting are of concern. Avoiding intramedullary reaming with the use of computer-assisted navigation TKA can not only provide superior prosthetic alignment, but also mitigate perioperative blood loss and the dissipation of marrow emboli. We quantified local and systemic concentrations of inflammation markers for both techniques. Forty-four participants undergoing computer-assisted navigation and 53 receiving conventional TKA for advanced knee OA were recruited between 2013/02/08 and 2015/12/09. Blood samples were collected from all participants at baseline then again at 24 and 72 hours postoperatively and analyzed by ELISA for interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-ß1); these markers were also measured in Hemovac drain fluid collected at 24 and 72 hours. Serum levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and TGF-ß1(unit for all markers: pg/mL) were increased from baseline by smaller increments in the navigation TKA cohort compared with the conventional TKA group at 24 hours (17.06 vs 29.39, p = 0.02; 0.51 vs 0.83, p = 0.16; -0.04 vs 0.36, p < 0.01 and -48.18 vs 63.24, p< 0.01, respectively) and at 72 hours (12.27 vs 16.87, p = 0.01; -0.40 vs 0.48, p < 0.01; 0.58 vs 0.98, p = 0.07 and -55.16 vs 63.71, p < 0.01, respectively). IL-10 levels in drainage fluids collected 24 hours after TKA were also significantly lower in the navigation group versus the conventional TKA group (8.55 vs 12.32, p < 0.01). According to our evidence, the merits of computer-assisted navigation TKA are augmented by low levels of inflammation markers.

Effects of Computer Navigation versus Conventional Total Knee Arthroplasty on Endothelial Damage Marker Levels: A Prospective Comparative Study.

UNLABELLED: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) inevitably perturbs the femoral medullary canal, which increases blood loss or morbidities associated with marrow embolization postoperatively. Computer navigation TKA reportedly minimizes medullary disturbance to alleviate perioperative blood loss. We performed a prospective comparative study, enrolling 87 patients with osteoarthritic knees from March 2011 to December 2011 in our hospital. The patients were separated into two groups, according to the surgeon they visited. Fifty-four patients underwent computer navigation TKAs and 33 had conventional TKAs. Levels of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and platelet endothelial cellular adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) in sera and hemovac drainage were measured by ELISA before and 24 hours after the surgery. We showed that patients receiving computer navigation TKAs had less blood loss and lower CAMs in serum and hemovac drainage after the operation. Less postoperative elevation of serum ICAM-1 (p=0.022) and PECAM-1 (p=0.003) from the preoperative baseline after the surgery was also noted. This study provides molecular evidence for the differential extent in vascular injury between conventional and navigation TKAs and sheds light on the possible benefits of computer navigation TKAs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02206321.