Protocol for a quasi-experimental study to ascertain the effectiveness of using eKnee School approach to impart self-care education to patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis during COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients seek improvement in their quality of life by attaining independence in activities of daily living. Literature recommends nonpharmacological intervention as first-line treatment for KOA. The study aims to ascertain the effectiveness of online supervised nonpharmacological intervention sessions of virtual knee school (eKS) training among mild and moderate KOA patients in comparison to routine care during COVID-19 pandemic and assessment of cost-effectiveness of eKS against the routine care for KOA patients during COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quasi-experimental pre-post with control group, enrolling 50 participants each in two groups: usual/routine KOA care or usual care plus KS interventions via virtual mode. Our primary outcome measures are pain, quality of life, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Secondary outcomes include performance-based tests (30-second chair test, timed up and go test, 6-minute walk test) and patient satisfaction. Intervention fidelity will be assessed with a priori checklist tailored to eKS assessing adherence, dose, quality, and user engagement in the key components. Quantitative data collection will be conducted at baseline and 6 months. Descriptive data analysis will be carried for quantitative data. For qualitative data, the thematic analysis will be performed; we propose to undertake a deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis to address the issue of uncertainty in the present cost-effectiveness analysis model. CONCLUSION: The management of KOA through virtual mode emphasizes the concepts of patient-as-person, family-centered, with socially interactive approach. The study will provide information on the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions for improving the quality of life of patients suffering from KOA through virtual knee school. Nevertheless, pitfalls in running eKS will be noted, which will help improve all aspects of online medical communications in the future.

Extruded talus injuries are associated with significant complications: A double center series with minimum 1-year follow up.

BACKGROUND: Extruded talus (ET) injuries are rare, but high-energy open pantalar dislocations. Literature on these injuries is sparse and optimal treatment protocols are ill defined. The current study documents the clinical and radiological outcomes in cases seen at 2 centers, in an attempt to determine whether surgeons should choose primary reimplantation or primary talectomy and fusion for these injuries. METHODS: Patients with ET injuries were identified from the database of two hospitals. Baseline demographics and treatment details were evaluated, and patients were called for follow-up. Radiological evaluation was conducted, and function was evaluated by the AOFAS hindfoot score. Outcomes and complications were compared between patients who had undergone primary talectomy versus primary reimplantation. Predictors of poor functional outcomes were determined. RESULTS: Of 23 patients seen by us, 15 were available for follow-up at 45.7 ± 22.2 months. Of these 19 had undergone reimplantation and 4 had talectomy with tibio-calcaneal arthrodesis. The mean percentage AOFAS score was 66.2 ± 14.6 at follow up. AVN was noted in 5, ankle arthrosis in 10, subtalar arthrosis in 4 and infection in 4 cases; no patient needed salvage arthrodesis during this time. There was no difference in baseline demographics, range of motion, AOFAS scores or complication rates between patients undergoing primary reimplantation versus primary talectomy. The number of complications per patient showed a negative, moderate correlation with the AOFAS score (Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.6, P value = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Despite best treatment, ET injuries result in significant impairment of functional outcomes and complications. Within the numbers available, no difference in outcomes or complication rates was noted between primary reimplantation or talectomy. However, we recommend reimplantation as the treatment of first choice as this offers the chance to salvage the ankle joint and preserves bone stock for future fusion or arthroplasty.

Beyond the Boundary: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Published Research on Injuries in Cricket.

Background: Cricket, a sport immensely popular in the Indian subcontinent and Commonwealth countries, boasts a staggering global following of over 1 billion enthusiasts. However, injuries in cricket are prevalent, resulting in detrimental effects on player performance and leading to substantial absenteeism from the game. In recent times, there has been a surge in interest on the epidemiology, biomechanics, and prevention of cricket-related injuries. To gain comprehensive insights into the existing research landscape, we present a bibliometric analysis of the published research on cricket injuries. Materials: The Web of Science database was searched using a well-defined search strategy. Original research articles looking at any aspect of injuries in cricket were included. Search results were imported into the R Bibliometrix package for analysis. Analysis of bibliometric parameters included top authors, journals, countries and keywords. Co-occurrence networks were generated and thematic mapping was performed to identify emerging research topics. Observations: 423 publications from 126 journals were included. An increasing trend in publications was noted. JW Orchard was the highest published author; Australia was the highest published country and the Journal of Science and Sport in Medicine had the highest number of publications. Fast bowlers were the most extensively researched and the major research was noted to focus on three niche areas, i.e., epidemiology, consensus definitions and spinal issues in fast bowlers. Research on batsmen, wicketkeepers and fielders was relatively sparse. Furthermore, we observed limited representation of research from the Indian subcontinent, despite cricket's immense popularity in the region. Conclusions: Our study findings highlight that majority of the cricket injury research stems from developed countries. The primary research areas include epidemiology, injury prevention, and biomechanics, with a particular focus on fast bowlers. However, much more has to be done to encourage research publications, focused on batsmen, wicketkeeper and fielders, as well as cricket in the developing world. These insights are essential for researchers seeking to delve into cricket-related studies and organizations aiming to advance injury prevention research in cricket.

A Novel Wall Touch-Single Limb Stance Exercise for Dynamic Activation o f Gluteus Maximus - A Cross Sectional Study.

Objective: Gluteus maximus (GM) dysfunction is associated with spinal/lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions. Studies on weightbearing GM exercises that can be used earlier in rehabilitation is limited. Utilizing GM isometric contraction and load transmission to thoracolumbar fascia during trunk straightening under unilateral stance, we for the first time describe Wall Touch Single Limb Stance (WT-SLS) exercise. Specific exercise prescription may be rationalised using knowledge of how upper and lower fibres of GM (UGM, LGM) respond during novel WT-SLS. Methodology: Surface EMG signals from UGM and LGM were compared among WT-SLS, Step up (SU) and Unilateral wall squat (UWS) in healthy subjects (N = 24). Raw data was normalized and expressed as percentage of maximum voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC). Relative easiness in performing the exercises was scored using Borg's CR10 scale. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results: WT-SLS had the highest %MVIC for both UGM and LGM (p < 0.0001), suggesting maximum activation of GM in healthy adults by our novel exercise. WT-SLS generated more motor unit action potentials, and had significantly greater activity for UGM than LGM (p = 0.0429). Remaining exercises had no differential activation of UGM and LGM. WT-SLS was perceived as only 'slight' exertion. Conclusions: WT-SLS depicted the greatest muscle activation, suggesting possible better clinical and functional outcomes considering GM activation and strengthening. UGM was preferentially activated during WT-SLS, but not during SU and UWS. Therefore, targeting GM with our novel exercise may improve gluteal weakness and dysfunction in lumbar radiculopathy, knee ligament injuries; as preventive measure for injury; or for postural correction.

Ankle Sprain and Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: Optimizing Conservative Treatment.

The management protocol for each case of ankle sprain should be individualized and optimized in order to reduce the likelihood of development of chronic instability. Initial treatment aims to address pain, swelling, and inflammation and facilitates regaining pain-free joint motion. Short-term joint immobilization is indicated in severe cases. Subsequently, muscle strengthening, balance training, and targeted activities to develop proprioception are added. Gradually, sports-related activities are added with the ultimate goal of bringing the individual back to preinjury level of activity. This protocol of conservative treatment should always be offered before considering any surgical intervention.

The Outcome of Surgically Treated Proximal Femur Fractures Managed by Ortho-anesthetic Geriatric Care Pathway: A Prospective Observational Study with 2-Year Follow-Up.

Background: Evaluation of the ortho-anesthetic geriatric care pathway for patients with proximal femur fracture in a tertiary care referral center was done by reporting the peri-operative morbidity and mortality. Clinical and demographic predictors of mortality were also identified in this cohort. Material and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted between August 2017 and November 2018. Demographic, anesthetic and surgical characteristics were recorded. Telephonic post-discharge follow-up was done for a period of 2 years. Factors predicting mortality were estimated using multivariate logistic regression. Results: The cohort was characterized by frailty, high ASA physical status, NYHA class and Charlson co-morbidity index. The delay in presentation to hospital and subsequent surgical fixation was 7 (1-8) and 8 (5-13) days, respectively. The 30, 60, 90-day, 1-year and 2-year mortality was 13.6%, 21.8%, 25.45%, 36.5% and 44%, respectively. Intra-operative blood transfusion was a predictor of 30-day mortality (OR 9.2, 95% CI 1.02-83.17; p = 0.048). Pre-operative respiratory dysfunction predicted 60-day (OR 11.245, 95% CI 1.38-91.58; p = 0.024) and 90-day (OR 11.654, 95% CI 1.91-71.1; p = 0.008) mortality. Post-operative morbidity was reported in 31 (28.1%) patients; incidence of pneumonia (n = 9), sepsis (n = 8), MI (n = 6), PTE (n = 5) and ARF (n = 3) were 8.18%, 7.27%, 5.45%, 4.54% and 2.72%, respectively. Conclusion: Existing pathway facilitated surgical fixation with median delay of 8 days which should be shortened to 48 h. High mortality in our cohort needs to be decreased by preventing admission delays and aggressively managing co-morbidities. Acceptable benchmark goals for pre-operative optimization of lung disease and decrease in intra-operative blood transfusion need to be incorporated in existing care pathway.

Is Neck Pain Related to Sagittal Head and Neck Posture?: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: Neck pain (NP) is common in all age groups and adversely affects the patients' entire lifestyle. There exists inconclusive evidence relating faulty craniocervical posture with pain-related disability. This review aims to determine whether sagittal head and neck posture differs in NP and pain-free subjects, to critically appraise the correlation of posture with NP. Methods: Of 3796 articles identified at primary search from CINAHL, PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, 26 were included based on eligibility criteria. Mean pooled difference (MPD) and effect size (ES) were calculated to establish relationship among studies, to assess postural correlation with NP measures [Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), neck disability index (NDI), Northwick Park NP Questionnaire (NPQ)] and for age- and gender-wise variation. Risk of bias was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Results: Craniovertebral angle (CVA) had a significant MPD of - 2.93(95% CI - 4.95 to - 0.91). Sagittal head angle (SHA) and forward head posture (FHP) had an insignificant MPD of 1.15 (95% CI - 1.16 to 3.46) and - 0.26 (95% CI - 1.89 to 1.36), respectively. Age- and gender-wise CVA difference was found to be 2.36° and 2.57°, respectively. ES was significant for correlation between CVA and pain intensity [NPRS: - 0.44 (95% CI - 0.61 to - 0.26); VAS: - 0.31 (95% CI - 0.46 to - 0.16)], and between CVA and disability [NDI: - 0.18 (95% CI - 0.31 to - 0.05); NPQ: - 0.47 (95% CI - 0.61 to - 0.320)]. Conclusion: CVA differs for age, gender, and pain vs pain-free subjects, and correlates negatively with NP measures. Other surrogate measures (SHA, cranial and cervical angles, FHP) warrant further research. PROSPERO Registration: PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021275485.

Postural deviation in pregnancy: A significant debilitating balance problem which can be rectified by physiotherapeutic intervention.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of physiotherapeutic intervention to improve the deviated balance of pregnant women. Method: A total of 174 subjects were included in the study out of which 62 had postural deviation. They were divided into three groups, two intervention groups and one control group. The target population consisted of women in the antenatal stage, randomly selected from Obstetrics and Gynecology OPD, PGIMER, Chandigarh. The study was conducted over a period of 3 years (2014-2017). They were advised exercises, postural correction, regular walking, and hot water fomentation. Six follow-ups were taken into consideration throughout the pregnancy and postnatal stage. Result: The impact of the intervention package on both ante-natal and postnatal women with balance problems showed significant improvement. Conclusion: Postural deviations, pain, heaviness in the lower limb, incontinence, breathlessness, etc., are common complaints during and after pregnancy. The problem starts early in pregnancy and increased over time and may persist throughout life if treatment does not start early in the pregnancy. This intervention can be practiced in primary care setting after giving proper training to the health care workers by experienced physiotherapists.

Outcomes of Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty in Fractures Around the Knee in the Elderly: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of 212 Patients Across 11 Studies.

Background: Treatment of fractures around the knee in the elderly is somewhat controversial with primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) gaining prominence over the past decade or so, as an alternative for open reduction and internal fixation. The present review was conceptualized to review the published literature and evaluate outcomes of TKA in these patients, and to understand whether this is a viable treatment option for these fractures. We have further tried to identify complications and the challenges faced while performing this surgery. Methods: PRISMA guidelines were followed and search was conducted on three databases-PubMed, EMBASE and SCOPUS. Studies evaluating multiple factors related to outcomes and complications in primary TKA performed for fractures around the knee in the elderly were included. Cadaveric studies, conference abstracts, case reports, and any studies that included non-traumatic cases or revision after failed internal fixation, were all excluded. Results: Eleven studies, published between 2011 and 2021 were included in our review. There was significant female preponderance in the study population (M:F = 1:3). Implants with higher constraint (high post, hinged prosthesis) were frequently required to compensate for ligamentous laxity due to the fractures. On pooled analysis the mean Knee Society Score (KSS) knee score was 84.62 (excellent), and mean knee range of motion was 107.25°. However, the mean KSS function score was 56.71 (poor), which could have been due to co-morbid conditions and pre-operative status. Overall complication rate was 14.6%; surgical site infection was the most commonly reported. Conclusion: There remains limited evidence for the use of TKA as a primary treatment option for these injuries. In the presence of specific conditions, and in expert hands-it may be a viable alternative to osteosynthesis with comparable outcomes. More focused studies are needed to compare the two treatment options and to formulate guidelines.

Chondroprotective effects of multiple PRP injections in osteoarthritis by apoptosis regulation and increased aggrecan synthesis- Immunohistochemistry based Guinea pig study.

OBJECTIVE: Use of Immunohistochemistry as a tool to assess anti-apoptotic effects and cartilage regeneration effects of PRP in guinea pig model of spontaneous OA. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled Laboratory Study involving Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs. METHODS: 12 Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs (weighing ∼600-800 g) were chosen for this study. One knee of each animal received 3 injections of allogenic PRP at weekly intervals (Group A = 12 Knees). The other knee received normal saline and acted as the control group (Group B = 12 Knees). Half of the animals from each group (subgroups A3 & B3 = 6 Knees each) were sacrificed at 3 months, and the remaining half (subgroups A6 & B6 = 6 Knees each) were sacrificed at 6 months after intervention. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and evaluation were done for Collagen-II, Caspase-3 and Aggrecan. RESULTS: The mean IHC score for Caspase-3 were significantly low in PRP knees compared to placebo Knees at 3 months (P = 0.031) and 6 months (P = 0.012) suggesting its down-regulation and inhibition of apoptosis. The mean IHC score for content of collagen- II and aggrecan at 3 months were higher in PRP Knees (A3) compared to placebo (B3) (Not significant). At 6 months, the Mean IHC Score decreased in both PRP (A6) and Control Knees (B6) for Collagen, but increased for aggrecan compared to its value at 3 months; and this was better in PRP group than in the control (P = 0.024). CONCLUSION: Multiple injections of PRP has a chondroprotective role by its anti-apoptotic effect and by increasing the aggrecan content in ECM.

Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown and Confinement Measures on the Musculoskeletal Health of the Urban Geriatric Population.

Background Owing to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a nationwide lockdown was imposed in India, with strict confinement measures imposed on the elderly. Because mobility and regular physical activity are considered to be the key determinants of musculoskeletal health, this study aimed to investigate the effect of lockdown and confinement measures on the musculoskeletal health and activities of daily living of the urban geriatric population. Methodology A cross-sectional survey was conducted among the elderly aged ≥60 years. The survey instrument consisted of a questionnaire, a modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (mNMQ), and the Barthel activities of daily living (ADL) index. The net mNMQ score and Barthel ADL index were compared before and during the lockdown. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine which factors could result in the worsening of the net mNMQ score. In addition, floor and ceiling effects of the net mNMQ score were determined. Results In this study, a total of 105 out of 150 eligible participants were enrolled. A significant decline in physical activity status was noted during the lockdown. Overall, 54.3% of the respondents reported that their medical services were impacted during the lockdown. The net mNMQ score showed a significant worsening during the lockdown (P < 0.0001). A statistically significant increase in the modified NMQ score was noted for the lower limb (P < 0.0001) and spine (P = 0.002), but not for the upper limb (P = 0.052). Elderly whose medical services were impacted during lockdown had significantly worse net mNMQ scores than those whose services were not impacted (odds ratio = 6.16; 95% confidence interval = 2.51-15.08; P = 0.0001). Age, gender, ambulatory status, increase in body weight, and indulgence in exercise before and during lockdown had no effect on the change in the net mNMQ score. A significant ceiling effect was noted in the mNMQ score; however, no floor effect was noted. Conclusions Lockdown and confinement measures resulted in a significant decline in physical activity as well as the overall musculoskeletal health of the urban geriatric population in the present study. Hence, policymakers should ensure uninterrupted medical care to the elderly during extended periods of confinement and develop optimal home-based physical activity programs to counter the problems associated with sedentarism.

Subtalar Dislocations.

Subtalar dislocations are uncommon injuries that involve disruption of the talocalcaneal and talonavicular joints. Whereas medial subtalar dislocations are usually caused by low-energy mechanisms and are reducible by closed means, lateral subtalar dislocations occur due to high-energy trauma, have associated foot injuries, and may require open reduction. Good outcomes can be expected for low-energy medial dislocations, whereas high-energy dislocations have guarded outcomes. Hindfoot deformity and chronic instability can result from nonanatomic reduction and inadequate stabilization. Arthrosis of the subtalar joint can occur despite anatomic reduction and is attributable to the cartilage damage at the time of injury.

Ruptured Popliteal Cysts Mimicking Deep Vein Thrombosis in Well-Functioning Total Knee Replacements: Report of Two Cases and Review of Literature.

BACKGROUND: Implant wear and loosening with eluding metal/polythene debris are commonly implicated in the occurrence of Baker's cysts in post-operative total knee replacement (TKR) patients, who present with post-operative pain and swelling, mimicking deep venous thrombosis. However, we present two symptomatic cases presenting with ruptured Baker's cysts post-TKRs, with no evidence of implant loosening or wear. CASES REPORT: The 1st patient was a 55-year-old male, who underwent TKR for Grade 4 bilateral knee osteoarthritis and presented with acute onset of pain and swelling over the left popliteal fossa, which progressed to involve the calf. Radiographs showed no sign of infection or loosening, and venous color Doppler and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a hy-poechoic collection in the intermuscular plane at the upper part of popliteal fossa. Histological examination of the aspirated fluid showed mixed features of cystic fluid and a resolving hematoma. There was complete resolution of the 4 months with rest and graduated physiotherapy.The 2nd patient was a 51-year-old female who developed the cystic swelling 2 years after the surgery, and the ultrasound showed hypoechoic echoes in a Baker's cyst-like collection. Cytological findings were suggestive of hemorrhagic nature of the aspirate, without any evi-dence of polyethylene debris, and the cultures were sterile. She became asymptomatic over 4 weeks with conservative management; the swelling resolved after 3 months. CONCLUSION: Majority of the cases in literature show implant loosening as cause of popliteal cysts after TKRs, however present cases highlight alternative mechanisms, and there are good chances of self-resolution of cysts with conservative treatment in such cases.

The effectiveness of arthroscopy assisted fixation of Schatzker types I-III tibial plateau fractures: our experience at a tertiary centre.

BACKGROUND: Tibial condyle fractures are high energy injuries which require anatomical reduction and stable fixation for early mobilisation of the knee joint. Arthroscopy assisted fixation of these fractures provide additional benefits of minimal dissection, accurate visualisation of the articular surface and faster rehabilitation. The present study describes our experience with this technique. MATERIALS & METHODS: Patients in the age group 15-65 years, presenting with closed tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker types I, II, III) at the advanced trauma centre of our institute within 3 weeks of injury, were recruited for this prospective case series. Open fractures, fractures of types IV, V and VI, fractures with associated knee dislocation, fractures presenting after 3 weeks and polytrauma patients with head injuries and/or blunt trauma to chest/abdomen, were excluded. Patients were evaluated according to Rasmussen numerical subjective evaluation chart at a minimum follow up of 6 months. RESULTS: There were 5 fractures of Schatzker type I, 8 of type II and 2 of type III, which were scoped and fixed percutaneously. The mean age of the 15 patients was 34.2 years with male to female ratio of 4:1. Diagnostic arthroscopy detected co existent lateral meniscal tears (peripheral) in 2 cases, while 1 case had a contused anterior cruciate ligament. Fixation of the fractures were done by 1 or 2 percutaneous screws in 9/15 cases; buttress plating in 4/15 cases and combination of plate and screw in 2/15 cases. The average overall Rasmussen score was 28.2/30 (range 22-30) and there were 1 patient each with postoperative stiffness and screw prominence while 3 cases had extensor lags. CONCLUSION: The aim of this combination procedure is stable fixation by minimally invasive methods; this reduces surgical insult, improves articular surface visualisation, allows management of concomitant ligament injuries, and patients can be rapidly mobilised. Case selection is extremely important for good results.

Application of 3D Printing in Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: A Narrative Review.

INTRODUCTION: Ideal surgical positioning and placement of implants during arthroplasty are crucial for long-term survival and optimal functional outcomes. Inadequate bone stock or defects, and anatomical variations can influence the outcomes. Three-dimensional printing (3DP) is an evolving technology that could provide patient-specific instrumentation and implants for arthroplasty, taking into account anatomical variations and defects. However, its application in this field is still not adequately studied and described. The present review was conceptualised to assess the practicality, the pros and cons and the current status of usage of 3DP in the field of hip and knee arthroplasties and joint reconstruction surgeries. METHODS: A PubMed database search was conducted and a total number of 135 hits were obtained, out of which only 30 articles were relevant. These 30 studies were assessed to obtain the qualitative evidence of the applicability and the current status of 3D printing in arthroplasty. RESULTS: Currently, 3DP is used for preoperative planning with 3D models, to assess bone defects and anatomy, to determine the appropriate cuts and to develop patient-specific instrumentation and implants (cages, liners, tibial base plates, femoral stem). Its models can be used for teaching and training young surgeons, as well as patient education regarding the surgical complexities. The outcomes of using customised instrumentations and implants have been promising and 3D printing can evolve into routine practice in the years to come. CONCLUSION: 3D printing in arthroplasty is an evolving field with promising results; however, current evidence is insufficient to determine significant advantages that can be termed cost effective and readily available.

Bioaerosols in orthopedic surgical procedures and implications for clinical practice in the times of COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Orthopedic surgical procedures (OSPs) are known to generate bioaerosols, which could result in transmission of infectious diseases. Hence, this review was undertaken to analyse the available evidence on bioaerosols in OSPs, and their significance in COVID-19 transmission. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted by searching the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, medRxiv, bioRxiv and Lancet preprint databases for studies on bioaerosols in OSPs. Random-effects metanalysis was conducted to determine pooled estimates of key bioaerosol characteristics. Risk of bias was assessed by the RoB-SPEO tool; overall strength of evidence was assessed by the GRADE approach. RESULTS: 17 studies were included in the systematic review, and 6 in different sets of meta-analyses. The pooled estimate of particle density was 390.74 µg/m3, Total Particle Count, 6.08 × 106/m3, and Microbial Air Contamination, 8.08 CFU/m3. Small sized particles (

Fibular Strut Arthrodesis for Salvage of Campanacci Grade III Giant Cell Tumor of the Hallucal Proximal Phalanx: A Case Report.

Involvement of toe phalanges by giant cell tumor (GCT) is extremely rare; tumors in these locations tend to be aggressive. Whereas aggressive GCTs of the distal phalanx may be managed successfully by en-bloc resection without reconstruction or amputation, management of these lesions, when they involve the proximal phalanx, can be challenging. We present a Campannaci grade III GCT of the hallucal proximal phalanx in a 14-year old girl that had breached into the dorsal soft tissues and the metatarso-phalangeal joint. Wide local resection of the proximal phalanx along with reconstruction arthrodesis with an autologous, non-vascularized fibular strut graft was performed. There was no recurrence at 3 years of follow-up. The patient had an excellent functional outcome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reporting the outcomes of fibular strut arthrodesis for salvage of GCT of the hallucal proximal phalanx.

Is there significant regeneration of the hamstring tendons after harvest for ACL reconstruction? A systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Regeneration potential of Hamstring tendons after harvest assumes significant clinical relevance as its use has become widespread today. Methods which best assess the regeneration, extent and type of regeneration, plus issues related to functional loss are important for the surgeon to know. This review looks at the literature to find answers to the above questions. PURPOSE: To summarize the evidence in support of hamstring tendon regeneration, and the most appropriate modality for evaluation of regeneration. Additionally, to evaluate the regeneration in terms of complete or partial, extent and its impact on strength deficit and functional outcomes. METHODS: We did a systematic review of literature through specified search engines and identified 30 of 285 studies to be relevant (19 prospective and 11 retrospective). RESULTS: Evaluation of above data suggests tissue regeneration at harvest sites does occur (78.9% of semitendinosus and 42.7% of gracilis tendons), but this regeneration is variable. No established definition of regeneration exists; MRI is an adequate tool to identify regeneration, while biopsy is confirmative. USG is a cost-effective screening method and can document distal progress of regenerate. Semitendinosus and gracilis tendons regenerate at different rates and extents, and often fuse together, but there is no evidence to state that one regenerates better than the other. Proximal retraction of the muscle-tendon junction occurs, along with some atrophy, which affects function to a variable extent. Strength deficits may persist, but they may not convert to significant functional deficits. CONCLUSION: There is variable hamstring regeneration after harvest, with poorly defined definition of "regeneration". Some changes in the muscle itself, abnormal distal insertion and absence of regeneration in some are documented, along with strength deficits. Although overall functional deficits have been reported to be minimal, a definite change in the anatomy of the medial hamstrings is a factor to be kept in consideration. More information is needed about the long-term consequences.