Nonoperative and Operative Soft-Tissue, Cartilage, and Bony Regeneration and Orthopaedic Biologics of the Elbow and Upper Extremity: An Orthoregeneration Network Foundation Review.

Orthoregeneration is defined as a solution for orthopaedic conditions that harnesses the benefits of biology to improve healing, reduce pain, improve function, and, optimally, provide an environment for tissue regeneration. Options include drugs, surgical intervention, scaffolds, biologics as a product of cells, and physical and electromagnetic stimuli. The goal of regenerative medicine is to enhance the healing of tissue after musculoskeletal injuries as both isolated treatment and adjunct to surgical management, using novel therapies to improve recovery and outcomes. Various orthopaedic biologics (orthobiologics) have been investigated for the treatment of pathology involving the elbow and upper extremity, including the tendons (lateral epicondylitis, medial epicondylitis, biceps tendonitis, triceps tendonitis), articular cartilage (osteoarthritis, osteochondral lesions), and bone (fractures, nonunions, avascular necrosis, osteonecrosis). Promising and established treatment modalities include hyaluronic acid; botulinum toxin; corticosteroids; leukocyte-rich and leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma; autologous blood; bone marrow aspirate comprising mesenchymal stromal cells (alternatively termed medicinal signaling cells and frequently mesenchymal stem cells [MSCs]) and bone marrow aspirate concentrate; MSCs harvested from adipose and skin (dermis) sources; vascularized bone grafts; bone morphogenic protein scaffold made from osteoinductive and conductive ß-tricalcium phosphate and poly-ε-caprolactone with hydrogels, human MSCs, and matrix metalloproteinases; and collagen sponge. Autologous blood preparations such as autologous blood injections and platelet-rich plasma show positive outcomes for nonresponsive tendinopathy. In addition, cellular therapies such as tissue-derived tenocyte-like cells and MSCs show a promising ability to regulate degenerative processes by modulating tissue response to inflammation and preventing continuous degradation and support tissue restoration.

Females show worse functional outcome and quality of life compared to males 2 years after meniscus surgery: Data analysis from the German Arthroscopy Registry.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of sex on knee function, activity and quality of life following meniscus surgery using data from the German Arthroscopy Registry. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study with data collected between 2017 and 2022. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), namely Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ Scale), and Marx Activity Rating Scale (MARS), were collected preoperatively and at 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Data were analysed to examine differences between male and female patients regarding PROMs, pre-existing conditions, meniscus lesion types and surgical treatments. RESULTS: A total of 1106 female (36.6%) and 1945 male patients (63.7%) were included. Males were significantly younger than females and had a higher body mass index. Overall, there were four times more medial meniscus lesions (MMLs) (77.5%) than lateral meniscus lesions (LMLs) (27.9%). Degenerative LMLs were more frequent in females, while traumatic LMLs were more common in males. Frequencies of traumatic and degenerative MMLs were similar among males and females. Males had higher absolute KOOS irrespective of treatment or meniscus lesion type. Meniscus repair resulted in similar improvements in ΔKOOS for both sexes, while meniscus resection exhibited higher absolute KOOS for males at each time point. Males generally had higher EQ Scale and MARS than females. CONCLUSION: Greater improvements in knee function, activity and quality of life were observed in males. While MMLs appear to be comparable among sexes, the nature of LML differed significantly. These results may help surgeons to refine patient selection for specific treatments to improve overall clinical outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Longitudinal Radiographic Bone Density Measurement in Revision Hip Arthroplasty and Its Correlation with Clinical Outcome.

The subjective analysis of conventional radiography represents the principal method for bone diagnostics in endoprosthetics. Alternative objective quantitative methods are described but not commonly used. Therefore, semi-quantitative methods are tested using digital computation and artificial intelligence to standardize, simplify, and ultimately improve the assessment. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between relative density progressions and clinical outcomes. Radiographs and clinical examinations before and 24 and 48 weeks after surgery were obtained from sixty-eight patients with a modular hip stem. For the calculation of the relative bone density, the modal gray values of the Gruen zones were measured using ImageJ and were normalized by gray values of the highest and lowest ROI. The clinical outcomes were measured according to the Harris hip score before evaluating them for correlations. Analyses were performed separately for subgroups and bone regions. The Harris hip score increased from 44.15 ± 15.00 pre-operatively to 66.20 ± 13.87 at the latest follow-up. The relative bone density adjustment of Gruen zone 7 showed a significant correlation to its clinical outcome. Other bone adaptations could be realistically reproduced and differences by regional zones and patients' histories visualized. Next to the simplicity and that no additional examination is required, the method provides good semi-quantitative results and visualizes adaptations, which make it suitable for use.

Long-term cost-effectiveness of matrix-associated chondrocyte implantation in the German health care system: a discrete event simulation.

INTRODUCTION: Cartilage defects in the knee can be caused by injury, various types of arthritis, or degeneration. As a long-term consequence of cartilage defects, osteoarthritis can develop over time, often leading to the need for a total knee replacement (TKR). The treatment alternatives of chondral defects include, among others, microfracture, and matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (M-ACI). The purpose of this study was to determine cost-effectiveness of M-ACI in Germany with available mid- and long-term outcome data, with special focus on the avoidance of TKR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We developed a discrete-event simulation (DES) that follows up individuals with cartilage defects of the knee over their lifetimes. The DES was conducted with a status-quo scenario in which M-ACI is available and a comparison scenario with no M-ACI available. The model included 10,000 patients with articular cartilage defects. We assumed Weibull distributions for short- and long-term effects for implant failures. Model outcomes were costs, number of TKRs, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). All analyses were performed from the perspective of the German statutory health insurance. RESULTS: The majority of patients was under 45 years old, with defect sizes between 2 and 7 cm2 (mean: 4.5 cm2); average modeled lifetime was 48 years. In the scenario without M-ACI, 26.4% of patients required a TKR over their lifetime. In the M-ACI scenario, this was the case in only 5.5% of cases. Thus, in the modeled cohort of 10,000 patients, 2700 TKRs, including revisions, could be avoided. Patients treated with M-ACI experienced improved quality of life (22.53 vs. 21.21 QALYs) at higher treatment-related costs (18,589 vs. 14,134 € /patient) compared to those treated without M-ACI, yielding an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 3376 € /QALY. CONCLUSION: M-ACI is projected to be a highly cost-effective treatment for chondral defects of the knee in the German healthcare setting.

Germany has a high demand in meniscal allograft transplantation but is subject to health economic and legal challenges: a survey of the German Knee Society.

PURPOSE: To determine the current status and demand of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) in Germany among members of the German Knee Society (= Deutsche Kniegesellschaft; DKG). METHODS: An online survey was conducted between May 2021 and June 2021 and sent to all members of the DKG. The survey questionnaire consisted of 19 questions to determine the demand and technical aspects of MAT among the participants and to identify areas of improvement in MAT in Germany. RESULTS: Overall, 152 participants, 136 (89.5%) from Germany, 8 (5.3%) from Switzerland, 6 (4.0%) from Austria, and 2 (1.3%) from other countries completed the online survey, with the majority working in non-academic institutions. According to the regulations of the DKG, 87 (57.2%) participants were board certified as specialized knee surgeons and 97 (63.8%) worked primarily in the field of orthopedic sports medicine. MAT was considered clinically necessary in Germany by 139 (91.5%) participants. Patient age (83.6%), post-meniscectomy syndrome in isolated lateral (79.6%) and medial (71.7%) meniscus deficiency, and functional and athletic demands (43.4%) were the most important determinants to consider MAT in patients. Participants reported that reimbursement (82.9%), jurisdiction over the use of donor grafts (77.6%), and the availability of meniscal allografts (76.3%) are the main challenges in performing MAT in Germany. The most frequently used meniscal allograft types by 54 (35.5%) participants who had already performed MAT were fresh-frozen grafts (56.6%), peracetic acid-ethanol sterilized grafts (35.9%), and cryopreserved grafts (7.6%). Participants reported to perform suture-only fixation more often than bone block fixation for both medial (73.6% vs. 22.6%) and lateral (69.8% vs. 24.5%) MAT. CONCLUSION: More than 90% of the responding members of the DKG indicated that MAT is a clinically important and valuable procedure in Germany. Reimbursement, jurisdiction over the use of donor grafts, and the availability of meniscal allografts should be improved. This survey is intended to support future efforts to facilitate MAT in daily clinical practice in Germany. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V.

[Posterior meniscus root tears]. / Posteriore Wurzelverletzungen der Menisken.

Meniscus root tears are radial tears in the region of the posterior insertion zones. Medial root injuries usually occur in individuals > 50 years of age without adequate trauma and are associated with obesity and varus deformities. The root lesion leads to a loss of ring tension, which results in extrusion of the meniscus and a strong increase in joint pressure that is biomechanically equivalent to a complete meniscectomy. When indicating arthroscopic transosseous refixation of the medial root lesion, factors such as accompanying cartilage damage, osteoarthritis, obesity and varus deformity must be taken into account. Injuries to the root of the lateral meniscus are mostly observed in younger patients in combination with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. Arthroscopic transosseous refixation in combination with cruciate ligament surgery is therefore also recommended for type I and type II lesions. In summary, both the medial and the lateral root lesions of the menisci are injuries with high biomechanical relevance.

No Difference in Ligamentous Strain or Knee Kinematics Between Rectangular or Cylindrical Femoral Tunnels During Anatomic ACL Reconstruction With a Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone Graft.

BACKGROUND: As our understanding of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) anatomy has evolved, surgical techniques to better replicate the native anatomy have been developed. It has been proposed that the introduction of a rectangular socket ACL reconstruction to replace a ribbon-shaped ACL has the potential to improve knee kinematics after ACL reconstruction. PURPOSE: To compare a rectangular femoral tunnel (RFT) with a cylindrical femoral tunnel (CFT) in terms of replicating native ACL strain and knee kinematics in a time-zero biomechanical anatomic ACL reconstruction model using a bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB) graft. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: In total, 16 fresh-frozen, human cadaveric knees were tested in a 5 degrees of freedom, computed tomography-compatible joint motion simulator. Knees were tested with the ACL intact before randomization to RFT or CFT ACL reconstruction using a BTB graft. An anterior translation load and an internal rotation moment were each applied at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion. A simulated pivot shift was performed at 0° and 30° of knee flexion. Ligament strain and knee kinematics were assessed using computed tomography facilitated by insertion of zirconium dioxide beads placed within the substance of the native ACL and BTB grafts. RESULTS: For the ACL-intact state, there were no differences between groups in terms of ACL strain or knee kinematics. After ACL reconstruction, there were no differences in ACL graft strain when comparing the RFT and CFT groups. At 60° of knee flexion with anterior translation load, there was significantly reduced strain in the reconstructed state ([mean ±standard deviation] CFT native, 2.82 ± 3.54 vs CFT reconstructed, 0.95 ± 2.69; RFT native, 2.77 ± 1.71 vs RFT reconstructed, 1.40 ± 1.76) independent of the femoral tunnel type. In terms of knee kinematics, there were no differences when comparing the RFT and CFT groups. Both reconstructive techniques were mostly effective in restoring native knee kinematics and ligament strain patterns as compared with the native ACL. CONCLUSION: In the time-zero biomechanical environment, similar graft strains and knee kinematics were achieved using RFT and CFT BTB ACL reconstructions. Both techniques appeared to be equally effective in restoring kinematics associated with the native ACL state. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: These data suggest that in terms of knee kinematics and graft strain, there is no benefit in performing the more technically challenging RFT as compared with a CFT BTB ACL reconstruction.

The Medial structures of the knee have a significant contribution to posteromedial rotational laxity control in the PCL-deficient knee.

PURPOSE: Various reconstruction techniques have been employed to restore normal kinematics to PCL-deficient knees; however, studies show that failure rates are still high. Damage to secondary ligamentous stabilizers of the joint, which commonly occurs concurrently with PCL injuries, may contribute to these failures. The main objective of this study was to quantify the biomechanical contributions of the deep medial collateral ligament (dMCL) and posterior oblique ligament (POL) in stabilizing the PCL-deficient knee, using a joint motion simulator. METHODS: Eight cadaveric knees underwent biomechanical analysis of posteromedial stability and rotatory laxity using an AMTI VIVO joint motion simulator. Combined posterior force (100 N) and internal torque (5 Nm) loads, followed by pure internal/external torques (± 5 Nm), were applied at 0, 30, 60 and 90° of flexion. The specimens were tested in the intact state, followed by sequential sectioning of the PCL, dMCL, POL and sMCL. The order of sectioning of the dMCL and POL was randomized, providing n = 4 for each cutting sequence. Changes in posteromedial displacements and rotatory laxities were measured, as were the biomechanical contributions of the dMCL, POL and sMCL in resisting these loads in a PCL-deficient knee. RESULTS: Overall, it was observed that POL transection caused increased posteromedial displacements and internal rotations in extension, whereas dMCL transection had less of an effect in extension and more of an effect in flexion. Although statistically significant differences were identified during most loading scenarios, the increases in posteromedial displacements and rotatory laxity due to transection of the POL or dMCL were usually small. However, when internal torque was applied to the PCL-deficient knee, the combined torque contributions of the dMCL and POL towards resisting rotation was similar to that of the sMCL. CONCLUSION: The dMCL and POL are both important secondary stabilizers to posteromedial translation in the PCL-deficient knee, with alternating roles depending on flexion angle. Thus, in a PCL-deficient knee, concomitant injuries to either the POL or dMCL should be addressed with the aim of reducing the risk of PCL reconstruction failure.

Research productivity during orthopedic surgery residency correlates with pre-planned and protected research time: a survey of German-speaking countries.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify modifiable factors associated with research activity among residents working in orthopedic surgery and traumatology. METHODS: Residents at 796 university-affiliated hospitals in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland were invited to participate. The online survey consisted of questions that ascertained 13 modifiable and 17 non-modifiable factors associated with the residents' current research activities. Responses of 129 residents were analyzed. Univariate linear regression was used to determine the association of individual factors with the current research activity (hours per week). The impact of significant non-modifiable factors (with unadjusted p values < 0.05) was controlled for using multivariate linear regression. RESULTS: The univariate analysis demonstrated six non-modifiable factors that were significantly associated with the current research activity: a University hospital setting (p < 0.001), an A-level hospital setting (p = 0.024), Swiss residents (p = 0.0012), the completion of a dedicated research year (p = 0.007), female gender (p = 0.016), and the department's size (p = 0.048). Multivariate regression demonstrated that the number of protected research days per year (p < 0.029) and the percentage of protected days, that were known 1 week before (p < 0.001) or the day before (p < 0.001), were significantly associated with a higher research activity. CONCLUSIONS: As hypothesized, more frequent and predictable protected research days were associated with higher research activity among residents in orthopedic surgery and traumatology. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Suture Tape Reduces Quadriceps Tendon Repair Gap Formation Compared With High-Strength Suture: A Cadaveric Biomechanical Analysis.

PURPOSE: To compare the biomechanical differences between quadriceps tendon (QT) repair with high-strength suture (HSS) versus suture tape (ST) with varying number of suture passes. METHODS: In total, 28 fresh-frozen QTs were randomized into 2 groups: (1) HSS; or (2) ST; specimens were then further randomized into subgroups of either 4 or 6 suture passes. Specimens were secured within a materials testing system and a 150-N preload was applied for 10 seconds followed by a cyclic loading protocol between 50 N and 250 N for 1000 cycles. Video was used to follow tracking markers used to calculate the magnitude of tendon displacement. Two-way univariate analysis of variance was used to determine the effect of suture type and passes on the displacement after preloading and mixed repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to determine the effect of suture type and passes on displacement following cyclic loading. RESULTS: There were large increases in displacement following the preload across all conditions (7.82 ± 3.64 mm), with no statistically significant differences between groups. There was a significant difference in the mean (± standard deviation) displacement between the ST (5.24 ± 2.82 mm) and HSS (7.93 ± 2.91 mm) starting at 200 cycles, which became more pronounced with successive testing out to 1000 cycles (P = .021). There were no significant difference with respect to the number of suture or tape passes. CONCLUSIONS: Following preloading at 150 N, significant displacement occurred in both QT repair groups. ST demonstrated significantly less displacement than HSS under cyclic loading and had greater ultimate failure loads. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: When performing QT repair, emphasis should be placed on appropriate pretensioning of sutures to at least 150 N before knot-tying. In addition, where available, ST should be used over HSS to reduce further cyclic elongation and improve ultimate failure loads.

The Role of Osteotomy in Chronic Valgus Instability and Hyperextension Valgus Thrust (Medial Closing Wedge Distal Femoral Varus Osteotomy and Lateral Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy).

Chronic valgus instability with concomitant valgus malalignment is a challenging diagnosis that cannot be successfully treated with ligament surgery alone. Hyperextension valgus thrust may be a symptom of this configuration, expressing the need for thorough diagnosis and treatment. The present article will help to understand pathoanatomy and mechanisms of chronic valgus instability in combination with malalignment and provide a description of treatment techniques, in particular medial closing wedge distal femoral varus osteotomy (MCWDFVO) and lateral opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (LOWHTO), and their indications to deal with both issues simultaneously.

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction fails to correct mild patella alta in cases of patellofemoral instability-a case-control study.

PURPOSE: Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFL-R) is the gold standard in patella soft tissue surgery for patellofemoral instability. Although claimed, recent reports indicate that MPFL-R may fail to distalize the patella in mild cases of patella alta. The present study is a retrospective case-control study to compare radiographic patella height between MPFL-R and historical Insall's proximal realignment (IPR) pre- and post-operatively with respect to distalization and assess redislocation rates at a mid-term follow-up. METHODS: Sixty-four patients were age/sex matched (1:1), yielding 32 patients for group 1 MPFL-R (cases) and 32 patients for group 2 IPR (controls). Insall-Salvati, Blackburne-Peel and Caton-Deschamps indices were analyzed for differences pre- and post-operatively. An additional inter-rater reliability analysis was performed by means of intra-class correlation (ICC). Redislocation rates were considered as treatment failures in this study. RESULTS: ICC was excellent for all three patella indices. MPFL-R failed to show significant differences if compared to IPR with respect to distalization in mild stages of patella alta. Moreover, redislocation rates significantly favored MPFL-R (3.1%) over IPR (12.5%; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: MPFL-R has become a popular option to restore native patellofemoral biomechanics after ligament rupture. However, the procedure's potential to correct concomitant patella alta should not be overestimated and indications considered carefully.

Relative radiographic bone density measurement in revision hip arthroplasty and its correlation with qualitative subjective assessment by experienced surgeons.

BACKGROUND: Conventional radiography (CR) is the imaging method of choice in monitoring bone remodelling and other stability parameters after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Quantitative roentgen- or computed-tomography-based methods to determine bone density are prone to metal artifacts and often very costly, which is why they are not used as standard in a clinical setting. Since subjective assessment of bone remodelling in CR also has a certain susceptibility to errors, semi-quantitative methods have been developed to help approximate periprosthetic bone density development via CR to open up an additional tool for documentation of radiographic THA follow-up. OBJECTIVE: Proof-of-principle of a newly designed imaging-software-aided method to measure relative bone density around the femoral stem in a series of conventional radiographs following THA. METHODS: Eighty-six patients with hip modular tapered, fluted titanium stems were selected from the clinical database and series of baseline and postoperative follow-up radiographs were obtained after 24 and 48 weeks. Relative bone densities were measured per Gruen zones G1-7 with the use of an open-source image analysis package (ImageJ) by means of greyscale histograms. In addition, subjective evaluation of selected cases was performed by three independent, blinded orthopedic surgeons. Besides descriptive and nonparametric analyses, intra-class correlation (ICC) was performed and objective and subjective results were compared by linear regression analysis. RESULTS: Two individual cases are presented as a proof-of-principle. Increase or decrease of bone density could be measured correctly over time in each case. In a collective analysis there were no significant differences in mean relative bone densities between groups after 24 and 48 weeks, although a positive tendency was visible towards increased bone formation over time. Individual analyses by Gruen zones revealed that some zones, namely the proximal ones (e.g. G6), exhibit a broader scattering than others over time. This could be explained by the design of the evaluated tapered revision stem that achieves distal fixation and allows for proximal micromotion. Correlation analysis with subjective ratings (inter-rater reliability ICC = 0.71) showed a positive correlation with objective results, suggesting a feasibility of the method for clinical use. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion the presented method is an easy and accessible tool to quantify relative bone density changes during THA follow-up. It shows a positive correlation to established subjective assessment of bone remodelling and may therefore serve as a quantitative supplement in clinical documentation.

Predictors for secondary patellar resurfacing after primary total knee arthroplasty using a "patella-friendly" total knee arthroplasty system.

PURPOSE: Patellar resurfacing (PR) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is still one of the major controversies in orthopaedic surgery today. The aim of the present retrospective case-control study was to identify predictors for secondary patellar resurfacing (SPR) after initial TKA to create a rationale for surgeons to decide which patients to resurface primarily. It was hypothesized that proper TKA implantation and component positioning as well as a maintained physiological patellar geometry will lead to a reduced risk of SPR. Overmore, it was hypothesized that intrinsic factors like overweight might also have an influence on the need for SPR. METHODS: After identification of suitable patients and age/sex matching in a 1:2 fashion, 29 cases (TKA/SPR) and 58 controls (TKA) were included and screened for available clinical and epidemiological data as well as for radiographic data after primary TKA. Pearson's correlation analysis as well as logistic regression modeling was performed to identify possible predictors for SPR following TKA. RESULTS: Binary logistic regression was able to correctly classify 88.5% of patients into case or control groups. It indicated that patella tilt, patella height, and thickness as well as the delta angle were significant predictors of a need for SPR following primary TKA. An increase in patellar width by 1 mm will increase the risk of SPR, while an increase in patellar thickness by 1 mm will reduce it. An increase in patellar tilt by 1° will also increase the risk of SPR. Finally, an increase in delta angle by 1° will again reduce the risk of SPR. CONCLUSIONS: Easy and accessible radiographic measurements have been identified as possible predictors of SPR following primary TKA. Although indication for primary PR may still remain a controversial topic, a rationale has been proposed in this study to support surgeons in objectively estimating an individual patient's risk for SPR prior to primary TKA measuring the patella tilt, width, and thickness. Overmore, regarding surgical aspects of TKA, tibial component positioning has also been shown to be of importance to reduce the risk of SPR.

The augment-and-modular-cage revision system for reconstruction of severe acetabular defects-two-year clinical and radiographic results.

PURPOSE: Acetabular revision of failed total hip arthroplasty (THA) is often associated with severe bone loss. Therefore, a variety of revision implant systems has been developed during recent years, with the augment-and-modular-cage system being one of the newest additions to this portfolio. Together with biologic downsizing by means of impaction bone grafting, this uncemented system promises a high modularity and versatility to treat all acetabular defects up to Paprosky types IIIa and IIIb without pelvic discontinuity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate first short-term results of its clinical application, both clinical functional and patient-reported as well as radiographic. METHODS: Forty-four patients (28 female, 16 male, mean age 70.9 ± 11.5 years) could be followed for a mean of 26 ± 10 months after acetabular revision with a novel augment-and-modular-cage system. Indications for revision included aseptic loosening (68%), septic loosening (16%), or others (16%) with bone loss Paprosky IIa up to IIIb without discontinuity. The modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) served as a primary outcome parameter. In addition, a number of patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs) were collected including the Short Form 36 (SF-36), Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), and Visual Analogue Scale for Hip Pain (VAS Hip) as well as overall satisfaction. Radiographic changes between the pre- and postoperative center of rotation (COR) and various criteria of implant failure served as secondary outcome parameters. RESULTS: No patients were lost to follow-up. Two implant-associated complications (partial flange breakage) without a need for revision surgery were detected, which represent a failure rate of 4.5%. Functional outcome as measured by mHHS increased from 49.4 ± 2.9 pre-operatively to 74.4 ± 3.1 at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). PROMs showed significant improvements in all pain-related categories, while other quality-of-life measurements only exhibited positive tendencies towards improvement. VAS Hip significantly improved from 6.5 ± 0.7 pre-operatively to 2.2 ± 0.6 at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). Radiographic evaluation showed that reconstruction of the COR was possible, referenced to the contralateral side. The COR could be lateralized by 5.0 mm (n.s.) and caudalized by 10.3 mm (p < 0.001) comparing pre-operative and post-operative states, with complete osseointegration in 95% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with the augment-and-modular-cage system significantly improved clinical functional and patient-reported outcomes in cases of acetabular revision after failed THA. In addition, a good reconstruction of the COR could also be achieved. Therefore, this highly modular system can be considered as an effective treatment option in almost all cases of acetabular bone loss except for those of pelvic discontinuity. It offers the unique possibility of intra-operative implant customization according to the existing bone defect and host bone quality.

Back to Sports After Arthroscopic Revision Bankart Repair.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent instability following primary arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder is a common complication. Young, athletic patients are at the greatest risk of recurring instability. To date, the literature contains insufficient description regarding whether return to sports is possible after revision arthroscopic Bankart repair. HYPOTHESIS: Patients presenting with recurrent instability after primary arthroscopic stabilization should expect limitations in terms of their ability to partake in sporting activities after revision surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Twenty athletes who underwent arthroscopic revision stabilization of the shoulder after failed primary arthroscopic Bankart repair were included in the study after completing inclusion and exclusion criteria surveys. Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS), Shoulder Sport Activity Score (SSAS), and the Subjective Patient Outcome for Return to Sports (SPORTS) scores were determined to assess the participants' ability to partake in sporting activities. Furthermore, sport type and sport level were classified and recorded. To assess function and stability, Rowe, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Constant-Murley, and Walch-Duplay scores were measured and recorded. RESULTS: Follow-up consultations were carried out after a mean of 28.7 months. The mean age at follow-up examination was 27.75 years. At the time of follow-up, 70% of the patients were able to return to their original sporting activities at the same level. However, 90% of patients described a limitation in their shoulder when participating in their sports. At 28.7 months after surgery, the mean ASOSS score was 76.8; the SSAS score decreased from 7.85 before first-time dislocation to 5.35 at follow-up (P < .005). The SPORTS score was 5.2 out of 10 at the follow-up consultation. Function- and instability-specific scores showed good to excellent results. The mean external rotational deficit for high external rotation was 9.25°, and for low external rotation it was 12°. CONCLUSION: Patients can return to their original type and level of sport after arthroscopic revision Bankart repair, but they must expect persistent deficits and limitations to the shoulder when put under the strains of sporting activity. Patients with shoulder injuries who partake in sports that put greater demand on the shoulder show the smallest probabilities of returning to sporting activity.

[Basic Clinical Examination of the Knee Joint]. / Klinische Basisuntersuchung des Kniegelenkes.

OBJECTIVE: Successful treatment of knee joint disease requires an accurate diagnosis. In addition to a differentiated history, clinical examination is the most important component in the diagnosis of knee joint diseases. METHOD: The present video explains the common provocation and functional tests that are used in the basic clinical examination of the knee joint. In addition to general inspection and palpation, the focus here is on the individual region's patella, menisci, cruciate ligaments and collateral ligaments. CONCLUSION: The present methods of basic clinical examination allow a structured approach to clinical issues and can be a good basis for the diagnosis of knee joint diseases, if supplemented by further specific and individual tests.

Low vitamin D levels affect outcomes of orthopedic spinal surgery: An observational study in clinical practice.

BACKGROUND: Low vitamin D is a major risk factor for osteoporotic fractures. Evidence also suggests correlation between deficiency and musculoskeletal pain. OBJECTIVE: Non-interventional study in patients undergoing spine surgery to investigate links between vitamin D levels and clinical features. METHODS: 25-OH vitamin D levels were assessed in two cohorts: Cohort 1 (vertebral fractures; VF) and Cohort 2 (other spinal issues; excluding VF). Lab values as well as painDETECT questionnaires, VAS and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were recorded. Follow-up visits were conducted a few days and 6 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS: One hundred and nine patients were enrolled. Mean VAS measured 72 mm in Cohort 1 and 55 mm in Cohort 2. Mean vitamin D concentrations were 16.8 ± 11 ng/ml in Cohort 1 and 18.3 ± 11 ng/ml in Cohort 2. VAS and ODI significantly correlated with vitamin D levels. Median painDETECT scores were 9 in Cohort 1 and 16 in Cohort 2. Six weeks postoperatively mean VAS was 31.4 ± 28 mm in Cohort 1 and 23.3 ± 21 mm in Cohort 2. Median painDETECT scores were 5 in both cohorts. CONCLUSION: Interactions are apparent between neuropathic pain and vitamin D serum levels. Consequently, vitamin D should be monitored in all patients requiring spinal surgery.

Rotator cuff muscular integrity after arthroscopic revision of a Bankart repair.

INTRODUCTION: Recurrent shoulder instability after arthroscopic Bankart repair is still a common complication. For primary Bankart repair studies have shown that the rotator cuff can recover completely. The ability of muscles to regenerate after arthroscopic revision Bankart repair (ARBR) has not been studied. Does the ARBR using a three-portal method allows complete muscle integrity compared with an uninjured imaging control group (ICG)? MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-two (1 female, 21 males) physically active patients (mean age at follow-up 28.5 ± 7.1 years; mean follow-up 27.5 months ± 8.5) were assessed. ARBR with a three-portal method was carried out in all patients according to previous primary arthroscopic stabilization of the shoulder (revision Bankart group). Muscle atrophy of the subscapularis muscle (SSC), supraspinatus muscle (SSP) and infraspinatus muscle (ISP) was assessed by making lateral and vertical measurements by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Fatty infiltration was detected by standardized assessment from variations in intensity. Detailed clinical examination of the rotator cuff was carried out. MRI assessment was compared with that of a control group of 22 healthy volunteers of same age and activity level (ICG). RESULTS: For the SSC, no muscle impairment was noted compared with the ICG [superior atrophy index (sAISSC), p = 0.439; inferior atrophy index (iAISSC), p = 0.555; superior fatty infiltration index (sFDISSC), p = 0.294; inferior fatty infiltration index (iFDISSC), p = 0.62]. In investigation of the SSP and ISP, fatty infiltration was not shown (FDISSP, p = 0.454; sFDIISP, p = 0.504), though persistent muscle atrophy was found even > 2 years after surgery compared with the ICG (AISSP, p = 0.0025; sAIISP, p = 0.0009; iAIISP, p = 0.0004). CONCLUSION: ARBR using a three-portal method allowed good muscular integrity compared with the ICG, but with persistent slight muscular atrophy of the SSP and ISP.

When does intraoperative 3D-imaging play a role in transpedicular C2 screw placement?

INTRODUCTION: The stabilization of an atlantoaxial (C1-C2) instability is demanding due to a complex atlantoaxial anatomy with proximity to the spinal cord, a variable run of the vertebral artery (VA) and narrow C2 pedicles. We perfomed the Goel & Harms fusion in combination with an intraoperative 3D imaging to ensure correct screw placement in the C2 pedicle. We hypothesized, that narrow C2 pedicles lead to a higher malposition rate of screws by perforation of the pedicle wall. The purpose of this study was to describe a certain pedicle size, under which the perforation rate rises. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, all patients (n=30) were operated in the Goel & Harms technique. The isthmus height and pedicle diameter of C2 were measured. The achieved screw position in C2 was evaluated according to Gertzbein & Robbin classification (GRGr). RESULTS: A statistically significant correlation was found between the pedicles size (isthmus height/pedicle diameter) and the achieved GRGr for the right (p=0.002/p=0.03) and left side (p=0.018/p=0.008). The ROC analysis yielded a Cut Off value for the pedicle size to distinguish between an intact or perforated pedicle wall (GRGr 1 or ≥2). The Cut-Off value was identified for the isthmus height (right 6.1mm, left 5.4mm) and for the pedicle diameter (6.6mm both sides). CONCLUSION: The hypothesis, that narrow pedicles lead to a higher perforation rate of the pedicle wall, can be accepted. Pedicles of <6.6mm turned out to be a risk factor for a perforation of the pedicle wall (GRGr 2 or higher). Intraoperative 3D imaging is a feasible tool to confirm optimal screw position, which becomes even more important in cases with thin pedicles. The rising risk of VA injury in these cases support the additional use of navigation.