Doctor shopping trend of patients before undergoing rotator cuff repair in Korea: a multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to investigate the trend of doctor shopping among patients with rotator cuff tear (RCT) before undergoing surgery and to examine the relevance of these findings to the public. METHODS: A survey was conducted of 326 patients from 10 hospitals (male, 176; female, 150) who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) for symptomatic RCT between September 2019 and February 2020. A questionnaire was used to obtain data regarding the type of medical care service, medical institutions visited before surgery, number of treatments received, and cost of treatment. RESULTS: A total of 326 patients (87%) received treatment at least once at another medical institution before visiting the hospital where the surgery was performed. Patients visited an average of 9.4 health providers or physicians for shoulder pain before visiting the hospital where surgery was performed. Among the 326 patients, 148 (45%) visited more than two medical institutions and spent an average of 641,983 Korean won (KRW; $466, 50,000-5,000,000 KRW) before surgery. Medical expenses before surgery were proportional to the number of medical institutions visited (P=0.002), symptom duration (P=0.002), and initial visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (P=0.007) but were not associated with sex, age, VAS pain score immediately before surgery, or RCT size. CONCLUSIONS: Medical expense before ARCR was associated with the severity of preoperative pain and duration of symptoms. After onset of shoulder symptoms, patients should visit as soon as possible a hospital that has surgeons who specialize in shoulder repair to prevent unnecessary medical expense and proper treatment. Level of evidence: IV.

Three-Dimensional Morphological Analysis of the Suprascapular Notch in Patients with Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.

Background: The morphology of the suprascapular notch (SSN) and the ossification of the superior transverse suprascapular ligament (STSL) are risk factors for injury of the suprascapular nerve (SN) during arthroscopic shoulder procedures. The purpose of the current study was to compare preoperative clinical and radiologic characteristics between patients with and without STSL ossification and to evaluate SSN morphology in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair using a 3-dimensional (3D) reconstructed model. Methods: Patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and were given a computed tomography (CT) scan from March 2018 to August 2019 were included in this study. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those without STSL ossification (group I) and those with STSL ossification (group II). Tear size of the rotator cuff and fatty infiltration of rotator cuff muscles were assessed in preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. The morphology of the SSN was classified following Rengachary's classification. The transverse and vertical diameters of the SSN and the distances from anatomical landmarks to the STSL were measured. All measurements were completed using a 3D CT reconstructed scapula model. Results: A total of 200 patients were included in this study. One hundred seventy-eight patients (89.0%) without STSL ossification were included in group I, and 22 patients (11.0%) with STSL ossification were included in group II. Group II showed a significantly advanced age (61.0 ± 7.4 vs. 71.0 ± 7.3 years, p < 0.001) and a shorter transverse diameter of SSN (10.7 ± 3.1 mm vs. 6.1 ± 3.7 mm, p < 0.001) than group I. In the logistic regression analysis, age was an independent prognostic factor for STSL ossification (odds ratio, 1.201; 95% confidence interval, 1.112-1.296; p < 0.001). Patients in type VI showed significantly shorter transverse diameters than other types (p < 0.001). The patient with type I showed a significantly shorter distance from the articular surface of the glenoid to the SSN than those with other types (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In the 3D morphological analysis, age was the independent factor associated with STSL ossification in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Type VI showed significantly shorter transverse diameters than other types. Type I showed a significantly shorter distance from the articular surface of the glenoid to the SSN than other types.

Application of ChatGPT for Orthopedic Surgeries and Patient Care.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed various aspects of life, and the launch of the chatbot "ChatGPT" by OpenAI in November 2022 has garnered significant attention and user appreciation. ChatGPT utilizes natural language processing based on a "generative pre-trained transfer" (GPT) model, specifically the transformer architecture, to generate human-like responses to a wide range of questions and topics. Equipped with approximately 57 billion words and 175 billion parameters from online data, ChatGPT has potential applications in medicine and orthopedics. One of its key strengths is its personalized, easy-to-understand, and adaptive response, which allows it to learn continuously through user interaction. This article discusses how AI, especially ChatGPT, presents numerous opportunities in orthopedics, ranging from preoperative planning and surgical techniques to patient education and medical support. Although ChatGPT's user-friendly responses and adaptive capabilities are laudable, its limitations, including biased responses and ethical concerns, necessitate its cautious and responsible use. Surgeons and healthcare providers should leverage the strengths of the ChatGPT while recognizing its current limitations and verifying critical information through independent research and expert opinions. As AI technology continues to evolve, ChatGPT may become a valuable tool in orthopedic education and patient care, leading to improved outcomes and efficiency in healthcare delivery. The integration of AI into orthopedics offers substantial benefits but requires careful consideration and continuous improvement.

Identification of plasma and urinary inflammatory markers in severe knee osteoarthritis: Relations with synovial fluid markers.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to identify plasma and urinary cytokines as potential biomarkers for severe knee osteoarthritis (OA). It also investigated associations between these cytokines and cartilage markers, as well as their connections with synovial fluid (SF) markers. METHODS: Samples of plasma, urine, and SF were obtained from patients (n = 40) undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) due to severe knee OA. Control samples of plasma and urine were collected from non-OA individuals (n = 15). We used a Luminex immunoassay for the simultaneous measurement of 19 cytokines, MMP-1, and MMP-3 levels. COMP, CTX-II, and hyaluronan (HA) levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to analyze each biomarker's performance. Correlations among these biomarkers were evaluated via Spearman's correlation. RESULTS: The levels of plasma (p)CCL11, pCXCL16, pIL-8, pIL-15, pHA, urinary (u)CCL2, uCCL11, uCCL19, uCXCL16, uIL-1ß, uIL-6, uIL-8, uIL-12p70, uIL-15, uIL-33, uMMP-3, uHA, uCTX-II, and uCOMP were significantly elevated in individuals with severe knee OA. Notably, specific correlations were observed between the plasma/urine biomarkers and SF biomarkers: pCCL11 with sfHA (r = 0.56) and sfTNF-α (r = 0.58), pIL-15 with sfCCL19 (r = 0.43) and sfCCL20 (r = 0.44), and uCCL19 with sfCCL11 (r = 0.45) and sfIL-33 (r = 0.51). Positive correlations were also observed between uCCL11 and its corresponding sfCCL11(r = 0.49), as well as between sfCCL11 and other cytokines, namely sfCCL4, sfCCL19, sfCCL20, sfIL-33, and sfTNF-α (r = 0.46-0.63). CONCLUSION: This study provides an extensive profile of systemic inflammatory mediators in plasma of knee OA and identified four inflammatory markers (pCCL11, pIL-15, uCCL11, and uCCL19) reflecting joint inflammation.

A Molecular Perspective on HIF-1α and Angiogenic Stimulator Networks and Their Role in Solid Tumors: An Update.

Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is a major transcriptional factor, which plays an important role in cellular reprogramming processes under hypoxic conditions, which facilitate solid tumors' progression. HIF-1α is directly involved in the regulation of the angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, and extracellular matrix remodeling of the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, an in-depth study on the role of HIF-1α in solid tumor malignancies is required to develop novel anti-cancer therapeutics. HIF-1α also plays a critical role in regulating growth factors, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor, in a network manner. Additionally, it plays a significant role in tumor progression and chemotherapy resistance by regulating a variety of angiogenic factors, including angiopoietin 1 and angiopoietin 2, matrix metalloproteinase, and erythropoietin, along with energy pathways. Therefore, this review attempts to provide comprehensive insight into the role of HIF-1α in the energy and angiogenesis pathways of solid tumors.

Hypoxia-Inducible Factor and Oxidative Stress in Tendon Degeneration: A Molecular Perspective.

Tendinopathy is a debilitating condition marked by degenerative changes in the tendons. Its complex pathophysiology involves intrinsic, extrinsic, and physiological factors. While its intrinsic and extrinsic factors have been extensively studied, the role of physiological factors, such as hypoxia and oxidative stress, remains largely unexplored. This review article delves into the contribution of hypoxia-associated genes and oxidative-stress-related factors to tendon degeneration, offering insights into potential therapeutic strategies. The unique aspect of this study lies in its pathway-based evidence, which sheds light on how these factors can be targeted to enhance overall tendon health.

Computational Analysis of miR-140 and miR-135 as Potential Targets to Develop Combinatorial Therapeutics for Degenerative Tendinopathy.

Background: Degenerative tendinopathy, a condition causing movement restriction due to high pain, highly impacts productivity and quality of life. The healing process is a complex phenomenon and involves a series of intra-cellular and inter-cellular processes. Proliferation and differentiation of the tenocyte is a major and essential process to heal degenerative tendinopathy. The recent development in microRNA (miRNA)-mediated reprogramming of the cellular function through specific pathways opened door for the development of new regenerative therapeutics. Based on information about gene expression and regulation of tendon injury and healing, we attempted to evaluate the combinatorial effect of selected miRNAs for better healing of degenerative tendinopathy. Methods: The present study was designed to evaluate the combinatorial effect of two miRNAs (has-miR-140 and has-miR-135) in the healing process of the tendon. Publicly available information/data were retrieved from appropriate platforms such as PubMed. Only molecular data, directly associated with tendinopathies, including genes/proteins and miRNAs, were used in this study. The miRNAs involved in tendinopathy were analyzed by a Bioinformatics tools (e.g., TargetScan, miRDB, and the RNA22v2). Interactive involvement of the miRNAs with key proteins involved in tendinopathy was predicted by the Insilco approach. Results: Based on information available in the public domain, tendon healing-associated miRNAs were predicted to explore their therapeutic potentials. Based on computation analysis, focusing on the potential regulatory effect on tendon healing, the miR-135 and miR-140 were selected for this study. These miRNAs were found as key players in tendon healing through Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1), IGF-1/PI3K/Akt, PIN, and Wnt signaling pathways. It was also predicted that these miRNAs may reprogram the cells to induce proliferation and differentiation activity. Many miRNAs are likely to regulate genes important for the tendinopathy healing process, and the result of this study allows an approach for miRNA-mediated regeneration of the tenocyte for tendon healing. Based on computational analysis, the role of these miRNAs in different pathways was established, and the results provided insights into the combinatorial approach of miRNA-mediated cell reprogramming. Conclusions: In this study, the association between miRNAs and the disease was evaluated to correlate the tendinopathy genes and the relevant role of different miRNAs in their regulation. Through this study, it was established that the synergistic effect of more than one miRNA on directed reprogramming of the cell could be helpful in the regeneration of damaged tissue. It is anticipated that this study will be helpful for the design of miRNA cocktails for the orchestration of cellular reprogramming events.

Comparison of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy and Ultrasound-Guided Shoulder Injection Therapy in Patients with Supraspinatus Tendinitis.

Background: The present study compared the clinical effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) with that of ultrasound (US)-guided shoulder steroid injection therapy in patients with supraspinatus tendinitis. We hypothesized that the two treatments would show comparable results. Methods: The inclusion criteria were age over 20 years and diagnosis of supraspinatus tendinitis using US. Ultimately, 26 patients were assigned using blocked randomization: 13 in the US-guided shoulder injection group and 13 in the ESWT group. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using the pain visual analog scale (pVAS), the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, and the Constant score at baseline and at 1 and 3 months after the procedure. Results: At 1 month after the intervention, pVAS, ASES, and constant score were significantly higher in the US-guided shoulder injection group than in the ESWT group, but not at 3 months after the intervention. Both groups showed clinically significant treatment effects at 3 months after the intervention compared to baseline. No significance was shown using equivalence testing. Conclusions: US-guided shoulder injection therapy was not superior to ESWT therapy. Considering the complications and rebound phenomenon of steroid injections, interventions using ESWT may be a good alternative to treat patients with supraspinatus tendinitis.

Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging measurement of muscle atrophy and fatty degeneration after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether muscle atrophy (MA) and fatty degeneration (FD) have improved after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). Therefore, the objective of this study was to perform quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurement to evaluate MA and FD before and after surgery. Correlations of clinical outcome with changes in MA and FD were also analyzed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From March 2013 to March 2017, 40 patients who had no re-tear up to 1 year after ARCR were enrolled. MA and FD of supraspinatus muscle before surgery, at 3 days after surgery, and at 1 year after surgery were measured quantitatively in conventional Y-view and supraspinatus origin-view (SOV). Measurement items were muscle area (mm2), occupation ratio (%), fatty infiltration (FI, %), and fatty degenerative area (mm2). Postoperative clinical outcomes were measured at 1 year after ARCR. Correlation between measure values and outcome scores were analyzed. RESULTS: Inter-measurement reliability was high (ICC = 0.933, Cronbach-α = 0.963). There was no significant change in MA in conventional Y-view at 1 year after surgery (Occupation ratio, p = 0.2770; MA, p = 0.3049) or in SOV (MA, p = 0.5953). FI and fat area measured with the conventional method on Y-view and showed significant differences (p = 0.0001). However, FI and fat area measured with the modified method on Y-view and SOV showed no significant difference (all p > 0.05). Postoperative clinical outcomes showed significant improvement compared to preoperative ones (p = 0.0001). However, there was no significant correlation between FD and FA (p = 0.653). CONCLUSION: Quantitative MRI measurement was shown to be a reliable and valid method. MA and FD do not improve after ARCR considering postoperative anatomical changes of supraspinatus at 1-year follow-up. FD of the supraspinatus in conventional Y-view, but not in SOV, showed a significant change at 1 year postoperatively. MA showed no significant improvement. There was no correlation between improvement in clinical scores and changes in FD and MA.

Clinical and Anatomical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Repair of Large Rotator Cuff Tears with Allograft Patch Augmentation: A Prospective, Single-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial with a Long-term Follow-up.

Background: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair using human dermal matrix allograft augmentation has been widely used. We assessed the effect of acellular human dermal matrix augmentation after arthroscopic repair of large rotator cuff tears through a prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial with a long-term follow-up. Methods: Sixty patients with large-sized rotator cuff tears were randomly assigned to two groups. Patients in the control group underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Allograft patch augmentation was additionally performed in the allograft group. All patients were subdivided into a complete coverage (CC) group or an incomplete coverage (IC) group according to footprint coverage after cuff repair. Constant and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Magnetic resonance imaging was also performed at the same time to evaluate the anatomical results. Results: Forty-three patients were followed up for an average of 5.7 years. Clinical scores (Constant and ASES) increased significantly at the last follow-up in both groups. The increase in ASES score in the allograft group was statistically significantly greater than that in the control group. The degree of Constant score improvement did not differ significantly between the two groups. The retear rate was 9.1% in the allograft group, which was significantly lower than that in the control group (38.1%). In the control group, the CC subgroup had a statistically significantly lower retear rate (16.7%) than did the IC subgroup. There were no retear cases in the CC subgroup of the allograft group. Conclusions: Long-term follow-up of arthroscopic repair of large rotator cuff tears with allograft patch augmentation showed better clinical and anatomical results. Footprint coverage after rotator cuff repair was an important factor affecting the retear rate. If the footprint was not completely covered after rotator cuff repair, allograft patch augmentation may reduce the retear rate.

Clinical and Radiologic Outcomes of Small Glenoid Baseplate in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Prospective Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) using a small glenoid baseplate in patients with a small glenoid and to analyze the contributing factors to scapular notching. METHODS: A total of 71 RTSAs performed using a 25-mm baseplate were evaluated at a mean of 37.0 ± 3.3 months. Shoulder function was evaluated using American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) for satisfaction, and active range of motion. Scapular neck angle (SNA), prosthesis-scapular neck angle (PSNA), peg glenoid rim distance (PGRD), and sphere bone overhang distance (SBOD) were measured to assess the effects on scapular notching. RESULTS: Shoulder function (ASES: 39.4 ± 13.8 preoperative vs. 76.2 ± 9.5 at last follow-up, p < 0.001), VAS for pain (6.1 ± 1.8 vs. 1.7 ± 1.4, p < 0.001), SANE for satisfaction (7.0 ± 11.8 vs. 83.4 ± 15.3, p < 0.001), and active forward flexion (115.6° ± 40.1° vs. 141.6° ± 17.2°, p < 0.001) were significantly improved. The mean diameter of the inferior glenoid circle was 26.0 ± 3.0 mm and the mean glenoid vault depth was 24.0 ± 4.5 mm. Scapular notching was found in 13 patients (18.3%) and acromial fracture in 2 patients (2.8%). There were no significant differences in preoperative SNA and PSNA at postoperative 3 years between patients with and without scapular notching (101.6° ± 10.5° and 110.8° ± 14.9° vs. 97.3° ± 13.3° and 104.9° ± 12.4°; p = 0.274 and p = 0.142, respectively). PGRD and SBOD were significantly different between patients with scapular notching and without scapular notching (24.8 ± 1.6 mm and 2.6 ± 0.5 mm vs. 21.9 ± 1.9 mm and 5.8 ± 1.9 mm; p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: RTSA using a 25-mm baseplate in a Korean population who had relatively small glenoids demonstrated low complication rates and significantly improved clinical outcomes. Scapular notching can be prevented by proper positioning of the baseplate and glenosphere overhang using size-matched glenoid baseplates.

Suprascapular Nerve Block Is an Effective Pain Control Method in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Effective pain control in patients who have undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery improves functional recovery and early mobilization. Interscalene blocks (ISBs), a widely used approach, are safe and provide fast pain relief; however, they are associated with complications. Another pain management strategy is the use of a suprascapular nerve block (SSNB). HYPOTHESIS: We hypothesized that indwelling SSNB catheters are a more effective pain control method than single-shot ISBs. We also hypothesized that indwelling SSNB catheters will reduce the level of rebound pain and the demand for opioid analgesics. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: Included in this study were 93 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery between May 2012 and January 2019. These patients were assigned to either the indwelling SSNB catheter group, the single-shot ISB group, or the control (sham/placebo) group (31 patients per group). Level of pain was measured with a visual analog scale (VAS; 0 to 10 [worst pain]) on the day of the operation. The preoperative VAS score was recorded at 6 AM on the day of operation, and the postoperative scores were recorded at 1, 8, and 16 hours after surgery and then every 8 hours until postoperative day 3. RESULTS: The VAS pain scores were lower in the SSNB and ISB groups than in the control group up to postoperative hour (POH) 8, with the most significant difference at POH 8. At POH 1 and POH 8, the mean VAS scores for each group were 2.29 and 1.74 (SSNB), 2.59 and 2.50 (ISB), and 3.42 and 4.48 (control), respectively. VAS scores in the SSNB and ISB groups were consistently <3, compared with a mean VAS score of 3.1 ± 1.58 in the control group (P < .001). Compared with the ISB group, the SSNB group had significantly fewer side effects such as rebound pain duration as well as lower VAS scores (P < .001). CONCLUSION: VAS scores were the lowest in the indwelling SSNB catheter group, with the most pronounced between-group difference in VAS scores at POH 8. Severity and recurring frequency of pain were lower in the indwelling SSNB catheter group than in the single-shot ISB group.

Proteomic Classification and Identification of Proteins Related to Tissue Healing of Platelet-Rich Plasma.

BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a plasma component of autologous blood containing a high concentration of platelets. PRP is used to promote healing of damaged tissues. However, there are not many studies on the composition and expression patterns of active proteins in PRP. The purpose of this study was to identify unknown factors that contribute to tissue healing by proteomic analysis of proteins in PRP. METHODS: Three men in their 30s with no basal disease participated in this study. All identified proteins were classified for tissue healing-related functions on the basis of the gene ontology analysis of adhesion molecule with Ig-like domain 2 (AmiGO2). PRP was prepared by using the ACP kit and GPS III kit. RESULTS: We identified a total of 125 proteins related to wound healing, along with three proteins for angiogenesis involved in wound healing, two proteins for fibroblast migration, four proteins for collagen biosynthesis process, two proteins for glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis process, and 13 proteins for glycosaminoglycan binding. So, in addition to the growth factors that have been already known to be involved in tissue healing, 25 new proteins were identified. CONCLUSIONS: We identified the unknown proteins associated with tissue healing in PRP. Our findings may serve as a foundation for the establishment of basic medical evidence for PRP applications.

Prospective Clinical Research of the Efficacy of Platelet-rich Plasma in the Outpatient-based Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical outcomes of the control group and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) group among the patients who failed to respond to conservative treatment as outpatient-based therapy for rotator cuff tendinopathy, and to compare the clinical results of leukocyte-poor (LP) PRP and leukocyte-rich (LR) PRP. METHODS: Inclusion criteria are (1) over 18-year-old, (2) patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy, no rotator cuff tear by radiologic diagnosis (ultrasonography or magnetic resonance imaging) within the last 3 months, and (3) not effective to conservative treatment for more than 1 month. Of the final 60 subjects, 33 patients in the exercise treatment group and 27 patients in the PRP injection group (LP-PRP, 13; LR-PRP, 14) were included. Clinical evaluation was carried out by assessing the outcomes of treatment using the Numeric Rating Scale pain score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) score, and the Constant score at baseline and at 3 and 6 months after the procedure. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in ΔASES3months (ASES3months-ASESfirst) score between the control and PRP groups (p=0.006). However, there was no statistical significance between LP-PRP and LR-PRP groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that PRP injection was more effective than exercise therapy for the first 3 months. However, there was no difference between the LP-PRP group and the LR-PRP group. Regardless of the type of PRP, clinical application of PRP injection in patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy seems to be effective in early treatment.

Leukocyte-Poor Platelet-Rich Plasma-Derived Growth Factors Enhance Human Fibroblast Proliferation In Vitro.

BACKGROUND: Leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP) from peripheral blood is currently used as a concentrated source of growth factors to stimulate repair at sites of soft tissue injury. Fibroblasts are primary mediators of wound healing. Thus, we aimed to assess the positive effect of LP-PRP on human fibroblast proliferation in vitro. METHODS: LP-PRP was prepared from 49 donors. The fibroblasts were seeded, and at 24 hours after seeding, 1 × 107/10 µL LP-PRP was added once to each well. The cells were harvested 10 times during study period at our planned points, and we examined cell proliferation using the water-soluble tetrazolium salt-1 assay. We collected the supernatants and measured the amount of growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AB/BB, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which are known to be involved in wound healing processes, by multiplex assay. RESULTS: Human fibroblasts treated with LP-PRP showed a significant increase in proliferation when compared to untreated controls (p < 0.001 at days 4, 6, and 8). Multiplex cytokine assays revealed various secretion patterns. PDGF-AB/BB appeared at early time points and peaked before fibroblast proliferation. IGF-1 and TGF-ß1 secretion gradually increased and peaked on days 4 and 6 post-treatment. The early VEGF concentration was lower than the concentration of other growth factors but increased along with cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: Platelets in LP-PRP release growth factors such as PDGF, IGF-1, TGF-ß1 and VEGF, and these growth factors have a promoting effect for human fibroblast proliferation, one of the important mediators of wound healing. These results suggest that growth factors derived from LP-PRP enhance the proliferation of human fibroblast.

Can a Single Sagittal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Slice Represent Whole Fatty Infiltration in Chronic Rotator Cuff Tears at the Supraspinatus?

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate whether fatty infiltration (FI) measured on a single sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slice can represent FI of the whole supraspinatus muscle. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed the MRIs of 106 patients (age 50-79 years) divided into three rotator cuff tear-size groups: medium, large, and massive. Fat mass and muscle mass on all T1-weighted sagittal MRI scans (FA and MA) were measured. Of the total MRI scans, the Y-view was defined as the most lateral image of the junction of the scapular spine with the scapular body on the oblique sagittal T1-weighted image. Fat mass and muscle mass seen on this Y-view single slice were recorded as F1 and M1, respectively. Fat mass and muscle mass were also assessed on MRI scans lateral and medial to the Y-view. The means of fat mass and muscle mass on these three slices were recorded as F3 and M3, respectively. Average FI ratios (fat mass/muscle mass) of the three assessment methods (F1/M1, FA/MA, and F3/M3) were compared. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated for inter- and intraobserver reliability. RESULTS: ICCs showed higher reliability (> 0.8) for all measurements. F1/M1 values were not statistically different from FA/MA and F3/M3 values (p > 0.05), except in males with medium and large tears. F3/M3 and FA/MA were not statistically different. The difference between F1/M1 and FA/MA did not exceed 2%. CONCLUSIONS: A single sagittal MRI slice can represent the whole FI in chronic rotator cuff tears, except in some patient groups. We recommend measurement of FI using a single sagittal MRI slice, given the effort required for repeated measurements.

Enhanced Tendon-to-Bone Healing of Chronic Rotator Cuff Tears by Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate in a Rabbit Model.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the influence of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) on tendon-to-bone healing in a rabbit rotator cuff model and to characterize the composition of growth factors in BMAC. METHODS: In this in vivo study, 40 rabbits were allocated into five groups: control (C), repair + saline (RS), repair + platelet-rich plasma (PRP; RP), repair + BMAC (RB) and repair + PRP + BMAC (RPB). A tear model was created by supraspinatus tendon transection at the footprint. Six weeks after transection, the torn tendon was repaired along with BMAC or PRP administration. Six weeks after repair, shoulder samples were harvested for biomechanical and histological testing. Ten rabbits were used for processing PRP and BMAC, followed by analysis of blood cell composition and the levels of growth factors in vitro. RESULTS: The ultimate load-to-failure was significantly higher in RPB group compared to RS group (p = 0.025). BMAC-treated groups showed higher values of biomechanical properties than RS group. The histology of BMAC-treated samples showed better collagen fiber continuity and orientation than RS group. BMAC contained significantly higher levels of the several growth factors than PRP. CONCLUSIONS: Locally administered BMAC enhanced tendon-to-bone healing and has potential for clinical applications.

Involvement of synovial matrix degradation and angiogenesis in oxidative stress-exposed degenerative rotator cuff tears with osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder osteoarthritis is a gradual wearing of the articular cartilage concomitant with degenerative rotator cuff tears (RCTs). This pathologic disorder is related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis. Degenerative alterations may prompt production of cytokines and angiogenesis-related proteins, evoking rotator cuff diseases. This study tested the hypothesis that oxidative stress-responsive mediators can influence joint inflammation of patients with RCT. METHODS: Twelve healthy RCT patients not suffering shoulder osteoarthritis were categorized as the control group, and 24 patients were allocated to 2 RCT groups (RCTP1 and RCTP2), according to severity of RCT and glenohumeral arthritis. Cytokines, growth factors, and angiogenic biomarkers in synovial fluids, blood, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and tendon tissues were analyzed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunoblotting, and collagen zymography. RESULTS: Induction of interleukin 8, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin 1ß was considerably elevated in synovial fluids of RCTP groups (P = .0398, P = .0428, P = .0828, respectively). The joint inflammation highly enhanced insulin-like growth factor 1 and transforming growth factor ß1 (TGF-ß1) in the synovial fluids and serum. Angiogenesis-related angiopoietin (Ang) 1 and 2, Tie-2, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α were upregulated in reactive oxygen species-exposed RCTP synovium (P < .05). The production of matrix metalloproteinase 1 markedly increased in synovial fluids of the RCTP group (P = .043), whereas tissue collagen type I expression diminished with reduction of connective tissue growth factor expression (P = .032). Although the secretion of platelet-derived growth factor AB and vascular endothelial growth factor was marginal in the circulation (P = .714, P = .335), platelet-derived growth factor AB, TGF-ß1, Ang-1, and matrix metalloproteinase 1 were enriched in PRP of the RCTP group (P < .001, P = .002, P = .0389, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Synovial matrix degradation and oxidative stress-triggered angiogenesis may be involved in inducing RCT with joint inflammation. TGF-ß1, Ang-1, and Ang-2 are the major components to repair RCT and to alleviate joint inflammation in PRP therapy.

Functional and Radiographic Outcomes After Arthroscopic Transosseous Suture Repair of Medium Sized Rotator Cuff Tears.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the functional and anatomical outcomes after arthroscopic transosseous suture (TOS) repair of 2 to 4 cm sized rotator cuff tears and to identify preoperative factors influencing repair failure. METHODS: From May 2013 to August 2014, patients with symptomatic 2 to 4 cm full-thickness tears underwent arthroscopic TOS repair, and those who could be followed up for a minimum of 2 years were included in this retrospective study. Functional and anatomical outcomes were analyzed up to 2 years postoperatively. Factors affecting cuff repair failure were evaluated, using both univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients were included. On preoperative magnetic resonance imaging data, the mean anteroposterior dimension tear size was 27.0 ± 3.3 mm and mean retraction was 30.7 ± 3.1 mm. Anatomic failure (Sugaya III, IV, and V) rate was 33% with arthroscopic TOS repair; however, significant improvements were found regardless of cuff healing. Mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (range, 0-100) improved from 48.8 ± 16.6 preoperatively to 80.1 ± 11.1 postoperatively (P < .001), mean Constant score (range, 0-100) improved from 54.5 ± 11.8 to 73.7 ± 8.5 (P < .001), and mean pain visual analog scale score (range, 0-10) improved from 3.9 ± 1.7 to 2.0 ± 1.1 (P < .001). These changes reached each minimal clinically important difference previously reported. Greater tear size in anteroposterior dimension (P = .034), decreased acromiohumeral distance (P = .022), and higher fatty infiltration of supraspinatus (P = .011) were independent preoperative factors associated with repair failure. Twelve patients (44%) experienced intraoperative bone laceration. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic TOS repair was a reliable technique for patients with 2 to 4 cm size rotator cuff tear. Preoperative factors associated with cuff repair failure were greater tear size in anteroposterior dimension, decreased acromiohumeral distance, and higher fatty infiltration of supraspinatus. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Effects of a Single-Dose Interscalene Block on Pain and Stress Biomarkers in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: To compare the effects of a single-dose interscalene block and general anesthesia (SISB/GA) with the effects of GA only in the early postoperative period after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair by evaluating subjective pain visual analog scale scores and objective pain-related stress biomarkers. METHODS: Patients refractory to conservative treatment of the affected shoulder were enrolled in this prospective, randomized endpoint study. Patients diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear (1-4 cm) based on magnetic resonance imaging were included. Exclusion criteria were small (<1 cm) and massive (>4 cm) rotator cuff tears. Thirty-one patients each were randomized into the SISB/GA and GA treatment groups. Preoperative pain scores were measured at 6:00 AM on the day of surgery, measured again at 1 and 6 hours postoperatively, and then every 6 hours until 3 days postoperatively. Blood sampling was performed to evaluate the stress biomarkers insulin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and fibrinogen preoperatively at 6:00 AM on the day of surgery and postoperatively at 18, 42, and 66 hours (6:00 AM on postoperative days 1-3). RESULTS: Pain scores were significantly decreased in the SISB/GA group (2.50 ± 0.94) versus the GA group (3.82 ± 1.31) on the day of surgery (P < .001), and especially at 6 hours postoperatively (SISB/GA: 2.42 ± 1.43; GA: 4.23 ± 2.17; P < .001). Insulin was decreased significantly in the SISB/GA group (10.55 ± 7.92 µU/mL) versus the GA group (20.39 ± 25.60 µU/mL) at 42 hours postoperatively (P = .048). There was no significant change in dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate or fibrinogen over time (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: After arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, an SISB effectively relieved pain on the day of surgery without any complications. In addition, insulin levels were significantly reduced at 42 hours postoperatively. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I, prospective randomized controlled trial.