The Long Head of the Biceps Has a Stabilizing Effect on the Glenohumeral Joint in Simulated Infraspinatus or Subscapularis but Not Supraspinatus Rotator Cuff Deficiency: A Biomechanical Study.

PURPOSE: To investigate the stabilizing role of the long head of the biceps (LHB) for different simulated rotator cuff (RC) tears. METHODS: Human cadaveric specimens (n = 8) were fixed in a robotic-based experimental setup with a static loading of the RC, deltoid, and the LHB. RC tears were simulated by unloading of the corresponding muscles. A throwing motion and an anterior load-and-shift test were simulated under different RC conditions by unloading the supraspinatus (SS), subscapularis (SSc), infraspinatus (IS), and combinations (SS + SSc, SS + IS, SS + SSc + IS). The LHB was tested in 3 conditions: unloaded, loaded, and tenotomy. Translation of the humeral head and anterior forces depending on loading of the RC and the LHB was captured. RESULTS: Loading of LHB produced no significant changes in anterior force or glenohumeral translation for the intact RC or a simulated SS tear. However, if SSc or IS were unloaded, LHB loading resulted in a significant increase of anterior force ranging from 3.9 N (P = .013, SSc unloaded) to 5.2 N (P = .001, simulated massive tear) and glenohumeral translation ranging from 2.4 mm (P = .0078, SSc unloaded) to 7.4 mm (P = .0078, simulated massive tear) compared to the unloaded LHB. Tenotomy of the LHB led to a significant increase in glenohumeral translation compared to the unloaded LHB in case of combined SS + SSc (2.6 mm, P = .0391) and simulated massive tears of all SS + SSc + IS (4.6 mm, P = .0078). Highest translation was observed in simulated massive tears between loaded LHB and tenotomy (8.1 mm, P = .0078). CONCLUSIONS: Once SSc or IS is simulated to be torn, the LHB has a stabilizing effect for the glenohumeral joint and counteracts humeral translation. With a fully loaded RC, LHB loading has no influence. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: With an intact RC, the condition of the LHB showed no biomechanical effect on the joint stability. Therefore, from a biomechanical point of view, the LHB could be removed from the joint when the RC is intact or reconstructable. However, since there was a positive effect even of the unloaded LHB in this study when SSc or IS is deficient, techniques with preservation of the supraglenoid LHB origin may be of benefit in such cases.

Medial migration of the helical blade with penetration into the acetabulum: a rare complication using the TFNA nail.

PURPOSE: To determine the frequency and possible reasons of medial migration with penetration into the acetabulum (MMPA) of the helical blade when using the Trochanteric Fixation Nail Advanced (TFNA) is used for treatment of pertrochanteric fractures. METHODS: All patients with pertrochanteric femoral fracture, treated by intramedullary femoral nailing with the TFNA, were retrospectively reviewed for MMPA of the helical blade. Epidemiological parameters, additional procedures, distance of medial migration, time from primary operation to revision as well as type of revision were assessed. RESULTS: 4 of 153 patients treated with the TFNA developed an MMPA of the helical blade (risk = 2.6%), with a mean medial migration of the blade of 11.6 mm (SD 8.8). The mean time from initial operation to revision surgery was 70 days (SD 30). All patients were revised by conversion to cemented total hip arthroplasty. CONCLUSION: MMPA of the helical blade is a rare but potentially hazardous complication of femoral nailing with the TFNA femoral nail, resulting in the necessity for revision surgery and total hip arthroplasty.

Acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligamentous insertion distances depend on the scapular tilt and decrease with anterior direction of the inferior scapula angle.

PURPOSE: A variety of reconstruction techniques exist for the operative treatment of a ruptured acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligamentous complex. However, the complication rate remains high; between 5 and 89%. The intraoperative distance between the clavicle, acromion and coracoid is important for the refixation quality. In this study, the influence of scapular deflection on coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular distances was analysed. METHODS: The ligamentous insertions of 24 fresh-frozen human scapulae were exposed. The coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligaments were referenced and captured in a rigid body system using a three-dimensional (3D) measurement arm. The inferior angle of the scapula was manually pulled into maximum anterior and posterior deflection, simulating a patient positioning with or without dorsal scapular support, respectively. Based on the rigid body system, the distances between the ligamentous insertions were calculated. Statistical evaluation was performed by setting the distances in anterior deflection to 100% and considering the other distances relative to this position. RESULTS: The scapular deflection had a considerable impact on the distance between the ligamentous insertions. Concerning the conoid ligament, the mean distance was almost doubled when the inferior angle pointed posteriorly compared to anterior deflection (195.3 vs 100.0%; p = 0.028). The insertion of the acromioclavicular capsule also showed a significant association with the direction of deflection (posterior = 116.1% vs. anterior = 100%; p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: Dorsal support shifting the inferior angle of the scapula anteriorly reduces the distance between the ligamentous insertions. Therefore, a patient position on a shoulder table with posterior support of the scapula is recommended to reliability reduce the acromioclavicular joint.

Increased complication rates of salvage reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) after failed locked plate fixation compared with primary RTSA in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients.

HYPOTHESIS: Common surgical treatment options for proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients include locked plate fixation (LPF) and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). It was hypothesized that secondary RTSA after LPF would be associated with higher complication rates and costs compared with primary RTSA. METHODS: We analyzed the health insurance data of patients aged ≥65 years who received RTSA for the treatment of a proximal humeral fracture between January 2013 and September 2019 with a pre-study phase of 5 years. Multivariable Cox, logistic, and linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between treatment group and complications, hospital length of stay, charges, and mortality rate during a 34-month follow-up period. RESULTS: A total of 14,220 patients underwent primary RTSA and 1282 patients underwent secondary RTSA after prior surgery using LPF for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures. After adjustment for patient characteristics, more surgical complications were observed after secondary RTSA during index hospitalization (odds ratio, 4.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.00-5.34; P < .001) and long-term follow-up (hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.27-1.81; P < .001). Moreover, secondary RTSA was associated with an increased cumulative total cost of €6638.1 (95% CI, €6229.9-€7046.5; P < .001). If conversion from LPF to secondary RTSA occurred during index hospitalization, more major adverse events, more thromboembolic events, and a higher mortality rate were found in the short and long term (all P < .05). CONCLUSION: Secondary RTSA is associated with higher total costs and more complications. Hence, if surgical treatment of a proximal humeral fracture in an elderly patient is needed, prognostic factors for LPF need to be evaluated carefully. If in doubt, the surgeon should opt to perform primary RTSA as patients will benefit in the long term.

Double plating is associated with higher fixation strength than single plating in osteoporotic fractures of the scapular spine: a biomechanical study.

INTRODUCTION: The number of atraumatic stress fractures of the scapular spine associated with reverse shoulder arthroplasty is increasing. At present, there is no consensus regarding the optimal treatment strategy. Due to the already weakened bone, fractures of the scapular spine require a high fixation stability. Higher fixation strength may be achieved by double plating. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical principles of double plating in comparison to single plating for scapular spine fractures. METHODS: In this study, eight pairs (n = 16) of human shoulders were randomised pairwise into two groups. After an osteotomy at the level of the spinoglenoid notch, one side of each pair received fracture fixation with a single 3.5 LCP (Locking Compression Plate) plate. The contralateral scapular spine was fixed with a 3.5 LCP and an additional 2.7 LCP plate in 90-90 configuration. The biomechanical test protocol consisted of 700 cycles of dynamic loading and a load-to-failure test with a servohydraulic testing machine. Failure was defined as macroscopic catastrophic failure (screw cut-out, plate breakage). The focus was set on the results of specimens with osteoporotic bone quality. RESULTS: In specimens with an osteoporotic bone mineral density (BMD; n = 12), the mean failure load was significantly higher for the double plate group compared to single plating (471 N vs. 328 N; p = 0.029). Analysis of all specimens (n = 16) including four specimens without osteoporotic BMD revealed no significant differences regarding stiffness and failure load (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Double plating may provide higher fixation strength in osteoporotic bone in comparison to a single plate alone. This finding is of particular relevance for fixation of scapular spine fractures following reverse shoulder arthroplasty. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Controlled laboratory study.

In-hospital Complications Are More Likely to Occur After Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Than After Locked Plating for Proximal Humeral Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Currently, there seems to be a paradigm change in the surgical treatment of proximal humeral fractures in patients aged 65 years and older, with a considerable increase in the use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) compared with angular stable internal fixation (locking plate fixation). However, even among shoulder specialists there is controversy regarding the best treatment strategy. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: To evaluate for (1) a greater risk of in-hospital major adverse events, (2) a greater risk for in-hospital surgical complications, and (3) a greater risk of 30-day mortality, locking plate fixation and RTSA were compared for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures of patients aged 65 years and older after controlling for potentially confounding variables in a large-database analysis. METHODS: Health claims data of the largest German insurance company including approximately one-third of the population (26.5 million policyholders) between 2010 and 2018 were analyzed. This database was chosen because of its size, nationwide distribution, and high quality/completeness. In total, 55,070 patients (≥ 65 years of age) treated with locking plate fixation (75% [41,216]) or RTSA (25% [13,854]) for proximal humeral fracture were compared. As primary endpoints, major adverse events (including acute myocardial infarction, stroke, organ failure, resuscitation, and death) and surgical complications (infection, hematoma, loss of reduction, dislocation, and revision surgery) were analyzed. The risk of all endpoints was analyzed with multivariable logistic regression models in the context of comorbidities to address existing group differences. RESULTS: After controlling for potentially confounding variables such as age, sex, and risk profile, RTSA was associated with a higher risk for major adverse events (OR 1.40 [95% CI 1.29 to 1.53]; p < 0.001) and surgical complications (OR 1.13 [95% CI 1.05 to 1.21]; p < 0.01) compared with locking plate fixation. There was no evidence for an increase in mortality (OR 0.98 [95% CI 0.86 to 1.12]; p = 0.81). CONCLUSION: The increased in-hospital risk for major adverse events and surgical complications may moderate the enthusiasm associated with RTSA for proximal humeral fractures in patients 65 years and older. Treatment decisions should be based on individual risk estimation to avoid potential harmful events. Future studies must include long-term outcomes and quality of life to enlighten these findings in a broader context. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Glenoid concavity has a higher impact on shoulder stability than the size of a bony defect.

PURPOSE: Surgical treatment of shoulder instability caused by anterior glenoid bone loss is based on a critical threshold of the defect size. Recent studies indicate that the glenoid concavity is essential for glenohumeral stability. However, biomechanical proof of this principle is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether glenoid concavity allows a more precise assessment of glenohumeral stability than the defect size alone. METHODS: The stability ratio (SR) is a biomechanical estimate of glenohumeral stability. It is defined as the maximum dislocating force the joint can resist related to a medial compression force. This ratio was determined for 17 human cadaveric glenoids in a robotic test setup depending on osteochondral concavity and anterior defect size. Bony defects were created gradually, and a 3D measuring arm was used for morphometric measurements. The influence of defect size and concavity on the SR was examined using linear models. In addition, the morphometrical-based bony shoulder stability ratio (BSSR) was evaluated to prove its suitability for estimation of glenohumeral stability independent of defect size. RESULTS: Glenoid concavity is a significant predictor for the SR, while the defect size provides minor informative value. The linear model featured a high goodness of fit with a determination coefficient of R2 = 0.98, indicating that 98% of the SR is predictable by concavity and defect size. The low mean squared error (MSE) of 4.2% proved a precise estimation of the SR. Defect size as an exclusive predictor in the linear model reduced R2 to 0.9 and increased the MSE to 25.7%. Furthermore, the loss of SR with increasing defect size was shown to be significantly dependent on the initial concavity. The BSSR as a single predictor for glenohumeral stability led to highest precision with MSE = 3.4%. CONCLUSION: Glenoid concavity is a crucial factor for the SR. Independent of the defect size, the computable BSSR is a precise biomechanical estimate of the measured SR. The inclusion of glenoid concavity has the potential to influence clinical decision-making for an improved and personalised treatment of glenohumeral instability with anterior glenoid bone loss.

The forgotten fragment: additional lesser tuberosity fixation of 4-part proximal humeral fractures-a biomechanical investigation.

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the proximal humerus are common. The most frequent surgical treatment option is open reduction and locking plate fixation. Multifragmentary fractures, including 3- and 4-part fractures, are especially challenging to treat because they correlate with an increased risk of fixation failure. In the past, several mechanisms of additional fixation were investigated, but none directly addressed the lesser tuberosity (LT). The goal of this study was to investigate the biomechanical impact of additional anterior fracture fixation in lateral locked plating (LLP) of 4-part proximal humeral fractures (PHFs). METHODS: Twenty-seven fresh frozen human shoulder specimens (mean age, 80 years) with intact rotator cuffs (RCs) were randomized into 4 groups: 3-part PHF with LLP and RC cerclage (n = 6); 4-part PHF with LLP and RC cerclage as standard of care (n = 7); 4-part PHF with LLP, RC cerclage, and 2 anterior 3.5-mm cortical screws (n = 7); and 4-part PHF with LLP, RC cerclage, and additional anterior one-third tubular plate (additional anterior plating [AAP], n = 7). Static load of the RC was simulated with weights. A force-controlled cyclic loading test was performed with a servo-hydraulic testing machine, followed by load-to-failure testing. An optical motion capture system recorded humeral head range of motion. RESULTS: LLP of a 4-part PHF showed more humeral head motion than LLP of a 3-part PHF without fracture of the LT (P < .001). Fixing the LT to the humeral head with two 3.5-mm screws significantly reduced humeral head motion compared with LLP with RC cerclage alone (P < .006). Using AAP significantly increased the construct stiffness compared with the standard of care (P = .03). CONCLUSION: LLP of a 4-part PHF is biomechanically less stable than LLP of a 3-part PHF without fracture of the LT. Additional screw fixation of the LT in 4-part PHFs improves stability compared with LLP alone. In case of metaphyseal comminution, AAP is favorable from a biomechanical perspective.

[Posttraumatic shoulder stiffness]. / Posttraumatische Schultersteife.

Posttraumatic stiffness of the shoulder joint is a frequent and socioeconomically relevant result of injury; however, prior to making the diagnosis as the only cause of a persisting impairment of motion, it is necessary to rule out other sequelae of trauma. Even intensive conservative treatment is mostly accompanied by the stagnation of the impairments of movement. In many cases the treatment of choice is early arthroscopic arthrolysis with a standardized approach and intensive follow-up treatment. In the surgical treatment of proximal humeral fractures with humeral head preservation, arthroscopic arthrolysis with simultaneous implant removal is a form of planned second intervention for improvement of shoulder function in cases of persisting motion deficits after bony consolidation. Despite sometimes substantial limitations of movement, a clinically relevant and lasting improvement of shoulder function can be achieved with arthroscopic arthrolysis in posttraumatic shoulder stiffness.

[Trends in the surgical treatment of fractures of the pelvic ring : A nationwide analysis of operations and procedures code (OPS) data between 2005 and 2017]. / Trends in der operativen Therapie von Frakturen des Beckenrings : Eine bundesweite Analyse von OPS-Daten zwischen 2005 und 2017.

AIM: The aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological trends and incidences in inpatient pelvic surgery in the period from 2005 to 2007. METHOD: Approximately 194 million anonymized diagnosis-related groups (DRG) inpatient records were collected by the German Federal Statistical Office between 2005 and 2017. These data were screened for pelvic procedures, gender and age of the patients. Statistical testing was performed using the χ2-test and Mann-Whitney U-test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Between 2005 and 2017 the number of closed reduction and internal fixation of the pelvic ring with screw fixation increased by +1116%. The use of screw fixation for closed reduction and internal fixation of the sacroiliac joint increased by +800%. The number of cases of open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of the pelvic ring and pelvic rim increased by +185% and reposition with external fixator increased by +188%. In 2005 more surgical procedures were undertaken in male inpatients, whereas more surgical procedures were undertaken in female inpatients in 2017. In general, a large increase in the number of pelvic procedures was observed in the group of patients >50 years old. CONCLUSION: There was an increase in the number of all analyzed pelvic procedures between 2005 and 2017. Especially the use of screw fixation increased. The introduction of new techniques (e.g. screw fixation of the sacroiliac joint) and progress and innovation in the field of three-dimensional navigation techniques, the demographic trend, greater mobility and higher demands on functionality of older patients might explain this increase in pelvic procedures.

Does Cement Augmentation of the Sacroiliac Screw Lead to Superior Biomechanical Results for Fixation of the Posterior Pelvic Ring? A Biomechanical Study.

Background and Objectives: The stability of the pelvic ring mainly depends on the integrity of its posterior part. Percutaneous sacroiliac (SI) screws are widely implanted as standard of care treatment. The main risk factors for their fixation failure are related to vertical shear or transforaminal sacral fractures. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical performance of fixations using one (Group 1) or two (Group 2) standard SI screws versus one SI screw with bone cement augmentation (Group 3). Materials and Methods: Unstable fractures of the pelvic ring (AO/OTA 61-C1.3, FFP IIc) were simulated in 21 artificial pelvises by means of vertical osteotomies in the ipsilateral anterior and posterior pelvic ring. A supra-acetabular external fixator was applied to address the anterior fracture. All specimens were tested under progressively increasing cyclic loading until failure, with monitoring by means of motion tracking. Fracture site displacement and cycles to failure were evaluated. Results: Fracture displacement after 500 cycles was lowest in Group 3 (0.76 cm [0.30] (median [interquartile range, IQR])) followed by Group 1 (1.42 cm, [0.21]) and Group 2 (1.42 cm [1.66]), with significant differences between Groups 1 and 3, p = 0.04. Fracture displacement after 1000 cycles was significantly lower in Group 3 (1.15 cm [0.37]) compared to both Group 1 (2.19 cm [2.39]) and Group 2 (2.23 cm [3.65]), p ≤ 0.04. Cycles to failure (Group 1: 3930 ± 890 (mean ± standard deviation), Group 2: 3676 ± 348, Group 3: 3764 ± 645) did not differ significantly between the groups, p = 0.79. Conclusions: In our biomechanical setup cement augmentation of one SI screw resulted in significantly less displacement compared to the use of one or two SI screws. However, the number of cycles to failure was not significantly different between the groups. Cement augmentation of one SI screw seems to be a useful treatment option for posterior pelvic ring fixation, especially in osteoporotic bone.

[Effects of the new injury type catalogue of the German statutory accident insurance on a center for severe injury type procedures]. / Auswirkungen des neuen Verletzungsartenverzeichnisses der DGUV auf ein SAV-Zentrum.

The development of the numbers of cases involved in accident insurance consultant procedures (DAV), injury type procedures (VAV) and severe injury type procedures (SAV) after the introduction of the new injury type catalogue from 1 July 2018 is presented. Furthermore, possible alterations to organizational aspects, such as operating room times and average duration of hospitalization are presented. A first critical assessment of the modifications in the new catalogue was carried out, particularly with reference to the newly introduced section on complications (section 11). METHODS: A retrospective study of all inpatients treated in the context of the DAV, VAV and SAV procedures at a SAV center from the 2nd and 3rd quarters of 2018 was carried out. The development of the number of cases, the case mix index (CMI), the mean number of operations, the mean time in the operating room and the length of hospitalization were analyzed. Furthermore, an assessment of the SAV cases was carried out with respect to the new developments and with particularly reference to complications. RESULTS: The total number of inpatients in the context of the DAV, VAV, SAV procedures changed only slightly. There was a clear decrease in DAV cases and a relevant increase in SAV cases. The CMI increased by 47%, the number of surgical procedures by 15%, the mean time in the operating room by 36% and the length of hospitalization by 43%. When converted to a daily operating room unit of 7 h (Tagestischeinheit, TTE) the operating room time increased from 89 to 108 TTE and the length of hospitalization increased from 1028 to 1358 days. Of the 111 SAV cases in the 3rd quarter, 52% were assigned to the catalogue number 11 "complications". In comparison to the previous version of the VAV/SAV catalogue, it was now possible to assign all inpatients to a single category. CONCLUSION: The modifications of the VAV in the observational period led to an enormous increase in SAV cases. It remains to be seen whether this development is confirmed in subsequent quarters. The increase in CMI, the number of necessary operations, operating room times and duration of hospitalization showed the necessity of these innovations on structural changes of hospitals involved in the treatment of SAV cases.

Quantitative mapping of glenohumeral cartilage in asymptomatic subjects using 3 T magnetic resonance imaging.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop quantitative T2 mapping methodology in asymptomatic shoulders for the entire mappable region of the glenohumeral cartilage in the coronal and sagittal planes, to assess the feasibility and limitations of the development of a diagnostic tool for future application in symptomatic patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one asymptomatic volunteers underwent sagittal and coronal glenohumeral T2 mapping, as the spherical geometry of the humeral head obviates the need to evaluate the entire glenohumeral cartilage in a single plane. The humeral head cartilage orthogonal to the mapping plane was manually segmented in the sagittal and coronal planes, whereas the glenoid cartilage was segmented in the coronal plane. Cartilage T2 summary statistics were calculated and coverage in each mapping plane was qualitatively assessed. RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation of the glenoid cartilage T2 was 38 ± 2 ms. The coronal and sagittal mapping planes captured different regions of the humeral head with some overlap: inferior-medial to superior-lateral versus superior/superior-lateral to anterior-lateral and posterior-lateral respectively. The mean humeral head cartilage T2 in the coronal plane was 41 ± 3 ms, which was significantly different (p < 0.05) from the sagittal plane mean of 34 ± 2 ms. CONCLUSION: This study measured characteristic glenoid and humeral head cartilage T2 values over the area mappable with two planes. Importantly, this study demonstrated that two-dimensional mapping in a single plane or two combined planes cannot capture the entirety of the semi-spherical humeral head cartilage. This highlights the need for three-dimensional T2 mapping techniques in the shoulder.

Editorial Commentary: Lateral Acromioplasty Is Clinically Safe and Has the Potential to Reduce the Risk for Rotator Cuff Re-tears.

The critical shoulder angle and lateral acromioplasty are areas of controversy that are being studied in association with rotator cuff tears both as potential pathogenic variables and as surgically modifiable variables that could improve clinical outcomes. Current clinical evidence regarding the effectiveness and potential benefit of lateral acromioplasty support the hypothesis that modification of the bony anatomy may influence the integrity of the rotator cuff.

Five-Year Outcomes After Arthroscopic Repair of Partial-Thickness Supraspinatus Tears.

PURPOSE: To investigate clinical outcomes in patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of isolated partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCTs) of the supraspinatus tendon with a minimum follow-up period of 5 years. METHODS: All patients who had undergone arthroscopic repair of isolated PTRCTs at least 5 years earlier were included. Preoperatively and postoperatively, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, QuickDASH (short version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire), and Short Form 12 Physical Component Summary scores were collected, along with postoperative satisfaction (10-point scale) and return to activity. The associations between (1) patient age and outcome scores and (2) location of partial-thickness tear (articular vs bursal sided) and outcome scores were evaluated. Failure was defined as revision surgery of the rotator cuff repair. RESULTS: The study included 24 shoulders (24 patients comprising 9 women and 15 men). Follow-up data were available on 20 shoulders (7 women and 13 men, 83% follow-up) at a mean of 6 ± 1 years postoperatively. The mean age at index surgery was 55 ± 11 years; 6 bursal- and 14 articular-sided tears were repaired. No patient required revision surgery. All scores significantly improved from preoperatively to postoperatively (P < .05); the median satisfaction rating (1, not satisfied; 10, completely satisfied) was 10 (range, 1-10). Neither patient age nor tear location correlated with outcome scores (P > .05). Seventeen patients indicated that they participated in previous recreational activity. Of these patients, 13 (76%) returned to the original level or a similar level of activity, 3 (18%) returned to activity at a lower level, and only 1 (6%) indicated an inability to return to activity. CONCLUSIONS: Patients undergoing arthroscopic repair of PTRCTs can expect excellent clinical outcomes with low failure rates at midterm follow-up given that no patient progressed to revision rotator cuff repair during follow-up. The return-to-activity rate was very high after repair of isolated PTRCTs. Neither patient age nor tear location was associated with outcome scores. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Improved outcomes with arthroscopic repair of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: The optimum treatment strategy for the surgical management of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCT) is evolving. In this study, two research questions were sought to be answered: "Does the repair technique for PTRCTs involving >50% of the tendon thickness have an effect on structural and functional outcomes of arthroscopic repair?" and "Is there a difference in outcomes of arthroscopically treated articular- and bursal-sided PTRCTs?". METHODS: A systematic review according to the PRISMA statement was conducted to identify all literature published reporting on outcomes of arthroscopic treatment of PTRCTs classified with the Ellman classification with minimum 2-year follow-up. Prospective randomized trials were eligible for quantitative synthesis. A total of 19 studies, published between 1999 and 2015, met the inclusion criteria of this systematic review. Two studies reporting outcomes of articular-sided PTRCTs with prospective randomized study design were included in quantitative synthesis calculations. RESULTS: Arthroscopic repair of PTRCTs >50% thickness results in significant pain relief and good to excellent functional outcomes. When in situ repair was compared with repair of the tendon after completion to full-thickness RCT, there were no significant differences in functional or structural outcomes or complication rates. The best treatment method for low-grade PTRCTs remains unclear. CONCLUSIONS: The repair technique (in situ repair versus repair of the tendon after completion to full-thickness RCT) did not significantly affect the outcomes for arthroscopic repair of PTRCTs >50% thickness. The current literature contains evidence for inferior outcomes and higher failure rates after arthroscopic debridement of bursal-sided compared to articular-sided PTRCTs, and some evidence suggests that repair of lower-grade bursal-sided tears may be beneficial over debridement. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Failure following arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic anteroinferior instability of the shoulder: is a glenoid labral articular disruption (GLAD) lesion a risk factor for recurrent instability?

BACKGROUND: Recurrent instability is a frequent complication following arthroscopic Bankart repair. The purpose of this study was to investigate risk factors for poor patient-reported clinical outcome scores and failure rates. METHODS: Patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair at least 2 years earlier were included. Preoperative and postoperative Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons; and satisfaction scores were collected. The relationship of the following factors with outcomes and failure rates was assessed: (1) previous arthroscopic stabilization, (2) 3 or more dislocations prior to surgery, (3) glenoid labral articular disruption (GLAD) lesion, (4) concurrent superior labral anterior-to-posterior tear repair, and (5) concurrent biceps tenodesis. RESULTS: The study included 72 patients with a median age of 23 years (range, 14-49 years). Subsequent revision was required in 9 (12.5%); 1 additional patient (1.4%) had recurrent dislocation. Outcome data were available at a median follow-up of 3 years (range, 2-9 years). All scores significantly improved from preoperatively to postoperatively (P <.05); the mean patient satisfaction score was 9, with a median of 10 (range, 1-10). None of the analyzed factors were associated with worse postoperative outcome scores. GLAD lesions were significantly associated with a higher rate of failure (P = .007). No other analyzed factors had a significant association with failure rates (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with arthroscopic Bankart repair for traumatic anteroinferior shoulder instability had excellent outcomes, even in the context of previous arthroscopic stabilization surgery, 3 or more dislocations prior to surgery, concurrent superior labral anterior-to-posterior tear repair, or concurrent biceps tenodesis. However, GLAD lesions were associated with higher rates of failure, and the presence of a GLAD lesion may herald the presence of changes in the articular version or other as-yet-undetermined factors that could predispose patients to failure.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Snapping Scapula Syndrome: Outcomes at Minimum of 2 Years.

PURPOSE: To investigate clinical outcomes after primary and revision arthroscopic treatment for snapping scapula syndrome (SSS) and identify predictive factors associated with outcomes. METHODS: Patients who underwent arthroscopic treatment for SSS between October 2005 and December 2013 were identified in a prospectively collected database. The inclusion criteria were patients with a diagnosis of symptomatic SSS, in whom extensive nonoperative modalities failed, who underwent arthroscopic surgery for SSS, and who had undergone surgery a minimum of 2 years earlier. Postoperative clinical outcomes were assessed with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score; short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire; and general health Short Form 12 (SF-12) scores, including both physical component summary and mental component summary. Patient satisfaction was recorded on a 10-point visual analog scale. Scapular bony morphology was determined on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS: Ninety-two scapulae underwent arthroscopic treatment for SSS. There were 74 scapulae that met the inclusion criteria, including having undergone surgery a minimum of 2 years earlier. An outcome questionnaire was completed for 60 of 74 (81%). The mean age was 33 years (range, 12-65 years), and the mean duration of symptoms before surgery was 4 years (range, 90 days to 20.4 years). The mean follow-up period was 3.4 years (range, 2-7 years). Eight scapulae failed initial surgical management (10.9%) because of recurrent pain and underwent revision surgery at a mean of 309 days (range, 120-917 days). After surgery, there was a significant improvement in all outcome scores, including SF-12 physical component summary score, from 39.2 to 45.4 (P = .002); SF-12 mental component summary score, from 45.0 to 49.6 (P = .023); American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, from 52.6 to 75.8 (P < .001); and score on the short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, from 40.2 to 24.2 (P = .001). The median patient satisfaction rating was 7 of 10. Greater age, lower preoperative psychological score, and longer duration of symptoms before surgery correlated with lower postoperative outcome scores. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic surgery is an effective treatment for SSS in both primary and revision cases, showing significant improvements in all postoperative outcome scores at a mean of 3.4 years. Lower preoperative mental status score, longer duration of symptoms, and greater age were associated with poorer outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Association of Traumatic and Atraumatic Posterior Shoulder Instability With Glenoid Retroversion and Outcomes After Arthroscopic Capsulolabral Repair.

PURPOSE: To compare glenoid retroversion and functional outcomes between patients with traumatic onset of posterior shoulder instability (PSI) and patients with atraumatic onset of PSI. METHODS: Patients with PSI who underwent arthroscopic posterior capsulolabral anchor repair, were active in sports, and had undergone surgery a minimum of 2 years earlier were included. Traumatic onset was defined as PSI that occurred after a trauma with the shoulder in adduction, flexion, and internal rotation in patients with no history of instability. Subjective evaluations were obtained with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES); Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE); and Short Form 12 Physical Component Summary scores preoperatively and after a minimum 2-year follow-up postoperatively. Additional questions assessed return to sport and shoulder stability. Glenoid version was measured with a 2-dimensional glenoid vault method on magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS: A total of 41 shoulders in 38 patients were eligible for inclusion (3 female and 35 male patients; mean age, 27.6 years; age range, 13 to 66 years). Three patients refused participation, and 2 patients required subsequent surgery for failure. Postoperative outcomes were available for 32 of the remaining 36 shoulders (89%) with a mean follow-up of 4.1 years (range, 2.0 to 7.8 years; 20 atraumatic and 12 traumatic). The ASES score improved significantly in both groups (P < .03), whereas the SANE; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; and Short Form 12 Physical Component Summary scores only significantly improved for patients with traumatic PSI (P < .02). Baseline score-adjusted comparison between groups showed that the postoperative median ASES scores (atraumatic, 95.8; traumatic, 99.9) and SANE scores (atraumatic, 86.5; traumatic, 98.0) were significantly more improved in patients with traumatic PSI (P = .01 and P = .012, respectively). Atraumatic PSI was associated with significantly higher glenoid retroversion (-21.8° ± 4.2° vs -17.7° ± 5.5°, P = .032). There was no significant difference regarding return to sport (P = .375) or postoperative re-dislocations (P = .99) between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Atraumatic onset of PSI was associated with higher degrees of glenoid retroversion and less favorable functional outcomes of arthroscopic posterior capsulolabral anchor repair than traumatic PSI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective case-control study.

Arthroscopic Repair of Isolated Partial- and Full-Thickness Upper Third Subscapularis Tendon Tears: Minimum 2-Year Outcomes After Single-Anchor Repair and Biceps Tenodesis.

PURPOSE: To investigate outcomes of arthroscopic single-anchor repair and biceps tenodesis of partial- and full-thickness tears of the upper third subscapularis (SSC). METHODS: Thirty-three patients with arthroscopically confirmed isolated SSC tears, Lafosse type I (>50% of the tendon thickness involved), or type II were included. All patients underwent arthroscopic subcoracoid decompression, coracoplasty if the coracohumeral distance was narrowed, biceps tenodesis, and a single-anchor repair of the upper third SSC. No other reconstructive procedures were performed. Subjective evaluations included American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Short-Form 12, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and visual analog scale pain scores preoperatively and at minimum 2 years postoperatively. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients (n = 25 male, n = 6 female) were included in the final collective, because 2 patients refused participation. Minimum 2-year follow-up data were available for 28 of the 31 patients (90.3%). The mean age at the time of surgery was 54.8 (range, 36-71) years. The mean follow-up was 4.1 (range, 2.0-8.0) years. The results of all outcome measures improved significantly postoperatively compared with preoperative scores (P < .05). Patients with single-anchor repair of type II SSC tears (n = 17) had a significantly higher mean postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (93.7 ± 10.8) than patients with single-anchor repair of type I SSC tears (n = 11; 86.7 ± 10.9; P = .027). CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic single-anchor repair of upper third SSC tendon tears led to improved function and decreased pain with high patient satisfaction. Outcomes of full-thickness upper third SSC tears were more favorable compared with outcomes of high grade partial-thickness upper third SSC tears. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective therapeutic case series.