Editorial Commentary: Biceps Rerouting Augmentation Technique Restores Biomechanics, Improves Healing, and Has Many Advantages for Repair of Large and Massive Rotator Cuff Tears.

The biceps rerouting (BR) augmentation technique has emerged as a useful option for the repair of rotator cuff tears when the torn tendon does not cover the footprint or can only be reduced under excessive tension. BR offers several advantages over traditional methods. It is an all-inside joint procedure, eliminating the need for skin incisions other than those for the arthroscopic portal, thus reducing operative time and infection risk. It does not lead to donor-site morbidity, unlike superior capsular reconstruction. In addition, the rerouted long head of the biceps tendon serves as a depressor of the humeral head and an internal splint, protecting cuff healing. Finally, it provides a biceps tenodesis such that biceps-related symptoms are prevented postoperatively. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of the BR technique, particularly in achieving low rates of retear. Although the BR technique is a nonanatomic reconstruction, its biomechanical impact effectively restores joint function to a state similar to the original. Considering these findings, the BR technique represents a significant advancement in managing large to massive rotator cuff tears, given its straightforward application and ability to re-establish joint biomechanics.

Bursal Acromial Resurfacing Improves Shoulder Biomechanics in a Cadaveric Model of Massive Rotator Cuff Tear.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effectiveness of bursal acromial resurfacing (acromiograft) on acromiohumeral distance, subacromial contact area, and pressure in a cadaveric model of massive rotator cuff tear. METHODS: Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested using a customized shoulder testing system. Humeral head translation, subacromial contact pressure, and the subacromial contact area were evaluated across 4 conditions: (1) intact shoulder; (2) simulated massive rotator cuff tear, (3) 3-mm acromiograft condition, and (4) 6-mm acromiograft condition. The acromiografts were simulated using Teflon and a reported technique. The values were measured at 0°, 20°, and 40° abduction and 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° external rotation for each abduction status. RESULTS: Compared with a massive cuff tear, the 6-mm acromiograft significantly reduced the superior translation of the humeral head at all abduction/external rotation angles (P < .05). The 3-mm acromiograft also decreased superior translation of the humeral head compared with massive cuff tear, but not all differences were significant. The 3- and 6-mm acromiografts significantly decreased the subacromial contact pressure and increased the subacromial contact area in almost all positions (P < .05). The 3-mm acromiograft maintained biomechanical properties similar to the intact condition, whereas the 6-mm acromiograft increased the contact area. CONCLUSIONS: This biomechanical study demonstrated that both 3- and 6-mm acromiografts using Teflon in a cadaveric model of a massive cuff tear resulted in recentering of the superiorly migrated humeral head, increased the subacromial contact area, and decreased the subacromial contact pressure. The 3-mm graft was sufficient for achieving the intended therapeutic effects. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The acromiograft can normalize altered biomechanics and may aid in the treatment of massive cuff tears. Because grafting the acromion's undersurface is new with limited clinical outcomes, further observation is crucial. Using a Teflon instead of an acellular dermal matrix allograft for bursal acromial resurfacing could yield different results, requiring careful interpretation.

Does timing influence rehabilitation outcomes in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with biceps rerouting? a prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with biceps rerouting (ABR) has emerged as a reliable option for treating large posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs). This study aims to compare functional and structural outcomes of early vs. delayed motion rehabilitation protocols following ABR. METHODS: A total of 101 patients with semirigid, large, posterosuperior RCTs undergoing ABR were randomized into 2 groups: group I (early motion) with 53 patients (34 females, 19 males) and group II (delayed motion) with 48 patients (31 females, 17 males). In group I, the mean age was 63.9 years (range, 46-79), and in group II, it was 65.4 years (range, 43-78). The mean follow-up periods for group I and group II were 16.2 and 15.5 months, respectively. Preoperative and postoperative assessments were conducted at 3, 6, and 12 months, with structural integrity assessed with magnetic resonance imaging at a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Statistical analyses were performed to compare outcomes between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in visual analog scale score (group I: 4.0-1.6, group II: 3.7-1.4, P = .501), University of California-Los Angeles shoulder score (group I: 21.5-31.4, group II: 22.4-30.6, P = .331), and acromiohumeral interval (group I: 8.2 mm-9.1 mm, group II: 8.6 mm-9.5 mm, P = .412), with no statistically or clinically meaningful differences. Active range of movements (ROM) were not significantly different between groups, except for active forward flexion at 3 months (group I: 140.1°, group II: 119.2°, P = .006), that was not shown to be translated clinically into differences in function or healing between the groups in this study. Notably, retear rates were similar between groups (group I: 22.6%, group II: 20.8%, P = .826). CONCLUSION: This study's findings reveal no clinically discernible differences in active range of motion at 1-year follow-up between patients who underwent ABR for semirigid, large, posterosuperior RCTs and were assigned to either early or delayed motion protocols. Notably, the early motion group demonstrated a plateau in maximum range of movement improvement as early as 3 months postsurgery. Based on these results, implementing an early motion protocol is recommended as an effective approach in the postoperative rehabilitation following ABR.

Varus-valgus alignment of humeral short stem in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: does it really matter?

BACKGROUND: The utilization of short humeral stems in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty has gained attention in recent times. However, concerns regarding the risk of misalignment during implant insertion are associated with their use. METHODS: Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were prepared for dissection and biomechanical testing. A bespoke humeral implant was fabricated to facilitate assessment of neutral, varus, and valgus alignments using a single stem, and 10° was established as the maximum permissible angle for misalignments. Shift in humerus position and changes in deltoid length attributable to misalignments relative to the neutral position were evaluated using a Microscribe 3DLx system. The impingement-free range of motion, encompassing abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and external rotation (ER), was gauged using a digital goniometer. The capacity for abduction was evaluated at maximal abduction angles under successive loading on the middle deltoid. A specialized traction system coupled with a force transducer was employed to measure anterior dislocation forces. RESULTS: Relative to the neutral alignment, valgus alignment resulted in a more distal (10.5 ± 2.4 mm) and medial (8.3 ± 2.2 mm) translation of the humeral component, whereas the varus alignment resulted in the humerus shifting more superiorly (11.2 ± 1.3 mm) and laterally (9.9 ± 0.9 mm) at 0° abduction. The valgus alignment exhibited the highest abduction angle than neutral alignment (86.2°, P < .001). Conversely, the varus alignment demonstrated significantly higher adduction (18.4 ± 7.4°, P < .001), internal rotation (68.9 ± 15.0°, P = .014), and ER (45.2 ± 10.5°, P = .002) at 0° abduction compared to the neutral alignments. Anterior dislocation forces were considerably lower (23.8 N) in the varus group compared to the neutral group at 0°ER (P = .047). Additionally, abduction capability was markedly higher in varus alignment at low deltoid loads than the neutral alignment (5N, P = .009; 7.5 N, P = .007). CONCLUSIONS: The varus position enhances rotational range of motion (ROM) but increases instability, while the valgus position does not significantly impact ROM or instability compared to the neutral position.

The Arthroscopic Biceps Rerouting Technique Shows Better Early Clinical Outcomes within 1 Year Than Partial Repair in Large to Massive Rotator Cuff Tears.

Background and Objectives: The arthroscopic biceps rerouting (BR) technique was introduced as a novel technique for large-to-massive rotator cuff tears (LMRCTs). This method can restore shoulder stability, and its biomechanical effect was verified in a cadaver experiment. Recent reports have shown favorable clinical outcomes. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of partial repair with those of the BR technique in LMRCTs. Materials and Methods: We included 72 patients who had undergone LMRCTs. Arthroscopic partial repair was performed in 31 patients (group I), while repair with the BR technique was performed in 41 patients (group II). Functional and imaging outcomes were evaluated and compared using a visual analog scale for pain, range of motion (ROM), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, and Korean Shoulder Score (KSS) before the surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgery and at the last follow-up. Tendon integrity was investigated using magnetic resonance in all the patients at 12 months postoperative. Results: The mean follow-up period was 22.11 ± 10.47 months (range, 12-53 months). Forward flexion (p = 0.02) and external rotation at the side (p = 0.04) were significantly higher in group II than in group I on postoperative day (POD) 12 months. For internal rotation, group II showed significant improvement compared to group I on POD 3 months (p = 0.002) and at 6 months postoperative (p = 0.01). On POD 12 months, the ASES (p = 0.047) and KSS (p = 0.048) were better in group II. Significant improvements in pain and clinical scores were observed in both groups at the last follow-up. However, the two groups had no significant differences in pain, clinical scores, or ROM at the last follow-up. Retear of the repaired tendon was observed in nine patients in group I (29.03%) and eight in group II (19.51%, p = 0.35). Conclusions: Partial repair and repair using the BR technique effectively improved clinical and radiologic outcomes. The BR technique revealed early recovery of ROM and better clinical results than partial repair at one year postoperative. This could be a useful method in treating LMRCTs.

Outcome of intraoperative injection of collagen in arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tear: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Rotator cuff (RC) pathologies are considered the most common cause of shoulder disability and pain. Arthroscopic repair of RC tears has proven to be an effective operation. Nonhealing and retear remain significant clinical problems and a challenge to surgeons. In addition, the essential biological augment to enhance RC tendon-bone healing is still under research. The purpose of the study was to assess the safety and efficacy of injection of atelocollagen and acellular dermal matrix (ADM) allograft in arthroscopic repair of full-thickness RC tears. METHODS: From January 2018 to March 2020, a total of 129 patients with full-thickness RC tear were treated by arthroscopic repair only (group 1, n = 36, with a mean age = 63.2 years), arthroscopic repair together with atelocollagen 1-mL injection (group 2, n = 44, with a mean age = 63 years), or RC tears together with ADM allograft 1-mL injection (group 3, n = 49, with a mean age = 64.6 years). They were prospectively studied. This study included patients with a repairable full-thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon size <5 cm. We excluded patients with isolated tears of the subscapularis tendon, those with a previous shoulder surgery, and those who had any type of injection for less than 6 weeks. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form score, Constant Shoulder score, visual analog scale pain score, and range of motion were evaluated preoperatively, at 3, 6, and 12 months of the postoperative period and the final follow-up. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 2 months and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 20 months. All groups showed improvement in functional and pain score at the final follow-up; however, there is no superior outcome among the 3 groups (P > .05). After 2 months, the nonhealing rate was 11% (4 of 36) for group 1, 4% (2 of 44) for group 2, and 2% (1 of 49) for group 3 (P > .05). The retear rates after 12 months was 19.4% (7 of 36) for group 1, 13.6% (6 of 44) for group 2, and 20.4% (10 of 49) for group 3 (P > .05). Adverse events were not detected in any groups. CONCLUSION: Our study did not show superior clinical or radiologic outcomes of atelocollagen and ADM allograft injections in arthroscopic RC repair over 12 months of follow-up in comparison to the control group. However, adverse events related to atelocollagen and ADM allograft injection were not observed.

The time of postoperative corticosteroid injection can be individualized after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

BACKGROUND: Intra-articular corticosteroid injection is an effective treatment for pain and to improve the range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder joint. However, consideration of when it would be effective to inject corticosteroids after rotator cuff repair is more limited. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of corticosteroids injection given at 4 and 8 weeks after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Between December 2016 and January 2018, 42 patients who underwent arthroscopic supraspinatus tendon repair were enrolled. Nineteen patients received 40 mg of triamcinolone injection 4 weeks after surgery (group 1), while 23 patients received the same injection 8 weeks after surgery (group 2). Clinical outcome was evaluated using ROM, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, Korean Shoulder score, and a visual analog scale (VAS) score before surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Tendon integrity was assessed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and sonography at 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: Significant improvements in pain and functional scores were observed at the last follow-up in both groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in VAS pain score between the two groups at any time point after surgery (p > 0.05). Functional scores and ROM in all directions also showed no statistical difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). Retears of the repaired tendon, assessed at 12 months postoperatively, were observed in two patients from group 1 (10.5%) and two patients from group 2 (8.7%), thus indicating no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Since there was no significant difference in clinical outcomes and tendon integrity, postoperative corticosteroid injection can be individualized according to the patient for 4-8 weeks after the rotator cuff repair.

Epidemiology and Clinical Characteristics of Bloodstream Infection in Patients Under Extracorporeal Membranous Oxygenation.

BACKGROUND: Bloodstream infection (BSI) is an important complication of extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (ECMO) and a major cause of mortality. This study evaluated the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of BSI that occur during ECMO application according to microbial etiology. METHODS: Adult patients who underwent ECMO from January 2009 to December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed for BSI episodes at a 2,700-bed, tertiary center. Epidemiological and clinical characteristics and outcomes of BSI were evaluated and were compared for etiologic groups (gram-positive cocci, gram-negative rods, and fungi groups). Risk factors for 14-day mortality were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 1,100 patients underwent ECMO during the study period, and 65 BSI episodes occurred in 61 patients. The BSI incidence was 8.3 episodes/1,000 ECMO days, which significantly decreased over time (P = 0.03), primarily in gram-positive cocci BSI. Gram-positive cocci, gram-negative rods, and fungi accounted for 38%, 40%, and 22% of the 73 blood isolates, respectively. Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Catheter-related infection (CRI) and pneumonia were the most common sources of BSI; 52% of gram-positive cocci BSIs and 79% of fungi BSIs were caused by CRI, and 75% of gram-negative BSIs by pneumonia. Patients with gram-negative rods BSI died more frequently and earlier than those with other BSIs. Independent risk factors for 14-day mortality were older age and gram-negative rods BSI. CONCLUSIONS: The decreased BSI incidence during ECMO was mainly because of the decrease of gram-positive cocci BSI. The high early mortality of gram-negative rods BSI makes prevention and adequate treatment necessary.

Preliminary outcomes of arthroscopic biceps rerouting for the treatment of large to massive rotator cuff tears.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to evaluate the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic biceps rerouting (ABR) for the treatment of large to massive rotator cuff tears (LMRCTs). METHODS: A prospective evaluation of patients treated with ABR for the repair of LMRCTs was performed, with a minimum follow-up period of 18 months. Range of motion and functional outcomes (visual analog scale pain score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Korean Shoulder Scale score) were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Radiographs were used to evaluate the acromiohumeral interval (AHI). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 2 and 12 months postoperatively to examine the integrity of the repaired rotator cuff tendons. RESULTS: Eighty patients who met the study criteria underwent ABR from March 2017 to January 2019 in our hospital. Of these patients, 61 could be evaluated ≥18 months after surgery. The average age of the enrolled patients was 64.5 years. The visual analog scale pain score decreased from 3.7 preoperatively to 1.6 at final follow-up (P = .019), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 60.0 to 85.2 (P < .001), and the Korean Shoulder Scale score improved from 64.3 to 85.3 (P = .001). Assessment of range of motion showed significant improvement in forward flexion (from 138° to 146°, P < .001), external rotation at 90° of abduction (from 80° to 85°, P = .037), and internal rotation (from spinal level 9 to spinal level 10, P = .015) from preoperatively to last follow-up. The AHI was 7.1 mm at baseline and improved significantly to 9.7 mm at 3 months postoperatively (P < .001). The mean AHI at last follow-up was only 9 mm, but this was still significantly better than the mean preoperative AHI (P < .001). Of the patients, 16 (26%) exhibited a retear of the repaired rotator cuff on magnetic resonance imaging at 12 months postoperatively. Male sex was the only significant risk factor for retear (P = .037). CONCLUSION: ABR improved the functional and radiologic outcomes of patients with LMRCTs. The ABR technique can be a useful treatment option for LMRCTs.

Incidence and risk factors of acromial fracture following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: The occurrence and related predictors of acromial fracture following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors of acromial fractures after RTSA. METHODS: We conducted a multicenter, retrospective case-control study of 787 cases (29 in acromial fracture group and 758 in control group) that underwent RTSA performed by 6 surgeons. The mean duration of follow-up after RTSA was 31.6 ± 21.8 months (range, 12-136 months). Demographic variables (age, sex, arm dominance, body mass index, working status, bone mineral density [BMD]), clinical variables (preoperative diagnosis, previous operation, implant design, preoperative clinical scores, screw size in glenoid fixation, postoperative rehabilitation), and radiographic variables (acromial thickness, critical shoulder angle, deltoid length, humeral offset to lateral acromion) were investigated. To determine risk correlation, univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis with calculated odds ratios (ORs) were performed. RESULTS: Postoperative acromial fractures occurred in 29 of the 787 shoulders with RTSA (3.7%). Acromial fractures were detected at a mean of 10.0 months (range, 1-66 months) postoperatively. Univariate analysis revealed that the occurrence of an acromial fracture was significantly associated with a previous operation (38% [11 of 29] vs. 21% [156 of 758], P = .025) and BMD (-2.33 vs. -1.74, P = .013). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that the occurrence of a postoperative acromial fracture was significantly associated with a previous operation (P = .034; OR, 2.91; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-7.84) and deltoid length (P = .004; OR, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.07). CONCLUSION: Acromial fracture following RTSA is not an uncommon complication, with an overall incidence of 3.7%. A previous operation, increased deltoid length, and low BMD were risk factors of acromial fracture following RTSA.

A Comparison of Open-Construct PEEK Suture Anchor and Non-Vented Biocomposite Suture Anchor in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: To compare radiologic bone ingrowth and the clinical outcomes of an open-construct (PEEK) (polyether ether ketone) suture anchor with those of a non-vented biocomposite suture anchor in patients with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Sixty-nine patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups based on type of suture anchors used for rotator cuff repair; group 1: open-construct PEEK anchor (36 patients), group 2: non-vented biocomposite anchor (33 patients). The status of bone ingrowth into the anchor and the presence of cyst formation were evaluated at 6 months postoperatively by computed tomography scan using the Modified Barber's ossification scale. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Constant score, and visual analog scale score for pain and range of motion were evaluated. Magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography was performed at 12 months postoperatively to examine the integrity of the repaired rotator cuff tendon. RESULTS: Significant improvements in shoulder function and pain relief were observed regardless of the anchor used (both Group 1 and 2; P < .001). No differences were found in functional scores and range of motion between the 2 groups. Group 1 showed better bone ingrowth grades than group 2 (poor 2.8 vs 24.2%, fair 27.8 vs 39.4%, good 38.9 vs 33.3%, and excellent 30.6 vs 3.0%; P < .001). The rate of cyst formation around the anchor on the 6 months' postoperative computed tomography (group 1: 14% and group 2: 12%) and re-tear rate at 12 months (5% each) showed no difference between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Shoulder function was improved after complete rotator cuff repair and similar clinical outcomes were achieved regardless of suture anchor material and shape. However, the open-construct PEEK anchor provided better bone ingrowth into the anchor than the non-vented biocomposite anchor at 6 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I; Prospective Randomized Trial.

Effect of biceps rerouting technique to restore glenohumeral joint stability for large irreparable rotator cuff tears: a cadaveric biomechanical study.

BACKGROUND: The concept of stabilizing the humerus has taken on an important role in the treatment of irreparable cuff tears, and the biceps rerouting (BR) method is considered one of the most effective treatments in this field. The study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical effects of BR for large irreparable rotator cuff tears (LICTs). METHODS: A total of 8 cadaveric shoulders were used for testing under 5 conditions: intact shoulder, LICT, partial repair (PR), BR, and biceps rerouting with side-to-side repair (BRSS). Total rotational range of motion was measured at 40°, then 20°, and finally 0° of glenohumeral (GH) abduction. Superior humeral translation and subacromial contact pressure were measured at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of external rotation at each abduction angle. Repeated-measures analyses of variance with Tukey post hoc tests were used for statistical comparisons. RESULTS: Superior humeral translation was significantly decreased in the BR and BRSS conditions compared with the LICT and PR conditions at 0° and 20° of GH abduction (P < .001). BR and BRSS significantly reduced subacromial contact pressure compared with LICT and PR at 0° of GH abduction (P < .001). There was no significant decrease in total rotational range of motion after BR at any abduction angle. CONCLUSION: BR biomechanically restored shoulder stability without overconstraining range of motion in an LICT model.

Arthroscopic repair of large to massive rotator cuff tears in patients younger than 60 years.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of rotator cuff tears in young patients has increased recently with the increase in sports and recreation activities, however, few studies have reported clinical outcomes after arthroscopic repair of large to massive rotator cuff tears in young patients. This study aimed to evaluate preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes after arthroscopic repair of large to massive rotator cuff tears in patients younger than 60 years, and to compare these results with those of tear size-matched patients older than 60 years. METHODS: Forty-eight patients who underwent arthroscopic repair for large to massive rotator cuff tears were included. Group I (n = 24) consisted of patients younger than 60 years, while tear size-matched patients older than 60 years were assigned to group II (n = 24). Clinical outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, and at the final visit. All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively to evaluate repair integrity. RESULTS: The mean patient age was 53.4 ± 4.2 years in group I and 67.4 ± 4.5 in group II (P = 0.001). At the last visit, there were no significant differences in postoperative clinical scores or passive range of motion between two groups. However, young patients complained of shoulder pain less frequently than elderly patients (visual analog scale for pain at last visit: 0.8 ± 0.3 in group I, 2.4 ± 1.9 in group II, P = 0.04). Elderly patients showed more advanced fatty infiltration preoperatively than young patients and advanced fatty infiltration was correlated with postoperative repair integrity (r = 0.83, P = 0.001). Postoperative re-tear rate was 12.5% in group I, and 33.3% in group II (P = 0.08). CONCLUSION: More satisfactory clinical and structural outcomes followed by less advanced preoperative fatty infiltration can be expected in younger patients compared with patients older than 60 years, based on large to massive rotator cuff tear treatment outcomes.

Effect of triamcinolone acetonide on stiffness after surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures: a randomized controlled study.

INTRODUCTION: The primary aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of an intraarticular triamcinolone injection for the treatment of stiffness after the operative treatment of proximal humerus fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 88 patients who underwent plate fixation for proximal humerus fractures were enrolled. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, with Group I receiving a glenohumeral injection of triamcinolone 8 weeks postoperatively and Group II receiving no injection postoperatively. Outcomes were measured and compared based on the range of motion (ROM) and functional scores. Follow-up outcomes were assessed at initial, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively and at the last follow-up. Shoulder trauma series were taken at every visit to evaluate the fracture healing. The mean follow-up period was 25.37 (± 3.85) months Group I and 24.24 (± 6.23) months for group II. RESULTS: In both groups, the final outcome of the ROM and functional outcome was significantly better at last F/U than at postoperative 8 weeks. Group I had significantly better results than Group II at postoperative 3 and 6 month in terms of forward flexion, external rotation, and VAS for pain. Also, Group I showed better performance in terms of ASES and Constant score at postoperative 3 months. The fracture union rate did not differ between Groups I and II. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative glenohumeral injection of triamcinolone is a safe and effective treatment modality for shoulder stiffness after internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures during the early period of rehabilitation.

Metabolic profiling of serum and tissue from the rotator interval and anterior capsule in shoulder stiffness: a preliminary study.

BACKGROUND: Using mass spectrometry, we evaluated the metabolic profiles of patients who had rotator cuff tears with shoulder stiffness, or shoulder stiffness only, and compared these with samples from a control group. METHODS: This study enrolled 28 patients, including 10 patients with shoulder stiffness only (group I), nine patients with rotator cuff tear and stiffness (group II), and nine controls selected from patients diagnosed with impingement syndrome or long head of the biceps lesions without evident limitation of joint motion or rotator cuff tears. Serum and tissue from the rotator interval and anterior capsule were collected. In all, 82 samples were analyzed for metabolite profiling using the AbsoluteIDQ™p180 Kit. RESULTS: Comparison of 186 metabolites revealed that groups I and II had significantly higher concentrations of sphingolipids in serum (SM C24:1; group I = 65.16 µm, group II = 68.07 µm) than controls (55.37 µm, p = 0.005 & 0.015, respectively). Higher concentrations of sphingolipids were also present in the rotator interval tissue (SM C22:3) of groups 1 (0.0197 µm) and 2 (0.0144 µm) than controls (0.0081 µm, p = 0.012 & 0.014, respectively). The concentration of glycerophospholipid (PC aa C30:0) was higher in the anterior capsule tissue of groups I (0.850 µm) and II (1.164 µm) than controls (0.572 µm; p = 0.007) Total cholesterol was positively correlated with sphingolipid concentration in serum (SM C24:1, rho = 0.782, p = 0.008) and rotator interval tissue (SM C22:3, rho = 0.750, p = 0.017). There was no significant difference in the metabolites evaluated in groups I and II. CONCLUSION: Metabolic profiling showed that levels of lipid-related metabolites were increased in the anterior capsule tissue and rotator interval tissue of patients with shoulder stiffness. Sphingomyelin (SM C22:3) in the tissue of the rotator interval was positively correlated with the serum level of total cholesterol in patients with shoulder stiffness only. The level of glycerophospholipid (PC30:0) in the anterior capsule was positively correlated with the serum level of total cholesterol in patients who had rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness. The results indicate that serum total cholesterol may be related to shoulder stiffness. Future studies are needed to evaluate the role of serum cholesterol in the pathogenesis of shoulder stiffness. TRIAL REGISTRATION: KC12OISI0532. Registered Nov 15, 2012. approval by the Institutional Review Board of Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, the Catholic University of Korea.

Does arthroscopic preemptive extensive rotator interval release reduce postoperative stiffness after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?: a prospective randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: To investigate whether preemptive extensive rotator interval (RI) release during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) would reduce postoperative stiffness. METHODS: From July 2015 to September 2016, a total of 80 patients who were scheduled for ARCR were enrolled and randomly allocated into 2 groups: the preemptive extensive RI release group (group 1, n=40) and the RI nonrelease group (group 2, n=40). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scale, Constant score, Korean Shoulder Scale (KSS), visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and range of motion (ROM) were evaluated before surgery; 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery; and at last follow-up. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at postoperative 12 months. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 26.5 months. The functional and pain scores in both groups were significantly improved at the last follow-up (P < .05). Group 1 showed a significantly higher sum of ROM with a difference of 27° and 1.6 vertebral level of internal rotation compared to group 2 at postoperative 3 months (P < .05). Constant score and KSS were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 at this time point (P < .05). Functional scores and ROM were not significantly different between 2 groups at postoperative 6 or 12 months or at the last follow-up (P > .05). The retear rate and pathologic change of the long head of the biceps tendon during follow-up were not significantly different between the 2 groups (P > .05). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic preemptive extensive RI release can reduce early postoperative shoulder stiffness after ARCR but does not significantly change the overall clinical outcome after surgery.

The Effect of a Parental Visitation Program on Emergence Delirium Among Postoperative Children in the PACU.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of parental presence on the incidence of emergence delirium (ED) of children in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). DESIGN: A quasi-experimental pretest and post-test study with nonequivalent and nonsynchronized control groups. METHODS: About 93 children aged 3 to 6 years undergoing general anesthesia for tonsillectomy were divided into two groups: parental presence and absence. ED was recorded using the Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium Scale at 0, 10, 20, and 30 minutes after PACU admission. FINDINGS: ED score at each time point in the experimental group was lower than the control group, but not statistically significant. ED score in the experimental group significantly decreased over time (F = 6.98; P = .010). CONCLUSIONS: Parental visitation programs could be effective on the degree of ED in children in the PACU setting. This result may contribute to the establishment of PACU visitation program policy in South Korea.

Is augmentation with the long head of the biceps tendon helpful in arthroscopic treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears?

BACKGROUND: Although various surgical techniques have been used to treat irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs), debate remains regarding which treatment is most effective. The purpose of our study was to compare the outcomes of partial rotator cuff repair versus repair with augmentation of the tenotomized long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT). METHODS: This study included 76 patients with large to massive RCTs. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with LHBT augmentation was performed in 39 patients (group I), while partial repair was performed in 37 patients (group II). Clinical and functional outcomes were compared with a visual analog scale for pain and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Constant score, and Korean Shoulder Score. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 29.6 ± 7.8 months (range, 24-51 months). Significant improvements in pain and clinical scores were observed in both groups at the last follow-up. However, there were no significant differences in pain, clinical scores, or range of motion between the 2 groups at any time point. Retears were observed in 16 patients in group I (41.0%) and 14 in group II (37.8%, P = .78). Augmented LHBT pathology was observed in 10 patients (25.6%). CONCLUSIONS: Both partial repair and repair with LHBT augmentation were effective in improving clinical and radiologic outcomes. No significant differences in clinical outcomes or repaired cuff integrity were observed between the groups. The investment of operation time and effort in augmenting the LHBT in the treatment of irreparable RCTs is not recommended.

Interscalene brachial plexus bolus block versus patient-controlled interscalene indwelling catheter analgesia for the first 48 hours after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

BACKGROUND: We sought to compare the efficacy of interscalene brachial plexus bolus blockade (IBPBB) and patient-controlled interscalene indwelling catheter analgesia (PCIA) for postoperative pain management within 48 hours postoperatively in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs (ARCR). METHODS: Patients undergoing ARCR were randomized into 3 groups by postoperative analgesia method. The IBPBB group received a mixed solution of 16 mL of 0.75% ropivacaine and 4 mL of 2% lidocaine as a bolus postoperatively. The PCIA group received a 10-mL bolus solution of 0.75% ropivacaine (4 mL) and 5% dextrose water (6 mL) just after the operation and continuous infusion of this solution. The control received only meperidine as needed, 12.5 mg, intravenously. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores were evaluated for the first 48 hours postoperatively. RESULTS: For the first 2 hours postoperatively, VAS scores in the IBPBB group were significantly lower than in the PCIA group and control group, but at 12 and 24 hours postoperatively, VAS scores of the IBPBB group were significantly higher than the PCIA group (P < .05). At 48 hours postoperatively, there was no significant difference in VAS scores among the 3 groups (P = .169). The method of analgesia was the only factor affecting pain scores at 24 hours postoperatively (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: IBPBB provided effective immediate postoperative analgesia until 6 hours postoperatively. Especially until postoperative 2 hours, the VAS pain score was less than 1 point in the IBPBB group; however, there was significant rebound pain at 12 hours after surgery. During the first 24 hours postoperatively, PCIA reduced postoperative pain without rebound pain. Surgeons should choose methods for control of postoperative pain considering the advantages and disadvantages of each analgesic method.

Effect of recombinant human growth hormone on rotator cuff healing after arthroscopic repair: preliminary result of a multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-label blinded end point clinical exploratory trial.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the effect of systemic injection of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: This multicenter, prospective, randomized, comparative trial, randomized patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of large-sized rotator cuff tears into 3 groups: rhGH 4 mg group (n = 26), rhGH 8 mg group (n = 24) , and control group (n = 26). Sustained release rhGH was injected subcutaneously once weekly for 3 months postoperatively. The healing failure rate (primary end point), fatty infiltration, and atrophy of the supraspinatus muscle, and functional scores (Constant and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores) were evaluated at 6 months. Range of motion, pain visual analog scale, and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 level were measured at each follow-up. RESULTS: The healing failure rate was similar between groups (rhGH 4 mg group, 30.8%; rhGH 8 mg group, 16.7%; and control group, 34.6%; all P > .05) The proportion of severe fatty infiltration (Goutallier grade ≥3) was 20.8% in the rhGH 8 mg group, 23.1% in the rhGH 4 mg group, and 34.6% in the control group (P > .05). Functional outcomes, range of motion, and pain visual analog scale were similar between groups (all P > .05). The rhGH 8 mg group showed more increased peak insulin-like growth factor-1 level (279.43 ng/mL) than the rhGH 4 mg group ((196.82 ng/mL) and control group (186.31 ng/mL), which was not statistically different (all P > .05). No rhGH injection-related major safety issues occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study showed no statistically significant improvement in healing or outcomes related to the treatment of rhGH after rotator cuff repair. However, further study with more enrolled patients after resetting the rhGH dose or daily administration protocol would be mandatory.