Experimental guide wire placement for total shoulder arthroplasty in glenoid models: higher precision for patient-specific aiming guides compared to standard technique without learning curve.

BACKGROUND: Patient-specific aiming devices (PSAD) may improve precision and accuracy of glenoid component positioning in total shoulder arthroplasty, especially in degenerative glenoids. The aim of this study was to compare precision and accuracy of guide wire positioning into different glenoid models using a PSAD versus a standard guide. METHODS: Three experienced shoulder surgeons inserted 2.5 mm K-wires into polyurethane cast glenoid models of type Walch A, B and C (in total 180 models). Every surgeon placed guide wires into 10 glenoids of each type with a standard guide by DePuy Synthes in group (I) and with a PSAD in group (II). Deviation from planned version, inclination and entry point was measured, as well as investigation of a possible learning curve. RESULTS: Maximal deviation in version in B- and C-glenoids in (I) was 20.3° versus 4.8° in (II) (p < 0.001) and in inclination was 20.0° in (I) versus 3.7° in (II) (p < 0.001). For B-glenoid, more than 50% of the guide wires in (I) had a version deviation between 11.9° and 20.3° compared to ≤ 2.2° in (II) (p < 0.001). 50% of B- and C-glenoids in (I) showed a median inclination deviation of 4.6° (0.0°-20.0°; p < 0.001) versus 1.8° (0.0°-4.0°; p < 0.001) in (II). Deviation from the entry point was always less than 5.0 mm when using PSAD compared to a maximum of 7.7 mm with the standard guide and was most pronounced in type C (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: PSAD enhance precision and accuracy of guide wire placement particularly for deformed B and C type glenoids compared to a standard guide in vitro. There was no learning curve for PSAD. However, findings of this study cannot be directly translated to the clinical reality and require further corroboration.

It Is Always the Same-A Complication Classification following Angular Stable Plating of Proximal Humeral Fractures.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to create a novel complication classification for osteosynthesis-related complications following angular stable plating of the proximal humerus subsuming the influence of these complications on clinical outcome in relation to fracture morphology and consequent revision strategies. A total of 1047 proximal humerus fractures with overall 193 osteosynthesis-associated complications (24.5%) were included. The following complication types could be clarified: complication Type 1 is defined by mild varus (<20°) or valgus displacement of the humeral head without resulting in a screw cutout through the humeral head cortex. Type 2a is defined by varus displacement (<20°) of the humeral head associated with screw cutout through the humeral head cortex. Type 2b complication is limited to displacement of the greater tuberosity, lesser tuberosity, or both tuberosities. Complication Type 2c is defined by severe varus dislocation (>20°) of the humeral head with screw cutout at the humeral head cortex. Complication Type 3 describes a displacement of the angular stable plate in the humeral shaft region with associated shaft-sided screw cutout, while the position of the humeral head remains static. Complication Type 4 is characterized by the occurrence of AVN with or without glenoidal affection (4a/b). Clinical outcome according to the constant score was mainly affected by type 2-4, leading to a deteriorated result. Depending on the type of complication, specific revision strategies can be considered. Additionally, more complex fracture patterns fostered the incidence of complications.

Mid-term functional outcome (minimum 24 months, mean 4 years) after locking plate osteosynthesis for displaced fractures of the proximal humerus in 557 cases.

BACKGROUND: The best surgical management of displaced proximal humeral fractures remains a matter of considerable debate. This study presents mid-term functional outcome (median 4 years) after locking plate osteosynthesis for displaced proximal humeral fractures. METHODS: Between February 2002 and December 2014 1031 patients with 1047 displaced proximal humeral fractures were treated by open reduction and locking plate fixation with the same implant and received consecutive prospective follow up at least 24 months after surgical treatment. Clinical follow-up consisted of Constant Murley score (CS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH), and Short Form 36 questionnaire (SF-36). Complete follow-up could be performed in 557 (53.2%) cases, with a mean follow-up of 4.0 ± 2.7 years. RESULTS: Of 557 patients (67% women; mean age at time of osteosynthesis: 68.3 ± 15.5 years) absolute CS of all patients 4 ± 2.7 years after surgery was 68.4 ± 20.3 points. Normalized CS according to Katolik was 80.4 ± 23.8 points, and CS in percentage to the contralateral side (%CS) was 87.2 ± 27.9%. DASH score was at 23.8 ± 20.8 points. Osteosynthesis related complications (secondary displacement, screw cutout, avascular necrosis (n = 117 patients) were associated with lower functional scores (mean CS was 54.5 ± 19.0 p.; nCS 64.5 ± 22.9 p.;%CS 71.2 ± 25.0%; DASH score 31.9 ± 22.4 p.). The SF 36 was 66.5 points in the case cohort and a vitality mean of 69.4 points. Patients with a complication showed lower results (SF 36 56.7; vitality mean 64.9 points). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, patients following locking plate osteosynthesis of displaced proximal humeral fractures showed good to moderate outcomes four years after surgery. Mid-term functional outcomes correlate significantly with those at 1 year postoperatively. Furthermore, there is a significant negative correlation of midterm functional outcome with the occurrence of complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, prospective nonconsecutive patients.

The Influence of Adherence to Orthosis and Physiotherapy Protocol on Functional Outcome after Proximal Humeral Fracture in the Elderly.

In the treatment of proximal humeral fractures (PHF), patients are often recommended to wear a sling or orthosis and to perform physiotherapy. However, some patients, especially elderly ones, struggle to comply with these rehabilitation regimens. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate whether these incompliant patients have a worse functional outcome than those who adhere to the rehabilitation protocol. After receiving a diagnosis of a PHF, patients were divided into four groups according to fracture morphology: conservative with sling, operative with sling, conservative with abduction orthosis, and operative with abduction orthosis. At the 6-week follow-up, compliance regarding brace use and physiotherapy performance were assessed, as well as the constant score (CS) and complications or revision surgeries. The CS as well as the complications and revision surgeries were also surveyed after one year. In 149 participants, with a mean age of 73.9 ± 7.2 years, only 37% terminated orthosis and only 49% underwent physiotherapy as recommended. The statistical analysis showed no significant difference in the CS, complications, and revision surgeries between the groups.

Osseous microarchitecture in frequent fracture zones of the distal clavicle.

Background: Fracture classifications of the distal clavicle are based on ligamentous integrity. The influence of osseous microarchitecture on fracture occurrence, morphology, and the lesion's stability has not yet been investigated. We aimed to characterize osseous microarchitecture according to common fracture classification systems based on ligamentous integrity and investigated the possible effects of age, gender, and osteoporosis in distal clavicle fractures. Methods: N = 20 human cadaveric distal clavicles were scanned using XtremeCT with an isometric voxel size of 82 µm. In the sagittal plane, each data set was evaluated in 11 sections of approximately 7 mm thickness. Three topographic regions were defined: the bone lateral to the trapezoid (LTR), intertubercular (ITR), and medial to the conoid (MCR) ligament. Cortical bone mineral density (BMD) [mgHA/cm3] and cortical porosity (1- (BV/TV) [%]) were determined and evaluated relative to age and gender. Results: Along the mediolateral axis, there was an >20-fold increase in median cortical porosity (P ≤ .001). There were significant differences in cortical porosity between LTR and ITR (P ≤ .001) but not between ITR and MCR (P = .09). In ITR, cortical porosity was significantly greater in >60-year-old compared to younger donors (P = .01). For BMD, there was an >2-fold decrease toward the distal apex (P ≤ .001). BMD was significantly greater in ITR compared to LTR (P ≤ .001) and in MCR compared to ITR (P = .02). In ITR and MCR, clavicles of >60-year-old donors had significantly lower BMD values compared to younger donors (P < .01). Across all 3 regions, frequency distribution of low bone mass did not significantly differ between <60-year-olds and >60-year-olds (P > .6). Conclusion: The distal clavicle features a characteristic bony microarchitecture. The present study revealed a significant difference in bone quality of lateral, intertubercular, and medial zones of the distal clavicle and could specify target areas and strategies for surgical treatment of unstable fractures. Age, gender, and osteoporosis have a limited effect on bone quality and fracture genesis. In contrast, ligamentous quality is supposed to exert a substantial influence on fracture characteristics, especially in ITR. Fracture morphology of the distal clavicle is determined by a bony-ligamentous conjunction, which remains to be characterized.

The Accuracy of Distal Clavicle Fracture Classifications-Do We Need an Amendment to Imaging Modalities or Fracture Typing?

Background: Despite its fair-to-moderate reliability, the "modified Neer classification" is widely accepted and used. The purpose of this study was to reevaluate its applicability. Methods: Of n = 59 patients with distal clavicle fractures, fractures were classified on standard radiographs. Afterwards, an MRI examination was performed, and fractures reclassified. The primary outcome parameter was quantifying the rate of misclassification. The secondary outcome parameters were the evaluation of the ligamentous injury constellations. Results: In all cases, the fracture course and ligamental integrity could be assigned to the fracture type. Correction of the classification was necessary in n = 5 (8.5%) cases. In n = 3 (5%) cases, a correction was necessary from Neer I to Craig IIc and thus from conservative to operative treatment. Mean coracoclavicular distance (CCD) in Neer I was 10.2 ± 2.1 mm versus 14.2 ± 3.9 mm in Craig IIc (p = 0.02). The mean fracture angle in Neer I was 25.1 ± 3.3° versus 36.8 ± 4.4° in Craig IIc (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Cross-sectional imaging resulted in higher precision. Nevertheless, recommendations remain for standard radiographs. The CCD and fracture angle should be considered. An angle of >30° can be assumed as a parameter of instability. A previously undescribed fracture type does not seem to exist. The modified Neer classification is an appropriate and complete fracture classification.

One-year follow-up-case report of secondary tension pneumothorax in a COVID-19 pneumonia patient.

PURPOSE: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) may result not only in acute symptoms such as severe pneumonia, but also in persisting symptoms after months. Here we present a 1 year follow-up of a patient with a secondary tension pneumothorax due to COVID-19 pneumonia. CASE PRESENTATION: In May 2020, a 47-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department with fever, dry cough, and sore throat as well as acute chest pain and shortness of breath. Sputum testing (polymerase chain reaction, PCR) and computed tomography (CT) confirmed infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Eleven days after discharge, the patient returned to the emergency department with pronounced dyspnoea after coughing. CT showed a right-sided tension pneumothorax, which was relieved by a chest drain (Buelau) via mini open thoracotomy. For a period of 3 months following resolution of the pneumothorax the patient complained of fatigue with mild joint pain and dyspnoea. After 1 year, the patient did not suffer from any persisting symptoms. The pulmonary function and blood parameters were normal, with the exception of slightly increased levels of D-Dimer. The CT scan revealed only discrete ground glass opacities (GGO) and subpleural linear opacities. CONCLUSION: Tension pneumothorax is a rare, severe complication of a SARS-CoV-2 infection but may resolve after treatment without negative long-term sequelae. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.

Supraspinatus Tenotomy in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty for Fractures: A Comparative Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiographic outcome in patients with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for displaced proximal humeral fractures (PHF) with or without tenotomy of the supraspinatus tendon. METHODS: Between June 2011 and June 2018, 159 patients (age >65 years) with a displaced proximal humeral fracture underwent reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (Grammont design) in a single-center study and were longitudinally followed up. In all cases, the tuberosities were attached to the prosthesis in a standardized procedure. Functional outcome, range of motion as well as tuberosity integration, resorption and displacement were assessed at final follow-up. Outcomes were compared between patients that underwent RSA in combination with tenotomy of the supraspinatus (ST) and patients that underwent RSA without supraspinatus tenotomy (NT). RESULTS: At a mean follow up of 22.2 ± 16.4 months 76 patients (mean age 77.1 ± 7.2 years, 83% women) could be evaluated (follow-up rate 47.8%). There were no statistically significant differences between the ST (n = 29) and NT groups (n = 47) in tuberosity integration, resorption 20°: 65.5% vs. 14.9%, p < 0.05) and active abduction (>120°: 89.7% vs. 21.3%, p < 0.05). Tuberosity integration (ST and NT together: n = 34) showed better functional results than resorption or displacement (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Tenotomy of the supraspinatus tendon in RSA for displaced PHF leads to similar radiographic results regarding tuberosity integration, resorption and displacement but better functional outcome with regard to range of motion. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Injuries of the sternoclavicular region indicate concomitant lesions and need distinguished imaging.

PURPOSE: To evaluate injuries of the sternoclavicular region as indicator injury for relevant concomitant injuries and to evaluate the modalities of initial imaging. We hypothesised a high incidence of concomitant injuries as well as a deficiency of X-ray as the initial gold standard. METHODS: We retrospectively analysed patients suffering from injuries of the sternoclavicular region between 2002 and 2017. We analysed amongst injury type and severity, initial imaging (X-ray vs. CT scan of the sternoclavicular region vs. whole-body scan), and complement of imaging with regard to defined concomitant injury localisations and the resulting necessity and urgency of surgery. RESULTS: We included n = 61 patients. The mean ISS was 13.5 ± 17, n = 13 (21.3%) cases were classified as "severely injured" (ISS ≥ 16). N = 29 (47.5%) achieved an initial X-ray, n = 10 (16.4%) an initial CT scan of the sternoclavicular region, and n = 22 (36%) an initial whole-body CT scan. Initial imaging correlated significantly with ISS. In n = 21 (72.4%) cases of the X-ray group a significant complement from X-ray to CT scan of the sternoclavicular region was indicated (p ≤ 0.001). N = 31 (50.8%) patients suffered from concomitant injuries. N = 39 (63.9%) of all patients underwent any kind of surgery, thereof n = 23 (37.7%) related to their sternoclavicular injuries. CONCLUSION: Injuries of the sternoclavicular complex are indicators for the presence of multiple injuries. A CT scan of the sternoclavicular region including ipsilateral apex of the lung and upper rib cage comprised a large proportion of concomitant injuries. Mapping those injuries during initial imaging improves treatment process, avoids underdiagnostic, and decreases uncertainties.

Screw-Tip Augmented Locked Plating Versus Primary Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty in Displaced Proximal Humeral Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study With a Mean Follow-Up of 39 Months.

INTRODUCTION: This study compared the clinical and radiologic outcomes of screw-tip augmented locking plate osteosynthesis (STA) vs primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in elderly patients with displaced proximal humeral fractures. METHODS: 60 patients (age >65 years) with a displaced proximal humeral fracture underwent open reduction and internal fixation with locking plate and fluoroscopy controlled screw-tip augmentation. Sixty matched individuals (age, gender, fracture pattern, and mean follow-up) treated by RSA for fractures were identified from the institutional database and outcomes as well as occurring complications and need for revision surgery were compared. RESULTS: At 39 months' follow-up, 25 patients in the STA group (mean age 74.5 ± 12 years, 76.7% woman) showed a mean Constant Score (CS) of 68 ± 18.8 points. Mean %CS compared to the contralateral side was 81.6 ± 19.8%. Of 60 matched individuals in the RSA group, 22 patients (mean age 78.9 ± 8.2 years, 76.7% woman) showed a mean CS of 60.6 ± 21.2 points (P = .33), and the mean %CS compared to the contralateral side was 81.6 (74.7 ± 18.6)% (P = .14). The overall complication rate in STA group was 32% (secondary varus or valgus displacement >10°, n = 4, avascular necrosis, n = 4). In RSA group, the overall complication rate was 4.5% (P = <.05). We observed one early onset infection. Revision surgery with removal of the prosthesis and PMMA spacer implantation for two-stage revision was necessary. The follow-up rate was 41.7 vs 36.7%. CONCLUSIONS: Screw-tip augmented locked plating and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty result in comparable satisfying functional outcome 3 years following a displaced proximal humeral fracture in elderly patients. However, we noted a higher complication and revision rate in the STA group. In contrast, primary reversed shoulder arthroplasty resulted in a lower rate of complications and revisions, which may be beneficial in elderly patients.

Glenohumeral joint lavage does not affect clinical outcomes in open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fractures: a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial.

BACKGROUND: This prospective, randomized, and double-blinded trial evaluates the effect of intraoperative glenohumeral joint lavage in open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fractures. METHODS: Between January 2016 and April 2018, 86 patients (mean age: 65.2 ± 16.3 years) with a displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fracture were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using locking plates. Patients were randomized to either locked plating followed by intraoperatively performed glenohumeral joint lavage (group L, n = 36) or locked plating without the lavage (group NL, n = 36). Functional outcome assessment included range of shoulder motion, strength, and the Constant score, obtained 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. A total of 62 shoulders could be reviewed for final investigation (86% follow-up). RESULTS: One year after open reduction and internal fixation, the mean Constant score was 70 ± 14 (group L, n = 31) compared with 73 ± 14 (group NL, n = 31, P = .272). The mean forward flexion and abduction in group L was 134 ± 33 and 128 ± 33 as compared with 139 ± 32 and 135 ± 32 in group NL, respectively (P = .538, P = .427). The mean external rotation was 40 ± 16 (group L) compared with 44 ± 16 (group NL) (P = .210). The overall complication rate was 9.6% and did not differ significantly between the groups (P = .321). In group L, there were 2 cases of avascular necrosis (6.5%) and 1 case of secondary displacement (3.2%). In group NL, 1 case of avascular necrosis (3.2%) and 1 case of secondary displacement were noted (3.2%, P = .742). CONCLUSION: The results of this study do not demonstrate a need for glenohumeral joint lavage in open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intracapsular proximal humeral fractures with regard to shoulder function at 1-year follow-up.

Operative treatment of 2-part surgical neck type fractures of the proximal humerus in the elderly: Cement augmented locking plate PHILOS™ vs. proximal humerus nail multiloc®.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this prospective randomized controlled clinical trial was to compare locked plating with intramedullary nailing in the treatment of displaced 2-part surgical neck type proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients ≥60 years of age with a displaced 2-part surgical neck type fracture of the proximal humerus were surgically treated and randomized for either augmented locking plate fixation Group LP or multiplanar intramedullary nailing Group IN. The primary outcome parameter was the Disabilities of the Shoulder, Arm and Hand (DASH) Score after 24 months. Secondary outcome parameters were the age- and gender adjusted Constant Murley Score (CS), the American Shoulder and Elbow Score (ASES), the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) after 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 12 and 24 months. Further parameters included the quality of fracture reduction as well as complications and revision surgeries. 60 patients with a mean age of 75±9.8 were included and longitudinally followed over 24 months (follow-up rate: 83.3%). RESULTS: The mean DASH-Scores at 24 months was 32.6 ± 9.7 points in Group LP versus 37.8 ± 8.3 points in Group IN (p = 0.04). The mean Constant Murley Score at 24 months follow-up was 76.2 ± 7.7 points in Group LP compared to 72 ± 9.1 points in Group IN (p = 0.08). The ASES at 24 months follow-up was 75.1 ± 9 points in Group LP versus to 73.5 ± 8.9 in Group IN (p = 0.51). The OSS at 24 months was 43.7 ± 8.1 in Group LP compared to 38.2 ± 10 in Group IN (p = 0.03). The SF-36 at 24 months was 74.7 ± 12.5 in Group LP versus to 70.9 ± 12.8 in Group IN (p = 0.29). Screw cutting out was observed in n = 2 (6,7%) cases of Group LP, and in none of Group IN (p = 0.49). Revision surgery was necessary in n = 2 (6.7%) cases of Group LP and in two cases of Group IN (6.7%, p = 1). CONCLUSION: Functional outcomes are similar at 2-years follow-up in locked plating with screw tip augmentation compared to intramedullary nailing. Both implants reached low complication- and revision rates for two-part surgical neck types fractures of the proximal humerus in patients ≥60 years, if anatomic fracture reduction and accurate implant position was obtained.