"Lost in Translation: The Readability Discrepancy of Online Patient Educational Materials for PCL Surgery".

Objectives: While the internet provides accessible medical information, often times it does not cater to the average patient's ability to understand medical text at a 6th and 8th grade reading level, per American Medical Association (AMA)/National Institute of Health (NIH) recommendations. This study looks to analyze current online materials relating to posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) surgery and their readability, understandability, and actionability. Methods: The top 100 Google searchs for "PCL surgery" were compiled. Research papers, procedural protocols, advertisements, and videos were excluded from the data collection. The readability was examined using 7 algorithms: the Flesch Reading Ease Score, Gunning Fog, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, Coleman-Liau Index, SMOG index, Automated Readability Index and the Linsear Write Formula. Two evaluators assessed Understandability and Actionability of the results with the Patient Educational Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT). Outcome measures included Reading Grade Level, Reader's age minimum and maximum, Understandability, and Actionability. Results: Of the 100 results, 16 were excluded based on the exclusion criteria. There was a statistically significant difference between the readability of the results from all algorithms and the current recommendation by AMA and NIH. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that there was no difference in readability as it pertained to which page they appeared on Google search. There was also no difference in readability between individual websites versus organizational websites (hospital and non-hospital educational websites). Three articles were at the 8th grade recommended reading level, and all three were from healthcare institutes. Conclusion: There is a discrepancy in readability between the recommendation of AMA/NIH and online educational materials regarding PCL surgeries, regardless of where they appear on Google and across different forums. The understandability and actionability were equally poor. Future research can focus on the readability and validity of video and social media as they are becoming increasingly popular sources of medical information.

Preoperative planning with three-dimensional CT vs. three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging does not change surgical management for shoulder instability.

Background: This study aims to determine the effect of time and imaging modality (three-dimensional (3D) CT vs. 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) on the surgical procedure indicated for shoulder instability. The hypothesis is there will be no clinical difference in procedure selection between time and imaging modality. Methods: Eleven shoulder surgeons were surveyed with the same ten shoulder instability clinical scenarios at three time points. All time points included history of present illness, musculoskeletal exam, radiographs, and standard two-dimensional MRI. To assess the effect of imaging modality, survey 1 included 3D MRI while survey 2 included a two-dimensional and 3D CT scan. To assess the effect of time, a retest was performed with survey 3 which was identical to survey 2. The outcome measured was whether surgeons made a "major" or "minor" surgical change between surveys. Results: The average major change rate was 14.1% (standard deviation: 7.6%). The average minor change rate was 12.6% (standard deviation: 7.5%). Between survey 1 to the survey 2, the major change rate was 15.2%, compared to 13.1% when going from the second to the third survey (P = .68). The minior change rate between the first and second surveys was 12.1% and between the second to third interview was 13.1% (P = .8). Discussion: The findings suggest that the major factor related to procedural changes was time between reviewing patient information. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that there remains significant intrasurgeon variability in selecting surgical procedures for shoulder instability. Lastly, the findings in this study suggest that 3D MRI is clinically equivalent to 3D CT in guiding shoulder instability surgical management. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that there is significant variability in surgical procedure selection driven by time alone in shoulder instability. Surgical decision making with 3D MRI was similar to 3D CT scans and may be used by surgeons for preoperative planning.

Radiographic Description of Soft Tissue Attachments around the Elbow.

Objectives: Quantitatively define the radiographic locations of the major soft-tissue attachments about the elbow. Methods: In 10 cadaveric elbows, the attachments of the medial ulnar collateral ligament, lateral ulnar collateral ligament, annular ligament, triceps, and biceps were marked with radiopaque spheres. Measurements were made on calibrated AP and lateral fluoroscopic images from known osseous landmarks. Results: On AP radiographs; the anterior bundle of the MUCL (aMUCL) measured 28.6mm (95% CI, 27. 5-29.8mm) from the humeral attachment to the midpoint of the MUCL ridge on the ulna and 14.3mm, (95% CI 13.0-15.5) to the olecranon. The LUCL was 39.9mm (95% CI, 38.6 - 41.1mm) from the humeral attachment to the supinator crest attachment and 8.9mm (95% CI, 8.1-9.8mm) to the lateral epicondyle. On the lateral radiographs, the humeral attachment of the aMUCL to the medial coronoid was 27.1mm (95% CI, 25.9-28.2mm) and 9.3mm (95%CI, 17.5 -21.2mm) to the tip. The LUCL humeral attachment to the supinator crest was 45.4mm (95%CI, 44.1-46.8mm). The LUCL humeral attachment was located 8.9mm (95%CI, 8.0-9.7mm) posterior from the anterior humeral line. Conclusion: The soft-tissue attachments about the elbow were reproducibly demonstrated on radiographs in relation to osseous landmarks and radiographic lines. The radiographic relationships will allow for improved identification of the ligament and tendon attachment sites of the elbow for intraoperative assessment and postoperative evaluation following reconstruction.

Does the addition of post-operative gabapentin reduce the use of narcotics after orthopedic surgery?

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of post-operative gabapentin administration as an analgesic agent and its effect on narcotic use after orthopedic surgery in an outpatient sports medicine practice by comparing patients prior to and after initiating the routine use of gabapentin as part of a standardized post-operative pain medication regimen. We hypothesized that adding gabapentin to a multimodal post-operative pain regimen would decrease the number of requested pain medication refills and have no detrimental effect on Visual Analogue Scale and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation scores at these early post-operative visits. METHODS: All outpatient surgical patients, <90 years of age, undergoing outpatient orthopedic surgery by the study's senior author were included between 08/05/2021 and 02/22/2022. Patients were allowed 1 narcotic refill post-operatively and only in the first 3 weeks. The primary outcome was difference in percentage of patients who requested a narcotic refill within 3 weeks post-op. Two- and 6-week Visual Analogue Scale and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation scores, and baseline health and demographic data. T-tests were run on continuous variables, Chi-Square or Fisher's Exact Test were run on dichotomous variables, and Mann-Whitney U test was run on all other categorical variables. Statistical significance was set at P < .05 for all tests. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in narcotic refills at 3 weeks: 23 pre-gabapentin patients and 9 post-gabapentin patients (22.8% vs 9.0%, respectively: P = .006). There were no differences between 2- and 6-week Visual Analogue Scale and 2-week Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation scores. There was a significant difference in 6-week SANE between groups: mean difference = 6.4 (P = .027) though less than the established MCID. CONCLUSION: Addition of gabapentin to a post-operative multimodal pain regimen reduced the use of narcotics after orthopedic sports medicine surgeries while also providing equivalent pain control.

An Anatomically Placed Tibial Tunnel does not Completely Surround a Simulated PCL Reconstruction Graft in the Proximal Tibia.

INTRODUCTION: It is hypothesized that anatomic tunnel placement will create tunnels with violation of the posterior cortex and subsequently an oblique aperture that is not circumferentially surrounded by bone. In this article, we aimed to characterize posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tibial tunnel using a three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) model. METHODS: Ten normal knee CTs with the patella, femur, and fibula removed were used. Simulated 11 mm PCL tibial tunnels were created at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees. The morphology of the posterior proximal tibial exit was examined with 3D modeling software. The length of tunnel not circumferentially covered (cortex violation) was measured to where the tibial tunnel became circumferential. The surface area and volume of the cylinder both in contact with the tibial bone and that not in contact with the tibia were determined. The percentages of the stick-out length surface area and volume not in contact with bone were calculated. RESULTS: The mean stick-out length of uncovered graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 26.3, 20.5, 17.3, and 12.7 mm, respectively. The mean volume of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 840.8, 596.2, 425.6, and 302.9 mm3, respectively. The mean percent of volume of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 32, 29, 25, and 24%, respectively. The mean surface of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 372.2, 280.4, 208.8, and 153.3 mm2, respectively. The mean percent of surface area of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 40, 39, 34, and 34%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Anatomic tibial tunnel creation using standard transtibial PCL reconstruction techniques consistently risks posterior tibial cortex violation and creation of an oblique aperture posteriorly. This risk is decreased with decreasing the angle of the tibial tunnel, though the posterior cortex is still compromised with angles as low as 40 degrees. With posterior cortex violation, a surgeon should be aware that a graft within the tunnel or socket posteriorly may not be fully in contact with bone. This is especially relevant with inlay and socket techniques.

Time to return to school following ACL reconstruction: influence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: ACL reconstruction is commonly performed in school-aged patients for whom missed time from school can have an impact on their education. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to different ways of accessing school content. We sought to determine how many days of school school-aged patients should expect to miss following ACL reconstruction and how the availability of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic affected this. METHODS: We evaluated 53 ACL reconstruction patients in grades 7-12 undergoing surgery during the school year. Demographic, medical, and educational information were collected. Patients were placed into 1 of 2 cohorts: Group A (surgery before the COVID-19 pandemic) or Group B (surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic). We calculated days missed from school after surgery until return to either virtual or in-person school. RESULTS: Overall, patients returned to school after missing an average of 4.4 (SD, 3.0) days of school after ACL reconstruction surgery. Patients in Group A missed an average of 5.5 (SD, 2.9) school days, while patients in Group B missed an average of 2.3 (SD, 1.4) school days (p <.001). Eighty-nine percent of Group B patients first returned to school utilizing a virtual option. Among those returning virtually, these patients missed an average of 1.9 (SD, 0.9) school days. CONCLUSIONS: A virtual distance learning option results in fewer missed days of school post ACL reconstruction. When given this option, school-aged patients can expect to return to school within two days post-op. Otherwise, patients should expect to miss about one week of in-person schooling. In this regard, the COVID-19 pandemic has positively impacted educational opportunities for students post-surgery, and physicians should advocate for continuing virtual options for students receiving medical treatment.

Anticoagulant Usage After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Is Associated With Increased Rate of Manipulation Under Anesthesia.

BACKGROUND: Arthrofibrosis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a notable but uncommon complication of ACLR. To improve range of motion after ACLR, aggressive physical therapy, arthroscopic/open lysis of adhesions, and revision surgery are currently used. Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) is also a reasonable choice for an appropriate subset of patients with inadequate range of motion after ACLR. Recently, the correlation between anticoagulant usage and arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty has become an area of interest. The purpose of this study was to determine whether anticoagulant use has a similar effect on the incidence of MUA after ACLR. METHODS: The Mariner data set of the PearlDiver database was used to conduct this retrospective cohort study. Patients with an isolated ACLR were identified by using Current Procedural Terminology codes. Patients were then stratified by MUA within 2 years of ACLR, and the use of postoperative anticoagulation was identified. In addition, patient demographics, medical comorbidities, and timing of ACLR were recorded. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to model independent risk factors for MUA. RESULTS: We identified 216,147 patients who underwent isolated ACLR. Of these patients, 3,494 (1.62%) underwent MUA within 2 years. Patients who were on anticoagulants after ACLR were more likely to require an MUA (odds ratio [OR]: 2.181; P < 0.001), specifically low-molecular-weight heparin (OR: 2.651; P < 0.001), warfarin (OR: 1.529; P < 0.001), and direct factor Xa inhibitors (OR: 1.957; P < 0.001). DISCUSSION: In conclusion, arthrofibrosis after ACLR is associated with the use of preoperative or postoperative thromboprophylaxis. Healthcare providers should be aware of increased stiffness among these patients and treat them aggressively.

Lack of race/ethnic minority representation in ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction in baseball athletes: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the reporting and representation of ethnic and racial minorities in comparative studies of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries and treatment in baseball athletes. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) reporting guidelines. The literature search was conducted by two independent reviewers using the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies were included if they were UCL of the elbow clinical comparative studies, including randomized clinical trials, cohort studies, case series, and epidemiological studies. Studies were excluded if they were related to ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb, lateral ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow, biomechanical studies, non-surgical studies, non-baseball studies, and systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criterion was used to assess quality of studies included. RESULTS: A total of 108 studies were included for analysis, of which only one reported race and ethnicity in their demographics. Additionally, of the 108 studies included, only four reported Country of Origin, a subset of Race and Ethnicity, in their demographics. CONCLUSION: Race and Ethnicity demographics are scarcely reported in comparative studies evaluating ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. Future studies evaluating similar populations should strongly consider reporting racial and ethnic demographics as this may provide clarity on any potential effect these might have on post-surgical outcomes, particularly in high-level pitchers.

Understanding postoperative rehabilitation preferences in operatively managed proximal humerus fractures: do trauma and shoulder surgeons differ?

BACKGROUND: Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) are common, and their incidence is increasing as the population ages. Despite this, postoperative rehabilitation remains unstandardized and little is known about surgeon preferences. The aim of this study was to assess differences in postoperative rehabilitation preferences and patient education between orthopedic trauma and shoulder surgeons. METHODS: An electronic survey was distributed to members of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons to assess differences in postoperative rehabilitation preferences and patient counseling. Descriptive statistics were reported for all respondents, trauma surgeons, and shoulder surgeons. Chi-square and unpaired 2-sample t tests were used to compare responses. Multinomial regression was used to further elucidate the influence of fellowship training independent of confounding characteristics. RESULTS: A total of 293 surgeons completed the survey, including 172 shoulder and 78 trauma surgeons. A greater proportion of trauma surgeons preferred an immediate weightbearing status after arthroplasty compared to shoulder surgeons (45% vs. 19%, P = .003), but not after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) (62% vs. 75%, P = .412). A greater proportion of shoulder surgeons preferred home exercise therapy taught by the physician or using a handout following reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) (21% vs. 2%, P = .009). A greater proportion of trauma surgeons began passive range of motion (ROM) <2 weeks after 2-part fractures (70% vs. 41%, P < .001). Conversely, a greater proportion of shoulder surgeons began passive ROM between 2 and 6 weeks for 2-part (57% vs. 24%, P < .001) and 4-part fractures (65% vs. 43%, P = .020). On multinomial regression analysis, fellowship training in shoulder surgery was associated with preference for a nonweightbearing duration of >12 weeks vs. 6-12 weeks after ORIF. Similarly, fellowship training in shoulder surgery was associated with increased odds of preferring a nonweightbearing duration of <6 weeks vs. no restrictions and >12 weeks vs. 6-12 weeks after arthroplasty. Training in shoulder surgery was associated with greater odds of preferring a nonweightbearing duration prior to beginning passive ROM of 2-6 weeks vs. <2 weeks or >6 weeks for 2-part fractures, but not 4-part fractures. CONCLUSION: Trauma surgeons have a more aggressive approach to rehabilitation following operative PHF repair compared to shoulder surgeons regarding time to weightbearing status and passive ROM. Given the increasing incidence of PHFs and substantial variations in reported treatment outcomes, differences in rehabilitation after PHF treatment should be further evaluated to determine the role it may play in the outcomes of treatment studies.

Evaluation of Differences Between Non-Hispanic White and African American Patients With Sports Medicine-Related Hip Disabilities.

BACKGROUND: Racial disparities within the field of orthopaedics are well-documented in the spinal surgery, knee arthroplasty, and hip arthroplasty literature. Not much is known about racial differences in patients with sports medicine-related hip disabilities. PURPOSE: To investigate whether differences exist between African American and non-Hispanic White (White) patients evaluated for hip disabilities. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study of 905 patients who were evaluated over a 1-year period for hip-related orthopaedic concerns. Patient demographic data, disability characteristics, and hip radiographic findings were obtained from electronic medical records. We also obtained data on whether patients were offered physical therapy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or surgery. Comparisons by race and insurance status were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: African Americans comprised a significantly lower proportion of the patients evaluated for hip-related disabilities compared with Whites (6.5% vs 93.5%; P < .001). A significantly smaller proportion of African Americans with hip disabilities was recommended for surgery than White patients (35.6% vs 54.6%; P = .007). Cam deformities were more common in White vs African American patients (39.7% vs 23.7%; P = .021), as were labral tears (54.1% vs 35.6%; P = .009). Logistic regression demonstrated that neither race nor insurance status were significant determinants in surgery recommendations. Conversely, race was a determinant of whether an MRI was performed, as White patients were 2.74 times more likely to have this procedure. There were no differences with respect to obtaining an MRI between private and Medicaid insurance. CONCLUSION: Compared with White patients, there were differences in both the proportion of African Americans evaluated for hip-related disabilities and the proportion receiving a surgery recommendation. African Americans with sports medicine-related hip issues were also less likely to obtain an MRI. With regard to observed pathology, African American patients were less likely to have cam deformities and labral tears than White patients.

A validated algorithm using current literature to judge the appropriateness of anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty utilizing the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method.

BACKGROUND: Currently, appropriateness criteria evaluating when to perform total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is lacking. In the absence of society guidelines and limited quality evidence, the RAND/University California in Los Angeles (UCLA) method provides a suitable alternative to evaluate appropriateness and assist in clinical decision making. Given the rise in utilization, appropriateness criteria for TSA have the potential to be an extremely powerful tool for improving quality of care and controlling costs. Thus, the goal of this study was to test explicit criteria to assess the appropriateness of TSA decision making using the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method. METHODS: A review of recent scientific literature to gather available evidence about the use, effectiveness, efficiency, and the risks involved in surgical intervention was performed by a shoulder/elbow fellowship trained physician. Based on pertinent variables including age, rotator cuff status, previous surgical management, mobility, symptomatology, and imaging classifications, 186 clinical scenarios were created. Appropriateness criteria for TSA were developed using a modified Delphi method with a panel consisting of American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) members. A second panel of ASES members rated the same scenarios, with reliability testing performed to compare groups. RESULTS: Panel members reached agreement in 40 (64%) indications. TSA was appropriate in 15 (24%) of indications. For patients with severe symptomatology, TSA was often appropriate for patients aged <75 years and inconclusive or inappropriate for patients aged >75 years. Among patients aged <65 years, TSA varied between appropriate and inconclusive, often dependent on Walch classification. For patients with moderate symptomatology, TSA was inappropriate or inconclusive for patients aged <65 or >75 years. When compared to the second panel's results, moderate agreement was obtained with a weighted kappa statistic of 0.56. CONCLUSIONS: Using the RAND/UCLA method, ASES members created an appropriateness decision tree for pertinent patient variables. This presents the data in a manner that streamlines the clinical decision-making process and allows for rapid and more reliable determination of appropriateness for practitioners. The decision tree is based on a combination of clinical experience from high-volume ASES-member surgeons and a comprehensive review of current evidence. This tool can be used as part of a broader set of factors, including individual patient characteristics, prior studies, and expert opinion, to inform clinical decision making, improve quality of care, and control costs.

Day case versus inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: A number of papers have been published comparing the safety and efficacy of day case and inpatient anatomic or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. However, no systematic review of the literature has been published to date. The aim of this review was to determine if day case total shoulder arthroplasty (length of stay <24 h) leads to similar outcomes as standard-stay inpatients (length of stay ≥24 h). METHODS: The US National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviewers were queried for publications utilizing keywords that were pertinent to total shoulder arthroplasty, day case, outpatient and inpatient, clinical or functional outcomes, and complications. In order to determine the quantitative impact of day case total shoulder arthroplasty on readmission and revision rate, a meta-analysis was performed on articles that observed 30- or 90-day readmission or revision. RESULTS: Eight articles were found to be suitable for inclusion in the present study which included 6103 day case total shoulder arthroplasty and 147,463 inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty. Following meta-analysis, there was no significant difference among patients who underwent day case total shoulder arthroplasty compared to inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty regarding revision rates (OR: 1.001; 95% CI: 0.721-1.389; p = 0.995) and 30-day readmission rates (OR: 0.940; 95% CI: 0.723-1.223; p = 0.646). In contrast, patients who underwent day case total shoulder arthroplasty were less likely to have a readmission within 90 days compared to their inpatient counterparts (OR: 0.839; 95% CI: 0.704-0.999; p = 0.049). Two out of eight studies reported comparable baseline clinical characteristics among groups, while five studies reported significant differences and one study did not provide information regarding clinical characteristics, such as medical comorbidities or American Society of Anaesthesiologists'(ASA) score. No significant difference among groups was found in all or almost all studies regarding mortality rates, and rates of cardiac complications, cerebrovascular events, thromboembolic events, pulmonary complications, cardiac complications, and nerve complications. Finally, results were rather conflicting regarding the correlation of day case total shoulder arthroplasty to the rate of surgical site infections. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that day case total shoulder arthroplasty might lead to similar rates of mortality, complications, revisions, and readmissions compared to inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty when used in a selected population of younger, healthier, and more male patients. In contrast, there was no consensus regarding the impact of day case total shoulder arthroplasty on the rate of surgical site infections. Finally, further research of higher quality is required to establish patient demographic criteria, ASA score, or comorbidity index cut off that might be used to define day case-treated patients who seem to have equivalent outcomes compared to inpatient-treated patients.Level of evidence: Systematic review of level III studies (lowest level included).

A Prospective Assessment of Opioid Utilization Post-Operatively in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeries.

BACKGROUND: The healthcare system is plagued finding the balance between opioid use and abuse. Orthopaedic surgeons are expected to curtail the number of opioids prescribed in order to lower opioid abuse. We sought to prospectively evaluate opioid consumption following a wide range of sports orthopaedic surgical procedures to determine utilization patterns. METHODS: All patients receiving procedures within a one-year period were consented and then called daily for one week followed by weekly for up to two months or until the patients no longer were taking their opioid medication. We studied the number of opioids patient's took postoperatively and also collected information in regards to the patient and the surgical procedure. RESULTS: Included were 223 patients with a mean age of 32.9 years (range, 11 to 82). Surgeons prescribed a mean total of 59.5 pills, and patients reported consuming a mean total of 20.9 pills, resulting in a utilization rate of 40%. 94.4% of patients received no education on how to properly dispose of unused opioids. The mean SANE score was 53.9. The mean Pain Catastrophizing Scale score was 15.1. The mean Opioid Risk Tool was 3.3. The procedures were broken down into: 47.5% ligamentous knee repair, 18.4% shoulder arthroscopy/other shoulder, 7.6% meniscus, 7.6% shoulder arthroplasty, 5.4% distal biceps, 4.0% lower leg (ankle/foot/tibia) and 4.0% shoulder ORIF. CONCLUSION: Over-prescribing opioids after sports orthopaedic surgeries is widespread. In this study, we found that patients are being prescribed 2.48 times greater opioid medications than needed following sports orthopaedic surgical procedures. We recommend surgeons take care when prescribing postoperative pain control and consider customizing their opioid prescriptions on the basis of prior opioid usage, anatomic location and procedure type. We also recommend educating the patients on proper disposal of excess opioids and consider involving pain management for patients likely to require prolonged opioid usage.

Effect of Patient Resilience and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) Score on Return to Sport Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to determine the effect of resilience, as measured by the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), and perceived self-efficacy of knee function, as measured by the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score on return to sport outcomes following ACL Reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. METHODS: Seventy-one patients undergoing ACLR surgery were followed up for a minimum of one year. At six-months post-op, ACLR patients completed the BRS and the SANE score. Patients were stratified into low, normal, and high resilience groups, and outcome scores were calculated. RESULTS: The median return to sports participation, in months post-operatively, for the low, normal, and high resiliency groups were 7.1, 7.3, and 7.2 months, respectively (P=0.78). A multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the SANE score was a significant predictor of return to sport at nine months when adjusted for age, sex, and BRS score (P=0.01). Patients that returned to sport by nine months demonstrated a mean SANE score of 92.7, compared to a mean of 85.7 (P=0.08). In patients who had returned to sport, neither the BRS resilience group nor the SANE score were significant predictors of the returned level of competition status (P=0.06; P=0.18). CONCLUSION: The SANE score may serve as a significant predictor of return to sport when adjusted for age, sex, and BRS score. Resilience, as measured by the BRS, was not significantly associated with return to sport, but may have utility in specific patient populations.

Rotator cuff repair in HIV-positive patients ages 65 and older: only slight increase in risk of general postoperative surgical complications.

PURPOSE: To examine postoperative complications associated with rotator cuff repair (RCR) in HIV-positive patients ages 65 and older. METHODS: Data were collected from the Medicare Standardized Analytic Files between 2005 and 2015 using the PearlDiver Patient Records Database. Subjects were selected using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes. Demographics including age, sex, medical comorbidities, and smoking status were collected. Complications were examined at 7-day, 30-day, and 90-day postoperative time points. Data were examined with univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: The study included 152,114 patients who underwent RCR, with 24,486 (16.1%) patients who were HIV-positive. Following univariate analysis, patients with HIV were observed to be more likely to develop 7-day, 30-day, and 90-day postoperative complications. However, the absolute risk of each complication was quite low for HIV-positive patients. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that within 7 days following surgery, patients with HIV were more likely to develop myocardial infarction (OR 2.5, AR 0.1%) and sepsis (OR 2.5, AR 0.04%). Within 30 days, HIV-positive patients were at increased risk for postoperative anemia (OR 2.8, AR 0.1%), blood transfusion (OR 3.3, AR 0.1%), heart failure (OR 2.3, AR 0.8%), and sepsis (OR 2.7, AR 0.1%). Within 90 days, mechanical complications (OR 2.1, AR 0.1%) were increased in the HIV-positive group. CONCLUSION: Postoperative complications of RCR occurred at increased rates in the HIV-positive group compared to the HIV-negative group in patients ages 65 and older. In particular, increased risk for myocardial infarction, sepsis, heart failure, anemia, and mechanical complications was noted in HIV-positive patients. However, the actual percentage of patients who experienced each complication was low, indicating RCR is likely safe to perform even in older HIV-positive patients. As more older adults living with HIV present for elective orthopedic procedures, the results of the present study may reassure physicians who are considering RCR as an option for patients in this particular population, while also informing providers about potential complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

The Evaluation of Trochlear Osseous Morphology: An Epidemiologic Study.

BACKGROUND: The femoral trochlea is considered the most significant osseous factor affecting stability in the patellofemoral joint. The true prevalence of trochlear dysplasia in the general population is largely unknown. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: To investigate the prevalence of trochlear dysplasia in the general population. Our hypothesis was that, while trochlear dysplasia is not uncommon, there is a low prevalence of severe dysplasia in the general population. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive epidemiology study. METHODS: Five observers were asked to evaluate 692 skeletally mature femoral specimens from 359 skeletons for trochlear dysplasia at 2 time points. We further subclassified the dysplastic trochlea in 62 femora with the highest rated degree of dysplasia. RESULTS: Sex (P = .11) and race (P = .2) had no effect on the severity of dysplasia. Interobserver reliability was excellent (0.906 and 0.904), and intraobserver reliability was good to excellent (0.686 to 0.808). The percentages of trochlea graded as normal, mildly dysplastic, moderately dysplastic, and severely dysplastic were 61.5%, 21.4%, 12.7%, and 4.4%, respectively, in the first evaluation, and 58.5%, 23.7%, 12.7%, and 5.1% in the second evaluation. Of the 62 trochlea with the highest scores for dysplasia, 36 had trochlear dysplasia without a supratrochlear spur, 8 had trochlear dysplasia with medial femoral condyle hypoplasia, and 18 had trochlear dysplasia with a supratrochlear spur. CONCLUSION: Observers with differing degrees of clinical experience had similar opinions on the degree of trochlear dysplasia. Also, our cohort showed that moderate to severe dysplasia is not uncommon, as it is present in approximately 17% of knees in our cohort. Our findings also suggest that clinicians are speaking the same language when identifying and describing trochlear dysplasia on gross inspection.

The REVision Using Imaging to Guide Staging and Evaluation (REVISE) in ACL Reconstruction Classification.

Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) procedures are increasing in incidence and possess markedly inferior clinical outcomes (76% satisfaction) and return-to-sports (57%) rates than their primary counterparts. Given their complexity, a universal language is required to identify and communicate the technical challenges faced with revision procedures and guide treatment strategies. The proposed REV: ision using I: maging to guide S: taging and E: valuation (REVISE) ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) Classification can serve as a foundation for this universal language that is feasible and practical with acceptable inter-rater agreement. A focus group of sports medicine fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons was assembled to develop a classification to assess femoral/tibial tunnel "usability" (placement, widening, overlap) and guide the revision reconstruction strategy (one-stage vs. two-stage) post-failed ACL reconstruction. Twelve board-certified sports medicine orthopaedic surgeons independently applied the classification to the de-identified computed tomographic (CT) scan data of 10 patients, randomly selected, who failed ACL reconstruction. An interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated (with 95% confidence intervals) to assess agreement among reviewers concerning the three major classifications of the proposed system. Across surgeons, and on an individual patient basis, there was high internal validity and observed agreement on treatment strategy (one-stage vs. two-stage revision). Reliability testing of the classification using CT scan data demonstrated an ICC (95% confidence interval) of 0.92 (0.80-0.98) suggesting "substantial" agreement between the surgeons across all patients for all elements of the classification. The proposed REVISE ACL Classification, which employs CT scan analysis to both identify technical issues and guide revision ACL treatment strategy (one- or two-stage), constitutes a feasible and practical system with high internal validity, high observed agreement, and substantial inter-rater agreement. Adoption of this classification, both clinically and in research, will help provide a universal language for orthopaedic surgeons to discuss these complex clinical presentations and help standardize an approach to diagnosis and treatment to improve patient outcomes. The Level of Evidence for this study is 3.

Surgical treatment for recurrent shoulder instability: factors influencing surgeon decision making.

BACKGROUND: The optimal surgical approach for recurrent anterior shoulder instability remains controversial, particularly in the face of glenoid and/or humeral bone loss. The purpose of this study was to use a contingent-behavior questionnaire (CBQ) to determine which factors drive surgeons to perform bony procedures over soft tissue procedures to address recurrent anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: A CBQ survey presented each respondent with 32 clinical vignettes of recurrent shoulder instability that contained 8 patient factors. The factors included (1) age, (2) sex, (3) hand dominance, (4) number of previous dislocations, (5) activity level, (6) generalized laxity, (7) glenoid bone loss, and (8) glenoid track. The survey was distributed to fellowship-trained surgeons in shoulder/elbow or sports medicine. Respondents were asked to recommend either a soft tissue or bone-based procedure, then specifically recommend a type of procedure. Responses were analyzed using a multinomial-logit regression model that quantified the relative importance of the patient characteristics in choosing bony procedures. RESULTS: Seventy orthopedic surgeons completed the survey, 33 were shoulder/elbow fellowship trained and 37 were sports medicine fellowship trained; 52% were in clinical practice ≥10 years and 48% <10 years; and 95% reported that the shoulder surgery made up at least 25% of their practice. There were 53% from private practice, 33% from academic medicine, and 14% in government settings. Amount of glenoid bone loss was the single most important factor driving surgeons to perform bony procedures over soft tissue procedures, followed by the patient age (19-25 years) and the patient activity level. The number of prior dislocations and glenoid track status did not have a strong influence on respondents' decision making. Twenty-one percent glenoid bone loss was the threshold of bone loss that influenced decision toward a bony procedure. If surgeons performed 10 or more open procedures per year, they were more likely to perform a bony procedure. CONCLUSION: The factors that drove surgeons to choose bony procedures were the amount of glenoid bone loss with the threshold at 21%, patient age, and their activity demands. Surprisingly, glenoid track status and the number of previous dislocations did not strongly influence surgical treatment decisions. Ten open shoulder procedures a year seems to provide a level of comfort to recommend bony treatment for shoulder instability.