Comparison of Clinical Outcomes After Different Surgical Approaches for Lateral Epicondylitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is one of the most common causes of lateral elbow pain. When nonoperative treatment fails, 1 of the 3 surgical approaches-open, percutaneous, or arthroscopic-is used. However, determining which approach has the superior clinical outcome remains controversial. Purpose: To review the outcomes of different operative modalities for LE qualitatively and quantitatively. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: This review was performed and reported according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies published in PubMed, Medline (via EBSCO), and ScienceDirect databases that treated LE with open, percutaneous, or arthroscopic approaches with at least 12 months of follow-up were included. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool and the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies score. The primary outcome was the success rate of each operative treatment approach-open, percutaneous, and arthroscopic. Results: From an initial search result of 603 studies, 43 studies (n = 1941 elbows) were ultimately included. The arthroscopic approach had the highest success rate (91.9% [95% CI, 89.2%-94.7%]) compared with the percutaneous (91% [95% CI, 87.3%-94.6%]) and open (82.7% [95% CI, 75.6%-89.8%]) approaches for LE surgery with changes in the mean visual analog scale pain score of 5.54, 4.90, and 3.63, respectively. According to the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, the functional outcome improved in the arthroscopic group (from 54.11 to 15.47), the percutaneous group (from 44.90 to 10.47), and the open group (from 53.55 to 16.13). The overall improvement was also found in the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, the arthroscopic group (from 55.12 to 90.97), the percutaneous group (from 56.31 to 87.65), and the open group (from 64 to 93.37). Conclusion: Arthroscopic surgery had the highest rate of success and the best improvement in functional outcomes among the 3 approaches of LE surgery.

Basic to advanced elbow arthroscopy: the history, basic set up, and indications.

Elbow arthroscopy presents challenges; however, its indications and advantages over traditional open surgery are swiftly evolving. Despite being less widely performed than on other joints such as the knee, shoulder, ankle, and hip, arthroscopic management of the elbow has potential. The goals of this review are to describe and broaden the current applications of elbow arthroscopy. Additionally, we will provide insights and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of elbow arthroscopy.

Collagen Bridging of Massive Rotator Cuff Tears Using Fascia Lata Autograft Could Provide a Lasting Solution.

Shoulder rotator cuff tears are ideally primarily repaired, but large and massive, chronic, and/or retracted tears result in challenges. In response, innovative solutions include superior capsular reconstruction, tendon transfers, subacromial balloon spacer, tuberoplasty, partial repair, and marginal convergence. Recently, an innovation is to use collagen tissue to bridge repair of compromised tendon. Recent research using fascia lata autografts for supraspinatus tendon reconstruction in a rat model shows positive outcomes with structural similarity to normal muscle-tendon interface, decreased fatty infiltration, and increased collagen types I and III, suggesting enhanced mechanical strength. In human subjects, the advantages of autograft outweigh harvest site morbidity, noting that Dacron, Teflon, and xenograft show poor results. Ideally, a graft might be composed of a degradable scaffold, possess mechanical strength, andamalgamate stem cells, growth factors, and matrix proteins to facilitate host-tissueintegration.

Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) and Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis through the Modified Lemaire Technique versus Isolated ACLR: A Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes.

Objective Lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) has been proposed to resolve rotatory instability following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The present meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of ACLR and ACLR with LET using the modified Lemaire technique. Materials and Methods We performed a meta-analysis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) staement. The literature search was performed on the PubMed, EBSCOHost, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and WileyOnline databases. The data extracted from the studies included were the study characteristics, the failure rate (graft or clinical failure) as the primary outcome, and the functional score as the secondary outcome. Comparisons were made between the patients who underwent isolated ACLR (ACLR group) and those submitted to ACLR and LET through the modified Lemaire technique (ACLR + LET group). Results A total of 5 studies including 797 patients were evaluated. The ACLR + LET group presented a lower risk of failure and lower rate of rerupture than the ACLR group (risk ratio [RR] = 0.44; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.26 to 0.75; I 2 = 9%; p = 0.003). The ACLR + LET group presented higher scores on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) regarding the following outcomes: pain, activities of daily living (ADL), sports, and quality of life (QOL), with mean differences of 0.20 (95%CI: 0.10 to 0.30; I 2 = 0%; p < 0.0001), -0.20 (95%CI: -0.26 to -0.13; I 2 = 0%; p < 0.00001), 0.20 (95%CI: 0.02 to 0.38; I 2 = 0%; p = 0.03), and 0.50 (95%CI: 0.29 to 0.71; I 2 = 0%; p < 0.00001) respectively when compared with the ACLR group. Conclusion Adding LET through the modified Lemaire technique to ACLR may improve knee stability because of the lower rate of graft rerupture and the superiority in terms of clinical outcomes. Level of Evidence I.

Effect of age and gender in rates of achieving minimal clinically important difference and patient-acceptable symptom state 2 years after arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and the effects of gender and age on achieving clinically significant outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) with a minimum 2-year follow-up. METHODS: Patients undergoing ASCR for irreparable rotator cuff tear between 2013 and 2020 were reviewed. Preoperative and minimum 2-year postoperative PROMs were collected, including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant, single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient-acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) were calculated for each functional score and analyzed according to age and gender. The percentages of patients achieving MCID and PASS were recorded. RESULTS: The study included 83 patients, with a mean follow-up of 3.5 ± 1.4 years. Significant improvements were found in ASES, Constant, SANE, and VAS for all groups based on gender and age. Based on receiver-operating characteristic curves, all scores had acceptable areas under the curve for PASS. Values for PASS and MCID were 81.5 and 10.3 for ASES; 61.5 and 6.2 for Constant; 82.5 and 11.5 for SANE and 1.5 and 1.1 for VAS, respectively. Analysis of achieving MCID and PASS showed no difference between the groups in the majority of outcome measures. However, female patients achieved the SANE thresholds for PASS at significantly higher rates than male patients. Patients ≥65 years old achieved ASES and Constant thresholds for MCID at significantly higher rates than patients ˂65 years old. CONCLUSION: Most patients achieved MCID and PASS at a 2-year follow-up. Patients showed comparable rates of MCID and PASS achievement on most outcome tools based on age and gender. Female patients achieved PASS on SANE at significantly higher rates than male patients and older patients achieved MCID on ASES and Constant at higher rates than young patients. Thus, age is a stronger factor for achieving MCID than gender. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction Using Fascia Lata Autograft Versus Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Patients 65 Years and Older With Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background: Arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have both shown favorable outcomes in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs). Purpose: To (1) compare the clinical outcomes of ASCR versus RSA in patients aged ≥65 years with IRCTs and (2) compare serial changes in clinical outcomes between treatment groups. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: This study included patients with IRCTs without glenohumeral osteoarthritis who underwent either ASCR or RSA between March 2013 and December 2020 and had at least 2 years of follow-up data. We assessed active range of motion, a visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score at the preoperative, short-term (postoperative 6-12 months), and final follow-up times. Results: In total, 64 patients (ASCR, 31 patients; RSA, 33 patients) were included. The mean age of patients was 71.3 ± 4.4 and 72.9 ± 4.1 years, and the mean final follow-up duration was 42 ± 21.8 and 37.7 ± 21.7 months in the ASCR and RSA groups, respectively. At the short-term follow-up, RSA achieved significant improvements in all clinical outcomes, except for internal rotation (IR), while ASCR only showed significant improvements in VAS pain, ASES, and SANE scores. Compared with the preoperative period, both ASCR and RSA achieved significant improvements in all clinical outcomes, except for IR in the RSA group at the final follow-up. The ASCR group achieved better IR and ASES scores at the final follow-up, while the time taken to recover from pseudoparalysis was shorter after RSA. The ASCR group showed a 67.8% graft healing rate at the 1-year follow-up, while the RSA group showed 12.1% of scapular notching at the final follow-up. No other postoperative complications were observed in either group. Conclusion: ASCR and RSA achieved favorable clinical outcomes in the study cohort. At the short-term follow-up, RSA showed significant improvements in all clinical outcomes, except for IR, while ASCR only showed significant improvements in VAS pain, ASES, and SANE scores. At the final follow-up, however, ASCR had better IR and ASES scores compared with RSA.

Preoperative MRI Rotator Cuff Tendon Stump Classification Correlates with the Surgical Outcomes Following Superior Capsular Reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To investigate the correlation between rotator cuff stump classification and postoperative outcomes after superior capsular reconstruction (SCR). METHODS: A total of 75 patients who underwent SCR between June 2013 and May 2021 were included in this study. Based on stump classification using the signal intensity ratio of the tendon rupture site to the deltoid muscle in the coronal view of preoperative T2-weighted, fat-suppressed MRI scans, the patients were classified into types 1, 2, and 3 with ratios of < 0.8, 0.8-1.3, and > 1.3 (44, 17, and 14 patients, respectively). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and range of motion were evaluated at a minimum of 1 year of follow-up postoperatively. The acromiohumeral distance and RC tear arthropathy according to the Hamada classification were assessed on plain radiography. Postoperative graft integrity was evaluated by MRI at 3 and 12 months postoperatively and annually thereafter. Graft failure was defined as complete discontinuity. RESULTS: Clinical and radiological outcomes were significantly improved after SCR. In comparison with type 2 and 3 patients, type 1 patients had significantly higher ASES scores (type 1, 2, and 3 = 84 ± 10, 75 ± 15, and 76 ± 14; all P = 0.014), constant scores (type 1, 2, and 3 = 65 ± 5, 61 ± 9, and 56 ± 13; all P = 0.005), and forward flexion (type 1, 2, and 3 = 155 ± 10, 154 ± 15, and 145 ± 13; all P = 0.013). However, these statistical differences between groups were below the established minimum clinically important difference values for the ASES and Constant scores after rotator cuff repair. The graft failure rate after surgery was lower in the type 1 group than that in the other two groups; however, the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.749). CONCLUSION: Patients with stump classification type 1 showed significantly better functional scores (ASES and VAS scores) and forward flexion; however, the clinical importance of these differences may be limited. Stump classification may be useful for predicting postoperative clinical outcomes.

Arthroscopic assessment for lateral collateral ligament complex deficiency of the elbow: a cadaveric study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether elbow instability due to lateral collateral ligament complex injury can be assessed reliably through arthroscopy. METHODS: Eight fresh human cadaveric elbows were placed in a simulated lateral decubitus position. The radiocapitellar joint (RCJ) gap and ulnohumeral joint (UHJ) gap (mm) were measured with different sizes of probes from the posterolateral viewing portal. The elbow was 90 degrees flexed with neutral forearm rotation for RCJ gap measurement and 30 degrees flexed with full supination for UHJ gap measurement. Sequential testing was performed from Stage 0 to Stage 3 (Stage 0: intact; Stage 1: the release of the anterior 1/3 LCL complex; Stage 2: the release of the anterior two thirds of the LCL complex; and Stage 3: the release of the entire LCL complex) on each specimen. The mean gap of RCJ and lateral UHJ was used for the comparison between stages with the intact elbow. RESULTS: The mean RCJ gap distance in Stage 2 and Stage 3 was significantly increased compared to that in Stage 0 (Stage 0 vs. Stage 2: P = .008; Stage 0 vs. Stage 3: P = .010). The mean UHJ gap distance of Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 was significantly increased compared to that in Stage 0 (Stage 0 vs. Stage 1: P = 0.025; Stage 0 vs. Stage 2: P = .010; Stage 0 vs. Stage 3: P = .011). In contrast, the release of the anterior 1/3 of the LCL complex (Stage 1) was not significantly increased compared to the mean joint gap distance of RCJ (P = .157). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic measurement of joint gap widening in RCJ and UHJ is a reliable assessment method to detect LCL complex deficiency that involves the anterior two thirds or more.

Does body mass index affect outcomes following arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction using fascia lata autograft for massive irreparable rotator cuff tear?

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of increased body mass index (BMI) on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and clinically significant outcomes (CSOs) obtained > two years postoperatively following arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (ASCR). METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on patients who underwent ASCR with a minimum two year follow-up. All patients were divided into normal (BMI < 25.0), overweight (BMI 25-30.0), and obese (BMI ≥ 30) according to preoperative BMI. Patients were assessed using the PROs preoperatively and at six months, one year, and two years postoperatively, including the visual analog scale (VAS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Constant-Murley scores. The time required to achieve each CSO was analyzed and compared. Multivariate analyses evaluated the predictor variables and time required to achieve CSOs. RESULTS: This study included 63 patients with a mean age of 64.8 ± 8.6 years, including 31 normal BMI, 25 overweight, and seven obese patients. Significant improvements in VAS and ASES scores after ASCR were observed in all three groups. Normal and overweight patients had significant improvements in the Constant score; however, no difference was observed in obese patients. No significant difference was observed in the probability distributions of CSOs between the BMI groups. Similarly, no significant differences were observed in the probability distributions of the CSOs, ASES, and Constant scores at each time point, among the BMI groups. CONCLUSION: Patients in the normal and overweight groups had significant improvements in the VAS, ASES, and Constant scores after ASCR. Patients in the obese group had a significant improvement in VAS score; however, there is no difference for the ASES and Constant scores in the obese group. However, no differences were observed in all PROMs and the likelihood of achieving CSOs among the different BMI groups.

Superior Capsular Reconstruction Combined With Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer Improves the Biomechanics in Posterosuperior Massive Rotator Cuff Tears.

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatments for chronic posterosuperior massive rotator cuff tear (MRCT) are still controversial. Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR), which provides a static stabilizer to decrease superior humeral head translation, and lower trapezius tendon transfer (LTTT) with centralization of the humeral head, which prevents superior humeral head migration, are potential surgical options. To date, SCR combined with LTTT has not been fully investigated. HYPOTHESIS: Restoration of static stabilizer and dynamic stabilizer together would effectively improve shoulder kinematics in posterosuperior MRCT. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: A custom-made shoulder mechanics testing system was used to test 8 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders. The testing conditions were as follows: (1) intact; (2) posterosuperior MRCT (supraspinatus and infraspinatus removed); (3) SCR using the fascia lata; (4) LTTT; and (5) SCR combined with LTTT. The total rotational range of motion (ROM), superior translation, anteroposterior translation, and peak subacromial contact pressure were evaluated at 0°, 30°, and 60° of shoulder abduction. Repeated-measures analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests were performed. RESULTS: The total rotational ROM, superior translation, anteroposterior translation, and peak subacromial contact pressure increased in posterosuperior MRCTs (all, P < .05). The rotational ROM, superior translation, anteroposterior translation, and peak subacromial contact pressure at 0° and 30° of shoulder abduction decreased in SCR (all, P < .05). However, there was no significant improvement in rotational ROM, superior translation, and peak subacromial contact pressure at 60° of shoulder abduction (P > .05). LTTT resulted in a significant decrease in the superior translation, anteroposterior translation, and peak subacromial contact pressure at 0°, 30°, and 60° of shoulder abduction (P < .05). SCR combined with LTTT restored the total rotational ROM, superior translation, anteroposterior translation, and peak subacromial contact pressure at 0°, 30°, and 60° of shoulder abduction (all, P < .05). CONCLUSION: In the cadaveric model, SCR combined with LTTT showed improved shoulder kinematics and contact pressures in the posterosuperior MRCT model compared with SCR or LTTT alone. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: SCR combined with LTTT may be regarded as an alternative surgical procedure for posterosuperior MRCTs.

Time required to achieve clinically significant outcomes after arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To investigate the time-dependent nature of clinically significant outcomes, including the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), substantial clinical benefit, and Patient Acceptable Symptomatic State (PASS) after arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction, and the factors contributing to the achievement of early clinically significant outcomes. METHODS: Patients who underwent ASCR between March 2015 and September 2020 with complete preoperative and postoperative 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were retrospectively analysed. Threshold values for MCID, substantial clinical benefit, and PASS were obtained from the previous literature for the PROMs. The time required to achieve clinically significant outcomes was calculated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Multivariate Cox regression was performed to evaluate the variables predictive of an earlier or delayed achievement of MCID. RESULTS: Fifty-nine patients with a mean age of 64.5 ± 8.7 years old were included. The time of mean achievement of MCID, substantial clinical benefit, and PASS for VAS was 11.2 ± 0.9, 16.3 ± 1.1, and 16.6 ± 0.9 months, respectively. The time of mean achievement of MCID, substantial clinical benefit, and PASS for ASES was 13.2 ± 1.0, 16.8 ± 1.0, and 18.3 ± 0.9 months, respectively. The time of mean achievement of MCID, substantial clinical benefit, and PASS for the Constant score was 11.6 ± 0.9, 15.1 ± 1.0, and 14.7 ± 0.9 months, respectively. The time of mean achievement of MCID, substantial clinical benefit, and PASS for SANE was 14.4 ± 1.0, 16.1 ± 1.0, and 15.5 ± 0.8 months, respectively. Patients with a higher preoperative VAS score achieved an earlier MCID for VAS (P = 0.014). However, patients with a higher preoperative ASES and SANE scores achieved delayed MCID for ASES and SANE (P = 0.026, and P < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Most patients achieved MCIDs around 1 year after arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction. A higher preoperative VAS score favours faster MCID achievement, while higher preoperative ASES and SANE scores contribute to delayed MCID achievement. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Prevalence, Timing, Locational Distribution, and Risk Factors for Heterotopic Ossification After Elbow Arthroscopy.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic techniques aim to reduce complications and accelerate recovery of the elbow after treatments for posttraumatic stiffness, arthritis diseases, lateral epicondylitis, ligament reconstruction, and elbow trauma. However, data on the true prevalence and characteristics of heterotopic ossification (HO) formation after elbow arthroscopy are limited. PURPOSE: To investigate the prevalence, timing, locational distribution, and risk factors of HO after elbow arthroscopy. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Data on 205 patients undergoing elbow arthroscopy by a single senior elbow surgeon at a single institution between May 2011 and January 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were evaluated at 2 weeks, 8 weeks, 6 months, and then annually after surgery or more frequently if HO developed, with a minimum of 1 year of postoperative follow-up. Postoperative anteroposterior and lateral elbow radiographs were taken at 2 weeks to rule out fracture and at 8 weeks to identify HO. The clinical outcomes were evaluated based on the pain visual analog scale; the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score; Mayo Elbow Performance Score; and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation scores before and after surgery. Bivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors affecting HO prevalence. RESULTS: Thirteen (12 male, 1 female) of 205 (6.3%) patients developed HO, with 10 (76.9%) with HO that formed on the medial compartment of the elbow. Ten (76.9%) patients were diagnosed at 8 weeks after arthroscopic surgery, 1 (7.7%) at 6 months after surgery, and 2 (15.4%) at 12 months after surgery. HO was not found at 2 weeks after surgery in any patient. The mean follow-up time was 3.5 years (range, 1.0-11.8 years). Eleven asymptomatic patients were treated nonoperatively, and 2 symptomatic patients underwent HO excision arthroscopically or had a combination of open surgery and arthroscopy. Age was a protective factor for HO formation (odds ratio [OR], 0.953; 95% CI, 0.910-0.999; P = .047). The risk factors for HO formation were tourniquet time (OR, 1.042; 95% CI, 1.019-1.065; P < .001) and surgical time (OR, 1.026; 95% CI, 1.011-1.041; P < .001). CONCLUSION: Among 205 patients who underwent elbow arthroscopy, HO was a minor complication of elbow arthroscopy, with a prevalence rate of 6.3%, and was usually located on the medial compartment of the elbow. Although the presence of HO may not affect the clinical outcomes in most patients, it should be carefully monitored for a minimum of 8 weeks postoperatively. Younger age, longer tourniquet time, and longer surgical time contributed to HO formation after elbow arthroscopy.

Evaluation of a New MRI-Based Classification of Graft Status After Superior Capsule Reconstruction.

Background: A classification system for the graft state after superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has not been described previously. Purpose: To introduce a new, MRI-based classification system for graft integrity after SCR and to evaluate the system according to postoperative outcomes. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. Method: Included were 62 consecutive patients who underwent SCR using autologous fascia lata graft between January 2013 and April 2021. Postoperative outcomes were assessed (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score, Constant score, pain visual analog scale [pVAS], range of motion [ROM], acromiohumeral distance [AHD], Hamada grade). Graft status was classified by 2 orthopaedic surgeons on postoperative MRI in accordance with the signal intensity and the presence or extent of the tear, as follows: type 1 (hypointense signal without tear), type 2 (hyperintense signal without tear), type 3 (partial-thickness tear), type 4 (full-thickness tear with partial continuity), and type 5 (full-thickness tear with complete discontinuity). Intra- and interobserver agreement were assessed using Cohen kappa. The correlation between postoperative outcomes (ASES score, Constant score, pVAS, ROM, AHD, and Hamada grade) and the SCR graft classification system was assessed with the Pearson correlation coefficient, and the outcomes were compared according to classification type. Results: Patients were classified according to the new system as follows: type 1 (n = 15), type 2 (n = 20), type 3 (n = 7), type 4 (n = 8), and type 5 (n = 12). There was excellent interobserver agreement (κ = 0.819) and intraobserver agreement (κ = 0.937 and 0.919). The classification system showed a moderate to high correlation with the ASES score (r = -0.451; P = .001), pVAS (r = 0.359; P = .005), AHD (r = -0.642; P < .001), and Hamada grade (r = 0.414; P < .001). Patients classified as having types 1 and 2 showed better outcomes in terms of ASES score, pVAS, ROM, and AHD compared with type 5 patients (P ≤ .021 for all). Conclusion: The new classification system was highly reproducible and showed clinical utility for both radiological and clinical evaluation after SCR.

Topographical Analysis of Pacinian Corpuscle in the Pulp of Human Cadaver Finger Tip Pulp: A Pilot Cadaver Study.

Background: The human hand is a specialised organ for fine motion and sensation and has a relatively large representation in the homunculus. The pathway of sensation starts from information sent by mechanoreceptors in the hand. This study reports the topography of the Pacinian corpuscle in the fingertips of a human cadaver. Methods: All 10 digits from both hands of a fresh-frozen cadaver were examined. Glabrous skin distal to the distal interphalangeal joint was harvested superficial to the periosteum including fat and subcutaneous tissue. The glabrous skin were divided into 10 sections that included five distal and five proximal sections. Modified gold chloride staining was performed. Sectioned specimens were observed under a light microscope and the density of Pacinian corpuscles was determined in each segment. The density of the corpuscles was compared between the radial/ulnar and proximal/distal segments and also between digits from the right hand versus those from the left hand. Results: Pacinian corpuscles were observed only in the subcutaneous tissue. There was no significant difference in density of the corpuscles between the distal and proximal segments or between the right and left hands. There was a statistically significant greater density of Pacinian corpuscles on the radial segments of all digits except the thumb. Conclusions: There is a greater density of Pacinian corpuscles on the radial side of the human fingertip in all digits except the thumb.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction Versus Primary Rotator Cuff Repair in Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: A Propensity Score-Matched Study.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (aSCR) has emerged as a treatment option for managing massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) given the unpredictable results after an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (aRCR). Yet, few comparative studies of aSCR and aRCR have been conducted. PURPOSE: To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between aRCR and aSCR in patients with MRCT. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A total of 163 cases of MRCT from 2010 to 2020 with follow-up ≥2 years were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, 102 had aRCR and 61 had aSCR using fascia lata autograft. Propensity score matching was used to select controls matched for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score, Constant score, pain visual analog scale (pVAS) score, range of motion (ROM), tear size, global fatty degeneration index, and acromiohumeral distance (AHD). Last, 33 cases in each group were selected after propensity score matching. Radiological assessment was conducted using serial postoperative magnetic resonance imaging. Pre- and postoperative findings-including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, pVAS, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and Constant scores and ROM-were assessed to compare clinical outcomes. For radiological outcomes, global fatty degeneration index, AHD, and healing rate were evaluated. Healing failure was defined as Sugaya classification IV or V in the aRCR group, as compared with a full-thickness tear of the graft in the aSCR group, which corresponded to Sugaya classification IV or V. RESULTS: Postoperative clinical outcomes were significantly improved at the final follow-up in both groups. In the aSCR group, postoperative forward flexion, pVAS, and AHD were significantly improved as compared with the aRCR group (mean, 161° vs 148° [P = .02]; 1.03 vs 1.64 [P = .047]; 7.00 vs 5.23 mm [P < .001], respectively). The healing rate was 20 of 33 (60.6%) for aRCR and 29 of 33 (87.9%) for aSCR (P = .022). CONCLUSION: aSCR and aRCR are effective and reliable treatment options for MRCT. However, when compared with aRCR, aSCR showed improved clinical outcomes, including pVAS score, postoperative ROM, and favorable radiological findings, including AHD and a higher healing rate.

The elbow is the load-bearing joint during arm swing.

BACKGROUND: Arm swing plays a role in gait by accommodating forward movement through trunk balance. This study evaluates the biomechanical characteristics of arm swing during gait. METHODS: The study performed computational musculoskeletal modeling based on motion tracking in 15 participants without musculoskeletal or gait disorder. A three-dimensional (3D) motion tracking system using three Azure Kinect (Microsoft) modules was used to obtain information in the 3D location of shoulder and elbow joints. Computational modeling using AnyBody Modeling System was performed to calculate the joint moment and range of motion (ROM) during arm swing. RESULTS: The mean ROM of the dominant elbow was 29.7°±10.2° and 14.2°±3.2° in flexion-extension and pronation-supination, respectively. The mean joint moment of the dominant elbow was 56.4±12.7 Nm, 25.6±5.2 Nm, and 19.8±4.6 Nm in flexion-extension, rotation, and abduction-adduction, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The elbow bears the load created by gravity and muscle contracture in dynamic arm swing movement.

Tibialis anterior tendon transfer using suture anchor provides excellent alternative treatment for relapse clubfoot: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Relapsed clubfoot is defined as the recurrence of any component of deformity after a complete correction. While the Ponseti method has been known to have excellent outcomes, several relapse cases have been reported. Thus, further surgical intervention is needed to achieve a good and reliable long-term outcome. PRESENTATION OF THE CASE: We report a presentation of a 5-year-old boy who came to the clinic with a relapsed bilateral clubfoot after serial Ponseti casting. Plantar fascia release, Achilles tendon lengthening, and tibialis anterior tendon transfer (TATT) were performed respectively followed by an above-knee cast. The patient gained acceptable walking balance and ability to perform high impact sports at one year follow-up. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: There are several factors contributing to the relapse clubfoot including adherence to post op foot abduction brace (FAB) protocol, muscle imbalance or inadequate correction of initial deformities. The current case report described a relapse clubfoot following serial Ponseti casting caused by non-compliance of the use of foot abduction brace. Further surgical interventions must be performed in the presence of relapse case of clubfoot. CONCLUSION: Relapse clubfoot is the presence of any recurring deformity following correction. Surgical intervention, especially TATT procedure provides a favorable outcome in treating patients with relapse clubfoot.

The Potency of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Metaanalysis of Randomized Controlled Trial.

Low back pain is one of the leading causes of disability in the world. Regenerative medicine can be one of the novel treatment breakthroughs in patients with low back pain, yet its use is still debatable. We performed a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for patients with chronic low back pain. Comprehensive database searches were performed in four databases. This study was conducted and reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Guideline and registered to PROSPERO. We included and examined randomized controlled trials that looked into research employing PRP for patients with chronic low back pain. Outcomes of interest include clinical enhancement of pain, which is demonstrated in pain scores. Three studies were included comprising 138 patients with chronic low back pain. After 1, 3, and 6 months after injection, there was a substantial reduction in the pain score difference between the PRP and control groups, demonstrating PRP's superiority over the control group in the treatment of chronic low back pain. PRP injection significantly enhances chronic low back pain in the first, third, and sixth months after injection compared to controls.

Reconstruction of multiple fingertip crush injuries with full-thickness skin grafting.

Fingertip crush injuries are commonly encountered as a result of workplace accidents causing significant morbidity. The primary goal of reconstruction is to restore function and sensibility, as well as a faster return to work. We reported a patient with multiple fingertip injuries presented 5 days following the initial injury. Copious irrigation and excisional debridement were performed, followed by a full-thickness skin graft harvested from the volar wrist. At the 4-month follow-up, all of the reconstructed fingertips achieved good functionality without any pain or sensory impairment. The length was well preserved and static two-point discrimination was comparable with the contralateral side. Full-thickness skin grafts may provide an excellent alternative reconstruction option in the management of multiple fingertip crush injuries.

Biomechanical impact of elbow motion in elbow stiffness.

BACKGROUND: A mechanical block in the elbow due to osteophytes in the olecranon fossa is a common clinical symptom for elbow stiffness. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: This study aims to understand the biomechanical characteristics or changes in the stiff elbow in the resting (or neutral) and swing position of the arm using a cadaveric model. The hypotheses included the following: (1) a difference exists in the articular contact pressure of the elbow by comparing the non-stiff and stiff models in in vivo studies; (2) the degree of stiffness would affect the increase of the joint loading of the elbow. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study, cadaveric study. METHODS: Eight fresh-frozen specimens from individuals of both sexes were included in the biomechanical study. The specimen was mounted on a custom-designed jig system with gravity-assisted muscle contracture to mimic the elbow in a standing position. The elbow was tested in two conditions (the resting and passive swing). Contact pressure was recorded for three seconds in the resting position, which was the neutral position of the humerus. By dropping the forearm from 90° of the elbow flexion, the passive swing was performed. The specimens were tested sequentially in three stages of stiffness (stage 0, no stiffness; stage 1, 30° of extension limitation; and stage 2, 60° of extension limitation). After data collection was completed in stage 0, a stiff model was sequentially created for each stage. The stiff model of the elbow was created by blocking the olecranon by inserting a 2.0 K-wire into the olecranon fossa horizontally with the intercondylar axis. RESULTS: The mean contact pressures were 279 ± 23, 302 ± 6, and 349 ± 23 kPa in stages 0, 1, and 2, respectively. The increases in the mean contact pressure in stages 2 versus 0 were significant (P < 0.0001). The mean contact pressures were 297 ± 19, 310 ± 14, and 326 ± 13 kPa in stages 0, 1, and 2, respectively. The peak contact pressures were 420 ± 54, 448 ± 84, and 500 ± 67 kPa in stages 0, 1, and 2, respectively. The increases in mean contact pressure in stage 2 versus 0 were significant (P = 0.039). The increases in peak contact pressure in stages 0 versus 2 were significant (P = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS: The elbow bears the load created by gravity and muscle contracture in the resting and swing motion. Moreover, extension limitation of stiff elbow increases the load bearing in the resting position and swing motion. Careful surgical management should be considered for meticulous clearance of bony spur around olecranon fossa to resolve the extension limitation of the elbow.