Arthroscopic Repair of Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears Using a Modified Mason-Allen Suture Technique With a Transosseous-Equivalent Construct: A Technical Note.

Iterative evolutions in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair aim to improve its biomechanical and biological properties. This technical note describes an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair technique that combines the advantages of a modified Mason-Allen suture technique with the advantages of an arthroscopic transosseous-equivalent construct. Two alternatives for creating this construct are described. The Mason-Allen stitch is easy to perform, is cost-effective, and increases tissue security without tendon strangulation. The arthroscopic transosseous-equivalent construct increases footprint contact pressure and coverage, aiding healing of the repaired rotator cuff.

Paget-Schroetter Syndrome in a Patient With Posterior Shoulder Subluxation: A Case Report.

ABSTRACT: Paget-Schroetter syndrome describes a primary thrombosis of the subclavian vein induced by effort. In most cases, the clinical presentation includes painful swelling, discoloration, and visible collateral circulation in the arm. Paget-Schroetter syndrome is treated with anticoagulation, rest, and physical therapy. In certain cases, invasive treatment such as thrombolysis and decompression surgery (first rib resection) may be necessary. We present the case of a 28-year-old healthy male patient with effort-induced deep vein thrombosis of the upper extremity after posterior shoulder subluxation. Anticoagulation, rest, and physical therapy were used to treat the patient, who became asymptomatic and was able to resume normal activities without restriction. To our knowledge, this is the first case of effort-induced upper extremity deep vein thrombosis after posterior shoulder subluxation. Paget-Schroetter syndrome is rare diagnosis that requires vigilance during musculoskeletal assessment for shoulder pain and swelling. The early detection, radiological confirmation, and prompt initiation of treatment are essential to successful management of Paget-Schroetter syndrome. The impact of associated posterior shoulder subluxation remains unclear.

Topical Preparations for Reducing Cutibacterium acnes Infections in Shoulder Surgery: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Cutibacterium acnes (C acnes) is a commensal skin bacterium, primarily found in sebaceous glands and hair follicles, with a high prevalence in the shoulder region. It is the most common pathogenic organism in prosthetic joint infections after shoulder arthroplasty. Because of its low virulence, its diagnosis remains difficult. PURPOSE: To evaluate the relative effects of topical preparations in reducing C acnes in shoulder surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: We searched the MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, and Cochrane Library databases in March 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any form of topical preparation in arthroscopic or open shoulder surgery were included. The primary outcome was a reduction in the number of positive C acnes cultures. Secondary outcomes were adverse events related to the application of topical preparations. We performed a network meta-analysis to facilitate simultaneous comparisons between multiple preparations across studies. We calculated differences between preparations using odds ratios and their 95% CIs. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. RESULTS: The search yielded 17 RCTs (1350 patients), of which 9 were suitable for the network meta-analysis (775 patients). Overall, 2 RCTs were deemed as having a low risk of bias, and 15 raised "some concerns" of bias. Preparations included benzoyl peroxide (BPO), BPO combined with clindamycin, chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide, povidone-iodine, and water with soap. Only BPO resulted in significantly lower odds of a positive C acnes culture compared with placebo or soap and water (odds ratio, 0.12 [95% CI, 0.04-0.36]). There was no statistically significant difference with all other topical preparations. The only adverse events were skin irritation from BPO and chlorhexidine gluconate in a small number of reported cases. CONCLUSION: BPO was the most effective topical agent in reducing the prevalence of C acnes in shoulder surgery. These results were limited by a combination of indirect and direct data. Future studies should focus on establishing the optimal frequency and duration of preoperative BPO to further reduce the burden of C acnes. REGISTRATION: CRD42022310312 (PROSPERO).

Clinical outcome of wedged glenoid reconstruction in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty for osteoarthritic retroverted glenoid: a minimum 2-year follow-up.

Background: Glenoid retroversion and humeral head subluxation is a progressive disorder due to abnormal force coupling and increased contact force. In situ placement of anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) components in this scenario results in edge loading, progressive subluxation, and early failure. Wedged glenoid components have been demonstrated to improve glenohumeral alignment, but have not been correlated with mid-term clinical outcomes. Methods: Patients undergoing TSA using a wedged all-polyethylene glenoid component for retroverted glenoid deformity were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Preoperative planning computed tomography was routinely performed and compared to postoperative correction on radiographic evaluation. Evidence of loosening was correlated to prospectively collect clinical outcome using patient-reported outcome measures. A matched group of neutrally aligned glenohumeral joints undergoing anatomic TSA was used to compare improvement in clinical outcomes. Results: Over a 5-year period, 17 patients with mean age 60 (range 43-81, standard deviation 10.5) were identified with a mean preoperative neoglenoid retroversion of 16.7° (standard deviation 4.5). At a mean follow-up of 43.8 months (range 27-60), no revision surgeries were undertaken. Improvement in the Oxford Shoulder Score was 18 points (P < .0001). The mean improvement was compared to a matched control group demonstrating a comparable magnitude of improvement of 20.4 points. Conclusion: Wedged polyethylene components for Walch B2-type glenoids in TSA yield acceptable correction of the joint line, excellent clinical outcomes, and survivorship is maintained in the short term. The clinical and radiological outcome demonstrated similar improvement to that seen in A type deformities.

Validating the Glenoid Track Concept Using Dynamic Arthroscopic Assessment.

Background: Failure after isolated Bankart repair has led surgeons to consider when to address the Hill-Sachs lesion, which is thought to be a contributor to recurrent instability. One approach utilizes the glenoid track concept to determine whether a Hill-Sachs lesion is classified as "off-track," suggesting that the addition of a remplissage procedure may aid stability. However, the accuracy and reliability of using this approach require validation using an appropriate reference. Purpose: To determine the accuracy and reliability of using the glenoid track concept against dynamic arthroscopic assessment of Hill-Sachs lesion engagement. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A total of 49 patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair surgery for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability were enrolled in this diagnostic validation study. Shoulders were classified as on-track or off-track using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) and static arthroscopic measurements. These classifications were compared with dynamic arthroscopic assessment (engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion on the anterior glenoid rim in the 'athletic position') to determine their accuracy and reliability. Results: The 3DCT-based measurements to determine glenoid track status had a higher positive predictive value (66% vs 42%), higher specificity (47% vs 42%), and higher accuracy (65% vs 59%) compared with static arthroscopic measurements. Static arthroscopic measurements to determine glenoid track status had a higher negative predictive value (96% vs 64%) and higher sensitivity (96% vs 81%) compared with 3DCT-based measurements. Interrater reliability (Krippendorff α) was 'fair' for determining the glenoid track status using 3DCT (0.368; 95% CI, 0.217-0.519) and 'moderate' for static arthroscopic measurements (0.523; 95% CI, 0.364-0.666). Intrarater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 3,k) was 'moderate' for 3DCT measurements (0.660; 95% CI, 0.444-0.798) and 'good' for static arthroscopic measurements (0.769; 95% CI, 0.629-0.862). Conclusion: Determining glenoid track status using either 3DCT or static arthroscopic measurements yielded moderate accuracy and reliability. Surgeons using the glenoid track concept to aid surgical decision-making in traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder instability should utilize 3DCT or static arthroscopic measurements with caution.

Subacromial Balloon Spacer for the Massive Irreparable Cuff Tear.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of the review is to provide an updated overview of a relatively novel but controversial surgical device (InSpace subacromial balloon, Stryker, Kalamazoo, MI) that can be readily incorporated into the armamentarium of the shoulder surgeon. The authors review the critical clinical and surgical decision-making aspects of InSpace. A recommended surgical technique and rehabilitation protocol are outlined. The authors present a nuanced view of the balloon spacer in the continuum of care of the irreparable rotator cuff tear. RECENT FINDINGS: Within the last year, two Level I clinical trials have been published, and the data from these studies offer conflicting evidence regarding the utility of the subacromial balloon spacer. The current review contrasts these two recent studies and offers a framework by which the available evidence can be practically understood with respect to clinical decision-making. The literature currently supports a limited indication for use of InSpace: the elderly, low-demand patient with preserved active range of motion with an operatively irreparable, posterosuperior rotator cuff tear with an intact subscapularis. The InSpace subacromial balloon spacer is a simple device that can yield substantial improvements in clinical outcomes among a subset of patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. InSpace is not a panacea for the complex, irreparable rotator cuff tear. Individualized decision-making is necessary in this diverse and challening patient population.

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs and Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors Do Not Affect Healing After Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To determine whether non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors affect healing rate, functional outcomes, and patient satisfaction after rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the use of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Primary outcomes included healing and retear rate, determined by radiological imaging. Secondary outcomes included shoulder-specific outcome measures and the visual analog scale (VAS). Risk of bias was graded using the Cochrane risk-of-bias v2.0 tool. The GRADE framework was used to assess certainty of findings. RESULTS: Seven RCTs with a total of 507 patients were included (298 randomized to NSAID/COX-2 vs 209 randomized to control). NSAIDs use did not yield a difference in retear rate (P = .77). NSAIDs were shown to significantly reduce pain in the perioperative period (P = .01); however, no significant difference was present at a minimum of 6 months (P = .11). COX-2 inhibitors did not significantly reduce pain (P = .15). Quantitative analysis of ASES and UCLA scores showed NSAIDs significantly improved functional outcomes versus control (P = .004). COX-2 inhibitors did not significantly improve functional outcomes (P = .15). Two trials were deemed "low" risk of bias, four trials were graded to have "some concerns", and one trial was graded to have "high" risk of bias. Retear rate and functional PROMs were deemed to have "low" certainty. VAS pain scale was graded to have "moderate" certainty. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that NSAIDs do not affect healing rate after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, but they do significantly improve postoperative pain and functional outcomes. No significant difference was seen in pain or functional outcomes with the use of COX-2 inhibitors. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I, meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Editorial Commentary: Acute Treatment Including Cerclage Result in Best Surgical Outcomes for High-Grade Acromioclavicular Joint Separations.

Despite years of research, optimal treatment of acute high-grade acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separations remains controversial. ACJ separations occur in a "multiplanar" fashion and identification of horizonal plane instability is paramount to differentiate between high-grade versus low-grade injuries. As surgeons, we treat a self-selected group of patients referred for surgery, and our physiotherapy colleagues may rehabilitate many patients with both "low-grade" and "high-grade" separations who compensate. Of importance, ACJ separations stabilized <3 weeks after injury have the best chance of healing in a close-to anatomic position. The addition of the ACJ cerclage augmentation improves horizontal plane stability while the soft tissues heal and likely improves outcome.

How has Covid-19 impacted the training of Urology trainees in South Wales?

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether Covid19 had a tangible effect on urology training in Wales. There has been no Welsh data available concerning how training has changed during the covid pandemic. This survey evaluated the overall impact on training, with the primary aims to identify changes in clinical and academic activities and evaluate a trainees' wellbeing during the crisis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Online questionnaires were sent to all Urology Trainees; n = 20 (83% response) working in the Welsh deanery in the United Kingdom, asking about changes in training particularly within operating list, out-patient clinics, diagnostic activities, educational courses, teaching sessions and examinations. RESULTS: Across Wales trainees experienced a reduction in operating procedures, clinics and teaching courses. Due to a redesign of services, there was only a minimal impact on training for cancer diagnostics and Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) meetings. The majority of trainees felt their index procedures and ability to complete training will be affected. CONCLUSION: Cancer work, including cancer related theatre lists, diagnostics and MDT were maintained. Trainees lacked confidence that they would reach their operative competencies and struggle to successfully complete training. Following BAPIO discussion, we suggest that training programmes readjust to focus on areas where exposure has been lacking.

How to treat stiffness after proximal humeral fractures?

Shoulder stiffness is a frequent complication after proximal humeral fractures treated with or without surgery. Shoulder stiffness is associated with high rates of absence from work and a significant financial burden for the healthcare system. Secondary stiffness is characterized by additional extracapsular adhesions, including subacromial, subcoracoid, and subdeltoid spaces, usually derived from post-fracture or post-surgical extraarticular hematomas. Several secondary causes may coexist with capsular and extracapsular adhesions decreasing the shoulder motion, such as malunion, nonunion, metalwork failure, infection, and osteoarthritis, among others. Conservative treatment, usually prescribed for primary shoulder stiffness, has shown unfavorable results in secondary stiffness, and surgical intervention may be required. Surgical interventions need to be patient-specific. Usually, open or arthroscopic fibro-arthrolysis and subacromial release are performed, together with plate removal and biceps tenotomy/tenodesis. In severe osteoarthritis, shoulder replacement may be indicated. Ruling out infection is recommended in every case.

Clinical and radiologic outcomes of Lima ProMade custom 3D-printed glenoid components in primary and revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with severe glenoid bone loss: a minimum 2-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to report the clinical and radiologic outcomes of patients undergoing primary or revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using custom 3D-printed components to manage severe glenoid bone loss with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. METHODS: Following ethical approval, patients were identified and invited to participate. Inclusion criteria were (1) severe glenoid bone loss necessitating the need for custom implants and (2) patients with definitive glenoid and humeral components implanted more than 2 years prior. Included patients underwent clinical assessment using the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), Constant-Murley score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES), and the quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH). Radiographic assessment included anteroposterior and axial projections. Patients were invited to attend a computed tomography (CT) scan to confirm osseointegration. Statistical analysis used descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation [SD]) and paired t test for parametric data. RESULTS: Eleven patients declined to participate. Five patients were deceased prior to study commencement, leaving 42 remaining patients in this analysis. Three patients had revision surgery before the 2-year follow-up; of these, 2 retained their custom glenoid components. Mean follow-up was 31.6 months from surgery (range 24-52 months). All 4 scores improved: OSS from a mean 15 (SD 8.4) to 36 (SD 12) (P < .001), Constant-Murley score from a mean 15 (SD 11.2) to 52 (SD 20.1) (P < .001), QuickDASH from a mean 70 (SD 21) to 31 (SD 24.8) (P = .004), and the ASES score from a mean 22 (SD 17.8) to 71 (SD 23.3) (P = .007). Radiologic evaluation demonstrated good osseointegration in all but 1 included patient. CONCLUSION: The utility of custom 3D-printed components for managing severe glenoid bone loss in primary and revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty yields significant clinical improvements in this complex cohort. Large complex glenoid bone defects can be managed successfully with custom 3D-printed glenoid components.

Validation of three classification systems for posterior malleolus fractures of the ankle.

PURPOSE: A number of classification systems exist for posterior malleolar ankle fractures. The user reliability of these classification systems remains unclear. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of three commonly utilised classification systems for fractures of the posterior malleolus. METHODS: Imaging of 60 patients across 2 hospitals with ankle fractures including a posterior malleolar fragment was identified. All patients had undergone plain radiographs and computed tomography of their injured ankle as part of their normal standard of care. 9 surgeons including pre-resident/registrar level, resident/registrar level, and attending/consultant level applied the Haraguchi, Bartonícek, and Mason classifications to these fractures, at two timepoints, at least 4 weeks apart. The order was randomised between assessments. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using Fleiss' κ and standard error (SE). Intra-rater reliability was assessed using Cohen's κ and standard error (SE). RESULTS: Inter-rater reliability (Fleiss' κ) was calculated for the Haraguchi classification as 0.588 (SE 0.023), for the Bartonícek classification as 0.626 (SE 0.019), and the Mason classification as 0.541 (SE 0.098). Intra-rater reliability (Cohen's κ) was 0.761 (SE 0.098) for the Haraguchi classification, 0.761 (SE 0.091) for the Bartonícek, classification, and 0.724 (SE 0.096) for the Mason classification. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability for three classification systems for posterior malleolus fractures. Based on definitions by Landis and Koch (Biometrics 33:159-174, 1977), inter-rater reliability was rated as 'moderate' for the Haraguchi and Mason classifications and 'substantial' for the Bartonícek classification. Similarly, the intra-rater reliability was rated as 'substantial' for all three classifications.

Clinical effectiveness of tenotomy versus tenodesis for long head of biceps pathology: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The comparative clinical effectiveness of common surgical techniques to address long head of biceps (LHB) pathology is unclear. We synthesised the evidence to compare the clinical effectiveness of tenotomy versus tenodesis. DESIGN: A systematic review and meta-analysis using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. DATA SOURCES: EMBASE, Medline, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library of randomised controlled trials were searched through 31 October 2021. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials, reporting patient reported outcome measures, comparing LHB tenotomy with tenodesis for LHB pathology, with or without concomitant rotator cuff pathology. Studies including patients treated for superior labral anterior-posterior tears were excluded. No language limits were employed. All publications from database inception to 31 October 2021 were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Screening was performed by two authors independently. A third author reviewed the article, where consensus for inclusion was required. Data were extracted by two authors. Data were synthesised using RevMan. Inverse variance statistics and a random effects model were used. RESULTS: 860 patients from 11 RCTs (426 tenotomy vs 434 tenodesis) were included. Pooled analysis of patient-reported functional outcome measures data demonstrated comparable outcomes (n=10 studies; 403 tenotomy vs 416 tenodesis; standardised mean difference (SMD): 0.14, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.32, p=0.13). There was no significant difference for pain (Visual Analogue Scale) (n=8 studies; 345 tenotomy vs 350 tenodesis; MD: -0.11, 95% CI -0.28 to 0.06, p=0.21). Tenodesis resulted in a lower rate of Popeye deformity (n=10 studies; 401 tenotomy vs 410 tenodesis; OR: 0.29, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.45, p<0.00001). Tenotomy demonstrated shorter operative time (n=4 studies; 204 tenotomy vs 201 tenodesis; MD 15.2, 95% CI 1.06 to 29.36, p<0.00001). CONCLUSIONS: Aside from a lower rate of cosmetic deformity, tenodesis yielded no significant clinical benefit to tenotomy for addressing LHB pathology. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020198658.

Topical Treatments in Reducing Propionibacterium Acnes Infection in Shoulder Surgery: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Introduction: Propionibacterium acnes is a gram-positive anaerobe that is found on the dermis and epidermis of the shoulder and is the most commonly identifiable cause of periprosthetic shoulder joint infection. Various topical strategies have been investigated to reduce the prevalence of P acnes, with several demonstrating efficacy in reducing the positive culture. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to review the literature to assess the effectiveness of topical preparations in reducing the prevalence of P acnes in shoulder surgery. Methods: The study protocol was designed and registered prospectively on PROSPERO (International prospective register for systematic reviews). Databases used for the literature search will include MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and The Cochrane Library. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the use of any topical preparation against placebo, in all types of shoulder surgery, will be included. Our primary outcome is the number of colony forming units of P acnes. Secondary outcomes will include adverse events such as skin irritation, wound dehiscence, and the incidence of revision surgery due to infection. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 and Jadad score will be used to assess the quality of methodology of the studies. Statistical analysis will be used to assess inconsistency and bias across included studies. Comparable outcome data will be pooled and analysed quantitatively or qualitatively as appropriate. Ethics and dissemination: No ethical clearances required for this study. This systematic review and meta-analysis will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Highlights: Various topical strategies have been investigated to reduce the prevalence of P acnes, the most common identifiable cause of periprosthetic shoulder joint infection, with several demonstrating efficacy in reducing the positive culture.This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of topical preparations in reducing the prevalence of P acnes in shoulder surgery.Our primary outcome is the number of colony forming units of P acnes. Registration: PROSPERO 2022 CRD42022310312.

Glenoid Component Placement Assisted by Augmented Reality Through a Head-Mounted Display During Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty.

Component positioning is a key factor for avoiding complications and improving functional outcomes in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Preoperative planning can improve component positioning. However, translating the preoperative plan into the surgical procedure can be challenging. This is particularly the case for the glenoid component positioning in severe deformity or limited visualization of the scapula. Different computational-assisted techniques have been developed to aid implementation of the preoperative plan into the surgical procedure. Navigated augmented reality (AR) refers to the real world augmented with virtual real-time information about the position and orientation of instruments and components. This information can be presented through a head-mounted display (HMD), which enables the user to visualize the virtual information directly overlaid onto the real world. Navigated AR systems through HMD have been validated for shoulder arthroplasty using phantoms and cadavers. This article details a step-by-step guide use of a navigated AR system through HMD, in the placement of the glenoid bony-augmented component.

Clinical Effectiveness of Various Surgical Reconstruction Modalities for Acute ACJ Separation: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Acute acromioclavicular joint separation is a common injury to the shoulder. Various surgical reconstruction methods exist when operative management is required, but the optimal procedure is not known. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to review the literature to assess the clinical effectiveness of various surgical reconstruction modalities used for acute ACJ separation. Methods: The study protocol was designed and registered prospectively on PROSPERO (International prospective register for systematic reviews). Literature search will include MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and The Cochrane Library electronic databases. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating surgical procedures for acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separation will be included. Our primary outcome is any functional patient-reported outcome measure related to the shoulder. Secondary outcomes may include radiological measurements, objective measurements of strength testing, range of motion, other patient-reported outcome measures not specific to the shoulder such as the Visual-Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, timelines for return to sport or work, and rate of complications. Risk of bias will be assessed within each study using The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 and the Jadad score. Inconsistency and bias across included studies will be assessed statistically. Comparable outcome data will be pooled and analysed quantitatively or qualitatively as appropriate. Ethics and dissemination: This study did not require ethical clearance. We plan to publish this systematic review and meta-analysis in a peer-reviewed journal and present the results at various national and international conferences. Highlights: There is currently variation in surgical synthetic ligament reconstruction techniques for acute acromioclavicular separation, with no clear consensus established.This systematic review evaluates the clinical effectiveness of various surgical reconstruction modalities used for acute ACJ separation.Our primary outcome is any functional patient-reported outcome measure related to the shoulder.

Editorial Commentary: Causes of Failure After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.

Causes of failure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair include patient factors, tear factors, and surgical factors. Failure may occur at the suture-tendon interface, the bone-tendon interface, or the bone-anchor interface. Low bone mineral density (BMD) in the greater tuberosity has been reported as a prognostic factor for recurrent tears following rotator cuff repair, and although most studies suggest the tendon-to-suture interface as the "weakest link," patients with low BMD may have lower suture anchor pull-out strength. A potential alternative cause of failure is the suture cutting through the greater tuberosity bone in patients with low BMD. Knotless suture bridge constructs or single-row constructs may be more susceptible to a suture cutting through the bone. The knotted suture bridge technique, wherein the medial mattress sutures are tied, may to some extent "shield" against complete cut-through. When bone quality appears poor, a common response is to change the type of anchor, size of anchor, or the location of the anchor. Other factors, such as bone preparation, suture type, suture tensioning, and anchor type (e.g., internal vs external locking), may all potentially affect suture cutting through weak bone.

The use of low intensity pulsed ultrasound in the foot and ankle.

Low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy has demonstrated clinical effectiveness in achieving union in a variety of fracture situations.Few studies have investigated the effectiveness of LIPUS therapy in foot and ankle surgery.The overall rate of union in all published studies relating to the use of LIPUS in a variety of foot and ankle fracture and fusion situations is 95%.Some studies suggest lower healing rates (~ 67%) when LIPUS therapy is used to treat hindfoot fusion nonunion.A well-powered, high-quality, randomized controlled trial is needed to demonstrate the clinical and cost effectiveness of LIPUS therapy in foot and ankle surgery. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:217-224. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200045.