Functional outcome after bicompartmental knee replacement for medial and patellofemoral osteoarthritis.

INTRODUCTION: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is used for tricompartmental knee osteoarthritis, while unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is preferred for unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis. Bicompartmental knee arthroplasty (BKA) aims to address 2 knee compartments by combining 2 UKA's or 1 UKA with a patellofemoral replacement. This study examines the clinical outcomes of BKA, focusing on pain alleviation and knee function. The aim of this study is to report the functional outcome of BKA and see if this aligns with BKA outcomes from literature in terms of patient reported outcome measurements (PROMs) and range of motion (ROM) after a 2-year follow-up. Additionally, radiographic alignment, implant survivorship, adverse events and length of stay are secondary outcomes. METHODS: This is a cohort study of 21 patients who underwent BKA for medial and patellofemoral osteoarthritis. The patients had follow-up for at least 2 years postoperatively. PROMs were assessed using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Knee Society Score (KSS), Oxford Knee Score, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). ROM was measured using a goniometer. Pre- and postoperative radiographic coronal alignment was measured using standard full leg radiographs. Patient demographics, implant survivorship, length of stay and adverse events were recorded. RESULT: Twenty-one patients (23 knees) were included, with a mean follow-up of 41 months (standard deviation [SD] 12 months; range 24-59 months). Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) demonstrated significant improvements, with 80% achieving good to excellent OKS and KSS scores. KOOS scores were similar to scores found in literature. The WOMAC score was higher in our results compared to other authors. Which indicates worse outcome. The mean preoperative hip-knee-ankle angle (HKAA) was 2.4 degrees varus (SD 1.9 degrees; range 1.2 degrees valgus - 6.1 degrees varus), while the mean postoperative HKAA was 0.3 degrees valgus (SD 2.8 degrees; range 4.6 degrees valgus - 5.6 degrees varus) (p < 0.001). Postoperative range of motion averaged 117 degrees (SD 10 degrees; range 98-132). CONCLUSIONS: BKA shows promise in alleviating pain and improving knee function in patients with medial and patellofemoral osteoarthritis. Challenges include the risk of revision and technical difficulties during surgery. Comparative studies suggest similar outcomes between BKA and TKA, with potential advantages for younger, more active patients. Further research, particularly randomized trials with larger cohorts, is necessary to elucidate the long-term benefits and drawbacks of BKA compared to other knee arthroplasty options.

Comparison of Surgical Burden, Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes According to the Severity of Baseline Sagittal Imbalance in Adult Spinal Deformity Patients.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical impact of the baseline sagittal imbalance severity in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent ≥ 5-level fusion including the pelvis, for ASD with a ≥ 2-year follow-up. Using the Scoliosis Research Society-Schwab classification system, patients were classified into 3 groups according to the severity of the preoperative sagittal imbalance: mild, moderate, and severe. Postoperative clinical and radiographic results were compared among the 3 groups. RESULTS: A total of 259 patients were finally included. There were 42, 62, and 155 patients in the mild, moderate, and severe groups, respectively. The perioperative surgical burden was greatest in the severe group. Postoperatively, this group also showed the largest pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis mismatch, suggesting a tendency towards undercorrection. No statistically significant differences were observed in proximal junctional kyphosis, proximal junctional failure, or rod fractures among the groups. Visual analogue scale for back pain and Scoliosis Research Society-22 scores were similar across groups. However, severe group's last follow-up Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores significantly lower than those of the severe group. CONCLUSION: Patients with severe sagittal imbalance were treated with more invasive surgical methods along with increased the perioperative surgical burden. All patients exhibited significant radiological and clinical improvements after surgery. However, regarding ODI, the severe group demonstrated slightly worse clinical outcomes than the other groups, probably due to relatively higher proportion of undercorrection. Therefore, more rigorous correction is necessary to achieve optimal sagittal alignment specifically in patients with severe baseline sagittal imbalance.

Short-Term Radiographic Outcomes of Bone Versus Metallic Augmented, Central Screw Type Baseplate in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Matched Case-Control Study.

Background: Although glenoid bone grafting and metallic augmented baseplates have demonstrated success in restoring the glenohumeral joint line in the recent literature, there remain no consensus guidelines defining the use of one versus the other. Methods: Between 2017 and 2020, 15 primary RTSA with screw-in metallically augmented glenoid baseplates were identified and 2:1 matched by age, sex, and body mass index with primary bony-augmented glenoid baseplate patients. Patients with previous glenoid implantation or fracture were excluded. Charts, routine radiographic series (Grashey, Scapula Y, Axillary lateral), and 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) scans were retrospectively reviewed. Structural patient-specific metal or bony augmentation was indicated based on preoperative glenoid morphology as identified by 3D CT. Aseptic failure was identified as hardware breakage and/or shift in glenoid baseplate component position. Results: There were 45 eligible cases with mean age of 65.7 years (range 44-85 years) and 65.5 years (range 42-82 years) for the metallic-augmented and bone graft group, respectively. Correspondingly, mean follow up was 22.6 months (range 12-53 months), and 27.3 months (range 11-53 months). At latest follow up, there were no baseplate failures in the metallic augment group and 2 baseplate failures (7%) in the bone graft group at a mean of 42.5 months (range 32-53 months) postoperatively. Mean age of the bone failure group was 64.5 years (range 64-65 years). Conclusion: Contemporary reversed shoulder arthroplasty glenoid baseplate designs appear to have low incidence of failure. Further analysis is necessary to determine if a critical degree of glenoid retroversion or inclination is preferable with a specific form of augmentation. Level of Evidence: III; Retrospective Cohort Comparison.

Correlation Between Radiological and Functional Outcomes Following Operative and Nonoperative Management of Acetabular Fractures: A Prospective Observational Study.

INTRODUCTION: The management of acetabular fractures is a complicated orthopedic procedure that has been advancing with time. Newer radiological tools like CT scans help surgeons to identify and manage these fractures more attentively. The study was conducted to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients with acetabular fractures managed either conservatively or by open reduction and internal fixation. MATERIALS AND METHOD: The study was done on 35 patients aged 18-60 years, with acetabular fractures treated either surgically or conservatively. Clinical scorings and radiological scoring were only taken and noted at three- and six-month intervals using Matta's radiographic scoring and modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel clinical hip scoring. Clinico-radiological variables and complications were compared between the two groups. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analyses using IBM Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) 2.0 version software (Chicago, IL, USA) at a level of significance being p<0.05. RESULTS:  Out of a total of 35 patients, 19 were treated surgically and 16 conservatively. In patients belonging to the surgical treatment group, a maximum of 57.9% were aged 40-50 years, whereas the maximum patients (50%) of the conservative treatment group were aged <40 years, with male predominance in both groups. The type of fracture was recorded according to Judet and Letournel in both groups. Merle d'Aubigne's scoring and Matta's hip score were recorded at three and six months in both groups. A positive correlation was seen between radiological and functional outcomes at three and six months, which means that the higher the radiological scoring, the better the functional outcome of the patient managed either conservatively or surgically in the entire cohort. CONCLUSION:  Our study revealed that surgically managed patients had better functional and radiological outcomes than the patients who were conservatively managed at six months of follow-up. However, this is associated with more complications depending on fracture complexity and initial presentation of hip dislocation. The higher the radiological scoring, the better the functional outcome of the patient managed either conservatively or surgically in the entire cohort.

Comparison of Three Grafting Options for Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion: A Retrospective 3-Arms Case Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion achieves foraminal radicular and central medullary decompression and spinal stabilization in staged lesions. Many bone graft materials have been developed for the reconstruction of cervical lordosis and the restoration of intervertebral height after corpectomy. The PolyEtherKetoneEtherKetoneKetone (PEKEKK) is a semicrystalline thermoplastic polymer that can be reinforced with carbon fibers to create long and highly fenestrated rectangular cervical cages for corpectomy. This study aimed to evaluate the radiological outcomes of an innovative PEKEEKK cage compared with others grafting options. METHODS: Forty-five consecutive patients who underwent surgery with PEKEKK cages between 2017 and 2019 at a spine institution, were matched with 15 patients with a titanium mesh cylindrical cage (TMC) and 15 patients with a tricortical structural iliac bone graft. The restoration of vertebral height and cervical lordosis postoperatively, and subsidence of the construct were evaluated. Complications were reported. RESULTS: The minimal follow-up was 5.1±2years. A better, but nonsignificant, postoperative gain in height was observed for PEKEKK (+8.1 ± 20%) and TMC cages (+8.2 ± 16%) than for iliac crest autograft reconstruction (+2.3 ± 15%, P = 0.119). The mean subsidence at the last follow-up was greater for TMC cages (-10.2 ± 13%), but was not significant, with -6.1 ± 10% for PEKEKK cages and -4.1 ± 7% for iliac crest autografts (P = 0.223). The gain in segmental cervical lordosis was significant (P < 0.001) and remained stable in all the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although an improvement in radiologic anatomical parameters can be achieved with all cage groups, the PEKEKK cage can be considered as a safe alternative for reducing subsidence.

Medial Protrusio Technique Versus Structural Autologous Bone-Grafting Technique in Total Hip Arthroplasty for Crowe Type II to III Hip Dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether acetabular reconstruction techniques have any impact on clinical outcomes. This study aimed to determine (1) whether acetabular reconstruction techniques influenced the position of the acetabular cup and (2) whether clinical outcomes based on the acetabular reconstruction techniques differ in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) with Crowe II to III developmental dysplasia of the hip. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 69 patients (74 hips) who were treated with cementless THA using medial protrusio technique (MPT) or structural autologous bone-grafting technique (SABT). There were 39 patients (41 hips) included in the MPT group and 30 patients (33 hips) in the SABT group. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: All patients were followed up for at least 3 years. There were similar results between the 2 groups in terms of blood loss, Harris hip score, leg length discrepancy, cup inclination, cup anteversion, and proportion of cup coverage (P > .05). The operative time was significantly longer in the SABT group compared with the MPT group (P < .001). The postoperative vertical center of rotation was significantly higher in the MPT group compared with the SABT group (P = .001), and postoperative horizontal center of rotation was significantly shallower in the SABT group compared with the MPT group (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The MPT and SABT provide similar clinical and radiographic outcomes in the management of Crowe II to III developmental dysplasia of the hip by cementless THA. However, the MPT has the advantage of a shorter operative time, whereas the SABT is more conducive to placing the acetabular cup in an anatomic position. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Therapeutic, Case-Control Study.

Anterior Referencing versus Posterior Referencing in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing clinical and radiographic outcomes between anterior referencing (AR) and posterior referencing (PR) systems in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). (2) Methods: This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Central databases were searched in August 2022. Data extracted for quantitative analysis included the Knee Society Score (KSS), the Western Ontario and McMaster University (WOMAC) index, knee ROM, posterior condylar offset (PCO), and the posterior condylar offset ratio (PCOR). The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Modified Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment. Randomized controlled trials were assessed with version 2 of the risk of bias tool (RoB2), recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration. (3) Results: For the meta-analysis, five comparative studies met the eligibility criteria. There were 584 patients in all, 294 of whom had AR TKA and 290 of whom had PR TKA. Three studies with 181 and 179 cases in the AR and PR groups, respectively, had reported preoperative KSS. A statistically significant difference was found favoring the PR group. (p = 0.01). The same cases' postoperative range of motion was documented, and a statistically significant difference was discovered in favor of the AR group. Postoperative PCO was described in four studies in 243 and 241 cases in the AR and PR TKA groups, respectively, and a statistically significant difference was found with a higher postoperative PCO in the PR group (p = 0.003). Postoperative PCOR was calculated in two studies in the same cases in the AR and PR TKA groups and a statistically significant difference was found with a higher postoperative PCOR in the PR group (p = 0.002). (4) Conclusion: Anterior referencing for TKA may result in improved knee ROM postoperatively, while posterior referencing may produce larger PCO and PCOR on postoperative imaging. However, no significant differences were noted in clinical outcomes between the AR and PR groups at final follow-up.

The Outcome of under 10 mm Single-Incision Surgery Using a Non-Specialized Volar Plate in Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: The distal radius fracture is a common orthopedic injury. We aimed to share the surgical steps and investigate the outcomes of treating distal radius fractures with wounds ≤10 mm using a globally accessible locking plate. METHODS: We collected 46 patients who underwent surgery via a <10 mm wound, with a control group consisting of 40 patients who underwent conventional procedures. Both groups were treated using the same volar plate. We compared the radiographic reduction quality, including volar tilt angle, radial inclination angle, and ulna variance. Additionally, clinical outcomes, such as pain assessed using VAS, Q-Dash score, and PRWE, were evaluated. Patient satisfaction with the wound was also analyzed. The follow-up time for the clinical outcomes was 24.2 ± 13.47 months. RESULTS: There were no differences in the quality of reduction in parameters such as the volar tilt angle (p = 0.762), radial inclination angle (p = 0.986), and ulna variance (p = 0.166). Both groups exhibited comparable results in pain VAS (p = 0.684), Q-Dash score (p = 0.08), and PRWE (p = 0.134). The ≤10 mm incision group displayed an increase in satisfaction with the wound (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Treating distal radius fractures with a <10 mm wound using a non-specialized locking plate is a feasible approach. It does not compromise the quality of fracture reduction or functional scores and improves wound satisfaction.

Perioperative Complications and Radiographic Outcomes Following Cervical Laminoplasty: A Review of 105 Cases from a Single Academic Center.

OBJECTIVE: To assess complications and to compare preoperative and postoperative radiographic measures in patients who underwent cervical laminoplasty. METHODS: We evaluated patients undergoing cervical laminoplasty between 2011 and 2022 at an academic medical center. Patient demographics, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and preoperative and postoperative radiographic parameters were recorded. RESULTS: Of 150 patients undergoing cervical laminoplasty during 2011-2022, 105 met the inclusion criteria. We identified 22 (21.0%) adverse events in 20 patients: 4 intraoperative (3.8%), 10 perioperative (9.5%), and 8 delayed postoperative (7.6%). Among adverse events, 13 (12.4%) were judged to be minor and 9 (8.6%) were judged to be major complications. Revision surgery was required in 6 (5.7%) patients. Both preoperative and postoperative cervical spine radiographic imaging was available in 47 (44.8%) of the 105 patients. Mean preoperative and postoperative C2-7 Cobb angles were 14.7° and 12.3°, respectively (P = 0.04). Mean preoperative and postoperative sagittal vertical axis measurements were 29.2 mm and 33.3 mm, respectively (P = 0.07). Mean preoperative and postoperative T1 slopes were 32.3° and 30.2°, respectively (P = 0.07). CONCLUSIONS: Cervical laminoplasty carries a significant risk of adverse events, the majority of which are minor, and has a low rate of reoperation (5.7%). The procedure does not result in significant changes in sagittal vertical axis or T1 slope. Cervical laminoplasty remains a valuable surgical option for selected patients with cervical myelopathy.

No Significant Radiological Signs of Adult Spinal Deformity Progression after a Mean of 11 Years of Follow-Up Following Harrington Rod Instrumentation Removal and Watchful Waiting.

The study aimed to assess long-term radiological outcomes in patients from our institution who were primarily treated for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with surgical correction using Harrington rod (HR) instrumentation, and afterward with watchful waiting of residual spinal deformity after HR removal, whereby no patient consented to spinal deformity correction. A single-institution case series of 12 patients was retrospectively evaluated. Preoperative and most recent post-instrumentation removal radiographic measurements were compared, along with baseline characteristics. The average age of patients (all females) at the time of HR instrumentation removal was 38 ± 10 years (median 40, range 19-54). The mean follow-up from the HR instrumentation implantation to the HR instrumentation removal was 21 ± 10 years (median 25, range 2-37), with a further mean of 11 ± 10 years (median 7, range 2-36) of follow-up following HR instrumentation removal and watchful waiting. No significant change in radiological parameters was observed: LL (p = 0.504), TK (p = 0.164), PT (p = 0.165), SS (p = 0.129), PI (p = 0.174), PI-LL (p = 0.291), SVA (p = 0.233), C7-CSVL (p = 0.387), SSA (p = 0.894), TPA (p = 0.121), and coronal Cobb angle (proximal (p = 0.538), main thoracic (p = 0.136), and lumbar (p = 0.413)). No significant change in coronal or sagittal parameters was observed in this single-institution long-term radiological outcome study of adults following HR instrumentation removal and watchful waiting of residual spinal deformity.

Bicondylar tibial plateau fracture dislocations with an intact anterolateral cortical rim: A surgical technique.

A displaced medial tibial plateau fracture with central and lateral impaction, but an intact anterolateral cortical rim, is an uncommon variant of bicondylar tibial plateau fracture that presents a number of challenges. Without a lateral metaphyseal fracture line to work through, it is challenging to address central and lateral impaction. Previously published techniques for addressing this fracture pattern describe an intra-articular osteotomy of the lateral plateau to aid visualization and reduction, or use a posterolateral approach to the proximal tibia with or without an osteotomy of the proximal fibula. This study presents a technique which utilizes standard dual incision approaches and does not involve an intra-articular osteotomy of the lateral tibial plateau or a posterolateral approach. A case series was conducted evaluating radiographic and functional outcomes of 8 patients.

Halo-pelvic traction in the treatment of severe scoliosis: a meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To provide better evidence of the efficacy and safety of preoperative halo-pelvic traction on the improvements of deformity and pulmonary functions in patients with severe scoliosis. METHODS: Electronic database searches were conducted including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science and Embase. All studies of halo-pelvic traction for the management of severe spinal deformity were included. We referred to a list of four criteria developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to assess the quality of included studies. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS: Based on the study selection criteria, a total of eight articles consisting of a total of 210 patients were included. Statistically significant differences were found in coronal Cobb angle (P < 0.001), sagittal Cobb angle (P < 0.001) and height (P < 0.001) between pre- and post-traction. Sensitivity analysis was conducted, and there were substantial changes in heterogeneity with preoperative thoracoplasty subgroup in coronal Cobb angle (P < 0.001). Three trials including 74 subjects reported FVC and FEV1 predicted value between pre- and post-traction. There were statistically significant differences in FVC, FVC%, FEV1 and FEV1% (P < 0.001). The complication rate was 6.6-26.7%, and symptoms disappeared after reasonable traction strategy and intensive care. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative halo-pelvic traction achieved significant improvements in spinal deformity and pulmonary functions, with minor and curable complications. Thus, it is an effective and safe solution before surgery and may be the optimal choice for severe scoliosis. In light of the heterogeneity and limitations, future researches are needed to better determine the long-term efficacy on comprehensive assessment and to explore the appropriate traction system.

Allogeneic umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium (secretome) for treating posterior cruciate ligament rupture: a prospective single-arm study.

BACKGROUND: Outcomes of the current management of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) rupture are still unsatisfactory. Recent literature demonstrated the efficacy of the paracrine action of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in ligament rupture healing. This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of arthroscopic administration of allogeneic umbilical cord-derived MSC (UC-MSC) conditioned medium (secretome) for the treatment of PCL rupture. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a prospective study including 12 individuals with PCL rupture grade 1 or 2 who were performed arthroscopy and secretome administrations. The functional and radiologic outcome of the knee was examined one year following intervention. RESULTS: Preoperatively, posterior drawer test revealed three cases of grade 2+ and nine cases of grade 1+, whereas the final follow-up revealed two cases of grade 2+ and ten cases of grade 1+ PCL rupture. At final follow-up, the mean scores for the IKDC, modified Cincinnati, and Lysholm were 90.58 ± 4.30, 90.90 ± 2.15, and 89.42 ± 3.16, respectively. The means of the serial hop tests were 90.33, 94.16, 93.66, and 95.33 for single, triple, crossover, and time hop tests, respectively. Five patients were able to resume competitive sport after an average of 25.8 weeks (25-38). The final MRI analysis revealed that six knees (50%) regained PCL continuity with low signal intensity, five knees (41.6%) returned near-normal PCL continuity, and one knee (8.3%) regained PCL continuity but with deformed outlines. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term follow-up indicated that the secretome generated from allogenic UC-MSC produces excellent functional and radiographic results in grade I-II PCL rupture.

Nonoperatively managed small- to medium-sized subscapularis tendon tears: magnetic resonance imaging evaluation with a minimum of 5 years of follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Isolated or combined subscapularis (SSC) tendon tears are frequently found in patients with shoulder pain. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the structural changes associated with SSC tear in a consecutive series of patients with nonoperatively treated small size to midsize SSC tendon tears using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS: In this retrospective case series, all patients with an isolated or combined SSC tendon tear treated nonoperatively between 1999 and 2019 were identified from our MRI and clinical databases. Twenty-one patients with a mean age of 52.6 years (range 26.6-64.8, standard deviation 9.3) with a second MRI scan at a minimum of 5 years of follow-up were enrolled. The mean follow-up was 8.6 years (range 5.6-12.6, standard deviation 1.8). Initial and last follow-up MRI scans were used to determine concomitant cuff lesions, size of the SSC tear, fatty infiltration of the SSC muscle, and biceps pathology. RESULTS: Five patients had an isolated SSC lesion; 7 patients had a concomitant tear of the supraspinatus, and 9 patients had a supraspinatus and anterior infraspinatus tendon tear. At diagnosis, 14 patients had a type 1 SSC lesion as classified by Lafosse et al, 4 patients had type 2, and 3 patients had type 3 lesions. Nineteen patients (90%) were found to have an SSC tear progression of at least one Lafosse grade (P < .001); however, no tear had progressed to an irreparable type lesion (defined as Lafosse type 5). In addition, the size of SSC tendon tears increased significantly from 75 mm2 to 228 mm2 (P < .001). At the final MRI scan, the grading of fatty infiltration increased by 1 grade in 4 cases and by 2 grades in 4 cases (P = .042). At the final follow-up, in eight patients, the condition of the long head of biceps tendon was unchanged from the initial MRI; in nine patients, there was a newly subluxated biceps tendon, and in 6 patients, there was a newly ruptured long head of biceps tendon (P < .001). CONCLUSION: After a mean of 8.6 years, almost all nonoperatively treated SSC tendon tears had increased in size, but only one-third showed additional progression of muscle fatty degeneration on MRI scan. None of the SSC lesions became irreparable during the observation period.

The lexicon for periprosthetic bone loss versus osteolysis after cervical disc arthroplasty: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic bone loss is a common observation following arthroplasty. Recognizing and understanding the nature of bone loss is vital as it determines the subsequent performance of the device and the overall outcome. Despite its significance, the term "bone loss" is often misused to describe inflammatory osteolysis, a complication with vastly different clinical outcomes and treatment plans. Therefore, the goal of this review was to report major findings related to vertebral radiographic bone changes around cervical disc replacements, mitigate discrepancies in clinical reports by introducing uniform terminology to the field, and establish a precedence that can be used to identify the important nuances between these distinct complications. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, using the keywords "cervical," "disc replacement," "osteolysis," "bone loss," "radiograph," and "complications." A total of 23 articles met the inclusion criteria with the majority being retrospective or case reports. RESULTS: Fourteen studies reported periprosthetic osteolysis in a total of 46 patients with onset ranging from 15-96 months after the index procedure. Reported causes included: metal hypersensitivity, infection, mechanical failure, and wear debris. Osteolysis was generally progressive and led to reoperation. Nine articles reported non-inflammatory bone loss in 527 patients (52.5%), typically within 3-6 months following implantation. The reported causes included: micromotion, stress shielding, and interrupted blood supply. With one exception, bone loss was reported to be non-progressive and had no effect on clinical outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS: Non-progressive, early onset bone loss is a common finding after CDA and typically does not affect the reported short-term pain scores or lead to early revision. By contrast, osteolysis was less common, presenting more than a year post-operative and often accompanied by additional complications, leading to revision surgery. A greater understanding of the clinical significance is limited by the lack of long-term studies, inconsistent terminology, and infrequent use of histology and explant analyses. Uniform reporting and adoption of consistent terminology can mitigate some of these limitations. Executing these actionable items is critical to assess device performance and the risk of revision. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: Diagnostic: individual cross-sectional studies with consistently applied reference standard and blinding.

The Morphological Changes in Adjacent Segments Amongst Patients Receiving Anterior and Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Retrospective Study.

Adjacent segment disease (ASD) is troublesome condition that has proved to be highly related to spinal malalignment after spinal surgery. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the morphological changes after anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) and oblique LIF (OLIF) to establish the differences between the two surgical methods in terms of possible ASD avoidance. Fifty patients, half of whom received ALIF while the other half received OLIF, were analyzed with image studies and functional outcomes during the pre-operative and post-operative periods, and 2 years after surgery. Image measurements obtained included spinal-pelvic parameters, index lordosis (IL), segmental lordosis (SL), anterior disc height (ADH), posterior disc height (PDH) and adjacent segment disc angle (ASDA). The ADH and PDH in the adjacent segment decreased in the two groups while OLIF showed greater decrease without radiological ASD noted at 2-year follow-up. Both groups showed an increase in IL after surgery while ALIF showed greater improvement. No statistical difference was identified in functional outcomes between LIFs. We suggest that both ALIF and OLIF can restore adequate lordosis and prevent ASD after surgery. However, it should be noted that patient selection remains crucial when making any decision involving which of the two methods to use.

The radiological outcome in lumbar interbody fusion among rheumatoid arthritis patients: a 20-year retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Clinical outcomes amongst Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients have shown satisfactory results being reported after lumbar surgery. The increased adoption of the interbody fusion technique has been due to a high fusion rate and less invasive procedures. However, the radiographic outcome for RA patients after receiving interbody fusion has scarcely been addressed in the available literature. METHODS: Patients receiving interbody fusion including ALIF, OLIF, and TLIF were examined for implant cage motion and fusion status at two-year follow-up. Parameters for the index correction level including ADH, PDH, WI, SL, FW, and FH were measured and compared at pre-OP, post-OP, and two-year follow-up. RESULTS: We enrolled 64 RA patients at 104 levels (mean 64.0 years old, 85.9% female) received lumbar interbody fusion. There were substantial improvement in ADH, PDH, WI, SL, FW, and FH after surgery, with both ADH and PDH having significantly dropped at two-year follow up. The OLIF group suffered from a higher subsidence rate with no significant difference in fusion rate when compared to TLIF. The fusion rate and subsidence rate for all RA patients was 90.4 and 28.8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: We revealed the radiographic outcomes of lumbar interbody fusions towards symptomatic lumbar disease in RA patients with good fusion outcome despite the relative high subsidence rate amongst the OLIF group. Those responsible for intra-operative endplate management should be more cautious to avoid post-OP cage subsidence.

Can a fibular malunion be corrected by a Z-shaped fibular osteotomy?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients who underwent realigning Z­shaped fibular osteotomy. METHODS: Between January 2007 and December 2014, 28 patients with a painful fibular malunion underwent a Z-shaped realignment fibular osteotomy. The mean age was 42.2 ± 14.1 years (range 19.1-67.8 years) and the mean follow-up was 7.0 ± 1.7 years (range 4.0-9.7 years), with no loss to follow-up. Weight-bearing radiographs were used to determine the distal fibula alignment based on Weber's criteria. Degenerative changes of the tibiotalar joint were assessed using the Kellgren-Lawrence scale. Clinical assessment included pain evaluation, measurement of ankle range of motion (ROM), sports activities, and quality of life outcomes. RESULTS: There were no intraoperative or perioperative complications. No delayed unions or nonunions were observed. One patient had radiographic progression of degenerative changes in the tibiotalar joint. Postoperative complications included removal of hardware (n = 15) and arthroscopic tibiotalar joint debridement (n = 2). At the last follow-up the mean visual analog scale (VAS) decreased from 6.5 ± 1.1 to 2.1 ± 1.1 (p < 0.001),the ROM improved from 39ºâ€¯± 6º to 45ºâ€¯± 4.5º (p < 0.001), the short form health survey questionnaire (SF-36) physical and mental outcome scores improved from 49 ± 8 to 84 ± 7 (p < 0.001) and from 61 ± 4 to 83 ± 5 (p < 0.001), respectively. CONCLUSION: The Z­shaped realignment osteotomy of the distal fibula can provide pain relief and functional improvement in the treatment of fibular malunion. Further studies are needed to address long-term outcomes in this patient cohort.

Natural history of noise and squeaking in cementless ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Ceramic-on-ceramic (COC) total hip arthroplasty (THA) was developed to reduce wear debris, and consequently the occurrence of osteolysis and aseptic loosening. The purpose of the present study was to determine the incidence and natural history of noise including squeaking after COC THA, and to clarify whether clinical outcomes and any demographic and implant-related factors are associated with noise from these ceramic bearings. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational study of 137 primary COC THAs between 2004 and 2009 at our institute. The Mean follow-up was for 10.5 years. All patients were followed up with an office visit to obtain information regarding noise, pain, and function. The correlations between the noise, and patient demographic, radiographic, and implant-related factors were evaluated. RESULTS: Noise developed in 30 hips (21.9%), specifically squeaking in 2 (1.5%) of the 137 hips during the follow-up period. Noise including squeaking was not associated with pain or functional outcomes. There was significant correlation between noise and cup anteversion, in that cup anteversion of patients with noise was smaller than that in those without noise. No significant correlation was found between noise and any other patient demographic including age, sex, height, body weight, or body mass index. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis with revision for any reason and an aseptic loosening of either component as the end point, revealed a cumulative survival rate at 10 years of 98.4% and 99.1% respectively. CONCLUSION: The long-term clinical and radiographic outcome of cementless COC THA is excellent, but we should be vigilant for noise from COC bearings.

Comparison of Minimally Invasive and Traditionally Open Surgeries in Correction of Hallux Valgus: A Meta-Analysis.

This meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and traditional open surgery for the correction of symptomatic hallux valgus. A literature search was conducted, and a total of 11 studies with 1166 (52.98%, cases) patients treated with MIS and 1035 (47.02%, cases) patients treated with traditionally open surgery were included in the meta-analyses. The pooled data (odds ratio [OR] 6.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.20 to 12.32, Z = 5.35, p < .01) indicated that patients treated with MIS had a significantly higher rate of excellent-good radiographic angular results than did patients treated with open surgery. However, the incidences of complications (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.24 to 1.91, Z = 0.75, p = .45), recovery time (standard mean difference ‒3.09, 95% CI ‒7.98 to 1.80, Z = 1.24, p = .22), and patient-reported satisfaction (OR 2.76, 95% CI 0.72 to 10.65, Z = 1.48, p = .14) were similar between patients with hallux valgus treated with MIS and patients treated with open surgery. Heterogeneity between the sources of the pooled data threatened the validity of our observations, and we used statistical methods that aimed to limit such biases. At this time, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm or refute the results of this investigation.