Kinematic stabilization after the Latarjet procedure: beyond the triple blocking effect.

BACKGROUND: The rationale for the Latarjet procedure was described as the "triple blocking" effect. Satisfactory surgical outcomes have been reported after surgery. However, it has been reported that the "triple blocking" effect increases joint stability, but it does not fully restore it. Moreover, the procedure is nonanatomic and concerns remain regarding the effects. The study of scapulohumeral rhythm, which is a clinical parameter used for the functional evaluation of shoulder kinematics, can offer new perspectives on the rationale for the procedure. This study aimed to compare the shoulder kinematics of patients after the Latarjet procedure to the shoulders of a healthy population using magnetic and inertial measurement units with a motion analysis system. METHODS: A retrospective study with prospective data collection was conducted on 28 patients who underwent the open Latarjet procedure for recurrent shoulder instability. At a minimum 12-month follow-up, each patient was evaluated by assessing the range of motion, the Rowe score, and the Constant-Murley score. Patients were examined using the ShowMotion 3D kinematic tracking system (NCS Lab, Modena, Italy), which uses wireless wearable noninvasive magnetic and inertial measurement units sensors to assess the three-dimensional kinematics of the shoulder. For each plane of elevation (ie, flexion and abduction), the scapulohumeral rhythm was described by three scapulothoracic rotations (ie, protraction-retraction, mediolateral rotation and posterior-anterior tilting) as a function of humeral anteflexion or humeral abduction. RESULTS: The mean time from first shoulder dislocation to surgery was 6.6 ± 3 years (range, 1-12 years). No intraoperative complications occurred, and computed tomography (CT) performed 3 months after surgery showed graft union in all patients. After a mean follow-up time of 32.4 ± 20 months (range, 12-96), the mean Constant-Murley score and Rowe scores were 94.5 ± 4.8 (range, 84-100) and 96.7 ± 3.5 (range, 90-100), respectively. All patients showed no signs of glenohumeral arthritis on X-ray examination. Scapular posterior tilt and scapular internal rotation were significantly greater in the patient group than in the healthy population for the flexion-extension and abduction-adduction movements along the whole shoulder range of motion (all P < .05); no differences were found in upward/downward scapular rotation. CONCLUSION: A greater scapular posterior tilt and scapular internal rotation were observed after the Latarjet procedure. The modified position of the scapula was maintained during the entire range of motion, suggesting a shoulder-stabilizing kinematic effect in addition to the bony, sling and bumper effects.

Femoral head allograft for glenoid bone loss in primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty: functional and radiologic outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Several techniques have been adopted during primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) to manage glenoid bone defect. Among bone grafts, humeral head autograft is currently the mainstream option. However, autologous humeral heads may be unavailable or inadequate, and allografts may be a viable alternative. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the functional and radiologic outcomes of femoral head allografts for glenoid bone defects in primary RSA. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study with prospective data collection enrolling 20 consecutive patients who underwent RSA with femoral head allografts for glenoid bone defects. Indications for surgery were eccentric cuff tear arthropathy in 10 cases (50%), concentric osteoarthritis in 9 cases (45%), and fracture sequelae in 1 case (5%). Each patient was evaluated preoperatively and at follow-up by radiologic and computed tomography (CT) and by assessing the range of motion (ROM) and the Constant-Murley score (CMS). A CT-based software, a patient-specific 3D model of the scapula, and patient-specific instrumentation were used to shape the graft and to assess the position of K-wire for the central peg. Postoperatively, CT scans were used to identify graft incorporation and resorption. RESULTS: After a median follow-up of 26.5 months (24-38), ROM and CMS showed a statistically significant improvement (all P = .001). The median measures of the graft were as follows: 28 mm (28-29) for diameter, 22° (10°-31°) for angle, 4 mm (2-8 mm) for minimum thickness, and 15 mm (11-21 mm) for maximum thickness. Before the surgery, the median glenoid version was 21.8° (16.5°-33.5°) for the retroverted glenoids and -13.5° (-23° to -12°) for the anteverted glenoids. At the follow-up, the median postoperative baseplate retroversion was 5.7° (2.2°-1.5°) (P = .001), and this value was close to the 4° retroversion planned on the preoperative CT-based software. Postoperative major complications were noted in 4 patients: 2 dislocations, 1 baseplate failure following a high-energy trauma, and 1 septic baseplate failure. Partial graft resorption without glenoid component failure was observed in 3 cases that did not require revision surgery. CONCLUSION: The femoral head allograft for glenoid bone loss in primary RSA restores shoulder function, with CMS values comparable to those of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals. A high rate of incorporation of the graft and satisfactory correction of the glenoid version can be expected after surgery. The management of glenoid bone defects remains a challenging procedure, and a 15% risk of major complication must be considered.

Lateral versus medial approach for total knee arthroplasty for valgus knee deformity shows comparable functional outcomes, hip-knee-ankle angle values, and complication rates: a meta-analysis of comparative studies.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this meta-analysis of comparative studies was to update the current evidence on functional and radiographic outcomes and complications between medial and lateral approaches for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for valgus knee deformity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central databases were used to search keywords and a total of ten studies were included. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed. Data extracted for quantitative analysis included the Knee Society score (KSS), range of motion (ROM), surgical time, hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), and number and types of complications. Random- and fixed-effect models were used for the meta-analysis of pooled mean differences (MDs) and odds ratios (ORs). The Mantel-Haenszel method was adopted. RESULTS: A total of 1008 patients were identified, of whom 689 and 319 underwent TKA for valgus knee deformity with lateral and medial approach, respectively. The mean age was 70 ± 9.5 and 67.3 ± 9.6 years for the lateral and medial approaches, respectively. The mean follow-up was 37.8 ± 21.9 and 45.9 ± 26.7 months for the lateral and medial approach groups, respectively. Significantly higher functional outcomes were found for the medial approach, as measured by the postoperative KSS (MD = 1.8, 95% CI [0.48, 3.12], P = 0.007) and flexion ROM (MD = 3.12, 95% CI [0.45, 5.79], P = 0.02). However, both of these differences were lower than the minimal clinically important difference. Comparable surgical time and postoperative HKA angle values (MD = 0.22, 95% CI [- 0.30, 0.75], P = 0.40) between the two surgical approaches were found. The incidence of periprosthetic joint infections, fractures, transient peroneal nerve injuries, and deep vein thrombosis was comparable. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis of comparative studies showed that when lateral and medial approaches are used for total knee arthroplasty for valgus knee deformity, comparable functional outcomes in terms of the KSS and ROM, surgical time, and postoperative hip-knee-ankle angle values can be expected. Similar rates of periprosthetic joint infection, fracture, and peroneal nerve injury were also found. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER ID: CRD42023392807.

Arthroscopic capsular release for frozen shoulder: when etiology matters.

PURPOSE: No therapeutic intervention is universally accepted for frozen shoulder, and the most effective management to restore motion and diminish pain has yet to be defined. The aim of this study was to investigate functional and psychological outcomes in patients who underwent arthroscopic capsular release for a frozen shoulder. METHODS: A retrospective study with prospective data collection was conducted with 78 patients suffering from frozen shoulder resistance to conservative treatment. Considering the etiology, there were 36 (46.2%) idiopathic, 31 (39.7%) postoperative, and 11 (14.1%) posttraumatic cases. Preoperatively, each patient was evaluated with the range of motion (ROM) assessment and the Constant-Murley score (CMS). At follow-up, the 4-point subjective satisfaction scale (SSS), the ROM assessment, the SF-12 questionnaire, the numerical rating scale (NRS) for the subjective assessment of pain, the CMS and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were assessed. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up of 54.2 ± 22.3 months, ROM and CMS showed a statistically significant improvement between pre- and postoperative values (all p < 0.001). Before surgery, the mean CMS was 36.9% that of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals, and all patients showed a CMS lower than the normative data. At the final follow-up visit, the mean CMS was 99.9% that of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals, and 49 (62.8%) patients showed a CMS equal to or higher than the normative data. The mean increase in the CMS was 56.1 ± 8.3 points. The mean SSS, HADS-A, HADS-D, and NRS were 3.7 ± 0.5, 2.5 ± 1.6, 2.2 ± 1.3, and 2.2 ± 1.0, respectively. All patients returned to their previous level of work and sports activity after 2 and 2.5 months, respectively. The multivariate analysis showed the association between a higher postoperative CMS and the idiopathic etiology of a frozen shoulder (p = 0.004, ß = 3.971). No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperatively, four patients (5.1%) were treated with intra-articular steroid injections to manage residual symptoms. One patient (1.3%) with a postoperative frozen shoulder showed persistent symptoms and underwent a new successful arthroscopic capsular release. CONCLUSION: High patient satisfaction and statistically significant ROM and CMS recovery can be achieved after arthroscopic capsular release to manage frozen shoulder. Better functional outcomes are expected when the etiology is idiopathic. Results can help surgeons identify the patients who will most benefit from surgery and should be discussed with the patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Better functional outcomes and a lower infection rate can be expected after superior capsular reconstruction in comparison with latissimus dorsi tendon transfer for massive, irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears, if left untreated, may result in cuff tear arthropathy, which causes shoulder disability and pain. The primary outcome of this systematic review was to evaluate differences in functional outcomes between the arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) for the treatment of massive, irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears without arthritis. The secondary outcome was to compare complication and reoperation rates between the 2 surgical procedures. METHODS: The PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Central databases were searched using keywords, and 20 studies were included in this review. Data extracted for quantitative analysis included the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, the Constant-Murley score, the subjective shoulder value, the range of motion, the visual analog scale for pain, numbers and types of complications, and reoperation rate. The preoperative fatty degeneration of the muscles and the preoperative and follow-up acromiohumeral distance and glenohumeral osteoarthritis according to the Hamada grading system were also reported. RESULTS: A total of 1112 patients were identified, among whom 407 and 399 underwent SCR and LDTT, respectively. The SCR group showed a higher mean age at the time of operation (64.5 ± 7.8 vs. 62.1 ± 8.9 years; P < .001). The SCR group showed a lower rate of previous surgical procedures on the shoulder (35 out of 407 vs. 111 out of 399; P < .001) and a shorter mean follow-up (30.4 ± 7.5 vs. 36.3 ± 10.3 months; P < .001). Patients who underwent SCR reported significantly better functionality and residual pain as measured by the Constant-Murley score (75.5 ± 11.2 vs. 65.6 ± 22.8, P < .001), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (84.3 ± 13 vs. 67.7 ± 23, P < .001), the subjective shoulder value (79.4 ± 13 vs. 64.4 ± 23, P < .001), and the visual analog scale (1.4 ± 2 vs. 2.8 ± 3, P < .001) than patients who underwent LDTT. A greater acromiohumeral distance (5.8 ± 2.5 vs. 7.6 ± 2.7, P < .001) was found in the SCR group. The SCR group showed a significantly lower infection rate (0.2% vs. 2.8%., P = .003) and a higher graft failure rate (12.3% vs. 6.8%, P = .012). No differences in terms of reoperation for graft failure (1% vs. 2.3% for SCR and LDTT, respectively; P = .172) or for conversion to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (1.7% vs. 2% for SCR and LDTT, respectively; P = .800) were found. CONCLUSION: Patients undergoing SCR report better functional outcomes and greater acromiohumeral distance than those undergoing LDTT. The LDTT group shows a significantly higher infection rate, while the SCR group shows a significantly higher graft failure rate, but there are no differences in terms of reoperation between the 2 surgical procedures.

Postoperative psychological factors and quality of life but not shoulder brace adherence affect clinical outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

BACKGROUND: Despite the high prevalence, there is no consensus for postsurgical management after rotator cuff repair. We aimed to assess the impact of psychological well-being on patients who underwent rotator cuff repair. We also investigated correlations and possible predictors between patient demographics and adherence to the use of the shoulder brace and outcomes in terms of shoulder functionality and quality of life. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study with prospective data collection enrolling 120 consecutive patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy for rotator cuff tear repair. Each patient was clinically evaluated after a mean follow-up of 24.2 (±9.8) months using (1) the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scale, (2) the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), (3) the Rotator Cuff Quality of Life (RC-QoL), (4) the visual analog scale, and (5) the Medical Adherence Measure. RESULTS: The final sample consisted of 100 patients (45 females, 45%) averaging 60.9 (±8.5) years. The average brace wearing time was 3.4 (±0.6) weeks, with an adherence superior to 80% in 84% of cases, and 96% of patients were living with family members. The mean postoperative DASH scores were 20.1 (±16.7), 23.4 (±25), and 18.9 (±21.5) for the general, work, and sport sections, respectively. The mean Medical Adherence Measure score reached 72.5 (±14.2) points, and the RC-QoL mean score was 30.4% (±20.5). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression scores' continuous mean values were 5.1 (±3.4) and 3.9 (±3.6), respectively. The DASH, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression, and RC-QoL scores directly correlated with each other, and all these questionnaires directly correlated with the visual analog scale scores. Moreover, we found a direct correlation (r = 0.204, P = .033) between the female sex and adherence to the brace and a direct correlation (r = 0.242, P = .015) between adherence to the brace and the number of weeks it was worn according to the medical recommendation. A correlation between lower educational qualifications and poorer outcomes was found. No correlation emerged between adherence to the brace and functional results. According to the regression analysis, diabetes was found to be a predictor of worse postoperative DASH scores (ß = 0.245, P = 0.28). CONCLUSION: A lower perceived quality of life was associated with worse functional results, anxiety and depression symptoms, and pain after rotator cuff repair surgery. The adherence to the use of the shoulder brace was associated with the female sex and a longer prognosis, but no correlation emerged between adherence to the brace and functional outcomes.

Arthroscopic repair for isolated subscapularis tear: successful functional outcomes and high tendon healing rate can be expected nine years after surgery.

BACKGROUND: Literature describing outcomes and integrity after isolated subscapularis (SSC) tendon repair is emerging but remains limited to a few small case series with short-term follow-up. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes and repair integrity in patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of isolated SSC tears. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted with the following inclusion criteria: (1) primary and elective shoulder arthroscopy for isolated SSC repair, (2) type III (a full-thickness tear in the upper two-thirds of the tendon) or IV (a complete tear without tendon retraction) SSC tear according to the Lafosse classification, and (3) a minimum 24-month follow-up. Preoperatively, the range of motion (ROM) and the Constant-Murley score (CMS) and at follow-up, the ROM, the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Rating Scale, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and the CMS were evaluated; an ultrasonographic assessment of tendon healing was performed according to the Sugaya classification. RESULTS: The final sample consisted of 45 patients with an average age of 55 ± 9 years. After a mean follow-up time of 107 ± 54 months, the mean UCLA and DASH scores were 8.7 ± 1.3 and 42.2 ± 6.4, respectively. ROM and CMS showed statistically significant improvements (all P < .001). Before surgery, the mean CMS was 49% that of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals, and all patients showed a CMS lower than the normative data. At the final follow-up visit, the mean CMS was 94.2% that of sex- and age-matched healthy individuals, and no patients showed CMS of 30 or less. The mean increase in the CMS was 41.4 ± 9.8 points (range, 23-60 points). The ultrasonographic assessment showed SSC tendon healing in 39 (86.7%) cases; tendon retear was recorded in 5 (13.3%) cases. All scores directly correlated with the healing of the tendon. A higher postoperative DASH score was associated with male sex (P = .039, ß = 5.538) and a longer follow-up period (P = .044, ß = 0.001). The postoperative CMS (P < .001) and UCLA scores (P = .001) were significantly higher in patients younger than 60 years of age at surgery than in older individuals. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic repair of isolated SSC tears achieves excellent clinical and functional results at a mean of 9 years postoperatively, with a satisfactory healing rate. Better functional outcomes correlate with SSC tendon integrity and were observed in male patients and in those younger than 60 years at surgery.

Revision surgery for periprosthetic elbow infection: eradication rate, complications, and functional outcomes-a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the outcomes of revision surgery after periprosthetic elbow infection (PEI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighteen studies with 332 PEI that underwent revision surgery were included. Demographics, laboratory and microbiological data, types of implants, surgical techniques with complications and reoperations, eradication rates, and clinical and functional outcomes were reported. RESULTS: Staphylococcus aureus was the most common microorganism (40%). Pre-operatively, the mean white blood cell count was 8400 ± 4000 per microliter; the mean C-reactive protein level was 41.6 ± 66.9 mg/dl, and the mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 45 ± 66.9 mm/h. The Coonrad-Morrey total elbow prosthesis represented 41.2% of the infected implant, and it also represented the most common system used for the PEI revision surgery. Two-stage revision and debridement and implant retention (DAIR) were the most common procedures performed for PEI, and, on the whole, they represented 35.7 and 32.7%, respectively. The eradication rate was 76% with 2-stage, 71% with resection arthroplasty (RA), 66.7% with 1-stage, 57.7% with DAIR, and 40% with arthrodesis (EA). DAIR showed a significantly lower eradication rate than 2-stage (P = 0.003). The mean postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score was significantly higher in patients who underwent DAIR, and 2-stage compared with RA (P < 0.001 for all). Postoperative flexion-extension ROM was significantly higher in patients who underwent DAIR compared with 1-stage, 2-stage, and RA (P < 0.001 for all). Moreover, 1-stage and 2-stage showed a significantly greater postoperative flexion-extension ROM compared with RA (P < 0.001 for all). Reoperations occurred in 40% of patients after EA, 33.3% after 1-stage, 26.9% after DAIR and RA, and 24.1% after 2-stage. Conversion to amputation occurred in 2.2% of patients after RA and 1% after DAIR. CONCLUSIONS: Two-stage revision and DAIR are the most common procedures used to manage PEI; however, the former procedure showed a significantly higher eradication rate. Resection arthroplasty showed a high eradication rate, but postoperative lower clinical and functional outcomes limit the indications for this technique. One-stage procedure showed a limited role in the current practice of PEI treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Arthroscopic Latarjet for Primary Shoulder Instability With Off-Track Lesions or Revision Surgery Yields Satisfactory Clinical Results and Reliable Return to Sport and Work at Minimum 3-Year Follow-Up.

PURPOSE: To retrospectively evaluate clinical and radiologic outcomes and return to sport and to work of patients after arthroscopic Latarjet stabilization for primary instability or revision surgery; factors influencing and determining results and potential predictors for clinical outcomes also were evaluated. METHODS: This is a retrospective study including patients older than 18 years old who underwent arthroscopic Latarjet stabilization for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability with off-track lesions, or for cases of recurrence after previous surgery, from 2011 to 2017. Patients were assessed preoperatively and at a minimum 3 years of follow-up using the Rowe score, the University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Score and Simple Shoulder Test score; the range of motion, satisfaction rate, return to work and sport, perception of discomfort during sporting and daily activities, and complications and recurrence after surgery were also evaluated. The integration of the coracoid graft and the position of the screws were examined by computed tomography scan. RESULTS: At a mean follow-up time of 6 ± 2 years, 93 patients (95 shoulders) showed significant improvement of all scale scores (P < .001), 97.8% of the patients had returned to the same working condition as before surgery, and all the patients who practiced sports preoperatively (85; 91.4%) returned to sport after surgery; 97.9% of patients were satisfied with surgery. The complication rate was 5.4%, and 2 cases (2.1%) of recurrence occurred, both after high-energy trauma. At an average of 17 ± 13 months postoperatively, computed tomography scans showed 4 (6.6%) stable nonunions, 9 (14.8%) superior, and 1 (1.6%) inferior lyses of the graft; a correct positioning of the graft was observed in 86.9% of the cases. Greater satisfaction, fewer complications, less pain during daily activities, and a lower number of reoperations were associated with a shorter time between the first dislocation episode and surgery (P = .019, P < .001, P = .014, and P = .005, respectively). Complications were directly associated with older patient age at operation (P = .001). A greater number of nonunions was found in patients with increased angle between the line linking the posterior and anterior glenoid rim and the screw axis (P = .040) and a medial axial position or a lower coronal position of the graft (both P = .010). A lower age at the time of surgery predicted better Rowe scores at follow-up (P < .001), and a lower age at the time of the first episode of dislocation predicted better postoperative Simple Shoulder Test scores (P = .026). CONCLUSIONS: At a mean 6-year follow-up time, excellent clinical outcomes, and radiological results, with few complications, high rates of satisfaction and return to work and sport and low sports anxiety can be expected after arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. A shorter time between the first dislocation episode and surgery was associated with higher satisfaction, fewer complications, less pain during daily activities and lower reoperations; a lower age at the operation was associated with lower complications.

Soccer players show the highest seasonal groin pain prevalence and the longest time loss from sport among 500 athletes from major team sports.

PURPOSE: Groin pain is a widely recognized medical issue among athletes. Groin pain can affect both player and team performance and sometimes can be a career-ending injury. The aim of this study was to assess seasonal groin pain prevalence and the average seasonal time loss from sport for each injury in different team sport athletes. The hip and groin functionality at the beginning of the following season was also investigated. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was undertaken on 600 team sport athletes (soccer, futsal, basketball, volleyball, and water polo players). The seasonal prevalence of groin pain, level of competition (professional and non-professional), time loss, and concomitant injuries in addition to groin pain were reported and analyzed. The Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) was used to assess hip and groin pain and function related to sport and activity. RESULTS: Among the 506 (84%) players included, 123 players (24.3%) reported groin pain. Overall, soccer players reported the highest groin pain prevalence (32.5%) followed by futsal (25.5%), basketball (25.2%), water polo (17.6%) and volleyball players (13.6%). Professional soccer, futsal and basketball athletes showed higher groin pain prevalence in comparison with non-professional athletes (p = 0.02, p = 0.005 and p = 0.004, respectively). The mean time loss from sport due to groin pain was 60.3 ± 66 days in soccer, 41.1 ± 16.6 days in futsal, 31.5 ± 18 days in water polo, 37.2 ± 14.2 days in basketball and 50.8 ± 24.6 days in volleyball. Significantly lower HAGOS values were found in athletes with groin pain for all sports evaluated compared to athletes with no groin pain history (p = 0.0001). Longer time loss from sport was correlated with lower HAGOS values in soccer (p = 0.002) and futsal (p = 0.002) players with groin pain. Concomitant injuries were correlated with lower HAGOS values in water polo players (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Seasonal groin pain occurs in as many as one in four team sport athletes. Soccer players show the highest groin pain prevalence and the longest time loss from sport. Professional athletes report higher prevalence of groin pain in comparison with non-professional athletes. HAGOS appears to be a valid outcome instrument to measure groin pain, correlating with both time loss from sport and concomitant injuries in athletes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Cemented Total Knee Arthroplasty Shows Less Blood Loss but a Higher Rate of Aseptic Loosening Compared With Cementless Fixation: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to update the current evidence on functional outcomes, complications, and reoperation rates between cemented and cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by evaluating comparative studies published over the past 15 years. METHODS: The PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central databases were used to search keywords and a total of 18 studies were included. Random and fixed effect models were used for the meta-analysis of pooled mean differences (MDs) and odds ratios (ORs). RESULTS: A total of 5,222 patients were identified with a mean age of 64.4 ± 9.4 and 63 ± 8.6 years for the cemented and cementless TKA groups, respectively. The mean follow-up was 107.9 ± 30 and 104.3 ± 10 months for the cemented and cementless TKA groups, respectively. Cemented TKA showed a significantly greater postoperative Knee Society Score (MD = -0.95, 95% CI [-1.57, 0.33], P = .003) and range of motion (MD = -1.09, 95% CI [-1.88, -0.29], P = .0007), but no differences in other outcome scores were found. The incidence of periprosthetic joint infection, radiolucent lines, instability, and polyethylene wear was also comparable. Cemented TKA showed less perioperative blood loss (SMD = -438.41, 95% CI [-541.69, -35.14], P < .0001) but a higher rate of manipulation under anesthesia (OR = 3.39, 95% CI [1.64, 6.99], P = .001) and aseptic loosening (OR = 1.62, 95% CI [1.09, 2.41], P = .02) than cementless TKA. No differences were found in terms of the reoperation rate. CONCLUSION: When cemented and cementless fixations are compared in primary TKA, comparable functional outcomes and reoperation rates can be achieved. Cemented TKA showed less blood loss but a higher rate of manipulation under anesthesia and aseptic loosening.

The use of a surgical helmet system with a high-efficiency particulate air filter as possible protection equipment during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: a double-blinded randomized control study.

PURPOSE: The rapid spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has increased the use of personal protective equipment. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a commercially available sterile surgical helmet system (SSHS) can be considered protective against COVID-19 and therefore safe for use. METHODS: A double-blinded randomized controlled study was performed to investigate the efficacy of the ViVi® SSHS with a high-efficiency particulate air filter called HFD Hood (THI, Total Healthcare Innovation GmbH, Feistritz im Rosental, Austria) to protect against respiratory droplets. Forty recruited participants were divided into two different groups. The SSHS was tested using a validated qualitative test for respirator masks through saccharin or placebo solutions based on random allocation into two cohorts. Saccharin droplets are a validated surrogated marker for any elements of viral size, such as coronaviruses. A positive report of sweet taste after saccharin exposure was suggestive of ViVi® SSHS inefficacy in protection against droplets. RESULTS: One participant out of 21 (4.8%) reported positive for taste within the placebo cohort, while five out of 19 (26.3%) reported positive for taste within the saccharin cohort upon testing. Two out of 21 (9.5%) participants reported positive for taste within the placebo cohort, and two out of 19 (10.5%) reported positive for taste within the saccharin cohort upon retesting. There were no statistically significant differences between the saccharin and placebo groups in either the test or retest measurements (p = 0.085 and p = 1.000, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that the ViVi® SSHS equipped with HFD Hood protects against respiratory droplets, increasing protection against several microorganisms, including the virus that causes COVID-19, allowing surgeons to carry out procedures on COVID-positive patients in a more comfortable and safer way.

Periprosthetic ankle infection: eradication rate, complications, and limb salvage. A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review investigated the outcomes of revision surgery after periprosthetic ankle infection (PAI). METHODS: According to the PRISMA statement, 9 studies with 131 PAIs surgically treated and analyzed were included. Demographics and surgical techniques with eradication rates and complications were reported. RESULTS: Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) (30.4%) and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CNS) (26.5%) were the most common microorganisms. The eradication rate was 91.7% with permanent antibiotic spacers (SPC), 84.4% with 2-stage, 79.4% with arthrodesis (AA), and 58.8% with debridement and implant retention (DAIR). DAIR showed a significantly lower eradication rate than 2-stage (p = 0.016) and SPC (p = 0.043). Amputations occurred in 25% of patients after SPC, 8.8% after AA and 3.9% after DAIR. SPC showed a significantly higher amputation rate than DAIR and 2-stage (p = 0.044, and p = 0.017, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: SPC and 2-stage revision show the highest eradication rates, but 2-stage has a lower risk of amputation.

Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Changed the Daily Practices and Psychological State of Orthopaedic Residents?

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has been an unprecedented time for healthcare and has substantially changed resource availability in surgeons' work practices and routines. Many orthopaedic departments suspended elective surgery, and some re-deployed orthopaedic residents to stressful nonorthopaedic tasks; long hours were commonplace. Stress-reaction symptoms such as anxiety and depression have been reported in about 10% of healthcare workers during previous infectious-diseases outbreaks (including the Ebola virus), but little is known about the psychological needs of residents faced with this global disaster. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Have anxiety and depression symptoms among orthopaedic residents worsened from the period before to the period after the lockdown in Italy? (2) Are there differences in anxiety and depression symptoms between residents who worked in a COVID-19 department and those who did not? METHODS: The Italian Association of Orthopaedic and Traumatology Residents is comprised of 365 members who were recruited through the organization's mailing list; they were asked to respond to a survey about their health and well-being at the beginning and end of the first COVID-19 Italian lockdown (March 9, 2020 to May 3, 2020). For the survey's development, 10 orthopaedic surgery residents at the Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro were preliminarily asked to answer the surveys, and both face validity and content validity were tested. The test-retest reliability was 0.9. Impact on and future concerns about family life and daily work practice, as well as sleep disorders, were investigated. Anxiety and depression were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), which includes 14 questions (seven for anxiety, HADS-A; and seven for depression, HADS-D) on a Likert scale (0-3); thus, a patient can have a score between 0 and 21 for either the HADS-A or HADS-D, with higher scores indicating a greater likelihood of anxiety or depression. Previously reported minimum clinically important differences ranged from 1.5 to 1.7. For each scale, total scores of ≤ 7 , 8 to 10, and ≥ 11 were taken to represent normal, borderline, or abnormal level of anxiety or depression, respectively. Overall, 75% (272 of 365) of residents completed the survey at both the beginning and end of the lockdown; 72% (196 of 272) were men, the mean ± SD age was 30 ± 3 years, 72% (197 of 272) worked in a hospital setting with patients who were COVID-19-positive, 20% (55 of 272) served in a COVID-19 department, and 5% (7 of 139) tested positive for COVID-19 by nasal-pharyngeal swab. Overall, 9% (24 of 272) of residents had family members who contracted COVID-19, and 3% (8 of 272) had a relative who died. Because of the risk of possible COVID-19 exposure, 18% (48 of 272) of residents needed to temporarily change their household given that social distancing was considered the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19. RESULTS: At the end of the lockdown, orthopaedic residents exhibited signs of worsening anxiety and depression as measured by the overall HADS score (median 9 [IQR 5 to 14] versus median 11 [IQR 6 to 17.8], respectively; median difference -1 [95% CI -1.5 to -0.5]; effect size [r] = -0.24; p < 0.001) as well as in the depression subscale (median 4 [IQR 2 to 7] versus median 5.5 [IQR 3 to 8], respectively; median difference -1 [95% CI -1.5 to -0.5]; r = -0.36; p < 0.001). We found no difference in the development of anxiety or depression between residents who worked in a COVID-19 department and those who did not, as demonstrated by comparing the change in HADS scores between these groups (median 1 [IQR -3 to 4] versus median 1 [IQR -2 to 4] in HADS change score over time; median difference 0 [95% CI -1 to 2]; r = -0.03; p = 0.61). CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the daily practice of orthopaedic residents and has had important, far-reaching consequences on their health and well-being, including social implications. Residents showed higher anxiety and depression symptoms at the end of the lockdown. No differences were found in changes of anxiety and depression, over time, for residents who worked in a COVID-19 department compared with those who did not. The evaluation of anxiety and depression through standardized questionnaires could help to identify residents at risk of higher psychological distress who could be referred to regular psychological counseling as a possible prevention strategy during stressful times. Future studies should confirm the long-term effects of these findings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, prognostic study.

Posterior versus lateral surgical approach: functionality and quality of life after total hip arthroplasty in a matched cohort study.

BACKGROUND: One of the most controversial aspects for maximizing outcomes after total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains the surgical approach to the hip joint. The posterior (PA) and lateral approaches (LA) are the two most commonly performed approaches used worldwide, but sparse data are available for their comparison in terms of health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL). The aim of this study was to assess the role of the PA and LA in the HRQoL and hip functionality of patients who underwent primary and elective THA for osteoarthritis, after a minimum 2-year follow-up. METHODS: One hundred twenty-eight patients (140 THAs: 68 with PA and 72 with LA) were evaluated in a matched cohort study. Data gathered included the body mass index, the American Society of Anesthesiologists score, surgery time, serum creatine phosphokinase (CpK) levels, estimated intraoperative blood loss and intra- or postoperative complications. Preoperatively and at the last follow-up, the activities of daily living, and the instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) scales, the Western Ontario and Mac Master University (WOMAC) Questionnaire, the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to assess HRQoL and functionality. The Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) Questionnaire was administered at the last follow-up. RESULTS: Postoperatively, CpK was higher in the LA group compared to the PA (695 ± 648 vs. 447 ± 326 UI/L, p < 0.001). At a mean follow-up of 47 ± 22 months for the LA group and 42 ± 29 months for the PA group, IADL, VAS, HHS and WOMAC scores significantly improved for both groups (all p < 0.001), but PA reported better VAS, residual pain and WOMAC scores (p = 0.002, p = 0.004 and p = 0.018, respectively). The PA group demonstrated a significant higher mental SF-36 subscale values than the LA group (49 ± 13 vs. 42 ± 19, p = 0.001). The LA group showed a higher number of Trendelenburg signs (p = 0.029). On the contrary, the PA group showed a higher number of leg lengthening (p = 0.020); however, most of these cases was less than the clinically significant value of 10 mm (p = 0.738). CONCLUSIONS: Patients who underwent THA performed with the PA reported greater improvement in HRQoL with lower residual pain, postoperative muscle damage and Trendelenburg signs than those who underwent the LA.

The 50 Highest Cited Papers on Rotator Cuff Tear.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the 50 most cited articles on rotator cuff tear and their characteristics. METHODS: Thomson ISI Web of Science was searched for the following search terms "rotator cuff" and "tear." The following characteristics were determined for each article: author(s), year of publication, source journal, geographic origin, article type (and subtype), and level of evidence for clinical articles. RESULTS: The number of citations ranged from 1558 to 253. The 50 most often cited articles were published in 7 journals. The majority of the articles (n = 46) were clinical, with the remaining representing some type of basic science research. Among clinical articles, the case series (n = 23) was the most common article subtype. Nine articles were methodologic in that they proposed a new classification/scoring system or technique. The most common level of evidence was Level IV (n = 31). CONCLUSION: This article provides clinicians, researchers, and trainees with a group of articles that should be taken into consideration as building blocks in the treatment of rotator cuff tears. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, literature review.

Subacromial Balloon Spacer for Massive, Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears Is Associated With Improved Shoulder Function and High Patient Satisfaction.

PURPOSE: To investigate associations between clinical and demographic parameters and Constant-Murley (CM) scores after subacromial balloon placement for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears and to evaluate implant survival, shoulder function, and patient satisfaction. METHODS: We prospectively analyzed patients with rotator cuff tears deemed irreparable on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging for whom nonoperative therapy was unsuccessful and who underwent balloon placement from 2014 to 2017 with minimum 1-year follow-up. Shoulder function was assessed using the CM score and the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey. RESULTS: The study included 51 patients (22 women and 29 men) with a mean age at surgery of 63 years (range, 50-78 years). The mean follow-up period was 36 months (range, 24-56 months). The postoperative acromiohumeral interval and total preoperative CM score predicted the postoperative CM score at final follow-up. The implant survival rates were 92% at 6 and 12 months, 90% at 2 years, and 87% at 3 and 4 years. Five patients underwent reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, and 1 underwent latissimus dorsi tendon transfer. Postoperatively, mean CM scores (± standard deviation) improved for range of motion (from 11 ± 5.4 to 34 ± 6.8) and strength (from 13 ± 5.4 to 28 ± 12) (P < .01 for both). The total CM score improved from 27 ± 7.4 preoperatively to 77 ± 15 postoperatively (P < .01). The physical and mental component summary scores on the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey improved from 27 ± 5.0 to 51 ± 6.5 (P = .02) and from 44 ± 15 to 56 ± 8.0, respectively (P < .01). Thirty-eight patients reported excellent satisfaction, 8 were satisfied, and 5 were dissatisfied. Of the patients, 50 (98%) exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (≥10.4) and patient acceptable symptom state (≥44). CONCLUSIONS: At mean 3-year follow-up, subacromial balloon spacer placement for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears was associated with a significant improvement in shoulder function, limited need for revision surgery, and high patient satisfaction. A greater postoperative acromiohumeral interval and lower preoperative CM score predicted a lower postoperative CM score at final follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective cohort study and treatment study.

Conversion of Fused Hip to Total Hip Arthroplasty: Long-Term Clinical and Radiological Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Despite promising results at the mid-term followup, several aspects of conversion of the fused hip to total hip arthroplasty (THA) remain controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes with a minimum 5-year followup in patients who underwent conversion of the fused hip to THA. METHODS: Fifty-seven patients (59 hips) were evaluated. The Harris Hip Score (HHS), range of motion (ROM), and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to assess hip function and low back pain. Subjective satisfaction with surgery and the presence of the Trendelenburg sign was also evaluated. Radiological assessment was performed pre- and postoperatively to evaluate loosening and heterotopic ossification (HO). RESULTS: After a mean followup of 13.0 ± 6.2 years, HHS and VAS significantly improved from 46.0 ± 16.7 to 80.8 ± 18.8 and from 4.4 ± 1.5 to 2.1 ± 1.4 (both P < .001), respectively. Twenty-three patients (40.4%) had a positive Trendelenburg sign, and HOs were found in 29 cases (49.1%). An overall 29.8% complication rate was noted. Smoking habits and rheumatoid arthritis were predictive of Trendelenburg sign (P = .046 and P = .038, respectively). Implant survival rate as the end point was 98.7 ± 1.3% at 5 years, 92.4 ± 3.3% at 10 years, 82.1 ± 5.7% at 15 years, and 73.4 ± 8.0% at 20 and 25 years. A worse cumulative implant survival rate was noted in patients who underwent previous hip surgery, defined as any hip operation before fusion (P = .005). CONCLUSION: Conversion of the fused hip to hip arthroplasty provides high levels of hip functionality and satisfaction with surgery at long-term followup. An implant survival rate higher than 70% can be expected 25 years postoperatively.

End-stage ankle osteoarthritis: arthroplasty offers better quality of life than arthrodesis with similar complication and re-operation rates-an updated meta-analysis of comparative studies.

PURPOSE: Ankle arthrodesis (AA) has traditionally been the surgical standard for patients with an end-stage ankle osteoarthritis, with total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) recently becoming an alternative. The aim of this study was to update evidence in terms of functional outcomes, complications, and quality of life between AA and TAA by analyzing comparative studies. METHODS: PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Central databases were used to search keywords. A total of 21 studies entered our qualitative and quantitative analysis. Demographics, functional outcomes, and complications were extracted. Random and fixed-effect models were used for the meta-analysis of standardized mean differences (SMDs) and odds ratios (ORs). RESULTS: A total of 18,448 patients were identified, with a mean age of 57.3 ± 11.3 years. TAA showed significantly greater post-operative range of motion (SMD - 0.883, 95% CI - 1.175 to - 0.590; I2 < 0.001) and Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale scores (SMD - 1.648, 95% CI - 3.177 to - 0.118; I2 = 97.67), but no differences in other patient-reported outcome scores were found. Patients undergoing TAA showed higher post-operative SF-36 (SMD - 0.960, 95% CI - 1.584 to - 0.336; I2 = 68.77). The total complication rate was similar between the two procedures (OR 0.936, 95% CI 0.826 to 1.060; I2 = 87.44), including the incidence of re-operations (OR 1.720, 95% CI 0.892 to 3.316; I2 = 77.65). CONCLUSION: While TAA and AA showed no differences in most post-operative functional outcomes, our review demonstrates that patients undergoing TAA show better health-related quality of life than AA. We found no evidence to suggest that TAA carries a higher risk of complications and re-operations compared to AA.

The latissimus dorsi tendon functions as an external rotator after arthroscopic-assisted transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears.

PURPOSE: Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer is a surgical option for the treatment of massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear. Whether a favourable clinical outcome is due to the latissimus dorsi muscle contraction rather than the passive tenodesis effect remains to be confirmed. The purpose of the current case-control study was to evaluate the shoulder kinematics and latissimus dorsi activation after latissimus dorsi tendon transfer. METHODS: Eighteen patients suffering from irreparable rotator cuff tear that underwent latissimus dorsi tendon transfer and 18 healthy individuals were examined using a 3D kinematic tracking system and electromyography. Active maximal flexion-extension and abduction-adduction of the humerus were measured for the operated and the contralateral shoulder of the patients and the shoulder of healthy individuals to evaluate the range of motion (ROM) and scapulohumeral rhythm. Electromyographic comparison of isometric contraction between the latissimus dorsi of the operated and contralateral shoulder was carried out. RESULTS: After arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi tendon transfer, patients showed comparable flexion and abduction ROM to their asymptomatic contralateral shoulders and to the shoulders of healthy individuals. Significantly higher scapular ROM values were found between the latissimus dorsi tendon transfer side and the shoulders of healthy individuals. While performing external rotation with 0° shoulder abduction, a greater percentage of the electromyographic peak value (p = 0.047) and a higher latissimus dorsi internal/external rotation ratio (p = 0.004) were noted for the transferred muscle in comparison to the contralateral shoulder. CONCLUSION: Although the arthroscopic-assisted latissimus dorsi tendon transfer failed to normalize scapulothoracic joint movements of patients, a functional latissimus flap and a shoulder ROM similar to the contralateral side or the shoulder of healthy individuals can be expected after this procedure in patients with massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.