Comparable Outcomes Between Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation and Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation in the Setting of Patellar Realignment.

PURPOSE: To determine clinical and functional outcomes in patients treated with autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) or osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation for chondral defects secondary to patellar instability with concomitant medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) for patellar realignment. METHODS: A retrospective review identified patients who underwent ACI or OCA transplantation with concomitant MPFL reconstruction and TTO. Patients were excluded if they did not have concomitant MPFL reconstruction and TTO, had the presence of other intra-articular pathologies, or failed to complete postoperative subjective outcome evaluations at a minimum of 2 years following surgery. Subjective outcome measures included the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement, International Knee Documentation Committee evaluation, and 12-item Short Form Health Survey physical scores, collected a minimum of 2 years after surgery. Defect location, size, complications, and rate of subsequent surgery were determined. RESULTS: Eighteen total patients were included in this study. The ACI cohort included 11 patients with 13 total defects that were treated with ACI. The OCA cohort included 7 patients with 10 total defects that were treated with OCA. This was due to a number of patients in either group having multiple cartilage defects. Twenty-three total chondral defects were compared to analyze clinical and functional outcomes following surgical correction (ACI: n = 13, OCA: n = 10). Five defects were noted on the femoral condyle and 18 on the patellar facets/central ridge. Defects were comparable between groups, including size measured during index arthroscopy (ACI = 3.34 cm2 [95% CI, 2.3-4.4 cm2] vs OCA = 4.03 cm2 [95% CI, 3.1-5.0 cm2]; P = .351), Outerbridge classification (ACI = 54.8% grade 4 vs OCA = 60.0% grade 4; P ≥ .999), and Area Measurement and Depth Underlying Structures score (ACI = 47.1 vs OCA = 58.6; P = .298). Postoperative outcomes were comparable, including revision rate (ACI = 15.4% vs OCA = 10.0%; P ≥ .999) and 2-year International Knee Documentation Committee scores (ACI = 74.2 [95% CI, 65.2-83.2] vs OCA = 51.2 [95% CI, 30.3-72.1]; P = .077). ACI did have significantly higher 2-year Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (85.1 [95% CI, 76.9-93.3] vs 63.7 [95% CI, 49.1-78.3]; P = .031) and 12-item Short Form Health Survey scores (54.1 [95% CI, 52.0-56.2] vs 42.6 [95% CI, 35.8-49.4]; P = .007) compared to OCA. CONCLUSIONS: ACI or OCA transplantation for chondral defects with concomitant MPFL reconstruction and TTO can be safely performed in an outpatient setting with functional and clinical outcomes being comparable. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective case series study.

Do Relaxation Exercises Decrease Pain After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair? A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Pain after rotator cuff repair is commonly managed with opioid medications; however, these medications are associated with serious adverse effects. Relaxation exercises represent a potential nonpharmacologic method of pain management that can be easily implemented without substantial adverse effects; however, the effects of relaxation exercises have not been studied in a practical, reproducible protocol after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Does performing relaxation exercises after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) decrease pain compared with standard pain management medication? (2) Does performing relaxation exercises after ARCR decrease opioid consumption? (3) What proportion of patients who used the relaxation techniques believed they decreased their pain level, and what proportion continued using these techniques at 2 weeks? (4) Does performing relaxation exercises after ARCR affect shoulder function? METHODS: During the study period, 563 patients were eligible for inclusion; however, only 146 were enrolled, randomized, and postoperatively followed (relaxation group: 74, control group: 72); 68% (384 of 563) of patients were not contacted due to patient and research staff availability. Thirty-three patients were unenrolled preoperatively or immediately postoperatively due to change in operative procedure (such as, only debridement) or patient request; no postoperative data were collected from these patients. Follow-up proportions were similar between the relaxation and control groups (relaxation: 80%, control: 81%; p = 0.90). The relaxation group received and reviewed educational materials consisting of a 5-minute video and an educational pamphlet explaining relaxation breathing techniques, while the control group did not receive relaxation education materials. Patients recorded their pain levels and opioid consumption during the 5 days after ARCR. Patients also completed the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder score preoperatively and 2, 6, 13, 18, and 26 weeks postoperatively. Linear mixed models were created to analyze postoperative pain, opioid consumption measured in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), and shoulder function outcomes. A per-protocol approach was used to correct for patients who were enrolled but subsequently underwent other procedures. RESULTS: There was no difference in pain scores between the relaxation and control groups during the first 5 days postoperatively. There was no difference in pain scores at 2 weeks postoperatively between the relaxation and control groups (3.3 ± 3 versus 3.5 ± 2, mean difference -0.22 [95% CI -1.06 to 0.62]; p = 0.60). There was no difference in opioid consumption during the first 5 days postoperatively between the relaxation and control groups. The use of relaxation exercises resulted in lower 2-week narcotics consumption in the relaxation group than in the control group (309 ± 241 MMEs versus 442 ± 307 MMEs, mean difference -133 [95% CI -225 to -42]; p < 0.01). Sixty-two percent (41 of 66) of patients in the relaxation group believed the relaxation exercises decreased their pain levels. Fifty-two percent (34 of 66) were still performing the exercises at 2 weeks postoperatively. During the 6-month follow-up period, there was no difference in shoulder function between the relaxation and control groups. CONCLUSION: The preoperative administration of quick, basic relaxation exercises allowed patients to use appreciably lower opioid analgesic doses over the first 2 weeks after ARCR, without any worsening of pain scores. We consider this result promising but preliminary; it is possible that a more intense mindfulness intervention-the one we studied here was disseminated using only a 5-minute video-would deliver reductions in pain and further reductions in opioid usage. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, therapeutic study.

Are Patient and Surgeon Expectations after ACL Reconstruction Realistic?

BACKGROUND: Patient expectations may affect their satisfaction and functional outcomes after treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. Although there is evidence that patient expectations of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) are inflated, there is limited knowledge about the relationship between physician and patient expectations and patient outcomes after they completely recover from ACLR. Furthermore, it is unclear if specific patient factors influence these expectations. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Are patient and surgeon expectations of knee function 18 months after ACLR similar? (2) Are patients' and surgeons' expectations of outcomes similar to patients' actual 2-year outcomes? (3) Is there a relationship between preoperative or intraoperative parameters and expectations? (4) Is there a relationship between preoperative or intraoperative parameters and 2-year ACLR outcomes? METHODS: One-hundred twenty-nine patients undergoing primary ACLR were prospectively enrolled in this study, with 98 (76%) completing 2-year follow-up. Patients completed the IKDC Subjective Knee Evaluation preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Patients also completed the same questionnaires preoperatively to evaluate expected knee function 18 months after surgery. Immediately postoperatively, surgeons completed the same questionnaires regarding the expected postoperative outcome at 18 months postoperative. Preoperative and intraoperative data were collected to determine an association between expectations and outcomes. Nonparametric analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test, the paired Wilcoxon signed ranks tests and Spearman's correlations, as applicable. RESULTS: There was no difference between patient and surgeon expectations (patient, 94.8 [range 47.4-100] versus surgeon, 94.3 [range 46-100]; p = 0.283), and there was no correlation between higher patient expectations and higher surgeon expectations (r = 0.168, p = 0.078). Patient and surgeon expectations were greater than the actual postoperative outcomes (2-year postoperative: 89.7 [range 32.2 to 100]; p < 0.0001); however, the differences are unlikely to be perceived. There was no correlation between higher 2-year postoperative outcomes and higher patient expectations (r = 0.14, p = 0.186) or higher surgeon expectations (r = 0.019, p = 0.86). Arthroscopic evidence of cartilage damage was independently associated with the worst patient and surgeon expectations. The surgeons themselves were also independently associated with surgeon expectation (p < 0.001). No parameters were associated with postoperative outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: There are no clinically significant differences between surgeon expectations, patient expectations, and 2-year actual outcomes. However, there is also no correlation between the patient expectations, surgeon expectations, and actual outcomes. Although expectations are similar to actual outcomes for most patients, surgeons are unable to accurately predict outcomes for specific patients; thus, preventing adequate patient counseling. Surgeons should be cautious when evaluating and counseling patients preoperatively and avoid assuming high expectations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, therapeutic study.

Distal Mononeuropathy Before and After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Investigation.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to characterize the occurrence of distal mononeuropathy (DMN) in patients before and after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) as well as resolution of the symptoms. METHODS: One hundred one patients over the age of 18 undergoing arthroscopic RCR +/- concurrent procedures completed a questionnaire regarding the presence of a symptomatic DMN. Patients with history of diabetic neuropathy, cervical radiculopathy, brachial plexopathy, or Spurling sign were excluded. All patients underwent physical examination to determine the characteristics and location of symptoms. Postoperatively, patients underwent repeat examination at 2, 6, and 12 weeks. RESULTS: Preoperatively, 19% (19/101) of RCR patients described DMN symptoms (9 median nerve symptoms, 5 ulnar nerve symptoms, 4 nonspecific symptoms, one with both ulnar and median nerve symptoms). Ninety percent (17/19) patients with preoperative DMN symptoms described resolution within the final 12 weeks of follow-up. A portion of previously asymptomatic RCR patients (12/82) developed new DMN symptoms (6 nonspecific symptoms, 3 ulnar nerve symptoms, 2 median nerve symptoms, one radial sensory nerve symptoms) postoperatively, with 92% (11/12) having resolution by the final 12-week follow-up. At the final 12 weeks, 3 RCR patients had DMN symptoms with 2 of those 3 patients having their symptoms existing preoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the hypothesis that DMN can be a preexisting finding in patients undergoing arthroscopic RCR. Similarly, it is common for patients undergoing arthroscopic RCR to develop new DMN symptoms following their procedure. Regardless, there is good evidence to show that a large majority of both groups of patients will go on to have resolution of their symptoms. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, prospective case series.

Contact Versus Noncontact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Is Mechanism of Injury Predictive of Concomitant Knee Pathology?

PURPOSE: To determine if mechanism of injury is predictive of concomitant knee pathology found at the time of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. METHODS: All patients aged 16 to 35 who underwent ACL reconstruction at our institution between January 2009 and December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Mechanism of injury was determined from patient history. The presence of meniscal or chondral damage was determined from operative records, while collateral ligament injuries were determined by the treating surgeon's diagnosis after physical examination and their review of magnetic resonance imaging findings. Patients with inadequate documentation, history of a subsequent instability episode following the initial injury, or prior history of knee pathology were excluded. RESULTS: Six hundred eighty-seven patients (169 contact and 518 noncontact) were included. A 2-fold increase in the incidence of collateral ligament injury was identified between the 2 groups with 114 (67.5%) in the contact group and 175 (33.8%) in the noncontact group (P < .001). Twenty-six patients (15.4%) in the contact group compared with 9 (1.7%) in the noncontact group had a grade III collateral ligament injury (P < .001). Chondral injury was identified in 41 (24.3%) patients in the contact group and 87 (16.8%) in the noncontact group (P = .05) with 9 (5.3%) grade IV lesions in the contact group and 4 (0.8%) in the noncontact group (P < .001). Eleven patients in the contact group (6.5%) and 15 in the noncontact group (2.9%) had a chondral injury to the lateral femoral condyle (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Although we found no difference in the incidence or type of meniscal tears, we found a significant increase in the incidence of grade IV chondral injury, chondral injury to the lateral femoral condyle, and grade III collateral ligament damage in the setting of contact ACL injuries. This knowledge can aid surgeons in preoperative planning and patient counseling. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Distal peripheral neuropathy after open and arthroscopic shoulder surgery: an under-recognized complication.

HYPOTHESIS: Distal peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is an under-reported complication after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), and arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty or arthroscopic RCR by 4 shoulder surgeons during a 2-year period. The primary outcome measure was the diagnosis of DPN, defined as carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, ulnar tunnel syndrome, and distal radial sensory neuropathy. Patient demographics and clinical course of DPN were recorded. Mean follow-up was 21, 15, and 12 months for TSA, RSA, and RCR, respectively. RESULTS: Postoperatively, 6 of 85 TSA (7.1%), 7 of 57 RSA (12.3%), and 21 of 753 RCR (2.79%) patients were diagnosed with DPN. The most common neuropathy was cubital tunnel syndrome for TSA and RSA and carpal tunnel syndrome for RCR. The risk of DPN was higher for shoulder arthroplasty (TSA and RSA) compared with the RCR group. After nonsurgical treatment of DPN, complete resolution of symptoms occurred in 33.3% of TSA, 42.86% of RSA, and 71.43% of RCR patients. However, 16.7% of TSA, 14.3% of RSA, and 4.76% of RCR patients with DPN required surgical decompression; 100% of the patients undergoing surgical decompression had complete resolution of symptoms. CONCLUSION: DPN is a relatively common complication after shoulder surgery. When it occurs, DPN will often resolve with nonoperative management. Surgical decompression is an effective treatment option in refractory cases.

Effects of Melatonin on Sleep Quality and Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Sleep disturbance is a significant symptom associated with both rotator cuff tears and arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Melatonin has been shown to be safe and effective in managing multiple sleep disorders, including secondary sleep disorders, with relatively minor adverse effects and lack of addictive potential. PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of oral melatonin on postoperative sleep quality after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: This was a prospective randomized clinical trial evaluating patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Exclusion criteria included history of alcohol abuse, current antidepressant or sedative use, revision rotator cuff repair, severe glenohumeral arthritis, and concurrent adhesive capsulitis. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to 1 of 2 groups: 5-mg dose of melatonin 1 hour before bedtime or standard sleep hygiene (≥6 hours per night, avoiding caffeine and naps in the evening). Patients in the melatonin group took their assigned melatonin dose for 6 weeks beginning the day of surgery. Patient-reported outcome assessments, including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES), and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and pain medication charts were collected preoperatively as well as at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 4 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Numeric variables were analyzed using paired and unpaired t tests, with significance set at P < .05. RESULTS: Eighty patients were included for final analysis (40 in the control group, 40 in the melatonin group). Patient characteristics such as age, sex, race, body mass index, and laterality did not differ significantly (P≥ .05). Preoperative ASES, SANE, and PSQI scores did not differ between groups (P≥ .055). PSQI scores were significantly lower (better quality sleep) in the melatonin group at the 6-week postoperative period (P = .036). There was a positive correlation between how patients rated the intensity of their pain and the PSQI at the 6-week postoperative period (0.566). The PSQI question regarding sleep quality was found to be significantly lower in the melatonin group at the 3-month, 4-month, and 6-month postoperative periods (P = .015, P = .041, and P≤ .05, respectively). SANE scores were significantly lower in the melatonin group (P = .011) at 6 weeks and then higher in the melatonin group (P = .017) at 6 months. ASES scores were significantly higher in the melatonin group at 4 and 6 months (P = .022 and P = .020, respectively). Lastly, patients who were randomized into the melatonin group were found to use significantly less narcotic medication at the 4-month postoperative period (P = .046). CONCLUSION: Melatonin use after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair led to improved sleep quality (PSQI) in the early postoperative period as well as improved functional outcomes (ASES and SANE scores) and decreased narcotic use in the later postoperative period. Patients with significant sleep disturbances associated with rotator cuff repairs may benefit from the use of melatonin. REGISTRATION: NCT04278677 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Lower Opioid Prescription Quantity Does Not Negatively Impact Pain Control or Patient Satisfaction After ACL Reconstruction: A Randomized, Prospective Trial.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of different quantities of prescribed opioid tablets on patient opioid utilization, postoperative pain and function, and satisfaction after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized trial enrolling patients undergoing primary ACLR. Patients were assigned to 1 of 3 prescription groups: 15, 25, or 35 tablets containing 5-mg oxycodone. Patients completed visual analog scale (VAS) pain and medication logs, opioid medication satisfaction surveys, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) questionnaires postoperatively. RESULTS: Among the 180 patients included in the analysis, there was no significant difference in VAS pain scores (p > 0.05), IKDC scores (p > 0.05), morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) (p = 0.510) consumed, or patient satisfaction with regard to pain control (p = 0.376) between treatment groups. Seventy-two percent of opioids were consumed in the first 3 days postoperatively, and 83% of patients in the 15-tablet cohort felt that they received the "right amount" of or even "too many" opioids. CONCLUSIONS: The prescription of 15 opioid tablets resulted in equivalent pain control, patient satisfaction, and short-term functional outcomes as prescriptions of 25 or 35 opioid tablets after ACLR. Lower prescription quantities of opioid medication may provide equivalent postoperative pain and help to minimize the number of unused opioid doses at risk for possible diversion after ACLR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Arthroscopic Measurements Predict Knee Chondral Lesion Size More Accurately Than Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Mechanism of Injury Influences Ability of Either Technique to Predict Graft Size.

Purpose: To compare osteochondral defect size measurements and characteristics across magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy and at the time of osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation or autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). Methods: Patients who underwent ACI and OCA transplantation at a single institution between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. Patients were excluded if they had severe osteoarthritis, MRI scans were not available for review, surgical records did not include defect sizing necessary for analysis, or operative reports were not available. Osteochondral lesion characteristics including size were collected preoperatively by MRI and arthroscopy and at the time of definitive open surgical intervention. Subgroup analysis was performed comparing measurement techniques depending on the corrective surgical approach used, as well as depending on the mechanism of chondral injury, to determine whether these factors had any effect on the ability of arthroscopy or MRI to predict graft size. Results: Overall, 136 chondral lesions were addressed, with restoration procedures in 117 patients (mean age, 32.5 years). The average difference between the final graft size and the lesion area measured with index arthroscopy was 116 mm2, whereas the average difference between the final graft size and the lesion size measured with preoperative MRI was 182 mm2 (P < .001). Depending on surgical technique, measurements with MRI were more similar to the final graft size when a patient underwent OCA transplantation versus ACI (P = .007). Depending on the mechanism of injury, MRI measurements of lesions were closer to the graft area when lesions resulted from trauma (P = .047). Conclusions: Chondral lesion size as determined by preoperative MRI is less accurate than arthroscopic measurement. The mechanism of injury leading to chondral damage and degree of damage may influence the ability of MRI and arthroscopy to accurately measure chondral lesions and predict the final graft size used in surgical correction. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Outcomes after distal biceps repair in patients with workers' compensation claims.

BACKGROUND: Prior studies have suggested that patients with workers' compensation (WC) related injuries have less successful postsurgical outcomes compared to the general population. The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcome and return to work for WC patients who have undergone distal biceps tendon repair (DBTR). A group of patients without a WC claim (non-WC) served as a control. METHODS: From July 2002 to December 2009, 60 WC patients and 63 non-WC patients who underwent unilateral, acute (<6 weeks) DBTR and had a minimum of 12 months of postoperative follow-up were contacted. Data pertaining to patient age, sex, handedness, smoking status, occupation, time to return to work, and ability to return to original occupation were obtained. Functional outcomes were primarily assessed with the DASH, DASH-Work Module, and DASH Sports/Performance Arts Module questionnaires. Outcomes in the WC group were compared to the non-WC group. RESULTS: Average length of follow-up was 3.55 years (range, 1.5-8.9) in the WC group and 3.64 years (range, 2.2-8.0) in the non-WC group. Mean DASH, DASH-Work Module, and Sports/Performance Arts Module scores were significantly greater (poorer outcome) in the WC group than in the non-WC group. Average time to return to full duty was 3.95 months in the WC group and 1.35 months in the non-WC group. CONCLUSION: WC patients who underwent distal biceps tendon repair took longer to return to work and had worse DASH scores than non-WC patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Retrospective Cohort Study, Treatment Study.

Short-/intermediate-term outcomes after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction in the treatment of chronic lateral patellofemoral instability.

PURPOSE: Disruption of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is now considered the essential lesion of recurrent lateral patellar dislocation in patients with normal lower extremity alignment. Reconstruction of the MPFL is a technique gaining significant success in the treatment of patients with this disabling condition. HYPOTHESIS: Reconstruction of the MPFL in patients with chronic patellar instability and normal lower extremity alignment will improve knee function and symptoms, with a high percentage of patients achieving good to excellent results at early follow-up. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence; 4. METHODS: A consecutive series of patients with lateral patellofemoral instability who underwent MPFL reconstruction were reviewed. Reconstruction was performed with either soft tissue allograft (23 patients) or hamstring tendon autograft (12 patients). Outcomes were determined by patient scores from the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale, recurrence of patellar instability, and patient function at a minimum of 12 months of postoperative follow-up. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients were followed for a mean of 21.0 months (range, 12-45 months) after surgery. The Kujala subjective knee score improved significantly from 49.0 preoperatively to 89.5 postoperatively (P < 0.001). No statistical significance was found between postoperative Kujala scores and graft type, or time from initial injury to surgical reconstruction. A firm endpoint to lateral translation of the patella, and no feelings of apprehension were noted in all patients at most recent follow-up. The majority of patients noted that they were more active than before reconstructive surgery, with 86% participating in "strenuous" to "very strenuous" activities at the time of follow-up. No recurrent dislocations were reported. CONCLUSION: Reconstruction of the MPFL provides excellent stability and functional outcomes for patients with recurrent patellar instability.

Surgical restoration/repair of articular cartilage injuries in athletes.

Articular cartilage injuries of the knee are an increasingly common source of pain and dysfunction, particularly in the athletic population. In the athlete, untreated articular cartilage defects can represent a career threatening injury and create a significant obstacle in returning to full athletic participation. The markedly limited healing potential of articular cartilage often leads to continued deterioration and progressive functional limitations. Numerous studies have shown that full thickness articular cartilage lesions are frequently encountered at the time of arthroscopy, particularly associated with athletic injury. A variety of surgical treatment options exist, including debridement, microfracture, osteochondral autograft, osteochondral allograft, and autologous chondrocyte implantation. Each technique has advantages and limitations for restoring articular cartilage function, and emerging technology continues to improve the results of treatment. Our article provides an evidence-based review on the etiology and prevalence of articular cartilage injuries in athletes, along with the principles and techniques available for restoring articular cartilage function following injury.

Outcomes of Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation: A Comparative Study of BioUni and Snowman Techniques for Ovoid Lesions.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of large articular cartilage lesions of the knee includes surgical options one of which includes cartilage replacement therapies. Among these therapies include osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation, which can be performed utilizing a BioUni® (Arthrex BioUni® Instrumentation System; Arthrex, Naples, FL) replacement and a 'snowman' technique of repair. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE: To compare clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients who have undergone multiplug OCA transplantations utilizing a BioUni® replacement and a 'snowman' technique of repair. METHODS: Patients who underwent OCA transplantation utilizing a snowman technique or BioUni® replacement between January 1st, 2012 and December 31st, 2018, and who had a minimum 1-year follow-up at the same institution were identified for inclusion in this study via current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. Charts of included patients were reviewed for injury and treatment details as well as demographic information. Imaging studies and operative reports were reviewed and pre and postoperative subjective and objective outcome measures were recorded. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients underwent OCA transplantation with either BioUni® replacement (n=5) or with snowman technique repair (n=23). Defects in both groups had similar characteristics including size, area, location, and classifications. Patient-reported outcomes using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score-Joint Replacement (KOOS-JR), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), and Physical Health Composite Score (PCS-12) were similar at baseline and increased post-operatively for both groups with no significant differences between techniques after a mean follow-up of 2.77 ± 0.83. Although it did not reach significance, the snowman group had higher rates of knee-related complications (13%) and need for revision surgery (22%) when compared to BioUni® (0% and 0%, respectively). CONCLUSION: The use of both BioUni® and snowman techniques for large, unicondylar articular cartilage lesions of the femoral condyle demonstrate improved patient-reported outcomes at short-term follow-up. The use of the snowman technique presents relatively higher rates of revision similar to previous studies with no statistical difference in patient-reported outcomes when compared to those of a single plug OCA using a BioUni® system.

Blood Flow Restriction Training preserves knee flexion and extension torque following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A systematic review.

Background: There is inconsistency in the literature comparing the outcomes of Blood Flow Restriction Training versus Traditional Post-Operative Rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Purpose: This study aimed to determine if Blood Flow Restriction Training can limit the loss of knee extension and knee flexion muscle torque during early recovery from anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction better than Traditional Post-Operative Rehabilitation. Methods: Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Scopus) were searched for level 1 randomized controlled trials pertaining to Blood Flow Restriction Training after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. To maximize consistency among included studies, only studies which used knee flexion and knee extension muscle torque as the primary outcome measures were included. Search terms included "cruciate + occlusion", "cruciate + blood flow restriction", and "cruciate + occlusion training". Results: Two level 1 trials with training protocols of 8 and 16 weeks yielded isokinetic knee flexion torque data in support of Blood Flow Restriction Training. Both trials demonstrated that Blood Flow Restriction Training also yielded significantly increased isokinetic knee extension torque compared to control groups. Conclusion: The highest-quality level 1 trials evaluating knee extension and knee extension strength via isokinetic torque agree that Blood Flow Restriction Training limits post-operative losses of knee flexion and extension strength. No adverse events were reported in either study. Except for patients of whom Blood Flow Restriction is contraindicated, clinicians may consider utilizing Blood Flow Restriction Training from week 2 of the post-operative period through the conclusion of outpatient rehabilitation using low intensities, multiple times per week; however, further studies comparing Blood Flow Restriction Training protocols are necessary before an optimal protocol could be confidently recommended.

Comparison of clinical outcomes following osteochondral allograft transplantation for osteochondral versus chondral defects in the knee.

PURPOSE: Osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation is a restorative technique for addressing articular cartilage defects by transferring mature viable chondrocytes with subchondral bone into size-matched lesions. The purpose of this study was to compare differences in clinical and functional outcomes in patients treated with OCA for osteochondral defects compared with isolated chondral pathology. METHODS: A retrospective review identified patients who underwent OCA transplantation and grouped them into osteochondral or isolated chondral pathology. Demographic data, surgical history, lesion characteristics, complications, and rate of subsequent surgery were reviewed. The review included 86 patients (24 osteochondral, 62 chondral) with a mean follow-up of 5.4 ± 1.4 years. Outcome measures included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS, JR.), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), and Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) physical scores. Failure was defined to include revision OCA, graft removal, conversion to ACI, or conversion to arthroplasty. RESULTS: The average age at surgery was 32.3 and 37.3 years for the osteochondral and chondral groups, respectively (P = 0.056). The medial femoral condyle was the most common defect location in both groups. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Patients with osteochondral pathology had significantly greater KOOS JR., IKDC, and SF-12 scores (P < 0.05), and fewer failures were reported in the osteochondral group (8.3% versus 32.3%, P = 0.045). When controlling for age, sex, laterality, BMI, and presence of a concomitant procedure, patients with osteochondral pathology were found to have better KOOS and IKDC scores, but there was no difference in SF12 scores or rates of failure between groups. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that patients undergoing OCA for osteochondral defects may have greater functional outcomes and similar failure rates compared with OCA transplantation for isolated chondral pathology.

The shoulder function "tipping-point" for elective rotator cuff repair: demographic and longitudinal trends.

Background: A patient's decision to undergo an elective orthopedic procedure is largely based on their symptoms and functional limitations. This point where patients choose to undergo surgery is known as the "tipping point." The primary aim of this study is to determine the relationship between demographic parameters and the tipping point for elective rotator cuff repair. The secondary aim is to investigate if the tipping point is associated with mental health. The tertiary aim is to determine if the tipping point changes over time. Methods: Retrospective chart review was used to identify all patients who underwent primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between January 1, 2015, to January 1, 2020, with 1 of 3 board-certified orthopedic surgeons. Exclusion criteria included age <18 years, revision surgery, or incomplete datasets (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES], 12-item short form, demographic information, and surgical history). Preoperative ASES score was designated as the tipping point for an individual patient, with a lower score representing worse shoulder function and therefore a higher tipping point and vice versa. Demographic parameters (age, sex, body mass index [BMI], race, and insurance), hand dominance, and surgical history extracted from chart review were analyzed to determine associations with tipping point. Results: A total of 2153 patients were identified from chart review, with 1731 included in the final analysis. The patients had a mean age of 58.6 ± 9.66 years and a mean BMI of 29.2 ± 6.02 kg/m2. There was no significant difference in mean preoperative ASES score by year for the duration of this study (2015-2019, P = .27). Worker's compensation patients had a significantly lower mean preoperative ASES score than patients with commercial or government insurance (P < .01). Spearman's rank correlations showed no relationship between ASES score and patient demographics (age, sex, BMI, race, and hand dominance) or between ASES and previous orthopedic surgery. Preoperative ASES showed a weakly positive correlation (ρ = 0.26) with 12-item short form mental component score. Multivariate linear regression showed male sex is predictive of a lower tipping point (P < .01), whereas higher BMI, African American race, and history of arthroplasty are predictive of a higher tipping point (P ≤ .02). Conclusion: The tipping point was not demonstrated to change over time in our analysis. Male sex is predictive of a lower tipping point for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, whereas elevated BMI, African American race, worker's compensation insurance, and prior arthroplasty are predictive of a higher tipping point. Also, better mental health function is associated with a lower tipping point.

The Importance of Staging Arthroscopy for Chondral Defects of the Knee.

This study aims to evaluate the role of staging arthroscopy in the diagnosis of knee chondral defects and subsequent surgical planning prior to autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA), and meniscus allograft transplantation (MAT). All patients who underwent staging arthroscopy prior to ACI, OCA, or MAT at our institution from 2005 to 2015 were identified. Medical records were reviewed to document the diagnosis and treatment plan based on symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and previous operative records. Operative records of the subsequent staging arthroscopy procedure were reviewed to document the proposed treatment plan after arthroscopy. All changes in treatment plan following staging arthroscopy were recorded. Univariate analyses were performed to identify any significant predictors for likelihood to change. A total of 98 patients were included in our analysis. A change in surgical plan was made following arthroscopy in 36 patients (36.7%). Fourteen patients (14.3%) were found to have additional defects that warranted cartilage restoration surgery. In 15 patients (15.3%), at least one defect that was originally thought to warrant cartilage restoration surgery was found to be amenable to debridement alone. The surgical plan was changed from ACI to OCA in four cases (4.1%) and OCA to ACI in one case (1%). A previously proposed MAT was deemed unwarranted in one case (1%), and a planned meniscal repair was changed to MAT in another (1%). Patient age, sex, and the affected knee compartment were not predictors for a change in surgical plan. Body mass index (BMI) was significantly higher in patients who had a change in surgical plan (29.5 kg/m2) compared with those who did not (26.5 kg/m2). A change in surgical plan was more likely to occur for trochlear lesions (46.4%) compared with other articular surface lesions (p = 0.008). The results of our study indicate that staging arthroscopy is an important step in determining the most appropriate treatment plan for chondral defects and meniscal deficiency, particularly those with trochlear cartilage lesions.

Efficacy of transdermal 4% lidocaine patches for postoperative pain management after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a prospective trial.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative pain management continues to be a challenging aspect of patient care. Lidocaine patches have shown efficacy in reducing pain in other surgical specialties and mixed results in orthopedic trials. We sought to determine the effectiveness of nonprescription lidocaine patches in reducing postoperative pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Patients undergoing primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were recruited from 3 surgeons at a single institution. All patients of each surgeon were randomized to a lidocaine patch or control group, with crossover occurring at the midpoint. Experimental group patients received 26 4% lidocaine gel-patches. They were provided written and visual instructions to begin wearing the lidocaine patches during daytime on postoperative day (POD) 2. They were to be switched every 8 hours and removed overnight. Control group patients received normal standard of care but did not receive a placebo control. Exclusion criteria included workmen's compensation claims, age <18 years, history of myocardial infarction, and history of lidocaine or adhesive allergies. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder survey was completed preoperatively and 2-, 6-weeks, 3-, 4.5-, and 6-months postoperatively. A 14-day visual analog scale pain and medication log was completed three times daily following repair. All patients received interscalene nerve block with bupivacaine and general anesthesia. RESULTS: 80 (40 control, 40 lidocaine) patients were enrolled, with 53 completing follow-up. Groups were demographically similar in age (P = .22), gender (P = .20), and body mass index (P = .77). They were similar in tear pattern (P = .95), concomitant acromioplasty (P = .44), concomitant biceps tenodesis (P = .07), and number of anchors used (P = .25). There was no difference in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores at any time points (range P = .28-P = .97). Reported 14-day pain logs were not different between study groups at any time points (range P = .07-P = .99). There was no difference in opioid consumption in the first 14 days after surgery (P = .38). The lidocaine group reported less satisfaction with their pain management beginning in the evening of POD 2 (P = .05). This continued until the afternoon of POD 8 (P = .03). CONCLUSION: Transdermal 4% lidocaine patches are not effective in reducing pain or opioid consumption after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and were associated with reduced patient satisfaction.

Differences in Clinical and Functional Outcomes Between Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation and Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation for the Treatment of Focal Articular Cartilage Defects.

BACKGROUND: Articular cartilage pathology can result from a spectrum of origins, including trauma, osteochondritis dissecans, avascular necrosis, or degenerative joint disease. PURPOSE: To compare the differences in clinical and patient-reported outcomes after autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) versus osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) in patients with focal articular cartilage defects without underlying bone loss. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A retrospective review identified patients who underwent ACI or OCA between 2008 and 2016 for isolated grades 3 and 4 articular cartilage defects without underlying bone loss. Outcome measures included the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS JR), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation, and 12-Item Short Form Health Survey-Physical Component (SF-12-P) scores. Defect location, size, complications, and rate of subsequent surgery were determined. RESULTS: Overall, 148 patients were included: 82 (55%) underwent ACI and 66 (45%) underwent OCA. The mean age at the time of surgery was 31.2 years within the ACI cohort and 37.7 years within the OCA cohort (P < .001); the mean follow-up for both cohorts was 6.7 years (P = .902). Within the ACI group, 28 (34%) patients had multifocal defects, 21 (26%) had defects confined to the femoral condyles, and 33 (40%) had defects in the patellofemoral region. Within the OCA group, 23 (35%) patients had multifocal defects, 30 (46%) had confined femoral condyle lesions, and 13 (20%) had patellofemoral defects. When comparing by lesion location, there were no significant differences in KOOS JR, and IKDC scores between the ACI and OCA cohorts (P < .05). There was, however, a significant difference for SF-12-P scores for FDD trochlear lesions. In both cohorts, traumatic patellofemoral pathology demonstrated lower patient-reported outcomes and higher failure rates than degenerative lesions. The overall rate of failure, defined as graft failure with revision surgery and/or conversion to arthroplasty, was significantly greater in the OCA group (21% vs 4%; P = .002). CONCLUSION: Study results indicated that ACI provides similar outcomes to OCA with or without concomitant procedures for the treatment of symptomatic articular cartilage defects in all lesion locations and may have a lower revision rate for multifocal and condylar lesions.