Outpatient vs. inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty: complication rates, clinical outcomes, and eligibility parameters.

Background: Improvements in total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), fast-track surgery, multimodal anesthesia, and rehabilitation protocols have opened up the possibility of outpatient care that is now routinely practiced at our European institution. The first objective of this study was to define the TSA outpatient population and to verify that outpatient management of TSA does not increase the risk of complications. The second objective was to determine patient eligibility parameters and the third was to compare functional outcomes and identify influencing factors. Methods: The study included 165 patients who had primary TSA (106 outpatient and 59 inpatient procedures). The operative technique was the same for both groups. Demographics, complications, readmissions, and revisions were collected. American Society of Anesthesiologists, Constant, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, University of California Los Angeles shoulder, and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index scores were obtained preoperatively and at 1.5, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Satisfaction and visual analog scale pain scores also were documented. Statistical analysis was completed using multivariate linear regression. Results: Outpatients were significantly younger and had lower American Society of Anesthesiologists scores than inpatients. The rates of complications, readmissions, and reoperations were not significantly different between groups. Outpatient surgery was not an independent risk factor for complications. At 1.5 months, better outcomes were noted in the outpatient group for all scores, and these reached statistical significance. Distance to home, dominant side, operative time, and blood loss were not associated with functional results. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that outpatient care was significantly associated with improved scores at 1.5 months and did not affect functional outcomes at 6 and 12 months. Conclusion: This study reports the results of routine outpatient TSA within a European healthcare system. TSA performed in an outpatient setting was not an independent risk factor for complications and seemed to be an independent factor in improving early functional results.

Stress shielding following radial head arthroplasty: the impact of preoperative bone quality.

INTRODUCTION: We sought to assess if the medullary diameter to cortical width ratio (MD:CW), canal flair index (CFI), and canal fill (CF) of the proximal radius were associated with the presence of Stress shielding (SS) after a MoPyC radial head arthroplasty (RHA). MATERIAL & METHOD: We conducted a retrospective, international, multicenter (4 centers) study. A total of 100 radial head arthroplasties in 64 women and 36 men with a mean age of 58.40 years ±14.90 (range, 25.00; 91.00) were included. Radiographic measurements, including MD:CW, CFI, CF, and postoperative SS were captured at a mean follow-up of 3.9 years ±2.8 (range, 0.5-11). RESULTS: Stress shielding was identified in 60 patients. Mean preoperative MD:CW, CFI, and CF were 0.55 ±0.09, 1.05 ±0.18 and 0.79±0.11, respectively. The presence of SS was significantly associated with MD:CW (aOR=13.66; p=0.001), and expansion of the stem (aOR=3.78; p=0.001). The amount of the SS was significantly correlated with expansion of the stem (aß 4.58; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our study found that MD:CW was an independent risk factor of SS after Mopyc RHA. Patients with longer and larger diameter (auto-expansion) Mopyc stems were also at significantly increased risk of SS. Further studies involving multiple implants designs are needed to confirm the preliminary observations presented in the current study.

The arthroscopic double-button Latarjet does not modify the static posterior translation of the humeral head.

INTRODUCTION: The Latarjet procedure treats anterior instability of the shoulder and is based on a triple anterior lock, where the conjoint tendon straps the lower third of the subscapularis muscle. Excessive posterior translation of the humeral head is a known risk factor for shoulder osteoarthritis. No in vivo study has investigated the effect of the bone block on the posterior static translation of the humeral epiphysis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the bone block on the static posterior translation of the humeral head. The hypothesis was that this procedure increased this translation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included patients treated arthroscopically for anterior shoulder instability by a double-button Latarjet. An independent examiner analyzed the CT scans preoperatively, at 15 days, and at least 6 months postoperatively according to a standardized protocol. The analysis focused on the position of the bone block in the axial and coronal planes relative to the glenoid. The posterior translation was automatically calculated using the Blueprint© planning software. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients were included with a mean age of 25 years (16-43), according to a 4M/1F sex ratio. The graft was perfectly flush to the subchondral bone in 63% (n=22) of cases and subequatorial in 91% (n=32). Preoperative posterior humeral translation was 52%. The mean immediate postoperative posterior humeral translation was 56%, and 57% at more than 6 months. The change in mean posterior humeral translation between preoperative/6 months was +0.94% [-20%; +12%] (p=0.29) and immediate postoperative/6 months +0.34% [-18%; +15%] (p=0.84). Gender, hypermobility and the axial position of the bone block did not influence the change in posterior humeral translation. The equatorial position of the bone block appeared to increase posterior humeral translation by +10%±5.2% [-0.427; 20.823] (p=0.07). CONCLUSION: This work refutes our initial hypothesis. The change in static posterior humeral translation after arthroscopic Latarjet bone block remains stable at more than 6 months of follow-up. This procedure does not alter the anatomical position of the humeral head in relation to the glenoid. On the other hand, a more cranial positioning of the bone block could have an influence. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Terrible triad injury of the elbow: a spectrum of theories.

For more than one century, understanding the injury mechanism leading to the terrible triad of the elbow (TTE) was a significant challenge for surgeons. We aimed to summarize: (1) the history of the treatment of TTE and (2) the increasing scientific knowledge that supported its evolution. Five electronic databases were searched between 1920 and 2022. Results were reported as a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. Between 1940 and 1980, surgical exploration allowed observation of complex elbow instability involving both radial head, coronoid process, and ligament(s) injuries. In 1966, Osborne introduced the concept of posterolateral rotatory instability as the first mechanism injury to explain the complex elbow instability. From 1980 to 1995, a biomechanical revolution by American pioneers critically improved our understanding of elbow instability. After 1992, a few unifying theories and surgical protocols were provided, but those have divided the surgeons' population. The formalization of the TTE treatment allowed avoiding of terrible short-term outcomes. However, post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) at long-term follow-up is still an issue. No consensual surgical protocol for the treatment of TTE has been widely accepted. While the outcomes of the TTE have been improved, the rate of PTOA at long-term follow-up is still high regardless of the treatments. The terrible triad has given way to the subtle triad with persistent microinstability of the elbow. The next challenge for elbow surgeons is to diagnose and fix this persistent subclinical instability after surgery in order to prevent the onset of PTOA.

Scapular fractures osteosynthesis via Judet's posterior approach: clinical and radiographic results.

PURPOSE: Scapular fractures are uncommon and mainly treated nonoperatively. Judet's posterior approach allows access to the fracture site through the infraspinatus fossa and may be a technical option when ORIF is decided. The aims of this study were to determine clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients who underwent scapular body and/or glenoid fractures fixation via Judet's posterior approach. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective single-centre study, and all patients admitted for scapular fracture who underwent osteosynthesis via Judet's approach between January 2014 and September 2021 were included. At a minimum follow-up of one year, clinical outcomes were analyzed through subjective shoulder value (SSV) and Constant-Murley score (CMS). Strength in external rotation was measured in adduction and in 90° abduction and compared to healthy side. Radiographic analysis evaluated postoperative fracture reduction on CT scan and glenohumeral osteoarthritis according to Samilson's classification at last follow-up. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients were included with a mean follow-up of 44.9 months. Mean SSV, CMS, and adjusted CMS were 73.8% ± 21.0, 65.8 points ± 19.5, and 72.8% ± 20.8, respectively. Strength in external rotation in adduction of the affected shoulder showed significant impairment when compared with the contralateral side (respectively 7.79 kg ± 4.29 and 12.0 kg ± 3.84, p = 0.02). All fractures healed uneventfully, but five patients (23.8%) required early revision surgery for intra-articular screws in three. Intra-articular gap measure decreased from 3.75 mm ± 1.93 in preoperative to 0.59 mm ± 0.97 after ORIF. The rate of arthritis was 15% at last follow-up. CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent scapular fracture osteosynthesis via Judet's posterior approach exhibited satisfactory but incomplete recovery of the affected shoulder as evidenced by functional scores and external rotation strength measurements at a mean follow-up of 44.9 months. Because of the risk of intra-articular screws, postoperative CT scan is mandatory.

Long-term results of first row carpectomy with proximal capitate resurfacing using a pyrocarbon implant.

The functional results of proximal row carpectomy with a proximal capitate resurfacing using a pyrocarbon implant were evaluated in a retrospective, multicentric, multi-operator study. The outcomes of patients operated on at five surgical centres between January 2005 and December 2018 were reviewed. The data were collected by an independent observer during standardized consultations. Based on 30 patients with a mean follow-up of 7 years, the median range of flexion and extension was 65° and the median radioulnar tilt was 45°. The median Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score was 14 and the improvements in strength and pain were good. Compared with the preoperative values, significant improvements were seen in the flexion and extension range of motion, radioulnar tilt and pain score. No postoperative complications were recorded.Level of evidence: IV.

Midterm outcomes allograft prosthetic composite reconstruction for massive bone loss at the elbow.

BACKGROUND: Revision of a loose total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is challenging, particularly in the context of massive bone loss (MBL). The use of an allograft prosthetic composite (APC) at the elbow is rare, typically reserved as a salvage procedure for MBL. Thus, limited data describing the outcomes of APCs are available in current literature. HYPOTHESIS: The authors hypothesize that short to midterm clinical outcomes of APC for MBL about the elbow are satisfactory. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 2009 and 2018, 6 APCs implanted with a semi-constrained Coonrad Morrey prosthesis were performed in 5 females and 1 male. Median patient age was 70 years (range, 49-76 years). The indication for revision was aseptic loosening in all 6 cases (6 humeral and 2 ulnar). Median follow-up was 3.5 years (range, 2-6.7 years). Functional outcomes including Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), range of motion (ROM), and radiographic outcomes were assessed for all patients. RESULTS: Median MEPS and VAS scores were 75 (range, 40-90), and 0 (range, 0-8) at latest follow-up, respectively. Median postoperative flexion-extension and prono-supination arcs were 90̊ (range, 70-140̊) and 150 (range, 100-160̊), respectively. Allograft incorporation was noted in 5 (83%) patients; all prostheses were well-fixed. In total, 4 patients (63%) experienced 5 complications (83%) including periprosthetic fracture (n=2), ulnar neuropathy (n=1), aseptic loosening (n=1), and wound dehiscence (n=1). Two (33%) required reoperation with prosthetic retention. CONCLUSION: Elbow reconstruction using allograft prosthetic composite is a viable option for patients with MBL following TEA. The midterm functional outcomes are satisfactory with no revisions required, despite a relatively high rate of complications. Further long-term studies with larger cohorts are needed to better elucidate long-term outcomes and reasons for failure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV; therapeutic study (case series [no, or historical, control group]).

Which preoperative factors influence the patient's short-term subjective assessment after rotator cuff repair?

INTRODUCTION: To highlight the preoperative risk factors that influence postoperative patient satisfaction following Rotator Cuff Repair (RCR) and to determine whether this satisfaction was correlated with tendon healing. HYPOTHESIS: Preoperative factors influence patient satisfaction, assessed by SSV (Subjective Shoulder Value) postoperatively, with a correlation with tendon healing. METHODS: With a mean age of 60.6 years (40-72), 102 patients with arthroscopic RCR were included retrospectively. The preoperative SSV score was less than or equal to 50%. There was clinical and radiological follow-up with an ultrasound evaluation of tendon healing 6 months postoperatively. We divided the patients into 2 groups using a postoperative SSV of 85% as the cut-off; 55 patients in the first group (SSV>85%); and 47 patients in the second group (SSV<85%). RESULTS: In multivariate analysis, Preoperative risk factors for poor postoperative SSV after RCR were: tobacco use [-8.41 (-13.64; -3.17) p=0.002], fatty infiltration [-3.65 (-6.24 -1.06) p=0.006] and workers compensation [-19.15 (-24.04; -14.27) p<0.001]. When patients were not in workers compensation, the lower their SSV score before surgery, the higher their postoperative SSV score. For patients in workers compensation, the higher the SSV preoperatively, the less elevated was SSV postoperatively. The Sugaya ultrasound classification did not influence the SSV score (p=0.15) CONCLUSIONS: Smoking, fatty infiltration and patients in workers compensation are factors of poorer subjective results evaluated by the SSV score. Tendon healing did not influence the SSV score and patient satisfaction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, cohort study.

What treatment for humeral shaft non-union? Case-series assessment of a strategy.

INTRODUCTION: Humeral shaft non-union is frequent, with severe clinical impact. Management, however, is poorly codified and there is no clear decision-tree. HYPOTHESIS: Analyzing our experience over the last 15years could enable a reproducible strategy to be drawn up, with a decision-tree based on the 2 main causes: failure of internal fixation, and infection. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Sixty-one patients were included in a retrospective cohort, with a mean 94 months' follow-p. The treatment strategy was based on screening first for infection then for mechanical stability deficit in case of prior internal fixation. Any fixation revision was associated to cancellous autograft. In case of suspected or proven infection, 2-stage treatment was implemented. In case of primary non-operative treatment, the strategy was based on the non-union risk on the Non-Union Scoring System (NUSS), with internal fixation and possible graft. RESULTS: There were 6 failures, for a consolidation rate of 90%; excluding patients not managed according to the study protocol, the consolidation rate was 95%. There was 1 case of spontaneously resolving postoperative radial palsy, and 3 patients required surgical revision. DISCUSSION: The present strategy achieved consolidation in most cases, providing the surgeon with a decision-tree for these patients. Infectious etiologies are often overlooked and should be a focus of screening. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective or historical series.

Ultrasonography: an interesting imaging method for ligament assessment during the acute phase of closed elbow injuries.

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether ultrasonography can be used to explore the medial and lateral ligament structures during the acute phase of a closed elbow injury. METHODS: A single-center, prospective study performed between December 2019 and June 2020, including patients who suffered a radial head fracture or elbow dislocation. Two radiologists did a blinded analysis using ultrasonography of visibility, injury grade, and presence of bone avulsion for the radial collateral ligament (RCL), lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), annular ligament (AL), and anterior (MCLant) and posterior bundles (MCLpost) of the medial collateral ligament. The inter-rater agreement was calculated. The ultrasonography findings were compared with the intraoperative findings in the patients who subsequently underwent surgery. RESULTS: Forty patients were included (28 radial head fractures and 12 elbow dislocations). The inter-rater agreement was strong for all the study parameters (kappa between 0.65 and 1), except for the visibility of the LUCL (kappa 0.52) and the visibility and appearance of the MCLpost (kappa 0.54 and 0.47, respectively). The injured ligaments were thicker than their contralateral counterparts (p < 0.05). In the 10 patients who underwent surgery, the radiological-surgical correlation was 100% for the RCL and medial ligaments and 70% for the LUCL. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography is a reproducible examination that can be used to assess the damage to elbow ligaments during the acute phase following an injury. This examination could be incorporated into the exploration protocol for elbow injuries during the preoperative assessment and to adapt the treatment.

Arthroscopic double-button Latarjet osteolysis and remodeling at 1-year follow-up.

HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the osteolysis rate, graft remodeling, and risk factors for osteolysis at the 1-year threshold after an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double-button fixation. METHOD: In this multicenter, retrospective study, postoperative computed tomography scans obtained after an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double-button fixation to treat anterior shoulder instability were analyzed at 15 days and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Graft volume, dimensions, and morphologic remodeling were analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients were included (mean age, 26 years). At 1 year, osteolysis occurred in 19 of 27 patients (70%). The volume initially decreased until 6 months' follow-up (-35%; range, -75% to +26%) and then increased until our last follow-up. At 1 year, the graft volume decreased by 17% (range, -61% to +56%) compared with the immediate postoperative volume. In multivariate analysis, the rate of osteolysis was inversely associated with an unhealed graft at 3 months (P = .02; ß coefficient = -44.50 [95% confidence interval, -81 to -8]). The maximal height of the graft significantly grew 0.2 cm (range, -55 to +124 mm) (P = .015). In the sagittal plane, osteolysis occurred in the superior part in 100% of patients (27 of 27) whereas bone formation occurred in the inferior part. In the axial plane, osteolysis occurred in the anterior part whereas bone formation occurred in the posterior part. In the articular part, the observed remodeling was aimed to obtain a new anatomic and congruent glenoid. CONCLUSIONS: At 1 year after an arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with double-button fixation, osteolysis occurred in 70% of patients. The rate of osteolysis was 17% of the initial volume. Osteolysis occurred mainly during the first 6 months, in the anterior and superior parts. Remodeling led to a circular anatomic glenoid. This osteolysis did not cause any recurrence of instability or require revision surgery.

Does a combined screw and dowel construct improve tibial fixation during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?

PURPOSE: The aims of the present study were to compare the biomechanical properties of tibial fixation in hamstring-graft ACL reconstruction using interference screw and a novel combination interference screw and dowel construct. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We compared the fixation of 30 (2- and 4-stranded gracilis and semitendinosis tendons) in 15 fresh-frozen porcine tibiae with a biocomposite resorbable interference screw (Group 1) and a screw and dowel construct (Group 2). Each graft was subjected to load-to-failure testing (50 mm/min) to determine maximum load, displacement at failure and pullout strength. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the biomechanical properties of the constructs. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that combination constructs (ß = 140.20, p = 0.043), screw diameter (ß = 185, p = 0.006) and 4-strand grafts (ß = 51, p = 0.050) were associated with a significant increase in load at failure. Larger screw diameter was associated with increased construct stiffness (ß = 20.15, p = 0.020). CONCLUSION: The screw and dowel construct led to significantly increased fixation properties compared to interference screws alone in a porcine model. Increased screw diameter and utilization of 4-strand ACL grafts also led to improvement in load-to-failure of the construct. However, this is an in vitro study and additional investigations are needed to determine whether the results are reproducible in vivo. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V; Biomechanical study.

Atraumatic proximal radial nerve entrapment. Illustrative cases and systematic review of literature.

PURPOSE: The aims of the present study were to describe atraumatic proximal radial nerve entrapment (PRNE) and potential strategies for management. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a comprehensive search of 4 electronic databases for studies pertaining to patients with atraumatic PRNE. Studies published between 1930 and 2020 were included. Clinical presentation, nerve conduction studies, electromyography, and treatment methods were reviewed. In order to outline management strategies, 2 illustrative cases of acute PRNE were presented. RESULTS: We analyzed 12 studies involving 21 patients with 22 PRNE (15 acute and 7 progressive). Sudden or repetitive elbow extension with forceful muscle contraction (n = 16) was the primary mechanism of injury. The two main sites of entrapment were the fibrous arch (n = 7) and hiatus of the lateral intermuscular septum (n = 7). Conservative treatment was performed in 4 patients and allowed for complete clinical recovery in all cases. The remaining 18 patients underwent epineurolysis (n = 16) or resection/repair of hourglass-like constriction (n = 2) between 1.5- and 120-months following diagnosis. Twelve patients experience complete recovery, while partial or no clinical recovery was reported in 1 and 4 cases, respectively; the outcome was unknown in 1 case. CONCLUSIONS: Atraumatic PRNE is rare and remains challenging with respect to diagnosis and treatment. Current literature suggests that primary sites of entrapment are the fibrous arch and hiatus of the radial nerve at the time of forceful elbow extension. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series (IV) & systematic review (I).

Total Denervation of the Elbow: Cadaveric Feasibility Study.

PURPOSE: Total elbow arthroplasty for the treatment of patients with severe elbow osteoarthritis is associated with postoperative activity limitations and risk of midterm complications. Elbow denervation could be an attractive therapeutic option for young, active patients. The aim of our study was to assess the feasibility of selective total elbow denervation via 2 anteriorly based approaches. METHODS: Selective total elbow denervation was performed in 14 cadaver elbows by 2 fellowship-trained elbow surgeons. Lateral and medial approaches to the elbow were used. The length of skin incisions and the minimum distance between them were noted. The number of articular branches identified and their respective distances from the lateral or medial epicondyle of the humerus were recorded. RESULTS: The anterolateral and anteromedial approaches allowed for the identification of all mixed and sensory nerves in all 14 cases. The mean number of resultant articular branches per cadaver was 1 for the musculocutaneous nerve, 2 (range, 1-3) for the radial nerve, 1 (range, 1-3) for the posterior cutaneous nerve of the forearm, 2 (range, 1-3) for the ulnar nerve, and 2 (range, 1-3) for the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve; the collateral ulnar nerve was connected directly to the capsule. The length of the medial and lateral incisions was 15 cm (range, 12-18 cm) and 12 cm (range, 10-16 cm), respectively. The mean minimum distance between the incisions was 7.5 cm (range, 6.7-8.5 cm). CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that selective elbow denervation via 2 approaches is feasible. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Selective elbow denervation via 2 approaches is feasible. Surgeons should target the articular branches of the musculocutaneous, radial, ulnar, and collateral ulnar nerves, posterior cutaneous nerve of the forearm, as well as medial antebrachial cutaneous nerves when carrying out this procedure.

Surgical treatment of bone metastasis from osteophilic cancer. Results in 401 peripheral and spinal locations.

INTRODUCTION: Peripheral and spinal bone metastases arise mainly from 5 osteophilic cancers: lung, prostate, kidney, breast and thyroid. Few studies combined results for the two types metastatic location (peripheral and spinal). Therefore we performed a multicenter retrospective study of surgically managed peripheral and spinal bone metastases to assess: (1) global function at a minimum 1 year's follow-up and; (2) factors affecting survival. HYPOTHESIS: Global function is improved by surgery, with acceptable survival. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Between 2015 and 2016, 386 patients were operated on in 11 centers for 401 metastases: 231 peripheral, and 170 spinal. Mean age was 62.6±12.5 years in the 212 female patients (54%) versus 66.4±11.5 years in the 174 males (46%) (p=0.001). Pre- to postoperative comparison was made on pain on VAS (visual analog scale), WHO (World Health Organization) score, Karnofsky score, walking and global upper-limb function. Survival was estimated at 4 years' follow-up. RESULTS: The most frequent locations were in the femur (n=146, 36%) and thoracic spine (n=107, 27%). The primary cancer was revealed by the metastasis in 82 patients (21%). There were 55 general complications (14%) and 48 local complications (12%). Twenty-one patients (5.4%) died during the first month. VAS and Karnofsky sores improved: respectively, 6.6±2.3 vs. 3.4±2.1 (p<0.001) and 65±14 vs. 72±20 (p=0.01). Walking, upper-limb function and Frankel grade improved in respectively 49/86 (57%), 19/29 (66%) and 31/84 (37%) patients. Median survival was 13.3 months (95% CI: 10.8-17.1), and was related to the primary (log-rank, p<0.001): lung 6.5 months (95% CI: 5.2-8.9), prostate 11.1 months (95% CI: 5.3-43.6), kidney 12.9 months (95% CI: 8.4-22.6), breast 26.5 months (95% CI: 19.0-34.0), and thyroid 49.0 months (95% CI: 12.2-NA). On multivariate analysis, independent factors for death comprised internal fixation rather than prosthesis (OR=2.20; 95% CI: 1.59-3.04 (p<0.001)), high preoperative ASA score (OR=1.78; 95% CI: 1.40-2.28 (p<0.001)), preoperative chemotherapy (OR=1.26; 95% CI: 1.13-1.41 (p<0.001)) and major visceral metastasis (lung, brain, liver) (OR=11.80; 95% CI: 5.21-26.71 (p<0.001)). CONCLUSION: Although function improved only slightly, pain relief and maintained autonomy suggest enhanced comfort in life, confirming the study hypothesis only partially. Factors affecting survival and clinical results argue for preventive surgery when possible, before general health status deteriorates. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV; retrospective observational.

A retrospective comparison of central and posterior hinge joints in 53 total knee arthroplasties.

INTRODUCTION: The number of hinged total knee arthroplasty (HTKA) procedures is constantly increasing. There are two hinge types: central (CHTKA) and posterior (PHTKA). The primary purpose of the study was to compare implant survival in patients with CHTKA versus PHTKA. The secondary purpose was to analyse the radiological and clinical results of the implants. HYPOTHESIS: There is no difference between the two groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study involved 53 patients who received a HTKA for either primary, trauma or revision surgery, of these 32 were in the CHTKA group and 21 in the PHTKA group, with a mean age of 69 years (38-89). The exclusion criteria were: etiology of sepsis, incomplete records and refusal to use data. The revision rate, with the replacement of prosthetic components, was the primary endpoint. The secondary outcomes were: mobility, complications, VAS, IKS, Devane, Charnley and Oxford knee scores, and radiological progression. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 51 months (1-139). At 60 months, overall survival rate of the HTKA was 81%, with a confidence interval (CI) of 95% (71-93.2), and there was no difference between CHTKA and PHTKA, 77.7% (95% CI, 63.3-95.4) versus 85.7% (95% CI, 72-100), p=0.625, respectively. Flexion was 101°±15 (80-140) for CHTKA versus 98°±12 (30-130) for PHTKA, p=0.006. VAS was 0.5±16 (0-6) for CHTKA versus 1.6±14 (0-4) for PHTKA, p=0.000008. The IKS was 103±39 (15-180) for CHTKA versus 81±51 (9-200) for PHTKA, p=0.03. There were no differences in either radiological progression, complications or other functional scores. DISCUSSION: No significant difference was observed between the survival of CHTKA and PHTKA. CHTKA had better flexion, reduced VAS and increased IKS. Surgeons should be aware of these findings and apply careful consideration to their choice of hinge. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV; retrospective single-centre study.

Feasibility and technique of ultrasound traumatic elbow lesion assessment.

INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to describe the technique of ultrasound traumatic elbow lesion assessment performed by an orthopedic surgeon. METHODS: Nine patients were included in a single-center study. Clinical examination assessed pain, ranges of elbow motion, neurovascular status and elbow ligament testing. Ultrasound was associated to radiography between days 7 and 15, screening for lesions of the bone, medial ligament (in 30-90° flexion), lateral ligament (elbow at 90° in cobra position) and epitrochlear and epicondylar muscle insertions. Ultrasound scanning time and echogenicity were assessed. RESULTS: Four radial head osteochondral fractures were detected on ultrasound in addition to the 4 fractures seen on radiography, without significant difference (p=0.071). Clinical examination found 2 cases of valgus laxity and 5 of varus laxity. Ultrasound, performed blind to radiography, found 1 medial collateral ligament anterior bundle lesion (in 1 of the 2 patients with valgus laxity) and 4 lateral collateral ligament ulnar bundle lesions (in 4 of the 5 patients with varus laxity). There were no epicondylar or epitrochlear tendon lesions. Scanning time decreased significantly over the study period, from a mean 30minutes in the first 5 cases to a mean 24.8minutes in the last 5 (p=0.046). Three patients could not be put in the cobra position, and 3 showed poor echogenicity. DISCUSSION: Ultrasound assessment of traumatic elbow lesions could be performed by an orthopedic surgeon on a well-defined protocol. Lesions on ultrasound matched clinical symptomatology. Inter- and intra-observer reproducibility remain to be assessed. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Revision Total Elbow Arthroplasty with the Semiconstrained Coonrad/Morrey Prosthesis: Follow-up to 21 Years.

BACKGROUND: Revision total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) has increased, especially in young patients with high functional expectations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of revision TEA with a single semiconstrained prosthesis. METHODS: Thirty-four revision TEAs were performed with a Coonrad/Morrey prosthesis in 32 patients; 2 patients had bilateral procedures. The mean patient age was 61 years (range, 22 to 76 years), and the revision TEA was performed at a mean time of 7.8 years (range, 1.6 to 21 years) after the primary TEA. Etiologies for revisions were humeral and ulnar aseptic loosening (n = 14), ulnar aseptic loosening (n = 8), humeral aseptic loosening (n = 6), septic arthritis (n = 4), and unstable unlinked prostheses (n = 2). Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed with systematic preoperative infection workup and quantification of bone loss. The mean follow-up was 11.4 years (range, 2 to 21 years). RESULTS: The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) at the last follow-up was excellent in 6 cases, good in 18 cases, fair in 8 cases, and poor in 2 cases, with a mean improvement (and standard deviation) between the preoperative values at 42.4 ± 16.1 points and the postoperative values at 81.8 ± 12 points (p < 0.001). The mean pain scores improved significantly from 6.7 ± 1.3 points preoperatively to 1.4 ± 1.4 points postoperatively (p < 0.001). The flexion-extension arc increased significantly (p = 0.02) from 74° ± 27° preoperatively to 100° ± 31° postoperatively. The total number of complications was 29 in 19 revision TEAs (56%). Twenty of the 29 complications simply required monitoring without surgical intervention. Six repeat surgical procedures were required, and 3 implant revisions (9%) were performed. CONCLUSIONS: Revision TEA with a semiconstrained prosthesis can provide good clinical results that can be maintained during follow-up. The rate of complications is high. Proper evaluation of the risk-benefit ratio is essential for each revision TEA and should be discussed with the patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Bony asymmetry in patellofemoral morphology and risk factors of instability are mostly clinically negligible.

PURPOSE: Previous investigations suggested that femoral side-to-side differences were located in the upper femur anatomy. However, little is known about the asymmetry between distal femur and patella. The degree of bony asymmetry in the patellofemoral joint was evaluated using pairs of CT-scans with emphasis on morphometric measurements and risk factors relevant to patellofemoral disorders. METHODS: Patellofemoral morphometric parameters and anatomical risk factors were analyzed from 345 pairs of CT scans to evaluate side-to-side differences for each patient. All measurements were automatized using previously published algorithm-calculated bone landmarks. We analyzed asymmetry based on absolute differences (AD) and percentage asymmetry (AS%). Significant asymmetry was defined as AS% > 10%. RESULTS: Patellar height was found to be highly symmetric (mean AD 0.1 for both Insall-Salvatti and Caton-Deschamps methods, AS% 8% and 9%, respectively). Patellar and femoral morphometric parameters were found highly symmetric, except for the trochlear groove depth. Substantial asymmetry was reported in two patellofemoral risk factors: the lateral trochlear inclination (mean AD 2°, AS% 16%) and the tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance (1 mm, 116%). Patellar and femoral morphometric asymmetries were independent of demographics, including age, gender, height, weight and ethnicity. CONCLUSION: Patellar height was found to be highly symmetric and is, therefore, a reasonable index for contralateral templating. While very few patellofemoral morphometric parameters and anatomical risk factors were asymmetric, the mean differences were clinically negligible and independent of demographics. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Arthroscopic double-button Latarjet: two-thirds of bone block healed at 90 days.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the union rate and risk factors for delayed union in the early postoperative period after an arthroscopic Latarjet with double-button fixation. METHOD: In a retrospective study, postoperative CT scans at 3 months were analysed following an arthroscopic Latarjet with double-button fixation used to treat anterior shoulder instability. Healing of the bone block, its position in the sagittal and coronal planes, and the contact area graft/scapula were analysed. RESULTS: Ninety-eight CT scans (98 patients) were included. The rate of healing at 3 months was 63/98 (64%) and four grafts clearly migrated. The position was perfectly flush to the glenoid rim in 67% and under the equator in 96%. The mean contact graft/scapula area was 135 mm 2 (4-420). In multivariate analysis, the risk of non-union at 3 months was associated with tobacco consumption (p = 0.001, aOR = 12.17 95% CI [2.62-56.49]), absence of preoperative glenoid bone defect (p = 0.003, aOR = 8.06 95% CI [2.06-31.56]), and a contact area graft/scapula less than 120 mm 2 (p = 0.010, aOR = 5.25 95% CI [1.50-18.40]). Among 31 non-united grafts, 93% definitively healed on CT scan at 1 year, leaving an overall rate of 93% of united grafts at last follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of union at 3 months after an arthroscopic Latarjet with double-button fixation was 64%, reaching 93% at 1 year. This procedure should be carefully indicated in case of tobacco use or instability without glenoid bone defect, especially when the shoulder is exposed to high-energy trauma in the early phase after surgery.