Anconeus-sparing minimally invasive approach for lateral ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction using a triceps tendon autograft is an effective and safe treatment for chronic posterolateral instability of the elbow.

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment helps to restore stability of the elbow in patients with posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI). The anconeus muscle is one of the most important active stabilizers against PLRI. A minimally invasive anconeus-sparing approach for lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) reconstruction using a triceps tendon autograft has been previously described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of this intervention and identify risk factors that influenced the clinical and patient-reported outcomes. METHODS: Sixty-one patients with chronic PLRI and no previous elbow surgery who underwent surgical reconstruction of the LUCL using a triceps tendon autograft in a minimally invasive anconeus-sparing approach during 2012 and 2018 were evaluated. Outcome measures included a clinical examination and the Oxford Elbow Score (OES) and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) questionnaires. Subjective patient outcomes were evaluated with the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Subjective Elbow Value (SEV). Integrity of the common extensor tendons and centering of the radial head were assessed preoperatively on standardized magnetic resonance images (MRIs). RESULTS: Fifty-two patients were available at final follow-up. The mean age of patients was 51 ± 12 years with a mean follow-up of 53 ± 14 months (range 20-76). Clinical examination after surgery (n = 41) showed no clinical signs of instability in 98% of the patients (P < .001) and a nonsignificant improvement in range of motion. OES, MEPS, and VAS scores averaged 40 ± 10 of 48 points, 92 ± 12 of 100 points, and 1 ± 2 points, respectively, all corresponding with good or excellent outcomes. The SEV was 88%, indicating very high satisfaction with the surgery. Only 1 patient had revision surgery due to pain, and there were no reported postoperative complications in this cohort. A radial head subluxation in the MRI correlated significantly with worse postoperative outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The anconeus-sparing minimally invasive technique for posterolateral stabilization of the elbow using a triceps tendon autograft is an effective and safe treatment for chronic posterolateral instability of the elbow with substantial improvements in elbow function and pain relief with a very low rate of persistent clinical instability.

Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among healthcare workers in Dutch hospitals after the 2020 first wave: a multicentre cross-sectional study with prospective follow-up.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to estimate the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) seroprevalence and describe its determinants and associated symptoms among unvaccinated healthcare workers (HCWs) after the first wave of the pandemic. METHODS: HCWs from 13 Dutch hospitals were screened for antibodies against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 in June-July 2020 and after three months. Participants completed a retrospective questionnaire on determinants for occupational and community exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 experienced since January 2020. The seroprevalence was calculated per baseline characteristic and symptom at baseline and after follow-up. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for seropositivity were determined using logistic regression. RESULTS: Among 2328 HCWs, 323 (13.9%) were seropositive at enrolment, 49 of whom (15%) reported no previous symptoms suggestive of COVID-19. During follow-up, only 1% of the tested participants seroconverted. Seroprevalence was higher in younger HCWs compared to the mid-age category (aOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.07-2.18). Nurses (aOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.34-3.64) and administrative staff (aOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.02-3.43) had a higher seroprevalence than physicians. The highest seroprevalence was observed in HCWs in the emergency department (ED) (aOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.10-2.91), the lowest in HCWs in the intensive, high, or medium care units (aOR 0.47, 95% CI 0.31-0.71). Chronic respiratory disease, smoking, and having a dog were independently associated with a lower seroprevalence, while HCWs with diabetes mellitus had a higher seroprevalence. In a multivariable model containing all self-reported symptoms since January 2020, altered smell and taste, fever, general malaise/fatigue, and muscle aches were positively associated with developing antibodies, while sore throat and chills were negatively associated. CONCLUSIONS: The SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in unvaccinated HCWs of 13 Dutch hospitals was 14% in June-July 2020 and remained stable after three months. A higher seroprevalence was observed in the ED and among nurses, administrative and young staff, and those with diabetes mellitus, while a lower seroprevalence was found in HCWs in intensive, high, or medium care, and those with self-reported lung disease, smokers, and dog owners. A history of altered smell or taste, fever, muscle aches and fatigue were independently associated with the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in unvaccinated HCWs.

Environmental monitoring for filamentous fungal pathogens in hematopoietic cell transplant units.

The incidence of invasive fungal disease (IFD) is on the rise due to increasing numbers of highly immunocompromized patients. Nosocomial IFD remains common despite our better understanding of its risk factors and pathophysiology. High-efficiency particulate air filtration with or without laminar air flow, frequent air exchanges, a positive pressure care environment, and environmental hygiene, amongst other measures, have been shown to reduce the mould burden in the patient environment. Environmental monitoring for moulds in areas where high-risk patients are cared for, such as hematopoietic cell transplant units, has been considered an adjunct to other routine environmental precautions. As a collaborative effort between authors affiliated to the Infection Prevention and Control Working Group and the Fungal Infection Working Group of the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (ISAC), we reviewed the English language literature and international guidance to describe the evidence behind the need for environmental monitoring for filamentous fungi as a quality assurance approach with an emphasis on required additional precautions during periods of construction. Many different clinical sampling approaches have been described for air, water, and surface sampling with significant variation in laboratory methodologies between reports. Importantly, there are no agreed-upon thresholds that correlate with an increase in the clinical risk of mould infections. We highlight important areas for future research to assure a safe environment for highly immunocompromized patients.

Mould infections have a high mortality in high-risk patients. Ventilation engineering significantly reduces the risk of acquiring such infections. Environmental sampling for moulds is carried out in many centers in addition to standard precautions. We review the literature on this subject.

Intensity of endogenous thrombocytopenia after autologous stem cell transplantation in patients prophylactically transfused with platelets.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Large clinical trials have demonstrated that some patient groups with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia benefit from prophylactic platelet transfusions, while in others, a therapeutic transfusion regimen might be sufficient. The remaining capacity to generate endogenous platelets might be helpful to select the platelet transfusion regimen. We assessed whether the recently described method of digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to assess the endogenous platelet levels in two groups of patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Multiple myeloma (n = 22) patients received high-dose melphalan alone (HDMA); lymphoma patients (n = 15) received BEAM or TEAM (B/TEAM) conditioning. Patients with a total platelet count <10 G/L received prophylactic apheresis platelet concentrates. Daily endogenous platelet counts were measured by digital droplet PCR for at least 10 days post-ASCT. RESULTS: Post-transplantation B/TEAM patients received their first platelet transfusion on average 3 days earlier than HDMA patients (p < 0.001) and required about twofold more platelet concentrates (p < 0.001). The endogenous platelet count fell ≤5 G/L for a median of 115 h (91-159; 95% confidence interval) in B/TEAM-treated patients compared to 12.6 h (0-24) (p < 0.0001) in HDMA-treated patients. Multivariate analysis confirmed this profound effect of the high-dose regimen (p < 0.001). The CD-34+ -cell dose in the graft was inversely correlated with the intensity of endogenous thrombocytopenia in B/TEAM-treated patients. CONCLUSION: Monitoring endogenous platelet counts detects the direct effects of myelosuppressive chemotherapies on platelet regeneration. This approach may help to develop a platelet transfusion regimen tailored to specific patient groups.

Long-term outcome in patients with mantle cell lymphoma following high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Long-term clinical and molecular remissions in patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) have been evaluated in only a few studies. DESIGN AND METHODS: Sixty-five patients with MCL received ASCT (54 first-line ASCT, 10 second-line ASCT, and 1 third-line ASCT). In the case of long-term remission (≥5 years; n = 27), peripheral blood was tested for minimal residual disease (MRD) by t(11;14)- and IGH-PCR at the last follow-up. RESULTS: Ten-year overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and freedom from progression (FFP) after first-line ASCT were 64%, 52%, and 59% versus after second-line ASCT 50%, 20%, and 20%, respectively. Five-year OS, PFS, and FFP for the first-line cohort were 79%, 63%, and 69%, respectively. Five-year OS, PFS, and FFP after second-line ASCT were 60%, 30%, and 30%, respectively. Treatment-related mortality (3 months after ASCT) was 1.5%. So far 26 patients developed sustained long-term clinical and molecular complete remissions of up to 19 years following ASCT in first treatment line. CONCLUSION: Sustained long-term clinical and molecular remissions are achievable following ASCT.

Iatrogenic instability of the acromioclavicular joint leads to ongoing impairment of shoulder function even following secondary surgical stabilization.

PURPOSE: Iatrogenic instability of the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) following distal clavicle excision (DCE) represents an infrequent pathology. Revision surgery to restore ACJ stability and alleviate concomitant pain is challenging due to altered anatomic relationships. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the used salvage techniques and postoperative functional and radiological outcomes in retrospectively identify patients with a painful ACJ following DCE. We hypothesized that iatrogenic instability leads to ongoing impairment of shoulder function despite secondary surgical stabilization. METHODS: 9 patients with a painful ACJ after DCE (6 men, 3 women, 43.3 ± 9.4 years) were followed up at a minimum of 36 months after revision surgery. Besides range of motion (ROM), strength and function were evaluated with validated evaluation tools including the Constant score and the DASH score (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire), specific AC Score (SACS), Nottingham Clavicle Score (NCS), Taft score and Acromioclavicular Joint Instability Score (AJI). Additionally, postoperative X-rays were compared to the unaffected side, measuring the coracoclavicular (CC) and acromioclavicular (AC) distance. RESULTS: At follow-up survey (55.8 ± 18.8 months) all patients but one demonstrated clinical ACJ stability after arthroscopically assisted anatomical ACJ reconstruction with an autologous hamstring graft. Reconstruction techniques were dependent on the direction of instability. The functional results demonstrated moderate shoulder and ACJ scores with a Constant Score of 77.3 ± 15.4, DASH-score of 51.2 ± 23.4, SACS 32.6 ± 23.8, NCS 77.8 ± 14.2, AJI 75 ± 14.7 points and Taft Score 7.6 ± 3.4 points. All patients stated they would undergo the revision surgery again. Mean postoperative CC-distance (8.3 ± 2.8 mm) did not differ significantly from the contralateral side (8.5 ± 1.6 mm) (p > 0,05). However, the mean AC distance was significantly greater with 16.5 ± 5.8 mm compared to the contralateral side (3.5 ± 1.9 mm) (p = 0.012). CONCLUSION: Symptomatic iatrogenic ACJ instability following DCE is rare. Arthroscopically assisted revision surgery with an autologous hamstring graft improved ACJ stability in eight out of nine cases (88.9%). However, the functional scores showed ongoing impairment of shoulder function and a relatively high overall complication rate (33.3%). Therefore, this study underlines the importance of precise preoperative indication and planning and, especially, the preservation of ACJ stability when performing AC joint resection procedures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series, LEVEL IV.

Current concepts in acromioclavicular joint (AC) instability - a proposed treatment algorithm for acute and chronic AC-joint surgery.

BACKGROUND: There exists a vast number of surgical treatment options for acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, and the current literature has yet to determine an equivocally superior treatment. AC joint repair has a long history and dates back to the beginning of the twentieth century. MAIN BODY: Since then, over 150 different techniques have been described, covering open and closed techniques. Low grade injuries such as Type I-II according to the modified Rockwood classification should be treated conservatively, while high-grade injuries (types IV-VI) may be indicated for operative treatment. However, controversy exists if operative treatment is superior to nonoperative treatment, especially in grade III injuries, as functional impairment due to scapular dyskinesia or chronic pain remains concerning following non-operative treatment. Patients with a stable AC joint without overriding of the clavicle and without significant scapular dysfunction (Type IIIA) may benefit from non-interventional approaches, in contrast to patients with overriding of the clavicle and therapy-resistant scapular dysfunction (Type IIIB). If these patients are considered non-responders to a conservative approach, an anatomic AC joint reconstruction using a hybrid technique should be considered. In chronic AC joint injuries, surgery is indicated after failed nonoperative treatment of 3 to 6 months. Anatomic AC joint reconstruction techniques along with biologic augmentation (e.g. Hybrid techniques, suture fixation) should be considered for chronic high-grade instabilities, accounting for the lack of intrinsic healing and scar-forming potential of the ligamentous tissue in the chronic setting. However, complication and clinical failure rates remain high, which may be a result of technical failures or persistent horizontal and rotational instability. CONCLUSION: Future research should focus on addressing horizontal and rotational instability, to restore native physiological and biomechanical properties of the AC joint.

Herpes zoster prophylaxis with low-dose acyclovir in patients with malignant lymphoma and multiple myeloma treated with autologous stem cell transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Herpes zoster (HZ) is a frequent complication after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). The option of zoster prophylaxis with an antiviral drug is described in the literature, but there is no consensus on the drug and the dosage. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed the records of 310 patients treated with ASCT who were controlled regularly regarding HZ inter alia for at least 24 months following ASCT. Since 01/2015 patients received prophylactic low-dose acyclovir (400 mg per day) during the first 12 months following discharge after ASCT (n = 107). RESULTS: Twenty percent of patients without this kind of prophylaxis and 2.8% of patients with prophylaxis developed HZ (p < .001). No patient with this prophylaxis developed HZ in the first year after ASCT, 2.8% of patients in the second year after ASCT. A prognostic factor was the kind of diagnosis: 30% of lymphoma patients and 14% of myeloma patients developed HZ in the first 24 months after ASCT without prophylaxis, but only 6.3% and 0% of patients with prophylaxis, respectively. Neither an increase of HZ cases following prophylaxis nor acyclovir refractory HZ cases were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Zoster prophylaxis with low-dose acyclovir over 12 months after ASCT is effective and well tolerated.

Randomized Pilot Trial Using External Yarrow Liver Compress Applications With Metastatic Cancer Patients Suffering From Fatigue: Evaluation of Sympathetic Modulation by Heart Rate Variability Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Liver compresses are commonly applied in complementary medicine during cancer treatment and are believed to have an energizing effect. We conducted a pilot study to investigate the influence of external application of yarrow liver compresses on the autonomous nervous system by analyzing the heart rate variability (HRV) in metastatic cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy and suffering from cancer-related fatigue (CRF). METHODS: A randomized pilot trial was undertaken with patients suffering from CRF receiving palliative radiation therapy for bone or brain metastasis over 2 weeks. CRF patients were randomized into an intervention group receiving yarrow liver compresses and a control group receiving no external application. HRV was analyzed at the beginning (T1) and end (T2) period of the study during daytime (d) and nighttime (n) in both groups and quantified using time-, frequency-, and nonlinear dynamics domains. RESULTS: A total of 39 patients were randomized between September 2017 and August 2019 and a total of 20 patients (10 per group) were available for analysis. For both groups, significant differences in HRV analyses were found in the comparison over the timeline between the first and second measurement (T1d→T2d) during daytime. Specifically, the intervention group showed decreased HRV and complexity of heart rate regulation, indicating increased sympathetic activity at time T2d, whereas the control group showed increased HRV and complexity of heart rate regulation, indicating increased vagal activity at time T2d. Furthermore, the observed HRV analyses showed almost no significant differences between the 2 groups in a direct comparison at the beginning and the end of the study (exception: T2d). CONCLUSIONS: Yarrow liver compresses led to increased sympathetic activity during daytime in the intervention group, whereas in the control group, which did not receive any external application, increased parasympathetic activity was observed.

Long-term remissions in patients with early relapse of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma following high-dose chemotherapy, autologous stem cell transplantation, and radiotherapy of residual disease.

PURPOSE: The prognosis of an early relapse of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) appears to be poor following autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). The aim of this study is to contribute data to the open question on whether additional radiotherapy can improve the outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-eight patients with an early relapse (median 4 months after the end of initial immunochemotherapy, range 1-11) of DLBCL have been treated in our institution with high-dose therapy (usually the BEAM protocol) and ASCT since 2008 (median age 61 years, range 28-73). Twenty-three patients received ASCT in a second treatment line, 25 in a third line (19 refractory to second-line salvage therapy, 5 after second relapse). Fifteen of these 48 patients received radiotherapy (36-50 Gy, median 40) of residual masses after ASCT. RESULTS: Three-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) after second-line ASCT were 61 and 57%, after third-line ASCT 47 and 44%, respectively, without significant differences. A prognostic factor was the International Prognostic Index (IPI) at the start of salvage therapy. Three-year OS and PFS in low-risk patients were 69 and 69%, in low-intermediate-risk 63 and 53%, and in high-intermediate-risk 23 and 23%, respectively (p = 0.033). Twenty-three patients achieved a sustained complete remission (13-146 months, median 62). CONCLUSION: Sustained long-term remissions can be achieved in patients with early relapse of DLBCL following ASCT in a second or third treatment line, particularly in patients with low- and low-intermediate-risk IPI, following radiotherapy of residual disease after ASCT. Further investigations are required to clarify which patients need an alternative therapy (potentially CAR T­cells or allogeneic transplantation).

Cell-based therapy of the elbow: evidence for lateral tendinopathy-a review on current treatments.

PURPOSE: Cell-based therapies are on the rise in treating intra and extraarticular pathologies, trying to avoid surgical intervention and support local repair processes. Therefore, the aim was to summarize current evidence-based treatment options for a cell-based therapy around the elbow. METHODS: Through a literature review up-to date treatment algorithms and therapies have been identified and have been rated according to their evidence level for clinical recommendation. RESULTS: Regarding the four extraarticular anatomical regions of the elbow (anterior, medial, posterior and lateral) and the joint itself, the lateral elbow and its´ tendinopathies as well as the use of cell-based treatment options have been extensively studied and, therefore, allow for clear and evidence-based recommendations. The remaining three regions as wells as the intraarticular application do not show enough evidence for a clinical recommendation. CONCLUSION: In conclusion the cell-based approach for treating elbow pathologies can only be recommended for the lateral elbow, as there has been shown sufficient evidence for the extraarticular application. It has to be mentioned, that the results from the lateral elbow maybe transferred to other extra-articular tendinopathies, as the lack of evidence may be due to the rare appearance of posterior, medial and anterior tendon affection. No recommendation can be given for intra-articular use. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with biologically enhanced patch augmentation.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this guide is to illustrate an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) with two techniques for biologically enhanced patch augmentation. INDICATIONS: Massive rotator cuff tears (> 5 cm) and revision RCR. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Active joint or systemic infection; severe fatty muscle atrophy; severe glenohumeral arthropathy; American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA PS) IV. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Dermal allograft patch augmented with concentrated bone marrow aspirate (cBMA), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-poor plasma (PPP); or Regeneten patch augmented with bursa, PRP, PPP, and autologous thrombin. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: A 30° abduction sling for 6 weeks; unrestricted active-assisted external rotation and forward elevation after 12 weeks; focus on restoration of scapular stability and strength. RESULTS: A total of 22 patients received revision massive RCR using a dermal allograft patch enhanced with cBMA and PRP with a mean follow-up of 2.5 years (1.0-5.8 years). There was a significant improvement in the preoperative Simple Shoulder Test (SST). There was also a trend towards improved pain and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Shoulder Score. In this cohort, 45% reached the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), 41% achieved substantial clinical benefit (SCB), and 32% had a patient-acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) for the ASES score. Preliminary data using the Regeneten patch technique with bursa, PRP, PPP, and autologous thrombin was prospectively collected in five patients between 05/2020 and 03/2021 at the author's institution. Mean follow-up was 6.5 ± 1.3 (6-8 months). There was an improvement from preop to postop in pain, ASES, SANE, Constant-Murley (CM) score and active range of motion.

Radiological and mid- to long-term patient-reported outcome after stabilization of traumatic thoraco-lumbar spinal fractures using an expandable vertebral body replacement implant.

BACKGROUND: For the treatment of unstable thoraco-lumbar burst fractures, a combined posterior and anterior stabilization instead of a posterior-only instrumentation is recommend in the current literature due to the instability of the anterior column. Data on restoring the bi-segmental kyphotic endplate angle (BKA) with expandable vertebral body replacements (VBR) and on the mid- to long-term patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) is sparse. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of patients with traumatic thoraco-lumbar spinal fractures treated with an expandable VBR implant (Obelisc™, Ulrich Medical, Germany) between 2001 and 2015 was conducted. Patient and treatment characteristics were evaluated retrospectively. Radiological data acquisition was completed pre- and postoperatively, 6 months and at least 2 years after the VBR surgery. The BKA was measured and fusion-rates were assessed. The SF-36, EQ-5D and ODI questionnaires were evaluated prospectively. RESULTS: Ninety-six patients (25 female, 71 male; age: 46.1 ± 12.8 years) were included in the study. An AO Type A4 fracture was seen in 80/96 cases (83.3%). Seventy-three fractures (76.0%) were located at the lumbar spine. Intraoperative reduction of the BKA in n = 96 patients was 10.5 ± 9.4° (p < 0.01). A loss of correction of 1.0 ± 2.8° at the first follow-up (t1) and of 2.4 ± 4.0° at the second follow-up (t2) was measured (each p < 0.05). The bony fusion rate was 97.9%. The total revision rate was 4.2%. Fifty-one patients (53.1% of included patients; age: 48.9 ± 12.4 years) completed the PROM questionnaires after 106.4 ± 44.3 months and therefore were assigned to the respondent group. The mean ODI score was 28.2 ± 18.3%, the mean EQ-5D VAS reached 60.7 ± 4.1 points. Stratified SF-36 results (ISS < and ≥ 16) were lower compared to a reference population. CONCLUSION: The treatment of traumatic thoraco-lumbar fractures with an expandable VBR implant lead to a high rate of bony fusion. A significant correction of the BKA could be achieved and no clinically relevant loss of reduction occurred during the follow-up. Even though health related quality of life did not reach the normative population values, overall satisfactory results were reported.

Long-term outcome in patients with follicular lymphoma following high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation.

OBJECTIVE: To contribute data on long-term outcome and potential curative impact of ASCT in FL, especially following HDT with the BEAM protocol (BCNU, etoposide, cytarabine and melphalan), given very limited data on this topic in the literature. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with FL (n = 76) were treated in our institution with HDT and ASCT. In the case of long-term remission (≥8 years), peripheral blood was tested for minimal residual disease by t(14;18)- and IGH-PCR, including the last follow-up. RESULTS: 10-year overall survival, progression-free survival, and freedom from progression (FFP) after first-line ASCT (n = 20) were 80%, 60%, and 69%, after second-line ASCT (n = 48, following BEAM) 66%, 38%, and 41%, after third/fourth-line ASCT (n = 8) 33%, 25%, and 25%, respectively. Prognostic factors for FFP were treatment line and FLIPI (Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index). 10-year FFP for second-line ASCT and low-risk FLIPI at relapse was 69%, intermediate-risk 28%, and high-risk 25% (P < .05). 26 patients developed sustained long-term clinical and molecular remissions of up to 27 years. CONCLUSIONS: Sustained long-term clinical and molecular complete remissions up to 27 years can be achieved following ASCT (including HDT with BEAM in second treatment line), indicating a potential curative impact of ASCT in FL.

Atrophy patterns in isolated subscapularis lesions.

BACKGROUND: While supraspinatus atrophy can be described according to the system of Zanetti or Thomazeau there is still a lack of characterization of isolated subscapularis muscle atrophy. The aim of this study was to describe patterns of muscle atrophy following repair of isolated subscapularis (SSC) tendon. METHODS: Forty-nine control shoulder MRI scans, without rotator cuff pathology, atrophy or fatty infiltration, were prospectively evaluated and subscapularis diameters as well as cross sectional areas (complete and upper half) were assessed in a standardized oblique sagittal plane. Calculation of the ratio between the upper half of the cross sectional area (CSA) and the total CSA was performed. Eleven MRI scans of patients with subscapularis atrophy following isolated subscapularis tendon tears were analysed and cross sectional area ratio (upper half /total) determined. To guarantee reliable measurement of the CSA and its ratio, bony landmarks were also defined. All parameters were statistically compared for inter-rater reliability, reproducibility and capacity to quantify subscapularis atrophy. RESULTS: The mean age in the control group was 49.7 years (± 15.0). The mean cross sectional area (CSA) was 2367.0 mm2 (± 741.4) for the complete subscapularis muscle and 1048.2 mm2 (± 313.3) for the upper half, giving a mean ratio of 0.446 (± 0.046). In the subscapularis repair group the mean age was 56.7 years (± 9.3). With a mean cross sectional area of 1554.7 mm2 (± 419.9) for the complete and of 422.9 mm2 (± 173.6) for the upper half of the subscapularis muscle, giving a mean CSA ratio of 0.269 (± 0.065) which was seen to be significantly lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Analysis of typical atrophy patterns of the subscapularis muscle demonstrates that the CSA ratio represents a reliable and reproducible assessment tool in quantifying subscapularis atrophy. We propose the classification of subscapularis atrophy as Stage I (mild atrophy) in case of reduction of the cross sectional area ratio < 0.4, Stage II (moderate atrophy) in case of < 0.35 and Stage III (severe atrophy) if < 0.3.

Post-operative septic arthritis after arthroscopy: modern diagnostic and therapeutic concepts.

PURPOSE: Septic arthritis is a significant complication following arthroscopic surgery, with an estimated overall incidence of less than 1%. Despite the low incidence, an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic pathway is required to avoid serious long-term consequences, eradicate the infection, and ensure good treatment outcomes. The aim of this current review article is to summarize evidence-based literature regarding diagnostic and therapeutic options of post-operative septic arthritis after arthroscopy. METHODS: Through a literature review, up-to-date treatment algorithms and therapies have been identified. Additionally, a supportive new algorithm is proposed for diagnosis and treatment of suspected septic arthritis following arthroscopic intervention. RESULTS: A major challenge in diagnostics is the differentiation of the post-operative status between a non-infected hyperinflammatory joint versus septic arthritis, due to clinical symptoms, (e.g., rubor, calor, or tumor) can appear identical. Therefore, joint puncture for microbiological evaluation, especially for fast leukocyte cell-count diagnostics, is advocated. A cell count of more than 20.000 leukocyte/µl with more than 70% of polymorphonuclear cells is the generally accepted threshold for septic arthritis. CONCLUSION: The therapy is based on arthroscopic or open surgical debridement for synovectomy and irrigation of the joint, in combination with an adequate antibiotic therapy for 6-12 weeks. Removal of indwelling hardware, such as interference screws for ACL repair or anchors for rotator cuff repair, is recommended in chronic cases. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Efficacy of UVC-treated, pathogen-reduced platelets versus untreated platelets: a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial.

Pathogen reduction (PR) technologies for blood components have been established to reduce the residual risk of known and emerging infectious agents. THERAFLEX UVPlatelets, a novel UVC light-based PR technology for platelet concentrates, works without photoactive substances. This randomized, controlled, double-blind, multicenter, noninferiority trial was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of UVC-treated platelets to that of untreated platelets in thrombocytopenic patients with hematologic-oncologic diseases. Primary objective was to determine non-inferiority of UVC-treated platelets, assessed by the 1-hour corrected count increment (CCI) in up to eight per-protocol platelet transfusion episodes. Analysis of the 171 eligible patients showed that the defined non-inferiority margin of 30% of UVC-treated platelets was narrowly missed as the mean differences in 1-hour CCI between standard platelets versus UVC-treated platelets for intention-to-treat and perprotocol analyses were 18.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.4%; 30.1) and 18.7% (95% CI: 6.3%; 31.1%), respectively. In comparison to the control, the UVC group had a 19.2% lower mean 24-hour CCI and was treated with an about 25% higher number of platelet units, but the average number of days to next platelet transfusion did not differ significantly between both treatment groups. The frequency of low-grade adverse events was slightly higher in the UVC group and the frequencies of refractoriness to platelet transfusion, platelet alloimmunization, severe bleeding events, and red blood cell transfusions were comparable between groups. Our study suggests that transfusion of pathogen-reduced platelets produced with the UVC technology is safe but non-inferiority was not demonstrated. (The German Clinical Trials Register number: DRKS00011156).

3D-Analysis of the Proximal Humeral Anatomy Before and After Stemless Shoulder Arthroplasty-A Prospective Case Series Study.

BACKGROUND: Stemless shoulder arthroplasty (SSA) is used to anatomically reconstruct proximal humerus geometry and preserve proximal humerus bone stock. The current literature lacks 3D-analysis of pre- and postoperative proximal humeral anatomy after SSA. The aim of this study was to prospectively analyze the humeral head anatomy using a computer-assisted topography mapping technique after SSA in relation to the preoperative status and the contralateral (not affected) side. METHODS: Twenty-nine patients (mean age: 63.5 ± 11.7 years) affected by primary shoulder osteoarthritis and treated with SSA were included. Preoperative and postoperative CT scans of the affected and contralateral sites were analyzed regarding joint geometry. Clinical outcome was assessed by Constant and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score shortly before and one year after surgery. RESULTS: Clinical outcome improved significantly. No correlation between clinical outcome and the evaluated anatomical parameters was found. There was a significant decrease of the humeral head height (p < 0.01) and radius (p = 0.03) in the preoperative versus the postoperative joint geometry. The comparison to the contralateral site showed also a significant decrease of the humeral head height (p < 0.01). All other parameters showed no significant differences. CONCLUSION: Proximal humeral anatomy can be almost anatomically reconstructed by SSA. Solely the humeral head height differs significantly to the preoperative as well as contralateral morphology.

Comparison of Different Fixation Techniques of the Long Head of the Biceps Tendon in Superior Capsule Reconstruction for Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears: A Dynamic Biomechanical Evaluation.

BACKGROUND: In the past decade, superior capsular reconstruction has emerged as a potential surgical approach in young patients with irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCT) and absence of severe degenerative changes. Recently, the use of locally available and biological viable autografts, such as the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) for SCR has emerged, with promising early results. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of using the LHBT for reconstruction of the superior capsule on shoulder kinematics, along with different fixation constructs in a dynamic biomechanical model. The authors hypothesized that each of the 3 proposed fixation techniques would restore native joint kinematics, including glenohumeral superior translation (ghST), maximum abduction angle (MAA), maximum cumulative deltoid force (cDF), and subacromial peak contact pressure (sCP). STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (mean age, 53.4 ± 14.2 years) were tested using a dynamic shoulder simulator. Each specimen underwent the following 5 conditions: (1) intact, (2) irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear (psRCT), (3) V-shaped LHBT reconstruction, (4) box-shaped LHBT reconstruction, and (5) single-stranded LHBT reconstruction. MAA, ghST, cDF and sCP were assessed in each tested condition. RESULTS: Each of the 3 LHBT techniques for reconstruction of the superior capsule significantly increased MAA while significantly decreasing ghST and cDF compared with the psRCT (P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). Additionally, the V-shaped and box-shaped techniques significantly decreased sCP (P = .009 and P = .016, respectively) compared with the psRCT. The V-shaped technique further showed a significantly increased MAA (P < .001, respectively) and decreased cDF (P = .042 and P = .039, respectively) when compared with the box-shaped and single-stranded techniques, as well as a significantly decreased ghST (P = .027) when compared with the box-shaped technique. CONCLUSION: In a dynamic biomechanical cadaveric model, using the LHBT for reconstruction of the superior capsule improved shoulder function by preventing superior humeral migration, decreasing deltoid forces and sCP. As such, the development of rotator cuff tear arthropathy in patients with irreparable psRCTs could potentially be delayed. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Using a biologically viable and locally available LHBT autograft is a cost-effective, potentially time-saving, and technically feasible alternative for reconstruction of the superior capsule, which may result in favorable outcomes in irreparable psRCTs. Moreover, each of the 3 techniques restored native shoulder biomechanics, which may help improve shoulder function by preventing superior humeral head migration and the development of rotator cuff tear arthropathy in young patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears.