A New Strategy for the Design of Triple-Phase Eutectic High-Entropy Alloys Based on Infinite Solid Solution and Pseudo-Ternary Method.

Eutectic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs) have combined both high-entropy alloys and eutectic alloy contributions, with excellent castability and high-temperature application potential. Yet, multielement/triple-phase eutectic high-entropy alloy (TEHEA) designs remain puzzling. This work proposed a new strategy based on an infinite solid solution and pseudo-ternary model to reveal the puzzle of TEHEAs. The designed triple-phase eutectic high-entropy alloys (TEHEAs) with more than seven elements were identified as face-centered cubic (FCC), ordered body-centered cubic (B2), and Laves phase structures. In this work, the alloy C showcases outstanding comprehensive mechanical properties, offering a novel avenue for the design of high-performance EHEAs.

The vastus medialis oblique compensates in current patellar dislocation patients with the increased femoral anteversion.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) muscle compensates in patellar dislocation (PD) patients with the increased femoral anteversion angle (FAA). METHODS: Between 2021 and 2024, we included 60 patients with recurrent PD (RPD group). Inclusion criteria were at least two episodes of PD, as well as complete CT scans of the knee and hip. Exclusion criteria included traumatic or habitual dislocation, previous knee surgery, etc. Of these patients, 30 with excessive FAA (≥ 30°) were assigned to the A group, and 30 without excessive FAA (< 30°) to the B group. A control group of 120 patients without patellofemoral disorders was also included (C group). The cross-sectional areas of the VMO and vastus lateralis muscle (VLM) were measured 20 mm above the patella on CT scans, and the VMO/VLM area ratio was calculated. The correlation between FAA and the VMO/VLM ratio was analyzed. RESULTS: The RPD group had a significantly larger FAA (15.0 ± 1.9° vs. 30.1 ± 9.6°, P = 0.040) and a smaller VMO/VLM ratio (4.2 ± 1.5 vs. 3.5 ± 1.0, P = 0.014) compared to the C group. Within the RPD group, the A group had a higher VMO/VLM ratio than the B group (4.0 ± 1.1 vs. 3.0 ± 0.7, P = 0.029). The B group's VMO/VLM ratio was lower than that of the C group (3.0 ± 0.7 vs. 4.2 ± 1.5, P = 0.004). However, there was no significant difference in the VMO/VLM ratio between the A group and the C group. The VMO/VLM ratio showed a moderate positive correlation with FAA in the RPD group, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.4 (P = 0.012), indicating a statistically significant relationship between the two. CONCLUSION: Patients with recurrent PD showed a smaller VMO/VLM ratio compared to controls. Increased FAA was correlated with compensatory thickening of the VMO and a higher VMO/VLM ratio in PD patients. This suggests that increased FAA may drive biomechanical adaptations in the quadriceps, stabilizing the patella. Clinicians should consider changes in FAA when assessing and treating PD. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Returning to pre-injury level of sports before 9 months after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction increases the incidence of anterior knee pain in young patients.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify the risk factors for anterior knee pain (AKP) after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR). METHODS: Patients aged 15-35 years who underwent isolated MPFLR between 2012 and 2022 were included in the study. These patients were divided into two groups (AKP and control group). Patient demographics and preoperative and postoperative clinical outcomes between the two groups were assessed and compared. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the potential risk factors associated with postoperative AKP. Subgroup analysis stratified the results based on the time to return to sports (RTS) (>9 and ≤9 months). Furthermore, Spearman correlation analysis was performed to investigate the association between Kujala score and time to RTS. RESULTS: A total of 206 patients were included (AKP, n = 59; control, n = 147). At the 2-year follow-up, patients with AKP demonstrated a shorter duration in returning to their pre-injury activity level compared to those without AKP (9.0 ± 3.6 vs. 10.3 ± 2.7 months, p < 0.05). RTS earlier than 9 months after MPFLR was the only significant risk factor associated with postoperative AKP (odds ratio, 2.13, 95% confidence interval, 1.03-4.39; p < 0.05). Further subgroup analysis revealed that patient RTS earlier than 9 months exhibited worse patient-reported outcomes in both the total cohort and control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, among patient RTS within 9 months, a longer recovery duration before RTS strongly correlated with a higher Kujala score (R = 0.670, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Young patients who RTS at their pre-injury levels before 9 months after MPFLR have a higher incidence of postoperative AKP and poorer functional outcomes compared to those who delay their return. Specifically, within the first 9 months after MPFLR, the earlier the RTS, the more severe the AKP symptoms. Careful consideration of the timing for RTS may help reduce the incidence of postoperative AKP. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Decreased femoral trochlea axial orientation corrected by derotational distal femur osteotomy in patients with patellar dislocation yields satisfactory outcomes.

PURPOSE: The femoral trochlea axial orientation has been shown to be a better predictor of patellar dislocation than the femoral anteversion angle. However, no study has investigated the importance of the femoral trochlea axial orientation in the surgical treatment of patellar dislocation. It is aimed to explore the pathological threshold of the femoral trochlea axial orientation and its guiding implications for surgical interventions in the study. METHODS: Sixty-four patients with patellar dislocation and 64 controls were included for measurement of the femoral trochlea axial orientation. The ability to predict the patellar dislocation and the pathologic threshold of the femoral trochlea axial orientation were evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve. One hundred patients with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction and 25 patients with derotational distal femur osteotomy were divided into two groups based on the femoral trochlea axial orientation cut-off value and their postoperative knee functions, and patellar tilt angles were compared. RESULTS: There were significant differences in the femoral trochlea axial orientation (60.8 ± 7.9 vs. 67.8 ± 4.6, p < 0.05) between patients with patellar dislocation and the normal population. The sensitivity and specificity of the femoral trochlea axial orientation were 0.641 and 0.813, respectively, at the femoral trochlea axial orientation smaller than 63.8°. Amongst patients having had isolated medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with decreased femoral trochlea axial orientation, knee function was poorer after surgery. The prognosis of patients with the femoral trochlea axial orientation correction in derotational distal femur osteotomy was better than that for patients without correction. CONCLUSIONS: The femoral trochlea axial orientation had good predictive efficiency for patellar dislocation. Isolated medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is not sufficiently effective for patients with patellar dislocation and decreased femoral trochlea axial orientation. Patients with a decreased femoral trochlea axial orientation can have better surgical outcomes after correction by derotational distal femur osteotomy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Three different patellar fixation techniques yield similar clinical and radiological outcomes in recurrent patellar dislocation undergoing medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of three different patellar fixation techniques on medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) in the treatment of patellar dislocation (PD). METHODS: Between 2015 and 2020, 130 patients with recurrent PD who underwent surgical reconstruction were eligible for this retrospective study: 48 patients were treated with the semi-tunnel bone bridge fixation technique (Group A), 42 patients were treated with the suture anchor fixation technique (Group B) and 40 patients were treated with the transpatellar tunnel fixation technique (Group C). Clinical outcomes included functional outcomes (Kujala, Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee scores), activity levels (Tegner activity score and return to sports), physical examinations, patellar re-dislocation rate and complications. Radiological outcomes included patellar congruence angle, patellar tilt angle, lateral patellar translation and lateral patellar angle. RESULTS: All clinical and radiological outcomes improved significantly in all groups, without any significant difference among these three groups. At the final follow-up, no re-dislocation occurred, and all groups achieved a successful return to sports. However, the semi-tunnel bone bridge and suture anchor fixation techniques showed statistically higher Tegner activity scores (p = 0.004) and shorter time from surgery to return to sports (p = 0.007) than the transpatellar tunnel fixation technique. CONCLUSION: The three MPFLR patellar fixation techniques achieved favourable and comparable clinical and radiological outcomes in the treatment of PD. Compared with the transpatellar tunnel fixation technique, the semi-tunnel bone bridge and suture anchor fixation techniques may be more effective with higher activity levels. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Contact area and pressure changes of patellofemoral joint during stair ascent and stair descent.

PURPOSE: To investigate the differences of patellofemoral joint pressure and contact area between the process of stair ascent and stair descent. METHODS: The finite element models of 9 volunteers without disorders of knee (9 males) to estimate patellar cartilage pressure during the stair ascent and the stair descent. Simulations took into account cartilage morphology from magnetic resonance imaging, joint posture from weight-bearing magnetic resonance imaging, and ligament model. The three-dimension models of the patella, femur and tibia were developed with the medical image processing software, Mimics 11.1. The ligament was established by truss element of the non-linear FE solver. The equivalent gravity direction (-z direction) load was applied to the whole end of femur (femoral head) according to the body weight of the volunteers, and the force of patella was observed. A paired-samples t-test or Wilcoxon rank sum test to make comparisons between stair ascent and stair descent. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 22.0 using a P value of 0.05 to indicate significance. RESULTS: During the stair descent (knee flexion at 30°), the contact pressure of the patella was 2.59 ± 0.06Mpa. The contact pressure of femoral trochlea cartilage was 2.57 ± 0.06Mpa. During the stair ascent (knee flexion at 60°), the contact pressure with patellar cartilage was 2.82 ± 0.08Mpa. The contact pressure of the femoral trochlea cartilage was 3.03 ± 0.11Mpa. The contact area between patellar cartilage and femoral trochlea cartilage was 249.27 ± 1.35mm2 during the stair descent, which was less than 434.32 ± 1.70mm2 during the stair ascent. The area of high pressure was located in the lateral area of patella during stair descent and the area of high pressure was scattered during stair ascent. CONCLUSION: There are small change in the cartilage contact pressure between stair ascent and stair descent, indicating that the joint adjusts the contact pressure by increasing the contact area.

The influence of varus and valgus deviation on the contact area of patellofemoral joint in healthy knees.

OBJECT: Varus-valgus lower alignment is a risk factor for patellofemoral osteoarthritis, but malalignment alone affect not only the tibiofemoral joint but also the patellofemoral joint. The aim of the present study was to analyse the contact area of patellofemoral joint in varus alignment and valgus alignment of healthy subjects using magnetic resonance imaging. METHODS: Twenty-six healthy subjects with valgus lower limb alignment (Group I, n = 26) and twenty-six volunteers with varus lower limb alignment (Group II, n = 26) was performed. An MRI scan was used to capture and measure the patellofemoral joint articular cartilage contact area at different degrees of knee flexion (20°, 40°,60°) in passive movement. All subjects were categorized on the basis of the global limb alignment and mechanical alignment of the femur and tibia. Varus alignment is hip-knee-ankle angle ≥ 3°; and valgus alignment is hip-knee-ankle angle ≥ - 3°. To obtain medial facet contact area and lateral facet contact area for each slice, the length of each respective line of contact was multiplied by the 5 mm slice thickness. RESULTS: The overall joint contact area increased from 168.0 ± 20.5 mm2 at 20° knee flexion to 334.4 ± 30.5 mm2 at 60° knee flexion in group (I) The overall joint contact area increased from 178.0 ± 18.9 mm2 at 20° knee flexion to 328.9 ± 27.2 mm2 at 60° knee flexion in group (II) There was a significant difference in lateral facet contact area between group I and group II at 40° of knee flexion. There was significantly different in medial facet contact area between group I and group II at 20° and 40° of knee flexion. CONCLUSIONS: Throughout the knee movement, the contact area on the lateral facet of the patellofemoral joint was greater in the valgus group. In the early phase of knee flexion, the contact area of the medial patellofemoral joint was larger in the varus group. Lower alignment is an important factor in patellofemoral joint degeneration.

Predicting the Probability of Recurrence Based on Individualized Risk Factors After Primary Lateral Patellar Dislocation Treated Nonoperatively.

PURPOSE: To develop a comprehensive and effective personalized scoring system on the basis of demographic and clinical characteristics for predicting recurrence probability in patients with primary lateral patellar dislocation (LPD). METHODS: Participants included 261 primary patients with LPD with 2-year minimum follow-up from our hospital across 2013 to 2020. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected retrospectively. The backward stepwise method was performed to identify independent predictors and construct a nomogram to predict the probability of recurrence. The predictive performance was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis. RESULTS: After variables selection, 6 independent predictors of recurrence (skeletal maturity, trochlear dysplasia, tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance, mechanical axis deviation, Insall-Salvati index, and patellar tilt) were enrolled in our model. Validation of this nomogram in both training and validation cohort revealed powerful predictive ability, with an area under the curve of 0.962 and 0.977, respectively. The nomogram also showed great calibration and good clinical practicability. CONCLUSIONS: Our study presented a nomogram that incorporates 6 independent risk factors (skeletal maturity, trochlear dysplasia, tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance, mechanical axis deviation, Insall-Salvati index, and patellar tilt), which can be conveniently used to accurately predicts the risk of recurrence after primary LPD in individual cases. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative prognostic study.

Patients with trochlear dysplasia have dysplastic medial femoral epiphyseal plates.

PURPOSE: To investigate the growth of the epiphyseal plate in patients with trochlea dysplasia using a 3D computed tomography (CT)-based reconstruction of the bony structure of the distal femur. The epiphysis plate was divided into a medial part and a lateral part to compare their differences in patients with trochlear dysplasia. METHODS: This retrospective study included 50 patients with trochlea dysplasia in the study group and 50 age- and sex-matched patients in the control group. Based on the CT images, MIMICS was used to reconstruct the bony structure of the distal femur. Measurements included the surface area and volume of the growth plate (both medial and lateral), the surface area and capacity of the proximal trochlea, trochlea-physis distance (TPD) (both medial and lateral), and height of the medial and lateral condyle. RESULTS: The surface area of the medial epiphyseal plate (1339.8 ± 202.4 mm2 vs. 1596.6 ± 171.8 mm2), medial TPD (4.9 ± 2.8 mm vs. 10.6 ± 3.0 mm), height of the medial condyle (1.1 ± 2.5 mm vs. 4.9 ± 1.3 mm), and capacity of the proximal trochlear groove (821.7 ± 230.9 mm3 vs. 1520.0 ± 498.0 mm3) was significantly smaller in the study group than in the control group. A significant positive correlation was found among the area of the medial epiphyseal plate, the medial TPD, the height of the medial condyle and the capacity of the proximal trochlear groove (r = 0.502-0.638). CONCLUSION: The medial epiphyseal plate was dysplastic in patients with trochlea dysplasia. There is a significant positive correlation between the surface area of the medial epiphyseal plate, medial TPD, height of the medial condyle and capacity of the proximal trochlear groove, which can be used to evaluate the developmental stage of the trochlea in clinical practice and to guide targeted treatment of trochlear dysplasia. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Two-type classification system for femoral trochlear dysplasia in recurrent patellar instability based on three-dimensional morphology.

PURPOSE: Radiographic and two-dimensional (2D) CT/MRI analysis of femoral trochlear dysplasia play a significant role in surgical decision-making for recurrent patellar instability. However, the three-dimensional morphology of dysplastic trochlea is rarely studied due to the limitations of conventional imaging modalities. This study aimed to (1) develop a 3D morphological classification for trochlear dysplasia based on the concavity of the trochlear groove and (2) analyze the interrater reliability of the classification system. METHODS: The 3D trochleae of 132 knees with trochlear dysplasia and recurrent patellar instability were reconstructed using CT scan data and classified using the innovative classification criteria between January 2016 and June 2020. A concave trochlear sulcus with sloped medial and lateral trochlear facets was classified as Type I trochlea. The trochlear groove with no concavity is classified as Type II. Furthermore, in Type II, the trochlea with the elevated trochlear floor at the proximal part was identified as IIa and the trochlea with the hypoplastic trochlear facets as IIb. The intra- and inter-rater reliability was examined using kappa (κ) statistics. RESULTS: The 3D classification system showed substantial intra-rater agreement and moderate interrater agreement (0.581 ~ 0.772). The intra- and interrater agreement of Dejour's four-grade classification was fair-to-moderate (0.332 ~ 0.633). Eighty-one trochleae with concave trochlear sulcus were classified as Type I, and fifty-one without concavity as Type II. Twenty-five non-concave trochleae were classified as type IIa due to the elevated trochlear floor and 26 trochleae into IIb with the hypoplasia of trochlear facets. CONCLUSION: This study developed a 3D classification system to classify trochlear dysplasia according to trochlear concavity and morphology of the trochlear facets. On CT/MRI scans or 3D reconstructions, the interpretation of features of dysplastic trochleae may vary, especially for the flat and convex trochleae. The novel system provides morphological evidence for when to consider trochleoplasty according to the different types of trochlear sulcus.

Experimental study of the effects of hypoxia simulator on osteointegration of titanium prosthesis in osteoporotic rats.

BACKGROUND: Poor osseointegration is the key reason for implant failure after arthroplasty,whether under osteoporotic or normal bone conditions. To date, osseointegration remains a major challenge. Recent studies have shown that deferoxamine (DFO) can accelerate osteogenesis by activating the hypoxia signaling pathway. The purpose of this study was to test the following hypothesis: after knee replacement, intra-articular injection of DFO will promote osteogenesis and osseointegration with a 3D printed titanium prosthesis in the bones of osteoporotic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety female Sprague-Dawley rats were used for the experiment. Ten rats were used to confirm the successful establishment of the osteoporosis model: five rats in the sham operation group and five rats in the ovariectomy group. After ovariectomy and knee arthroplasty were performed, the remaining 80 rats were randomly divided into DFO and control groups (n = 40 per group). The two groups were treated by intraarticular injection of DFO and saline respectively. After 2 weeks, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the levels of HIF-1a, VEGF, and CD31. HIF-1a and VEGF have been shown to promote angiogenesis and bone regeneration, and CD31 is an important marker of angiogenesis. After 12 weeks, the specimens were examined by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), biomechanics, and histopathology to evaluate osteogenesis and osseointegration. RESULTS: The results of PCR showed that the mRNA levels of VEGF and CD31 in the DFO group were significantly higher than those in the control group. The immunohistochemistry results indicated that positive cell expression of HIF-1a, VEGF, and CD31 in the DFO group was also higher. Compared with the control group, the micro-CT parameters of BMD, BV/TV, TB. N, and TB. Th were significantly higher. The maximal pull-out force and the bone-to-implant contact value were also higher. CONCLUSIONS: The local administration of DFO, which is used to activate the HIF-1a signaling pathway, can promote osteogenesis and osseointegration with a prosthesis in osteoporotic bone.

Early patellofemoral articular cartilage degeneration in a rat model of patellar instability is associated with activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway.

BACKGROUND: Patellar instability (PI) often increases the possibility of lateral patellar dislocation and early osteoarthritis. The molecular mechanism of early articular cartilage degeneration during patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) still requires further investigation. However, it is known that the NF-κB signaling pathway plays an important role in articular cartilage degeneration. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the NF-κB signaling pathway and patellofemoral joint cartilage degeneration. METHODS: We established a rat model of PI-induced PFOA. Female 4-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 120) were randomly divided into two groups: the PI (n = 60) and control group (n = 60). The distal femurs of the PI and control group were isolated and compared 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery. The morphological structure of the trochlear cartilage and subchondral bone were evaluated by micro-computed tomography and histology. The expression of NF-κB, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, collagen X, and TNF-ɑ were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: In the PI group, subchondral bone loss and cartilage degeneration were found 4 weeks after surgery. Compared with the control group, the protein and mRNA expression of NF-κB and TNF-ɑ were significantly increased 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery in the PI group. In addition, the markers of cartilage degeneration MMP-13 and collagen X were more highly expressed in the PI group compared with the control group at different time points after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: This study has demonstrated that early patellofemoral joint cartilage degeneration can be caused by PI in growing rats, accompanied by significant subchondral bone loss and cartilage degeneration. In addition, the degeneration of articular cartilage may be associated with the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and can deteriorate with time as a result of PI.

A Computed Tomography Study of the Association Between Increased Patellar Tilt Angle and Femoral Anteversion in 30 Patients with Recurrent Patellar Dislocation.

BACKGROUND Increased femoral anteversion (FA) has been demonstrated in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD). However, the effect of FA on the patellar tilt angle (PTA) in patients with RPD is unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the FA and PTA between patients with RPD and healthy controls and to investigate the relationship between FA and PTA. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 30 knees with RPD and 30 knees from healthy volunteers were evaluated with computed tomography (CT). The FA and PTA were measured and compared between the RPD and control groups. Correlations between the two parameters were assessed in the two groups. RESULTS The FA was 27.7 ± 6.80 for the RPD group compared with 17.3±9.0° for the control group (P=0.000), and the PTA was 29.0±7.1° for the RPD group compared with 14.8±8.4° for the control group (P=0.000). A positive correlation was found between these two parameters in the RPD group (r=0.464; P=0.010). Further analysis showed a significant correlation with a FA of ≥25° in the RPD group (r=0.709; P=0.001), but no correlation was found with the control group. CONCLUSIONS A significantly higher FA and PTA were found in patients with RPD compared with controls. An increased PTA and a FA ≥25° were significantly associated with RPD. A derotational femoral osteotomy may be indicated to correct patellar tilt in patients with RPD when femoral anteversion is ≥25°.

Small hamstring autograft is defined by a cut-off diameter of 7 mm and not recommended with allograft augmentation in single-bundle ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE: The present study was to analyze graft failure rates of hamstring tendon (HT) autografts with a cut-off graft diameter of 8 mm or 7 mm, and compare clinical outcomes between augmented small HT with an allograft and non-augmented relatively large HT in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). METHODS: A literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis) guidelines. Studies to assess graft failure of autologous HT ACLR were reviewed, and graft failure rates with a cut-off graft diameter of 8 mm or 7 mm were further extracted. Clinical comparative studies of ACLR between augmented small HT with an allograft and non-augmented relatively large HT autografts were also included. Results are presented as risk ratio (RR) for binary data and weighted mean difference for continuous data with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: Nine studies with 2243 knees were included. Four studies examined the effect of HT autograft diameter on graft failure and five studies assessed clinical outcomes of allograft augmentation to small HT autografts. No significant difference was noted in graft failure with a cut-off diameter of 8 mm. No significant difference was found between diameters > 7 and ≤ 7 mm, but a significant difference was observed between diameters ≥ 7 and < 7 mm (RR = 0.49; 95% CI 0.26-0.92, I2 = 0%, P = 0.03). A trend towards increased risk of graft failure was noted for allograft-augmented HT compared with non-augmented HT autografts (RR = 0.43; 95% CI 0.18-1.02, I2 = 0%), but no significant differences were noted in IKDC, Lysholm, and Tegner scores between these groups. CONCLUSION: The present study did support the use of 7 mm as a reference for cut-off diameter for small HT autografts, but not allograft augmentation to small HT autografts. These findings would guide clinical application of small HT autografts in single-bundle ACLR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Single- and double-bundle medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction procedures result in similar recurrent dislocation rates and improvements in knee function: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: To evaluate medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using hamstring tendon autografts using single-bundle (SB) and double-bundle (DB) techniques, and compare the clinical outcomes including the Kujala score, postoperative apprehension, recurrent subluxation or dislocation, and complications. METHODS: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant literature using the terms ''medial patellofemoral ligament'' and ''MPFL''. The pooled mean values of improvement in the Kujala score were calculated by random effects meta-analysis. Unweighted estimates for the rates of postoperative apprehension, recurrent subluxation or dislocation, and complications were determined by dividing the total number of occurrences by the total number of knees. RESULTS: Thirty-one articles were included, involving 1063 patients (1116 knees). Two hundred and forty-four patients (254 knees) underwent SB reconstruction, while 819 patients (862 knees) underwent DB reconstruction. The pooled mean values of Kujala score improvement were similar in the SB group (30.1; 95% CI 26.6-33.6) and DB group (30.7; 95% CI 27.7-33.7). The SB group had a significantly greater rate of postoperative apprehension (7.9%) than the DB group (4.1%; P = 0.014). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the rates of recurrent subluxation or dislocation (1.2 and 1.6%) and complications (10.6 and 7.7%). CONCLUSION: With variability in patient populations and surgical techniques, the DB procedure for isolated MPFL reconstruction demonstrates similar outcomes to the SB technique regarding improvement of knee function, recurrent subluxation or dislocation, and complications. The SB technique may have a greater risk of postoperative apprehension, whereas the DB technique may cause more stiffness. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

No influence of patellar fixation technique on clinical outcomes of double-bundle medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: To compare clinical outcomes of double-bundle medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with different patellar fixation techniques including Kujala score, functional failure and complications. METHODS: Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies with clinical results of double-bundle MPFL reconstruction. The hamstring tendon autografts were used, and femoral fixation was performed with bone tunnel and an interference screw, and knee fixation angle was less than or equal to 45°. Patellar fixation methods were broadly categorized into 3 treatment groups: suture anchor (SA), bone tunnel (BT) and suture techniques (SU). Pooled means for Kujala score and pooled estimates for functional failure rate and complication rate were compared. RESULTS: 21 studies (23 groups) consisting of 691 knees met the inclusion criteria. 12 groups with 344 knees were in SA group, 5 groups of 161 knees were in BT group and 6 groups with 186 knees were in SU group. Statistically significant differences in Kujala score were found among three groups, 90.2 (95% CI 88.7-91.7) in SA group, 88.7 (95% CI 85.3-92.2) in BT group and 89.4 (95% CI 84.2-94.6) in SU group (all P < 0.001), but these differences were not clinically significant. No statistically significant differences were found in the positive apprehension sign rate, recurrent subluxation or dislocation rate, and major or minor complication rate among three groups. CONCLUSION: Patellar fixation with bone tunnel, suture anchor or suture techniques were all effective in the double-bundle MPFL reconstruction. The present systematic review failed to show that one technique was better than the others. More high-quality trials and randomized controlled trials are needed.

Influence of different great trochanteric entry points on the outcome of intertrochanteric fractures: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA) system for treatment of intertrochanteric fractures is currently widely applied worldwide. However, even though the PFNA has produced good clinical outcomes, a poor introduction technique with an inappropriate entry point can cause surgical complications. Some researchers suggest improving clinical outcomes by modifying the entry point, but no research has focused on this issue. The purpose of the present study is to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of two different trochanteric entry points for the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures using the PFNA system. METHODS: From May 2010 to October 2015, a total of 212 elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures who were treated with the PFNA-II system were included into this retrospective cohort study. Group LA (98 patients) was treated using a lateral anterior trochanteric entry point, and group MP (114 patients) was treated using a medial posterior trochanteric entry point. All patients underwent follow-up assessments at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Radiographic evaluation was based on the impingement, tip-apex distance (TAD) and the position of the helical blade within the femoral head. Clinical evaluation was based on the surgical time, fluoroscopy time, blood loss, hospital stay, visual analogue scale (VAS), thigh pain, and Harris hip score. RESULTS: The impingement was significantly reduced (P = 0.011) in group MP. The helical blade positions were significantly lower (P = 0.001) in group MP. The TADs in group LA (22.40 ± 4.43) and group MP (23.39 ± 3.60) were not significantly different (P = 0.075). The fluoroscopy time of group LA (53.26 ± 14.44) was shorter than that of group MP (63.29 ± 11.12, P = 0.000). Five iatrogenic lateral proximal fractures and 3 helical blade cutouts occurred in group LA, but none occurred in group MP. At 1 and 3 months postoperation, the Harris hip scores were significantly higher in group MP (P = 0.001 and P = 0.000, respectively), and the VAS scores were lower (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The medial posterior trochanteric entry point achieved excellent nail and helical blade position, reduced surgical complications, and enabled early hip function recovery but required longer fluoroscopy time than the lateral anterior trochanteric entry point.

Lateral distal femoral condyle has more uniform cartilage wear in varus knee osteoarthritis.

Bone resection is highly valued in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but how to determine the amount of distal femur resection is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to explore how to use lateral condyle as a reference for distal femoral osteotomy in TKA. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and Radiographic images from 118 nonarthritic subjects and 123 osteoarthritis (OA) subjects were used to assess the cartilage wear pattern of the distal femur in varus knees. Measurements were performed on three-dimensional reconstruction after virtual bone cutting. The difference between the resection amount of distal (0°) and posterior (90°) was calculated when the medial condyle was used as a reference in OA patients. The osteotomy amount on lateral was calculated in nonarthritic subjects when the medial condylar osteotomy was consistent with the thickness of the implants. In 43% of OA patients, there was > 1 mm difference between the 0° and 90° in medial condyle cartilage, and no difference was observed in lateral. When using medial condyle as a reference for osteotomy, there was a difference of 1.3 ± 0.56 mm between the resection amount of 0° and 90°, and the difference was 0.24 ± 0.27 mm when using lateral condyle. Statistical analysis showed that there was a linear correlation between the resection amount of lateral condyle and mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA) in nonarthritic subjects (r = 0.845, p < 0.001). Lateral distal femoral condyle has more uniform cartilage wear in varus knee osteoarthritis. Using the lateral condyle as the reference for distal femoral osteotomy is more suitable for the cartilage wear pattern of the varus knee. The position of cutting guide can be adjusted by preoperative measurements of mLDFA.

Cavitation-induced particle engulfment via enhancing particle-interface interaction in solidification.

Particle engulfment plays a vital role in the application of particulate reinforced metal matrix composites fabricated by ingot metallurgy. During solidification, particles are nevertheless pushed by an advancing front. As a model system, TiB2p/Al composites were used to investigate the particle engulfment facilitated by acoustic cavitation. The implosion of bubbles drives the particles plunging towards the solid/liquid interface, which increases the engulfment probability. The secondary dendrite arms are refined from 271.2 µm to 98.0 µm as a result of the forced movements of TiB2 particles. Owing to the particle engulfment and dendrite refinement, the composite with ultrasound vibration treatment shows a more rapid work-hardening rate and higher strength.

Janus-like Structure and Resonance Level Actualized Ultralow Lattice Thermal Conductivity and Enhanced ZTave in Mg3(Sb, Bi)2-Based Zintls.

Grain boundary (GB) engineering includes grain size and GB segregation. Grain size has been proven to affect the electrical properties of Mg3(Sb, Bi)2 at low temperatures. However, the formation mechanism of GB segregation and what kind of GB segregation is beneficial to the performance are still unclear. Here, the Ga/Bi cosegregation at GBs and Mg segregation within grains optimize the transport of electrons and phonons simultaneously. Ga/Bi cosegregation promotes the formation of Janus-like structures due to the diverse ordering tendencies of liquid Mg3Sb2 and Mg3Bi2 and the absence of a solid solution of Ga/Bi. The Janus-like structure significantly reduces the room-temperature lattice thermal conductivity by introducing diverse microdefects. Meanwhile, a coherent interface between the nano Mg segregation region and the matrix is formed, which reduces the thermal conductivity without affecting the carrier transport. Furthermore, the band structure calculations show that Ga doping introduces the resonance level, increasing the Seebeck coefficient. Finally, the lattice thermal conductivity reaches ∼0.4 W m-1 K-1, and a high average ZT of 1.21 between 323 and ∼773 K is achieved for Mg3.2Y0.02Ga0.03Sb1.5Bi0.5. This work provides guidance for improving the thermoelectric performance via designing cosegregation.