Reduced wear in vitamin E-infused highly cross-linked polyethylene cups: 5-year results of a randomized controlled trial.

Background and purpose - Vitamin E-infused polyethylene is a relatively new material in joint arthroplasty; there are no long-term reports, and only few mid-term results. Using radiostereometric analysis (RSA), we primarily determined whether vitamin E-infused highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE/VitE) acetabular cups show less wear than ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) acetabular cups at 5 years after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We also assessed whether wear rates correlate with increasing cup inclination angles or cup sizes.Patients and methods - This is a 5-year follow-up of our previously reported randomized controlled trial of 62 patients with 3 years' follow-up, who received THA with either an HXLPE/VitE or a UHMWPE acetabular cup. At 5 years, 40 patients were analyzed (22 in the HXLPE/VitE and 18 in the UHMWPE group).Results - HXLPE/VitE cups continued to show less cumulative femoral head penetration than UHMWPE cups (HXLPE/VitE: 0.24 mm, UHMWPE: 0.45 mm; p < 0.001). Distribution of wear was also more even with HXLPE/VitE cups than with UHMWPE cups (p = 0.002). Moreover, the difference in PE wear between 1 and 5 years in both groups showed no statistically significant correlation with increasing cup inclination angles or cup sizes. Finally, no osteolysis and implant loosening occurred, and no revision surgeries were required.Interpretation - Wear rates continue to be lower in HXLPE/VitE cups than in UHMWPE cups at 5 years of follow-up without correlation with increasing cup inclination angles or cup sizes. Finally, HXLPE/VitE cups may have the potential to prevent osteolysis and implant loosening.

Individualized Fluid Management Using the Pleth Variability Index: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: The present trial was designed to assess whether individualized strategies of fluid administration using a noninvasive plethysmographic variability index could reduce the postoperative hospital length of stay and morbidity after intermediate-risk surgery. METHODS: This was a multicenter, randomized, nonblinded parallel-group clinical trial conducted in five hospitals. Adult patients in sinus rhythm having elective orthopedic surgery (knee or hip arthroplasty) under general anesthesia were enrolled. Individualized hemodynamic management aimed to achieve a plethysmographic variability index under 13%, and the standard management strategy aimed to maintain a mean arterial pressure above 65 mmHg during general anesthesia. The primary outcome was the postoperative hospital length of stay decided by surgeons blinded to the group allocation of the patient. RESULTS: In total, 447 patients were randomized, and 438 were included in the analysis. The mean hospital length of stay ± SD was 6 ± 3 days for the plethysmographic variability index group and 6 ± 3 days for the control group (adjusted difference, 0.0 days; 95% CI, -0.6 to 0.5; P = 0.860); the theoretical postoperative hospital length of stay was 4 ± 2 days for the plethysmographic variability index group and 4 ± 1 days for the control group (P = 0.238). In the plethysmographic variability index and control groups, serious postoperative cardiac complications occurred in 3 of 217 (1%) and 2 of 224 (1%) patients (P = 0.681), acute postoperative renal failure occurred in 9 (4%) and 8 (4%) patients (P = 0.808), the troponin Ic concentration was more than 0.06 µg/l within 5 days postoperatively for 6 (3%) and 5 (2%) patients (P = 0.768), and the postoperative arterial lactate measurements were 1.44 ± 1.01 and 1.43 ± 0.95 mmol/l (P = 0.974), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Among intermediate-risk patients having orthopedic surgery with general anesthesia, fluid administration guided by the plethysmographic variability index did not shorten the duration of hospitalization or reduce complications.

The use of allograft tendons in primary ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Graft choice in primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains controversial. The use of allograft has risen exponentially in recent years with the attraction of absent donor site morbidity, reduced surgical time and reliable graft size. However, the published evidence examining their clinical effectiveness over autograft tendons has been unclear. The aim of this paper is to provide a current review of the clinical evidence available to help guide surgeons through the decision-making process for the use of allografts in primary ACL reconstruction. METHODS: The literature in relation to allograft healing, storage, sterilisation, differences in surgical technique and rehabilitation have been reviewed in addition to recent comparative studies and all clinical systematic reviews and meta-analyses. RESULTS: Early reviews have indicated a higher risk of failure with allografts due to association with irradiation for sterilisation and where rehabilitation programs and post-operative loading may ignore the slower incorporation of allografts. More recent analysis indicates a similar low failure rate for allograft and autograft methods of reconstruction when using non-irradiated allografts that have not undergone chemically processing and where rehabilitation has been slower. However, inferior outcomes with allografts have been reported in young (< 25 years) highly active patients, and also when irradiated or chemically processed grafts are used. CONCLUSION: When considering use of allografts in primary ACL reconstruction, use of irradiation, chemical processing and rehabilitation programs suited to autograft are important negative factors. Allografts, when used for primary ACL reconstruction, should be fresh frozen and non-irradiated. Quantification of the risk of use of allograft in the young requires further evaluation. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: III.

A new quantitative measure for radiologic osteoarthritis of the lateral knee compartment distinguishes patients with longstanding lateral meniscectomy from non-pathological knees.

PURPOSE: Common radiologic scores to evaluate knee osteoarthritis (OA) have been widely used but are descriptive and may lack objectivity. The aim of this study was to develop a quantitative and objective radiologic measure for the evaluation of lateral knee compartment OA. Furthermore, we tested the reliability of this new measure and its correlation to well-accepted radiologic scores. METHODS: This retrospective study was performed within the context of a multi-centre long-term follow-up (15-25 years) of a patient cohort after partial or total lateral meniscectomy (n = 36 knees). In addition, 99 radiographs of clinically and radiologically normal knees were obtained from a control group. Anteroposterior weight-bearing views (0°) and Schuss (45°) views were analysed. The joint height of the lateral knee compartment was measured on the lateral border (lateral joint space height) and in the centre (central joint space height, CJSH) and normalized with respect to the width of the lateral compartment (X). All measurements were taken independently by two observers, allowing for inter- and intra-observer reliability assessments. The results of the two groups were compared using an analysis of covariance. Finally, the correlations between the results and the Fairbank and Kellgren & Lawrence scores were determined using a Spearman ρ rank order correlation. RESULTS: The normalized joint space height in the centre of the compartment on the Schuss view (CJSH/X) showed the highest intra- (ICC = 0.980) and inter-observer reliability (ICC = 0.982). There was a significant difference in CJSH/X between the control (0.19 ± 0.05) and the meniscectomized knees (0.08 ± 0.07) (p < 0.001). CJSH/X showed a significant decline of 11 % per 10 years in the meniscectomy group. A negative correlation could be found between CJSH/X and the Fairbank (ρ = -0.751; p < 0.001) and Kellgren & Lawrence scores (ρ = -0.712; p < 0.001). A cut-off value of 0.14 of CJSH/X was defined-representing one standard deviation below the mean of the control group-from which measurements were considered as pathologic. CONCLUSION: The normalized joint space height measured in the centre of the lateral knee compartment from a Schuss view, CJSH/X, was highly reproducible and showed a significant correlation to established radiologic scores. This new measure has the advantage of being objective and dimensionless and thus independent of the size of the radiograph. The normative values provided by our healthy control knees are useful to help establish an early diagnosis of radiologic lateral knee compartment OA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective diagnostic study, Level III.

Clinical and radiographic results of arthroscopic partial lateral meniscectomies in stable knees with a minimum follow up of 20 years.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this retrospective multicentric study was to evaluate the long-term effects of lateral meniscectomy and to identify those patients who are at the most risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA). METHODS: Eighty-nine arthroscopic partial lateral meniscectomies in stable knees with a mean follow-up of 22 ± 3 years were included. The following influencing factors were analyzed: age, sex, body mass index (BMI), physical activity, alignment, the types of meniscal lesions, the extent of meniscal resections and the initially associated cartilage lesions. An independent examiner reviewed all patients, using subjective (KOOS and IKDC scores) and objective clinical and radiological evaluations (IKDC score). The contralateral knee was used as a reference to calculate the prevalence and the incidence of OA. RESULTS: The mean age at the time of surgery was 35 ± 13 years. The main location of the lesions was the mid-section of the lateral meniscus (79% of the cases). At the latest follow-up, 48% of the patients had an active lifestyle with as many as 48% of the patients enjoying moderate to intense physical activity 22 years after the procedure (vs. 71% before surgery). The KOOS score evolved from 82 to 69% during the same period. The prevalence of OA was 56% in the affected knee and the difference of prevalence between the operated and healthy knees was 44%. In those patients presenting with an OA of the operated knee and a normal contralateral knee, the incidence of OA was 53%. Predictors of OA were an age superior to 38 years at the time of surgery, obesity (BMI >30), and valgus malalignment as well as the presence of cartilage and degenerative meniscal lesions at the time of surgery. CONCLUSION: In the long term, arthroscopic partial lateral meniscectomy in stable knees without initial cartilage lesions might yield good to excellent results in young patients. Patients are at higher risk to develop symptomatic OA if they are over 40, having a high BMI, valgus malalignment and cartilage lesions at the time of surgery. This study provides precise guidelines for the surgical treatment of lateral meniscus tears. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Clinical outcome of iterative meniscal suture after ACL reconstruction at a minimum of 2 years' follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: Failure rates in meniscal suture associated to ACL reconstruction range from 10 to 26.9%, often leading to meniscectomy. In young patients, the wish to conserve the meniscus may lead to iterative suture, if the lesion allows. There are no data available for clinical results of repeat meniscal suture at the same site as the primary lesion in a stabilized knee. The immediate socioeconomic cost, compared to meniscectomy, needs to be taken into account, and benefit needs to be demonstrated. The main aim of the present study was to assess the rate of secondary meniscectomy after iterative meniscal suture in stabilized knees. The study hypothesis was that failure rates are higher in iterative isolated meniscal suture after ligament reconstruction than in primary repair. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This single-center retrospective study analyzed patients receiving iterative meniscal suture on stable knee, between 2009 and 2019, with a minimum 26 months' follow-up. Twenty-three patients were analyzed: 15 male, 8 female; mean age at iterative suture, 28.1±7.9 years (range, 14-49 years); mean BMI, 24.2±2.9kg/m2 (range, 19-31). Mean time to recurrence was 38.9±25.1 months (range, 6-93 months). Initial ACL graft used the patellar ligament in 69.6% of cases (n=16) and the hamstrings in 30.4% (n=7). Mean differential laximetry before iterative suture was 1.7±0.3mm (range, 1.2-2.3mm). Iterative suture was in the medial meniscus in 69.6% of cases (16/23) and in the lateral meniscus in 30.4% (7/23). Risk factors for failure, defined by requirement for meniscectomy, were assessed. Functional results were assessed on Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Tegner score. RESULTS: The failure rate was 48% (11/23), incorporating all lesions together. Bucket-handle tear was most frequently associated with failure (91%; p<0.01). There was significant improvement after iterative suture in subjective IKDC score (51.6±15.2 vs. 81.3±15.6; p<0.001) and KOOS scores: symptoms and stiffness, 66.6±13.7 vs. 91.1±7.53 (p<0.001); pain, 79.2±12.7 vs. 93.4±7.4 (p<0.01); function, 91.3±11.2 vs. 97.9±4.44 (p<0.001); quality of life, 38.1±23.2 vs. 62.3±30.1 (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The failure rate for iterative meniscal suture on stabilized knee was 48%. Bucket-handle tear was a major risk factor for failure (91%). Despite these high failure rates, functional results systematically improved. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Changes in passive hamstring stiffness after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A prospective study with comparison of healthy controls.

BACKGROUND: The mechanical properties of knee flexors muscles contribute to reducing anterior cruciate ligament loading. This case-control study evaluated the passive knee flexors stiffness after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with comparison of healthy controls. METHODS: After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, 88 participants (24.5 [8.6] years, 56,8% males) had two isokinetic tests at 4 and 8 postoperative months with measurement of the passive resistive torque of knee flexors and extensors/flexors strength. In the control group, 44 participants (24.5 [4.3] years, 56,8% males) had one visit with the same procedures. Passive knee flexors stiffness was calculated as the slope of the passive torque-angle curve on the last 10° of knee extension (Nm/°). We investigated the impact of timing and type of surgery (autograft and combined meniscus repair) and persistent knee extension deficits on knee flexors stiffness. FINDINGS: At 4 and 8 postoperative months, passive knee flexors stiffness was lower on the operated limb than on the non-operated limb (P < 0.001) but both limbs had significant lower values than controls (P < 0.001). Stiffness was positively correlated with knee flexors strength (P < 0.010), and knee flexors stiffness at 4 months was lower in individuals who underwent surgery <6 months from injury (P = 0.040). Knee extension deficit or the type of surgery did not have a significant influence on knee flexors stiffness. INTERPRETATION: Similarly to neuromuscular factors that are traditionally altered after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, evaluating passive knee flexors stiffness changes over time could provide supplementary insights into postoperative muscle recovery.

Changes in the Force-Velocity Relationship of Knee Muscles After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using the Isokinetic 2-Point Model.

PURPOSE: After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R), knee muscle strength symmetry is used as part of the return-to-sport criteria. However, little is known about the changes in the force-velocity (F-V) relationship, which could affect athletic performance. This study investigated the F-V relationship of knee muscles at 4 and 8 months after ACL-R, using the 2-point method tested by isokinetic dynamometry. METHODS: A total of 103 physically trained individuals (24.6 [9.3] y, 59.2% male) who underwent primary ACL-R were included. Demographic information and surgery characteristics were collected at 6 weeks postoperatively. Isokinetic knee flexors' and extensors' peak torques were measured at 60° and 240° per second in the concentric mode at 4 and 8 months postoperative. Peak torques and angular velocities were converted to force and linear velocity for calculating maximum isometric force (F0) and the slope of the regression line (F-V slope). RESULTS: At 4 and 8 months postoperative, F0 was significantly lower and F-V slope was significantly less steep (less negative) on the operated leg compared with the nonoperated leg for knee extensors (P < .001) and flexors (P < .001-.002). The limb symmetry index calculated using F0 was lower than the limb symmetry indexes assessed at 60° and 240° per second, especially for knee flexors (P < .001). The use of patellar tendon grafts was associated with lower F0 and a less steep F-V slope compared with hamstring tendon grafts (P < .010). CONCLUSION: The isokinetic 2-point model assessing the F-V relationship provides additional and relevant insight for evaluating knee muscle strength after ACL-R.

Ultrasound-guided fasciotomy for chronic exertional forearm compartment syndrome: a cadaveric feasibility study.

OBJECTIVES: Chronic exertional forearm compartment syndrome is observed in patients who engage in physical activity requiring repetitive isometric muscular effort of the wrist during prolonged grasping. Open fasciotomy was considered as the gold-standard treatment, for its ability to release all compartments. However, its invasiveness means that high-level athletes have to abstain from competition for a long period of time. For this reason, minimally invasive techniques have been developed, to allow faster recovery. The objective of this cadaveric study was to evaluate the feasibility and reproducibility of ultrasound-guided palmar fasciotomy in the treatment of chronic exertional forearm compartment syndrome. METHODS: Surgery consisted in ultrasound-guided palmar fasciotomy of the superficial anterior compartment, using a single minimally invasive approach. Twenty forearms were then dissected by an independent operator, (1) to check complete fasciotomy and (2) to screen for iatrogenic lesions on the tendons, veins and superficial sensory branches. RESULTS: Sixteen fasciotomies were total and 4 partial: i.e., a release rate of 80%. The superficial sensory branches were intact, and notably the branches of the medial cutaneous nerve of the forearm. Mean surgery time was 9 min, progressively decreasing with the repetition of the ultrasound-guided procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided fasciotomy in the management of chronic exertional forearm compartment syndrome appears to be a simple, effective, safe and reproducible technique.

Evaluation of the impact of large language learning models on articles submitted to Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research (OTSR): A significant increase in the use of artificial intelligence in 2023.

INTRODUCTION: There has been an unprecedented rise is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) amongst medical fields. Recently, a dialogue agent called ChatGPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) has grown in popularity through its use of large language models (LLM) to clearly and precisely generate text on demand. However, the impact of AI on the creation of scientific articles is remains unknown. A retrospective study was carried out with the aim of answering the following questions: identify the presence of text generated by LLM before and after the increased usage of ChatGPT in articles submitted in OTSR; determine if the type of article, the year of submission, and the country of origin, influenced the proportion of text generated, at least in part by AI. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 390 English articles were submitted to OTSR in January, February and March 2022 (n=204) and over the same months of 2023 (n=186) were analyzed. All articles were analyzed using the ZeroGPT tool, which provides an assumed rate of AI use expressed as a percentage. A comparison of the average rate of AI use was carried out between the articles submitted in 2022 and 2023. This comparison was repeated keeping only the articles with the highest percentage of suspected AI use (greater than 10 and 20%). A secondary analysis was carried out to identify risk factors for AI use. RESULTS: The average percentage of suspected LLM use in the entire cohort was 11%±6, with 160 articles (41.0%) having a suspected AI rate greater than 10% and 61 (15.6%) with an assumed AI rate greater than 20%. A comparison between articles submitted in 2022 and 2023 revealed a significant increase in the use of these tools after the launch of ChatGPT 3.5 (9.4% in 2022 and 12.6% in 2023 [p=0.004]). The number of articles with suspected AI rates of greater than 10 and 20% were significantly higher in 2023: >10%: 71 articles (34.8%) versus 89 articles (47.8%) (p=0.008) and >20%: 21 articles (10.3%) versus 40 articles (21.5%) (p=0.002). A risk factor analysis for LLLM use, demonstrated that authors of Asian geographic origin, and the submission year 2023 were associated with a higher rate of suspected AI use. An AI rate >20% was associated to Asian geographical origin with an odds ratio of 1.79 (95% CI: 1.03-3.11) (p=0.029), while the year of submission being 2023 had an odds ratio of 1.7 (95% CI: 1.1-2.5) (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: This study highlights a significant increase in the use of LLM in the writing of articles submitted to the OTSR journal after the launch of ChatGPT 3.5. The increasing use of these models raises questions about originality and plagiarism in scientific research. AI offers creative opportunities but also raises ethical and methodological challenges. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III; case control study.

Revision ACL reconstruction: influence of a lateral tenodesis.

PURPOSE: The aims of this article were to report the objective results of revision ACL reconstruction and to assess the influence of an associated lateral extra-articular tenodesis on knee stability and IKDC score. METHODS: This study focused on revision ACL reconstruction and was conducted over a 10-year period, from 1994 to 2003 with ten French orthopedic centers participating. The minimum follow-up required was 2 years. To be included, patients had to be evaluated at follow-up with the objective International Knee Documenting Committee (IKDC) scoring system. In 2006, 163 patients met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The objective IKDC knee score improved significantly after revision ACL reconstruction, with 72% IKDC A + B (26% A). When a lateral tenodesis was performed, 80% had a negative pivot shift, versus 63% without (P = 0.03), but there was no significant difference in the IKDC score. CONCLUSION: This study shows a significant improvement in the IKDC score after revision ACL reconstruction. The association of a lateral extra-articular tenodesis with the intra-articular graft increases knee stability after revision ACL reconstruction; however, this additional procedure does not significantly alter the IKDC score at follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective case series, Level IV.

Measure of horizontal and vertical displacement of the acromioclavicular joint after cutting ligament using X-ray and opto-electronic system.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical versus orthopedic treatments of acromioclavicular disjunction are still debated. The aim of this study was to measure horizontal and vertical acromion's displacement after cutting the ligament using standard X-ray and an opto-electronic system on cadaver. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten cadaveric shoulders were studied. A sequential ligament's section was operated by arthroscopy. The sequence of cutting was chosen to fit with Rockwood's grade. The displacement of the acromion was measured on standard X-ray and with an opto-electronic system allowing measuring of the horizontal displacement. Statistical comparisons were performed using a paired Student's t test with significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Cutting the coracoclavicular ligament and delto-trapezius muscles cause a statistical downer displacement of the acromion, but not after sectioning the acromioclavicular ligament. The contact surface between the acromion and the clavicle decreases statistically after sectioning the acromioclavicular ligament and the coracoclavicular ligament with no effect of sectioning the delto-trapezius muscles. Those results are superposing with those dealing with the anterior translation. DISCUSSION: The measure concerning the acromioclavicular distance and the coracoclavicular distance are superposing with those of Rockwood. However, there is a significant horizontal translation after cutting the acromioclavicular ligament. Taking into account this displacement, it may be interesting to choose either surgical or orthopedic treatment. CONCLUSION: There is a correlation between anatomical damage and importance of instability. Horizontal instability is misevaluated in clinical practice.

Knee strength symmetry at 4 months is associated with criteria and rates of return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Strength limb symmetry index (LSI) is a useful criterion to help in return-to-sport performance (RTP) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). OBJECTIVES: We aimed to assess whether knee extensor and flexor LSI values at 4 months after ACLR are associated with those recommended at 8 months after ACLR for RTP (80%, 85% and 90%) and with successful RTP after 2 years. METHODS: This was prospective cohort study of 113 participants who underwent primary ACLR. Personal factors such as demographic and sport information, injury and surgery characteristics were collected at 6 weeks after surgery. Isokinetic strength LSI (60°/s) was calculated at 4 months (LSI[4 m]) and 8 months (LSI[8 m]) for knee extensors (Q-LSI) and flexors (H-LSI). Participants were followed at 2 years after ACLR to determine their self-reported RTP. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine associations between personal factors and LSI at 4 and 8 months. Associations between passing the optimal cut-off thresholds and RTP were tested with chi-square tests and odds ratios (ORs) with effect sizes (ES). RESULTS: Among the 113 participants (mean age 25.2 [SD 9.7] years; 42% females), extended tourniquet time and lower level of pre-injury sport were associated with lower Q-LSI[4m] and H-LSI[4m]. Bone-patellar tendon-bone graft was associated with lower Q-LSI[4m] and Q-LSI[8m], and older age was associated with lower Q-LSI[4m]. For knee extensors, Q-LSI[4m] >59% was associated with Q-LSI[8m] >80% (OR= 31.50, p < 0.001, large ES) and increased odds of successful RTP (60% vs 31%, OR= 3.45, p = 0.003, medium ES). For knee flexors, H-LSI[4m] >72% was associated with H-LSI[8m] >90% (OR= 6.03, p < 0.001, large ES) and increased odds of successful RTP (53% vs 23%, OR= 3.76, p = 0.013, small-to-medium ES). CONCLUSIONS: After primary ACLR, 4-month post-operative strength symmetry was negatively associated with age, pre-injury sport and tourniquet time and bone-patellar tendon-bone graft. Four-month post-operative LSI was associated with 8-month post-operative LSI, and Q-LSI[4m] >59% or H-LSI[4m] >72% was associated with increased RTP rates after 2 years. CLINICALTRIALS: GOV: NCT04071912.

Causes for failure of ACL reconstruction and influence of meniscectomies after revision.

The purpose of this multicenter retrospective study was to analyze the causes for failure of ACL reconstruction and the influence of meniscectomies after revision. This study was conducted over a 12-year period, from 1994 to 2005 with ten French orthopaedic centers participating. Assessment included the objective International Knee Documenting Committee (IKDC) 2000 scoring system evaluation. Two hundred and ninety-three patients were available for statistics. Untreated laxity, femoral and tibial tunnel malposition, impingement, failure of fixation were assessed, new traumatism and infection were recorded. Meniscus surgery was evaluated before, during or after primary ACL reconstruction, and then during or after revision ACL surgery. The main cause for failure of ACL reconstruction was femoral tunnel malposition in 36% of the cases. Forty-four percent of the patients with an anterior femoral tunnel as a cause for failure of the primary surgery were IKDC A after revision versus 24% if the cause of failure was not the femoral tunnel (P = 0.05). A 70% meniscectomy rate was found in revision ACL reconstruction. Comparison between patients with a total meniscectomy (n = 56) and patients with preserved menisci (n = 65) revealed a better functional result and knee stability in the non-meniscectomized group (P = 0.04). This study shows that the anterior femoral tunnel malposition is the main cause for failure in ACL reconstruction. This reason for failure should be considered as a predictive factor of good result of revision ACL reconstruction. Total meniscectomy jeopardizes functional result and knee stability at follow-up.

Ligamentoplasty with interposition of the proximal interphalangeal joint in the treatment of unicondylar osteochondral defects: a cadaveric feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: Injuries to the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint are common and complex. However, the treatment of osteochondral defects of the head of the proximal phalanx has rarely been described. Herein, we propose a new technique for the management of unicondylar defects of the proximal phalanx that can restore joint amplitudes and provide PIP stability. METHODS: In this cadaveric feasibility study, unicondylar defects were generated using striking wedges and chisels. First, a transverse tunnel measuring 2 mm in diameter passing through the head of the proximal phalanx was made. A second tunnel at the base of the middle phalanx with the same diameter was then created. The hemitendon of the flexor carpi radialis graft was passed through each of these tunnels. The proximal end of the graft was interposed in the area with a loss of bone substance. The ligamentoplasty was then tensed and fixed by two anchors on the proximal phalanx. Joint amplitudes and frontal stability were measured preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: There was no significant change in the joint's range of motion: preoperatively, the mean mobility arcs were -2° to 113.80°, and they were -2° to 110° after the procedure (P=0.999). There was no significant difference in joint stability (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Ligamentoplasty with PIP interposition appears to be a possible solution for the management of unicondylar defects of the proximal phalanx. An evaluation of clinical results is planned in order to definitively confirm the validity of this procedure.

Implementation and results of an enhanced recovery (fast-track) program in total knee replacement patients at a French university hospital.

INTRODUCTION: In total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries, "fast-track" or enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs are being developed, but their impact on care pathway quality and safety has not been fully explored in the French literature. The present study aimed to compare results in TKR between fast-track and conventional pathways, addressing the following questions: (1) Are 90-day rates of complications, readmission and surgical revision higher with fast-track? (2) Is mean length of stay (LoS) shorter with fast-track? (3) Are postoperative pain and clinical results improved by fast-track? And, (4) are patients and care staff satisfied with these new programs? HYPOTHESIS: Implementing fast-track for TKR in a university hospital center is beneficial for the patient and does not impair the quality and safety of care. PATIENTS AND METHOD: A case-control study was performed using a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. A fast-track program was implemented for TKR by modifying the care pathway. This involved instituting a therapeutic education consultation, optimizing blood sparing, modifying surgical practices, and hastening early mobilization thus actively involving patients in their own management. Between January 2017 and January 2019, 216 patients with a mean age of 69.23±7.80years and mean BMI of 30.15±4.79kg/m2 were included in the fast-track group, with 335 matched patients included in the conventional group. RESULTS: At 90days, there were no significant inter-group differences in rates of infection (fast-track=1.39%, conventional=0.90%; p=0.34), readmission (fast-track=3.24%, conventional=3.58%; p=0.49), or surgical revision (fast-track=2.78%, conventional=2.69%; p=0.298). The visual analog scale (VAS) pain rating was 1.56±1.36 in the fast-track group versus 5±2.41 in the conventional group; p<0.001. LoS was 3.17±1.59days in fast-track versus 7.25±1.85days in the conventional group; p<0.001. Ninety-five percent of patients and 96% of care staff were satisfied with the fast-track program. DISCUSSION: Fast-track implementation ensured quality and safety of care; it did not increase the rate of complications in primary TKR. Mean length of stay was drastically reduced. Both patients and care staff were very satisfied with these new procedures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III; case-control study.

Value of the synovial C-reactive protein test in the diagnosis of total hip and knee periprosthetic joint infections: A case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: The diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) can be challenging and rests on several principles. The use of diagnostic biomarkers, such as the synovial C-Reactive Protein (CRP), seems promising. The purpose of this study was to determine whether synovial CRP was a more discriminating test than serum CRP for the diagnosis of hip and knee PJI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 194 patients were included in this single center prospective study: 42 primary arthroplasties (control group [CG]), 111 revisions for aseptic prosthesis (aseptic revision group [ARG]), and 41 revisions for septic prosthesis (septic revision group [SRG]) based on the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria. RESULTS: The serum and synovial CRP levels were significantly higher in the SRG than the other two groups (SRG serum CRP=75.6mg/L vs. ARG serum CRP=6mg/L and CG serum CRP=2.7mg/L, p<0.001; SRG synovial CRP=31.5mg/L vs. CG synovial CRP=2.6mg/L and ARG synovial CRP=1.7mg/L, p<0.001). The positive likelihood ratios (LR+) were very similar for both the synovial CRP cut-off value of 4.4mg/L (LR+=7.04; sensitivity [Se] 82.5%, specificity [Sp] 88.3%) and the serum CRP cut-off value of 9mg/L (LR+=6.3; Se 87.5%, Sp 86.1%). CONCLUSION: This study showed that synovial CRP testing was not more discriminating than serum CRP in the diagnosis of hip and knee PJI. A serum CRP level greater than 9mg/L was a sign of PJI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III; case-control study.

Very long-term osteoarthritis rate after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: 182 cases with 22-year' follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Few data are available on the 20-year outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of knee osteoarthritis at least 20 years after ACL reconstruction. HYPOTHESIS: Factors associated with progression to knee osteoarthritis include meniscal lesions, level of physical activity, injury-to-surgery time, body mass index, residual laxity, tunnel position and cartilage injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred and eighty two patients were included in a multicentre retrospective study conducted in the setting of a SoFCOT symposium. Females contributed two-thirds of the study population. ACL reconstruction was performed arthroscopically in 82% of cases, and a bone-patellar tendon-bone transplant was used in 92.8% of cases. Mean age at surgery was 26±7years. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on the objective and subjective IKDC scores and on the KOOS. Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis was classified according to the IKDC. Factors evaluated for their ability to predict progression to osteoarthritis included age, sex, body mass index, level of physical activity, injury-to-surgery time, meniscectomy, cartilage injury, tunnel position and residual laxity. RESULTS: At last follow-up, the objective IKDC score was A (normal) for 48%, B for 35%, and C or D for 17% of the knees. The mean subjective IKDC score was 82.7±13.1. Moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis was present in 29% of cases. The following risk factors for osteoarthritis were identified: medial or lateral meniscectomy, residual laxity, age >30years at surgery, and engaging in a pivoting sport. Meniscectomy was a major contributor to the development of osteoarthritis (17% of knees without vs. 46% with meniscectomy). Finally, the ACL re-tear rate was 13%. CONCLUSION: ACL reconstruction provides satisfactory knee stability. The risk of subsequent osteoarthritis depends chiefly on the status of the menisci. Residual laxity is also associated with the development of osteoarthritis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective cohort study.

Total wrist denervation: Retrospective study of 39 wrists with 56 months' follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to analyze patient satisfaction after total wrist denervation. HYPOTHESIS: Total wrist denervation provides reliable and durable results. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A single-center multi-surgeon retrospective study included a cohort of 39 wrists. Mean age was 58 years. The dominant side was operated on in two-thirds of cases. SLAC wrist and SNAC wrist accounted for 41% of etiologies. All patients were seen again in consultation and were evaluated for pain, strength, mobility and limb function. Failure was defined as any reoperation. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 56 months, with no loss to follow-up. Pain improved in 79.5% of cases. Median DASH score was 27.27. Strength on Jamar® dynamometer improved from 60% to 75% compared to the contralateral side (p=0.012). Range of motion improved by 5° (p=0.052). At last follow-up, 31% of patients showed aggravation of radiological osteoarthritis. There were 4 revision procedures (total wrist fusion), and 4 complications. DISCUSSION: The present results were comparable to those in the literature in terms of satisfaction, functional scores and number of complications and revision procedures. Total wrist denervation is a reliable and reproducible surgical technique in terms of pain relief preservation of function in painful osteoarthritic wrists. It thus has an essential place in the therapeutic algorithm of patients presenting with chronic pain in a wrist that is still mobile, whatever the initial etiology. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, Retrospective cohort.

Concurrent Exertional Compartment Syndrome and Functional Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome: A Case Report.

Exertional leg pain is a common and disabling condition in athletes with challenging diagnosis and management. We report the case of a 29-year-old rugby player with a history and clinical examination consistent with chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS). Compartment pressure measurement was supportive of the diagnosis. However, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) with provocative maneuvers showed functional popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES). For the treatment of CECS, bilateral fasciotomy of the anterolateral compartments permitted return to full sport participation in 8 weeks. A follow-up MR angiogram at 12 months showed resolution of the popliteal entrapment leading us to hypothesize a possible relationship between CECS and functional PAES.