The incidence of subclinical infection in patients undergoing revision shoulder stabilization surgery: a retrospective chart review.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder instability continues to be a common problem that is difficult to treat. Part of this difficulty can be attributed to the numerous postoperative complications that can impact the clinical course. Our study aims to primarily identify the incidence of subclinical infection in patients undergoing revision shoulder stabilization surgery and secondarily identify any risk factors for developing a subclinical infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2012 to December 2022, 94 charts of patients who underwent revision surgery by the senior author after a previous arthroscopic or open stabilization surgery for shoulder instability were reviewed. All patients of any age who underwent either bony or soft tissue revision surgery, regardless of the number of previous surgeries or corticosteroid injections, were included. Patients were excluded if they had a previous infection in the shoulder, if there was no record of the procedures performed in the previous surgery, or if cultures were not available for review. For each patient, demographic information (age, sex, race, smoking status, previous corticosteroid injections, malnutrition, renal failure, liver failure, diabetes mellitus, immunocompromised status, and intravenous drug use), surgical information (procedures performed, type of surgery, and date of surgery), and culture results were recorded. RESULTS: Overall, 107 patients were included in our study. Twenty-nine patients (27.1%) had positive cultures (60 cultures in total). Twenty-six patients had positive Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) cultures. On average, C. acnes cultures took 10.65 days to turn positive, whereas 24 of 27 patients had cultures that were positive within 14 days of the culture being obtained. There was no difference in infection incidence rates between soft tissue and bony stabilization procedures (P = .86) or arthroscopic and open procedures (P = .59). Males were more than 5 times more likely than females to be culture positive in our cohort (93.1% vs. 73.1%, relative risk [RR] = 1.27, P = .03). Finally, 10 control cultures were taken from the operating room air environment (8 distinct surgeries had 1 control culture taken, whereas 1 surgery had 2), 2 of which were positive for C. acnes (both taken from the same patient operation). This patient had their shoulder cultures positive for C. acnes as well. CONCLUSION: More than a quarter of patients requiring revision surgery after shoulder stabilization procedures have a subclinical shoulder infection, with males being at a higher risk of developing an infection than females. Surgeons should always consider infection as a reason for the lack of clinical improvement and possibly needing revision surgery after shoulder stabilization. The prompt diagnosis and treatment of these infections could be vital in improving results after these surgeries.

Primary and revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using a patient-matched glenoid implant for severe glenoid bone deficiency.

BACKGROUND: Severe glenoid bone loss in the setting of both primary and revision reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) continues to remain a significant challenge. The purpose of this study was to report on radiographic and clinical outcomes of primary and revision rTSA using a patient-matched, 3-dimensionally printed metal glenoid implant to address severe glenoid bone deficiency. This is a follow-up study to previously reported preliminary results. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on 62 patients with severe glenoid bone deficiency who underwent either primary or revision rTSA using the Comprehensive Vault Reconstruction System (VRS) (Zimmer Biomet) at a single institution. Preoperative and postoperative values for the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Constant, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores as well as active range of motion (ROM) were collected and compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test with the level of statistical significance set at P < .05. The percentage of patients achieving minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) was also calculated. RESULTS: Fifty-five of 62 shoulders (88.7%) were able to be contacted at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively, with 47 of 62 (75.8%) having complete clinical and radiographic follow-up with a mean age of 67.5 years (range, 48-85 years) and follow-up of 39.2 months (range, 25-56 months). There were 19 primary and 28 revision rTSAs. Significant improvements were seen in mean active forward flexion (63.1° ± 30.3° to 116.8° ± 35°), abduction (48.1° ± 16.1 to 76.2° ± 13.4°) (P < .001), external rotation (16° ± 23.7° to 32.1° ± 24.5°) (P < .005), DASH (59.9 ± 17.7 to 35.7 ± 24.3), Constant (23.4 ± 13.1 to 53.1 ± 17.4), ASES (27.8 ± 16.2 to 69.1 ± 25.2), SST (3.3 ± 2.5 to 7.6 ± 3.5), SANE (28.9 ± 18.3 to 66.7 ± 21.2), and VAS pain (7.1 ± 2.4 to 1.8 ± 2.6) scores (P < .001). MCID and SCB was achieved in a majority of patients postoperatively. The overall complication rate was 29.1%, with only 1 baseplate failure. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates promising evidence that the VRS implant can be used as a viable option to achieve clinically important improvement in a majority of patients treated for severe glenoid bone deficiency with rTSA in both the primary and revision setting.

Hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of distal humerus fractures: long-term clinical results.

BACKGROUND: Total elbow arthroplasty is a treatment for unreconstructable distal humerus fractures; implant longevity remains a concern, especially in younger patients. However, distal humeral hemiarthroplasty (DHH) offers an alternative with potential long-term advantages. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of 10 patients who underwent DHH for distal humerus fractures over a 4-year period (2008-2012) by a single surgeon. Patients underwent testing of range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), visual analog scale (VAS), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Simple Shoulder Test, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) scores. Average patient age at surgery was 71.9 years (range 56-81 years); average follow-up was 115.2 months (range 96-144 months). RESULTS: Patients maintained improvements in MEPS (mean 88, range 75-100) and DASH scores (mean 37.1, range 11.21-55.09), along with no statistically significant decrease in range of motion or scores in comparison to either short- or midterm results. Mean VAS score was 2.2 (range 0-7), SANE 69 (range 55-85), ASES 76.66 (range 51.67-100), and CCI 4.3 (range 1-7). Participants had an average flexion of 126° (range: 90°-140°), extension of 36° (range: 30°-45°), supination of 66° (range: 60°-70°), and pronation of 64° (range: 45°-80°). No elbow dislocations, subluxations, or heterotopic ossification were observed. Complications included 1 fracture and 1 complaint of prominent hardware. Four patients were deceased, and 1 patient was lost to follow-up. CONCLUSION: This long-term review suggests that DHH may be an effective treatment for certain distal humerus fractures. The data suggest that elbow range of motion and functional use are maintained from comparison with short- and midterm studies, with no appreciable change in radiographic cartilage wear along the radius or ulna.

Validation of new shoulder periprosthetic joint infection criteria.

BACKGROUND: A periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in the shoulder can be difficult to diagnose. Many variables have been used to determine a PJI. Recently, the 2018 International Consensus Meeting (ICM) on orthopedic infections gave new criteria to help identify PJI in the shoulder. With the new criteria (major and minor), the PJI definition can be categorized into definite, probable, possible, and unlikely. This study was conducted to assess the new criteria for a series of consecutive first stage revision shoulder arthroplasty cases. METHODS: All patients undergoing a first stage revision shoulder arthroplasty using a prosthesis made of antibiotic-loaded acrylic cement (PROSTALAC) spacer from 2016 through 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. All cases were performed by a single surgeon. Each case was reviewed using the 2018 shoulder ICM diagnostic criteria. Secondary factors evaluated were type of organism identified, accuracy of minor criteria, and frozen vs. permanent section accuracy. RESULTS: A total of 87 first-stage revision arthroplasty cases were reviewed. Based on the 2018 ICM criteria, there were 20 definite (30.0%), 19 probable (21.8%), 6 possible (6.9%), and 42 unlikely (48.3%) infections. Cutibacterium acnes was the most common infectious organism overall (77.3% of culture positive cases) and was present in 39.1% of cases overall. Ten patients (25.6%) grew multiple organisms. Thirty-one patients (35.6%) had a loose humeral stem, with 23 of those patients (74.2%) having a definite or probable infection (odds ratio [OR] 7.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.67-19.37, P = .0001). Eleven patients (91.7%) with an elevated intraoperative synovial neutrophil cell count had a definite or probable infection. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) was elevated in patients with a definite or probable infection (OR 9.4, 95% CI 2.47-35.62, P = .0010, and OR 7.7, 95% CI 2.29-25.56, P = .0009), respectively. Discordant results between frozen and permanent sections were found in 4 patients (4.6%). CONCLUSION: The 2018 ICM shoulder infection criteria gave a new scoring system to diagnose PJI. C acnes was the most common infectious organism identified. Patients who had a loose humeral stem, elevated ESR, or elevated CRP were more likely to have either a definite or probable PJI. Frozen sections were able to accurately identify definite infections. Unexpected wound drainage and positive preoperative cultures were low-yield criteria in this series. More research into determining periprosthetic shoulder infection is needed to help identify which patients are more likely to have an infection.

Early results of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using a patient-matched glenoid implant for severe glenoid bone deficiency.

BACKGROUND: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) in the presence of significant glenoid bone loss remains a challenge. This study presents preliminary clinical and radiographic outcomes of primary and revision rTSA using a patient-matched, 3-dimensionally printed custom metal glenoid implant to address severe glenoid bone deficiency. METHODS: Between September 2017 and November 2018, 19 patients with severe glenoid bone deficiency underwent primary (n = 9) or revision rTSA (n = 10) using the Comprehensive Vault Reconstruction System (VRS) (Zimmer Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA) at a single institution. Preoperative and postoperative values for the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, Constant score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Simple Shoulder Test score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score, and visual analog scale pain score and active range of motion were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test with the level of statistical significance set at P < .05. RESULTS: Complications occurred in 4 patients (21%), including a nondisplaced greater tuberosity fracture treated conservatively in 1, intraoperative cortical perforation during humeral cement removal treated with an allograft strut in 1, and recurrent instability and hematoma formation treated with humeral component revision in 1. One patient with an early periprosthetic infection was treated with component removal and antibiotic spacer placement at an outside facility and was subsequently lost to follow-up. Eighteen patients with 1-year minimum clinical and radiographic follow-up were evaluated (mean, 18.2 months; range, 12-27 months). Significant improvements were noted in the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (57.4 ± 16.5 vs. 29.4 ± 19.5, P < .001), mean Constant score (24.6 ± 10.2 vs. 60.4 ± 14.5, P < .001), mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (32 ± 18.2 vs. 79 ± 15.6, P < .001), mean Simple Shoulder Test score (4.5 ± 2.6 vs. 9.3 ± 1.8, P < .001), mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score (25.4 ± 13.7 vs. 72.2 ± 17.8, P < .001), mean visual analog scale pain score (6.2 ± 2.9 vs. 0.7 ± 1.3, P < .001), mean active forward flexion (53° ± 27° vs. 124° ± 23°, P < .001), and mean active abduction (42° ± 17° to 77° ± 15°, P < .001). Mean external rotation changed from 17° ± 19° to 32° ± 24° (P = .06). No radiographic evidence of component loosening, scapular notching, or hardware failure was observed at last follow-up in any patient. CONCLUSION: The preliminary results of rTSA using the VRS to manage severe glenoid bone deficiency are promising, but longer follow-up is necessary to determine the longevity of this implant.

Variations of magnetic resonance imaging findings in asymptomatic elbows.

BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in asymptomatic patients have been described for hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, and intervertebral disks. No such description exists for the elbow. METHODS: MRI scans of 189 asymptomatic elbows divided into 3 groups by age (group 1, 20-39 years; group 2, 40-59 years; and group 3, ≥60 years) were evaluated for abnormalities within 13 anatomic structures using a novel classification system. RESULTS: At least 1 variation was found in all elbows. Of the 13 structures, 8 showed an increase in the prevalence and intensity of signal changes with aging, 2 remained the same, and 2 showed a decrease. One anatomic structure showed no variations in any elbow. CONCLUSIONS: Elbow MRI variations may be seen regardless of symptoms. These changes appear to increase in prevalence and intensity with age. Results from this study can be used to help guide the clinician in interpreting MRI findings of the elbow. We hope this study helps provide a contextual background for discussing MRI findings with patients and differentiating age-related variations from true pathology.

Clinical outcomes of anconeus interposition arthroplasty after radial head resection in native and prosthetic radial heads.

BACKGROUND: Radiocapitellar pathology after traumatic injury to the elbow can be challenging to treat. The anconeus interposition arthroplasty has been proposed to treat radiocapitellar or proximal radioulnar joint dysfunction and pain, or both. This study evaluated whether radial head excision (native or prosthetic), followed by an anconeus interposition arthroplasty, relieves pain and improves subjective and objective elbow function in patients with post-traumatic radiocapitellar pathology. METHODS: A retrospective comparative case series was performed of 50 consecutive patients who underwent a native radial head excision or radial head implant excision, followed by an anconeus interposition arthroplasty. Clinical outcome scores, range of motion, and proximal radius migration were evaluated in patients with at least 2 years of follow-up. RESULTS: Included were 23 patients (11 native and 12 prosthetic radial heads) with a mean age of 41 years. Average follow-up was 38 months. Overall, significant improvement was obtained in the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand and visual analog scale scores. Range of motion significantly improved from preoperatively to postoperatively. Patients with a native radial head excision scored better on the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (76.8 vs. 56.3, P = .037) and obtained significantly more flexion postoperatively (141° vs. 123°, P = .016). Mild wrist pain developed in 3 patients, but no further intervention was required. The overall complication rate was 13%, and 5 patients required reoperation. CONCLUSIONS: Anconeus interposition arthroplasty performed after radial head resection in native and prosthetic groups is a viable adjunct in the operative treatment of patients with post-traumatic radiocapitellar pathology. However, whether anconeus interposition arthroplasty alone produced the favorable clinical results of this study was difficult to determine.

Hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of distal humeral fractures: midterm clinical results.

BACKGROUND: Total elbow arthroplasty is a treatment for unreconstructable distal humeral fractures; however, longevity of the implant remains a concern in younger, more active patients. Distal humeral hemiarthroplasty (DHH) offers an alternative with multiple advantages. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of 10 patients who underwent DHH for distal humeral fractures during a 4-year period (2008-2012) by a single surgeon. Patients underwent testing of range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand, visual analog scale, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores. Average patent age at surgery was 71.9 years (range, 56-81 years); average follow-up was 73.2 months (range, 36-96 months). RESULTS: Patients maintained improvements in Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (mean, 89.23; range, 75-100) and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores (mean, 33.71; range 11.2-55.1), along with no significant decrease in range of motion compared with 1 year after surgery. Mean visual analog scale was 2.43 (range, 0-5), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation was 74.14 (range, 50-100), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 72.14 (range, 48.33-100). Participants had an average flexion of 128.7° (range, 95°-142°), extension deficit of 27.1° (range, 0°-45°), supination of 79.1° (range, 45°-90°), and pronation of 73.3° (range, 50°-90°). No heterotopic ossification, elbow dislocations, or subluxations were observed. Complications included 1 fracture and 1 complaint of prominent hardware. Two patients died, and 1 patient was lost to follow-up. CONCLUSION: This midterm review suggests that DHH may be an effective treatment for certain distal humeral fractures. The data suggest that elbow range of motion and functional use are maintained from comparison with short-term studies. Additional studies must be conducted to further define the role of DHH for complex fractures of the distal humerus.

Retrograde headless compression screw fixation of olecranon stress fractures in throwing athletes: a novel technique.

Background: An olecranon stress fracture (OSF) is a rare injury most commonly seen in high-level overhead throwing athletes with no clear consensus on surgical treatment. The most common surgical treatment described in the literature is cannulated screw fixation but there have been high rates of reported hardware irritation and need for subsequent hardware removal. Hypothesis/Purpose: This study describes a novel surgical technique in the treatment of OSFs in high-level throwing athletes using retrograde headless compression screws. We hypothesized that patients would have excellent outcomes and decreased rates of hardware irritation postoperatively. Methods: A retrospective review of competitive-level throwing athletes who sustained OSFs that were treated operatively using a novel technique using retrograde cannulated headless compression screws to avoid disruption of the triceps tendon. Postoperative outcome measures obtained included the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, Simple Elbow Test score, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation score, Visual Analog Scale, arch of motion, and time to return to sport as well as level returned to. Radiographs were obtained routinely at 2-week, 6-week, 12-week, 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up. Results: Five of 5 patients who met inclusion criteria were available for final follow-up. Mean age at time of surgery was 20 years (range 17-24). Mean follow-up was 17 months (range 4-33). All patients were baseball players, 4 of which were pitchers and 1 position player. All patients were able to return to sport at the same level or higher at a mean of 5.8 months (range 3-8). Postoperatively, mean arch of motion was 138°, Visual Analog Scale score was 0, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation score was 90, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 2.0, Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 100, and Simple Elbow Test score was 12. There was no incidence of hardware removal. Conclusion: This study presents a novel surgical technique in the treatment of OSFs in high-level throwing athletes. The results presented demonstrate that this technique is safe and effective for getting athletes back to play quickly without any complications of hardware irritation which has previously shown to be a significant problem in prior literature.

Biologic resurfacing of the glenoid with meniscal allograft: long-term results with minimum 2-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of consensus in treating glenohumeral arthritis in younger patients. Hemiarthroplasty has historically been favored because of complications associated with total shoulder arthroplasty. Biologic resurfacing of the glenoid has been investigated as a potential treatment that would decrease glenoid erosion and pain, the major complications of hemiarthroplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We report on 19 shoulders treated with meniscal allograft glenoid resurfacing and shoulder hemiarthroplasty. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years postoperatively (mean, 4.25 years) with Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. In addition, we compared the outcomes related to preoperative concentric versus eccentric glenoid wear. RESULTS: At final follow-up, the mean score for the DASH questionnaire was 28; SST, 8; and VAS, 3.5. Whereas the eccentric wear group (DASH score, 19.4; SST score, 9.1; VAS score, 2.5) exhibited better shoulder function and pain scores compared with the concentric wear group (DASH score, 37.6; SST score, 8.4; VAS score, 4.1), the difference was not statistically significant (P = .098, P = .647, and P = .198, respectively). There were 6 complications (32%), all resulting in repeat surgery. Three patients underwent total shoulder arthroplasty and one shoulder had revision hemiarthroplasty, whereas synovectomy was performed in another shoulder. The sixth patient underwent lysis of adhesions and capsular release. DISCUSSION: With long-term follow-up, we have observed that biologic resurfacing of the glenoid with meniscal allograft exhibits inconsistent results and high complication rates. Strong consideration should be given to performing total shoulder arthroplasty in patients in whom all conservative treatment options have failed.

A High Rate of Bacteriologic Culture-Positive Findings Is Seen After Revision Rotator Cuff Surgery.

Purpose: To determine the incidence of subclinical infections in patients undergoing revision arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and identify any risk factors for developing these infections. Methods: Patients who underwent revision surgery by the senior author between January 2012 and December 2022 after a previous rotator cuff surgery were identified. All patients undergoing an open or arthroscopic revision of their previous rotator cuff surgery were included. Patients who had noted previous shoulder infections or had incomplete chart documentation were excluded. For each patient, demographic information, surgical information, and culture results were recorded. Results: A total of 115 patients were identified. Thirty-nine were excluded due to incomplete chart documentation (35) or a history of infection (4); therefore, 22 patients (28.9%) had positive cultures (31 cultures in total). Seventeen patients had only Cutibacterium acnes identified. C acnes cultures turned positive on average 13.52 days after culture collection. There was no difference in infection incidence rates between isolated rotator cuff repair and rotator cuff repair plus additional surgeries (P = .88) or between initial arthroscopic versus open procedures (P = .83). None of the 12 identified risk factors, including age, sex, race, smoking history, previous corticosteroid injections, malnutrition, renal failure, liver failure, diabetes mellitus, immunocompromised status, intravenous drug use, and number of revisions, were correlated with the presence of a subclinical infection. Finally, 6 patients had control cultures taken. One culture (16.6%) was positive for C acnes, while this patient did not have a positive shoulder culture. Conclusions: Subclinical shoulder infections can be present in more than one-quarter of patients undergoing revision after rotator cuff repair. Level of Evidence: Level IV, diagnostic case series.

Acromioclavicular joint injuries and reconstructions: a review of expected imaging findings and potential complications.

Shoulder injuries, including acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations, remain a common reason for presentation to the emergency room. Although the diagnosis can be made apparent through proper history and physical examination by the emergency medicine physician, ascertaining the degree of injury can be difficult on the basis of clinical evaluation alone. While there is consensus in the literature that low-grade AC joint injuries can be treated with conservative management, high-grade injuries will generally require surgical intervention. Furthermore, the treatment of grade 3 injuries remains controversial, making it incumbent upon the radiologist to become comfortable with distinguishing this diagnosis from lower or higher grade injuries. Imaging of AC joint injuries after clinical evaluation is generally initiated in the emergency room setting with plain film radiography; however, on occasion, an alternative modality may be presented to the emergency room radiologist for interpretation. As such, it remains important to be familiar with the appearance of AC joint separations on a variety of modalities. Another possible patient presentation in both the emergent and nonemergent setting includes new onset of pain or instability in the postsurgical shoulder. In this scenario, the onus is often placed on the radiologist to determine whether the pain or instability represents the sequelae of reinjury versus a complication of surgery. The purpose of this review is to present an anatomically based discussion of imaging findings associated with AC joint separations as seen on multiple modalities, as well as to describe and elucidate a variety of potential complications which may present to the emergency room radiologist.

Subscapularis Tears: Evolution in Treatment Options.

Subscapularis tears occur more commonly than previously reported. Owing to the importance of the subscapularis in shoulder function, strong consideration should be given to repairing a full-thickness subscapularis tear when present. Historically, subscapularis repairs were done through a deltopectoral approach with good results. More recently, arthroscopic techniques have been developed with similar outcomes. When tears of the subscapularis are irreparable, reconstructive options, including tendon transfers, capsular reconstruction, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty, exist and continue to evolve.

Biomechanical evaluation of parallel versus orthogonal plate fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures.

BACKGROUND: Orthogonal and parallel plate constructs are used for fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures but optimal plate configuration remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of orthogonal versus parallel plate constructs in a cadaver distal humerus fracture model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An intra-articular distal humerus fracture with a metaphyseal defect was created in 14 matched pairs of cadaver elbows. Paired specimens were fixed with either orthogonal or parallel plates from a single elbow plating system using nonlocking screws. Using a novel testing protocol, loading was applied to the forearm and was transmitted to the distal humerus through intact collateral ligaments, olecranon, and radial head. Seven matched pairs were tested under varus loading and seven under axial/sagittal loading. Each specimen underwent cyclic loading first, followed by loading to failure. RESULTS: Parallel plate constructs had significantly higher stiffness than orthogonal ones during cyclic varus loading (P = .002). Screw loosening occurred in all posterior plates of orthogonal constructs but in no plates of parallel constructs (P = .001). Parallel constructs had significantly higher ultimate torque in varus loading to failure (20.7 vs 15.9 Nm, P = .008), and higher ultimate load in axial/sagittal loading to failure (1287.8 vs 800.0 N, P = .03). DISCUSSION: Parallel plating of intra-articular distal humerus fractures with a metaphyseal defect demonstrates superior biomechanical properties compared to orthogonal plating, and may be preferable for fixation of these fractures.

Distal tibia allograft glenoid reconstruction for shoulder instability: outcomes after lesser tuberosity osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: Distal tibia allograft reconstruction of the glenoid in shoulder instability has garnered significant attention over the last decade. Prior studies demonstrate significant improvement in all reported patient outcomes albeit the approach is through a subscapularis split. There have not been prior studies evaluating outcomes after lesser tuberosity osteotomy which provides excellent exposure to the anterior glenoid.We hypothesize there is significant improvement in functional outcomes and no deleterious effects after lesser tuberosity osteotomy for distal tibia allograft reconstruction of the glenoid for shoulder instability. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed from 2016 of 2019 of patients undergoing distal tibia allograft reconstruction of the glenoid through a lesser tuberosity osteotomy. Patients were indicated if they had recurrent anterior shoulder instability with >20% glenoid bone loss and evidence of an off-track lesion. Clinical, imaging, and operative data were evaluated. Objective follow-up data evaluated at minimum 2 years included radiographs, range of motion, DASH, SANE, VAS, SST, ASES, and Constant scores. RESULTS: A total of 12 patients were available with average follow-up 28 months, average age 26 years old, and average glenoid bone loss of 33%. The patients demonstrated significant improvement in their clinical outcomes at final follow-up: DASH 42.9-8.9 (P = .004), SANE 32.2-85 (P = .00005), VAS 4.6-1.1 (P = .003), SST 7-11.4 (P = .01), ASES 50.2-90.5 (P = .001), and Constant 37.6-86.2 (P = .01). Range of motion at final follow-up was forward flexion to 161.4° (135-170°), external rotation 49.5° (40-65°), and internal rotation to T12-L1 (T7-L2) vertebral body. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrates the effectiveness of a lesser tuberosity osteotomy in exposure of the glenoid for reconstruction with a distal tibia allograft. The functional integrity of the subscapularis is maintained and the patient-reported outcomes are comparable with current literature.

Surgeon-Therapist Communication Must Be Improved in Rotator Cuff Repair Rehabilitation: An Electronic Survey of Physical Therapists on Postoperative Rehabilitation Protocols and Communication with Treating Surgeons.

BACKGROUND: There is no consensus on postoperative rotator cuff repair protocols in orthopedic or physical therapy literature. Despite surgical management, the frequency of rotator cuff retears continues to be high. OBJECTIVES: This study is designed to investigate the current concepts of postoperative rehabilitation and to evaluate the state of communication between referring surgeons and treating physical therapists. METHODS: A survey was conducted over a 2-year period, performed by an online survey company. RESULTS: Six hundred responses were obtained from physical therapists. Most rehab protocols were based on size of tear, tissue quality, and open versus arthroscopic repair. Current intervention concepts and professional experience guided protocol development. Thirty-three percent of therapists receive operative notes ≤ 25% of the time. Sixteen percent reported not receiving operative notes and not having access to the physician >50% of the time. Most patients were seen within 2 weeks, with passive range of motion started in 83% of cases. Sixty percent started active-assist range of motion at ≤ 4 weeks. Sixty-four percent of therapy was continued for 12 to 16 weeks. Patient compliance, poor tissue quality, and rapid rehab progression were reported as common causes of failure. CONCLUSION: Most rehabilitation programs follow protocols developed by surgeons and physical therapists. Tissue quality, size of tear, and repair type are usually documented in the operative report, and are rarely conveyed to the therapist. This study highlights the lack of communication between the physician and the therapist. Improving communication regarding the findings at surgery, opening lines of communication, and making alterations to the protocol may improve patient outcomes.

Luggage tag technique of anatomic fixation of displaced acromioclavicular joint separations.

UNLABELLED: Acromioclavicular joint dislocations are common injuries in active individuals. Most of these injuries may be treated nonoperatively. However, many techniques have been described when surgical management is warranted. A recent biomechanical study favors anatomic reconstruction of the conoid and trapezoid ligaments and the acromioclavicular joint capsule, as opposed to the traditional technique of excision of the lateral end of clavicle and transfer of the coracoacromial ligament to the intramedullary canal of the distal clavicle. We present a modification of the anatomic fixation technique using a luggage tag method, which places a graft under the base of the coracoid. This procedure has been associated with few redisplacements of the distal clavicle, reliable pain relief, and minimal postoperative morbidity. We found the luggage tag technique provides anatomic fixation of the distal clavicle and restoration of coronal and sagittal plane stability to the injured acromioclavicular joint. This procedure should reduce the possibility of coracoid fracture and decreases the risk of hardware complications associated with reconstruction techniques that violate the base of the coracoid process. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Management of chronic shoulder infections utilizing a fixed articulating antibiotic-loaded spacer.

BACKGROUND: Literature on management of chronic shoulder infections is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a standardized protocol for the management of chronic shoulder infections, including periprosthetic infections, utilizing an articulating antibiotic-loaded spacer. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty patients with chronic shoulder infections (4 primary and 26 postoperative) were treated with aggressive debridement, implantation of an antibiotic-loaded articulating spacer, and systemic antibiotics. Twenty-seven patients (90%) were compromised hosts. Eighteen patients (group I) elected to keep the spacer but three patients later underwent reimplantation, thus fifteen patients (group IA) were using the spacer as a prosthesis at their latest follow-up of 2.4 years. Twelve patients (group II, follow-up of 2.3 years) underwent reimplantation of a prosthesis. RESULTS: Eradication of infection was accomplished in all 30 patients. Group IA patients had a Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score of 50, Simple Shoulder Test (SST) score of 5, forward flexion of 73 degrees, abduction of 71 degrees, and external rotation of 29 degrees. Group II patients had a DASH score of 58, SST score of 5, forward flexion of 78 degrees, abduction of 83 degrees, and external rotation of 19 degrees. The differences between these 2 groups were not significant. DISCUSSION: Chronic shoulder infections can be successfully treated with a protocol of aggressive debridement, antibiotic-loaded articulating spacer, and systemic antibiotics. Prolonged implantation of an articulating spacer may be a viable option in select low-demand patients with comorbidities.

Total elbow allografts with collateral ligament reconstruction for posttraumatic elbow injuries.

BACKGROUND: The use of total osteoarticular elbow allografts as a salvage procedure for reconstruction of posttraumatic elbow periarticular defects and bone loss has been previously described. Although the procedure restores bone stock and provides a painless functional joint, it is associated with multiple complications, including infection, nonunion, and instability. METHODS: We report a consecutive series of eight patients with posttraumatic elbow injuries and extensive bone loss treated with massive osteoarticular elbow allografts augmented by collateral ligament reconstruction using hamstring allograft. To improve union rates, bone morphogenetic protein-II was applied to the host-graft junctions of the reconstructed elbow. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically. The average age of patients was 43 years (range 30-69 years). RESULTS: At a mean follow up of 32 months (range 18-44 months), the average Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 81. All patients reported no or only minimal pain in the elbow. The average arc of motion was 102°, and the mean rotational arc of motion was 100°. Four of the eight elbows developed a complication. CONCLUSIONS: This procedure may serve as a viable salvage option in selected patients with the potential to provide pain relief and improve function, but it is associated with a high complication rate.

Anatomic reconstruction of acromioclavicular joint dislocations using allograft and synthetic ligament.

BACKGROUND: Acromioclavicular (AC) separations are commonly seen shoulder injuries. Numerous surgical reconstruction techniques have been described. In this study, we present a series of patients who underwent an anatomic reconstruction using a synthetic ligament and allograft construct. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of patients with type IV or V AC separations who underwent primary or revision AC reconstruction with a luggage-tag synthetic ligament and a semitendinosus allograft placed through the anatomic insertion sites of the coracoclavicular ligaments. Patient-reported outcomes, as well as complication rates, were recorded at a minimum 2-year follow-up. RESULTS: Ten patients with a mean age of 44.2 ± 14.9 years were included in the study. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 15.5 ± 15.4; mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score, 81.8 ± 12.1; mean Simple Shoulder Test score, 11.4 ± 1.1; mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, 84.6 ± 15.7; mean Constant score, 82.5 ± 11.6; and mean visual analog scale score, 2 ± 2.6. CONCLUSION: The technique using a luggage-tag synthetic ligament along with an anatomic allograft coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction is a safe, effective alternative to other techniques described in the literature.