Postoperative Rehabilitation of Elbow Pain / 이화의대지

The elbow joint, with its intricate anatomy, plays a pivotal role in the upper limb's functional movements. Common surgical indications include epicondylitis, osteoarthritis, tendon tears, and neuropathies. Irrespective of the nature of surgery, appropriate postoperative rehabilitation is essential to enhance recovery, optimize functional outcomes, and minimize complications. Protective measures for the elbow vary based on the surgical procedure is performed. Extended postoperative immobilization is generally not advised. Temporary splints may be utilized to protect the soft tissues in the immediate aftermath of surgery, with patients advised to intermittently remove them to facilitate elbow movement.To increase mobility while ensuring the safety of repaired tendons or ligaments, articulated dynamic braces are recommended. This review delivers clinically useful recommendations specific to various surgical procedures, designed to be user-friendly even for non-specialists in orthopaedic surgery.

Inter-rater agreement among shoulder surgeons on treatment options for proximal humeral fractures among shoulder surgeons

The treatment approach for proximal humeral fractures is determined by various factors, including patient age, sex, dominant arm, fracture pattern, presence of osteoporosis, preexisting arthritis, rotator cuff status, and medical comorbidities. However, there is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding the optimal treatment for displaced proximal humeral fractures. This study aimed to assess and quantify the decision-making process for either conservative or surgical treatment and the choice of surgical method among shoulder surgeons when treating proximal humeral fractures. Methods: Forty sets of true anteroposterior view, scapular Y projection view, and three-dimensional computed tomography of proximal humeral fractures were provided to 12 shoulder surgeons along with clinical information. Surveys regarding Neer classification, decisions between conservative and surgical treatments, and chosen methods were conducted twice with an interval of 2 months. The factors affecting the treatment plans were also assessed. Results: The inter-rater agreement was fair for Neer classification (kappa=0.395), moderate for the decision between conservative and surgical treatments (kappa=0.528), and substantial for the chosen method of surgical treatment (kappa=0.740). The percentage of agreement was 71.1% for Neer classification, 84.6% for the decision between conservative and surgical treatment, and 96.4% for the chosen method of surgical treatment. The fracture pattern was the most crucial factor in deciding between conservative and surgical treatments, followed by age and physical activity. Conclusions: The decision between conservative and surgical treatment for proximal humeral fractures showed good agreement, while the chosen method between osteosynthesis and arthroplasty showed substantial agreement among shoulder surgeons.

Detection of Rotator Cuff Tears by Ultrasound: How Many Scans Do Novices Need to Be Competent?

Background@#Ultrasound is commonly used for evaluating rotator cuff tears. However, little training in ultrasound imaging is provided during orthopedic residents’ training period. Therefore, we performed this study to determine how many ultrasound scans are required for orthopedic residents to be competent and self-confident in the diagnosis of supraspinatus tendon tears and to investigate whether senior residents outperformed junior residents. @*Methods@#We studied two third-year residents who had no previous experience of shoulder ultrasound and evaluated their ability to detect rotator cuff pathologies. Their learning curves were plotted using a cumulative summation analysis with a 20% acceptable failure rate compared to arthroscopic findings. Downward, upward, and horizontal cumulative summation trends indicated incompetence, exceptional competence, and competence, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of third-year residents was compared with that of second-year residents and the number of cases required to gain self-confidence was evaluated. @*Results@#Cumulative summation analysis showed that after 26–28 scans, residents achieved the competence to correctly diagnose supraspinatus tears: an upward trend was observed from the beginning for full-thickness tears and a downward trend was observed for partial-thickness tears. Sensitivity and specificity were 0.95 and 0.79, respectively, for third-year residents and 0.91 and 0.58, respectively, for second-year residents. Residents reported self-confidence after 30 ultrasound scans for the detection of rotator cuff tears. @*Conclusions@#The number of scans that novices needed to be competent for detecting rotator cuff tears was approximately 30 cases, and the diagnostic accuracy of third-year residents was significantly higher than that of second-year residents.

Long-term outcomes of initially conservatively treated midshaft clavicle fractures

Background@#Recent studies about completely displaced midshaft clavicle fractures have reported that their nonunion/malunion rates were significantly higher in conservatively treated patients compared to surgically treated patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factors associated with treatment decisions for midshaft clavicle fractures and also the factors that affect patient satisfaction with their treatment choice. @*Methods@#We retrospectively reviewed the records of 75 patients who had been diagnosed with a midshaft clavicle fracture and were treated conservatively at a single institution between March 1, 2013, and December 31, 2014. Their medical records were reviewed to investigate the severity of the initial vertical displacement. A telephone survey was carried out to identify the presence of any patient-perceived deformity and determine if the patient eventually underwent surgery and whether the patient would prefer surgery if the injury recurred. @*Results@#Significantly more patients with vertical displacement ≥100% (9/28) eventually underwent surgery compared to patients with vertical displacement <100% (3/32; p=0.028). Patients with vertical displacement ≥100% (13/28) were significantly more likely to prefer surgery compared to patients with vertical displacement <100% (7/32, p=0.044). Among the conservatively treated patients, nine of 32 participants with a patient-perceived deformity and one of 16 without a patient-perceived deformity responded that they would prefer to receive surgery in same situation in the future (p=0.079). @*Conclusions@#Patients with a midshaft clavicle fracture with vertical displacement of ≥100% may eventually require surgical treatment. When conservative treatment is carried out, the long-term patient results may be unsatisfactory due to perceived residual deformities.

Long-term outcomes of initially conservatively treated midshaft clavicle fractures

Background@#Recent studies about completely displaced midshaft clavicle fractures have reported that their nonunion/malunion rates were significantly higher in conservatively treated patients compared to surgically treated patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factors associated with treatment decisions for midshaft clavicle fractures and also the factors that affect patient satisfaction with their treatment choice. @*Methods@#We retrospectively reviewed the records of 75 patients who had been diagnosed with a midshaft clavicle fracture and were treated conservatively at a single institution between March 1, 2013, and December 31, 2014. Their medical records were reviewed to investigate the severity of the initial vertical displacement. A telephone survey was carried out to identify the presence of any patient-perceived deformity and determine if the patient eventually underwent surgery and whether the patient would prefer surgery if the injury recurred. @*Results@#Significantly more patients with vertical displacement ≥100% (9/28) eventually underwent surgery compared to patients with vertical displacement <100% (3/32; p=0.028). Patients with vertical displacement ≥100% (13/28) were significantly more likely to prefer surgery compared to patients with vertical displacement <100% (7/32, p=0.044). Among the conservatively treated patients, nine of 32 participants with a patient-perceived deformity and one of 16 without a patient-perceived deformity responded that they would prefer to receive surgery in same situation in the future (p=0.079). @*Conclusions@#Patients with a midshaft clavicle fracture with vertical displacement of ≥100% may eventually require surgical treatment. When conservative treatment is carried out, the long-term patient results may be unsatisfactory due to perceived residual deformities.

Primary Linked Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Acute Distal Humerus Fracture Management:A Systematic Review of Clinical Outcome

Background@#The treatment of distal humerus fractures is often challenging in osteoporotic elderly patients. Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is a salvage option for non-reconstructable fractures. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the clinical evidence for primary TEA in patients with acute distal humeral fractures. @*Methods@#Literatures were searched through PubMed, Ovid/Medline, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and Embase databases with the keywords, “distal humerus fracture,” “total elbow arthroplasty,” and “outcome” according to the MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) index for English-language studies published from April 2009 to April 2019. We performed a systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. @*Results@#Ten articles with a total of 269 patients were included in the review. The Bryan-Morrey approach was the most common surgical approach (33.7%) with triceps reflecting (42%) for triceps tendon management. The most common implant design used was the Coonrad-Morrey system (83%). The mean postoperative motion arc was 102.3° for flexion-extension and 145.8° for pronation-supination. The average functional outcome score was 89.5 with Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). An excellent MEPS was found in studies with less than 7 days of average time from injury to surgery. The overall complication rate was 21.5%. @*Conclusions@#The current review showed favorable outcome of primary linked TEA for acute distal humerus fractures. Despite the promising functional outcomes, the complication rate was still considerably high. This systematic review will give surgeons help in explaining to patients regarding the expected outcome after primary TEA for acute distal humerus fractures.

Evaluation of Deltoid Origin Status Following Open and Arthroscopic Repair of Large Rotator Cuff Tears: A Propensity-Matched Case-Control Study

Background@#The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare deltoid origin status following large rotator cuff repair carried out using either an open or an arthroscopic method with a propensity score matching technique. @*Methods@#A retrospective review of 112 patients treated for full-thickness, large rotator cuff tear via either a classic open repair (open group) or an arthroscopic repair (arthroscopic group) was conducted. All patients included in the study had undergone postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical follow-up for at least 12 and 18 months after surgery, respectively. Propensity score matching was used to select controls matched for age, sex, body mass index, and affected site. There were 56 patients in each group, with a mean age of 63.3 years (range, 50–77 years). The postoperative functional and radiologic outcomes for both groups were compared. Radiologic evaluation for postoperative rotator cuff integrity and deltoid origin status was performed with 3-Tesla MRI. @*Results@#The deltoid origin thickness was significantly greater in the arthroscopic group when measured at the anterior acromion (P=0.006), anterior third (P=0.005), and middle third of the lateral border of the acromion level (P=0.005). The deltoid origin thickness at the posterior third of the lateral acromion was not significantly different between the arthroscopic and open groups. The arthroscopic group had significantly higher intact deltoid integrity with less scarring (P=0.04). There were no full-thickness deltoid tears in either the open or arthroscopic group. @*Conclusion@#Open rotator cuff repair resulted in a thinner deltoid origin, especially from the anterior acromion to the middle third of the lateral border of the acromion, at the 1-year postoperative MRI evaluation. Meticulous reattachment of the deltoid origin is as essential as rotator cuff repair when an open approach is selected.

Crossbar Technique for the Failed Clavicular Hook Plate Fixation in an Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: Salvage for Acromial Fracture after Clavicular Hook Plate

We experienced acromial erosion and subsequent fracture after the treatment of Rockwood type V acromioclavicular dislocation with hook plate and coracoclavicular ligament augmentation. It was treated by using a surgical technique to address an acromial fracture and subsequent losses of reduction in acromioclavicular joint with two trans-acromial cortical screws (crossbar technique). The reduction state of acromioclavicular joint could be maintained by these two screws. Our crossbar technique could be considered as a good salvage procedure for the reduction loss caused by cutout or significant erosion of acromion after insertion of clavicular hook plate.

Total Elbow Arthroplasty: Clinical Outcomes, Complications, and Revision Surgery

Total elbow arthroplasty is a common surgical procedure used in the management of advanced rheumatoid arthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, and unfixable fracture in elderly patients. Total elbow prostheses have evolved over the years and now include the linked, unlinked, and convertible types. However, long-term complications, including infection, aseptic loosening, instability, and periprosthetic fracture, remain a challenge. Here, we introduce each type of implant and evaluate clinical outcomes and complications by reviewing the previous literature.

Crossbar Technique for the Failed Clavicular Hook Plate Fixation in an Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: Salvage for Acromial Fracture after Clavicular Hook Plate

We experienced acromial erosion and subsequent fracture after the treatment of Rockwood type V acromioclavicular dislocation with hook plate and coracoclavicular ligament augmentation. It was treated by using a surgical technique to address an acromial fracture and subsequent losses of reduction in acromioclavicular joint with two trans-acromial cortical screws (crossbar technique). The reduction state of acromioclavicular joint could be maintained by these two screws. Our crossbar technique could be considered as a good salvage procedure for the reduction loss caused by cutout or significant erosion of acromion after insertion of clavicular hook plate.

Diagnosis of a Snapping Elbow Caused by Hypertrophic Plica, Using Ultrasound / 대한정형외과학회잡지

This paper reports a case of a 21-year-old male patient who complained of intermittent pain and snapping at 110° of flexion in his left elbow joint. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a band-like low signal intensity in front of the radiohumeral joint. An ultrasound was conducted to check its association with the symptoms. Observations of a high echo escaping from the radiohumeral joint at the point when snapping occurred indicated noted that the hypertrophic plica was a cause of the snapping. The hypertrophic plica removed arthroscopically, and the results were good for up to 6 months after surgery. If snapping is observed in the elbow joint, it will be necessary to consider the symptoms from the hypertrophic plica, although rare, and ultrasound might be an effective tool for a differential diagnosis.

Hemiarthroplasty for Distal Humerus Fracture: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis for Functional Outcome

BACKGROUND: Treatment of distal humerus fractures in osteoporotic elderly patients is often challenging. For non-reconstructible fractures with open reduction and internal fixation, total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is an acceptable alternative. However, the relatively high complication rates and lifelong activity restrictions make TEA less ideal for elderly or low-demand patients. Efforts to identify or develop alternate procedures that benefit relatively young, high-demand patients have resulted in increased interest in hemiarthroplasty. This systematic review reports the clinical outcomes of hemiarthroplasty for distal humeral fractures. METHODS: We systematically reviewed the databases of PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library. All English-language studies published before June 2017 were considered for possible inclusion. Search terms included ‘distal humerus fracture’ and ‘hemiarthroplasty’. Studies reporting outcomes (and a minimum of 1 year clinical follow-up) in human subjects after hemiarthroplasty (Latitude system) for distal humeral fractures were assessed for inclusion. Patient demographics, clinical and radiographic outcomes, and complications were recorded, and homogenous outcome measures were analyzed. RESULTS: Nine studies with a total of 115 patients met the inclusion criteria. Among the included studies, the weighted mean follow-up time was 35.4 months. Furthermore, the weighted mean of the postoperative range of motion (107.6° flexion-extension, 157.5° for pronation-supination) and functional outcomes (Mayo elbow performance scores: 85.8, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score: 19.6) were within the acceptable range. CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicates that hemiarthroplasty is a viable option for comminuted distal humerus fracture. Satisfactory functional outcomes were observed in most patients.

Clinical Outcome after Arthroscopic Capsular Release for Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to evaluate the outcome of the arthroscopic capsular release for adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. METHODS: This study retrospectively investigated thirty shoulders in 29 patients who presented with recalcitrant adhesive capsulitis and underwent arthroscopic treatments. Other than typical findings of adhesive capsulitis, combined pathologies in the glenohumeral joint and subacromial space were evaluated by arthroscopy. Clinical evaluations were performed using the Constant's score and ranges of motion (ROM) at preoperative, 6 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up. RESULTS: Our study included 17 women and 12 men with a mean age of 53.8 years (range, 34–74). Mean follow-up duration was 24 months (range, 12–40 months). Assessment of combined pathologies revealed that partial rotator cuff tear of less than 25% thickness, was most common (overall 83.3%; with bursal 57% and articular 23%). Subacromial synovitis and adhesion were also frequent (53.3%). The Constant score and ranges of motion significantly improved at the final follow-up, compared with preoperative levels. However, clinical results at 6 months postoperatively were found to be significantly inferior to those observed at the final follow-up (p≤0.001 for all factors). Functional impairment was the major complaint in 59.3% patients at the 6 months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Although arthroscopic capsular release yielded favorable outcome at the mean 24 months follow-up, pain and motion limitations at 6-month postoperatively persisted in more than 50% of our patients. While combined pathologies were commonly encountered during arthroscopy, although their effects on surgical outcome in adhesive capsulitis remains unclear in this study.

Short-term Comparison of Supervised Rehabilitation and Home-based Rehabilitation for Earlier Recovery of Shoulder Motion, Pain, and Function after Rotator Cuff Repair

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to compare the outcome of supervised and home exercises with respect to range of motion (ROM), pain, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE). We further correlated the ROM recovery and pain reduction as well. METHODS: The study included 49 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Rehabilitation was initiated after 4 weeks of immobilization. A total of 29 patients performed supervised exercise 3 times a week. Standardized education and brochures for review were provided to the remaining 20 patients who insisted on home rehabilitation. Statistical analysis was performed for comparing pain Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), SANE, and ROM. In addition, we also evaluated the correlation between pain and ROM. RESULTS: Comparison of the two groups revealed no significant differences in forward flexion, internal rotation, abduction, and pain NRS. However, SANE at the 9th week (63.8 vs. 55.0, p=0.038) and improvement of external rotation from the 5th to the 9th week (17.6 vs. 9.3, p=0.018) were significantly higher in the supervised exercise group as compared to the home exercise group. Correlation of pain NRS with forward flexion, external rotation, internal rotation and abduction were statistically not significant (correlation coefficient=0.032 [p=0.828], −0.255 [p=0.077], 0.068 [p=0.642], and −0.188 [p=0.196], respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The supervised rehabilitation after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair showed better improvement in external rotation and higher SANE score after 4 weeks of rehabilitation exercise. However, no statistically significant correlation was observed between the recovery of ROM and short-term pain relief.

Treatment of Rockwood Type III Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation

While non-operative treatment with structured rehabilitation tends to be the strategy of choice in the management of Rockwood type III acromioclavicular joint injury, some advocate surgical treatment to prevent persistent pain, disability, and prominence of the distal clavicle. There is no clear consensus regarding when the surgical treatment should be indicated, and successful clinical outcomes have been reported for non-operative treatment in more than 80% of type III acromioclavicular joint injuries. Furthermore, there is no gold standard procedure for operative treatment of type III acromioclavicular joint injury, and more than 60 different procedures have been used for this purpose in clinical practice. Among these surgical techniques, recently introduced arthroscopic-assisted procedures involving a coracoclavicular suspension device are minimally invasive and have been shown to achieve successful coracoclavicular reconstruction in 80% of patients with failed conservative treatment. Taken together, currently available data indicate that successful treatment can be expected with initial conservative treatment in more than 96% of type III acromioclavicular injuries, whereas minimally invasive surgical treatments can be considered for unstable type IIIB injuries, especially in young and active patients. Further studies are needed to clarify the optimal treatment approach in patients with higher functional needs, especially in high-level athletes.

Recent Updates on the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis

The natural course of lateral epicondylitis is widely regarded to be self-limiting within 1 year of symptom duration in 90% of all patients. The spectrum of treatments include simple ‘wait and see', bracing, physical therapy, corticosteroid injection, and recently some biologic injection such as autologous blood and platelet rich plasma. However, recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis which are not responding to conservative treatments can be treated with surgical treatment although much remains unclear regarding the ideal treatment. Debates surrounding open procedures are the management for the defect after resection of pathologic tissue, necessity of decortication, selective denervation procedure, etc. Since the trend is changing to minimal invasive surgery and arthroscopic release of extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon are becoming more popular these days, surgical tips and pitfall to obtain good results and avoid complications have been reported recently. Bipolar radiofrequency (RF)-based microtenotomy or percutaneous tendon release is another surgical procedures reported to be effective in lateral epicondylitis. However, there are some patients who present with persistent pain after surgical treatment. Thus, selection of ideal candidates for surgery, thorough evaluation of all pathologies prior to surgery, and adequate surgical procedures would be essential in the surgical treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Arthroscopic Evaluation of Subluxation of the Long Head of the Biceps Tendon and Its Relationship with Subscapularis Tears

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the angle between the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) and the glenoid during arthroscopic surgery and its correlation with biceps subluxation on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Furthermore, we evaluated the relationship of this angle with subscapularis tears and biceps pathologies. METHODS: MRI and arthroscopic images of 270 consecutive patients who had undergone arthroscopic surgery were retrospectively evaluated. On MRI, 60 shoulders with biceps subluxation and 210 shoulders without subluxation were identified. On the arthroscopic view from the posterior portal, the angle between the LHBT and the glenoid (biceps-glenoid angle) was measured. The biceps-glenoid angle, tears of the LHBT, degenerative superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesions, and presence of a subscapularis tear were compared according to the presence of biceps subluxation on MRI. RESULTS: In the subluxation group, 51 (85%) had a subscapularis tendon tear and all shoulders showed biceps tendon pathologies. In the non-subluxation group, 116 (55.2%) had a subscapularis tendon tear, 125 (60%) had tears in the biceps tendon, and 191 (91%) had degenerative SLAP lesions. The incidences of subscapularis tears (p < 0.001) and biceps pathologies (p < 0.001) showed significant differences. The mean biceps-glenoid angle was 87.0° (standard deviation [SD], 11.4°) in the subluxation group and 90.0° (SD, 9.6°) in the non-subluxation group, showing a statistically significant difference (p = 0.037). CONCLUSIONS: Shoulders with subluxation of the biceps tendon on the preoperative MRI revealed more pathologies in the subscapularis tendon and biceps tendon during arthroscopy. However, the arthroscopically measured biceps-glenoid angle did not have clinical relevance to the determination of subluxation of the LHBT from the bicipital groove.

Surgical Treatment of Olecranon Fractures

Since the olecranon fractures are caused by relatively low-energy injuries, such as a fall from standing height, they are usually found without comminution. Less commonly they can be developed by high-energy injuries and have severe concomitant comminution or injuries to surrounding structures of the elbow. Because the fracture by nature is intra-articular with the exception of some avulsion-type fracture, a majority of olecranon fractures are usually indicated for surgical treatment. Even if there is minimal displacement, surgical treatment is recommended because there is a possibility of further displacement by the traction force of triceps tendon. The most common type of olecranon fracture is displaced, simple non-comminuted fracture (that is, Mayo type IIA fractures). Although tension band wiring was the most widespread treatment method for these fractures previously, there is some trends toward fixation using locking plates. Primary goal of the surgery is to restore a congruent joint and extensor mechanisms by accurate reduction and stable fixation so that range of motion exercises can be performed. The literature has shown that good clinical outcomes are achieved irrespective of surgical fixation technique. However, since the soft tissue envelope around the elbow is poor and the implants are located at the subcutaneous layer, implant irritation is still the most common complication associated with surgical treatment.

Cement Augmentation for Lateral Row Fixation in Rotator Cuff Repair: A Case Report

One of the most important factors leading to a successful healing of rotator cuff tear is good bone quality to secure the suture anchor in the bone for a stable fixation. However, rotator cuff tear are commonly found in elderly patients, and their proximal humerus often shows osteoporosis or cystic lesions. Especially when the transosseous repair prevails for a torn rotator cuff, a weak metaphyseal cancellous bone is often the case, which associated with difficulty in stable fixation of the lateral row suture anchor. In this situation, we were able to augment the lateral row fixation with polymethylmethacrylate bone cement. Although there is a concern of disturbance in the blood flow and healing potential, our case showed good clinical results with respect to healing. If we suspect a weak fixation of the lateral row suture anchor, bone cement seems to be a good option for augmentation.

A Fast Recovery of Muscle Weakness after Zoster-Induced Brachial Plexitis / 대한정형외과학회잡지

Varicella zoster virus (VZV)-induced brachioplexitis is a rare disease, characterized by exacerbating ipsilateral upper extremity pain, muscular weakness, and delay in recovery. We report a 54-year-old female patient who made an early recovery from VZV-induced brachioplexitis via the treatment with stellate ganglion blocks, which may have prevented pain sensation, vasoconstriction, and nerve scarring during the early treatment period.