Anatomical Study of the Medial Region of the Knee: Qualitative, Quantitative Analysis and Description of the Anterior Oblique Ligament / Estudo anatômico da região medial do joelho: Análise qualitativa, quantitativa e descrição do ligamento oblíquo anterior

Abstract Objective To describe all ligamentous, capsular, tendinous and bone landmarks structures of the medial region of the knee, as well as a new ligamentous structure identified in a series of anatomical dissections of cadaveric specimens. Methods Twenty cadaver knees were dissected to study the medial compartment. The main structures of this region were identified during dissection. The morphology of the structures and their relationship with known anatomical parameters were determined both qualitatively and quantitatively. The collected data were analyzed and interpreted using descriptive statistics. Results In the dissection of all specimens, all ligamentous structures previously described in the anatomical study of the medial part of the knee were identified, and objective measures that can help as parameters for surgical ligament reconstruction were identified. When dissecting the medial collateral ligament, a bony prominence immediately distal to its proximal tibial insertion was observed and described, as well as a bursa below the ligament, in which it was not inserted. We also described a ligamentous structure with extracapsular location, originated anteriorly to the medial epicondyle and following obliquely towards the tibia. These structures were named, respectively, interinsertional tubercle, interinsertional bursa and anterior oblique ligament. Conclusion In addition to the description and measurement of the structures and parameters already existing in the anatomical study of the medial part of the knee, it was possible to describe three new structures not yet described in the literature: the interinsertional tubercle, the interinsertional bursa, and the anterior oblique ligament. These structures were found in all dissections performed.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever todas as estruturas ligamentares, capsulares, tendinosas e marcos ósseos da região medial do joelho, assim como uma nova estrutura ligamentar identificada em uma série de dissecções anatômicas de espécimes cadavéricos. Métodos Vinte joelhos de cadáveres foram dissecados para estudar o compartimento medial. As principais estruturas dessa região foram identificadas durante a dissecção. A morfologia das estruturas e sua relação com parâmetros anatômicos conhecidos foram determinados tanto de forma qualitativa quanto de forma quantitativa. Os dados coletados foram analisados e interpretados por meio de estatística descritiva. Resultados Na dissecção de todos os espécimes, foram identificadas todas as estruturas ligamentares já descritas anteriormente no estudo anatômico da porção medial do joelho, e foram realizadas medidas objetivas que podem auxiliar como parâmetros para a reconstrução ligamentar cirúrgica. Foram observados e descritos, ainda, ao se desprender o ligamento colateral medial superficial, uma proeminência óssea imediatamente distal à sua inserção tibial proximal, uma bursa abaixo do ligamento, na qual o mesmo não se mostrava inserido, assim como uma estrutura ligamentar localizada extracapsularmente e com origem na face anterior do epicôndilo medial, seguindo obliquamente em direção à tíbia, aos quais foram dados os nomes, respectivamente, de tubérculo interinsercional, bursa interinsercional e ligamento oblíquo anterior. Conclusão Além da descrição e medida das estruturas e parâmetros já existentes no estudo anatômico da porção medial do joelho, foi possível a descrição de três novas estruturas: o tubérculo interinsercional a bursa interinsercional e o ligamento oblíquo anterior, ainda não descritos na literatura. Essas estruturas foram encontradas em todas as dissecções realizadas.

A comparative immunohistochemical and quantitative study of the epiligament of the medial collateral and anterior cruciate ligament in rat knee / Estudio inmunohistoquímico y cuantitativo del epiligamento del ligamento colateral medial y cruzado anterior en rodilla de rata

SUMMARY: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the importance of the epiligament for the difference in the healing potential of the knee anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligament. To do so, we compared the structure of the anterior cruciate and the medial collateral ligament and evaluated the differences in the expression of collagen types I, III and V in a rat knee. We have also conducted a comparative quantitative analysis of the number of cells per mm2 in the two ligaments. Tissue samples were obtained from the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligament of 10 knee joints taken from five 8-month-old Wistar rats. We used standard hematoxylin and eosin staining, in addition to immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal antibodies against collagen types I, III and V. A semi-quantitative analysis of the expression was made through ImageJ, while Student's T-test was used for the statistical analysis. Our results showed higher expression of all collagen types in the epiligament, compared to the ligament proper and difference in the expression between the medial collateral and the anterior cruciate ligament in favor of the first. We also reported a statistically significant difference in the number of cells per mm2 between the two ligaments and their epiligaments. Our findings show a higher number of cells and a stronger expression of certain collagen types in the epiligament of the medial collateral compared to the anterior cruciate ligament, which may be related to the difference in their healing potential.

RESUMEN: El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la importancia del epiligamento para la diferencia en el potencial de curación del ligamento cruzado anterior y colateral medial de la rodilla. Comparamos la estructura del ligamento cruzado anterior y el ligamento colateral medial y evaluamos las diferencias en la expresión de los tipos de colágeno I, III y V en una rodilla de rata. También se realizó un análisis cuantitativo comparativo del número de células por mm2 en los dos ligamentos. Se obtuvieron muestras de tejido del ligamento cruzado anterior y colateral medial de 10 articulaciones de rodilla tomadas de cinco ratas Wistar de 8 meses de edad. Utilizamos tinción estándar con hematoxilina y eosina, además de tinción inmunohistoquímica con anticuerpos monoclonales contra colágeno tipo I, III y V. Se realizó un análisis semicuantitativo de la expresión mediante ImageJ, mientras que para el análisis estadístico se utilizó la prueba T de Student. Nuestros resultados mostraron una mayor expresión de todos los tipos de colágeno en el epiligamento, en comparación con el ligamento y una diferencia en la expresión entre el ligamento colateral medial y el ligamento cruzado anterior. También informamos una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el número de células por mm2 entre los dos ligamentos y sus epiligamentos. Nuestros hallazgos muestran un mayor número de células y una expresión mayor de ciertos tipos de colágeno en el epiligamento colateral medial en comparación con el ligamento cruzado anterior, lo que puede estar relacionado con la diferencia en su potencial de curación.

Técnica de larson original modificada para la reconstrucción del ligamento colateral lateral de la rodilla, reporte de un caso / Modified original larson technique for the knee´s lateral collateral ligament reconstruction, a case report

El ligamento colateral lateral (LCL), que forma parte de los estabilizadores de la rodilla, constituye una estructura importante dentro del complejo posterolateral de la misma (CPL), que restringe al varo, en los ángulos de flexión de esta, especialmente a los 30°, además de controlar la rotación externa. Son infrecuentes las lesiones que afectan a este complejo, etiológicamente entre el 50- 90% se asocian a otras lesiones ligamentosas con predominio del 60% de daño del ligamento cruzado posterior. La técnica de Larson se basa en la reconstrucción del LCL y del complejo poplíteo, utilizando una inserción proximal única en el epicóndilo femoral. Presentamos el caso de un paciente masculino de 28 años de edad, sin antecedentes clínicos, que acude debido a un varo forzado de la extremidad mientras realizaba actividad deportiva y tras recibir impacto directo en la región lateral interna de pantorrilla derecha, posterior a lo cual presenta dolor a los movimientos pasivos e imposibilidad a la deambulación. Además, presenta equimosis, edema, escoriaciones superficiales en cara lateral externa y dolor a la digitopresión en trayecto de ligamento colateral externo. A maniobras de exploración de rodilla: signo de bostezo en varo positivo, cepillado rotuliano positivo, hiperpresión de rotula positivo, limitación funcional a la flexión y extensión de la articulación. Esta técnica, Larson modificada, resulta como una de las más prometedoras por sus varias características, como la menos exigente y al mismo tiempo brindando resultados alentadores. Este procedimiento se fundamenta en la reconstrucción del LCL y del tendón poplíteo (TP) en conjunto, resumiéndose así la reconstrucción del Ligamento Poplíteo Peroneo (LPP) como estabilizador estático del TP, con su inserción a nivel de la cabeza del peroné en conjunto con la del LCL y la restitución de ambas inserciones en el epicóndilo femoral, tomando en cuenta la morfología del peroné y los ángulos de movimientos de la rodilla.

The lateral collateral ligament (LCL), which is part of the knee stabilizers, constitutes an important structure within the posterolateral complex of the same (CPL), which restricts the varus, in the flexion angles of this, especially at 30°, in addition to controlling external rotation. Lesions that affect this complex are infrequent, etiologically between 50-90% are associated with other ligamentous injuries with a predominance of 60% damage to the posterior cruciate ligament. The Larson technique is based on the reconstruction of the LCL and the popliteal complex, using a single proximal insertion in the femoral epicondyle. We present the case of a 28-year-old male patient, with no medical history, who attended due to a forced varus of the limb while performing sports activity and after receiving a direct impact on the internal lateral region of the right calf, after which he presented pain to passive movements and inability to ambulation. In addition, he presents ecchymosis, edema, superficial abrasions on the external lateral aspect and pain on acupressure in the course of the external collateral ligament. A knee examination maneuvers: positive varus yawn sign, positive patellar brushing, positive patella hyperpressure, functional limitation to flexion and extension of the joint. This modified Larson technique turns out to be one of the most promising due to its various characteristics, as the least demanding and at the same time providing encouraging results. This procedure is based on the reconstruction of the LCL and the popliteal tendon (PT) as a whole, thus summarizing the reconstruction of the Peroneal Popliteal Ligament (LPP) as a static stabilizer of the PT, with its insertion at the level of the head of the fibula in conjunction with the of the LCL and the restitution of both attachments in the femoral epicondyle, taking into account the morphology of the fibula and the angles of movement of the knee.

Reparación primaria de ligamento colateral medial de rodilla / Primary repair of medial collateral knee ligament

Introducción: El ligamento colateral medial (LCM), es el más frecuentemente lesionado a nivel de la rodilla. Caso clínico: Masculino con ruptura aislada grado III de LCM, atléticamente activo, a quien se le realizó cirugía de reparación primaria con uso de ancla biocompuesta. Conclusión: En las lesiones grado III del LCM se recomienda el tratamiento quirùrgico. Con la técnica descrita en el presente caso se logró reparar adecuadamente la lesión del LCM de la rodilla y se consiguió estabilidad en valgo y rotacional además de recuperar toda la amplitud de movilidad articular. Tipo de estudio: Reporte de caso. Nivel de evidencia: IV

Introduction: The medial colateral ligament (MCL) is the most frecuently injured ligament at the knee. Clinical case: male with isolated MCL rupture grade III, athletically active, who went to primary repair surgery with use of a biocomposite anchor. Conclusion: In the grade III MCL injuries it is recommended surgical treatment. With the discribed technique in the present case we properly repaired the MCL injury at the knee and we got a valgus and rotacional stability, also the patient recovered full range of motion of the joint. Type of study: Case report. Level of evidence: IV

Treatment of degenerative medial meniscus injury of knee joint by arthroscopy combined with small needle knife to release superficial medial collateral ligament of knee joint / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the clinical effect of arthroscopic combined with small needle knife in the treatment of degenerative medial meniscus (MM) injury of knee joint by releasing the superficial layer of medial collateral ligament (SMCL).@*METHODS@#From February 2016 to November 2018, 56 patients (56 knees) with limited pain, strangulation and flexion in medial knee joint space were selected. X-ray Kellgren-Lawrence grading was I-II. MRI showed medial meniscus injury(III degree) of knee joint. There were 30 males(30 knees) and 26 females(26 knees). Arthroscopic MM plasty and small needle knife were used to release SMCL. The Lysholm knee score was used to evaluate the effect of operation.@*RESULTS@#All 56 patients were followed up, and the duration ranged from 3 to 24 months, with an average of 10 months. According to the Lysholm knee score standard, the final follow-up was compared with that of before operation. The results showed that the preoperative knee score was 37.24±1.32, the latest follow-up knee score was 85.72±5.28, the knee score was higher than that before the operation(<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Arthroscopy combined with small needle knife release of superficial medial collateral ligament in the treatment of degenerative medial knee meniscus injury can effectively improve the mechanical balance of the knee joint, improve Lysholm knee score in patients with knee meniscus injury, and promote the recovery of knee joint function, which has clinical value.

Early results of fibular osteotomy for treatment of medial compartment osteoarthritis

Background: knee O.A was treated by total knee arthroplasty but it is new procedure still under trial for treatment of medial compartment knee O.A. Objective: To assess the early results of proximal fibular osteotomy as a new surgery for pain relief and improvement of functions of the knee in patients with medial compartment OA. Patients and methods: From July 2016 to September 2018, 10 patients who underwent proximal fibular osteotomy for medial compartment osteoarthritis. Preoperative and postoperative knee society score (KSS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were obtained to assess knee functions and pain Results: median knee society score (KSS) show improvement postoperatively from 83 to 105 and visual analogue scale (VAS) decreased postoperatively from 8.5 to 4. Conclusions: This study shows that proximal fibular osteotomy (PFO), a new surgery, can effectively relieves pain and improves knee function in patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis

Reconstrucción de esquina posteromedial: reporte de 30 casos / Posteromedial corner reconstruction: a report of 30 cases

OJETIVO: Reportar la experiencia, después de 1 año de seguimiento, de una serie de 30 pacientes sometidos a reconstrucción de la esquina posteromedial (EPM) con la técnica descrita por La Prade. MÉTODO: Cohorte retrospectiva de 30 pacientes con lesión de EPM operados por el mismo equipo quirúrgico. Criterios de inclusión: diagnóstico clínico, radiografía con estrés y resonancia magnética compatibles con lesión de EPM, inestabilidad grado III luego de 3 meses de tratamiento ortopédico, técnica de reconstrucción de La Prade, al menos 12 meses de seguimiento. Criterios de exclusión: discordancia entre clínica e imagenología, inestabilidad grado I o II, y otra técnica quirúrgica. Evaluación con IKDC y Lysholm antes de la cirugía, a los 6 y 12 meses de seguimiento postcirugía. RESULTADOS: 30 pacientes cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Promedio de edad 43 años (24­69). Veintiocho pacientes presentaron lesiones de alta energía, 20 pacientes fueron diagnosticados en agudo, mientras que 10 fueron diagnosticados luego de malos resultados en reconstrucción de otros ligamentos. Veintiocho presentaron lesiones asociadas: 11 casos asociados a lesión de ligamento cruzado anterior, 3 casos asociados a lesión de ligamento cruzado posterior, 3 casos en asociación con lesiones meniscales, 9 casos con lesión asociada de ligamento cruzado anterior y posterior, y 2 casos en asociación con ligamento cruzado anterior, posterior y ligamento colateral lateral. Promedio de tiempo hasta la reconstrucción de EPM fue de 5 meses (rango 2­32). Puntuación en Lysholm e IKDC (preoperatorio 18,2 y 24,3 respectivamente), mejoraron a 76,7 y 70,7 después de 1 año de seguimiento. Al fin del seguimiento, el rango articular promedio era 113° (90­140), la mayoría de los pacientes (24) tuvieron estabilidad tipo A según IKDC. CONCLUSIÓN: La reconstrucción de lesiones de EPM mejora los resultados clínicos en pacientes con inestabilidad crónica posteromedial de rodilla. Se observó mejoría en la estabilidad y scores funcionales de todos los pacientes.

OBJETIVE: Report the experience, after 1-year follow-up, of 30 patients with La Prade's anatomical reconstruction of posteromedial corner (PMC) injuries. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study. 30 patients with PMC injuries operated by the same surgical team. Inclusion criteria: clinical presentation, stress radiographs and MRI compatible with PMC injury, grade III chronic instability in spite of at least 3 months of orthopedic treatment, La Prade's anatomical technique reconstruction, 12 months follow-up at least. Exclusion criteria: discordance between clinical and image studies, grade I or II medial instability, any other surgical technique. IKDC and Lysholm at the preoperative evaluation, 6 and 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age 43 years (24­69). 28 patients presented high-energy mechanism of injury. Twenty patients were diagnosed in the acute setting, while 10 had a delayed diagnosis after poor results of other ligament reconstruction. Majority (28) had associated injuries: 11 cases PMC + anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, 3 PMC + posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury, 3 PMC + meniscal tears, 9 PMC + ACL + PCL injuries, and 2 PMC + ACL + PCL + lateral collateral ligament injuries. Mean time for PMC reconstruction was 5 months (range 2­32). Preoperative Lysholm and IKDC scores (18,2 and 24,3 respectively) improved to 76,7 and 70,7 after 1-year follow-up. At the end of follow-up, average ROM was 113° (90­140), most patients (24) had type A IKDC stability. CONCLUSION: Acceptable results were achieved following reconstruction of PMC injuries in patients with chronic posteromedial knee instability. We observed instability and functional scores improvement in all patients.

Enfermedad de pellegrini-stieda: a propósito de un caso y revisión bibliográfica / Pellegrini-stieda disease: a case report and literature review

ResumenLa Enfermedad de Pellegrini Stieda consiste en la osificación del ligamento colateral medial de la rodilla, secundaria a un traumatismo. Se caracteriza por dolor que persiste meses posteriores al trauma.

AbstractPellegrini Stieda's disease consists of the ossification of the medial collateral ligament of the knee, secondary to trauma. It is characterized by pain that persists months after the trauma.

Biomechanical study of the effect of platelet rich plasma on the treatment of medial collateral ligament lesion in rabbits

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the use of platelet-rich plasma in the early stages of healing of traumatic injury of the medial collateral ligament in the knee of rabbits. Methods: Thirty rabbits were subjected to surgical lesion of the medial collateral ligament. Of these, 16 were treated with platelet-rich plasma and 14 with saline (control). After 3 and 6 weeks of treatment, 50% of the animals from each group were sacrificed, and biomechanical tests were performed on the injured ligament to compare the tensile strength between the two groups. Results: Platelet-rich plasma significantly increased the tensile strength of the ligament in the groups treated after3 and 6 weeks. In the group treated with platelet-rich plasma vs. saline, the tensile strength values were 3192.5 ± 189.7 g/f vs. 2851.1 ± 193.1 g/f at3 weeks (p = 0.005) and 5915.6 ± 832.0 g/f vs. 4187.6 ± 512.9 g/f at 6 weeks (p = 0.0001). Conclusion: The use of platelet-rich plasma at the injury site accelerated ligament healing in an animal model, demonstrated by an increase in the tensile strength of the medial collateral ligament.

Evaluation of the Morphology and Function of Medial Collateral Ligament afterTotal Knee Arthroplasty with High-frequency Ultrasound / 中国医学科学院学报

Objective To explore the feasibility and clinical value of ultrasonography in evaluating the morphology and function of medial collateral ligaments (MCL) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods Totally 38 patients undergoing routine KTA (group A) and 22 patients undergoing constrained condylar knee arthroplasty KTA with MCL injury (group B) were included. Long axis views of MCL were taken and the MCL thickness was measured on femur side and tibial side 1 cm away from the joint line, respectively. The thicknesses were compared between the two groups. Subsequently, the gap between the metal part of the femoral prosthesis and the spacer after dynamic valgus stress was measured. The distribution and composition of the gap between the two groups were compared. Results High-frequency ultrasound clearly showed the prosthesis and MCL after TKA. MCL fiber structures of both groups were intact. The MCL thickness on the tibial side in group B was (0.25±0.06)cm, which was significantly thinner than group A [(0.32±0.14)cm] (t=2.12, P=0.040).For the femur side, there was no significant difference (t=1.65, P=0.110) between these two groups [(0.37±0.09) cm in group B versus (0.42±0.12)cm in group A]. Under the condition of valgus stress, the gaps between the metal part of the femoral prosthesis and the spacer could be found in 11 cases in group B but only in 1 case in group A. The proportion of gaps in group B was significantly higher than that in group A (Fisher's exact test, P=0.000). Conclusions High-frequency ultrasound can clearly show the prosthesis and MCL after TKA. The injured MCL can be well joined but the thickness is thinner. Under the condition of valgus stress of the knee, the stability of the TKA can be evaluated according to the gap between the prosthesis and the spacer.

Reconstrucción del complejo posterointerno: descripción de técnica mínimamente invasiva. Estudio cadavérico / Posteromedial complex reconstruction. Minimally invasive technique. Cadaveric study

Si bien la mayor parte de las lesiones del ligamento colateral medial (LCM) pueden ser tratados de forma incruenta con buenos resultados, existen situaciones en las cuales el tratamiento quirúrgico es mandatorio. El objetivo fue describir la técnica quirúrgica mínimamente invasiva para la reconstrucción del complejo posteromedial. Materiales y métodos: Diez rodillas cadavéricas fueron evaluadas bajo tres condiciones: estado intacto del LCM, estado seccionado del LCM y estado de reconstrucción del LCM. La evaluación fue realizada en extensión completa y en 20º de flexión, aplicando 10N de valgo. La brecha medial fue medida en radiografías con estrés en valgo para evaluar la traslación en los tres estados diferentes. Resultados: La brecha medial en promedio aumento estadísticamente luego de la sección de las estructuras posteromediales en extensión y a 20 grados de flexión (11 mm y 12,6 vs 3.3 y 3.7 respectivamente p<0.05). Cuando comparamos el valor del estado intacto y luego de la reconstrucción por técnica mínimamente invasiva, no encontramos diferencia estadística tanto en 0° (p:0,56), y en 20° de flexión (p:0,102). La confiabilidad inter-observador demostró un valor kappa de 0.86. Conclusión: Mediante una técnica mínimamente invasiva de reconstrucción del CPM se puede restaurar la estabilidad medial de la rodilla en extensión completa y en 20° de flexión. Nivel de evidencia: IV...

To evaluate if medial knee stability would be restored to the intact state with a minimally invasive posteromedial reconstruction technique. Methods: Ten cadaveric knees were tested under three conditions: intact state, sectioned state and reconstructed state. Medial compartment opening was measured on valgus stress radiographs (mm) made at full extension and at 20º of flexion with a 10-N valgus load (applied with a dynamometer) to assess valgus stability in the intact, sectioned and reconstructed states. Results: The average medial gap statistically increased after sectioning of the posteromedial structures in both extension and 20 degrees of flexion (11 mm and 12.6 mm vs 3.3 mm and 3.7 mm respectively p<0.05). When comparing the value of the intact state and following the minimally invasive reconstruction technique, there was no statistically significant difference at both 0° (p=0.56), and 20° of flexion (p=0.102). Inter-observer reliability showed a kappa value of 0.86. Conclusion: A minimally invasive approach for a medial knee reconstruction restores near-normal medial stability to the knee at full extension and at 20º of flexion. Clinical relevance: Development of minimally invasive techniques will allow medial ligament reconstruction with minimal disruption of the surrounding tissue, potentially leading to less scarring and easier restoration of knee motion post-operatively, with results similar to that obtained with conventional techniques. Level of evidence: IV...

Posttraumatic incarceration of medial collateral ligament into knee joint with anterior cruciate ligament injury / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Medial collateral ligament of the knee is an important coronal stabiliser and often injured in isolation or as combination of injuries. The article reports a case of incarcerated medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury in combination with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in 20 year old male who presented to us 4 weeks after injury. Clinical examination and MRI was correlated to complete ACL tear with torn distal MCL and incarceration into the joint. Patient was taken up for ACL hamstring graft reconstruction with mini-arthrotomy and repair of the torn MCL. Patient was followed up with dedicated rehabilitation protocol with good functional results. At one year follow-up, patient exhibited full range of motion with negative Lachman, Pivot shift and valgus stress tests. This article highlights the rare pattern of MCL tear and also reviews the literature on this pattern of injury.

Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament in cases of acute traumatic dislocation of the patella: current perspectives and trends in Brazil / Reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial na luxação traumática aguda da patela: perspectivas e tendências atuais no Brasil

Objective: To evaluate the approaches and procedures used by knee surgeons in Brazil for treating medial patellofemoral lesions (MPFL) of the knee in cases of acute traumatic dislocation of the patella. Materials and methods: A questionnaire comprising 15 closed questions on topics relating to treating MPFL of the knee following acute dislocation of the patella was used. It was applied to Brazilian knee surgeons during the three days of the 44th Brazilian Congress of Orthopedics and Traumatology, in 2012. Results: 106 knee surgeons completely filled out the questionnaire and formed part of the sample analyzed. Most of them were from the southeastern region of Brazil. The majority (57%) reported that they perform fewer than five MPFL reconstruction procedures per year. Indication of non-surgical treatment after a first episode of acute dislocation of the patella was preferred and done by 93.4% of the sample. Only 9.1% of the participants reported that they had never observed postoperative complications. Intraoperative radioscopy was used routinely by 48%. The professionals who did not use this tool to determine the point of ligament fixation in the femur did not have a statistically greater number of postoperative complications than those who used it (p > 0.05). Conclusions: There are clear evolutionary trends in treatments and rehabilitation for acute dislocation of the patella due to MPFL, in Brazil. However, further prospective controlled studies are needed in order to evaluate the clinical and scientific benefit of these trends...

Objetivo: Avaliar as condutas e os procedimentos feitos pelos cirurgiões de joelho do Brasil no tratamento das lesões do ligamento patelofemoral medial (LPFM) do joelho na luxação aguda traumática da patela. Materiais e métodos: Questionário de 15 questões fechadas que abordava tópicos relacionados ao tratamento das lesões do LPFM do joelho após luxação aguda da patela. Foi aplicado a cirurgiões brasileiros de joelho durante os três dias do 44° Congresso Brasileiro de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, em 2012. Resultados: Preencheram completamente o questionário e fizeram parte da amostra analisada 106 cirurgiões de joelho. A maior parte era proveniente da Região Sudeste. A maioria (57%) relatou fazer menos de cinco procedimentos de reconstrução do LPFM/ano. A indicação do tratamento não cirúrgico após primeiro episódio de luxação aguda da patela é a preferida e feita por 93,4% da amostra. Somente 9,1% dos participantes relataram nunca ter observado complicações no pós-operatório. A radioscopia intraoperatória é adotada rotineiramente por 48%. Os profissionais que não a usam para determinação do ponto de fixação do ligamento no fêmur não observam estatisticamente mais complicações pós-operatórias comparados com os que usam essa ferramenta (p > 0,05). Conclusões: Existem claras tendências de evolução no tratamento e na reabilitação da luxação aguda da patela com lesão do LPFM no Brasil. No entanto, mais estudos prospectivos controlados são necessários para avaliar o benefício clínico e científico dessas tendências...

Acute single-stage reconstruction of multiligament knee injuries using the ligament advanced reinforcement system

The purpose of the study was to report our early outcome in the management of multiligament knee injuries with the ligament advanced reinforcement system [LARS]. Between 2007 and 2010, 9 of 11 patients operated on for multiligament knee injuries were included in this study; 2 patients were excluded due to complicated neurovascular injuries, open knee dislocations and severe comorbidities. All patients were managed acutely [<3 weeks] by reconstructions of the cruciate and collateral ligaments with LARS ligament and were followed up for an average of 30 months [18-46 months]. The mean Lysholm score of the 9 patients at final follow-up was around 90 [range 88-94] with an average Tegner activity score of 5.5. The postoperative function of 1 case of KD-11 and 2 cases of KD-111 was rated as 'A,' while the remaining cases were rated 'B'. At final follow-up, minor osteoarthritic degeneration was detected in 1 case of KD-III and 2 cases of KD-IV. Superficial infection developed in 1 case, and no cases of knee synovitis and premature osteoarthritis were recorded. A creditable outcome at mean of 30 months' follow-up was obtained in acute single-stage reconstruction of uncomplicated multiligament knee injuries with LARS ligament

Comparison of Complete Distal Release of the Medial Collateral Ligament and Medial Epicondylar Osteotomy during Ligament Balancing in Varus Knee Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: During ligament balancing for severe medial contracture in varus knee total knee arthroplasty (TKA), complete distal release of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) or a medial epicondylar osteotomy can be necessary if a large amount of correction is needed. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed 9 cases of complete distal release of the MCL and 11 cases of medial epicondylar osteotomy which were used to correct severe medial contracture. The mean follow-up periods were 46.5 months (range, 36 to 78 months) and 39.8 months (range, 32 to 65 months), respectively. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the clinical results between the two groups. However, the valgus stress radiograph revealed significant differences in medial instability. In complete distal release of the MCL, some stability was obtained by repair and bracing but the medial instability could not be removed completely. CONCLUSIONS: Medial epicondylar osteotomy for a varus deformity in TKA could provide constant medial stability and be a useful ligament balancing technique.

Reconstrucción ligamento patelofemoral medial / Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction

La reconstrucción del ligamento patelofemoral medial (LPFM) se ha convertido en un procedimiento quirúrgico habitual en el tratamiento de la luxación recidivante de rótula. Se describe una técnica de la reconstrucción del LPFM utilizando injerto autólogo de semitendinoso. Este artículo presenta la anatomía del ligamento, las indicaciones de la cirugía y describe la técnica quirúrgica utilizada. La técnica comienza con una artroscopía diagnóstica, luego se obtiene el injerto de semitendinoso y se realiza una incisión en el borde medial de la rótula. Se crea un hueco sobre el borde interno de la misma y se fija el injerto con un tornillo de tenodesis. La fijación femoral se realiza en el sitio de inserción anatómica mediante un tunel y un tornillo interferencial. Esta técnica evita la creación de un tunel completo en la patela lo cual debilita en menor medida la estructura ósea y además logra una fijación estable que permite una rehabilitación precoz.

Diagnosis of medial collateral ligament injury by stress X-ray and MRI of knee joint / 中国骨伤

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the application of stress X-ray of knee joint for the diagnosis ot medial collateral ligament injury.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From January 2008 to June 2011, 46 patients with medial collateral ligament injury were reviewed. Among the patients, 32 patients were male and 14 patients were female, ranging in age from 28 to 72 years, with an average of (49.46 +/- 22.54) years. Left knee joint injuries occurred in 22 patients, and 24 patients had injuries in right knee joint. Thirty-one patients were treated with surgical method, and 15 patients were treated with conservative method including 1 patient finally received operation after 3 months treatment with conservative method without effect. The injury side and normal side were observed by X-ray under stress and non-stress, as well as MRI. Operation was used to treat patients with medial gap markedly widen and the deep layer of medial collateral ligament injury in MRI. A line (line A) was drawn from medial condyle to lateral condyle of tibia platform. The line A was translated to the inner margin of condylus medialis femoris, which was line B. The perpendicular distance was measured, which was line C. The ration of space difference (R) was calculated by (space at stress force of injured side-space at non-stress force of injured side)/(space at stress force of normal side-space at non-stress force of normal side). The relationship between R and ligament injury type were investigated.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There were 17 patients with injuries of superficial lamella, 21 patients with injuries of deep lamella. Eight patients had associated injuries of articular capsule and posterior cruciate ligament. When R value was between 1.51 to 5.24, the injury of superficial ligament was found in 15 patients, actual injuries were found in 17 patients. When R value between 5.28 and 13.85, the injuries of bathypelagic ligament were found in 19 patients, actual injuries were found in 21 patients. When R value was between 15.61 and 26.25, the associated injuries of articular capsule and posterior cruciate ligament were found in 7 patients, actual injuries were found in 8 patients.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Using the specific value as the standard of measurement can provide the quantizatily fractionation of the medial collateral ligament injury.</p>

Effectiveness of electrical stimulation on rehabilitation after ligament and meniscal injuries: a systematic review / Efetividade da estimulação elétrica na reabilitação pós-lesões ligamentares e meniscais: uma revisão sistemática

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Electrical stimulation (ES) is widely used to strengthen muscles following ligament and meniscal injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of ES for rehabilitation after soft tissue injuries of the knee treated surgically or conservatively. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review at the Brazilian Cochrane Center. METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2010, Issue 12), Medline (Medical Analysis and Retrieval System Online) via PubMed (1966 to December 2010), Embase (Excerpta Medica database, 1980 to December 2010), Lilacs (Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, 1982 to December 2010), and PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database, 1929 to December 2010). The studies included were randomized controlled trials using ES to increase muscle strength for rehabilitation of patients with soft tissue injuries of the knee. Two authors independently evaluated studies for inclusion and performed data extraction and methodological quality assessment. RESULTS: Seventeen studies evaluating ES after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and two studies evaluating ES after meniscectomy were included. There was a statistically significant improvement in quadriceps strength through ES (mean difference, MD: -32.7; 95 percent confidence interval, CI: -39.92 to -25.48; n = 56) and in functional outcomes (MD -7; -12.78 to -1.22; n = 43) six to eight weeks after surgical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament. CONCLUSION: There is evidence that ES coupled with conventional rehabilitation exercises may be effective in improving muscle strength and function two months after surgery.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A estimulação elétrica (ES) é amplamente utilizada para fortalecimento muscular após lesões ligamentares ou meniscais do joelho. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a efetividade da ES na reabilitação de lesões de tecidos moles do joelho tratadas de forma cirúrgica ou conservadora. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Revisão sistemática no Centro Cochrane do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Realizamos uma busca no Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2010, Issue 12), Medline (Medical Analysis and Retrieval System Online) via PubMed (1966 até dezembro 2010), Embase (Excerpta Medica Database, de 1980 até dezembro 2010), Lilacs (Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, de 1982 até dezembro de 2010), and PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database, de 1929 até dezembro de 2010). Os estudos incluídos foram ensaios clínicos randomizados que utilizaram a ES com o objetivo de aumento de força muscular na reabilitação de pacientes com lesões de tecidos moles. Dois autores avaliaram os estudos para inclusão de forma independente e realizaram a extração de dados e avaliação da qualidade metodológica. RESULTADOS: Dezessete estudos incluídos utilizaram a ES após a reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior e dois estudos após meniscectomia. Houve melhora estatisticamente significante na força do quadríceps através da ES (diferença média, MD -32.7; 95 por cento intervalo de confiança, IC -39.92 to -25.48; n = 56) e nos desfechos funcionais (MD -7; -12.78 to -1.22; n = 43), seis a oito semanas após cirurgia de reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior. CONCLUSÃO: Há evidências de que a ES combinada a exercícios de reabilitação convencional pode ser efetiva na melhora da força muscular e função dois meses após cirurgia.

Importância do ligamento femoropatelar medial no deslocamento e na inclinação lateral da patela: estudo radiográfico em cadáveres / The importance of the medial patellofemoral ligament in the lateral displacement and inclination of the patella: a radiographic study in cadavers

OBJETIVO: A luxação aguda da patela é uma afecção complexa que afeta principalmente pacientes jovens. Sua fisiopatologia é pouco conhecida e sua compreensão e conduta terapêutica são controversas. O ligamento femoropatelar medial (LFPM) é o principal estabilizador estático para a prevenção do deslocamento lateral da patela. Com o objetivo de avaliar a estabilidade da articulação femoropatelar, os autores avaliam radiograficamente a presença, ou não, de deslocamento e inclinação lateral da patela, antes e após a secção do LFPM em joelhos de cadáveres. MÉTODOS: Trinta joelhos de cadáveres foram radiografados na incidência axial da patela, por meio da técnica descrita por Merchant antes e após a secção do LFPM. Foram mensurados os ângulos de congruência de Merchant e femoropatelar lateral de Laurin. RESULTADOS: O ligamento femoropatelar medial apresentou média de 4,8cm de comprimento e 1,6cm de largura. Em seis peças anatômicas não ocorreu mudança no ângulo femoropatelar lateral de Laurin (20 por cento), em três peças anatômicas a mudança foi de um grau (10 por cento), em 20 (67 por cento), dois graus e uma peça anatômica quatro graus (3 por cento). As mudanças ocorreram entre zero e dois graus, em 97 por cento dos joelhos de cadáveres. Em cinco peças anatômicas não ocorreu mudança no ângulo de congruência de Merchant (17 por cento); em seis, foi de um grau (20 por cento); em 17, dois graus (57 por cento); em uma, três graus (3 por cento); e em uma, seis graus (3 por cento).Estas mudanças ocorrem entre zero e dois graus em 93 por cento dos joelhos de cadáveres). CONCLUSÕES: A análise dos resultados obtidos neste estudo permite concluir que o ligamento femoropatelar medial tem importância na inclinação e no deslocamento lateral da patela com o joelho fletido em 45º.

OBJECTIVE: Acute Patellar luxation is a complex disease that mainly affects young patients. Its physiopathology is little known and the understanding of it and its therapeutic conduct are controversial. The medial femoropatellar ligament (MFPL) is the main static stabilizer for preventing lateral displacement of the patella. In order to assess the stability of the femoropatellar joint, the authors radiographically assessed the presence, or absence of lateral displacement and inclination of the patella before and after the MFPL section in the knees of cadavers. METHODS: Thirty knees of cadavers were radiographed on the axial incidence of the patella by means of the technique described by Merchant before and after MFPL section. The Merchant angle of congruence and Laurin lateral femoropatellar angle were measured. RESULTS: The medial femoropatellar ligament presented a mean length of 4.8cm, and width of 1.6 cm. In six anatomical pieces there was no change in the Laurin lateral femoropatellar angle (20 percent), in three anatomical pieces the change was one degree (10 percent), in 20 (67 percent) two degrees and in one anatomical piece it was four degrees (3 percent). Changes occurred between zero and two degrees in 97 percent of the knees of cadavers. In six anatomical pieces there was no change in the Merchant angle of congruence (17 percent); in six anatomical pieces the change was one degree (20 percent), in 17 (57 percent) two degrees, in one anatomical piece it was three degrees (3 percent) and in one it was six degrees (3 percent). These changes occurred between zero and two degrees in 93 percent of the knees of cadavers. CONCLUSION: Analysis of the results obtained in this study allowed us to conclude that the medial femoropatellar ligament is important in the lateral inclination and displacement of the patella with the knee flexed at 45º.