Diagnostic accuracy of non-contrast MRI in frozen shoulder.

INTRODUCTION: Despite being the most used exam today, few studies have evaluated the accuracy of findings on non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of non-contrast MRI findings in frozen shoulder, isolated and in combination. The secondary objectives were to define the interobserver and intraobserver agreement of the assessments and the odds ratio for frozen shoulder because of the various findings of MRI. METHODS: A retrospective diagnostic accuracy study comparing non-contrast MRI findings between the frozen shoulder group and the control group. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, accuracy, odds ratio, interobserver and intraobserver agreement were calculated for each finding and their possible associations. RESULTS: The hyperintensity on capsule in the axillary recess presented 84% sensitivity, 94% specificity, and 89% accuracy. The obliteration of the subcoracoid fat triangle in the rotator interval had sensitivity 34%, specificity 82% and accuracy 58%. For coracohumeral ligament thickness ≥ 2 mm had specificity 66%, 48% specificity and 57% accuracy. Capsule thickness in the axillary recess ≥ 4 mm resulted in 54% sensitivity, 82% specificity, and 68% accuracy. Regarding interobserver agreement, only the posteroinferior and posterosuperior quadrants showed moderate results, and all the others showed strong reliability. The odds ratio for hyperintensity in the axillary recess was 82.3 for frozen shoulder. The association of these findings increased specificity (95%). CONCLUSION: The accuracy of non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging is high for diagnosing frozen shoulder, especially when evaluating the hyperintensity of the axillary recess. The exam has high reliability and reproducibility. The presence of an association of signs increases the specificity of the test. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, study of diagnostic test.

Does a subscapularis tear combined with a posterosuperior rotator cuff tear affect postoperative functional outcomes?

BACKGROUND: The subscapularis is biomechanically important for the shoulder. However, few studies have clinically assessed its importance using a comparative design. Our objective was to compare the functional outcomes in patients who underwent isolated repair of posterosuperior rotator cuff tears and those with repair of combined tears involving the subscapularis. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study evaluating patients who underwent arthroscopic full-thickness rotator cuff repair between January 2013 and May 2017. The patients were divided into 2 groups: isolated repair of posterosuperior tears and repair of combined tears involving the subscapularis. The primary outcome was to evaluate the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) scales at 24 months' follow-up. RESULT: A total of 326 patients were evaluated: 194 with isolated posterosuperior repairs and 132 with combined subscapularis repairs. Both groups showed significant improvement with the procedure (P < .001). The ASES score at 24 months showed no significant difference (P = .426) between the group without subscapularis repair (median, 90.0; interquartile range [IQR], 24.8) and the group with subscapularis repair (median, 86.3; IQR, 33.2). Similarly, the UCLA score showed no difference between the groups (median, 33.0 [IQR, 6.0] and 32.5 [IQR, 8.8], respectively; P = .190). The preoperative functional evaluation also showed no significant differences between the groups. CONCLUSION: The functional results did not differ between patients who underwent isolated repair of posterosuperior tears and those with repair of combined tears involving the subscapularis, according to the ASES and UCLA scales at 24 months.

Accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for subscapularis tear: a systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic studies.

INTRODUCTION: The accuracy of MRI for subscapularis tear is lower than that of overall rotator cuff tears. Until now, no systematic reviews and meta-analysis have been conducted to compile these data. The purpose of this study was to determine, through a systematic review and meta-analysis, the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in the detection of subscapularis tendon tears. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE databases up to April 2017 was performed. All studies assessing the sensitivity and specificity of the MRI (index test) compared to arthroscopic surgical findings (reference test) for subscapularis tendon tear were included. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate pooled sensitivity, specificity, sROC curve, and diagnostic odds ratio values. RESULTS: A total of 497 citations were identified. After applying the eligibility criteria, 14 articles were included, including 1858 shoulders with 613 subscapularis tears. For overall subscapularis tears, sensitivity was 0.68 (95% CI 0.64-0.72) and specificity was 0.90 (95% CI 0.89-0.92). Sensitivity was 0.93 (95% CI 0.83-0.98) for full-thickness tears and 0.74 (95% CI 0.66-0.82) for partial tears. Specificity was 0.97 (95% CI 0.94-0.98) for full-thickness tears and 0.88 (95% CI 0.85-0.91) for partial tears. Analyzing only studies with field of strength ≥ 1.5 T, sensitivity was 0.80 (95% CI 0.76-0.84) and specificity 0.84 (95% CI 0.81-0.87). CONCLUSION: MRI is an accurate method for diagnosing subscapularis tendon tears; however, its accuracy is lower than that of overall rotator cuff tears, due to its lower sensitivity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, systematic review of Level II and III studies.

Tomographic evaluation of Hill-Sachs lesions: is there a correlation between different methods of measurement?

BACKGROUND: Several methods are currently available to evaluate and quantify the glenoid or humeral bone loss; however, none is universally accepted, particularly in the case of Hill-Sachs (HS) lesions. PURPOSE: To establish whether there is correlation among different methods of measuring HS lesions, and to investigate the correlation between glenoid bone loss and the various HS lesion measurements and to assess the inter-observer reliability of such measurements. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We assessed computed tomography (CT) or arthro-CT scans taken from individuals with recurrent anterior glenohumeral dislocation. The scans were independently assessed by two examiners. The parameters assessed were as follows: HS lesion width and depth on the axial and coronal planes, articular arc loss on the axial plane, and percentage of glenoid bone loss on the sagittal plane. RESULTS: Scans from 50 shoulders were assessed. The percentage of articular arc loss and HS lesion width on the axial plane were the only measurements that exhibited strong correlation (r = 0.83; P < 0.001). The values of the correlation coefficient corresponding to HS lesion depth on the coronal plane were the lowest. Most of the measurements exhibited moderate correlation. The inter-examiner reliability was good relative to all measurements except for HS lesion width and depth on the coronal plane, for which it was moderate. CONCLUSION: The measurements of articular arc loss and HS lesion width on the axial plane exhibited strong correlation. The inter-examiner reliability relative to articular arc loss, HS lesion width and depth on the axial plane, and glenoid bone loss was good.

Full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears: correlation of findings by arthroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging.

PURPOSE: The main aim of this study was to correlate measurements of the width and retraction of isolated full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with measurements recorded by arthroscopy using a continuous millimetre scale. METHODS: A total of 53 individuals with isolated supraspinatus tears and retraction < 30 mm underwent arthroscopy at our centre. Tear width and retraction measured by arthroscopy (reference standard) and MRI (index test) on a continuous millimetre scale were compared. All measurements were performed by a single radiologist blinded to intra-operative findings and one surgeon who had previous access to MRI results. RESULTS: The average tear retraction was 12.60 ± 4.89 mm by arthroscopy and 16.81 ± 6.29 mm by MRI. Those measures exhibited moderate correlation (r = 0.643, p < 0.001) and an average difference of 4.21 mm (p < 0.001). Average tear width was 12.87 ± 4.15 mm by arthroscopy and 14.19 ± 5.20 by MRI. Those measures exhibited moderate correlation (r = 0.526, p < 0.001) and an average difference of 1.32 mm, which was not statistically significant (p = 0.109). CONCLUSION: Measures of retraction and width obtained by MRI and arthroscopy exhibited moderate correlation in small- or medium-sized supraspinatus tears.

A stress fracture of the base of the acromion: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Stress fractures of the base of the acromion are rare and tend to progress well when conservatively treated. The need for surgery due to this type of fracture has only been reported in two case reports. CASE PRESENTATION: A 39-year-old patient, manual laborer, with a stress fracture at the base of the acromion that required surgical treatment due to persistent symptoms and consolidation failure. CONCLUSION: We described a new mechanism of injury for stress fractures of the base of the acromion. After the failure of conservative treatment, the patient exhibited good results with osteosynthesis with a plate and screws, with no need for a bone graft.

Shoulder function after surgical treatment of displaced fractures of the humeral shaft: a randomized trial comparing antegrade intramedullary nailing with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for humeral shaft fractures has been described recently, but there are no randomized studies comparing the clinical results for shoulder function between this technique and locking intramedullary nailing. METHODS: A prospective randomized study was performed. Forty-one humeral shaft fractures (40 patients) were randomized to be treated with a minimally invasive plate (n = 21) or a locking intramedullary nail (n = 19). Clinical and radiographic outcome assessments were conducted at 1 year postoperatively. Shoulder function was the primary outcome, as measured by the University of California, Los Angeles Shoulder Scale. Elbow function was measured by the Broberg-Morrey score, and fracture consolidation and complications were the main secondary outcomes. RESULTS: At 1 year postoperatively, no significant difference was found with regard to shoulder function according to the University of California, Los Angeles scale between the minimally invasive plate and locking intramedullary nail (31.4 points vs 31.2 points, P = .98). There was also no difference in elbow function (94.8 points vs 94.1 points, P = .96). Complications were similar between the groups, without significant differences regarding infection (P > .99), symptomatic shoulder stiffness (P = .488), and neurapraxia of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm (P = .475). Fracture union was achieved in all but 1 patient (2.4%) in the intramedullary nail group within 1 year after the surgical procedure. CONCLUSION: There is no significant difference in shoulder function between antegrade intramedullary nailing and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for the treatment of displaced humeral shaft fractures, despite the limited power of our study.

Effectiveness of global postural reeducation compared to segmental exercises on function, pain, and quality of life of patients with scapular dyskinesis associated with neck pain: a preliminary clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of global postural reeducation (GPR) relative to segmental exercises (SE) in the treatment of scapular dyskinesis (SD) associated with neck pain. METHODS: Participants with SD and neck pain (n = 30) aged 18 to 65 years were randomly assigned to one of two groups: GPR and SE (stretching exercises). The upper extremity was assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire; function of the neck was estimated using the Neck Disability Index; pain severity was measured using a visual analogical scale; and health-related quality of life was assessed using the Short Form-12. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after 10 weekly sessions (60 minutes each). The significance level adopted was α < .05. RESULTS: For pre-post treatment comparisons, GPR was significantly associated with improvements in function of neck and upper extremities, pain, and physical and mental domains of quality of life (P < .05). Segmental exercises improved function of upper extremities and of the neck and severity of pain (P < .05). When contrasting groups, GPR was significantly superior to SE in improving pain and physical domains of the quality of life. CONCLUSION: This study showed that GPR and SE had similar effects on function of the neck and upper extremity in patients with SD associated with neck pain. When comparing groups, GPR was superior to SE in improving pain and quality of life.

TREATMENT OF RECURRENT ANTERIOR SHOULDER DISLOCATION USING THE LATARJET TECHNIQUE.

Objective: To describe the functional results, recurrence rate, postoperative radiographic appearance, and complications of patients undergoing the Latarjet procedure over 24 months. Methods: Retrospective case series, including adult patients with recurrent traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation undergoing the Latarjet procedure. We clinically evaluated patients preoperatively by the Rowe score and at six, 12, and 24 months after the procedure. The positioning, consolidation, and resorption of the graft were analyzed by plain radiography. The recurrence rates and other complications were also described. Results: We analyzed 40 patients (41 shoulders). The Rowe score median increased from 25 before surgery to 95 at 24 months after surgery (p < 0.001). We observed graft resorption in three cases (7.3%) and consolidation in 39 (95.1%). Most grafts presented adequate placement. We observed two recurrences (4.8%), one case of dislocation and one of subluxation. Seven patients (17.1%) had a positive apprehension test. The study had no cases of infection, neuropraxia, or graft breakage. Conclusion: Latarjet surgery is a safe and effective procedure in the treatment of recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder. This surgery enables a statistically significant improvement according to the Rowe score, with a low number of recurrences. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

Objetivo: Descrever os resultados funcionais, a taxa de recidiva, o aspecto radiográfico pós-operatório e as complicações de pacientes submetidos ao procedimento de Latarjet ao longo de 24 meses. Métodos: Série de casos retrospectiva que inclui pacientes adultos com luxação glenoumeral recidivante anterior traumática submetidos ao procedimento de Latarjet. Avaliamos clinicamente os pacientes pela escala de Rowe pré-operatória e aos 6, 12 e 24 meses após o procedimento. O posicionamento, a consolidação e a reabsorção do enxerto foram analisados por radiografia simples. Descrevemos ainda as taxas de recidiva e as demais complicações. Resultados: Analisamos 40 pacientes (41 ombros). A mediana da escala de Rowe evoluiu de 25,0 antes da cirurgia para 95,0 passados 24 meses desde a cirurgia (p < 0,001). Foi observada reabsorção do enxerto em três casos (7,3%), e consolidação em 39 (95,1%). A maioria dos enxertos apresentava posicionamento adequado. Ocorreram duas recidivas (4,8%), sendo um caso de luxação e outro de subluxação. Sete pacientes (17,1%) referiam sensação de apreensão. Não ocorreram casos de infecção, neuropraxia ou quebra do enxerto. Conclusão: A cirurgia de Latarjet é um procedimento seguro e eficaz no tratamento da luxação anterior recidivante do ombro, possibilitando melhora funcional significativa de acordo com a escala de Rowe, com baixo número de recidivas. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Prognostic Factors for Clinical Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.

Background: Limited knowledge exists regarding prognostic factors after rotator cuff repair. Purpose: To identify pre- and perioperative predictors for functional outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: This study included patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between January 2013 and April 2019 and who had preoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans. The procedures were performed by 4 shoulder surgeons at a single institution. Excluded were patients who had previous surgeries, those who underwent open surgery, and those without 12- and 24-month follow-up clinical data. Patient-reported outcomes (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form and University of California, Los Angeles [UCLA] Shoulder Rating Scale scores) were assessed preoperatively and at 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Using multiple linear regression analysis, the authors evaluated the influence of 29 variables relating to patient, lesion, and procedure characteristics on postoperative outcomes, with the 24-month ASES score as the dependent variable. Results: The study sample consisted of 474 patients (500 shoulders). The median ASES score increased from 41.6 preoperatively to 88.3 at 24 months (P < .001), and the median UCLA score increased from 14 preoperatively to 32 in the same period (P < .001). The following variables were found to be independent predictors for higher 24-month postoperative ASES score: male sex, absence of rheumatologic disease, older age, lower degree of supraspinatus muscle fatty degeneration, acromioplasty, and a higher preoperative ASES score. Conclusion: The prognostic factors for better clinical results at 24 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were male sex, absence of rheumatologic disease, older age, lower degree of fatty degeneration of the supraspinatus muscle, concomitant acromioplasty, and higher preoperative ASES score.

Using Machine Learning to Predict Nonachievement of Clinically Significant Outcomes After Rotator Cuff Repair.

Background: Although some evidence suggests that machine learning algorithms may outperform classical statistical methods in prognosis prediction for several orthopaedic surgeries, to our knowledge, no study has yet used machine learning to predict patient-reported outcome measures after rotator cuff repair. Purpose: To determine whether machine learning algorithms using preoperative data can predict the nonachievement of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of disability at 2 years after rotator cuff surgical repair with a similar performance to that of other machine learning studies in the orthopaedic surgery literature. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: We evaluated 474 patients (n = 500 shoulders) with rotator cuff tears who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between January 2013 and April 2019. The study outcome was the difference between the preoperative and 24-month postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score. A cutoff score was calculated based on the established MCID of 15.2 points to separate success (higher than the cutoff) from failure (lower than the cutoff). Routinely collected imaging, clinical, and demographic data were used to train 8 machine learning algorithms (random forest classifier; light gradient boosting machine [LightGBM]; decision tree classifier; extra trees classifier; logistic regression; extreme gradient boosting [XGBoost]; k-nearest neighbors [KNN] classifier; and CatBoost classifier). We used a random sample of 70% of patients to train the algorithms, and 30% were left for performance assessment, simulating new data. The performance of the models was evaluated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: The AUCs for all algorithms ranged from 0.58 to 0.68. The random forest classifier and LightGBM presented the highest AUC values (0.68 [95% CI, 0.48-0.79] and 0.67 [95% CI, 0.43-0.75], respectively) of the 8 machine learning algorithms. Most of the machine learning algorithms outperformed logistic regression (AUC, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.48-0.81]); nonetheless, their performance was lower than that of other machine learning studies in the orthopaedic surgery literature. Conclusion: Machine learning algorithms demonstrated some ability to predict the nonachievement of the MCID on the ASES 2 years after rotator cuff repair surgery.

MESENCHYMAL CELLS IN ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR - TECHNIQUE DESCRIPTION AND CASE REPORTS.

Objective: To describe a protocol of obtention of mesenchymal stem cells and to report their use as a biological adjuvant in three patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Methods: Case series of patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of isolated full-thickness supraspinatus tear using mesenchymal stem cells obtained from the bone marrow as a biological adjuvant. All patients were operated on at the same institution, by a surgeon with 13 years of experience. The cells were applied at the end of the procedure, at the tendon-bone interface, at an approximate concentration of 2,000,000 mesenchymal cells/mm3 and a total volume of 5 ml. Results: All patients improved with the procedure, with one excellent and two good results. All cases overcame the minimally important clinical difference. All cases reached tendon healing, without partial or complete re-tears. We observed no complications. Conclusion: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with added mesenchymal cells obtained from bone marrow and submitted to a cell expansion process led to good functional results and healing in all cases in the sample, with no complications. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

Objetivo: Descrever o protocolo de obtenção de células mesenquimais e relatar seu uso como adjuvante biológico em três pacientes submetidos ao reparo artroscópico do manguito rotador. Métodos: Série de casos de pacientes submetidos ao reparo artroscópico de rotura transfixante do músculo supraespinal utilizando como adjuvante biológico células mesenquimais obtidas da medula óssea. Todos ospacientes foram operados na mesma instituição por um cirurgião com 13 anos de experiência. As células foram aplicadas ao final do procedimento, na interface do tendão com o osso, na concentração aproximada de 2 milhões de células mesenquimais/mm3 e volume total de 5 ml. Resultados: Todos os pacientes melhoraram após o procedimento, havendo um resultado excelente e dois bons. Todos superaram a diferença clínica minimamente importante. Em todos os casos ocorreu cicatrização tendínea, sem a presença de rerroturas parciais ou completas. Não observamos complicações. Conclusão: O reparo do manguito rotador artroscópico com adição de células mesenquimais obtidas da medula óssea e submetidas a processo de expansão celular levou a bons resultados funcionais e cicatrização, sem complicações, em todos os casos da amostra. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Clinical Validation of the Glenoid Track Concept in Anterior Glenohumeral Instability.

Objective To evaluate the correlation of the glenoid track and glenoidal bone loss with the recurrence dislocation rate and the Rowe score. Methods Retrospective study that assessed the glenoid track and glenoidal bone loss through preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. Patients undergoing primary arthroscopic repair of anterior Bankart were included. Patients with glenoidal bone loss greater than 21%, rotator cuff tear, scapular waist fracture, and posterior or multidirectional instability were not included. Rowe score were the primary outcome, and the recurrence rate was the secondary outcome. Results One hundred and two patients were included. Postoperative recurrent instability was reported by 8 patients (7.8%). Four patients (50%) in the group with recurrence presented glenoidal bone loss greater than 13.5% against 24 (25.5%) in the group without recurrence ( p = 0.210), with a negative predictive value of 94.6%. Three patients (37.5%) in the recurrence group were considered off-track, against 13 (13.8%) in the group without recurrence ( p = 0.109), with a negative predictive value of 94.2%. Patients with absolute glenoid track value ≤ 1.5 mm had worse results in relation to the recurrence group, with 6 patients (75%) presenting recurrence ( p = 0.003). Conclusion Off-track injury and glenoidal bone loss greater than the subcritical are not related to the recurrence rate and Rowe score, despite the high negative predictive value. The cut of the absolute value of the glenoid track at 1.5 mm had a significant relationship with the recurrence rate.

Treatment of Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Superior Capsular Reconstruction with Fascia Lata Allograft.

Objective The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) using fascia lata allograft. Methods A prospective case series of 15 patients with irreparable supraspinatus tear who underwent SCR using fascia lata allograft. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scale at 12 months after surgery was the primary outcome. The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Constant-Murley, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scales, in addition to the range of motion, were secondary outcomes. Radiological parameters were also evaluated by simple radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Results Fifteen patients completed 12 months of postoperative follow-up. The ASES score increased from 34.0 to 73.0 ( p = 0.005). The UCLA, Constant-Murley, and SANE scales also showed statistically significant differences ( p = 0.001; p = 0.005; and p = 0.046). In the evaluation of range of motion, there was improvement in elevation and in external rotation (95 to 140°, p = 0.003; 30 to 60°, p = 0.007). Six patients (40%) had complete graft healing. The clinical outcomes were significantly higher in the patients who presented graft healing. Conclusions Superior capsular reconstruction using a fascia lata allograft is a safe and effective procedure in short follow-up. Level of Evidence IV; Therapeutic Study; Case Series.

Nonoperative Treatment for Displaced Proximal Humeral Fractures in Elderly Patients: Correlation Between Deviations and Clinical Outcomes.

Objectives To describe the functional result of the conservative treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures (PHF) using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score after 12 months and assess whether the different initial classifications and radiographic measurements are related to clinical results. Methods Forty patients > 60 years old, with displaced PHUs submitted to conservative treatment were evaluated at standardized times (3, 6, and 12 months). The American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant-Murley and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scales were used as clinical outcomes. Radiographic variables included the Neer and Resch classifications, the presence and displacement of tuberosity fracture, metaphyseal comminution, medial periosteal lesion, and angular and translational deviations of the head in the coronal and sagittal plane. Results The result of the ASES score was 77.7 ± 23.2 for the whole sample, the mean absolute values of the Constant-Murley score were 68.7 ± 16 and 82.6% for the scale relative to the contralateral side. The SANE scale at 12 months was 84.8 ± 19. We observed that the severity of the Neer classification and the coronal plane angular deviation (measured by the head-shaft angle) and the presence of fractures in both tuberosities negatively influenced the ASES score after 12 months of treatment. Conclusion Nonoperative treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures in elderly patients results in good clinical results. Clinical results are negatively influenced by the angular deviation of the humeral head and the presence of fractures of the greater and lesser tubercles, as well as by the Neer classification.

Clinical Outcome of Partial Repair of Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears.

Objective To evaluate the functional outcome of patients who underwent partial arthroscopic repair of massive rotator cuff tears. Methods Retrospective case series evaluating patients with massive rotator cuff tears who underwent partial arthroscopic repair. The primary outcome was the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) at 24 months. The secondary outcomes were the Modified-University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Rating Scale (UCLA), and the following subdomains: satisfaction, active forward flexion and strength of forward flexion subdomains. Results We evaluated 33 patients. The ASES scale evolved from 39.7 ± 19.6 to 77.6 ± 17.4 ( p < 0.001). The UCLA scale evolved from 13.3 ± 5.5 to 27.9 ± 5.6 ( p < 0.001). The satisfaction rate was 97%. The number of patients with active forward flexion > 150° increased from 12 (36.4%) to 25 (75.8%) ( p = 0.002). The number of patients with normal or good strength of forward flexion increased from 9 (27.3%) to 22 (66.7%) (p = 0.015). Conclusion Partial repair of irreparable rotator cuff tears leads to significant improvement according to the ASES and UCLA scales.

THE POLYMORPHISM OF METALLOPROTEINASES 1 AND 13 AND POSTTRAUMATIC ELBOW STIFFNESS.

Introduction: To evaluate the relationship between the genetic polymorphism of matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 13 and posttraumatic elbow stiffness, as well as the association of other risk factors with this condition. Materials and methods: We evaluated 20 patients with posttraumatic elbow stiffness and 12 controls with traumatic elbow disorders without contracture. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was obtained from buccal mucosa epithelial cells of the volunteers. The MMP-1 and MMP-13 genotypes were determined using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism assays. Results: We did not find any significant differences in the frequency of genotypes and alleles between the test and control groups for the polymorphism of metalloproteinases 1 and 13. We observed that genotypes 1G/2G and 2G/2G of MMP-1 were present in 65% (13/20) of patients with articular stiffness and 50% (6/12) of controls (p = 0.599). Genotypes A/A and A/G of MMP-13 were obtained in 95% (19/20) of patients and 91.6% (11/12) of controls (p = 0.491). Among the prognostic factors for elbow stiffness, only immobilization time correlated positively. The mean immobilization time for cases and controls were 16 ± 10 days and 7 ± 7 days, respectively (p = 0.017). Conclusion: The genetic polymorphism of MMP-1 at position -1607 and MMP-13 at position -77 was not associated with post-traumatic elbow stiffness. Level of Evidence III; Prognosis Study; Case-Control Study.

Introdução: Avaliar a relação entre o polimorfismo genético das metaloproteinases 1 e 13 da matriz e a rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo, assim como a associação de outros fatores de risco com essa condição. Material e método: Foram avaliados 20 pacientes com rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo e 12 controles com distúrbios traumáticos do cotovelo sem contratura. O ácido desoxirribonucleico (DNA) de voluntários foi obtido a partir de células epiteliais da mucosa bucal. Os genótipos MMP-1 e MMP-13 foram determinados usando ensaios de polimorfismo de comprimento de fragmento de restrição de PCR. Resultados: Não encontramos diferença significativa na frequência de genótipos e alelos entre os grupos teste e controle para o polimorfismo das metaloproteinases 1 e 13. Observamos que os genótipos 1G/2G e 2G/2G de MMP-1 estavam presentes em 65% (13/20) dos pacientes com rigidez articular e 50% (6/12) dos controles (p = 0,599). Os genótipos A/A e A/G da MMP-13 foram obtidos em 95% (19/20) dos pacientes e 91,6% (11/12) dos controles (p = 0,491). Dentre os fatores prognósticos para rigidez de cotovelo, apenas o tempo de imobilização se correlacionou positivamente. O tempo médio de imobilização para casos e controles foi de 16 ± 10 dias e 7 ± 7 dias, respectivamente (p = 0,017). Conclusões: O polimorfismo genético de MMP-1 na posição -1607 e MMP-13 na posição -77 não foi associado à rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo. Nível de Evidência III; Estudos Prognósticos; Estudo de Caso-Controle.

Biceps tenotomy or tenodesis in association with rotator cuff repair: is there an influence on functional results? A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Instability or tears of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) may be present in more than 35% of rotator cuff repairs (RCR). OBJECTIVE: To compare clinical results from patients undergoing arthroscopic RCR, according to the procedure performed at the LHBT. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective cohort study designed at the shoulder and elbow clinic of Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: Functional results among patients were compared using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) scales, according to the LHBT approach adopted: no procedure, tenotomy or tenodesis. RESULTS: We evaluated 306 shoulders (289 patients): 133 underwent no procedure at the LHBT, 77 tenotomy and 96 tenodesis. The ASES scale at 24 months showed no difference (P = 0.566) between the groups without LHBT procedure (median 90.0; interquartile range, IQR 29), tenotomy (median 90.0; IQR 32.1) or tenodesis (median 94.4; IQR 22.7); nor did the UCLA scale (median 33; IQR 7 versus median 31; IQR 8 versus median 33; IQR 5, respectively, P = 0.054). The groups differed in the preoperative functional assessment according to the ASES and UCLA scale, such that the tenodesis group started from higher values. However, there was no difference in pre and postoperative scores between the groups. CONCLUSION: Tenodesis or tenotomy of the LHBT, in the sample analyzed, did not influence the clinical results from RCR, as assessed using the ASES and UCLA scales.

TREATMENT OF RECURRENT ANTERIOR SHOULDER DISLOCATION WITH BRISTOW-LATARJET PROCEDURE.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical and radiographic results of patients with traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation treated with the Bristow-Latarjet procedure. METHODS: Retrospective case series including 44 patients (45 shoulders) who underwent the Bristow-Latarjet procedure. The graft was fixed "standing" in 84% of the shoulders, and "lying" in 16%. RESULTS: The follow-up was 19.25 ± 10.24 months. We obtained 96% of good results, with 2 recurrences presented as subluxation. Graft healing occurred in 62% of cases. The graft was positioned below the glenoid equator in 84% of the cases, and less than 10 mm from its edge in 98%. The external rotation had a limitation of 20.7º ± 15.9º, while the internal rotation was limited in 4.0º ± 9.6º. The limitation of rotation and the position of the graft ("standing" or "lying") did not correlate with graft healing (p>0.05). Bicortical fixation was positively correlated with healing (p <0.001). CONCLUSION: The Bristow-Latarjet technique is indicated for the treatment of recurrent anterior dislocations and subluxations of the shoulder. It is a safe treatment method, which can be used in people with intense physical activity. Limiting shoulder mobility does not prevent patients from returning to their usual occupations. Level of Evidence IV, Case series.

OBJETIVOS: Descrever os resultados clínicos e radiográficos do tratamento da luxação anterior recidivante traumática do ombro pela técnica de Bristow-Latarjet. MÉTODOS: Série de casos retrospectiva, incluindo 44 pacientes (45 ombros) submetidos à técnica de Bristow-Latarjet. O enxerto foi fixado "em pé" em 84% dos ombros, e "deitado" em 16%, utilizando 1 parafuso metálico. RESULTADOS: O seguimento foi de 19,25 ± 10,24 meses. Obtivemos 96% de bons resultados, sendo 2 recidivas sob a forma de subluxação. A consolidação ocorreu em 62% dos casos. O enxerto foi posicionado abaixo do equador da glenoide em 84% das vezes, e a menos de 10 mm da sua borda em 98%. A rotação externa apresentou limitação de 20,7º ± 15,9º, enquanto a rotação interna 4,0º ± 9,6º. A limitação das rotações e a posição do enxerto ("em pé" ou 'deitado") não se correlacionaram com a consolidação do enxerto. A fixação bicortical correlacionou-se positivamente com a consolidação. CONCLUSÕES: A técnica de Bristow-Latarjet está indicada para o tratamento da instabilidade anterior recidivante do ombro. É um método de tratamento seguro, que pode ser utilizado em pessoas com atividade física intensa. A limitação da mobilidade do ombro não impede os pacientes de voltarem às suas ocupações habituais. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de casos.

Does the supraspinatus tear pattern affect the results of the arthroscopic repair?

Objective To evaluate the influence of the supraspinal tear pattern on the pre- and postoperative functional evaluations. Methods A retrospective cohort study comparing patients with supraspinatus crescent-shaped tears versus L- or U-shaped tears. We included patients undergoing complete supraspinatus arthroscopic repair. We did not include patients with subscapularis or infraspinatus repair, those submitted to open surgery, or those in whom only partial repair was achieved. The clinical scales used were the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment (ASES) and the Modified-University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Rating Scale (UCLA), which were applied 1 week before and 24 months after the procedure. Results We analyzed 167 shoulders (from 163 patients). In the preoperative period, the ASES scale was significantly higher in the crescent-shaped pattern (43.5 ± 17.6 versus 37.7 ± 13.8; p = 0.034). The UCLA scale followed the same pattern (15.2 ± 4.6 versus 13.5 ± 3.6; p = 0.028). In the postoperative period, however, there was no significant difference. According to the ASES scale, crescent-shaped tears scored 83.7 ± 18.7 points, and L- or U-shaped tears scored 82.9 ± 20.1 ( p = 0.887). The values were 30.9 ± 4.9 and 30.5 ± 5.6 ( p = 0.773) respectively, by the UCLA scale. Conclusion Crescent-shaped and L- or U-shaped supraspinatus tears have similar postoperative functional results. In the preoperative period, the functional results are superior in crescent-shaped tears.