Allograft-enhanced latissimus dorsi transfer is better than the conventional technique for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. A retrospective matched cohort.

PURPOSE: Latissimus dorsi tendon (LDT) transfer (LDTT) to the greater tuberosity to treat irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (RCTs) in young active patients has been shown to have up to 36% of clinical failures, most of them happening because of either deltoid origin disruption or post-operative transfer rupture from the greater tuberosity. In an attempt to simultaneously prevent both complications, a modified technique includes the following adaptations to the original technique: reinforcement and augmentation of the LDT with a tendinous allograft, enabling the use of a single deltopectoral approach. The aim of this study is to compare mid-term outcomes of the traditional LDTT technique with this modified transfer. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study comparing two groups who underwent either the traditional (group 1; n = 19) or the modified technique (group 2; n = 27). Group homogenization was assured by statistical comparison of 24 baseline independent variables. The outcome variables were the gains to active shoulder range of motions (ROM) and UCLA scores (and all its subscores, independently), at a minimum follow-up of two years. A p value < .05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: At a mean follow-up of 25 months, both groups have shown improvements to most variables. However, group two (modified technique) achieved greater improvements to UCLA score (p = .009), active external rotation (p = .006) and internal rotation (p = .008). CONCLUSION: At mid-term follow-up, improvements to outcomes of the modified (single approach, allograft-enhanced) latissimus dorsi transfer were greater than those of the original technique.

Obstetric paralysis: anterior arthroscopic release of the shoulder and transfer of the latissimus dorsi using a homologous graft.

OBJECTIVE: Description of a new surgical technique for treating the shoulders of patients with sequelae of obstetric paralysis. Preliminary analysis on the results obtained from this technique. METHODS: Five consecutive patients underwent the proposed surgical procedure, consisting of arthroscopic anterior joint release followed by transfer of the latissimus dorsi tendon (elongated and reinforced with a homologous tendon graft) to the posterosuperior portion of the greater tubercle, using a single deltopectoral approach. All the patients were reevaluated after a minimum postoperative period of twelve months. The functional assessment was based on the range of motion and the modified Mallet classification system. Statistical analyses were not possible because of the small sample. RESULTS: Overall, passive and active lateral rotations increased, while medial rotation decreased. The other movements (elevation, capacity to place a hand in the mouth and capacity to place a hand behind the neck) had less consistent evolution. The mean modified Mallet score improved by 4.2 points (from 11.4 to 15.6). CONCLUSION: The latissimus dorsi tendon can be transferred to the posterosuperior portion of the greater tubercle through a single deltopectoral approach when elongated and reinforced with a homologous tendinous graft.

OBJETIVOS: Descrição de uma nova técnica cirúrgica para o tratamento de ombro de pacientes com sequela de paralisia obstétrica. Análise preliminar dos resultados obtidos com essa técnica. MÉTODOS: Cinco pacientes consecutivos foram submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico proposto, que envolve a liberação articular anterior por via artroscópica, seguida da transferência do tendão do músculo grande dorsal (alongado e reforçado com enxerto tendíneo homólogo) para a porção póstero-superior do tubérculo maior, com o uso de uma única via delto-peitoral. Todos foram reavaliados após um período pós-operatório mínimo de 12 meses. A avaliação da função baseou-se na amplitude de movimento e na classificação modificada de Mallet. A pequena casuística não permitiu análises estatísticas. RESULTADOS: De forma geral, as rotações laterais passiva e ativa melhoraram, enquanto a rotação medial piorou. Os outros movimentos (elevação, capacidade de colocação da mão na boca e capacidade de colocação da mão na nuca) tiveram evolução menos consistente. A média do escore de Mallet modificado melhorou 4,2 pontos (de 11,4 para 15,6). CONCLUSÃO: O tendão do músculo grande dorsal pode ser transferido para a porção póstero-superior do tubérculo maior por meio de uma única via delto-peitoral, quando alongado e reforçado com enxerto tendíneo homólogo.

Brachial artery injury due to closed posterior elbow dislocation: case report.

An association between closed posterior elbow dislocation and traumatic brachial artery injury is rare. Absence of radial pulse on palpation is an important warning sign and arteriography is the gold-standard diagnostic test. Early diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment to be provided. This consists of joint reduction and immobilization, along with urgent surgical restoration of arterial flow. Here, a case (novel to the Brazilian literature) of an association between these injuries (and the treatment implemented) in a 27-year-old male patient is reported. These injuries were sustained through physical assault.

A associação da luxação posterior fechada do cotovelo com a lesão traumática da artéria braquial é rara. A ausência do pulso radial à palpação é um importante sinal de alerta e a arteriografia é o exame diagnóstico padrão-ouro. O diagnóstico precoce é essencial para a providência do tratamento adequado, que envolve a redução e a imobilização articular, além do restabelecimento cirúrgico urgente do fluxo arterial. É relatado um caso inédito na literatura brasileira da associação dessas lesões (e do tratamento feito), ocorrida em um paciente de 27 anos, do sexo masculino, após ter sido vítima de agressão física.

Are the good functional results from arthroscopic repair of massive rotator cuff injuries maintained over the long term?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the good and excellent functional results from arthroscopic repair of massive rotator cuff tears are maintained over the long term. METHODS: From the sample of the study conducted by our group in 2006, in which we evaluated the functional results from arthroscopic repair of massive rotator cuff tears, 35 patients were reassessed, 8 years after the first evaluation. The inclusion criteria were that these patients with massive rotator cuff tears operated by means of an arthroscopic technique, who participated in the previous study and achieved good or excellent outcomes according to the UCLA criteria. Patients whose results were not good or excellent in the first evaluation according to the UCLA criteria were excluded. RESULTS: Among the 35 patients reassessed, 91% of them continued to present good and excellent results (40% excellent and 51% good), while 3% presented fair results and 6% poor results. The time interval between the first and second evaluations was 8 years and the minimum length of follow-up since the immediate postoperative period was 9 years (range: 9-17 years), with an average of 11.4 years. CONCLUSION: The good and excellent results from arthroscopic repair of massive rotator cuff tears were mostly maintained (91%), with the same level of function and satisfaction, even though 8 years had passed since the first assessment, with a follow-up period averaging 11.4 years.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar se os bons e excelentes resultados funcionais do reparo artroscópico das lesões extensas do manguito rotador se mantêm em longo prazo. MÉTODOS: A partir da amostra do trabalho feito por nosso grupo em 2006, no qual avaliamos os resultados funcionais do reparo artroscópico das lesões extensas do manguito rotador, foram reavaliados 35 pacientes, totalizando oito anos após a primeira avaliação. Critérios de inclusão: pacientes com lesão extensa do manguito rotador operados por técnica artroscópica que participaram do trabalho anterior e que obtiveram bons ou excelentes resultados segundo os critérios da UCLA. Critérios de exclusão: pacientes que não obtiveram resultado bom ou excelente segundo os critérios da UCLA na primeira avaliação. RESULTADOS: Dos 35 pacientes reavaliados, 91% mantiveram-se com bons e excelentes resultados (40% excelentes, 51% bons), 3% regulares e 6% ruins. O intervalo de tempo entre a primeira e a segunda avaliação foi de oito anos, o tempo de seguimento mínimo desde o pós-operatório imediato foi de nove anos, variou entre nove e 17 anos com média de 11,4. CONCLUSÃO: Os bons e excelentes resultados do reparo artroscópico das lesões extensas do manguito rotador mantiveram-se em sua maioria (91%) com o mesmo nível de função e satisfação mesmo após oito anos de sua primeira avaliação, totalizando tempo de seguimento com média de 11,4 anos.

Evaluation of the results from non-arthroplastic treatment (arthroscopy) for shoulder arthrosis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the functional results from patients with arthrosis who underwent an arthroscopic procedure, in an attempt to correlate these results with the patients' epidemiological profile, surgical technique used, possible complications and postoperative protocol. METHODS: Between 1998 and 2011, 31 patients (32 shoulders) with shoulder arthrosis underwent arthroscopic treatment performed by the Shoulder and Elbow Group of the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Santa Casa de São Paulo. Primary or secondary cases of shoulder arthrosis under the age of 70 years, in which the rotator cuff was intact, were included. Furthermore, cases in which, despite an indication for an arthroplastic procedure, an attempt to perform an alternative procedure had been chosen, were also included. The following were evaluated: sex, age, dominance, comorbidities, length of time with complaint, associated lesions, etiology, previous treatment, operation performed, postoperative protocol and pre and postoperative active ranges of motion. The functional evaluation was conducted using the UCLA criteria, before and after the operation. The joint cartilage alterations were classified in accordance with Outerbridge and the arthrosis by means of Walch. RESULTS: There were statistically significant mean differences in the values for elevation, lateral rotation and medial rotation from before to after the operation (p < 0.001) and there was a tendency (p = 0.057) toward poor results with greater length of time with complaints before the surgery. The total gain in UCLA score did not have any statistically significant relationship with any of the other variables analyzed. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic treatment of glenohumeral arthrosis provided functional improvement of the glenohumeral joint, with significant gains in elevation and lateral and medial rotation, and improvements in function and pain. Greater length of time with complaints was a factor strongly suggestive of worse results.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os resultados funcionais obtidos dos pacientes com artrose submetidos ao procedimento artroscópico e tentar correlacioná-los com o perfil epidemiológico do doente, a técnica cirúrgica usada, as eventuais complicações e o protocolo pós-operatório. MÉTODOS: Entre 1998 e 2011, 31 pacientes (32 ombros) com artrose do ombro foram submetidos ao tratamento artroscópico pelo Grupo de Ombro e Cotovelo do Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da Santa Casa de São Paulo. Foram incluídos os casos de artrose de ombro primária ou secundária, abaixo dos 70 anos, com manguito rotador íntegro, e ainda aqueles que, apesar de indicado o procedimento artroplástico, decidiram tentar uma opção. Foram avaliados: sexo, idade, dominância, comorbidades, tempo de queixa, lesões associadas, etiologia, tratamento prévio, operação feita, protocolo pós-operatório e arco de movimento ativo, pré e pós-operatório. A avaliação funcional foi feita pelos critérios da UCLA pré e pós-operatoriamente. As alterações da cartilagem articular foram classificadas por Outerbridge e a artrose por Walch. RESULTADOS: Houve diferença média estatisticamente significativa entre os valores para elevação, rotação lateral e medial pré e pós-operatória (p < 0,001) e uma tendência (p = 0,057) de maus resultados com o maior tempo de queixa pré-cirúrgica. O ganho total da UCLA não tem relação estatisticamente significativa com todas as outras variáveis analisadas. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento artroscópico da artrose glenoumeral propicia melhoria funcional da articulação glenoumeral, com ganhos significativos de elevação, rotação lateral e medial e melhoria da função e da dor, e o maior tempo de queixa é fator fortemente sugestivo para piores resultados.

Axillary artery lesion secondary to fracturing of the proximal third of the humerus: case report.

Lesions of the axillary artery are rare in patients with fracturing of the proximal third of the humerus and may have greatly varying clinical manifestations. They are responsible for 15% and 20% of upper-limb artery injuries and the commonest mechanism is a fall to the ground, which accounts for 79% of such injuries. In some cases, the signs only appear later on. It is important to bear this association in mind, so as to make an early diagnosis and avoid serious complications. We report on a case of traumatic injury of the axillary artery secondary to fracturing of the proximal third of the humerus in an 84-year-old patient, with late evolution of clinical signs of ischemia in the limb affected. The aim here was to discuss the diagnostic difficulties and treatment.

As lesões da artéria axilar são raras em pacientes com fraturas do terço proximal do úmero e podem ter manifestações clínicas bastante variadas. São responsáveis por 15% a 20% das lesões arteriais dos membros superiores e o mecanismo mais comum é a queda ao solo, que representa 79% dos traumas. Em alguns casos os sinais só aparecem tardiamente. É importante lembrar essa associação, a fim de diagnosticá-la precocemente e evitar complicações graves. Relatamos um caso de lesão traumática da artéria axilar secundária à fratura do terço proximal do úmero em uma paciente de 84 anos, com evolução tardia dos sinais clínicos de isquemia do membro acometido. O objetivo é discutir as dificuldades do diagnóstico e do tratamento.

Evaluation of the results and complications of the Latarjet procedure for recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the results and complications of Latarjet procedure in patients with anterior recurrent dislocation of the shoulder. METHODS: Fifty-one patients (52 shoulders) with anterior recurrent dislocation, surgically treated by Latarjet procedure, were analyzed retrospectively. The average follow-up time was 22 months, range 12-66 months; The age range was 15-59 years with a mean of 31; regarding sex, 42 (82.4%) patients were male and nine (17.6%) were female. The dominant side was affected in 29 (55.8%) shoulders. Regarding the etiology, 48 (92.3%) reported trauma and four (7.6%) had the first episode after a convulsion. RESULTS: The average elevation, lateral rotation and medial rotation of the operated shoulder were, respectively, 146° (60-80°), 59° (0-85°) and T8 (T5 gluteus), with statistical significance for decreased range of motion in all planes, compared with the other side. The scores of Rowe and UCLA were 90.6 and 31.4, respectively, in the postoperative period. Eleven shoulders (21.2%) had poor results: signs of instability (13.4%), non-union (11.5%) and early loosening of the synthesis material (1.9%). There was a correlation between poor results and convulsive patients (p = 0.026). CONCLUSION: We conclude that the Latarjet procedure for correction of anterior recurrent dislocation leads to good and excellent results in 82.7% of cases. Complications are related to errors in technique.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados e as complicações da cirurgia de Latarjet em pacientes acometidos pela instabilidade recorrente anterior de ombro. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados, retrospectivamente, 51 pacientes (52 ombros) com diagnóstico de luxação recidivante anterior, operados pela técnica de Latarjet. O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 22 meses, variação de 12 a 66 meses; a faixa etária variou de 15 a 59 anos, com média de 31; em relação ao sexo, 42 (82,4%) pacientes eram do masculino e nove (17,6%) do feminino. O lado dominante foi acometido em 29 (55,8%) ombros. Quanto à etiologia, 48 (92,3%) referiram trauma e quatro (7,6%) tiveram o primeiro episódio após um quadro de convulsão. RESULTADOS: As médias de elevação, rotação lateral e rotação medial ativas do membro operado foram, respectivamente, de 146° (60° a 180°), 59° (0° a 85°) e T8 (T5 a glúteo), houve significância estatística quanto à diminuição da amplitude de movimento em todos os planos, quando comparado com o lado contralateral (não operado). As médias de pontuação de Rowe e UCLA foram de 90,6 e 31,4, respectivamente, no período pós-operatório. Onze ombros (21,2%) apresentaram maus resultados: sinais de instabilidade (13,4%), pseudoartrose (11,5%) e soltura precoce do material de síntese (1,9%). Houve correlação entre maus resultados e pacientes convulsivos (p = 0,026). CONCLUSÃO: O procedimento de Latarjet para correção da luxação anterior recidivante leva a bons e excelentes resultados em 82,7% dos casos.

Results of open reduction and internal fixation of severe fractures of the proximal humerus in elderly patients.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical and radiological results with open reduction and internal fixation of severe fractures of the proximal humerus in the patients over the age of 60 years. METHODS: Between June 1992 and February 2011, 21 patients with FGEPU over the age of 60 years were treated by open reduction and internal fixation at the Group of Shoulder and Elbow Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology of Santa Casa de São Paulo Medical School. 18 patients were reviewed. RESULTS: Two patients had excellent results, 12 good, three regular and one bad. Therefore, we find that 77.7% of these had good and excellent results. All patients were satisfied with the treatment and only three patients did not return to previous activities. Mean postoperative mobilities were 122° elevation (90-150°), 39 lateral rotation (20-60°) and medial rotation of T11 (T5 to sacro iliac joint). CONCLUSION: Open reduction and internal fixation of FGEPU may also be indicated for elderly patients and obtained 77.7% of good and excellent results. Statistically (p < 0.05), the anatomical reduction of the fracture was found to be important for obtaining good results.

OBJETIVO: avaliar clinica e radiologicamente os resultados obtidos com a redução aberta e a fixação interna das fraturas graves da extremidade proximal do úmero (FGEPU) na população com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos. MÉTODOS: entre junho de 1992 e fevereiro de 2011, o Grupo de Ombro e Cotovelo do Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo tratou, com redução aberta e fixação interna, 21 pacientes com FGEPU e com idade superior a 60 anos. Desses, 18 foram reavaliados. RESULTADOS: dois pacientes evoluíram com resultados excelentes, 12 bons, três regulares e um ruim. Portanto, verificamos que 77,7% evoluíram com bons e excelentes resultados. Todos os pacientes estavam satisfeitos com o tratamento e apenas três não retornaram às atividades prévias. As médias de mobilidade pós­operatória foram de 122° de elevação (90°­150°), 39° de rotação lateral (20°­60°) e T11 de rotação medial (T5 a Glúteo). CONCLUSÃO: a redução aberta e a fixação interna das FGEPU podem ser indicadas também para pacientes idosos e obtivemos 77,7% de bons e excelentes resultados. Estatisticamente (p < 0,05), a redução anatômica da fratura mostrou­se importante para a obtenção de bons resultados.

Osteoid osteoma of the acromion simulating acromioclavicular pain.

The osteoid osteoma is a benign bone tumour that usually presents with nocturnal pain in young adults, relieved by rest and anti-inflammatories. It can affect any bone; however, their occurrence is rare in the acromion. The authors describe a case of osteoid osteoma located in the acromion, with symptoms that simulated acromion claviculararthrosis. The diagnosis was made by CT scan and treatment was excision of the nidus through arthroscopy. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology. In the outpatient segment, the patient remained asymptomatic, with complete recovery of function of the affected limb.

O osteoma osteóide é um tumor ósseo benigno que se apresenta geralmente em adultos jovens com dor noturna, aliviada por repouso e anti­inflamatórios. Pode acometer qualquer osso. Entretanto, sua ocorrência no acrômio é rara. Os autores descrevem um caso de osteoma osteóide localizado no acrômio, com sintomas que simulavam artrose acrômio­clavicular. O diagnóstico foi feito por meio de tomografia computadorizada e o tratamento proposto foi a exérese do nidus por meio de artroscopia. O diagnóstico definitivo foi confirmado por exame histopatológico. No segmento ambulatorial, a paciente permaneceu assintomática e com recuperação completa da função do membro acometido.

Functional evaluation of patients with injury of the distal insertion of the biceps brachii muscle treated surgically.

OBJECTIVE: to functionally evaluate patients with injury of the distal insertion of the biceps brachii muscle that was treated surgically. METHODS: between April 2002 and June 2011, 15 elbows of 14 patients underwent surgical treatment performed by the Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Group, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, School of Medical Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo. The minimum follow-up was six months, with a mean of 28 months. The patients' ages ranged from 28 to 62 years, with a mean age of 40 years. All the patients were male and the dominant arm was affected in 64.2%. The clinical evaluation on the results was conducted using the criteria of the American Medical Association (AMA), as modified by Bruce, with evaluation of the joint range of motion (flexion-extension and pronosupination), the presence of pain and the patient's degree of satisfaction. RESULTS: from the AMA criteria, as modified by Bruce, we obtained 100% satisfactory results, of which 85.7% were considered to be excellent and 14.3% good. We observed that when distal injuries of the biceps brachii muscle affected young and active patients, surgical treatment was a good option.

OBJETIVO: avaliar funcionalmente os pacientes com lesão da inserção distal do músculo bíceps braquial tratados cirurgicamente. MÉTODOS: entre abril de 2002 e junho de 2011, 15 cotovelos de 14 pacientes foram submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico pelo Grupo de Cirurgia de Ombro e Cotovelo do Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo. O seguimento mínimo foi de seis meses, com média de 28. A idade variou de 28 a 62 anos, com média de 40. Todos os pacientes eram do sexo masculino e o membro dominante foi acometido em 64,2%. A avaliação clínica dos resultados foi feita pelos critérios da American Medical Association (AMA), modificados por Bruce, pelo grau de amplitude articular (flexoextensão e pronossupinação), pela presença de dor e pelo grau de satisfação do paciente. RESULTADOS: pelos critérios da AMA, modificados por Bruce, obtivemos 100% de resultados satisfatórios, 85,7% considerados excelentes e 14,3% bons. Observamos que quando as lesões distais do músculo bíceps braquiais acometem pacientes jovens e ativos, o tratamento cirúrgico é uma boa opção.

Functional evaluation of arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries in patients with pseudoparalysis.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the functional result from arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries in patients with pseudoparalysis, defined as incapacity to actively raise the arm above 90°, while complete passive elevation was possible. METHODS: we reevaluated 38 patients with a mean follow-up of 51 months (minimum of 24). We analyzed the pseudoparalysis reversion rate and the functional result obtained. RESULTS: according to the assessment criteria of the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), 31 (82%) patients had good and excellent results, two (5%) had fair results and five (13%) had poor results. The mean active elevation went from 39° before the operation to 139° after the operation (p < 0.05); the mean active lateral rotation went from 30° to 48° (p < 0.05) and the mean active medial rotation went from level L3 to T12 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff injuries produced good and excellent results in 82% of the cases and a statistically significant improvement of active range of motion, with reversion of the pseudoparalysis in 97.4% of the cases. It is therefore a good treatment option.

OBJETIVO: avaliar o resultado funcional do reparo artroscópico das lesões do manguito rotador em pacientes com pseudoparalisia, definida como incapacidade de elevação ativa do braço acima de 90°, com elevação passiva completa. MÉTODOS: reavaliamos 38 pacientes com média de seguimento de 51 meses (mínimo de 24). Analisamos a taxa de reversão da pseudoparalisia e o resultado funcional obtido. RESULTADOS: pelos critérios de avaliação da Universidade da Califórnia em Los Angeles (Ucla), 31 (82%) pacientes tiveram bons e excelentes resultados; dois (5%) resultados regulares e cinco (13%) ruins. A média da elevação ativa passou de 39° no pré-operatório para 139° no pós-operatório (p < 0,05), a média da rotação lateral ativa passou de 30° para 48° (p < 0,05) e a média da rotação medial ativa passou do nível L3 para o T12 (p < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: o reparo artroscópico das lesões do manguito rotador proporcionou bons e excelentes resultados em 82% dos casos e uma melhoria, estatisticamente significativa, da amplitude de movimento (ADM) ativa, com reversão da pseudoparalisia em 97,4% dos casos. É, portanto, uma boa opção de tratamento.

Evaluation of the results from surgical treatment of the terrible triad of the elbow.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the results from surgical treatment of the terrible triad of the elbow (fracture of the radial head, fracture of the coronoid process and elbow dislocation) and its complications. METHODS: between August 2002 and August 2010, 15 patients (15 elbows) with the terrible triad were treated by the Shoulder and Elbow Group of the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, School of Medical Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo. Nine (60%) were male and six (40%) were female; their ages ranged from 21 to 66 years, with a mean of 41 years. With the exception of one case that underwent arthroscopic surgery, all the patients underwent open surgery. The fracture of the coronoid process was fixed in 10 patients (66.7%). The fracture of the radial head was treated by means of internal osteosynthesis in 11 cases (73.3%); in three cases (20%), the radial head was resected; and in one case, only the fragment of the fracture was resected. The collateral ligaments, except for one case, were repaired whenever they were found to be injured; ten cases (66.7%) of medial collateral injury and 15 (100%) of lateral collateral injury were found. The mean length of the postoperative follow-up was 62 months, with a minimum of 12 months. The postoperative evaluation was done by means of the Bruce score. RESULTS: more than 80% of the patients recovered their functional ranges of motion but, according to the Bruce score, only 26% of the patients achieved results that were considered satisfactory. CONCLUSION: despite the unsatisfactory results, the functional ranges of motion and elbow function could be restored.

OBJETIVO: avaliar o resultado do tratamento cirúrgico da tríade terrível do cotovelo (fratura da cabeça do rádio e do processo coronoide e luxação do cotovelo) e suas complicações. MÉTODOS: entre agosto de 2002 e agosto de 2010 foram tratados 15 cotovelos (15 pacientes) com tríade terrível pelo Grupo de Ombro e Cotovelo do Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo. Nove (60%) eram do sexo masculino e seis (40%) do feminino; a idade variou de 21 a 66, com média de 41. Com a exceção de um caso, que foi submetido a cirurgia artroscópica, todos foram submetidos a cirurgia aberta. A fratura do processo coronoide foi fixada em 10 pacientes (66,7%). A fratura da cabeça do rádio foi submetida a osteossíntese interna em 11 casos (73,3%); em três (20%), a cabeça do rádio foi ressecada; em um caso, somente o fragmento da fratura foi ressecado. Os ligamentos colaterais, com exceção de um caso, foram reparados sempre que se encontrassem lesados; foram encontradas 10 (66,7%) lesões do colateral medial e 15 (100%) do lateral. O seguimento no período pós­operatório foi, em média, de 62 meses, com mínimo de 12. A avaliação pós­operatória foi feita por meio do escore de Bruce. RESULTADOS: mais de 80% dos pacientes recuperaram os arcos de movimentos funcionais e, de acordo com o escore de Bruce, apenas 26% obtiveram resultados considerados satisfatórios. CONCLUSÃO: apesar dos resultados insatisfatórios, os arcos funcionais de movimento e a função do cotovelo podem ser restaurados.

Biomechanical evaluation between the modified Mason-Allen stitch and the locked double-tie stitch on the infraspinatus of sheep.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate and compare the in vitro biomechanical results from two stitches: the Mason-Allen stitch, as modified by Habermeyer; and the locked double-tie stitch developed at our service, on tendons of the infraspinatus muscle of sheep. METHODS: Twenty tendons from the infraspinatus muscle of sheep were randomly divided into two groups: LDT, on which the locked double-tie stitch was performed; and MA, with the modified Mason-Allen stitch. The evaluation was performed in the mechanics laboratory, using a standard test machine with unidirectional traction, constant velocity of 20 mm per second and a 500 N load cell, without force cycling. RESULTS: We observed that LDT was superior to MA, for the force needed to form spaces of both 5 mm (p = 0.01) and 10 mm (p = 0.002) and also for the maximum traction resistance (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: We confirmed our hypothesis that LDT stitches are superior to MA stitches from a biomechanical point of view. This is a further stitching option for surgeons, when fragile and poorly vascularized tendons need to be sutured, and it improves the quality of fixation without increasing the "strangulation" and, consequently, the ischemic area.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar e comparar os resultados biomecânicos in vitro de dois pontos: o Mason-Allen modificado por Habermeyer e o ponto duplo-laço bloqueado (DLB), desenvolvido no nosso serviço em tendões de músculos infraespinais de ovinos. MÉTODOS: Vinte tendões do músculo infraespinal de ovinos foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: o DLB, no qual foi confeccionado o ponto duplo-laço bloqueado; e o MA, com o ponto Mason-Allen modificado. A avaliação foi feita no laboratório de mecânica, com uma máquina de teste padrão, de tração unidirecional, com velocidade constante de 20 mm por segundo, com uma célula de carga de 500 N, sem ciclagem de força. RESULTADOS: Evidenciamos uma superioridade do DLB sobre o MA, tanto na força necessária para formar 5 mm de espaço (p = 0,01) como 10 mm (p = 0,002) e também na resistência máxima de tração (p = 0,003). CONCLUSÃO: Confirmamos nossa hipótese de que o ponto com DLB é superior ao MA do ponto de vista biomecânico. Essa é mais uma opção de ponto para o cirurgião, quando precisa suturar tendões frágeis e pouco vascularizados, e melhora a qualidade da fixação sem aumentar o "estrangulamento" e, consequentemente, a área isquêmica.

REASSESSMENT OF PAINFUL SHOULDERS AMONG BASEBALL PLAYERS AFTER CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the rehabilitation results among baseball players who presented pain and medial rotation deficit in their shoulders. METHODS: Out of 55 baseball players assessed between April and June 2009, it was observed that 20 presented pain at some instant during throwing movements. They were advised to undergo a rehabilitation program with exercises to stretch the posterior capsule and reinforce the muscles of the scapular belt, especially the lateral rotators. Eighteen patients followed the advice, while two were lost from the follow-up. The parameters evaluated were: pain, range of motion, strength before the program and strength after the end of the program. RESULTS: Comparing the initial and final assessments, we observed mean increases as follows: 10° of elevation (p = 0.001); three vertebral levels of medial rotation (p < 0.001); 20° of medial rotation at 90° abduction (p < 0.001); and 26° of range of motion (p < 0.001). Regarding strength, elevation force increased by 3 kgf (p = 0.002) and lateral rotation force increased by 1 kgf (p = 0.020). Out of the 18 baseball players studied, the pain level improved in 16, while two continued to present pain and underwent magnetic resonance imaging, which showed lesions for surgical treatment. CONCLUSION: The rehabilitation program conducted among the baseball players was effective and enabled increases in medial rotation, elevation, range of motion and strength of elevation and lateral rotation, consequently producing pain improvements in most of the players.

ASSESSMENT OF THE RESULTS FROM ARTHROSCOPIC SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR TRAUMATIC ANTERIOR SHOULDER DISLOCATION: FIRST EPISODE.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical results obtained of patients who underwent arthroscopic surgical treatment following a first episode of traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. METHODS: Between August 2000 and October 2008, 14 shoulders of 14 patients were treated by the Shoulder and Elbow Group of Santa Casa Hospital, São Paulo. Thirteen patients (93%) were male and one (7%) was female; their ages ranged from 17 to 41 years, with a mean of 28 years. All of the patients evaluated were regularly practicing a sports activity (which required physical vigor of the upper limbs). The time that had elapsed between the trauma and the surgical treatment ranged from seven to 60 days, with a mean of 20 days. The surgical procedure was performed with arthroscopic viewing, with the patient positioned in lateral decubitus. Fixation of the labral-ligamentous complex was achieved using bioabsorbable anchors. The postoperative clinical assessment was made using Rowe and UCLA criteria. Joint mobility was measured according to the guidance from ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons). The length of postoperative follow-up ranged from 24 to 120 months, with a mean of 45 months. RESULTS: All the patients achieved satisfactory results, (85% excellent and 15% good), as shown by UCLA, while 100% of the results were excellent according Rowe. The "grip test" was negative for all the patients. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment after a first episode of traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation seems to be a good therapeutic option for young active patients who practice sports activities.

EVALUATION OF THE RESULTS FROM ARTHROSCOPIC SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR TRAUMATIC ANTERIOR SHOULDER INSTABILITY USING SUTURING OF THE LESION AT THE OPENED MARGIN OF THE GLENOID CAVITY.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical results from patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability that was treated surgically through arthroscopic viewing, using bioabsorbable anchors and a technique for remove the cartilage of the anterior glenoid rim for repairing a Bankart lesion. METHOD: Between March 2006 and October 2008, 27 shoulders in 27 patients with a diagnosis of traumatic anterior shoulder instability were operated. The patients' mean age was 28 years and they had had between two and 25 previous episodes of dislocation. The patients were predominantly male (24; 89%). The minimum length of follow-up was 24 months and the mean was 36 months. None of the patients had previously undergone surgery on the affected shoulder or had any significant bone lesion at the glenoid margin. The postoperative clinical assessment was done using the Rowe scale. To measure the preoperative and postoperative joint range of motion, we used the method described by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). RESULTS: According to the Rowe criteria, 25 patients (93%) achieved excellent results and two (7%) had poor results. None of the patients presented good or fair results. Twenty-three patients were satisfied with the results obtained (85%), and returned to their activities without limitations, while four patients (15%) had some degree of limitation. There was recurrence of instability in two patients (7%). CONCLUSION: Treatment of traumatic anterior shoulder instability through arthroscopic viewing using a technique for remove the cartilage of the anterior glenoid rim for repairing a Bankart lesion provided excellent results for 93% of the patients operated.

ANALYSIS ON THE VARIATION OF MEDIAL ROTATION VALUES ACCORDING TO THE POSITION OF THE HUMERAL DIAPHYSIS.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the validity of measurements of medial rotation (MR) of the shoulder, using vertebral levels, according to the variation in the position of the humeral diaphysis, and to test the bi-goniometer as a new measuring instrument. METHODS: 140 shoulders (70 patients) were prospectively evaluated in cases presenting unilateral shoulder MR limitation. The vertebral level was evaluated by means of a visual scale and was correlated with the angle obtained according to the position of the humeral diaphysis, using the bi-goniometer developed with the Department of Mechanical Engineering of Mackenzie University. RESULTS: The maximum vertebral level reached through MR on the unaffected side ranged from T3 to T12, and on the affected side, from T6 to the trochanter. Repositioning of the affected limb in MR according to the angular values on the normal side showed that 57.13% of the patients reached lower levels, between the sacrum, gluteus and trochanter. From analysis on the maximum vertebral level attained and the variation between the affected angle x (frontal plane: abduction and MR of the shoulder) and the unaffected angle x in MR, we observed that the greater the angle of the diaphyseal axis was, the lower the variation in the vertebral level attained was. From evaluating the linear correlation between the variables of difference in maximum vertebral level reached and variation in the affected angle y (extension and abduction of the shoulder) and the unaffected angle y in MR, we observed that there was no well-established linear relationship between these variables. CONCLUSION: Measurement of MR using vertebral levels does not correspond to the real values, since it varies according to the positioning of the humeral diaphysis.

EVALUATION OF THE COMPLICATIONS OF SURGICAL TREATMENT OF FRACTURES OF THE PROXIMAL EXTREMITY OF THE HUMERUS USING A LOCKING PLATE.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the complications from surgical treatment using a locking plate among patients with fractures of the proximal extremity of the humerus. METHODS: Between July 2004 and December 2009, 56 patients with fractures of the proximal extremity of the humerus were treated using the PHILOS(®) plate. There were 19 male patients and 37 female patients, with a mean age of 62 years (range: 30 to 92 years). All the cases had a mean postoperative followup period of 12 months. Thirteen fractures were classified as presenting in two parts, 28 as three, eight as four and seven as epiphyseal fractures. RESULTS: Among the patients operated, 26 were considered to have achieved excellent results, twelve good, ten fair and eight poor, according to the UCLA score. Thirty complications occurred in 20 patients (35.7%), among which the most frequent complication was inadequate reduction of the fracture, which occurred in eight cases. Subacromial impact, caused by the plate, occurred in seven cases, while inadequate fixation occurred in six cases. Other complications such as pseudarthrosis, adhesive capsulitis, avascular necrosis, loss of varus reduction and infection were also seen. CONCLUSION: The functional results from treating fractures of the proximal extremity of the humerus using a locking plate depended on correct anatomical reduction of the fracture and stable fixation of the implant. Complications still occur frequently, particularly because of intraoperative technical difficulty, fracture severity and possible inexperience of the surgeon.

EVALUATION OF THE RESULTS FROM REOPERATIONS ON PATIENTS WITH ROTATOR CUFF LESIONS.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the results from open or arthroscopic surgical treatment on patients with symptomatic recurrence of rotator cuff injuries. METHODS: Between December 1990 and July 2007, 30 patients were assessed and underwent reoperation performed by the Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Group of the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Fernandinho Simonsen Wing, Santa Casa de São Paulo, because of dehiscence of the rotator cuff suture. The study included patients with symptomatic recurrence of the injury and with at least 24 months of postoperative follow-up. RESULTS: According to the UCLA evaluation criteria, 21 patients (70%) showed excellent or good outcomes; and nine patients (30%) showed fair or poor outcomes. CONCLUSION: Open or arthroscopic surgical treatment of recurrent rotator cuff injuries tended to present worse results than from the primary repair. In this study, we found that 70% of the results were excellent and good. The presence of extensive injuries in the reoperation tended to evolve with larger numbers of unsatisfactory results. In our study, we obtained better results from arthroscopic surgery than from open surgery.

EVALUATION OF RESULTS AND COMPLICATIONS FROM ARTHROSCOPIC SUTURE OF SLAP LESIONS.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results and complications from arthroscopic suturing of SLAP lesions. METHODS: Seventy-one patients who underwent arthroscopic suturing of SLAP lesions between July 1995 and May 2008 were evaluated. The procedures were performed by the Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Group of the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Fernandinho Simonsen Wing, Santa Casa de São Paulo, Brazil. Associated lesions were seen in 68 of the 71 patients evaluated (96%), and the other three (4%) had SLAP lesions alone. RESULTS: The associated lesions most frequently found in the patients under 40 years of age were labral lesions (69%), while in patients aged 40 years or over, impact syndrome with or without rotator cuff injury was the most commonly associated condition (71.4%). According to the UCLA method, 79% of our results (56 cases) were good or excellent. Postoperative complications occurred in 15 cases (21%); among these, the most common was the presence of residual pain (46.6%), followed by adhesive capsulitis (33.3%). CONCLUSIONS: There was a great association between SLAP lesions and other shoulder lesions, which varied according to the patients' age groups. Arthroscopic suturing of the SLAP lesions provided excellent results in the majority of the cases, but complications occurred in 21%.