New insights in the prevalence of scoliosis and musculoskeletal asymmetries in adolescents with esophageal atresia.

BACKGROUND: Increased risk of scoliosis and musculoskeletal abnormalities in adolescents with esophageal atresia (EA) is reported, but the impact of these abnormalities on physical fitness and motor skills are not known. METHODS: Scoliosis was assessed radiographically and shoulder and chest abnormalities by a standardized protocol. Physical fitness was evaluated with Grippit, Six-minute walk test, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire and motor skills by Motor Assessment Battery for Children. RESULTS: Sixty-seven EA adolescents median 16 (13-20) years participated. The prevalence of significant scoliosis (≥ 20º) was 12% (8/67) whereas 22% (15/67) had mild scoliosis (10-19º). Vertebral anomalies occurred in 18/67 (27%), eight of them (44%) had scoliosis. The majority of adolescents (15/23) with scoliosis did not have vertebral anomalies. Musculoskeletal abnormalities were detected in 22-78%. Balance problems occurred three times more frequently than expected (44% vs. 15%, p = 0.004). Submaximal exercise capacity was significantly reduced compared to reference values (p < 0.001). Scoliosis ≥ 20º was related to reduced physical activity (p = 0.008), and musculoskeletal abnormalities to reduced physical activity and impaired motor skills (p = 0.042 and p < 0.038, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Significant scoliosis was diagnosed in 12% of the EA adolescents and related to reduced physical activity. Musculoskeletal abnormalities identified in more than half of the patients, were related to reduced physical activity and impaired motor skills, and exercise capacity was significantly below reference group. EA patients with and without vertebral anomalies need health-promoting guidance to prevent impaired motor skills and consequences of reduced physical activity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Study, Level II.

A comparison of 3 different methods for assessment of skeletal age when treating leg-length discrepancies: an inter- and intra-observer study.

Background and purpose - Skeletal maturity is a crucial parameter when calculating remaining growth in children. We compared 3 different methods, 2 manual and 1 automated, in the radiological assessment of bone age with respect to precision and systematic difference. Material and methods - 66 simultaneous examinations of the left hand and left elbow from children treated for leg-length discrepancies were randomly selected for skeletal age assessment. The radiographs were anonymized and assessed twice with at least 3 weeks' interval according to the Greulich and Pyle (GP) and Sauvegrain (SG) methods by 5 radiologists with different levels of experience. The hand radiographs were also assessed for GP bone age by use of the automated BoneXpert (BX) method for comparison. Results - The inter-observer intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.96 for the GP and 0.98 for the SG method. The inter- and intra-observer standard error of the measurement (SEm) was 0.41 and 0.32 years for the GP method and 0.27 and 0.21 years for the SG method with a significant difference (p < 0.001) between the methods and between the experienced and the less experienced radiologists for both methods (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001). In 25% of the assessments the discrepancy between the GP and the SG method was > 1 year. There was no systematic difference comparing either manual method with the automatic BX method. Interpretation - With respect to the precision of skeletal age determination, we recommend using the SG method or preferably the automated BX method based on GP assessments in the calculation of remaining growth.

Low Rates of Radiographic Knee Osteoarthritis 5 Years After ACL Reconstruction or Rehabilitation Alone: The Delaware-Oslo ACL Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Patients and clinicians often struggle to choose the optimal management strategy for posttraumatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. An evaluation of radiographic outcomes after a decision-making and treatment algorithm applicable in clinical practice can help to inform future recommendations and treatment choices. PURPOSE: To describe and compare 5-year radiographic outcomes and knee pain in individuals who had gone through our decision-making and treatment algorithm and chosen (1) early (<6 months) ACL reconstruction (ACLR) with pre- and postoperative rehabilitation, (2) delayed (>6 months) ACLR with pre- and postoperative rehabilitation, or (3) progressive rehabilitation alone. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: We included 276 patients with unilateral ACL injury from a prospective cohort study. Patients chose management using a shared decision-making process and treatment algorithm, and 5-year postoperative radiographs of the index and contralateral knees were assessed using the Kellgren and Lawrence (K&L) classification and minimum joint space width measurements. We defined radiographic tibiofemoral OA as K&L grade ≥2 and knee pain as a Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Pain ≤72. To further explore early radiographic changes, we included alternative cutoffs for radiographic knee OA using K&L grade ≥2/osteophyte (definite osteophyte without joint space narrowing) and K&L grade ≥1. RESULTS: At 5 years, 64% had undergone early ACLR; 11%, delayed ACLR; and 25%, progressive rehabilitation alone. Radiographic examination was attended by 187 patients (68%). Six percent of the cohort had radiographic tibiofemoral OA (K&L grade ≥2) in the index knee; 4%, in the contralateral knee. Using the alternative cutoffs at K&L grade ≥2/osteophyte and K&L grade ≥1, the corresponding numbers were 20% and 33% in the index knee and 18% and 29% in the contralateral knee. Six percent had a painful index knee. There were no statistically significant differences in any radiographic outcomes or knee pain among the 3 management groups. CONCLUSION: There were no statistically significant differences in any 5-year radiographic outcomes or knee pain among the 3 management groups. Very few of the patients who participated in our decision-making and treatment algorithm had knee OA or knee pain at 5 years.

Femoral lengthening might impair physical function and lead to structural changes in adjacent joints: 10 patients with 27 to 34 years' follow-up.

Background and purpose - Literature describing long-term functional outcome and osteoarthritis (OA) in adjacent joints after femoral lengthening is rare. We evaluated physical function and the presence of radiographic OA in adjacent joints in 10 patients ≥ 27 years after femoral lengthening.Patients and methods - We conducted a cross-sectional study of 10 patients treated by unilateral femoral lengthening. Follow-up was between 27 and 34 years. Physical function was evaluated by the 30-second sit-to-stand (30sSTS) and a stair test and was compared with reference values. 4 single-legged hop tests were used to assess difference in physical function between the lengthened and contralateral limb. Radiographic OA was evaluated by joint space width (JSW) and Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) classification.Results - The patients scored worse compared with reference values on the 30sSTS and stair test, and worse on the lengthened limb on the single- and triple-hop test. Radiographic OA was found in the hip or knee in the lengthened limb in 3 of 10 patients based on JSW and 4 of 10 based on KL. No radiographic OA was found in unlengthened limbs.Interpretation - Our results showed impaired physical function both in general and of the lengthened limb. Additionally, we found a possible association between femoral lengthening and radiographic OA in adjacent joints in the long term. However, the sample size of the current study is small.

Limb lengthening and deformity correction of congenital and acquired deformities in children using the Taylor Spatial Frame.

Background and purpose - Hexapod ring fixators such as the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) have shown good outcomes. However, there have only been a few studies comparing the use of TSF with various etiologies of the deformity. We compared the use of TSF in congenital and acquired deformities in children. Patients and methods - We reviewed 213 lower extremity reconstructive procedures with the TSF in 192 patients who were operated between October 2000 and October 2015. 128 procedures (67 proximal tibiae, 51 distal femora, and 10 distal tibiae) in 117 children (median age 14 (4-18) years; 59 girls) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. 89 procedures were done in children with congenital deformities (group C) and 39 were done in children with acquired deformities (group A). Outcome parameters were lengthening and alignment achieved, lengthening index, complications, and analysis of residual deformity in a subgroup of patients. Results - Mean lengthening achieved was 3.9 (1.0-7.0) cm in group C and 3.7 (1.0-8.0) cm in group A (p = 0.5). Deformity parameters were corrected to satisfaction in all but 3 patients, who needed further surgery for complete deformity correction. However, minor residual deformity was common in one-third of the patients. The mean lengthening index was 2.2 (0.8-10) months/cm in group C and 2.0 (0.8-6) months/cm in group A (p = 0.7). Isolated analysis of all tibial and femoral lengthenings showed similar lengthening indices between groups. Complication rates and the need for secondary surgery were much greater in the group with congenital deformities. Interpretation - The TSF is an excellent tool for the correction of complex deformities in children. There were similar lengthening indices in the 2 groups. However, congenital deformities showed a high rate of complications, and should therefore be addressed with care.

Temporomandibular joint involvement in childhood arthritis: comparison of ultrasonography-assessed capsular width and MRI-assessed synovitis.

OBJECTIVES: Ultrasonography is an effective, low-cost, low-threshold and convenient diagnostic tool in childhood arthritis, but its value in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement is not clear. The purpose of our study was to explore the reliability of ultrasonography to assess TMJ inflammation using contrast-enhanced MRI as reference standard, in order to deduce cut-off values for TMJ capsular width to detect enhanced synovial thickening (synovitis). METHODS: 124 ultrasonography and MRI examinations in 55 patients [mean age 12.4 ± 3.5 years (±standard deviation)], the majority obtained within 1 day, were scored for subcondylar and condylar capsular width (ultrasonography images) and amount of synovitis (MR images). The correlations of these findings were calculated. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, with MRI findings as reference standard, was obtained. RESULTS: The correlation between ultrasonography-assessed capsular width and MRI-assessed amount of synovitis was moderate both at the subcondylar and condylar level [Spearman's rho (ρ): 0.483; p < 0.001 and 0.347; p < 0.001 respectively]. The ROC curve indicated the best discriminatory ability at the subcondylar level with an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.69-0.85) and a cut-off value of 1.2 mm (sensitivity 72%, specificity 70%) for the capsular width. CONCLUSIONS: A moderate correlation between ultrasonography-assessed capsular width and MRI-assessed synovitis was found in childhood arthritis with the best discriminatory ability at the subcondylar level. This indicates that ultrasonography may be a valuable diagnostic tool in the initial assessment of TMJ inflammation.

Cross table lateral radiography for measurement of acetabular cup version.

BACKGROUND: Appropriate orientation of the acetabular cup is an important factor for long-term results of total hip arthroplasty. For measurement of cup version cross-table lateral radiography is frequently used, but the reliability has been questioned. We compared cross table lateral radiography with computed tomography in patients that had undergone primary total hip arthroplasty. METHODS: The study was prospectively done in 117 patients (117 hips). At 3 months after total hip replacement the acetabular version was measured by cross table lateral radiography and compared to measurements by computed tomography. RESULTS: By cross table lateral radiography acetabular anteversion was on mean 13.9° with a standard deviation of 10.1° as compared to 17.8°±12.6° by computed tomography. Mean difference was -3.8 with a distribution of measurements of ±13 degrees for 95% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that cross table radiography provides acceptable information for clinical use, but has limited use for precise analysis of acetabular cup version.

Changes in Knee Osteoarthritis, Symptoms, and Function After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A 20-Year Prospective Follow-up Study.

BACKGROUND: Progression of tibiofemoral (TF) and patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (OA) and changes in knee function more than 15 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are not well understood. PURPOSE: To examine the progression of knee OA and changes in symptoms and function in isolated and combined injuries from 15 to 20 years after ACLR. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: A total of 210 subjects with ACLR were prospectively followed. At the 15- and 20-year follow-ups, radiographs were obtained and classified by the Kellgren and Lawrence (K-L) grading system. Symptoms and function were evaluated with the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) as well as isokinetic quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength tests. RESULTS: There were 168 subjects (80%) who returned for the 20-year follow-up, with a mean (±SD) age of 45 ± 9 years, mean body mass index of 27 ± 4, and median Tegner activity level of 4 (range, 0-9). The prevalence of radiographic TF and PF OA at the 20-year follow-up was 42% and 21%, respectively. Patients with ACL injuries and other combined injuries had significantly higher prevalence of radiographic TF OA compared with those who had isolated ACL injury (P < .0001). There was a 13% increase in radiographic TF OA (P = .001) and an 8% increase in PF OA (P = .015) from the 15- to the 20-year follow-up. A significant deterioration in knee symptoms and function was observed on the KOOS subscales (P ≤ .01), with the exception of quality of life (P = .14), as well as a decrease in quadriceps muscle strength and hamstring muscle strength (P < .0001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of radiographic TF and PF OA was 42% and 21%, respectively. A significantly higher prevalence of TF OA was found for subjects with combined injuries compared with those who had isolated ACL injury. The majority of the subjects were stable radiographically over the 5 years between follow-ups. A statistically significant deterioration in symptoms and function was noted, but the mean changes were of questionable clinical importance.

Good long-term outcome of the untreated contralateral hip in unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis : Forty hips with a mean follow-up of 41 years.

PURPOSE: There is no consensus regarding prophylactic fixation of the contralateral hip in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). In order to further study this question, we evaluated the long-term natural history of untreated contralateral hips. METHODS: Forty patients treated for unilateral SCFE without evidence of subsequent contralateral slip during adolescence were reviewed with a mean follow-up of 36 years (range 21-50 years). The deformity after SCFE may demonstrate radiographic signs of cam-type femoroacetabular impingement. We, therefore, measured α-angles in the contralateral hips on anteroposterior (AP) and frog-leg lateral radiographs. The angles were compared with those of a control group of adults without SCFE. Five years after the radiographic examination, with a mean follow-up of 41 years, all patients were evaluated by telephone interview. As range of motion and deformity could not be examined, a modified Harris hip score (HHS) (maximum score of 91 points) was used. A modified HHS <76 points and/or radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) was classified as a poor long-term outcome. RESULTS: The mean value of the AP α-angle was significantly higher in the contralateral hips in SCFE patients than in the control group (55° vs. 46°), while the mean value of the lateral α-angle was not. Abnormally high values for one or both α-angles were found in 16 contralateral hips (40 %), of which five patients had abnormal values for both α-angles and were considered to have had an asymptomatic contralateral slip. Five patients (13 %) had a poor outcome in the contralateral hip, of which three patients (8 %) had OA. There was a significant association between hips with both α-angles that were abnormal and poor outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Since the natural history showed good long-term radiographic and clinical outcome in 35 of 40 patients and only three had OA, we conclude that routine prophylactic fixation of the contralateral hip is not indicated.

Fifty-year follow-up of late-detected hip dislocation: clinical and radiographic outcomes for seventy-one patients treated with traction to obtain gradual closed reduction.

BACKGROUND: There is little knowledge concerning outcomes for middle-aged adults who were treated for late-detected developmental dislocation of the hip. The aims of this retrospective study were to evaluate the fifty-year clinical and radiographic results after closed reduction and to identify prognostic factors. METHODS: Seventy-one patients (ninety hips) with late-detected hip dislocation treated between 1958 and 1962 were assessed clinically and radiographically. The primary treatment was skin traction to obtain a gradual closed reduction. The mean age of the patients at the time of the long-term radiographic examination was 51.6 years (range, forty-four to fifty-five years). RESULTS: A stable reduction was achieved in eighty-three hips. The mean age at reduction was 1.7 years (range, 0.3 to 5.4 years). Traction failed in six patients (seven hips [8%]), for whom an open reduction was necessary. Twenty-six patients (thirty hips) underwent late surgical procedures because of residual hip dysplasia. A good long-term clinical outcome (a Harris hip score of ≥85 points) after closed reduction was assessed for fifty-two (63%) of the hips. A satisfactory radiographic outcome (no osteoarthritis) was found for fifty-six (67%) of the hips. Osteoarthritis had developed in twenty-seven (33%) of the hips, of which nineteen had undergone total hip replacement, performed at a mean patient age of 43.7 years (range, thirty-one to fifty-four years). Risk factors for osteoarthritis were an older age at the time of reduction, osteonecrosis of the femoral head, residual subluxation, a high acetabular index during childhood, and a classification of Severin grades III or IV at skeletal maturity. A survival analysis showed a reduction in "surviving" hips (no total hip replacement) from 99% at a patient age of thirty years to 74% at the age of fifty-two years. CONCLUSIONS: With a mean follow-up of fifty years, the clinical and radiographic outcomes after gradual closed reduction by skin traction were satisfactory in approximately two-thirds of eighty-three hips. The most important independent risk factors for a poor long-term outcome were an age of eighteen months or older at the time of reduction, residual subluxation, and osteonecrosis.

Acetabular component anteversion in primary and revision total hip arthroplasty: an observational study.

PURPOSE: In a prospective manner to evaluate the range of acetabular component anteversion actually achieved by the use of a cup positioner in cementless revision and primary THA. METHODS: We operated 71 patients with cementless primary THA, and 26 patients with cementless acetabular revision surgery. We aimed to obtain cup anteversion of 10 to 30° with an impactor-positioner. In all cases we used elevated liners and a ceramic head with diameter 28. At 3 months postoperatively the component versions were measured using CT with the patient in supine position. RESULTS: The acetabular component version in the primary hips ranged from 28° of retroversion to 42° of anteversion with a mean of 17.4 ± 14.0°, while the cup version in the revision hips ranged from 4° of retroversion to 32° of anteversion with a mean of 15.0 ± 9.6°(p=0.427). The anteversion of 40 (56%) of the primary acetabular components were within the target zone of 10 to 30°, while 19 (27%) were below the target zone and and 12 (17%) were above the target range. The anteversion of 19 (73%) of the revision acetabular components were within the target zone, while 6 (23%) were below the target zone and 1 (4%) were above the target range. The differences in distribution between the primary and revision operations were not significant (p=0.183). CONCLUSIONS: The intraoperative estimation of acetabular anteversion by free hand technique in many cases was not within the intended range of 10 to 30° in either primary or revision THA and with no differences between the two series.

Negative correlation between extent of physeal ablation after percutaneous permanent physiodesis and postoperative growth: volume computer tomography and radiostereometric analysis of 37 physes in 27 patients.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Percutaneous physiodesis in the knee region is a well-established method for treating leg-length inequality. Longitudinal growth in the physis is believed to stop almost immediately after the operation. The extent of physis ablation required has never been investigated by any kind of tomography in humans. Using radiostereometric analysis (RSA), we determined when definite growth arrest occurred after surgery. We also studied the correlation between the extent of physis ablation and postoperative growth. Finally, we assessed any bone bridging across the physis. METHODS: 6, 12, and 30 weeks after surgery, we used RSA to measure longitudinal growth in 27 patients (37 physes) with a mean age of 13 years. CT scanning of the knee region was performed 12 weeks after surgery to measure the percentage of the ablated physis and to determine the distribution of bone bridges across the physis. RESULTS: RSA showed that growth rate was reduced to less than half of the expected rate after 6 weeks. During the next 6 weeks, the growth ceased completely. CT scans revealed a large variation in the extent of ablated physes (17-69%). In the ablated areas, tissues of various densities were mixed with mature bone. Bridges were found both laterally and medially across the physes in all of the patients. There was a negative correlation between the extent of ablation and total postoperative growth (rho = -0.37, p = 0.03). INTERPRETATION: Growth across the physis is effectively stopped by percutaneous physiodesis. RSA is well-suited for observation of this phenomenon. Volume CT scanning can be used to detect bone bridges that cross the physis and to calculate the extent of physis ablation.

Percutaneous epiphysiodesis in the proximal tibia by a single-portal approach: evaluation by radiostereometric analysis.

PURPOSE: We modified the method for tibial epiphysiodesis by solely using a lateral approach to the physis. From this small-incision approach, the lateral as well as the medial part of the tibial physis were ablated. The aim of our study was to see if this operative technique might be as effective as a bilateral approach, and reduce the operation time and usage time of the image intensifier. The epiphysiodeses were monitored by radiostereometric analysis (RSA), which is a well-established method for the analysis of micro movements and has been used to monitor percutaneous epiphysiodesis with the bilateral approach. There are no reports in the literature comparing single- with double-portal approaches for percutaneous epiphysiodesis evaluated by RSA. METHODS: Twenty children were treated by percutaneous epiphysiodesis for leg length discrepancies ranging from 15 to 70 mm, comprising 14 boys and 6 girls with a mean age of 13 (11-15) years. The timing of epiphysiodesis was determined by using Moseley's straight-line graph and Paley's multiplier method. For the tibial epiphysiodesis, ten patients were operated with a single surgical approach from the lateral side (Group I) and ten patients were operated with a surgical approach from both the medial and the lateral sides (Group II). The percutaneous epiphysiodesis was monitored by RSA, a method which allows analysis of the three-dimensional dynamics of the epiphysis relative to the metaphysics. RSA examinations were performed postoperatively and after 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months. RESULTS: From 0 to 6 weeks after epiphysiodesis, the mean longitudinal growth across the operated physis in the tibia in Group I was 0.26 (0.01-0.6) mm. In Group II, the mean growth for the first 6 weeks after surgery was 0.17 (0.01-0.5) mm. During the time period from 6 weeks to 12 weeks after surgery, there was a mean growth of 0.06 (0.00-0.18) mm in Group I and 0.03 (0.00-0.2) mm in Group II. The mean growth from 0 to 6 weeks after epiphysiodesis for all patients was 0.22 mm, which corresponds to 30 % of the normal growth rate. From 6 to 12 weeks, the mean growth for all patients was 0.046 mm, i.e., 6 % of the normal growth rate. From 12 weeks to 24 weeks, no significant growth across the operated physis was observed in neither Group I nor Group II. The mean surgical time was 26 (21-30) min in Group I and 43 (35-48) min in Group II. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.006). The mean time for use of the image intensifier during surgery was 202 (191-236) s in Group I and 229 (185-289) s in Group II (p = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS: In our study, a single-portal technique from the lateral side for percutaneous epiphysiodesis of the proximal tibia was as effective as the double-portal technique. Actual growth arrest appeared within 12 weeks after surgery. A single-portal technique for epiphysiodesis of the tibia is a safe technique, with less surgical time and less time for image intensification compared to the double-portal technique.

The prevalence of patellofemoral osteoarthritis 12 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To investigate the prevalence of patellofemoral osteoarthritis (OA) and to explore the association between radiographic patellofemoral OA and symptoms and function 12 years after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. METHODS: The study participants (n = 221) were consecutively included at the time of an ACL reconstruction in the period from 1990 to 1997. Knee laxity (KT-1000), isokinetic quadriceps strength, triple jump, stair hop, and the Cincinnati knee score were measured 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 12 years after surgery. At the 12-year follow-up, visual analogue scale for pain, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, the Tegner activity scale, and radiographic examination (Kellgren and Lawrence score) were added. To analyse the association between patellofemoral OA, symptoms, and function, binary regression analyses presenting odds ratios and 95 % confidence intervals were used. The analyses were adjusted for age, gender, and body mass index. RESULTS: One hundred and eighty-one of the 221 subjects (82 %), including 76 females (42 %) and 105 males (58 %), were evaluated at the 12.3 ± 1.2-year follow-up. Mean age at the follow-up was 39.1 ± 8.7 years. Additional meniscal or chondral injuries at the time of reconstruction or during the follow-up period were detected in 116 subjects (64 %). Radiographic patellofemoral OA was found in 48 subjects (26 %), including 3 subjects with isolated patellofemoral OA (1.5 %). Those with patellofemoral OA were older, had more tibiofemoral OA, and had significantly more symptoms and impaired function compared with those without patellofemoral OA. CONCLUSIONS: Patellofemoral OA was found in 26 % 12 years after ACL reconstruction. Patellofemoral OA was associated with increased age, tibiofemoral OA, increased symptoms, and reduced function. It is of clinical importance to include functional and radiographic assessment of the patellofemoral joint in the examination of long-term consequences following an ACL reconstruction.

No differences in prevalence of osteoarthritis or function after open versus endoscopic technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: 12-year follow-up report of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Although arthroscopic techniques are the most common procedures today when reconstructing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), many surgeons still prefer the open and/or 2-incision techniques. HYPOTHESIS: There are no differences in knee function or prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) in patients who have undergone the open versus endoscopic technique for ACL reconstruction using the patellar tendon autograft. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: Sixty-seven patients with subacute or chronic rupture of the ACL were randomly assigned to open (OPEN) (n = 33) or endoscopic (ENDO) (n = 34) reconstruction. Function was evaluated by the Cincinnati knee score, single-legged hop tests, and isokinetic muscle strength tests. The radiographs were classified according to the Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) classification system, defining grade 2 or more as the cutoff point for knee OA. The Insall-Salvati ratio and the Blackburne-Peel ratio were used to calculate the patellar position and height. RESULTS: Mean age at inclusion and at the 12-year follow-up evaluation was 27.9 ± 8.6 and 39.8 ± 8.6 years, respectively. At 12-year follow-up, 53 patients (79%) were eligible for evaluation. There were no significant differences between the 2 surgical procedures with respect to the pain, function, muscle strength, hop tests, patellar height, or the prevalence of OA. The prevalence of OA was high in the tibiofemoral joint on the operated side, 79% and 80% in the OPEN and ENDO groups, respectively. For the uninvolved knee, the corresponding numbers were 36% and 21%. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the open procedure does not produce more functional problems or osteoarthritis compared with the endoscopic technique up to 12 years postoperatively.

Good brace compliance reduced curve progression and surgical rates in patients with idiopathic scoliosis.

PURPOSE: To examine the association between brace compliance and outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 495 (457 females) patients with late onset juvenile and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were examined prospectively before bracing and at least 2 years after brace weaning. One spine surgeon examined all patients. 381 (353 females) answered a standardised questionnaire and 355 had radiological examination after median 24 years. Compliance was defined as brace wear >20 h daily until weaning. Main outcomes were curve progression and surgery. RESULTS: At weaning, 76/389 compliers and 59/106 non-compliers had curve progression ≥6° (OR 5.2, 95 % CI 3.3-8.2). At long-term the numbers were 68/284 and 46/71 (OR 5.8, 95 % CI 3.3-10.2), 10/284 versus 17/71 had been operated (OR 8.6, 95 % CI 3.7-19.9). CONCLUSION: We conclude that the risk for curve progression and surgery are reduced in patients with good brace compliance.

Radiographic evaluation of osteoarthritis of the hip: an inter-observer study of 61 hips treated for late-detected developmental hip dislocation.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Different methods have been used to classify osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip. We evaluated the reliability of different classifications in order to find which grading system is most appropriate for use in clinical practice. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 49 patients (61 affected hips) with late-detected developmental dislocation of the hip (DDH) were studied. The mean age at follow-up was 45 (32-49) years. 3 classifications of OA were compared. The gradings by Kellgren and Lawrence (1957) (K&L) and Croft et al. (1990) are global visual assessments based on osteophytes, cysts, subchondral sclerosis, and narrowing of the joint space. The third classification is based on narrowing in the upper, weight-bearing part of the joint and defines as OA a minimum joint space width (JSW) of less than 2.0 mm at the narrowest part. 2 experienced observers, one radiologist and one orthopedic surgeon, assessed and measured the radiographs. RESULTS: Minimum JSW (< 2.0 mm in 9 hips) gave the best inter-observer agreement (kappa value = 0.87). Using the K&L grading, inter-observer agreement was moderate (kappa = 0.55), but kappa increased when the number of categories was reduced from 5 to 3 (no OA, mild OA, and severe OA). The Croft classification gave similar agreement as the K&L grading. The intra-observer agreement was better than inter-observer agreement, irrespective of the grading system. There was a good accordance between the minimum JSW and the 2 other methods. INTERPRETATION: Joint space narrowing using a minimum JSW of < 2.0 mm as criterion for OA was the simplest and most reproducible classification in long-term follow-up of patients with DDH. A classification based on global visual assessment can be used in addition if only hips with severe OA are included.

Reliability of radiographic parameters in adults with hip dysplasia.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the reliability of radiographic measurements in adults previously treated for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and to clarify whether these parameters differ according to position of the patient (supine versus standing). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-one patients (41 females and 10 males) with 63 affected hips were included in the study. The mean follow-up period was 45 (44-49) years in the patients who had not undergone total hip replacement (THR). Anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis were taken with the patient in the supine and in the standing position. Measurements used for residual hip dysplasia were center-edge (CE) angle and migration percentage (MP). The joint space width (JSW) was measured at three or four locations of the upper, weight-bearing part of the joint, and the shortest distance was termed the minimum joint space width (minJSW). One radiologist and one orthopaedic surgeon, each with more than 30 years of experience, independently measured the radiographic parameters. RESULTS: The limits of agreement (LOA) of the CE angle (mean interobserver difference ± 2SD) were within the range -8 to 7°. The LOA of the MP were in the range -8 to 8% and of the minJSW -0.6 to 1.1 mm. The mean differences in CE angle between supine and standing radiographs (supine - standing) ranged from -1.1 to 0.0° and the mean differences in MP between supine and standing positions were below 1%. The mean positional differences in minJSW were below 0.1 mm and were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The interobserver variations with regard to CE angle, MP, and minJSW were moderate, indicating that these are reliable measurements in clinical practice. Femoral head coverage and JSW did not significantly differ between supine and weight-bearing positions.

Long-term results after Boston brace treatment in late-onset juvenile and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: It is recommended that research in patients with idiopathic scoliosis should focus on short- and long-term patient-centred outcome. The aim of the present study was to evaluate outcome in patients with late-onset juvenile or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis 16 years or more after Boston brace treatment. METHODS: 272 (78%) of 360 patients, 251 (92%) women, responded to follow-up examination at a mean of 24.7 (range 16 - 32) years after Boston brace treatment. Fifty-eight (21%) patients had late-onset juvenile and 214 had adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. All patients had clinical and radiological examination and answered a standardised questionnaire including work status, demographics, General Function Score (GFS) (100 - worst possible) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) (100 - worst possible), EuroQol (EQ-5D) (1 - best possible), EQ-VAS (100 - best possible), and Scoliosis Research Society - 22 (SRS - 22) (5 - best possible). RESULTS: The mean age at follow-up was 40.4 (31-48) years. The prebrace major curve was in average 33.2 (20 - 57)°. At weaning and at the last follow-up the corresponding values were 28.3 (1 - 58)° and 32.5 (7 - 80)°, respectively. Curve development was similar in patients with late-onset juvenile and adolescent start. The prebrace curve increased > 5° in 31% and decreased > 5° in 26%. Twenty-five patients had surgery. Those who did not attend follow-up (n = 88) had a lower mean curve at weaning: 25.4 (6-53)°. Work status was 76% full-time and 10% part-time. Eighty-seven percent had delivered a baby, 50% had pain in pregnancy. The mean (SD) GFS was 7.4 (10.8), ODI 9.3 (11.0), EQ-5D 0.82 (0.2), EQ-VAS 77.6 (17.8), SRS-22: pain 4.1 (0.8), mental health 4.1 (0.6), self-image 3.7 (0.7), function 4.0 (0.6), satisfaction with treatment 3.7 (1.0). Surgical patients had significantly reduced scores for SRS-physical function and self-image, and patients with curves ≥ 45° had reduced self-image. CONCLUSION: Long-term results were satisfactory in most braced patients and similar in late-onset juvenile and idiopathic adolescent scoliosis.

No difference in long-term trunk muscle strength, cross-sectional area, and density in patients with chronic low back pain 7 to 11 years after lumbar fusion versus cognitive intervention and exercises.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Reduced muscle strength and density observed at 1 year after lumbar fusion may deteriorate more in the long term. PURPOSE: To compare the long-term effect of lumbar fusion and cognitive intervention and exercises on muscle strength, cross-sectional area, density, and self-rated function in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) and disc degeneration. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled study with a follow-up examination at 8.5 years (range, 7-11 years). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with CLBP and disc degeneration randomized to either instrumented posterolateral fusion of one or both of the two lower lumbar levels or a 3-week cognitive intervention and exercise program were included. Isokinetic muscle strength was measured by a Cybex 6000 (Cybex-Lumex, Inc., Ronkonkoma, NY, USA). All patients had previous experience with the test procedure. The back extension (E) flexion (F) muscles were tested, and the E/F ratios were calculated. Cross-sectional area and density of the back muscles were measured at the L3-L4 segment by computed tomography. Patients rated their function by the General Function Score. OUTCOME MEASURES: Trunk muscle strength, cross-sectional area, density, and self-rated function. RESULTS: Fifty-five patients (90%) were included at long-term follow-up. There were no significant differences in cross-sectional area, density, muscle strength, or self-rated function between the two groups. The cognitive intervention and exercise group increased trunk muscle extension significantly (p<.05), and both groups performed significantly better on trunk muscle flexion tests (p<.01) at long-term follow-up. On average, self-rated function improved by 56%, cross-sectional area was reduced by 8.5%, and muscle density was reduced by 27%. CONCLUSION: Although this study did not assess the morphology of muscles likely damaged by surgery, trunk muscle strength and cross-sectional area above the surgical levels are not different between those who had lumbar fusion or cognitive intervention and exercises at 7- to 11-year follow-up.