[Unstable RAMP Lesions of the Medial Meniscus in ACL-Deficient Knee: Comparing the Outcomes of Outside-in versus All-inside Surgical Repair - a Retrospective Study]. / Nestabilní RAMP léze mediálního menisku u LCA deficientního kolena: srovnání výsledku operacní terapie technikou outside-in versus all-inside ­ retrospektivní studie.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY We present the results of the retrospective study comparing the clinical outcomes of outside-in versus all-inside suture techniques of unstable RAMP lesions (RL) of the medial meniscus in patients with simultaneous ACL lesion with a minimum two-year follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS The retrospective evaluation covered two groups of patients who underwent the arthroscopic repair of unstable RL in combination with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Group 1 included 42 patients (28 men/24 women). Group 2 consisted of 36 patients (21 men/15 women). In Group 1, RL suture repair using the outside-in technique by posteromedial approach with absorbable PDS suture was performed, while in Group 2 the all-inside technique of RL suture via the standard anteromedial portal was applied using the Fast-Fix system (Smith Nephew, USA). The evaluation was done preoperatively and postoperatively with the mean follow-up of 27.9 months in Group 1 and 30.1 months in Group 2. The patients were assessed using the subjective IKDC score and the side-to-side difference (SSD) in ventral laxity was measured by Genourob (GNRB) laximeter at the applied pressure of 134 N and 250 N. Moreover, the failure rate of RAMP lesion repair, ACL graft, necessity of secondary partial meniscectomy and return to pre-injury level of sport were analysed. RESULTS The median IKDC score increased in Group 1 from 56 points preoperatively to 92 points postoperatively and in Group 2 from 58 points preoperatively to 90 points postoperatively (p>0.05). The median value of SSD in ventral laxity of the knee measured by the GNRB laximeter at the applied pressure of 134 N in Group 1 was 5.6 mm preoperatively and 1.9 mm postoperatively and in Group 2 it was 5.9 mm preoperatively and 2.3 mm postoperatively. At the pressure of 250 N, the median value in Group 1 was 7.9 mm preoperatively and 2.7 mm postoperatively and in Group 2 it was 8.1 mm preoperatively and 3.2 mm postoperatively. When comparing the SSD of the groups postoperatively, no statistically significant difference was found (p>0.05). Revision arthroscopy was performed in 8 patients. In 1 patient (2.4 %) in Group 1 and in 4 patients (11.1%) in Group 2 a rerupture of the RL of the meniscus occurred and partial meniscectomy was performed. In Group 2, statistically significant higher occurrence of the RL suture failure (p<0.05) was reported and there was a need to perform partial medial meniscectomy (p<0.05). The ACL graft failure was observed in 2 patients (4.7%) in Group 1 and in 3 patients (8.3%) in Group 2 (p>0.05). 31 evaluated patients (73.8%) from Group 1 and 24 patients (66.7%) from Group 2 (p>0.05) returned to the pre-injury level of sports activities. DISCUSSION When comparing the outcomes of individual techniques of the RL repair published in recent literature with our conclusions, we may state that the results of subjective as well as objective criteria achieved were similar to those reported by other authors worldwide. No study has so far been published which would compare the outcomes of the by us presented two surgical techniques of the RL suture in an ACL-deficient knee with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. CONCLUSIONS Both the surgical techniques of unstable RL repair in combination with the ACLR using a tendon graft result in a statistically significant improvement of clinical outcomes postoperatively. In Group 2, with the all-inside RL repair, a statistically significant higher failure rate of RL repair was confirmed as well as the need to perform secondary partial meniscectomy compared to Group 1. Key words: RAMP lesion, ACL-deficient knee, unstable medial meniscus lesion, repair of meniscus, all-inside technique, posteromedial technique, ACL reconstruction.

[Benefits of the Acetabular Microfracture Technique in Arthroscopic Treatment of Chondral Defects in Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome: Two-Year Results of a Multicenter Prospective Randomized Study]. / Prínos provedení mikrofraktur acetabula pri artroskopické terapii chondrálních defektu u femoroacetabulárního impingement syndromu: dvouleté výsledky multicentrické prospektivní randomizované studie.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Two-year clinical results of a multicenter prospective randomized study in patients with arthroscopically treated Femoro - acetabular Impingement syndrome and concurrently performed microfracture for grade IV chondral lesions of the acetabulum. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study evaluated a group of 55 patients of the originally enrolled 92 patients with the underlying diagnosis of FAI syndrome with intraoperatively confirmed grade IV acetabular chondropathy of up to 4 cm2 in size, who had undergone a comprehensive hip arthroscopy (correction of structural cam-type and/or pincer-type deformity, labral refixation or partial labral resection etc.) performed by two experienced surgeons. The patients were randomized intraoperatively using a closed envelope method into two groups. In Group 1 (31 patients), microfractures for chondral defects was performed, while in Group 2 the patients underwent a defect debridement procedure only. The studied group included a total of 7 professional and 48 recreational athletes (33 men and 22 women), with the mean age of 34.4 in Group 1 and 31.1 in Group 2. Preoperatively and 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) parameters and VAS score were evaluated and also revision surgeries, conversion to endoprosthesis, and occurrence of complications were recorded. RESULTS Preoperatively, no statistical difference between the two groups was found in the studied parameters (mHHS and VAS). Postoperatively (after 6, 12 and 24 months), in both groups a statistically significant increase in mHHS and VAS score was reported. When comparing the mHHS parameter at individual evaluated times in Group 1 and Group 2, a statistically significant difference was confirmed at 12 and 24 months after surgery (P < 0.001), namely in favour of Group 1. At 6 months postoperatively, no statistically significant difference in this parameter between the two groups was confirmed (P = 0.068). When comparing the VAS score parameter in these two groups at individual times, no statistically significant difference was confirmed at 6 and 12 months after surgery (P= 0.83 / P= 0.39). A statistically significant difference in the VAS score parameter was observed only at 24 months after surgery, namely in favour of Group 1 (P< 0.037). In the course of the follow-up period, altogether 3 patients (2 patients from Group 1) were indicated for revision hip arthroscopy and in 1 female patient an endoprosthesis was implanted. No severe intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. DISCUSSION In agreement with other authors worldwide, the arthroscopic treatment of FAI syndrome, if indicated and performed correctly, was confirmed to improve the clinical condition of patients postoperatively, regardless of the technique used in treating the chondral defect. Based on our results as well as conclusions of other world authors, in treating the grade IV defects of smaller size it is appropriate, in treating the cartilage, to prefer the microfracture surgery, which is less demanding both technically and financially and contrary to mere debridement allows to fill the original defect by fibrocartilage tissue. CONCLUSIONS The benefits of the acetabular microfracture in patients with the FAI syndrome treated arthroscopically were confirmed. A statistically significant difference between the two studied groups was reported in the mHHS parameter at 12 and 24 months after surgery and also in the VAS parameter at 24 months in favour of the group with performed microfracture. In both the studied groups, the arthroscopy resulted in a statistically significant improvement of the assessed quality of life parameters. Key words: hip arthroscopy, femoroacetabular impingement syndrome, chondral defect, microfracture, abrasive chondroplasty.

Clinical predictors of complications in patients with left-sided infective endocarditis: A retrospective study of 206 episodes.

PURPOSE: Early identification of specific patient subgroups at high risk of developing life-threatening infective endocarditis (IE) complications is of paramount importance. Better stratification may allow more intensive treatment of these patients and positively influences clinical outcomes. METHODS: We carried out a retrospective survey of consecutive left-sided IE adult patients, admitted over a 15-year period to two main tertiary care centres in the Czech Republic. RESULTS: Among a group of 196 patients (155 males; median age 64 years), a total of 206 left-sided IE episodes were identified. Perivalvular extension of infection was most frequently seen in prosthetic aortic valve endocarditis (OR 6.706, p<0.0001). Valve prolapse/perforation during IE episodes was significantly associated with mitral valve IE (OR 2.136, p=0.026) and vegetation length (OR 1.055, p=0.009). Septic shock was significantly related to two main risk factors: S. aureus infection (OR 8.459, p=<0.0001) and smoking (OR 8.403, p=0.001). Mitral valve IE with a vegetation length ≥13 mm was the strongest risk factor for this complication (OR 3.24, p=0.001), followed by S. aureus infection (OR 3.59, p=0.002). Finally, septic shock (OR 6.000, p=0.001) represented the most important risk factor of in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides the most detailed profile of complication predictors related to left-sided IE in Central Europe. Early individual stratification of IE related occurrence of complications might help to decrease extremely high morbidity and mortality of this disease (Tab. 5, Ref. 37).

[Evaluation of the MRI Findings on a Tendon Graft after the Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Patients with Versus without the Application of Platelet-Rich Fibrin - Results of the Prospective Randomised Study]. / Zhodnocení MRI nálezu na slachovém stepu po anatomické rekonstrukci predního zkrízeného vazu u pacientu s aplikací versus bez aplikace fibrinu bohatého na krevní desticky ­ výsledky prospektivní randomizované studie.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The purpose of the prospective randomised study was to assess the benefits of the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) application during the anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) for tendon graft healing. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 40 patients with an isolated rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee. The MRI findings on the tendon graft were evaluated at 6 months and 12 months after the surgery in a total of 33 patients, namely in 10 women/23 men (21 right knee/12 left knee), with the mean age of 29.1 years and at the mean follow-up of 15.9 weeks after the injury. The randomisation using envelopes was carried out at the beginning of arthroscopy either in the group with the PRF application (Group 1) (17 patients) or in the group without the PRF application (Group 2) (16 patients). The followed-up patients underwent the ACLR with targeting the femoral tunnel through anteromedial portal using the autografts of m. semitendinosusand m. graciliswith Tightrope femoral fixation and Inion implant in tibia. In Group 1, during the surgery PRF was applied both in the drilled tunnels (intraosseously) and directly to the surface of the tendon graft itself (intraarticular part). The Group 2 was a control group in which the same intervention was performed, however without the PRF application. In the 6 th and 12 th month after the surgery, the signal intensity of the knee and occurrence of the ACL graft failure, bone (marrow) oedema rate near the tunnels were assessed by an independent radiologist using a 3 Tesla MRI. RESULTS In the 6 th and also in the 12 th postoperative month, neither a complete, nor a partial graft failure was found in the group with PRF, whereas in Group 2 a complete or a partial graft failure was observed in 12.5% (p = 0.23). In the 6th month, a bone marrow oedema near the intraosseous parts of the graft was reported in 94.1% of patients in Group 1 and in 81.3% of patients in Group 2, while in the 12 th month it was 23.5% of evaluated patients in Group 1 and 37.5% patients in Group 2. The differences between the two groups were not statistically significant in the 6 th (p = 0.096) or in the 12 th month (p = 0.43). In the 6 th month, a fully ligamentised graft was found in 52.9% of patients in Group 1 and in 37.5% of patients in Group 2 (p = 0.061), a partially ligamentised graft was present in 47.1% of patients in Group 1 and in 50% of patients in Group 2. In the 12 th month, a fully ligamentised graft was seen in 94.1% of patients in Group 1 and in 75% of patients in Group 2 (p = 0.26) and a partially ligamentised graft was present in 5.9% of patients in Group 1 and in 12.5% of patients in Group 2. In the remaining 12.5% of patients in Group 2, the finding was assessed as a graft with no signs of ligamentisation. DISCUSSION We have not encountered a paper in the Czech or world literature which would present results of a similar study, i.e. which would evaluate the potential benefits of the platelet-rich fibrin application in the course of the anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Majority of studies evaluate the benefits of the application of platelet-rich plasma aimed to achieve a positive effect on the LCA graft healing. CONCLUSIONS Our study proved a higher percentage of ligamentisation and healed grafts into the bone as well as a lower occurrence of graft failure in the group with PRF compared to the group without the PRF application, namely both in the 6 th and in the 12 th month. Nonetheless, the differences between the two groups assessed at the same time were not statistically significant. Key words: anterior cruciate ligament, arthroscopy, anatomic ACL reconstruction, magnetic resonance imaging of the graft, platelet-rich fibrin, graft healing, MRI signal intensity of the graft.

[Anatomical All-Inside Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Quadrupled Semitendinosus Tendon Graft with Posteromedial Harvest - Clinical Results of Prospective Study at a Minimum 12-Months Follow-up]. / Anatomická all-inside rekonstrukce predního zkrízeného vazu kvadrustepemm. semitendinosus odebraným posteromediálním prístupem ­ klinické výsledky prospektivní studie s minimálním odstupem 12 mesícu od operace.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY This original paper aims to present the conclusions of the prospective study evaluating the clinical results of anatomical all-inside ACL reconstruction using quadrupled semitendinosustendon graft with posteromedial harvest using suspensory fixation by Tightrope implants at the follow-up of at least 12 months. MATERIAL AND METHODS The prospective study included a total of 119 patients (74 men/39 women) with the mean age of 28.3 (18-52) years, in whom demographic data was collected and a clinical examination was performed. The patients satisfying the "inclusion" and "exclusion" criteria were enrolled in the study and subsequently underwent the same, aforementioned surgical procedure performed by a single surgeon. Preoperatively and at a minimum 12-month follow-up the following subjective criteria were evaluated using the Lysholm and IKDC subjective scores and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (0-10). The objective parameters comprised the side-to-side difference in anterior knee laxity assessed by Genourob arthrometer with an applied pressure of 134 and 250 N, anterior drawer test, and the pivot shift test. The occurrence of graft failure, complications and return to pre-injury sport levels were monitored. The obtained data was statistically evaluated at the statistical significance level of 0.05. RESULTS A total of 89 patients were assessed at the follow-up of at least 12 months after the surgery. The median Lysholm score increased over time from 58.7 preoperatively to 94.2 postoperatively (p < 0.05) and the IKDC subjective score went up from 46.3 to 91.4 (p < 0.05). The median postoperative VAS kept decreasing from 7.3 (Day 2), 5.1 (Day 14), 3.1 (Week 6), 1.2 (Month 6) to 0.3 at 12 months after the surgical procedure. Preoperatively, the results were significantly positive (i.e. C, D) in 52.8% (C) and 21.4% (D), whereas postoperatively the results of the PST were significantly positive only in 4%. Therefore, the surgical procedure was conducive to a statistically significant decrease in rotational knee laxity over time (p < 0.05). The median side-to-side difference in anterior laxity of the operated knee objectively assessed by GNRB arthrometer with the applied pressure of 134 N was 4.2 mm (3.1-6.8) as against the postoperative 1.2 mm (0.4-2.1) and with the applied pressure of 250 N it was 6.2 mm (4.6-8.7) prior to the surgical procedure versus 2.4 mm (1.6-3.5) postoperatively. That concerned a statistically significant decrease of postoperative side-to-side difference in anterior laxity of the operated knee at both the measured pressures (p < 0.05). The graft failed in 3 patients only (3.4%), no major complications associated with the surgical procedure were observed and 62 of the evaluated patients (69.6%) were able to return to the pre-injury level of sport within one year after the surgery. DISCUSSION When comparing the results obtained by our study with the conclusions of clinical studies carried out by other authors and evaluating similar clinical parameters with the identical surgical technique applied, it is obvious that in our group of patients we achieved similar clinical results as the other authors from abroad. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study showed that the all-inside ACL anatomical reconstruction using quadrupled semitendinosus tendon graft with posteromedial harvest with suspensory fixation by Tightrope implants at one year after the surgery bring very good subjective as well as objective clinical results and minimum complications. Key words:anterior cruciate ligament tear, anatomical ACL reconstruction, all-inside technique, posteromedial harvest, quadrupled semitendinosustendon graft, retrograde drilling, suspensory graft fixation.

[Evaluation of Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopical Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement Hip Syndrome - 2-Year Outcomes]. / Hodnocení klinických výsledku vyuzití artroskopie kycelního kloubu v terapii femoroacetabulárního impingementu kycelního kloubu ­ dvouleté výsledky.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Hip arthroscopy is a widely used method of treatment of hip pathology. It is a technically demanding procedure for which accurate indication is critical. The indication criteria, however, are not yet fully supported by long term results of large patient groups in recent literature. The purpose of our study is to present the 2-year outcomes after hip arthroscopy. MATERIAL AND METHODS In our study 203 patients (110 women, 93 men) with the mean age of 34 years (17-67 years) were evaluated. The mean NAHS score was 87/100 at 24 months after the surgery, which represents a statistically significant improvement compared to the preoperative values (p < 0.02). RESULTS The patients were divided into four groups based on their clinical results. Group 1 with NAHS score of 90-100 included 84 patients, Group 2 with NAHS 80-90 had 86 patients, Group 3 with NAHS 70-80 had 17 patients, and Group 4 with NAHS below 70 consisted of 10 patients. The rate of serious complications was 6% (12/197 patients). CONCLUSIONS Hip arthroscopy is an effective and safe method of treatment of hip pathology. It is a technically demanding procedure that requires exact indication criteria in order to reach excellent clinical results. Key words: hip arthroscopy, femoroacetabular impingement, labral lesion, hip pain.

[Structural Damage to the Hamstring Graft due to Interaction with Fixation Material and its Effect on Biomechanical Properties of ACL Reconstruction]. / Strukturální zmeny stepu z hamstringu zpusobené fixacním materiálem a jejich vliv na biomechanické vlastnosti náhrady LCA.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Hamstring grafts are commonly used for ACL reconstruction. The purpose of our study is to determine the effects of the suspension fixation compared to graft cross-pinning transfixation, and the effect(s) of structural damage during the preparation of the graft on biomechanical properties of the graft. MATERIAL AND METHODS The design of the study is a cadaveric biomechanical laboratory study. 38 fresh-frozen human hamstring specimens from 19 cadaveric donors were used. The grafts were tested for their loading properties. One half of each specimen was suspended over a 3.3mm pin, the other half was cross-pinned by a 3.3mm pin to simulate the graft cross-pinning technique. Single impact testing was performed and the failure force, elongation and acceleration/deceleration of each graft was recorded and the loading force vs. elongation of the graft specimens was calculated. Results for suspended and cross-pinned grafts were analysed using ANOVA method, comparing the grafts from each donor. RESULTS The ultimate strength of a double-strand gracilis graft was 1287 ± 134 N when suspended over a pin, the strength of a cross-pinned graft was 833 ± 111 N. For double-strand semitendinosus grafts the strengths were 1883 ± 198 and 997 ± 234 N, respectively. Thus, the failure load for the cross-pinning method is only 64.7% or 52.9% for the suspension method. DISCUSSION Structural damage to the graft significantly reduces the graft strength. Also, extensive suturing during preparation of the graft reduces its strength. CONCLUSIONS Fixation methods that do not interfere with the graft's structure should be used to reduce the risk of graft failure. Key words: ACL reconstruction, hamstring graft, biomechanical testing.

[Treatment of pelvic avulsion fractures in children and adolescents]. / Lécba avulzních zlomenin v oblasti pánve a kycle u detí a dospívajících.

INTRODUCTION: Paediatric avulsion fractures of the pelvis and hip joint are rare injuries most commonly associated with a rapid muscle contraction of the respected apophysis, which is the weakest component of the growing skeleton. The chosen therapy option can be either conservative or surgical. METHODS: We present a cohort of 69 patients treated for an apophyseal avulsion fracture of the anterior superior / inferior iliac spine, the lesser and greater trochanters iliac crest and the ischial tubercle. We compared the treatment outcomes, treatment time, need for immobilisation, and complications of conservative vs. surgical treatment. RESULTS: The mean time to mobilisation was 24.5 days in the conservative and 8.5 days in the surgical group of patients. In the group of surgically treated patients, healing signs were observed as early as in week 6. As of month 4, no difference was observed between the groups in terms of the clinical and radiological outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The treatment outcomes of both methods are comparable in the long term. Surgery is indicated in dislocations exceeding 1 cm. Faster recovery and return to sports activities is the main advantage of the surgical treatment method. Disadvantages include the necessity of general anaesthesia as well as the risk of infection and the need of the osteosynthetic material removal. The choice of the treatment method remains individual depending on the type of injury and habitual practice of the centre.Key words: avulsion fracture - child - pelvis - treatment - outcome.

[Correlation between the Arthroscopic and MRI Findings in Patients Active in Sports with Clinically Suspected Acetabular Labral Tear - Prospective Study Results]. / Korelace artroskopického a MR nálezu u sportovne aktivních pacientu s klinicky suspektní lézí acetabulárního labra ­ výsledky prospektivní studie.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The aim of our prospective study was to establish correlation between the arthro-MRI and arthroscopic findings in patients active in sports clinically suspected of having a hip labral tear. We sought to identify the benefits of arthro-MRI for clinical practice prior to the considered hip arthroscopy. MATERIAL AND METHODS The prospective study included 34 patients with hip pain and clinically suspected of having a labral tear. The group consisted of 19 men (55.9%) and 15 women (44.1%) of the mean age of 32.2 years (18 to 50 years). All our patients were active athletes, either professional (12; 35.3%) or recreational (22; 64.7%). Included in the study were exclusively patients aged 18-50 with hip pain lasting longer than 3 months, not responding to conservative therapy, with normal X-ray findings, or FAI syndrome. The patients underwent arthro-MRI and subsequently also hip arthroscopy, namely within no more than 3 months. The description of findings was translated into simple numerical scales, assessed using Spearman s rank correlation coefficient. We also examined the specificity, sensitivity, positive and negative predictive values and the odds ratio at various cut-off values of the scale for arthro-MRI. The statistical significance was set at the alpha level = 5%. The quality of tests was also evaluated using the ROC curve. RESULTS In hips assessed by the radiologist as reliably with no pathological finding (MRI type 1) the negative predictive value achieves 83.3% and the positive predictive value of 85.7%, with 96.0% sensitivity and 55.6% specificity. When evaluating the reliably negative finding together with the likely negative finding (MRI type 2) as against the pathological and certainly pathological findings (MRI type 3 and 4), the negative predictive value is 57.1%, the positive predictive value 95.0%, the specificity 88.9% and the sensitivity 76.0%. DISCUSSION In our study, the values achieved were comparable to or better than those reported by foreign authors in their studies establishing correlations between the arthro-MRI and intraoperative findings. Significantly higher was primarily the negative predictive value. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study indicate that the arthro-MRI performed as a part of preoperative examination prior to hip arthroscopy has adequate specificity and sensitivity in patients with suspected labral tear. Based on this examination a decision can be made as to whether to perform arthroscopy. Our study also shows that it is essential to have a highly competent radiologist to evaluate the arthro-MRI results. Key words: hip arthroscopy, labral tears, arthro-MRI, hip joint, predictive value of tests, sensitivity and specificity, minimally invasive surgical procedures/methods.

Pathophysiological mechanisms of calcineurin inhibitor-induced nephrotoxicity and arterial hypertension.

Solid organ transplantation is an established treatment modality in patients with end-stage organ damage in cases where other therapeutic options fail. The long-term outcomes of solid organ transplant recipients have improved considerably since the introduction of the first calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) - cyclosporine. In 1984, the potent immunosuppressive properties of another CNI, tacrolimus, were discovered. The immunosuppressive effects of CNIs result from the inhibition of interleukin-2 synthesis and reduced proliferation of T cells due to calcineurin blockade. The considerable side effects that are associated with CNIs therapy include arterial hypertension and nephrotoxicity. The focus of this article was to review the available literature on the pathophysiological mechanisms of CNIs that induce chronic nephrotoxicity and arterial hypertension. CNIs lead to activation of the major vasoconstriction systems, such as the renin-angiotensin and endothelin systems, and increase sympathetic nerve activity. On the other hand, CNIs are known to inhibit NO synthesis and NO-mediated vasodilation and to increase free radical formation. Altogether, these processes cause endothelial dysfunction and contribute to the impairment of organ function. A better insight into the mechanisms underlying CNI nephrotoxicity could assist in developing more targeted therapies of arterial hypertension or preventing CNI nephrotoxicity in organ transplant recipients, including heart transplantation.

[Anterior Superior and Anterior Interior Iliac Spine Fractures. Comparison of the Results of Conservative and Surgical Treatment]. / Porovnání výsledku konzervativní a operacní lécby zlomenin spina iliaca anterior superior a spina iliaca anterior inferior u detí a dospívajících.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Avulsion fractures of the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) are rare injuries to the skeleton in children. They are most frequent in adolescent athletes, such as sprinters and long-distance runners, and football players. The authors present a group of patients treated at their department and compare the results of procedures used to manage different pelvic avulsion fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2005 and 2012, 38 patients (31 boys and seven girls) with an average age of 15.1 years (range, 4-17 years) were treated. Fourteen patients with minimally displaced fractures were treated conservatively, 24 patients with fractures displaced more than 1 cm underwent surgery. All patients had a standard rehabilitation protocol. Post-operative assessments included: the range of motion in the hip; X-ray at 6 weeks, 3 months and 1 year; duration of bed rest; return to previous activities; occurrence of complications (heterotopic ossification, infection, etc). RESULTS: All patients returned to the pre-injury level of sports activities. Recovery was faster and early rehabilitation was better tolerated in patients treated surgically (p = 0.03), particularly in those with AIIS avulsion fractures. Ambulation with partial weight bearing was possible on average at 7.2 days (range, 2-10 days) in surgically treated patients and at 24.1 days (18-27 days) in conservatively treated patients; the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.02). The range of motion markedly improved in surgically treated patients as early as at 6 weeks while, in conservatively treated patients, the comparable outcome was achieved at 3 months of follow-up (p = 0.02). The time necessary for radiographic evidence of fragment union as well as full recovery was comparable in both patient groups. No deep wound infection was recorded; minor heterotopic ossification was detected in five patients, but no further treatment during follow-up was required. CONCLUSIONS: Indications for surgical treatment are based on the degree of fragment displacement and the patient's demands for sports activities. Although long-term outcomes of both operative and conservative procedures are comparable, the patients treated surgically show faster recovery and need a shorter time of immobilisation. However, removal of osteosynthesis material may be associated with some risk of complications.

VT Recurrence After Ablation: Incomplete Ablation or Disease Progression? A Multicentric European Study.

AIM: To determine whether ventricular tachycardia (VT) recurrences in arrhythmogenic RV cardiomyopathy (ARVC) and nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) are related to incomplete ablation or disease progression. METHODS: ARVC and NICM patients with two substrate maps of the same diseased ventricle with an interprocedural delay of ≥12 months were included. Disease progression was defined as ≥1 factor: scar area progression (PROG, +5%), ventricular remodeling (dilatation [+25 mL] or decreased ejection fraction [-5%EF]). Incomplete ablation was defined as index VT recurrence or ablation in previously unablated regions inside index scar without PROG. RESULTS: Twenty patients from nine centers were included (80% male 55 ± 16 years, 7 ARVC and 13 NICM, LVEF 43 ± 14%). Mean delay was 28 ± 18 months. Disease progression occurred in 75% with ventricular remodeling in 70%: ventricular dilation in 45% (ARVC [71%]; NICM [38%]), decreased EF in 60% [RVEF in ARVC (71%); LVEF in NICM (54%)], and scar progression in 50% (in ARVC [57%] and NICM [46%]). Index VT recurrence was observed in 40%. Redo ablation sites were located in previously unablated regions inside the index scar in 70% of patients. VT recurrence following the second procedure was seen in 25%. Fifteen percent died during a follow-up of 17 ± 17 months. CONCLUSION: Disease progression is the rule in ARVC and NICM while scar progression occurs in half. However, even if disease progression is frequently observed, incomplete index ablation is the most common finding, strongly suggesting the need for more extensive ablation.

[Evaluation of Outcomes after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Children and Adolescents]. / Zhodnocení souboru pacientu po náhrade predního zkrízeného vazu v detském a adolescentním veku.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Treatment for tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in paediatric patients has been a long-discussed issue because of complications associated with ligament reconstruction in the presence of growth plates. Various fixation materials and their efficiency as well as ACL techniques are still under investigation. The aim of our study was to find an optimal strategy of treating acute intra-articular ACL injury in childhood. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The paediatric patients treated for primary traumatic ACL injury between 2003 and 2013 were retrospectively evaluated. Only patients with a healthy contralateral knee (with no signs of instability or previous injury) and no record of previous ACL repair were included. A total of 78 patients were assessed; there were 39 girls and 39 boys with an average age of 15.4 years (11 - 16). The physical development of the patients was assessed on the Tanner scale, their satisfaction was recorded on the basis of the IKDC subjective knee evaluation form and the Tegner-Lysholm scoring system. The instrumented Lachman test using a rollimeter was performed to assess knee stability at 12 and 24 months of follow-up. In addition, the range of knee motion in comparison with the other side, complications and the re-rupture rate of reconstructed ACLs were recorded. Four patients with open growth plates were operated on using the transepiphyseal technique, the remaining 74 underwent reconstruction by the standard transphyseal method. RESULTS: The average Tegner-Lysholm scores were 54 (41-62) pre-operatively and 86.1 (74-96) at 24 months post-operatively. The average IKDC score increased from 48 (42-56) points to 91 (73-97) points. The Lachman test was positive in all patients before ACL reconstruction and negative in 96% of them at 12 and 24 months after surgery. The full range of joint motion was restored after ACL surgery, with minimal motion restriction in flexion and extension, in 70 (89.7%) patients. Motion restriction by 15° or less in flexion and 5° or less in extension was recorded in seven (9%) patients and a significant restriction in extension exceeding 10° was found in one (1.3%) patient. No differences in results were found between the two scoring systems. Five patients (6.4 %) sustained a re-tear in the reconstructed ACL due to a trauma. Non-traumatic subjective instability after the primary repair was not recorded. Revision ACL surgery was carried out due to fixation materials protruding from the bone surface in two patients and because of a Cyclops lesion with extension deficit in one patient. No development of deformity or instability was observed at 24 months in the patients in whom the transepiphyseal technique was used. DISCUSSION In the current literature ACL reconstruction by the transphyseal technique has been described in patients older than 15 years of age but no optimal age has been suggested. Animal experiments have shown that tunnels taking up more that 7-9% of the growth plate surface can result in growth restriction or angular deformity. ACL reconstruction in patients with distinct bone immaturity carries a high risk. The effect of growth on the biomechanical properties of a graft and a long-term consequence of surgical intervention in the growth plate is not yet understood. CONSLUSIONS: Although indications for surgical ACL repair and its timing are bound to be different in each patient, we consider the age of over 15 years to be ideal for ACL reconstruction. In patients younger than 15 years, the necessity of surgical treatment is questionable and conservative therapy can give good outcomes. No adverse effect of an applied graft on the post-operative results was demonstrated. The features of an immature skeleton are specific and complicated therefore, in our view, the relevant health care for paediatric patients should be concentrated into specialised institutions.

Clinical implementation of cardiac resynchronization therapy-regional disparities across selected ESC member countries.

BACKGROUND: The present analysis aimed to estimate the penetration of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on the basis of the prevalence and incidence of eligible patients in selected European countries and in Israel. METHODS AND RESULTS: The following countries were considered: Italy, Slovakia, Greece, Israel, Slovenia, Serbia, the Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, Hungary, Ukraine, and the Russian Federation. CRT penetration was defined as the number of patients treated with CRT (CRT patients) divided by the prevalence of patients eligible for CRT. The number of CRT patients was estimated as the sum of CRT implantations in the last 5 years, the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) White Book being used as the source. The prevalence of CRT indications was derived from the literature by applying three epidemiologic models, a synthesis of which indicates that 10% of heart failure (HF) patients are candidates for CRT. HF prevalence was considered to range from 1% to 2% of the general population, resulting in an estimated range of prevalence of CRT indication between 1000 and 2000 patients per million inhabitants. Similarly, the annual incidence of CRT indication, representing the potential target population once CRT has fully penetrated, was estimated as between 100 and 200 individuals per million. The results showed the best CRT penetration in Italy (47-93%), while in some countries it was less than 5% (Romania, Russian Federation, and Ukraine). CONCLUSION: CRT penetration differs markedly among the countries analyzed. The main barriers are the lack of reimbursement for the procedure and insufficient awareness of guidelines by the referring physicians.

Successful ablation of ventricular tachycardia after correction of tetralogy of Fallot.

We present a case of a patient who, after correction of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), experienced runs of ventricular tachycardia (VT). Mapping of the aortic root showed that the critical component of the reentry was located within the noncoronary cusp. The potential explanations of such an unusual isthmus location may be the presence of myocardial extensions in the aortic root or the close vicinity of the right ventricle (RV) to the noncoronary cusp, since in TOF the aorta overrides the RV. Our case highlights the advantage of using electroanatomic mapping systems together with intracardiac echocardiography in such complex cases.

L-arginine in combination with sildenafil potentiates the attenuation of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in rats.

Chronic hypoxia induces an increased production of nitric oxide (NO) in pulmonary prealveolar arterioles. Bioavailability of the NO in the pulmonary vessels correlates with concentration of L-arginine as well as activity of phosphodiesterase-5 enzyme (PDE-5). We tested a hypothesis whether a combination of L-arginine and PDE-5 inhibitor sildenafil has an additive effect in reduction of the hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH) in rats. Animals were exposed to chronic normobaric hypoxia for 3 weeks. In the AH group, rats were administered L-arginine during chronic hypoxic exposure. In the SH group, rats were administered sildenafil during chronic hypoxic exposure. In the SAH group, rats were treated by the combination of L-arginine as well as sildenafil during exposure to chronic hypoxia. Mean PAP, structural remodeling of peripheral pulmonary arterioles (%DL) and RV/LV+S ratio was significantly decreased in the SAH group compared to hypoxic controls even decreased compared to the AH and the SH groups in first two measured parameters. Plasmatic concentration of cGMP and NOx were significantly lower in the SAH group compared to hypoxic controls. We demonstrate that NO synthase substrate L-arginine and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor sildenafil administered in combination are more potent in attenuation of the HPH compared to a treatment by substances given alone.

Associations between cardiac fibrosis and permanent atrial fibrillation in advanced heart failure.

Atrial fibrosis is considered as the basis in the development of long-standing atrial fibrillation (AF). However, in advanced heart failure (HF), the independent role of fibrosis for AF development is less clear since HF itself leads to atrial scarring. Our study aimed to differentiate patients with AF from patients without AF in a population consisting of patients with advanced HF. Myocardial samples from the right atrial and the left ventricular wall were obtained during heart transplantation from the explanted hearts of 21 male patients with advanced HF. Long-standing AF was present in 10 of them and the remaining 11 patients served as sinus rhythm controls. Echocardiographic and hemodynamic measurements were recorded prior to heart transplantation. Collagen volume fraction (CVF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression in myocardial specimens were assessed histologically and immunohistochemically. The groups were well matched according to age (51.9+/-8.8 vs. 51.3+/-9.3 y) and co-morbidities. The AF group had higher blood pressure in the right atrium (13.6+/-7.7 vs. 6.0+/-5.0 mmHg; p=0.02), larger left atrium diameter (56.1+/-7.7 vs. 50+/-5.1 mm; p=0.043), higher left atrium wall stress (18.1+/-2.1 vs. 16.1+/-1.7 kdynes/m(2); p=0.04), and longer duration of HF (5.0+/-2.9 vs. 2.0+/-1.6 y, p=0.008). There were no significant differences in CVF (p=0.12), in CTGF (p=0.60), and in TGF-beta expression (p=0.66) in the atrial myocardium between the two study groups. In conclusions, in advanced HF, atrial fibrosis expressed by CVF is invariably present regardless of occurrence of AF. In addition to atrial wall fibrosis, increased wall stress might contribute to AF development in long-standing AF.

[Arrhythmology today: risks associated with anti-arrhythmic therapy in an internal medicine outpatient clinic]. / Arytmologie dnes: rizika antiarytmické terapie v interní ambulanci.

Arhytmology that is focused on diagnostics and therapy of heart rhythm disturbances and their complications has undergone dramatic development in last 2 decades. Widespread use of catheter ablation, introduction of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators for prevention of sudden cardiac death and finally, development of cardiac resynchronization therapy have lead to decreased importance of drug treatment. Antiarhythmic drugs remain therapy of choice in management of atrial fibrillation and in some ventricular arrhythmias, especially in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator backup. Therefore, this review deals predominantly with a strategy of antiarythmic therapy in atrial fibrillation and discusses possible risks.

[Arthroscopic technique using crossed K-wires for avulsion fractures of intercondylar eminence in children]. / Artroskopická lécba avulze interkondylické eminence u detí za pouzití zkrízených Ki-drátu.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Avulsion fractures of the intercondylar eminence (ICE) of the tibia have become increasingly frequent in older school age. Due to recent advances in arthroscopic techniques, it is now possible to treat them by minimally invasive methods. This retrospective study presents evaluation of clinical outcomes of an arthroscopic technique using crossed K-wires. MATERIAL: Thirty-five patients with ICE avulsion fracture, 17 girls and 18 boys at an average age of 13 years (7-18), were included in this study. All were indicated for surgical treatment on the basis of radiographic evidence of McKeever type II and III fractures. METHODS: The technique of arthroscopic reduction and fixation with crossed K-wires was used. The clinical evaluation of knee stability (anterior drawer test and Lachmann s-test) was made by one clinician. The modified Tegner-Lysholm score was assessed. RESULTS Of the 35 patients, 26 (74%) had minimal knee instability (anterior drawer up to 5 mm), two patients were primarily converted to open reduction with good results, and three (8.5%) experienced temporary knee instability (anterior drawer of 5-10 mm) that resolved spontaneously within 24 months of surgery. Four patients (11.5%) had symptoms of persistent residual instability (anterior drawer more than 10 mm) and were indicated for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction at a later stage. The average Tegner-Lysholm scores were 86.3/100 and 98.6/100 at 6 and 24 months, respectively. DISCUSSION At the present time at our department, McKeever type II and III avulsion fractures of the intercondylar eminence are indicated for minimally invasive surgical treatment. By exact reduction it is possible to decrease the risk of post-operative knee instability. The current trend is the use of arthroscopy-assisted minimally invasive techniques such as the method of K-wire fixation described here. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic surgery for ICE avulsion fractures shows good results, is associated with low post-operative risks, is minimally invasive and easy to reproduce. It can be recommended as the method of choice for treating ICE avulsion injury in children.

Is severe pulmonary hypertension a contraindication for orthotopic heart transplantation? Not any more.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) unresponsive to pharmacological intervention is considered a contraindication for orthotopic heart transplantation (OHTX) due to risk of postoperative right-heart failure. In this prospective study, we describe our experience with a treatment strategy of improving severe PH in heart transplant candidates by means of ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation and subsequent OHTX. In 11 heart transplantation candidates with severe PH unresponsive to pharmacological intervention we implanted VAD with the aim of achieving PH to values acceptable for OHTX. In all patients we observed significant drop in pulmonary pressures, PVR and TPG (p < 0.001 for all) 3 months after VAD implantation to values sufficient to allow OHTX. Seven patients underwent transplantation (mean duration of support 216 days) while none of patients suffered right-side heart failure in postoperative period. Two patients died after transplantation and five patients are living in very good condition with a mean duration of 286 days after OHTX. In our opinion, severe PH is not a contraindication for orthotopic heart transplantation any more.