Addition of Allograft and Acromioclavicular Cerclage Improves Outcomes of Arthroscopic-Assisted Reconstruction of Acromioclavicular Separation With a Single Coracoclavicular Tunnel.

Objective The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the functional outcome and complications of unstable acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations repaired with a single coracoclavicular tunnel utilizing an arthroscopic-assisted curved button technique. Methods Thirty-five patients with a minimum of 12 months follow-up underwent arthroscopic-assisted AC joint reconstruction with suspensory button and 2 mm suture tape fixation using 3 mm tunnels. Functional outcome scores were analyzed preoperatively and at final follow-up with all complications noted. Results Comparing preoperative to postoperative values, all functional outcome scores improved. Three of the 16 (19%) patients that had a supplementary graft looped around the undersurface of the coracoid demonstrated loss of reduction compared to eight of the 19 (42%) that were treated with button and suture fixation alone (p = .138). No loss of reduction occurred in the subset of patients with AC joint supplementation. One (3%) patient sustained a distal clavicle fracture. Conclusion Arthroscopic-assisted AC joint reconstruction with a suspensory button construct demonstrates improved clinical outcomes with high patient satisfaction. While loss reduction remains problematic, smaller bone tunnels appear to lead to a low rate of iatrogenic fractures. The addition of a free tendon graft, as well as AC cerclage, appears to minimize loss of reduction.

Outcomes Following Double-Row and Medial Double-Pulley Rotator Cuff Repair.

Multiple arthroscopic double-row repair techniques have been developed to treat full-thickness rotator cuff tears. However, healing rates and functional outcomes vary among these repair methods. A suture tape and medial double-pulley (STDP) technique that incorporated 2-mm suture tape for a knotless double-row with a broad double-mattress suture medially was developed as an alternative method to other double-row repair techniques. This prospective study reviewed the functional outcomes and healing rates of full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears repaired using an STDP technique. Of 33 consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with an STDP construct, 24 patients with a minimum of 1 year of follow-up were included in the study. Preoperative fatty atrophy was recorded. Ultrasound imaging was used to assess rotator cuff healing at a minimum of 6 months postoperatively. Range of motion and functional outcome scores were evaluated at final follow-up. Mean active forward elevation improved from 124° preoperatively to 160° postoperatively. Comparing preoperative and postoperative values, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 45.9 to 90.8, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score improved from 34.6 to 87.1, and the visual analog scale score decreased from 5.3 to 1.3. Twenty-one of 24 patients (88%) were satisfied with their outcomes. Ultrasound evaluation demonstrated complete healing in 88% of the cohort. The STDP technique is a technically efficient method of obtaining medial fixation in a double-row repair and appears to demonstrate clinically acceptable results. Healing was observed in 88% of cases, and functional outcome showed a statistically significant improvement. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(1):e125-e130.].

Arthroscopic Biceps Tenodesis Outcomes: A Comparison of Inlay and Onlay Techniques.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic biceps tenodesis (ABT) high in the groove can be achieved using an inlay or an onlay technique. However, there is little information comparing outcomes between the 2. PURPOSE: To compare postoperative healing and functional outcomes of ABT high in the groove performed using either an onlay or an inlay technique. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed on patients undergoing ABT at the articular margin (high in the groove) at a single center over a 2-year period. An inlay technique using an interference screw was performed during the first year, followed by an onlay technique using a knotless suture anchor during the second. Tendon healing, elbow flexion strength, functional outcome, and complications were evaluated at a postoperative minimum of 1 year. RESULTS: A total of 37 patients with inlay and 53 with onlay ABTs were available for follow-up. There was no difference in range of motion, functional outcome scores, or elbow flexion strength between the groups. A postoperative popeye deformity was noted in 27% of patients in the inlay group as compared with 9.4% of the onlay group (P = .028). Four patients (10.8%) in the inlay group required revision surgery (2 of which were biceps tenodesis related) as compared with 0% in the onlay group (P = .015). CONCLUSION: An onlay technique using a knotless suture anchor for ABT at the top of the articular margin is an acceptable alternative to an inlay technique using an interference screw. The onlay technique was associated with lower rates of postoperative popeye deformity and revision surgery as compared with the inlay technique.

Surgical Management of Massive Irreparable Cuff Tears: Superior Capsular Reconstruction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is a surgical procedure that has been developed to provide an alternative for joint preservation in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. The purpose of this review is to assess the improvements in biomechanical properties and functional outcomes of this novel procedure. RECENT FINDINGS: Biomechanically, SCR decreases superior translation and subacromial contact pressure. Glenoid fixation is maximized with three anchors, while margin convergence to any remaining rotator cuff improves stability, and findings vary based on graft type. Clinically, SCR has been associated with improvement in functional outcome in the setting of an isolated procedure, or in conjunction with rotator cuff repair. Outcomes appear to be dependent upon indications. However, in select cases, SCR may even be successful in reversing pseudoparalysis. SCR seems to lead to improved biomechanics for the cuff-deficient shoulder resulting in satisfactory functional outcomes. While surgical techniques have evolved, further research is needed to optimize graft healing and longer follow-up studies are needed to continue to refine indications for SCR as a joint preservation effort in the setting of irreparable massive rotator cuff tears without arthritis.

Functional Outcome and Healing With a Load-Sharing Rip-Stop Repair Compared With a Single-Row Repair for Large and Massive Rotator Cuff Tears.

PURPOSE: To prospectively compare the healing rates and functional outcomes of large and massive rotator cuff tears repaired with either a load-sharing rip-stop (LSRS) technique or single-row (SR) repair. METHODS: We performed a retrospective comparison of arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs of large and massive tears performed with 2 different repair techniques. Over a 1-year period, all tears with limited tendon mobility were repaired with an LSRS technique. Over the following 1-year period, all similar tears were repaired with an SR technique. There were 17 patients in the LSRS repair group and 18 in the SR repair group. Healing was assessed with ultrasound at a minimum of 6 months postoperatively, and functional outcome was assessed at a minimum of 24 months. RESULTS: No difference in postoperative range of motion was found between the 2 groups. Likewise, no difference in the visual analog scale score for pain or functional outcomes according to the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Simple Shoulder Test, or Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score was found between the 2 groups. Complete rotator cuff healing was observed in 53% of LSRS repairs compared with 11% of SR repairs (P = .010). CONCLUSIONS: At short-term follow-up, there is no difference in functional outcomes after an LSRS technique versus an SR repair technique for large and massive rotator cuff tears with limited tendon mobility. However, structural healing appears to be higher with an LSRS technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Arthroscopy-assisted Treatment of Displaced Distal Clavicle Fractures Utilizing Curved Buttons and Suture Tape With a Single Coracoclavicular Tunnel.

BACKGROUND: Distal third clavicle fractures are associated with high rates of nonunion. Acceptable healing rates have been reported; however, complications and the need for additional procedures are a concern. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes and healing rates of an arthroscopy-assisted technique for fixation of unstable distal third clavicle fractures. METHODS: Seven patients presenting to a single surgeon with displaced distal clavicle fractures were included. A curved suspensory button and suture tape construct with a single coracoclavicular tunnel was used. Visual Analog Scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, Simple Shoulder Test, and Subjective Shoulder Value scores were analyzed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Radiographic evidence of union, maintenance of reduction and complications were recorded. All patients were available for 1-year follow-up. RESULTS: Mean Visual Analog Scale pain score improved from 6.1±1.1 to 1.1±1.0 (P=0.022). American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores increased from 40.3±17.2 to 86.7±13.7 (P≤0.001). The mean Simple Shoulder Test score increased from 2.7±1.1 to 11.0±1.8 (P≤0.001). The Subjective Shoulder Value improved from 41.6±19.1 to 91.4±7.6 (P=0.210). Fracture united in 6 of 7 patients and reduction was maintained in all patients. Six patients were satisfied and returned to previous activity level. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopy-assisted fixation of unstable displaced distal clavicle fractures demonstrates improved functional outcomes and high patient satisfaction. This construct avoids many of the previously reported complications associated with other methods of fixation, while minimizing the amount of soft tissue dissection.

Continuous Cryotherapy vs Ice Following Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Randomized Control Trial.

Postoperative pain management is an important component of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Continuous cryotherapy (CC) has been proposed as a means of improving postoperative pain control. However, CC represents an increased cost not typically covered by insurance. The purpose of this study is to compare CC to plain ice (ICE) following TSA. The hypothesis was that CC would lead to lower pain scores and decreased narcotic usage during the first 2 weeks postoperatively. A randomized controlled trial was performed to compare CC to ICE. Forty patients were randomized to receive either CC or ICE following TSA. The rehabilitation and pain control protocols were otherwise standardized. Visual analog scales (VAS) for pain, satisfaction with cold therapy, and quality of sleep were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively at 24 hours, 3 days, 7 days, and 14 days following surgery. Narcotic usage in morphine equivalents was also recorded. No significant differences in preoperative pain (5.9 vs 6.8; P = .121), or postoperative pain at 24 hours (4.2 vs 4.3; P = .989), 3 days (4.8 vs 4.7; P = .944), 7 days (2.9 vs 3.3; P = .593) or 14 days (2.5 vs 2.7; P = .742) were observed between the CC and ICE groups. Similarly, no differences in quality of sleep, satisfaction with the cold therapy, or narcotic usage at any time interval were observed between the 2 groups. No differences in pain control, quality of sleep, patient satisfaction, or narcotic usage were detected between CC and ICE following TSA. CC may offer convenience as an advantage, but the increased cost associated with this type of treatment may not be justified.

Triple-Loaded Suture Anchors Versus a Knotless Rip Stop Construct in a Single-Row Rotator Cuff Repair Model.

PURPOSE: To compare the biomechanical properties of single-row repair with triple-loaded (TL) anchor repair versus a knotless rip stop (KRS) repair in a rotator cuff repair model. METHODS: Rotator cuff tears were created in 8 cadaveric matched-pair specimens and repaired with a TL anchor or KRS construct. In the TL construct, anchors were placed in the greater tuberosity and then all suture limbs were passed through the rotator cuff as simple sutures and tied. In the KRS construct, a 2-mm suture tape was passed through the tendon in an inverted mattress fashion, and a free suture was passed medial to the suture tape to create a rip-stop. Then, the suture tape and free suture were secured with knotless anchors. Displacement was observed with video tracking after cyclic loading, and specimens were loaded to failure. RESULTS: The mean load to failure was 438 ± 59 N in TL anchor repairs compared with 457 ± 110 N in KRS repairs (P = .582). The mean displacement with cyclic loading was 3.8 ± 1.6 mm in TL anchor repairs versus 4.3 ± 1.8 mm in the KRS group (P = .297). Mode of failure was consistent in both groups, with 6 of 8 failures in the TL anchor group and 7 of 8 failures in KRS group occurring from anchor pullout. CONCLUSIONS: There is no statistical difference in load to failure and cyclic loading between TL anchor and KRS single-row repair techniques. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: KRS repair technique may be an alternative method of repairing full-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears with a single-row construct.

A Tensionable Method for Subscapularis Repair after Shoulder Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: This study compared the biomechanical properties of a new lesser tuberosity (LTO) repair with a tensionable construct with suture tape and preplaced racking hitches vs. a traditional LTO repair using 4 high-strength sutures. The hypothesis was that there would be no difference between the 2 constructs. METHODS: LTO repairs were performed on 6 matched, paired cadaveric shoulders after placement of an uncemented humeral stem. The LTO in group 1 was repaired with 4 high-strength #2 sutures, each passed individually through the subscapularis tendon. The LTO in group 2 was repaired with 2 suture tape loops with a preplaced racking hitch knot and 2 passes through the subscapularis tendon. All sutures were passed around the humeral stem before passing through the subscapularis tendon. The specimens then underwent cyclic displacement and load-to-failure testing. RESULTS: Load to failure was 209.6 ± 71.2 N in group 1 compared with 502.8 ± 168.6 N in group 2 (P = .018). There was no difference in displacement between the 2 groups. All failures in group 1 occurred by knot slippage. The mode of failure in group 2 was tendon tearing in 5 of 6 cases. CONCLUSION: A simplified LTO repair with suture tape and compression bridge and a preplaced half racking knot achieves favorable biomechanical properties in a technically efficient manner that may be useful clinically.

Proximal stress shielding is decreased with a short stem compared with a traditional-length stem in total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: This study compared the outcome and radiographic humeral adaptations after placement of a traditional-length (TL) or short-stem (SS) humeral component during total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). The hypothesis was there would be no difference in outcome or radiographic adaptations. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective review was performed of primary TSAs performed with a TL or SS press-fit humeral component. The stems were identical in geometry and coating, with the only variable being stem length. Functional outcome and radiographs were reviewed at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively in 58 TL stems and 56 SSs. RESULTS: There were significant improvements in all range of motion and functional outcome from baseline (P < .001) but no difference between the groups (P > .05). TL stems were placed in anatomic alignment 98% of the time compared with 86% of the SS cases (P = .015), but alignment did not influence outcome. Cortical thinning was more common in the medial metaphysis with the TL stem (74%) than with the SS (50%; P = .008). Partial calcar osteolysis was seen in 31% of TL stems and in 23% of SSs (P = .348). There was no difference in loosening or shift between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION: There is no difference in functional outcome at short-term follow-up between a TL stem and a SS in TSA. The pattern of radiographic adaptations may differ based on stem length. Further study is needed to evaluate the mid- to long-term differences, particularly with regard to calcar osteolysis.

Radiographic changes differ between two different short press-fit humeral stem designs in total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to compare the radiographic changes of the humerus in the short term after total shoulder arthroplasty with two different short-stem humeral components. The hypothesis was that there would be no difference in radiographic changes or functional outcome based on component type. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of primary total shoulder arthroplasties performed with a short press-fit humeral component. Group A included a collarless humeral stem with an oval geometry and curved stem (Ascend or Ascend Flex; Wright Medical, Memphis, TN, USA). Group B included a humeral stem with a metaphyseal collar, rectangular geometry, and straight stem (Apex; Arthrex, Inc., Naples, FL, USA). Radiographic changes and functional outcome were evaluated at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. RESULTS: There were 42 patients in group A and 35 patients in group B available for analysis. There was no difference in functional outcome between the groups. In group A, the mean total radiographic change score of the humerus was 3.9, with changes classified as low in 38% and high in 62%. In group B, the mean total radiographic change score of the humerus was 2.5, with changes classified as low in 77% and high in 23% (P < .001). Medial calcar osteolysis was present in 71% of group A compared with 28.5% of group B (P < .001). CONCLUSION: At short-term follow-up, there is no difference in functional outcome or revision between 2 different humeral stem designs. However, bone adaptive changes and the rate of medial calcar osteolysis are significantly different.

Ultrasonic Percutaneous Tenotomy of Common Extensor Tendons for Recalcitrant Lateral Epicondylitis.

Tennis elbow is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting middle-aged patients with symptoms usually lasting from 6 months to 2 years. The vast majority of individuals will respond to conservative therapy; however, some will require surgical intervention. A new treatment system has been developed for use with ultrasound guidance in the ultrasonic microresection of tendinopathic tissue. This technology has been implemented in the TX1 Tissue Removal System and is used to treat various tendinopathies by debridement using targeted ultrasonic energy. We describe the surgical technique for the TX1 system as well as provide pain and functional outcome scores for a series of patients with recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis treated with percutaneous tenotomy with ultrasonic energy utilizing ultrasound guidance.

Functional Outcome and Healing of Large and Massive Rotator Cuff Tears Repaired With a Load-Sharing Rip-Stop Construct.

PURPOSE: To prospectively review functional outcomes and healing rates of large and massive rotator cuff tears repaired with a load-sharing rip-stop (LSRS) technique. METHODS: Twenty-one consecutive patients underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with an LSRS construct between January and December 2014. Seventeen patients with a minimum of 2 years' follow-up were included. Four patients did not complete clinical evaluations and functional outcome scores at a minimum of 2 years' follow-up and were lost to follow-up. Ultrasound imaging was used to assess for rotator cuff healing at a minimum of 6 months postoperatively. Range of motion, strength, and functional outcome scores were evaluated at final follow-up. RESULTS: Mean active forward elevation improved from 109° preoperatively to 153° postoperatively, and mean supraspinatus strength improved by 1 strength grade, from 3.5 preoperatively to 4.4 postoperatively. When we compared preoperative and postoperative values, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 40.8 to 89.5, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score improved from 32.8 to 83.1, the Simple Shoulder Test score improved from 3.8 to 10.3, and the pain score on a visual analog scale decreased from 4.8 to 0.8 (P < .001). Of 17 patients, 13 (82%) were satisfied with their outcomes. Ultrasound evaluation 6 months after surgery showed complete healing in 53%, partial healing in 29%, and no healing in 18%. CONCLUSIONS: The LSRS construct showed satisfactory functional outcomes with reasonable healing rates in an otherwise challenging subset of rotator cuff tears. This construct may be an alternative for tears not amenable to double-row repair. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Five- to ten-year follow-up with a partially cemented all-polyethylene bone-ingrowth glenoid component.

BACKGROUND: Although total shoulder arthroplasty has demonstrated better clinical outcomes than hemiarthroplasty, glenoid component loosening is a common complication. Recently, a novel partially cemented all-polyethylene fluted central peg bone-ingrowth component was introduced. METHODS: Forty-two consecutive total shoulder arthroplasties from 2003 to 2007 performed by a single surgeon were evaluated radiographically and clinically with American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores and range of motion. RESULTS: The average follow-up was 80 months (63-114); the average forward elevation improved from 107° to 137°, and external rotation improved from 30° to 37° at the latest follow-up. The average ASES score improved from 50 to 84. There was a strong correlation with the mean peripheral peg lucent line score (Lazarus score), which was 0.81, with the mean anchor peg lucent line score, which was 0.50 (P < .001). An analysis of polyethylene before and after cross-linking revealed a strong correlation between components with cross-linking and the Lazarus scores and the central fluted peg scores. Overall, there was 97% survivorship at 80 months. On radiographs, 81% of the central fluted pegs had complete incorporation with no lucent lines. These lucent lines correlated with lower ASES scores, suggesting that loosening of the glenoid decreases functional outcome. CONCLUSION: Care should be taken in preparing the central fluted peg as perforation of the vault can lead to central flute peg lucent line formation, whereas perforation of the peripheral pegs does not seem to negatively affect the outcome.

Functional and radiographic long-term outcomes of hemiarthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures.

BACKGROUND: Hemiarthroplasty is the preferred surgical procedure for 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures. Our retrospective study examined functional and radiographic outcomes at 2- and 5-year follow-up in patients who received a hemiarthroplasty for 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-seven consecutive patients of a single surgeon treated with a cemented shoulder hemiarthroplasty between 2000 and 2006 were followed up. Standard surgical technique was used in all cases. Postoperative radiographs were compared with radiographs at 2 and 5 years along with active range of motion and functional outcomes scores. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients were examined at 2 years and twenty-two at 2 and 5 years. The mean age was 61 years. The mean acromiohumeral distance decreased from 10.3 mm postoperatively to 8.5 mm at 2 years and 6.7 mm at 5 years (P ≤ .001). More patients had stem osteolysis and tuberosity reabsorption at 2 and 5 years compared with postoperatively (P = .016 and P ≤ .001, respectively). The University of California, Los Angeles score decreased from 26.0 to 22.3 (P = .045); the Constant score decreased from 61.1 to 50.1 (P = .01); the Simple Shoulder Test 12 score decreased from 7.7 to 6.2 (P = .018); and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score decreased from 70.4 to 58.8 (P = .015). Pain scores increased from 2- to 5-year follow-up (P = .018). The range-of-motion measures changed little from the 2-to 5-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Hemiarthroplasty has a high rate of long-term complications. Increases in acromiohumeral distance, stem osteolysis, and tuberosity reabsorption were observed between 2- and 5-year follow-up. Pain scores and functional outcomes worsened. No improvement in range of motion was observed.