Transtibial versus anteromedial transportal femoral tunnel in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective randomized controlled trials.

The purpose of this study was to systematically review and meta-analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the comparative clinical and functional outcomes, postoperative complications, and radiological outcomes of single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) performed using the transtibial (TT) approach or anteromedial (AM) technique. A systematic review of the literature was performed according to Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. RCTs comparing TT and AM techniques were considered only. The quality of the studies was defined using the GRADE system, and the risk of bias was assessed with the RoB 2 tool. The primary endpoint was to systematically review and meta-analyze the clinical outcomes, residual laxity and failure rate of both AM and TT techniques. In the current meta-analysis 13 RCTs involving 989 patients who underwent arthroscopic single-bundle ACLR (486 TT and 503 AM) were included. Patients undergoing AM technique resulted in higher objective-IKDC (p < 0.001) and Lysholm scores (p = 0.002), despite a lower incidence of pathological anterior tibial translation (p < 0.001) and positive pivot-shift test (p < 0.001). No differences were detected in IKDC subjective score (p = 0.26), Tegner activity scale (p = 0.18) and graft failure (p = 0.07). ACL reconstruction through AM portal technique provides better clinical outcomes and lower incidence of residual rotational and anteroposterior laxity in comparison with the TT technique. No statistically significant difference in subjective outcomes and graft failure was reported.

A modified Frosch approach for posterior tibial plateau fractures: Technical note and case series.

Achieving the best possible articular congruity following a tibial plateau (TP) fracture is associated with better long-term functional outcomes; TP has an essential role in the movements of the knee joint and is well established that a not optimal reduction leads to articular instability and early osteoarthritis. In recent times, 3D reconstruction from CT scan has greatly contributed to improve the surgical treatment of these fractures since an accurate preoperative plan gives the possibility to decide the best interventional strategy before the surgical incision. Reduction of the posterior part of tibial plateau is not easily achievable with standard surgical access. Several posterolateral approaches, proposed by authors such as Frosch and Lobenhoffer, have been described over the years; these approaches can be divided into 2 groups: with or without osteotomy of the fibula. Main disadvantages of these techniques are the large skin incision, the difficulty of exposing the lateral part of the tibia, the high frequency of damages of the posterolateral TP corner, and in some cases the necessity of performing fibular head osteotomy. The surgical approach presented in this paper is a simple innovation of the well-known Frosch approach: skin incision is about 12 centimeters in length and runs in a "S" shape with the center positioned over the head of the fibula. It starts 2 centimeters laterally to the tibial crest 6 centimeters below the tibial tuberosity and is directed proximally, curving posteriorly at the level of fibular head and returning straight in the most proximal part; it terminates 4 centimeters posteriorly the lateral femoral condyle. This innovative approach allows the trauma surgeon to achieve an optimal exposure and control of posterior tibial plateau fractures, with the great advantage of being able to treat the lateral tibial plateau with the same surgical incision.

Management of prosthetic joint infections: a guidelines comparison.

BACKGROUND: In the last decade, the number of prosthetic joint replacements has been rising each year and this growing trend is related to the increased number of prosthetic joint infections (PJI). As PJI represent a devastating condition for the patient, physicians must identify the best treatment option for each case. Guidelines are not always clear regarding the most appropriate therapy pathway as they differ in many parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aim of this article is to compare the different indications as reported by four major Academic Societies: the Infectious Disease Society of America, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) which published the guideline in partnership with the European Bone And Joint Infection Society. CONCLUSIONS: PJI Guidelines differ in many parameters, therefore the choice of treatment for each case does not appear immediate; it would be desirable that, in the next few years, new scientific evidence will help clarify the indications of the most effective therapeutic protocols for PJI to determine the ultimate surgical strategy for every single patient.

Safety and tolerability of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (Sinovial®/GELSYN-3tm) injections in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressively degenerative joint disease, with a very high prevalence rate that is expected to increase worldwide with the ageing of the population. Considering that OA requires long-term treatment, therapies with minimal side effects and which can be repeated as needed are warranted. Hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural glycosaminoglycan with viscoelastic properties, is a major component of synovial fluid and the extracellular matrix of the joint cartilage, and plays key roles in maintaining synovial fluid viscosity and the bio-mechanical integrity of healthy cartilage. Intra-articular administration of exogenous HA has therefore been used to successfully improve the viscoelastic properties of the joint to improve lubrication, modulate inflammation and modify the catabolic micro-environment. Sinovial®/GELSYN-3TM is a sterile, non-pyrogenic formulation of highly purified, chemically unmodified HA of bio-fermentative origin, which has been introduced in several different concentrations in clinical use within the European market. This expert opinion reports on the published data regarding the efficacy and tolerability of first and multiple injection series of Sinovial®-based product formulations. The data regarding the tolerability of Sinovial® in patients with knee osteoarthritis were analyzed, showing that this formulation, beside favourable therapeutic effects, has a very good tolerability profile, with only mild, transient, and easily managed, local injection-site reactions and absence of systemic reactions. In particular, repetitive cycles of HA have been shown to yield positive results in terms of both efficacy and safety and therefore should be offered to patients who had undergone a successful first course of therapy when their symptoms reoccur.

Spontaneous rupture of the digital extensor tendons of the hand in unrecognized carpal lunatefracture.

Spontaneous rupture of the digital extensor tendons of the hand has been reported after Kienbocks disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Vaughan-Jackson syndrome, distal radial fracture. Rupture may also occur as a consequence of unrecognized carpal lunate fracture. We present a case report of a man affected with spontaneous rupture of the digital extensor tendons secondary to unrecognized carpal lunate fracture with partial dorsal dislocation. The edges of the tendon were debrided and sutured using a locked modified Kessler suture. A dynamic splinting cast was applied in moderate extension of the wrist. The aim of this case report is to highlight that in absence of a clear etiology for rupture of the extensor tendons of the hand, carpal lunate fracture, though rare, is an important cause of spontaneous extensor tendons rupture.

La ruptura espontánea de tendones extensores digitales de la mano ha sido reportado después de la enfermedad de Kienböck, artritis reumatoide, síndrome de Jackson Vaughan, fractura del radio distal. La lesión del tendón también puede ocurrir como consecuencia de la fractura no reconocida de carpal semilunar. En este artículo, se presenta un caso de un hombre que sufre de rotura espontánea del tendón extensor digital secundaria a fractura semilunar no reconocida de los huesos del carpo con luxación dorsal del fragmento parcial. Los bordes del tendón se han limpiado y se sutura usando una sutura de Kessler. Un refuerzo dinámico se aplicó en extensión moderada de la muñeca. El propósito de este caso clínico es poner de relieve que, en ausencia de una etiología clara de la ruptura de los tendones extensores de la mano, una fractura de los huesos del carpo semilunar puede ser una causa importante de la ruptura espontánea de los tendones extensores de la mano.

Risk factors associated to bilateral rotator cuff tears.

INTRODUCTION: Overuse, micro-traumas, and impingement, isolated or combined, are the more common etiological factors for rotator cuff tears. Metabolic disorders (diabetes, adiposity, hypercholesterolemia), hypertension, cigarette smoking and a genetic predisposition are considered risk factors. However, no study has compared the prevalence of these risk factors in subjects with bilateral and monolateral tears. HYPOTHESIS: Controlateral tears can be observed in patients with symptomatic monolateral rotator cuff lesions, especially in those with comorbidities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In patients with symptomatic rotator cuff tear, the controlateral shoulders were evaluated by means of ultrasound imaging. Age, BMI, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, cigarette smoking, work habits were registered. Risk factors in subjects with bilateral tears were compared with those with monolateral lesions. RESULTS: Of the 180 subjects recruited, 69 had a tear in the controlateral shoulder. Higher age and BMI values, heavy repetitive work and diabetes were significantly prevalent in these patients. At multivariate analysis, these factors were independently related to a higher probability to detect bilateral tears. DISCUSSION: Metabolic risk factors are more heavily involved in presence of bilateral rotator cuff tears, in comparison to monolateral. TYPE OF STUDY: Original study. LEVEL OF PROOF: IV.

Spontaneous rupture of the digital extensor tendons of the hand in unrecognized carpal lunatefracture / Ruptura espontánea de los tendones extensores de los dedos de la mano en una fractura oculta del semilunar

Abstract: Spontaneous rupture of the digital extensor tendons of the hand has been reported after Kienbock's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Vaughan-Jackson' syndrome, distal radial fracture. Rupture may also occur as a consequence of unrecognized carpal lunate fracture. We present a case report of a man affected with spontaneous rupture of the digital extensor tendons secondary to unrecognized carpal lunate fracture with partial dorsal dislocation. The edges of the tendon were debrided and sutured using a locked modified Kessler suture. A dynamic splinting cast was applied in moderate extension of the wrist. The aim of this case report is to highlight that in absence of a clear etiology for rupture of the extensor tendons of the hand, carpal lunate fracture, though rare, is an important cause of spontaneous extensor tendons rupture.

Resumen: La ruptura espontánea de tendones extensores digitales de la mano ha sido reportado después de la enfermedad de Kienböck, artritis reumatoide, síndrome de Jackson Vaughan, fractura del radio distal. La lesión del tendón también puede ocurrir como consecuencia de la fractura no reconocida de carpal semilunar. En este artículo, se presenta un caso de un hombre que sufre de rotura espontánea del tendón extensor digital secundaria a fractura semilunar no reconocida de los huesos del carpo con luxación dorsal del fragmento parcial. Los bordes del tendón se han limpiado y se sutura usando una sutura de Kessler. Un refuerzo dinámico se aplicó en extensión moderada de la muñeca. El propósito de este caso clínico es poner de relieve que, en ausencia de una etiología clara de la ruptura de los tendones extensores de la mano, una fractura de los huesos del carpo semilunar puede ser una causa importante de la ruptura espontánea de los tendones extensores de la mano.

Anatomy, pathophysiology and classification of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

OBJECTIVE: Adult acquired flatfoot deformity is generally associated with a collapsing medial longitudinal arch and a progressive loss of strength of the posterior tibial tendon (PTT). This condition is commonly associated with PTT dysfunction or rupture, which can have an arthritic or a traumatic etiology. Several causes have been proposed to explain the clinical evidence of tendon degeneration observed at the time of surgery including trauma, anatomical, mechanical, inflammatory and ischemic factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this review, we analyzed anatomy, pathophysiology and existing classifications of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. RESULTS: Anatomical features, and in particular vascularization, expose PTT to major degenerative disorders until rupture. A literature overview showed that a low blood supply of the gliding part of the tendon is linked to a dysfunction and/or a rupture of the PTT in the region located behind the medial malleolus. CONCLUSIONS: PTT low blood supply causes a dysfunction resulting in an abnormal loading of the foot's medial structures. This may be the reason why PTT dysfunction leads to an acquired flatfoot deformity. Conversely, flatfoot deformity may be a predisposing factor for the onset of PTT dysfunction.

Amniotic fluid stem cells: an ideal resource for therapeutic application in bone tissue engineering.

OBJECTIVE: Skeletal diseases, both degenerative and secondary to trauma, infections or tumors, represent an ideal target for regenerative medicine and in the last years, stem cells have been considered as good candidates for in vitro and in vivo bone regeneration. To date, several stem cell sources, such as adult mesenchymal stem cells, embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), have shown significant osteogenic potential. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this narrative review, we analyze the possible advantages of the use of AFSCs in the treatment of skeletal diseases, especially through the application of tissue engineering and biomaterials. RESULTS: Among the different sources of stem cells, great attention has been recently devoted to amniotic fluid-derived stem cells (AFSC) characterized by high renewal capacity and ability to differentiate along several different lineages. CONCLUSIONS: Due to these features, AFSCs represent an interesting model for regenerative medicine, also considering their low immunogenicity and the absence of tumor formation after transplantation in nude mice.

Ultrasound-guided Percutaneous Lavage in the Treatment of Calcific Tendinopathy of Elbow Extensor Tendons: A Case Report.

We report the efficacy of the ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment in the management of elbow extensor tendons calcific tendinopathy. The ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment is broadly used with positive results in patients suffering from rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy. However, this interventional method has been reported only in one patient in the medical literature. A 34 years-old female who complained pain, swelling and severe functional limitation of the right elbow was referred to our unit. Elbow radiographs and ultrasound examination showed a soft-fluid calcification above the origin of the extensor tendons. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous treatment was therefore performed. After one year, the patient reported no pain and regained complete range of elbow motion. This method, in well trained hands, is an alternative treatment in the management of the uncommon elbow calcific deposit.

The effect of hydroxyapatite coated screw in the lateral fragility fractures of the femur. A prospective randomized clinical study.

Due to a growing numbers of lateral fragility fractures of the femur and their high social costs the need to work out an effective strategy in order to find a better solution for these patients is warranted. From January 2010 to July 2011, we carried out a prospective randomized clinical study comparing the results of patients with femoral lateral fractures treated by nail and cephalic hydroxyapatite coated screws (study group including 27 patients) compared to the patients with the same fractures treated with nail and head standard screws (control group including 27 patients). We defined the two parts of the femoral neck as ROI 1 (under the head screw) and ROI 2 (above the femoral screw) on the AP view. The bone density of the two areas was calculated using DEXA at T0 (1st day post-surgery), at T1 (40th day post-surgery), at T2 (3 months later), at T3 (1 year later). The clinical-radiography evaluations were based on the Harris Hip Score (HHS), ADL test and x-ray views of the hip. As far as the bone mineral density average of ROI 1 and ROI 2 is concerned, we found a significant statistical increase at T1 and T3 in the study group, while it was not significant in the control group. We could account for this data through the higher mechanical stability of hydroxyapatite coated screws than standard screws. In fact, this material was responsible for improved implant osteointegration. Thanks to a 1 year follow-up we were able to demonstrate the implant utility associated with augmentation and the importance of densitometry exams such as easily repeatable and low cost diagnostics to prevent the onset of complications linked to screw loosening.

First case report of vanadium metallosis after ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty.

The development of metallosis as a complication following rupture of a hip replacement is known to occur as a result of contact with metal components of the prosthesis (1).In such cases, high cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr) and molybdenum (Mo) levels in the blood have been reported by several Authors (2).Recently, it has been stressed that the clinical investigation should focus on general reactions to high circulating metal levels, such as toxicity for the central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system (3).Despite the increasing interest of literature in ceramic-on-ceramic hip arthroplasty (4),little is known about these complications, and in particular of metallosis. To our knowledge this is the first description of a condition of extensive metallosis and radiographic signs presenting as a result of wear of a ceramic-on-ceramic prosthesis.

Interleukin-9 and mast cells.

Mast cells are granulated hematopoietic cells derived from stem cells that reside in nearly all tissues and are involved in protection of a host from bacterial infection with a protective and pathogenic activity. Mast cells are important for both innate and adaptive immunity in tissues which are in close contact with the environment. These cells express proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor which are necessary for innate immunity. Mast cells also produce interleukin-9 and enhance mast cell expression of several cytokines including IL-1beta, IL-5, IL-6, IL-9 and IL-13. In addition, IL-9 can induce mast cell production of TGF-beta which can have proinflammatory downstream effects. IL-9 can function as either a positive or a negative regulator of immune responses and can have a detrimental role in allergy and autoimmunity. Furthermore, IL-9 contributes to disease by promoting mast cell expansion and production of IL-13 which in turn contributes to airway hyperresponsiveness. Here, in this editorial we review the interrelationship between IL-9 and mast cells.

Nutrition and cancer prevention.

Cancer cells invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites. Diet high in fat is a strong link to, and perhaps causes, a high incidence of tumours. Trans-fatty acid might impair the function and it could be involved in the development of cancer. Cholesterol is also strongly suspected to be involved in the development of tumours, therefore it is important for everyone to eat well, especially for people with cancer to prevent the body tissues from breaking down and helping to rebuild the normal tissue that may have been affected by the treatments. Factors secreted by adipocytes and macrophages such as TNF-alpha and other inflammatory proteins are involved in inflammation in cancer. In addition, MCSF which up-regulates adipocyte tissue is also important for the stimulation of fat cell proliferation and is expressed by human adipocytes. Many cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-32, IL-33 and MCP-1, are biomarkers for cancer and chronic diseases along with transcription factors NFκB and AP-1; these last two factors are important bioactive substances on the molecular mechanism of the control of genes which in turn affect cellular metabolism. In this paper we revisit the interrelationship between cancer and metabolism.

Role of mast cells in innate and adaptive immunity.

Mast cells play a central role in inflammatory and immediate allergic reactions and are necessary for allergic reactions. Mast cells play a role in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases and appear to be especially important in inflamed tissues, because they infiltrate tissues and produce a variety of cytokines. Mast cells are important for both innate and adaptive immunity in tissues that are in close contact with the environment, i.e. the skin, the airways and the lung, and the lining of the intestine. However, there are still many unsolved issues of mast cell functions, including their regulatory mechanism on cell differentiation in bone marrow; for example, the cytokines and transcription factors necessary for their differentiation and expansion, as well as the molecular mechanism underlying basophil migration from the bloodstream to peripheral tissues such as lymph nodes still need to be clarified.

Platelet rich plasma in tendinopathies: how to explain the failure.

Tendinopathies are very common in athletes and in people practicing sport activities. The experimental evidence that growth factors (GFs), present in platelets, enhance the recruitment, proliferation and differentiation of cells involved in tissue regeneration, has prompted the use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) preparations in the treatment of these diseases. However, at present, a sound demonstration of the clinical efficacy of PRP is still lacking. Several theoretical and practical reasons can explain the failure of the treatment: a) animal experiments have been carried out on normal tendons submitted to surgical lesions, and it is questionable whether these models may best mimic human pathology; b) the pathway of chronic tendinopathies is very complex, involving, besides GFs, many other pathogenetic factors, which operate at different stages of the disease; c) several methods have been used to produce PRP, which can result in a large variation in GF content, and in kinetics of release. Therefore, further research is desirable. As a preliminary step, it is necessary to standardize PRP preparation, and to establish the modalities of its activation and administration. Secondly, prospective, randomized, double-blind studies are needed, selecting subjects with homogenous forms of tendinopathies: load-bearing and non-load-bearing tendons, midportion and insertional tendinopathies, with or without neovascularization. Finally, new strategies in PRP use should be exploited: among them, the association of PRP with autologous stem cells or the administration of selective GFs (fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, or anti-angiogenic factors), which could be better options in specific situations.

Endothelial cells, cholesterol, cytokines, and aging.

It has been reported that high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides are associated with increased risk of developing atherosclerosis and shorter life. In fact, vascular endothelial dysfunction occurs during the human aging process. Accumulation of lipids in vascular endothelium activates leukocytes to produce cytokines and chemokines which recruit macrophages. On the other hand, macrophages augment inflammatory response and secrete vascular endothelial growth factor, a key cytokine that mediates angiogenesis and inflammatory response. In addition, hyperlipidaemia is one of the main risk factors for aging, hypertension and diabetes. Here, we review the interrelationship between endothelial cells, high level of cholesterol, and aging.

IL-36 a new member of the IL-1 family cytokines.

Interleukin-36 (IL-36) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine which plays an important role in innate and adaptive immunity. IL-36 activates MAPK and NF-kB pathways and is produced by many different cells. This cytokine is a family member of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and plays an important role in the pathophysiology of several diseases. Here we summarise and review the new aspects of this important pro-inflammatory cytokine.