Reverse total shoulder replacement for patients with "weight-bearing" shoulders.

BACKGROUND: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) has gained popularity in recent years and is indicated for a wide variety of shoulder pathologies. However, use of rTSA in patients with "weight-bearing" shoulders that support wheelchair use or crutches has higher risk. The aim of this study was to assess the results of rTSA in such patients. METHODS: Between 2005 and 2014, 24 patients (30 shoulders) with weight-bearing shoulders were treated with rTSA at our unit. Patients had cuff arthropathy (n=21), rheumatoid arthritis (n=3), osteoarthritis (n=1), acute fracture (n=3), or fracture sequela (n=2). Postoperatively, patients were advised not to push themselves up and out of their wheelchair for 6 weeks. This study was performed in 2016, and 21 patients (27 shoulders) were available for a mean follow-up of 5.6 years (range, 2-10 years). The mean age at surgery was 78 years (range, 54-90 years). RESULTS: Constant-Murley score improved from 9.4 preoperatively to 59.8 at the final follow-up (P=0.001). Pain score improved from 2/15 to 13.8/15 (P=0.001). Patient satisfaction (Subjective Shoulder Value) improved from 0.6/10 to 8.7/10 (P=0.001). Significant improvement in mean range of motion from 46° to 130° of elevation, 14° to 35° of external rotation, and 29° to 78° internal rotation was recorded (P=0.001). Final mean Activities of Daily Living External and Internal Rotation was 32.4/36. Only three patients showed Sirveaux-Nerot grade-1 (10%) glenoid notching and three grade 2 (10%). CONCLUSIONS: rTSA can be used for treatment of patients with weight-bearing shoulders. Such patients reported pain free movement, resumed daily activities, and high satisfaction rates. Level of evidence: IV.

Medical cannabis treatment for chronic pain: Outcomes and prediction of response.

BACKGROUND: Although studied in a few randomized controlled trials, the efficacy of medical cannabis (MC) for chronic pain remains controversial. Using an alternative approach, this multicentre, questionnaire-based prospective cohort was aimed to assess the long-term effects of MC on chronic pain of various aetiologies and to identify predictors for MC treatment success. METHODS: Patients with chronic pain, licensed to use MC in Israel, reported weekly average pain intensity (primary outcome) and related symptoms before and at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months following MC treatment initiation. A general linear model was used to assess outcomes and identify predictors for treatment success (≥30% reduction in pain intensity). RESULTS: A total of 1,045 patients completed the baseline questionnaires and initiated MC treatment, and 551 completed the 12-month follow-up. At 1 year, average pain intensity declined from baseline by 20% [-1.97 points (95%CI = -2.13 to -1.81; p < 0.001)]. All other parameters improved by 10%-30% (p < 0.001). A significant decrease of 42% [reduction of 27 mg; (95%CI = -34.89 to 18.56, p < 0.001)] from baseline in morphine equivalent daily dosage of opioids was also observed. Reported adverse effects were common but mostly non-serious. Presence of normal to long sleep duration, lower body mass index and lower depression score predicted relatively higher treatment success, whereas presence of neuropathic pain predicted the opposite. CONCLUSIONS: This prospective study provides further evidence for the effects of MC on chronic pain and related symptoms, demonstrating an overall mild-to-modest long-term improvement of the tested measures and identifying possible predictors for treatment success.

Recurrent rotator cuff tear: is ultrasound imaging reliable?

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS: The diagnostic workup of the painful shoulder after rotator cuff repair (RCR) can be quite challenging. The aim of this study was to assess the reliability of ultrasonography (US) for the detection of recurrent rotator cuff tears in patients with shoulder pain after RCR. We hypothesized that US for the diagnosis of recurrent rotator cuff tear after RCR would not prove to be reliable when compared with surgical arthroscopic confirmation (gold standard). METHODS: In this cohort study (diagnosis), we retrospectively analyzed the data of 39 patients with shoulder pain after arthroscopic RCR who had subsequently undergone US, followed by revision arthroscopy. The rotator cuff was evaluated first using US for the presence of retears. Thereafter, revision arthroscopy was performed, and the diagnosis was either established or disproved. The sensitivity and specificity of US were assessed in reference to revision arthroscopy (gold standard). RESULTS: A rotator cuff retear was indicated by US in 21 patients (54%) and by revision arthroscopy in 26 patients (67%). US showed a sensitivity of 80.8% and specificity of 100% in the diagnosis of rotator cuff retears. Omission of partial rotator cuff retears resulted in a spike in sensitivity to 94.7%, with 100% specificity remaining. CONCLUSION: US imaging is a highly sensitive and specific test for the detection of recurrent rotator cuff tears, as confirmed by revision arthroscopy, in patients with a painful shoulder after primary RCR.

Manipulation under anaesthetic for frozen shoulder using Codman's paradox: a safe and early return of function.

PURPOSE: Although previously frozen shoulder was thought to resolve by two to three years, recent studies demonstrated the symptoms can remain for much longer. Manipulation under anaesthetic (MUA) has been shown to be successful in relieving pain and restoring function. Yet, concerns have been raised regarding its safety and the risks of complications. We utilise Codman's paradox to manipulate the shoulder, avoiding rotational torque on the humerus. The aim of our study was to asses shoulder function in the early post MUA period. METHODS: Two hundred twelve consecutive patients (224 shoulders) (mean age 52.4 years) underwent MUA using Codman's paradox for frozen shoulder as sole procedure between 2005 and 2013. All were evaluated clinically, preoperatively and postoperatively, at three weeks and three months, for Constant score (CS), pain, range of motion (ROM), patient satisfaction and subjective shoulder value (SSV). RESULTS: At three weeks and three months, a significant improvement was found in CS from 30.7 to 66 and 70 respectively. Forward elevation improved from 91° to 154° and 160 °, abduction from 69° to 150° and 156 °, internal rotation from 12° to 62° and 66 °, and external rotation from 10° to 46° and 50 °. Pain score improved from 4.4/15 to 9.6/15 and 10.4/15, SSV improved from 1.5/10 to 6.5/10 and 6.7/10. (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Use of Codman's paradox provides a safe and efficient way to perform MUA for frozen shoulder. It results in dramatic early improvement in ROM, functional outcomes and high satisfaction, as early as three weeks post-operatively.

Bilateral reverse total shoulder arthroplasty-functional outcome and activities of daily living.

BACKGROUND: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) has gained popularity in recent years, providing good shoulder elevation, yet less predictable rotations. Good rotations are crucial for performance of activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene. Concerns remain regarding bilateral rTSA over lack of rotations bilaterally and resultant difficulties with ADLs. This study examined the outcome of patients with bilateral rTSA in restoration of function and ADLs. METHODS: Data were prospectively collected for 19 patients (15 women, 4 men; 38 shoulders), with a mean age of 74.5 years, who underwent staged bilateral rTSA between 2007 and 2013. Mean follow-up was 48.4 months (range, 24-75 months). Patients were evaluated clinically using the Constant score, patient's satisfaction, Subjective Shoulder Value, and the Activities of Daily Living External and Internal Rotations (ADLEIR) score. Video clips were also recorded for documentation at all visits. RESULTS: Mean duration between staged operations was 18.2 months (range, 3-46 months). The Constant score improved from 18.7 to 65.1 points (age- and sex-adjusted, 100.2). Elevation improved from 57.5° to 143°, internal rotation (IR) from 9° to 81° (30 shoulders could reach above the sacroiliac joint), and external rotation (ER) from 20° to 32° (35 shoulders had >20° ER in adduction, 31 shoulders had full ER in elevation). The Subjective Shoulder Value improved from 2.1 of 10 to 9.2 of 10. Mean ADLEIR score was 33 of 36 (P < .001 for all). Most patients resumed their leisure and sport activities (gardening, golf, swimming, bowling). CONCLUSION: Bilateral rTSA results in marked and predictable improvement in all movements, pain relief, and functional outcomes, with high patient satisfaction and high ADLEIR score. All patients were able to perform perineal hygiene after their rTSA. Most patients had no limitation in ADLs and their leisure activities.

Complications of Hip Arthroscopy: Patient Perspectives.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, hip arthroscopy has rapidly evolved, offering patients evidence-based interventions with the merits of minimally invasive surgery and a relatively short rehabilitation period. Although considered a safe procedure, hip arthroscopy has associated complications that may be underreported depending on how patients are asked about their complications. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate hip arthroscopy complications from the patient's perspective. METHODS: Between February 2006 and April 2010, a total of 78 consecutive patients underwent arthroscopy of the hip by a single surgeon. A questionnaire was created that included questions regarding demographic data, functional data, and the patient's opinion as to the operation's indications, subjective evaluation of the success of the procedure, and the presence of specific complications. Patients were asked about the presence of specific complications rather than being asked about the presence of any complication in general. RESULTS: Sixty-two patients participated. The mean time postsurgery was 27.9 months (range = 5-55 months). Main indications for surgery were correction of femoroacetabular impingement in 31 (50%) patients. Mean surgery time was 1.2 hours (range = 0.5-2.43 hours), mean postoperative modified Harris hip score (MHHS) was 76.2 (range = 15-100), and mean postoperative pain score was 4 (range = 2-10). Fifteen (24%) patients reported complications after surgery, with 20 complications reported overall (32%). Eight (12.9%) patients reported transient neuropraxias. No significant differences were found between patients reporting complications and patients not reporting complications in terms of age, gender distribution, surgery time, visual analog scale score, MHHS, and time from surgery. CONCLUSIONS: When patients are asked a general question, whether they suffer from any complications, they tend to underreport the presence of such complications. Complete and comprehensive interviews of the patient may give us a better understanding of the true incidence of complications.

Revision shoulder arthroplasty: does the stem really matter?

BACKGROUND: The management of a failed shoulder arthroplasty represents a complex and difficult problem for the treating surgeon, with potential difficulties and complications that are related to the need to remove a well-fixed stem. The aim of this study is to compare the intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, and outcome of revisions from stemmed arthroplasties (STAs) with those from surface replacement arthroplasties (SRAs). METHODS: From 2005 to 2012, 40 consecutive revision shoulder arthroplasties were performed at our institute: 17 from STAs and 23 from SRAs. Perioperative events, operation time, blood loss, intraoperative fractures, and use of structural allograft were recorded. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Operation time, need for humeral osteotomy, need for structural allograft, and number of intraoperative fractures were significantly higher in the STA group. Blood loss, drop in hemoglobin level, need for blood transfusion, and hospitalization time were also higher in the STA group, but these differences were not statistically significant. Reoperation was performed in 3 patients in the SRA group. A significant clinical improvement was observed in both groups. The Constant score was higher in the SRA group. CONCLUSION: Revision of STAs is a more demanding procedure. The postoperative complication rate was slightly higher in the SRA group. The group with revision of SRAs showed slightly better clinical and radiographic results, but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups.

Surface replacement arthroplasty for glenohumeral arthropathy in patients aged younger than fifty years: results after a minimum ten-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The role of cementless surface replacement arthroplasty (CSRA) in young individuals is currently unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate CSRA long-term results for glenohumeral arthritis in young patients. METHODS: Between 1990 and 2003, 54 CSRAs were performed on 49 patients (25 men, 24 women) aged younger than 50 years. Mean age was 38.9 years (range, 22-50 years). Three patients (4 shoulders) died over time and 8 were lost to follow-up, leaving 38 patients (42 shoulders) with a mean follow-up of 14.5 years (range, 10-25 years). There were 17 total shoulder replacements with metal back glenoid, and 37 underwent humeral head resurfacing with microfracture of the glenoid. RESULTS: The indications were avascular necrosis, 16; rheumatoid arthritis, 20; instability arthropathy, 7; primary osteoarthritis, 5; fracture sequelae, 3; postinfection arthritis, 2; and psoriatic arthritis, 1. The mean relative Constant score increased from 11.5% to 71.8% (P < .0001), and the mean patient satisfaction at final follow-up was 8.7 of 10. The mean relative Constant score for the humeral head resurfacing with microfracture of the glenoid improved to 77.7% compared with 58.1% for total resurfacing arthroplasty. Two required early arthrodesis due to instability and deep infection. Seven were revised to stemmed prosthesis: 1 for traumatic fracture and 1 for glenoid erosion 16 years after the index procedure. Five shoulders in 4 patients (4 rheumatoid arthritis, 1 avascular necrosis) were revised at 8 to 14 years after surgery for cuff failure and loosening. Three were revised to stemless reverse total shoulder arthroplasty due to rotator cuff failure at 23, 16, and 13 years after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: CSRA provides good long-term symptomatic and functional results in the treatment of glenohumeral arthropathy in patients aged younger than 50 years in 81.6% of the patients. This improvement is maintained over more than 10 years after surgery, with high patient satisfaction (8.7 of 10). However, 10 shoulders (of 54) (18.5%) underwent revision arthroplasty. Resurfacing offers a valuable tool in treating young patients with glenohumeral arthritis, providing reasonably good long-term results in 81.6% of the patients, while allowing preservation of bone stock if the need for revision arises. All the revision arthroplasty options are preserved, including less invasive procedures.

Arthroscopic bankart repair: accessory posterior portal with slotted cannula for lowest capsulolabral access.

We present a novel technique for safe establishment of the accessory posterior portal using a slotted cannula. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a common procedure. A variety of arthroscopic techniques have been described in the literature, commonly using the posterior portal for visualization and the anterior portal with a working cannula. The accessory posterior portal enables elegant access to the lower part of the capsulolabral junction, a firmer grasp and mobilization of the tissue, quick and easy tool exchange using a slotted cannula, and clearer suture placement because of the flat, direct working angle. The skin incision is made small without the need for an arthroscopic cannula, and the portal location is in a relatively safe zone. The use of the accessory posterior portal along with a slotted cannula shortens the duration of the operative procedure and improves safety and performance.

Hip arthroscopy: an emerging technique and indications.

Hip arthroscopy is one of the most rapidly evolving arthroscopy techniques. It combines the benefits of a minimally invasive procedure and a short rehabilitation period. Improved instrumentation and technical skills have advanced our ability to accurately diagnose and treat various conditions. The role of this procedure continues to evolve with new indications that might change the outcome of degenerative joint disease of the hip joint. Hip arthroscopy is indicated for both traumatic and atraumatic intra and extra-articular conditions. Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is increasingly recognized as a disorder that can lead to progressive articular chondral and labral injury. A variety of arthroscopic techniques allows the treatment of labral and acetabular rim pathology as well as peripheral compartment femoral head-neck abnormalities. It is now recognized that labral tears that were traditionally treated with simple debridement are often associated with underlying FAI. Hip arthroscopy is also being used for surgery to the structures surrounding the hip as snapping hip syndromes, greater trochanteric pain syndrome, and arthroscopic repair of abductor tendon tears. Better understanding of the arthroscopic anatomy, improved operative techniques, lowered complication rate and objective outcome measuring tools will further define the optimal role of hip arthroscopy and improve its outcome.

Risk factors and perinatal outcome of pregnancies complicated with cephalopelvic disproportion: a population-based study.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize risk factors and perinatal outcome following cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD). METHODS: A retrospective population-based study comparing all singleton deliveries of women with and without CPD, between 1988 and 2010, was conducted. A multiple logistic regression model was used to control for confounders. RESULTS: Out of 242,520 patients, 0.3% (n = 673) were diagnosed with CPD. Using a multivariable analysis, the following obstetric risk factors were significantly associated with CPD: fetal macrosomia (birth weight above 4 kg, OR = 3.3, 95% CI 2.7-4.1, P < 0.001), infertility treatment (OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.8-3.8, P < 0.001), previous caesarean delivery (OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.9-2.7, P < 0.001), maternal obesity (OR = 2.1, 95% 1.3-3.4, P < 0.001), and polyhydramnios (OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.3-2.3, P < 0.001). Deliveries complicated by CPD resulted in Caesarean delivery in 99%, and were more likely to have laceration of the cervix (1.2 vs. 0.3%, P < 0.001), rupture of uterus (0.4 vs. 0.1%, P < 0.001), intrapartum mortality (0.6 vs. 0.1% in control, P < 0.001), and low 1-min Apgar scores (<7; 27.2 vs. 6.5%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In our population, independent risk factors for CPD include fetal macrosomia, infertility treatment, previous caesarean delivery, maternal obesity and polyhydramnion. These pregnancies had higher rates of adverse perinatal outcomes and accordingly high index of suspicion should be pursued when commencing trial of labor of such pregnancies.