Incidence and risk factors for shoulder stiffness after open and arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of stiffness during the first 6 months after rotator cuff repair and to evaluate postoperative stiffness with respect to its risk factors and its influence on the outcome at 6 months postoperatively. METHODS: In a prospective cohort of 117 patients (69 women, 48 men; average age 59) from our institutional rotator cuff registry, who underwent either arthroscopic (n = 77) or open (n = 40) rotator cuff repair, we measured shoulder range of motion (ROM) at 3 and 6 months post-surgery. We evaluated the incidence of stiffness and analyzed functional outcomes, comparing various preoperative and intraoperative factors in patients with stiffness to those without at the 6-month mark. RESULTS: Shoulder stiffness was observed in 31% of patients (36/117) at 3 months postoperatively, decreasing to 20% (23/117) at 6 months. No significant link was found between stiffness at 6 months and demographic factors, preoperative stiffness, tear characteristics, or the type of repair. Notably, patients undergoing arthroscopic repair exhibited a 4.3-fold higher risk (OR 4.3; 95% CI 1.2-15.6, p = 0.02) of developing stiffness at 6 months compared to those with mini-open repair. Despite these differences in stiffness rates, no significant variation was seen in the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score, or Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at 6 months between the groups. CONCLUSION: The incidence of postoperative shoulder stiffness following rotator cuff repair was substantial at 31% at 3 months, reducing to 20% by 6 months. Mini-open repair was associated with a lower 6-month stiffness incidence than arthroscopic repair, likely due to variations in rehabilitation protocols. However, the presence of stiffness at 6 months post-surgery did not significantly affect functional outcomes or pain levels.

[Translated article] Postsurgical analgesic efficacy by the intra-articular administration of ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine versus simple ropivacaine in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy.

The effective relief of postsurgical pain in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy is important to allow the initiation of activities of daily living. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the analgesic efficacy of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant added to ropivacaine by the intra-articular route. METHOD: Seventy patients underwent knee arthroscopy which were randomly assigned into two groups (n=35). The RD group received ropivacaine 1.5mg/kg plus dexmedetomidine 1µg/kg intra-articularly. Group R received ropivacaine 1.5mg/kg intra-articularly. The analgesic effect was evaluated by measuring the intensity of pain (VAS score) and the duration of analgesia. RESULTS: A longer duration of the analgesic effect was observed in the RD group (655min) compared to the R group (318min) being statistically significant (p=0.03). CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to intra-articular ropivacaine improves the quality and duration of postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy.

Clinical and demographic factors associated with the effectiveness of temporomandibular joint arthroscopy.

PURPOSE: High success rates and minimal complications have consolidated arthroscopy as the therapeutic alternative of choice for minimally invasive treatment of internal disorders (ID) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). However, there is no certainty regarding the demographic and clinical factors associated with the technique's success or failure. This study was performed to analyze the effectiveness of arthroscopy regarding pain and the mandibular dynamics and also to determine whether variables such as age, sex, and preoperative Wilkes stage influence the results. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted involving 92 patients with ID of the TMJ between September 2017 and February 2020. In all cases, a first stage of intra-articular lysis and lavage was executed. As needed, a phase of operative arthroscopy or arthroscopic discopexy was implemented. RESULTS: A total of 152 arthroscopies were performed. Both the variation in pain and mouth opening in patients with ID of the TMJ treated were statistically significant for the follow-up periods studied. Better results were observed for patients with lower Wilkes stages. No association with age was found. CONCLUSION: Based on the results, we recommend early intervention as soon as an ID in the TMJ is detected.

Intra-abdominal Fluid Extravasation: Is Endoscopic Deep Gluteal Space Exploration a Risk Factor?

BACKGROUND: The extravasation of fluid into the intra-abdominal space is recognized as a possible complication of hip arthroscopic surgery/endoscopy. The exposure of anatomic areas to elevated pump pressures and high volumes of irrigation fluid increases the risk of fluid leakage into anatomic spaces around the hip joint, especially to the abdomen and pelvis. PURPOSE: To estimate the incidence and risk factors related to intra-abdominal fluid extravasation (IAFE) after hip endoscopy or arthroscopic surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: A prospective study was carried out between June 2017 and June 2018. A total of 106 hip procedures (endoscopy or arthroscopic surgery) performed for extra- or intra-articular abnormalities were included. Before and after surgery, in the operating room, ultrasound was performed by a trained anesthesiologist to detect IAFE. The hepatorenal (Morison pouch), splenorenal, retroaortic, suprapubic (longitudinal and transverse), and pleural spaces were examined. Patients were monitored for 3 hours after surgery to assess for abdominal pain. The data collected included maximum pump pressure, duration and volume of irrigation fluid (Ringer lactate), total surgical time, and traction time. RESULTS: The incidence of IAFE was 31.1% (33/106; 95% CI, 23.1%-40.5%). The frequency of IAFE was 52.9% (9/17) in cases with isolated extra-articular abnormalities and 15.9% (7/44) in cases with isolated femoroacetabular impingement; in cases with both extra- and intra-articular abnormalities, the frequency was 37.8% (17/45). An intervention in the subgluteal space was identified as a risk factor for IAFE (odds ratio, 3.62 [95% CI, 1.47-8.85]). There was no statistically significant difference between groups (with vs without IAFE) regarding total surgical time, maximum pump pressure, or fluid volume. Postoperative abdominal pain was found in 36.4% (n = 12) of cases with IAFE compared with 2.7% (n = 2) of cases without extravasation (P < .001). No patient with IAFE developed abdominal compartment syndrome. CONCLUSION: IAFE was a frequent finding after hip arthroscopic surgery/endoscopy in patients with extra-articular abnormalities. Exploration of the subgluteal space may increase the risk of IAFE. Pain and abdominal distension during the immediate postoperative period were early warning signs for IAFE. These results reinforce the need for careful intraoperative and postoperative monitoring by the surgeon and anesthesiologist to identify and avoid complications related to IAFE.

ARTHROSCOPIC TREATMENT FOR LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS: OUTCOMES IN 104 CASES OF A SINGLE INSTITUTION.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes of patients that underwent arthroscopic surgery for lateral epicondylitis (LE), after failed conservative treatment. METHODS: One hundred four patients with LE treated with arthroscopic debridement of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon were enrolled in this retrospective study. They were evaluated using Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scale. Mean age at surgery was 46.9 years. Duration of symptoms was 2.1 years (range: 6 m to 10 yrs.). Mean follow-up was 34.4 months (range: 6 to 68 m). RESULTS: Mean postoperative scores were: 20.67 points on the DASH; 1.8 points on the VAS at rest, with 48 cases (46%) without pain, 40 (38%) with mild pain, 13 (13%) with moderate pain and 4 (4%) with severe pain; 4.7 points on the VAS in activity, with 21 (20%) without pain, 21 (20%) with mild pain, 35 (34%) with moderate pain and 27 (26%) with severe pain; and SF-36 was 66.8 points. Of the 23 patients who practiced sports regularly or with higher physical demand from the upper limbs, 17 (74%) were able to return to the same activity at the same level. No significant complications were observed postoperatively, except for 3 (2.8%) cases of postoperative superficial infection. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment with arthroscopy for recalcitrant LE is effective and safe, presenting positive outcomes in the studied patients. Level of evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados dos pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico artroscópico da epicondilite lateral (EL) refratária depois da falha no tratamento conservador. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 104 pacientes submetidos a desbridamento artroscópico do tendão extensor radial curto do carpo (ERCC) para tratamento de EL. Os pacientes foram avaliados pelo escore de DASH, pela classificação visual analógica de dor (EVA) e pelo Short-Form 36 (SF36). A média da idade foi de 46,9 anos (variação de 30 a 69 anos). O tempo de sintomas foi de 2,1 anos (variação de 6 meses a 10 anos). O seguimento médio foi de 34,4 meses (variação de 6 ­ 68 meses). RESULTADOS: A média dos escores pós-operatórios foi de: 20,67 pontos no DASH; 1,8 pontos no EVA de repouso, sendo 48 (46%) sem dor, 40 (38%) com dor leve, 13 casos (13%) com dor moderada e 4 (4%) com dor intensa; 4,7 pontos no EVA em atividade, sendo 21 (20%) sem dor, 21 (20%) com dores leves, 35 (34%) com dores moderadas e 27 (26%) com dores intensas; e SF-36 de 66,8. Dos 23 pacientes em prática constante de esporte ou com maior demanda física nos membros superiores, 17 (74%) conseguiram retornar ao mesmo nível. Não observamos complicações significativas exceto por 3 (2,8%) casos de infecção pós-operatória superficial. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento artroscópico para EL recalcitrante do cotovelo é eficaz e seguro, apresentando resultados positivos. Nível de Evidencia IV, Série de Casos.

Arthroscopic Treatment of First-Time Shoulder Dislocations in Younger Athletes.

BACKGROUND: The glenohumeral joint is characterized by its large degree of movement and consequently is the most susceptible joint to dislocations. There are few studies on the first episode of a shoulder dislocation in younger athletes. PURPOSE: To report the results of arthroscopic treatment for the first episode of a glenohumeral dislocation in younger athletes. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 53 patients younger than 40 years (N = 54 shoulders) sustained their first anterior shoulder dislocation and underwent arthroscopic surgery. Surgery was undertaken in the lateral decubitus position. Standard posterior, anteroinferior, and anterosuperior portals were used, and the number of anchors and the degree of capsular plication were individualized and based on the arthroscopic findings of each patient. The minimum follow-up was 2 years (mean, 2.31 years), and patients were evaluated with the Rowe functional score, Athletic Shoulder Outcome Rating Scale (EROE; acronym in Portuguese), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. RESULTS: The mean EROE score was 93.8, with 98% of results being good or excellent, and the mean Rowe score was 95.0, with 98% good or excellent results. The mean VAS pain score was <1.0. The rate of recurrence of dislocations was 2%. The return-to-sports rate was 83%; patients with associated superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions had a lower return-to-sports rate (P = .001) and lower EROE (P = .017) and Rowe (P = .019) scores. CONCLUSION: The present study showed favorable results for arthroscopic surgical treatment after the first dislocation episode in young athletes. It was an effective and safe treatment option in this population.

Arthroscopic treatment for lateral epicondylitis: outcomes in 104 cases of a single institution / Tratamento artroscópico para epicondiliote lateral: resultados em 104 casos de uma única intituição

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the outcomes of patients that underwent arthroscopic surgery for lateral epicondylitis (LE), after failed conservative treatment. Methods: One hundred four patients with LE treated with arthroscopic debridement of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon were enrolled in this retrospective study. They were evaluated using Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scale. Mean age at surgery was 46.9 years. Duration of symptoms was 2.1 years (range: 6 m to 10 yrs.). Mean follow-up was 34.4 months (range: 6 to 68 m). Results: Mean postoperative scores were: 20.67 points on the DASH; 1.8 points on the VAS at rest, with 48 cases (46%) without pain, 40 (38%) with mild pain, 13 (13%) with moderate pain and 4 (4%) with severe pain; 4.7 points on the VAS in activity, with 21 (20%) without pain, 21 (20%) with mild pain, 35 (34%) with moderate pain and 27 (26%) with severe pain; and SF-36 was 66.8 points. Of the 23 patients who practiced sports regularly or with higher physical demand from the upper limbs, 17 (74%) were able to return to the same activity at the same level. No significant complications were observed postoperatively, except for 3 (2.8%) cases of postoperative superficial infection. Conclusion: Surgical treatment with arthroscopy for recalcitrant LE is effective and safe, presenting positive outcomes in the studied patients. Level of evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados dos pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico artroscópico da epicondilite lateral (EL) refratária depois da falha no tratamento conservador. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 104 pacientes submetidos a desbridamento artroscópico do tendão extensor radial curto do carpo (ERCC) para tratamento de EL. Os pacientes foram avaliados pelo escore de DASH, pela classificação visual analógica de dor (EVA) e pelo Short-Form 36 (SF36). A média da idade foi de 46,9 anos (variação de 30 a 69 anos). O tempo de sintomas foi de 2,1 anos (variação de 6 meses a 10 anos). O seguimento médio foi de 34,4 meses (variação de 6 - 68 meses). Resultados: A média dos escores pós-operatórios foi de: 20,67 pontos no DASH; 1,8 pontos no EVA de repouso, sendo 48 (46%) sem dor, 40 (38%) com dor leve, 13 casos (13%) com dor moderada e 4 (4%) com dor intensa; 4,7 pontos no EVA em atividade, sendo 21 (20%) sem dor, 21 (20%) com dores leves, 35 (34%) com dores moderadas e 27 (26%) com dores intensas; e SF-36 de 66,8. Dos 23 pacientes em prática constante de esporte ou com maior demanda física nos membros superiores, 17 (74%) conseguiram retornar ao mesmo nível. Não observamos complicações significativas exceto por 3 (2,8%) casos de infecção pós-operatória superficial. Conclusão: O tratamento artroscópico para EL recalcitrante do cotovelo é eficaz e seguro, apresentando resultados positivos. Nível de Evidencia IV, Série de Casos.

Guía de instrucción en habilidades para cirugía artroscópica / Instruction guide: basic skill training for arthroscopic surgery

La evolución de las técnicas quirúrgicas tradicionales y los modelos de formación de los cirujanos exigen cambios, por esta razón el centro de investigación y entrenamiento en cirugía de mínima invasión (CLEMI) ha desarrollado y aplicado modelos de enseñanza que permiten aprender técnicas quirúrgicas mínimamente invasivas como la artroscopia. CLEMI propone un modelo basado en simulación impartido en un ambiente controlado, estructurado y progresivo que vaya al ritmo individual de cada uno de los estudiantes. Inicialmente el estudiante encontrará conceptos teóricos de instrumental, equipos y ergonomía, posteriormente en la fase práctica usando un modelo de laparoscopia y finalmente usando un modelo de artroscopia con los que se realizan ejercicios para desarrollar destrezas técnicas. El entrenamiento en modelos bajo ambiente controlado disminuye el período de aprendizaje y eleva la competencia del estudiante. El objetivo principal del curso es alcanzar las habilidades mínimas necesarias para realizar con éxito una artroscopia en el paciente.

The evolution of traditional surgical techniques and training models for surgeons demand changes. For this reason, the Latin-American Centre for training in minimally invasive surgery (CLEMI) has developed and applied teaching models that allow surgeons to learn minimally invasive surgical techniques such as arthroscopy. CLEMI proposes a model based on simulation presented in a controlled, structured, and progressive environment that advances with the individual rhythm of each of the students. Initially, the student uses theoretical instrumental, equipment and ergonomics concepts. Later, in the practical phase, they then carry out exercises using a laparoscopy model and finally an arthroscopy model in order to develop their technical skills.

Guía de instrucción en artroscopia de hombro / Instruction guide for shoulder arthroscopy

La evolución de las técnicas quirúrgicas tradicionales y los modelos de formación de los cirujanos exigen cambios, por esta razón el centro de investigación y entrenamiento en cirugía de mínima invasión (CLEMI) ha desarrollado y aplicado modelos de enseñanza que permiten aprender técnicas quirúrgicas mínimamente invasivas como la artroscopia de hombro. CLEMI propone un modelo basado en simulación impartido en un ambiente controlado, estructurado y progresivo que vaya al ritmo individual de cada uno de los estudiantes. Inicialmente el estudiante encontrará conceptos teóricos de instrumental, equipos y ergonomía, posteriormente en la fase práctica usando un modelo sintético anatómico del hombro y finalmente usando un modelo biológico con el que se realizan ejercicios para desarrollar destrezas exigidas por las técnicas quirúrgicas. El entrenamiento en modelos bajo ambiente controlado disminuye el período de aprendizaje y eleva la competencia del estudiante.

The evolution of traditional surgical techniques and training models for surgeons demand changes. For this reason, the Latin-American centre for training in minimally invasive surgery (CLEMI) has developed and applied teaching models that allow surgeons to learn minimally invasive surgical techniques such as arthroscopy. CLEMI proposes a model based on simulation presented in a controlled, structured, and progressive environment that is adjusted to the individual rhythm of each of the students. The student initially studies the theoretical concepts of the instruments, equipment, and ergonomics. Later, in the practical phase of the instruction, students perform a series of exercises in technical skills. Training and models under controlled environments decrease the learning period and enhance student skills.

ARTHROSCOPIC LATARJET TECHNIQUE COMBINED WITH ENDOBUTTONS: FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES IN 26 CASES.

OBJECTIVE: The cause of anterior shoulder instability is not fully understood and surgical management remains controversial. The objective of this study was to evaluate the results of patients undergoing arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with endobuttons. METHODS: A retrospective study of 26 patients undergoing arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with endobuttons to treat anterior shoulder instability. Patients with previous glenohumeral instability, failure of Bankart procedure or Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS) greater than or equal to 6, were included. Patients were assessed by: DASH, UCLA, Rowe, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) of pain and Short-Form 36 (SF36) scores. Correct position and consolidation of the graft were evaluated. RESULTS: Mean age was 31.5 years (16 to 46). Preoperative duration of symptoms was 1.7 years (1 month to 10 years). Mean follow-up was 14.3 (6 to 24) months. Mean postoperative scores were: 10 points in DASH; 1.6 in VAS, where 23 (88%) patients experienced mild pain and 3 (12%) moderate pain; 89 in Rowe; 32 in UCLA and 78 in SF-36. Positioning of the graft was correct in 25 (96%) cases, and was consolidated in 23 (88%). We had two cases of graft fracture (7%) and postoperative migration (7%). CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment using arthroscopic Latarjet with endobuttons is safe and effective, producing good functional outcomes in patients. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: A causa da instabilidade anterior do ombro não é totalmente esclarecida e o tratamento cirúrgico é controverso. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o resultado dos pacientes submetidos à técnica de Latarjet artroscópica com endobuttons. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 26 pacientes submetidos à técnica de Latarjet artroscópica com endobuttons para tratamento de instabilidade anterior do ombro. Foram incluídos pacientes com instabilidade glenoumeral anterior, falha no procedimento de Bankart ou Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS) maior ou igual a 6. Foram avaliados mediante DASH, UCLA, Rowe, Escala Visual Analógica de dor (EVA) e pelo Short-Form 36 (SF36). Avaliamos também a posição correta e a consolidação do enxerto. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi de 31,5 anos (16 a 46). Os sintomas antes da cirurgia foram de 1,7 anos (1 mês a 10 anos). Seguimento médio de 14,3 (6 ­ 24) meses. A média dos escores pós-operatórios foi de 10 pontos no DASH; 1,6 pontos na EVA sendo 23 (88%) dores leves e 3 (12%) dores moderadas; Rowe de 89, UCLA de 32; SF-36 de 78. O posicionamento foi correto em 25 (96%) casos e consolidou em 23 (88%). Tivemos 2 casos de fratura (7%) e de migração pós-operatória do enxerto (7%). CONCLUSÃO: A cirurgia de Latarjet artroscópica com endobuttons é eficaz e segura, produzindo bons resultados funcionas. Nível de Evidencia IV, Série de Casos.

Arthroscopic latarjet technique combined with endobuttons: functional outcomes in 26 cases / Técnica de latarjet artroscópica combinada com endobuttons: resultado funcional em 26 casos

ABSTRACT Objective: The cause of anterior shoulder instability is not fully understood and surgical management remains controversial. The objective of this study was to evaluate the results of patients undergoing arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with endobuttons. Methods: A retrospective study of 26 patients undergoing arthroscopic Latarjet procedure with endobuttons to treat anterior shoulder instability. Patients with previous glenohumeral instability, failure of Bankart procedure or Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS) greater than or equal to 6, were included. Patients were assessed by: DASH, UCLA, Rowe, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) of pain and Short-Form 36 (SF36) scores. Correct position and consolidation of the graft were evaluated. Results: Mean age was 31.5 years (16 to 46). Preoperative duration of symptoms was 1.7 years (1 month to 10 years). Mean follow-up was 14.3 (6 to 24) months. Mean postoperative scores were: 10 points in DASH; 1.6 in VAS, where 23 (88%) patients experienced mild pain and 3 (12%) moderate pain; 89 in Rowe; 32 in UCLA and 78 in SF-36. Positioning of the graft was correct in 25 (96%) cases, and was consolidated in 23 (88%). We had two cases of graft fracture (7%) and postoperative migration (7%). Conclusion: Surgical treatment using arthroscopic Latarjet with endobuttons is safe and effective, producing good functional outcomes in patients. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: A causa da instabilidade anterior do ombro não é totalmente esclarecida e o tratamento cirúrgico é controverso. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o resultado dos pacientes submetidos à técnica de Latarjet artroscópica com endobuttons. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo de 26 pacientes submetidos à técnica de Latarjet artroscópica com endobuttons para tratamento de instabilidade anterior do ombro. Foram incluídos pacientes com instabilidade glenoumeral anterior, falha no procedimento de Bankart ou Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS) maior ou igual a 6. Foram avaliados mediante DASH, UCLA, Rowe, Escala Visual Analógica de dor (EVA) e pelo Short-Form 36 (SF36). Avaliamos também a posição correta e a consolidação do enxerto. Resultados: A média de idade foi de 31,5 anos (16 a 46). Os sintomas antes da cirurgia foram de 1,7 anos (1 mês a 10 anos). Seguimento médio de 14,3 (6 - 24) meses. A média dos escores pós-operatórios foi de 10 pontos no DASH; 1,6 pontos na EVA sendo 23 (88%) dores leves e 3 (12%) dores moderadas; Rowe de 89, UCLA de 32; SF-36 de 78. O posicionamento foi correto em 25 (96%) casos e consolidou em 23 (88%). Tivemos 2 casos de fratura (7%) e de migração pós-operatória do enxerto (7%). Conclusão: A cirurgia de Latarjet artroscópica com endobuttons é eficaz e segura, produzindo bons resultados funcionas. Nível de Evidencia IV, Série de Casos.

Clinical and Structural Evaluations of Rotator Cuff Repair With and Without Added Platelet-Rich Plasma at 5-Year Follow-up: A Prospective Randomized Study.

BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been studied with the objective of reducing the retear rate and improving functional outcomes after rotator cuff repair. Only one study to date has reported its midterm effect. HYPOTHESIS: PRP promotes better functional and structural results in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: All patients underwent arthroscopic single-row repair of small to medium supraspinatus tears. At the end of the surgical procedure, liquid PRP prepared by apheresis with autologous thrombin was applied in the tendon-to-bone interface in the PRP group. The outcomes were assessed by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Constant scales and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain at 6, 12, 24, and 60 months after surgery and magnetic resonance imaging at 12 and 60 months. RESULTS: Of 54 patients initially randomized, we analyzed the clinical outcomes in 51 (25 control, 26 PRP) and the structural outcomes in 44 (22 each group). At 60-month follow-up, the mean UCLA scores were 32.5 ± 3.8 and 32.1 ± 4.6 in the control and PRP groups, respectively ( P = .992). The mean Constant scores were 82.0 ± 9.5 in the control group and 82.1 ± 11.0 in the PRP group ( P = .699). The mean VAS scores were 1.4 ± 1.8 and 1.5 ± 2.1 in the control and PRP groups, respectively ( P = .910). None of the clinical assessments at 6, 12, and 24 months in either group produced statistically significant differences, and both groups showed significant improvements throughout the follow-up time in the 3 evaluations ( P < .001). The control group exhibited 1 full-thickness retear (Sugaya type IV) and 11 partial-thickness retears (Sugaya type III), while the PRP group had 7 partial-thickness retears (Sugaya type III). The overall number of retears did not differ between groups ( P = .203). CONCLUSION: PRP obtained by apheresis and applied in liquid form with the addition of thrombin at the end of single-row repair of supraspinatus tears did not promote better clinical or structural results at 60-month follow-up. REGISTRATION: NCT01029574 ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Return to Sports and Recurrences After Arthroscopic Anterior Shoulder Stabilization in Martial Arts Athletes.

BACKGROUND: The high demands to the glenohumeral joint and the violent shoulder blows experienced during martial arts (MA) could compromise return to sports and increase the recurrence rate after arthroscopic stabilization for anterior shoulder instability in these athletes. PURPOSE: To report the functional outcomes, return to sports, and recurrences in a series of MA athletes with anterior shoulder instability treated with arthroscopic stabilization with suture anchors. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: A total of 20 consecutive MA athletes were treated for anterior shoulder instability at a single institution between January 2008 and December 2013. Range of motion (ROM), the Rowe score, a visual analog scale (VAS), and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Return-to-sport and recurrence rates were also evaluated. RESULTS: The mean age at the time of surgery was 25.4 years (range, 18-35 years), and the mean follow-up was 71 months (range, 36-96 months). No significant difference in preoperative and postoperative shoulder ROM was found. The Rowe, VAS, and ASOSS scores showed statistical improvement after surgery (P < .001). In all, 19 athletes (95%) returned to sports. However, only 60% achieved ≥90% recovery after surgery. The recurrence rate was 20%. CONCLUSION: In this retrospective study of a consecutive cohort of MA athletes, arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization significantly improved functional scores. However, only 60% of the athletes achieved the same level of competition, and there was a 20% recurrence rate.

Platelet-rich plasma in rotator cuff repair: a prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND: Although platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used in rotator cuff repair, most authors have been unable to report the advantages of this method in clinical trials. HYPOTHESIS: The use of PRP promotes better functional and structural results in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind study with 2 groups of 27 patients each (PRP group and control group). Complete supraspinatus tears with retraction of less than 3 cm were subjected to arthroscopic single-row repair; at the end of the surgical procedure, liquid PRP prepared by apheresis was given to the patients in the PRP group with autologous thrombin. The outcomes were assessed by the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) and Constant scales, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. The significance level was 5%. RESULTS: The 2 groups of patients exhibited significant clinical improvement (P < .001). Between the preoperative assessment and 24-month follow-up, the mean UCLA score increased from 13.63 ± 3.639 to 32.70 ± 3.635 and from 13.93 ± 4.649 to 32.44 ± 4.318 in the control and PRP groups, respectively (P = .916). The mean Constant score increased from 47.37 ± 11.088 to 85.15 ± 9.879 in the control group and from 46.96 ± 11.937 to 84.78 ± 14.048 in the PRP group (P = .498). The mean VAS score varied from 7.00 ± 1.939 and 6.67 ± 1.617 before surgery to 1.15 ± 1.916 and 0.96 ± 2.244 at the 24-month assessment in the control and PRP groups, respectively (P = .418). The only difference was in the mean UCLA score at 12 months, with 30.04 ± 4.528 in the control group and 32.30 ± 3.506 in the PRP group (P = .046). The control group exhibited 1 case of a complete retear and 4 partial retears, and the PRP group exhibited 2 cases of partial retears (P = .42). CONCLUSION: Platelet-rich plasma prepared by apheresis and applied in the liquid state with thrombin did not promote better clinical results at 24-month follow-up. Given the numbers available for analysis, the retear rate also did not change.