Virtual Reality and Surgical Simulation Training for Orthopaedic Surgery Residents: A Qualitative Assessment of Trainee Perspectives.

Background: The demonstrated benefits of virtual reality (VR) in orthopaedic surgical training are numerous. However, it is relatively unknown how best to implement VR into an already established orthopaedic resident education curriculum and how trainees will engage and use these technologies longitudinally. Methods: This was an exploratory, qualitative research study performed in accordance with Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines. Orthopaedic surgery residents at a single institution were recruited during the 2022 to 2023 academic year. Semistructured interviews were conducted. Data were analyzed through grounded theory methodology, beginning with open coding, followed by axial coding, and concluding with selective coding that describes orthopaedic surgery residents' current perceptions of VR as a training tool. Results: Six residents participated in interviews before thematic saturation was achieved. Average interview length was 13:27 (±2:59) minutes. Residents felt that currently, VR is most useful for interns and junior residents as an educational adjunct for learning anatomy, surgical exposures, and the steps of a procedure in a risk- and judgment-free arena. There seems to be a "ceiling effect" with VR given current technological limitations, and residents remarked that there is an associated "opportunity cost" with using VR technology. Some residents may find it more time-efficient to study texts, videos, or surgical guides rather than use VR. Cost (limited number of headsets) and technological barriers (i.e., hardware, software, and Wi-Fi issues) were some of the described barriers to VR utilization. Residents felt that there needs to be dedicated technological support to help with these issues. At this time, given these limitations of VR, many preferred VR as an optional educational adjunct rather than as a required curricular tool or assessment of surgical competency. Conclusions: There is current utility for VR in orthopaedic surgical training. Future technological advances may make VR more central to resident education. This study describes resident perceptions about the technology and best use practices for the technology. Level of Evidence: Qualitative Study, Level V Evidence.

Three-dimensional analysis of biplanar glenoid deformities: what are they and can they be virtually reconstructed with anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty implants?

BACKGROUND: Descriptions of glenoid deformities in glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) have focused on the axial plane. Less is known regarding arthritic glenoids with higher amounts of superior inclination and little evidence exists to guide management of inclination or combined version-inclination deformity when performing anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA). We hypothesized that biplanar deformities (BD) would be present in a higher proportion of GHOA patients than previously appreciated, and these deformities would be difficult to adequately reconstruct with contemporary aTSA implants. METHODS: A retrospective query was performed of GHOA patients indicated for TSA 2012-2017 with a computed tomography (CT) scan within three months of surgery. Images were uploaded to three-dimensional (3D) software for automated measurements. Glenoids with superior inclination ≥10°, and retroversion ≥20° were considered to have BD. Walch classification was determined, and C-type glenoids were excluded. Rotator-cuff muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) was measured and fatty infiltration was graded. Glenoids with BD were virtually planned for aTSA with correction to neutral inclination and version, then with 5° superior inclination and 10° retroversion. RESULTS: Two-hundred and sixty-eight shoulders in 250 patients were included; average age was 65 years, 67% male. There were no differences in inclination between Walch types (P = .25). Twenty-nine shoulders with BD were identified (11%). These deformities were not associated with age (P = .47) or gender (P = .50) but were skewed towards Walch B-type, specifically B2 (P = .03). Acromial index and posterior humeral head subluxation were higher in BD patients (P = .04, P < .001, respectively). Biplanar deformities had similar cuff CSA compared to those without but were less frequently associated with fatty infiltration of the subscapularis (P = .05). When correcting to neutral version and inclination, 41% BD could not be reconstructed. Of those that could, 94% required augmented implants. When correcting to 5° superior inclination and 10° retroversion, 10% could not be reconstructed. Of those that could, 58% required augmented implants. With partial correction, augment use was predicted by retroversion >26° (P = .009). Inclination did not predict augment use (P = .90). Final implant position commonly involved unseating in the posterosuperior quadrant and cancellous exposure in the anteroinferior quadrant. CONCLUSIONS: This retrospective computed tomography (CT)-based study of 268 shoulders with GHOA found an 11% prevalence of BD. These deformities were commonly associated with Walch B2 wear patterns. Virtual aTSA planning showed a high failure rate (41%) when correcting to neutral version and inclination. Posteriorly augmented implants were frequently required, and often still involved unseating in the posterosuperior quadrant, increased cancellous exposure in the anteroinferior quadrant, and vault perforation.

Revision of failed reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with reverse: short-term clinical outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of failed reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) is increasing. This can often present a challenging clinical situation with substantial bone loss and limited reconstruction options. This study reports a single tertiary referral center's experience with revision of failed rTSA managed with revision rTSA of bone-interfacing components. METHODS: After institutional review board approval, all revision shoulder arthroplasty cases performed at a single institution between 2012 and 2020 were reviewed. Cases in which rTSA was revised to a new rTSA construct with revision of at least 1 bone-interfacing implant (humeral stem and/or baseplate) with a minimum 2-year follow-up were identified. Characteristics of revision cases-including indications, bony stock, revised components, and use of bone graft-were collected. All patients were contacted for patient-reported outcome measures at a minimum of 2 years after surgery. In addition, the incidence and indication for any reoperation after revision were determined. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients with an average age of 66 years (range: 46-82 years), with 19 (58%) being female, met the inclusion criteria and had a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (range: 2-8 years). The most common indication for revision rTSA included humeral component loosening (33%; 11/33), baseplate loosening (27%; 9/33), and instability (21%; 7/33). Prerevision infectious workup demonstrated no cases of periprosthetic shoulder infection. Thirteen cases had massive bone loss-5 treated with humeral allograft prosthetic composite, 5 with glenoid bone grafting, and 3 with custom glenoid implant. In total, 10 of 33 cases (30%) required reoperation at a mean of 13 months (range: 1-44 months) for instability (4), humeral loosening (2), infection (1), baseplate loosening (1), or periprosthetic fracture (1). The reoperation rate for patients with revised baseplates only, humerus only, or combined was 23% (3/13), 28% (5/18), and 27% (3/11), respectively. Overall, the visual analog scale pain score improved from 6.5 preoperatively to 2.0 (P < .001), and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 30.7 to 67.5 (P < .001). However, the postoperative Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score averaged only 51.2% (range: 2-100%). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that failed rTSA can be salvaged with a revision rTSA. However, patient expectations for functional improvements should be tempered, and a high reoperation rate should be expected.

Factors associated with genetic markers for rotator cuff disease in patients with atraumatic rotator cuff tears.

For atraumatic rotator cuff tears, genetics contributes to symptomatic tear risk and may influence rotator cuff healing after surgical repair. But little is known about how genetic factors influence rotator cuff tear patient characteristics at presentation. We collected saliva samples for genotyping from atraumatic rotator cuff tear patients. We examined nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with cuff tears in prior literature. We estimated associations of SNP dosage with (1) age at tear diagnosis, (2) bilateral atraumatic tear prevalence, and (3) tear size. Linear regression was used to estimate associations with diagnosis age adjusted for sex and principal components. Logistic regression and ordinal logistic regression were used to estimate associations with bilateral tear prevalence and tear size category, respectively, adjusting for age, sex, and principal components. Of 344 eligible patients, 336 provided sufficient samples for genotyping. Median age at tear diagnosis was 61, 22% (N = 74) had bilateral atraumatic tears, and 9% (N = 29) had massive tears. SNP rs13107325 in the SLC39A8 gene and rs11850957 in the STXBP6 gene were associated with younger diagnosis age even after accounting for multiple comparisons (rs13107325: -4 years, 95% CI = -6.5, -1.4; rs11850957: -2.7 years, 95% CI = -4.3, -1.1). No other significant associations were observed with diagnosis age, tear size, or bilateral tear prevalence. SLC39A8 encodes a Mn transporter. STXBP6 may play a role in inflammatory responses by altering phagocytosis and antigen presentation of monocytes and macrophages. Further research is needed to determine if genetic markers can be used alongside patient characteristics to aid in identifying optimal surgical repair candidates.

Orthopaedic Surgery Training and Education During COVID-19: A Systematic Review.

COVID-19 forced surgical resident training programs to adapt to meet educational requirements within the constraints of various guidelines. Some of the changes implemented during the pandemic have imparted a lasting effect on orthopaedic education. As such, the purpose of this article was to review how orthopaedic training and education were affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The published literature was queried using search strategies devised by a medical librarian, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies eligible for inclusion were studies related to COVID-19, orthopaedic surgical training, and medical education. Studies were excluded if they (1) were abstracts, conference proceedings, letters, perspective pieces, reviews, or editorials; (2) evaluated medical student education; (3) included other specialties; or (4) were unrelated to COVID-19 and/or orthopaedic training. Results: Eighty-three (n = 83) studies were included. Five themes emerged including (I) Fellowship Application, Interview, and Match Processes; (II) Social Media and Websites for Program Information; (III) Changes in Trainee Surgical Volume; (IV) Trainee Mental Health and Well-being; and (V) Innovations in Education. The pandemic decreased opportunities for medical students to gain exposure to orthopaedic surgery. Social media use, particularly Instagram, among orthopaedic residencies increased during the pandemic. Between the cancellation of away rotations and in-person interviews, applicants saved over $6,000; however, both residency applicants and interviewers preferred in-person interviews. The pandemic led to decreased surgical volume and in-person didactics for trainees, thus relying more on virtual learning. Orthopaedic trainees had mixed feelings regarding online virtual education. Although some respondents reported that they preferred the convenience of online learning, others expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of virtual education. Conclusions: The shift to virtual learning affected how applicants learned about residency programs, with many relying on virtual away rotations and social media to compare different programs. The pandemic also highlighted issues of diversity and accessibility within orthopaedic surgery, with cost savings from virtual interviews and canceled away rotations potentially benefiting applicants from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Although some innovative approaches and adaptations to orthopaedic education and training have shown promise and may continue to be used in the future after the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of others, such as virtual interviews, is less clear.

Effect of Computerized Tomography on Assessment and Surgical Planning for Olecranon Fractures.

OBJECTIVES: (1) Determine effects of computed tomography (CT) on reproducibility of olecranon fracture classification. (2) Determine effects of CT utilization on interobserver agreement regarding management of olecranon fractures. (3) Evaluate factors associated with articular impaction. METHODS: Seven surgeons retrospectively evaluated radiographs of 46 olecranon fractures. Each fracture was classified according to Colton, Mayo, Orthopaedic Trauma Association/AO Foundation (OTA/AO) systems. Observers determined whether articular impaction was present and provided treatment plans. This was repeated at minimum 6 weeks with addition of CT. Descriptive and comparative statistics were performed and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated. RESULTS: Interrater agreement was near-perfect for all classifications using radiographs (ICC 0.91, 0.93, 0.89 for Colton, Mayo, OTA/AO) and did not substantially change with CT (ICC 0.91, 0.91, 0.93). Agreement was moderate regarding articular impaction using radiographs (ICC 0.44); this improved significantly with CT (ICC 0.82). Articular impaction was significantly associated with OTA/AO classification, with high prevalence of impaction in OTA/AO 2U1B1e ( P < 0.03). Agreement was substantial for chosen fixation construct using radiographs (ICC 0.71); this improved with CT (ICC 0.79). Utilization of CT changed fixation plans in 25% of cases. Agreement regarding need for void filler was fair using radiographs (ICC 0.37); this notably improved with CT (ICC 0.64). CONCLUSIONS: Utilization of CT for evaluating olecranon fractures led to significant improvements in interobserver agreement for presence of articular impaction. Impaction was significantly associated with fracture pattern, but not with patient-related factors. Addition of CT improved agreement regarding fixation construct and led to notable improvement in agreement regarding need for void filler.

Gene Expression in Glenoid Articular Cartilage Varies Across Acute Instability, Chronic Instability, and Osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder instability is a common pathology associated with an elevated risk of osteoarthritis (OA). Little is known about gene expression in the cartilage of the glenohumeral joint after dislocation events, particularly as it relates to the risk of posttraumatic OA. This study tested the hypothesis that gene expression in glenoid cartilage varies among acute instability (<3 dislocations), chronic instability (≥3 dislocations), and OA. METHODS: Articular cartilage was collected from the anteroinferior glenoid of consenting patients undergoing shoulder stabilization surgery (n = 17) or total shoulder arthroplasty (n = 16). Digital quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to assess the relative expression of 57 genes (36 genes from OA risk allele studies, 21 genes from differential expression studies), comparing (1) OA versus instability (acute and chronic combined), (2) acute versus chronic instability, (3) OA versus acute instability, and (4) OA versus chronic instability. RESULTS: The expression of 11 genes from OA risk allele studies and 9 genes from differential expression studies was significantly different between cartilage from patients with instability and those with OA. Pro-inflammatory genes from differential expression studies and genes from OA risk allele studies were more highly expressed in cartilage in the OA group compared with the instability group, which expressed higher levels of extracellular matrix and pro-anabolic genes. The expression of 14 genes from OA risk allele studies and 4 genes from differential expression studies, including pro-inflammatory genes, anti-anabolic genes, and multiple genes from OA risk allele studies, was higher in the acute instability group compared with the chronic instability group. Cartilage in the OA group displayed higher expression of CCL3, CHST11, GPR22, PRKAR2B, and PTGS2 than cartilage in the group with acute or chronic instability. Whereas cartilage in both the acute and chronic instability groups had higher expression of collagen genes, cartilage in the OA group had expression of a subset of genes from OA risk allele studies or from differential expression studies that was lower than in the acute group and higher than in the chronic group. CONCLUSIONS: Glenoid cartilage has an inflammatory and catabolic phenotype in shoulders with OA but an anabolic phenotype in shoulders with instability. Cartilage from shoulders with acute instability displayed greater (cellular) metabolic activity compared with shoulders with chronic instability. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This exploratory study identified genes of interest, such as CCL3, CHST11, GPR22, PRKAR2B, and PTGS2, that have elevated expression in osteoarthritic glenoid cartilage. These findings provide new biological insight into the relationship between shoulder instability and OA, which could lead to strategies to predict and potentially modify patients' risk of degenerative arthritis due to shoulder instability.

Clinical outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients 60 years old and younger; medium-term results.

Background: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has been well-described as a surgical solution to manage rotator cuff tear arthropathy in elderly, low demand paitents. As experience has increased along with improvements in technique and implant design, RTSA has become increasingly used to manage more varied pathologic conditions of the shoulder in younger, more active patients. This study evaluates outcomes in a consecutive series of patients aged 60 years old and younger after undergoing RTSA. Methods: There were 94 shoulders in 89 patients enrolled. Mean age of the cohort was 54.8 (range 18-60 years). Surgical indications included rotator cuff tear arthropathy, irreparable rotator cuff tear without arthritis, glenohumeral arthritis with erosive glenoid deformity, inflammatory arthropathy, proximal humerus fracture nonunion/malunion and failed prior shoulder arthroplasty. Sixty-one shoulders (70%) had undergone at least one prior surgery. Of these, 6 shoulders (6% of total cohort) had a prior failed arthroplasty. Clinical outcomes (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Western Ontario Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder index; visual analog scale pain), radiographic outcomes and complications were analyzed and assessed for correlation with patient demographic factors. Results: The mean follow-up for this cohort was 4.9 years (range 2-12 years). Subjects experienced improvements in ASES score and pain (P < .001) and active forward elevation (88° preop to 135° postop, P < .001). Prior operation correlated with worse postoperative ASES and WOOS scores. Higher demand occupation correlated with less improvement in pain scores. The overall complication rate was 12%. Seven shoulders (7%) underwent an additional procedure. There was a 2% incidence of dislocation and a 4% incidence of acromial stress fracture. There was a 36% incidence of notching. Conclusion: With medium-term follow-up, RTSA is a reliable and predictable operation to manage various pathologic conditions in patients aged 60 years or less. Patients predictably experience significant improvements in pain and range of motion while assuming a modest complication risk. Long-term study is needed to understand potential for late complications or implant failure.

The rate and predictors of healing of repaired lesser tuberosity osteotomy in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Background: Evidence is building that a functional subscapularis improves function-specifically internal rotation tasks-following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). However, the optimal method for subscapularis repair during rTSA remains unknown with variable healing rates reported. This study aims to investigate the rate of and predictors for healing a lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO) following rTSA. Methods: Following local institutional review board approval, patients with at least one-year follow-up for rTSA managed with an LTO and subsequent repair between March, 2017 and March, 2020 were retrospectively identified. Shoulders were selected for LTO repair based upon preoperative imaging and intraoperative assessment of subscapularis quality. All patients were implanted with a system consisting of a 150° or 155° (constrained) humeral neck-shaft angle and 2.5 to 4.5 millimeters (mm) of glenoid lateralization (Trabecular Metal Reverse Shoulder System; Zimmer Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA). At a minimum of six months, radiographs were reviewed for an assessment of LTO healing by three independent reviewers. Healing was classified as displaced, fibrous union, or ossified union. For assessing predictors, the repair was considered intact if the LTO fragment was not displaced (fibrous union or ossified union). Results: Sixty-five rTSA with LTO repair were performed in 64 patients. These patients had an average age of 67.2 years (range, 31-81) and 36 (55.4%; 36/65) were female. At an average follow-up of 15.2 months (range, 8-38), 50 cases (76.9%; 50/65) were classified as having an ossified union. The radiographic healing could not be assessed in a single case. Of the 14 cases without ossific union, 8 (12.3%; 8/65) were displaced and 6 (9.2%; 6/65) were classified as a fibrous union. In logistic regression, only combined humeral liner height predicted LTO displacement (odds ratio = 1.4 [95% confidence interval = 1.1-1.8]; P = .01). Humeral loosening was not found in any cases following LTO. Conclusion: This analysis demonstrates that radiographic healing of LTO repair is more favorable than published rates of healing after subscapularis tenotomy or peel in the setting of rTSA. Subscapularis management with LTO provides the ability to monitor repair integrity with plain radiographs and a predictable radiographic healing rate. The integrity of subscapularis repair may be influenced by the use of thicker humeral liners. Further investigation is needed to determine the functional impact of a healed subscapularis following rTSA.

Factors Associated with the Success and Timing of Orthopaedic Surgery Resident Research Thesis Project Publication.

Scholarship and research are important aspects of orthopaedic surgery training. Many orthopaedic surgery residency programs have developed dedicated research curricula, often culminating in a capstone thesis project with the intended goal of peer-reviewed publication. However, data on the success of these programs are scarce. The purpose of the current study was to determine the success rate and time to publication of resident research thesis projects at our own institution while evaluating factors associated with these outcomes. Methods: Resident research thesis projects performed over the past 15 years were aggregated and reviewed. Additional data regarding the projects and former trainees who performed them were collected using public resources which included measures of current academic aptitude (i.e., H-index and number of publications) as well as project and publication characteristics. Cox and linear regression analyses were conducted to assess the relation between numerous predictor variables and the success and time to publication. All analyses were conducted at the 95% confidence interval (CI) level. Results: Sixty-eight (n = 68; 83%) resident research thesis projects were published an average of 2,582.8 days, or roughly 7 years from the start of their residency training. Graduate adjusted H-index was associated with increased success and decreased time to publication (hazard ratio 1.183 [95% CI: 1.059-1.322], p = 0.003). A lower journal impact factor was associated with taking significantly shorter time to reach publication (F(1,66) = 7.839, p = 0.007; Β1 = 146.45, p = 0.007). Study type (clinical vs. laboratory), posttraining practice setting (academic vs. private), and whether the research topic was within the same area of the trainee's matched fellowship(s) did not predict publication success. Discussion/Conclusion: Over the past 15 years, 83% of orthopaedic resident research thesis projects at our institution were published. A higher adjusted H-index was associated with greater completion and faster timing to publication. A lower journal impact factor was also associated with quicker publication. These data highlight the publication metrics of a formalized resident research program and identify factors associated with success and timing of publication.

Striving for Inclusive Excellence in the Recruitment of Diverse Surgical Residents During COVID-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered the 2020 residency application cycle and resulted in many changes to the usual application processes. Particular attention should be placed on the obstacles faced by applicants who are underrepresented in medicine (URiM) as they may be disproportionately affected by the changes in 2020. These challenges are especially relevant in competitive surgical specialties, where racial and gender diversity already lags behind other medical specialties. Inclusive excellence is a guiding philosophy in creating equitable resident selection processes. It focuses on the multilayered processes that form the foundation of inclusive institutional culture, while recognizing that excellence and inclusivity are mutually reinforcing and not mutually exclusive. A key tenant in inclusive excellence for resident recruiting involves applying an equity lens in all decision making. An equity lens allows programs to continuously evaluate resident selection policies and processes through an intentional equity-forward approach. In addition to using an equity lens, programs should emphasize the importance of equity-focused skill building, which ensures that all individuals engaged in the resident selection process have the tools and knowledge to recognize biases. Finally, institutions should implement specific programming for URiM applicants to provide them with information about key aspects of department culture and mechanisms of support for URiM trainees. Every residency program should adopt a sustained perspective of inclusive excellence, in this application cycle and beyond. The status quo has existed for far too long, and COVID-19 offers institutions and their residency programs a unique opportunity to try new and innovative equity-forward practices.

The relationship between glenoid inclination and instability following primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: Despite advances in implant design and surgical technique, instability remains the most common early complication and reason for early revision after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the glenoid implant inclination, as measured by the ß-angle, as an independent risk factor for instability after primary RSA. METHODS: A retrospective case-control study was conducted matching cases with instability after primary RSA using a single implant to controls without instability. Controls were matched to age, sex, body mass index, and baseplate type (1:3 ratio of cases to controls). The preoperative, postoperative, and the change in pre- to postoperative glenoid inclination (ß-angle) were compared between groups. RESULTS: Thirty-four cases (mean age, 66.2 years) were matched to 102 controls (mean age, 67.0 years). There was a wide range of postoperative (63° to 100°) and pre- to postoperative change (-16.5° to +30.5°) in ß-angles collectively. There was no significant difference in the postoperative ß-angle (mean, 80.8° vs. 82.7°, P = .19) or the change in ß-angle (mean, +1.7° vs. +3.4°, P = .35) between cases and controls, respectively. Regression analysis demonstrated no increased odds of instability with the postoperative ß-angle, odds ratio 0.965 (confidence interval [CI] = 0.916-1.02, P = .19). Likewise, for the preoperative to postoperative change in ß-angle, there was no significantly increased odds of instability, odds ratio 0.978 (CI = 0.934-1.03, P = .35). Finally, there was no difference in risk of instability in patients whose implant positioning resulted in a net superior increase in inclination, relative risk 0.85 (95% CI = 0.46-1.56, P = .28). CONCLUSIONS: Neither the final prosthetic glenoid inclination nor the change in glenoid inclination, as measured by the ß-angle, significantly influences the risk of prosthetic instability after primary RSA.

Ten-day culture incubation time can accurately detect bacterial infection in periprosthetic infection in shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Cutibacterium acnes is the most commonly isolated organism involved in periprosthetic shoulder infections. C acnes has traditionally been difficult to isolate, and much debate exists over appropriate culture methods. Recently, our institution initiated a 10-day culture method using a Brucella blood agar medium to enhance anaerobic growth specifically for C acnes in shoulder specimens. METHODS: A retrospective review of shoulder cultures from 2014-2017 of patients undergoing workup for possible infected shoulder arthroplasty was performed. Cultures were obtained in patients either preoperatively or intraoperatively at the time of revision. Presence of infection was determined based on at least 1 positive culture and treatment with either prolonged antibiotics, placement of an antibiotic spacer at the time of revision, or repeat surgical débridement. RESULTS: The records of 85 patients with 136 cultures were reviewed. Eighty-two patients had full records with at least 1-year clinical follow-up. Fifty-eight cultures were positive, with C acnes as the most commonly recovered organism (57% of positive cultures). Clinical follow-up of patients with negative cultures found no incidence of missed periprosthetic infection. CONCLUSIONS: Use of a 10-day culture incubation method to enhance anaerobic bacterial growth is able to accurately detect periprosthetic infection in the shoulder including those related to C acnes. Our results suggest that by adopting more uniform culture methods, a shorter culture incubation time may be adequate. Ultimately, prospective studies with rigorous microbiologic methods are needed to best understand the clinical significance of unexpected positive bacterial cultures in shoulder arthroplasty.

The functional internal rotation scale: a novel shoulder arthroplasty outcome measure.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder arthroplasty, especially reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), continues to increase in volume. Limitations in internal rotation can be challenging following RSA. Current patient-reported outcome measures are limited in assessing a patient's functional internal rotation following shoulder arthroplasty. To address this limitation, a questionnaire was developed. METHODS: A single-center prospective comparative cohort study was performed to determine the reliability of the questionnaire. A pilot group of patients who had at least 1 year of follow-up following shoulder arthroplasty was asked to complete the questionnaire. Reliability testing was performed using Cronbach's alpha test. Additionally, individual questions and total questionnaire scores were compared between patients who underwent anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) and RSA. RESULTS: The questionnaire showed high reliability with all questions. A group of 23 anatomic TSA and 20 RSA patients were compared. RSA patients scored significantly lower on the questionnaire (35.2 out of 50 vs. 43.9, P = .001). CONCLUSION: The questionnaire can be used in conjunction with other patient-reported outcome measures to help surgeons better assess patients' results following shoulder arthroplasty. The initial findings from our internal reliability study found that RSA patients had significantly lower scores and higher variability in internal rotation function vs. patients with TSA. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical importance of this questionnaire.

Outpatient narcotic consumption following total shoulder arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: In the setting of the opioid epidemic, physicians continue to scrutinize ways to minimize exposure to narcotic medications. Several studies emphasize improvements in perioperative pain management following total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). However, there is a paucity of literature describing outpatient narcotic consumption requirements following TSA. METHODS: A single-institution, prospective study of patients undergoing primary TSA was performed. Preoperative demographics including exposure to narcotics, smoking history, and alcohol exposure were collected. The primary outcome was measurement of total outpatient narcotic consumption 6 weeks from surgery. Narcotic consumption was verified by counting leftover pills at the final follow-up visit. RESULTS: Overall, 50 patients were enrolled. The median narcotic consumption in the cohort was 193 morphine equivalent units (MEUs), approximately 25 (5-mg) tablets of oxycodone, and the mean consumption was 246 MEUs, approximately 32 (5-mg) tablets. Almost 25% of patients consumed fewer than 10 total tablets, with 10% of patients taking no narcotics at home. Multivariate regression found preoperative narcotic exposure associated with increased consumption of 31 MEUs (P = .004). Older age was found to be protective of narcotic consumption, with increasing age by 1 year associated with 0.75 MEU decrease in consumption (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty in general provides quick, reliable pain relief and does not require a significant amount of narcotic medication postoperatively. For most patients, it is reasonable to prescribe the equivalent of 25-30 (5-mg) oxycodone tablets following TSA.

Severity of Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis Does Not Correlate With Patient-Reported Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Patient pain and clinical function are important factors in decision-making for patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA). The correlation between radiographic severity of arthritis and demographic factors with modern patient-reported outcome measures has not yet been well defined. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 256 shoulders in 246 patients presenting with isolated GHOA. All patients obtained standard radiographs and completed the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Shoulder Activity Scale, Visual Analog Scale, and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) computer adaptive tests at the time of presentation. Radiographs were graded according to the Samilson-Prieto classification. Mean pain and functional scores were compared between the radiographic grades of osteoarthritis (OA) and demographic factors. RESULTS: There were 6 shoulders rated as grade 1 OA, 41 shoulders as grade 2, 149 shoulders as grade 3a, and 65 shoulders as grade 3b. There was excellent interobserver reliability in grade of OA (κ = 0.77). There were no significant differences in patient-reported pain or any validated measure of clinical function between radiographic grades of OA (P > .05). Males reported higher function and lower pain scores than females (P = .001-.066), although only the values for the SST and PROMIS physical function test were clinically relevant. DISCUSSION: While gender correlated with pain and function, the clinical relevance is limited. Radiographic severity of GHOA does not correlate with patient-reported pain and function, and symptoms should remain the primary determinants of surgical decision-making. Further investigation is necessary to examine whether radiographic severity of OA influences improvement following operative intervention in this population.

Factors associated with choice for surgery in newly symptomatic degenerative rotator cuff tears: a prospective cohort evaluation.

BACKGROUND: The patient-related factors for the perceived need for surgery for degenerative rotator cuff tears are not known. The purpose of this study is to examine patient- and tear-specific factors leading to surgery in newly painful degenerative rotator cuff tears. METHODS: Asymptomatic, degenerative rotator cuff tears were followed prospectively to identify the onset of pain and tear enlargement. Newly painful tears were continually monitored with a focus on identifying patient-specific (age, occupation, activity level) and tear-specific (tear type and size, tear progression, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, muscle degeneration) factors that are associated with surgical intervention. RESULTS: Forty-eight of 169 newly painful shoulders were eventually managed surgically. Factors associated with surgical treatment included younger age (P = .0004), pain development earlier in surveillance (P = .0002), a greater increase in pain (P = .0001), a decline in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (P < .0001), and a history of contralateral shoulder surgery (P = .0006). Eighty-five of the 169 tears (50%) enlarged either before or within 2 years of pain development. Neither tear type (P = .13), tear enlargement (P = .67) nor tear size (P = .51) was associated with surgery. Neither the severity of muscle degeneration, occupational status, hand dominance, Shoulder Activity Score, nor changes in RAND-12 mental or physical scales differed between groups. DISCUSSION: For newly painful rotator cuff tears, patient-specific factors such as younger age and prior surgery on the contralateral shoulder are more predictive of future surgery than tear-specific factors or changes in tear size over time.

Association Between Rotator Cuff Muscle Size and Glenoid Deformity in Primary Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: Although glenoid morphology has been associated with fatty infiltration of the rotator cuff in arthritic shoulders, the association of rotator cuff muscle area with specific patterns of glenoid wear has not been studied. The purpose of our study was to assess the associations of glenoid deformity in primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis and rotator cuff muscle area. METHODS: A retrospective study of 370 computed tomographic (CT) scans of osteoarthritic shoulders was performed. Glenoid deformity according to the modified Walch classification was determined, and retroversion, inclination, and humeral-head subluxation were calculated using automated 3-dimensional software. Rotator cuff muscle area was measured on sagittal CT scan reconstructions. A ratio of the area of the posterior rotator cuff muscles to the subscapularis was calculated to approximate axial plane potential force imbalance. Univariate and multivariate analyses to determine associations with glenoid bone deformity and rotator cuff measurements were performed. RESULTS: Patient age and sex were significantly related to cuff muscle area across glenoid types. Multivariate analysis did not find significant differences in individual rotator cuff cross-sectional areas across glenoid types, with the exception of a larger supraspinatus area in Type-B2 glenoids compared with Type-A glenoids (odds ratio [OR], 1.5; p = 0.04). An increased ratio of the posterior cuff area to the subscapularis area was associated with increased odds of a Type-B2 deformity (OR, 1.3; p = 0.002). Similarly, an increase in this ratio was significantly associated with increased glenoid retroversion (beta = 0.92; p = 0.01) and humeral-head subluxation (beta = 1.48; p = 0.001). Within the Type-B glenoids, only posterior humeral subluxation was related to the ratio of the posterior cuff to the subscapularis (beta = 1.15; p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Age and sex are significantly associated with cuff muscle area in arthritic shoulders. Asymmetric glenoid wear and humeral-head subluxation in osteoarthritis are associated with asymmetric atrophy within the rotator cuff transverse plane. Increased posterior rotator cuff muscle area compared with anterior rotator cuff muscle area is associated with greater posterior glenoid wear and subluxation. It is unclear if the results are causative or associative; further research is required to clarify the relationship. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Management of the B2 Glenoid in Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis.

The Walch B2 glenoid is characterized by a biconcave glenoid deformity, acquired glenoid retroversion, and posterior humeral head subluxation. Surgical reconstruction of the B2 glenoid remains a challenge. Surgical management options include arthroscopic debridement, hemiarthroplasty, anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty with eccentric reaming, bone grafting or augmented glenoid implants, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Multiple factors dictate the optimal surgical management strategy.. This article describes each of these techniques and presents the current available literature in an effort to guide evidence-based decisions in the surgical management of the B2 glenoid deformity.