The effects of modified hardinge approach on hip muscle strength in patients with primary hip arthroplasty: a patient evaluation with isokinetic strength test and gait analyses.

OBJECTIVE: Numerous factors affect abductor strength after Total hip arthroplasty (THA), including surgical technique, prosthesis type, postoperative rehabilitation program, and preoperative patient condition. We prospectively investigated the effects of the modified Hardinge approach on hip muscle strength, which was evaluated using the isokinetic test, functional results, and gait function of patients who underwent primary THA. METHODS: The hip muscles strength were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. The primary outcomes of the present study were measurement of isokinetic strength of hip abductor muscle strengths using an isokinetic evaluator and gait analyses preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively in 27 patients. RESULTS: Isokinetic muscle strength test, abductor and other hip circumference groups achieved the preoperative muscle strength at 3 months postoperatively, and the postoperative sixth month values showed a statistically significant improvement compared with the preoperative and third month values. In gait analyze, our temporospatial data showed a slight regression at postoperative 3 months but reached the same values at 6 months postoperatively. Kinematic data showed a significant regression, but the data were not compared with those in the preoperative period. CONCLUSIONS: Adequate muscle strength and physiological gait pattern, similar to the preoperative status, can be achieved at 6 months postoperatively. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Arthroscopic Dorsal Ligamentocapsulodesis in the Treatment of Occult Dorsal Wrist Ganglion Cysts Associated with Scapholunate Instability: Surgical Technique and Preliminary Clinical Results.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate our preliminary results and experience with the arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis in managing occult dorsal wrist ganglion cysts (ODGCs) associated with scapholunate (SL) instability. Methods: All patients who underwent arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis due to an ODGC with concomitant SL ligament tear were retrospectively reviewed. In addition to demographic data and length of follow-up, outcomes data that included range of motion, grip strength, modified Mayo wrist score (MMWS), complications and radiographs were collected. Results: The study included 18 patients (18 wrists; 10 female and 8 male). The mean age was 32 years (range: 19-48) and the mean follow-up was 34 months (range: 24-48). The mean preoperative extension deficit decreased from 5.5° (range: 0°-20°) to 2.7° (range: 0°-15°) at the final follow-up (p = 0.004). The mean preoperative flexion deficits decreased from 4.4° (range: 0°-15°) to 2.2° (range: 0°-10°) postoperatively (p = 0.003). The mean hand grip strength significantly increased from 27.7 kg (range: 22-36) to 38.3 kg (range: 31-46) at the final follow-up assessment (p < 0.001). The mean MMWS improved from 46 (range: 25-65) pre-operatively to 91 (range: 70-100) at the final follow-up (p = 0.0002). No major intra- or postoperative complications were observed. Conclusions: SL instability may have an important role in the aetiology of ODGCs, and arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis can provide pain relief and functional improvement without recurrence at the short- to mid-term follow-up in the treatment of ODGCs. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

A New Repair Technique in Pronator Quadratus in Management of Distal Radius Fracture: Comparison with Primary Repair and Unrepaired Techniques.

Objective We aimed to compare the functional and clinical results between our new repair technique in the groups with and without pronator quadratus (PQ) repair in distal radius fractures treated with plate fixation using the volar approach. Methods The medical records of patients who underwent open reduction and volar plate fixation due to distal radius fracture between 2018 and 2020 were studied. In group A, PQ cannot be sutured or tension may occur, the intact radial fascia of the deep anterior fascia (DAF) was placed under the flexors toward the PQ and it was sutured with a 3-0 slow-absorbable monofilament suture to DAF. In group B, no repair was performed. In group C, PQ was sutured with traditional method. Range of motion (ROM) of wrist and handgrip strengths were measured at final examination. Pain was assessed with Visual Analogue Score (VAS), and functional status was evaluated with Quick - Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH). Complications which included tendinopathy, neuritis, tendon rupture due to plate irritation, implant failure, and malunion were also compared. Results Seventy-seven patients (group A, 21, group B, 24, group C, 32 patients) were included in the final follow-up examination who met our inclusion criteria. Among the clinical, functional, and radiological results such as ROM, VAS, DASH, grip strength, and complications in the all group at a mean postoperative of 16.6 months no significant difference was observed. Conclusion Although there was no significant difference between the groups in this study, we think that covering the plate may prevent long-term complications.

Evaluation of Shoulder Muscle Improvement in Patients Following Free Latissimus Dorsi Muscle Pedicle Flap Transfer.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes, shoulder muscle strength, and donor site morbidity following the free latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle pedicle flap transfer. Materials: Patients with free LD muscle pedicle flap reconstructions and with asymptomatic shoulders (affected and contralateral side) were included. The follow-up duration was 12 months. The combined shoulder range of motion (ROM), Constant-Murley shoulder (CMS), and quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (QuickDASH) scores were measured preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively. The ratio of the isokinetic muscle strength and total work was measured with an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex 350®) both preoperatively and at sixth month postoperatively. Results: Twenty patients with a mean age of 37.06 ± 9.74 years and a mean body mass index of 23.49 ± 8.6 kg/m2 were included. The difference in shoulder ROM and CMS and increase in QuickDASH were not significant at the first postoperative year. The peak torque and total work performed decreased by 13%-16% for the adductor and extensor functions at the six month postoperatively, and these differences were significant. Although the adductor peak torque was significantly lower in the postoperative test of the operated side, no significant difference was found between the operated and unaffected shoulder peak torque values. Moreover, no significant difference was noted between the operated and unaffected shoulders in all isokinetic tests pre- and postoperatively. Conclusion: The free LD muscle pedicle flap harvest did not decrease function and ROM at the first postoperative year. The muscle strength and total work of shoulders after the LD muscle transfer returned to the preoperative condition at the sixth month, except adductor and extensor muscle strengths. However, adductor and extensor muscle strengths of the operated shoulders were not significantly different postoperatively.

Objectif: La présente étude visait à évaluer les résultats cliniques, la force musculaire de l'épaule et la morbidité au site donneur après un transfert du lambeau pédiculaire libre du grand dorsal. Matériaux: Des patients ayant subi une reconstruction du lambeau pédiculaire libre du grand dorsal et dont les épaules étaient asymptomatiques (côté touché et côté controlatéral) ont participé à l'étude. Le suivi a duré 12 mois. Les chercheurs ont évalué l'amplitude de mouvement (AM) combinée de l'épaule, le score de Constant-Murley (SCM) et le score rapide des incapacités du bras, de l'épaule et de la main (QuickDASH) avant l'opération, puis un an plus tard. Ils ont mesuré le ratio entre la force musculaire isocinétique et le travail total au moyen d'un dynamomètre isocinétique (Cybex 350®) avant l'opération, puis six mois plus tard. Résultats: Au total, 20 patients d'un âge moyen de 37,06 ± 9,74 ans et à l'indice de masse corporelle moyen de 23,49 ± 8,6 kg/m2 ont été inclus dans l'étude. La différence de l'AM et du SCM de l'épaule et l'augmentation du QuickDASH étaient légères pendant l'année suivant l'opération. Le couple de pointe et le travail total effectués avaient diminué de 13 % à 16 % pour la fonction des adducteurs et des extenseurs six mois après l'opération, ce qu'on peut qualifier de différences importantes. Même si le couple de pointe des adducteurs était beaucoup plus faible au test postopératoire du côté opéré, aucune différence importante n'a été observée entre les valeurs du couple de pointe de l'épaule opérée et de celle non touchée. De plus, lors de tous les tests isocinétiques exécutés avant et après l'opération, ils n'ont pas remarqué de différence importante entre l'épaule opérée et l'épaule non atteinte. Conclusion: Le lambeau musculaire pédiculaire libre du grand dorsal ne diminuait pas la fonction et l'AM pendant l'année suivant l'opération. La force musculaire et le travail total des épaules après le transfert du grand dorsal avaient retrouvé leur état préopératoire au sixième mois, sauf la force des muscules adducteurs et extenseurs. Cependant, la force des muscles adducteurs et extenseurs des épaules opérées n'avait pas tellement changé après l'opération.

Orthopedic Management of Radial Tunnel Syndrome: A Diagnostic and Treatment Dilemma.

OBJECTIVE: The first-line treatment for radial tunnel syndrome is conservative despite limited evidence concerning its efficiency. Surgical release is indicated if nonsurgical measures fail. Radial tunnel syndrome cases may be misdiagnosed as the more common lateral epicondylitis, and misdiagnosing radial tunnel syndrome causes wrong treatment and, thus, the perpetuation or increase of the pain. Although radial tunnel syndrome is a rare disorder, such cases can be encountered in tertiary hand surgery centers. This study aimed to present our experience in diagnosing and managing patients with radial tunnel syndrome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighteen patients (7 male, 11 female; mean age=41.5 years, age range=22-61) in whom radial tunnel syndrome was diagnosed and treated at a single tertiary care center were retrospectively reviewed and included. Previous diagnoses (wrong diagnosis, delayed diagnosis, missed diagnosis, and other), previous treatments for such diagnoses, and their results before presenting to our institution were recorded. The shortened disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire score and visual analog scale score were recorded before the surgery and at the final follow-up appointment. RESULTS: All the patients included in the study underwent steroid injections. Eleven patients (11/18, 61%) benefited from steroid injection and conservative treatment. The remaining 7 patients refractory to conservative treatment were offered surgical treatment. Of these, 6 patients accepted surgery while 1 did not accept it. In all patients, the mean visual analog scale score significantly improved from 6.38 (range: 5-8) to 2.1 (range: 0-7) (P < .001). The mean quick-disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire scores were significantly improved from 43.4 (range: 31.8-52.5) preoperatively to 8.7 (range: 0-45.5) at the final follow-up (P < .001). In the surgical treatment group, the mean visual analog scale score significantly improved from 6.1 (range: 5-7) to 1.2 (range: 0-4) (P < .001). The mean quick-disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire scores were significantly improved from 37.4 (range: 31.2-45.5) preoperatively to 4.7 (range: 0-13.6) at the final follow-up (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Our experience has shown that satisfactory results can be obtained by surgical treatment for patients with radial tunnel syndrome refractory to nonsurgical treatment whose diagnosis is confirmed by a thorough physical examination.

Arthroscopic Dorsal Ligamentocapsulodesis in the Management of Combined Tears of Scapholunate and Lunotriquetral Ligaments: Surgical Technique and Preliminary Clinical Results.

Introduction The literature is scarce regarding the management of combined tears of scapholunate (SL) and lunotriquetral (LT) ligaments. This study aimed to evaluate our preliminary results with the arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis in managing such cases. Materials and Methods Forty-two patients (13 females, 29 males; mean age = 31; age range = 18-51 years) who underwent arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis due to the combined tears of SL and LT ligaments were retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up was 38 (range = 24-55) months. The Modified Mayo Wrist Score, the visual analogue scale (VAS), and grip strength were assessed preoperatively and at the final follow-up examination. Results The mean Modified Mayo Wrist Score significantly improved from 49 (range = 25-70) preoperatively to 82 (range = 60-100) at the final follow-up ( p = 0.000). The mean VAS significantly decreased from 6.33 to 1.6 ( p = 0.000). The mean hand grip strength significantly improved from 31 (range = 19-41) kg to 44 (range = 25-60) kg at the final follow-up examination ( p < 0.001). No major complications were encountered. Conclusion Arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis seems to be a safe and effective surgical technique in the management of this rare combined injury pattern. Level of Evidence This is a Level IV, retrospective case series study.

IS VOLAR PLATING IN DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURES SAFE REGARDING PRONATOR QUADRATUS?

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether isokinetic strength decrease significantly after using volar plating for distal radius fractures and evaluate the pronator quadratus muscle regarding atrophy. Methods: This study took place between 2011 and 2015 and included 18 distal radius fracture patients (group 1) who were treated via volar plating at least one year prior and 14 healthy controls (group 2). All participants were tested isokinetically. Grip strength, radiological evaluation, wrist range of motion, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand and visual analog scale scores were assessed for clinical and functional outcomes. Ultrasonography evaluated the pronator quadratus muscle thicknesses. Results: The peak supination torque (PT) and supination work per repetition (WPT) strength values significantly decreased (p:0.039, p:0.025, respectively). Although we determined an 11% pronation PT deficit and a 19% pronation WPT deficit, neither were significant. In group 1, the pronator quadratus muscle thickness decreased 5.9% ± 13.3 in the radial area and 9.7% ± 10.5 in the interosseous area according with ultrasonography; these results were not statistically significant compared to group 2. All clinical and functional outcomes were not statistically significant between the groups. Conclusion: The use of volar plating after distal radius fractures is a safe method regarding isokinetic strength and pronator quadratus muscle atrophy. Level of evidence III; Retrospective case-control study .

Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar se as forças isocinéticas diminuem significativamente após o uso de placa volar para tratamento de fraturas do rádio distal e avaliar o músculo pronador quadrado quanto à atrofia. Métodos: Este estudo realizado entre 2011 e 2015 incluiu 18 pacientes com fratura do rádio distal (grupo 1) que tenham sido tratadas com placa volar pelo menos um ano antes e 14 pessoas saudáveis como controle (grupo 2). Todos os participantes foram testados isocineticamente. Força de preensão, avaliação radiológica, amplitude de movimento do punho, deficiências do braço, ombro e mão e escores da escala visual analógica foram avaliados clinica e funcionalmente. A ultrassonografia avaliou a espessura do músculo pronador quadrado. Resultados: A força máxima do torque de supinação (TM) e do trabalho por repetição (ER) de supinação diminuíram significativamente (p: 0,039, p: 0,025, respectivamente). Embora tenhamos determinado um déficit de TM de pronação de 11% e um déficit de ER de pronação de 19%, nenhum dos dois foi significativo. No grupo 1, a espessura do músculo pronador quadrado diminuiu 5,9% ± 13,3 na área radial e 9,7% ± 10,5 na área interóssea, segundo ultrassonografia; estes resultados não foram estatisticamente significativos em comparação com o grupo 2. Nenhum resultados clínico ou funcional foi estatisticamente significativo entre os grupos. Conclusão: O uso de placa volar após fraturas do rádio distal é um método seguro em relação à força isocinética e atrofia do músculo pronador quadrado. Nível de evidência III; estudo retrospectivo de caso-controle .

Arthroscopic Dorsal Ligamentocapsulodesis in the Treatment of Isolated Lunotriquetral Interosseous Ligamentous Injury: A Retrospective Case Series of 22 Patients.

Background: The literature is scarce regarding isolated tears of lunotriquetral interosseous ligament (LTIL). The purpose of this study was to present mid-term clinical and functional results of arthroscopic dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis in the treatment of isolated LTIL tears. Methods: Twenty-two patients (8 females, 14 males; mean age: 31 years; age range: 18-42) with isolated LTIL tears verified by wrist arthroscopy were retrospectively reviewed and included in the study. The mean follow-up was 55 months (range: 24-84). The modified Mayo wrist score, visual analog scale (VAS), flexion and extension deficits of passive wrist range of motion (ROM), pain-free ROM with forced wrist extension and grip strength were measured in all patients preoperatively and at final follow-up. Results: The mean modified Mayo wrist score significantly improved from 50 ± 10.29 preoperatively (range: 30-65) to 86 ± 11.61 (range: 60-100) at the final follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean VAS score significantly improved from 7.1 ± 0.83 (range: 6-8) preoperatively to 2.2 ± 1.35 (range: 0-6; p < 0.001) at the final follow-up. At the final follow-up examination, the forced wrist extension was painless in all but three patients who developed pain at 70º, 75º and 80º of extension, respectively. The mean strength of hand grip significantly increased from 38.6 ± 9.68 (range: 24-54) kg to 49.5 ± 12.36 (range: 33-66) kg at the final assessment (p < 0.001). No major complications were observed during or after the procedure. Conclusions: With the encouraging mid-term outcomes and a lower complication rate, arthroscopic LTIL dorsal ligamentocapsulodesis seems to be a safe and effective surgical technique in improving functional outcomes and reducing pain in patients with isolated LTIL tears. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

A Novel Surgical Reconstruction Technique in the Management of Chronic Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tears with Volar Subluxation.

BACKGROUND: We hypothesized that ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction is inadequate for metacarpo- phalangeal joint stabilization in chronic ulnar collateral ligament injuries with volar subluxation due to dor- sal joint capsule injury. We consecutively performed both ulnar collateral ligament and dorsal joint capsule reconstruction to treat patients with a chronic ulnar collateral ligament tear with volar subluxation. This study aimed to present our preliminary results and experience with this technique in managing such cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 7 patients (6 males, 1 female) who underwent surgical reconstruction of both ulnar collateral ligament and dorsal joint capsule reconstruction for the treatment of chronic ulnar collateral ligament injuries with volar subluxation were included. The mean age was 31 (range = 20-39) years, and the mean follow-up was 15.5 (range = 12-20) months. Several clinical and radio- logical data were recorded. RESULTS: The mean Visual Analogue Scale score significantly improved from 5.7 (range=5-8) to 0.57 (range=0-1) (P < .001). The mean quick- Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand was significantly improved from 31.8 (range = 27.3-38.6) preoperatively to 3.2 (range = 0-6.8) at the final follow-up (P < .001). The mean preoperative extension deficit decreased from 18.5° (range = 10°-25°) to 0° (range= 0°-0°) at the final follow-up (P = .022). The mean preoperative flexion deficit increased from 10.7° (range = 0°-20°) to 31.4° (range=25°-35°) postoperatively (P=0.034). The mean key-pinch strength significantly increased from 33.2% (range=27-37) preoperatively to 10.2% (range=6-14) at the final follow-up assessment (P < .001). The mean hand grip strength significantly increased from 18.8% (range=15-23) preoperatively to 6.4% (range = 6-14) at the final follow-up assessment (P < .001). CONCLUSION: With encouraging short-term clinical outcomes and a lower complication rate, surgical recon- struction of both ulnar collateral ligament and dorsal joint capsule seems to be a safe and effective surgical technique in the management of chronic ulnar collateral ligament tears with volar subluxation.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of autologous bone graft versus pronator quadratus pedicled vascularized bone graft in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.

We aimed to compare the union rate and clinical outcome of autologous bone graft versus pronator quadratus vascularized pedicled muscle flap in treatment of scaphoid nonunion. Forty patients with a diagnosis of scaphoid nonunion who underwent unilateral pseudarthrosis surgery were included in this study. Notably, the scaphoid nonunion was unilateral, and the contralateral wrist was asymptomatic with normal function, per the physical and radiological examinations. Pronator quadratus vascularized pedicled muscle flap was used in 16 patients (group 1), and autologous bone graft was used in 24 patients (group 2). Patients were compared used Scapholunate angles, Natrass carpal height ratio and Mayo wrist score pre and postoperatively. Fifteen of the 16 (93.3%) patients in group 1 and 19 of the 24 (79.2%) patients in group 2 achieved bone union. Four of twelve patients in group 2 with avascular necrosis (AVN) and one of eight in group 1 with AVN were not able to achieve union. The group 2 (34%) had higher nonunion rate than group 1 (12%) in AVN patients. The scapholunat angle was significantly decreased and the Natress ratio was significantly increased postoperatively compared to the preoperative measurement in both group. There was no statistically significant difference in the postoperative measurement. The postoperative Mayo wrist score showed no statistically significant differences between both groups. The pronator quadratus vascularized pedicled muscle flap was superior to non-vascularized bone grafting in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion with AVN. However, management of the patients without avascular necrosis is not requiring the vascularized pedicled muscle flap technique.

Comparing the effect of tourniquet and tranexamic acid on the tibial cement mantle thickness in total knee arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to determine the efficacy of both tranexamic acid (TXA) and tourniquet on the tibial cement mantle thickness in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the recorded data of patients with primary end-stage knee osteoarthritis who underwent TKA procedure during 2014-2016 at a single institution to evaluate the tibial cement mantle. Patients were categorized in two groups based on the use of tourniquet (groups 1 and 2). In addition, these groups were categorized into two different subgroups based on the use of TXA in groups 1 and 2 (group 1-A, B and group 2-A, B). Four zones at the tibial baseplate on the anteroposterior view and two zones on the lateral view were measured at the 4-6-week postoperative visit. RESULTS: A total of 28 patients (30 knees) were operated using tourniquet and TXA (group 1-A), 29 (30 knees) using tourniquet without TXA (group 1-B), 24 (28 knees) using TXA without tourniquet (group 2-A), and 38 (42 knees) without using TXA and tourniquet (group 2-B). Although a significant difference was found in the cumulative cement mantle penetration on postoperative X-rays between groups 1 and 2, no significant differences were found between groups A and B in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports that tourniquet use in TKA increased cement mantle penetration of the tibial component in primary TKA. The main strength of this study was that the TXA use alone exhibited no significant effect on the cement thickness.

Arthroscopic Debridement and Arthrolysis for the Treatment of Advanced Kienböck's Disease: 18-Month and 5-Year Postoperative Results.

Background Salvage procedures, such as proximal row carpectomy, limited or total wrist arthrodesis, and wrist replacement, are generally preferred to treat advanced Kienböck's disease. However, these procedures are particularly aggressive and may have unpredictable results and potentially significant complications. Questions/Purpose This study aimed to present the short- to mid-term clinical and functional results of arthroscopic debridement and arthrolysis in the management of advanced Kienböck's disease. Patients and Methods Fifteen patients in whom Lichtman Stages IIIA to IIIC or IV Kienböck's disease was diagnosed and treated by arthroscopic wrist debridement and arthrolysis were included in this retrospective study. The mean age was 30 years (range: 21-45). The mean follow-up period duration was 36 months (range: 18-60). The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, visual analog scale (VAS), wrist range of motion (ROM), and grip strength were measured preoperatively and then again at the final follow-up visit. Results The mean DASH and VAS scores improved from 41 (range: 31-52) and 7.1 (range: 6-8) preoperatively to 13 (range: 8-21) and 2 (range: 0-3; p < 0.001) at the final follow-up visit, respectively. The mean wrist flexion and extension values increased from 32 (range: 20-60 degrees) and 56 degrees (range: 30-70 degrees; p = 0.009) preoperatively to 34 (range: 10-65 degrees; p = 0.218) and 57 degrees (range: 30-70 degrees; p = 0.296) at the final follow-up appointment, respectively, although these findings were statistically insignificant. The mean strength of the hand grip increased from 22.7 (range: 9-33) to 23.3 (range: 10-34; p = 0.372). Conclusion Arthroscopic debridement and arthrolysis may improve wrist function and quality of life due to the preserved ROM and hand grip strength after short- to mid-term follow-up periods despite the radiographic progression of Kienböck's disease. Level of Evidence This is a Level IV, retrospective case series study.

Post-traumatic double crush pudendal nerve entrapment syndrome after fracture of the pelvis: A case report.

Pudendal syndrome is primarily characterized by stress urinary incontinence, dysuria, sexual arousal syndrome, painful erections, and anal incontinence. The syndrome occurs when the pudendal nerve or one of its branches is compressed, stretched, or injured. Double crush is the compression of a peripheral nerve at two or more separate areas with various signs and symptoms. We, herein, aimed to introduce the case of a 42-year-old male who underwent the distal release procedure due to the diagnosis of "double crush pudendal syndrome" following a proximal release surgery previously performed elsewhere. The patient's history revealed a pelvic fracture with urethral injury 27 years ago. Throughout the years, the patient had been evaluated by various medical disciplines and undergone several treatments. In 2017, an orthopedic surgeon performed proximal pudendal nerve release using transgluteal approach, and then rectal pain and defecation complaints relieved. However, in 2019, the patient was referred to our clinic because of the persistence of erection and perineal complaints after the proximal pudendal nerve release. Based on a detailed clinical and laboratory assessment, the diagnosis of double crush neuropathy was established, and distal release of the pudendal nerve using transperineal approach was performed. To determine the efficiency of the surgical treatment, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Quality of Erection Questionnaire (QAQ) tests were used preoperatively and at the first postoperative year. Furthermore, to assess the perineal pain, erection pain, and pain during intercourse Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used. The erectile dysfunction improved from the severe degree (9 points) to the mild degree (22 points) postoperatively. The patient's general and sexual satisfaction scores, and erection quality score improved compared to the preoperative baseline. According to VAS, the perineal pain, erectile pain,and pain during intercourse decreased postoperatively. (from 7 to 2 out of 10, from 8 to 3 out of 10, from 7 to 2 out of 10, respectively). When perineal and sexual complaints are encountered following pelvic trauma, the pudendal nerve-related problems, especially double crush syndrome, should be kept in mind in differential diagnosis. A multidisciplinary approach must be established in order to avoid any delay in diagnosis and treatment. Surgical intervention may provide a significant improvement in clinical and functional status.

The Effects of Tourniquet Application in Total Knee Arthroplasty on the Recovery of Thigh Muscle Strength and Clinical Outcomes.

The present randomized controlled study aims to evaluate whether tourniquet application during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has an effect on (1) thigh muscle strength (quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength) and (2) clinical outcomes (postoperative knee range of motion [ROM], postoperative pain level, and Knee Society Score [KSS]). The effects of tourniquet application during TKA were investigated in 65 patients randomly allocated to one of two groups: TKA with a tourniquet and TKA without a tourniquet. Patients in both groups were comparable in terms of the demographic and clinical data (p > 0.05 for age, number of patients, sex, radiographic gonarthrosis grade, American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] classification, and body mass index [BMI]). All patients in both groups were operated by the same surgeon using one type of prosthesis. Isokinetic muscle strength (peak torque and total work) of knee extensors (quadriceps) and flexors (hamstrings) was measured in Newton meters (Nm) using a CYBEX 350 isokinetic dynamometer (HUMAC/CYBEX 2009, Stoughton, MA). The combined KSS (knee score + function score), visual analog scale (VAS), and knee ROM were measured preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively to evaluate clinical outcomes. There were no significant differences between the two groups in preoperative and postoperative values of isokinetic muscle strength (peak torque and total work) and aforementioned clinical outcomes (p < 0.05). The present study has shown that quadriceps strength and clinical outcomes were not improved in the early postoperative period (3 months) when a tourniquet was not used during TKA.

Management of upper extremity war injuries in the subacute period: A review of 62 cases.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to describe the relationship between the localization of rarely seen upper extremity war injuries and their complications in the subacute period, and define our preferences for surgery and antibiotic use. METHODS: Patients with an upper extremity war injury who presented to our institution between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. Data regarding demographics, time between injury and presentation, location of injury, type of damage, complications, treatment methods, infection rates and antibiotic use were recorded. Tissue defects, fracture fixation, neurovascular damage, infection development and treatment approaches were analyzed. RESULTS: Sixty-two male patients with isolated upper extremity injuries (mean age: 31.66 ± 8.28 years) were included in the study. The average time between trauma and hospitalization was 14 days. The mean hematocrit (Hct) level at presentation was 36.3 ± 6.8%. Patients had been followed up for an average period of 95.6 ± 32.1 days. Twenty-nine patients (46.8%) had nerve injury, eight (12.9%) had arterial injury that required repair, and 23 had infection (37.1%), of which five developed osteomyelitis. Infection was polymicrobial in nine cases and monobacterial in 14. A positive correlation was found between the presence of fracture and nerve injury (p = 0.013). The frequency of nerve injuries due to gunshot wounds was higher in the mid-section and lower part of the arms and in the proximal forearm when compared to other regions (p = 0.011). The infection rates were significantly higher in patients with fractures (p = 0.033). The mean hematocrit (Hct) level at presentation of the patients with infection (32.1 ± 6.3%) was significantly lower than that of those who did not have infection (38.8 ± 5.9%) (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Upper extremity war injuries require case-specific solutions. Microbiological samples should be taken prior to empirical antibiotic treatment for infection management and rational antibiotic use principles should be applied according to the culture and antibiogram results. The holistic and ambiguous character of nerve injuries often requires early exploration and combined reconstructive interventions. Arterial injuries can be overlooked by physical examination alone and thus routine angiography should be performed. Completion of the bone and soft tissue reconstructions in the same session using a holistic approach minimizes the possible risks.

Tear Completion Versus In Situ Repair for 50% Partial-Thickness Bursal-Side Rotator Cuff Tears: A Biomechanical and Histological Study in an Animal Model.

BACKGROUND: Tear completion followed by repair (TCR) and in situ repair (ISR) have been widely used for bursal-side partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCTs). Both techniques have shown favorable results; however, controversy continues in terms of the best management. PURPOSE: To compare the histological and biomechanical outcomes of these 2 techniques for 50% partial-thickness bursal-side rotator cuff tear repair in a rabbit model. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: A total of 27 rabbits were used in this experimental study. Seven rabbits were sacrificed at the beginning of the study to form an intact tendon control group. A chronic 50% partial-thickness bursal-side tear model was created in 20 rabbits, and 5 rabbits were sacrificed for biomechanical testing of chronic partial-thickness tears (control group) without repair. In 15 rabbits, partial-thickness tears were repaired after 8 weeks. Partial-thickness tears in the right shoulders were completed to full thickness and repaired; in contrast, left shoulders were repaired in situ. All rabbits were euthanized 8 weeks after the repair. The tendons were tested biomechanically for ultimate failure, linear stiffness, and displacement. Histological evaluations of tendon-to-bone healing were performed via the modified Watkins score. RESULTS: Macroscopically, all repaired tendons were attached to the greater tuberosity. The TCR group had a higher failure load than the ISR group, with mean values of 140.4 ± 13.8 N and 108.1 ± 16.6 N, respectively (P = .001). The modified Watkins score was significantly higher in the TCR group (23.5; range, 22-27) than in the ISR group (19.5; range, 16-22) (P = .009). CONCLUSION: Both repair techniques are effective for 50% partial-thickness bursal-side rotator cuff tears; however, TCR yields significantly superior biomechanical and histological characteristics compared with ISR. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Tear completion and repair technique may increase tendon-to-bone healing and thereby reduce re-rupture rate in the partial thickness bursal side rotator cuff tears.

Conservative management equally effective to new suture anchor technique for acute mallet finger deformity: A prospective randomized clinical trial.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective randomized controlled trial. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: This study was designed to compare our new suture anchor technique with conservative management in acute Wehbe-Schneider type I A-B and II A-B mallet fingers. METHODS: Twenty nine patients who presented to our clinic between 2013 and 2015 were randomized for surgical or conservative treatment. Wehbe-Schneider subtype C fractures were excluded. Fourteen were treated with surgery, and 15 were treated with conservative treatment. Primary outcomes were visual analog scale score, active distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint flexion, return to work, extension deficit and DIP joint degeneration. Follow-up time was 12 months. RESULTS: The mean visual analog scale was 2.0, and return to work was on average in 63.2 days in the surgical group and 1.47 and 53.7 days in the conservative group. Extension deficit was 8.1° in the surgical group and 6.1° in the conservative group. The mean DIP flexion at final follow-up was 54.5° (40-65) in the surgery group and 58.3° (45-70) in the conservative group. DIP joint degeneration was observed with X-rays in 4 patients in surgical group, and none of the patients in the conservative group had DIP degeneration at 1 year after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The therapeutic effectiveness of suture anchor technique was not statistically different from conservative treatment. Subluxation seen after fixation treatment with suture anchors may be due to inadequate anchor fixation. DIP joint degeneration was seen significantly more in the surgical group. Our study suggests that the new suture anchor technique is not superior to conservative treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Ib.