Delta Xtend reverse shoulder arthroplasty - Results at a minimum of five years.

BACKGROUND: Reverse shoulder arthroplasty provides predictable pain relief and improvements in function, but concerns remain regarding complication rates and there is little long-term outcome data. The aim of this study was to review the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the Delta Xtend reverse shoulder arthroplasty at a minimum of five years. METHODS: Ninety-six Delta Xtend reverse shoulder arthroplasty procedures were performed in 93 patients. There were 41 males and 52 females with an average age of 74.9 years. All available patients returned for clinical and radiographic analysis, including completion of patient reported outcome measures. RESULTS: The complication rate was 9.4%. There were three revisions (3.1%) and two other reoperations (2.1%). Fifty-nine shoulders were available for review at an average of 81 months. Average forward flexion was 142°. Average American Shoulder and Elbow Assessment Score improved from 27.6 to 78.5 (p<0.001). Radiolucent lines and/or proximal bone resorption was seen in 35.4%. Scapula notching was observed in 69.1%, with Grade III or IV notching in 20%. These findings had no effect on patient reported outcome measures. DISCUSSION: This study confirms the clinical benefits of reverse shoulder arthroplasty, with improvements maintained out to 10 years. The high rate of scapula notching remains a concern. Further study is needed to fully understand the clinical significance of notching, as well as the potential benefits of newer implant designs.

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: magnetic resonance arthrogram assessment of tendon healing.

BACKGROUND: Many poor outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff (RC) repair relate to failure of tendon healing. The purposes of this study were to provide a better understanding of the magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) characteristics of the RC tendon repair site after arthroscopic RC repair and to examine how these findings influence patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and the presence of persistent symptoms. METHODS: We reviewed 48 shoulders (13 female and 35 male patients; average age, 53.8 years) at a minimum of 6 months (average, 11.4 months) after arthroscopic RC repair (average tear size, 2.2 cm). All patients completed PROMs and underwent MRA assessment. Detailed analysis of the RC repair site was undertaken, with findings correlated with clinical outcomes and PROMs. RESULTS: The average preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score of 39.5 improved to 92.8 (P < .001). All but 6 patients (87.5%) had increased signal intensity of the involved tendon, with interstitial splits and/or delamination in 65.6%. These changes had no effect on PROMs or patient satisfaction. Significant partial-thickness tears (>50%) were observed in 7 patients (14.6%), with no effect on outcomes (average ASES score of 95.2 and satisfaction score of 9). There were 2 recurrent full-thickness tears (4.2%), and 4 patients (8.3%) had a failure in continuity. The average ASES score in these 6 cases of failure was 76 (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Structural abnormalities on MRA are common after RC repair but do not always result in clinical failure. However, our results suggest that an ASES score of less than 80 may be useful when considering postoperative imaging, especially in a patient with ongoing pain more than 6 months after surgery.

Neurologic complications of shoulder joint replacement.

BACKGROUND: Little attention has been given to neurologic complications after shoulder joint replacement (SJR). Previously thought to occur infrequently, it is likely that many are not clinically recognized, and they can result in postoperative morbidity and impair the patient's recovery. The purpose of this study was to document the prevalence of nerve complications after SJR, to identify the nerves involved, and to define patient outcomes. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of 211 SJRs in 202 patients during a 5-year period were included, with 89 male and 122 female patients at an average age of 70 years. All patients underwent a comprehensive analysis of any postoperative nerve complication, including onset, duration, investigation, treatment, and symptom resolution. RESULTS: Of the 211 SJR procedures, 44 were identified as having sustained a nerve complication (20.9%), with 36 female (81.8%) and 8 male patients (18.2%). Reverse SJR was associated with the highest number of nerve complications. The median nerve (25 patients) and musculocutaneous nerve (8 patients) were most commonly involved. Most nerve complications were transient and resolved within 6 months. Permanent sequelae and injuries that required secondary surgical intervention were rare. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of nerve complications after SJR is common, but almost all will fully recover. Most are transient neurapraxias involving the lateral cord of the brachial plexus. Women are more likely to be affected, as are patients who have undergone prior surgery to the affected shoulder. Most are likely to be the result of excessive traction or direct injury to the nerves during glenoid exposure.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty compared with hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of acute proximal humeral fractures.

BACKGROUND: Complex proximal humeral fractures may require prosthetic replacement of the humeral head. Surgical options include reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) and shoulder hemiarthroplasty; however, the optimal technique remains controversial. The goal of this study was to compare functional outcomes and revision rates of RSA with hemiarthroplasty in patients with acute proximal humeral fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2014, there were 218 patients who underwent RSA and 427 who underwent hemiarthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures identified through New Zealand Joint Registry records. Study groups were compared with regard to baseline characteristics, operative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes (Oxford Shoulder Score [OSS], revision rate, mortality rate) at 6 months and 5 years after surgery. RESULTS: RSA patients were significantly older (mean age, 78.2 vs. 71.6 years; P < .001), with a higher proportion of female patients (90% vs. 77%; P < .001) than in the hemiarthroplasty group. No statistically significant difference existed in revision rate per 100 component-years (0.58 [RSA] vs. 1.16 [hemiarthroplasty]; P = .137) or 1-year mortality (3.8% vs. 3.4%; P = .805) between both groups. There was no significant difference in 6-month OSS (29.6 vs. 28.4; P = .305). The RSA group demonstrated a superior mean 5-year OSS (37.6 vs. 32.7; P = .078); however, the difference did not achieve statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Although our results suggest that RSA patients may experience superior 5-year functional scores, we have identified no significant difference in functional outcomes and revision rates between RSA and hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of acute proximal humeral fractures.

Functional outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty compared with hemiarthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures.

BACKGROUND: Complex acute proximal humeral fractures may require prosthetic replacement of the proximal humerus. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has been suggested as an alternative to hemiarthroplasty in the management of such fractures. This study compared the functional outcomes of RSA with hemiarthroplasty in patients with acute proximal humeral fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients who underwent RSA or shoulder hemiarthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2010 were identified from The New Zealand Joint Registry. Baseline information, operative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes (Oxford Shoulder Score [OSS] at 6 months and 5 years, revision rate, and mortality rate) were examined and compared between the study groups. RESULTS: During the study period, 55 patients underwent RSA and 313 underwent shoulder hemiarthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures. Compared with hemiarthroplasty patients, RSA patients were significantly older (mean age, 79.6 vs 71.9 years; P < .001) and more often women (93% vs 78%, P = .013). The 6-month OSS was 28.1 for RSA and 27.9 for hemiarthroplasty, which was not significantly different (P = .923); however, the RSA group had a significantly better 5-year OSS than the hemiarthroplasty group (41.5 vs 32.3; P = .022). There was no significant difference between the RSA and hemiarthroplasty groups in revision rate per 100 component-years (1.7 vs 1.1; P = .747) or in 1-year mortality (3.5% vs 3.6%; P > .99). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with acute proximal humeral fractures who undergo RSA appear to achieve superior 5-year functional outcomes compared with patients who undergo hemiarthroplasty.

The superomedial bare area of the costal scapula surface: a possible cause of snapping scapula syndrome.

PURPOSE: Scapulothoracic bursitis is a painful condition of the scapulothoracic articulation, which may be caused by various pathological anatomical associations. We have arthroscopically observed a constant bare area of bone on the costal scapula surface in patients with scapulothoracic bursitis, contradictory to traditional anatomical reports of scapular muscle relations. We undertook a cadaveric study to further define this anatomical feature. METHODS: Twelve cadaveric shoulders were dissected. The costal surface of the scapula was systematically examined for the presence of a superomedial bare area in each shoulder by three independent clinicians, with dimensions measured using digital calipers. RESULTS: In all shoulders, there was a clearly defined bare area of bone on the superomedial aspect of the costal surface of the scapula between the serratus anterior insertion and subscapularis origin. The bare area was typically crescenteric in shape, with variable length (mean 22.3 ± 6.0 mm) and width (10.8 ± 2.8 mm). The bare area length (p = 0.043) and width (p = 0.033) were significantly greater in female shoulders compared to male shoulders. CONCLUSIONS: We have established the presence of the superomedial bare area of the costal scapula surface. With an absence of overlying subscapularis muscle, this bare area carries the potential for scapulothoracic impingement, and should be considered as a possible aetiological factor in all patients presenting with scapulothoracic bursitis.

Radial head reconstruction versus replacement in the treatment of terrible triad injuries of the elbow.

INTRODUCTION: Dislocation of the elbow with associated fractures of the radial head and the coronoid process of the ulna have been referred to as the terrible triad of the elbow because of the difficulties in treating this injury and the poor outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There were 23 patients (24 elbows) available for evaluation with this injury during a 7-year period at Auckland City Hospital. RESULTS: There were 11 women and 12 men with an average age of 43.5 years. The mean duration of follow-up was 41 months. The mean range of flexion was 135° (range, 110°-145°), extension was 8° (range, 0°-40°), supination was 75° (range, 15°-85°), and pronation was 80° (range, 20°-90°). No patients reported ongoing symptoms of instability. We compared the radial head repair group (13 patients) and the radial head replacement group (11 patients), which showed no significant difference between the variables of age, length of follow-up, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, satisfaction score, range of motion (flexion, extension, supination, pronation), and the associated arcs of motion. Only one significant difference was noted: the radial head replacement group scored higher values on the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand assessment. CONCLUSIONS: Elbow fracture-dislocations are difficult injuries to treat. Our study shows that with operative repair or replacement of the radial head to restore stability through radiocapitellar contact, coronoid, and lateral ligament repair, good range of movement and stability can be achieved at short-term follow-up.

Catheter orifice configuration influences the effectiveness of continuous peripheral nerve blockade.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We investigated perineural catheter threading distance and orifice configuration during continuous interscalene analgesia. METHODS: One hundred fifty-three patients receiving an anterolateral interscalene catheter (catheter needle and nerve/plexus in a similar alignment) for elective shoulder surgery were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: following out-of-plane ultrasound confirmation of the needle tip immediately lateral to the C5/6 roots, a nonstimulating catheter was blindly advanced 0.5 cm (end-hole; n = 50), 2.5 cm (multiorifice; n = 50) or 5 cm (multiorifice; n = 53) beyond the needle tip. Ropivacaine 0.75% + lidocaine 1% (50:50) 20 mL was administered preoperatively via the catheter before surgery under general anesthesia. A ropivacaine 0.2% 2 mL/hr elastomeric infusion with mandatory 6 hourly (and on demand) 5-mL boluses was continued for more than 48 hrs with tramadol available as rescue. Patients were questioned in the recovery room, at 24 and 48 hrs for numerical rating pain score (0-10), ropivacaine bolus, and tramadol consumption. RESULTS: Patients were more frequently pain-free in the recovery room in the multiorifice 2.5 and 5 cm groups compared with the end-hole 0.5 cm group (94%, 91% vs 66%; P < 0.001). During the first 24 hrs, the end-hole group demonstrated an earlier time to first pain (median, 10 vs17, 15 hrs; P < 0.001), higher "average pain" (median, 3 vs 1, 2, P = 0.004), and more ropivacaine bolus (median, 5 vs 3, 3; P < 0.001) and tramadol consumption (P = 0.01). Groups 2.5 and 5 cm did not significantly differ in any outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that multiorifice catheters provide superior intermittent bolus continuous peripheral nerve blockade compared with end-hole catheters. For anterolateral approach interscalene catheter placement, there is minimal benefit, either way, to 2.5- or 5-cm blind catheter advancement.

Posterior versus anterolateral approach interscalene catheter placement: a prospective randomized trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Two distinctly different approaches to interscalene catheter placement have been in common use for close to a decade. This prospective randomized study tested the hypothesis that interscalene catheters placed using the posterior approach would provide a more effective analgesia after shoulder surgery compared with catheters placed using the anterolateral approach. METHODS: A total of 110 patients presenting for elective shoulder surgery were randomly assigned to receive an ultrasound-guided posterior (n=54) or anterolateral (n=56) interscalene catheter with 20 mL of ropivacaine 0.375% administered preoperatively via the catheter before surgery under general anesthesia. Ropivacaine 0.2% at 2 mL/hr with on-demand hourly 5-mL boluses was continued for more than 48 hrs with tramadol available as rescue. Patients were questioned in the recovery room, at 24 and 48 hrs after surgery, for pain, ropivacaine bolus, and tramadol consumption. RESULTS: Patients were more frequently free of pain in the recovery room in the anterolateral group compared with the posterior group (mean, 91%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 84%-99% versus mean, 61%; 95% CI, 48%-74%; P=0.005). Rescue tramadol consumption was higher for the posterior group during the first but not during the second 24 hrs after surgery (day 1/day 2: 48%versus 27%, P=0.017 / 35% versus 27%, P=0.27). Postoperative pain, ropivacaine bolus consumption, numbness, weakness, neck discomfort, and satisfaction were similar between groups. Catheter threading difficulty was more common (33% versus 13%, P=0.012), and catheter placement time was longer (median, 9 min; interquartile range, 7.5-10 min versus median, 6.5 min; interquartile range, 6-8 min; P<0.0001) in the posterior group. CONCLUSIONS: Anterolateral interscalene catheters perform more effectively and are procedurally more easily placed compared with catheters placed using the posterior approach.

Analgesic effectiveness of a continuous versus single-injection interscalene block for minor arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The utility of continuous perineural infusions for lesser painful shoulder procedures is not well established. We hypothesized that the addition of a continuous interscalene ropivacaine infusion to a single-injection interscalene block would improve analgesia after minor arthroscopic shoulder surgery. METHODS: An ultrasound-guided interscalene catheter targeting the C5-C6 roots/superior trunk was placed preoperatively in patients undergoing arthroscopic subacromial decompression, excision lateral clavicle, or stabilization. Ropivacaine 0.5% 30 mL was administered via this catheter before surgery was conducted under general anesthesia. All patients received dexamethasone and ondansetron antiemetic prophylaxis. At surgery conclusion, patients were randomly assigned to catheter removal in the postanesthesia care unit ("SS," n = 30) or to an elastomeric infusion of ropivacaine 0.2% 2 mL/hr with patient-controlled 5-mL boluses every hour ("Continuous," n = 31). Multimodal analgesia (acetaminophen, diclofenac, and rescue tramadol) was administered in both groups. Patients were questioned on postoperative days 1 and 2 for numerical rating pain score (0-10), supplemental tramadol consumption, and adverse effects of treatment. RESULTS: Median (quartiles) worst numerical rating pain score was lower in the Continuous group on day 1 on movement (SS = 4 [3-6], Continuous = 2 [0-4], P = 0.008) and at rest (SS = 2 [2-5], Continuous = 1 [0-3], P = 0.007) but was similar between groups on day 2. Median (quartiles) tramadol tablet consumption was lower in the Continuous group on both day 1 (SS = 1 [0-2], Continuous = 0 [0-0], P < 0.001) and day 2 (SS = 1 [0-2], Continuous = 0 [0-1], P = 0.017). Adverse effects of treatment were similar between groups except for numerically rated arm numbness, which was higher for the Continuous group. One patient in the SS group required 2 nights of hospitalization for intravenous opioid. CONCLUSIONS: After minor arthroscopic shoulder surgery, the addition of a continuous interscalene ropivacaine infusion to a single-shot interscalene block reduces pain, especially with movement, during the first 24 hrs.

A prospective randomized comparison of ultrasound guidance versus neurostimulation for interscalene catheter placement.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Ultrasound (US) imaging facilitates catheter placement adjacent to the most appropriate elements of the brachial plexus, which for shoulder surgery are the C5YC6 roots or superior trunk. Therefore, it was investigated whether such placement would improve catheter effectiveness compared to placement with traditional techniques. METHODS: Needles introduced for catheter insertion were prospectively randomized to either US guidance immediately lateral to the C5-C6 roots/superior middle trunks (n = 43) or neurostimulation (NS) guidance to an appropriate motor response at less than 0.5 mA (n = 40). Ropivacaine 0.5% 30 mL was administered via the catheter before surgery under general anesthesia. After surgery, ropivacaine 0.2% infusion at 2 mL/hr with on-demand 5-mL boluses via an elastomeric pump was continued at home for 2 to 5 days. Patients were questioned regarding the need for ropivacaine boluses, tramadol, and numerical rating pain score (NRPS) on postoperative days 1 and 2. RESULTS: Catheter interventions for an NRPS of greater than 2 (0-10) in recovery were lower in the US group (US = 2/43, NS = 10/39; P = 0.007). Day 1 median ropivacaine bolus consumption (US = 1, NS = 2; P = 0.03) and the proportion of subjects requiring 2 or more tramadol tablets (US = 2/43, NS = 7/39; P = 0.04) were lower in the US group. These differences were not present on day 2. Postoperative pain was similar in both groups. Median (quartiles) needle time under the skin was lower in the US group (49 secs [41-55 secs]) than the NS group (97 secs [80-137 secs]) (P G 0.001) and was associated with a 1-point reduction in procedural NRPS (median [quartiles]: US = 2 [1-4], NS = 3 [2-6]; P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: After shoulder surgery, interscalene catheters placed with US demonstrated improved effectiveness during the first 24 hrs compared with those placed with NS. These catheters were also placed with less needling and a very small reduction in procedure-related pain.

The SMR reverse shoulder prosthesis in the treatment of cuff-deficient shoulder conditions.

BACKGROUND: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is a relatively recent concept that provides further options in the management of cuff-deficient shoulder disorders. While early results utilizing the Delta III prosthesis (DePuy, Warsaw, IN) have been promising, there is limited data in the literature on outcomes utilizing differing prosthetic designs. We report on the outcomes of Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) utilizing a previously unreported prosthesis, the SMR Modular Shoulder System (Systema Multiplana Randelli, Lima-LTO, Italy). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 49 arthroplasties in 48 patients who underwent Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty with the SMR prosthesis were available for follow up. There were 10 males and 38 females with a mean age of 78.9 years (55-94) at time of operation. The most common indications were cuff tear arthropathy and osteoarthritis with cuff deficiency (66%), followed by fracture and fracture sequelae (16%). RESULTS: At a mean 38 months follow up, 89% of patients rated their outcome as good or excellent. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon Score was 70.1 (range 3-100), and the mean Oxford Shoulder Score 22.0 (12-47). The mean active anterior elevation was 122 degrees (range 45-180) and the mean external rotation 14.7 degrees (25-75). Inferior glenoid notching was seen in 24% of patients. There was no radiological evidence of component loosening and no reoperations. CONCLUSION: Modern RSA designs give encouraging results in the treatment of cuff deficient shoulder conditions. Our early experience with the SMR RSA shows favourable outcomes and a low rate of complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4 Retrospective case series, no control group.

A prospective randomized comparison of ultrasound and neurostimulation as needle end points for interscalene catheter placement.

BACKGROUND: In this prospective, randomized study, we tested the hypothesis that interscalene catheters placed for shoulder surgery using an ultrasound needle end point provide postoperative analgesia similar in quality to those placed using a neurostimulation needle end point. Secondary end points included needle time under the skin, procedure-related pain, and the incidence of early neurological complications. METHODS: Patients presenting for shoulder surgery were recruited. Needles introduced for catheter insertion were initially guided with out-of-plane ultrasound imaging but were prospectively randomized to either sonographic placement immediately lateral to the interscalene interface (n = 41) or to an appropriate motor response at <0.5 mA (n = 40). Catheters were then advanced blindly 2-3 cm beyond needle tip. All surgery was conducted under general anesthesia. At the end of surgery, an infusion of ropivacaine 0.2% 2 mL/h with as-required hourly 5 mL boluses was instituted and continued at home for 2-5 days. Needle time under the skin and numerical rating pain score (NRPS) during insertion were recorded. Patients recorded worst NRPS, the need for supplementary ropivacaine boluses and tramadol on postoperative days 1 and 2. All patients were questioned at Day 10 for new neurological symptoms. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the worst NRPS at rest and on movement and the requirement for supplementary ropivacaine boluses or tramadol during the first 48 postoperative hours. In one patient in group ultrasound, a satisfactory ultrasound image was unobtainable. An appropriate motor response was obtained in all subjects in group neurostimulation. The median (quartiles) needle time under the skin was 78 (65-101) s in group ultrasound and 108 (94-129) s in group neurostimulation (P < 0.001). The median (quartiles) insertion NRPS was 2 (0-4) in group ultrasound and 3 (1-5) in group neurostimulation (P < 0.048). There was no difference in the frequency of neurological complications between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Interscalene catheters placed for shoulder surgery using an ultrasound needle end point provide postoperative analgesia that is of similar quality to that obtained when using a neurostimulation needle end point. The ultrasound end point was associated with a reduction in needle under the skin time and procedure-related pain.

Successful continuous interscalene analgesia for ambulatory shoulder surgery in a private practice setting.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Large prospective studies evaluating continuous interscalene block for shoulder surgery have thus far been limited to inpatient and university teaching practices. Shoulder surgery is increasingly being performed on an outpatient basis. The aim of this case series was to prospectively evaluate a large series of interscalene catheters for ambulatory shoulder surgery in a private practice setting. METHODS: A single operator placed nonstimulating catheters using a combination of ultrasound and nerve stimulation. Following postanesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge, opioid-like analgesic adjuvants other than tramadol were avoided unless patients experienced inadequate pain relief. All patients were assessed in the PACU, on the first postoperative morning, and at 3 weeks for catheter effectiveness and for acute and chronic complications. Pain scores and patient satisfaction were assessed in subgroups of 100 consecutive patients. RESULTS: Three hundred patients were studied. The first attempt catheter success rate was 96%. In all but 1 patient, ineffective catheters in the PACU were effectively reinserted. Thirteen patients experienced inadequate pain relief after leaving the PACU. Of these patients, 5 were rescued with additional ropivacaine, 3 had the catheter effectively reinserted, and 5 were managed with oral opioids. One patient required antibiotic treatment for catheter site infection. Neurological sequelae potentially attributable to the catheter were present in 3 patients at 3 weeks, and remained in 1 patient at 4 weeks. This patient's symptoms resolved at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Continuous interscalene block for ambulatory shoulder surgery in a private practice setting had a high success rate, a low complication rate, and enabled the avoidance of the use of potent opioids in 98% of patients.

The outcome and repair integrity of completely arthroscopically repaired large and massive rotator cuff tears.

BACKGROUND: The impact of a recurrent defect on the outcome after rotator cuff repair has been controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional and anatomic results after arthroscopic repair of large and massive rotator cuff tears with use of ultrasound as an imaging modality to determine the postoperative integrity of the repair. METHODS: Eighteen patients who had complete arthroscopic repair of a tear measuring >2 cm in the transverse dimension were evaluated at a minimum of twelve months after surgery and again at two years after surgery. The evaluation consisted of a standardized history and physical examination as well as calculation of the preoperative and postoperative shoulder scores according to the system of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons. The strength of both shoulders was quantitated postoperatively with use of a portable dynamometer. Ultrasound studies were performed with use of an established and validated protocol at a minimum of twelve months after surgery. RESULTS: Recurrent tears were seen in seventeen of the eighteen patients. Despite the absence of healing at twelve months after surgery, thirteen patients had an American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score of >/=90 points. Sixteen patients had an improvement in the functional outcome score, which increased from an average of 48.3 to 84.6 points. Sixteen patients had a decrease in pain, and twelve had no pain. Although eight patients had preoperative forward elevation to <95 degrees, all eighteen regained motion above shoulder level and had an average of 152 degrees of elevation. At the second evaluation, a minimum of twenty-four months after surgery, the average score, according to the system of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, had decreased to 79.9 points; only nine patients had a score of >/=90 points, and six patients had a score of /=80.

The posterior branch of the axillary nerve: an anatomic study.

BACKGROUND: Surgery on the posterior aspect of the shoulder has become accepted practice for a number of pathological conditions affecting the scapula and the glenohumeral joint. Despite this trend, the anatomy of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve has not been well characterized. The purpose of the present study was to determine the innervation pattern and surgical relationships of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve. METHODS: Nineteen fresh-frozen human cadaveric forequarter amputation specimens were dissected through a posterior approach. The location of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve and its anatomical relationships with surrounding structures were documented and measured with use of digital calipers. RESULTS: The posterior branch separated from the main anterior circumflex branch of the axillary nerve immediately anterior to the origin of the long head of the triceps muscle at the six o'clock position on the glenoid. It coursed posteriorly, adjacent to the inferior aspect of the glenoid rim for an average distance of 10 mm (range, 2 to 17 mm) before dividing into the superior-lateral brachial cutaneous nerve and the nerve to the teres minor. The nerve to the teres minor coursed medially along the posterior aspect of the inferior part of the glenoid rim for an average distance of 18 mm (range, 11 to 25 mm) before entering the muscle at its inferior border. The superior-lateral brachial cutaneous nerve coursed inferiorly, deep to the posterior aspect of the deltoid. It became superficial by passing around the medial border of the muscle at an average of 8.7 cm (range, 6.3 to 10.9 cm) inferior to the posterolateral corner of the acromion. CONCLUSIONS: The posterior branch of the axillary nerve has an intimate association with the inferior aspects of the glenoid and shoulder joint capsule, which may place it at particular risk during capsular plication or thermal shrinkage procedures. The superior-lateral brachial cutaneous nerve and the nerve to the teres minor always arise from the posterior branch. Thus, loss of sensation over the deltoid may indicate loss of teres minor function. The posterior aspect of the deltoid has a more consistent supply from the anterior branch of the axillary nerve, necessitating caution when performing a posterior deltoid-splitting approach to the shoulder.

Arthroscopic treatment of post-traumatic elbow contracture.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate range of motion and patient-reported outcome after complete arthroscopic release of post-traumatic elbow contracture. Fourteen consecutive patients who underwent elbow arthroscopy and capsular release were reviewed retrospectively at a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Pain and range of motion were measured. Patient outcome was assessed with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Elbow Assessment Form. Mean self-reported satisfaction on a visual analog scale was 8.4 out of 10. Only 6 patients continued to have pain, with a mean maximum pain score of 4.6 out of 10. Flexion increased from a mean of 117.5 degrees to 133 degrees, and extension improved from a mean of 35.4 degrees to 9.3 degrees. In those patients with a preoperative arc of motion less than 100 degrees (10 patients), the mean arc of motion improved from 69 degrees to 119 degrees. All patients had improved function after the procedure, with a mean self-reported functional ability score of 28.3 out of 30. There were no neurovascular complications. The improvement in range of motion and functional outcome compares favorably with open-release procedures. Combined with the potential benefits of improved joint visualization and low surgical morbidity, arthroscopic release of post-traumatic elbow contracture appears to be a reasonable alternative to open techniques.

Elbow instability: treatment strategies and emerging concepts.

Elbow stability relies on a complex interaction between the bony articulations of the elbow joint, the capsuloligamentous structures, and dynamic muscle restraints. Understanding the functional anatomy of the elbow and the relative contribution of the various elements to elbow stability is important in developing a strategy for diagnosis and management. Elbow instability presents a spectrum from minor subluxation to dislocation. The treatment of an acute dislocation is determined by the stability of the elbow after reduction and the fixation of associated fractures. Isolated acute tears of the LCL are uncommon and are generally treated nonsurgically. On the medial side, augmented repair is required for return to throwing sports. Chronic MCL insufficiency results in valgus instability, which usually is a problem only for the throwing athlete. Chronic LCL insufficiency may lead to symptomatic posterolateral joint subluxation. Free tendon graft reconstruction can be successful on both sides of the joint, with a return of stability and improved elbow function.