Glenohumeral morphological predictors of recurrent shoulder instability following arthroscopic Bankart repair.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate glenohumeral morphological features on a magnetic resonance arthrogram (MRA) to determine risk factors for recurrence of anterior shoulder instability following arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR). METHODS: A retrospective review of patients who underwent ABR between 2012 and 2017 was performed to identify patients who had recurrence of instability following stabilisation (Group 1). These were pair-matched in a 2:1 ratio for age, gender and sport with a control (Group 2) who underwent ABR without recurrence. Preoperative MRAs were evaluated for risk factors for recurrence, with glenoid bone loss and Hill-Sachs lesions also measured. Multilinear and multilogistic regression models were used to evaluate factors affecting recurrence. RESULTS: Overall, 72 patients were included in this study, including 48 patients without recurrence and 24 patients with recurrent instability. There was a significant difference between the two groups in mean glenoid bone loss (Group 1: 7.3% vs. Group 2: 5.7%, p < 0.0001) and the rate of off-track Hill-Sachs lesions (Group 1: 20.8% vs. Group 2: 0%, p = 0.0003). Of the variables analysed in logistic regression, increased glenoid anteversion (p = 0.02), acromioclavicular (AC) degeneration (p = 0.03) and increased Hill-Sachs width were associated with increased risk of failure. Increased chondral version (p = 0.01) and humeral head diameter in the anteriorposterior view were found to be protective and associated with a greater likelihood of success. CONCLUSION: Glenoid anteversion was a risk factor for recurrent instability, whereas increased chondral version and humeral head diameter were associated with higher rates of success following ABR. Glenoid bone loss, presence of an off-track Hill-Sachs lesion, increased Hill-Sachs width and AC degeneration were also associated with failure. These findings should be used by surgeons to stratify risk for recurrence following ABR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Margin convergence vs. superior capsular reconstruction for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears: outcomes are equivalent unless there is preoperative pseudoparesis.

BACKGROUND: Margin convergence (MC) and superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) are common treatment options for irreparable rotator cuff tears in younger patients, although they differ in associated costs and operative times. The purpose of this study was to compare range of motion, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), and reoperation rates following MC and SCR. We hypothesized superior outcomes after SCR relative to MC regarding functional outcomes, subjective measures, and reoperation rates. METHODS: This was a multicenter retrospective review of 59 patients from 3 surgeons treating irreparable rotator cuff tears with either MC (n = 28) or SCR (n = 31) and minimum 1-year follow-up from 2014-2019. Visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), active forward flexion (FF), external rotation (ER), retear rate, and conversion rate to reverse shoulder arthroplasty were evaluated. t tests and χ2 tests were used for continuous and categorical variables, respectively (P < .05). RESULTS: Baseline demographics, range of motion, and magnetic resonance imaging findings were similar between groups. Average follow-up was 31.5 months and 17.8 months for the MC and SCR groups, respectively (P < .001). The MC and SCR groups had similar postoperative FF (151° ± 26° vs. 142° ± 38°; P = .325) and ER (48° ± 12° vs. 46° ± 11°; P = .284), with both groups not improving significantly from their preoperative baselines. However, both cohorts demonstrated significant improvements in VAS score (MC: 7.3 to 2.5; SCR: 6.4 to 1.0) and SSV (MC: 54% to 82%; SCR: 38% to 87%). There were no significant differences in postoperative VAS scores, SSV, and rates of retear or rates of conversion to arthroplasty between the MC and SCR groups. In patients with preoperative pseudoparesis (FF < 90°), SCR (n = 9) resulted in greater postoperative FF than MC (n = 5) (141° ± 38° vs. 67° ± 24°; P = .002). CONCLUSION: Both MC and SCR demonstrated excellent postoperative outcomes in the setting of massive irreparable rotator cuff tear, with significant improvements in PROs and no significant differences in range of motion. Specifically for patients with preoperative pseudoparesis, SCR was more effective in restoring forward elevation. Further long-term studies are needed to compare outcomes and establish appropriate indications.

Studies on Bankart Repair for Anterior Shoulder Instability Show Poor Reporting of Data and Reflect Low Level of Evidence: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: To assess the quality and level of evidence of studies reporting on Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: A search was performed using the PubMed/Medline database for all studies that reported clinical outcomes on Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability. The search term "Bankart repair" with all results were analyzed via strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Two independent investigators scored each included study based on the 10 criteria of the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (CMS) out of 100 and gave each study a score out of 25 based on the Anterior Shoulder Instability (ASI) Methodology criteria. RESULTS: Two hundred sixty-six studies were included in the analysis and encompassed a total of 19,156 patients and 19,317 surgical procedures for Bankart repair for shoulder instability. Overall, 81.6% of studies were Level III or IV evidence. The mean CMS score for the studies was 55.3 out of 100, and the mean ASI Methodology score for the studies was 12.1 out of 25. Weaknesses in the studies were identified in sample size, description of preoperative investigations and diagnoses, reporting of mean glenoid bone loss, nonsubjective clinical outcome reporting, and description of associated pathologies. CONCLUSIONS: A large proportion of studies reporting the clinical outcomes of Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability are of low methodological quality and have a low level of evidence. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study emphasizes need for greater reporting of many variables such as body mass index, mean glenoid bone loss, and patient-reported outcomes and provides a framework for future studies reporting.

Upper Limb Strength and Performance Deficits after Glenohumeral Joint Stabilization Surgery in Contact and Collision Athletes.

PURPOSE: The primary aim was to identify and quantify differences in interlimb asymmetry magnitudes across a battery of upper extremity strength and performance tests at 4 and 6 months after glenohumeral joint stabilization surgery shoulder stabilization in contact and collision athletes compared with an un-injured group. A secondary aim was to investigate if identified asymmetry magnitudes changed from 4 to 6 months after glenohumeral joint stabilization surgery. The third aim was to explore associations within the different performance and strength variables. METHODS: Fifty-six male contact and collision sport athletes who had had undergone unilateral glenohumeral joint stabilization were tested at 4 and 6 months after surgery. An un-injured control group ( n = 39 for upper extremity performance tests, n = 47 for isokinetic dynamometry) were tested on a single occasion. Three upper extremity force platform-based performance tests and angle-specific concentric internal and external isokinetic shoulder rotational strength were assessed, and interlimb asymmetries were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: At 4 months after surgery, the glenohumeral joint stabilization group demonstrated significantly higher absolute interlimb asymmetry values than the un-injured group for almost all the performance test variables. In the ballistic upper-body performance tests, the glenohumeral joint stabilization group achieved only half the body elevation reached by the un-injured (counter-movement push-up jump height ( η2 = 0.50) and press-jump jump height ( η2 = 0.39)). At 6 months after surgery, absolute interlimb asymmetries reduced for the performance test variables, but some asymmetry persisted. The glenohumeral joint stabilization group had significantly greater absolute interlimb asymmetries for five out the eight isokinetic variables. CONCLUSIONS: Contact and collision athletes who may be cleared to return to sport at 4 to 6 months after glenohumeral joint stabilization surgery shoulder stabilization continue to demonstrate upper limb strength and performance deficits when compared with their un-injured limb and their un-injured counterparts.

The clinical utility of immediate post-operative PACU plain film radiographs following uncomplicated open Latarjet procedure - An institutional series of consecutive patients.

Background: Immediate post-operative plain film radiograph x-rays in PACU following open Latarjet procedure are often ordered as routine. However, such radiographs utilize institutional cost and time, whilst potentially exposing patients to often-unnecessary additional radiation. This study sought to evaluate whether routine immediate post-operative radiographs following uncomplicated open Latarjet procedures impacted clinical decision-making in our institution. Methods: From 2017 to 2020, patients who underwent open Latarjet procedure by one of four fellowship-trained upper limb surgeons at a single institution were included in this study. Post-operative radiographs taken immediately in PACU were reviewed to determine if any reported radiographic findings impacted on clinical decision-making in the immediate post-operative setting. SPSS was used for descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 337 patients underwent an X-ray in PACU immediate after uncomplicated open Latarjet procedure. Overall, 98.5% were male (n = 332), the mean patient age of included patients was 22.9 ± 4.2 years. No patient had an abnormal finding on their post-operative x-ray. Two patients returned to the operating room in the immediate post-operative period, both requiring washout and debridement due to haemtoma or superficial wound infection. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the use of post-operative plain films in PACU following open Latarjet procedure remains a costly use of resources, with little ultimate impact on clinical decision making in the short-term post-operatively. Level of Evidence: IV - Institutional Case Series of Consecutive Patients.

Radiologic, clinical, and patient-reported outcomes in stemless reverse shoulder arthroplasty at a mean of 46 months.

BACKGROUND: The humeral stem can be a cause of problems in shoulder arthroplasty, for example, loss of bone stock, intraoperative and postoperative periprosthetic fractures, or postoperative infections involving the medullary canal. Therefore, stemless reverse shoulder arthroplasty (slRSA) has gained popularity, particularly in terms of preserving bone stock. However, there are limited data available on the midterm outcomes of slRSA. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical, radiologic, and patient-reported outcomes of slRSA at a minimum follow-up period of 2 years. METHODS: Data on all stemless reverse shoulder prostheses implanted between January 2016 and October 2020 were collected. Patients were followed up at 6 weeks and 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Clinical and radiologic data as well as patient-reported outcome measures were assessed with validated questionnaires (University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder Score [UCLA], American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form [ASES], Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire [Quick-DASH], visual analog scale [VAS] for pain, Subjective Shoulder Value [SSV], and Constant-Murley score [CS]). All patients had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. RESULTS: During the observation period, 26 shoulders in 25 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean follow-up was 46.8 months (range 25-66). The mean age was 70.1 years (range 59.9-86.4). At the most recent follow-up, a significant improvement was noted in the ASES score (55.9 ± 19.9 vs. 85.6 ± 10.7, P < .001), SSV (44.3 ± 18.7 vs. 85.3 ± 10.4, P < .001), Quick-DASH score (40.6 ± 22.0 vs. 17.8 ± 13.9, P < .001), VAS pain score (4.6 ± 3.2 vs. 0.9 ± 1.2, P < .001), and range of motion in flexion (66 ± 53 vs. 154 ± 22, P < .001) as well as in the absolute (44.1 ± 18.7 vs. 83.1 ± 10.1, P < .001) and relative CS (62.1 ± 27.8 vs. 111.9 ± 13.3, P < .001). Scapular notching was observed in 16% of cases, and radiolucent lines were detected in 28% of cases without symptoms of implant loosening. No revision was necessitated by any causes related to the stemless humeral component. Hence, implant survivorship was 100%. CONCLUSIONS: With an ASES score showing a 30-point improvement and thus exceeding the minimal clinically important difference of 21 points and no revisions due to the stemless component, these results indicate that slRSA is a viable option, providing good to excellent midterm outcomes that are comparable to those of stemmed reverse shoulder prostheses, with the added advantage of bone stock preservation.

A perfused multi-well bioreactor platform to assess tumor organoid response to a chemotherapeutic gradient.

There is an urgent need to develop new therapies for colorectal cancer that has metastasized to the liver and, more fundamentally, to develop improved preclinical platforms of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM) to screen therapies for efficacy. To this end, we developed a multi-well perfusable bioreactor capable of monitoring CRCLM patient-derived organoid response to a chemotherapeutic gradient. CRCLM patient-derived organoids were cultured in the multi-well bioreactor for 7 days and the subsequently established gradient in 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) concentration resulted in a lower IC50 in the region near the perfusion channel versus the region far from the channel. We compared behaviour of organoids in this platform to two commonly used PDO culture models: organoids in media and organoids in a static (no perfusion) hydrogel. The bioreactor IC50 values were significantly higher than IC50 values for organoids cultured in media whereas only the IC50 for organoids far from the channel were significantly different than organoids cultured in the static hydrogel condition. Using finite element simulations, we showed that the total dose delivered, calculated using area under the curve (AUC) was similar between platforms, however normalized viability was lower for the organoid in media condition than in the static gel and bioreactor. Our results highlight the utility of our multi-well bioreactor for studying organoid response to chemical gradients and demonstrate that comparing drug response across these different platforms is nontrivial.

Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Which Patients Will Benefit from Physiotherapy Exercise Programs? A Narrative Review.

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears can cause significant shoulder pain, disability and reduction in quality of life. Treatment approaches can be operative or non-operative. Operative approaches include reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, arthroscopic debridement, partial rotator cuff repair, subacromial balloon spacers, superior capsule reconstruction, and tendon transfer procedures. Non-operative approaches include physiotherapy exercise programs and corticosteroid injections. There are no randomized controlled trials comparing the different treatment approaches. It is therefore challenging for clinicians to advise patients on what is their best treatment pathway. Physiotherapy exercise programs are less expensive and have lower risks for patients than surgical approaches. However, the success of physiotherapy in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears is highly variable with published success rates of 32-96%. Several cohort studies have sought to identify if certain factors are predictive of success with physiotherapy. Several biomechanical factors were identified as possibly being related to a successful or unsuccessful outcome following physiotherapy, with complete tear of subscapularis demonstrating the strongest evidence. However, there were no appropriately designed prognostic studies. There has been a strong emphasis on biomechanical factors. Other domains such as psychosocial factors, which are important in similar patient populations, have not been explored. We recommend that further research is needed in this area and should include randomized controlled trials comparing treatment approaches and longitudinal prospective prognostic studies to identify predictors of treatment success.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on frozen shoulder incidence rates and severity.

BACKGROUND: Although there is evidence that the COVID-19 pandemic had profound physiological and psychological effects, there is no research aimed at understanding if the pandemic has had an impact on the incidence or severity of frozen shoulder (FS). The aim of this study was to compare the incidence and severity of idiopathic FS before and during the pandemic. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed to establish the incidence of FS during the pandemic, from March 2020 to January 2021 (pandemic study period), compared to the same time period 1 year earlier, before the pandemic (control group). All patients who were diagnosed with idiopathic FS were included. To assess the severity of the condition, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain score and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) on presentation were recorded and the patients were categorized into 5 different treatment groups (0 injections, 1 injection, 2 injections, 3 injections, or capsular release). As the pandemic and public health restrictions could have influenced the availability of appointments, the waiting time between referral and first appointment was calculated as a possible confounding factor. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square and Student t test for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. RESULTS: There were 847 new patient consultations during the pandemic study period; of these, 232 were for idiopathic FS. One year earlier, there were 898 initial consultations for a new shoulder problem; of these, 176 were for idiopathic FS. This represents a relative increase of 39.8% (P < .001) in the incidence of patients with FS. The mean SSV in the control group was 50% ± 20% vs. 45% ± 18% in the pandemic group-statistically significant (P = .013) but unlikely to be clinically significant. The VAS pain score was similar in both groups: mean 6 ± 2 and 7 ± 2, respectively (P = .06). There was no significant difference between the control and the pandemic group in the distribution of patients per treatment group (P = .94). The mean waiting time from referral to appointment was not significantly different between the control and the pandemic group: 58 ± 30 days vs. 55 ± 27 days (P = .30). CONCLUSION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in the incidence of patients with FS. No significant difference in severity was observed. Further research is needed to evaluate a causal relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and FS.

Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Humeral Avulsion Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in the Setting of Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: Humeral avulsion glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are often underreported but have been shown to occur in up to 10% of cases of anterior shoulder instability. PURPOSE: To compare clinical outcomes and recurrence rates of patients with HAGL lesions undergoing open stabilization for anterior shoulder instability versus a pair-matched control. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A retrospective review of all patients who underwent both arthroscopic and open stabilization procedures with a minimum 24-month follow-up was performed. Patients with HAGL lesions were pair-matched in a 1:6 ratio for age, sex, sport, level of preoperative play, and follow-up length with those without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone. Return to play (RTP), the level of return, and the timing of return were assessed. In addition, recurrence, visual analog scale for pain (VAS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Rowe score, satisfaction, and whether they would undergo the same surgery again were compared. RESULTS: A total of 15 patients with HAGL lesions who underwent shoulder stabilization procedures were included, with a mean age of 21.5 ± 4.1 years and mean follow-up of 53.5 ± 17.4 months, and were pair-matched to 90 patients without HAGL lesions. Overall, there was no significant difference in any of the clinical outcome scores (VAS, Rowe, SSV, satisfaction) used between the 2 groups (1.6 vs 1.7, P = .86; 83.4 vs 88.0, P = .06; 85.7 vs 87.2, P = .76; and 86.7% vs 94.5%, P = .26, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences in terms of overall rates, levels, and timing of RTP between the 2 groups (93.3% vs 90.0%, P > .99; 80.0% vs 78.9%, P > .99; and 5.3 ± 2.2 vs 5.9 ± 2.9 months, P = .45, respectively). There was no significant difference in the rates of apprehension, subluxation, and recurrent instability between the HAGL and pair-matched control groups (26.7% vs 26.7%, P > .99; 6.7% vs 3.3%, P = .47; and 13.3% vs 6.7% months, P = .32, respectively). CONCLUSION: Patients with anterior shoulder instability undergoing surgical stabilization with open HAGL repair demonstrate excellent functional outcomes and high rates of RTP, with low rates of recurrence in the medium term compared with a control group without HAGL lesions who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair alone.

Outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart procedure in Irish collision sport athletes.

BACKGROUND: While there is an abundance of research examining the outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart repair in collision athletes, very few studies have involved the unique Irish collision sport athlete population. The previously held belief that collision athletes need to be treated with open surgery, due to the high traumatic forces the shoulder is subjected to in these sports, may no longer be true in the context of modern arthroscopic techniques and implants. AIMS: To report the outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart procedure in the unique Irish collision athlete population. METHOD: Retrospective review conducted in 2018. Data was obtained from collision sport athletes using customised questionnaires and validated, standardised outcome measure tools. Participants were selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS: Fifty-four patients were included in the study. The average age at primary injury was 19.9 years (range 13-35 years). The rate of recurrent dislocation was 21% (12/57) with a mean follow up time of 24 months (range 7 to 48 months). The mean patient reported outcome measure (PROM) scores were as follows: ASES = 90.8, WOSI = 316.4, SSV = 79%. Six patients failed to return to their sport. Eighty-seven percent of the cohort returned to their sport, with a mean time to return of 7.25 months. Patients who experienced recurrent instability after arthroscopic Bankart had a younger age at primary dislocation (P = 0.0005) and lower ASES (P = 0.0056) and WOSI scores (0.00132) at latest follow-up, compared to those who remained stable postsurgery. CONCLUSION: The arthroscopic Bankart procedure has a high rate of recurrence of dislocation in Irish collision sport athletes. The current international literature suggests that the arthroscopic Bankart has similar rates of recurrence to the open procedure in collision athletes; however, this may not hold true for Irish collision sport athletes. Further research is required to determine the optimum surgical procedure for anterior shoulder instability in this population, particularly those patients with subcritical bone loss.

Anterior Shoulder Instability Part III-Revision Surgery, Rehabilitation and Return to Play, and Clinical Follow-Up-An International Consensus Statement.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements via a modified Delphi process on revision surgery, rehabilitation and return to play, and clinical follow-up for anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: A consensus process on the treatment using a modified Delphi technique was conducted, with 65 shoulder surgeons from 14 countries across 5 continents participating. Experts were assigned to one of 9 working groups defined by specific subtopics of interest within anterior shoulder instability. RESULTS: The primary relative indications for revision surgery include symptomatic apprehension or recurrent instability, additional intra-articular pathologies, and symptomatic hardware failure. In revision cases, the differentiating factors that dictate treatment are the degree of glenohumeral bone loss and rotator cuff function/integrity. The minimum amount of time before allowing athletes to return to play is unknown, but other factors should be considered, including restoration of strength, range of motion and proprioception, and resolved pain and apprehension, as these are prognostic factors of reinjury. Additionally, psychological factors should be considered in the rehabilitation process. Patients should be clinically followed up for a minimum of 12 months or until a return to full, premorbid function/activities. Finally, the following factors should be included in anterior shoulder instability-specific, patient-reported outcome measures: function/limitations impact on activities of daily living, return to sport/activity, instability symptoms, confidence in shoulder, and satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Overall, 92% of statements reached unanimous or strong consensus. The statements that reached unanimous consensus were indications and factors affecting decisions for revision surgery, as well as how prior surgeries impact procedure choice. Furthermore, there was unanimous consensus on the role of psychological factors in the return to play, considerations for allowing return to play, as well as prognostic factors. Finally, there was a lack of unanimous consensus on recommended timing and methods for clinical follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, expert opinion.

Anterior Shoulder Instability Part II-Latarjet, Remplissage, and Glenoid Bone-Grafting-An International Consensus Statement.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements via a modified Delphi process on the Latarjet procedure, remplissage, and glenoid-bone grafting for anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: A consensus process on the treatment utilizing a modified Delphi technique was conducted, with 65 shoulder surgeons from 14 countries across 5 continents participating. Experts were assigned to one of 9 working groups defined by specific subtopics of interest within anterior shoulder instability. RESULTS: The technical approaches identified in the statements on the Latarjet procedure and glenoid bone-graft were that a subscapularis split approach should be utilized, and that it is unclear whether a capsular repair is routinely required. Furthermore, despite similar indications, glenoid bone-grafting may be preferred over the Latarjet in patients with bone-loss greater than can be treated with a coracoid graft, and in cases of surgeon preference, failed prior Latarjet or glenoid bone-grafting procedure, and epilepsy. In contrast, the primary indications for a remplissage procedure was either an off-track or engaging Hill-Sachs lesion without severe glenoid bone loss. Additionally, in contrast to the bone-block procedure, complications following remplissage are rare, and loss of shoulder external rotation can be minimized by performing the tenodesis via the safe-zone and not over medializing the fixation. CONCLUSION: Overall, 89% of statements reached unanimous or strong consensus. The statements that reached unanimous consensus were the prognostic factors that are important to consider in those undergoing a glenoid bone-grafting procedure including age, activity level, Hill-Sachs Lesion, extent of glenoid bone-loss, hyperlaxity, prior surgeries, and arthritic changes. Furthermore, there was unanimous agreement that it is unclear whether a capsular repair is routinely required with a glenoid bone graft, but it may be beneficial in some cases. There was no unanimous agreement on any aspect related to the Latarjet procedure or Remplissage. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, expert opinion.

Anterior Shoulder Instability Part I-Diagnosis, Nonoperative Management, and Bankart Repair-An International Consensus Statement.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements via a modified Delphi process on the diagnosis, nonoperative management, and Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: A consensus process on the treatment using a modified Delphi technique was conducted, with 65 shoulder surgeons from 14 countries across 5 continents participating. Experts were assigned to one of 9 working groups defined by specific subtopics of interest within anterior shoulder instability. RESULTS: The independent factors identified in the 2 statements that reached unanimous agreement in diagnosis and nonoperative management were age, gender, mechanism of injury, number of instability events, whether reduction was required, occupation, sport/position/level played, collision sport, glenoid or humeral bone-loss, and hyperlaxity. Of the 3 total statements reaching unanimous agreement in Bankart repair, additional factors included overhead sport participation, prior shoulder surgery, patient expectations, and ability to comply with postoperative rehabilitation. Additionally, there was unanimous agreement that complications are rare following Bankart repair and that recurrence rates can be diminished by a well-defined rehabilitation protocol, inferior anchor placement (5-8 mm apart), multiple small-anchor fixation points, treatment of concomitant pathologies, careful capsulolabral debridement/reattachment, and appropriate indications/assessment of risk factors. CONCLUSION: Overall, 77% of statements reached unanimous or strong consensus. The statements that reached unanimous consensus were the aspects of patient history that should be evaluated in those with acute instability, the prognostic factors for nonoperative management, and Bankart repair. Furthermore, there was unanimous consensus on the steps to minimize complications for Bankart repair, and the placement of anchors 5-8 mm apart. Finally, there was no consensus on the optimal position for shoulder immobilization. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, expert opinion.

Return to play following open Bankart repair in collision athletes aged 18 years or less.

HYPOTHESIS: The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes, return to play (RTP), and recurrence rates in patients aged 18 years or less who underwent open Bankart repair (OBR) for anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: A retrospective review of collision athletes under 18 years old who underwent OBR by 2 surgeons between the years 2010 and 2019 was carried out. An OBR using a subscapularis split was performed in all patients. Recurrent instability, rate of RTP, and time to RTP were recorded. The Shoulder Instability Return to Sport after Injury score, Subjective Shoulder Value score, and visual analog scale scores were also evaluated. RESULTS: The study included 34 male collision athletes with a mean age of 16.5 ± 1.3 years (range, 15-18 years). The mean follow-up for patients was 49.5 ± 30.7 months. A total of 30 patients (88.2%) returned to full sport at a mean time of 5.8 ± 2.2 months, with 27 (90%) managing to return at their preinjury level of participation. The mean Subjective Shoulder Value score for patients at the final follow-up was 86.8 ± 17.5, the mean Shoulder Instability Return to Sport after Injury score was 86.3 ± 22.6, and the mean visual analog scale score was 1.6 ± 1.8. Eight patients (23.5%) re-dislocated their shoulder, with 4 of them requiring a further surgery. Two patients (5.8%) reported having incidents of subluxation that did not require reduction. CONCLUSION: This study found high rates of patient-reported satisfaction, excellent functional outcomes, and high rates of RTP in the medium term among young collision athletes aged 18 years or less who underwent OBR for anterior shoulder instability. However, there were high rates of recurrence with moderate rates of revision surgical stabilization in the medium term.

Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer and Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Irreparable, Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to compare latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) and arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) to determine if one is superior to the other regarding improvement in range of motion (ROM) or patient-reported outcomes (PROs). METHODS: A multicenter, retrospective cohort study was conducted on 43 patients with an irreparable, posterosuperior rotator cuff tear who underwent either LDTT or SCR. Preoperative and postoperative forward flexion and external rotation, as well as PROs including ASES, VAS, and SSV, were assessed. Student t-test and chi-square statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: 16 LDTT, at mean follow-up of 18 months, and 27 SCR, at mean follow-up 15 months, were studied. Mean active forward flexion significantly improved from 85.2° to 137.6° in the SCR cohort (P=0.001). SCR patients demonstrated a significantly greater increase in forward flexion as compared to LDTT patients (52.4° vs 14.1°, P=0.001). Mean active external rotation amongst the LDTT group significantly improved from 41.7° to 61.5° (P=0.032). LDTT demonstrated significantly greater improvement in external rotation as compared to SCR (19.4° vs 0.8°, P=0.011). There were no significant differences in reported ASES, VAS, or SSV scores. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates successful clinical and patient-reported outcomes with both LDTT and SCR for irreparable, posterosuperior rotator cuff tears, with greater improvement in forward flexion with SCR and greater improvement in external rotation with LDTT.

Exploring expert variability in defining pseudoparalysis: an international survey.

BACKGROUND: There is currently disagreement among experts in the field of shoulder surgery when attempting to define the term "pseudoparalysis." Multiple surgical techniques to address this condition have been investigated; however, many studies have recruited heterogeneous patient populations and have used varying definitions of pseudoparalysis. This makes it difficult to compare outcomes among various techniques. To our knowledge, no previous study has surveyed international experts regarding the definition of pseudoparalysis using a questionnaire and video-based patient assessment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of agreement among shoulder surgeons in defining and applying the term "pseudoparalysis." We hypothesized that inter-rater agreement for classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis would be poor. METHODS: Members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, the European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and the Elbow, and our national shoulder and elbow society were surveyed on 2 occasions using an electronic questionnaire. All surgeons were asked to identify their preferred definition of pseudoparalysis from 1 of 4 options. The surgeons then viewed video examinations of 10 patients and labeled them as having pseudoparalysis or not. Inter-rater reliability and intrarater reliability were calculated as κ coefficients. The Pearson χ2 test was used to detect associations between the preferred definition and demographic information. RESULTS: A total of 246 surgeons responded to at least 1 survey. Overall inter-rater agreement on classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis based on video consultation showed a κ value of 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58-0.60). The same verbal definition was selected by 56.1% of surgeons. The surgeons were not internally consistent in their choice of definition, with intrarater reliability showing a κ value of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.48-0.81). Intrarater reliability for classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis was better, with a κ value of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.72-0.83). An association was observed between how surgeons defined pseudoparalysis and their age (P = .03), as well as their shoulder caseload percentage (P = .04). CONCLUSION: Shoulder surgeons do not agree on how best to define pseudoparalysis of the shoulder. Inter-rater agreement based on video consultation was weak overall and improved with the elimination of an outlier video. Intrarater agreement was less frequent when selecting a preferred definition compared with classifying patients as having pseudoparalysis based on video examinations. Surgeons may rely less on explicit criteria and more on a conceptual framework when assigning a "pseudoparalytic" label. Care should be taken with use of the term "pseudoparalysis" in clinical outcome studies when there is clearly a lack of consensus among experts in defining this term.

Superior capsular reconstruction using a porcine dermal xenograft for irreparable rotator cuff tears: outcomes at minimum two-year follow-up.

PURPOSE: To evaluate midterm outcomes of arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) using a decellularized porcine dermal xenograft in patients with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears and to determine the influence of concomitant, repairable subscapularis tears. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of 56 patients with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Subjective Shoulder Value, and visual analog score for pain were measured. Postoperative data were collected at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. RESULTS: Of the 56 patients who underwent arthroscopic SCR, there were 39 men and 17 women. The mean age at operation was 65 ± 9 years, and the mean follow-up was 34 ± 8 months. The mean preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons improved from 41 ± 19 to 78 ± 18 at 24 weeks, to 86± 16 at 12 months, and to 90±9 at 24 months, P < .0001. Similarly, the mean preoperative Subjective Shoulder Value improved from 39 ± 17 to 74 ± 18 at 24 weeks, to 80 ± 18 at 12 months, and to 80 ± 11 at 24 months, P < .0001. The mean preoperative visual analog score improved from 6.5 ± 2.1 to 1.4 ± 2.2 at 24 weeks, to 0.7± 1.1 at 12 months, and to 0.2 ± 0.4 at 24 months, P < .0001. There were no differences in outcome scores between patients with intact vs. repaired subscapularis. Similarly, no statistically significant differences were found in forward flexion or external rotation after SCR between patients with an intact vs. repaired subscapularis. Failure of the SCR graft was observed on magnetic resonance imaging in 14 patients, 4 of whom opted for revision to reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Eleven patients were truly pseudoparalytic before surgery; in 5 cases, pseudoparalysis was reversed after SCR. CONCLUSIONS: SCR can alleviate pain and disability from irreparable rotator cuff tears and provide significant improvements in shoulder function; however, the xenograft technique resulted in inconsistent reversal of true pseudoparalysis. No difference was found between patients who required concomitant subscapularis repair vs. those who did not.

Rational use of shoulder MRI in the private setting: specialist-ordered MRIs influence clinical management significantly more often than primary care physicians.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine the difference in proportion of shoulder MRIs that influence the management plan of shoulder patients based on whether MRI was ordered by a shoulder specialist, orthopaedic surgeon or primary care provider prior to referral to a specialist. METHODS: This observational analytical study was conducted in a private practice setting. Data were obtained from 153 MRIs performed on 151 patients. Seventy-seven MRIs were ordered by a specialist shoulder surgeon and 76 by a primary care provider (general practitioner, non-operative sports medicine physician or physiotherapist). RESULTS: Specialist-ordered MRIs influenced patient management significantly more often than primary care-ordered MRIs (82% vs. 22%, p < 0.001). Fifty-four percent of referral letters from primary care providers to the specialist did not have documentation of a physical examination, yet an MRI had been ordered. The most common diagnoses for primary care-ordered MRIs which did not have influence on patient management were subacromial bursitis and adhesive capsulitis. CONCLUSION: With less than 25% of primary care-ordered shoulder MRIs influencing clinical management, questions must be raised about the indications for MRI. Greater than 50% of referrals contained no documented physical examination, suggesting that MRI is being relied upon for assessment. If access to private MRI was to be rationalized, perhaps shoulder specialist-ordered CT and X-ray could be covered by insurance providers. Currently, they are not covered in our system, yet are more likely to influence clinical management than primary care-ordered MRIs, which are currently covered by insurance without restriction on indications.

Evaluating Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis: The Relative Impact of Patient Age, Activity Level, Symptoms, and Kellgren-Lawrence Grade on Treatment.

BACKGROUND: It is not always clear how to treat glenohumeral osteoarthritis, particularly in young patients. The goals of this study were to 1) quantify how patient age, activity level, symptoms, and radiographic findings impact the decision-making of shoulder specialists and 2) evaluate the observer reliability of the Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grading system for primary osteoarthritis of the shoulder. METHODS: Twenty-six shoulder surgeons were each sent 54 simulated patient cases. Each patient had a different combination of age, symptoms, activity level, and radiographs. Responders graded the radiographs and chose a treatment (non-operative, arthroscopy, hemiarthroplasty, or total shoulder arthroplasty). Spearman correlations and chi square tests were used to assess the relationship between factors and treatments. Sub-analysis was performed on surgical cases. An intra-class correlation (ICC) was used to assess observer agreement. RESULTS: The significant correlations (P<0.01) were: symptoms [0.46], KL grade [0.44], and age [0.11]. In the sub-analysis of operative cases, the significant correlations were: KL grade [0.64], age [0.39], and activity level [-0.10]. The chi square analysis was significant (P<0.01) for all factors, but the practical significance of activity level was minimal. The ICCs were [inter](intra): KL [0.79] (0.84), patient management [0.54]. CONCLUSION: When evaluating glenohumeral osteoarthritis, patient symptoms and KL grade are the factors most strongly associated with treatment. In operative cases, the factors most strongly associated with the choice of operation were the patient's KL grade and age. Additionally, the KL classification demonstrated excellent observer reliability. However, there was only moderate agreement among shoulder specialists regarding treatment, indicating that this remains a controversial topic.