Eighteen-year outcome of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with patellar tendon or hamstring autograft.

PURPOSE: To evaluate patient reported outcomes and radiographic arthritic changes of transtibial anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with either bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) or hamstrings (HS) auto-grafts at a minimum of 15-year follow-up. METHODS: Ninety-four patients (51 of the HS group, 43 of BPTB group) who were operated between the years 2000 to 2005 in two tertiary referral hospitals were contacted and invited to a retrospective evaluation. The interview included subjective outcomes using the Lysholm knee scoring questionnaire, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Tegner activity level scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and patients' satisfaction scale. Knee examination included measurements of motion and stability. Knee radiographs were evaluated for osteoarthritic changes according to the Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) score. RESULTS: The average evaluation time from surgery was 18.6 years. Subjectively, there was no significant difference between groups except for a better post-operative level of activity and satisfaction in the HS group. Objectively, there was no significant difference between groups in knee stability and range of motion. Most patients had grade KL ≤ 1 radiographic osteoarthritits changes and there was no significant difference between groups. Recurrent complete tear of the reconstructed graft occurred in 3 patients of each group. In both groups 84% had no further surgery while the indications for further surgery were mostly a meniscal tear or tibial hardware removal. CONCLUSIONS: Very long-term outcomes and clinical stability of transtibial HS or BPTB graft ACL reconstruction are good with low rate of graft failure and radiographic osteoarthritis.

Influence of Pain Sensitivity on Surgical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: The Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire (PSQ) has been found to be a valid tool, and PSQ scores have been shown to be predictive of outcomes after surgery for lumbar stenosis. The effect of pain sensitivity on outcomes of rotator cuff repair (RCR) surgery has not been examined. HYPOTHESIS: PSQ scores would be associated with surgical outcomes after arthroscopic RCR surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: Patients 18 to 80 years old scheduled for RCR were consecutively enrolled. Patients with glenohumeral arthritis grade ≥2 or RCR revision surgery were excluded. PSQ was completed preoperatively. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score were used as patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs), and visual analog scale pain score was documented as well. Active shoulder external rotation (ER), internal rotation, and anterior forward elevation range of motion (ROM) were recorded. PROMs and ROM measurements were recorded preoperatively and at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. Rotator cuff tear size, type of repair, and concomitant procedures were documented. Patients were classified as having high or normal pain sensitivity based on PSQ scores. RESULTS: Of 100 enrolled patients, 38 patients were classified as having high pain sensitivity. Patients with high pain sensitivity had worse American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and 1 year postoperatively (P < .01). From the preoperative assessment to 3 months postoperatively, PROMs improved more in patients with high versus normal pain sensitivity. However, for patients with high pain sensitivity, PROMs plateaued after 3 months but continued to improve for patients with normal pain sensitivity (P < .01). Visual analog scale pain scores were higher at all time points for patients with high pain sensitivity (P < .05). Preoperatively, patients with high pain sensitivity had restricted active ROM compared with patients who had normal pain sensitivity for anterior forward elevation, ER, and internal rotation (P = .009, P = .012, and P = .006, respectively). By 1 year after surgery, ER ROM was still restricted in patients with high pain sensitivity. CONCLUSION: Pain sensitivity is an important factor influencing RCR outcomes. Patients with high pain sensitivity undergoing RCR showed less improvement in active ROM and worse PROMs after surgery compared with patients who had normal pain sensitivity. Preoperative PSQ may predict postoperative improvements.

Epidemiology of Primary Shoulder Dislocations. A Cohort Study from a Large Health Maintenance Organization: 2004 to 2019.

BACKGROUND: Previous epidemiological studies on shoulder instability evaluated specific and relatively small subgroups of patients. OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence rate of primary shoulder dislocations. METHODS: Cohort analysis of electronic health records from 2004 to 2019 was conducted in a urban district of a major health maintenance organization (HMO) in Israel. Patients presented with primary shoulder dislocation that was treated with closed reduction in any medical facility within the district. Overall incidence density rates (IDR) of primary shoulder dislocations and stabilization surgeries were determined. RESULTS: Over a period of 16 years 13,158 patients underwent closed reduction of primary shoulder dislocation. Of those, 712 shoulder stabilization surgeries were performed (5%). The IDR of primary shoulder dislocations were 124 per 100,000 person-years. The IDR of primary shoulder stabilizations were 7 per 100,000 person-years. The peak in the number of dislocations was observed in those 20-29 years old and ≥ 60 years of. In patients under 59 years old, dislocations were more common in men. In those ≥ 60 years of age, dislocations were more common in women. Most shoulder stabilization surgeries were performed on young patients. The annual mean time from the first dislocation to stabilization surgery linearly declined to 6 months in 2019. CONCLUSIONS: The IDR of primary shoulder dislocations calculated from the largest HMO in Israel were 124 per 100,000 person-years. Shoulder dislocations had bimodal age distribution. Overall, 5% of the patients (mainly young) with shoulder dislocations underwent shoulder stabilization surgery during the study period.

Epidemiology of primary shoulder dislocations requiring surgery: A cohort study from a major trauma center during 7 years.

PURPOSE: The epidemiology of shoulder instability in the general population is lacking. The aim of the current study was to determine the incidence rate of primary shoulder dislocations requiring surgical interventions in a major trauma center within a large maintenance organization. METHODS: A retrospective cohort analysis of electronic health records database from 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2020 was conducted in major rural trauma center. This study included all patients aged 10 years or older with a primary shoulder dislocation that were treated with closed reduction in the emergency room department. An overall incidence density rates (IDR) (per 100,000 person-years) of primary shoulder dislocations and stabilization surgeries were determined for the entire cohort. The data was used to evaluate the age-specific and gender-specific epidemiology. RESULTS: During the study period of 7 years there were 1,302 patients who underwent closed reduction after a primary shoulder dislocation (mean age 45 years). Of those, a total of 106 shoulder stabilization surgeries (8%) were performed. The IDR of primary shoulder dislocations was 179 per 100,000 person-years. The IDR of primary shoulder stabilizations was 15 per 100,000 person-years. The peak in number of dislocations was observed in the age groups of 20-29 years and over 60 years. In the age groups under 59 years dislocations were more common in men while in ages over 60 years dislocations were more common in women. The vast majority of shoulder stabilization surgeries were performed in young patients (age under 39 years). CONCLUSION: The IDR of primary shoulder dislocations calculated from a major trauma center of the largest health maintenance organization in Israel was 179 per 100,000 person-years. Shoulder dislocations had bimodal age distribution. Overall, eight percent of the patients (mainly young) with shoulder dislocations underwent shoulder stabilization surgery during the study period.

Lateral Column Lengthening for Flexible Flat Foot: Was It Short to Begin With?

BACKGROUND: Flexible flatfoot (FF) is a common foot deformity that can often consist of foot pain. Surgical treatment is designed to lengthen the lateral column. OBJECTIVES: To resolve whether radiographic standing feet measurements of normo-plantigrade feet and FF, symptomatic or not, differ and to determine whether the lateral column is shorter. METHODS: The study comprised 72 patients (127 feet) consecutive patients, 18 years of age and older, who were divided into three groups: normal feet (56), asymptomatic FF (29), and symptomatic FF (42). All patients had a standing anterior posterior (AP) and lateral radiographs. AP images were used for the measurement of the talocalcaneal angle, talar-1st metatarsal angle, and talonavicular coverage. Lateral X-rays were used to estimate the talocalcaneal angle, talar-1st metatarsal angle, calcaneal pitch, naviculocuboid overlap, and column ratio. RESULTS: All three of the AP radiograph measurements differed among groups, and higher values were measured in the symptomatic FF group. Post hoc analysis found that the talonavicular coverage and the talocalcaneal angles also differed between symptomatic and asymptomatic FF patients. While some lateral measurements differed within groups, only the lateral talar-1st metatarsal angle distinguished between asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. The lateral column length was not found to be shorter among FF patients, weather symptomatic or not. CONCLUSIONS: Only the talonavicular coverage, the AP talocalcaneal, and the lateral talar-1st metatarsal angles were found to differ between asymptomatic and symptomatic FF patients. The lateral column was not found to be shorter.

Efficacy of Anti-inflammatory Treatment Versus Rescue Analgesia After Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy in Nonarthritic Knees: A 3-Arm Controlled Study.

BACKGROUND: There is currently no consensus regarding the appropriate treatment for postoperative pain after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM). Prescribing a mild non-anti-inflammatory protocol of rescue analgesia may be sufficient to avoid the side effects of opioids or anti-inflammatories. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: The purpose was to compare the efficacy of pain reduction after APM in nonarthritic knees using betamethasone or celecoxib as anti-inflammatory analgesics versus acetaminophen or tramadol as rescue analgesics. The hypothesis was that there is no advantage for anti-inflammatories in achieving postoperative immediate pain relief after APM in nonarthritic knees compared with a simple nonopioid treatment. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: This 3-arm controlled study evaluated postoperative pain levels and analgesic consumption in patients who underwent primary APM (under general anesthesia) at a single institution from December 2018 to December 2019. Patients were prospectively divided into 3 treatment groups: (1) betamethasone injection at the end of the procedure, (2) oral celecoxib prescription, or (3) neither treatment (control). All groups were instructed to take supplementary acetaminophen as needed. Patients were also allowed to take tramadol as needed to evaluate the need for opioids. At postoperative weeks 1, 2, and 3, patients completed the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Pain subscale, and results were compared between time points and groups. RESULTS: A total of 99 patients were included in the treatment groups: betamethasone group (32 patients), celecoxib group (30 patients), and control group (37 patients). At baseline, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in age, sex, body mass index, level of activity, comorbidities, or surgical findings. KOOS Pain scores improved at every time point for all 3 groups (P < .001), and no differences in scores were observed among groups. The consumption of acetaminophen or tramadol as rescue analgesia throughout the follow-up period was negligible among groups. CONCLUSION: During the first 3 postoperative weeks after APM in nonarthritic knees, pain was efficiently controlled by betamethasone or celecoxib; however, pain was also efficiently controlled by minimal consumption of acetaminophen with negligible use of tramadol. Therefore, acetaminophen could be prescribed as an effective first-line postoperative analgesic after APM.

The Efficacy of Labral Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: With a greater understanding of the importance of the acetabular labrum in the function of the hip, labral repair is preferred over debridement. However, in some scenarios, preservation or repair of the labrum is not possible, and labral reconstruction procedures have been growing in popularity as an alternative to labral resection. PURPOSE: To provide an up-to-date analysis of the literature to determine the overall efficacy of labral reconstruction when compared with labral repair or resection. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE databases were searched for literature regarding labral reconstruction in the hip before July 21, 2020. The results were screened and evaluated by 2 reviewers, and a third reviewer resolved any discrepancies. The final studies were evaluated using the MINORS (Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies) score. RESULTS: There were 7 comparative studies that fit the inclusion criteria, with 228 hips from 197 patients. The mean follow-up was 34.6 months, and the mean age of all patients was 38.34 years. There were slightly more female patients than male patients (105 vs 92). Arthroscopic reconstruction was performed in 86% of studies (6/7); open surgical techniques, in 14% (1/7). A variety of grafts was used in the reconstructions. The indications for labral reconstruction and outcome measures varied in these publications. Nine patients were lost follow-up, and 6 patients converted to total hip replacement postlabral reconstruction. The assessment of these comparative studies illustrated statistically equivalent results between labral reconstruction and labral repair. Comparisons of labral reconstruction with labral resection also showed statistically equivalent postoperative patient-reported outcome scores; however, the rates of conversion to total hip arthroplasty were significantly higher in the population undergoing resection. CONCLUSION: The review of current available comparative literature, which consists entirely of level 3 studies, suggests that labral reconstruction does improve postoperative outcomes but does not demonstrate superiority over repair. There may, however, be benefit to performing labral reconstruction over resection owing to the higher rate of conversion to total hip arthroplasty in the labral resection group.

Preoperative pain sensitivity questionnaire helps customize pain management after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate correlations between preoperative pain sensitivity and postoperative analgesic consumption together with pain perception shortly after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in non-arthritic knees. METHODS: Ninety-nine patients who underwent primary arthroscopic meniscectomy were prospectively divided into three postoperative treatment groups that were prescribed with betamethasone injection (at the end of surgery), oral celecoxib or rescue analgesia (control). Preoperative pain sensitivity was evaluated by pain sensitivity questionnaires (PSQ). Patients were followed for the first three postoperative weeks to evaluate knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) pain scores and analgesics consumption. Statistical analysis included correlations among preoperative pain sensitivity, postoperative pain levels and analgesics consumption. A receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted to investigate the cutoff values of the PSQ score to predict insufficient postoperative pain reduction. RESULTS: There were no differences at baseline among all study groups in age, sex, BMI, level of activity, comorbidities and surgical findings. At the final follow-up, KOOS pain scores improved in all groups (p < 0.001). Mean final KOOS pain scores were 76.1 ± 15.2 for the betamethasone group, 70.8 ± 12.6 for the celecoxib group and 78.7 ± 11.6 for the control group. No differences in scores were observed among groups (n.s.). In the control group, a negative correlation was observed between PSQ score and KOOS-pain scores at the end of the follow-up in addition to a positive correlation between PSQ score and rescue analgesia consumption at the first postoperative week. The optimal cutoff value for PSQ score to predict insufficient improvement in KOOS-pain subscale was 5.0 points. CONCLUSIONS: A cutoff value of pain sensitivity questionnaire score above 5.0 points was determined to identify patients with higher sensitivity to pain who underwent arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. These patients reported relatively increased pain and consumed more rescue analgesics postoperatively unless treated with a single intraoperative corticosteroids injection or oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Therefore, surgeons can use pain sensitivity questionnaire score as a preoperative tool to identify patients with high sensitivity to pain and customize their postoperative analgesics protocol to better fit their pain levels. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

Morphological and Histological Changes in the Human Anterior Cruciate Ligament after Rupture.

BACKGROUND: Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are common and complete tears often fail to heal. ACL reconstruction is considered the surgical gold standard of care for ACL injuries in young active patients. OBJECTIVES: To determine the corresponding morphological and histological features of the torn ACL in different time periods after injury. METHODS: The study included 28 remnant specimens of torn ACLs from patients who had ACL reconstruction surgery of the knee. The remnant pathology was evaluated by its morphology during arthroscopy and by histopathologic measurements. RESULTS: At surgery there were three progressive and distinct morphological tear patterns. The first pattern was noticed within the first 3 months from injury and showed no scar tissue. The second pattern appeared later and was characterized by the appearance of scar tissue with adhesion to the femoral wall. The third pattern was characterized by adhesion of the ACL remnant to the posterior cruciate ligament. The histological changes of the first morphological pattern showed abundance of blood vessels and lymphocytes at the torn femoral end with few irregular collagen fibers. The second and third tear patterns showed decrement in the number of blood vessels and lymphocytes with longitudinally oriented collagen fibers. CONCLUSIONS: The morphological features of the ACL remnant in the first 3 months after injury showed no scar tissue and its histological features had the characteristics of a reparative phase. This phase was followed by a prolonged remodeling phase that ended with attachment of the remnant to the posterior cruciate ligament.

Patient outcomes and survival following surgery for spinal metastases.

Context: There is no consensus on the preferred treatment for patients with spinal metastases. Little is known about the outcomes of surgery for this population. The objectives of this paper are to examine the outcomes of surgery among patients with spinal metastases suffering from cord compression (CC) or intractable pain (IP).Design: Retrospective, descriptive (level 4) case series.Setting: Rabin Medical Center, Israel.Participants: 61 patients undergoing surgery for spinal metastasis in a tertiary care hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: those with spinal CC and those with IP only.Interventions: Surgery due to CC or IP among patients with spinal metastases.Outcome measures: Frankel scale to assess neurological status, ambulatory and incontinence status, which were examined before surgery, at discharge and at last follow-up. Endpoints were death or latest follow-up visit. Survival and postoperative complications were documented.Results: There was no significant difference in Frankel score before and after surgery among patients with CC (mean score 3.5 and 3.4 respectively, P = 0.62). Complete incontinence rates significantly increased in patients with CC between preoperative and last follow-up examinations (13.6% vs. 20%, respectively, P = 0.05). Median survival of CC and IP groups was 201 and 402 days, respectively (P = 0.32). Complication rate was 41.4%.Conclusion: In our cohort, Frankel score and walking capability of patients with CC did not change postoperatively, but continence status deteriorated over time. Surgeons should advise patients on expected surgical outcomes, especially in non-ambulatory and incontinent patients.

The Reliability of Classifying the Morphology of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Remnants during Surgery.

Arthroscopic classification of the torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) morphology is fundamental for clinical studies on emerging techniques such as repair and preservation. At present, the most acknowledged classification is Crain description of four morphological patterns. The purpose of the study was to analyze the intra- and interobserver reliability of Crain classification in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction surgeries. The study included 101 patients who had ACL reconstruction surgery between the years 2014 and 2017. The morphological pattern of ACL remnant scar formation during surgery was observed and classified according to Crain by three orthopaedic surgeons. Inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were measured using kappa statistics. Intraobserver reliability for the Crain classification ranged from 0.63 to 0.83 (substantial to almost perfect agreement). Interobserver reliability was 0.51 (moderate agreement). In almost a third of the cases, observers reported on additional morphological pattern of scar formation that was not well defined by Crain. A modified classification of four patterns was suggested: (A) without scar tissue, (B) with adhesion to the femoral notch (wall or roof), (C) with adhesion to the notch and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), and (D) with adhesion to the PCL. Reanalysis of these four morphological configurations resulted in interobserver reliability of 0.82 (almost perfect agreement). In conclusion, the Crain classification of torn ACL remnant morphology has moderate interobserver reliability; however, a suggested classification with modified and additional configurations has almost perfect reliability and may be useful for studies on ACL repair and preservation.

Impact of the Holocaust on the outcomes of elderly patients sustaining a fragility hip fracture.

INTRODUCTION: Holocaust survivors (HS) were under an immense continues physical and mental stressors in their younger years, putting them at increased risk for both fragility hip fractures and worse medical and functional outcomes. We aimed to evaluate whether being a HS could affect the functional outcomes of fragility hip fractures in patients 80 years of age and older following surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study comparing consecutive patients, 80 years and older, who were operated for fragility hip fractures between 2011 and 2016. HS survival status was self-defined by survivors who were born in European and northern African countries that were later occupied by the Nazi regime during World War II and experienced incarceration in concentration camps, forced labor camps and mass transport. Primary outcomes were mortality either within hospital or in the post-operative year. Secondary outcomes were in-hospital complications, recurrent hospitalizations and orthopedic complications within the post-operative year. RESULTS: Two hundred thirty-one HS and 339 controls, ages 86.4 ± 4.4 years who were operated for fragility hip fracture between January 2011 to June of 2016 were included in the study. Patients from both groups were of similar age, Carlson's co-morbidity index score, leaving arrangement and pre-fracture mobility. Among HS there were more women (p = 0.029). HS did not have lower survival rates either within hospital or in the post- operative year. Both length of stay and in-hospital complication rates were similar between groups. In the post-operative year, HS were less likely to be hospitalized than controls (p = 0.021). The rate of orthopedic complications was also similar. CONCLUSIONS: Holocaust survivors patients do not achieve worse outcome following fragility hip fracture surgery and present distinctive resilience.

Medium-term outcome and classification of traumatic anterior hip dislocations.

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic anterior hip dislocations are subdivided to obturator (inferior) and pubic (superior) dislocations by Epstein's descriptive classification. This rare injury is thought to have favourable clinical outcomes. The incidence of associated femoral head and acetabular injuries has been low in past case series. We sought to revisit this injury and classification in the era of advanced imaging and contemporary surgical techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of 15 patients treated for anterior hip dislocation was performed. Medical records were reviewed for demographic and surgical data. Imaging studies were revisited to determine direction of dislocation and associated fractures. Patients were assessed for pain, hip function using the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), hip range of motion and radiographic changes. Mean follow-up time was 3 years. RESULTS: Anterior dislocation occurred in an obturator (inferior), pubic (superior) or central direction. 9 patients had concomitant femoral head impaction and 7 patients suffered from acetabular fractures. 8 patients with an anterior hip dislocation underwent surgical treatment. This therapy, along with early range of motion and weight bearing, produced favourable clinical outcomes with 9 patients reporting no pain and an average mHHS of 83.8. 6 patients had heterotopic ossification at latest follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Traumatic anterior hip dislocation is commonly associated with femoral head impaction and acetabular injuries which should be addressed operatively when appropriate to produce favourable results. In this paper, we propose a revision to the commonly used descriptive classification system.

Does hip morphology correlate with proximal femoral fracture type?

PURPOSE: To determine if boney morphology influences the anatomic location of hip fractures in elderly patients. METHODS: All patients with hip fractures between 2008 and 2012 who had hip radiographs taken prior to the fracture were reviewed. Fractures were classified as intracapsular or extracapsular and hip morphology was measured on the pre-fracture x-rays. Hip morphology was determined by alpha angle, lateral central edge angle, acetabular index, neck-shaft angle, hip axis length, femoral neck diameter, Tönnis classification for hip osteoarthritis (OA) and the presence of a crossover sign. RESULTS: 148 subjects (78.4% female, age 83.5 years) with proximal femur fractures were included. 44 patients (29.7%) had intracapsular fractures and 104 (70.3%) had extracapsular fractures. 48% of patients had previous hip fractures on the contralateral side and 74.6% had the same type of fracture bilaterally. The rates of bilateral intracapsular and extracapsular fractures were similar (33.7% vs. 40.9% respectively, p = 0.39). Extracapsular fractures had a statically significant higher neck-shaft angle, a shorter hip axis length, a narrower femoral neck diameter and a higher grade of Tönnis classification of OA (p = 0.04, 0.046, 0.03, 0.02 respectively). Acetabular coverage and the proximal femoral head-neck junction, which were evaluated by lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA), acetabular index and the presence of a crossover sign, did not correlate with fracture type. The alpha angle > 40° had a statistically significant higher likelihood for extracapsular fractures (p = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS: Acetabular coverage and proximal femoral head-neck junction morphology, were found to partially correlate with the location of hip fractures and do not fully elucidate fracture type susceptibility.

Subspinal impingement: clinical outcomes of arthroscopic decompression with one year minimum follow up.

PURPOSE: This study was designed to (1) evaluate the clinical outcomes after arthroscopic subspinal decompression in patients with hip impingement symptoms and low AIIS, and to (2) assess the presence of low anterior inferior iliac spine on the pre-operative radiographs of patients with established subspinal impingement diagnosed intra-operatively. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent arthroscopic subspinal decompression has been performed. The indications for surgery were femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), or subspinal impingement. Pre-operative radiographs were assessed for anterior inferior iliac spine type. Intra-operative diagnosis of low anterior inferior iliac spine was based on the level of anterior inferior iliac spine extension relative to the acetabulum and the presence of reciprocal labral and chondral lesions. In patients where low anterior inferior iliac spine was not diagnosed on pre-operative radiographs, the pre-operative radiographs were re-read retrospectively to assess missed signs of low anterior inferior iliac spine. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients underwent arthroscopic subspinal decompression between 2012 and 2015. The patients were followed for a median of 25 months (13-37 months). Intra-operatively, grade 2 anterior inferior iliac spine was found in 27 patients and grade 3 anterior inferior iliac spine was found in 7 patients. MHHS, HOS, and HOSS scores increased from median (range) pre-operative scores of 55 (11-90), 48 (20-91) and 20 (0-80) to 95 (27-100), 94 (30-100) and 91 (5-100), respectively (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001, p < 0.0001, respectively). Pre-operative diagnosis of low AIIS was made in 6/34 patients via AP radiographs. On retrospective analysis of pre-operative radiographs, signs of low AIIS were still not observed in 21/34 (61.8%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic subspinal decompression of low AIIS yielded significantly improved outcome measures and high patient satisfaction at a minimum of 13 months follow-up. Low AIIS is often under-diagnosed on AP pelvis and lateral frog radiographs and if left untreated, may result in unresolved symptoms and failed procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Does capsular closure influence patient-reported outcomes in hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement and labral tear?

Capsulotomy is necessary to facilitate instrument manoeuvrability within the joint capsule in many arthroscopic hip surgical procedures. In cases where a clear indication for capsular closure does not exist, surgeon's preference and experience often determines capsular management. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of capsular closure on clinical outcome scores and satisfaction in patients who underwent hip arthroscopy surgery for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and labral tear. Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively analysed for hip arthroscopy surgeries with a minimum 2 years follow-up. Patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip, previous back or hip surgeries, and degenerative changes to this hip and secondary gains were excluded. Demographic data, intraoperative findings and patient-reported outcome scores were recorded, including the Modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS) and Hip Outcome Score (HOS). A total of 29 and 35 patients were included in the non-closure and closure groups, respectively. The mean follow-up time was over 3 years for both groups. The mean pre-operative and post-operative HOS scores and MHHS scores did not significantly differ between groups (pre-operative HOS: 65.6 and 66.3, P = 0.898; post-operative HOS: 85.4 and 87.2, P = 0.718; pre-operative MHHS: 63.2 and 58.4, P = 0.223; post-operative MHHS: 85.7 and 88.7, P = 0.510). Overall patient satisfaction did not differ significantly between groups (non-closure 86.3%, closure group 88.6%; P = 0.672). Capsular closure did not significantly influence satisfaction or clinical outcome scores in patients who underwent arthroscopic hip surgery for FAI or labral tear.

[PLATELET RICH PLASMA INJECTION AS TREATMENT FOR ROTATOR CUFF TENDINOPATHY AND AS AN AUGMENTATION FOR ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR].

INTRODUCTION: Platelet rich plasma (PRP) intra-articular injections are gaining popularity worldwide. Albeit its vast application, its efficacy has not been proven unequivocally. This position statement was conducted for the Israeli Shoulder and Elbow Society and is intended to guide practitioners on treatment with PRP injections. Platelets secrete growth factors as part of their function which stimulates angiogenesis, cellular proliferation and tissue repair. Four main PRP subtypes exist: activated, non-activated, leucocyte-rich and leukocyte-poor. The function of leukocytes in PRP is not yet clearly understood and may locally cause harm. There are 3 main pathologies involving the shoulder and elbow in which PRP is being used: rotator cuff tendinopathy, rotator cuff tears and epicondylitis. Contraindications to PRP injection are infection, systemic disease presenting at the injection site, bone marrow pathology, thrombocytopenia, systemic steroids use and anticoagulant therapy. Most studies that explored the efficacy of PRP for rotator cuff tendinopathy failed to demonstrate any clinical benefit when compared to other non-operative treatments. Research shows that PRP injection improves rotator cuff tear healing when used as an augmentation to surgical repair, irrespective of tear size. Furthermore, high quality studies reported less pain in the early postoperative period with PRP augmentation in rotator cuff repair surgery but no significant changes to post-operative shoulder function. Larger studies were conducted on PRP injection to various joints which reported no side effects and approved its safety.

Outcome of non-surgical treatment of proximal femur fractures in the fragile elderly population.

INTRODUCTION: With the aging of the population the rate of fragility hip fractures increases. While medical recommendations are for hasten surgical treatment, for some older patients burdened with severe comorbidities, this might be risky. AIMS: To compare the outcomes of patients treated non-surgically to those of the most fragile patients treated surgically. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study, of individuals aged ≥65 years who presented with fragility hip fractures between 01.01.2011-30.06.2016, to a primary trauma center. Patients treated surgically were stratified according to their age-adjusted Charlsons' comorbidity index (ACCI) score. Patients in the upper third of ACCI score, representing the more fragile population, were compared to patients treated non-surgically. RESULTS: 847 patients presented with fragility fractures. 94 (11%) were treated non-surgically and 753 (89%) underwent surgery. Medical reasons were the leading cause for non-surgical treatment (61.7%). Surgically-treated patients were stratified according to their ACCI and 114 patients with ACCI > 9 were chosen for comparison. While both groups were comparable in terms of age, the non-surgical treatment group had more female patients (p. = 0.026) and a smaller proportion of independent walkers (p < 0.001). The ACCI was higher for the surgical treatment group (p < 0.001). In-hospital mortality was similar (14.9% and 18.1% for the operative and non-surgical groups respectively, P. = 0.575). However, one-year mortality was significantly higher for the non-surgical group (48.2% vs. 67.0%, P. = 0.005). The rates of in-hospital complications and 1-year readmissions were similar. CONCLUSIONS: Operative treatment for fragility hip fracture reduces long-term mortality rates even in the more fragile patients, compared to non-surgical treatment.

Return to sports after chronic anterior exertional compartment syndrome of the leg: Conservative treatment versus surgery.

AIM: To evaluate whether surgical treatment for anterior chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) of the lower leg will lead to full athletic activity recovery compared to conservative treatment. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with anterior CECS of the leg were offered surgical treatment, as surgery considered today to be the mainstay of treatment. Patients unwilling to be treated surgically were treated conservatively. They were followed up, assessing both groups for pain, functional status, and the Tegner sports activity score with comparisons at diagnosis and following treatment. RESULTS: Forty-three patients were treated for CECS (31; 72.1% with surgery and 12; 27.9% conservatively) with a mean follow-up of 28.15 (4.16-54.09) months. Reported pain improved at follow-up by 1.59 (0-6) points and by 4.27 ± (0-10) points in the conservatively and the surgically treated patient groups, respectively ( p = 0.014) with a mean change in the Tegner score of 0.09 (-5 to 5) and 3.22 (-4 to 7), respectively ( p = 0.009). Three patients in the conservatively treated group (25% of 12) and 24 patients in the operated group (77.4% of 31) reported full resumption of their pre-diagnosis activity level ( p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study supports surgery as the treatment of choice for anterior CECS of the leg with differential benefit for fasciotomy in terms of pain and return to pre-diagnosis athletic activity.

Which patients are less likely to improve after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate which specific factors influence the improvement in function and to estimate the time to obtain pain relief following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: A total of 97 patients (57 men and 40 women; mean age: 55.5 ± 9.3 years) who had arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between 2013 and 2016 were included into the study. Multivariable stepwise analysis included preoperative variables (age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities, occupation and participation in sports, Oxford shoulder score at baseline, preceding injury and duration of preoperative symptoms) and arthroscopic findings (size of rotator cuff tear, pathology of the long head of the biceps and cartilage lesions). The change in the Oxford shoulder score at the last follow-up was modeled as a function of the above predictor variables. The time to regain a visual analogue scale (VAS) under two points following surgery was considered the time to regain substantial pain relief. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 33.2 ± 14.4 months. Twenty three patients had partial thickness and seventy four had full thickness supraspinatus tears. In third of the patients the tears were defined as large full thickness. At the last follow-up the mean Oxford shoulder score improved from 13.8 ± 4.8 to 42.1 ± 7.2 points (P < 0.001). The mean VAS improved from a preoperative score of 6.7 ± 1.3 points to 1.5 ± 0.6 points postoperatively (P < 0.001) and 80 (83%) patients declared they were satisfied to have had the operation. The mean time interval for substantial pain relief was 4.9 ± 3.6 months. Patients with higher preoperative Oxford shoulder score and larger tear size were correlated with lesser improvement in Oxford shoulder score (R = 0.5, P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improved pain and function at an average follow-up of three years. A substantial pain relief was regained within five months from surgery. Larger rotator cuff tear size and more favorable preoperative function were predictors of worse postoperative function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, Therapeutic study.