Presentation of gamma-irradiated-in-air polyethylene wear in the form of a synovial cyst.

The increased wear of polyethylene sterilized with gamma irradiation in air has well been documented in the total knee arthroplasty literature. Our case report describes a patient with a well-functioning total knee replacement presenting with wear debris synovitis in the form of a large synovial cyst. We discuss this patient's preoperative evaluation, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcome after synovectomy and polyethylene exchange. We also review the current literature on appropriate polyethylene sterilization methods.

Treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis with posterior spinal fusion using the Galveston technique: a retrospective review and results of 62 patients.

Historically, the operative treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis has been associated with a high rate of complication. Recent literature has shown a decreased rate of complication (less 50%) in the management of neuromuscular scoliosis with spinal arthrodesis techniques. A retrospective chart and radiographic review of 62 spinal fusions for neuromuscular scoliosis was performed. There were 53 posterior spinal fusions and 9 anteroposterior spinal fusions. The Galveston technique was used in all patients. The average age at surgery was 13 years 7 months, with an average follow-up of 23 months (minimum 10 months). The mean preoperative and postoperative curve magnitudes were 66 degree and 31 degree, respectively. There were 20 minor complications and 5 major complications in 20 patients. There were no neurologic complications or deaths.