Treatment of aseptic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: Historical aspects.

The treatment of aseptic osteonecrosis (ON) of the femoral head has been the subject of numerous therapeutic and surgical proposals due to the absence of medical treatment with proven efficacy. For many years, the goal of surgical treatment was to avoid total hip replacement (THR) with uncertain survival in patients considered too young (30-50 years) for this procedure. Numerous conservative treatments were thus proposed: core decompression with numerous variants, non-vascularized and vascularized bone grafts, intertrochanteric and rotational transtrochanteric osteotomies, cementing. The lack of a common classification and a lack of knowledge of natural history complicated the interpretation of the results for a long time. Nevertheless, it appeared that these treatments were effective only in the very early stages and among these in the limited ONs, medial rather than central and especially lateral, with discrepancies according to etiologies apart from sickle cell disease recognized by all as being pejorative. For the same reason, partial arthroplasties have been attempted and abandoned in turn: femoral head total and partial resurfacing and femoral prosthesis. The most recent advances are stem-cell-enhanced core decompression and progress in total arthroplasty, whose reliability has made it possible to extend the indications to increasingly younger patients seeking treatment with guaranteed or near-guaranteed efficacy. Most of the other interventions have disappeared or almost disappeared because of their lack of effectiveness especially in extensive and post-fracture ONs, sometimes because of their complexity and the length of their post-operative management, and also because they complicate and penalize a future total arthroplasty. This argues for early detection of ON at an early stage where the "head can be saved" by stem cell augmented core decompression, a minimally invasive treatment that leaves the chances of success of a THR intact.

Clavicle fractures.

Management of clavicle fracture has progressed over the last decade, notably with wider use of surgery in midshaft fracture, and new techniques for lateral fracture. Midshaft clavicle fracture treatment needs to be personalized and adapted to the patient's activity level. Whichever the segment involved, treatment for non-displaced fracture is functional; elbow-to-body sling immobilization seems the best tolerated. Apart from regular surgical indications (shoulder impaction, floating shoulder, open fracture or fracture with neurovascular complications), surgery is recommended in case of bone shortening exceeding 1.5cm in young active patients. The technique needs to take account of clavicle anatomy: notably periosteal vascularization in midshaft fracture and acromioclavicular ligament integrity and location in case of lateral fracture. Plate osteosynthesis should take account of bone diameter and 3D curvature; intramedullary fixation should take account of intramedullary canal morphology. Although iatrogenic vascular complications are rare, vessel relations and variants need to be known, especially in the medial end of the clavicle and midshaft. Lateral segment fractures are a particular entity. Large-scale randomized studies are needed to assess indications and results for the various possible internal fixation techniques: isolated or associated to ligament reconstruction, rigid or flexible, and open or arthroscopic.

Are ligament-tensioning devices interchangeable? A study of femoral rotation.

BACKGROUND: During total knee arthroplasty (TKA), femoral rotation can be adjusted either in relation to bony landmarks or by tensioning the ligaments with the knee in 90° of flexion. The primary objective of this study was to compare femoral rotations achieved using various ligament-tensioning devices. The secondary objective was to compare these femoral rotations to that indicated by the transepicondylar axis (TEA). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed 13 posterior-stabilised TKA procedures using HiFit (Ceraver(®)) on cadaver knees. Before performing the posterior condyle cut, we used an original method to measure the femoral rotation induced by five different ligament-tensioning devices (2 with a ratchet mechanism, 1 with screws, 1 force-sensing device, and 1 with spacer blocks) and the central tibio-femoral distance (CTFD). RESULTS: Both ratchet tensioners provided significantly greater mean external rotation values (P=0.002), of 4.94° and 4.46°, respectively, compared to the force-sensing and spacer tensioners. Significant differences were found across devices for CTFD, with a mean difference of about 2mm between the ratchet and screw tensioners versus the force-sensing and spacer tensioners. The mean differences in rotations obtained using the tensioners versus the TEA were close to 0° but with standard deviations greater than 4°. CONCLUSION: Femoral rotation was dependent on the distraction force applied to the joint. Tensioners that did not measure the distraction force were associated with greater distraction force and external rotation values. The TEA criterion did not reliably indicate good ligament balance. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Experimental study.

Extensor tendon ruptures after total knee arthroplasty.

Extensor tendon rupture is a rare but serious complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) that impairs active knee extension, thereby severely affecting knee function. Surgery is usually required. Surgical options range from simple suturing to allograft reconstruction of the entire extensor mechanism and include intermediate methods such as reconstruction using neighbouring tendons or muscles, synthetic ligament implantation, and partial allograft repair. Simple suturing carries a high failure rate and should therefore be routinely combined with tissue augmentation using a neighbouring tendon or a synthetic ligament. After allograft reconstruction, outcomes are variable and long-term complications common. Salvage procedures for managing the most severe cases after allograft failure involve reconstruction using gastrocnemius or vastus flaps. Regardless of the technique used, suturing must be performed under tension, with the knee fully extended, and rehabilitation must be conducted with great caution. Weaknesses of available case-series studies include small sample sizes, heterogeneity, and inadequate follow-up duration. All treatment options are associated with substantial failure rates. The patient should be informed of this fact and plans made for a salvage option. Here, the main techniques and their outcomes are discussed, and a therapeutic strategy is suggested.

Predictors of failure for prosthetic joint infections treated with debridement.

OBJECTIVE: Prosthetic joint infections (PJI) may be cured in selected patients with debridement and prosthesis retention. We aimed to identify predictors of failure to better target patients most likely to benefit from this conservative strategy. METHODS: Observational study of patients presenting with PJI initially treated at our hospital with debridement between 2008 and 2011, with>6 months of post-treatment follow-up. RESULTS: Sixty consecutive patients presenting with PJI (hip, n=34; knee, n=26) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Failures (n=20, 33%), predefined as persistence of PJI signs or relapses, were managed with additional surgery (n=17) and/or lifelong suppressive antibiotic treatment (n=6). Variables independently associated with failure: previous surgery on the prosthetic joint (OR: 6.3 [1.8-22.3]), Staphylococcus aureus PJI (OR: 9.4 [1.6-53.9]), post-debridement antibiotic treatment for <3 months (OR: 20.0 [2.2-200]). CONCLUSION: Previous surgery, S. aureus PJI, and short duration antibiotic treatment are associated with an increased risk of failure after debridement.

Does prior conservative surgery affect survivorship and functional outcome in total hip arthroplasty for congenital dislocation of the hip? A case-control study in 159 hips.

INTRODUCTION: The results of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in congenital dislocation of the hip (CDH) are well known, but such is not the case for the impact of prior conservative surgery on THA function and survivorship. The present study compared THA in CDH with prior conservative bone surgery (BS group) versus no prior bone surgery (NBS group), to (1) assess the impact of prior conservative surgery on function and survivorship after THA, and (2) determine whether a particular type of conservative surgery affected function or survivorship. HYPOTHESIS: Prior conservative surgery for CDH does not affect function or survivorship of subsequent THA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A multicenter retrospective case-control study analyzed 430 THAs in CDH patients (332 patients: 269 female, 63 male; mean age, 56 years [range, 17-80 years]) at a mean 13.2±5.4 years' follow-up (range, 1-29 years). The BS group included 159 hips (37%) (64 pelvic, 81 femoral and 14 combined pelvic and femoral osteotomies), and the NBS group 271 (63%). Groups were comparable for gender, age at surgery, Devane activity score, preoperative Postel Merle d'Aubigné (PMA) functional score and CDH radiographic type following Crowe. RESULTS: At follow-up, PMA scores were comparable: BS, 16.8±1.4 (11-18); NBS, 16.9±1.5 (7-18). Fifteen-year survivorship censored for implant revision for whatever reason did not significantly differ: BS, 87% (95% CI: 83-91%); NBS, 89% (95% CI: 86-92%). Ten-year survivorship on the same criterion did not significantly differ according to type of prior surgery: hip shelf arthroplasty, 97% (95% CI: 95-99%); Chiari osteotomy, 100%; femoral osteotomy, 95% (95% CI: 92-98%); and Milch osteotomy 96% (95% CI: 93-99%). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Conservative surgery for CDH does not impair the functional results or survivorship of subsequent THA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, case-control study.

Comparison of the inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of the Crowe, Hartofilakidis and modified Cochin classification systems for the diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip.

INTRODUCTION: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) leads to multiple treatment challenges during adulthood. Surgical treatment is mainly based on radiographic evaluation of the anatomical alterations. Several classification systems have been described in the published English scientific literature, but the French Cochin classification has not been used very much. Its primary advantage lies in its ability to intricately describe the DDH alterations with a large number of grades. We hypothesized that the inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of the SOFCOT-modified Cochin classification system was equal to that of the Crowe and Hartofilakidis classifications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Five French orthopaedic surgeons who were DDH experts classified 94 A/P pelvis radiographs (179 hips) using the Crowe (Cr), Hartofilikadis (Ha) and modified Cochin (Co) systems. This evaluation was repeated a second time one month later. The intra-observer reproducibility was determined with weighted Kappa and concordance coefficients. The inter-observer reproducibility was performed by calculating the multirater Kappa coefficient on each of the two data series. RESULTS: For the intra-observer reliability, the average weighed concordance coefficients (95% CI) were 88.62-94.52 for Cr, 89.43-93.80 for Ha and 92.14-95.71 for Co. The average weighed Kappa coefficients (95% CI) were 0.70-0.85 for Cr, 0.67-0.82 for Ha and 0.75-0.83 for Co. For the inter-observer reliability, the Kappa for each assessment round was 0.57 and 0.48 for Cr, 0.43 and 0.44 for Ha, and 0.43 and 0.37 for Co. DISCUSSION: The intra- and inter-observer reliability for the modified Cochin classification system is the same as the one for the Crowe and Hartofilakidis classifications. The theoretical advantage of this classification system should be confirmed by comparing the findings with intra-operative anatomical observations. LEVEL OF PROOF, TYPE OF STUDY: IV.

Medium-term osteolysis with the Wallaby I® deep-dished total knee prosthesis.

BACKGROUND: Highly congruent total knee prostheses were introduced in the 1990s in the hope of decreasing polyethylene wear, thereby minimising loosening and particle-induced peri-prosthetic osteolysis. Despite promising long-term outcomes, substantial rates of aseptic loosening were reported with conventional gamma-irradiated polyethylene inserts, suggesting that highly reticulated polyethylene should be used instead. We assessed medium-term outcomes of the Wallaby I® total knee prosthesis with a deep-dished tibial insert made of conventional gamma-irradiated polyethylene. HYPOTHESIS: We hypothesised that the deep-dished Wallaby I® prosthesis was associated with similar or lower rates of aseptic loosening and peri-prosthetic osteolysis compared to posterior-stabilised prostheses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: At our institution, 121 consecutive patients underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a deep-dished cemented prosthesis (Wallaby I®, Sulzer/Centerpulse, Zürich, Switzerland) between 2001 and 2005. Among them, 89 had complete follow-up data over a 4-year period and a mean follow-up of 96 months. We retrospectively analysed the clinical and radiographic IKS scores in these 89 patients. RESULTS: Osteolysis with aseptic loosening required revision TKA of 10 knees after a mean follow-up of 81 months. Mean 9-year prosthesis survival was 88±17%. Four inserts exhibited evidence of delamination. A fracture of the postero-medial aspect of the tibial baseplate beneath a zone of insert wear was found in 1 knee and gross mobility of the insert on the baseplate in 6 knees. The other 79 patients had good clinical and radiographic outcomes with a mean range of active knee flexion of 108±15°. DISCUSSION: The medium-term outcomes in our study were inferior to those reported with posterior-stabilised tibial components. Sporadic variations in polyethylene quality may explain the cases of osteolysis (shelf oxidation). In addition, the increased shear stresses related to the deep-dish design may increase backside wear, thereby compromising insert fixation to the baseplate. We believe the Wallaby I® prosthesis should no longer be used, and we recommend computed tomography follow-up of patients harbouring this prosthesis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV (retrospective study).

Risk of osteoarthritis secondary to partial or total arthrodesis of the subtalar and midtarsal joints after a minimum follow-up of 10 years.

INTRODUCTION: The goal of this retrospective, multicentre study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes in patients who have undergone partial or total arthrodesis of the subtalar and midtarsal joints. HYPOTHESIS: Secondary osteoarthritis of the adjacent joints can negatively affect the outcomes more than 10 years after these fusion procedures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The outcomes of 72 fusions (total: 22; partial: 50) performed between 1981 and 2002 were evaluated using the Maryland Foot Score (MFS), self-evaluation questionnaire and three weight-bearing X-ray views (Meary's with cerclage wire around heel, lateral and dorsoplantar). The average follow-up was 15 ± 5 years (range 10-31). RESULTS: There were two deep infections that resolved after lavage and antibiotics therapy. There were 21 early complications (10 complex regional pain syndrome, 7 delayed wound healing, 2 superficial infections, 2 venous thrombosis) that all resolved. There were five cases of non-union (6.9%) that healed after being re-operated. After five years, secondary osteoarthritis led to the fusion being extended to the tibotalar joint (1 case) and midtarsal joint (1 case). At the last follow-up, the average MFS was 71.5 (range 25-100). Patient deemed the result as either excellent (10%), very good (9%), good (55%), poor (19%) or bad (7%). Pain at the last follow-up was present in 84% of cases. The rear-foot was normally aligned in 45% of cases, varus aligned in 22% and valgus aligned in 33%. The MFS was significantly better in patients with normal alignment. Patients with neurological foot disorders had significantly more preoperative (80% cavovarus) and postoperative foot deformity (P<0.05). At the last follow-up, the rate of secondary osteoarthritis in the surrounding joints was elevated: 73% tibiotalar, 58.3% subtalar, 65.8% talonavicular, 53.5% calaneocuboid. The presence of osteoarthritis was not correlated with pain or lower MFS. However there was significantly more pain at last follow-up than at 12 months postoperative and two fusions were required in patients with secondary osteoarthritis. CONCLUSION: Although partial or total arthrodesis of the subtalar and midtarsal joints is a reliable procedure, it induces secondary osteoarthritis. Even though it seems to be well tolerated more than 10 years after the initial procedure, this possibility must be discussed with young, active patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective study.

[Middle-term results of a Silastic prosthesis used as a temporary spacer for unreconstructable radial head fractures]. / Résultats à moyen terme d'un implant en Silastic utilisé comme espaceur transitoire dans les fractures non synthésables de la tête radiale.

This study reports the use of silicone prosthesis as a temporary spacer for comminuted fracture of the radial head. Twelve men and eight women with a mean age of 42 years (17-54) were operated on in an average of five days following a comminuted fracture of the radial head. Silicone radial head prosthesis was implanted with a mean duration of eight months (3-18) between implantation and removal. At a mean period of five years after initial surgery, the mean DASH score was 40 (24-82), the mean MEPS score was 86 (60-100) giving ten excellent results, five good and five means. At the last clinical follow-up, the average flexion was 127° (90-140) and 152° (50-180) for pronation-supination. Regarding our results, early removal of the Silastic implant prevented possible synovitis and failure of silicone implant. The stability of the elbow was obtained in all cases with association of a medial collateral ligament repair in case of instability. The use of a silicone radial head implant as a temporary spacer in case of radial head fracture type Mason III or IV seems to be a possible alternative to metal prostheses, whose implantation technique is demanding and sometimes not recommendable in young patients.

High rate of fracture in the cementless modular Extrême™ (Mark I) femoral prosthesis in revision total hip arthroplasty: 33 cases at more than 5 years' follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The modular concept has been recommended in femoral revision surgery with extensive bone loss, but entails mechanical complications: disassembly and fracture. The present retrospective study assessed the Mark I Extrême™ modular prosthesis at a minimum 5 years' follow-up. HYPOTHESIS: A cementless modular femoral stem facilitates revision in case of extensive bone loss, providing satisfactory results without risk of junction failure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-three prostheses presenting aseptic loosening, including 3 with periprosthetic fracture, in 23 female and 9 male patients, with a mean age of 65 years (range, 49-83 years), were reviewed at a mean 6.3 years' follow-up (range, 5-9 years). Bone loss was assessed on the SOFCOT (17/33 grade 3 or 4) and Paprosky classifications (19/33 grade III or IV). One patient died; another was lost to follow-up, leaving 31 hips for analysis. Clinical assessment comprised Postel Merle d'Aubigné (PMA) and Harris Hip scores (HHS); radiological assessment used the Engh score and corticomedullary index (CMI). RESULTS: There were 15 complications requiring surgery: 9 (27%) unrelated to the implant (1 hematoma, 2 infections, 2 dislocations, 1 femoral non-union, 3 asymptomatic trochanteric non unions) and 6 (18%) implant-related (four 3-level fractures and 2 epiphyseal-metaphyseal disassemblies, requiring 3 total exchanges and 3 proximal component replacements). PMA and HHS scores showed significant improvement, PMA rising from 10.4 (6-18) to 14.4 (11-18) and HHS from 50 (19-88) to 80.9 (52-100). Bone regrowth was "certain" on the Engh classification in 11 cases (44%). There was no diaphyseal component subsidence, even in case of fracture or dissociation. CMI at the 3 junctions between the 4 quarters of the stem showed no significant change: 32.9 and 32.7, 41.2 and 38.7, and 41.6 and 39.9 respectively. Six-year survivorship was 81% (95% CI: 68-94%). DISCUSSION: In other series for the same type of implant, the rates of fracture (always metaphyseal-diaphyseal) were much lower: 0.8-3.8%. This stem ensures diaphyseal fixation in case of extensive bone loss, but incurs excessive risk of disassembly and fracture.

Tibial plateau fractures: reproducibility of three classifications (Schatzker, AO, Duparc) and a revised Duparc classification.

INTRODUCTION: Since the reproducibility of the Schatzker and AO tibial plateau fracture classification systems has already been assessed, the goal of this study was to evaluate the Duparc classification system and compare it to the other two. HYPOTHESES: CT scan is better than X-rays for analyzing and classifying tibial plateau fractures. The Duparc classification system is more effective than the other two systems but could be improved by adding elements of each. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six observers analyzed images from 50 fractures and then classified them. Each fracture was evaluated on X-rays. Two weeks later, these same fractures were evaluated on X-rays and CT scans. The same process was repeated four weeks later. The Kappa coefficient (κ) was used to measure agreement and contingency tables were built. RESULTS: The interobserver reproducibility for the X-ray analysis was poor for the Duparc and AO classifications (κDuparc=0.365; κAO=0.357) and average for the Schatzker classification (κSchatzker=0.404). The reproducibility was improved overall when CT scans were also analyzed (κDuparc=0.474; κAO=0.479; κSchatzker=0.476). A significantly greater number of fractures could not be classified in the Schatzker system than in the others (14.3% versus 2% for Duparc and 7.33% for AO). Review of the contingency tables revealed that the Schatzker and AO classification systems did not take certain fracture types into account. Seventy-one percent (71%) of the lateral unicondylar split fractures were found to be combined fractures when CT scan analysis was added. DISCUSSION: Our results showed CT scan to be better at analyzing and classifying fractures. We also found the Duparc classification to be advantageous because it allowed more fractures to be classified than in other classification systems, while having similar reproducibility. Based on our study findings, the Duparc classification was revised by adding elements of the other two. We propose using the modified Duparc classification system to analyze tibial plateau fractures going forward. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV. Retrospective study.

Femorotibial bone loss during revision total knee arthroplasty.

Bone loss (BL) is frequent during revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It is underestimated in X-rays. Most classifications distinguish contained from uncontained BL but the most frequently used classification is that of Engh, which does not take into account this element. Reconstruction should result in resistant support for the revision TKA. It helps correct malalignment, restore satisfactory ligament tension and height of the joint line. Several techniques have been suggested: cement, augments, bone grafts, modular metaphyseal sleeves and cones and megaprostheses. Cement is only used with small BL, especially in elderly patients. Augments allow rapid filling of small peripheral BL with good mid-term results but frequent radiolucent lines. Morselized allografts can be incorporated and remodeled. They are a good alternative in young patients. Structural allografts are resistant but there is a risk of fracture and resorption. Modular metaphyseal sleeves and cones incorporate with host bone and are attached to the prosthesis by a mechanical interface or cement. They may also be more durable. Megaprostheses are only indicated in severe BL in elderly subjects. Reconstruction is just one aspect of revision TKA and it should respect the technical requirements of the procedure in particular fixation with a stem, which is important in determining the outcome of reconstruction.

Total talar fracture - long-term results of internal fixation of talar fractures. A multicentric study of 114 cases.

INTRODUCTION: Displaced talar neck and body fractures are rare and challenging for the surgeon. Results are often disappointing due to inadequate reduction or internal fixation and high rates of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis. Very few published series describe the long-term results after internal fixation of talar factures. One of the goals of the 2011 SOO meeting symposium was to specifically evaluate the long-term results after internal fixation of talar fractures. This study included only central fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We reviewed the results of 114 central talar fractures that had been treated by internal fixation between 1982 and 2006 in nine hospitals in the Western part of France. The clinical and radiological follow-up was 111 months on average. All the patients with a radiological assessment had at least 5 years of follow-up. RESULTS: Poor reduction was apparent in 33% of cases. The average Kitaoka score was 70/100, which corresponds to an average functional level. At the last follow-up evaluation, 34% of cases had osteonecrosis and 74% had peritalar osteoarthritis. Secondary fusion was required in 25% of cases with an average follow-up of 24 months. DISCUSSION: The complication rate for talar fractures was high, mostly due to osteonecrosis and osteoarthritis; these conditions had an impact on the final outcome. The outcome could be improved by better evaluating these fractures with a CT scan, developing dual surgical approaches to best preserve the bone vascular supply and achieve better reduction, and improving the internal fixation hardware, especially the use of plates for comminuted fractures.

Total talar fracture - inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of two classification systems (Hawkins and AO) for central talar fractures.

INTRODUCTION: We evaluated the inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of two classification systems for central talar fractures (Hawkins, as modified by Canal and Kelly and then by us; AO/AOT). HYPOTHESIS: The analysis and classification of these fractures will be better with CT scans than with X-rays. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four observers evaluated 39 X-ray and CT scan files twice in the span of six weeks; each evaluation entailed classifying the fractures and describing their main features. Cohen's Kappa coefficient for inter-rater agreement was calculated and analysed. RESULTS: The inter- and intra-observer reproducibility with CT scans was better with X-rays for most of the parameters evaluated. The modified Hawkins classification provided better reproducibility than the AO/AOT one. However, this classification system was not perfect, even after modifications and use of CT scans. DISCUSSION: CT scans are an essential tool for the analysis of all talar fractures. We modified the Hawkins classification (as modified by Canal and Kelly) to include a Type 0 (no displacement or less than 2mm), include frontal body fractures that are displaced like neck fractures and take into account comminuted fractures and other trauma in the area. LEVEL OF PROOF: IV - retrospective clinical study.

Technique and results of endoscopic tenotomy in iliopsoas muscle tendinopathy secondary to total hip replacement: a series of 10 cases.

INTRODUCTION: There have been numerous recommendations for management of iliopsoas tendinopathy secondary to hip replacement: medical treatment, cup replacement, and open or arthroscopic tenotomy. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We report on a series of 10 endoscopic iliopsoas tenotomies. Arthroplasty comprised five primary conventional total prostheses, two large head diameter metal-metal models, one resurfacing and one revision arthroplasty. All patients underwent clinical (PMA, WOMAC), imaging (X-ray, CT, scintigraphy) and biological assessment. Seven cases showed mechanical impingement (six involving the anterior edge of the cup, and one a cement fragment); the other three involved large femoral components (two large head diameter models, one resurfacing). Infiltration test was positive in eight cases out of nine. Endoscopic iliopsoas tenotomy for recurrence was performed in dorsal decubitus on an ordinary table, under fluoroscopy, using two approaches (inferior for the endoscope, superior for the instruments) converging on the lesser trochanter. DISCUSSION: There were no complications. At a mean 20 months' follow-up (range, 12-60 months), mean pain grade was 5.5 (4-6). Eight patients showed complete relief, and two partial relief (two atypical cases). Mean PMA score was 16.9 (15-18) and mean WOMAC score 84 (60-95). Muscle force was recovered at a mean 3.25 months (0.5-6). Eight patients were very satisfied, one satisfied and one moderately satisfied. CONCLUSION: This technique is much less heavy than implant replacement; postoperative course is shorter than for open tenotomy and the technique is simpler than arthroscopic tenotomy, with lower risk. Subsequent cup change, where necessary, is not compromised. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective, case series.

Chronic patellar tendon rupture reconstruction with a semitendinosus autograft.

Chronic patellar tendon ruptures are somewhat rare, thus little work has been done in this area and their true incidence is not known. The management of a neglected, chronic patellar tendon rupture must address three difficulties: the proximally retracted patella, the reconstruction of the patellar tendon, finally, the temporary protection of this repair. By presenting a case of a chronic patellar tendon rupture, the advantages of reconstruction with an isolated semitendinosus tendon autograft, especially from an early rehabilitation perspective, are described.

Is alumina-on-alumina ceramic bearings total hip replacement the right choice in patients younger than 50 years of age? A 7- to 15-year follow-up study.

INTRODUCTION: The alumina-on-alumina bearing couple in total hip replacement seems to be well adapted for young and active patients because of the absence of wear and the rarity of osteolysis. Over the long term, doubts persist as to the cementless cup fixation and on the functioning of this bearing system because of possible acoustic emissions during use. HYPOTHESIS: In young subjects, the ceramic-on-ceramic bearing system limits wear and osteolysis occurrences, without exposing patients to serious side effects. MATERIAL AND MEHTODS: We report the results, with between 7 and 15 years of follow-up, for 32mm-diameter alumina-on-alumina implants in 76 patients younger than 50 years of age (83 hips), combining cementless press-fit hemispheric cups with titanium stems, [either cemented (63 Osteal™ stems) or cementless (20 Multicône™ stems)], with particular attention paid to cup fixation and noise emissions during implant function. First-generation or Cerafit trellis™ acetabular components had a riveted titanium mesh (31 cases), whereas the most recent (Cerafit hydroxyapatite [HA]™) cups had a porous surface coated with hydroxyapatite (52 cases). RESULTS: Three cases of aseptic loosening of the cemented stems were observed as well as late migration of a Cerafit trellis™ cup in the 12th postoperative year. One ceramic insert broke in the eighth postoperative year. With the exception of one case, the patients, questioned retrospectively, reported no audible noise. With aseptic loosening (revised or not), the criterion for failure, the 12-year survival rate was 91±11% for the Cerafit trellis™ acetabular components and 91±16% for the cemented Osteal™ stems. The 9- and 7-year survival rates for the Cerafit HA™ cups and the Multicône™ stems, respectively, were 100%. Including all revisions for any cause, the 10-year survival rate of the entire series was 92%±11%. DISCUSSION: Despite the absence of wear and osteolysis, the long-term survival of these implants in young subjects should be improved. Although longer follow-up is necessary to formulate a definitive opinion, we tend to prefer cementless stem and cup fixation in ceramic-on-ceramic bearing systems. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4 retrospective study.