The Combination of the Tunnel View and Weight-Bearing Anteroposterior Radiographs Improves the Detection of Knee Arthritis.

Imaging used for the evaluation of knee pain has historically included weight-bearing anteroposterior (AP), lateral, and sunrise radiographs. We wished to evaluate the utility of adding the weight-bearing (WB) posteroanterior (PA) view of the knee in flexion. We hypothesize that (1) the WB tunnel view can detect radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) not visualized on the WB AP, (2) the combination of the AP and tunnel view increases the radiographic detection of OA, and (3) this may provide additional information to the clinician evaluating knee pain. We retrospectively reviewed the WB AP and tunnel view radiographs of 100 knees (74 patients) presenting with knee pain and analyzed for evidence of arthritis. The combination of the WB tunnel view and WB AP significantly increased the detection of joint space narrowing in the lateral (p < 0.001) and medial (p = 0.006) compartments over the AP view alone. The combined views significantly improved the identification of medial subchondral cysts (p = 0.022), sclerosis of the lateral tibial plateau (p = 0.041), and moderate-to-large osteophytes in the medial compartment (p = 0.012), intercondylar notch (p < 0.001), and tibial spine (p < 0.001). The WB tunnel view is an effective tool to provide additional information on affected compartments in the painful knee, not provided by the AP image alone.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Functional Outcomes Are Independent of Acetabular Component Orientation When a Polyethylene Liner Is Used.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty with a polyethylene liner to determine the influence of cup orientation and other variables on patient-reported outcomes. METHODS: A total of 477 cases were prospectively monitored through average 4.7 years follow-up. Cup position was measured on pelvis radiographs. Patients completed the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index and Short Form 12 Health Survey questionnaires. RESULTS: Average cup abduction was 43.1° ± 7.5° and anteversion was 13.3° ± 7.5°. Three hundred cups were within the target zone. All outcomes' improvement from baseline and cup position was not an independent risk factor for the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index or Short Form 12 Health Survey improvement. CONCLUSION: Accurate cup orientation may not be critical to maximizing patient-perceived outcomes if the combined anteversion is within a normal range, the hip joint is properly balanced, and a polyethylene liner is coupled with a metal or ceramic femoral head.

Inter- and intra-observer agreement of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) parameters comparing plain radiographs and advanced, 3D computed tomographic (CT)-generated hip models in a surgical patient cohort.

PURPOSE: The purpose of our study was to investigate whether advanced, 3D computed tomographic (CT)-generated hip models improves inter-and intra-observer agreement when compared to plain radiographs in identifying femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) morphology. METHODS: Eight consecutive patients who underwent surgery for FAI pathology were selected for this study. Preoperative CT scan image data were used to create high resolution, 3D hip reconstruction models. Four observers (two attending hip surgeons and radiologists) performed a blinded review of preselected radiographs and 3D CT hip models. Alpha and lateral center-edge angle measurements, location of cam lesion and the presence of a "crossover sign" were assessed. Inter- and intra-observer agreement was determined by calculating the intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) or kappa coefficients to evaluate agreement for categorical variables. RESULTS: The parameter that demonstrated the highest and poorest inter-observer agreement was the presence of a "crossover sign" using 3D CT-generated high resolution hip models (ICC = 0.76, p = 0.00) and anteroposterior pelvis radiography, respectively (ICC = 0.20, p = 0.02). Alpha angle values were significantly higher using plain radiographs when compared to 3D hip reconstruction models (61.1° ± 10.4° versus 55.4° ± 14.4°, p = 0.003). Furthermore, when compared to radiographs, 3D hip reconstruction models demonstrated significantly higher intra-observer agreement (ICC = 0.856 versus 0.405, p = 0.005) when determining the presence of a "crossover sign". CONCLUSIONS: Our findings were suggestive that for most commonly used FAI morphology parameters, CT-generated hip models demonstrated little benefit over plain radiographs in improving inter-observer agreement among providers. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Imageless computer navigation in total knee arthroplasty provides superior short term functional outcomes: a meta-analysis.

Computer navigation in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is intended to produce more reliable results, but its impact on functional outcomes has not been firmly demonstrated. Literature searches were performed for Level I randomized trials that compared TKA using imageless computer navigation to those performed with conventional instruments. Radiographic and functional outcomes were extracted and statistically analyzed. TKA performed with computer navigation was more likely to be within 3° of ideal mechanical alignment (87.1% vs. 73.7%, P < .01). Navigated TKAs had a higher increase in Knee Society Score at 3-month follow-up (68.5 vs. 58.1, P = .03) and at 12-32 month follow-up (53.1 vs. 45.8, P < .01). Computer navigation in TKA provides more accurate alignment and superior functional outcomes at short-term follow-up.

Hybrid fixation of tibial eminence fractures in skeletally immature patients.

Tibial eminence fractures most commonly occur in children and adolescents. When treating displaced fractures of the tibial eminence, some surgeons prefer screw fixation whereas others prefer suture fixation. The ultimate goal is to limit morbidity through early return to range of motion and activity. In this technical note, we describe 2 hybrid fixation techniques for fixing tibial eminence fractures, one for type III and the other for type IV fractures. The first technique (variation A) is used to treat type III fractures and combines use of both a bioabsorbable compression screw and suture for fixation. The second technique (variation B) is used to treat type IV fractures and combines use of both a bioabsorbable compression screw and shoulder anchor fixation. We have found that these methods provide efficient, secure, and reliable fixation using standard techniques common to arthroscopic surgery. In addition, the growth plates are spared in children and adolescents, and the need for reoperation to remove hardware is eliminated.

A physician's guide to the physical examination of the shoulder.

Shoulder pain is the third most frequent musculoskeletal complaint presented to physicians. Often considered a benign entity by patients and even their physicians, shoulder disorders can have a devastating effect on a patient's ability to function, as well as serve as an indicator of poor general health. For these reasons, it is important for the physician to be able to identify the etiology of a patient's shoulder problem(s). However, making a correct diagnosis is often difficult because there can be many causes for a patient's shoulder pain, weakness, or loss of function. Moreover, the shoulder girdle is an intricate group of structures that work together to allow for the largest range of motion in the body. This complexity makes it difficult to diagnose a patient's condition(s) based on history alone. A thorough and well-performed physical examination is the key to making a correct diagnosis and helping to distinguish different etiologies of shoulder dysfunction. In this article, we review relevant shoulder anatomy and biomechanics, and general shoulder examinations with special tests for various shoulder pathologies. We provide an effective and methodical approach to the physical examination of the shoulder.

Suprascapular neuropathy: what does the literature show?

Suprascapular neuropathy remains a rare, albeit increasingly recognized, diagnosis. Despite its relatively low prevalence, it must be kept in the shoulder surgeon's mind as a potential cause of shoulder pain, particularly in patients where the history, physical examination, and imaging studies do not adequately explain a patient's symptoms or disability. Although challenging to identify, suprascapular neuropathy can be successfully treated. The current literature shows that the location and mechanism of nerve injury are the most important factors guiding management. Different treatment strategies are required, depending on the specific location and type of nerve injury. Controversy regarding if and when to perform an isolated suprascapular nerve release continues. Furthermore, no recommendations regarding suprascapular nerve release in conjunction with rotator cuff repair can be made at this time, and further research is necessary to better delineate the indications in the future.

Modern total hip arthroplasty in patients younger than 21 years.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is not commonly performed in adolescents. However, it may be the only option for pain control with continued mobility for advanced disease. We report our experience with modern alternative-bearing THA in patients younger than 21 years. Twenty-one THAs (18 patients) were followed. Preoperative and postoperative Harris hip scores were recorded, and radiographs were reviewed. Average follow-up was 49 months (range, 25-89). Underlying etiology was chemotherapy-induced osteonecrosis (33%), steroid-induced osteonecrosis (29%), sickle cell disease (24%), and chronic dislocation (14%). Articulation bearings were ceramic/ceramic (67%), metal/highly cross-linked polyethylene (29%), and metal resurfacing (5%). Mean age was 18 years (range, 13-20). Harris hip scores improved from 43.6 to 83.6 (P < .001). At final follow-up, there was no radiographic loosening; 1 THA was revised for a cracked ceramic liner. At intermediate-term follow-up, clinical and radiographic results are favorable after alternative-bearing THA in patients younger than 21 years.

Noninvasive quantitative assessment of bone healing after distraction osteogenesis.

One of the greatest challenges of limb lengthening and deformity correction is deciding when the bone has healed enough to remove the external fixator. Standard radiography is the most common imaging method used to assess bone healing after distraction osteogenesis because it is widely available, cheap, and relatively safe. However, other imaging technologies and methods are being investigated that will help quantify bone healing after distraction osteogenesis, providing an objective method for deciding when it is appropriate to remove an external fixator. This review will examine the latest techniques used to assess bone healing after distraction osteogenesis including dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans, ultrasound, quantitative computed tomography, and digital radiography (X-ray). Recommendations for clinical practice will be outlined.

Open fractures of the tibia in the pediatric population: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: The management of open fractures of the tibia in a pediatric population represents a challenge to the clinician. Several case series over the course of many years have been performed describing the results of treating these injuries. It remains unclear, however, whether there is a preferred modality of treatment for these injuries, if a more severe injury confers a greater risk of infection, and if time to union is affected by Gustilo type, although trends seem to exist. The purpose of this study was to assemble the available data to determine (1) the risk of infection and time to union of various subtypes of open tibia fractures in children and (2) the changes in treatment pattern over the past three decades. METHODS: A systematic review of the available literature was performed. Frequency weighted mean union times were used to compare union times for different types of open fractures. Mantel Haentzel cumulative odds ratios were used to compare infection risk between different types of open fractures. Linear regression by year was used to determine treatment practices over time. RESULTS: No significant change in practice patterns was found for type I and III fractures, although type II fractures were more likely to be treated closed in the later years of the study compared to the earlier years. Type III fractures conferred a 3.5- and 2.3-fold greater odds of infection than type I and type II fractures, respectively. There was no significant difference in odds of infection between type I and II fractures. There was a significant delay in mean time to union between type I and type II fractures, and between type II and type III fractures. CONCLUSIONS: With the exception of type II fractures, the philosophy of treatment of open fractures of the tibia has not significantly changed over the past three decades. Closed treatment or internal fixation are both viable options for type II fractures based on their relatively low incidence of infection. This study also demonstrates a strong relationship between Gustillo sub-types and odds of infection in this population. Not surprisingly, union rates are also delayed with increasing injury severity.