BENEFITS OF A CLINICAL PATHWAY IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY.

Objective: Demonstrate whether a multiprofessional Clinical Pathway Program in Total Knee Arthroplasty (CPPA) contributesto optimizing hospital care. Method: Retrospective study of medical data of care indicators in 310 patients divided into two groups: A- who underwent arthroplasty in the last biennium before the introduction of the CPPA (n=144) and group B- who underwent TKA in the biennium after the introduction of the CPPA (n=166). Results: Postoperative showed a significant difference in favor of group B over group A for hospitalization time in days 4.33 ± 2.79 and 5.4 ± 1.67 (p<0.001), time of prophylactic antibiotic in hours 28.13 ± 33.77 and 81.49 ± 40.91 (p<0.001), referral to the intensive care unit 40.9% and 73.4% (p<0.001), initiation of thromboprophylaxis within 24 hours 97.9% and 82.5% (p<0.001), use of elastic stockings and/or intermittent compression prescribed for thromboprophylaxis 89.5% and 31.2% (p<0.001), initiation of rehabilitation within 24 hours 90.1% and 66.1% (p<0.001), readmissions within 30 days 4.1% and 3% (p = 0.76), readmissions 90 days 2.7% and 6.6% (p = 0.183), transfusions 5.5% and 15.2% (p = 0.033). Conclusion: The implementation of a multiprofessional CPPA contributed to the implementation of care protocols, favoring greater patient safety. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

Objetivo: Demonstrar se um Programa de Cuidados Clínicos multiprofissional em Artroplastia Total de Joelho (PCCA) contribui para a otimização assistencial hospitalar. Método: Estudo retrospectivo em prontuários de indicadores assistenciais em 310 pacientes divididos em dois grupos: A- submetidos a artroplastia no último biênio antecessor a introdução do PCCA (n=144) e grupo B- submetidos a ATJ no biênio após a introdução do PCCA (n=166). Resultados: Indicadores pós-operatórios mostraram diferença significativa a favor do grupo B sobre o grupo A para tempo de hospitalização em dias 4,33 ± 2,79 e 5,4 ± 1,67 (p<0,001), tempo de antibiótico profilático em horas 28,13 ± 33,77 e 81,49 ± 40,91 (p<0,001), encaminhamento para unidade de terapia intensiva 40,9% e 73,4% (p<0,001), início da tromboprofilaxia dentro de 24h 97,9% e 82,5% (p<0,001), uso de meias elásticas e/ou compressão intermitente prescritos para tromboprofilaxia 89,5% e 31,2% (p<0,001), tempo para iniciação da reabilitação em 24h 90,1% e 66,1% (p<0,001), readmissões em 30 dias 4,1% e 3% (p = 0,76), readmissões 90 dias 2,7% e 6,6% (p = 0,183), transfusões 5,5% e 15,2% (p = 0,033). Conclusão: A implementação de um PCCA multiprofissional contribuiu para o cumprimento dos protocolos assistenciais favorecendo maior segurança para os pacientes. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Retrospectivo Comparativo.

Benefits of a clinical pathway in total knee arthroplasty / Beneficios de um programa de cuidados clínicos em artroplastia total de joelho

ABSTRACT Objective: Demonstrate whether a multiprofessional Clinical Pathway Program in Total Knee Arthroplasty (CPPA) contributesto optimizing hospital care. Method: Retrospective study of medical data of care indicators in 310 patients divided into two groups: A- who underwent arthroplasty in the last biennium before the introduction of the CPPA (n=144) and group B- who underwent TKA in the biennium after the introduction of the CPPA (n=166). Results: Postoperative showed a significant difference in favor of group B over group A for hospitalization time in days 4.33 ± 2.79 and 5.4 ± 1.67 (p<0.001), time of prophylactic antibiotic in hours 28.13 ± 33.77 and 81.49 ± 40.91 (p<0.001), referral to the intensive care unit 40.9% and 73.4% (p<0.001), initiation of thromboprophylaxis within 24 hours 97.9% and 82.5% (p<0.001), use of elastic stockings and/or intermittent compression prescribed for thromboprophylaxis 89.5% and 31.2% (p<0.001), initiation of rehabilitation within 24 hours 90.1% and 66.1% (p<0.001), readmissions within 30 days 4.1% and 3% (p = 0.76), readmissions 90 days 2.7% and 6.6% (p = 0.183), transfusions 5.5% and 15.2% (p = 0.033). Conclusion: The implementation of a multiprofessional CPPA contributed to the implementation of care protocols, favoring greater patient safety. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Demonstrar se um Programa de Cuidados Clínicos multiprofissional em Artroplastia Total de Joelho (PCCA) contribui para a otimização assistencial hospitalar. Método: Estudo retrospectivo em prontuários de indicadores assistenciais em 310 pacientes divididos em dois grupos: A- submetidos a artroplastia no último biênio antecessor a introdução do PCCA (n=144) e grupo B- submetidos a ATJ no biênio após a introdução do PCCA (n=166). Resultados: Indicadores pós-operatórios mostraram diferença significativa a favor do grupo B sobre o grupo A para tempo de hospitalização em dias 4,33 ± 2,79 e 5,4 ± 1,67 (p<0,001), tempo de antibiótico profilático em horas 28,13 ± 33,77 e 81,49 ± 40,91 (p<0,001), encaminhamento para unidade de terapia intensiva 40,9% e 73,4% (p<0,001), início da tromboprofilaxia dentro de 24h 97,9% e 82,5% (p<0,001), uso de meias elásticas e/ou compressão intermitente prescritos para tromboprofilaxia 89,5% e 31,2% (p<0,001), tempo para iniciação da reabilitação em 24h 90,1% e 66,1% (p<0,001), readmissões em 30 dias 4,1% e 3% (p = 0,76), readmissões 90 dias 2,7% e 6,6% (p = 0,183), transfusões 5,5% e 15,2% (p = 0,033). Conclusão: A implementação de um PCCA multiprofissional contribuiu para o cumprimento dos protocolos assistenciais favorecendo maior segurança para os pacientes. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Retrospectivo Comparativo.

Patellar Tilt and Patellar Tendon-Trochlear Groove Angle Present the Optimum Magnetic Resonance Imaging Diagnostic Reliability for Patients With Patellar Instability.

PURPOSE: To describe, in controls and in a population with patellar instability, magnetic resonance imaging values of measurements representing major associated factors for patellar instability (patellar height, trochlear dysplasia, and extensor mechanism alignment), as well as their cutoff values. METHODS: In total, 323 knee magnetic resonance imaging scans, 142 with patellar instability and 181 controls without patellofemoral complaints (anterior cruciate, medial collateral ligament, meniscus ruptures or normal) were evaluated. Means, normality values in the control population, ideal cutoff values through receiver operating characteristic curves analysis, and interobserver reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient) were described for a series of measurements. RESULTS: All measurements were statistically different in control and instability patients, except for the patellotrochlear index and tibial tuberosity to posterior cruciate ligament distance. The interobserver intraclass correlation coefficient was good or excellent (above 0.75) only for the patellotrochlear index, patellar tendon-trochlear groove (PTTG) angle, and patellar tilt. The optimal cutoff value for each measurement was: PTTG angle ≥25.3o with sensitivity (S) of 70% and specificity (E) of 89%, patellar tilt ≥16o (S: 69% and E: 84%), trochlear sulcus angle ≥153o (S: 75% and E: 76%), Carrillon ≤12.8o (S: 62% and E: 87%), PTTG distance ≥11mm (S: 71% and E: 78%), Caton-Deschamps index ≥1.23 (S: 72% and E: 76%) and trochlear bump ≥3.95 mm (S: 76% and E: 65%). CONCLUSIONS: Caton-Deschamps index (≥1.23), trochlear sulcus angle (≥153o), ventral prominence of the trochlea (≥3.95 mm), PTTG distance (≥11 mm), PTTG angle (≥25.3o), Carrillon angle (≤12.8o), and patellar tilt (≥16o) presented better diagnostic performance for patellar instability. Patellotrochlear index and tibial tuberosity to posterior cruciate ligament distance were not related to patellar instability. The interobserver reliability of the factors related to patellar instability was excellent only for the PTTG angle and lateral patellar tilt. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective case-control study.

The Addition of Either an Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction or an Iliotibial Band Tenodesis Is Associated With a Lower Failure Rate After Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Retrospective Comparative Trial.

PURPOSE: To compare the failure rate in patients who underwent revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction alone or associated with an extra-articular procedure. Secondary objectives were to compare ACL laxity, patient-reported outcome measures, and complication rates in these patients and, subsequently, to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent revision ACL reconstruction associated with anatomical anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction or lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET). METHODS: This was a retrospective comparative study. Patients were classified into 2 groups, according to whether (group 2) or not (group 1) an extra-articular reconstruction was performed. Patients who underwent an extra-articular procedure were further divided into ALL reconstruction (group 2A) and LET (group 2B). Baseline demographic variables, operative data and postoperative data were evaluated. RESULTS: The groups with (86 patients) and without (88 patients) an associated extra-articular reconstruction had similar preoperative data. Group 2 had a lower failure rate (4.6% vs 14.7%; P = .038), better KT-1000, better pivot-shift, and better Lysholm. There was no difference regarding complications, except more lateral pain in group 2. Regarding the groups who underwent ALL reconstruction (41 patients) and LET (46 patients), group 2A showed better Lysholm scores. Both groups had similar failure rates and complications. CONCLUSIONS: Patients who underwent revision ACL reconstruction with a laterally based augmentation procedure had a lower failure rate than patients who underwent isolated revision ACL reconstruction. KT-1000 and pivot-shift examination were also significantly better when a lateral augmentation was performed. Complications were similar except for an increase in lateral pain in the augmented group. No clinically important differences were found when comparing the LET group to the ALL group other than a statistical improvement in the Lysholm functional scale, likely not clinically meaningful, favoring the ALL group and an increased duration of post-operative lateral pain in the LET group. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, retrospective comparative therapeutic trial.

Functional Complications of Patellar Instability Treatment with Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction with the Medial Third of the Patellar Tendon with a Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up.

Objective To evaluate major complications after a minimum of 5 years of follow-up after acute or recurrent patellar dislocation treated with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with the medial third of the patellar tendon, with or without associated medialization of the tibial anterior tuberosity (TAT). Methods A total of 50 patients were included, with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. The patients were evaluated regarding complications such as joint stiffness, recurrence of patellar dislocation, subjective instability reported by patients, and inability to return to the previous level of physical activity. Results The mean follow-up was of 8.9 ± 2.6 years, with a minimum of 6 and maximum of 15 years; 64% of the patients were women, with a mean age of 27 ± 11.2 years old; 24% were submitted to TAT osteotomy for simultaneous medialization; and 46% were acute cases. Only 9 poor results (18%) were found, all resulting from recurrence of dislocation (12%) and complaint of subjective instability (6%) at between 36 and 60 months of follow-up. No other complications occurred. Among the poor results, five occurred in cases of acute dislocation, and four in recurrent cases, and only one had undergone TAT osteotomy. Conclusion Reconstruction of the MPFL with the medial third of the patellar tendon, associated or not with TAT medialization osteotomy, is an alternative in the treatment of acute or chronic patellar instability, with a failure rate of only 18% in at least 5 years of follow-up. In addition, it is safe treatment, that does not present other complications.

Functional results of multiple revision anterior cruciate ligament with anterolateral tibial tunnel associated with anterolateral ligament reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are usually complex owing to previous tunnels. The objective of this study is to report the results of a revision ACL reconstruction technique with a tibial tunnel performed from the anterolateral plateau associated with an anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction. METHODS: Patients with at least two ACL reconstructions that failed and who had significant enlargement and confluence of tunnels in the medial tibial plateau and underwent revision ACL reconstruction associated with ALL reconstruction with the tibial tunnel for the ACL performed from the lateral plateau between 2017 and 2019 were evaluated. All patients were evaluated by physical examination, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), and Lysholm functional scales. RESULTS: Six patients who underwent this surgical procedure were evaluated. All patients were sports practitioners and presented a grade 3 pivot shift. The mean age was 28.5 ± 8.2 years, and the mean follow-up time was 34.1 ± 12.8 months. No patient had a new graft rupture, but three (50%) had grade 1 pivot shift. Four patients had minor complications with no clinical impact on the final result. All except one patient were able to return to pre-injury type of sports, at a mean time of 14.6 ± 2.3 months after surgery. CONCLUSION: The anterolateral tibial tunnel technique using an Achilles tendon allograft for revision ACL reconstruction after multiple failures associated with an ALL reconstruction showed good results and no major complications. The anterolateral tunnel can be considered a good alternative in cases of medial tibial confluence or significant enlargement of the medial tunnels in re-revision procedures.

Functional Complications of Patellar Instability Treatment with Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction with the Medial Third of the Patellar Tendon with a Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up / Complicações funcionais do tratamento da instabilidade patelar com reconstrução do ligamento femoropatelar medial com terço medial do tendão patelar com acompanhamento mínimo de 5 anos

Abstract Objective To evaluate major complications after a minimum of 5 years of follow-up after acute or recurrent patellar dislocation treated with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with the medial third of the patellar tendon, with or without associated medialization of the tibial anterior tuberosity (TAT). Methods A total of 50 patients were included, with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. The patients were evaluated regarding complications such as joint stiffness, recurrence of patellar dislocation, subjective instability reported by patients, and inability to return to the previous level of physical activity. Results The mean follow-up was of 8.9 2.6 years, with a minimum of 6 and maximum of 15 years; 64% of the patients were women, with a mean age of 27 11.2 years old; 24% were submitted to TAT osteotomy for simultaneous medialization; and 46% were acute cases. Only 9 poor results (18%) were found, all resulting from recurrence of dislocation (12%) and complaint of subjective instability (6%) at between 36 and 60 months of follow-up. No other complications occurred. Among the poor results, five occurred in cases of acute dislocation, and four in recurrent cases, and only one had undergone TAT osteotomy. Conclusion Reconstruction of the MPFL with the medial third of the patellar tendon, associated or not with TAT medialization osteotomy, is an alternative in the treatment of acute or chronic patellar instability, with a failure rate of only 18% in at least 5 years of follow-up. In addition, it is safe treatment, that does not present other complications.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar complicações maiores após um mínimo de 5 anos de acompanhamento após luxação aguda ou recidivante da patela tratada com reconstrução do ligamento femoropatelar medial (LFPM) com terço medial do tendão patelar, com ou sem medialização da tuberosidade anterior da tíbia (TAT) associada. Métodos Um total de 50 pacientes foram incluídos, com acompanhamento mínimo de 5 anos. Os pacientes foram avaliados em relação à ocorrência de complicações como rigidez articular, recidiva de luxação patelar ou instabilidade subjetiva relatada pelos pacientes, e incapacidade de retorno ao nível prévio de atividades físicas. Resultados O acompanhamento médio foi de 8,9 2,6 anos, com mínimo de 6 e máximo de 15 anos; 64% dos pacientes eram mulheres, com média de idade de 27 11,2 anos; 24% dos pacientes foram submetidos a osteotomia da TAT para medialização concomitantemente; e 46% eram casos agudos. Foram constatados apenas 9 maus resultados (18%), todos decorrentes de recidiva da luxação (12%) e de queixa de instabilidade subjetiva (6%), ocorridos entre 36 e 60 meses de acompanhamento. Não ocorreram outras complicações. Dentre os maus resultados, cinco ocorreram em casos de luxação aguda, e quatro em casos recidivantes, e apenas um havia sido submetido a osteotomia da TAT. Conclusão AreconstruçãodoLFPMcomterçomedialdotendãopatelar,associadaounãoà osteotomia de medialização da TAT, é uma alternativa no tratamento da instabilidade patelar aguda ou crônica, com falha de apenas 18% em acompanhamento mínimo de 5 anos. Além disso, é um tratamento seguro, sem apresentar outras complicações.

Anatomical Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Are Not Important As Patellar Instability Risk Factors in Patients with Acute Knee Injury.

To compare in magnetic resonance imaging the anatomical risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and patellar dislocation among patients who suffered acute knee injury, 105 patients with acute knee injury resulting in 38 patellar dislocations (patella group), 35 ACL injuries (ACL group), and 32 meniscus or medial collateral ligament injuries (control group) were included. These groups were compared for risk factors for patellar dislocation (patellar height, trochlear dysplasia, and quadriceps angle of action) and for ACL injury (intercondylar width, posterior inclination of tibial plateaus, and depth of the medial plateau). Univariate analysis found statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the patella and ACL groups in patellar height (Caton-Deschamps [CD] 1.23 vs. 1.07), trochlear facet asymmetry (55 vs. 68%), PTTG (13.08 vs. 8.01 mm), and the patellar tip and trochlear groove (PTTG) angle (29.5 vs. 13.71 degrees). The patella group also differed from control in medial plateau inclination (4.8 vs. 1.87 degrees), patellar height (CD 1.23 vs 1.08), trochlear facet asymmetry (55 vs. 69%), lateral trochlear inclination (17.11 vs. 20.65 degrees), trochlear depth (4.1 vs. 6.05 mm), PTTG (13.08 vs. 9.85 mm), and the PTTG angle (29.5 vs. 17.88 degrees). The ACL and control groups were similar in all measures. Multivariate analysis found the following significant determinants between the Patella and Control groups: patellar height (CD index, odds ratio [OR]: 80.13, p = 0.015), trochlear anatomy (asymmetry of facets M/L, OR: 1.06, p = 0.031) and quadriceps action angle (PTTG angle, OR: 1.09, p = 0.016); between the ACL and control groups: PTTG angle (OR: 0.936, p = 0.04) and female gender (OR: 3.876, p = 0.032); and between the patella and ACL groups, the CD index (OR: 67.62, p = 0.026), asymmetry of the M/L facets (OR: 1.07, p = 0.011) and PTTG angle (OR: 1.16, p < 0.001). In conclusion, in patients with acute knee injury, the anatomical factors patellar height, trochlear dysplasia, and quadriceps angle of action were related to the occurrence of patellar dislocation. None of the anatomical factors studied was related to the occurrence of anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The knee in congenital femoral deficiency and its implication in limb lengthening: a systematic review.

Congenital femoral deficiency (CFD) is a rare disorder with several limb anomalies including limb shortening and knee cruciate ligament dysplasia.Limb lengthening is usually performed to correct lower limb discrepancy. However, complications, such as knee subluxation/dislocation, can occur during this treatment.Here, we explore CFD knee abnormalities and knee dislocation during limb elongation, discussing when and whether knee ligament reconstruction prior to the lengthening would be necessary to reduce the risk of knee dislocation.There is not enough support in the literature for the routine reconstruction of cruciate ligaments in CFD patients.Of note, in cases of severe anteroposterior or posterolateral rotatory instability, cruciate ligament reconstruction might be considered to decrease the risk of knee subluxation/dislocation during the lengthening treatment. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:565-571. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200075.

RESULTS OF TREATMENT OF PLICA SYNDROME OF THE KNEE.

OBJECTIVE: The synovial fold is an intra-articular structure found in more than 50% of the knees, which can cause symptoms similar to meniscal injuries. These symptoms are mostly related to hypertrophy of the synovial fold resulting from inadequate physical activity. Conservative treatment with readjustment of sports activity and muscle rebalancing solves most cases. Rare cases require surgical treatment, which is indicated due to the persistence of instability, blockage and pain. We present our experience in the treatment of this pathology. METHODS: 58 patients (70 knees), with 62 knees treated conservatively and 8 treated surgically exclusively for the pathological synovial fold. Results: Description of the series and treatment results are reported. CONCLUSION: The non-surgical treatment of the pathological synovial fold of the knee provided good results within 60 days of rehabilitation program in almost 90% of the patients. Arthroscopic resection of the synovial fold is a surgery that has a longer and laborious rehabilitation period, despite good results in most cases. Level of Evidence IV, Case series.

OBJETIVO: A prega sinovial é uma estrutura intra-articular encontrada em mais de 50% dos joelhos, que pode provocar sintomas semelhantes aos da lesão meniscal. Esses sintomas estão relacionados, na maioria dos casos, à hipertrofia da prega sinovial decorrente de atividade física inadequada. O tratamento conservador com a readequação da atividade esportiva e reequilíbrio muscular resolve a maioria dos casos. Raros casos demandam tratamento cirúrgico, que é indicado pela persistência de falseios, bloqueios e dor. Apresentamos nossa experiência no tratamento dessa patologia. MÉTODOS: 58 pacientes (70 joelhos), com 62 joelhos tratados conservadoramente e 8 tratados cirurgicamente exclusivamente para a prega sinovial patológica. RESULTADOS: São apresentados descrição da série e resultados do tratamento. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento não cirúrgico da prega sinovial patológica do joelho propiciou bons resultados com 60 dias de programa de reabilitação em quase 90% dos pacientes. A ressecção artroscópica da prega sinovial é uma cirurgia que tem um período de reabilitação mais longo e trabalhoso, apesar do bom resultado na maioria dos casos. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de casos.

Medial Knee Arthrosis: A Pathology with a Progressive Evolution.

Medial arthrosis of the knee is an evolutionary pathology that occurs due to progressive muscle imbalance. The muscles of the knee region have a large imbalance caused by the difference of power and lever arm. With the progression of life, this imbalance manifests itself more importantly, especially due to the loss of muscle strength due to aging. Pathological postures begin to occur and determine areas of support and pressure harmful to the joint. Meniscal injury is typical in the evolution of this pathology, as well as cartilage injury. The recognition of this pathology enables good results with less aggressive treatments, such as correction of muscle imbalance and consequent reeducation of joint support. Economic and partial meniscectomy brings good results in the early stages of the degenerative process. Progressive evolution leads to knee degeneration and the consequent need for broader surgeries.

The role of viscosupplementation in patellar chondropathy.

Patellar chondropathy has a high incidence in the general population, being more common in patients younger than 50 years, female and recreational athletes, and overweight and obese patients. The most common complaints are pain, limited mobility, crepitus, difficulty climbing and descending stairs, and joint instability, usually showing unsatisfactory results with anti-inflammatory, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and many other conservative treatment methods. The presumed hyaluronic acid (HA) disease-modifying activity may include effects on cartilage degradation, endogenous HA synthesis, synoviocyte and chondrocyte function, and other cellular inflammatory processes. Currently, HA is widely used as a safe and effective conservative treatment for osteoarthritis in the knee and other joints. HA improves the physiological environment in an osteoarthritic joint and the shock absorption and lubrication properties of the osteoarthritic synovial fluid, thus restoring the protective viscoelasticity of the synovial HA, reducing the pain, and improving the mobility. The complete mechanism of HA in the joint is not fully understood, but a wide range of actions in the joint is recognized. Its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and chondroprotective action is related to the modulation of the intra- and extracellular inflammation cascade. HA has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of pain related to patellar chondropathy.

Medial Knee Arthrosis: A Pathology with a Progressive Evolution / Artrose medial do joelho: Uma patologia de evolução progressiva

Abstract Medial arthrosis of the knee is an evolutionary pathology that occurs due to progressive muscle imbalance. The muscles of the knee region have a large imbalance caused by the difference of power and lever arm. With the progression of life, this imbalance manifests itself more importantly, especially due to the loss of muscle strength due to aging. Pathological postures begin to occur and determine areas of support and pressure harmful to the joint. Meniscal injury is typical in the evolution of this pathology, as well as cartilage injury. The recognition of this pathology enables good results with less aggressive treatments, such as correction of muscle imbalance and consequent reeducation of joint support. Economic and partial meniscectomy brings good results in the early stages of the degenerative process. Progressive evolution leads to knee degeneration and the consequent need for broader surgeries.

Resumo A artrose medial do joelho é uma patologia evolutiva que ocorre em decorrência de desequilíbrio muscular progressivo. Os músculos da região do joelho têm um grande desequilíbrio, provocado pela diferença de potência e braço de alavanca. Com a progressão da vida, este desequilíbrio se manifesta de forma mais importante, especialmente em decorrência da perda de força muscular em função do envelhecimento. Posturas patológicas passam a ocorrer e determinar zonas de apoio e pressão lesivas para a articulação. A lesão meniscal é típica na evolução desta patologia, assim como a lesão da cartilagem. O reconhecimento desta patologia possibilita resultados bons com tratamentos menos agressivos, como a correção do desequilíbrio muscular e consequente reeducação do apoio da articulação. A meniscectomia econômica e parcial traz bons resultados nas fases iniciais do processo degenerativo. A evolução progressiva leva à degeneração do joelho e à consequente necessidade de cirurgias mais amplas.

Surgical Timing Does Not Interfere on Clinical Outcomes in Combined Reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Anterolateral Ligament: A Comparative Study With Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up.

PURPOSE: To compare the functional outcomes, knee stability, failure rate and complication rates of combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction with hamstrings grafts between acute and chronic cases. METHODS: Consecutive patients who underwent combined ACL and ALL reconstruction with hamstrings grafts were evaluated. Patients operated on less than 8 weeks after injury were allocated to group 1, and the others were allocated to group 2. Demographic data, knee stability, and functional outcomes of the 2 groups were evaluated. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients in the acute group and 96 in the chronic group were evaluated. The follow-up time was similar between the groups (28.7 ± 5.2 [24-43] months vs 29.4 ± 7.2 [24-58] months; P = 0.696). No differences were found between the groups in age, sex, trauma mechanism, presence of knee hyperextension, graft diameter, and meniscal injuries. There was no difference between the groups in the postoperative KT-1000 and in the pre- or postoperative pivot shift. The preoperative KT-1000 was higher in group 2 (7.9 ± 1.1 vs 7.4 ± 1.2; P = 0.031). There were no differences in the International Knee Documentation Committee or Lysholm. Three (2.3%) patients developed failure, 1 (2.9%) in group 1 and 2 (2.1%) in group 2. The total complication rate was 10% and did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Combined ACL and ALL reconstruction has similar outcomes in patients undergoing surgery in the acute and chronic phases. Patients with chronic injury have similar knee stability, functional scores, and failure rates as acute-injury patients, and patients with acute injury have no more complications than chronic patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative therapeutic trial.

Clinical Outcomes of Posterolateral Complex Reconstruction Performed with a Single Femoral Tunnel.

The objective of this study is to report the functional outcomes, complications, and reconstruction failure rate of patients undergoing posterolateral complex reconstruction with a single femoral tunnel technique. Patients with posterolateral complex injuries associated with injury of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), or both undergoing surgical treatment with the single femoral tunnel technique were included in the study. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm's scales were evaluated, in addition to age, gender, time between trauma and surgery, trauma type, range of motion (ROM) restrictions, peroneal nerve injury, and reconstruction failure. Sixty-six patients were included. Eighteen underwent ACL and posterolateral complex (PLC) reconstruction (group 1), 24 underwent ACL, PCL, and PLC reconstruction (group 2), and 24 underwent PCL and PLC reconstruction (group 3). The mean follow-up was 63 months. The subjective IKDC was 83.7 ± 14.6 for group 1, 74.3 ± 12.6 for group 2, and 66.3 ± 16.0 for group 3 (p < 0.001). The Lysholm's score was 87.1 ± 12.8 for group 1, 79.5 ± 15.0 for group 2, and 77.7 ± 15.2 for group 3 (p = 0.042). There were six reconstruction failures among the patients (9.1%) with no differences among the groups (p = 0.368). Female gender and reconstruction failure were associated with worse outcomes. Patients undergoing reconstruction of PLC structures with the single femoral tunnel technique achieved good functional outcomes and a failure rate similar to literature. Patients undergoing only combined ACL reconstruction showed better outcomes than patients undergoing combined PCL reconstruction. Female gender was associated with a worse functional outcome irrespective of the injury type.

UNICOMPARTIMENTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY - 15 YEARS FOLLOW UP.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinically and radiologically the long-term follow-up of patients with anteromedial osteoarthritis who underwent unicompartmental knee arthroplasty surgery. METHODS: This study included 36 patients who underwent unicompartmental knee arthroplasty surgery for medial compartmental osteoarthritis with a minimum of 15-year post-operative follow-up. All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon (G.L.C) using the Miller-Galante unicompartmental knee implant. Patients were analyzed regarding their clinical functional and implant radiographic conditions. RESULTS: From the 46 patients who could have completed 15 years of follow-up, three required revision surgery with conversion to total knee arthroplasty (6.5%), 36 completed the 15-year follow-up period, and the others were lost to follow-up for reasons not related to unicompartmental arthroplasty. CONCLUSION: In these 36 patients, the result was satisfactory after follow-up, with complaints and sign of progression of osteoarthritis in some cases. Level of Evidence IV, Case series.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar clínica e radiologicamente o acompanhamento a longo prazo de pacientes com osteoartrite anteromedial do joelho que passaram por cirurgia de artroplastia total do joelho. MÉTODOS: Este estudo incluiu 36 pacientes que se submeteram à artroplastia unicompartimental do joelho por lesão do compartimento medial provocada por artrose com, no mínimo, 15 anos de acompanhamento pós-operatório. Todas as cirurgias foram realizadas pelo mesmo cirurgião (G.L.C.) utilizando uma prótese unicompartimental tipo Miller-Galante. Os pacientes foram analisados quanto as suas condições clínicas e condições radiográficas do implante. RESULTADOS: Dos 46 pacientes que poderiam ter concluído 15 anos de acompanhamento, 3 necessitaram de revisão com artroplastia total (6,5%); 36 concluíram os 15 anos de acompanhamento, e o restante abandonou o acompanhamento por razões independentes da artroplastia unicompartimental. CONCLUSÃO: Nestes 36 pacientes, o resultado foi satisfatório após o acompanhamento, com queixas e sinais de progressão da artrose em alguns casos. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de casos.

The Vastus Medialis Insertion Is More Proximal and Medial in Patients With Patellar Instability: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: The anatomy and function of the quadriceps muscle play a role in patellofemoral stability. Few studies have evaluated anatomic differences in the vastus medialis between patients with and without patellar instability. PURPOSE: To compare the anatomy of the vastus medialis using magnetic resonance imaging in patients with patellar instability to a control group. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A group of patients with patellar instability were sex-matched with a control group with anterior cruciate ligament tears, meniscal injuries, or sprains; patients younger than 15 years were excluded. The anatomy of the vastus medialis was examined by the distance between the distal origin of the vastus medialis in the femur and the medial femoral condyle, the distance from the proximal pole of the patella to the most distal insertion of the muscle and its ratio to the length of the articular surface of the patella, and a qualitative description of the insertion position of the muscle fibers (directly in the patella or the medial retinaculum). RESULTS: Both groups comprised 78 knees (48 female; 61.5%). The mean age in the control and patellar instability groups was 30.2 ± 7.8 years and 25.6 ± 7.5 years, respectively (P = .001). The distance from the vastus origin to the condyle was 27.52 ± 3.49 mm and 26.59 ± 3.43 mm, respectively (P = .041); the distance from the proximal pole of the patella to the most distal muscle insertion was 17.59 ± 5.54 mm and 15.02 ± 4.18 mm, respectively (P < .001); and the ratio of this distance to the joint surface was 0.586 ± 0.180 and 0.481 ± 0.130, respectively (P < .001). In 75.6% of knees in the patellar instability group, the insertion of the vastus was into the medial retinaculum and not into the patella compared with 52.6% in the control group (P = .003; odds ratio, 2.8). CONCLUSION: The distal insertion of the vastus medialis differed in knees with patellar instability, with a more proximal insertion and less patellar coverage relative to controls, and was more frequently found in the retinaculum instead of directly in the patella.

Comparison of Floseal® and Tranexamic Acid for Bleeding Control after Total Knee Arthroplasty: a Prospective Randomized Study.

OBJECTIVE: Tranexamic acid (TXA) and the hemostatic agent Floseal® have already been used to minimize bleeding during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). METHODS: We conducted a prospective, randomized study of 90 patients with indications for TKA. Following inclusion, the participants were randomly allocated in blocks to the following 3 groups: control, Floseal® and TXA. Bleeding parameters, including decreases in hemoglobin (Hb), drain output, number of blood transfusions and complications, were assessed. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02152917. RESULTS: The mean decrease in Hb was highest in the control group (4.81±1.09 g/dL), followed by the Floseal® (3.5±1.03 g/dL) and TXA (3.03±1.2 g/dL) groups. The Floseal® and TXA groups did not differ, and both performed better than the control group. The mean total drain output was 901.3±695.7 mL in the control group, 546.5±543.5 mL in the TXA group and 331.2±278.7 mL in the Floseal® group. Both TXA and Floseal® had significantly less output than the control group, and Floseal® had significantly less output than TXA. The number of blood transfusions was very small in all 3 groups. CONCLUSION: The use of TXA or Floseal® was associated with less blood loss than that of the control group among patients undergoing primary TKA, as measured both directly (intraoperative bleeding + drainage) and on the basis of a decrease in Hb, without differences in the rate of complications. TXA and Floseal® showed similar decreases in Hb and total measured blood loss, but the drain output was smaller in the Floseal® group.

Combined Reconstruction of the Anterolateral Ligament in Patients With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Ligamentous Hyperlaxity Leads to Better Clinical Stability and a Lower Failure Rate Than Isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To compare functional outcomes, residual instability, and rupture rates in patients with ligamentous hyperlaxity undergoing isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction or combined ACL and anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction. METHODS: Two groups of patients were evaluated and compared retrospectively. Both groups consisted of patients with ACL injuries and associated ligamentous hyperlaxity, defined based on the modified Beighton scale with a minimum score of 5. Group 1 patients underwent anatomical ACL reconstruction, and group 2 patients underwent anatomical ACL reconstruction combined with ALL reconstruction. Group 1 consisted of historical controls. The presence of associated meniscal injury, subjective International Knee Documentation Committee and Lysholm functional scores, KT-1000 measurements, the presence of a residual pivot-shift, and the graft rupture rate were evaluated. The study was performed at University of São Paulo in Brazil. RESULTS: Ninety patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with ligamentous hyperlaxity were evaluated. The mean follow up was 29.6 ± 6.2 months for group 1 and 28.1 ± 4.2 months for group 2 (P = .51). No significant differences were found between the groups regarding Beighton scale, gender, the duration of injury before reconstruction, follow-up time, preoperative instability, or associated meniscal injuries. The mean age was 29.9 ± 8.1 years in group 1 and 27.0 ± 9.1 years in group 2 (P = .017). In the final evaluation, group 2 patients showed better anteroposterior clinical stability as evaluated by KT-1000 arthrometry (P = .02), better rotational stability as evaluated by the pivot-shift test (P = .03) and a lower reconstruction failure rate (21.7% [group 1] vs 3.3% [group 2]; P = .03). Clinical evaluations of postoperative functional scales showed no differences between the 2 groups (P = .27 for International Knee Documentation Committee; P = .41 for Lysholm). CONCLUSIONS: Combined ACL and ALL reconstruction in patients with ligamentous hyperlaxity resulted in a lower failure rate and improved knee stability parameters compared to isolated ACL reconstruction. No differences were found in the functional scales. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, case control study.

PROTOCOL FOR TREATING ACUTE INFECTIONS IN CASES OF TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY.

OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively evaluate the results after applying a protocol for treating acute infections in cases of total knee arthroplasty and to establish factors predictive of success or failure. METHODS: Thirty-two patients who were diagnosed with acute infection of the knee following total arthroplasty between 2004 and 2009 were retrospectively evaluated. Infections following arthroplasty were treated in accordance with the protocol for acute infections following arthroscopy recommended at our institution. RESULTS: With application of a treatment protocol for acute infections following total knee arthroplasty, 26 patients (81.2%) had good results and 6 (18.8%) had unsatisfactory results. Statistical analysis showed that the variables correlated with a worse prognosis were age (p = 0.038) and number of surgical debridement procedures performed (p = 0.038). CONCLUSION: Our treatment routine was effective for infection. Prosthesis revision was performed in 2 cases when the initial surgical debridement failed to control the infection. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de casos.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar retrospectivamente os resultados da aplicação do protocolo de tratamento das infecções agudas após artroplastia total do joelho e estabelecer fatores preditivos de bons resultados ou falhas. MÉTODOS: Trinta-e-dois pacientes diagnosticados com infecção aguda após artroplastia total do joelho entre 2004 e 2009 foram avaliados. Os casos caracterizados como infecção foram tratados de acordo com o protocolo de tratamento recomendado em nossa instituição. RESULTADOS: Através da aplicação de nosso protocolo para infecções agudas após artroplastia total do joelho, 26 (81,2%) pacientes tiveram bons resultados e seis (18,8%) apresentaram resultados insatisfatórios. Após a análise estatística, as variáveis que se correlacionaram com um pior prognostico foram idade (p=0,038) e número de procedimentos cirúrgicos para limpeza realizados (p=0,038). CONCLUSÃO: Nosso protocolo de tratamento foi efetivo no controle de infecção após as artroplastias. Revisão da prótese em dois tempos deve ser realizada quando o primeiro desbridamento cirúrgica não for eficaz no controle do quadro infeccioso. Level of evidence IV, case series.