Regenerative effect of platelet-rich plasma in the murine ischemic limbs.

AIMS: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of PPRP (pure PRP) and LPRP (PRP with leukocytes) on recovery from limb ischemia and on expression of growth factors involved in angiogenesis, myogenesis and fibrogenesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PPRP and LPRP prepared by centrifugation were added to cultures of C2C12 and NIH3T3 cells (1 or 10% PRPs) to evaluate alterations in cell metabolism and expression of growth factors by MTT, ELISA and RT-qPCR, respectively. To evaluate in vivo regenerative effects, PRPs were injected into the ischemic limbs of BALB/c mice and muscle mass/strength and histomorphometry were evaluated after 30 days. KEY FINDINGS: Mice treated with PRPs after limb ischemia showed an increase in the size of myofibers and muscle strength, reduced fibrosis and adipocytes, and decreased capillary density and necrosis scores compared to untreated mice. In cell culture, serum deprivation reduced the viability of C2C12 and NIH3T3 cells to about 50%, but the addition of 1% PRPs completely recovered this loss. Both PRPs, downregulated most of the tested genes; however, angiogenic gene Vegfa in C2C12 and the fibrogenic genes Col1a1 and Col3a1 in NIH3T3 cells were upregulated by LPRP. SIGNIFICANCE: PPRP and LPRP had similar effects in regulation of genes involved in angiogenesis, myogenesis and fibrogenesis. However, the presence of leucocytes did not significantly affect regenerative activities of PRP in the ischemic limb.

Dupla deficiência motora em um centro de reabilitação: hemiparesia após acidente vascular cerebral e amputação de membro inferior - Quem são eles? / Dual motor disability in an outpatient rehabilitation center: hemiparesis after stroke and lower limb amputation patients - Who are they?

Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência da dupla deficiência motora e identificar as características social, demográficas, clinicas e relacionadas á reabilitação desses indivíduos. Métodos: Estudo descritivo retrospectivo realizado em um centro de reabilitação com indivíduos com dupla deficiência motora decorrente de amputação de membro inferior associada à hemiparesia após acidente vascular cerebral (AVC). Características sociodemografica, clinica e relacionada a reabilitação foram coletadas através de consulta a prontuários. Resultados: A prevalência da dupla deficiência motora foi de 5,4%. Dos 76 indivíduos avaliados, 69,7% eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 65,6 (±9,3). A hipertensão arterial sistema estava presente em 96,1% dos indivíduos e 25% eram tabagistas. Mais que 73% dos pacientes tiveram o AVC prévio à amputação. O tempo entre as lesões foi, em mediana, de 23 meses, as sequelas foram ipsilaterais em 51,3% dos pacientes. Desses, 54 pacientes (71%) foram encaminhados para as terapias físicas. O tempo entre a dupla deficiência e o início da terapia foi de 28 meses, com tempo de reabilitação total de 14,3 meses. Ao fim do processo de reabilitação 36% alcançaram suas metas, mas 30% teve alta devido a falta de adesão ao tratamento. Conclusão: A prevalência da dupla deficiência motora devido a hemiparesia após AVC e amputação de membro inferior foi 5,4%, e a população estudada apresentou características singulares relacionada ao processo de reabilitação, como um longo tempo entre a ocorrência da dupla deficiência e o inicio da reabilitação, e um longe tempo na reabilitação.

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of dual motor disability and to identify social, demographic, clinical and rehabilitation-related characteristics. Methods: Retrospective descriptive study in an outpatient rehabilitation center with individuals with dual motor disability from major lower limb amputation associated to post-stroke hemiparesis. Social demographic, clinical and rehabilitation characteristics data were collected from medical record. Results: The prevalence of dual motor disability was 5.4%. Seventy-six subjects were evaluated, 69.7% were male, with a mean age of 65.6 ± 9.3 years. Hypertension was present in 96.1% of subjects, and 25% were smokers. Over 73% of patients had had the stroke prior to amputation. Time elapsed between lesions had a median of 23 months, and sequelae were ipsilateral in 51.3% of patients. Of these, 54 patients (71%) were referred to physical therapy. The time interval between dual disability and the beginning of therapy was 28 months, with total rehabilitation time of 14.3 months. At rehabilitation completion, 36% achieved their goals but 30% were discharges consequent to lack of compliance. Conclusion: The prevalence of dual motor disability due to hemiparesis secondary to stroke and lower limb amputation in a rehabilitation center was 5.4%. Our population showed singular characteristics related to the rehabilitation process, such as a long time between the occurrence of dual disability and the beginning of rehabilitation, and long rehabilitation period.

Incidence of musculoskeletal injuries in soccer referees: a three-year study / Incidência de lesões musculoesqueléticas em árbitros de futebol: estudo de três anos / Incidencia de lesiones musculoesqueléticas en árbitros de fútbol: estudio de tres años

ABSTRACT Objectives To determine the incidence and intensity of pain and the areas most affected by injuries with musculoskeletal pain, and the incidence and severity of "injuries defined by time of leave" in games and training of soccer referees in a triennium. Methods An interview was conducted with 257 referees using a web application. With this tool, a monthly evaluation form was sent to the referees with questions that measured the incidence, location, and pain intensity of injuries with complaints of pain and time of leave, severity in games and training in the years 2012, 2013, and 2014. The numerical pain scale was used to classify the pain intensity of the lesions with pain complaint. Results There was no difference between the years studied in relation to injuries with pain complaints, both in games and in training. Mean values were 37.8/1,000 hours in games and 39.9/1,000 hours in training, with a mean incidence of " injuries defined by time of leave" of 3.7/1,000 hours in games. The difference was significantly higher in 2013 compared to 2012 and 2014, and in training, the average incidence was 3.5/1,000 hours, with a significantly higher difference in 2012 compared to 2013 and 2014. Conclusion Lesions with pain complaints did not present a significant difference in games compared to training; in the lesions by time of leave, the incidence in games was higher than in training, and the most frequent type of injury was low-degree muscle pain, predominantly in the thigh and triceps surae. Level of Evidence II; Prognostic Study - Investigating the Effect of Patient Characteristics on Disease Outcome.

RESUMO Objetivos Determinar a incidência e a intensidade álgica e os locais mais acometidos por lesões com dor musculoesquelética e incidência e gravidade das "lesões definidas por tempo de afastamento" em jogos e treinos de árbitros de futebol, em um triênio. Métodos Foram entrevistados 257 árbitros utilizando-se um aplicativo da web. Com essa ferramenta, foi enviada aos árbitros uma ficha de avaliação mensal com questões que mediam incidência, localização e intensidade álgica das lesões com queixas de dor e por tempo de afastamento, gravidade em jogos e treinos nos anos de 2012, 2013 e 2014. Para classificar a intensidade álgica das lesões com queixas utilizou-se a escala numérica de dor. Resultados Não houve diferença entre os anos estudados com relação às lesões com queixas de dor, tanto em jogos quanto em treinos. Os valores médios foram de 37,8/1.000 horas em jogos e 39,9/1.000 horas em treinos e a incidência média de "lesões definidas por tempo de afastamento" de 3,7/1.000 horas em jogos. A diferença foi significantemente maior em 2013 com relação a 2012 e 2014 e, em treinos, a incidência média foi de 3,5/1.000 horas com diferença significantemente superior em 2012 com relação a 2013 e 2014. Conclusão As lesões com queixas de dor não apresentaram diferença significante em jogos comparados com treinos; nas lesões por tempo de afastamento, a incidência em jogos foi maior do que em treinos, e o tipo de lesão mais frequente foi a muscular de grau leve, predominando na coxa e no tríceps sural. Nível de evidência II, Estudos diagnósticos - Investigação de um exame para diagnóstico.

RESUMEN Objetivos Determinar la incidencia y la intensidad del dolor y los lugares más afectados por lesiones con dolor musculoesquelético e incidencia y gravedad de las "lesiones definidas por tiempo de licencia" en juegos y entrenamientos de árbitros de fútbol en un trienio. Métodos Fueron entrevistados 257 árbitros utilizando una aplicación de la web. Con esta herramienta, se envió a los árbitros una ficha de evaluación mensual con cuestiones que medían incidencia, localización, intensidad de las lesiones con quejas de dolor y por tiempo de licencia, gravedad en juegos y entrenamientos en los años 2012, 2013 y 2014. Para clasificar la intensidad del dolor de las lesiones con quejas se utilizó la escala numérica de dolor. Resultados No hubo diferencia entre los años estudiados en relación a las lesiones con quejas de dolor, tanto en juegos como en entrenamientos. Los valores promedio fueron de 37,8/1.000 horas en juegos y 39,9/1.000 horas en entrenamientos, siendo la incidencia media de "lesiones definidas por tiempo de licencia" de 3,7/1.000 horas en juegos. La diferencia fue significantemente mayor en 2013 con respecto a 2012 y 2014 y en los entrenamientos, la incidencia media fue de 3,5/1.000 horas con una diferencia significantemente superior en 2012 con respecto a 2013 y 2014. Conclusión Las lesiones con quejas de dolor no presentaron diferencia significativa en juegos comparados a los entrenamientos; en las lesiones por tiempo de licencia, la incidencia en juegos fue mayor que en entrenamientos, y el tipo de lesión más frecuente fue la muscular de grado leve, predominio en el muslo y tríceps sural. Nivel de evidencia II, Estudios de diagnósticos - Investigación de un examen para diagnóstico.

Bicruciate lesion biomechanics, Part 2-treatment using a simultaneous tensioning protocol: ACL fixation first is better than PCL fixation first to restore tibiofemoral orientation.

PURPOSE: An uncommon technique for bicruciate ligament reconstruction involving simultaneous tensioning of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) grafts with ACL graft fixation first has been pointed out as superior to the "gold-standard" PCL graft fixation first. The purpose of this study was to compare tibiofemoral biomechanics between ACL fixation first and PCL fixation first in a simultaneous tensioning protocol for bicruciate ligament reconstruction. METHODS: 12 fresh-frozen cadaveric knees (six matched pairs) were tested using a custom testing system. Neutral tibial position representing tibiofemoral orientation, anterior-posterior (AP) tibial translation, varus-valgus laxity, and internal-external rotation were measured using a Microscribe 3DLX at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion. The following knee conditions were evaluated: intact, bicruciate deficient and following bicruciate reconstruction. A simultaneous tensioning protocol was used for bicruciate reconstruction and PCL fixation first was compared to ACL fixation first. PCL graft fixation was always performed at 90° of flexion and ACL graft fixation was always performed at full extension. RESULTS: ACL fixation first achieved a tibiofemoral orientation closer to the intact knee than PCL fixation first at 90° flexion (1.8 ± 1.6 mm versus 6.1 ± 3.2 mm, p = 0.016). PCL fixation first had a larger decrease in AP translation than ACL fixation first at 30° flexion (64.6 ± 3.5% vs. 58.3 ± 2.4%, p = 0.01). No significant differences were found for varus/valgus, external-internal rotation decrements after bicruciate reconstruction nor for AP translation, varus/valgus and internal/external rotation increase after bicruciate lesion comparing ACL fixation first to PCL fixation first. CONCLUSION: Bicruciate ligament reconstruction using a simultaneous tensioning protocol with ACL fixation first resulted in a closer to normal tibiofemoral orientation. This study will help guide surgeons in decision making for the graft tensioning protocol and fixation sequence in a bicruciate ligament reconstruction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V therapeutic study.

Bicruciate lesion biomechanics, Part 1-Diagnosis: translations over 15 mm at 90° of knee flexion are indicative of a complete tear.

PURPOSE: Understanding the pathomechanics of a bicruciate injury (BI) is critical for its correct diagnosis and treatment. The purpose of this biomechanical study aims to quantify the effects of sequential sectioning of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) bundles on knee laxity. METHODS: Twelve cadaveric knees (six matched pairs) were used. Knee laxity measurements consisted of neutral tibial position, anterior-posterior translation, internal-external rotation, and varus-valgus angulation in different conditions: intact, ACL cut, incomplete BI (divided into two groups: anterolateral (AL) bundle intact or posteromedial (PM) bundle intact) and complete bicruciate tear. Data were collected using a Microscribe system at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion. RESULTS: In comparison to the intact knees, incomplete BI and complete BI showed a significant increase of total antero-posterior tibial translation. The largest significant increase was observed at 90° of flexion after a complete bicruciate resection (p < 0.001). A threshold difference greater than 15 mm from the intact could be used to identify a complete BI from an incomplete BI evaluating the total antero-posterior translation at 90°. All sectioned states had significant increases compared with the intact condition in internal-external rotation and varus-valgus stability at all tested flexion angles. CONCLUSION: Both incomplete and complete BI led to an important AP translation instability at all angles; however, full extension was the most stable position at all injured models. Total antero-posterior translation at 90° of knee flexion over 15 mm, in comparison to the intact condition, was indicative of a complete BI. Since the appropriate assessment of a combined ACL and PCL lesion remains a challenge, this study intends to assist its diagnosis. As BI's main antero-posterior instability occurred at 90°, a total antero-posterior drawer test is proposed to evaluate BI in the clinical setting. Total antero-posterior translation at 90° > 15 mm, in comparison to the intact condition or the contra-lateral non-injured knee, can be used to identify a complete from an incomplete BI.

Sex effects on the association between sarcopenia EWGSOP and osteoporosis in outpatient older adults: data from the SARCOS study

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective was to evaluate the association between sarcopenia (EWGSOP) and osteoporosis in older adults. Subjects and methods: This is a cross sectional analysis of a baseline evaluation of the SARCopenia and OSteoporosis in Older Adults with Cardiovascular Diseases Study (SARCOS). Three hundred and thirty-two subjects over 65 years of age were evaluated. Sarcopenia was determined by EWGSOP flowchart and Osteoporosis was established by WHO's criteria. Physical function, comorbidities and medications were evaluated. Results: Women were older (79.8 ± 7.2 years) than men (78.21 ± 6.7 years) (p = 0.042). Osteoporosis occurred in 24.8% of men, and in 42.7% of women (p < 0.001); sarcopenia occurred in 25.5% of men and in 17.7%, of women (p = 0.103). Osteoporosis was diagnosed in 68% of sarcopenic women, however only 20.7% (p = 0.009) of women with osteoporosis had sarcopenia; in older men, 44.7% of individuals with sarcopenia presented osteoporosis and 42.9% (p = 0.013) of men with osteoporosis showed sarcopenia. In an adjusted logistic regression analyses for sarcopenia, osteoporosis presented a statistically significant association with sarcopenia in men [OR: 2.930 (95% CI: 1.044-8.237; p = 0.041)] but not in women [OR: 2.081 (0.787-5.5; p = 0.142)]; in the adjusted logistic regression analyses for osteoporosis, a statistically significant association occurred in men [OR: 2.984 (95% CI: 1.144-7.809; p = 0.025)], but not in women [OR: 2.093 (0.962-3.714; p = 0.137)]. Conclusion: According to sex, there are significant differences in the association between sarcopenia EWGSOP and osteoporosis in outpatient older adults. It is strong and significant in males; in females, despite showing a positive trend, it was not statistically significant.

Perfil neuropsicológico de pacientes com amputação maior de membros inferiores por etiologia vascular / Neuropsychological aspects of a population of patients with vascular lower extremity amputations

Objetivo: O estudo objetivou traçar um perfil neuropsicológico breve de pacientes com amputação maior de membros inferiores por etiologia vascular e investigar a existência de correlações dos aspectos cognitivos com fatores sociodemográficos e clínicos. Método: Trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo, realizado em um centro de reabilitação física de São Paulo - Brasil, em que foram aplicados: um instrumento de avaliação neuropsicológica breve (Neupsilin), um questionário de caracterização da amostra próprio e a Escala de Ansiedade e Depressão Hospitalar (HAD). Resultados: O desempenho cognitivo foi pior em funções que requerem habilidades aritméticas (42,2% dos pacientes com desempenho abaixo do esperado); percepção (46,3% dos pacientes abaixo do esperado); funções executivas, notadamente nas tarefas praxia construtiva (40,6% abaixo do esperado) e fluência verbal (35,9% abaixo do esperado), e linguagem (31,2% abaixo do esperado). Conclusão: O perfil cognitivo dos pacientes deste estudo revelou dificuldades relevantes das funções cognitivas avaliadas, especialmente em funções diretamente relacionadas à funcionalidade do paciente.

Objective: To describe the neuropsychological profile of patients with major lower limb amputation and to investigate the existence of correlations between these cognitive aspects, socio-demographic and clinical aspects. Method: This is a cross-sectional, analytic, descriptive study carried out at an outpatient rehabilitation center. The instruments used were Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), a brief neuropsychological assessment instrument (Neupsilin) along with a questionnaire to characterize the sample. Results: Cognitive performance was worse in functions that require arithmetic skills (42,2% of the patients underperformed); perception (46,3% underperformed); executive functions, notably in constructive praxis (40,6% underperformed) and verbal fluency (35,9% underperformed) and language (31,2% underperformed). The best performances were in spacial orientation (92,2% performed as expected) and verbal memory (87,5% performed as expected). Conclusion: The cognitive profile of these patients revealed alterations in most of the assessed cognitive functions, especially in functions directly related to functionalities of the patient.

Arte reabilitação em mulheres amputadas utilizando o mito de Pandora como recurso facilitador de autoestima e qualidade de vida / Art rehabilitation in amputee women with Pandora's myth as a self-esteem and quality of life facilitator resource

A amputação é um evento traumático que repercute intensamente na vida da pessoa acometida. A dificuldade em lidar com a nova realidade pode contribuir negativamente para a autoestima e reabilitação do indivíduo, afetando a sua qualidade de vida. A Arteterapia por meio dos recursos expressivos pode ser um canal facilitador e promotor de aspectos resilientes para a superação do trauma. Objetivo: Averiguar a influência da Arteterapia na autoestima e qualidade de vida em mulheres amputadas. Grupo formado por 8 mulheres amputadas, entre 35 a 65 anos. Método: Divididos em 2 grupos (4 indivíduos no grupo de intervenção e 4 indivíduos no grupo controle). Instrumentos de avaliação: WHOQOL- Bref (World Health Organization Quality of Life), Escala de Autoestima Rosemberg (EAR), o Desenho da Figura Humana e Relatos das Participantes. As atividades foram desenvolvidas com base no mito de Pandora, em 11 oficinas arteterapêuticas com 1 hora de duração, uma vez por semana no setor de Arte-Reabilitação, AACD ­ Ibirapuera, São Paulo. Resultados: Estatisticamente não foram observadas diferenças significantes entre os momentos inicial e final para os domínios de Whoqol Bref e EAR, em ambos os grupos; porém, o grupo intervenção apresenta um movimento de melhora na autoestima, especialmente no quesito autodepreciação. Qualitativamente foram observadas através do discurso das participantes melhorias de autoestima e possibilidade de melhoria na qualidade de vida das participantes. Conclusão: A arteterapia, junto com a equipe interdisciplinar, pode contribuir positivamente para o processo de reabilitação em mulheres amputadas ajudando a promover a autoestima e qualidade de vida.

Amputation is a traumatic event that has serious repercussions on the amputee's life. The difficulty in dealing with the new reality can contribute negatively to self-esteem and rehabilitation, affecting the patient's quality of life. The Art therapy, through its expressive resources, can be a facilitator and provide resilience to overcoming the trauma. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of art therapy in self-esteem and quality of life in amputee women. Methods: A group of 8 amputees, aged 35-65 years were divided into 2 groups (4 in the experimental group and 4 in the control group). They were evaluated with the WHOQoL-Bref (World Health Organization Quality of Life), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), Human Figure Drawing test and the participants' own Reports. The activities, based on the Pandora myth, were developed in 11 art therapy workshops sessions of one hour that were carried out once a week in the Art-Rehabilitation sector off AACD ­ Ibirapuera, São Paulo. Results: There was no statistically significant differences observed between the initial and final assessments of quality of life (WHOQoL-Bref) and RSE domains of both groups, however, the experimental group evidenced a tendency towards the improvement of self-esteem, especially in regards of self-depreciation. Qualitatively, improvements of self-esteem and the possibility of improving the participants' quality of life were also observed. Conclusion: Art Therapy, combined with interdisciplinary care, can contribute positively to the rehabilitation process of amputee women, by helping to promote better self-esteem and quality of life.

Quadriceps Strength Deficit at 6 Months After ACL Reconstruction Does Not Predict Return to Preinjury Sports Level.

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of literature-based objective criteria for return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Establishing such objective criteria is crucial to improving return to sport after ACL reconstruction (ACLR). HYPOTHESES: Patients who return to their preinjury level of sport will have higher isokinetic, postural stability, and drop vertical jump test scores 6 months after surgery and greater patient satisfaction compared with those who did not. Additionally, quadriceps strength deficit cutoff values of 80% and 90% would differentiate patients who returned to preinjury sports level from those who did not. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3. METHODS: A retrospective search was conducted to identify all patients who underwent ACLR and completed isokinetic evaluation, postural stability analysis, and drop vertical jump testing at 6 months postoperatively. Patients were asked to complete 3 questionnaires at a minimum 1 year after surgery. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were used for categorical dependent variables, while the Student t test, Pearson correlation, or analyses of variance with Bonferroni post hoc testing were used for continuous dependent variables. A post hoc power analysis was completed. Based on the results regarding correlations between return to preinjury level and all other variables, effect sizes from 0.24 to 3.03 were calculated. With these effect sizes, an alpha of 0.05 and sample size of 58, a power ranging from 0.15 to 0.94 was calculated. RESULTS: The rates of return to preinjury level and to any sports activity were 53.4% and 84.4%. Those who were able to return to their preinjury level of sport (n = 33) showed significantly higher Lysholm (91.6 ± 9.7 vs 76.7 ± 15.4) and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) (83.6 ± 10.6 vs 69.8 ± 14.6) values compared with those who were unable to return to their preinjury level of sport (n = 25) ( P < 0.001). No significant differences were found for the clinical evaluations between those who were and those who were not able to return at the same level for the clinical evaluations (isokinetic evaluation, postural stability, drop vertical jump test) ( P > 0.05). No significant differences were found when comparing quadriceps strength deficit with cutoff values of 80% and 90% for return to preinjury activity level (Tegner), Lysholm, and IKDC scores. CONCLUSION: Quadriceps strength deficit, regardless of cutoff value (80% or 90%), at 6 months after ACLR does not predict return to preinjury level of sport. Patients who returned to sport at their preinjury level were more satisfied with their reconstruction compared with those who did not. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Quadriceps strength deficit is not a reliable predictor of return to sports, and therefore it should not be used as the single criterion in such evaluations.

Magnetic resonance imaging-based morphological and alignment assessment of the patellofemoral joint and its relationship to proximal patellar tendinopathy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the differences in morphology and alignment of the knee between patients with proximal patellar tendinopathy (PPT) and a control group, using MRI and focusing on the patellofemoral joint. METHODS: We retrospectively included 35 patients with clinically diagnosed and unequivocal findings of PPT on knee MRI, the case group. For the control group, we included 70 patients who underwent knee MRI for other reasons, with no clinical or MRI evidence of PPT. Patients and controls were matched for age and gender, with all subjects reporting frequent physical activity. MRIs were evaluated by two musculoskeletal radiologists, who assessed parameters of patellar morphology, trochlear morphology, patellofemoral alignment, and tibiofemoral alignment. The differences in parameters between cases and controls were assessed using Student's t test. Logistic regression was applied to assess the associations between the MRI parameters and the presence of PPT. RESULTS: The patellar height Insall-Salvati ratio was different between cases and controls (1.37 ± 0.21 vs. 1.24 ± 0.19; p = 0.003). The subchondral Wiberg angle was higher in cases than controls (136.8 ± 7.4 vs. 131.7 ± 8.8; p = 0.004). After applying logistic regression, significant associations with PPT were found [odds ratios (95% CI)] for patellar morphology [1.1 (1.0, 1.2)] and patellar height [1.3 (1.0, 1.7)]. CONCLUSIONS: Patellar height and the subchondral patellar Wiberg angle were greater in patients with PPT and significantly associated with PPT.

Sex effects on the association between sarcopenia EWGSOP and osteoporosis in outpatient older adults: data from the SARCOS study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to evaluate the association between sarcopenia (EWGSOP) and osteoporosis in older adults. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This is a cross sectional analysis of a baseline evaluation of the SARCopenia and OSteoporosis in Older Adults with Cardiovascular Diseases Study (SARCOS). Three hundred and thirty-two subjects over 65 years of age were evaluated. Sarcopenia was determined by EWGSOP flowchart and Osteoporosis was established by WHO's criteria. Physical function, comorbidities and medications were evaluated. RESULTS: Women were older (79.8 ± 7.2 years) than men (78.21 ± 6.7 years) (p = 0.042). Osteoporosis occurred in 24.8% of men, and in 42.7% of women (p < 0.001); sarcopenia occurred in 25.5% of men and in 17.7%, of women (p = 0.103). Osteoporosis was diagnosed in 68% of sarcopenic women, however only 20.7% (p = 0.009) of women with osteoporosis had sarcopenia; in older men, 44.7% of individuals with sarcopenia presented osteoporosis and 42.9% (p = 0.013) of men with osteoporosis showed sarcopenia. In an adjusted logistic regression analyses for sarcopenia, osteoporosis presented a statistically significant association with sarcopenia in men [OR: 2.930 (95% CI: 1.044-8.237; p = 0.041)] but not in women [OR: 2.081 (0.787-5.5; p = 0.142)]; in the adjusted logistic regression analyses for osteoporosis, a statistically significant association occurred in men [OR: 2.984 (95% CI: 1.144-7.809; p = 0.025)], but not in women [OR: 2.093 (0.962-3.714; p = 0.137)]. CONCLUSION: According to sex, there are significant differences in the association between sarcopenia EWGSOP and osteoporosis in outpatient older adults. It is strong and significant in males; in females, despite showing a positive trend, it was not statistically significant.

Anterolateral ligament anatomy: a comparative anatomical study.

PURPOSE: Some anatomical studies have indicated that the anterolateral ligament (ALL) of the knee is distinct ligamentous structure in humans. The purpose of this study is to compare the lateral anatomy of the knee among human and various animal specimens. METHODS: Fifty-eight fresh-frozen knee specimens, from 24 different animal species, were used for this anatomical study. The same researchers dissected all the specimens in this study, and dissections were performed in a careful and standardized manner. RESULTS: An ALL was not found in any of the 58 knees dissected. Another interesting finding in this study is that some primate species (the prosimians: the red and black and white lemurs) have two LCLs. CONCLUSION: The clinical relevance of this study is the lack of isolation of the ALL as a unique structure in animal species. Therefore, precaution is recommended before assessing the need for surgery to reconstruct the ALL as a singular ligament.

Platelet-Rich Plasma in a Murine Model: Leukocytes, Growth Factors, Flt-1, and Muscle Healing.

BACKGROUND: It is well known that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparations are not the same and that not all preparations include white blood cells, but the part that leukocytes play on the healing role of PRP is still unknown. PURPOSE: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of leukocytes in different PRP preparations with a special emphasis on growth factor concentrations. The secondary aim was to evaluate the influence of PRP on muscle healing. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Two PRP preparation procedures were evaluated. Blood fractions were stained with Rapid Panoptic, and growth factors (transforming growth factor beta 1 [TGF-ß1], vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], insulin-like growth factor [IGF], epidermal growth factor [EGF], hepatocyte growth factor [HGF], and platelet-derived growth factor [PDGF]) were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Western blotting analysis was performed for Fms-related tyrosine kinase 1 (Flt-1). A muscle contusion injury was created and treated with PRP at different time points. RESULTS: Leukocytes were the main source of VEGF, and all other growth factors measured had a higher concentration in the preparations that included the buffy coat and consequently had a higher concentration of white blood cells. Flt-1 was also found in platelet-poor plasma (PPP). There were higher concentrations of PDGF and HGF in the preparations that encompassed the buffy coat. A PRP injection 7 days after the injury provided significantly increased exercise performance and decreased the fibrotic area when compared with other PRP-treated groups. CONCLUSION: VEGF is only present in PRP's buffy coat, while Flt-1 is present in PPP. A PRP injection 7 days after an injury resulted in improved exercise performance. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The presence of Flt-1 in PRP provides yet another explanation for results described in the literature after a PRP injection. This information is relevant for selecting the best PRP for each type of injury.

Relationship Between the Middle Genicular Artery and the Posterior Structures of the Knee: A Cadaveric Study.

BACKGROUND: The middle genicular artery (MGA) is responsible for the blood supply to the cruciate ligaments and synovial tissue. Traumatic sports injuries and surgical procedures (open and arthroscopic) can cause vascular damage. Little attention has been devoted to establish safe parameters for the MGA. PURPOSE: To investigate the anatomy of the MGA and its relation to the posterior structures of the knees, mainly the posterior capsule and femoral condyles, and to establish safe parameters to avoid harming the MGA. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive laboratory study. METHODS: Dissection of the MGA was performed in 16 fresh, unpaired adult human cadaveric knees with no macroscopic degenerative or traumatic changes and no previous surgeries. The specimens were meticulously evaluated with emphasis on preservation of the MGA. The distances from the MGA to the medial and lateral femoral condyles were measured. The Mann-Whitney test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: In all specimens, the MGA emerged from the anterior aspect of the popliteal artery, distal to the superior genicular arteries, and had a short distal trajectory toward the posterior capsule where it entered proximal to the oblique popliteal ligament. The artery lay in the midportion between the condyles. The distance between the posterior aspect of the tibia and the point of entry of the MGA into the posterior joint capsule was 23.8 ± 7.3 mm (range, 14.72-35.68 mm). There was no correlation between an individual's height and the distance of the entrance point of the MGA into the posterior joint capsule to the posterior superior corner of the tibia. CONCLUSION: The middle genicular artery lies in the midportion between the medial and lateral femoral condyles. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This knowledge is important for the preservation of the blood supply during posterior knee surgical procedures and to settle a secure distance between the posterior aspect of the tibia and the MGA input. This could decrease and prevent iatrogenic vascular injury risk to the MGA.

Frailty predictors and outcomes among older patients with cardiovascular disease: Data from Fragicor.

The aim of this study was to evaluate predictive factors for frailty among older outpatient adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and to assess the predictive value of frailty in regard to mortality, disability and hospitalization at 1-year follow-up. A prospective cohort study was carried out with subjects over 65 years of age from an outpatient Cardiology clinic, with at least one CVD. At baseline, we classified frailty as proposed by Fried, i.e.; unintentional weight loss (10lbs in the past year), self-reported exhaustion, weakness (measured by grip strength), slow walking speed, and low physical activity. A frail person was defined by the presence of three or more criteria, prefrail by one or two and robust by the absence of them. Disability, previous hospitalizations, falls, morphometric and socio-demographic variables were collected; as well as the presence of CVD and hemodynamic parameters (HP): systolic (SPB) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR) and ejection fraction (EF). At 1-year follow-up, the outcomes assessed were: disability, number of hospitalizations and death. 172 subjects were included in this study with a mean age of 77 years old. The prevalence of frail was 39.8%, prefrail 51.5% and robust was 8.7%. Among the CVD and HP evaluated, myocardial infarction (MI), presence of three or more CVDs, lower SPB and DBP were significant and independent factors associated with the frailty phenotype. At 1-year follow up, frailty was an independent predictor for disability (Odds Ratio (OR): 3.94 (1.59-9.75); p=0.003) and it increased death probability by three times if compared to the robust group. In conclusion, older outpatients with CVD have a higher probability to be frail than older adults who do not have a CVD. Low SPB and DBP must always be taken into consideration due to their high association with frailty. It is also important to diagnose frailty in this population due to the high association with mortality and disability.

Surgical treatment for muscle injuries.

Muscle injury causes functional impairment. The healing process takes time and fibrotic tissue can result. Recurrence and delayed recovery remain as unsolved problems. Surgical intervention can be a feasible alternative to avoid early and late complications associated with complete muscle tear in attempt to improve functional results. This article hopes to provide an update about surgical treatments for muscle tears in different scenarios.

Gene and cell therapy for muscle regeneration.

Skeletal muscle injury and healing are multifactorial processes, involving three steps of healing: (1) degeneration and inflammation, (2) regeneration, and (3) fibrosis. Fibrous tissue hinders the muscle's complete recovery and current therapies fail in achieving total muscle recovery. Gene and cell therapy (or both) are potential future treatments for severe muscular injuries. Stem cells' properties associated with growth factors or/and cytokines can improve muscle healing and permit long-term recovery.

Updates in biological therapies for knee injuries: anterior cruciate ligament.

There have been many advances in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) techniques incorporating biological treatment. The aim of this review is to discuss the recent contributions that may enlighten our understanding of biological therapies for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and improve management decisions involving these enhancement options. Three main biological procedures will be analyzed: bio-enhanced ACL repair, bio-enhanced ACLR scrutinized under the four basic principles of tissue engineering (scaffolds, cell sources, growth factors/cytokines including platelet-rich plasma, and mechanical stimuli), and remnant-preserving ACLR. There is controversial information regarding remnant-preserving ACLR, since different procedures are grouped under the same designation. A new definition for remnant-preserving ACLR surgery is proposed, dividing it into its three major procedures (selective bundle augmentation, augmentation, and nonfunctional remnant preservation); also, an ACL lesion pattern classification and a treatment algorithm, which will hopefully standardize these terms and procedures for future studies, are presented.

Estudo radiográfico da reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior pela via transtibial / Radiological study of reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament by transtibial approach / Estudio radiográfico de la reconstrucción del ligamento cruzado anterior por técnica transtibial

INTRODUÇÃO: A ruptura do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) é frequente devido às atividades esportivas, e sua reconstrução tem sofrido constantes modificações com o aprimoramento das técnicas cirúrgicas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar radiologicamente o posicionamento dos túneis tibial e femoral com o uso da técnica transtibial auxiliada pela pré-perfuração femoral. MÉTODO: Análise radiológica (AP e perfil), na quarta semana de pós-operatório de 98 pacientes, totalizando 100 casos de reconstrução do LCA. Três examinadores avaliaram o posicionamento dos túneis tibial e femoral pelos seguintes métodos: Scanlan, Staubli e Rauschning e Bernard. RESULTADOS: O posicionamento do ângulo α (AP) foi de 64,13o (± 4,29o) e do ângulo β (perfil), de 57,28o (± 4,41o). A média de posicionamento tibial foi de 41,99% (± 5,14%). O enxerto do LCA foi inserido no côndilo lateral do fêmur e a média em porcentagem de posicionamento no quadrante verde foi de 62%, no quadrante amarelo, de 37% e de 1% no vermelho. CONCLUSÕES: A técnica transtibial de reconstrução do LCA auxiliada pela pré-perfuração femoral proporciona o posicionamento anatômico do enxerto na grande maioria dos casos, conforme comprovação radiológica. .

INTRODUCTION: The rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is often due to sports activities and its reconstruction methods have undergone constant changes due to improvements in the surgical techniques. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the radiological placement of the tibial and femoral tunnels using the transtibial technique assisted by the femoral pre-drilling. METHOD: Radiological analysis (AP and lateral), at 4 weeks postoperatively in 98 patients, totaling 100 cases of ACL reconstruction. Three examiners evaluated the placement of the tibial and femoral tunnels. Methods for assessing the positioning of the tunnels were: Scanlan, Staubli and Rauschning and Bernard. RESULTS: The α angle (AP) was 64.13° (±4.29°) and the β angle (lateral) was 57.28° (±4.41°). The mean tibial positioning was 41.99% (±5.14%). The ACL graft was inserted into the lateral condyle of the femur and the average percentage of radiographic positioning in the green quadrant was 62%, the yellow quadrant, 37% and 1% in the red quadrant. CONCLUSIONS: The transtibial technique for ACL reconstruction, assisted by the femoral pre-drilling provides the anatomical position of the graft in the majority of the cases, as radiological evidence. .

INTRODUCCIÓN: La ruptura del ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) es frecuente debido a las actividades deportivas, y su reconstrucción ha sufrido constantes modificaciones con la mejora de las técnicas quirúrgicas. OBJETIVO: Evaluar radiográficamente el posicionamiento de los túneles tibial y femoral con el uso de la técnica transtibial auxiliada por la pre-perforación femoral. MÉTODO: Análisis radiográfico (AP y perfil), en la 4a semana de postoperatorio de 98 pacientes, totalizando 100 casos de reconstrucción del LCA. Tres examinadores evaluaron el posicionamiento de los túneles tibial y femoral por los siguientes métodos: Scanlan, Staubli y Rauschning y Bernard. RESULTADOS: El posicionamiento del ángulo α (AP) fue de 64,13o (± 4,29o) y del ángulo β (perfil), de 57,28o (± 4,41o). El promedio de posicionamiento tibial fue de 41,99% (± 5,14%). El injerto del LCA fue colocado en el cóndilo lateral del fémur y el promedio en porcentaje de posicionamiento en el cuadrante verde fue de 62%, en el cuadrante amarillo de 37% y de 1% en el rojo. CONCLUSIONES: La técnica transtibial de reconstrucción del LCA auxiliada por la pre-perforación femoral proporciona el posicionamiento anatómico del injerto en la gran mayoría de los casos, de acuerdo a la comprobación radiográfica. .

A manual method to obtain platelet rich plasma.

OBJECTIVE: This study is to report a manual method to obtain platelet rich plasma (PRP). METHODS: For this study 61 ml of peripheral blood was obtained and submitted to centrifugation at 541g for 5 min. The centrifugation separates the blood into three components: red blood cells, buffy coat and platelet rich plasma. Blood and platelet rich plasma samples were sent to the Hospital's Laboratory and platelets and leukocytes were measured. RESULTS: A sample of 637 blood donors was evaluated. The platelet yield efficiency was 86.77% and the increase in platelet concentration factor was 2.89 times. The increase in leukocyte concentration factor was 1.97 times. CONCLUSION: The method described here produces leukocyte-rich and platelet-rich plasma with a high platelet and leukocyte increased factor. Level of Evidence IV, Controlled Laboratory Study.