Robotic Arm-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty: Anatomical Alignment and Mid-Term Outcomes from the First Cohort Originating in Greece.

Robotic arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA) represents a haptic assistive robotic arm used for bone preparation. The purpose of this study was to present implant survivorship, complications and evaluate patients' satisfaction, clinical and functional outcome of RATKA with a minimum of 1-year follow-up. The Oxford Knee Score was recorded preoperatively and at last follow-up. Patients' satisfaction rates, as well as complications and re-operations were studied. Anatomical alignment including varus, valgus deformities and flexion, extension, pre-and postoperatively were evaluated. A total of 156 patients with mean age = 71.9 years were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 35.7 months, while one revision was performed due to infection. Statistically significant improvement of the Oxford Knee Score, as well as of the knee alignment deformities were recorded, while 99.4% of patients reported to be "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the procedure. RATKA seems to be a safe, as well as reproductible procedure at short-and mid-term follow-up, while the accurate implant positioning may lead to favorable long-term outcomes.

Modified Anterolateral Minimally Invasive Surgery (ALMIS) for Total Hip Replacement: Anatomical Considerations, Range of Motion and Clinical Outcomes.

Background and Objectives: In the modified anterolateral minimally invasive surgery (ALMIS) for total hip arthroplasty (THA), the intermuscular plane between the tensor fasciae latae and the gluteus maximus (GM) is exposed, while the anterior » of the GM is detached. There are scarce data regarding this surgical approach. The purpose of the present study is to thoroughly describe this approach, encompassing the anatomical background, and to present the results of a retrospective two-center study of 603 patients. Materials and Methods: The present study includes a two-center retrospective observational cohort of 603 patients undergoing the ALMIS technique with minimum 5-year follow-up. Demographics were recorded, while range of motion (ROM) of the hip joint and the Harris Hip Score (HHS) were evaluated preoperatively, at 1, 3 and 12 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up (>5 years). Surgery-related complications were also recorded. Results: The studied population's mean age was 69.4 years, while most of them were females (397; 65.8%). The mean follow-up was 6.9 years. The median HHS at the 1-month follow-up was 74, compared to the 47 preoperatively (p-value < 0.0001). At the final follow-up, median HHS was 94. At the 1-month follow-up, mean adduction was 19.9° (compared to 15.4° preoperatively; p < 0.0001), mean abduction 24.3° (18.2° preoperatively; p < 0.0001), mean flexion 107.8° (79.1° preoperatively; p < 0.0001), mean external rotation 20.1° (12.1° preoperatively; p < 0.0001) and mean internal rotation 15.3° (7.2° preoperatively; p < 0.0001). ROM further improved until the final follow-up; mean adduction reached 22°, mean abduction 27.1°, mean flexion 119.8°, mean external rotation 24.4° and mean internal rotation 19.7°. Regarding complications, 1.3% of the sample suffered anterior traumatic dislocation, in 1.8% an intraoperative femoral fracture occurred, while 1.2% suffered periprosthetic joint infection. Conclusions: The modified ALMIS technique exhibited excellent clinical outcomes at short-, mid- and long-term follow-up, by significantly improving hip ROM and the HHS. Careful utilization of this technique, after adequate training, should yield favorable outcomes, while minimal major complications should be expected.

Suggestion of a Novel Classification Based on the Anatomical Region and Type of Bilateral Fatigue Femoral Fractures.

Purpose: Bilateral fatigue femoral fractures (BFFF) represent an extremely rare clinical entity. The present study introduces a novel classification, in order to categorize the BFFFs and provide a thorough review of all these, so far in the literature, reported cases. Methods: The BFFF were classified taking into account the anatomical region of the femoral fracture; (fh): femoral head, (sc): sub-capital, (pt): peri-trochanteric, (st): sub-trochanteric, (s): shaft, (d): distal femur and the fracture type (complete or incomplete); type I: bilateral incomplete fractures, type II: unilateral incomplete fracture, and type III: bilateral complete fractures. Type III was further subdivided into type IIIA: bilateral non-displaced fractures, type IIIB: unilateral displaced fracture, and type IIIC: bilateral displaced fractures. Furthermore, a meticulous review of the PubMed and MEDLINE databases was conducted to locate all articles reporting these injuries. Results: A total of 38 patients (86.8% males), with a mean age of 25.3 years, suffering BFFFs were identified from the literature search. The mean time interval from symptoms' onset to diagnosis was 54 days. According to the proposed classification, 2.6% of the fractures were categorized as type I (h), 36.8% as type I (sc), 2.6% as type I(st/s), 7.9% as type I (s), 2.6% as type I (d), 5.4% as type II (fh), 26.3% as type II (sc), 2.6% as type IIIA (st), 2.6% as type IIIA (d), 5.4% as type IIIB (sc), 2.6% as type IIIB (d) and 2.6% as type IIIC (sc). Surgery was performed in 52.6%, while non-operative treatment was followed in 47.4% of the population. Regarding the fracture type, 75% of type I fractures were conservatively treated, while 91.7% and 66.6% of type II and III fractures were surgically treated. For patients treated conservatively, the mean time from diagnosis to return to previous status was 260 days, while for patients treated surgically, 343 days. Conclusions: BFFFs, although rare, may pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The present classification offers valuable information and may act as a guide for the management of these patients.

Spinal Infections Caused by Coccidioides Species.

Introduction: Spinal Coccidioidomycosis, although rare, represents the most frequent osseous presentation of Coccidioides spp infection. The present review aims to describe the anatomical distribution, the epidemiological characteristics, and the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of this severe infection. Methods:A meticulous review of all published spinal Coccidioidomycosis cases was carried out. The studied population's demographics and the anatomical distribution of the infection were recorded. Furthermore, the medical and operative management as well as the disease outcome were studied. Results:Seventy-six cases (of which 78.9% males) with a mean age of 35.5 years were located. Regarding the anatomical distribution of the infection, the thoracic area was the most commonly affected spine region (26.3%). Among the studied patients, 14 (18.4%) were immunocompromised. Pain was the most commonly reported symptom (21.1%). Regarding the diagnostic approach of this infection, plain x-ray or CT scan indicated the disease in the majority of cases (44.7%). Pathology (48.7%), serology (42.1%) and microbiological examinations (35.5%) further established the firm diagnosis, with Coccidioides immitis being the most frequently isolated fungus. Medical management included mainly amphotericin B (in 57.9% of cases), followed by fluconazole (in 38.2% of cases). The disease required surgical intervention in the majority of cases (76.3%), while the infection had a successful outcome in 80.3% of cases. Conclusion:Spinal Coccidioidomycosis seems to require prolonged medical treatment, including proper antifungal therapy and, in most cases, operative management. Multidisciplinary approach, including infectious disease specialists, orthopaedic and/or spine surgeons, microbiologists and radiologists seems to be of utmost important for yielding favorable outcomes.

The Modified Somatic Perception Questionnaire (MSPQ): Validation and Cultural Adaption in Greek.

Introduction: Somatic awareness as well as anxiety may be assessed with the Modified Somatic Awareness Questionnaire (MSPQ). The present study validates and adapts the Greek version of the MSPQ (MSPQ-GR) in individuals with chronic low-back pain. Methods:The MSPQ-GR along with the Greek versions of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADs-GR) and the Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ-GR) were completed by 69 consecutive individuals suffering from chronic low-back pain. Test-retest reliability was tested 48 hours later. Construct validity was studied with the correlation of MSPQ- GR to the FABQ-GR as well as to the HADs-GR. Analysis included the Pearson's correlation coefficient (r), the Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Results:Most patients were females (82.6%), while the cohort's mean age was 40.2 years. Cronbach's alpha was 0.87 and ICC was found to be 0.92. MSPQ-GR and the HAD-GR anxiety correlation was r=0.36, p=0.002, while MSPQ-GR and HAD-GR depression correlation was r=0.42, p<0.001. Correlation of the MSPQ-GR and FABQ were non-significant (FABQ-work r= 0.19, NS, FABQ physical r= 0.2, NS), confirming the discriminant construct validity of the MSPQ-GR. Conclusions:The present study provided initial evidence for the validity and reliability of the MSPQ-GR and thus, it may be used in clinical practice in patients with chronic LBP.

Early Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty with DELTA ST-C Cup and MINIMA S Stem.

Background and Objectives: The uncemented threaded DELTA ST-C cup was introduced in last few years. It has a hemispheric shell, consisting of Ti6Al4V titanium alloy. The MINIMA S stem was developed according to the principles of proximal-loading and extended metaphyseal geometry applied to a short stem. The purpose of the study was to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes and the short- and mid-term survivorship of the DELTA ST-C cup and MINIMA S stem in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). The present is the first study to report outcomes and implant survivorship of the DELTA ST-C cup coupled with the MINIMA S femoral stem. Materials and Methods: The present study is a retrospective observational cohort study of a prospectively maintained database, evaluating clinical outcomes and implant survivorship in 95 patients undergoing THA with the MINIMA stem coupled with the DELTA ST-C cup with at least a 3-year follow-up. The clinical evaluation was assessed with a change in the Harris hip score (HHS), while the radiographic evaluation included anteroposterior views of the pelvis and lateral views of the affected hip. Results: The enrolled population's mean age was 69.3 years and most patients were female (64%). The MINIMA S standard stem was implanted in 68 patients (72%), the lateralized stem was implanted in 27 (28%), and the mean acetabular inclination was 48.2°. The HHS improved significantly from the preoperative value (median 46, IQR: 38-55), already at 1 month after surgery (median 76, IQR: 66-77), reaching excellent results at 1 year and 3 years postoperatively (median 96, IQR: 91-100). X-rays demonstrated good implant stability and biomechanics parameter restorations revealed no sign of subsidence, and the presence of radiolucent lines greater than 2 mm in the short stem area in five cases and in the acetabulum in one were not clinically significant. No revisions have been performed so far. Conclusions: The MINIMA S stem coupled with the DELTA ST-C cup demonstrated very good clinical and radiological results with a significant increase of the Harris hip score at short- and mid-term follow-up. This is the first study evaluating the DELTA ST-C cup, showing promising outcomes during the study's follow-up. The MINIMA S stem has been evaluated in a very few studies. However, the combination with this particular cup had not yet been studied. The design of the stem and the cup ensures primary stability and excellent early term outcomes, moreover the study demonstrates extraordinary implant survivorship, equal to 100%.

Fungal Periprosthetic Hip Joint Infections.

Introduction: Fungal hip prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are rare but severe infections. Their incidence has increased in the last decades due to the aging population, as well as due to the increased number of immunosuppressed hosts. The present review of all published fungal PJIs in hip arthroplasties aims to present as much data as possible for both medical and surgical treatment options, so that the best applicable management may be concluded. Methods: A meticulous review of all published fungal hip PJIs was conducted. Information regarding demographics, causative fungus, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical management as well as the infection outcome was recorded. Results: A total of 89 patients suffering fungal hip PJI were identified. The patients' mean age was 66.9 years. The mean time from initial arthroplasty to onset of symptoms was 69.3 months, while 40.4% of the patients were immunocompromised. The most common imaging method indicating diagnosis was plain X-ray or CT scan (20.2%), while definite diagnosis had become possible through cultures in most cases (98.9%), and/or histology (44.9%). The most frequently isolated fungus was C. albicans (49.4%), followed by C. parapsilosis (18%) and C. glabrata (12.4%), while bacterial co-infection was present in 32 cases (36%). Two-stage revision arthroplasty (TSRA) was the most commonly performed procedure (52.8%), with mean time between the two stages = 7.9 months. Regarding antifungal treatment (AFT), fluconazole was the preferred agent (62.9%), followed by amphotericin B (36%), while the mean duration of AFT was 5.1 months. Outcome was successful in 68 cases (76.4%). Conclusions: Both diagnosis and management of fungal PJIs in patients having undergone total hip arthroplasty are quite demanding. A multidisciplinary approach is of utmost importance, since the combination of AFT and TSRA appears to be the proper treatment method.

Fatigue sacral fractures: A case series and literature review.

OBJECTIVES: Fatigue sacral fractures (FSFs) are rare and often misdiagnosed. This study presents a series of FSFs and a meticulous literature review. METHODS: The present is an 11-year (2010-2021) retrospective observational study. The characteristics of all adult patients with FSF, including demographics, fracture type, treatment, history of fatigue fracture and imaging were evaluated. RESULTS: Eight cases (6 females; 75%), suffering from 12 fractures (4 bilateral cases) with mean age=33.4 years were studied. Two patients (25%) had suffered another fatigue fracture in the past. Mean symptoms' duration prior diagnosis was 8.5 weeks, while mean symptoms' duration after diagnosis was 10.75. In most cases (7; 87.5%), MRI revealed the fracture. According to the Kaeding-Miller classification; five fractures (42%) were grade III, four (33%) IV and three (25%) II. All patients were treated conservatively, with rest and analgesics, while three received vitamin D and calcium. One patient, due to delayed union, was commenced on teriparatide. CONCLUSIONS: FSFs are often misdiagnosed; therefore, they should be included in the differential diagnosis for chronic low back-or-hip pain in athletes. History of other fatigue injuries seems to be a predisposing factor. It is of paramount importance to obtain advanced imaging for identifying a FSF.

Correlation of Cruciate Ligament Histological Findings with Coronal Plane Deformities and Characteristics of Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Introduction:Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability in older adults. The majority of cruciate ligament injuries progress to OA through numerous mechanisms. The aim of this study was to identify the histological changes of cruciate ligaments in OA knees from patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) as well as possible correlations with coronal plate deformities and patients' characteristics. Methods:A total of 50 consecutive patients with knee OA undergoing TKA with posterior stabilized prosthesis were included in the study. Demographics, preoperative range of flexion, the flexion contracture, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, coronal plane deformity, Kellgren and Lawrence radiological degree of OA and Beguin-Locker classification of intraoperative degree of OA were recorded. The histopathological changes evaluated in specimens from both cruciate ligaments included myxoid and mucoid degeneration, chondroid metaplasia and orientation of collagen fibers. Results:A total of 24 males (48%) and 26 females (52%) with a mean age of 71 years (SD 5.93) participated in our study. The mean preoperative duration of pain was 3.62 years (SD 2.2). The K-L scale mean score was 2.60 (SD 0.64) and the mean VAS score 6.38 (SD 1.1). The mean varus deformity was 10.14 degrees (SD 3.7). Knee flexion/flexion contracture were recorded at 95.76±6.183 and 16.14±4.914 degrees, respectively. Intraoperatively, the B-L scale mean score was 2.02 (SD 0.77). Mucoid degeneration in ACL was the most common histopathological feature (15.7%) (SD 12.9), followed by chondroid metaplasia in both ACL and PCL [14.3% (SD12.5) and 14.3% (SD 13.2), respectively]. A negative correlation between BMI and myxoid ACL (p=0.01) as well as between varus deformity and mucoid ACL (p=0.05) was found, while a negative correlation between height and myxoid ACL (p=0.05) has been also revealed. Conclusion:Degeneration of cruciate ligaments is associated with degenerative joint disease and OA should be considered a disease involving the whole joint including ligaments, menisci, synovium and joint capsule. However, the correlation between degeneration of cruciate ligaments and OA is not yet fully understood and more research is needed.

Fungal Prosthetic Joint Infection in Revised Knee Arthroplasty: An Orthopaedic Surgeon's Nightmare.

Fungal prosthetic joint infections (PJIs), despite the fact that they are rare, represent a devastating complication. Such infections in revised knee arthroplasties pose a unique surgical and medical challenge. A rare case of Candida parapsilosis PJI in revised knee arthroplasty is reported. Furthermore, a thorough review of all published fungal PJIs cases in revised knee arthroplasties is provided. A 72-year-old female with total knee replacement surgery due to osteoarthritis 10 years ago, followed by two revision surgeries six and two years ago due to aseptic loosening, presented with signs and symptoms of septic loosening of the knee components. Resection arthroplasty and cement-spacer placement was performed and periprosthetic tissue cultures yielded Candida parapsilosis. The patient was commenced on proper antifungal treatment (AFT) for six months and then the second stage of the revision surgery was performed successfully. From 2000 to 2022, a total of 46 patients with median age 69 years [interquartile range (IQR = 10)], suffering fungal PJI occurring in revised knee arthroplasty have been reported. The median time from initial arthroplasty to symptoms' onset was 12 months (IQR = 14). Cultures of local material (52.2%) and histology (6.5%) were the reported diagnostic method, while Candida species were the most commonly isolated fungi. Regarding surgical management, two-stage revision arthroplasty (TSRA) was performed in most cases (54.3%), with median time-interval of six months (IQR = 6) between the two stages. Regarding AFT, fluconazole was the preferred antifungal compound (78.3%), followed by voriconazole and amphotericin B (19.6% each). The median duration of AFT was five months (IQR = 4.5). Infection's outcome was successful in 38 cases (82.6%). Fungal PJIs, especially in revised knee arthroplasties, are devastating complications. A combination of AFT and TSRA seems to be the treatment of choice. TSRA in these cases poses a special challenge, since major bone defects may be present. Therapeutic procedures remain unclear, thus additional research is needed.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Caring Behaviors among Nursing Staff in Greek Hospitals: a Prospective Multicenter Study.

Introduction:Care delivery from nursing staff to patients in hospital environment may involve the exertion of considerable muscular force and, as a result, there is a consequent risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the relationship between reported MSDs and perceived caring behaviors among nursing staff. Methods: A total of 250 questionnaires were completed in three Greek hospitals during February and March 2019. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire for the evaluation of MSDs and the Caring Behaviors Inventory-24 (CBI-24) for the assessment of caring behaviors were used. Results:A total of 185 participants (74%) were found to have at least one MSD. Back (64.3%), neck (63.2%) and shoulder (58.4%) pain were the most commonly reported MSDs. The mean score on the CBI-24 scale was 5.06 (SD=0.51) and the mean "Connectedness" dimension was 4.59 (SD=0.74). Elbow MSDs were significantly associated with the lowest score in the "Knowledge and skills" dimension (p=0.024) and the lowest overall nursing score (p=0.048). Linear regression analysis showed that the lowest nursing care score was associated with left-handed nurses (p=0.008) of low hierarchical position (p=0.013), suffering from elbow MSDs (p=0.002), for which they did not seek treatment (p=0.023). Participants who continued to work on a regular basis despite MSDs showed a lower score on the dimensions of "Respectful" (p=0.05) and "Connectedness" (p=0.01). Conclusion:The nursing staff showed high percentage of MSDs that negatively affected their perceived dimensions of caring behaviors. These findings could be used to prevent and deal with work-related MSDs, reduce occupational hazards and improve hospital patient care.

Skeletal Infections Caused by Coccidioides Species.

BACKGROUND: Coccidioidomycosis represents an endemic and challenging disease, with rare extrapulmonary manifestations. The present review of all published cases of core and extremities osseous coccidioidomycosis aims to describe epidemiology, patients' characteristics, symptoms as well as medical and surgical treatment options and their effectiveness. METHODS: A thorough review of all published skeletal core and extremity infections due to Coccidioides species was conducted. Information regarding demographics, causative fungus, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical management as well as the infection outcome was recorded. RESULTS: A total of 92 cases of Coccidioides spp. skeletal infections were recorded in 87 patients. The patients' mean age was 35.3 years. The most common site of infection was the spine (82.6%), followed by the foot (6.5%), while the predominant symptom upon presentation was pain (29.9%). Immunosuppressive conditions and/or medications were observed in 21 patients (24.1%). Regarding imaging methods, indicating diagnosis, plain X-rays or CT scans were performed in most patients (50.6%), followed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (47.1%). Most cases were diagnosed through histopathology (62; 71.3%), followed by serology testing (36; 42.4%) and by cultures (35; 40.2%). In 32 cases (36.8%), Coccidioides immitis was cultured, while in the remaining 55 cases (63.2%) the fungus was not further characterized. Regarding AFT, amphotericin B was the preferred agent (52.9%), followed by fluconazole (43.3%). In most cases (78.2%) surgical treatment was also performed. Treatment was successful in 80.5% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: Skeletal core and extremity infections due to Coccidioides spp. represent a severe disease. With the available data, the combination of prolonged proper AFT with surgical intervention seems to be the optimal current therapeutic approach.

Osseous Infections Caused by Aspergillus Species.

BACKGROUND: Osteomyelitis caused by Aspergillus spp. is a severe, but rare, clinical entity. However, clear guidelines regarding the most effective medical management have not yet been established. The present study is a literature review of all such cases, in an effort to elucidate epidemiology, as well as the therapeutic management and the infection's outcome. METHODS: A thorough review of all reports of osteomyelitis of the appendicular and the axial skeleton, without the skull and the spine, caused by Aspergillus spp. was undertaken. Data about demographics, imaging techniques facilitating diagnosis, causative Aspergillus, method of mold isolation, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical treatment, as well as the infection's outcome were recorded and evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 63 cases of osseous infection due to Aspergillus spp. were identified. The studied population's mean age was 37.9 years. The most commonly affected site was the rib cage (36.8%). Most hosts suffered immunosuppressive conditions (76.2%). Regarding imaging methods indicating diagnosis, computer tomography (CT) was performed in most cases (42.9%), followed by plain X-ray (41.3%) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (34.9%). The most frequent isolated mold was Aspergillus fumigatus (49.2%). Cultures and/or histopathology were used for definite diagnosis in all cases, while galactomannan antigen test was additionally used in seven cases (11.1%), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in four cases (6.3%), and beta-d-glucan testing in three cases (4.8%). Regarding AFT, the preferred antifungal was voriconazole (61.9%). Most patients underwent surgical debridement (63.5%). The outcome was successful in 77.5%. DISCUSSION: Osteomyelitis due to Aspergillus spp. represents a severe infection. The available data suggest that prolonged AFT in combination with surgical debridement is the preferred management of this infection, while identification of the responsible mold is of paramount importance.

Cognitive Assessment of Musculoskeletal Pain: Validity and Reliability of the Greek Version of the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia in Patients Suffering from Chronic Low Back Pain.

Objectives: The Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) evaluates pain associated fear, which is considered an important factor in the cognitive assessment of musculoskeletal pain according to the biopsychosocial model. The aim of this study was to validate the Greek version of the TSK (TSK-GR) in a population suffering from chronic low back pain. Methods:Following Institutional Review Board's approval (ref.: 6/16-2-2018), 70 consecutive patients with low back pain, lasting more than three months, completed the TSK-GR together with the Greek versions of the Hospital Anxiety & Depression Scale (HADs-GR), Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ-GR), Pain Locus of Control (PLC-GR) and visual analogue scale for pain (VAS). A subgroup of 20 patients completed the TSK-GR (48 hours) twice (test-retest reliability). Construct validity was evaluated through the a priori hypothesis of correlation with the FABQ-GR, HADs-GR and VAS, while discriminant construct validity through the lack of correlation with the PLC-GR. The Cronbach's alpha (a), the Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) statistics were used for analyses. Results:Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were satisfactory (Cronbach's a=0.74 and ICC=0.78). The construct validity of the TSK-GR was shown through its association with both FABQ subscales (FABQ-work: r=0.48, p<0.001, and FABQ-physical: r=0.51, p<0.001), with both HADs subscales (HADs-depression: r=0.45, p<0.001, and HADs-anxiety: r=0.34, p<0.005) and with the VAS (r=0.62, p<0.001). Discriminant construct validity was shown through the lack of association between TSK-GR and the PLC-GR. Conclusion:This study provided evidence for the validity and reliability of the Greek version of TSK in patients with chronic low back pain.

Anterior dislocation of sternoclavicular joint: A novel surgical technique.

INTRODUCTION: Anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation (SCJ) is a relative rare injury, related to high energy trauma. The objective of the present study is to present a novel suture technique for treatment of anterior SCJ traumatic dislocation and to report clinical outcomes from a small case series undergoing this procedure. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients presenting with traumatic anterior SCJ disruption in our institution were eligible to participate. Surgical technique consisted of two bone tunnels drilled in vertical direction from the anterior to the posterior cortex of the manubrium. Analogous to the sternal side of the clavicle, two vertical bone tunnels were drilled from the anterior cortex towards the posterior cortex. A non-absorbable suture was passed though the four holes in a parallel configuration. Then, by pulling the free suture edges the posterior translation of the clavicle was performed. Two additional drill holes, the first in manubrium and the second in clavicle were performed from the anterior cortex to the posterior between the previous bone tunnels. A non-absorbable suture was placed in a simple configuration in order to stabilize the SCJ in the superior-inferior direction. The final follow up was 28.2 months. The mean QuickDASH was used for functional assessment. RESULTS: Seven patients (6 males and 1 female) with average age of 34,8 years were included in the present study. Two patients suffered from concomitant medial clavicle fracture. At final follow-up (none of the patients had experienced any symptoms of instability of SCJ, no side-to-side difference was observed, while the Mean QuickDASH score was 4.85. CONCLUSION: The reported technique for SCJ reconstruction in traumatic anterior SCJ dislocations with two sutures has theoretical advantages, since it stabilizes the SCJ in the antero-posterior, as well as the supero- inferior direction. Outcomes from this small case series are favorable. However, more research is desirable to compare different techniques and to conclude to the optimal surgical treatment.

Anterolateral Minimally Invasive Total Hip Arthroplasty: Pitfalls During the Learning Curve and Clinical Outcomes.

Introduction:To report outcomes and complications from a modified anterolateral minimal invasive surgery (ALMIS) approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients and methods: All patients undergoing THA through ALMIS approach during a seven-year period were retrospectively evaluated. Results:One hundred fifty-four patients with a mean follow-up of 4.6 years were studied. The mean Harris hip score was found to be 91.1. A number of complications were recorded, including two cases (1.3%) of greater avulsion trochanter, one case (0.6%) of femur fractures, 12 (7.8%) cases of Trendelenburg sign and 12 cases of heterotopic ossification. Conclusions: This approach offers good visualization during acetabulum and femur preparation and excellent clinical results during mid-term follow-up.

Excisional Arthroplasty for Isolated Scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal Arthritis with the Use of Palmaris Longus Tendon.

Background: Isolated scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal (STT) joint osteoarthritis (OA) is a relatively common condition. Scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal arthrodesis is the traditional treatment, while excisional arthroplasty with the use of flexor carpi radialis (FCR) or polycarbon implants represents a promising alternative surgical management. The present study aims to assess a novel alternative technique of excisional arthroplasty with the use of palmaris longus (PL) tendon as interposition material. Materials: The present research is a retrospective observational study. Patients suffering from symptomatic isolated STT OA, without midcarpal instability and treated with excisional arthroplasty with the use of PL tendon as interposition material, were evaluated. Five patients (two males and three females) with mean age of 63.8 years [standard deviation (SD)=16.9] were included. The mean follow up was 56.4 months (SD=9.8). In order to quantify the clinical results, we used the preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score at rest and during activity, abbreviated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score and postoperative ROM. Results:The postoperative VAS score at rest and during activity showed a decrease of 86.2% and 62.5%, respectively, when compared to the preoperative one. Regarding postoperative ROM at final follow-up, patients had a mean wrist flexion 71° compared to 78° of the contralateral hand, while the mean extension was found to be 57° compared to 66° of the contralateral side. Conclusions:The evaluated novel technique with the use of PL tendon as interposition material seems to offer satisfying results, while allowing to keep the FCR tendon intact. More studies comparing these techniques are of utmost importance to conclude which is the optimal treatment.

Native Joint Infections by Aspergillus Species.

BACKGROUND: Septic arthritis due to Aspergillus spp. represents a rare, but severe disease. Nevertheless, clear guidelines regarding most effective medical treatment have not yet been established. The present study is a literature review of all reported cases of fungal septic arthritis due to Aspergillus spp, in order to clarify epidemiology, as well as the medical and operative management and their outcome. METHODS: A meticulous review of all published septic arthritis infections due to Aspergillus has been conducted. Information regarding demographics, causative fungus, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical intervention, as well as the infection's outcome were recorded and evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 30 Aspergillus spp. strains from 29 hosts have been studied. The patients' mean age was 45.8 years. The most commonly affected joint was the knee (45.7%), while the predominant symptom was joint pain (62%). Most patients were immunocompromised (72.4%). Diagnosis was established through cultures and/or histopathology. Aspergillus fumigatus was the most common responsible fungi (63.3%), followed by A. flavus (16.6%) and A. terreus (10%). Regarding AFT, the preferred agent proved to be Amphotericin B (14 cases; 48.3%), followed by voriconazole (11; 37.9%), while the mean AFT duration was 5.6 months. In most cases surgical treatment was also performed (in 4 cases no surgery was reported). Treatment was effective in 20 cases (69%). CONCLUSIONS: Septic arthritis caused by Aspergillus spp. represents a severe clinical entity. It seems that, with the available data, prolonged AFT along with surgical intervention is the preferred management of this infection, while identification of the responsible fungus is of utmost importance.

Spondylodiscitis Caused by Aspergillus Species.

BACKGROUND: Spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus spp. is a rare but life-threatening clinical entity. However, a consensus on diagnostic criteria and most effective medical management is still missing. The present study is a review of all published cases of spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus spp., in an effort to elucidate epidemiology, patients' characteristics, andand the medical and surgical treatment options and their effectiveness. METHODS: A thorough review of all existing spondylodiscitis cases caused by Aspergillus was performed. Data regarding demographics, responsible fungus, time between symptoms' onset and firm diagnosis, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical intervention, andand the infection's outcome were investigated. RESULTS: A total of 118 Aspergillus spondylodiscitis cases, yielding 119 Aspergillus spp. isolates, were identified in the literature. The patients' mean age was 40.6 years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (after its introduction) indicated the diagnosis in most cases (66.7%), while definite diagnosis was established through cultures in the majority of cases (73.7%). Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated in most cases (73; 61.3%), followed by Aspergillus flavus (15; 12.6%) andand Aspergillus nidulans and terreus (7; 5.9%, each). The mean time between symptoms' onset and diagnosis was 5.7 months. Amphotericin B was the preferred antifungal regiment (84 cases; 71.2%), followed by voriconazole (31; 26.3%), and the mean AFT duration was 6.1 months. The final outcome was successful in 93 cases (78.8%). Furthermore, 77 patients (65.3%) underwent surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus spp. represents a clinical challenge, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. The present review has shown that prolonged AFT has been the standard of care of the studied cases, while surgical treatment seems to play an important role in selected patents.