Combined Reconstruction of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament and Medial Quadriceps Tendon-Femoral Ligament.

Most patellar dislocations are associated with disruption of the proximal medial patellar restraints (PMPRs). The PMPRs comprise the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and medial quadriceps tendon-femoral ligament (MQTFL). Although isolated MPFL reconstruction is the most frequently performed procedure for the surgical management of recurrent dislocation, recent studies have shown that the MQTFL has a synergistic role with the MPFL in resisting lateral patellar displacement close to full extension. It has therefore been suggested that surgical techniques that gain the benefits of both proximal and distal PMPR biomechanical behavior may be best. This article describes an established technique for combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction using semitendinosus autograft.

Hamstring Tendon Autograft Contamination in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Comparison between two Harvesting Techniques.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination rate of hamstring tendon autografts by comparing two different techniques, and to verify whether intraoperative contamination is associated with the development of clinical infection in patients submitted to reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). METHODS: A total of 110 hamstring tendon autograft ACL reconstructions were performed and divided into two groups: 1-hamstring tendon retraction technique; and 2 - technique maintaining the tibial insertion of the hamstring tendon. During the preparation, two graft fragments were sent for culturing; the harvesting time, the preparation time, and the total surgery time were measured. Twenty-four hours after the surgery, the C-reactive protein was assayed. The clinical outpatient follow-up was performed up to 180 days postoperatively. RESULTS: Although there were two postoperative infections, there was no graft contamination or difference between the groups in relation to the graft preparation time and to the 24-hour postoperative C-reactive protein assessment. The classic technique presented a longer graft harvesting time ( p = 0.038), and there was no statistical difference between the 2 groups regarding the degree of contamination and consequent clinical infection, although 2 patients in group 2 presented with infection, with negative perioperative cultures. CONCLUSION: Based on the results obtained, there was no association between graft contamination and the time or technique of its preparation. In addition, there was also no association between intraoperative contamination and the development of clinical infection, nor was there any sign of an association between the early alteration of C-reactive protein and the onset of infection.

Hamstring Tendon Autograft Contamination in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Comparison between two Harvesting Techniques / Contaminação de enxertos de tendões flexores na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior: comparação de duas técnicas de retirada

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the contamination rate of hamstring tendon autografts by comparing two different techniques, and to verify whether intraoperative contamination is associated with the development of clinical infection in patients submitted to reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Methods: A total of 110 hamstring tendon autograft ACL reconstructions were performed and divided into two groups: 1-hamstring tendon retraction technique; and 2 - technique maintaining the tibial insertion of the hamstring tendon. During the preparation, two graft fragments were sent for culturing; the harvesting time, the preparation time, and the total surgery time were measured. Twenty-four hours after the surgery, the C-reactive protein was assayed. The clinical outpatient follow-up was performed up to 180 days postoperatively. Results: Although there were two postoperative infections, there was no graft contamination or difference between the groups in relation to the graft preparation time and to the 24-hour postoperative C-reactive protein assessment. The classic technique presented a longer graft harvesting time (p = 0.038), and there was no statistical difference between the 2 groups regarding the degree of contamination and consequent clinical infection, although 2 patients in group 2 presented with infection, with negative perioperative cultures. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, there was no association between graft contamination and the time or technique of its preparation. In addition, there was also no association between intraoperative contamination and the development of clinical infection, nor was there any sign of an association between the early alteration of Creactive protein and the onset of infection.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a taxa de contaminação de autoenxerto de tendões flexores comparando duas técnicas e verificar se a contaminação intraoperatória está associada ao desenvolvimento de infecção clínica em pacientes submetidos a reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior. Métodos: Foram feitas 110 reconstruções do ligamento cruzado anterior com tendão dos flexores e divididas em dois grupos: 1) técnica com retirada total dos tendões flexores e 2) técnica que manteve a inserção tibial desses tendões. Durante o preparo, dois fragmentos de cada um desses foram enviados para cultura, sendo mensurado o tempo de retirada dos tendões, do preparo dos tendões e total da cirurgia. Com 24 horas de pós-operatório, foi dosada a proteína C reativa. Seguimento clínico ambulatorial foi realizado de forma protocolada até 180 dias de pós-operatório. Resultados: Apesar de terem sido observadas duas infecções pós-operatórias, não houve contaminação dos enxertos nem diferença entre os grupos emrelação ao tempo de preparo dos enxertos e a proteína C reativa com 24 horas de pós-operatório. A técnica clássica apresentou maior tempo de retirada do enxerto (p = 0,038) e não houve diferença estatística entre os dois grupos no que tange ao grau de contaminação e consequente infecção clínica, embora dois pacientes do grupo 2 tenham tido infecção com culturas perioperatórias negativas. Conclusão: Com base nos resultados obtidos, não houve associação entre contaminação do enxerto com o tempo ou a técnica de sua preparação, tampouco entre a contaminação intraoperatória e o desenvolvimento de infecção clínica ou entre alteração precoce da proteína C reativa e o surgimento de infecção.

The femoral tunnel view test during ACL reconstruction can ensure tunnel integrity / O teste de visualização artroscópica do túnel femoral durante a reconstrução do LCA garante a integridade do túnel

ABSTRACT Objective: Violation of the posterior femoral cortex commonly referred to as posterior wall blowout, can be a devastating intraoperative complication in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and can lead to loss of graft fixation or early graft failure. This study describes and analyzes whether the femoral tunnel view test can ensure the integrity of the femoral tunnel during ACLR. Methods: Intraoperative femoral tunnel integrity using the 360º arthroscopic view test was performed in 584 ACLR patients between 2014 and 2016. Posterior wall blowouts were described by their location along the femoral tunnel (i.e., near the aperture or more proximal) and by the depth of the tunnel blowout (<3 mm, 3-5 mm, >5 mm), corresponding to the length of the posterior cortical wall of the violated femoral tunnel. The time spent for the test was measured during ACLR. Complications related to the femoral tunnel view test were also evaluated. Results: The femoral tunnel view test was performed in all 584 patients. In 12 patients (1%), the femoral tunnel presented a posterior cortical blowout that did not extend beyond 3 mm. Only four patients (0.6%) presented posterior wall blowout that extended beyond 5 mm. The time for the test was 40 s (±20 s). No complications related to the test were reported. Conclusion: The femoral tunnel view test is effective for ensuring the integrity of the femoral tunnel during ACL reconstruction, without increasing the surgical time and without an increase in the complications rate. Clinical relevance: The femoral tunnel view test is a quick and straightforward test able to provide an adequate view of the patient's anatomy to ensure tunnel integrity during ACLR.

RESUMO Objetivos: A violação da cortical femoral posterior pode ser complicação intraoperatória devastadora na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior (RLCA), pode levar à perda de fixação ou à falha precoce do enxerto. Este estudo descreve e analisa a capacidade do teste de visualização artroscópica do túnel femoral em evidenciar a integridade de suas paredes durante a RLCA. Métodos: Foram prospectivamente avaliados 584 pacientes elegíveis à RLCA entre 2014 e 2016 quanto à integridade do túnel femoral com o uso do teste de visualização artroscópica. A localização ao longo do túnel femoral e a profundidade da violação no túnel (< 3 mm, 3-5 mm, > 5 mm) foram avaliadas. O tempo para o teste foi medido e a ocorrência de complicações relacionadas ao mesmo também foi analisada. Resultados: Todos os 584 pacientes elegíveis foram submetidos ao teste de visualização do túnel femoral durante a cirurgia artroscópica para RLCA. Em 12 (1%) pacientes, o túnel femoral apresentou perda de integridade da cortical posterior, que não ultrapassou 3 mm. Apenas quatro (0,6%) pacientes apresentaram violação da cortical posterior, que se estendeu para além de 5 mm. O tempo médio dispendido no teste foi de 40 segundos (± 20). Nenhuma complicação realização foi relatada. Conclusão: O teste de visualização do túnel femoral é eficaz para avaliar a integridade desse túnel durante a RLCA, sem aumentar o tempo cirúrgico e sem provocar aumento na taxa de complicações relativas ao procedimento. Relevância Clínica: O teste de visualização artroscópica do túnel femoral é uma técnica simples e rápida, capaz de obter visão adequada da anatomia do paciente, garante a integridade do túnel durante a RLCA.

The femoral tunnel view test during ACL reconstruction can ensure tunnel integrity.

OBJECTIVE: Violation of the posterior femoral cortex commonly referred to as posterior wall blowout, can be a devastating intraoperative complication in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and can lead to loss of graft fixation or early graft failure. This study describes and analyzes whether the femoral tunnel view test can ensure the integrity of the femoral tunnel during ACLR. METHODS: Intraoperative femoral tunnel integrity using the 360° arthroscopic view test was performed in 584 ACLR patients between 2014 and 2016. Posterior wall blowouts were described by their location along the femoral tunnel (i.e., near the aperture or more proximal) and by the depth of the tunnel blowout (<3 mm, 3-5 mm, >5 mm), corresponding to the length of the posterior cortical wall of the violated femoral tunnel. The time spent for the test was measured during ACLR. Complications related to the femoral tunnel view test were also evaluated. RESULTS: The femoral tunnel view test was performed in all 584 patients. In 12 patients (1%), the femoral tunnel presented a posterior cortical blowout that did not extend beyond 3 mm. Only four patients (0.6%) presented posterior wall blowout that extended beyond 5 mm. The time for the test was 40 s (±20 s). No complications related to the test were reported. CONCLUSION: The femoral tunnel view test is effective for ensuring the integrity of the femoral tunnel during ACL reconstruction, without increasing the surgical time and without an increase in the complications rate. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The femoral tunnel view test is a quick and straightforward test able to provide an adequate view of the patient's anatomy to ensure tunnel integrity during ACLR.

OBJETIVOS: A violação da cortical femoral posterior pode ser complicação intraoperatória devastadora na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior (RLCA), pode levar à perda de fixação ou à falha precoce do enxerto. Este estudo descreve e analisa a capacidade do teste de visualização artroscópica do túnel femoral em evidenciar a integridade de suas paredes durante a RLCA. MÉTODOS: Foram prospectivamente avaliados 584 pacientes elegíveis à RLCA entre 2014 e 2016 quanto à integridade do túnel femoral com o uso do teste de visualização artroscópica. A localização ao longo do túnel femoral e a profundidade da violação no túnel (<3 mm, 3-5 mm, >5 mm) foram avaliadas. O tempo para o teste foi medido e a ocorrência de complicações relacionadas ao mesmo também foi analisada. RESULTADOS: Todos os 584 pacientes elegíveis foram submetidos ao teste de visualização do túnel femoral durante a cirurgia artroscópica para RLCA. Em 12 (1%) pacientes, o túnel femoral apresentou perda de integridade da cortical posterior, que não ultrapassou 3 mm. Apenas quatro (0,6%) pacientes apresentaram violação da cortical posterior, que se estendeu para além de 5 mm. O tempo médio dispendido no teste foi de 40 segundos (± 20). Nenhuma complicação realização foi relatada. CONCLUSÃO: O teste de visualização do túnel femoral é eficaz para avaliar a integridade desse túnel durante a RLCA, sem aumentar o tempo cirúrgico e sem provocar aumento na taxa de complicações relativas ao procedimento. RELEVÂNCIA CLÍNICA: O teste de visualização artroscópica do túnel femoral é uma técnica simples e rápida, capaz de obter visão adequada da anatomia do paciente, garante a integridade do túnel durante a RLCA.

Range of motion predictability after total knee arthroplasty with medial pivot prosthesis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether there the final range of motion (ROM) results achieved by patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with prosthesis using Medial Pivot design are predictable. METHODS: Between January and August of 2014, 155 patients with primary osteoarthritis of knee who underwent TKA using the prosthesis ADVANCE® Medial Pivot were prospectively assessed. All ROM measures were made and recorded before, during, and after surgery. All patients were clinically assessed preoperatively and postoperatively (15, 45 days, three months, six months, one year, and annually thereafter after surgery); their functional status was assessed using the WOMAC questionnaire. RESULTS: Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between the means and medians of ROM in the preoperative when compared with those during the perioperative; the perioperative values, when compared with those after six months postoperative, were also different (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between the means and medians ROM between the intraoperative period and at the 45-day assessment (ns) and between the means and medians ROM between the preoperative period and at the six-month evaluation (ns). CONCLUSION: The final ROM achieved by patients that underwent TKA with medial pivot prosthesis can be predicted. The perioperative ROM correlates with that at 45 days after surgery. The final ROM is correlated with that of the pre-operative period.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se há previsibilidade da amplitude de movimentos alcançada por pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho com prótese que usa desenho medial pivot. MÉTODOS: Entre janeiro e agosto de 2014 foi feita avaliação prospectiva de 155 pacientes com osteoartrose primária do joelho submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho com o uso da prótese Advance® Medial Pivot. Todas as medidas da amplitude de movimentos foram feitas antes, durante e após a cirurgia. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados clinicamente no pré- e pós-operatório (15, 45 dias, três meses, seis meses, um ano e depois anualmente após a cirurgia) para a análise de seu estado funcional. O questionário Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (Womac) foi usado. RESULTADOS: Diferenças significativas (p < 0,001) foram relatadas entre as médias e medianas da amplitude de movimentos no pré-operatório em comparação com as medidas obtidas no período intraoperatório. As medidas do pré-operatório também se mostraram diferentes quando comparadas com aquelas após seis meses de pós-operatório (p < 0,001). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre as médias e medianas da amplitude de movimento na comparação do intraoperatório e as medidas feitas aos 45 dias (ns) e entre as médias e medianas das medidas pré-operatórias e aquelas observadas aos seis meses (ns). CONCLUSÃO: Há previsibilidade da amplitude de movimentos obtida por pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho com prótese medial pivot. A amplitude aos 45 dias é semelhante àquela observada nas medidas intraoperatórias. A amplitude final está relacionada à amplitude pré-operatória.

Range of motion predictability after total knee arthroplasty with medial pivot prosthesis / Previsibilidade da amplitude de movimento após artroplastia total do joelho com prótese medial pivot

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To assess whether there the final range of motion (ROM) results achieved by patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with prosthesis using Medial Pivot design are predictable. METHODS: Between January and August of 2014, 155 patients with primary osteoarthritis of knee who underwent TKA using the prosthesis ADVANCE(r) Medial Pivot were prospectively assessed. All ROM measures were made and recorded before, during, and after surgery. All patients were clinically assessed preoperatively and postoperatively (15, 45 days, three months, six months, one year, and annually thereafter after surgery); their functional status was assessed using the WOMAC questionnaire. RESULTS: Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between the means and medians of ROM in the preoperative when compared with those during the perioperative; the perioperative values, when compared with those after six months postoperative, were also different (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between the means and medians ROM between the intraoperative period and at the 45-day assessment (ns) and between the means and medians ROM between the preoperative period and at the six-month evaluation (ns) . CONCLUSION: The final ROM achieved by patients that underwent TKA with medial pivot prosthesis can be predicted. The perioperative ROM correlates with that at 45 days after surgery. The final ROM is correlated with that of the pre-operative period.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Avaliar se há previsibilidade da amplitude de movimentos alcançada por pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho com prótese que usa desenho medial pivot. MÉTODOS: Entre janeiro e agosto de 2014 foi feita avaliação prospectiva de 155 pacientes com osteoartrose primária do joelho submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho com o uso da prótese Advance(r) Medial Pivot. Todas as medidas da amplitude de movimentos foram feitas antes, durante e após a cirurgia. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados clinicamente no pré- e pós-operatório (15, 45 dias, três meses, seis meses, um ano e depois anualmente após a cirurgia) para a análise de seu estado funcional. O questionário Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (Womac) foi usado. RESULTADOS: Diferenças significativas (p < 0,001) foram relatadas entre as médias e medianas da amplitude de movimentos no pré-operatório em comparação com as medidas obtidas no período intraoperatório. As medidas do pré-operatório também se mostraram diferentes quando comparadas com aquelas após seis meses de pós-operatório (p < 0,001). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre as médias e medianas da amplitude de movimento na comparação do intraoperatório e as medidas feitas aos 45 dias (ns) e entre as médias e medianas das medidas pré-operatórias e aquelas observadas aos seis meses (ns). CONCLUSÃO: Há previsibilidade da amplitude de movimentos obtida por pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho com prótese medial pivot. A amplitude aos 45 dias é semelhante àquela observada nas medidas intraoperatórias. A amplitude final está relacionada à amplitude pré-operatória.

A Femoral Tunnel View Test During ACL Reconstruction.

Despite technologic advances in the surgical techniques for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, some patients continue to have violation of the femoral cortex, commonly referred to as wall blowout. These posterior or lateral cortical breaches lead to loss of graft containment and subsequent difficulty with graft fixation. If this intraoperative error is not promptly recognized and treated, the graft is at an increased risk of premature failure. Thus, in these situations, recognizing the complication and knowing strategies for alternative or salvage fixation are of importance. This article details a simple tunnel view test realized during ACL reconstruction that would enable determining the integrity and depth of the femoral tunnel. The femoral tunnel view test is a technically straightforward and quick test able to obtain a superior view of patient anatomy to facilitate accurate tunnel integrity evaluation during ACL reconstruction.

Reducing the length of hospital stay after total knee arthroplasty: influence of femoral and sciatic nerve block.

OBJECTIVE: the aim of this study is to evaluate the change in length of hospital stay postoperatively for Total Knee Arthroplasty after using femoral and sciatic nerve block. MATERIALS AND METHODS: the medical records of 287 patients were evaluated, taking into account the number of hours of admission, the percentage and the reason for re-hospitalization within 30 days, as well as associated complications. All patients were divided into two groups according or not to whether they were admitted to ICU or not. During the years 2009 and 2010, isolated spinal anesthesia was the method used in the procedure. From 2011 on, femoral and sciatic nerve blocking was introduced. RESULTS: between the years 2009 and 2012, the average length of stay ranged from 74 hours in 2009 to 75.2 hours in 2010. The average length of stay in 2011 was 56.52 hours and 53.72 hours in 2012, all in the group of patients who did not remain in the ICU postoperatively. In the same period, among those in the group that needed ICU admission, the average length of stay was 138.7 hours in 2009, 90.25 hours in 2010, 79.8 hours in 2011, and 52.91 hours in 2012. During 2009 and 2010, the rate of re-hospitalization was 0%, while in 2011 and 2012, were 3.44% and 1%, respectively. CONCLUSION: according to this study, the use of femoral and sciatic nerve blocking after total knee arthroplasty allowed significant reduction in hospital stay.

Reducing the length of hospital stay after total knee arthroplasty: influence of femoral and sciatic nerve block / Redução do tempo de internação após artroplastia total do joelho – Influência do bloqueio do nervo femoral e do nervo ciático

Objective: the aim of this study is to evaluate the change in length of hospital stay postoperatively for Total Knee Arthroplasty after using femoral and sciatic nerve block. Materials and methods: the medical records of 287 patients were evaluated, taking into account the number of hours of admission, the percentage and the reason for re-hospitalization within 30 days, as well as associated complications. All patients were divided into two groups according or not to whether they were admitted to ICU or not. During the years 2009 and 2010, isolated spinal anesthesia was the method used in the procedure. From 2011 on, femoral and sciatic nerve blocking was introduced. Results: between the years 2009 and 2012, the average length of stay ranged from 74 hours in 2009 to 75.2 hours in 2010. The average length of stay in 2011 was 56.52 hours and 53.72 hours in 2012, all in the group of patients who did not remain in the ICU postoperatively. In the same period, among those in the group that needed ICU admission, the average length of stay was 138.7 hours in 2009, 90.25 hours in 2010, 79.8 hours in 2011, and 52.91 hours in 2012. During 2009 and 2010, the rate of re-hospitalization was 0%, while in 2011 and 2012, were 3.44% and 1%, respectively. Conclusion: according to this study, the use of femoral and sciatic nerve blocking after total knee arthroplasty allowed significant reduction in hospital stay. .

Objetivo: avaliar a mudança no tempo de permanência hospitalar (PH) no pós-operatório de artroplastia total do joelho (ATJ) após a utilização do bloqueio dos nervos femoral e ciático. Métodos: os prontuários de 287 pacientes foram avaliados, levando-se em consideração o número de horas de internação, o percentual e o motivo de reinternação em 30 dias, bem como as complicações associadas, sendo divididos em dois grupos de acordo com a permanência ou não no centro de terapia intensiva (CTI). Durante os anos de 2009 e 2010, a anestesia utilizada para a realização dos procedimentos foi a raquianestesia isolada. A partir de 2011, o bloqueio dos nervos femoral e ciático foi introduzido. Resultados: no período entre 2009 e 2012, o tempo médio de PH variou entre 74 horas, em 2009, e 75,2 horas, em 2010. A PH média em 2011 foi de 56,52 horas e de 53,72 horas em 2012, no grupo de pacientes que não permaneceram no CTI no pós-operatório. No mesmo período, no grupo que precisou de internação no CTI, a PH média foi de 138,7 horas em 2009; 90,25 horas em 2010; 79,8 horas em 2011 e 52,91 horas em 2012. Em 2009 e 2010, a taxa de reinternação foi de 0%, e em 2011 e 2012, 3,44% e 1%, respectivamente. Conclusão: de acordo com este estudo, a utilização do bloqueio dos nervos femoral e ciático após a ATJ permitiu a redução significativa da PH. .

Relationship between range of motion and femoral rollback in total knee arthroplasty.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between femoral rollback and range of motion (ROM) in patients with cruciate retaining (CR) and posterior stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA). METHODS: The study included 38 knees of 31 patients (26 female and 5 male) with primary knee arthrosis who underwent TKA. The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) was sacrificed in 24 knees in the PS group and preserved in 14 in the CR group. Mean follow-up was 30.6 months. Patients were submitted to fluoroscopic lateral evaluation for ROM and femoral rollback assessment. RESULTS: Average ROM of the CR group was 106.43±9º and 105.43±11.7º for the PS group (p=0.78). Average femoral rollback was 10.5±9.7 mm and was significantly lower in the CR group (5.8±6.5 mm) than the PS group (13.2±10.5 mm) (p=0.026615). While there was no correlation between the femoral rollback and ROM for CR prostheses (p=0.78 and r=0.8), there was a significant correlation for PR prostheses (p=0.01 and r=0.49) with regression pointing to an increase of 0.545 degrees ROM for each unit of femoral rollback. CONCLUSION: Despite increase in femoral rollback and its relation with ROM in PS TKA, there were no differences in ROM between CR and PS TKA.

Physical activity after distal femur osteotomy for the treatment of lateral compartment knee osteoarthritis.

PURPOSE: Distal femoral osteotomy (DFO) is the preferential treatment for the symptomatic osteoarthritis of the lateral compartment of the knee in young active patients. The objective of this study is to evaluate the physical activity and functional outcome of a group of patients presenting with lateral compartment osteoarthritis of the knee prior to and after a DFO for correction of genum valgum. METHODS: Twenty-six patients who had been submitted to complete V-shaped distal femoral osteotomy were evaluated after a mean follow-up period of 48 months by interview and questionnaire. Functional and physical activities were scored according to published rating systems. RESULTS: Twenty-two (84.6 %) patients were very satisfied or satisfied (mean satisfaction 2) with the outcome of surgery and 88.5 % of the patients had normal work duties after surgery without limitation or decline in performance. The preoperative median level for physical activity according to the Tegner activity level was 3(2-7), while the median postoperative level was 3 (1-7) (n.s.) 57.7 % had resumed physical activities at preoperative levels: some patients had increased the number and type of exercises. According to Lysholm score, the mean preoperative score for physical performance was 53.1 ± 16.2 while the mean postoperative score had increased to 77.3 ± 16.7 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Based on this study, distal femoral osteotomy allowed the resumption of physical activities for individuals with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the lateral compartment of the knee, resulting in improvements in clinical conditions and, consequently, in their daily working and recreational activities.

The effect of computerized navigation on component alignment in total knee arthroplasty.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to evaluate the effect of computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on component alignment. METHODS: The radiographs of 20 patients who underwent computer-assisted TKA within a two-year period were analyzed with respect to the mechanical femorotibial, mechanical femoral, mechanical tibial angles (mFTA, mFA and mTA, respectively) and the tibial slope (σ). RESULTS: The mean postoperative mFTA (179.7°) was significantly improved when compared to the preoperative value (175.45°) (p=0.012). The mean postoperative mFA was significantly reduced (p=0.035) in comparison with the preoperative mean (89.1° and 90.6°, respectively). The mean postoperative mTA was exactly 90.0°, while the preoperative mean was significantly lower (87.7°; p=0.003). Mean tourniquet time during TKA was 109.5 minutes. CONCLUSION: Computer navigation in TKA appears to be a reliable system which facilitates implant positioning and component alignment.

Long-term success in the treatment of diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee with subtotal synovectomy and radiotherapy.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and long-term outcome of the treatment of patients with diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the knee with subtotal arthroscopic and open synovectomy and subsequent external-beam radiotherapy. METHODS: Eight patients diagnosed with diffuse PVNS by clinical and magnetic resonance imaging were treated surgically with subtotal arthroscopic synovectomy and an additional posterior incision for extra-articular lesions, followed by local adjuvant radiotherapy. These patients were followed up for a mean of 8.6 years to monitor remaining lesions and to detect new occurrences of the condition. RESULTS: None of the patients presented with major postoperative complications or have had radiotherapeutic late effects. In no case was radiographic arthritis progression detected. Three patients exhibited late minor complications (peripatellar pain, articular effusion, and persistent quadricipital muscle atrophy). Only 1 patient (12.5%) presented with recurrence of the disease during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of our limited study, subtotal arthroscopic and open synovectomy with subsequent local external-beam radiotherapy had a recurrence rate of 12.5% at 8.6 years of follow-up for the treatment of diffuse PVNS of the knee joint. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial para tratamento da luxação recidivante da patela / Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction to treat recurrent patellar dislocation

OBJETIVO: Apresentar nova técnica de reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial (LPFM) em pacientes com luxação recidivante da patela e avaliar seus resultados clínicos. MÉTODOS: Entre jan/2007 e jan/2008, 23 pacientes foram submetidos à reconstrução do LPFM com enxerto livre de tendão semitendíneo. Após acompanhamento mínimo de 24 meses, 22 pacientes foram avaliados pelos protocolos clínicos de Kujala e de Lysholm. RESULTADOS: O seguimento médio foi de 26,2 meses. Segundo o protocolo de Lysholm, os pacientes apresentaram pontuação média de 53,72 pontos no pré-operatório e 93,36 pontos no pós-operatório (p = 0,000006). Pelo protocolo de Kujala, a pontuação média foi 59,81 pontos no préoperatório e 83,54 pontos no pós-operatório (p = 0,002173). CONCLUSÃO: A reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial pela técnica proposta mostrou excelentes resultados no curto prazo, quando avaliada por protocolos clínicos.

OBJECTIVE: To present a new technique for reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation and to evaluate the clinical findings from this. METHODS: Between January 2007 and January 2008, 23 patients underwent reconstruction of the MPFL with a free graft from the semitendinosus tendon. After a minimum of 244 months of follow-up, 22 patients were evaluated using the Kujala and Lysholm clinical protocols. RESULTS: The mean follow up was 26.2 months. According to the Lysholm protocol, the patients had a mean score of 53.72 points preoperatively and 93.36 points postoperatively (p = 0.000006). According to the Kujala protocol, the mean score was 59.81 points preoperatively and 83.54 points postoperatively (p = 0.002173). CONCLUSION: Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the proposed technique showed excellent results over the short term, when evaluated by means of clinical protocols.

MEDIAL PATELLOFEMORAL LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION TO TREAT RECURRENT PATELLAR DISLOCATION.

OBJECTIVE: To present a new technique for reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation and to evaluate the clinical findings from this. METHODS: Between January 2007 and January 2008, 23 patients underwent reconstruction of the MPFL with a free graft from the semitendinosus tendon. After a minimum of 24 months of follow-up, 22 patients were evaluated using the Kujala and Lysholm clinical protocols. RESULTS: The mean follow up was 26.2 months. According to the Lysholm protocol, the patients had a mean score of 53.72 points preoperatively and 93.36 points postoperatively (p = 0.000006). According to the Kujala protocol, the mean score was 59.81 points preoperatively and 83.54 points postoperatively (p = 0.002173). CONCLUSION: Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the proposed technique showed excellent results over the short term, when evaluated by means of clinical protocols.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PATELLAR HEIGHT AND RANGE OF MOTION AFTER TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY.

UNLABELLED: To evaluate whether, after total knee arthroplasty, there is any correlation between patellar height and range of motion (ROM) achieved by patients six months after the operation. METHODS: Forty-five patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty were assessed at least 12 months after the operation (total of 54 knees). The maximum and minimum ROM of all the knees was recorded under fluoroscopy, along with patellar height according to the Blackburne and Peel ratio. Two possible correlations were evaluated: patellar height and ROM; and patellar height and ROM variation from before to after the operation. RESULTS: A correlation was found between patellar height and postoperative ROM (p = 0.04). There was no correlation between patellar height and ROM variation (p = 0.182). CONCLUSION: After total knee arthroplasty, the lower the patella is, the worse the ROM is.

Disestesia peri-incisional após reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior com terço central do tendão patelar / Peri-incisional dysesthesia following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using central third of patellar tendon

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência e o tipo de disestesia em torno da incisão utilizada para obtenção desse tendão na cirurgia de reconstrução do LCA. MÉTODOS: De uma população de 1.368 reconstruções do LCA com o terço central do tendão patelar, foram avaliados, por entrevista telefônica, 102 pacientes, totalizando 111 joelhos. RESULTADOS: O seguimento médio foi de 52 meses, variando entre 12 e 88 meses. A idade dos pacientes variou entre 16 e 58 anos, com média de 34,7 anos. Em 66 joelhos (59,46 por cento), houve algum grau de disestesia peri-incisional. Em 40,54 por cento dos joelhos, essa condição não foi encontrada. Em todos os casos de disestesia, o tipo encontrado foi o tipo II de Highet. CONCLUSÃO: A disestesia peri-incisional após a reconstrução do LCA com terço central do tendão patelar é muito prevalente, acometendo mais da metade dos casos nessa série.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence and type of dysesthesia around the incision used to obtain the patellar tendon for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. METHODS: Out of a population of 1368 ACL reconstructions using the central third of the patellar tendon, 102 patients (111 knees) were evaluated by means of telephone interview. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 52 months (ranging from 12 to 88 months). The patients' ages ranged from 16 to 58 years (mean: 34.7 years). There was some degree of peri-incisional dysesthesia in 66 knees (59.46 percent). In 40.54 percent of the knees, this condition was not found. In all the cases of dysesthesia, the type encountered was Highet's type II. CONCLUSION: Peri-incisional dysesthesia following ACL reconstruction using the central third of the patellar tendon is highly prevalent. It affected more than half of the cases in this series.

Relação entre altura da patela e amplitude de movimentos após a artroplastia total do joelho / Relationship between patellar height and range of motion after total knee arthroplasty

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se após a artroplastia total do joelho existe correlação entre a altura da patela e a amplitude de movimento (ADM) alcançada pelo paciente após seis meses de pós-operatório. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 45 pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho, todos com, no mínimo, 12 meses de pós-operatório, totalizando 54 joelhos. Sob fluoroscopia, todos os joelhos tiveram suas amplitudes de movimentos (ADM) máximas e mínimas registradas, bem como a altura da patela pelo índice de Blackburne e Peel. Foram avaliadas as duas correlações possíveis: relação entre altura da patela e ADM e altura da patela e a variação de ADM entre o pré e o pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Foi observada correlação entre altura da patela e ADM no pós-operatório (p = 0,04). Não foi observada correlação entre altura da patela e variação de ADM (p = 0,182). CONCLUSÃO: No pós-operatório da artroplastia total do joelho, quanto mais baixa a patela, pior a ADM.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether, after total knee arthroplasty, there is any correlation between patellar height and range of motion (ROM) achieved by patients six months after the operation. METHODS: Forty-five patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty were assessed at least 12 months after the operation (total of 54 knees). The maximum and minimum ROM of all the knees was recorded under fluoroscopy, along with patellar height according to the Blackburne and Peel ratio. Two possible correlations were evaluated: patellar height and ROM; and patellar height and ROM variation from before to after the operation. RESULTS: A correlation was found between patellar height and postoperative ROM (p = 0.04). There was no correlation between patellar height and ROM variation (p = 0.182). CONCLUSION: After total knee arthroplasty, the lower the patella is, the worse the ROM is.

Rolamento posterior do fêmur na artroplastia total do joelho: comparação entre as próteses com preservação e com sacrifício do ligamento cruzado posterior / Femoral roll back in total knee arthroplasty: comparison between prostheses that preserve and sacrifice the posterior cruciate ligament

OBJETIVO: Comparar a posteriorização do ponto de contato entre o componente femoral e o polietileno tibial à medida em que o joelho é fletido em dois tipos de artroplastia total do joelho, uma com sacrifício e outra com preservação do ligamento cruzado posterior (LCP). MÉTODOS: Foram analisados, sob fluoroscopia, 36 joelhos de 32 pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho. Analisando as imagens em perfil, foi medido o ponto de contato do fêmur com o polietileno tibial com o joelho em extensão completa e em 90 graus de flexão, mensurando-se o percentual de "rolamento" posterior do fêmur nas artroplastias em que o ligamento cruzado posterior (LCP) foi sacrificado e naquelas nas quais esse foi preservado. RESULTADOS: O percentual médio de posteriorização do fêmur foi de 13,24 por cento nos casos em que o LCP foi sacrificado e de 5,75 por cento nos casos em que esse foi preservado. A diferença entre essas medidas foi estatisticamente significativa, com p = 0,026615. CONCLUSÃO: Na artroplastia total do joelho, sacrificar o LCP aumenta a translação posterior do ponto de contato entre o fêmur e a tíbia à medida em que o joelho é flexionado até 90 graus.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the rollback of the contact point between the femoral component and the tibial polyethylene as the knee is flexed, in two types of total knee arthroplasty: one that sacrifices and the other that preserves the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). METHODS: Under fluoroscopy, 36 knees from 32 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty were evaluated. Using lateral images, the contact points between the femur and the tibial polyethylene with the knee in complete extension and at 90° of flexion were measured, thereby measuring the percentage rollback of the femur in arthroplasties in which the PCL was sacrificed and in those in which it was preserved. RESULTS: The mean percentage rollback of the femur was 13.24 percent in the cases in which the PCL was sacrificed and 5.75 percent in the cases in which it was preserved. The difference between these measurements was statistically significant (p = 0.026615). CONCLUSION: In total knee arthroplasty, sacrificing the PCL increased the rollback of the contact point between the femur and tibia as the knee was flexed up to 90°.