Primary Elbow Osteoarthritis: Evaluation and Management.

Most patients with primary osteoarthritis of the elbow report a history of heavy lifting with the affected upper extremity . Conservative treatment, including activity modifications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and the occasional intraarticular corticosteroid injection, may provide adequate pain relief in earlier stages . When surgery is required, and despite the presence of cartilage wear, many patients with primary elbow osteoarthritis experience substantial pain improvement with joint preserving procedures . The ulnar nerve needs to be carefully assessed and addressed at the time of surgery . Although open debridement procedures are effective, arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty has emerged as the surgical procedure of choice . Total elbow arthroplasty is very successful in terms of pain relief and function, but it is reserved for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis who are relatively older and have failed joint preserving procedures.

Mid-term radiological results of a cementless short humeral component in anatomical and reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

AIMS: Shoulder arthroplasty using short humeral components is becoming increasingly popular. Some such components have been associated with relatively high rates of adverse radiological findings. The aim of this retrospective review was to evaluate the radiological humeral bone changes and mechanical failure rates with implantation of a short cementless humeral component in anatomical (TSA) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 100 shoulder arthroplasties (35 TSA and 65 RSA) were evaluated at a mean of 3.8 years (3 to 8.3). The mean age at the time of surgery was 68 years (31 to 90). The mean body mass index was 32.7 kg/m2 (17.3 to 66.4). RESULTS: Greater tuberosity stress shielding was noted in 14 shoulders (two TSA and 12 RSA) and was graded as mild in nine, moderate in two, and severe in three. Medial calcar resorption was noted in 23 shoulders (seven TSA and 16 RSA), and was graded as mild in 21 and moderate in two. No humeral components were revised for loosening or considered to be loose radiologically. Nine shoulders underwent reoperation for infection (n = 3), fracture of the humeral tray (n = 2), aseptic glenoid loosening (n = 1), and instability (n = 3). No periprosthetic fractures occurred. CONCLUSION: Implantation of this particular short cementless humeral component at the time of TSA or RSA was associated with a low rate of adverse radiological findings on the humeral side at mid-term follow-up. Our data do not raise any concerns regarding the use of a short stem in TSA or RSA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:610-614.

Shoulder and Elbow Fractures in Athletes.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purposes of this review are to discuss the management of shoulder and elbow fractures in athletes to optimize the return to sport and to highlight treatment impact on the return to play. RECENT FINDINGS: Fractures of the shoulder and elbow can have profound implications in an athlete career. Recent technique of fractures management trended toward to preserve soft tissue which is critical for an early recovery in athletic population. Arthroscopy presents a strong interest for the treatment of intra-articular fracture, and minimally invasive approach as developed in humeral shaft fracture can be considered to avoid soft tissue damage. Non-articular, stable, and minimally displaced fractures are mainly treated conservatively. However, we encourage a more aggressive approach in shoulder and elbow injuries in the athletes including minimally invasive and stable fixation to preserve vascularity and muscle environment.

Can a reverse shoulder arthroplasty be used to revise a failed primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty?: Revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty for failed reverse prosthesis.

AIMS: Patients with a failed reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have limited salvage options. The aim of this study was to determine the outcome of revision RSA when used as a salvage procedure for a failed primary RSA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed all revision RSAs performed for a failed primary RSA between 2006 and 2012, excluding patients with a follow-up of less than two years. A total of 27 revision RSAs were included in the study. The mean age of the patients at the time of revision was 70 years (58 to 82). Of the 27 patients, 14 (52% were female). The mean follow-up was 4.4 years (2 to 10). RESULTS: Six patients (22%) developed complications requiring further revision surgery, at a mean of 1.7 years (0.1 to 5.3) postoperatively. The indication for further revision was dislocation in two, glenoid loosening in one, fracture of the humeral component in one, disassociation of the glenosphere in one, and infection in one. The five-year survival free of further revision was 85%. Five additional RSAs developed complications that did not need surgery, including dislocation in three and periprosthetic fracture in two. Overall, patients who did not require further revision had excellent pain relief, and significant improvements in elevation and external rotation of the shoulder (p < 0.01). The mean postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and simple shoulder test (SST) scores were 66 and 7, respectively. Radiological results were available in 26 patients (96.3%) at a mean of 4.3 years (1.5 to 9.5). At the most recent follow-up, six patients (23%) had glenoid lucency, which were classified as grade III or higher in three (12%). Smokers had a significantly increased risk of glenoid lucency (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Revision RSA, when used to salvage a failed primary RSA, can be a successful procedure. At intermediate follow-up, survival rates are reasonable, but dislocation and glenoid lucency remain a concern, particularly in smokers. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1493-98.

Intra-articular implantation of collagen scaffold carriers is safe in both native and arthrofibrotic rabbit knee joints.

OBJECTIVES: Sustained intra-articular delivery of pharmacological agents is an attractive modality but requires use of a safe carrier that would not induce cartilage damage or fibrosis. Collagen scaffolds are widely available and could be used intra-articularly, but no investigation has looked at the safety of collagen scaffolds within synovial joints. The aim of this study was to determine the safety of collagen scaffold implantation in a validated in vivo animal model of knee arthrofibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 96 rabbits were randomly and equally assigned to four different groups: arthrotomy alone; arthrotomy and collagen scaffold placement; contracture surgery; and contracture surgery and collagen scaffold placement. Animals were killed in equal numbers at 72 hours, two weeks, eight weeks, and 24 weeks. Joint contracture was measured, and cartilage and synovial samples underwent histological analysis. RESULTS: Animals that underwent arthrotomy had equivalent joint contractures regardless of scaffold implantation (-13.9° versus -10.9°, equivalence limit 15°). Animals that underwent surgery to induce contracture did not demonstrate equivalent joint contractures with (41.8°) or without (53.9°) collagen scaffold implantation. Chondral damage occurred in similar rates with (11 of 48) and without (nine of 48) scaffold implantation. No significant difference in synovitis was noted between groups. Absorption of the collagen scaffold occurred within eight weeks in all animals CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that intra-articular implantation of a collagen sponge does not induce synovitis or cartilage damage. Implantation in a native joint does not seem to induce contracture. Implantation of the collagen sponge in a rabbit knee model of contracture may decrease the severity of the contracture.Cite this article: J. A. Walker, T. J. Ewald, E. Lewallen, A. Van Wijnen, A. D. Hanssen, B. F. Morrey, M. E. Morrey, M. P. Abdel, J. Sanchez-Sotelo. Intra-articular implantation of collagen scaffold carriers is safe in both native and arthrofibrotic rabbit knee joints. Bone Joint Res 2016;6:162-171. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.63.BJR-2016-0193.

Infection in total elbow arthroplasty with stable components: outcomes of a staged surgical protocol with retention of the components.

AIMS: We describe the use of a protocol of irrigation and debridement (I&D) with retention of the implant for the treatment of periprosthetic infection of a total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). This may be an attractive alternative to staged re-implantation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 1990 and 2010, 23 consecutive patients were treated in this way. Three were lost to follow-up leaving 20 patients (21 TEAs) in the study. There were six men and 14 women. Their mean age was 58 years (23 to 76). The protocol involved: component unlinking, irrigation and debridement (I&D), and the introduction of antibiotic laden cement beads; organism-specific intravenous antibiotics; repeat I&D and re-linkage of the implant if appropriate; long-term oral antibiotic therapy. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 7.1 years (2 to 16). The infecting micro-organisms were Staphylococcus aureus in nine, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in 13, Corynebacterium in three and other in six cases. Re-operations included three repeat staged I&Ds, two repeat superficial I&Ds and one fasciocutaneous forearm flap. One patient required removal of the implant due to persistent infection. All except three patients rated their pain as absent or mild. Outcome was rated as good or excellent in 15 patients (mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score 78 points, (5 to 100) with a mean flexion-extension arc of 103° (40° to 150°)). CONCLUSION: A staged protocol can be successful in retaining stable components of an infected TEA. Function of the elbow may compare unfavourably to that after an uncomplicated TEA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:976-83.

Effectiveness of rosiglitazone in reducing flexion contracture in a rabbit model of arthrofibrosis with surgical capsular release: A biomechanical, histological, and genetic analysis.

AIMS: Animal models have been developed that allow simulation of post-traumatic joint contracture. One such model involves contracture-forming surgery followed by surgical capsular release. This model allows testing of antifibrotic agents, such as rosiglitazone. METHODS: A total of 20 rabbits underwent contracture-forming surgery. Eight weeks later, the animals underwent a surgical capsular release. Ten animals received rosiglitazone (intramuscular initially, then orally). The animals were sacrificed following 16 weeks of free cage mobilisation. The joints were tested biomechanically, and the posterior capsule was assessed histologically and via genetic microarray analysis. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in post-traumatic contracture between the rosiglitazone and control groups (33° (standard deviation (sd) 11) vs 37° (sd14), respectively; p = 0.4). There was no difference in number or percentage of myofibroblasts. Importantly, there were ten genes and 17 pathways that were significantly modulated by rosiglitazone in the posterior capsule. DISCUSSION: Rosiglitazone significantly altered the genetic expression of the posterior capsular tissue in a rabbit model, with ten genes and 17 pathways demonstrating significant modulation. However, there was no significant effect on biomechanical or histological properties.Cite this article: M. P. Abdel. Effectiveness of rosiglitazone in reducing flexion contracture in a rabbit model of arthrofibrosis with surgical capsular release: A biomechanical, histological, and genetic analysis. Bone Joint Res 2016;5:11-17. doi: 10.1302/2046-3758.51.2000593.

Tratamiento de la Triada Terrible de codo con prótesis de cúpula radial / Treatment of terrible triad of the elbow with radial head prosthesis

Introducción: Las fracturas de cabeza radial representan 30 casos/100000 habitantes/año. Constituyen el 33-75% de las fracturas del codo. La "Triada terrible de Hotchkiss" se caracteriza por fractura de cúpula radial, coronoides y luxación del codo. Nuestro objetivo es valorar los resultados del tratamiento con artroplastia de cabeza radial. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Tamaño muestral de 22 pacientes. Variables analizadas: filiación, clasificación de Mason, aspectos quirúrgicos (demora, tiempo quirúrgico, tipo de prótesis, reintervenciones), tiempo rehabilitador, causas de fracaso protésico, complicaciones, hallazgos radiológicos (según Van-Riet), zonas de aflojamiento (Popovic), escalas M.E.P.S. y Cassebaum. Resultados: Edad media: 42,2 ± 9,9 años. 72.7% profesionales de grandes esfuerzos. La fractura Mason IV fue la más frecuente (72.7%) y la tipo I de Regan Morrey para coronoides (50%). Tiempo de intervención: 130,4 ± 79,8 minutos. Fijación externa en el 13.6%. M.E.P.S. final: 84,1 ± 15,7 puntos. Tiempo rehabilitador: 4,2 ± 1,4 meses. Alta por mejoría: 72.7%. Cassebaum bueno-excelente en el 85.7%. Hubo 13.6% de movilización protésica, 45.5% de osificaciones heterotópicas y sobredimensionado en el 22.7%. Conclusiones:: No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuanto al momento quirúrgico, tipo protésico o tipo de fractura de coronoides. Tan sólo en este último punto hubo más riesgo de infección a mayor tipo de Regan, asociado a una mayor manipulación quirúrgica. El tratamiento de la triada terrible con prótesis de cúpula radial, en nuestra experiencia arrojó buenos resultados, aunque no está exento de complicaciones

Introduction: Radial head fractures represent 30 cases/100,000 population/year. They constitute 33- 75% of elbow fractures. 'Terrible Triad’s Hotchkiss' is characterized by radial head fracture, coronoid fracture and elbow dislocation. Our goal is to review results of treatment with radial head arthroplasty. Material and methods: Observational, descriptive and retrospective study. Sample size of 22 patients. Variables analyzed were affiliation, Mason’s classification, surgical aspects (moment of surgery, surgical time, type of prosthesis, reoperation), rehabilitation time, causes of prosthetic failure, complications, radiographic findings (according to Van Riet), Popovic’s loosening areas, MEPS and Cassebaum’s scales. Results: Average age: 42.2 ± 9.9 years. 72.7% realized high demanding jobs. Mason’s fracture type IV was the most frequent (72.7%) and the Regan-Morrey’s type I was the most frequent of coronoid fracture (50%). Surgery time: 130.4 ± 79.8 minutes. External fixation was used in 13.6%. M.E.P.S. final: 84.1 ± 15.7 points. Rehabilitation time: 4.2 ± 1.4 months. 72.7% of patients came back to work. Cassebaum’s results were good-excellent in 85.7% of patients. There were 13.6% of prostheses mobilization. heterotopic ossification appeared in 45.5% of cases and 22.7% presented overstuffing. Conclusions: There was no statistically significative difference about moment of surgery, prosthetic type, or coronoid fracture. Just about this last point there was more risk of infection when there was a worse Regan-Morrey’s type, probably due to greater surgical manipulation. Treatment of the terrible triad with radial head prosthesis, in our experience, yielded good results, although it is not without complications

Artroplastia de cúpula radial, experiencia de 11 años. Estudio sobre 82 pacientes / Radial head arthroplasty, 11 years experience: a series of 82 patients

Objetivos. Las indicaciones de artroplastia de cúpula radial son esencialmente fracturas complejas con daño ligamentoso (medial, lateral o Essex-Lopresti), y/o asoaciadas a daños óseos (coronoides u olécranon). Nuestro objetivo es revisar nuestra experiencia con la utilización de prótesis de cabeza del radio en un contexto traumático. Material y método. Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo, con seguimiento de 1-11 años. El grupo de estudio tuvo un tamaño muestral de 82 pacientes, con una edad media de 41,6 años (± 9,2). Los criterios de inclusión fueron: pacientes en edad laboral (25-64 años) con fracturas de cúpula radial complejas (II, III, IV de Mason), con lesiones de partes blandas u óseas, que conllevarán inestabilidad, no reconstruibles mediante osteosíntesis y tratadas mediante artroplastia. Las principales variables analizadas fueron datos de filiación, clasificación de Mason o aspectos quirúrgicos, como demora, tiempo quirúrgico, tipo protésico (donde la prótesis bipolar fue la más utilizada, 88,6%), necesidad de cementación o reintervenciones. También se analizó el tiempo rehabilitador, las causas de fracaso protésico, complicaciones, hallazgos radiológicos (según Van-Riet), zonas de aflojamiento (según Popovic), así como las escalas MEPS y de Cassebaum. Se apreciaron diversas lesiones asociadas, como el daño en el ligamento colateral lateral cubital en el 39% de los casos, la fractura de coronoides, en el 25,6% y la fractura de olécranon, en el 15,9% de la serie. Hubo un caso de lesión de Essex Lopresti. Los test estadísticos utilizados fueron: para variables categóricas, las tablas de contingencia, Chi Cuadrado y test de Fisher. Para las variables numéricas, la U de Mann Whitney o el test de Kruskall Wallis. Nivel de evidencia IV. Resultados. El tiempo quirúrgico fue de 100 minutos (± 56,8). Se cementaron el 53,8% de las prótesis. El resultado de la escala MEPS: 80,4 puntos (± 19,3), siendo excelentes-buenos en el 71,6%. El codo era estable en el 93,7% de los casos, presentaba una moderada inestabilidad, inferior a 10° en varo-valgo, en el 4,9% de los casos y una franca inestabilidad, con 10° o más de inestabilidad en varo o en valgo, en el 1,3% restante de la serie. El tiempo de rehabilitación fue menor en las cementadas (p = 0,03), hubo mayor rigidez (p = 0,03) y más secuelas (limitaciones de movilidad, dolor residual), (p < 0,05) en los casos en los que hubo que reparar el ligamento colateral lateral cubital (dada la coexistencia de otras lesiones graves en estos casos). Se obtuvieron mejores resultados en la escala de Cassebaum (p = 0,02) y más resultados excelentes en la escala MEPS (p = 0,02), cuando la cirugía fue antes de una semana. Se retiró la prótesis en 11 casos (13,4%), donde la principal causa de retirada fue el dolor en la pronosupinación en 5 casos, las lesiones capitelares en 4 casos, una luxación y una infección. La complicación más frecuente fue la rigidez (30,5%)... (AU)

Objectives. The indications for radial head arthroplasty are essentially complex fractures with ligament damage (medial, lateral or Essex-Lopresti), and/or associated with bone damage (coronoids or olecranon). The aim of this study is to review our experience with the use of a radial head prosthesis in the context of a trauma. Material and method. An observational, descriptive and retrospective study, with a follow-up of 1- 11 years, was performed on a study group of 82 patients with a mean age of 41.6 (± 9.2) years. The inclusion criteria were: patients of working age (25-64 years) with complex radial head fractures (Mason II, III, IV), with soft tissue and bone injuries that caused instability, non-reconstructable by osteosynthesis and treated using arthroplasty. he primary variables analysed were social demographics, Mason classification, or surgical aspects such as delay, surgical time, type of prosthesis (where the bipolar prosthesis was most used, 88.6%), need of fixation or further surgery. Rehabilitation time, causes of prosthesis failure, radiological findings (according to Van-Riet), areas of loosening (according to Popovic), as well as the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Cassebaum scale. Various associated injuries were observed, such as injuries in the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow in 39% of cases, coronoid fractures in 25.6%, and an olecranon fracture in 15.9% of the series. There was one case of an Essex- Lopresti injury. The tests used for the statistical analysis were Chi squared and Fisher test for categorical variables and contingency tables. The Mann Whitney U or Kruskall Wallis tests were used for the numerical variables. Evidence level: IV. Results. The mean surgical time was 100 (± 56.8) minutes. The prosthesis was fixed in 53.8% of cases. The mean score on the MEPS scale was 80.4 (± 19.3) points, being good-excellent in 71.6%. The elbow was stable in 93.7% of cases. There was moderate instability, with 10° or more in varus or valgus, and in 1.3% in the rest of the series. The rehabilitation time was lower in the fixed cases (P=.03), and there was greater rigidity (P=.03) and more sequelae (limitations in mobility, residual pain), (P < 0.05) in the cases where the LCL had to be repaired (given that there were other serious injuries in these cases). When the surgical delay was less than one week, better results were obtained on the Cassebaum scale (P=.02), as well as more excellent results on the MEPS scale MEPS (P=.02). The prosthesis was removed in 11 cases (13.4%), with the main cause for removal being pain in pronosupination in 5 cases, and capitellar injuries in 4 cases, one dislocation, and one infections. The most frequent complication was rigidity (30.5%). There were 3 infections (3.7%). Popovic areas 1 and 7 had greater osteolysis. Conclusions. The presence of concomitant bone and ligament injuries determined a longer surgical time and more sequelae. Early surgery would achieve better clinical results (AU)

Radial head arthroplasty, 11 years experience: A series of 82 patients.

OBJECTIVES: The indications for radial head arthroplasty are essentially complex fractures with ligament damage (medial, lateral or Essex-Lopresti), and/or associated with bone damage (coronoids or olecranon). The aim of this study is to review our experience with the use of a radial head prosthesis in the context of a trauma. MATERIAL AND METHOD: An observational, descriptive and retrospective study, with a follow-up of 1- 11 years, was performed on a study group of 82 patients with a mean age of 41.6 (± 9.2) years. The inclusion criteria were: patients of working age (25-64 years) with complex radial head fractures (Mason II, III, IV), with soft tissue and bone injuries that caused instability, non-reconstructable by osteosynthesis and treated using arthroplasty. The primary variables analysed were social demographics, Mason classification, or surgical aspects such as delay, surgical time, type of prosthesis (where the bipolar prosthesis was most used, 88.6%), need of fixation or further surgery. Rehabilitation time, causes of prosthesis failure, radiological findings (according to Van-Riet), areas of loosening (according to Popovic), as well as the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Cassebaum scale. Various associated injuries were observed, such as injuries in the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow in 39% of cases, coronoid fractures in 25.6%, and an olecranon fracture in 15.9% of the series. There was one case of an Essex- Lopresti injury. The tests used for the statistical analysis were Chi squared and Fisher test for categorical variables and contingency tables. The Mann Whitney U or Kruskall Wallis tests were used for the numerical variables. Evidence level: IV. RESULTS: The mean surgical time was 100 (± 56.8) minutes. The prosthesis was fixed in 53.8% of cases. The mean score on the MEPS scale was 80.4 (± 19.3) points, being good-excellent in 71.6%. The elbow was stable in 93.7% of cases. There was moderate instability, with 10° or more in varus or valgus, and in 1.3% in the rest of the series. The rehabilitation time was lower in the fixed cases (P=.03), and there was greater rigidity (P=.03) and more sequelae (limitations in mobility, residual pain), (P<0.05) in the cases where the LCL had to be repaired (given that there were other serious injuries in these cases). When the surgical delay was less than one week, better results were obtained on the Cassebaum scale (P=.02), as well as more excellent results on the MEPS scale MEPS (P=.02). The prosthesis was removed in 11 cases (13.4%), with the main cause for removal being pain in pronosupination in 5 cases, and capitellar injuries in 4 cases, one dislocation, and one infections. The most frequent complication was rigidity (30.5%). There were 3 infections (3.7%). Popovic areas 1 and 7 had greater osteolysis. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of concomitant bone and ligament injuries determined a longer surgical time and more sequelae. Early surgery would achieve better clinical results.

Heterotopic ossification after surgery for distal humeral fractures.

We retrospectively reviewed 89 consecutive patients (45 men and 44 women) with a mean age at the time of injury of 58 years (18 to 97) who had undergone external fixation after sustaining a unilateral fracture of the distal humerus. Our objectives were to determine the incidence of heterotopic ossification (HO); identify risk factors associated with the development of HO; and characterise the location, severity and resultant functional impairment attributable to the presence of HO. HO was identified in 37 elbows (42%), mostly around the humerus and along the course of the medial collateral ligament. HO was hazy immature in five elbows (13.5%), mature discrete in 20 (54%), extensive mature in 10 (27%), and complete bone bridges were present in two elbows (5.5%). Mild functional impairment occurred in eight patients, moderate in 27 and severe in two. HO was associated with less extension (p = 0.032) and less overall flexion-to-extension movement (p = 0.022); the flexion-to-extension arc was < 100º in 21 elbows (57%) with HO compared with 18 elbows (35%) without HO (p = 0.03). HO was removed surgically in seven elbows. The development of HO was significantly associated with sustaining a head injury (p = 0.015), delayed internal fixation (p = 0.027), the method of fracture fixation (p = 0.039) and the use of bone graft or substitute (p = 0.02).HO continues to be a substantial complication after internal fixation for distal humerus fractures.

Short-stem uncemented primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty: clinical and radiological outcomes.

Short uncemented humeral stems can preserve humeral bone stock and facilitate revision surgery but may be prone to malalignment or loosening, especially when used in reverse total shoulder replacement (TSR). We undertook a retrospective review of 44 patients with a mean age of 76 years (59 to 92) who underwent primary reverse TSR with a short uncemented humeral stem. There were 29 females. The indications for joint replacement included cuff tear associated arthropathy (33), avascular necrosis (six), post-traumatic arthritis (two), and inflammatory arthritis (three). At a mean follow-up of 27 months (24 to 40), pain was rated as mild or none in 43 shoulders (97.7%). The mean active elevation improved from 54° (sd 20°) to 142° (sd 25°) and the mean active external rotation from 14° (sd 13°) to 45° (sd 9°). The outcome, as assessed by the modified Neer score, was excellent in 27 (61.3%), satisfactory in 15 (34.1%), and unsatisfactory in two shoulders (4.5%). Stems were well-positioned, without evidence of significant valgus or varus malalignment in 42 TSRs (95.5%). There was no radiological evidence of loosening of the humeral stem in any patient; 13 TSRs (29.5%) had evidence of proximal humeral remodelling and scapular notching was noted in three (6.8%).

Intra-articular decorin influences the fibrosis genetic expression profile in a rabbit model of joint contracture.

OBJECTIVES: The goal of this study was to determine whether intra-articular administration of the potentially anti-fibrotic agent decorin influences the expression of genes involved in the fibrotic cascade, and ultimately leads to less contracture, in an animal model. METHODS: A total of 18 rabbits underwent an operation on their right knees to form contractures. Six limbs in group 1 received four intra-articular injections of decorin; six limbs in group 2 received four intra-articular injections of bovine serum albumin (BSA) over eight days; six limbs in group 3 received no injections. The contracted limbs of rabbits in group 1 were biomechanically and genetically compared with the contracted limbs of rabbits in groups 2 and 3, with the use of a calibrated joint measuring device and custom microarray, respectively. RESULTS: There was no statistical difference in the flexion contracture angles between those limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those that received intra-articular BSA (66° vs 69°; p = 0.41). Likewise, there was no statistical difference between those limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those who had no injection (66° vs 72°; p = 0.27). When compared with BSA, decorin led to a statistically significant increase in the mRNA expression of 12 genes (p < 0.01). In addition, there was a statistical change in the mRNA expression of three genes, when compared with those without injection. CONCLUSIONS: In this model, when administered intra-articularly at eight weeks, 2 mg of decorin had no significant effect on joint contractures. However, our genetic analysis revealed a significant alteration in several fibrotic genes. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2014;3:82-8.

Triceps insufficiency after the treatment of deep infection following total elbow replacement.

Treatment of an infected total elbow replacement (TER) is often successful in eradicating or suppressing the infection. However, the extensor mechanism may be compromised by both the infection and the surgery. The goal of this study was to assess triceps function in patients treated for deep infection complicating a TER. Between 1976 and 2007 a total of 217 TERs in 207 patients were treated for infection of a TER at our institution. Superficial infections and those that underwent resection arthroplasty were excluded, leaving 93 TERs. Triceps function was assessed by examination and a questionnaire. Outcome was measured using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Triceps weakness was identified in 51 TERs (49 patients, 55%). At a mean follow-up of five years (0.8 to 34), the extensor mechanism was intact in 13 patients, with the remaining 38 having bone or soft-tissue loss. The mean MEPS was 70 points (5 to 100), with a mean functional score of 18 (0 to 25) of a possible 25 points. Infection following TER can often be eradicated; however, triceps weakness occurs in more than half of the patients and may represent a major functional problem.

Revision of an unstable hemiarthroplasty or anatomical total shoulder replacement using a reverse design prosthesis.

Instability after arthroplasty of the shoulder is difficult to correct surgically. Soft-tissue procedures and revision surgery using unconstrained anatomical components are associated with a high rate of failure. The purpose of this study was to determine the results of revision of an unstable anatomical shoulder arthroplasty to a reverse design prosthesis. Between 2004 and 2007, 33 unstable anatomical shoulder arthroplasties were revised to a reverse design. The mean age of the patients was 71 years (53 to 86) and their mean follow-up was 42 months (25 to 71). The mean time to revision was 26 months (4 to 164). Pain scores improved significantly (pre-operative visual analogue scale (VAS) of 7.2 (sd 1.6); most recent VAS 2.2 (sd 1.9); p = 0.001). There was a statistically significant increase in mean active forward elevation from 40.2° (sd 27.3) to 97.0° (sd 36.2) (p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in internal (p = 0.93) or external rotation (p = 0.40). Radiological findings included notching in five shoulders (15%) and heterotopic ossification of the inferior capsular region in three (9%). At the last follow-up 31 shoulders (94%) were stable. The remaining two shoulders dislocated at 2.5 weeks and three months post-operatively, respectively. According to the Neer rating system, there were 13 excellent (40%), ten satisfactory (30%) and ten unsatisfactory results (30%). Revision of hemiarthroplasty or anatomical total shoulder replacement for instability using a reverse design prosthesis gives good short-term results.

Artroplastia de codo / Elbow replacement

La artroplastia de codo representa una buena alternativa terapéutica para un gran porcentaje de pacientes con importante destrucción articular. Sin embargo, muchos cirujanos ortopédicos no están familiarizados con los abordajes o técnicas quirúrgicas relacionados con la sustitución protésica del codo. Además, la incidencia de complicaciones es superior a la de la artroplastia de otras articulaciones, siendo las más importantes, la infección, el fracaso mecánico, la neuropatía cubital y las alteraciones del tríceps. Por estos motivos, la utilización de artroplastia de codo en el medio español puede que sea inferior a la ideal. Aunque las artropatías inflamatorias, como la artritis reumatoide, constituyen la indicación más frecuente para este tipo de intervención, las fracturas de húmero distal y la afección postraumática representan una indicación creciente. Este trabajo intenta resumir los conceptos actuales más importantes relacionados con la artroplastia de codo (AU)

Elbow replacement or arthroplasty is a good therapeutic option for a large percentage of patients with significant joint destruction. However, many orthopaedic surgeons are no familiar with the surgical approaches or techniques associated with elbow replacement implants. Furthermore, the incidence of complications is higher than in other joint replacements, the most important being infections, mechanical failure, cubital neuropathy, and problems with the triceps. For these reasons, the use of bone arthroplasty in Spain may be less than ideal. Although, inflammatory arthritic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are the most frequent indication for this operation, distal humerus fractures and post-traumatic disease are a growing indication. This work attempts to summarise the most important current concepts associated with elbow replacement (AU)

The contribution of the coronoid and radial head to the stability of the elbow.

We undertook this study to determine the minimum amount of coronoid necessary to stabilise an otherwise intact elbow joint. Regan-Morrey types II and III, plus medial and lateral oblique coronoid fractures, collectively termed type IV fractures, were simulated in nine fresh cadavers. An electromagnetic tracking system defined the three-dimensional stability of the ulna relative to the humerus. The coronoid surface area accounts for 59% of the anterior articulation. Alteration in valgus, internal and external rotation occurred only with a type III coronoid fracture, accounting for 68% of the coronoid and 40% of the entire articular surface. A type II fracture removed 42% of the coronoid articulation and 25% of the entire articular surface but was associated with valgus and external rotational changes only when the radial head was removed, thereby removing 67% of the articular surface. We conclude that all type III fractures, as defined here, are unstable, even with intact ligaments and a radial head. However, a type II deficiency is stable unless the radial head is removed. Our study suggests that isolated medial-oblique or lateral-oblique fractures, and even a type II fracture with intact ligaments and a functional radial head, can be clinically stable, which is consistent with clinical observation.

[Elbow replacement]. / Artroplastia de codo.

Elbow replacement or arthroplasty is a good therapeutic option for a large percentage of patients with significant joint destruction. However, many orthopaedic surgeons are no familiar with the surgical approaches or techniques associated with elbow replacement implants. Furthermore, the incidence of complications is higher than in other joint replacements, the most important being infections, mechanical failure, cubital neuropathy, and problems with the triceps. For these reasons, the use of bone arthroplasty in Spain may be less than ideal. Although, inflammatory arthritic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are the most frequent indication for this operation, distal humerus fractures and post-traumatic disease are a growing indication. This work attempts to summarise the most important current concepts associated with elbow replacement.

Tratamiento quirúrgico de las fracturas de tercio distal del húmero a propósito de 36 casos / Surgical treatment of fractures of the distal third of the humerus: A series of 36 cases

Objetivo: Revisar el tratamiento de las fracturas de paleta humeral comparando resultados clínicos y laborales entre un grupo tratado con doble placa y otro sin ella y analizar los resultados clínicos obtenidos tras osteosíntesis en paralelo o de modo perpendicular en el grupo tratado con doble placa. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo, nivel de evidencia IIIa, donde se analizaron 36 pacientes con una edad media de 43 (DE: 10) años. El 30.6% fueron fracturas abiertas. El tiempo de seguimiento fue de 16 (DE: 5) meses. Se obtuvo la escala MEPS (Mayo Elbow Performance Score) entre un grupo tratado con doble placa y otro sin ella y los resultados entre los casos con doble placa en paralelo, frente a aquellos en perpendicular. Resultados: La escala MEPS no presentó diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las fracturas tratadas con doble placa y aquellas sin ella (p=0,5) pero la osteosíntesis sin dos placas supone tasas de pseudoartrosis de hasta el 12,5% con una mayor tasa de complicaciones (81,3% / 73,3%) que la osteosíntesis con doble placa. Conclusiones: No hallamos diferencias clínicas entre ambos grupos aunque las fracturas tratadas con doble placa presentan una menor tasa de pseudoartrosis (AU)

Objetive: To review the management of fractures of the distal third of the humerus, comparing the clinical and occupational results between a group treated with double plates and a group without plates, and analyzing the clinical results after osteosynthesis in parallel or perpendicular in the group subjected to double plate treatment. Material and methods: A descriptive, observational retrospective study with evidence level IIIa was carried out, analyzing 36 patients with a mean age of 43 years (SD: 10). A total of 30.6% corresponded to open fractures. The mean duration of follow-up was 16 months (SD: 5). The MEPS (Mayo Elbow Performance Score) was compared between the group treated with double plates and the group without plates, and between osteosynthesis in parallel or perpendicular in the group subjected to double plate treatment. Results: The MEPS showed no statistically significant differences between the group treated with double plates and the group without plates (p=0.5), though osteosynthesis without double plating was associated with a pseudoarthrosis rate of up to 12.5%, and involved a higher complications rate (81.3% versus 73.3%) than osteosynthesis with double plating. Conclusions: No clinical differences were found between the two groups, though the fractures treated with double plates showed a lower pseudoarthrosis rate (AU)