Hip External Rotation Decreases Ischiofemoral Distance: A Positive Correlation Between Cadaveric and Fluoroscopic Studies.

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of hip external rotation or extension/adduction on minimizing the ischiofemoral distance (IFD) and assess the correlation between cadaveric and fluoroscopic IFD measurements in difference hip positions. METHODS: This cadaveric study involved 33 hip joints from 17 embalmed cadavers. IFD, the distance between the lesser trochanter and lateral ischium, was measured in different hip positions: neutral, external rotation at 30° and external rotation at 60° with the hip in both neutral extension and adduction as well as 10° hip extension and 10° hip adduction. Difference in IFD related to positions and correlation between cadaveric and fluoroscopic measurement were analyzed. RESULTS: IFD measurements showed that the greatest reduction occurred at 60° of external hip rotation, with a significant difference observed only between neutral and 60° external rotation in cadaveric groups (7.60±4.68 vs 5.05±3.48, 95% CI, 0.14 to 4.96; p=0.036). No substantial difference was observed between extension and adduction positions . Positive correlations were observed between cadaveric and fluoroscopic measurements, especially in the neutral position (r=0.492, p=0.004), external rotation at 30° (r=0.52, p=0.002), external rotation at 60° (r=0.419, p=0.015), and the extension/adduction positions combined with neutral rotation (r=0.396, p=0.023). CONCLUSION: The IFD significantly decreased with increasing degrees of hip external rotation, particularly at 60°. No significant reduction was observed in the extension/adduction positions. Additionally, positive correlations were observed between cadaveric and fluoroscopic measurements for specific hip positions: neutral rotation, external rotation at 30° and 60°, and extension/adduction at 10° with neutral rotation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Surgeons can use this knowledge to improve hip impingement assessment through radiography, focusing on positions where IFD reduction is most notable. Understanding the relationship between hip positions and IFD can enhance the diagnosis of ischiofemoral impingement syndrome and benefiting patient care and outcomes.

Higher contact pressure of the lateral tibiofemoral joint in lateral extra-articular tenodesis with tensioned graft in external rotation than in neutral rotation: a biomechanical study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the mean contact pressure, peak contact pressure, and mean contact area of the lateral tibiofemoral joint in lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) with tension on the graft in tibial neutral and external rotation. METHODS: A total of eight Thiel's embalmed cadaveric knees were prepared and divided into two groups (4 knees in each group): the LET-NR group (lateral extra-articular tenodesis tension in neutral rotation) and (2) the LET-ER group (lateral extra-articular tenodesis tension in external rotation). Each knee was prepared according to the corresponding technique. A hydraulic testing system (E10000, Instron) simulates an axial load of 735 N for 10 seconds in each group. RESULTS: The LET-ER group exhibited a statistically significant higher peak contact pressure compared to the LET-NR group. The peak contact pressure values in the LET-NR and LET-ER groups were 702.3 ± 233.9 kPa and 1,235.5 ± 171.4 kPa, respectively (p = 0.010, 95% CI, -888.0--178.5). The mean contact pressure values in the LET-NR and LET-ER groups were 344.9 ± 69.0 kPa and 355.3 ± 34.9 kPa, respectively (p = 0.796, 95% CI, -105.1-84.2). The mean contact area values in the LET-NR and LET-ER groups were 36.8 ± 3.1 mm2 and 33.3 ± 6.4 mm2, respectively (p = 0.360, 95% CI, -5.2-12.2). CONCLUSIONS: The peak contact pressure of the lateral tibiofemoral joint is greater in LET when the graft is tensioned in external rotation than in neutral rotation. However, no statistically significant difference in the mean contact pressure or the mean contact area was observed between the two groups. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Arthroscopic Repair of Acute Traumatic Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Tears at the Patellar Insertion.

After a lateral patellar dislocation or subluxation, injury to the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is common. The MPFL originates between the medial epicondyle and the adductor tubercle, inserting along the superior one-third border of the medial patella. Operative treatment becomes necessary for patients with intra-articular pathology (such as osteochondral injuries or meniscus tears) or those experiencing recurrent dislocations. Numerous surgical techniques have been proposed for addressing this issue, with MPFL reconstruction being the most frequently performed procedure. Nonetheless, various complications associated with reconstruction have been documented. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in MPFL repair, which has shown acceptable outcomes in the literature. In this study, we introduce an arthroscopic-assisted MPFL repair technique designed for acute traumatic MPFL tears originating from the patellar insertion. This approach offers the advantage of being minimally invasive, straightforward, and reproducible.

A Technique for Hamstring Donor-Site Injection With Anesthetic Cocktail in Remnant-Preserving Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is a common procedure that requires effective postoperative pain management for successful rehabilitation. Opioids are traditionally used for pain relief, but their side effects decrease their widespread use. Local anesthesia techniques have gained interest as an alternative to opioids. This Technical Note discusses the use of an anesthetic cocktail for pain relief at the hamstring's donor site in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. This approach may enhance early rehabilitation and patient satisfaction.

Single Working Portal Technique with 70-Degree Arthroscope for Arthroscopic Bankart Repair.

The Bankart lesion is a common injury to the labrum in the shoulder joint, usually resulting from anterior shoulder dislocation. Arthroscopic Bankart repair is a surgical technique used to treat recurrent dislocations by reattaching the labrum to the glenoid rim using suture anchors. Typically, 3 portals are created: 1 for visualization and 2 for instrumentation. However, this Technical Note proposes a single working portal approach using a 70° arthroscope from the posterior portal. This technique enhances visualization and prevents portal jamming, particularly in cases with a small rotator interval.

Similar Healing Rates of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair With and Without Bone Marrow Stimulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Bone marrow stimulation (BMS) techniques such as microfracture, nanofracture, and the crimson duvet procedure expose the bone marrow of the proximal humerus to the rotator cuff tendon footprint. The effect of performing BMS on tendon healing is a subject of interest. PURPOSE: To compare studies on arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with BMS versus without BMS for rotator cuff tears according to healing rates and clinical and radiological outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: The 2020 PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed in conducting a search. Studies that compared arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with and without BMS were included if they provided postoperative patient-reported outcomes and healing rates. Dichotomous outcomes were expressed as mean differences (MDs), while continuous outcomes were expressed as odds ratio. RESULTS: Included were 5 studies (N = 499 shoulders); 4 studies had level 1 evidence, and 1 study had level 2 evidence. The healing rate of rotator cuff repair was similar between the 2 groups (ie, with and without BMS) (odds ratio, 1.58 [95% CI, 0.63 to 4.00]; P = .33). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the postoperative Constant score (MD, 1.41 [95% CI, -0.58 to 3.39]; P = .16), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (MD, 0.77 [95% CI, -1.43 to 2.96]; P = .49), or range of motion for forward flexion (MD, 2.45 [95% CI, -0.66 to 5.57]; P = .12) and external rotation (MD, 0.81 [95% CI, -2.35 to 3.97]; P = .62) at the final follow-up between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION: The healing rate of rotator cuff repair was similar, regardless of whether BMS was performed or not. Additionally, there was no significant difference in postoperative patient-reported outcome scores, range of motion, and complications. REGISTRATION: CRD42023388427 (PROSPERO).

Traditional suture tape versus multiple high-strength sutures for augmentation of anterior cruciate ligament primary repair: A time-zero biomechanical study.

Background/objective: During the initial stages of rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, a pivotal role is played in ensuring effective recuperation and averting complications. An often-employed strategy to tackle ACL laxity during this period involves the incorporation of synthetic materials for reinforcement. The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of conventional suture tape and multiple high-strength sutures as augmentation techniques for ACL repair. Methods: Ten preserved cadaveric knees embalmed using the Thiel method were segregated into two groups, each containing five knees. In one group, traditional suture tape was employed for augmentation, while the other group utilized multiple high-strength sutures. Each knee underwent a cyclic load of 1000 sine wave cycles, succeeded by an axial distraction load until failure ensued. The resultant displacement and ultimate load at failure were assessed to contrast the efficacy of the two augmentation techniques. Results: The group utilizing multiple high-strength sutures exhibited a significantly higher load to failure at time-zero (1690.7 N) compared to the suture tape group (987.6 N) (P = .003). Furthermore, the multiple high-strength sutures group demonstrated significantly reduced displacement after 1000 cyclic loads (6.6 mm) in comparison to the suture tape group (16.3 mm) (P < .001). Conclusions: Multiple high-strength sutures show better biomechanical properties for the augmentation of ACL repair at time-zero. Both suture tape and multiple high-strength sutures had ultimate load-to-failure values higher than the natural ACL loads. Therefore, these substances might serve as augmentation options to prevent the ACL's gradual elongation, a critical concern particularly in the initial stages of rehabilitation.

Clinical Outcomes, Union Rates, and Complications of Screw Versus Button Fixation in the Bristow-Latarjet Procedure for Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: The Latarjet procedure is a common procedure for treating critical glenoid bone loss in anterior shoulder instability. Implants such as the screw and cortical button are widely used. The aim of this study was to compare studies on screw versus button fixation techniques in the Bristow-Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability in terms of clinical outcomes, union rates, and complications. Methods: The PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases were searched to find comparative studies that reported outcomes of using screw versus button fixation in the Bristow-Latarjet procedure following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies that directly compared the screw and button fixation techniques and provided postoperative patient-reported outcomes, union rates, or complications were included. The Methodology Index for Non-Randomized Research (MINORS) criteria were used to assess the quality of the included studies. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for dichotomous outcomes whereas mean differences were calculated for continuous outcomes. Results: Five articles included a total of 877 shoulders. All five studies had level 3 evidence. There was no statistically significant difference between the two techniques using the Walch-Duplay score, visual analog scale for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Simple Shoulder Test, range of motion, and graft union rates. However, the button fixation technique had statistically significantly higher recurrence rates than the screw fixation technique (OR, 0.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.10-0.58; p = 0.001). Conclusions: The screw fixation technique had statistically significantly lower recurrence rates than the button fixation technique. However, there was no significant difference between screw and button fixation techniques regarding postoperative patient-reported outcomes, range of motion, graft union rates, nerve injury rates, infection rates, and reoperation rates.

Ultrasonic Bone Scalpel versus Conventional Technique for Thoracolumbar Spinal Decompression: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective The purpose of the present study is to compare intraoperative blood loss, operating time, laminectomy time, hospital length of stay, and complications in thoracolumbar spinal decompression using ultrasonic bone scalpels (UBSs) with conventional procedures. Methods Forty-two patients who underwent decompressive laminectomy and pedicular screw fusion with a surgical level of 1-5 levels between February 1, 2020, and June 30, 2022, in a single institution were evaluated for eligibility, and 11 were excluded due to a history of spinal surgery ( n = 3), spinal tumor ( n = 3), and spinal infection ( n = 5). A total of 31 patients were randomly divided into the UBS group ( n =15) and the conventional group ( n =16). Intraoperative blood loss, operating time, laminectomy time, hospital length of stay, and complications were recorded. Results Intraoperative blood loss and laminectomy time were significantly lower in the UBS group (656.0 ± 167.6 ml, 54.5 ± 27.4 minutes, respectively) than in the conventional group (936.9 ± 413.2 ml, 73.4 ± 28.1 minutes, respectively). Overall operation time, hospital length of stay, and complications were all similar between the groups. Conclusion The UBS is a useful instrument for procedures performed near the dura mater or other neural tissue without excessive heat or mechanical injury. This device is recommended for various spinal surgeries in addition to high-speed burrs and Kerrison rongeurs.

Ultrasonic Bone Scalpel versus Conventional Technique for Thoracolumbar Spinal Decompression: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial / Bisturi ósseo ultrassônico versus técnica convencional para descompressão espinhal torácica: Um teste controlado randomizado prospectivo

Abstract Objective The purpose of the present study is to compare intraoperative blood loss, operating time, laminectomy time, hospital length of stay, and complications in thoracolumbar spinal decompression using ultrasonic bone scalpels (UBSs) with conventional procedures. Methods Forty-two patients who underwent decompressive laminectomy and pedicular screw fusion with a surgical level of 1-5 levels between February 1, 2020, and June 30, 2022, in a single institution were evaluated for eligibility, and 11 were excluded due to a history of spinal surgery (n= 3), spinal tumor (n= 3), and spinal infection (n= 5). A total of 31 patients were randomly divided into the UBS group (n =15) and the conventional group (n =16). Intraoperative blood loss, operating time, laminectomy time, hospital length of stay, and complications were recorded. Results Intraoperative blood loss and laminectomy time were significantly lower in the UBS group (656.0 ± 167.6 ml, 54.5 ± 27.4 minutes, respectively) than in the conventional group (936.9 ± 413.2 ml, 73.4 ± 28.1 minutes, respectively). Overall operation time, hospital length of stay, and complications were all similar between the groups. Conclusion The UBS is a useful instrument for procedures performed near the dura mater or other neural tissue without excessive heat or mechanical injury. This device is recommended for various spinal surgeries in addition to high-speed burrs and Kerrison rongeurs.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo é comparar perda de sangue intraoperatória, tempo de operação, tempo de laminectomia, tempo de internação hospitalar e complicações na descompressão espinhal torácica utilizando bisturis ósseos ultrassônicos (BOUs) em relação aos procedimentos convencionais. Métodos Quarenta e dois pacientes submetidos a laminectomia descompressiva e fusão pedicular do parafuso com um nível cirúrgico de 1 a 5, entre 1° de fevereiro de 2020 e 30 de junho de 2022 em uma única instituição, foram avaliados para elegibilidade e 11 foram excluídos devido ao histórico de cirurgia espinhal (n= 3), tumor espinhal (n= 3) e infecção espinhal (n= 5). Perda de sangue intraoperatória, tempo de operação, tempo de laminectomia, tempo de internação e complicações foram registradas. Resultados A perda de sangue intraoperatória e o tempo de laminectomia foram significativamente menores no grupo BOU (656,0 ± 167,6 ml, 54,5 ± 27,4 min, respectivamente) do que no grupo convencional (936,9 ± 413,2 ml, 73,4 ± 28,1 min, respectivamente). O tempo de funcionamento total, o tempo de internação e as complicações foram todos semelhantes entre os grupos. Conclusão O bisturi ósseo ultrassônico é um instrumento útil para procedimentos realizados próximos à dura-máter ou outro tecido neural sem calor excessivo ou lesão mecânica. Este dispositivo é recomendado para várias cirurgias de coluna vertebral, juntamente com rebarbas de alta velocidade e pinça Kerrison.

Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Primary Repair With Synthetic Augmentation and Fixation With the Knotless Suture Anchor.

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is one of the most common ligament injuries in athletes. The arthroscopic ACL reconstruction procedure is the gold standard for treatment. However, the improvement in injury classification and suture materials has subsequently made arthroscopic ACL primary repair an alternative surgical treatment option. This Technical Note describes an arthroscopic ACL primary repair with synthetic augmentation made of several high-strength sutures and fixation with the knotless suture anchor. The reinforced synthetic material acts as a structural tie to support the ACL while it heals.

Arthroscopic Transtibial Medial Meniscus Posterior Root Repair Using the "Meniscal Track" to Locate the Anatomical Footprint.

The medial meniscus posterior root tears are a common problem in early elder patients. From a biomechanical study, the anatomical repair demonstrated a restored contact area and contact pressure than the nonanatomical repair. Nonanatomical repair of the medial meniscus posterior root resulted in decreased tibiofemoral contact area and increased contact pressure. Various surgical repair techniques were reported in the literature. However, there was no reported precise arthroscopic landmark to define the anatomical footprint of the posterior root attachment of the medial meniscus. We propose the "meniscal track", an arthroscopic landmark to guide the location of the anatomical footprint of the medial meniscus posterior root attachment.

Prebent Steinmann Pin to Remove the Broken Retrograde Intramedullary Nail After Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis.

A retrograde intramedullary nail is an implant option for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis because it provides mechanical strength and compression at the fusion site, while being less invasive to soft tissue. However, some fusion failures result in implant overloading, resulting in implant failure. The accumulated stress at the level of the subtalar joint will most likely cause implant breakage. It is challenging to remove the broken tibiotalocalcaneal nail's proximal part. Several surgical procedures for removing the broken tibiotalocalcaneal nail have been reported. In this article, we present a surgical technique for removing a broken tibiotalocalcaneal nail by punching out the proximal part of the broken nail using a prebent Steinmann pin. It has the advantage of being less invasive and not requiring any specific tools to punch out the nail.

Similar outcomes between transtendon repair and tear completion repair techniques for partial articular-sided supraspinatus tendon avulsion lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to review studies comparing transtendon repair (TTR) with tear completion repair (TCR) techniques for partial articular-sided supraspinatus tendon avulsion (PASTA) lesions according to postoperative patient-reported outcomes and complications. METHODS: Databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane, were searched for studies published between 2008 and 2022 that directly compared the postoperative patient-reported outcomes and complications of the TTR and TCR techniques for PASTA lesions. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for dichotomous outcomes, while mean differences (MDs) were calculated for continuous outcomes. RESULTS: A total of seven studies (497 shoulders) were analysed. No statistically significant differences in the postoperative clinical outcomes at the final follow-up were observed between the TTR and TCR techniques for PASTA lesions. The overall retear rates of the TTR and TCR techniques were 7.7% and 11.6%, respectively (corresponding healing rates were 92.3% and 88.4%), whereas the overall occurrence rates of adhesive capsulitis were 4.7% and 3.3%, respectively. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed in postoperative range of motion (forward flexion, MD = - 1.22, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) - 5.28 to 3.34, n.s.; external rotation, MD = - 1.39, 95% CI - 3.19 to 0.42, n.s.), overall retear rate (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.29-1.08, n.s.), and occurrence rate of adhesive capsulitis (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.35-3.52, n.s.) between the two techniques. CONCLUSION: Both techniques improve clinical outcomes while having a low complication rate and a high rate of healing. No significant difference in clinical outcomes was observed between the two techniques. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Arthroscopic Repair of a High-Grade Partial Articular-Sided Subscapularis Tendon Tear Without Bursal-Sided Tendon Overtension.

The subscapularis tendon is one of the shoulder's primary anterior stabilizers along with capsulolabral tissues to prevent anterior dislocation and attaches to the lesser tuberosity. Subscapularis tendon ruptures can cause anterior shoulder pain and weakness of internal rotation. Patients with partial-thickness tears of subscapularis tendons who do not respond to conservative treatment may be candidates for surgical repair. The transtendon repair of a partial articular-sided subscapularis tendon tear, like the transtendon repair of a PASTA (partial articular supraspinatus tendon avulsion), can result in overtension and bunching of the bursal-sided subscapularis tendon. We propose an all-inside arthroscopic transtendon repair technique of a high-grade partial articular-sided subscapularis tendon tear without bursal-sided tendon overtension or bunching.

Cortical suspensory button fixation has superior biomechanical properties to knotless anchor suture in anterior cruciate ligament repair: a biomechanical study.

The purpose of our biomechanical study was to assess load-to-failure, stiffness, gap formation following cyclic loading, and the failure mechanism for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair comparing the cortical suspensory button and knotless anchor suture. Eight Thiel's embalmed paired cadaveric knees from four cadavers were dissected. The specimens were assigned to undergo ACL repair either with cortical suspensory button or with knotless anchor suture. The Instron machine replicates cyclic loading and then determines the gap formation. Traction was applied until failure. The load-to-failure, stiffness, and modes of failure in both groups were recorded. The load-to-failure, stiffness, and gap formation were compared between the two groups using the student's t-test. The mean load-to-failure in the cortical suspensory button group was significantly higher than the knotless anchor suture group (212.96 ± 54.57 vs 44.57 ± 20.80, p value < 0.01). No statistically significant difference was found regarding gap formation following cyclic loading and stiffness between the cortical suspensory button group and the knotless anchor suture group. This biomechanical study showed a higher load-to-failure for the ACL repair with cortical suspensory button compared to ACL repair with knotless anchor suture, while no statistically significant difference was found regarding the gap formation following cyclic loading and the stiffness. The load-to-failure in both cortical suspensory button and knotless anchor suture are below regular daily activity load. Thus, an internal brace or external support is recommended during rehabilitation.

Validity and Reliability of the Thai Versions of the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and Tegner Activity Scale.

Background: Functional or quality of life questionnaires are important tools in clinical investigations. The Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and Tegner Activity Scale are knee-specific questionnaires that are widely used to assess knee function. Purpose: To translate both questionnaires into Thai and to assess the validity and reliability of the Thai versions of the Lysholm and adjusted Tegner scales. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The Lysholm and Tegner scales were translated into Thai by using the forward-backward translation protocol. Because cultural modifications were made to the sports used to measure activity on the Tegner scale, the authors of this study refer to the Thai version as the "Thai adjusted Tegner scale." The reliability and validity of the translated scales were evaluated by obtaining the responses of 60 consecutive patients (mean age, 40.5 years; 34 male, 26 female); the patients also completed the Thai version of the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC-SKF). Criterion validity was tested by correlating the scores from both translated questionnaires with those from the Thai IKDC-SKF, while reliability was assessed by measuring test-retest reliability and internal consistency. Results: The Thai Lysholm scale showed a strong correlation with the Thai IKDC-SKF (r = 0.89), while the Thai adjusted Tegner scale showed a moderate correlation with the Thai IKDC-SKF (r = 0.60). The intrarater and test-retest reliability measures were excellent for the Thai Lysholm (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC], 0.94 and 0.98, respectively) and moderate to good for the Thai adjusted Tegner (ICC, 0.73 and 0.86, respectively). The internal consistency for the Thai Lysholm was acceptable at all the time points (Cronbach alpha, 0.71-0.73). Conclusion: The Thai Lysholm and Thai adjusted Tegner scales adequately retained the characteristics of the original versions. They can be considered reliable instruments for Thai patients with knee-related problems.

Minimally Invasive Harvesting of Triple-Fold Superficial Layer Quadriceps Autograft for Knee Ligament Reconstruction.

Graft selection plays a critical role in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Autograft options, including hamstrings, bone-patellar tendon-bone, and quadriceps, offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. Soft tissue quadriceps tendon autografts are increasingly favored due to their strength, size compatibility, and potential for enhanced graft healing. This technique offers minimal skin incision, a longer graft, and reduced morbidity, as it specifically targets the superficial band of the quadriceps tendon.

Types of Retears After Knot-tying and Knotless Suture Bridge Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: In conventional double-row repair for rotator cuff tears, tying the medial row of anchor sutures can strangulate the tendon. The knotless medial row technique has been recommended to improve vascularity and reduce retear rates. The researchers divided the retear pattern into 2 categories: type 1 (failure at the tendon-bone interface) and type 2 (failure at the musculotendinous junction with healed footprint). Purpose: To compare studies on knot-tying versus knotless double-row repair for rotator cuff tears according to retear type and clinical and radiological outcomes. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A search of the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases was performed following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Included were studies that directly compared the knot-tying and knotless double-row techniques and provided postoperative patient-reported outcomes and retear rates. The Methodology Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria were used for methodological quality assessment of the included studies. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for dichotomous outcomes, and mean differences (MDs) were calculated for continuous outcomes. Results: Included were 12 studies (n = 1411 shoulders); 1 study had level 1 evidence, 3 studies had level 2 evidence, and 8 studies had level 3 evidence. The MINORS score ranged from 15 to 19, indicating that the methodology was fair to good. There was no statistically significant difference in retear rate between techniques (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.67-1.47; P = .96); however, more type 1 retears were seen in the knotless technique (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.23-0.77; P = .005), and more type 2 retears were seen in the knot-tying technique (OR, 3.15; 95% CI, 1.70-5.83; P = .0003). Higher postoperative Constant scores were seen in the knot-tying technique (MD, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.03-2.53; P = .04); however, there were no significant differences between techniques regarding other postoperative outcomes. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in overall retear rates between the knotless and knot-tying techniques, and both techniques demonstrated similar clinical outcomes. However, type 2 retear rates were significantly greater after knot-tying repair, and type 1 retear rates were significantly greater after knotless repair.

Accuracy of the rotator cuff reparability score.

BACKGROUND: The reparability of large or massive rotator cuff tears is difficult to determine pre-operatively. We previously identified age ≥ 65 years, acromiohumeral interval ≤ 6 mm, and anteroposterior tear size ≥ 22 mm as risk factors for rotator cuff repair failure. We therefore developed a rotator cuff reparability score where each of the above risk factors is assigned a score of one point. AIM: To determine the accuracy of a rotator cuff reparability score. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of recruited patients with large or massive rotator cuff tears treated at our institution between January 2013 and December 2019. Exclusion criteria were revision surgery and patients with contraindications for surgery. All patients underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and were categorized into either complete or partial rotator cuff repair. Rotator cuff reparability scores were calculated for each patient. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and positive and negative likelihood ratio were assessed. A receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted to determine the optimal cut-off rotator cuff reparability score. RESULTS: Eighty patients (mean age, 61 years; range, 25-84 years; 41 females and 39 males) were recruited. Intra- and inter-observer reliabilities were good to excellent. The number of patients with 0, 1, 2, and 3 risk factors for rotator cuff repair failure were 24, 33, 17, and 6, respectively. Complete repair was performed in all patients without risk factors. Two of the 33 patients with one risk factor and seven of the 17 patients with two risk factors underwent partial repair. One of the six patients with three risk factors underwent complete repair. The area under the curve was 0.894. The optimal cut-off score was two points with a sensitivity of 85.71% and a specificity of 83.33%. CONCLUSION: A rotator cuff reparability score of two was determined to be the optimal cut-off score for predicting the reparability of large or massive rotator cuff tears.